Whatever the cause of your high levels of cholesterol is, it is very important that you make efforts to lower your cholesterol levels by changing your lifestyle:
1.Follow a heart healthy dietary pattern.
2.Lose some weight if you are overweight.
3.Be active by doing moderate physical exercises for at least 30 minutes daily.
4.Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
5.Avoid foods prepared with butter, hydrogenated oil, coconut or palm oil.
6.Avoid white meat fats, chicken skin or processed meats and chicken.
7.Have more servings of dried peas, beans, soy products, oats, whole grains and high-fibre cereals.
If your cholesterol level is too high, your doctor may put you on medication for a short time or for life. If that is the case, you should have your cholesterol levels checked every three months until it is controlled and then every six months.

In normal circumstances, cholesterol is very important as it helps our bodies to function properly. Cholesterol and other fats are also called lipids and each of these has a different function:
1.The High Density Lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL)often called the good cholesterol because it helps to remove cholesterol from the artery walls, thereby reducing your risk of heart disease.
2.The Low-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL) is often called bad cholesterol because it deposits cholesterol into the artery wall, increasing your risk of heart disease or heart attack.
3.The Triglycerides are the most common form of fat in the body. They act as energy storage tanks of the body. High levels of triglycerides cause many diseases in the body, including heart disease and stroke.
To know your lipid profile, visit you doctor and he or she will perform a fasting blood test. An ideal profiles should is:
Total cholesterol(TC) less than 4mmol/L
LDL cholesterol less than 2.5 mmol/L
HDL cholesterol greater than 1mmol/L
TC/HDL ratio less than 4.5
Triglycerides less than 1.7 mmol/L

Therefore, it is important to change your life style to remain healthy and live longer. Develop good eating habits, keep fit and enjoy life.
Cholesterol is a fatty and waxy substance that is produced by the liver. Too much of saturated fats in your diet may contribute to high blood cholesterol. Most saturated fats come from animal products such as butter, cheese, chocolate, whole milk, pies, pastries, cakes, hot chips, potatoes and hash browns.
In some individuals, high cholesterol levels can be due to a genetic disorder. Too much cholesterol in your blood will start building up in the artery walls, causing narrowing of the arteries. This increases your risk of developing heart or brain attack(stroke).

There are so many different and varied diets floating around today that it can be quite difficult to make a decision regarding which one is right for you when you feel its time to lose weight. Some diets emphasize low fat while others insist low calories are the way to go. Still yet, other diet gurus are adamant that in order to meet your weight loss goals you must cut out all forms of carbohydrates. One diet seems to combine factors from at least two other well known diets with claims to produce an optimum fat burning weight loss program.

Then there are the various other diets that have circulated around the world for years with numerous success stories such as the cabbage soup diet and the cider vinegar diet. Which diets really work and more importantly; which diet is right for you?

One of the most important factors you must consider when contemplating any diet plan is whether you will learn how to eat healthy and nutritionally sound through the plan. Unfortunately, a number of different diets that boast incredible results do so through nutritionally bankrupt methods. Often referred to as fad diets, these weight loss programs encourage you to indulge in eating habits that can do more harm than good.

Many weight loss programs promise almost instantaneous results and for awhile at least; it seems as though your weight loss dreams may have finally come true through the presence of this type of diet. Then the sad reality sets in. You realize there is no possible way you can stay on this diet for the rest of your life. This is an important factor to consider; because ideally you should be looking for a healthy weight loss and maintenance program not a diet. Although a very low-calorie, high or liquid diet or even a diet that only lasts for a few days may allow you to initially lose some weight, you will inevitably find that your weight loss problems recur when a vengeance at a later point. Instead of looking for a miracle cure, look for a weight loss program that can help you to achieve your goals on a permanent basis.

For those of us who would prefer to avoid exercise like the plague, any weight loss program that promises we can reach our goals without that dreaded E word is a lifesaver. Unfortunately, long term weight loss simply isnt possible without taking part in a sensible exercise routine. Sad, but true.

