Weblog » Archives » July 2010
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It Started with Chronic Headaches
I, like most career-minded women, was frequented by the nasty tension headache that starts in your shoulders and works it way up the back of your neck until it reaches your forehead and possibly your eyes. Most of the t… -
Do You Suffer from Nail Biting?
Nail biting may seem at first like a harmless habit but with time this can develop into a severe health problem aside from being embarrassing. You may have already tried endless treatments with no results so how can yo… -
I've Noticed While Trying to Lose Weight, That...
I've noticed while trying to lose weight, that... - It's ridiculously hard to be patient. -
Get Happy with These Feel Good Foods
Sometimes, we just need something to lift our moods. Whether it's to increase energy or decrease stress, the answer is a delicious one: food. These seven mood foods will snap you back from whatever funk you're in in no… -
I Hate THIS Summer Pain -- HOT SAND!
I am currently living in Ocean City, NJ for the summer, so understandably, I am an enthusiastic beachgoer. The cool ocean breeze, the crisp salty air, the rhythmic song of the crashing waves – this is the stuff… -
Top Dirtiest Places to Know About!
Everyone wants to enjoy their summers right? You don’t want to have to worry about getting sick or coming down with some horrible disgusting illness that makes your nose run, your eyes blurry your pores sweat.… -
My Favorite New Snack
My favorite "vegetable" is cucumbers. I put that in quotations because cucumbers aren't actually a vegetable, but a fruit. Kind of like tomatoes. Of course, because they have seeds. -
Top Reasons Everybody Should Drink Green Juice
This morning, I woke up at my regular time: 9:30 (not too bad for a college student on summer break). I meandered out of bed, staggered down the stairs and into the kitchen. Still half in dreamland, I took out the juice… -
Fried Friday: Do You Drive When You Could Walk?
TGIFF, Healthkickers! Sometimes in this heat, we become lazy. What is usually a brisk five minute walk to the corner store becomes a dreadful, sweaty, 15 minute crawl. So what other option do you have? Drive, of course!… -
10 Things You Didn't Know Limes Could Do!
I was flipping through Health Magazine today, and I came across a short article on limes (under the "secret natural ingredient" section). The writer of the article, Susan Hall, had listed 4 uses of lime and lime juice… -
I Survived Turbo Jam, Punch Kick and Jam!
When it comes to workout DVDs, most people are currently into the newer series', P90x, Insanity etc. But my favorite workout series is an oldie but a goodie, Turbo Jam. My mom bought it for herself in 2006 but never use… -
What's Your Boiling Point for Insanity??
Just when you think that people can not get anymore "insane" I read about this relatively local news article today. Apparently, a young woman (Alisa Loump, 23) and met a young man (Antoine Walker, 18) online and they… -
Disordered Eating Quiz: Not Just For Eating Disorders
I’ve written a lot about eating disorders and the people who are affected by them, but I’ve been thinking a lot lately about those “unproclaimed” eating disorders. You may not have a “defin… -
Is the Dentist Overrated?
Throughout my life, my mother was one of those moms who scheduled a dentist visit almost exactly 6 months from the last one. I brush at least twice a day, sometimes more if I've eaten something stanky like garlic or on… -
What I've Learned Three Weeks In (Part 1)
I was supposed to have started my diet/health plan since the beginning of the summer (my summer started in mid May). But I'm only now really getting into it. What can I say, home cooked food after months away at college… -
Have You Ever Met THIS Sneaky Killer??
So over the Fourth of July weekend I woke up extremely ill in the middle of the night. Although all day Saturday I drank (maxing out at about 7 or 8 beers), it was over a period of 7 or 8 hours. I certainly was not dr… -
Spinning Your Way to a Healthier You
I get intimidated very easily when working out. I like to be in my comfort zone: use the machines I know, do the workouts I'm familiar with, and go to the classes I've been to before. Spin classes in particular intim… -
Philanthropic Fitness
When I'm able to, I like to participate in AIDS Walk NY. I missed it this year, but I'd also like to participate in the March of Dimes. Not only because they're good philanthropies, but because they're one hell of a wor… -
Weight Crazy: Is it Just Me?
Sometimes I wonder if I will ever stop being consumed by my diet and exercise. I read other "foodie" and health blogs, and I honestly do not know what normal thoughts are about food. I literally just sat at the computer… -
Break The Cycle…Part II
This is a response to my previous post. Human beings find comfort in habit – familiar routines that make you feel secure and at peace with yourself. Habits can be good or bad… and you’ll be able to t… -
Why Is Overweight Automatically Unhealthy?
I've always wondered why being overweight is automatically associated with being unhealthy. It never fails that when being over weight is being discussed, most people always state the opinion that overweight people shou… -
Top 10 Most Embarassing Gym Moments!
When I go to the gym, I'm sweaty and smelly, my hair's a mess and I'm typically in a ratty old t-shirt, but I'm not embarrassed. I look like I'm, well, at the gym. However, put me on a machine I don't know how to use… -
Advice: How Much Weight Can You Lift?
This comes from our Advice column! From candidshots@xanga: "I've just started having an everyday exercise routine - I don't have a gym membership or anything, I usually just do it at home. A lot of work out magazines a… -
Abs, Aging, and the Fountain of Youth
Dear Fun and Fit: I am a 54 year old woman who had been exercising most of my life. I enjoy exercising & eating correctly and I have been fit most of my life until recently. There is this thing called age that is… -
Got a Burning in Your Heart? Try These Natural Remedies!
Heartburn affects around 60 million Americans regularly. If you are one of them, you know how irritating and painful the condition can be. There are plenty of over the counter medicines available; however there are also… -
Pro Ana Borrows from Healthy Dieting Practices
Surely everyone has had about enough of the great "Pro Ana" debate. From those saying how bad Pro Ana is, to those saying don't judge those who are Pro Ana. I've always wondered how many people realize that Pro Ana borr… -
Are You Afraid to Grow Up?
