Let's face it, Mehmet Cengiz Oz, also known as "Dr. Oz", has taken the world by storm. There is no point in denying it or trying to fight it, love him or hate him, Dr. Oz is here to stay. One has to appreciate the awareness of the many health benefits of proper nutrition and supplementation the popular television host preaches to millions of viewers every day.  The main subject of interest that the majority of his viewers tune in for each week is weight loss.  Dr. Oz has recommened many all natural products that help reduce overall body fat content and increase energy.

Raspberry Ketone is an organic compound that produces the smell of raspberies. Recently, however, it has been found that raspberry ketones can help with weight management. Raspberry ketone can help the efficiency of the metabolism by increasing the body's core temperature and in so doing increasing the body's fat burning abilities. Raspberry ketones work well with weight loss products and energy enhancement products to promote energy and metabolism during exercise. Raspberry ketones are also noted for their ability to encourage consistent and jitter-free energy.

Recent Studies have shown that taking African Mango supplements can help to reduce appetite, burn fat, increase energy, and help regulate the efficieny of the hormone leptin. All of these properties can have a significant impact on weight loss and weight management efforts.  For thousands of years green tea has been used in Asian cultures to treat everything from headaches to depression, and recent findings have shown that it can have substantial benefits for weight loss. Green tea is high in anti-oxidants and is thought to help with energy and hunger.  Green tea is also increases thermogenesis (heat production), therby making it easier to burn fat. Kelp is an amazing source of vitamins and mineral and is known to help support the nervous system and the thyroid. It is also known to help boost the metabolism, thus reducing the chances of weight gain. Apple cider vinegar can help promote a healthy digestive system. It helps with digestion and elimination promoting regularity. This process can help one push through weight loss platueaus or "sticking points" caused by an unwanted buildup. While it is known that an excessive intake from all macronutrients, including carbohydrates, contributes to the development of obesity, scientists are studying how starch blockers may affect weight loss.  Phaselous vulgaris, the clinical name for white kidney bean extract, is the principle ingredient in products known as starch blockers.  The concept behind these dietary supplements is to prevent a natural enzyme in saliva and the pancreas, called alpha-amylase, from breaking down carbs into simple sugars which could prevent the body from absorbing carb calories and thereby promote weight loss. Cordyceps mushroom extract has the ability to replenish energy, improve endurance, and stimulate the immune system. Moreover, because of the adrenal support Cordyceps extracts provide, it may be especially useful for people who are under significant stress.

When combined, these all natural supplements can help increase energy, promote weight loss, and improve overall quality of life. There are no known side effects to these extracts and they are safe to take with any prescription medications. Products that contain a combination of these ingredients can be found at local health food and vitamin stores. Make sure to visit a store with a knowledgeable staff that are certified health professionals, and do not forget tune in to the "Dr. Oz" show to keep up to date on the latest natural supplements available!

-Mike Mills is an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer at Slidell Athletic Club, has a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science from the University of Mississippi, and 10+ years experience in the Vitamin and Supplement industry.

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Many doctors are now suggesting a diet high in fiber to help reduce cholesterol, balance blood sugar levels, and lose weight. Fiber supports intestinal health, as well as curbs one's appetite by creating a feeling of "fullness", which makes it a great option to consume in between meals to avoid over eating. However, there are many forms of fiber available, so which one is the best?

Psyllium Husk is an excellent source of soluble fiber, supports cardiovascular health, and helps maintain regularity. Pysllium is a true dietary fiber, even though it is classified by some as a laxative or mucilaginous fiber, and is a convenient way to increase intake of dietary fiber because of its high mucilage content. This bulking agent swells considerably when added to liquid, which can help to support healthy gastrointestinal transit time. This bulking action and healthy transit time can play an important role in maintaining healthy gastrointesinal function.

PolyGlycopleX, also referred to as "PGX", is Glucomannan Fiber from Konjac Root. Glucomannan has been shown in studies to mantain healthy cholesterol levels, support regularity, and promote a feeling of fullness. Glucomannan is a soluble, bulk-forming fiber derived from the Konjac Root. Glucomanna can provide temporary relief of constipation and may help to maintain serum lipid levels already within the healthy range. In addition, because Glucomannan helps to promote satiety (the feeling of fullness), it can be an effective addition to a weight management program that includes a healthy, low calorie, low glycemic diet and exercise program.