When considering engaging in any weight loss program or diet, always ask yourself the following questions:

1. Will I learn to take part in a healthy, nutritionally sound eating plan through this diet?

2. Is this a diet I can stick with long term? and

3. Does this diet combine sensible eating with moderate exercise?

When you find a diet or weight loss program that meets all of these conditions, you know that you have found the right diet for you. As with any diet, its always a good idea to check with your physician before engaging in any weight loss program.

Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in almost every cell. It stimulates the activity of approximately 100 enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body. Zinc supports a healthy immune system is needed for wound healing helps maintain your sense of taste and smell and is needed for DNA synthesis. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Zinc deficiency most often occurs when zinc intake is inadequate or poorly absorbed, when there are increased losses of zinc from the body, or when the bodys requirement for zinc increases. Zinc is also less well absorbed from plant-based diets, especially those based on whole grains and dried beans. Because of this, zinc requirements may be as much as 50 percent higher for some vegetarians, according to the Institute of Medicine.

Iron supplements are not recommended unless a doctor has diagnosed you with a severe iron deficiency. If you do take an iron supplement, avoid ferrous sulfate, which you will find as the most common over-the-counter iron supplement in drug stores. Ferrous sulfate is hard for the body to assimilate, and because iron is not water-soluble it will sit in the body and can cause severe liver problems over time.

Further, ferrous sulfate causes constipation, which can trigger a great deal more problems besides being extremely unpleasant. One iron supplement that does not contain ferrous sulfate is called Floradix and is available in both liquid and pill form.

Zinc and iron deficiencies are common among young women who seldom consume red meat. It seemed likely that iron stores (measured by serum ferritin concentration) were related to zinc nutriture (measured by metabolically active zinc pools), and that food frequency would reflect these relationships. Zinc and iron are essential for brain function.

It therefore, seemed likely that the low zinc and iron nutriture would adversely affect neuropsychological performance. Zinc and iron repletion were both efficacious for aspects of neuropsychological function. Zinc was especially efficacious for eyehand coordination, reasoning and short-term visual memory. The neuropsychological findings were consistent with observations in other populations.

Zinc is one fat-soluble mineral that can cause harm if an overdose is taken. Zinc can rob the body of copper, mentioned above as a key nutrient in hair growth and health, not to mention in other functions of the body. Zinc supplements should be taken in low doses, such as 5mg at a time. These can commonly be found in the form of zinc lozenges designed for sore throats. There is a trick to tell if you are taking too much zinc. When the zinc levels in the body have surpassed the level that they can be used, a metallic taste begins to form. If you pay attention to the metallic taste, you will know when enough zinc has been consumed, and you can then stop consuming zinc immediately.

Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in almost every cell. It stimulates the activity of approximately 100 enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body. Zinc supports a healthy immune system is needed for wound healing helps maintain your sense of taste and smell and is needed for DNA synthesis. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Zinc deficiency most often occurs when zinc intake is inadequate or poorly absorbed, when there are increased losses of zinc from the body, or when the bodys requirement for zinc increases. Zinc is also less well absorbed from plant-based diets, especially those based on whole grains and dried beans. Because of this, zinc requirements may be as much as 50 percent higher for some vegetarians, according to the Institute of Medicine.

Iron supplements are not recommended unless a doctor has diagnosed you with a severe iron deficiency. If you do take an iron supplement, avoid ferrous sulfate, which you will find as the most common over-the-counter iron supplement in drug stores. Ferrous sulfate is hard for the body to assimilate, and because iron is not water-soluble it will sit in the body and can cause severe liver problems over time.

Further, ferrous sulfate causes constipation, which can trigger a great deal more problems besides being extremely unpleasant. One iron supplement that does not contain ferrous sulfate is called Floradix and is available in both liquid and pill form.

