Remember when you first met your dog? He was fresh and new, and you were just getting to know each other. You went through training together, perhaps even ate together. With time, you and your dog became very close – even closer than you are to a lot of people you know. Your dog is special to you. He might be your best friend, a rascally mischief-maker, or just an accessory to your lifestyle. He depends on you for feeding, play, and discipline. You depend on him for companionship, a connection with the animal world, or household security and protection. For these reasons and more, you should protect your dog from harm, and yourself from loss, by getting him a dog tag.
Dog tags hang on your dog’s collar and provide all the necessary information for calling your dog, contacting you as the owner, and alerting people to your dog’s dietary restrictions. Some dog tags also include vaccination information, such as when your dog last received shots, and some municipalities even require this.
Once you’ve settled on what information to put on your dog’s tag, it’s time to pick out a tag that suits your style and needs. If you’re just looking to tag your dog with basic information, a plain plastic tag will do. But if you want to add a personal touch, consider getting your dog a silver, jewel, gold, or diamond dog tag. Yes, they do exist. You can even have your dog tag customized and shaped exactly the way you want. Some dog tag manufacturers can even laser-etch a photograph onto the tag – perhaps a picture of you and your beloved pet.
Dog tags can range in price from free or just a few dollars, to diamond dog tags in excess of $7,500. Whatever your taste, there is a dog tag for your furry friend.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Choosing a Dog - Things Everyone Should Look For
When the moment arrives for selecting a dog of your own, you should have a good idea of what you are looking for. If you are primarily concerned with finding an average dog, we highly recommend your local animal shelter. Not only will you be helping to relieve the local over population of animals as well as possibly rescuing a loving little dog, you just might meet the best friend you will ever have.
No matter where you find the right dog for you, the same basic rules will apply. You will find that a very young puppy only vaguely resembles the adult dog you admired on the street or in the show ring. Older puppies, between the ages of six and twelve months or so, go through an awkward adolescent stage during which they seem hopelessly out of proportion. You will often get a better idea of what the puppy will eventually look like if you observe the adult members of his family, (when this is possible).
If you are looking for a puppy, rather than an adult dog, there are various methods of picking the best puppy from a litter. Some advise avoiding the weakest and shyest, even though the runt of the litter may turn out to be the best. Some breeders claim the mother picks out the best, so they remove the puppies from her and note which ones she brings back first. But everyone agrees that the signs of a good temperament in a very young puppy are friendliness, confidence, playfulness, and curiosity.
When you must choose a puppy from a litter you should proceed by elimination. First of all is sex, male or female, this will eliminate 1/3 to ½ the group. Then you might consider colors or markings, next a playful and happy attitude. But always bear in mind the role he will play in your life. Do you want an active playful dog, or one that is quiet and more reserved? Go with the one that most closely fits your lifestyle.
Choosing an adult dog is different. He has already achieved his full physical development and personality. He may also have acquired physical or mental quirks. When choosing an adult dog of unknown past, you must use all of your powers of observation. Like the puppy, a good temperament is the most important quality of all. Keep in mind that adult dogs are more difficult to train, as they have already been trained by someone else.
If you are looking for a show dog, temperament may be secondary to physical conformation. There tends to be considerable difference of temperament between the show lines or breeds, and the working lines of certain breeds. If you want a pet whom you can also show with some success, the best solution is to choose either one of the breeds in the sporting and working groups that have not been affected by artificial show standards.
Lastly, when making your final choice, choose from the heart and not so much by the book, and you both will be happier for it.
No matter where you find the right dog for you, the same basic rules will apply. You will find that a very young puppy only vaguely resembles the adult dog you admired on the street or in the show ring. Older puppies, between the ages of six and twelve months or so, go through an awkward adolescent stage during which they seem hopelessly out of proportion. You will often get a better idea of what the puppy will eventually look like if you observe the adult members of his family, (when this is possible).
If you are looking for a puppy, rather than an adult dog, there are various methods of picking the best puppy from a litter. Some advise avoiding the weakest and shyest, even though the runt of the litter may turn out to be the best. Some breeders claim the mother picks out the best, so they remove the puppies from her and note which ones she brings back first. But everyone agrees that the signs of a good temperament in a very young puppy are friendliness, confidence, playfulness, and curiosity.
When you must choose a puppy from a litter you should proceed by elimination. First of all is sex, male or female, this will eliminate 1/3 to ½ the group. Then you might consider colors or markings, next a playful and happy attitude. But always bear in mind the role he will play in your life. Do you want an active playful dog, or one that is quiet and more reserved? Go with the one that most closely fits your lifestyle.
Choosing an adult dog is different. He has already achieved his full physical development and personality. He may also have acquired physical or mental quirks. When choosing an adult dog of unknown past, you must use all of your powers of observation. Like the puppy, a good temperament is the most important quality of all. Keep in mind that adult dogs are more difficult to train, as they have already been trained by someone else.
If you are looking for a show dog, temperament may be secondary to physical conformation. There tends to be considerable difference of temperament between the show lines or breeds, and the working lines of certain breeds. If you want a pet whom you can also show with some success, the best solution is to choose either one of the breeds in the sporting and working groups that have not been affected by artificial show standards.
Lastly, when making your final choice, choose from the heart and not so much by the book, and you both will be happier for it.
All You Wanted To Know About Birdcages
Home is where the heart is, isn’t it? Ever thought about those who have no home and make us feel good daily as we enjoy their music and admire their beauty. Shouldn’t they also have a beautiful place of their own? Yes, we are talking about the birds whose melodies we wake to every morning and who warm our hearts. These pretty creatures have their nests perched on trees and shrubs. However, when the humans have started keeping birds as pets, the pretty birds do not have the luxury of having their own nests. This is how the concept of birdcages came into being. Since birdcages are the only option that we humans have for them, why not make it beautiful?
Types of Birdcages
There are many kinds of birdcages available t day for the birds. Since birds can be classified into three sizes, small, medium and large, cages are also provided in the same way (i.e., small, medium, and large). It is true that no one else but you knows the best your bird requires, so you’re always advised to get your birdcage designed as an acrylic bird cage which is ideal for any bird that you may own. The birdcages come in variety of designs and materials, including the manzanita, ribbon wood, grape wood and acrylic perches. Aside from that, you can buy bird toys for your bird/s to play with. You can also make sure they have a wide variety of food to eat.
Decorating Your Bird’s Home
Select the birdcage that’s easy to clean. For this you can place a tray into the cage, which you can remove easily when you need to wash it off. You can also make sure your birds get their well-deserved rest by purchasing a cover to place over their cage at night. You can buy lots of toys and hanging materials to enhance the looks and charm of their home. For example, you can give put a ladder in their cage that they can walk up and down on. This is just one of many ways to keep them from getting bored and enjoying their home. Your birds are special for you, so they deserve a special home.
Types of Birdcages
There are many kinds of birdcages available t day for the birds. Since birds can be classified into three sizes, small, medium and large, cages are also provided in the same way (i.e., small, medium, and large). It is true that no one else but you knows the best your bird requires, so you’re always advised to get your birdcage designed as an acrylic bird cage which is ideal for any bird that you may own. The birdcages come in variety of designs and materials, including the manzanita, ribbon wood, grape wood and acrylic perches. Aside from that, you can buy bird toys for your bird/s to play with. You can also make sure they have a wide variety of food to eat.
Decorating Your Bird’s Home
Select the birdcage that’s easy to clean. For this you can place a tray into the cage, which you can remove easily when you need to wash it off. You can also make sure your birds get their well-deserved rest by purchasing a cover to place over their cage at night. You can buy lots of toys and hanging materials to enhance the looks and charm of their home. For example, you can give put a ladder in their cage that they can walk up and down on. This is just one of many ways to keep them from getting bored and enjoying their home. Your birds are special for you, so they deserve a special home.
Importance Of A Healthy Diet
Is sleeplessness bothering you? What about the difficulty to lose weight despite hardest efforts? Or is your hair line receding faster than what it had taken your father? Well, ever wondered why this was so? Scientists and dieticians of this world are arguing that this is and many other hosts of similar problems are connected to our diet!
Modern food is unfortunately not without harmful chemicals used either for growing vegetables, preserving or cooking (flavonoids). Many dietary problems like indigestion and ulcer are frequent in people who have to depend on chemically treated food. In this background, the new school of theory which is gaining moment is eating whole and natural food. Meat and vegetables without preservatives, buying fresh and raw milk from vendors directly and fresh fruits are some of them.
Diet
Having said this, it doesn’t diminish the importance of daily intake of various nutrients and calories. Deficiency in any of them will gradually show up as trivial problem initially.
Let us see what USDA has recommended for the Americans. If you are taking less than 1,800 calories as a teen, you must raise it by at least 200 counts a day. The figure goes further up for an active man. Also calorie needs of women are different from that of men. Example, an 18-year male needs 400-800 extra calories than women. What food gives these calories and how to calculate the calorific values? And what other nutrients make food balanced?
USDA has a chart (food guide pyramid) with suggestions to get these calories. You have to do some calculations to balance your diet.
o 5 servings of vegetables
o Four servings of fruits
o Three servings of milk products
o 11 of pasta, cereals, and bread
o Two to three servings of meat (both red and white), eggs, nuts and beans put together.
o Sparingly, fats and sweets.
As per USDA (US Department of Agriculture), one serving equals a bread slice; an ounce of cereal, ½ a cup cooked rice and veggies each, one glass juice-milk each and 2-3 ounces lean meat, 1½ cups boiled beans
Diet must not be seen in a limited context. Diet is a generic word so you have diets that suit patients too. The secret is eating as much as needed your body would absorb. Keeping a balance diet since young is important if you want to live to old age. It could save you a substantial savings on medical bills!
Modern food is unfortunately not without harmful chemicals used either for growing vegetables, preserving or cooking (flavonoids). Many dietary problems like indigestion and ulcer are frequent in people who have to depend on chemically treated food. In this background, the new school of theory which is gaining moment is eating whole and natural food. Meat and vegetables without preservatives, buying fresh and raw milk from vendors directly and fresh fruits are some of them.
Diet
Having said this, it doesn’t diminish the importance of daily intake of various nutrients and calories. Deficiency in any of them will gradually show up as trivial problem initially.
Let us see what USDA has recommended for the Americans. If you are taking less than 1,800 calories as a teen, you must raise it by at least 200 counts a day. The figure goes further up for an active man. Also calorie needs of women are different from that of men. Example, an 18-year male needs 400-800 extra calories than women. What food gives these calories and how to calculate the calorific values? And what other nutrients make food balanced?
USDA has a chart (food guide pyramid) with suggestions to get these calories. You have to do some calculations to balance your diet.
o 5 servings of vegetables
o Four servings of fruits
o Three servings of milk products
o 11 of pasta, cereals, and bread
o Two to three servings of meat (both red and white), eggs, nuts and beans put together.
o Sparingly, fats and sweets.
As per USDA (US Department of Agriculture), one serving equals a bread slice; an ounce of cereal, ½ a cup cooked rice and veggies each, one glass juice-milk each and 2-3 ounces lean meat, 1½ cups boiled beans
Diet must not be seen in a limited context. Diet is a generic word so you have diets that suit patients too. The secret is eating as much as needed your body would absorb. Keeping a balance diet since young is important if you want to live to old age. It could save you a substantial savings on medical bills!
Guide to the Food Pyramid
The recommended food pyramid provides a simple guide to establishing healthy eating habits. The food pyramid was originally established in the 1960s in response to the increase in heart disease, and to help people understand what it takes to stay healthy. There are several facets of the food pyramid, which help you to analyze what you are eating and what you need to change in order to maintain your healthy eating habits.
The base of the pyramid is the bread & grains group. There are a variety of different types of foods that fall into this category. According to this pyramid, a healthy diet contains six to eleven servings of a breads & grains per day. An example of a single serving would be half of a cup of rice, cereal or pasta or one slice of bread. Another thing to consider is the type of grain. The pyramid recommends at least half of the bread & grains you consume are whole grain, such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, or oatmeal.
From here, various versions of the pyramid split. Some versions pyramids include fruit and vegetables in a single group, others split them into two groups. For the vegetable category, it is important to add two to three servings of vegetables to your daily diet. A serving generally consists of a cup of vegetables or vegetable juice. It is also key to eat a variety of different types of vegetables over the course of a week. The typical food pyramid groups vegetables into five groups:
* Dark green: such as broccoli and spinach.
* Orange: pumpkin and sweet potatoes
* Dry beans and peas: navy beans, kidney beans, lentils, tofu
* Starchy vegetables: corn, potatoes, green peas
* Other vegetables: cabbage, cucumbers, eggplant, tomatoes
(Note: While we have given examples of the members of each group, it is certainly not an exhaustive list)
With fruits, a cup of fruit or fruit juice, or a half-cup of dried fruit counts as a serving. Recommendations are one to two servings of fruit each day.
The next part of the food pyramid is the milk and dairy section. This group includes milk (including lactose-free), yogurt, cheese and other variations of this type of product. About three servings per day is the recommended amount. A typical serving of dairy would be a cup of milk or yogurt, 1½ ounces of natural cheese or two ounces of processed cheese.
Next to last is the meat and beans group. This group contains meat, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts and dried beans. Choosing low-fat cuts of meat and poultry are key to a healthy diet. Five to six ounces of mean and beans each day is the recommended daily intake for this group.
The highest level of the food pyramid is the oils and fats level. While there are different types of oils and fats, this food group should be the smallest portion of a healthy diet. General recommendations are five to seven teaspoons of fats or oils per day; not very much. An ounce of nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, contains three teaspoons of oil. A tablespoon of mayonnaise contains about two and a half teaspoons.
The food pyramid can provide excellent guidlines to ensure that your meals will be more balanced and nutritious. Though the number of servings in each group will vary based on your age, body type, activity level and other individual needs, the food pyramid can help you on your way to developing a pattern of healthy eating.
The base of the pyramid is the bread & grains group. There are a variety of different types of foods that fall into this category. According to this pyramid, a healthy diet contains six to eleven servings of a breads & grains per day. An example of a single serving would be half of a cup of rice, cereal or pasta or one slice of bread. Another thing to consider is the type of grain. The pyramid recommends at least half of the bread & grains you consume are whole grain, such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, or oatmeal.
From here, various versions of the pyramid split. Some versions pyramids include fruit and vegetables in a single group, others split them into two groups. For the vegetable category, it is important to add two to three servings of vegetables to your daily diet. A serving generally consists of a cup of vegetables or vegetable juice. It is also key to eat a variety of different types of vegetables over the course of a week. The typical food pyramid groups vegetables into five groups:
* Dark green: such as broccoli and spinach.
* Orange: pumpkin and sweet potatoes
* Dry beans and peas: navy beans, kidney beans, lentils, tofu
* Starchy vegetables: corn, potatoes, green peas
* Other vegetables: cabbage, cucumbers, eggplant, tomatoes
(Note: While we have given examples of the members of each group, it is certainly not an exhaustive list)
With fruits, a cup of fruit or fruit juice, or a half-cup of dried fruit counts as a serving. Recommendations are one to two servings of fruit each day.
The next part of the food pyramid is the milk and dairy section. This group includes milk (including lactose-free), yogurt, cheese and other variations of this type of product. About three servings per day is the recommended amount. A typical serving of dairy would be a cup of milk or yogurt, 1½ ounces of natural cheese or two ounces of processed cheese.
Next to last is the meat and beans group. This group contains meat, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts and dried beans. Choosing low-fat cuts of meat and poultry are key to a healthy diet. Five to six ounces of mean and beans each day is the recommended daily intake for this group.
The highest level of the food pyramid is the oils and fats level. While there are different types of oils and fats, this food group should be the smallest portion of a healthy diet. General recommendations are five to seven teaspoons of fats or oils per day; not very much. An ounce of nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, contains three teaspoons of oil. A tablespoon of mayonnaise contains about two and a half teaspoons.
The food pyramid can provide excellent guidlines to ensure that your meals will be more balanced and nutritious. Though the number of servings in each group will vary based on your age, body type, activity level and other individual needs, the food pyramid can help you on your way to developing a pattern of healthy eating.
High Mercury Content in Fish
We all know that adding fish to our diets can help increase our body's ability to repair itself, as well as its ability to burn body fat and keep our energy up, but it’s important to choose fish that’s also going to improve your health as opposed to silently poisoning you…
Being exposed to too much mercury can cause memory loss, tremors, neurological difficulties, advanced aging, decreased immune functions, and death.
But how is all this mercury getting into our body?
