Daily Health Intel: July 2012

Monday, July 30, 2012

Fuel Up Like A Fast Vegetarian Olympian

Dylan Wykes shunned meat for a vegetarian lifestyle because of ethical concerns. So like other vegetarians, every day he finds substitutes for protein, bolsters meals with supplements and yoyos on whether it was a good choice to ditch meat.

A pretty typical story of a vegetarian, except that Wykes is the fastest marathoner Canada has fielded in decades and will be toeing the line at the London Olympics, where he’ll race against some of the world’s fastest runners.

A high performance athlete, Wykes can dust off a 10K run in 30 minutes and run at a sole-wearing pace of 3:05 a kilometre for 42.2 kilometres. Food is fuel and while Olympians tune their bodies to perfection -- to go higher, stronger, faster -- the food choices they make are as crucial to their gear or training regimes.

“I’ve gone back and forth on whether it’s good to be vegetarian (and an athlete) and at times I’ve stopped,” Wykes told HuffPost Canada as he was prepping for his Aug. 12 race, one of the final events of the 2012 Games.

For non-meat eaters, the deficiency is often seen in protein and in certain minerals like iron that are seen in meat. Wykes takes in many high-protein foods that vegetarians commonly eat, like quinoa and lentils as part of every meal, meaning he’s not just consuming cheap carbohydrates.

Wykes, a native of Kingston, Ont., is one of a deep field of three athletes who are representing Canada at the Olympics. His time of 2:10:47 puts him at the world elite level, but the Canadian says his dream is to place top 10 in a field of runners who have previously clocked in from 2:04 to 2:06.

“If you do it right it can be done as an athlete,” Wykes said. “It helps you really pay attention to what you’re taking in each day.”

So here are some of Wykes’ favourite foods with high performance in mind -- and scroll down for a list of other vegetarian athletes:

Almond Butter and Banana

Canadian Marathoner Dylan Wykes often eats a breakfast of toast with almond butter and a banana. The meal gets him protein, carbs while bananas carry a good amount of potassium, carbs and vitamin C.
Almond butter and banana

Canadian Marathoner Dylan Wykes often eats a breakfast of toast with almond butter and a banana. The meal gets him protein, carbs while bananas carry a good amount of potassium, carbs and vitamin C.
Quinoa

Quinoa is an 'ancient' type of grain that is gaining popularity. It's a complete protein making it a great protein replacement for runners. It's typically cooked with water or a broth (two cups of liquid per cup of quinoa) and goes well with chopped vegetables and over flavorings. It has a similar consistency to couscous and is also free of gluten.
Lentils

Wykes says that he often eats lentils as part of his diet. Lentils are a great source of low-fat protein and contains fiber and iron. Iron is often needed by endurance athletes, helping your red blood cell growth, and a great source for iron for vegetarians.
Eggs

Eggs for vegetarians who can eat animal products, contain a good source of protein and is versatile so it can be used in all meals.
Soy meat

Wykes often uses fake meat as a boost of protein to his rice and pasta. There are many soy products that are common in grocery store. Another source of protein, soy products also come in similar form that meat eaters are used to, such as ground soy. That makes soy a low-fat alternative to meat products and can sub in a lot of recipes that call for ground beef.
Tofu

Tofu is soy in the traditional form used in Asian cuisine. It comes in various textures (soft to firm). It's relatively neutral taste means that it can be paired with many cuisines.
Pasta

Wykes' pre-race diet doesn't stray much from any other long distance runner, where the reliance is on carbohydrates and less emphasis on protein. His pre-narathon meal will be rice or pasta, maybe with some vegetables.
Supplements and shakes

Wykes takes in some extra nutrition -- and likely hydration -- by taking supplements and shakes. Many runners post-workout shakes to get in extra protein and any minerals and electrolytes lost through sweat. Recently, chocolate milk has become a popular cheap after-run drink for the sugar/carbs and some protein.

Almond butter and banana
Canadian Marathoner Dylan Wykes often eats a breakfast of toast with almond butter and a banana. The meal gets him protein, carbs while bananas carry a good amount of potassium, carbs and vitamin C.

Quinoa
Quinoa (pronounced "Keen-Wah") is an ancient grain that is gaining popularity. It's a complete protein making it a great protein replacement for runners. It's typically cooked with water or a broth (two cups of liquid per cup of quinoa) and goes well with chopped vegetables and over flavorings. It has a similar consistency to couscous and is also free of gluten.

Lentils
Wykes says that he often eats lentils as part of his diet. Lentils are a great source of low-fat protein and contains fiber and iron. Iron is often needed by endurance athletes, helping your red blood cell growth, and a great source for iron for vegetarians.

Eggs
Eggs for vegetarians who can eat animal products, contain a good source of protein and is versatile so it can be used in all meals.

Soy meat
Wykes often uses fake meat as a boost of protein to his rice and pasta. There are many soy products that are common in grocery store. Another source of protein, soy products also come in similar form that meat eaters are used to, such as ground soy. That makes soy a low-fat alternative to meat products and can sub in a lot of recipes that call for ground beef.

Tofu
Tofu is soy in the traditional form used in Asian cuisine. It comes in various textures (soft to firm). It's relatively neutral taste means that it can be paired with many cuisines.

Pasta or rice
Wykes' pre-race diet doesn't stray much from any other long distance runner, where the reliance is on carbohydrates and less emphasis on protein. His pre-narathon meal will be rice or pasta, maybe with some vegetables.

Supplements and shakes
Wykes takes in some extra nutrition -- and likely hydration -- by taking supplements and shakes. Many runners post-workout shakes to get in extra protein and any minerals and electrolytes lost through sweat. Recently, chocolate milk has become a popular cheap after-run drink for the sugar/carbs and some protein.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.ca

Saturday, July 28, 2012

EatingWell: Easy Tricks to Outsmart Your Appetite

By Kerri-Ann Jennings, M.S., R.D. Associate Nutrition Editor for EatingWell Magazine

You know that one of the keys to losing weight is eating fewer calories. But it can be hard to know how to cut back without feeling deprived or hungry. As a registered dietitian and the associate nutrition editor of EatingWell Magazine, I know there are a bunch of tricks that can help you consume fewer calories without feeling deprived.

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

It’s hard to resist temptation when it’s staring you in the face. When office workers were given candies in clear dishes to place on their desks, they helped themselves to candy 71 percent more often than a similar group that was given the same candy in opaque dishes so that the candy wasn’t visible, according to research by Brian Wansink, Ph.D., director of the Cornell University Food and Brand Lab in Ithaca, N.Y. “We’re all on the ‘see-food’ diet,” he says, “so don’t let yourself see what you don’t want to eat.” Do yourself a favor and keep tempting foods out of your sight. If you’re going to keep snacks at home, stash them inside a cupboard; keep healthier options like apples out on the counter.

Must-Read: “Bad” Foods You Should Be Eating

Focus on Your Food
If you eat while you’re distracted -- like when you’re watching TV or even thinking about other things -- you may end up eating more without even enjoying it. A new study in the journal Appetite found that people who ate lunch while listening to a recording that cued them to pay attention to the look, smell, taste and texture of their food ate fewer cookies as a snack later on. Rather than mindlessly plowing through food, take time to savor it.

Related: The No-Diet Diet
Is Eating at Your Desk Making You Gain Weight?

Eat With Chopsticks
An easy way to slow down your eating (which can help you lose weight) is to put your fork down between bites -- or consider using chopsticks. When eating, it takes 20 minutes for your body to register fullness. And according to a University of Rhode Island study, you can save 70 calories by eating slowly over about half an hour versus eating in under 10 minutes. If you ate slower at every meal, that would translate into losing about two pounds a month.

Must-Try: Lose 2 Pounds a Week with These Diet Meal Plans

Fill Up on Fiber
Vegetables are low in calories, but their water and fiber content make them filling. Whole grains (like brown rice, quinoa, 100 percent whole-grain bread) are also more satisfying than refined grains, so you might find you can feel fuller on a smaller portion. (Read these easy swaps to boost your fiber intake throughout the day.)

Size Down Your Dinnerware
A smaller portion will look meager if served on a gigantic plate (I know... I had this experience at a restaurant the other night). Invest in 7-inch plates (about the size of a salad plate) to eat your meals on: They will look more ample. Another trick you can take from new research by Brian Wansink, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, is to make sure your plates and bowls contrast color-wise with your food -- e.g., oatmeal served in a red bowl rather than a white one. Researchers found that participants ate less when served food in a high-contrast plate or bowl, likely because it made their portion even more noticeable.

Must-Read: 5 Bad Eating Habits You Should Break

What healthy tips can you share to cut back on calories?

By Kerri-Ann Jennings

Kerri-Ann Jennings, a registered dietitian, is the associate nutrition editor of EatingWell Magazine, where she wields her master's degree in nutrition from Columbia University writing and editing news about nutrition, health and food trends. In her free time, Kerri-Ann likes to practice yoga, hike, bake and paint.