Zinc and iron deficiencies are common among young women who seldom consume red meat. It seemed likely that iron stores (measured by serum ferritin concentration) were related to zinc nutriture (measured by metabolically active zinc pools), and that food frequency would reflect these relationships. Zinc and iron are essential for brain function.

It therefore, seemed likely that the low zinc and iron nutriture would adversely affect neuropsychological performance. Zinc and iron repletion were both efficacious for aspects of neuropsychological function. Zinc was especially efficacious for eyehand coordination, reasoning and short-term visual memory. The neuropsychological findings were consistent with observations in other populations.

Twelve Tips ]]> http://www.twelvecups.com/vitamins-and-supplements/important-minerals-iron-and-zinc.html/feed 0 http://www.twelvecups.com/mens-health/thinning-effectively-for-men%e2%80%99s-health.html http://www.twelvecups.com/mens-health/thinning-effectively-for-men%e2%80%99s-health.html#comments Fri, 13 Jan 2012 06:32:41 +0000 admin http://www.f00kie.com/?p=256 Search for weight loss or men, thats right for you might be hard. Everyone has a unique and needs a certain quantity of food, every day activities, and perhaps even increase health products for you to achieve weight loss. What works best for you may not for others. Secure weight loss starts with finding the right combination of movement, natural food supplements and to the nature of the body and the way of life. Instead of just on health as metabolism booster, dietary supplements, dietary products, or super vitamins, try changing your efforts in the mixture will lose weight. Take advantage of the health care products in addition to weight loss programs.

Your age eating practice with vegetables, lots of fruit, meat, fish and especially chickens and reduce the consumption of processed foods and sugary products. In addition, approximately thirty minutes add up to one hour workout to your daily routine. You would be surprised how everyday commitment to training will help you reach your goal to lose weight.Beside exercise and nutrition, there are also health care products for men who are proven and tested to safely and effectively.

Look for high quality products for the Mens Health, Fitness, Anti-aging, or weight loss. Products that help the joints, bones, heart and immune system are very much. Products for weight loss, in front of the boxes, which measured the fats are also recommended for men. Fruits and vegetables that are rich in dietary fiber products and health drinks should be considered as also.

The secret is in the search for health products that are not in your body in danger while trying to lose weight. Most diet pills pledge to provide you with the impossible, but only your body vulnerable to disease than the public health. Even diet pills are likely to encourage yo-yo dieting that is never good for a person, the general well-being. Search for a replacement for natural diet pills and nutritional supplements and natural metabolism. This type of energy and nutrients the body needs, without the need to harm yourself.Starting a special diet because of too much fat will require that the advice of your doctor.

He knows what diet plan is the best for your needs. Once you reach your weight goal, it is necessary that you receive it. Try before weighing. Not back to normal eating habits after you have achieved your goal. Also do not starve to achieve weight loss. Make a plan of size to lose weight is an issue, but it is from another. Make a plan to put your weight before you start. If possible, try to avoid the mentality of the return to your usual diet of the practice, if you have achieved your goal. You are not so strict when it comes to your diet when trying to lose or maintain weight. You still need a plan how to prevent pound again later.

You can use food supplements and Mens Health products after the weight is gone. You also need a daily workout routine and check your food intake. Practicing these steps will you stay with your dream weight with a little effort.

Search for weight loss or men, thats right for you might be hard. Everyone has a unique and needs a certain quantity of food, every day activities, and perhaps even increase health products for you to achieve weight loss. What works best for you may not for others. Secure weight loss starts with finding the right combination of movement, natural food supplements and to the nature of the body and the way of life.

Instead of just on health as metabolism booster, dietary supplements, dietary products, or super vitamins, try changing your efforts in the mixture will lose weight. Take advantage of the health care products in addition to weight loss programs.