Well here’s the top 4 places that contribute to the levels of mercury in our body (not in any specific order):
Vaccines (past and present)
Dental fillings
The environment
And Fish
We’re going to focus on fish right now because that’s the prime source of mercury in our diets. When coal is burned, inorganic mercury is released into the air and eventually ends up in our lakes, rivers and oceans. There, bacteria mixes with it and transforms it into methylmercury which is easily absorbed by fish (especially large or fatty fish), and is also easily absorbed by us when we eat those fish.
The good new is that our most recent studies indicate that the human body naturally rids itself of mercury over time – assuming we stop ingesting it long enough for our body to do what it was made to do, and to help the process here’s a list of fish that naturally have a low, medium and high level of mercury:
High mercury: Mercury levels differ from one species of fish to the next. This is due to factors such as type of fish, size, location, habitat, diet and age. Fish that are predatory (eat other fish) are large and at the top of the food chain, and so tend to contain more mercury. Fish that contain higher levels of mercury include:
Shark
Ray
Swordfish
Barramundi
Gemfish
Orange roughy
Ling
Canned or fresh tuna
Mackerel
Grouper
Tilefish
Chilean sea bass
Moderate mercury: Alaskan halibut, black cod, blue (Gulf Coast) crab, dungeness crab, Eastern oysters, mahimahi, blue mussels, pollack.
Low mercury: Anchovies, Arctic char, crawfish, Pacific flounder, herring, king crab, sanddabs, scallops, Pacific sole; tilapia, wild Alaska and Pacific salmon; farmed catfish, clams, striped bass, and sturgeon.
Being exposed to too much mercury can cause memory loss, tremors, neurological difficulties, advanced aging, decreased immune functions, and death.
But how is all this mercury getting into our body?
Well here’s the top 4 places that contribute to the levels of mercury in our body (not in any specific order):
Vaccines (past and present)
Dental fillings
The environment
And Fish
We’re going to focus on fish right now because that’s the prime source of mercury in our diets. When coal is burned, inorganic mercury is released into the air and eventually ends up in our lakes, rivers and oceans. There, bacteria mixes with it and transforms it into methylmercury which is easily absorbed by fish (especially large or fatty fish), and is also easily absorbed by us when we eat those fish.
The good new is that our most recent studies indicate that the human body naturally rids itself of mercury over time – assuming we stop ingesting it long enough for our body to do what it was made to do, and to help the process here’s a list of fish that naturally have a low, medium and high level of mercury:
High mercury: Mercury levels differ from one species of fish to the next. This is due to factors such as type of fish, size, location, habitat, diet and age. Fish that are predatory (eat other fish) are large and at the top of the food chain, and so tend to contain more mercury. Fish that contain higher levels of mercury include:
Shark
Ray
Swordfish
Barramundi
Gemfish
Orange roughy
Ling
Canned or fresh tuna
Mackerel
Grouper
Tilefish
Chilean sea bass
Moderate mercury: Alaskan halibut, black cod, blue (Gulf Coast) crab, dungeness crab, Eastern oysters, mahimahi, blue mussels, pollack.
Low mercury: Anchovies, Arctic char, crawfish, Pacific flounder, herring, king crab, sanddabs, scallops, Pacific sole; tilapia, wild Alaska and Pacific salmon; farmed catfish, clams, striped bass, and sturgeon.
Making Smart Choices With The Glycemic Index
The Glycemic Index (GI) has been around since 1981 and is a great blueprint for eating healthy.
With a growing population of diabetics and overweight individuals, eating within GI guidelines, meaning that you take into account how much a particular food raises blood sugar and over stresses insulin production, is gaining interest among the medical community and the public.
What is the Glycemic Index (GI)?
The Glycemic Index indicates how quickly 50 grams of a food’s carbohydrates turn into sugar. At the most basic level, the GI ranks carbohydrate filled foods according to their glycemic response. Foods that raise your blood glucose level very fast have a higher GI rating than foods that raise your blood glucose level at a slower pace. In general, lower GI foods are the healthier choice.
What are the benefits of low GI foods?
Trying to keep the bulk of your food in the low GI rating can offer a number of benefits, these include:
• Controlling your blood glucose level
• Controlling your cholesterol level
• Reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes
• Assists in lowering and controlling weight
• Reducing your risk of heart disease
• Prolonging your physical endurance
How do I lower my GI?
There are simple steps you can take to lower your Glycemic Index. Here are a few ideas.
• Limit your bread intake to whole grains and oats (No White Bread)
• If you are eating a high GI food, try combining it with a low GI food (see chart)
• Eat multiple servings of fresh fruits and vegetables. They fill you up and have a low GI.
• Try rice vinegar in place of salad dressings.
• Limit your intake of processed and starchy foods.
• Choose healthy fats such as canola and olive oil.
For more ideas and a more in depth look at the GI, you may want to look at the following books.
"Sugar Busters"
"Eat Yourself Slim"
"The G.I. Diet"
Glycemic Index Food Chart
Low Glycemic Index food (less than 55)
Foods with GI index between 55 and 70 are intermediate
High Glycemic Index food GI (more than 70)
Low Glycemic Foods
Apple 38
Pear 38
Skim Milk 32
Carrot Juice 45
Whole Grain Bread 50
Low Fat Yogurt 14
Oranges 44
Spaghetti, whole wheat 37
Sweet potato 54
Jams and marmalades 49
Popcorn 55
Artichoke 15
Asparagus 15
Broccoli 15
Cauliflower 15
Celery 15
Cucumber 15
Eggplant 15
Green beans 15
Lettuce, all varieties 15
Low-fat yogurt, artificially sweetened 15
Peppers, all varieties 15
Snow peas 15
Spinach 15
Young summer squash 15
Tomatoes 15
Zucchini 15
Soya beans, boiled 16
Peas, dried 22
Kidney beans, boiled 29
Lentils green, boiled 29
Chickpeas 33
High Glycemic Foods
Waffles 76
Doughnut 76
White bread 71
Rice Krispies 82
Cornflakes 83
Corn chips 74
Jelly beans 80
Pretzels 81
Rice Cakes 82
Potato, instant 83
Potato, baked 85
Rice pasta, brown 92
Dates 103
The GI should help you make smart choices when choosing what to eat. Remember to make most of your choices on balanced nutrition…including a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables. Make an effort to cut back on foods with refined starch and concentrated sugar. Include some healthful fats and do not forget the protein.
Here’s to your health!
With a growing population of diabetics and overweight individuals, eating within GI guidelines, meaning that you take into account how much a particular food raises blood sugar and over stresses insulin production, is gaining interest among the medical community and the public.
What is the Glycemic Index (GI)?
The Glycemic Index indicates how quickly 50 grams of a food’s carbohydrates turn into sugar. At the most basic level, the GI ranks carbohydrate filled foods according to their glycemic response. Foods that raise your blood glucose level very fast have a higher GI rating than foods that raise your blood glucose level at a slower pace. In general, lower GI foods are the healthier choice.
What are the benefits of low GI foods?
Trying to keep the bulk of your food in the low GI rating can offer a number of benefits, these include:
• Controlling your blood glucose level
• Controlling your cholesterol level
• Reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes
• Assists in lowering and controlling weight
• Reducing your risk of heart disease
• Prolonging your physical endurance
How do I lower my GI?
There are simple steps you can take to lower your Glycemic Index. Here are a few ideas.
• Limit your bread intake to whole grains and oats (No White Bread)
• If you are eating a high GI food, try combining it with a low GI food (see chart)
• Eat multiple servings of fresh fruits and vegetables. They fill you up and have a low GI.
• Try rice vinegar in place of salad dressings.
• Limit your intake of processed and starchy foods.
• Choose healthy fats such as canola and olive oil.
For more ideas and a more in depth look at the GI, you may want to look at the following books.
"Sugar Busters"
"Eat Yourself Slim"
"The G.I. Diet"
Glycemic Index Food Chart
Low Glycemic Index food (less than 55)
Foods with GI index between 55 and 70 are intermediate
High Glycemic Index food GI (more than 70)
Low Glycemic Foods
Apple 38
Pear 38
Skim Milk 32
Carrot Juice 45
Whole Grain Bread 50
Low Fat Yogurt 14
Oranges 44
Spaghetti, whole wheat 37
Sweet potato 54
Jams and marmalades 49
Popcorn 55
Artichoke 15
Asparagus 15
Broccoli 15
Cauliflower 15
Celery 15
Cucumber 15
Eggplant 15
Green beans 15
Lettuce, all varieties 15
Low-fat yogurt, artificially sweetened 15
Peppers, all varieties 15
Snow peas 15
Spinach 15
Young summer squash 15
Tomatoes 15
Zucchini 15
Soya beans, boiled 16
Peas, dried 22
Kidney beans, boiled 29
Lentils green, boiled 29
Chickpeas 33
High Glycemic Foods
Waffles 76
Doughnut 76
White bread 71
Rice Krispies 82
Cornflakes 83
Corn chips 74
Jelly beans 80
Pretzels 81
Rice Cakes 82
Potato, instant 83
Potato, baked 85
Rice pasta, brown 92
Dates 103
The GI should help you make smart choices when choosing what to eat. Remember to make most of your choices on balanced nutrition…including a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables. Make an effort to cut back on foods with refined starch and concentrated sugar. Include some healthful fats and do not forget the protein.
Here’s to your health!
Making the Right Fast Food Choices
Every now and then, even with the best of intentions, we find ourselves looking to a fast food restaurant for lunch or dinner. Maybe a lack of time or a lack of planning is to blame for forcing this upon us. Maybe something came up beyond our control that is making us resort to this as a last minute meal decision. Whatever the reason, you will be ordering your next meal by talking into a plastic clown from your car window.
The problem with this is, you know that fast food is notorious for very high fat content and very high calorie count while at the same time being very low in nutrition. Well, as luck would have it, there are actually some things that you can order from a few of the popular fast food places that are somewhat on the healthier side. The main thing is to stay away from the fat laden side orders like the fries and shakes, and go with the broiled and grilled items. Here are some examples of the better fast food choices:
At burger king, go with the BK broiler chicken sandwich or the broiled chicken salad. Also not too bad is the whopper, but it is imperative to order it dry and without cheese and add your own ketchup. All the sauces on the whopper are where most of the extra fat and calories come from.
At KFC, stay with the tender roast chicken and go with the skinless white meat. Fried chicken from anywhere should be avoided like the plague.
At McDonalds, the grilled chicken deluxe and the grilled chicken salad are the best choices. Since just about everything else here is fried or deep fried, these are really your only good choices.
At subway you have a few good choices like the turkey breast sub and the sweet onion teriyaki chicken sub. Most anything from their “low fat” menu is good, but don’t add cheese or fattening condiments like mayo and stick with the 6 inch ones.
At taco bell, the grilled chicken burrito and the grilled chicken soft taco are good choices. Any of their items made with grilled chicken are ok, just watch out for any added fattening sauces or fried items that might be used in the item.
At Wendy’s, the grilled chicken sandwich and the grilled chicken salad are two very good choices. Here you can also get a baked potato on the side but watch what you fill it with.
As a rule of thumb, always avoid anything fried like French fries or onion rings as these items can add as much as 450 extra calories to your meal which is usually as much as or more than what their signature burgers pack. Items like the milk shakes also come with nearly as many calories as the signature burgers so be careful not to order them as well. Always order your food without the dressings, sauces, mayo or cheese. These only add unwanted fat calories to your item. You can always ask for fat-free dressings and condiments like ketchup and add them yourself when you get your food.
All fast food is not completely off limits, even if you are making an effort to watch what you eat. Just make eating fast food an occasional thing and be aware of what you order when eating there. When in doubt, always go with broiled or grilled chicken items, and avoid most of the sides unless you know they are good choices like salads or baked potato’s.
The problem with this is, you know that fast food is notorious for very high fat content and very high calorie count while at the same time being very low in nutrition. Well, as luck would have it, there are actually some things that you can order from a few of the popular fast food places that are somewhat on the healthier side. The main thing is to stay away from the fat laden side orders like the fries and shakes, and go with the broiled and grilled items. Here are some examples of the better fast food choices:
At burger king, go with the BK broiler chicken sandwich or the broiled chicken salad. Also not too bad is the whopper, but it is imperative to order it dry and without cheese and add your own ketchup. All the sauces on the whopper are where most of the extra fat and calories come from.
At KFC, stay with the tender roast chicken and go with the skinless white meat. Fried chicken from anywhere should be avoided like the plague.
At McDonalds, the grilled chicken deluxe and the grilled chicken salad are the best choices. Since just about everything else here is fried or deep fried, these are really your only good choices.
At subway you have a few good choices like the turkey breast sub and the sweet onion teriyaki chicken sub. Most anything from their “low fat” menu is good, but don’t add cheese or fattening condiments like mayo and stick with the 6 inch ones.
At taco bell, the grilled chicken burrito and the grilled chicken soft taco are good choices. Any of their items made with grilled chicken are ok, just watch out for any added fattening sauces or fried items that might be used in the item.
At Wendy’s, the grilled chicken sandwich and the grilled chicken salad are two very good choices. Here you can also get a baked potato on the side but watch what you fill it with.
As a rule of thumb, always avoid anything fried like French fries or onion rings as these items can add as much as 450 extra calories to your meal which is usually as much as or more than what their signature burgers pack. Items like the milk shakes also come with nearly as many calories as the signature burgers so be careful not to order them as well. Always order your food without the dressings, sauces, mayo or cheese. These only add unwanted fat calories to your item. You can always ask for fat-free dressings and condiments like ketchup and add them yourself when you get your food.
All fast food is not completely off limits, even if you are making an effort to watch what you eat. Just make eating fast food an occasional thing and be aware of what you order when eating there. When in doubt, always go with broiled or grilled chicken items, and avoid most of the sides unless you know they are good choices like salads or baked potato’s.
Just a Bite: Encouraging Kids To Try New Foods
Eating a variety of healthy foods is the best way for your child to get needed nutrients. But how do you encourage kids-notorious for being picky eaters-to explore the wide world of food? According to the health and parenting experts at KidsHealth, the answer is pleasant persistence.
It turns out that once is not enough when it comes to kids and trying new foods. It may take up to 15 tries before children warm up to new tastes, research shows. So if your child turns up his nose at green beans or broccoli, don't assume he will never like those good-for-you green veggies.
Consider starting a new rule at your family table: Everyone takes at least a bite of what's being served, even if they tried it before and didn't like it. This exposes kids to new tastes again and again, increasing the odds that they'll eventually accept some of them. It also makes trying new foods just part of the normal routine. The KidsHealth experts offer these tips for implementing this one-bite strategy:
• Put a small portion of the new food on your child's plate. Or, if your child's old enough, allow her to self-serve.
• When serving a new food, be sure to also include a familiar food on that night's menu. Too much new stuff can be off-putting, especially to a hungry child.
• Keep the mood light and upbeat. Don't make the one bite seem like a punishment.
• Talk about the new food you're serving, where it comes from, other recipes it's in, or even how to spell the food. (For instance, you might tell a toddler that zucchini starts with "Z.")
• Be a sport by following the one-bite rule yourself.
Visiting restaurants, farmers' markets and specialty markets can also expose kids to different foods. Use those outings to let your child choose a new food to try. Reading books about food and paging through cookbooks is another way to encourage experimentation. If a recipe looks good to your child, consider making it together. That new dish could become a favorite. But for now, start with just one bite.
It turns out that once is not enough when it comes to kids and trying new foods. It may take up to 15 tries before children warm up to new tastes, research shows. So if your child turns up his nose at green beans or broccoli, don't assume he will never like those good-for-you green veggies.
Consider starting a new rule at your family table: Everyone takes at least a bite of what's being served, even if they tried it before and didn't like it. This exposes kids to new tastes again and again, increasing the odds that they'll eventually accept some of them. It also makes trying new foods just part of the normal routine. The KidsHealth experts offer these tips for implementing this one-bite strategy:
• Put a small portion of the new food on your child's plate. Or, if your child's old enough, allow her to self-serve.
• When serving a new food, be sure to also include a familiar food on that night's menu. Too much new stuff can be off-putting, especially to a hungry child.
• Keep the mood light and upbeat. Don't make the one bite seem like a punishment.
• Talk about the new food you're serving, where it comes from, other recipes it's in, or even how to spell the food. (For instance, you might tell a toddler that zucchini starts with "Z.")
• Be a sport by following the one-bite rule yourself.
Visiting restaurants, farmers' markets and specialty markets can also expose kids to different foods. Use those outings to let your child choose a new food to try. Reading books about food and paging through cookbooks is another way to encourage experimentation. If a recipe looks good to your child, consider making it together. That new dish could become a favorite. But for now, start with just one bite.