I am twenty-years-old going on twenty-one... and truth be told, I think I have Peter Pan syndrome. I am afraid to grow up. It may sound a little stupid to some of you but I legitimately get bouts of extreme anxiety, s… -
Would You Use Nutmeg to Get High?
The other day I was watching the news and one report was explaining about how many teens have figured out a new and very convenient method of achieving a high, by ingesting nutmeg. That's right, I said nutmeg. Now thi… -
Food Intelligence Quiz: Are You As Healthy As You Think?
I've been reading You Are What You Eat by Dr. Gillian McKeith, a book I think everyone trying to live healthier should read. In the beginning of the book, she has a "food intelligence" quiz which rates your level of he… -
Hot Vegetarian Tofu Stir-fry
I was vegetarian for a few years, but I never liked tofu. That is, until I visited my sister in Austin, TX and finally had it served up right. I actually liked it! So I did some research on how to make tofu not taste l… -
Could Lasik Make Me Go Blind?
Whenever it comes to my eyes I get very careful. It took multiple attempts, patience and aggravation to finally be fully comfortable with wearing contacts. I’m very careful cleaning them and putting them in and… -
Play Nintendo Wii & Keep Your Heart Healthy?
Image Source The increasing popularity of video games and its surging role in childhood obesity is one of the top concerns of health care providers. Their message to parents has always been to encourage kids to get outd… -
Say Goodbye to Your "Tricep Flap"!
Dear Fun and Fit: Hi Twins, What is the best way to control tricep flap? Pati, Mountain View, CA A: The best way to control “tricep flap” is with long-sleeved shirts! Or do you mean a more permanent soluti… -
How Can Goji Berries Benefit You?
You may have already hear about Acai berries but what about Goji berries? Also known as Himalayan Goji Berries or Wolfberries these small red berries bring you tons of nutritional benefits. Goji berries are quickly gain… -
Hookah vs. Cigarettes: What's Your Take?
When I go out with my friends, I really like to smoke cigarettes. It helps me relax, and who doesn't like to let go once in a while? Smoking tobacco has been around since 5000-3000 B.C., after all. And besides, Manco… -
WARNING: Fake Abortion Clinics
Another little piece of proof that people are absolutely nuts. There are currently fake abortion clinics set up all over the United States - women in need of abortions, be wary! -
Should We Make Room for Obesity?
You've probably heard the stories of people being discriminated against for being too fat. With over 60% of the adult population of America placing in the overweight or obese category, the issue is hard to avoid. Two we… -
Underage Partying & Drinking: OK, or Never Acceptable?
No matter how much we want to believe that underage drinking is a rare occurrence, there is no denying that it happens everywhere every day. One survey found that 70 percent of young people have participated in heavy dr… -
Is Pole Dancing REALLY Considered Exercise?
I've heard a few people tell me about how pole dancing is considered a "great form of exercise" because of the muscles it stretches and strengthens. I've also seen blog posts, TV episodes and news articles about how pol… -
Back off, Back Fat!
Dear Fun and Fit: Yikes! What do I do for the ole’ lady back???? I have love handles in the back area. I know I need to lose a few pounds but this is a big problem area for me!! Thanks, Terry in Santa Barbara… -
Advice: Gelato vs. Ice Cream?
This comes from the Advice column! From lisastef: "I've heard that gelato is "healthier" than ice cream. Is this true?" What do you know about these cold, sweet treats? Share your advice!: "Gelato vs. ice cream"Image S… -
Would You Ever Try Fruitarianism?
Main stream society looks at vegetarians like their crazy, and forget about vegans, they must have had a frontal lobotomy! But what say you about people who don't even eat vegetables or anything that can be fashioned in… -
10 Reasons to Eat an Apple a Day!
I was thinking about the phrase: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away", and I decided to Google it. Using a variety of different websites, I have comprised a list of the 10 reasons I thought best to make sure you con… -
What "Staying Positive" Really Means
I apologize to anyone who expects this to be a "screw the problems and sing the praises" post. It is not. Positivity, beauty, love, hope, passion, joy. These are all wondrous precious gifts of the human condition. N… -
Does Tea Really Keep You Hydated?
I've recently become addicted to Snapple Peach Tea... even though it's not exactly the most healthiest beverage in the world (with 90 calories per serving). However, recently I've heard on the local news that tea/iced t… -
What Are the Side Effects of Weight Loss Pills?
If you have a look at the many different women's glossy magazines, you will that they tend to be filled with articles about how to lose weight. Often they are telling you to lose weight in order to look great on the be… -
Healthkickers! How Are You Staying Cool?
Healthkickers! We are in the middle of a heat wave right now! Be careful when you're out in the sun! Make sure you wear lots of SPF and stay hydrated at all times! Not feeling so good? You may be a victim to heat exhaus… -
Good for Your Tummy: Blueberries Help the Belly!
How many of us know that blueberries promote gastrointestinal health? Many of us do not realize the importance of dietary fibers in everyday food consumption. We feast on steaks like kings and feel fulfilled whenever we… -
Staying in a Healthy, Long-Distance Relationship
This summer is full of new adventures: a new job which means meeting new people, learning new things, going new places; living with new people; and, most importantly to me, being apart from my boyfriend. Yes I know, it'… -
Accepting and Dealing with Weight Gain
They say that the first step to recovery is acceptance. Though it is mostly seen as part of the twelve steps to recovery from alcohol or drug addiction, the same approach can be taken with weight loss. Thinking of los… -
Blogging Is For Pale-Faced Geeks
I was in the kitchen of my restaurant, waiting for my food to be made so I could deliver it to my lovely table of screaming children. The owner of my restaurant was expediting the food, yelling out the orders to the coo… -
Bye Bye Boob Fat!
