Stay Healthy

THE NEWLY INSTALLED FIRST FAMILY IS YOUNG, vibrant and inspirational for millions of Americans to get active. What are some of the Obamas’ favorite fitness activities and how can you stay in shape like the newest residents of the White House?

The first, and perhaps biggest, step is to make time — to get up and to get moving. The president and first lady show that even with a very busy schedule, you can find the time to stay fit and healthy. Make a date on your calendar to work out and keep it. Participate in a variety of activities to keep it interesting and work out with a friend or family member so you can motivate each other.

Losing weight is challenging. In fact, only 28 percent of people vowing to lose weight were successful, according to one study from the United Kingdom. Dedication and a few healthy tricks learned from the pros can be the key to successful weight loss.

Nutritionist, personal trainer and health educator Cynthia Sass believes that traditional diets of low-calorie — and often low-taste — foods can leave dieters feeling  hungry and unsatisfied. In her New York Times best-selling book “Flat Belly Diet,” Sass offers several easy guidelines to help you stick to your weight-loss goals to become healthier and happier.

Sleep is critical to total health and wellness and apnea can be resolved through treatment

How did you sleep last night? Before you answer “On my back” or “Curled up in my 1,200 threadcount Egyptian cotton sheets,” you may want to give your answer deeper thought. Believe it or not, it could save your life.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, approximately 70 million people in the United States are affected by a sleep problem – more than 40 million of whom suffer from a chronic condition.

Fortunately, more and more people are waking up to the fact that sleep disorders can be serious, and potentially lethal, conditions. “Sleep medicine is new to this country,” said Susan Fennell, founder of Island Sleep Lab, an independent diagnostic clinic for sleep disorders on Hilton Head Island. “People are just now recognizing the importance of sleep.”

Jack LaLanne: More incredible & inspiring than ever!

He is a speaker, author, inventor and, indisputably, American’s premier physical fitness expert. Born in 1914, Jack LaLanne has been spreading his important message of health & fitness and inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds, around the world, for almost a century. Today, at nearly 94 years of age, LaLanne shows no sign of slowing down, but is more active and passionate then ever. In addition to working out every day, both he and his wife, Elaine – whom he adores, are running a successful company (BeFit Enterprises), speaking publicly, authoring new books and much more. All those concerned with health & fitness seek Jack’s expertise and input, but, according to this incredibly energetic and innovative icon, often called the “Godfather of Fitness,” this wasn’t always the case.

One of the most important components of any exercise or weight-loss program is resistance training. Resistance/strength training involves performing specific exercises, using either machines or free weights, to help improve muscle strength and endurance. Most weightloss seekers tend to ignore strength training and devote the majority of their training to cardiovascular exercise.

Health & beauty tips to help you look and feel your best, this season and beyond.

December has arrived, ushering in slightly cooler temperatures and the hectic pace of the season. Thoughts turn to the holiday trappings; tidings of comfort and joy, carolers wassailing and children filled with visions of sugarplums. As the holidays draw nearer, many people experience warm feelings of anticipation, joy and excitement.

But then comes the holiday wish lists, which subsequently means malls and other stores will be significantly more crowded all the way to December 24 in preparation for Christmas. Lines grow longer, money disappears quicker than you realize as you try to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list, and shopping is only the tip of the iceberg.