It's Getting Easier To Go With The Grain
There's good news for those who want to incorporate more whole grains into their diet. Thanks to innovative menu planning and a growing number of products, it's getting easier for consumers to include whole grains on a regular basis.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) food pyramid recommends that adults consume at least three servings of whole grains per day. That's the same as three ounce equivalents. But according to a recent survey by the Whole Grains Council and Knorr®-Lipton® Sides™ Made with Whole Grains, 68 percent of adults are unaware that they should consume at least three daily servings of whole grains.
USDA research has indicated that the majority of whole grain servings are consumed at breakfast, followed by snacks. Whole grain intake drops at lunch and dinner as each of these meals account for only 15 percent of daily whole grain consumption.
Fortunately, with a little creativity, it's possible to find a number of ways to add whole grains to a family's diet. Here are 10 quick tips:
• Buy quick-cooking whole grain pasta or rice side dishes for dinner.
• Make risottos and pilafs with whole grains such as barley, brown rice, bulgur, millet, quinoa or sorghum.
• Enjoy whole grain salads like tabbouleh.
• Try whole grain breads. Kids especially like whole grain pita bread.
• Add half a cup of cooked wheat or rye berries, wild rice, brown rice, sorghum or barley to your favorite canned or home-made soup.
• Substitute half the white flour with whole-wheat flour in your regular recipes for cookies, muffins, quick breads and pancakes.
• Add half a cup of cooked bulgur, wild rice or barley to bread stuffing.
• Use whole corn meal for corn cakes, corn breads and corn muffins.
• Look for cereals made with grains such as kamut, kasha (buckwheat) or grano.
• Snack on multigrain chips and crackers or air-popped popcorn.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) food pyramid recommends that adults consume at least three servings of whole grains per day. That's the same as three ounce equivalents. But according to a recent survey by the Whole Grains Council and Knorr®-Lipton® Sides™ Made with Whole Grains, 68 percent of adults are unaware that they should consume at least three daily servings of whole grains.
USDA research has indicated that the majority of whole grain servings are consumed at breakfast, followed by snacks. Whole grain intake drops at lunch and dinner as each of these meals account for only 15 percent of daily whole grain consumption.
Fortunately, with a little creativity, it's possible to find a number of ways to add whole grains to a family's diet. Here are 10 quick tips:
• Buy quick-cooking whole grain pasta or rice side dishes for dinner.
• Make risottos and pilafs with whole grains such as barley, brown rice, bulgur, millet, quinoa or sorghum.
• Enjoy whole grain salads like tabbouleh.
• Try whole grain breads. Kids especially like whole grain pita bread.
• Add half a cup of cooked wheat or rye berries, wild rice, brown rice, sorghum or barley to your favorite canned or home-made soup.
• Substitute half the white flour with whole-wheat flour in your regular recipes for cookies, muffins, quick breads and pancakes.
• Add half a cup of cooked bulgur, wild rice or barley to bread stuffing.
• Use whole corn meal for corn cakes, corn breads and corn muffins.
• Look for cereals made with grains such as kamut, kasha (buckwheat) or grano.
• Snack on multigrain chips and crackers or air-popped popcorn.
Is Saturated Fat In Coconut Good For Your Heart Health?
You probably know that saturated fats are bad fats that can cause all kinds of heart related diseases. Did you know that and the humble coconut oil has 92% saturated fats? Then why is it that there are many advocates of taking coconut oil as a health supplement? Isn't that contradictory?
Supporters of virgin coconut oil argue that coconut oil helps them to improve skin condition, have more energy and even to lose weight. Huh? consuming saturated fats to lose weight? How is that possible?
These advocates hail the virgin coconut oil as one of the hottest new nutritional supplement to hit the health and nutrition industry in years. This logic flies against conventional wisdom, isn’t it?
Saturated fat and there are plenty of it in coconut oil has been the villain for heart diseases. When hydrogenated vegetable fat (trans fat) was invented like in margarine, it was supposed to replace unhealthy saturated fat like in butter and was thought to be a healthier form of fat only until it was discovered in the last few years that trans fat is more dangerous to your heart health than saturated fat.
It is with this thinking that proponents of coconut fats is now arguing that not all forms of saturated fat may be bad and the coconut oil may be one of them. Dr. Bruce Fife, a US based naturopath and author of “The Coconut Oil Miracle” remarked during a press conference in Singapore last month, “Not all saturated fatty acids act in the same way. The fat in coconut oil is different from most other fats and has many health giving properties”.
He further added that, “The Lauric acid (I coconut oil) boosts immunity, has antioxidant properties and is being investigated in reducing viral load in HIV patients. You should also take into account the size of the carbon chain in the fatty acid. Most of the oils and fats we consume are long–chain fatty acids. Coconut oil is the richest source of medium-chain fatty acids, which actually behave very differently from the long-chain versions.”
“Medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil boost the body’s metabolic rate and promote weight loss. They are broken down immediately in the liver to produce energy and are not stored as fat,” he added.
So is the consumption of coconut fats good or bad for health? It’s very controversial isn’t it?
Let’s hear it from another expert Dr Annie Leong, deputy director of the nutrition department at the Health Promotion Board. “There is not enough evidence to prove that medium-chain saturated fats can reduce heart risk.”
Nutritionist Anna Jacob argued that, “Kerala is the coconut capital of India and it also has the highest rates of heart disease. While it is possible to argue that Indians are genetically predisposed to heart disease, but a diet high in saturated fat as well could heighten that risk.”
My question is that since Indians are more prone to heart disease, then the high rates of heart disease should be spread evenly throughout India and not just in Kerala, don’t you think so? Therefore, I am still a little skeptical.
So who is right and who is wrong? So is coconut oil saturated fat good or bad for your heart health? Well, the jury is still out there as far as I am concerned. I for one will make a conscious effort to avoid consuming coconut oil too often until the coconut debate is more conclusive with empirical evidence that the coconut oil is good for heart health.
Supporters of virgin coconut oil argue that coconut oil helps them to improve skin condition, have more energy and even to lose weight. Huh? consuming saturated fats to lose weight? How is that possible?
These advocates hail the virgin coconut oil as one of the hottest new nutritional supplement to hit the health and nutrition industry in years. This logic flies against conventional wisdom, isn’t it?
Saturated fat and there are plenty of it in coconut oil has been the villain for heart diseases. When hydrogenated vegetable fat (trans fat) was invented like in margarine, it was supposed to replace unhealthy saturated fat like in butter and was thought to be a healthier form of fat only until it was discovered in the last few years that trans fat is more dangerous to your heart health than saturated fat.
It is with this thinking that proponents of coconut fats is now arguing that not all forms of saturated fat may be bad and the coconut oil may be one of them. Dr. Bruce Fife, a US based naturopath and author of “The Coconut Oil Miracle” remarked during a press conference in Singapore last month, “Not all saturated fatty acids act in the same way. The fat in coconut oil is different from most other fats and has many health giving properties”.
He further added that, “The Lauric acid (I coconut oil) boosts immunity, has antioxidant properties and is being investigated in reducing viral load in HIV patients. You should also take into account the size of the carbon chain in the fatty acid. Most of the oils and fats we consume are long–chain fatty acids. Coconut oil is the richest source of medium-chain fatty acids, which actually behave very differently from the long-chain versions.”
“Medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil boost the body’s metabolic rate and promote weight loss. They are broken down immediately in the liver to produce energy and are not stored as fat,” he added.
So is the consumption of coconut fats good or bad for health? It’s very controversial isn’t it?
Let’s hear it from another expert Dr Annie Leong, deputy director of the nutrition department at the Health Promotion Board. “There is not enough evidence to prove that medium-chain saturated fats can reduce heart risk.”
Nutritionist Anna Jacob argued that, “Kerala is the coconut capital of India and it also has the highest rates of heart disease. While it is possible to argue that Indians are genetically predisposed to heart disease, but a diet high in saturated fat as well could heighten that risk.”
My question is that since Indians are more prone to heart disease, then the high rates of heart disease should be spread evenly throughout India and not just in Kerala, don’t you think so? Therefore, I am still a little skeptical.
So who is right and who is wrong? So is coconut oil saturated fat good or bad for your heart health? Well, the jury is still out there as far as I am concerned. I for one will make a conscious effort to avoid consuming coconut oil too often until the coconut debate is more conclusive with empirical evidence that the coconut oil is good for heart health.
How to Choose a Water Purifier
You’re thirsty after working in the sun on a hot Saturday afternoon. You head to the kitchen and pour yourself a cool glass of water and gulp it back greedily. The immediate effect is to cool you down, quench your thirst, and re-hydrate your body.
But did you give any thought to what it’s doing to your body? It’s true that doctors suggest we drink 8 glasses of water a day, but if you don’t drink the right kind of water,it can have a harmful effect on you!
Wait a minute, you say: "The right kind of water???" How many kinds of water are there?
The answer is: several! Water is not just a colorless liquid that quenches our parched tongues. Water is a necessary part of life and not just for keeping us hydrated. Most people don’t know that water contains other properties that allow you to live a healthy life:
1..Your water is supposed to deliver essential nutrients and minerals needed to live. For example, calcium, magnesium, potassium and trace elements -- which doctors recommend we take in -- can be found in some drinking waters, but not all. Are you spending an arm and a leg on supplements to ensure you’re getting these minerals when instead you can get them simply and cheaply by drinking the right kind of water?
2. Your water should help balance out the acidic state of your body. Simply put, our bodies’ tissues produce waste that is acid in nature. When these acid wastes accumulate --because of pollutants, modern diet and stress -- our tissues slowly deteriorate. Chronic diseases such as cancer,arthritis, diabetes and osteoporosis are associated with this acid condition. Water should help balance out our acidic state by being alkaline.
3. Like a natural stream, your water should have antioxidant properties. Oxidization hastens cell breakdown, while foods with antioxidant properties prevent it. You don’t need anyone to tell you that you want a body that generates cells, not destroys them!
4. Your water should be free of contaminants. Many people are shocked to learn that there can be over 2000 contaminants in an ordinary glass of tap water.
So aside from quenching your thirst, water should also be full of minerals, be alkaline, and be antioxidant. But did you know that most water is exactly the opposite? And did you know that waters from many water purifier systems fail these basic requirements?
It’s true. People buy water purification systems thinking that they will successfully filter out the "bad stuff" and keep the "good stuff"in water. Unfortunately, many systems, even the expensive ones, either do an inadequate job of filtering out the "bad stuff" or they filter out everything-- both good and bad. In fact, there are filtration systems for which people pay top dollar, that doctors recommend you don’t drink from on a long term basis -- because they can make your body even more acidic!
But before you completely swear off water, know this: it’s not all bad news. There are excellent purification systems that do a good job of creating healthy, alkaline water with as much antioxidant property as a glass of orange juice!
Protect the health of your family. Before believing the advertising claims of any system, and before spending a fortune on bottled water, really compare the choices in home purification systems. Find out:
1. How do the health benefits of each system compare? (contamination,acidity, antioxidant,minerals)
2. What’s the taste like? If you don’t love the taste, you won’t drink enough water.
3. How much will it actually cost me?
But did you give any thought to what it’s doing to your body? It’s true that doctors suggest we drink 8 glasses of water a day, but if you don’t drink the right kind of water,it can have a harmful effect on you!
Wait a minute, you say: "The right kind of water???" How many kinds of water are there?
The answer is: several! Water is not just a colorless liquid that quenches our parched tongues. Water is a necessary part of life and not just for keeping us hydrated. Most people don’t know that water contains other properties that allow you to live a healthy life:
1..Your water is supposed to deliver essential nutrients and minerals needed to live. For example, calcium, magnesium, potassium and trace elements -- which doctors recommend we take in -- can be found in some drinking waters, but not all. Are you spending an arm and a leg on supplements to ensure you’re getting these minerals when instead you can get them simply and cheaply by drinking the right kind of water?
2. Your water should help balance out the acidic state of your body. Simply put, our bodies’ tissues produce waste that is acid in nature. When these acid wastes accumulate --because of pollutants, modern diet and stress -- our tissues slowly deteriorate. Chronic diseases such as cancer,arthritis, diabetes and osteoporosis are associated with this acid condition. Water should help balance out our acidic state by being alkaline.
3. Like a natural stream, your water should have antioxidant properties. Oxidization hastens cell breakdown, while foods with antioxidant properties prevent it. You don’t need anyone to tell you that you want a body that generates cells, not destroys them!
4. Your water should be free of contaminants. Many people are shocked to learn that there can be over 2000 contaminants in an ordinary glass of tap water.
So aside from quenching your thirst, water should also be full of minerals, be alkaline, and be antioxidant. But did you know that most water is exactly the opposite? And did you know that waters from many water purifier systems fail these basic requirements?
It’s true. People buy water purification systems thinking that they will successfully filter out the "bad stuff" and keep the "good stuff"in water. Unfortunately, many systems, even the expensive ones, either do an inadequate job of filtering out the "bad stuff" or they filter out everything-- both good and bad. In fact, there are filtration systems for which people pay top dollar, that doctors recommend you don’t drink from on a long term basis -- because they can make your body even more acidic!
But before you completely swear off water, know this: it’s not all bad news. There are excellent purification systems that do a good job of creating healthy, alkaline water with as much antioxidant property as a glass of orange juice!
Protect the health of your family. Before believing the advertising claims of any system, and before spending a fortune on bottled water, really compare the choices in home purification systems. Find out:
1. How do the health benefits of each system compare? (contamination,acidity, antioxidant,minerals)
2. What’s the taste like? If you don’t love the taste, you won’t drink enough water.
3. How much will it actually cost me?
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
How To Remove Lobster From The Shell
Lobster is an an all-time favorite seafood with most people, and many dishes using lobsters require that the flesh be removed from the shell. Here are some handy tips when you prepare a lobster dish at home.
A preliminary way to prepare a lobster, which should be alive, is to grasp it firmly by the back, plunge it quickly, head first, into a kettle of rapidly boiling water, and then submerge the rest of the body. Be sure to have a sufficient amount of water to cover the lobster completely. Boil rapidly for 5 minutes; then lower the flame or remove to a cooler part of the stove and cook slowly for 1/2 hour. Remove from the water and allow to cool.
After being prepared in this way, a lobster may be served cold or it maybe used in the preparation of various made dishes. If it is to be used without further preparation, it is often served from the shell, which is usually split open. Mayonnaise or some other sauce is generally served with lobster. The flesh is removed from the shell with a small fork as it is eaten.
To remove lobster from the shell, first pull off the two large claws and the four pairs of small claws, and break the tail from the body. Then using scissors, cut a single slit the entire length of the shell covering the under part of the tail and remove the flesh inside the tail in a whole, large piece. The intestinal tract, which can be readily observed, will be found embedded in this piece and running the entire length. Slash the flesh and remove it. Next remove the flesh of the body from the shell, retaining only that part which appears to be fibrous, like the flesh of the tail. The stomach, should not be removed from the shell. However, care should be taken to obtain all the flesh surrounding the bones in the bony part of the lobster. The coral substance, that is, the roe of the lobster, should also be removed, as it can be used for a garnish.
With the flesh removed from the shell, proceed to take out the flesh in the claws. Break open the large claws, using a nut cracker or a small hammer for this purpose, and remove the flesh that they contain. If the small claws are to be used for a garnish, as is often done, remove the flesh without breaking them; otherwise break them as in the case of the large ones.
Nora Maskuri
For more tips and recipes, visit http://mycookery.com/blog
A preliminary way to prepare a lobster, which should be alive, is to grasp it firmly by the back, plunge it quickly, head first, into a kettle of rapidly boiling water, and then submerge the rest of the body. Be sure to have a sufficient amount of water to cover the lobster completely. Boil rapidly for 5 minutes; then lower the flame or remove to a cooler part of the stove and cook slowly for 1/2 hour. Remove from the water and allow to cool.
After being prepared in this way, a lobster may be served cold or it maybe used in the preparation of various made dishes. If it is to be used without further preparation, it is often served from the shell, which is usually split open. Mayonnaise or some other sauce is generally served with lobster. The flesh is removed from the shell with a small fork as it is eaten.