For more by EatingWell, click here.

For more on weight loss, click here.

Follow EatingWell on Twitter: www.twitter.com/eatingwell

FOLLOW HEALTH AND FITNESS

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Friday, July 27, 2012

Drew Ramsey, M.D.: The Best Food For Your Mood

In my practice of psychiatric medicine, I spend every day treating patients so that their master mood regulator -- the brain -- will get more of what it needs to be strong, healthy, and happy.

But when I meet new patients, I know that the way most of them eat -- the typical American diet of sugars, refined carbohydrates and industrial vegetable fats -- does no favors for their mental health. The nation's epidemic levels of obesity and diabetes have received plenty of news coverage, but rates of brain disorders like depression and dementia are also skyrocketing, and the American diet is partly to blame.

Why? Because so many of the nutrients that the human brain relies upon for its growth, healing and healthy functioning have been stripped from the food supply by modern food processing and factory farming. As a result, we as a nation are overfed and undernourished. We're also being poisoned. Preservatives, pesticides and plastic packaging have introduced a slew of new chemicals into our systems, which pose additional threats to our brain functions.

Emerging research in the fields of neuroscience and nutrition show that people who eat a diet of modern processed foods have increased levels of depression, anxiety, mood swings, hyperactivity, and a wide variety of other mental and emotional problems. One study found that adolescents with low-quality junk food diets are 79 percent more likely to suffer from depression. Another found that diets high in trans fats found in processed foods raised the risk of depression by 42 percent among adults over the course of approximately six years. And a huge study of women's diets by the Harvard School of Public health concluded that those whose diets contained the greatest number of healthy omega-3 fats (and the lowest levels of unhealthy omega-6s) were significantly less likely to suffer from depression.

So what to do? Extreme diet recommendations these days run the gamut from veganism to low-fat to low-carb. Without even debating their individual merits, they all share the common problem that they are very restrictive and very hard to stick to. As a physician, I know all too well that strict regimens of any kind are almost always doomed to failure and then often leave people feeling worse off than before. That's why the best prescriptions are often those that are simple and easiest to follow. With that thought in mind, here are the five basic rules I give to patients, friends, and family who want to simplify their choices at mealtime and maximize their brain health.

1. Skip the processed foods.

Processed foods are filled with empty calories, which is why so many people who count calories for weight loss end up with nutritional deficiencies that affect their energy levels, moods and thought processes. Brain-healthy nutrients are found in whole foods such as seafood (vitamin B-12, omega-3 fats), leafy greens and lentils (folates and magnesium), whole grains and nuts (certain forms of vitamin E that protect brain fat), and tomatoes and sweet potatoes (top sources of lycopene and other carotenoids, fat soluble antioxidants that decrease inflammation). Once you start eating a plant-based diet of nutrient-dense, whole foods, your moods will level out, your blood sugar will stop spiking and crashing, and your thinking will get clearer. You will see that food is much more than just fuel for your day.

2. Go organic.

Many insecticides and pesticides are neurotoxins, and although some claim the science isn't settled about their health risks, remember that the same was said about cigarettes for decades before their dangers were officially recognized. Organic food usually costs a little more, so it's smart to start by switching to organic apples, celery, peaches and other produce that normally rank highest in contaminants. For a full list, check out the Environmental Working Group's "dirty dozen." Availability also used to be a problem with organics, but no more. Supermarkets are steadily increasing their organic offerings, and the spread of farmers markets around the U.S. has added further reach for the movement.

3. Don't fear fats.

Trans fats still found in many packaged baked goods are among the unhealthiest substances around, which is another good reason to stay away from processed foods. But the omega-3 fats DHA and EPA, which are found in whole foods like fish, butter, yogurt and full-fat milk, are great for your brain. One researcher calls them "nutritional armor." Studies show that these two fats help protect your brain against mood disorders, while low levels of DHA have been associated with increased risk of suicide. And these fats don't make you fat! In fact, foods with healthy fats help you feel satiated, so you end up eating less.

4. Mind your meat.

Meat is brain food. Along with other animal products like seafood, eggs and dairy, the right meat is a protein-rich source of omega-3 fats DHA and EPA and another fat, CLA, which is associated with fighting cancer and reducing levels of deadly abdominal fat. A plant-based diet is essential for brain health, but a diet completely free of animal products has its own problems. It forces one to take nutritional supplements, which are expensive and aren't always absorbed sufficiently in the body. Deficiencies of vitamin B12 are particularly common among those who adhere to a vegan diet, which puts some at risk of irreversible brain and nerve damage. Not all meat is created equal, though. "Grass-fed" or "pasture-raised" beef and chicken have more beneficial nutrients in them and are free antibiotics and harmful hormones fed to factory farmed animals. Eggs that are "farm fresh" have higher nutritional value because they were laid by hens with a healthier natural diet.

5. Make friends with farmers.

Shopping at your local farmers market can give you added motivation to stay away from a pre-packaged processed-food diet. Getting to know the people who grow your food also offers you the opportunity to gain a better understanding of what you're eating. Even in Manhattan, where I live, I've learned from my egg farmer how he improves the nutritional quality of his eggs by feeding the hens organic greens, which he calls "chicken candy." I've also gotten a tutorial in mood-enhancing nutrients found in purple beans and miniature Italian eggplants. (see photo). The goal is not to become a food snob, but to make that vital connection between your fork and your feelings and choose foods that support your emotional well-being and enhance your sense of vitality. You can find local farmers easily at localharvest.org.

Join the conversation and bring your questions about mood and food today (July 27) from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. EST when @HealthyLiving and @ColumbiaMedNews are hosting a twitterchat -- #foodandmood.

For more by Drew Ramsey, M.D., click here.

For more on mental health, click here.

Follow Drew Ramsey, M.D. on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DrewRamseyMD

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Thursday, July 26, 2012

You Tried It: Rodney Yee's Yoga For Athletes

Welcome to "You Tried It," a series of video posts from top trainers, who will share clips from their popular workout DVDs. Please try the moves outlined in the clip above and tell us what you think in the comments!

You might be familiar with our popular series, "We Tried It," in which Healthy Living editors try one of the myriad fitness classes on offer in New York City -- from the wacky to the hardcore. We have so much fun and we want to bring the fun to you as well.

This week, Rodney Yee teaches us to use yoga to counter train for other sports. Give it a try and tell us what you think ... did this workout help you? And if that's not what you're in the mood for, have a look at the previous videos we've featured. There's something for everyone!

For more videos, check out the rest of the You Tried It series here.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Say Good Bye To Hair Loss

If you are visiting the doctor for the first time to seek medical advice on your hair loss, expect that he or she will ask about your medical and family. The doctor will ask questions on your recent medical status to know if you underwent treatments that may cause this condition. He or she will also ask about your family's history to know if the hair loss is caused by the genes or hereditary because this might indicate that you are suffering from pattern baldness.

The biologists argue that the characteristics of hair of a person depend on several factors some of which are inherited. Some factors are genetic means that DNA programming is responsible for your hairs the way they look. The secretion level of hormones also contributes to hair looks. And after all, the entire environment especially the air and water greatly affects your hairstyle. That’s why, every person some time experience the bad hair day. But if you are willing to take a little care, you can say good-bye to bad hair day, which might not be permanent and need your attention time to time.

How hair grows is a wondrous thing in itself that needs to be recognized. Typically, hair grows at a rate of a quarter inch every 2 weeks. Andropause sufferers have their ¨hair growth cycles¨ disrupted when there is erratic growth of some hair strands where ¨new¨ hair pushed ¨old¨ hair out. Because Andropause is a period of hormonal imbalance, a lack of hormonal stability and poor homeostasis (holistic balance) in the body pushes things out of whack.

Kirstie Alley Weight Loss Fraud?

Kirstie Alley might have lost 100 pounds, but at the moment she has a bit less to be cheering about. The 61-year-old actress is being sued for reportedly lying about how she shed the weight.

Scroll down to see photos of Kirstie Alley before and after her most recent weight loss.

Alley credits her weight loss to Organic Liaison, a weight loss program she helped develop, founded on the basis of "liaising" dieters from their daily eating habits to a healthier organic diet. The plan includes organic weight loss products, natural dietary supplements, and access to online diet and exercise tools.

Alley has been touting the product everywhere, from her official website to her personal blog to the television home shopping network QVC.

"I can assure you that if you follow this program, you'll get healthier, lose weight, and not be 'annoyingly' hungry," Alley claims in her QVC promotion.

But at least one California native isn't buying it.

TMZ first reported that plaintiff Marina Abramyan has filed a class action lawsuit against Alley, Organic Liaison LLC and Organic Liaison Management, alleging that Alley did not lose 100 pounds by using Organic Liaison but rather by dancing the weight off during "Dancing With The Stars" Season 12 -- which started in March, same month she decided to create the Organic Liaison program -- and by following a strict low-calorie diet.