I feel like no matter how much I workout, I can't get rid of my boob fat. No, boob fat isn't the technical name (especially since Google didn't understand what I was talking about when I typed that in). I'm talking abo… -
Why You SHOULD Do a Detox
I've wanted to do a detox every since I learned about them. It wasn't the idea that you shed pounds quick that drew me in (although that's definitely no downside), but the idea that your body would be squeeky clean afte… -
Someone Teach Me About Birth Control!
I know this topic has been beaten to death probably in all shapes and forms but I’m legitimately curious now after a fight with my gynecologist: does birth control make you gain weight? Everywhere I go I see &ldqu… -
The Science of a Food Coma!
You're hungry. You want food, and a lots of it. Fast food, or maybe last night's left overs piled high on your plate. You sit and enjoy every crumb. Then, with a satisfied smile, you stretch and before you know it, you'… -
Fried Friday: What's Your Favorite Salty Snack?
TGIFF, Healthkickers! Many people crave sweets -- chocolates, ice cream, candy bars... well, you get the idea. But what about the other people who crave SALT!? The tangy, tart flavor that sometimes seems too bitter, but… -
Healthkicker is on Twitter!
Do you like being connected to your favorite websites at all times? Do you have Twitter on your phone? Well guess what -- Healthkicker is on Twitter! Check out Healthkicker updates via Twitter by following us: @Healthki… -
Cucumbers For Cellulite?
I'm always being forwarded mass e-mails passed on, people to people with useless information or chain letters if you don't pass on you will never find love etc. But to… -
15 Ways to Wake Up on the Right Side of the Bed
I am a firm believer that how you wake up determines the rest of your day. I hate going to sleep angry, because when I wake up I'll still be mad and it's hard to shake that feeling for the rest of the day. On the f… -
Meat – Who Needs It...Right?
I have a friend up at school who, when interested in a subject, becomes infatuated with it and obsessed with knowing everything about it. A few months ago, she was on a health kick (pun intended). This was right after… -
What Do You Think of Pro-Suicide Sites?
This a very morbid topic to bring up but I think as it is a very prevalent issue and that it needs to be discussed. When you type in “suicide” into a search engine, a bunch of psychologists contact informat… -
I'm Pregnant and Now Apparently a Vegan?!
So, apparently I'm a vegan while pregnant. No meat. No milk. No eggs. No cheese. No bread. (Yes. No bread. It doesn't settle well.) No broccoli. No pineapple. So what the heck do I eat!? -
Bad Ankle Bridezilla!
Dear Fun and Fit: Hi, I’m 22 years old and sprained my ankle very badly a little over a month ago. For the last month I have been very good about not walking too much, but now I’m losing patience and need t… -
Advice: I Need Smaller Boobs!
This comes from our Advice column! From lookingxforxangelsx@xanga: "I have HUGE boobs. I have back problems and I've tried to have a breast reduction, but insurance is still fighting me on it. Anyway, I was wonderi… -
Girls Sweat Too!
I think it was when I turned 25. My body changed. I no longer was able to lose weight by skipping a meal here and there. I started getting heavier, much more painful periods. AND I started sweating. Not just a light glo… -
How Do You Get Rid of Bikini Razor Bumps?
I feel like the journey to bikini world is one long, strenuous enduring ride. First you have to worry about weight loss and toning; then you have to worry about stretch marks and cellulite; then you have to worry about… -
What Inspires You to Stay Healthy and Motivated?
The thing about eating healthy is that no one can make you do it. You have to want to do it. So for me, the big question is what sparks you to make that change? I'm an avid reader of SELF magazine, and a common peruse… -
Since When is it Okay to Bash the Unhealthy?!
I see a lot of discussion about health issues here on Xanga, primarily weight issues. People bash fat people for being fat, or they bash people with eating disorders for being too thin, justifying it by saying it is un… -
The Power of YOUR "Magic Box!"
Being unsure what to blog about, my bff SexyGamerGirl suggested I write about my vagina. At first, I laughed and thought, "Could be fun." Then she showed me this YouTube video. (Healthkicker warning: We rate this vide… -
My Sister Had Scoliosis Surgery
Scoliosis affects approximately 7 million people (0.023%) in the United States. My sister was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was about 12 years old. She is 18 now. Today, in three hours, she will be taken to the hosp… -
Have You Heard of the Blood Type Diet?
"Eat right for your type" is the slogan. A friend at work mentioned it in passing: eating according to your blood type. This completely fascinated me. This diet plan is advocated by Dr. Peter D'Adamo and says that you… -
Let's Start a Healthy Body Image Revolution!
Here's how I see it: Every single one of us is human. We are smart, we are strong, and we all have the power to help the world in one way or another. We should not have to feel that instead of being looked at and valued… -
What Happens When You Get Angry?
Now that the summers here, let's talk about what really gets you heated. I know you would think a lot of girls probably don’t suffer from anger problems, myself included, however I definitely have the ability to g… -
There's a Chemical in Common Foods That Makes You Eat MORE!
There is something that may be lingering in your foods that may be promoting obesity and even diabetes. It’s a chemical that tells your brain that you’re still hungry even if you just stuffed your face with… -
Self-Control? Never Heard of It.
I've decided I'm going to do the Master Cleanse, but I'm really nervous. I've been wanting to do a detox or cleanse for about a year now, but I'm a 21-year-old college student, so I never seem to have 3 solid weeks whe… -
Dear Self-Injury: I'm Done With You
My dear Self-Injury, It feels good to finally write, as I know I often avoid talking to (though I have no problem gossiping about) you. I just thought I would get this off my chest. Six years ago, when we first met i… -
The Day I Found My Voice
A few months ago, I suffered from a pretty serious bout of depression and anxiety. I felt like my entire world was caked in a fog of darkness and gloom. Everything was sad and scary and happiness/joy seemed astronomica… -
Advice: I Get Headaches on Long Car Rides!