To remove lobster from the shell, first pull off the two large claws and the four pairs of small claws, and break the tail from the body. Then using scissors, cut a single slit the entire length of the shell covering the under part of the tail and remove the flesh inside the tail in a whole, large piece. The intestinal tract, which can be readily observed, will be found embedded in this piece and running the entire length. Slash the flesh and remove it. Next remove the flesh of the body from the shell, retaining only that part which appears to be fibrous, like the flesh of the tail. The stomach, should not be removed from the shell. However, care should be taken to obtain all the flesh surrounding the bones in the bony part of the lobster. The coral substance, that is, the roe of the lobster, should also be removed, as it can be used for a garnish.
With the flesh removed from the shell, proceed to take out the flesh in the claws. Break open the large claws, using a nut cracker or a small hammer for this purpose, and remove the flesh that they contain. If the small claws are to be used for a garnish, as is often done, remove the flesh without breaking them; otherwise break them as in the case of the large ones.
Nora Maskuri
For more tips and recipes, visit http://mycookery.com/blog
Ever Think About Getting A Barbeque Pit?
The barbeque pit has been around for ages. Some people claim that barbequing in the pit is better then cooking in the kitchen.
Barbeque pits came out around 1920. But they only became popular in the 1950 when practically everyone owned one. Back in those days more people had family and friends gathering and big cook outs, but now it’s hard to find time for all of that. But even if you use it once in a while it’s still wroth having.
You might find it challenging looking for a BBQ pit, but the best place to look for them is on the internet. There you can see how to build one from scratch; it’s not as hard as it sounds.
But before starting anything, be sure to check with your city, if you’re permitted to do so. Some may even require inspections before or after you build it, so be careful. Don’t just start making something in the back of hour house. See if you’re allowed to first you don’t want to get in trouble and pay a fine.
Take some time to research before you go see them. Decide if you want to add electricity or a gas burner, because their might be additional permit that are required, they might even ask you to have the electrical stuff be installed by a professional to ensure safety.
You’ve got to also decide on how extravagant of a pit you want. Do you want something simple or do you want to go all out. Think about how much you are willing to spend and your need. There are many optional features that you can have put in; in the end it’s up to you. There are many things to consider, such as what type of grill do you want, do you need a grill to place the food in or a place for the fire that is well ventilated.
There are boundless things to remember, like are you going to make the pit withstand the harsh climates that you may encounter. Think about the type of weather you receive. Think about where you’re going to place it, be sure that it looks good before you start building it.
If you need any help just look for books and check out the internet. Use all the resources you have before embarking on this big project.
Barbeque pits came out around 1920. But they only became popular in the 1950 when practically everyone owned one. Back in those days more people had family and friends gathering and big cook outs, but now it’s hard to find time for all of that. But even if you use it once in a while it’s still wroth having.
You might find it challenging looking for a BBQ pit, but the best place to look for them is on the internet. There you can see how to build one from scratch; it’s not as hard as it sounds.
But before starting anything, be sure to check with your city, if you’re permitted to do so. Some may even require inspections before or after you build it, so be careful. Don’t just start making something in the back of hour house. See if you’re allowed to first you don’t want to get in trouble and pay a fine.
Take some time to research before you go see them. Decide if you want to add electricity or a gas burner, because their might be additional permit that are required, they might even ask you to have the electrical stuff be installed by a professional to ensure safety.
You’ve got to also decide on how extravagant of a pit you want. Do you want something simple or do you want to go all out. Think about how much you are willing to spend and your need. There are many optional features that you can have put in; in the end it’s up to you. There are many things to consider, such as what type of grill do you want, do you need a grill to place the food in or a place for the fire that is well ventilated.
There are boundless things to remember, like are you going to make the pit withstand the harsh climates that you may encounter. Think about the type of weather you receive. Think about where you’re going to place it, be sure that it looks good before you start building it.
If you need any help just look for books and check out the internet. Use all the resources you have before embarking on this big project.
Elegant Entertaining Without Breaking The Bank
Good news for the next time you're considering hosting a party. You don't have to feel dizzy, overwhelmed and full of questions: I don't have a creative bone in my body-how will I decorate without spending a fortune? What will I serve? You can relax and take a deep breath. Here are a few hints on how to create an affordable elegance that you can enjoy just as much as your guests.
How will I decorate without spending a fortune? You don't have to spend huge amounts of money on anything that will only be used once. Start by looking around your home and see what you can use to complement a specific theme. For example, if you're hosting a luncheon for family or a group of friends, gather potted plants from inside and outside your home and place them in the dining area for a lush, garden theme. Make place cards by writing each guest's name on a leaf.
For an inexpensive table centerpiece, head outside! Fill a long platter or wicker basket with pinecones, fresh fruit, nuts, small white birch logs and baby pumpkins. The Pampered Chef, the premier direct seller of kitchen tools, has some beautiful and versatile tabletop pieces to help you, such as a Woven Selections Rectangle Tray or Simple Additions® Entertaining Set. Finish off by sprinkling dried flower petals around the table. You'll be surprised at how much fun you can have and how much money you'll save simply by using your imagination.
What will I serve? Here's where most people worry needlessly. If you are making a main course, keep it simple and stick with what you know. Take advantage of convenience items such as prechopped vegetables or rotisserie chickens. Don't be afraid to ask friends or family to bring a simple side such as a marinated salad or potato dish. For less formal gatherings, purchase snacks that your guests can graze on-mixed nuts, cold cuts, crackers and exotic cheeses, prepared salads and fresh salsa and chips. The Pampered Chef® has many simple yet sensational recipe ideas to help you get in and out of the kitchen quickly, so you can join your friends in the festivities. To please even the most discriminating palate, serve an elegant appetizer such as Baked Brie. Along with your favorite beverages, and festive music, you're well on your way to hosting this year's "Affair to Remember!"
Baked Brie with Apples
& Cranberries
Prep time: 15 minutes
1/2 cup chopped apple
(1/2 medium apple)
1/4 cup sliced natural almonds
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon Pantry Korintje Cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted
1 round (8 ounces) Brie cheese (about 4 inches in diameter)
Crackers or cocktail bread slices
1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Coarsely chop apple with food chopper. Combine apple, almonds, cranberries, brown sugar and cinnamon in small batter bowl; mix gently. Stir in butter just until ingredients are moistened.
2. Cut Brie in half horizontally using utility knife. Place one half of Brie, rind side down, on small bar pan. Spoon half of the apple mixture onto bottom half of Brie, spreading evenly. Top with remaining half of Brie, rind side up. Spoon remaining apple mixture over top. Bake 12-15 minutes or until cheese is soft and just begins to melt. Serve with assorted crackers or cocktail bread slices. Yield: 8 servings
How will I decorate without spending a fortune? You don't have to spend huge amounts of money on anything that will only be used once. Start by looking around your home and see what you can use to complement a specific theme. For example, if you're hosting a luncheon for family or a group of friends, gather potted plants from inside and outside your home and place them in the dining area for a lush, garden theme. Make place cards by writing each guest's name on a leaf.
For an inexpensive table centerpiece, head outside! Fill a long platter or wicker basket with pinecones, fresh fruit, nuts, small white birch logs and baby pumpkins. The Pampered Chef, the premier direct seller of kitchen tools, has some beautiful and versatile tabletop pieces to help you, such as a Woven Selections Rectangle Tray or Simple Additions® Entertaining Set. Finish off by sprinkling dried flower petals around the table. You'll be surprised at how much fun you can have and how much money you'll save simply by using your imagination.
What will I serve? Here's where most people worry needlessly. If you are making a main course, keep it simple and stick with what you know. Take advantage of convenience items such as prechopped vegetables or rotisserie chickens. Don't be afraid to ask friends or family to bring a simple side such as a marinated salad or potato dish. For less formal gatherings, purchase snacks that your guests can graze on-mixed nuts, cold cuts, crackers and exotic cheeses, prepared salads and fresh salsa and chips. The Pampered Chef® has many simple yet sensational recipe ideas to help you get in and out of the kitchen quickly, so you can join your friends in the festivities. To please even the most discriminating palate, serve an elegant appetizer such as Baked Brie. Along with your favorite beverages, and festive music, you're well on your way to hosting this year's "Affair to Remember!"
Baked Brie with Apples
& Cranberries
Prep time: 15 minutes
1/2 cup chopped apple
(1/2 medium apple)
1/4 cup sliced natural almonds
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon Pantry Korintje Cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted
1 round (8 ounces) Brie cheese (about 4 inches in diameter)
Crackers or cocktail bread slices
1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Coarsely chop apple with food chopper. Combine apple, almonds, cranberries, brown sugar and cinnamon in small batter bowl; mix gently. Stir in butter just until ingredients are moistened.
2. Cut Brie in half horizontally using utility knife. Place one half of Brie, rind side down, on small bar pan. Spoon half of the apple mixture onto bottom half of Brie, spreading evenly. Top with remaining half of Brie, rind side up. Spoon remaining apple mixture over top. Bake 12-15 minutes or until cheese is soft and just begins to melt. Serve with assorted crackers or cocktail bread slices. Yield: 8 servings
Easy Summer Grilling Success
Summer evenings are so beautiful, you just need to move outside. Clean off the grill and prepare to enjoy these long leisurely evenings. Here are some tips to be sure your next barbeque is a success!
1. Heat the grill. If using charcoal, allow plenty of time for the coals to reach the proper temperature and be tinged with ash. Spread the coals out in an even layer. You can make a double or triple layer on one side of the grill and a single layer on the other for better heat control.
2. A flavorful aromatic smoke adds to the aroma and penetrates the food to add a distinctive flavor. You can use wood chips that have been soaked in water and apply directly on top of the coals. Or pick fresh herbs from your garden such as rosemary, marjoram, thyme, bay leafs or oregano and lay onto the coals. Do not use green wood, or any wood that has been treated for use as lumber.
3. Lightly oil the grill surface or spray with Pam. Or oil the food lightly. Careful, too much oil will cause flare-ups.
4. Pre-heat the grill with the lid closed for 10 or 15 minutes. On charcoal grills, the coals should be glowing red with white ash forming, this can take a little longer.
5. Choose a good piece of meat. Meat that is higher in fat marbling will produce a juicer BBQ product. Much of the fat will cook away during cooking anyway. Excess fat on the outside of the meat should be trimmed, this fat does not help the moisture content of the food and will cause flare-ups.
6. Brush the food with a water or vinegar based marinade and place the meat or vegetables on the grill. Be careful not to overcrowd the food. Ideally meat should be marinated for 1 hour or more before grilling.
7. Use pieces of meat less than 1 – 2 inches thick. Grill on a hot grill and keep the lid down except when brushing with marinade, checking for doneness, etc.
8. Cook on one side for half the cooking time, then brush the top with additional marinade and turn to cook the other side. Avoid turning more than needed, as this can prevent caramelization.
9. Keep a spritzer bottle handy to help deal with flare-ups. If flare-ups occur, move the food to prevent burning. Usually, moving the food is enough to control the flare; however, your can spritz with a fine mist of water if needed.
10. Barbeque sauces usually contain a lot of sugar and will burn if applied too soon. Apply sauce as the food is almost ready to remove and cook only long enough to just set the sauce- 10 minutes or less.
11. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Avoid pricking the meat unnecessarily as juices will drain away.
12. Enjoy!
1. Heat the grill. If using charcoal, allow plenty of time for the coals to reach the proper temperature and be tinged with ash. Spread the coals out in an even layer. You can make a double or triple layer on one side of the grill and a single layer on the other for better heat control.
2. A flavorful aromatic smoke adds to the aroma and penetrates the food to add a distinctive flavor. You can use wood chips that have been soaked in water and apply directly on top of the coals. Or pick fresh herbs from your garden such as rosemary, marjoram, thyme, bay leafs or oregano and lay onto the coals. Do not use green wood, or any wood that has been treated for use as lumber.
3. Lightly oil the grill surface or spray with Pam. Or oil the food lightly. Careful, too much oil will cause flare-ups.
4. Pre-heat the grill with the lid closed for 10 or 15 minutes. On charcoal grills, the coals should be glowing red with white ash forming, this can take a little longer.
5. Choose a good piece of meat. Meat that is higher in fat marbling will produce a juicer BBQ product. Much of the fat will cook away during cooking anyway. Excess fat on the outside of the meat should be trimmed, this fat does not help the moisture content of the food and will cause flare-ups.
6. Brush the food with a water or vinegar based marinade and place the meat or vegetables on the grill. Be careful not to overcrowd the food. Ideally meat should be marinated for 1 hour or more before grilling.
7. Use pieces of meat less than 1 – 2 inches thick. Grill on a hot grill and keep the lid down except when brushing with marinade, checking for doneness, etc.
8. Cook on one side for half the cooking time, then brush the top with additional marinade and turn to cook the other side. Avoid turning more than needed, as this can prevent caramelization.
9. Keep a spritzer bottle handy to help deal with flare-ups. If flare-ups occur, move the food to prevent burning. Usually, moving the food is enough to control the flare; however, your can spritz with a fine mist of water if needed.
10. Barbeque sauces usually contain a lot of sugar and will burn if applied too soon. Apply sauce as the food is almost ready to remove and cook only long enough to just set the sauce- 10 minutes or less.
11. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Avoid pricking the meat unnecessarily as juices will drain away.
12. Enjoy!
Deep Fryer - Pieces of Wisdom
For a time I worked in a convenience store as a clerk and cook and I used a deep fryer quite a bit for cooking battered chicken and French fried potatoes.
Of course the chicken doesn't start out battered. It comes delivered frozen in big cardboard boxes. Before the chicken is ready for the cooking part it must be prepared and time to thaw out. Each piece of chicken is rinsed in cold water, then put in a vat of tenderising, salty water to soak for several hours in a refrigerated area. It is again rinsed and kept cold, until needed for cooking.
When needed for cooking the chicken is breaded in a special spicy flour mix, dipped in spice water, and breaded with mix again. Each piece is than carefully placed in the boiling oil in the deep fryer; starting with the large, meaty pieces, and finishing with the thin bony pieces. This gives the thick meaty pieces more time to cook. They get the hottest oil in the pot to start off the cooking process. The deep fryer is on a timer and part way through the cooking process the timer sets off an alarm which notifies you that it's time to stir the chicken, so it gets all sides cooked evenly, even the sides touching when first put in the fryer. After stirring the chicken it cooks until the end of cooking cycle alarm goes off. Then the pot elevator will automatically lift the cooking basket out of the hot oil, allowing the chicken to drip off the excess oil.
The deep fryer also cooks French fried potatoes. After cutting the potatoes into the elongated cube shape in a cutter, the fries are battered, dipped and battered again. They then can be gently lowered in hands full, into the boiling oil. The cooking is again controlled by a timer, which sounds when the cooking cycle has completed. After 4 cooks the oil in the fryer needs to be filtered to clean it for future cooking cycles. Another alarm indicates when oil filtering needs to occur.
The heat on the oil is turned off, so the oil can cool down enough to work with. The cooking basket is raised and removed from the fryer. A valve is turned to allow the oil to drain down into the filtering drawer. When the oil has drained the empty oil reservoir is brushed, including the heating coil element, to remove anything sticking to their surfaces. A pump is turned on which circulates the oil repeatedly through the filter. The filtering can take place for 10 or 15 minutes, depending how dark the oil appears in color. When the oil has become lighter in color it is pumped back up to the oil reservoir, after the valve at the bottom of the pot has been closed. The heating element is turned on and the oil is brought back up to cooking temperature. The unpleasant part is scooping out the sludge at the bottom of the filter drawer. Then the cleaned filter is dusted with a special powder, put back in its place under the fryer pot, and all is ready to go again.
Yes the fryer does most of the cooking for you but watch out for the hot oil when loading the food into the cooking basket. Even wearing rubber gloves won't stop the oil from burning you, should it splash on your hands as the food drops into the hot oil. The secret is to be brave and gutsy. Get the food close to the oil before you drop it in. That way the splash is really small, and doesn't jump up to fry your wrist.
Happy cooking. Cook, but don't be cooked.
Of course the chicken doesn't start out battered. It comes delivered frozen in big cardboard boxes. Before the chicken is ready for the cooking part it must be prepared and time to thaw out. Each piece of chicken is rinsed in cold water, then put in a vat of tenderising, salty water to soak for several hours in a refrigerated area. It is again rinsed and kept cold, until needed for cooking.
When needed for cooking the chicken is breaded in a special spicy flour mix, dipped in spice water, and breaded with mix again. Each piece is than carefully placed in the boiling oil in the deep fryer; starting with the large, meaty pieces, and finishing with the thin bony pieces. This gives the thick meaty pieces more time to cook. They get the hottest oil in the pot to start off the cooking process. The deep fryer is on a timer and part way through the cooking process the timer sets off an alarm which notifies you that it's time to stir the chicken, so it gets all sides cooked evenly, even the sides touching when first put in the fryer. After stirring the chicken it cooks until the end of cooking cycle alarm goes off. Then the pot elevator will automatically lift the cooking basket out of the hot oil, allowing the chicken to drip off the excess oil.