Abramyan tried the weight loss plan and claims the products "are nothing more than run-of-the-mill fiber and calcium supplements," according to Courthouse News Service, which reported on the lawsuit text. Abramyan did not lose any weight while using the products.

The plaintiff also alleges that Organic Liaison used false advertising, including allegedly deceptive photos of Alley, to promote the weight loss plan.

"In peddling the Organic Liaison Program, Ms. Alley attributes her weight loss to the program, but in reality, Ms. Alley's weight loss is due to nothing more than the tried and true concept of diet and exercise," the complaint states, according to Courthouse News Service. "It is commonly known, and indeed a scientific fact, that if you are increasing exercise while decreasing caloric intake, you will lose weight. There is no magic pill or supplement that causes weight loss."

Weight loss has been an uphill battle for the actress, who weighed 230 pounds in 2009. But in March 2011 she claimed to have found the solution in Organic Liaison. In September 2011, Alley announced that she had lost 100 pounds with the product.

"When I hit that mark, I went, 'That's it!' " Alley, who is now reportedly a size 6, told People magazine last September. "I have more energy than I've ever had in my whole life."

"I feel back to normal. I have my game again," she added.

While Alley has not publicly responded to the lawsuit, she did post the following comment Monday on Twitter:

Abramyan is seeking unspecified damages.

Kirstie Alley in March 2005
kirstie alley weight loss

Kirstie Alley in January 2012
kirstie alley weight loss

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Monday, July 23, 2012

Karen Salmansohn: The Fearless Power Of 'Kindsight'

He appeared to be my ideal match. Then again, matches have been known to burn people. And I very much became burned by this man.

Badly burned.

Interesting, isn't it, the dangerous language we use to describe the very people we love? We say they're our "match." Or a "flame." We label them as "smoking hot." We revel in the "fiery desire" they inspire -- and the "burning passion" they create.

A happy love relationship has even been called a "friendship caught on fire."

Why do we have so many fire metaphors in relation to love?

Then there's the ultimate fire/love commonality: Both have the power to drastically, speedily destroy a once seemingly solid foundation. For example, a three-story house can be burnt to a bacon-like crisp in a few fiery hours as a result of an innocent waffle being placed in a bread-only toaster. I relate. Thanks to my ex, I was that house, and my heart was that waffle.

As a self-help book author, I've written about the importance of seeking meaning during times of crisis. I've raved about the emotional benefits of believing everything happens for a reason -- then consciously choosing to locate that reason. But I must confess, after the great pain my ex caused me, I was at first finding this hard to do.

I'm sharing this with you now to let you know that if you've recently undergone a difficult breakup, I know how challenging it can feel. I know at first you may become convinced that the best way to protect your breaking heart is to put the permanent brakes on your heart. But I'm here to remind you: Please do not wallow in negative emotions for too long!

I believe you can never fail in life or love. You just produce results. It's up to you how you interpret those results. There are no failed relationships, because every person in your life has a life lesson to teach.

When someone leaves you it's important to release them and know: It doesn't mean it's a bad thing. It just means that their part in your story is over. Your story will go on. Instead of stressing over the loss of this person, you must face forward, happy in the knowledge that the empty space they're leaving behind is clearing up space for someone far more right for you -- someone who you'll now be far wiser at recognizing is far more right! In many ways, pain is your evolutionary buddy. Pain prompts you to wake up from your autopilot slumber, and CLUNK -- finally be more alert to which are the best circumstances and best people to aim yourself at for ultimate joy. And often the only way to experience major "insight breakthroughs" is via breakups.

I believe much of the pain of a breakup comes from having a life plan that you have fallen in love with. When it does not work out, you become angry that you now have to pursue a new life plan. But if you ever want to tame your inner demons, you must consciously choose never to become too attached to any particular life plan -- and always remain open to the idea that there might be an even better life plan for you. In fact, in my life I've often discovered than my Plan B's are even better than my Plan A's. (Ditto with my Plan C's!) Embracing detachment as a way of life will always give you a healthier sense of peacefulness when you get plunked into one of life's potholes!

You must view your life with what I call "kindsight." Instead of slapping your forehead and asking "What was I thinking?" you must breathe and ask the kinder question, "What was I learning?"

After my breakup with my ex, I consciously chose to psych myself up about my new life plan by owning the following as my empowering belief system: "I'm happy to be over this relationship because I am learning lots of empowering lessons which will help to lead me into the arms of a much better life partner!" (Note: Thankfully, appreciatively, I did get to personally experience this happening for me -- so I know if you keep your eye on the prize of happiness, even in the eye of the storm, eventually you will make it through to happier days.)

Basically, a bad breakup is never meant to teach you "I'll never fall in love again." It's meant to teach you "Now I better know what makes for healthful, happy love -- and thanks to this breakup I'm now better able to recognize it and snag it!"

William James, the philosopher, wrote about how he viewed the world as having two kinds of people: once-born and twice-born. James described once-born people as never wandering too far from the safety of who they thought they were. When a crisis arrived, pushing them to enter into dark places where they might find hidden parts of themselves, they never bothered to flip those self-illumination switches. They chose instead to remain sitting in the dark.

In contrast, twice-born people use a shakeup in their outer world as an opportunity to wake up their inner world -- seeking a more profound view on life and their purpose and potential in it. Twice-born people view crisis as an initiation by fire into a more conscious, more fulfilling way of living.

I love James' definition of twice-born people. After my experience with my ex, I became Olympically determined to let go of my identity as a woman "burned" and chose instead to trade my identity in as someone undergoing "an initiation by fire" -- a far more empowering fire metaphor to keep in the forefront of my mind!

If you've recently undergone a painful loss please know: You have the power to say, "This is not how my story ends!" You have the power to rewrite your destiny!

Your Bounce-Back Assignment: Every time a negative belief about your ex enters your head, repeat the word "forward" as your mantra -- then face your thoughts and actions in that direction!

Karen Salmansohn is a bestselling author -- with over 1 million books sold -- known for creating self-help for people who wouldn't be caught dead reading self-help. If you're recovering from a challenging break up, CLICK HERE NOW to get more information on Karen's Oprah.com loved/recommended book Prince Harming Syndrome, which has empowering tools for healing from both Princess Harmings and Prince Harmings. For more about Karen, visit her site:notsalmon.com. Or come hang out with Karen on her popular Facebook page by clicking here now!

For more by Karen Salmansohn, click here.

For more on becoming fearless, click here.

Follow Karen Salmansohn on Twitter: www.twitter.com/notsalmon

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Pillow Talk: Teens Worried Over Lack Of Sleep

Many teenagers do not believe they are getting enough sleep to remain alert at school and stay healthy, research suggests.

It reveals girls are more concerned about their sleeping habits than boys, and that youngsters are more likely to say they are not getting enough as they get older.

More than one in four 14 and 15-year-old girls (28%), and just over a fifth of boys of the same age (22%) do not think they sleep enough to concentrate on their studies, according to the Schools Health Education Unit.

Their findings, drawn from surveys of thousands of schoolchildren aged from 10 to 15, show that fewer 12 and 13-year-olds (Year 8) are concerned about lack of sleep affecting their classwork.

A fifth (20%) of Year 8 girls, and 16% of boys said that the amount of sleep they normally get is not enough for them to stay alert and concentrate on lessons.

The research shows the proportions of youngsters who are concerned about the impact lack of sleep has on their health, with 17% of 12 and 13-year-old boys and the same number of girls saying they don't think get enough to stay healthy.

This rose to 22% among 14 and 15-year-old boys (Year 10) and 27% of girls of the same age.

Overall, 80% of Year 8 boys and 78% of Year 8 girls said that they get eight hours or more sleep a night, this fell 65% for Year 10 boys and girls.

The study also reveals that many youngsters are spending much more time playing the computer and watching TV than doing homework.

Asked how long they had spent doing homework the night before, 4% of 14 and 15-year-old boys said that they had spent more than three hours on it.

But almost a fifth (19%) of boys of this age said that they had spent more than three hours playing computer games, and 14% had spent more than three hours watching TV.

Among girls in the same age group, 10% had spent over three hours on homework, 5% had spent this long playing computer games, and 15% had spent over three hours watching TV.

Maggie Fisher, health visitor for parenting website Netmums said: "Children, and teenagers in particular, are leading increasingly busy lives and we know this is leading to a sleep deficit. Research shows for each hour of sleep lost, IQ drops by a point so the cumulative effect of lots of late nights can have a serious impact on teenager's studies at school.

"Children nowadays spend far more time surfing the web or watching TV, so sleep experts advise all electronic devices to be switch of at least 30 minutes before bedtime or it can affect sleep quality and brainwave patterns.

"However what we are seeing is many children sleeping with smartphones tucked under their pillows which prevents restful sleep."