This comes from our Advice column! From rafi09@xanga: "For years I've gotten headaches on road trips that last typically longer than 2.5 hours (and sometimes that's simply enough times). Sometimes they are simply anno… -
I Always Knew Alcohol Was Good For Me!
Okay, so maybe saying that alcohol is "good for me" is a bit of a stretch. But everyone makes alcohol out to be the worst thing in the world! Well guess what, friends, it's not! Thanks to Cracked.com, here are five inte… -
Greek Yogurtolics Anonymous
I have a confession to make- I am a Greek Yogurt "addict." My addiction actually started by accident, when I placed what I thought was regular yogurt in my cart at Walmart. I didn't realize that I bought a Yoplait Gree… -
Snack Your Way To Better Skin!
There are four yummy foods that might help you achieve better skin, according to this article! -
Help: Vitamins Keep Making Me Sick!
I like knowing I get all the nutrients in my multivitamin, but the ones I need specifically from them are the calcium and vitamin D due to my lactose intolerance. Another one is the iron since I tend to be a little def… -
What's Your Dead Body Worth?
Dead bodies have always been used in medicine. But demand for human tissue is outstripping supply, resulting in the gruesome new trade of body brokering, in which unscrupulous traders have used the bodies of thos… -
...After You Binge, Read This
I wrote a post ("Before You Binge, Read This...") about what to think about to resist the urge to binge, but we all know that sometimes, the urge wins out. We aren’t perfect, so there’s no point to critici… -
Advice: Which Seafood is Healthy?!
This comes from our Advice column! From lisastef: "Is it safe to say that pretty much all seafood is healthy?" What do you know about seafood? Share it in the Advice column!: "Seafood"Image Source -
Gym Membership: To Join or Not to Join?
The question that inevitably comes with fitness is whether joining a gym is worth it or not. I recently joined L.A. Fitness, but I also think the decision to join depends on each person's circumstances. If you're on t… -
Hey Healthkickers! Vote on Your Fellow Healthkickers' Posts!
Hey all you Healthkickers! Want to have some say on what gets featured on the Healthkicker front page? Then head over to the Vote page! On the Vote page, you'll find a list of posts that your fellow Healthkickers have s… -
We Are Going Organic!
I'm re-doing my metabolism and going organic! Here are some of my tips! Stop eating chemicals! Your body doesn't know how to process them, therefore, you gain weight. -
Need to Chill? Here's 8 Ways to Relax!
Relaxing is very important in our lives. It reduces our stress levels which cause high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks. Finding hobbies, seeing neighbors, and even exercise can help a person relax. With road… -
Lions, Tigers, and Spiders OH MY!!
My friend from work was recently bitten by a spider while golfing. Big deal, right? No but seriously, if he had waited any longer for the swelling to subside (which is what he thought would be the best option due to h… -
Music Makes You Live Longer
According to Yahoo.com, music has the ability to add years to your life. For years music has been used during healing rituals. In many ancient civilizations singing, chanting and dancing was a major part of their cul… -
How Do You Combat Low Energy On A Diet!?
Other than cravings, having low energy is one of the biggest deterrents in a diet. When people don't feel 100% themselves, they are willing to do whatever they can to get back to equilibrium, including breaking their di… -
My Period Makes My Appetite Wacky!
For most women, the time before and during their period equals an increased appetite and cravings. This is true for me before my period, but once it comes my appetite is completely gone. I have absolutely no desire to e… -
Is Tube Feeding the Newest Diet Trend!?
I know a girl who has been tube-fed for over half of her life due to a serious stomach virus she contracted as a child. Her little backpack holding the liquid nutrients that keep her alive is just another reminder that… -
Are Restaurants Really As Clean As We Think They Are?
Over the course of my 24 years I have worked in many restaurants, and have had the pleasure of witnessing some really disgusting things. When choosing where y… -
If You Could Change One Thing About Yourself…
...What would it be? WAIT! Let me state the rules first. Well, rule. It can’t be anything physical. Nothing like, “I would take all the fat out of my legs and transplant it into my boobs.” Words like f… -
Make Your Metabolism Lightning Fast!
So here it is: the more calories burned equals more fat burned, which equals a better looking you. We all know we have control over how much we physically burn in a workout, but did you know you could also have contro… -
Shirataki Noodles, Ever Had Them?
I've been searching for a low calorie alternative to pasta. Pasta, both white and wheat has roughly 200 calories per serving, which isn't that bad, but when you add in pasta sauce, meat, vegetables, cheeses, whatever it… -
Skechers, Embrace the Ugliness of Shape Ups
This is my problem with Shape Ups: they're targeted at the wrong audience. Their commercials show cute girls walking around town in cute clothes with Shape Ups on. No fashion-conscious girl would ever pair Shape U… -
Food Tips to Help Quit Smoking
After searching on quite a few (rather conflicting) websites, it appears that there has been a significant amount of research (most often cited was a study done by Duke University) that supports the ability of some foo… -
The Government is Killing Us by Not Banning Aspartame!
I have been drinking diet coke for years now. I was drinking a can of it the other day and my friend turned around and said "Do you know what's in that can? Poison." I looked it up and low and behold, apparently it's… -
Are Pools Making YOU Sick?
Have you ever wondered why you’re getting sick so easily in the summer? Well it may have something to do with that swimming pool you swam in all weekend. A lot of people incorrectly assume that swimming pools ar… -
MY JOB STRESSES ME OUT!
I hate being yelled at. I hate when people yell at each other. I hate yelling in general. Whenever someone raises his or her voice, I feel a surge of anxiety and fear well up inside of me. No, I did not experience a ch… -
Carrots and Candy for the Kids
I work at a restaurant that serves whole wheat spaghetti and a Heart Smart Breakfast, but also only serves fries as the side to all kids’ meals…unless the parents ask otherwise. [Note: the whole wheat spagh… -
Keeping Drunk Munchies Under 250 Cals
I drink, you drink, we all drink alcohol!...and if you don't, I hope you like this post, anyway! (And yes - that is David Hasselhoff pictured above, drunk eating ). -
Are You UP ONE DAY and then Down the Other?