The deep fryer also cooks French fried potatoes. After cutting the potatoes into the elongated cube shape in a cutter, the fries are battered, dipped and battered again. They then can be gently lowered in hands full, into the boiling oil. The cooking is again controlled by a timer, which sounds when the cooking cycle has completed. After 4 cooks the oil in the fryer needs to be filtered to clean it for future cooking cycles. Another alarm indicates when oil filtering needs to occur.
The heat on the oil is turned off, so the oil can cool down enough to work with. The cooking basket is raised and removed from the fryer. A valve is turned to allow the oil to drain down into the filtering drawer. When the oil has drained the empty oil reservoir is brushed, including the heating coil element, to remove anything sticking to their surfaces. A pump is turned on which circulates the oil repeatedly through the filter. The filtering can take place for 10 or 15 minutes, depending how dark the oil appears in color. When the oil has become lighter in color it is pumped back up to the oil reservoir, after the valve at the bottom of the pot has been closed. The heating element is turned on and the oil is brought back up to cooking temperature. The unpleasant part is scooping out the sludge at the bottom of the filter drawer. Then the cleaned filter is dusted with a special powder, put back in its place under the fryer pot, and all is ready to go again.
Yes the fryer does most of the cooking for you but watch out for the hot oil when loading the food into the cooking basket. Even wearing rubber gloves won't stop the oil from burning you, should it splash on your hands as the food drops into the hot oil. The secret is to be brave and gutsy. Get the food close to the oil before you drop it in. That way the splash is really small, and doesn't jump up to fry your wrist.
Happy cooking. Cook, but don't be cooked.
Cook Wisely To Avoid Diabetes
There is a strong correlation between obesity and the onset of type 2 diabetes with its associated insulin resistance. It should be pointed out that in the United States the proportion of the population under 40 that can be clinically defined as obese now exceeds 25%. Many children are obese and are developing type 2 diabetes at an alarming epidemic rate. The dramatic rise in obesity in the US has lead to an equally alarming increase in the percentage of the population who suffer from the metabolic syndrome. The metabolic syndrome is a clustering of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors, one of which involves insulin resistance characteristic in type 2 diabetes. It should be pointed out that obesity alone does not always lead to insulin resistance as some individuals who are obese do not experience insulin resistance and conversely, some individuals who manifest insulin resistance are not obese.
Is diabetes serious?
Yes. Diabetes is a life-long condition. High blood glucose levels over a long period of time can cause blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, amputations, nerve damage, and erectile dysfunction. Good diabetes care and management can delay or prevent the onset of these complications.
The good news
You can live a long and healthy life by keeping your blood glucose levels in your target range. You can do this by:
1. Eating healthy meals
2. Being physically active regularly
3. Taking diabetes medication, including insulin
Things you should know about insulin
When insulin was first discovered and made available for people with diabetes, there was only one kind of short-acting insulin. This required several injections a day. As time went on, new insulins were developed that lasted longer, requiring fewer injections, but requiring strict attention to timing of meals.
This gives more flexibility in the number and timing of injections, making it easier to maintain target blood glucose levels, based on your lifestyle. One to four injections a day may be suggested to you for optimal control of your blood glucose.
Are there any precautions before changing over to insulin?
Before considering a move to insulin it is worth examining all the option with regard to combination therapy. Diet should be optimized and the benefit of exercise discussed. It is important to be aware of the possibility of weight gain and of the need to maintain weight ‘neutral’ especially if already obese.
Is diabetes serious?
Yes. Diabetes is a life-long condition. High blood glucose levels over a long period of time can cause blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, amputations, nerve damage, and erectile dysfunction. Good diabetes care and management can delay or prevent the onset of these complications.
The good news
You can live a long and healthy life by keeping your blood glucose levels in your target range. You can do this by:
1. Eating healthy meals
2. Being physically active regularly
3. Taking diabetes medication, including insulin
Things you should know about insulin
When insulin was first discovered and made available for people with diabetes, there was only one kind of short-acting insulin. This required several injections a day. As time went on, new insulins were developed that lasted longer, requiring fewer injections, but requiring strict attention to timing of meals.
This gives more flexibility in the number and timing of injections, making it easier to maintain target blood glucose levels, based on your lifestyle. One to four injections a day may be suggested to you for optimal control of your blood glucose.
Are there any precautions before changing over to insulin?
Before considering a move to insulin it is worth examining all the option with regard to combination therapy. Diet should be optimized and the benefit of exercise discussed. It is important to be aware of the possibility of weight gain and of the need to maintain weight ‘neutral’ especially if already obese.
Surefire Tips on Capturing Action Shots
Do you find it quite a challenge to shoot great action shots?
Whether you are shooting a fast moving car or pictures of a soccer match, you may find it some challenges to produce nice photos of those subjects.
In fact, the first thing you’ll realize is that digital Cameras are bad for action shots. That is why first time digical camera users often grumble about how lousy their action shots turn out.
Through some ample combination of careful lighting, focusing , positioning and shutter-speed adjustments, you can take the exact stop action shots. Even if you never take sports photos, knowing how to freeze action allow you capture birds in flight, water splashes, and fleeting childhood moments.
Worry not, the best way to master your digital camera's many buttons and screen menus is through hands-on experience. If setting your camera's shutter to 1/500th of a second gets you that perfect image of your baby mid-bounce, you're more likely to remember how to activate shutter-priority mode next time. So don't spend your time memorizing settings. Instead, remember the following principles for good action photography. Over time, making the camera do your bidding becomes second nature.
1. Move in close.
Using a zoom lens, digital zoom, or your own body, get as close to the action as possible to eliminate distracting backgrounds.
2. Increase your camera's shutter speed.
If your camera has manual mode, shutter-priority mode, or even a preset action mode, use it to prevent blurring caused by movement.
3. Anticipate the action.
When you see the perfect moment on your camera's screen, it's way too late to press the shutter, especially if your camera has a substantial shutter lag. Even if you use burst mode to fire off a bunch of shots in a row, the time to begin taking your shot is about a second before the best action is likely to occur. It takes practice, but you will get the hang of it.
4. Do as much as possible before you take the shot.
Prefocusing and spot metering are easy on most digital cameras. Get in the habit of setting them during breaks in the action. Once your camera has focus and/or exposure locked in, you can concentrate on getting the shot without the drag of shutter lag.
5. Above all, persevere.
Don't get frustrated if many action shots don't turn out, even when you use these techniques. Pros shoot dozens, sometimes hundreds, of frames just to get one good picture. By its very nature, action photography produces lots of wasted shots. Just remember you've got a digital camera, so mistakes don't cost you a thing.
...
You must understand the sport game before you start shooting. You have to know how points are scored, what cause penalties, etc. This way, you will understand where the best action is likely to happen. Don’t forget to capture the emotion. Be ready to capture player’s faces on winning, or other emotional action in the game. They should make your photos looks alive!
On the next time you take such shots, do keep the above tips in mind, and I’m pretty sure your results will get better.
Whether you are shooting a fast moving car or pictures of a soccer match, you may find it some challenges to produce nice photos of those subjects.
In fact, the first thing you’ll realize is that digital Cameras are bad for action shots. That is why first time digical camera users often grumble about how lousy their action shots turn out.
Through some ample combination of careful lighting, focusing , positioning and shutter-speed adjustments, you can take the exact stop action shots. Even if you never take sports photos, knowing how to freeze action allow you capture birds in flight, water splashes, and fleeting childhood moments.
Worry not, the best way to master your digital camera's many buttons and screen menus is through hands-on experience. If setting your camera's shutter to 1/500th of a second gets you that perfect image of your baby mid-bounce, you're more likely to remember how to activate shutter-priority mode next time. So don't spend your time memorizing settings. Instead, remember the following principles for good action photography. Over time, making the camera do your bidding becomes second nature.
1. Move in close.
Using a zoom lens, digital zoom, or your own body, get as close to the action as possible to eliminate distracting backgrounds.
2. Increase your camera's shutter speed.
If your camera has manual mode, shutter-priority mode, or even a preset action mode, use it to prevent blurring caused by movement.
3. Anticipate the action.
When you see the perfect moment on your camera's screen, it's way too late to press the shutter, especially if your camera has a substantial shutter lag. Even if you use burst mode to fire off a bunch of shots in a row, the time to begin taking your shot is about a second before the best action is likely to occur. It takes practice, but you will get the hang of it.
4. Do as much as possible before you take the shot.
Prefocusing and spot metering are easy on most digital cameras. Get in the habit of setting them during breaks in the action. Once your camera has focus and/or exposure locked in, you can concentrate on getting the shot without the drag of shutter lag.
5. Above all, persevere.
Don't get frustrated if many action shots don't turn out, even when you use these techniques. Pros shoot dozens, sometimes hundreds, of frames just to get one good picture. By its very nature, action photography produces lots of wasted shots. Just remember you've got a digital camera, so mistakes don't cost you a thing.
...
You must understand the sport game before you start shooting. You have to know how points are scored, what cause penalties, etc. This way, you will understand where the best action is likely to happen. Don’t forget to capture the emotion. Be ready to capture player’s faces on winning, or other emotional action in the game. They should make your photos looks alive!
On the next time you take such shots, do keep the above tips in mind, and I’m pretty sure your results will get better.
Still Life Photography In A Home Studio
Still life photography has a long dated history and goes back to ancient times where a camera obscuras where used. This type of still life was done by standing in a dark room and through a pinhole placed in the wall the outside world was projected onto the opposite wall, but it is given that they where shown upside down and in vivid color. So as it stands today, still life photography has the same concept and idea, but done a lot differently and much more hi tech. Still life photography in the home studio is an old and ancient form of art and very prestigious.
The beauty of having to do still life in the comfort of a home studio is that you can capture a certain mood you are looking for and express it on film. All that will be needed is any object or objects that strike you as beautiful, strange or even the most common thing found in or around your home. Add some unique lighting sources at different angles and you are well on your way to take a great still life photograph. It is easy to produce a very creative and beautiful picture because you have the control over all the elements in your studio.
The subjects of still life can convey a classic look and flowers do the perfect job for this look, they are extraordinary and very easy to photograph. This type of still life subject will always be a reminder of a simple but a powerful beauty that we see almost every day in a photo. To create a bold still life that gives off flair try placing your subjects on a white background. This will accentuate the color of the object and create a unison look overall in the photo.Remember - with still life photography - everything has a special beauty.
The beauty of having to do still life in the comfort of a home studio is that you can capture a certain mood you are looking for and express it on film. All that will be needed is any object or objects that strike you as beautiful, strange or even the most common thing found in or around your home. Add some unique lighting sources at different angles and you are well on your way to take a great still life photograph. It is easy to produce a very creative and beautiful picture because you have the control over all the elements in your studio.
The subjects of still life can convey a classic look and flowers do the perfect job for this look, they are extraordinary and very easy to photograph. This type of still life subject will always be a reminder of a simple but a powerful beauty that we see almost every day in a photo. To create a bold still life that gives off flair try placing your subjects on a white background. This will accentuate the color of the object and create a unison look overall in the photo.Remember - with still life photography - everything has a special beauty.
Product Photography For Catalogs
In this article I am going to give you some tips about photographing your products for your catalog. The images you use in your catalog are the most important features you will be deciding on. The images sell your products. The text and everything else are important, but if the images are not well-produced, then your sales will suffer.
There are professional product photographers and using them will ensure that you have the best photos for your catalog. However, this does not come cheap. If you decide to do it yourself, you can save a lot of money. Just be sure you are confident that you can produce high-quality photos for your catalog products.
The first rule of good catalog product photography is to photograph your products individually. Group photos of products do not sell product as well as individual images. Again, it is more costly to do this because of film, printing, and layout concerns. You can save money by photographing your catalog products in groups as long as you understand that this method could also cost you money in reduced sales.
Choose appropriate backgrounds for your products. You want the product to stand out in the picture, not the background. If your product is white, use a dark background. Add contrast to your photos. Take several photos of each product so you can decide later which ones are the “best of batch” later.
If you are skilled with PhotoShop you can enhance the images of your products. Shadowing is a great method to use when you are displaying expensive products like wine, jewelry, or artwork. If you do not know how to use PhotoShop, you may want to get a professional graphic artist to touch up your photos for you.
Why all this trouble for just a few pictures? You want to present your products in the best light, no pun intended. You will not be there with your catalog to speak to the customer. Your pictures must speak to the customer for you. By taking the extra time to make each and every photo a virtual showcase for your product, you make the potential customer want to see more of your photos, then buy your products.
To the consumer, the quality of the image equates to the likely quality of the product. When people see an image that is pleasing to them, they want to possess it. If you want them to “possess” your product by ordering it, you have to make them want it. Your images are the best way to do that.
You can use a high-quality 35mm camera or a high-quality digital camera to photograph your products with. Personally I recommend you go with the digital camera if you are going to photograph your own catalog products.
Digital cameras and images are much easier to deal with and the quality is as near to perfect as you can get. Touching up the pictures of your products is not necessary, but you would be surprised at how much it can improve your results.
The bottom line is this. No matter where else you might cut corners, do not cut corners when it comes to the photos of your catalog images.
There are professional product photographers and using them will ensure that you have the best photos for your catalog. However, this does not come cheap. If you decide to do it yourself, you can save a lot of money. Just be sure you are confident that you can produce high-quality photos for your catalog products.
The first rule of good catalog product photography is to photograph your products individually. Group photos of products do not sell product as well as individual images. Again, it is more costly to do this because of film, printing, and layout concerns. You can save money by photographing your catalog products in groups as long as you understand that this method could also cost you money in reduced sales.
Choose appropriate backgrounds for your products. You want the product to stand out in the picture, not the background. If your product is white, use a dark background. Add contrast to your photos. Take several photos of each product so you can decide later which ones are the “best of batch” later.
If you are skilled with PhotoShop you can enhance the images of your products. Shadowing is a great method to use when you are displaying expensive products like wine, jewelry, or artwork. If you do not know how to use PhotoShop, you may want to get a professional graphic artist to touch up your photos for you.
Why all this trouble for just a few pictures? You want to present your products in the best light, no pun intended. You will not be there with your catalog to speak to the customer. Your pictures must speak to the customer for you. By taking the extra time to make each and every photo a virtual showcase for your product, you make the potential customer want to see more of your photos, then buy your products.
To the consumer, the quality of the image equates to the likely quality of the product. When people see an image that is pleasing to them, they want to possess it. If you want them to “possess” your product by ordering it, you have to make them want it. Your images are the best way to do that.
You can use a high-quality 35mm camera or a high-quality digital camera to photograph your products with. Personally I recommend you go with the digital camera if you are going to photograph your own catalog products.
Digital cameras and images are much easier to deal with and the quality is as near to perfect as you can get. Touching up the pictures of your products is not necessary, but you would be surprised at how much it can improve your results.
The bottom line is this. No matter where else you might cut corners, do not cut corners when it comes to the photos of your catalog images.
Photographs Has Something To Say
Isn’t fun and exciting to take pictures? As for photo lovers it is their passion have a good collection of pictures. However, for professional photographers, which taking pictures is their profession, they are oblige to have a good photo shot in order for them to have more clients.
As for travelers who love to discover new places, photography is their perfect companion, because the photo itself provides them tangible memories of their trip, they can also show to their families and friends the exciting places they have been, the wonderful scenery, and the great people they have met.
Some say that photograph is considered as a message, because it conveys a statement, an impression, or an emotion. You as the author of your photograph you are expressing this message in a clear, brief, and effective way. But how will you do it to be able for your viewers understand your message? Like any ordinary message, first you need a subject. The subject is the center of attention and it is usually placed in the forefront of the shot. This can be a building, a natural panorama, or some abstract form. As a true message, if you have a subject you must be able to have a context to define or to discuss your subject. This can be your second element, the context, which is frequently the background. The context gives the subject relevance, presence, location, or other interest. With the help of these two main elements, which are subject and context, or the foreground and background, you can now tell to your viewers what exactly the message of your photo.
As for photo artists it is their way to express themselves in art they consider that photograph is a piece of art because it captures the spirit of a subject and evokes emotion.
Due to the fast change in our technology, cameras are one of the many technologies that take their way to the next stage. Back then storing and printing photos is a time consuming process there’s no room for on demand printing. In this new digital world, where digital camera is born which the main function is to capture and store images in a solid-state image sensor instead of traditional film.