She added that teenagers have different sleep patterns to other people, making them more likely to go to bed later and get up later.

Mike Griffiths, vice president of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) said: "As this survey suggests, there's a general concern at the amount of time youngsters are spending interacting with screens, whether TV or computers, as opposed to interacting with people."

Mr Griffiths suggested that lack of sleep could be linked to the amount of time spent playing computer games or watching TV.

He said he was not sure if taking part in these activities makes children more or less tired than going outside and playing a game like football.

But he added: "Some of these videos and interactive games are not very restful. With physical activity perhaps you get a good night's sleep."

Mr Griffiths said that in some cases, it may be that parents are telling a child to go to bed, saying goodnight and then a little later the child is back up playing computer games in their bedroom.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.co.uk

Friday, July 20, 2012

David Katz, M.D.: Plain English About Ounces, Pounds, Dollars and Sense

One of the arguments for bariatric surgery in principle is that by addressing the problem of often severe obesity effectively, the procedure should alter the entire trajectory of health in a way that saves money. Obesity and its complications are costly; fixing the one and forestalling the others should attenuate those costs.

But such pecuniary hopes attached to weight loss surgery were themselves somewhat attenuated this week with the publication of a new study in the Archives of Surgery. The study, limited to older, male patients in the Veterans Affairs hospital system, showed that costs rise acutely with the surgery itself, as one would expect, but then fail to fall for the three years following. Reasons at this point remain a matter of speculation and debate.

Before following where this leads, I hasten to add that saving money is not the primary reason for bariatric surgery, any more than for coronary bypass. In general, intervening to address severe threats to health carries a cost, often a high cost, and one our society has proven repeatedly it is willing to pay. Bariatric surgery can reverse disease, avert death, and extend life. That it is often the best thing going for the treatment of severe obesity, is well-established by the available evidence currently in hand. I believe strongly it should be available to all who need it.

Our societal problem is letting too many need it in the first place.

As for costs, they don't make or break the case for bariatric surgery once it is needed, any more than they make or break the case for organ transplants, dialysis, burn unit care, or coronary bypass. In general, saving and improving lives in peril costs money. We can let people die for free -- that doesn't make it a good idea. In this, as in all things, we tend to get what we pay for.

But it would be one helluva' good idea to prevent so many people from needing medical procedures our society ultimately cannot afford, in the first place. That certainly includes bariatric surgery -- which could go away all but entirely, if we did all that it takes to make healthful eating and physical activity every day our prevailing cultural norm -- but also extends to coronary care, dialysis, amputations, and more, since so much chronic disease is propagated either directly by obesity, or by the same factors that propagate obesity. We have known for decades that bad use of feet, forks, and fingers represent the leading causes of premature death and virtually all of the major chronic diseases that bedevil our personal fortunes and national economy alike.

Dealing with advanced disease with surgery, or for that matter drugs, like the weight-loss drug Qnexa, just approved by the FDA, carries costs our society cannot bear -- even when such interventions work well, which is only sometimes. What would work better for health and vitality, and costs alike -- is prevention. Lifestyle as medicine.

While we keep spending vast fortunes on a status quo that, if we are quite blunt about it, covers the expenses of the highly imperfect efforts of all the king's horses and all the king's men, we could spend vastly smaller sums to blaze new trails entirely.

Consider a study in which a group of ordinary people who are lean and healthy in the midst of an obesigenic environment are enrolled. The group should be diverse -- younger and older, male and female, richer and poorer, employed and unemployed, in school and graduated, all variations of skin pigment, and so on. They should at first be overfed and underexercised a bit to prove they are as human as the rest of us, and gain weight when that happens. People who are genetically impervious to weight gain would be ineligible. We want people who CAN gain weight, but don't. For what it's worth, I'd be a perfect study subject so far.

Once we have such a group assembled, we should use readily available research methods to make a systematic audit of their skill sets, and the resources/tools they use as a matter of routine to stay healthy and lean. Using semi-structured survey methods and focus group techniques, this process would be iterative, meaning information is fed back to the group to prime the flow of more information -- which would continue until nothing new is disclosed. The audit is done when you know all there is to know.

Then, the inventory of skills and tools could be assembled, and matched against the daily challenges they are used to overcome. And just on the chance you are having doubts that such methods are plausible, we have put them to good use already -- although not quite as expansively as I am proposing here.

Once the inventory of skills and tools is identified, the next step would be to figure out how best to get them to everyone. Some tools might be most readily put into people's hands in school, others at work, others at church, others in the supermarket, others still online, and so on. We could create a map linking each resource, tool, or skill to the best means of getting it into everyone's hands.

Maybe this is sounding tough, but consider that just about every baby born in the United States learns to speak English. That's a pretty tall order, really -- just ask any adult from elsewhere who doesn't speak it and is trying to learn. Growing up in a culture that surrounds you with exposure to English makes it natural to learn English -- something very hard to do later on.

This is directly analogous to prevention, which requires you "grow up in it," but is easy and painless, as compared to dealing later on with what you didn't learn early. That's costly, hard, and painful.

In fact, the way we respond to obesity and related chronic disease in the U.S. is like waiting to send every adult to night school to learn English -- painfully, poorly, expensively, and late -- rather than having them grow up speaking fluently all along. We should certainly continue offering English-as-a-second-language classes to those who need them, just as we should continue paying for bariatric surgery and coronary bypass operations for those who need them. But not at the expense of routine fluency in either case.

English can be spoken fluently; so, too, can health. The research steps required to learn what the minority who now speak fluent health know, and how everyone else can learn it, are not trivial -- but they are not rocket science, either. They are not free, but they are vanishingly less expensive than the status quo, in both dollars, and human costs. Having some experience with this kind of research, a back-of-the-envelope calculation suggests the whole thing could be done for less than the cost of 100 bariatric operations. And we are doing roughly 10 times that many in the U.S.... every day!

There is English literacy; and there is health literacy. We could create a culture in which everyone simply acquires health literacy the way they acquire language. It is, if anything, probably a bit less hard!

Applying sense to get at the missing links of science as I've described them may sound as if it entails some heavy lifting. Perhaps. But compared to the crushing weight and unsustainable costs of the status quo -- it is as ounces to pounds, as cents to every dollar.

-fin

Dr. David L. Katz; www.davidkatzmd.com
www.turnthetidefoundation.org

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dr-David-L-Katz/114690721876253
http://twitter.com/DrDavidKatz

For more by David Katz, M.D., click here.

For more on personal health, click here.

For more healthy living health news, click here.

Follow David Katz, M.D. on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DrDavidKatz

FOLLOW HEALTH AND FITNESS

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Thursday, July 19, 2012

'Am I The Only One Who Likes Fred Willard More Because Of This?'

"Did you hear about Fred Willard?"

If you're like us, when someone said that to you with a look of grave importance on their face this morning, you thought, "Oh, no, please don't let him have done something to, near or about a kid."

And, happily, he didn't.

In fact, he did something that law-abiding grown-ups of all stripes do every single day. And he did it in a place that seems to call for that very thing. So while the naysayers among us may have seen this as a lewd act, a lot of folks on twitter knew far better.

Here are some of our favorite tweets defending, and even applauding, comedic legend Fred Willard.

rob delaney
Albert Brooks
Caissie St.Onge
James Urbaniak
Tim Long
Karen Bergreen
Brian Lynch
grahamclark
John Fugelsang
Emily Donahue
billy eichner
BillCorbett
Josh Comers

Also on HuffPost:

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Roseanne Barr Tells Obama To Leave Her Weed Alone!

"The Bachelor"

"The Bachelor," ABC Status: Renewed Why: You really think we've seen the last rose handed out? Not in a million years. ABC has already tapped their next "Bachelorette," and we know they'll have their eyes peeled for a hot rejected man from that spinoff to be the next "Bachelor."

"The Bachelorette"

"The Bachelorette," ABC Status: Likely to be renewed Why: "Bachelor" Brad's also-ran Emily Maynard is getting her turn as the rose giver for the seventh season of "The Bachelorette" this summer. As long as there are people willing to look for love on reality TV, this show will keep on trucking.

"Body of Proof"

"Body of Proof," ABC Status: Renewed Why: "Body of Proof" has been falling below its timeslot competitor, CBS's "Unforgettable," but it still draws a decent audience and its fans are very vocal. ABC has decided it deserves a third season.

"Castle"

"Castle," ABC Status: Renewed Why: This show's ratings have definitely suffered without "Dancing With the Stars" airing beforehand, but it is a consistent performer. And now that Castle and Beckett's relationship is evolving, a fifth season of "oh yes they will" is a no-brainer.

"Charlie's Angels"

"Charlie's Angels," ABC Status: Canceled Why: Not really a shock for anybody, but "Charlie's Angels" is cooked. Flimsy story, bad remake, questionable casting.