I have a friend -- if I specify the exact relationship I might get crucified, so we will stick with “friend” -- who literally will be so caring and nice one minute and then the next minute look for the easi… -
Fried Friday: What Summer Temptation Do You Give In To?
In the summer time when the weather is high... well, I just want to lounge by the pool and drink mojitos all afternoon. The summer evening breeze begs for a burger cookout and the hot mornings always tempt me to skip… -
Stop Sipping Your Health Away!
Soda is bad for you. We all know this, yet no one seems to care. We're all so concerned with not putting refined foods and chemical-coated snacks into our body, yet we reach for the can of Coke without a second thought… -
My Workout Strategies
Okay, so obviously I'm not super-healthy or anything, but here are a few of my strategies for a more effective workout. 1. I like to drink Coconut Water while working out. It's natures own sports drink! The electrolyte… -
Cancer Myths
Recently there has been so much attention turned towards cancer. I mean there always has been but as the baby boomers grow up and more and more cases of cancer are observed, it really puts it center stage with the spot… -
Sexsomnia: Having Sex in Your Sleep?
If you though never being able to fall asleep was bad, how about acting out the most intimate of affairs while in your REM cycle and not even knowing it. Apparently there's a disease called Sexsomnia where people have… -
My Appetite is on the Fritz
There are those days where I just cannot help it. I go from sugar to salt to cheese back to sugar. I look like a ravenous animal rummaging through trash cans. I kid you not; I will go from Captain Crunch Cereal to ic… -
Do You Measure Success Through Exercise?
If any of you have been following my posts, you’ll know that I am recovering from anorexia of the restricting/over exercising type. So I truly understand when someone has a fanatical fascination with exercise. Bel… -
Advice: Water Makes Me THIRSTY!
This comes from our Advice column! From thevegmeister: "I've recently drastically increased my water intake. I have several glasses with my meals and several more throughout the day and when I exercise. I've begun to… -
Your Sibling Relationship is the Most Important in Your Life
Sometimes I take my sister for granted. She's my sister, you know? She's required to love me. She'll always be there. She'd never bail when I need her or back-stab me because in my family, blood matters. You're always… -
Yoga Rules a Gym Class Won't Tell You
I started out doing yoga at the gym. I would go to the classes twice a week and I loved it, so when I went to college, I found a yoga studio to go to. Sorry L.A. Fitness, but the yoga studio classes were far superior. I… -
Before You Binge, Read This…
Because I’ve written numerous posts about eating disorders, I often receive messages from girls asking for advice or venting about their struggle with ED. By no means am I saying that I have all the answers (or an… -
Women's Health: What OTHER Women Worry About
I know some of you will be mad at me for going off topic, but I think it’s important considering Healthkicker caters to a lot of women to mention the fact that women globally do not get the health, respect and fr… -
Attention: CARBS are Really Not THAT Bad
So I have a problem, at least I thought I did. I am trying to diet but I am a Carb Lover. I love my breakfast cereals, pastas, pretzels and bread. Literally, they are my favorite foods and without them I just wouldn… -
Advice: Buzzing in My Ear?
This comes from the Advice column! From thevegmeister: "Lately I've been having a buzzing in my right ear. It's kind of the equivalent of a spasm on your eyelid except it's in my ear. They last only a few seconds but h… -
Leggo My EVOO
Olive oil has become increasingly popular over the past few years due to its publicized health benefits as a “good fat,” an excellent source of antioxidants, and a safeguard against heart cancer. But olive… -
Stop Slouching!! Do You Know What You're Risking?
Rarely do health tricks come in an easy one-step package, so you should take advantage of them when they do. One of the best—and easiest—little tricks you can do for yourself is sitting up straight. That'… -
3 Tips on How to Get a Toned Body Fast
If you're wondering how to get a toned body fast, then you have come to the right place! Toning and shaping your body doesn't have to be complicated and definitely doesn't have to be confusing. With a few simple steps… -
Dealing With Other People in Your Weight Loss Journey
For any of you that have lost significant amounts of weight, you can identify with the look on people’s faces when they ask you about it. They generally try to act happy for you, but then they say, "oh, I wish I… -
Are you Afraid to Die?
This may sound odd to some, but as I get older and more and more family members and friends are dying, I have become ironically increasingly afraid of death itself. I have become consumed with Googling "Near Death Exper… -
Move (move), Shake (shake), Now Drop!
There was a yoga studio right off of Penn State’s campus that I attended quite often. I usually went to the same classes, advanced vinyasa flow and hot bikram yoga being my favorites. But one morning, I decided… -
Health Myths Debunked for Fellow Gullible Healthkickers!
I’m gullible. I’ll go ahead and admit it. I am a smart person; I just over-think things, so if it sounds plausible I’ll find a connection in my head for it to make sense. I recently discovered several… -
Advice: How Do You Treat G.E.R.D.?
This comes from our Advice column! From summerdreams505aa@xanga: "I think I have GERD and I want to treat it without any antibiotics or over the counter medicines. Anyone have any advice?" Do you have G.E.R.D. and have… -
Don’t Let Your Days Just Slip Away
You look at the clock – 9:37 p.m. “What the HELL did I do today!?” Your day has consisted of being stuck in a murky haze that obscured your perception of time – the hours slipped and slid away b… -
The Obsolete Vitamins
Ever wonder why vitamins are classified by letters? Well, they are classified in chronological order, and I guess the scientists thought that letters would add a little more pizazz to the them than having Vitamins 1-10.… -
Have You Ever Considered a Boob Job?