By using the process so-called digital photo imaging; you can now transform your digital memories into photographs by yourself with the aid of photo printers at your own convenience. Nowadays, digital cameras are fast replacing traditional analog photography equipment, which is the reason why digital photo imaging and digital photo printing are the new and very in demand services today.
As for travelers who love to discover new places, photography is their perfect companion, because the photo itself provides them tangible memories of their trip, they can also show to their families and friends the exciting places they have been, the wonderful scenery, and the great people they have met.
Some say that photograph is considered as a message, because it conveys a statement, an impression, or an emotion. You as the author of your photograph you are expressing this message in a clear, brief, and effective way. But how will you do it to be able for your viewers understand your message? Like any ordinary message, first you need a subject. The subject is the center of attention and it is usually placed in the forefront of the shot. This can be a building, a natural panorama, or some abstract form. As a true message, if you have a subject you must be able to have a context to define or to discuss your subject. This can be your second element, the context, which is frequently the background. The context gives the subject relevance, presence, location, or other interest. With the help of these two main elements, which are subject and context, or the foreground and background, you can now tell to your viewers what exactly the message of your photo.
As for photo artists it is their way to express themselves in art they consider that photograph is a piece of art because it captures the spirit of a subject and evokes emotion.
Due to the fast change in our technology, cameras are one of the many technologies that take their way to the next stage. Back then storing and printing photos is a time consuming process there’s no room for on demand printing. In this new digital world, where digital camera is born which the main function is to capture and store images in a solid-state image sensor instead of traditional film.
By using the process so-called digital photo imaging; you can now transform your digital memories into photographs by yourself with the aid of photo printers at your own convenience. Nowadays, digital cameras are fast replacing traditional analog photography equipment, which is the reason why digital photo imaging and digital photo printing are the new and very in demand services today.
Digital Photography and the Printed World
Photo collections – for traditional photographers the phrase conjures thoughts of bound albums and mounds of shoeboxes, stuffed to capacity with 5 x 7 inch pictures. For today’s ever growing ranks of digital photographers however, it brings to mind thoughts of a stamp-sized memory card, a pocket hard drive, or CDs and DVDs. Welcome to the world of digital photography, which is fundamentally changing the way we capture and preserve images.
Digital photography today is a rapidly growing consumer pastime with many advantages versus traditional film-based cameras, including the ability to immediately review, erase, annotate or categorize images, speed and ease of operation, and quality at the high end of the digital photography scale. Although some film cameras can operate without batteries, minus the flash, most consumers are unconcerned with use in wet or poor weather environments and are drawn to digital cameras by all of the advantages that they offer.
Because of this, the entire photography industry is changing to embrace different consumer preferences, including a reduced desire for printed photos. The market for printed photos from film in the United States peaked in 2000 at over 30 billion, and then fell to under 26 billion by 2004. Initially, there were problems with quick-service photography shops “cropping” digital images in order to force them to print properly on the same paper used by film cameras – as more and more people move to digital however, services and products emerge to make it easier to transfer your memories from electronic to tangible.
Some people feel that a picture just isn’t a picture if you can’t put it into a frame (although wireless, internet-enabled miniature LCD ‘picture frames’ ARE available) or store it in a photo album. But many of today’s young people are much more comfortable with technology than their parents and grandparents. It is not uncommon for a college student to feel more secure with electronic images than paper ones.
No one is certain whether digital photography will eventually reduce our demand for photo prints, but it is guaranteed that the way of the future in photography is digital. Additionally, there are far more snapshots being taken than ever before, due to the ease with which they can be reviewed and removed from digital cameras. So whether you’re partial to electronic or shoebox image storage, be ready for photos to get easier, better and cheaper in coming years – and of course, keep smiling.
Digital photography today is a rapidly growing consumer pastime with many advantages versus traditional film-based cameras, including the ability to immediately review, erase, annotate or categorize images, speed and ease of operation, and quality at the high end of the digital photography scale. Although some film cameras can operate without batteries, minus the flash, most consumers are unconcerned with use in wet or poor weather environments and are drawn to digital cameras by all of the advantages that they offer.
Because of this, the entire photography industry is changing to embrace different consumer preferences, including a reduced desire for printed photos. The market for printed photos from film in the United States peaked in 2000 at over 30 billion, and then fell to under 26 billion by 2004. Initially, there were problems with quick-service photography shops “cropping” digital images in order to force them to print properly on the same paper used by film cameras – as more and more people move to digital however, services and products emerge to make it easier to transfer your memories from electronic to tangible.
Some people feel that a picture just isn’t a picture if you can’t put it into a frame (although wireless, internet-enabled miniature LCD ‘picture frames’ ARE available) or store it in a photo album. But many of today’s young people are much more comfortable with technology than their parents and grandparents. It is not uncommon for a college student to feel more secure with electronic images than paper ones.
No one is certain whether digital photography will eventually reduce our demand for photo prints, but it is guaranteed that the way of the future in photography is digital. Additionally, there are far more snapshots being taken than ever before, due to the ease with which they can be reviewed and removed from digital cameras. So whether you’re partial to electronic or shoebox image storage, be ready for photos to get easier, better and cheaper in coming years – and of course, keep smiling.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Could A Homemade Diet Be Best for Your Dog?
A good formula for a homemade diet is one half cereal, rice, or kibbles, and one half meat, including its natural fat, with green or yellow vegetables added from time to time. Since they can be made to measure for each individual dog, these combinations would be ideal if they weren't to much bother. Aside from taking more time and trouble than the other methods, a homemade diet requires a sound knowledge of canine nutrition.
Table scraps are definitely insufficient for modern pets who we want to thrive, not merely survive. They are often the direct cause of obesity and various allied skin disorders too. Dogs with unusually big appetites or with a tendency to obesity will keep their figures if you cut down on the starch and increase the vegetables, to the proportion of one meat, one fourth kibbles, and one fourth vegetables. Older dogs may need reduced protein to spare their kidneys the task of nitrogen elimination.
Build your dogs meals around the foods that are highly recommended for dogs:
Beef: (ground or chopped for puppies in chunks for adult dogs, raw or cooked. Dogs prefer their meat a little tough, and they need the fat found in cheaper cuts).
Lamb and mutton
Chicken
Horse Meat
Beef Hearts and Kidneys
Beef Liver (no more than once a week, as too much or too often causes loose stools.
Eggs, hard-boiled or scrambled (The yolk may be given raw, but not the white, which in its raw state destroys biotin, a useful vitamin in the dogs intestine).
Rice, whole wheat, barley, oats, buckwheat
While wheat biscuits or toast
Carrots (cooked or raw, grated and mixed with his meal, or whole for chewing)
String Beans, spinach (chopped or mashed)
Cottage Cheese (excellent for weaning puppies)
Unfermented natural cheese, such as Swiss and Edam Apples and Pears
On the other hand, certain foods should be considered taboo:
White commercial bread
Cabbage (which causes flatulence and is difficult to digest)
Potatoes (hard to digest and not very nourishing)
Starchy Vegetables, such as dried beans
Spicy dishes and sauces
Uncooked egg white
Processed cheese
Pork (unless it is lean, well cooked, and served infrequently)
Raw fish
Delicatessen meats
Unboned chicken, rabbit and fish
Cake and candy
Alcoholic beverages
Chocolate of any kind
Which ever method you choose for feeding your dog, it is best to stick to it. Once he has become accustomed to a certain diet, he will be upset by any sudden change. The upset is apt to take the form of constipation if you change from prepared products to fresh ones, and diarrhea in the opposite case. If a change is needed, make it gradual by mixing the old with the new until his body adapts to the change.
Table scraps are definitely insufficient for modern pets who we want to thrive, not merely survive. They are often the direct cause of obesity and various allied skin disorders too. Dogs with unusually big appetites or with a tendency to obesity will keep their figures if you cut down on the starch and increase the vegetables, to the proportion of one meat, one fourth kibbles, and one fourth vegetables. Older dogs may need reduced protein to spare their kidneys the task of nitrogen elimination.
Build your dogs meals around the foods that are highly recommended for dogs:
Beef: (ground or chopped for puppies in chunks for adult dogs, raw or cooked. Dogs prefer their meat a little tough, and they need the fat found in cheaper cuts).
Lamb and mutton
Chicken
Horse Meat
Beef Hearts and Kidneys
Beef Liver (no more than once a week, as too much or too often causes loose stools.
Eggs, hard-boiled or scrambled (The yolk may be given raw, but not the white, which in its raw state destroys biotin, a useful vitamin in the dogs intestine).
Rice, whole wheat, barley, oats, buckwheat
While wheat biscuits or toast
Carrots (cooked or raw, grated and mixed with his meal, or whole for chewing)
String Beans, spinach (chopped or mashed)
Cottage Cheese (excellent for weaning puppies)
Unfermented natural cheese, such as Swiss and Edam Apples and Pears
On the other hand, certain foods should be considered taboo:
White commercial bread
Cabbage (which causes flatulence and is difficult to digest)
Potatoes (hard to digest and not very nourishing)
Starchy Vegetables, such as dried beans
Spicy dishes and sauces
Uncooked egg white
Processed cheese
Pork (unless it is lean, well cooked, and served infrequently)
Raw fish
Delicatessen meats
Unboned chicken, rabbit and fish
Cake and candy
Alcoholic beverages
Chocolate of any kind
Which ever method you choose for feeding your dog, it is best to stick to it. Once he has become accustomed to a certain diet, he will be upset by any sudden change. The upset is apt to take the form of constipation if you change from prepared products to fresh ones, and diarrhea in the opposite case. If a change is needed, make it gradual by mixing the old with the new until his body adapts to the change.
Choosing A Bird Cage
Birds are one of the most favored pets in the world. The bird lovers irrespective of the bird species they choose, the place they keep them, would no doubt like to choose a sturdy and comfortable cage for their pets. There are plenty of bird cages available in the market in various sizes and shapes the selection of a suitable cage for your pet is a challenge. One has to be aware about the uses and abuses of the house of their pets to make a wise decision.
Needless to say birds like more space to move around and as such one should not strictly confine to the size prescribed for the pet. It is always advisable to go for the largest size available in the market to see that your pet has always the luxury of freedom of maximum space.
While considering the shape of the birdcage one needs to remember that most commonly found cylindrical cages are not the best suited for these small flying creatures. Lengthy cages facilitate horizontal flying often preferred by the small birds and as such is more important than the height. Birds seldom fly up and down. Large birds like parrots need to be provided with cages taller in size to suit their habit of climbing up as a routine exercise. The large birds always deserve spacious and bigger cages. Although the cage manufacturers are aware about the danger of incorrect wire spacing of cages, and take adequate care in this aspect one has to ensure that they are uniformly and adequately spaced so as to avoid any danger to the birds by getting caught their heads, wings or beaks inside the wire or bar.
Some of the larger birds like parrots would be best housed in cages with horizontal bars enabling it to climb up with help of their beaks. No such specification need be considered for smaller birds like doves, finches and canaries.
Though price of the cage is always a factor to consider when buying a cage one should not go for the bird cages made of cheaper materials as it may turn to be hazardous for the pets. One has to ensure that the cages need be made of non toxic materials like stainless steel, or powder coated iron that are harmless for these species. Cages that are made of galvanized wires containing zinc have to be avoided. The design of the cage should be such that it allows easy cleaning and maintenance. Certain peculiar shaped cages though gives a different look causes problems for easy regular cleaning of the cages that is of paramount importance to keep the birds healthy and hygienic.
The spacing of the bars or the material used for the cage is not the only factors that matter. The doors, latches and similar parts of the cage should have a fine finish not to endanger these lovely pets.
In short, choosing a right birdcage takes time and it is worthy spending some time and thinking that would lead to a healthy life, security and comfort of your dear pet birds.
Needless to say birds like more space to move around and as such one should not strictly confine to the size prescribed for the pet. It is always advisable to go for the largest size available in the market to see that your pet has always the luxury of freedom of maximum space.
While considering the shape of the birdcage one needs to remember that most commonly found cylindrical cages are not the best suited for these small flying creatures. Lengthy cages facilitate horizontal flying often preferred by the small birds and as such is more important than the height. Birds seldom fly up and down. Large birds like parrots need to be provided with cages taller in size to suit their habit of climbing up as a routine exercise. The large birds always deserve spacious and bigger cages. Although the cage manufacturers are aware about the danger of incorrect wire spacing of cages, and take adequate care in this aspect one has to ensure that they are uniformly and adequately spaced so as to avoid any danger to the birds by getting caught their heads, wings or beaks inside the wire or bar.
Some of the larger birds like parrots would be best housed in cages with horizontal bars enabling it to climb up with help of their beaks. No such specification need be considered for smaller birds like doves, finches and canaries.
Though price of the cage is always a factor to consider when buying a cage one should not go for the bird cages made of cheaper materials as it may turn to be hazardous for the pets. One has to ensure that the cages need be made of non toxic materials like stainless steel, or powder coated iron that are harmless for these species. Cages that are made of galvanized wires containing zinc have to be avoided. The design of the cage should be such that it allows easy cleaning and maintenance. Certain peculiar shaped cages though gives a different look causes problems for easy regular cleaning of the cages that is of paramount importance to keep the birds healthy and hygienic.
The spacing of the bars or the material used for the cage is not the only factors that matter. The doors, latches and similar parts of the cage should have a fine finish not to endanger these lovely pets.
In short, choosing a right birdcage takes time and it is worthy spending some time and thinking that would lead to a healthy life, security and comfort of your dear pet birds.
Aquarium Tank Basics
Any new aquarium tank should first be given a thorough test to ensure that it is watertight. If after 12 hours there are no leaks, it may be emptied and placed in its final position.
Now all is ready to set up the aquarium, for this work we shall require various items such as sand, rocks etc. These will be death with in order. For making a bottom soil, you need, first of all some sand, the most suitable is called 1/16th grade and it is about the size of the average pin-head:
The gravel to be used must also be graded; that is, the gram must be of uniform size. Sand and gravel’s sold in aquarium supply stores are always graded, but if you buy elsewhere they may nor be. Gravel grains 2-5mm work best.
If you use nothing, but sand, it must be well washed-in buckets, under running water until no more dirt or foam comes to the surface - and spared out on the bottom of the tank in a layer running from 3- 6cm thick sloping upwards from front to back. If you decide to mix the sand with gravel to make at least a layer 6cm deep on top of the subgravel filter since less than this amount reduces the filtering capacity of the tank.
Your tank is the basic element, and is of the most important in building an aquarium. The size of the tank depends on the number and size of fish you plan to have in it. That is why proper planning is quite essential when you want to set up aquarium.
But then it is important to make it as big as you can afford. By all means avoid a globe tank as much as possible. Rectangle shape is always good because of various reasons you will discover later.
Option 1: You can buy ready made glass tanks already sealed professionally set up aquarium tank at any aquarium store.
Option 2: Buy ready-made plastic models through distributors or mould-extrusion manufacturers and put your aquarium tank together yourself. Below are the tools you need and the steps you need to take to set up completely new aquarium tank:
Tools:
- Sheet of glass (4mm to 12mm)
- Silicone sealant (clear and transparent)
- Silicone gun or (syringe)
- Dulling stove
- Tape rule
- Sheet of paper, ruler, pencil and eraser
- napkin (x2)
- newspaper
- hand glove (rubber type)
- methylated spirit
- blade
- knife
- toilet soap and soap case
- masking tape
- flat bench (made with plywood)
- 1/4 flash
- water and siphon hose
- buckets (x2)
- polythese sheet about the size of the table
Other than that, I'll give you my 12 essential aquarium tips below is a great start on your way to having a beautiful aquarium full of happy and health fish that you can be proud of:
1. Location of the tank in a spot which is draft free and has a moderate amount of light for 8 to 10 hours. This will ensure the safety of the tank and the inhabitants.
2. Location of the aquarium tank where water spillage a day will do no damage, at a height convenient for working, and in a place where it will not have to be moved.
3. Proper sand gravel (not too large, not too fine).
4. Conditioned water - free of chlorine, dirt, excess hardness, excess acidity, or excess alkalinity. Hard, acidic, dirty water is not suitable for an aquarium. It will make life uncomfortable for fish and leads to constant fish death.