"Cougar Town"

"Cougar Town," ABC Status: Renewed -- for TBS! Why: The Season 3 ratings weren't boosted much by holding this show until midseason, but ABC's wonky air schedule also didn't help ... which is why the news that TBS has picked up the show for a fourth season is huge. Cheers with your Big Carl!

"Dancing With the Stars"

"Dancing With the Stars," ABC Status: Renewed Why: "DWTS" may have lost its luster in the ratings, but if the viewers are still coming.

"Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23"

"Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23," ABC Status: Renewed Why: ABC's new bleep-worthy comedy starring Krysten Ritter, Dreama Walker and James Van Der Beek is a funny one, and definitely embraces the quirk (Beek Jeans!), so we're excited to see what they do with a second season.

"Desperate Housewives"

"Desperate Housewives," ABC Status: Canceled Why: After countless deaths, murders, betrayals and natural disasters on Wisteria Lane over the show's eight seasons, the ladies of "Desperate Housewives" will say goodbye forever this May.

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," ABC Status: Canceled Why: After a whopping nine seasons, the do-gooding show came to an end in January. But worry not, it will continue to have a few specials to make viewers cry tears of joy.

"GCB"

"GCB," ABC Status: Canceled Why: This "Desperate Housewives"-esque dramedy premiered to less than 8 million viewers, and the phenomenal cast (Kristin Chenoweth, Annie Potts, Leslie Bibb) couldn't bring in a Texas-sized audience, so ABC canceled it.

"Grey's Anatomy"

"Grey's Anatomy," ABC Status: Renewed Why: Shonda Rhimes' medical drama is a ratings juggernaut, even in its eighth season, and with most of her <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/10/greys-anatomy-ellen-pompeo_n_1506113.html?ref=tv" target="_hplink">big stars signed on for more</a>, ABC gave the go-ahead for a ninth season.

"Happy Endings"

"Happy Endings," ABC Status: Renewed Why: This show is way too "ca-yute" to bubble it, and obviously someone high up at ABC agrees. After its first season was moved around and aired all out of order, the network still gave it another chance to find its audience in Season 2 ... and it has, and hopefully will continue to in Season 3.

"Last Man Standing"

"Last Man Standing," ABC Status: Renewed Why: Ratings for Tim Allen's return to sitcoms have been very strong, making it Tuesday's most-watched comedy. If you can beat "Glee" and "The Biggest Loser," a second season is a given.

"Man Up!"

"Man Up!," ABC Status: Canceled Why: ABC pulled the show after eight episodes.

"The Middle"

"The Middle," ABC Status: Renewed Why: Now in its third season, "The Middle" is still holding onto its middle position in the ratings on Wednesday nights, and that seems just about right. It doesn't do "American Idol" or "Survivor" numbers, of course, but with over 7 million viewers, it's a strong comedy for the network that easily beats anything NBC is offering.

"Missing"

"Missing," ABC Status: Canceled Why: Ashley Judd lead this drama about a former CIA agent whose son goes missing, kicking her back into action to find him. The series was only set to air 10 episodes, miniseries-style, with the potential for more, but a cancellation means that's all they're getting.

"Modern Family"

"Modern Family," ABC Status: Renewed Why: "Modern Family" remains ABC's biggest sitcom success story of the last decade, both in ratings and awards love. This critical darling is getting a fourth season of hijinks with the hilarious Pritchett-Dunphy clan.

"Once Upon A Time"

"Once Upon A Time," ABC Status: Renewed Why: "Once Upon a Time" has gotten praise for being one of the more family-friendly dramas on TV, and it's been pulling in close to 10 million viewers each week because of it. We're excited by the almost endless possibilities for new fairy tale-inspired stories to tackle in Season 2.

"Pan Am"

"Pan Am," ABC Status: Canceled Why: Poor "Pan Am" just never quite took off. The series' vintage look actually worked against it, much like NBC's swiftly canceled "Playboy Club" -- guess when you're being compared to award-winning shows like "Mad Men," it makes it more than a little tough to live up to the hype.

"Private Practice"

"Private Practice," ABC Status: Renewed Why: "Private Practice" has never gotten "Grey's Anatomy"-level ratings, and things got shakier when ABC bumped it to Tuesday nights to make room for creator Shonda Rhimes' other new show, "Scandal," but they've given the show a sixth season order.

"Revenge"

"Revenge," ABC Status: Renewed Why: With a clever mix of drama, mystery and serious revenge-ing, this is hands down one of the most addictive new shows on TV, and we can't wait to see where they take things in Season 2.

"The River"

"The River," ABC Status: Canceled Why: The promise of "Paranormal Activity"-like scares each week quickly fizzled after this show premiered, along with the ratings. The first season's eight episodes came and went, and ABC has nixed any plans for more.

"Scandal"

"Scandal," ABC Status: Renewed Why: Shonda Rhimes' latest show isn't about doctors at all -- and that's why we're glad it's sticking around. Kerry Washington is amazing as Olivia Pope, a Washington, D.C. fixer with a crack team of specialists helping make bad headlines vanish before they're ever written. Here's hoping for more than seven episodes in its second season.

"Shark Tank"

"Shark Tank," ABC Status: Renewed Why: Now in its third season, this reality competition show is unlike any other on network TV and ABC is keeping it around for more for that very reason.

"Suburgatory"

"Suburgatory," ABC Status: Renewed Why: It's smart, quick and not too cute -- "Suburgatory" is consistently named the sitcom you should be watching, but probably aren't. The great cast makes this one a no-brainer, and the ratings have stayed pretty consistent, too. We're thrilled it's getting a second season to shine!

"Work It"

"Work It," ABC Status: Canceled Why: Let us count the ways ...

"2 Broke Girls"

"2 Broke Girls," CBS Status: Renewed Why: At first, people balked at the racist supporting characters, but now it seems that audiences are all over "2 Broke Girls" -- it's ratings have seen a steady increase, and it won the People's Choice Award for Favorite New Comedy.

"A Gifted Man"

"A Gifted Man," CBS Status: Canceled Why: "A Gifted Man's" total viewer numbers were OK for a Friday night, but a 1.3 rating in the 18-49 demographic is especially bad for CBS. Another bad sign: star Patrick Wilson tweeted about the end: "I had a great time. Thanks to my fans. So happy it's done." And done it is.

"The Amazing Race"

"The Amazing Race," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Voted the best reality show on TV several times (albeit years ago), "The Amazing Race" isn't going anywhere. Ratings have dropped a bit, but are still solid.

"The Big Bang Theory"

"The Big Bang Theory," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Nothing seems to be able to make a dent in this show. With fantastic ratings (it beat "Idol"!) and a rabid following, we'll be seeing plenty more "Big Bang" before its run is over.

"Blue Bloods"

"Blue Bloods," CBS Status: Renewed Why: The anchor of Friday nights on CBS, "Blue Bloods" has performed well, pulling in around 11 million viewers an episode. The show might not have the youngest audience, but it's still enough for CBS to keep it on the schedule.

"Criminal Minds"

"Criminal Minds," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Paget Brewster might be checking out, but "Criminal Minds" is here to stay. In Season 7, the procedural is still a consistently strong ratings performer for CBS.

"CSI"

"CSI," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Whenever the time comes, the "CSI" mothership will end with a lot of fanfare, but not this year. With new faces Ted Danson and Elisabeth Shue around, there is going to be at least one more season.

"CSI: Miami"

"CSI: Miami," CBS Status: Canceled Why: Out of the three (!) "CSI" programs on the air, "CSI: Miami" is the one to say goodbye first. The one-time ratings giant has been affected by football overruns (just as "The Good Wife" has) and "CSI: NY" has the edge in terms of total viewers, meaning a "Miami" sunset was inevitable.

"CSI: NY"

"CSI: NY," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Of the two "CSI" spinoffs, "CSI: NY" is the stronger -- pulling in more than 10 million viewers on a Friday night is no easy task -- and with "CSI: Miami" canceled, "CSI: NY's" renewal was a no-brainer.

"The Good Wife"

"The Good Wife," CBS Status: Renewed Why: This critical darling suffered after its move from Tuesdays to Sundays thanks to sports overruns. The viewers are frustrated, but given its strong cast and Emmy love, the show is still coming back for more.

"Hawaii Five-0"

"Hawaii Five-0," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Despite the scheduling setback as Alex O'Loughlin seeks treatment, Season 2 is still doing well for CBS in a very competitive timeslot.

"How To Be a Gentleman"

"How To Be A Gentleman," CBS Status: Canceled Why: Not even having "The Big Bang Theory" as a lead-in could save this David Hornsby project, which only lasted three episodes.

"How I Met Your Mother"

"How I Met Your Mother," CBS Status: Renewed Why: CBS renewed "How I Met Your Mother" for two more seasons in March 2011, so fans can look forward to being strung along about the titular mother's identity for a bit longer.

