Tag Archives: fruits

SAFE DIET MEALS FOR WORKING MEN AND WOMEN (GUEST POST)

Losing weight has become an obsession for most people these days. Due to pressures at work, exhaustion or lack of time to hit the gym, most working men and women have a hard time keeping fit. As a result, most men and women resort to diet meal plans circulating these days in order to maintain a certain figure. Little do they know that some diet plans may be unhealthy thereby doing more harm than good in the body. 

What constitutes a safe and healthy meal plan? 

To avoid falling into the trap, keep in mind that a healthy diet plan should provide all the necessary nutrients needed by your body and at the same time, staying within the recommended daily calories. Your body still needs carbohydrates, protein, fiber and an amount of fat to keep you energized all throughout the day. In fact, eliminating a certain group in the food pyramid can be harmful to the body. 

Therefore, a safe and healthy eating plan is concentrated on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and low-fat dairy products. Lean meat, fish, poultry, eggs and a little cholesterol, salt and sugar are likewise recommended. 

To better guide every working men and women, below are some foods you can use to have a healthy and fit body. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so you’re going to need all the nutrients to help you last all throughout the day. For breakfast, make sure you have – 

  • ·         Eggs.
  • ·         Carbohydrates in the form of whole grains. This includes oatmeal, cereals, brown rice, brown or wheat pasta or whole wheat bread.
  • ·         Fruits or vegetables on the side such as orange, banana or apple.
  • ·         Low or nonfat dairy products. This includes milk, cheese or yogurt.
  • ·         Lean meat since it is a good source of protein which can keep you pumped up the whole day. Lean meat can be turkey, chicken, salmon, fish or loin products. 

Lunch 

Meals during lunch shouldn’t be as heavy as breakfast food. Nonetheless, you will still need carbohydrates and protein for added energy since your day isn’t over yet. Go for whole grain products such as whole wheat bread or crackers and combine it with lean products. It can be a turkey sandwich or a smoked salmon sandwich with unsweetened drink on the side. Don’t forget to have some fruits too such as apple or banana. 

Snacks 

You are after a safe and healthy meal plan to help you on your diet and snacks shouldn’t compromise your weight loss goals. Avoid going for sweets, processed products or junk foods just to keep you awake. Fruits such as banana or cantaloupe, nuts, a cup of yogurt with fruits, an ounce of sunflower seeds, roasted almonds are much better and can help boost your energy rather than processed and unhealthy ones. 

Dinner 

As the saying goes, eat like a pauper during dinner since there is not much enough time to burn off all the calories you had. Still, skipping dinner is not advisable. Nonetheless, it’s a must to have carbohydrates such as a cup of brown rice or whole wheat dinner roll. Protein is likewise needed and broiled salmon; grilled loin steak can be consumed. Cap off your meal with steamed vegetables and a cup of fat-free milk. 

It’s up to you on how you want to spice your everyday meal. Always remember that in every meal plan, make sure you have carbohydrates, protein, fiber and a little amount of fat. As much as possible, do not eliminate any food group and eat in moderation. 

Author Bio: 

Marshal Gatlin is a health & fitness enthusiast. He reviews commercial diet plans like Diet To Go. Through Ratingdietplans.com he strives to help everyone achieve their fitness and weight loss goals and provide access to the information and education they need to do to so.

ANNUAL TIPS ON PROTECTING WORKERS FROM HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES

 Today, Friday, June 21, is the official first day of summer!  Those of us who live in southern parts of the United States are already aware of the fact.  This spring season has been an unusual one, with parts of the Northeastern U.S. experiencing late snows and flooding.  Tornado Alley has expanded from parts of Texas and Oklahoma, throughout the central states.  And to add more misery: it’s now hurricane season!

OSHA is partnering with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on weather service alerts to incorporate worker safety precautions when heat alerts are issued across the United States.  NOAA is including pertinent worker safety information on its Heat Watch Web page.  Because conditions are extremely hot with high humidity this season, companies would be wise to follow all advisories to keep their employees as safe as possible during this trying time.  WATER – REST – SHADE: The work can’t get done without them.  For workers that aren’t used to working outdoors, time should be given to gradually acclimate them to heat exposure.

How much water should we drink?  Water is the body’s principle chemical component and makes up about 60 per cent of your body weight.  Your entire body’s system depends on water.  Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions.  You can become tired and suffer energy loss with even mild dehydration. 

The Mayo Clinic staff suggests that your water needs depend on many factors, such as your health, how active you are, and where you live.  Because water is essential to good health, needs vary by individual.  If you use thirst as a guide for when to drink, by the time you are thirsty, you may already be slightly dehydrated.  As you get older, your body is less able to sense dehydration and send your brain signals of thirst.  Here are some tips to ward off dehydration, and make sure your body has the fluids it needs:

  • Drink a glass of water with each meal and between each meal;
  • Hydrate before, during and after exercise;
  • Substitute sparkling water for alcoholic drinks at social events. 

We’ve all heard to consume six to eight glasses of water per day; however, this eight-glass formula doesn’t fit everyone.  The more active a person, the more they will need to replace fluids.  Larger people, pregnant and nursing women, and those who take dehydrating medications also will likely need to add more water to their diet.  For those who are not as active, drinking six to eight glasses daily could lead to over-hydration. 

Many outside workers are exposed to temperatures that are very hot, which causes them to sweat more.  These folks will need to increase their water intake.  Oral hydration solutions, such as Gatorade, Powerade or CeraLyte may help those who are in situations that cause them to sweat heavily.  Some experts recommend that bodies only need a minimal amount to keep the body in balance and give that energy kick.  Sometimes simply taking sips or swishing a sports drink will do the trick. 

At home, select foods that keep you hydrated and healthy.  Strawberries, cantaloupes, watermelon, and peaches are packed full of water and potassium, which is the electrolyte shed when your body sweats.  This is a great way to balance fluids that your body needs, and regulate your heartbeat and circulation.  Plus – they are delicious! 

In addition to allowing for rest and shade for workers, consider the water factor as very important.  Individuals know what their body needs, and they must be diligent about taking the time to stop for a drink of water throughout the day. You can find more information on the OSHA website, as well as NOAA website.  Try to stay cool, take breaks during the day, and stay hydrated!   Stay cool, and stay covered: wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and long sleeves.

Source: OSHA/NOAA