5. Availability of plants properly place is highly essential.
6. Proper, even temperature for the fish species.
7. Decoration and furnishing if you desire them.
8. Aeration to supply additional oxygen.
9. Filtration to remove excesses waste products.
10. Fish which will live peacefully together.
11. Food to keep them health.
12. Kits and utensils to make maintenance easy.
For more great aquarium related articles and resources check out http://fishtanks.aquariumspot.com
Now all is ready to set up the aquarium, for this work we shall require various items such as sand, rocks etc. These will be death with in order. For making a bottom soil, you need, first of all some sand, the most suitable is called 1/16th grade and it is about the size of the average pin-head:
The gravel to be used must also be graded; that is, the gram must be of uniform size. Sand and gravel’s sold in aquarium supply stores are always graded, but if you buy elsewhere they may nor be. Gravel grains 2-5mm work best.
If you use nothing, but sand, it must be well washed-in buckets, under running water until no more dirt or foam comes to the surface - and spared out on the bottom of the tank in a layer running from 3- 6cm thick sloping upwards from front to back. If you decide to mix the sand with gravel to make at least a layer 6cm deep on top of the subgravel filter since less than this amount reduces the filtering capacity of the tank.
Your tank is the basic element, and is of the most important in building an aquarium. The size of the tank depends on the number and size of fish you plan to have in it. That is why proper planning is quite essential when you want to set up aquarium.
But then it is important to make it as big as you can afford. By all means avoid a globe tank as much as possible. Rectangle shape is always good because of various reasons you will discover later.
Option 1: You can buy ready made glass tanks already sealed professionally set up aquarium tank at any aquarium store.
Option 2: Buy ready-made plastic models through distributors or mould-extrusion manufacturers and put your aquarium tank together yourself. Below are the tools you need and the steps you need to take to set up completely new aquarium tank:
Tools:
- Sheet of glass (4mm to 12mm)
- Silicone sealant (clear and transparent)
- Silicone gun or (syringe)
- Dulling stove
- Tape rule
- Sheet of paper, ruler, pencil and eraser
- napkin (x2)
- newspaper
- hand glove (rubber type)
- methylated spirit
- blade
- knife
- toilet soap and soap case
- masking tape
- flat bench (made with plywood)
- 1/4 flash
- water and siphon hose
- buckets (x2)
- polythese sheet about the size of the table
Other than that, I'll give you my 12 essential aquarium tips below is a great start on your way to having a beautiful aquarium full of happy and health fish that you can be proud of:
1. Location of the tank in a spot which is draft free and has a moderate amount of light for 8 to 10 hours. This will ensure the safety of the tank and the inhabitants.
2. Location of the aquarium tank where water spillage a day will do no damage, at a height convenient for working, and in a place where it will not have to be moved.
3. Proper sand gravel (not too large, not too fine).
4. Conditioned water - free of chlorine, dirt, excess hardness, excess acidity, or excess alkalinity. Hard, acidic, dirty water is not suitable for an aquarium. It will make life uncomfortable for fish and leads to constant fish death.
5. Availability of plants properly place is highly essential.
6. Proper, even temperature for the fish species.
7. Decoration and furnishing if you desire them.
8. Aeration to supply additional oxygen.
9. Filtration to remove excesses waste products.
10. Fish which will live peacefully together.
11. Food to keep them health.
12. Kits and utensils to make maintenance easy.
For more great aquarium related articles and resources check out http://fishtanks.aquariumspot.com
Taking Professional Quality Pictures
By now I’m sure you’ve used Either a digital or film camera. You’ve taken pictures and had them developed and just weren’t satisfied with the Quality. You don’t need to be a professional or have a really expensive camera to take good photos. Here are some tips that can help you take your photo’s from 0-100 in no time.
These are several tips that you can use to take higher quality pictures. It’s important to take time to learn how your camera works, and to test different shooting scenario’s (light, etc). Try some or all of the above tips and I’m sure you will satisfied with the quality of your photos.
Feel free to reprint this article as long as you keep the following caption and author biography in tact with all hyperlinks.
These are several tips that you can use to take higher quality pictures. It’s important to take time to learn how your camera works, and to test different shooting scenario’s (light, etc). Try some or all of the above tips and I’m sure you will satisfied with the quality of your photos.
Feel free to reprint this article as long as you keep the following caption and author biography in tact with all hyperlinks.
Photography Business
The very first thing to do if you want to make money from your photographs is learn how to create great images. In the world of fashion photography - sharpness sells. The subject of how to take a great image is too complex for this article, however the following points are important:
• Have a good camera with manual controls.
• Know how to use it and use it well.
• Have a good eye for detail, composition and color.
• Always be ready to grab an opportunity when it presents itself.
If you happen to be driving through amazing Canadian roads and come across a deer (or a bunch of them), get your camera! Watch for sunsets, moonrise, cloud formations and tree shapes. Keep a sharp eye on your pets for weird and funny poses. Visit flower shops and exhibitions. Flower pictures are many photographers’ bread and butter and they can be easily photographed. Greeting card markets love photos of flowers, gardens, sunsets, sky scrapers and cute photos of animals. Wildlife and nature are great for calendars and geographic magazines as well as educational fields.
Diversity and quality are the biggest aspects in photography. The wider the range of topics you cover, the more likely you will get a sale. Anyone can make a good living from stock photos. Freelance photographer Dmitri Markine sells just as many photos taken from his own backyard as from exotic and far away locations. If you love travelling, put your holidays to work for you. Travel guides, brochures and websites could be possible markets for your photos. Take photographs everywhere you go!
So what to do with that fantastic shot? The edges are sharp as razor, while the clarity would bring joy to many publishers; the main thing to aim for with any image is to sell it to multiple markets. This is taken care of if you submit to a stock agency. They sell to large corporations as well as small business. It’s a perfect way to gain some exposure and see what’s out there. You don’t have to be responsible for selling your own stuff, but to have more sales, it’s always good to try to sell the photos yourself (websites,galleries,etc).
It is important for any photographer to keep a portfolio of his work to show. You never know when you’ll meet a prospective buyer who wants to look at your work. No one will not be impressed if you have to dig through a dusty desk to scrape them together or use email to send them to clients. Have a printed portfolio as well as a web based portfolio. When you do get a sale, don’t charge a large amount just because the picture only took a few minutes of your time. You’ve spent years learning your craft. You spend a considerable amount on equipment, advertising and education and your photos are worth a decent figure.
If you really know what you are talking about and can take a fantastic shot, think of submitting it to a publication or a magazine, along with all the details of the precise equipment you used and a step-by step guide of your procedure. A bit of a challenge perhaps, but worth the effort. There are many other markets to consider too; all kind of magazines, newspapers, travel guides and books. So grab your camera and don’t stop shooting! Photography is an art and the more you practice the better you will become. No famous photographers became like that overnight. We all spent sleepless nights perfecting our craft
• Have a good camera with manual controls.
• Know how to use it and use it well.
• Have a good eye for detail, composition and color.
• Always be ready to grab an opportunity when it presents itself.
If you happen to be driving through amazing Canadian roads and come across a deer (or a bunch of them), get your camera! Watch for sunsets, moonrise, cloud formations and tree shapes. Keep a sharp eye on your pets for weird and funny poses. Visit flower shops and exhibitions. Flower pictures are many photographers’ bread and butter and they can be easily photographed. Greeting card markets love photos of flowers, gardens, sunsets, sky scrapers and cute photos of animals. Wildlife and nature are great for calendars and geographic magazines as well as educational fields.
Diversity and quality are the biggest aspects in photography. The wider the range of topics you cover, the more likely you will get a sale. Anyone can make a good living from stock photos. Freelance photographer Dmitri Markine sells just as many photos taken from his own backyard as from exotic and far away locations. If you love travelling, put your holidays to work for you. Travel guides, brochures and websites could be possible markets for your photos. Take photographs everywhere you go!
So what to do with that fantastic shot? The edges are sharp as razor, while the clarity would bring joy to many publishers; the main thing to aim for with any image is to sell it to multiple markets. This is taken care of if you submit to a stock agency. They sell to large corporations as well as small business. It’s a perfect way to gain some exposure and see what’s out there. You don’t have to be responsible for selling your own stuff, but to have more sales, it’s always good to try to sell the photos yourself (websites,galleries,etc).
It is important for any photographer to keep a portfolio of his work to show. You never know when you’ll meet a prospective buyer who wants to look at your work. No one will not be impressed if you have to dig through a dusty desk to scrape them together or use email to send them to clients. Have a printed portfolio as well as a web based portfolio. When you do get a sale, don’t charge a large amount just because the picture only took a few minutes of your time. You’ve spent years learning your craft. You spend a considerable amount on equipment, advertising and education and your photos are worth a decent figure.
If you really know what you are talking about and can take a fantastic shot, think of submitting it to a publication or a magazine, along with all the details of the precise equipment you used and a step-by step guide of your procedure. A bit of a challenge perhaps, but worth the effort. There are many other markets to consider too; all kind of magazines, newspapers, travel guides and books. So grab your camera and don’t stop shooting! Photography is an art and the more you practice the better you will become. No famous photographers became like that overnight. We all spent sleepless nights perfecting our craft
Photography as a Talent
Photography is a beautiful talent, and it takes a lot to become a known photographer in the field of photography. The talent cannot be dismissed at all. Reviewing the images in expessionbywendy.com, one can fathom the depths of understanding and seeing photography closely.
The photographic site by expressionsbywendy.com is unspeakable because the portraits of little children are silent but because of the photography and its design and interactive photographic filling the portraits speak a lot. They are simple but yet very exotic and one of a kind.
The beginning of the portraits is the mages of infants in different styles, these images are eye catching and they have a lot to say. One can keep on looking at these beautiful pictures even without an eye blink. The pictures show confidence and a feeling of really wanting to believe in the reality of the infants.
The Gallery of Budding portrays different emotions of little children; these portraits can really make one smile. The portraits are beautiful and they bring in life the reality of these babies and children who are just so real and full of love. The colors and the dimensions are just used perfectly to portray the different pictures and styles of these children. This is an art of photography, it is difficult to portray such liveliness as this particular site portrays.
‘Blossoming portraits” signify the different emotions of children, it ranges from the emotions of sad, lonely, happy, notorious, accomplishment, dreaming, enjoying, being who you are, smiling, and wanting to achieve. These portraits are so real and signify the very essence of children’s existence in life.
The Gallery of connecting is a beautiful portrayal of different portraits that speak of connection. This gallery is filled with pictures that would want you in real to connect with a very special connection that is unbreakable. The gallery of connection also depicts the secret of connection that is hidden and immediately there is a feeling of these pictures being the reality of connections in life.
Expressionbywendy.com have really progressed on bringing life to this pictures, the beauty of these pictures is unfathomable and cannot be explained in words. There is not too much color it is just very natural and it brings a sense of liveliness in the person who sees this gallery of different pictures depicting different emotions and style.
The role of Wendy has been to capture the reality and the true essence of child’s personality. Some times it is hard to get poses for the children, but definitely expressionbywendy.com site will really give you the real photography on different connections you can make with your child. It is not only the picture of your child being depicted but the whole personality of your child can come out within a click of that picture.
The photographic site by expressionsbywendy.com is unspeakable because the portraits of little children are silent but because of the photography and its design and interactive photographic filling the portraits speak a lot. They are simple but yet very exotic and one of a kind.
The beginning of the portraits is the mages of infants in different styles, these images are eye catching and they have a lot to say. One can keep on looking at these beautiful pictures even without an eye blink. The pictures show confidence and a feeling of really wanting to believe in the reality of the infants.
The Gallery of Budding portrays different emotions of little children; these portraits can really make one smile. The portraits are beautiful and they bring in life the reality of these babies and children who are just so real and full of love. The colors and the dimensions are just used perfectly to portray the different pictures and styles of these children. This is an art of photography, it is difficult to portray such liveliness as this particular site portrays.
‘Blossoming portraits” signify the different emotions of children, it ranges from the emotions of sad, lonely, happy, notorious, accomplishment, dreaming, enjoying, being who you are, smiling, and wanting to achieve. These portraits are so real and signify the very essence of children’s existence in life.
The Gallery of connecting is a beautiful portrayal of different portraits that speak of connection. This gallery is filled with pictures that would want you in real to connect with a very special connection that is unbreakable. The gallery of connection also depicts the secret of connection that is hidden and immediately there is a feeling of these pictures being the reality of connections in life.
Expressionbywendy.com have really progressed on bringing life to this pictures, the beauty of these pictures is unfathomable and cannot be explained in words. There is not too much color it is just very natural and it brings a sense of liveliness in the person who sees this gallery of different pictures depicting different emotions and style.
The role of Wendy has been to capture the reality and the true essence of child’s personality. Some times it is hard to get poses for the children, but definitely expressionbywendy.com site will really give you the real photography on different connections you can make with your child. It is not only the picture of your child being depicted but the whole personality of your child can come out within a click of that picture.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Start a Weight Training Exercise Program Today
Although there are many sites that claim that they will show you weight training exercises online, in reality this is not the way to go.
If you want to start a weight training exercise program, you really need to be working with someone else. There are many options available. You can go to the gym, use free weights at home with a buddy, or get one of those machines, but if you do not do your weight training exercise with proper safety precautions, it is quite possible for you to get seriously injured.
I recommend doing your weight training exercise at the gym. There are several good reasons for this, and I will go ahead and tell you some of the very best ones. First of all, you can get a spot at the gym. Of all of the weight training exercise injuries, most of them could have been avoided with a proper spotter. This is especially true with free weights which can injure or even kill you if you are forced to drop them based on muscle fatigue. This is the most important reason to go to the gym, but it is really far from the only one. The fact is that it is easier to psyche yourself up for your weight training exercise when you do go to the gym. With all of those people around you dedicating their time to getting in shape, there is just no way you will feel like slacking off in your weight training program while you are at the gym. Many gyms even have personal trainers available, who will help you to meet your personal best, by working you harder than you will yourself, and helping to chart your goals. They can even suggest which weight training exercises you should use and how many, to strengthen the muscle groups which interest you.
Before you start doing weight training exercise, however, you should do some cardiovascular stuff. While you can get by quite well without weight training exercise, cardio is absolutely essential to your health. You will live longer, be healthier, and happier, and even have more energy if you do some aerobic activities every day to keep you active. We do not stay young forever, but those of us who get adequate aerobic exercises do stay young for longer than those who do not. Once you start doing that, then you can add your weight training exercise program.
If you want to start a weight training exercise program, you really need to be working with someone else. There are many options available. You can go to the gym, use free weights at home with a buddy, or get one of those machines, but if you do not do your weight training exercise with proper safety precautions, it is quite possible for you to get seriously injured.
I recommend doing your weight training exercise at the gym. There are several good reasons for this, and I will go ahead and tell you some of the very best ones. First of all, you can get a spot at the gym. Of all of the weight training exercise injuries, most of them could have been avoided with a proper spotter. This is especially true with free weights which can injure or even kill you if you are forced to drop them based on muscle fatigue. This is the most important reason to go to the gym, but it is really far from the only one. The fact is that it is easier to psyche yourself up for your weight training exercise when you do go to the gym. With all of those people around you dedicating their time to getting in shape, there is just no way you will feel like slacking off in your weight training program while you are at the gym. Many gyms even have personal trainers available, who will help you to meet your personal best, by working you harder than you will yourself, and helping to chart your goals. They can even suggest which weight training exercises you should use and how many, to strengthen the muscle groups which interest you.
Before you start doing weight training exercise, however, you should do some cardiovascular stuff. While you can get by quite well without weight training exercise, cardio is absolutely essential to your health. You will live longer, be healthier, and happier, and even have more energy if you do some aerobic activities every day to keep you active. We do not stay young forever, but those of us who get adequate aerobic exercises do stay young for longer than those who do not. Once you start doing that, then you can add your weight training exercise program.
Some Common Myths That Keep Women From Weight Training
Weight training has long been known to improve health, improve strength, step up vigor, and improve the physique. Men have been taking advantage of this fact for many years now, but many women have avoided weight training and continue to do so because they see it as a masculine thing meant to bulk up muscle.
Many women have abstained from training with weights because of some misconceptions associated with women and weight training. If you have never given any thought to working out with weights before, it is probably because one or more of the common myths about women’s weight training is stopping you.
Let’s take a look at some of these myths and let’s find out just what the real truth is and why you should not let them stop you from taking advantage of all the benefits weight training has to offer.
One common myth is that some women think they are too old to work with weights. The truth is you are never too old to be able to strengthen and tone your muscles. By using lighter weights and a relatively low intensity program you can still benefit from weight training. It has been proven through studies that people as old as 80 and even 90 who started weight training saw up to a 200% increase in strength over a one month period.