"The Mentalist"

"The Mentalist," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Although the show hit a season ratings low in the middle of February, its fanbase and overall ratings were enough to have it return for another season.

"Mike & Molly"

"Mike & Molly," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Thanks to an Emmy win and Oscar nomination, Melissa McCarthy is a Hollywood power player and CBS is keen to keep her around. Just look at the multiple pilots she has in the works as a behind the scenes player! "Mike & Molly" will be back for a third season.

"NCIS"

"NCIS," CBS Status: Renewed Why: The long-running procedural has become a ratings juggernaut at a time when most shows start shedding viewers. Season 10 is now happening.

"NCIS: Los Angeles"

"NCIS: Los Angeles," CBS Status:Renewed Why: This show has gone up in the ratings over the last couple of years, and people can't get enough of L.L. Cool J and Chris O'Donnell.

"NYC 22"

"NYC 22," CBS Status: Canceled Why: This "Rookie Blue" clone from executive producer Robert DeNiro didn't really move the needle when it premiered midseason; CBS officially axed it with three episodes left to air.

"Person of Interest"

"Person of Interest," CBS Status: Renewed Why: With ratings matching juggernauts like "Grey's Anatomy" and fans popping up everywhere, we'll be seeing another season of "Person of Interest."

"Rob"

"Rob," CBS Status: Canceled Why: "Rob's" spot after ratings juggernaut "The Big Bang Theory" probably went a long way in helping it survive to see the end of its first season, but that's as far as it'll get.

"Rules of Engagement"

"Rules of Engagement," CBS Status: Renewed Why: This show has moved around so much it's hard to remember when it's on, and with six seasons under its belt it's had quite a nice run. Despite slipping ratings and the aforementioned constant switcheroos, there's still a future for "Rules of Engagement."

"Survivor"

"Survivor," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Of course we have "Survivor" coming back for another season. Where else are we going to see petty squabbles and insane behavior on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world?

"Two and a Half Men"

"Two and a Half Men," CBS Status: Renewed Why: Despite a less-than-favorable critical response, the revamped "Two and a Half Men" keeps pulling in respectable numbers every week. Ashton Kutcher, Jon Cryer and Angus T. Jones will all return for a Season 10.

"Undercover Boss"

"Undercover Boss," CBS Status: Renewed Why: The inherent addictiveness of this show has gone a long way in securing loyal viewers -- it has been on top of the ratings several times this season alone.

"Unforgettable"

"Unforgettable," CBS Status: Likely to be renewed Why: In its timeslot, "Unforgettable" keeps emerging on top, beating out "Parenthood" and "Body of Proof." Leading lady Poppy Montgomery has been called "the female version of 'The Mentalist,'" another top-rated show, so things are looking positive.

"90210"

"90210," The CW Status: Renewed Why: While its ratings have plummeted since last season, the Beverly Hills crew is still doing better than "Supernatural," "Hart of Dixie," "Nikita," and "Gossip Girl" on average.

"America's Next Top Model"

"America's Next Top Model," The CW Status: Renewed Why: Tyra Banks' reality show is in the early stages of its 18th cycle with a Brit vs. U.S. installment. Cycle 19 will be the show's inaugural "college edition."

"Gossip Girl"

"Gossip Girl," The CW Status: Renewed Why: Fans will get to say goodbye to the Upper East-Siders in a sixth and reportedly shortened final season.

"H8R"

"H8R," The CW Status: Canceled Why: Apparently, the opposite of MTV's former series "Fanatic" proved people don't love to hate Kim Kardashian and Snooki as much as we thought. It lasted four episodes.

"Hart of Dixie"

"Hart of Dixie," The CW Status: Renewed Why: Josh Schwartz and Rachel Bilson return for a sophomore season of "Hart of Dixie," hopefully so they can make more viral videos.

"Nikita"

"Nikita," The CW Status: Renewed Why: We're shocked the show is coming back for another season, but its hard-core fans will certainly be happy.

"One Tree Hill"

"One Tree Hill," The CW Status: Canceled Why: After nine seasons, it's time to say goodbye to "One Tree Hill." After subpar ratings, the network decided to pull the plug on its long-standing teen soap. Thankfully, the CW gave "One Tree Hill" a final 13 episodes to wrap up all of the drama.

"Remodeled"

"Remodeled," The CW Status: As good as dead Why: Not only has "Remodeled" already been replaced on the CW schedule, but it debuted with one of the CW's lowest-rated premiere ever, scoring a terrible 0.3 in the coveted 18-49 demo.

"Ringer"

"Ringer," The CW Status: Canceled Why: Sarah Michelle Gellar's double-life proved too complicated and poorly-produced for viewers to care much about.

"The Secret Circle"

"The Secret Circle," The CW Status: Canceled Why: Somewhat of a surprising development given its decent ratings, but it never quite lived up to its lead-in, "The Vampire Diaries."

"Supernatural"

"Supernatural," The CW Status: Renewed Why: This fan favorite will return, but time will tell if the cast wants a Season 8.

"The Vampire Diaries"

"The Vampire Diaries," The CW Status: Renewed Why: "Vampire Diaries" is The CW's golden child ... the vampires and witches and werewolves of Mystic Falls aren't going anywhere.

"Alcatraz"

"Alcatraz," Fox Status: Canceled Why: "Alcatraz" -- and almost every other recent J.J. Abrams TV project -- proves that slapping "from J.J. Abrams" on a show does not equal ratings success. The series debuted strong, but fizzled in the ratings, leading Fox to pull the plug.

"Allen Gregory"

"Allen Gregory," Fox Status: Canceled Why: Jonah Hill's animated series only lasted seven episodes. The Oscar nominee should probably just stick to movies for a while ...

"American Dad"

"American Dad," Fox Status: Renewed Why: Fox gave out early renewals to "American Dad" and "The Cleveland Show," keeping its Sunday night animation block intact.

"American Idol"

"American Idol," Fox Status: Likely to be renewed Why: The show's declining ratings have been widely reported this season, but it's hard to imagine TV life without "Idol."

"Bob's Burgers"

"Bob's Burgers," Fox Status: Too soon to tell Why: The sophomore season of this quirky animated comedy kicks off this month (Sun., Mar. 11), so don't expect to hear about a Season 3 just yet.

"Bones"

"Bones," Fox Status: Renewed Why: The show got a ratings boost thanks to its lead-in "The X Factor." With the floundering state of Fox's dramas (see ya, "House"), Fox is holding on to this one.

"Breaking In"

"Breaking In," Fox Status: Canceled Why: After a last minute revival, "Breaking In" returned for a second season with Megan Mullally in tow, but it wasn't enough to revive this D.O.A. comedy.

"The Cleveland Show"

"The Cleveland Show," Fox Status: Renewed Why: Fox gave "The Cleveland Show" and "American Dad" early renewals and this spinoff will be back for a Season 4, but no word on a fifth season.

"Family Guy"

"Family Guy," Fox Status: Renewed Why: Fox handed out early renewals to the Seth MacFarlane animated comedies.

"The Finder"

"The Finder," Fox Status: Canceled Why: "The Finder" hit the benches for a bit before moving to Fridays, and the numbers never improved. Averaging less than 6 million viewers an episode (not so hot for a Fox drama), it was only a matter of time ...

"Fringe"

"Fringe," Fox Status: Renewed Why: This fan favorite has struggled in the ratings, but Fox has agreed to give it a 13-episode order for a fifth and final season to wrap up all the mysteries of both universes.

"Glee"

"Glee," Fox Status: Renewed Why: The hit teen series is breaking records in music sales, but its overall viewership has slipped. After a bit of a PR debacle about graduating characters that ended with spinoff plans being squashed, "Glee" will get another season.

"Hell's Kitchen"

"Hell's Kitchen," Fox Status: Renewed Why: Last year at this time, Fox renewed the Gordon Ramsay series for two more seasons, so it's all set.

"House"

"House," Fox Status: Canceled Why: After eight seasons and countless unsolvable medical cases solved, this Fox medical drama is coming to an end.

"I Hate My Teenage Daughter"

"I Hate My Teenage Daughter," Fox Status: Canceled Why: As if getting panned by critics wasn't enough, "I Hate My Teenage Daughter's" shrinking ratings had the show marked for death, then Fox benched the sitcom for three months after only four episodes and then ... yep, buh-bye forever. No shock there.

"Kitchen Nightmares"

"Kitchen Nightmares," Fox Status: Renewed Why: In early February, Fox signed on for a 16-episode fifth season of this other Gordon Ramsay series. They're in the Gordon Ramsay business, and they're not going anywhere.

"MasterChef"

"MasterChef," Fox Status: Likely to be renewed Why: No official announcement has been made regarding a third season, but there was a casting call issued during episodes throughout Season 2. And if Gordon Ramsay's track record with Fox is any indication, it's as good as renewed.