I have quite a few friends who explain to me everyday how much they hate their boobs and the day that they run into the first it of money is the day that they will get a boob job. Granted a lot of them do have a size A… -
My Teacher TOLD Me To Get Drunk…I Swear!
My former English teacher and thesis advisor once told me that it is human nature to desire and need the state of intoxication. I consider this guy to be pretty brilliant, and I know through the grapevine and through… -
5 Albums for the Depressed or Emotionally Distressed
How are you feeling? Feeling down? Well, I may not be the most compassionate person, but you and me are going to do something different. Let me tell you what I do when I have troubles: record shopping. Yep, get up. Come… -
Is Your Workout Going to Waste???
So working in a gym, I see a lot of people doing one of two things: working out too little or too much. Yesterday I watched this lady on the elliptical for 2 hours, whereas another woman got on next to her and stayed o… -
I Have Oral Allergy Syndrome! Help!
When I made the decision to lose weight and improve my health, my first goal was to change what I was eating. I found myself in a problem: I'm allergic to fruit! This was discovered when I was 14. I had eaten an apple… -
Advice: Restaurant Sauces and Dressings?!
This comes from our Advice column! From lisastef: "I know that dressings and sauces can turn a healthy meal into a playground of saturated fat. Which dressings/sauces should I stay away from when I go out to eat?" Ca… -
G.E.R.D and My Diet
There are many factors to being overweight, yet, some of these factors are even present in those who have a normal weight or even are skinny. Like for example, Diabetes Type I, sometimes heart disease, and the least me… -
Do You Get Carsick? Here's a Few Tips to Help!
As someone who has dealt with carsickness since the wee days of childhood, I’ve had time to come up with some strategies for dealing with it, rather than sitting in uncomfortable nausea or, at the worst of times,… -
Has Anyone Tried Biofeedback?
I've tried everything for my headaches. Migraine medicine, daily medicine, acupuncture, allergy testing, vitamin supplements, MRIs—nothing works. I'm over trying to fix myself with chemicals. Natural remedies I'… -
Not All Processed Foods Are Created Equal
One of the most common pieces of dietary advice dole out to individuals is to cut back on consumption of processed foods. If you were to take this advice literally, you'd be cutting out a lot of foods from your diet. Ne… -
BCAA Blast for Leaner Muscles
Anyone who is familiar with my writings knows that I am a big fan of creatine for gains in lean muscle mass as well as for fat loss. It has come to my attention over the years however that not everyone can take creatin… -
Practicing Portion Control
My newest ethos in my journey to health and a smaller waist line is portion control. It seems very obvious when it comes to weight loss, but portion control is my biggest issue. What can I say, I love food. I come from… -
What The Heck Do Vitamins Do?
Sometimes I wonder exactly how well vitamins work. Not multivitamins, but actual vitamins found in food. We grow up learning about the various functions of various vitamins, but I always feel like, you never really know… -
Problems Eating in the AM?
So, lately I have been having quite a bit of trouble eating breakfast in the morning. I'll wake up decently hungry but then have to push myself past the first few bites because I'll start to feel SO stuffed - as if I'd… -
Mental Disorders Misrepresented
I have a friend who I met in rehab for my eating disorder. She’s awesome – amazing guitar player with a witty, dry sense of humor and a contagious energy that just makes you want to be around her all the tim… -
What Should You Do About Toxic People?
The other day I was walking down the street, I was enjoying the sun, window-shopping, and the cup of coffee I was nursing. It was one of those simple moments that are always enjoyable. I ran into an old “friend&rd… -
Using Meditation to Calm Fears
I am no stranger to hard economic times. I remember my parents having $5.00 to spare after paying the bills each month. I went to school and worked hard for my bachelor's and master's in hopes I would never be out of a… -
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
With the power invested in me by the Healthkicker gods, I declare that today is the start of the New Year. (Just go with me here.) But instead of the usual “I’m going to make a resolution that I’m pro… -
Do You Let Injuries Limit Your Exercise Ability?
I've had bad knees all my life. It happened more frequently when I was a child, but every once in a while my knee would randomly buckle and sublux and I would all of a sudden end up on the floor. Sublux meaning, my knee… -
Let's Get Rid of Those Love (to Hate) Handles
Love handles, muffin top, spare tire, obliques... Whatever you want to call them, "love" should not be involved. They are stubborn and not very attractive and just love to stick out of those jeans you're wearing, comple… -
Super Yummy and Quick Healthy Dinner
A little while ago my mom called me from work and asked me to whip up a dish that was recommended to her by one of her co-workers. It is essentially, vegetables and pasta. My mom being the ever evolving health nut that… -
Let’s Not Forget about the Men
Female body image is a concept that saturates the discussion on health blogs and articles in women’s magazines. Oprah, Tyra, and Dr. Phil have devoted many of their episodes to this topic, and practitioners in the… -
Is Turkey Bacon Healthier than Bacon Bacon?
While out with some friends the other day, we got to the topic of discussing bacon. I told them a story about the trip I went on for New Year's 2009 with a group of other friends. We went on a Carnival cruise to the Ba… -
How Do You Get Rid of Hiccups?
I've had the hiccups 3 times so far today—it's only 4 o'clock so we'll see if that count goes up. As I was sitting in the car, hoping the second batch would go away before I got to work, I began to wonder, what… -
Stay Away From: America's Unhealthiest Fast-Food Burger!
We eat fast food. Why? Because it's delicious. We all love fries and chicken fingers and burgers because they are unequivocally delicious. And we still eat them because of this reason even though we know there are prett… -
How Do You Gauge Your Fitness?
When you're going from not so fit to fit and/or trying to lose weight the one thing that you want, is results. You want to be able to see that your diet and exercise efforts are paying off. For many people, whether th… -
Watermelon as a Viagra Substitute?
There’s general agreement that natural remedies are part of making a more healthy America. But will that make America ready to give up Viagra? I heard on the Food Channel that scientists from Texas A&M&rsqu… -
Is You Favorite Food Something You're Allergic To?