Your age eating practice with vegetables, lots of fruit, meat, fish and especially chickens and reduce the consumption of processed foods and sugary products. In addition, approximately thirty minutes add up to one hour workout to your daily routine. You would be surprised how everyday commitment to training will help you reach your goal to lose weight.Beside exercise and nutrition, there are also health care products for men who are proven and tested to safely and effectively.

Look for high quality products for the Mens Health, Fitness, Anti-aging, or weight loss. Products that help the joints, bones, heart and immune system are very much. Products for weight loss, in front of the boxes, which measured the fats are also recommended for men. Fruits and vegetables that are rich in dietary fiber products and health drinks should be considered as also.

The secret is in the search for health products that are not in your body in danger while trying to lose weight. Most diet pills pledge to provide you with the impossible, but only your body vulnerable to disease than the public health. Even diet pills are likely to encourage yo-yo dieting that is never good for a person, the general well-being. Search for a replacement for natural diet pills and nutritional supplements and natural metabolism. This type of energy and nutrients the body needs, without the need to harm yourself.Starting a special diet because of too much fat will require that the advice of your doctor.

He knows what diet plan is the best for your needs. Once you reach your weight goal, it is necessary that you receive it. Try before weighing. Not back to normal eating habits after you have achieved your goal. Also do not starve to achieve weight loss. Make a plan of size to lose weight is an issue, but it is from another. Make a plan to put your weight before you start. If possible, try to avoid the mentality of the return to your usual diet of the practice, if you have achieved your goal. You are not so strict when it comes to your diet when trying to lose or maintain weight. You still need a plan how to prevent pound again later.

You can use food supplements and Mens Health products after the weight is gone. You also need a daily workout routine and check your food intake. Practicing these steps will you stay with your dream weight with a little effort.

This is quite groundbreaking research, that has been done on humans as regards to the ageing process. A study was done on 2,041 twins to see how the overall effect of how exercise affects our bodies.

The findings

The researchers came to the conclusion that, having a sedentary lifestyle compared to a very active one does in fact play a major role in warding off life-threatening diseases. Such as cancer and heart disease, and plays a major role in warding off the effects of ageing.

It has to do with something called telemeres, and their overall length these particular structures in our bodies protect our DNA, telemeres have been looked at in various studies over time, and the data has been collated, and the same things were found all the time the telemeres, become shorter in length with age.

Which suggests that they are aging and wearing out, the researchers found out that the people who exercised every week, compared to their sedentary counterparts, had longer telemeres. Its a well-known fact that exercise overall, does in fact have a major impact on good health.

When asked about what they thought the actual reasons for this were, they didnt have any definitive answers, but came up with a theory that exercise stops something called oxidative stress.

What is needed

One of the researchers who conducted the study said you cant just go for a short walk or just round the block that isnt good enough for some people that might seem like enough exercise, but you really do need to work, up a sweat before youre going to get any real benefit from exercise at all.

The conclusion

The people who exercised vigorously for three hours a week had their telemeres, measured and it was found that they were indeed longer than the people who hadnt exercised at all, biologically they were nine years younger than their sedentary counterparts whom only did 15 minutes of exercise.

When the researches where asked what they thought, the overall reason for this was they didnt have an answer it was more of a theory, what they said was that the exercise stops what they call oxidative stress which has a negative effect on cells.

This does correlate with something that I read in a book quite some time ago called Psycho Cybernetics, some researchers found that by putting some cells in a test tube and not moving them, they tended to die quicker, rather than ones that were shaken at regular intervals.

What is and are the benefits of exercise for your fitness and health ? a recent study that has been conducted in London, found some interesting facts about this particular area of health, people who tend to keep themselves fit are, generally younger biologically on the inside than their sedentary counterparts.

This is quite groundbreaking research, that has been done on humans as regards to the ageing process. A study was done on 2,041 twins to see how the overall effect of how exercise affects our bodies.