"Mobbed"

"Mobbed," Fox Status: On the bubble Why: It started with a ratings bang, but things have only gone down from there for Fox's flash mob reality show with Howie Mandel at the helm. It's not on the schedule in any regular timeslot though, so it's possible they'll continue producing a few episodes a year.

"Napoleon Dynamite"

"Napoleon Dynamite," Fox Status: On the bubble Why: After a decent debut, "Napoleon Dynamite" dropped about half of its audience to about 4 million viewers per episode. It could go either way.

"New Girl"

"New Girl," Fox Status: Renewed Why: "New Girl" was the first new Fox show to get a full Season 1 order and the show has continued to perform well in the ratings and in the 18-49 demographic. America loves that adorkable charm.

"Q'Viva: The Chosen"

"Q'Viva: The Chosen," Fox Status: Too soon to tell/Not their call Why: Shortly after the Latin American-based show -- starring J. Lo and her ex-husband Marc Anthony -- debuted on Univision, Fox picked up an English-language version that debuted in early March. Though the reality series underperformed in its Saturday night timeslot, it's not Fox's decision whether or not we'll see more "Q'Viva."

"Raising Hope"

"Raising Hope," Fox Status: Renewed Why: Thanks (or no thanks) in part to the success of "New Girl," the sophomore season of "Raising Hope" has moved around timeslots, but it has retained about a 2.1 score in the adults 18-49 demo.

"The Simpsons"

"The Simpsons," Fox Status: Renewed Why: After a very tense contract standoff, the voice actors of "The Simpsons" and the studio agreed to new terms and the show was renewed through Season 25.

"So You Think You Can Dance"

"So You Think You Can Dance," Fox Status: Too soon to tell Why: Season 9 of "So You Think You Can Dance" won't debut until this summer and when it does, there will be changes: Fox has nixed the results show entirely. If the fanbase is still there, the cheaper production could save the show for another few seasons.

"Terra Nova"

"Terra Nova," Fox Status: Canceled Why: Fox pulled the plug on this very expensive dinosaur drama, but reports indicate producers are looking to keep the show alive on a different network.

"Touch"

"Touch," Fox Status: Renewed Why: The Kiefer Sutherland drama had a sizable audience (about 12 million viewers) for its preview and has remained somewhat steady since its premiere. Fox showed faith in the series, giving it the post-"American Idol" slot, and it paid off.

"The X Factor"

"The X Factor," Fox Status: Renewed Why: Fox has already renewed the singing competition for a second season and boy will there be changes: two new hosts and two new judges will join Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid at the table.

"30 Rock"

"30 Rock," NBC Status: Renewed Why:"30 Rock" is showing its age, but the star power of Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin can't be denied -- NBC has renewed the show for a seventh and final season of 13 episodes.

"America's Got Talent"

"America's Got Talent," NBC Status: Likely to be renewed Why: NBC's top-rated summer show is moving to New York for this upcoming season, but it's most likely not going anywhere. Unless, of course, the new judge -- shock jock Howard Stern -- really messes things up somehow.

"Are You There, Chelsea?"

"Are You There, Chelsea?," NBC Status: Canceled Why: With just over 3 million viewers an episode, it wasn't not exactly a strong performer, even by NBC's standards. Even Chelsea Handler and NBC's fondness for funny ladies couldn't save this show.

"Awake"

"Awake," NBC Status: Canceled Why: "Awake" had gotten some great promotion, but its numbers were pretty middle of the road and only went down further -- genre shows with heavy serialized elements are always tricky.

"Bent"

"Bent," NBC Status: Canceled Why: The Amanda Peet comedy premiered in late March and had six episodes to prove itself, but NBC didn't give it much of a chance, airing them back-to-back.

"Best Friends Forever"

"Best Friends Forever," NBC Status:Canceled Why: The female buddy sitcom starring and co-created by Jessica St. Clair and Lennon Parham was yanked from the schedule and then axed for good.

"Betty White's Off Their Rockers"

"Betty White's Off Their Rockers," NBC Status: Too soon to tell Why: Even though Betty White isn't doing the pranking, "Off Their Rockers" could still make a comeback.

"The Biggest Loser"

"The Biggest Loser," NBC Status: Likely to be renewed Why: NBC's weight loss competition show has been around for years, and despite sagging overall ratings, its 18-49 rating (a recent episode got a 2.0) is still one of NBC's highest.

"Celebrity Apprentice"

"Celebrity Apprentice," NBC Status: Likely to be renewed Why: Series low ratings probably won't kill this franchise. But are there any D-listers left who haven't competed for Donald Trump's approval?

"Chuck"

"Chuck," NBC Status: Canceled Why: The Josh Schwartz spy dramedy ended its five-season run in January.

"Community"

"Community," NBC Status: Renewed Why: Beloved by (a very vocal) few, ignored by many -- that's "Community" in a nutshell. After getting benched in January, "Community" returned to NBC's schedule with a vengeance, getting it a fourth season pick-up for 13 episodes to air on Fridays. Cool, cool, cool -- you can pop, pop! that champagne now.

"Fashion Star"

"Fashion Star," NBC Status: Renewed Why: The high-style reality series with Nicole Richie, Jessica Simpson, Elle Macpherson and John Varvatos has certainly been confusing, but it's still a smart business model: The winning designs each week are for sale in stores the next day, and those stores just happen to be covering a large portion of production and advertising costs.

"Fear Factor"

"Fear Factor," NBC Status: Likely to be renewed Why: Despite the donkey semen scandal that cut this season of "Fear Factor" a bit short, <a href="http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/13/fear-factor-returns-and-makes-a-ratings-splash/" target="_hplink">"Fear Factor" boosts NBC's ratings</a> ... and can a scandal really compete with that?

"The Firm"

"The Firm," NBC Status: As good as dead Why: The show hasn't officially gotten the axe yet, but "The Firm" was moved to Saturdays after turning in an incredibly poor performance (less than a 1 rating in the 18-49 demo) on Thursday nights.

"Free Agents"

"Free Agents," NBC Status: Canceled Why: This show just didn't have much life in it. It was canceled after just four episodes, despite its awesome lead actors Hank Azaria and Kathryn Hahn.

"Grimm"

"Grimm," NBC Status: Renewed Why: The supernatural fairy tale drama has been doing well for NBC on Friday nights -- it hovers around the 5 million viewers mark, which is pretty solid by NBC standards and why the network gave the drama an early renewal.

"Harry's Law"

"Harry's Law," NBC Status:Cancelled Why: While earlier this year "Harry's Law" was one of NBC's top players, after a three-month break between January and March, the Kathy Bates drama saw mediocre ratings and failed to hold on to viewers.

"Law & Order: SVU"

"Law & Order: SVU," NBC Status: Renewed Why: The only "Law & Order" left, "SVU" has been an NBC power player for 13 years and will return for a 14th.

"The Office"

"The Office," NBC Status: Renewed Why: It's hard to imagine a long-running, fan-favorite show like "The Office" going away without a big promotional push. The numbers are still good (by NBC standards) and "The Office" will return for a Season 9.

"Parenthood"

"Parenthood," NBC Status: Renewed Why: The perpetual bubble show has done pretty consistent numbers for NBC this season, but three seasons in and no signs of growth is both a good and bad sign ... luckily for fans, NBC gave it a Season 4 all the same.

"Parks and Recreation"

"Parks and Recreation," NBC Status: Renewed Why: Just like the rest of NBC's Thursday comedy block, "Parks and Recreation" has serious ratings blues. Can critical acclaim keep "Parks" around for a Season 5? The answer is yes! "Parks" will return for Season 5.

"The Playboy Club"

"The Playboy Club," NBC Status: Canceled Why: Apparently fictional slutty bunnies and real-life homewrecker Eddie Cibrian do not a successful show make. It only lasted three episodes. "The Girls Next Door" did it better.

"Prime Suspect"

"Prime Suspect," NBC Status: Canceled Why: Maria Bello's gruff detective failed to capture the audience NBC hoped. At least we had all those hat jokes.

"Smash"

"Smash," NBC Status: Renewed Why: After a huge promo blitz, "Smash" debuted nicely, but started losing viewers quickly. A handful of episodes in, it stabilized, becoming NBC's #1 drama in the 18-49 demo, and NBC announced it was getting a second season.

"Up All Night"

"Up All Night," NBC Status: Renewed Why: The critical favorite of NBC's new comedy offerings, "Up All Night" debuted strongly to more than 10 million viewers, but has since dropped to less than 4 million viewers an episode. It will return for a Season 2.

"Whitney"

"Whitney," NBC Status: Renewed Why: The show is one of the better performing freshman offerings on the Peacock network -- and NBC chief Bob Greenblatt told members of the press at TCA that he is "hopeful Whitney will be a long-term player for us." Looks like Season 2 is a good start, with the show moving to Friday nights.

"The Voice"

"The Voice," NBC Status: Renewed Why: We may not even be at Season 2's live shows yet, but NBC is already up for more of "The Voice." Hopefully, Cee Lo's cat "Purrfect" will return for Season 3 as well.

