Protein and Dieting

I am sure that we are all aware of the emphasis that has been placed on consuming protein by many of the popularized diets over the past several years. The Atkins diet is certainly the one that comes to mind. The Arizona Diet also places an emphasis on protein, but also takes into consideration the other important sources of energy, such as carbohydrates. Let’s discuss just what protein is, how do we get it and why it is important.Protein comes to us from several different sources including the meat we eat, plants, and milk products. Arizona Diet products contain ample protein while still supplying our body with enough carbohydrates so our brains function normally. Protein is made up of amino acids. There are twenty amino acids in all. Eight are considered essential amino acids. These essential amino acids must be obtained through food intake. The body cannot normally produce these amino acids itself. That is why they are considered essential. Arizona Diet products contains all the necessary essential amino acids you need on a daily basis. The remainder of the twenty amino acids can be manufactured in our bodies. The body hooks together amino acids using what is called a peptide bond to form proteins. This is done in our cells according to a genetic blueprint for that specific protein. Cool huh? Contrary to popular belief, we can get all the needed essential amino acids from plants, but it is rather difficult to do. Meat is easier, and the Arizona diet is easier still.

Our bodies can actually use protein for energy by doing what is called deamination. This process produces carbon dioxide and urea and this is why our urine sometimes smells funny when we have been eating large amounts of meat. With the Arizona diet, you still get plenty of protein, but you do not go overboard. The problem with using protein as an energy source instead of carbohydrates is that protein is a relatively poor energy source. The other major problem is in dieting. If your body is not getting enough carbohydrates while you diet, it will go after your lean muscle for energy. This is very bad. Your lean muscle is your most metabolically active tissue and it is what helps keep you thin. The Arizona diet helps prevent loss of lean muscle while you lose weight by supplying us with enough carbohydrates and enough protein. It is for this specific reason that I don’t like the Atkins diet. Your body needs some carbohydrates, and good ones, in order to run correctly. The Arizona diet supplies what you need to have complete nutrition while losing weight. Arizona diet product work!

As always, “The key to good dieting is good nutrition.”

Arizona Diet Products

Walking on a Diet

It’s a fact of life. With age, our bones lose density and our muscles start to weaken. But you don’t have to give in to the effects of aging. Walking is a proven method for boosting strength. Walking, especially at a brisk pace, can also help control, and in some cases reverse, the effects of aging on bones and muscles.

Count the Benefits

Brisk walking gets your heart pumping and sends oxygen through your whole body. It strengthens your heart and the muscle groups responsible for movement.

Brisk walking also burns fat. In place of stored fat, the body develops muscle. So a walking program rewards you with a leaner body, along with a higher metabolism. Walking also aids in production of the human growth hormone, which maintains the size and strength of your muscles.

Walking is good for your bones and joints, too. It’s low impact, so even a rapid pace rarely causes strain or injury to knees, ankles, back, or hips. Instead, it uses the strength of your bones and joints to stimulate development. As you walk, your legs and feet work against the earth’s gravity, which acts as a natural weight your bones and muscles must counteract. The body responds to the stress of its own weight by building bone cells and soft tissue.

Take to the Pavement

Aim to engage in brisk walking for at least 30 minutes, 5 or more days a week. It’s enough to yield health perks, yet not so much as to tax your bones, muscles, or joints. It’s best to create a steady walking routine. So find time to fit walking into your day. It’s easy to do:

* If you’re an early bird, walk at sunrise. You’ll enjoy the first bird songs, the fresh morning air. And you’ll have a sense of accomplishment to carry you through the day.

* Your body’s energy may wane at midday. A noon time walk is a great way to combat that energy lull and give your afternoon a spark.

* An early evening walk is a good time to catch up with your family or neighbors. Also, it caps off your day in a healthy way.

Walk This Way

Walking gives you control over your whole exercise program. You have the final say in how fast or slow you go. No matter how you choose to walk, you should know proper walking technique to get the most out of it. Practice these walking tips:

* Follow through from heel to toe, pushing off the ball of your foot as you take each new step

* Keep your ankles straight, and try to avoid rotating your foot in or out

* Make your strides long and quick, with your knees bent for shock absorption

* Wear shoes that fit well and are padded for cushion and support

* Warm up before and stretch after your walks to prevent injury or cramps