The findings

The researchers came to the conclusion that, having a sedentary lifestyle compared to a very active one does in fact play a major role in warding off life-threatening diseases. Such as cancer and heart disease, and plays a major role in warding off the effects of ageing.

It has to do with something called telemeres, and their overall length these particular structures in our bodies protect our DNA, telemeres have been looked at in various studies over time, and the data has been collated, and the same things were found all the time the telemeres, become shorter in length with age.

Which suggests that they are aging and wearing out, the researchers found out that the people who exercised every week, compared to their sedentary counterparts, had longer telemeres. Its a well-known fact that exercise overall, does in fact have a major impact on good health.

When asked about what they thought the actual reasons for this were, they didnt have any definitive answers, but came up with a theory that exercise stops something called oxidative stress.

What is needed

One of the researchers who conducted the study said you cant just go for a short walk or just round the block that isnt good enough for some people that might seem like enough exercise, but you really do need to work, up a sweat before youre going to get any real benefit from exercise at all.

The conclusion

The people who exercised vigorously for three hours a week had their telemeres, measured and it was found that they were indeed longer than the people who hadnt exercised at all, biologically they were nine years younger than their sedentary counterparts whom only did 15 minutes of exercise.

When the researches where asked what they thought, the overall reason for this was they didnt have an answer it was more of a theory, what they said was that the exercise stops what they call oxidative stress which has a negative effect on cells.

This does correlate with something that I read in a book quite some time ago called Psycho Cybernetics, some researchers found that by putting some cells in a test tube and not moving them, they tended to die quicker, rather than ones that were shaken at regular intervals.

Twelve Tips ]]> http://www.twelvecups.com/health-and-fitness/exercise-the-benefits-for-fitness-and-health.html/feed 0 http://www.twelvecups.com/vitamins-and-supplements/foods-high-in-cholesterol.html http://www.twelvecups.com/vitamins-and-supplements/foods-high-in-cholesterol.html#comments Mon, 09 Jan 2012 18:37:52 +0000 admin http://www.f00kie.com/?p=254 Cholesterol is already in our blood, but it can also enter the body by way of food. The cholesterol present in foods is absorbed via the intestines, which is then added the the cholesterol our liver already produces. If your cholesterol levels are too high, it is best to know which foods contain the most cholesterol and minimize consumption. A good rule to remember is that cholesterol comes mainly from animals. Keep in mind that some foods, although may contain high amounts of cholesterol can also be good sources of protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids and other important nutrients. These foods need not be completely eliminated from your diet, however, portion control is necessary.

Here is a list (not comprehensive) of foods that are known for being high in cholesterol.

1) Eggs – cholesterol is found mostly in the yolk

2) Liver

3) Other organ meats (brain and kidney)

4) Duck and/or Goose

5) Chicken and Turkey (mostly contained in the skin)

6) Shrimp

7) Pork

Beef (leaner cuts are lower in cholesterol)

9) Ice Cream

10) Butter

11) Whole-Milk dairy products (cheese and yogurt)

12) Cream Cheese

13) Fast Food Breakfast

14) Palm and Coconut Oil

15) Sponge Cake

Based on a 2000 calorie diet, the RDV or recommended daily value of cholesterol is less than 300 milligrams. Keeping your number down is hard to do when you don;t pay attention to what you eat everyday. For example, a scrambled egg yolk can contain up to 465 milligrams of cholesterol alone. Just by eating one egg at breakfast, youve overshot your RDV. Try eating just the egg whites. One way to keep your cholesterol levels normal is to reduce your overall fat intake on a daily basis to 20-35% of your total calories. Healthy fats found in nuts, fish and vegetable oils are better for you than foods high in saturated fats. Increase your daily consumption of vegetables and fruit, preferably in their whole form. Choose whole grains over white grains (brown rice over white for example).