White Chia Seeds, which have been widely publicized in the news and on popluar TV shows such as "Dr. OZ",  are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and Fiber. Two-thirds of Chia Seeds are comprised of Omega-3, however they are also an excellent source of Omega-6, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, dietary fiber, and protein. Chia Seeds can be eaten on their own or added to salads, cereals, yogurts, and protein shakes to boost their nutritional content. Chia Seeds are inexpensive and easily found in vitamin and health food stores.

With a large percent of the population being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and at risk for cardiovascular disease, Fiber makes a strong case as a preventative measure to reduce the likelyhood of developing these conditions. If losing weight and increasing overall health is the goal, fiber is a must add to any diet or exercise routine. Remember to drink plenty of water, up to a gallon a day, when consuming a diet high in fiber, to ensure regularity and reduce cravings in between meals.

-Mike Mills is an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer at Slidell Athletic Club, has a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science from the University of Mississippi, and 10+ years experience in the Vitamin and Supplement industry.

Visit http://www.facebook.com/trainerschoice for more information!

Summer time is here, trips to the beach, river, and pool are upon us, as well as weddings, festivals, and partys. Procrastination, combined with busy schedules, leave us susceptible to waiting until the last minute to get ready. There are natural supplements available that can aid in water loss in as little as three to five days allowing the bikini or dress that has been in the closet for the past year to fit comfortably and give the body a more tone and defined appearance. However, many times these "quick fixes" do not last and the body goes back to retaining water and feeling bloated a few days later. We are going to discuss what supplements are recommended for optimal water loss and how to keep it gone for good.

Prickly Chaff Flower Extract is naturally derived from a shrub that grows throughout India. Prickly Chaff is a potent diuretic that has been shown to combat urinary tract infections and possess anti-inflammatory properties. Uva-Ursi is a plant commonly called Bearberry. Uva-ursi extract contains arbutin, a natural compound with strong diuretic and antimicrobial properties. Dandelion Extract contains powerful diuretic compounds called taraxasterols that increase the secretion of excess water. Dandelion is one of the most popular natural diuretics but also works as an anti-inflammatory agent and natural treatment for high blood pressure. Potassium Aspartate is a potassium salt that is essential for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance throughout the body. Potassium is an essential mineral responsible for a wide variety of metabolic functions. As an electrolyte, it aids in the maintenance of enzyme structures and fluid balance. Potassium also regulates muscle contractions, heart rate, and blood pressure. Vitamin B6 is essential in balancing sodium and potassium levels in the body and also responsible for the production of monamine neurotransmitters such as adrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine. Juniper Berry is primarily known as a botanical support for healthy kidneys, bladder, urine flow, prostate and urethra, as well as overall genitourinary tract health in both men and women. The diuretic action of the juniper berry is attributed to its essential oil, especially terpinene-4-ol, which is said to accelerate the filtration activity of the kidneys.

When combined all of these ingredients can help reduce the amount of subcutaneous (under the skin) fluid in the body. Subcutaneous fluid can reduce the appearance of lean muscle definition and leave a smooth, flat appearance to one's physique. Make sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration when using a product that contains a blend of these herbs, vitamins, and minerals. The biggest mistake one can make is to drink less water when trying to cut water weight. For ever gallon of water a person consumes, the body will excrete a gallon and a half! In order to keep the water weight off after using one of these products, a minimum of a gallon of water  should be consumed daily. Try not to procrastinate this year, exercise for 30-60 minutes daily, eat several small meals through out the day, and drink no less than 8 to 10 glasses of water in a 24 hour period, and the body will mantain a dry, lean appearance all year long!

-Mike Mills is an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer at Slidell Athletic Club, has a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science from the Univeristy of Mississippi, and 10+ years experience in the Vitamin and Supplement Industry.

Visit http://www.facebook.com/trainerschoice for more information!