I randomly began thinking about the movie Doctor Dolittle, the Eddie Murphy version. Just so you know, this post has nothing to do with animals. In the movie, Dr. Dolittle has a patient with a severe shellfish allergy.… -
5 Health Benefits Of Drinking Coffee
I know what people say about coffee. "It has caffeine!" "It makes you jittery!" "You become addicted." Well fine, but I did some research and I found that there are actually some health benefits to drinking a fine cup o… -
Breaking the Monotony: Functional Fitness
(Not me - Candidate from 5th Plt, Charlie Company, Winter 2010 Class on the O-Course) I've come to notice that too many people focus on one specific part of their exercise regimen to the detriment of other parts.… -
Advice: Help Me Control My Swimmer's Ear!
This comes from our Advice column! From msenergydrink: "Since this heat wave began, I've been swimming a LOT lately. Not only do I find it really the only way to get cool (not even the AC helps me!), but it's also an… -
What's Happened to the Medical Field!?
I have gone to three doctor’s offices in the past week and I have never dealt with longer waits, ruder people and such a lack of professionalism in any other field as that of the medical field. What is happening?… -
Watch Your Worries Away
Is today just one of those days? Are you having trouble smiling? Watch this video, and I think you'll realize whatever problems you're having aren't quite as bad as you thought before. I came across "No Arms, No Le… -
Water: Chilled, Stirred or Straight from the Pool Post-Exercise?
Dear Fun and Fit: Kymberly and Alexandra Q: I know that drinking water is very important before, during, and after exercising. Does it make a difference if the water is cold or room temperature? Noel, St. Joseph, MO -
Orthorexia: Ever Heard Of It?
Being a high school student I have had to take health for a semester. During our eating disorders unit, my health teacher mentioned a term: orthorexia. Orthorexia is described as the unhealthy obsession with eating heal… -
How Are You LIVING?
One of my previous therapists once asked me what my major goal in life was. I responded with, “I want to be healthy. No… I want to be happy. Well, both I guess.” Does happiness automatically guarant… -
Advice: Speed of Weight Loss?
This comes from our Advice column! From john@xanga: "I'm on a meal delivery plan now, where I get delivered 1800 calories of pre-prepared food every morning by a service. The food is approved by a nutritionist and ma… -
Diet Pepsi Diet?
My cousin and I were sitting on my bed, watching TV, and sipping on Diet Pepsi when she came out of no where with the question, "Is there such thing as a Diet Pepsi Diet?" I could do nothing but stare and her and say… -
It's National Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month
Healthkickers! Did you know it's National Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month? Here are a few quick facts about this debilitating illness: Approximately 294,000 people under the age of 18 suffer from pediatric and rheum… -
LOOK AT ME I’M SO HAPPY!!!!
My boss at the restaurant where I work frequently hands out his “12 Steps of Serving,” which outline the specifics and sequence of a server’s responsibilities for each table. Whenever you disobey the 1… -
Solution to Stop the Excuses
I give a lot of excuses to why my diet and exercise either is or isn't up to par: the weather, money, being sick, convenience, social obligations, stress, you name it, I use it. A major one I've always thrown in as wel… -
A New Form of Sexual Violence
A lot of women deal with sexual harassment and abuse. In about 78% of sexual abuse cases, women are the victims. In a recent survey done by the American Medical Association, nearly 1 in 3 women have been coerced into… -
Check Out This NEW Diet: EATING HEALTHY!
I was attempting to take a nap on the beach, but was a bit distracted by the high-pitched, babbling nonsense of two little girls a few yards from me. I overheard one of the little girls (they were maybe six-years-old)… -
I Snacked and I'm Still Alive
Last night I gave myself a cheat night. I fell asleep regretting every bit of it. My mind was chained to the belief that I would wake up pounds heavier. I finally dozed off with a 106-pound-sodium-bloated-belly. I woke… -
How Do You Stay Committed?
I was inspired by a post by ely_101 where she revealed that she's trying to overcome an eating disorder but understandibly struggling with it, and she wanted advice from others on how to handle it. There is so much on H… -
Recipe: Skinny Margarita with Agave Nectar
This is a really great recipe for all those Margarita lovers out there who want the taste but without all the calories, and sugar. The best part is is that y… -
Advice: Dieting Before an "Unhealthy Week"
This comes from our Advice column! From schultzrac: "If you know you're going to be eating bad in a week, say you're going on vacation and you know there will be a lot of eating out and guilty pleasures, is it better… -
The Benefit of Co-Enzyme Q10
Yesterday I read about Q10 enzyme and how it's good for keeping the skin from aging, for diabetes, blood pressure, an energy supplement and heart attack prevent you heart from attacks. The Benefits of Co-Q-10 include… -
Would You Prefer To Make It On Your Own?
One of my favorite healthy snacks is whole almonds and raisins. Sometimes when I'm eating them I think about how easy it would be to add some other dried fruit and nuts and make a trail mix. In that same stead, there'… -
Medical Marijuana...We Need to Discuss
Although evidence has revealed that marijuana can alleviate pain, nausea and other such symptoms associated with MS, cancer or AIDS and it's a lot less toxic than other prescribed drugs, other researchers claim that it… -
Medical Serial Killer: High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs in order to work properly. That's right, you need it! Your body makes all the cholesterol it needs naturally, and then uses the cholesterol to make hormones… -
Tacos: My Family's Staple Healty Junk Food Meal (Recipe)
When people hear the word tacos the immediately think unhealthy. They see cheese, sour cream, hours in the bathroom afterward. Okay, TMI. But really, when done properly, tacos really are not that bad. They can incorpora… -
Get Some Shut-Eye and Boost Your Brain Power
I could sleep anytime, anywhere. Seriously, test me! In the car, during the movies, during a concert, probably through a bomb going off. If I lay my head down, I waste no time jumping right into that rem cycle. This be… -
News to Know about Gyms: 101
Let's just take a moment to reflect on this picture. Thank God someone so kindly took the time to write out this notice, I would never have known. This scares me. I have to admit sometimes I am not the best follower… -
Healthy Cures for Cellulite
So now that I have tightened up my body with cardio and strength training, I am left with lovely little holes all over the outer sides of my legs. Talk about Swiss Cheese! How unfair is this? It’s like when you… -
What the Nutritionist Says
So a friend of mine just dropped hundred dollars for a nutritionist. He was nice enough to write out all of the nutritionist’s advice on a piece of paper for me that I will now of course share with my fellow Heal… -
I Scream for Ice Cream!