Reducing your cholesterol levels is just a matter of reducing bad cholesterol containing foods and adding those that are healthier. Along with good nutrition, exercise is also key to keeping a positive cholesterol level.Cholesterol occurs naturally in the body and is actually important for several of our bodies functions. Cholesterol synthesizes many of the bodys hormones, makes cell membranes and Vitamin D. Blood cholesterol is essentially a waxy fat found in the blood. There are two types of cholesterol: LDL and HDL. The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the negative type of cholesterol. High levels of LDL causes unhealthy build-up of cholesterol plaque on artery walls, which can lead to coronary disease. The high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is seen as the positive cholesterol. The HDL carries the LDL away from the artery walls when levels are properly maintained.

Omega 3 fatty acids are called essential fatty acids. They are essential to thebody but the body can not manufacture them. It must be obtained from food.It is highly recommended that you eat fatty fish (sardines, lake trout, tunaand salmon) at least twice a week. These “fatty” fish are polyunsaturated fatsthat are protein-rich and are not full of saturated fat like red meats.

Polyunsaturated fats (fish, whole grains, nuts and their oils) are calledhealthy fats and are good sources of Omega 3. Saturated fats (red meats,creams and cheeses, butter) can clog your arteries and should be eatensparingly.

Research has shown that Omega 3 fatty acids:

Lower blood pressurehelp prevent and treat heart diseasereduce the risk of inflammation in the bodyreduce risk of heart attackhelp prevent a myriad of problems from heart-related to arthritis

and asthma, even depressionpromotes healthy cell membranes (essential for cells ability to communicate,hold water and nutrients and removing waste)omega 3 is also available in pill form

Sports
In order to achieve full erection, you must keep the blood flow to the penis. With regular exercise, blood circulation will increase and eventually escaped from the congestion of blood including blood flow to the penis.

Changing diet
More consumption of soy products, fresh vegetables, fruits and seafood and keep eating fatty foods to a minimum. A diet will directly affect the fitness and if you want to be the best, treat your body well so that the penis to feel its influence.

Consumption of herbal supplements and vitamins
Herbal and vitamin supplements have few disadvantages. Increase your energy with supplements such as ginseng and vitamin B12.Increased energy can increase the trust that turn provides a positive influence on the penis, including natural supplements.

Stop smoking, alcohol and drugs
It’s no secret all dangerous drugs and unnecessary. If you smoke, stop immediately because the facts show smokers have smaller erections than non-smokers. Blood vessels to contract when smoke entered the body and blood flow thus preventing the penis to reach its full potential.

Groin massage as often as possible
It seems like exercise, massage can also help the flow of blood.Massage the area around the penis to get the blood circulation and sexual energy. Massage each day can help improve the situation.
Although there was a bit boring, these tips important aspect in improving energy and sexual growth for men. Trust may be the most important aspect of every sexual experience that you do. But if you practice all the advice above, the trust will increase.

BS. Here are some facts that dieticians have debunked.

Fats arent good for youSays who? We all need fat. Fat is needed to absorb nutrients and maintaincell quality. It is when you eat excessive amounts that you get in trouble.Excessive eating of fatty foods can lead to heart disease and weigh gain. Thekey is to lessen your intake of bad fats(trans fats and saturated) and starteating good fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated)

Sugar causes diabetes

Ask the average person and theyll say that sugar causes diabetes. Nope!Sorry. Thanks for playing though. We have some nice parting gifts foryou If you have the disease you need to watch your sugar andcarbohydrates intake. But if you dont have diabetes, you wont get it fromeating sugar. The main risk factors for diabetes are a high caloric diet, beingover weight and not being physically active. Thats how you can get itBrown eggs are better for you than white eggs

The color of the egg has nothing to do with its nutritional quality. Somebreeds of hen lay white eggs while others lay brown. Case closed!You need a low-carb diet to lose weight.Ok.. make this as simple as possible. A calorie is a measurement ofenergy. To gain weight you must eat more calories than what is needed tomaintain your weight. The excess calories will be stored as fat. So if weightis maintained with 2000 calories, if you ate 2500 calories, you will gainweight. If you want to lose weight you must eat less calories than what isneeded to maintain your weight. So if weight is maintained with 2000calories, then eating 1500 will reduce your weight. People on those dietslose weight because it has less calories. Losing or gaining weight is aboutcalories (food and physical activity) not carbs. Next!