Another common myth is that some women think they will lose their flexibility with weight training. The truth here is that weight training will actually help you to become more flexible. By doing weight training exercises through a full range of motion your muscles are put into a stretch with each repetition and by strengthening them, they are less prone to injury while doing stretching exercises.
This next myth is probably the most common one by far. Many women think that if they lift weights they will develop big muscles and look bulky and unfeminine. Nothing can be further from the truth! The fact is, women don’t have near enough of the male hormone testosterone, and testosterone is the major growth hormone that will produce bulky muscles. Unless women use supplemental means like steroids and growth hormone, they cannot bulk up like men. Weight training will get you firm and toned but by no means will it make you look manly.
One myth that is fairly common is that some women think that weight training is just boring and tedious. The truth is that weight training can be done with a friend, and you can make each other laugh as well as help keep each other on track. You can listen to music as you exercise. You can mix different exercises into your routine and change up your routine from time to time. You will also find that as your strength and your body are improving, you will feel so much better about it all. When you reach a certain goal, give yourself a reward like eating out in a fancy restaurant or taking a weekend vacation somewhere nice.
Now that you know the truth to some of the myths that have been stopping you from enjoying the many benefits of weight training, there is no reason for you not to make it a part of you exercise regimen. Weight training is no longer strictly for men only. So get up, get to the weights, and get fit for life.
Many women have abstained from training with weights because of some misconceptions associated with women and weight training. If you have never given any thought to working out with weights before, it is probably because one or more of the common myths about women’s weight training is stopping you.
Let’s take a look at some of these myths and let’s find out just what the real truth is and why you should not let them stop you from taking advantage of all the benefits weight training has to offer.
One common myth is that some women think they are too old to work with weights. The truth is you are never too old to be able to strengthen and tone your muscles. By using lighter weights and a relatively low intensity program you can still benefit from weight training. It has been proven through studies that people as old as 80 and even 90 who started weight training saw up to a 200% increase in strength over a one month period.
Another common myth is that some women think they will lose their flexibility with weight training. The truth here is that weight training will actually help you to become more flexible. By doing weight training exercises through a full range of motion your muscles are put into a stretch with each repetition and by strengthening them, they are less prone to injury while doing stretching exercises.
This next myth is probably the most common one by far. Many women think that if they lift weights they will develop big muscles and look bulky and unfeminine. Nothing can be further from the truth! The fact is, women don’t have near enough of the male hormone testosterone, and testosterone is the major growth hormone that will produce bulky muscles. Unless women use supplemental means like steroids and growth hormone, they cannot bulk up like men. Weight training will get you firm and toned but by no means will it make you look manly.
One myth that is fairly common is that some women think that weight training is just boring and tedious. The truth is that weight training can be done with a friend, and you can make each other laugh as well as help keep each other on track. You can listen to music as you exercise. You can mix different exercises into your routine and change up your routine from time to time. You will also find that as your strength and your body are improving, you will feel so much better about it all. When you reach a certain goal, give yourself a reward like eating out in a fancy restaurant or taking a weekend vacation somewhere nice.
Now that you know the truth to some of the myths that have been stopping you from enjoying the many benefits of weight training, there is no reason for you not to make it a part of you exercise regimen. Weight training is no longer strictly for men only. So get up, get to the weights, and get fit for life.
Should You Do Stretching Exercises Before You Work Out?
Everyone needs to make use of some good stretching exercises before they do any other kinds of exercises. Stretching exercises are not something that you need to do just once or twice a week. It is important that you do some great stretching exercises before you exercise each and every time. These stretching exercises will help you to get your muscles warmed up; and ready for anything that you throw at them. With out stretching exercises you are bound to pull some muscles and this can hold you back.
You cannot afford to let your muscles get pulled and torn if you want to get in good shape, that is why it is so vitally important to learn some good stretching exercises.
The stretching exercises that you choose need not be too complex or too fancy, they only need to work. And not all stretching exercises are for everyone. There are different levels to stretching exercises just as there are with any other kind of exercise as well. The stretching exercises that you choose to do each time you work out should suit your exercises and your body.
For example you do not want to try advanced yoga on the first day you have tried yoga. You need to work up to the more advanced levels of stretching exercises. Keep this in mind and start with simple and easy stretches. This is the best way to stay in good shape all throughout your body. Remember that if you hurt yourself doing your stretching exercises you will not be able to do your regular exercises, you will be in too much pain. Even missing a few days can really throw off your stride when it comes to your exercise routines.
There are many books out there for you to read that will help you to find the best stretching exercises for your body type and fitness level. If you cannot afford to go out and buy a bunch of these expensive books then consider checking them out at your local library. There you will find all kinds of fantastic stretching exercises and they will not cost you anything, they are all free.
You can also find all kinds of great stretching exercises online. These will be everything that you need in order to start up a good stretching routine. These will keep you in tip top shape all year long and looking your absolute best. There are hundreds of websites on the internet that will be able to supply you with many different stretching exercises. These are the stretching exercises that you need to get your hands on. It is also these stretching exercises that will change your entire life. If your exercise routine needs a little pick me up then you can use these stretching exercises in order to give yours just that.
You cannot afford to let your muscles get pulled and torn if you want to get in good shape, that is why it is so vitally important to learn some good stretching exercises.
The stretching exercises that you choose need not be too complex or too fancy, they only need to work. And not all stretching exercises are for everyone. There are different levels to stretching exercises just as there are with any other kind of exercise as well. The stretching exercises that you choose to do each time you work out should suit your exercises and your body.
For example you do not want to try advanced yoga on the first day you have tried yoga. You need to work up to the more advanced levels of stretching exercises. Keep this in mind and start with simple and easy stretches. This is the best way to stay in good shape all throughout your body. Remember that if you hurt yourself doing your stretching exercises you will not be able to do your regular exercises, you will be in too much pain. Even missing a few days can really throw off your stride when it comes to your exercise routines.
There are many books out there for you to read that will help you to find the best stretching exercises for your body type and fitness level. If you cannot afford to go out and buy a bunch of these expensive books then consider checking them out at your local library. There you will find all kinds of fantastic stretching exercises and they will not cost you anything, they are all free.
You can also find all kinds of great stretching exercises online. These will be everything that you need in order to start up a good stretching routine. These will keep you in tip top shape all year long and looking your absolute best. There are hundreds of websites on the internet that will be able to supply you with many different stretching exercises. These are the stretching exercises that you need to get your hands on. It is also these stretching exercises that will change your entire life. If your exercise routine needs a little pick me up then you can use these stretching exercises in order to give yours just that.
Marvellous Minerals
A mineral is a kind of micronutrient that is essential for good health. All minerals are inorganic substances absorbed from the earth by plants and cannot be produced by plants or animals.
The body utilizes over eighty of these chemicals. They are vital for the growth and production of bones, nails, hair, teeth, nerves, blood, vitamins, hormones and enzymes. In addition, they contribute to the healthy functioning of blood circulation, fluid regulation, nerve transmission, cellular integrity, muscle contraction and energy production.
Because the earth’s soil is now so nutrient depleted, even people who eat the healthiest foods often do not consume the required levels of minerals. This results in many kinds of illnesses, including energy loss, premature aging and degenerative diseases such as heart problems, bone disease and cancer.
Consequently, many people choose to take a supplement, which can provide some of the missing minerals. The risk of mineral deficiency can also be minimized through the consumption of a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. Good sources of minerals other than fruits and vegetables include meats, nuts, beans and dairy products.
The following can serve as a rough guide for ensuring the adequate consumption of some of the most important minerals:
Calcium (Ca): This mineral is mainly found in dairy products, cereals, fruits and vegetables. Tinned fish such as sardines are excellent sources of Ca but are not eaten enough by most people. A sufficient intake of calcium may help to prevent osteoporosis.
Chromium (Cr): The richest dietary sources of Cr are spices such as black pepper and brewer’s yeast, raisins, mushrooms, prunes, nuts, beer, red wine and asparagus.
Copper (Cu): Foods high in Cu include kidney, liver, kidney, shellfish, nuts and wholegrain cereals.
Iodine: The condition of the soil contributes greatly to the concentration of iodine found in plants and animals across various regions of the world.
Iron: Meat provides one of the richest sources of iron. Vegetables and cereals also provide iron, but in low concentrations. A good iron intake is particularly important for menstruating women.
Magnesium (Mg): Mg is widely distributed in plant and animal foods, especially legumes, nuts, green vegetables, chocolate and cereals.
Manganese (Mn): Relatively high concentrations of Mn have been found in tea, brown bread, nuts, ginger and cereals. The concentration of Mn in crops depends largely on soil quality.
Selenium (Se): Cereals, seafood and meat products are the best sources of Se and are the main contributors to the daily Se intake. Most vegetables and fruits are relatively low in this mineral.
Zinc (Zn): The Zn content of foods varies from exceptionally high levels in oysters, to negligible in refined foods or those with a high fat content. The best animal source of Zn is found in lean red meat, which has at least twice that of chicken. Cereals and wholegrain foods also provide some zinc.
Without an adequate intake of minerals, the body ceases to function. Give your body the best possible chance to operate at an optimal level of health by making sure you consume plenty. Thankfully, the rainforest comes up trumps again. It seems that some rainforest fruits, like the acai berry, are packed full of minerals and are probably some of the best natural ways for people to boost their mineral intake. No wonder rainforest fruits like the acai are hailed as “super foods”!
The body utilizes over eighty of these chemicals. They are vital for the growth and production of bones, nails, hair, teeth, nerves, blood, vitamins, hormones and enzymes. In addition, they contribute to the healthy functioning of blood circulation, fluid regulation, nerve transmission, cellular integrity, muscle contraction and energy production.
Because the earth’s soil is now so nutrient depleted, even people who eat the healthiest foods often do not consume the required levels of minerals. This results in many kinds of illnesses, including energy loss, premature aging and degenerative diseases such as heart problems, bone disease and cancer.
Consequently, many people choose to take a supplement, which can provide some of the missing minerals. The risk of mineral deficiency can also be minimized through the consumption of a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. Good sources of minerals other than fruits and vegetables include meats, nuts, beans and dairy products.
The following can serve as a rough guide for ensuring the adequate consumption of some of the most important minerals:
Calcium (Ca): This mineral is mainly found in dairy products, cereals, fruits and vegetables. Tinned fish such as sardines are excellent sources of Ca but are not eaten enough by most people. A sufficient intake of calcium may help to prevent osteoporosis.
Chromium (Cr): The richest dietary sources of Cr are spices such as black pepper and brewer’s yeast, raisins, mushrooms, prunes, nuts, beer, red wine and asparagus.
Copper (Cu): Foods high in Cu include kidney, liver, kidney, shellfish, nuts and wholegrain cereals.
Iodine: The condition of the soil contributes greatly to the concentration of iodine found in plants and animals across various regions of the world.
Iron: Meat provides one of the richest sources of iron. Vegetables and cereals also provide iron, but in low concentrations. A good iron intake is particularly important for menstruating women.
Magnesium (Mg): Mg is widely distributed in plant and animal foods, especially legumes, nuts, green vegetables, chocolate and cereals.
Manganese (Mn): Relatively high concentrations of Mn have been found in tea, brown bread, nuts, ginger and cereals. The concentration of Mn in crops depends largely on soil quality.
Selenium (Se): Cereals, seafood and meat products are the best sources of Se and are the main contributors to the daily Se intake. Most vegetables and fruits are relatively low in this mineral.
Zinc (Zn): The Zn content of foods varies from exceptionally high levels in oysters, to negligible in refined foods or those with a high fat content. The best animal source of Zn is found in lean red meat, which has at least twice that of chicken. Cereals and wholegrain foods also provide some zinc.
Without an adequate intake of minerals, the body ceases to function. Give your body the best possible chance to operate at an optimal level of health by making sure you consume plenty. Thankfully, the rainforest comes up trumps again. It seems that some rainforest fruits, like the acai berry, are packed full of minerals and are probably some of the best natural ways for people to boost their mineral intake. No wonder rainforest fruits like the acai are hailed as “super foods”!
Lowering Cholesterol Through The Foods You Eat
If you have high cholesterol and you are thinking of lowering your cholesterol level, don’t worry because you can do it yourself and a lot of other people are also experiencing the same problem. This may be a tough job but it will be worth it in the end. There are several ways and steps to be healthy. If you want to be serious, you must closely follow each step.
Actually, there are two kinds of cholesterol in your body, HDL and LDL. The difference between the two is that HDL is the cholesterol that is bad for you and LDL is the healthy one. An increase in blood cholesterol is very common in most people. Lowering cholesterol takes discipline to follow some of these helpful tips:
1. Eat fish. This is an effective way to easily lower cholesterol. Salmon is a good choice because it is high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Flax seed is also a good source of Omega-3.
2. If you love desserts, try to limit them and choose healthier ones. Eating graham crackers, fat-free frozen yogurt, and angel food cake is a nice alternative. Set aside the mouth-watering desserts you have been eyeing.
3. You should eat foods that are rich in fiber. Oatmeal, vegetables, beans, fruits, wheat bread and some cereals are examples of foods that have high fiber.
4. Eat more fruits and vegetables. They are the natural foods that contain no cholesterol at all. You can eat a lot of them without the slightest chance of cholesterol.
5. You must avoid fast foods such as French fries and all the food that is cooked in a deep fryer. These are the foods with the fattiest ingredients. They are dipped into oil and absorb too much oil. Although they are tempting, it is worth the sacrifice. Stay away from burgers too, or reserve them for an occasional special treat.
6. If you like salad, try and find a new salad dressing, which is cholesterol friendly. Most salad dressing is full of cholesterol and Trans fats. Maybe a choice of vinegar with lemon juice or Olive oil will be a good option. Bacon bits, egg yolks and croutons should be avoided.
7. If you really can’t get away from burgers and steak, you can grill them in your backyard and use lean cuts of meat instead. This type of cooking prevents reduces the amount of fat in the meat and barbecuing is fun and enjoyable which makes eating pleasurable.
8. If you want a nice healthy sandwich without the fats, have whole wheat bread with a mix of lean turkey and lots of vegetables. Remember to skip the salami, hot dogs and of course the mayo. This type of food is highly processed with cholesterol and fats.
Now after all the worries, you realize that adjusting your diet isn’t going to be too hard at all right? Lowering cholesterol is not a tough job. It just takes patience and dedication and you will have the your levels under control in no time.
Remember, it is important to consult your physician before making any significant changes in diet or lifestyle. Always follow their advice regarding the control of cholesterol levels.
Actually, there are two kinds of cholesterol in your body, HDL and LDL. The difference between the two is that HDL is the cholesterol that is bad for you and LDL is the healthy one. An increase in blood cholesterol is very common in most people. Lowering cholesterol takes discipline to follow some of these helpful tips:
1. Eat fish. This is an effective way to easily lower cholesterol. Salmon is a good choice because it is high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Flax seed is also a good source of Omega-3.
2. If you love desserts, try to limit them and choose healthier ones. Eating graham crackers, fat-free frozen yogurt, and angel food cake is a nice alternative. Set aside the mouth-watering desserts you have been eyeing.
3. You should eat foods that are rich in fiber. Oatmeal, vegetables, beans, fruits, wheat bread and some cereals are examples of foods that have high fiber.
4. Eat more fruits and vegetables. They are the natural foods that contain no cholesterol at all. You can eat a lot of them without the slightest chance of cholesterol.
5. You must avoid fast foods such as French fries and all the food that is cooked in a deep fryer. These are the foods with the fattiest ingredients. They are dipped into oil and absorb too much oil. Although they are tempting, it is worth the sacrifice. Stay away from burgers too, or reserve them for an occasional special treat.
6. If you like salad, try and find a new salad dressing, which is cholesterol friendly. Most salad dressing is full of cholesterol and Trans fats. Maybe a choice of vinegar with lemon juice or Olive oil will be a good option. Bacon bits, egg yolks and croutons should be avoided.
7. If you really can’t get away from burgers and steak, you can grill them in your backyard and use lean cuts of meat instead. This type of cooking prevents reduces the amount of fat in the meat and barbecuing is fun and enjoyable which makes eating pleasurable.
8. If you want a nice healthy sandwich without the fats, have whole wheat bread with a mix of lean turkey and lots of vegetables. Remember to skip the salami, hot dogs and of course the mayo. This type of food is highly processed with cholesterol and fats.
Now after all the worries, you realize that adjusting your diet isn’t going to be too hard at all right? Lowering cholesterol is not a tough job. It just takes patience and dedication and you will have the your levels under control in no time.
Remember, it is important to consult your physician before making any significant changes in diet or lifestyle. Always follow their advice regarding the control of cholesterol levels.
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