We all have that food that is the first thing we break our diet for. I can be doing fabulous, eating tons of fruits and veggies, steering clear of on-the-go lunches like pizza slices and processed bars. But you offer… -
If You're Partying This Weekend... Here's Some Hangover Cures
I absolutely loved the movie "The Hangover," and as I hope most of you don't wake up with a lion in the bathroom, a baby in the closet, a lost friend and enemies that are well versed in Kung fu, I know some "day after t… -
Happy Fourth of July!
Happy July 4th, Healthkickers! Will you be relaxing and watching some fireworks, or are you going to engage in a physical activity today?Image Source -
Headed to the Beach? Remember These Stay-Safe Tips!
Summer is here and that means that hundreds of people will be making the seasonal migration to the Shore (the Jersey Shore if you’re lucky). And the Shore means the beach – a paradise of sand and water… -
An Ode to Butternut Squash (Simple Recipe Included)
So, many of us are already aware that although potatoes are yummy and do have some nutritional value, they're not the best thing to eat when losing weight/maintaining a (very) healthy lifestyle. I know sweet potatoes… -
My World Cup is Half Full
If you are currently not living under a rock, you know that it’s World Cup season – a time when soccer gets some of the respect and attention it deserves in this country. On a global scale, this is an event… -
Healthy Ice Cream Choices
It is now officially summer, and one of the most favorite summer snacks is ice cream. It seems as if ice cream trucks have been leisurely strolling down residential streets since early May! In fact just yesterday there… -
Dear Headache, Please Leave Me Alone.
June marked my 2 year anniversary, but unfortunately it's not a relationship I'm glad has lasted over the years. It's a relationship all in my head, and I don't mean that I'm going crazy. I've had a headache every day… -
What Your Server Isn't Sharing With You
The food industry is underrated. I truly believe that everyone should have to work for a little while in retail or food to understand the tricks and practices of the people you buy clothing or lunch from. And then yo… -
Antibiotics in Meat a "Serious Threat"? NO WAY!
I hate when I read articles that make me go, "Well, DUHH!" The FDA has reported that injecting animals with antibiotics is posing a "serious public health threat" and that meat producers should seriously start to limit… -
Cookout This 4th of July With: Chicken with BBQ Sauce, Vegetable Gazpacho, and Berry Trifle
There's nothing that says 4th of July like a cookout, right? Every Independence Day of my childhood was marked by my dad grilling burgers, spatula in one hand and a cold beer in the other, and my mom whipping up some… -
Fried Friday: What's Your Favorite BBQ Food?
TGIFF, Healthkickers! With the Fourth of July around the corner, many of us are gearing up for a weekend of cheating on our diets so that we can enjoy some delicious food at BBQs! What is your favorite BBQ food? Do you… -
Is It Unhygienic To Not Use Deodorant?
I seem to have misplaced my deodorant and in recent weeks, I've simply been going without it. Honestly, I don't really even miss it. I am not at all an unclean or unhygienic person. I don't smell. I shower daily, some… -
Have You Heard of "Kangoo Shoes"?
Remember when you were a kid and jumping was your favorite form of movement? The ice cream man came and you skipped with glee. Bouncing on the bed was way more fun than sleeping on it. You even drew stupid numbered squ… -
The Raw Food Diet
I found this video about the raw foods diet on a post by Spinats and thought it was really interesting. I've heard countless great things about the raw foods diet by people who've tried it or who live by it, but… -
Do you "DO IT" the Chinese Way?
Chinese say that balance is the key. Too much sex can lead to something the Chinese call “kidney jing deficiency.” Jing is the main fluids that are distilled throughout our body from foods and drinks. The… -
Media Influences on Weight: America vs. Japan
"In the United States, you see all these beautiful skinny people on television, and yet Americans keep getting fatter anyway," said Sasaki, the public health expert at Tokyo University. "Why is that?" I started to do… -
What Do You Think About Current Anti-Obesity Efforts?
The British Health Minister (Andrew Lansley) has said that Jamie Oliver - the creator of TV show "Food Revolution - and his efforts to combat childhood obesity has been unsuccessful and "counterproductive," according to… -
Advice: Scaling Back on Exercise
This comes from the Advice column! From too_pretty_to_die@xanga: "I just acquired a 30-hours-a-week job that keeps me on my feet pretty much the whole time. I don't get a lunch break, and in general the switch seems… -
What is the Best Aerobic Equipment?
Almost all exercises can be classified into two broad categories – aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic means “with oxygen” and refers to the use of oxygen in the body’s metabolic process. Anaerobic mea… -
Waaaah!!
I recently wrote an article about the benefits of reverting to a state of infancy and rejuvenating your mind and body by napping. I hate to offend all you mature, sophisticated adults out there, but I’ve recently… -
Tricked Into Taking the Stairs
Isn't this a great trick to make people take the stairs? I would definitely think it was an escalator because of the arms, and once you reach the stairs and realize they're not moving, it's not like you can turn around… -
Let's Erase the Word "Thinspo"
Dear Non-Eating Disordered Community (because those are the only people who use the word), Please stop using the word "Thinspo's" to describe girls with eating disorders. That word trivializes a real disorder. Yes,…
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