Brown sugar is better than white sugar

If sugar is refined my suggestion is dont eat it. Brown/white doesntmatter. Theyre both bad for you. Replace refined sugar with raw cane orbeet sugar. Read my section about refined sugar in this ebook.

Red meat is bad for you

Really? Ya think so? Like most things, too much is a bad thing. But I wouldnever suggest cutting it out of your diet altogether( unless your doctor saysso). Choose leans cuts of meat like top sirloin or eye of round. Switch it upwith some poultry, but cut the skin off.

Other nutrition myths are:

skipping meals can help you lose weight: nope

eating before you sleep causes weight gain: nope

preservatives are bad for you: not all. But some can becanned/frozen fruits and vegetables arent as nutritious: depends. But notalways

Fitness myths

No pain No gain

Wow, is your trainer a masochist or something? That seems kinda harsh.You shouldnt be feeling serious pain when you work out. If so, slow itdown and relax. In order to build muscles you need to push yourself harderthan normal. But discomfort is different from mind-numbing pain. If youreworking/exercising too hard stop immediately. Get treatment if it persists

Drinking water when you exercise gives you cramps.

You need water when you work out. If you sweat, you need to replace whatyou lost. Drinking water when exercising is what you should be doing. Ifyou dont you can experience dizziness, headaches or cramps. So drink up.

Exercising requires a lot of time

Just walking 30 minutes a day would greatly reduce your risk for heartdisease and obesity. That is not a lot. You can do it.

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No wonder: In addition to tasting great, tea also can fight disease and help you slim down. The latest news on tea may be one of its best attributes yet: its ability to improve mental focus and clarity.

Tea is natures major source of the amino acid L-theanine. When paired with caffeine, this wonder compound decreases alpha wave activity in your brain and increases focus. In fact, downing two to three cups of tea within an hour or two of each other (the amino acid goes to work within 30 minutes) has been shown to make people more alert and focused. One more upside: You wont get that jittery feeling you do from other caffeinated drinks.

The fat that could stop stomach trouble

Olive oil the unsaturated omega-9 fat thats great for your heart is making headlines for what it can do for your tummy.

Research suggests that polyphenols in olive oil may inhibit the bacterium that causes most stomach ulcers. Not only could those polyphenols withstand the harsh gastric juices of the stomach, but they also seemed to kill off H. pylori pretty handily even antibiotic-resistant strains.

But dont eat truckloads of the stuff because it packs more than 100 calories per tablespoon. To use less, use extra-virgin olive oil, the most flavorful. For cooking, use more-refined olive oil, because the fancier stuff burns more quickly.

Breakfast that takes the pressure off

Want more from your first meal of the day? Adding certain foods to your plate, bowl or baggie can lower your blood pressure. Heres how:

Sprinkle flaxseed on your cereal. Your whole-grain cereal lowers blood pressure, and ground flaxseeds contain alpha-linolenic acid, a nutrient that relaxes blood vessels.

Stir chopped walnuts into oatmeal. These are loaded with ALA, and their protein and healthy fat profile pushes blood sugar, blood pressure and lousy (LDL) cholesterol down.

Whip berries into your smoothie. One study recorded a seven-point dip in systolic (the top number) pressure from a daily dose of berries.

Toss a tomato onto your egg-white omelet. The lycopene in cooked tomatoes has a talent for tamping down blood pressure.

Grab a yogurt. Making nonfat, no-sugar-added dairy products such as yogurt a regular part of your diet can reduce hypertension risk by 30 percent.