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Superfoods!

November 23, 2011 By Amanda Leave a Comment

There has been growing research over the past few years of certain foods and their added benefits! A lot of foods we eat day to day have tons of positive benefits that we may have not even known before! Here are a few superfoods and some reasons you should incorporate these foods into your diet.

Blueberries – have an increasing ORAC value and antioxidant benefits

Nuts – high in omega 3′s can help lower your cholesterol and lower your oxidative damage

Spinach – high in calcium and antioxidants this superfood is great for your bones.

Pumpkin Seeds – contain phytosterols — a naturally occurring compound with an reputation for cholesterol-lowering properties.

Goji Berries – Gram for gram, goji berries pack more vitamin C than some oranges and more beta-carotene than carrots!

Green Tea – Popular known for its antioxidant benefits Green Tea is a great beverage choice for overall health and wellness.

Cinnamon – full of fibre, cinnamon has an increasing effect on your metabolism, by lowering blood sugar. Is great to add to a sugary dessert!

Try adding these foods to your diet for added benefits!

Yours in fitness,

Amanda

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The Deal on B Vitamins

November 19, 2011 By Amanda Leave a Comment

Vitamin B supplements have become increasingly popular in the fitness community! These vitamins provide energy and is a vital nutrient to keep your body fit. The B vitamin plays a significant role in the proper functioning of the body metabolism.

The primary functions Vitamin B plays are to produce DNA during cell division, formation of healthy Red Blood Cells (RBCs) etc. More importantly, the B12 is responsible for energy supply in the human body. The natural sources of Vitamin B12 are Meat, Poultry, Milk and other dairy products, Eggs, and Fish.

It is especially helpful to women during there time of the month as RBC are essential to our energy.

Here is what Learn2Sweat suggests!

Vitamin B Complex
Dependent on the formula.
See the Daily Recommended Intakes below and then check your bottle.
  • B-2 is crucial in the production of body energy. DRI of 1.1 mg daily
  • B-3 also supports proper blood circulation, healthy skin, and aids in the functioning of the central nervous system. DRI of 14 mg daily.
  • B-5 is as an essential component in the production of coenzyme A, a vital catalyst that is required for the conversion of carbohydrates, fats, and protein into energy. B-5 also fights depression and is referred to as an anti-stress vitamin due to its vital role in the formation of various adrenal hormones, steroids, and cortisone, as well as contributing to the production of important brain neuro-transmitters such as acetylcholine. DRI of 1.3 mg daily.
  • B-6 is recommended for support of the female cycle and nervous system. DRI of 400 mg daily.
Our Favourite brand is AOR. Check out Showtime Supplements for great deals on all supplements!!
Post all your questions or comments! We would love to hear back from you to hear what you would like us to blog about! Message on facebook or at info@learn2sweat.com!
Yours in fitness,
Amanda Lee
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Staying Hydrated

March 31, 2011 By Courtnie Leave a Comment

 

Having a hard time losing weight? Are you drinking enough water?

 

Being dehydrated can actually stall your metabolism

As much as 25% of your body is made of water. And the human body can not fuction properly when you are dehydrated.

 

  

 

 

Here are some quick tips to help you get daily water intake

  1. Have a glass of water before going to bed
  2. Try adding lemon, lime or other fresh fruits to your water (oranges, berries) to give your water some flavor
  3. Fill you water bottle half and freeze it, fill the rest up with water and that way you will have cold water all day!
  4. Freeze your berries before adding them to your water, creating flavored ice cubes
  5. Keep you water bottle with you and sip all day
  6. Drink water with your meals, not only will this keep you hydrated but you will also avoid consuming empty calories
  7. Consume fresh fruits and veggies, both of witch have a high water content
  8. Have a glass of water first thing when you wake up
  9. Re-fuel, water loss happens all day, in hot or cold weather. Make sure you replenish your water loss after your workouts as well!
  10. Every once in a while try out some carbonated water, it helps you keep hydrated and will make you feel fuller!
  11. Herbal tea, you can have herbal tea both warm or cold (if you are going to have it cold, make sure you steep it with warm water first!)
  12. Avoid Caffeine, caffeine is a natural diuretic and will dehydrate you if you don’t adequately replenish your water levels

The average amount of water that should be consumed daily is around 8-10 cups. This varies depending on you daily physical activity levels and your body habitus.

On th other hand you can drink too much water too. There have been cases of over saturation which can also be dangerous. Seek help from a health professional to further direct in this matter if you have concerns.

Like most things in life, it’s about finding a balance.

Drink up :O)

~Courtnie~

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