"Who Do You Think You Are?"

"Who Do You Think You Are?," NBC Status: Likely to be renewed Why: The celebrity-centric family tree series has helped NBC on Friday nights and hit its ratings high in March.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

No, Sleep Deprivation Probably Won't Make You Go Temporarily Insane

In this April 2, 2012, file photo JetBlue pilot Clayton Frederick Osbon, right, is escorted to a waiting vehicle by FBI agents as he is released from The Pavilion at Northwest Texas Hospital, in Amarillo, Texas. Osbon is accused of disrupting a flight when he left the cockpit screaming about religion and terrorists plans to use an insanity defence at trial. Osbon's attorney filed a motion Wednesday, April 18, 2012 outlining plans to argue Osbon was insane at the time of the incident on the March

The Body Odd:

Chronic sleep deprivation -- or a severe, short-term lack of Z's from, say, cramming for exams over two straight nights -- can make you silly or sad, slow to react, memory-impaired and more apt to take risks.

But what it rarely does, according to a leading sleep expert, is make you go temporarily insane, as a JetBlue Airways pilot apparently did on a March 27 flight from New York to Las Vegas.

Read the whole story: The Body Odd

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Gabrielle Bernstein: Become Fearless About Your Body

This past weekend, sitting on the beach, I hear the clicking of a camera. I look up and realize that my friend has snapped a funky-angled picture of me in a bikini. My kneejerk reaction is to wrestle the camera out of her hands and delete the photo. In that moment I witness all of my old body-image issues resurfacing before my eyes.

No matter what shape or size we are, getting into a bathing suit can be traumatic. With several pool parties and beach days ahead, we must face these feelings in order to truly enjoy the summer. To help you overcome your own insecurities, I've outlined three steps for a healthy beach-body image.

Step One: Looking Hot Is An Inside Job

We all come in a different and unique packages. Accepting what you have is a key component to a healthy body image. Take time to focus on the good stuff and celebrate what you love about your body. Think of the strength in your legs that allows them to climb the steps to the train each morning, or those toned arms that can juggle groceries or a baby. If you embrace the gifts you've been given, you'll focus less on what you think you don't have. The sexiest people are those who exude inner beauty and confidence. The more comfortable you are with what you have, the more happy you will feel and the more attractive you will become.

Step Two: Get Moving

Whenever I do some kind of exercise before heading to the beach I always feel more confident in my bikini. Not only does physical exercise immediately tone your body, but it also makes you feel great about yourself. If you tend to be uncomfortable getting into your bathing suit, make sure to get some exercise before you hit the beach.

Step Three: Beach In Good Company

One of the best ways to feel confident in your bathing suit is to be around people who make you feel good about yourself. Become more mindful of the company you keep and hang with good folks on the beach. Kind, nonjudgmental friends will make you feel safe regardless of how little you may be wearing.

Practicing these three steps will soften your insecurities and raise your beach-body confidence.

For my free body-love meditation visit gabbyb.tv/body.

Gabrielle Bernstein is the bestselling author of Spirit Junkie and Add more ~ing to Your Life. Her forthcoming book is called May Cause Miracles. She is also the founder of HerFuture.com, the social network for women who want to find mentors and be mentors.

For more by Gabrielle Bernstein, click here.

For more on becoming fearless, click here.

Follow Gabrielle Bernstein on Twitter: www.twitter.com/gabbybernstein

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Friday, July 13, 2012

WATCH: Is Juicing Good For You? From Joy Bauer

Skim Milk To Relieve Stress

Having a tense day? Turns out special proteins found in milk may help ease anxiety and boost mood by lowering blood pressure and increasing serotonin activity in the brain. Try a mug of dark chocolate hot cocoa in particularly stressful times; it combines two stress-relieving ingredients--dark chocolate and skim milk--in one delicious drink. For more of Joy's stress relieving foods visit her website,<a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Watermelon To Slim Down

The name says it all--this fruit is 92 percent water, which can help you fill up and rid your body of excess sodium. Plus, this super-sweet fruit, packed with vitamin C, contains about 100 calories per cup or large wedge, so it's a great snack if you're trying to lose weight. For more of Joy's slimming foods visit her website, <a href="http://www.joybauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Jicama To Beat Bloating

Expand your produce horizon and try jicama. This low-calorie root vegetable has a crisp texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor and happens to be a great source of potassium, which has anti-bloat properties. Jicama is a high-volume, low-cal snack at just 50 filling calories per cup. For more of Joy's slimming foods visit her website, <a href="http://www.joybauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Sweet Potatoes To Fight Aging

Sweet potatoes are a dynamite source of beta-carotene (their bright orange color is a dead giveaway). Your body converts beta-carotene to vitamin A, a nutrient that helps to continually generate new, healthy skin cells. For more of Joy's age-fighting foods visit her website, <a href="http://www.joybauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Spinach To Fight Wrinkles

Spinach delivers a triple does of wrinkle-fighting antioxidants: vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. All three work in concert to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays so it stays vibrant and healthy. For more of Joy's age-fighting foods visit her website <a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Oysters For Hair Growth

The mineral zinc is involved in tissue growth and repair--and that includes hair growth. Low levels of zinc can cause hair loss, slow growth, and dandruff. But the amount you get from eating foods rich in zinc--such as oysters, crab, clams, liver, lean beef, most nuts and seeds, peanut butter, wheat germ, fat-free yogurt, and chestnuts--is plenty to keep your tresses gorgeous. For more of Joy's top foods for great hair visit her website <a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Tropical Fruit For Great Skin

Eating guava, pineapple, papaya, kiwi and other tropical fruits that contain vitamin C will help defend your skin against damaging free radicals. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is naturally found in the skin, so eating tropical fruits and other vitamin C-rich foods can replenish your skin's stores. Vitamin C also helps your body produce collagen, a protein that helps keep your skin firm and elastic. For more of Joy's foods for great skin visit her website, <a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Salmon For Healthy Eyes

Foods that are high in anti-oxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are great for your eye health because they help support the vessels in the eyes. Foods like salmon and sardines with their healthy portions of omega-3 fatty acids make the list, as does anti-oxidant rich spinach. For more of Joy's top food for a healthy diet visit her website, <a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Almonds To Lower Cholesterol

Eating a handful of nuts in the afternoon can actually help lower your cholesterol. The two tops nuts for this are pistachios and almonds, but be careful not to over eat with these nuts, since they are high in fat. For more of Joy's top food for a healthy diet visit her website, <a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Vegetables For Unlimited Portions

While portion control is important, when it comes to non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale and spinach there's no need to limit yourself. You'll never gain weight from eating too much of these veggies, so fill up your plate! For more of Joy's top food for a healthy diet visit her website, <a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Protein To Boost Your Metabolism

Since protein is harder to digest, your body has to work harder to breakdown it down, which is kickstart for your metabolism. Make it a point to go out of your way to include protein-rich foods like non-fat greek yogurt, egg whites, fish, and skinless chicken. You can even try adding yogurt, skim milk or whey protein powder to smoothies. For more of Joy's top food for a healthy diet visit her website, <a href="http://www.JoyBauer.com" target="_hplink">www.JoyBauer.com</a>.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Monday, July 30, 2012

Almond Butter and Banana

Almond butter and banana

Quinoa

Lentils

Eggs

Soy meat

Tofu

Pasta

Supplements and shakes

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Friday, July 27, 2012

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Monday, July 23, 2012

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Friday, July 20, 2012

Thursday, July 19, 2012

rob delaney

Albert Brooks

Caissie St.Onge

James Urbaniak

Tim Long

Karen Bergreen

Brian Lynch

grahamclark

John Fugelsang

Emily Donahue

billy eichner

BillCorbett

Josh Comers

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

"The Bachelor"

"The Bachelorette"

"Body of Proof"

"Castle"

"Charlie's Angels"

"Cougar Town"

"Dancing With the Stars"

"Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23"

"Desperate Housewives"

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"

"GCB"

"Grey's Anatomy"

"Happy Endings"

"Last Man Standing"

"Man Up!"

"The Middle"

"Missing"

"Modern Family"

"Once Upon A Time"

"Pan Am"

"Private Practice"

"Revenge"

"The River"

"Scandal"

"Shark Tank"

"Suburgatory"

"Work It"

"2 Broke Girls"

"A Gifted Man"

"The Amazing Race"

"The Big Bang Theory"

"Blue Bloods"

"Criminal Minds"

"CSI"

"CSI: Miami"

"CSI: NY"

"The Good Wife"

"Hawaii Five-0"

"How To Be a Gentleman"

"How I Met Your Mother"

"The Mentalist"

"Mike & Molly"

"NCIS"

"NCIS: Los Angeles"

"NYC 22"

"Person of Interest"

"Rob"

"Rules of Engagement"