Purpose of review: The purpose of this article is to examine the contemporary data linking testosterone therapy in overweight and obese men with testosterone deficiency to increased lean body mass, decreased fat mass, improvement in overall body composition and sustained weight loss. This is of paramount importance because testosterone therapy in obese men with testosterone deficiency represents a novel and a timely therapeutic strategy for managing obesity in men with testosterone deficiency.

Recent findings: Long-term testosterone therapy in men with testosterone deficiency produces significant and sustained weight loss, marked reduction in waist circumference and BMI and improvement in body composition. Further, testosterone therapy ameliorates components of the metabolic syndrome. The aforementioned improvements are attributed to improved mitochondrial function, increased energy utilization, increased motivation and vigor resulting in improved cardio-metabolic function and enhanced physical activity.

Summary: The implication of testosterone therapy in management of obesity in men with testosterone deficiency is of paramount clinical significance, as it produces sustained weight loss without recidivism. On the contrary, alternative therapeutic approaches other than bariatric surgery failed to produce significant and sustained outcome and exhibit a high rate of recidivism. These findings represent strong foundations for testosterone therapy in obese men with testosterone deficiency and should spur clinical research for better understanding of usefulness of testosterone therapy in treatment of underlying pathophysiological conditions of obesity.

The rest is here:
Testosterone and weight loss: the evidence

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin you can get from some foods or supplements. Your bod can also make it when you soak up the sun Sheryl Crow-style.

Vitamin D is vital for:

Since not many foods naturally contain vitamin D, many health professionals recommend that adults get 5 to 30 minutes of sun exposure each day or take a supplement to get the recommended daily intake of 600 IU (15 mcg).

If your local weather looks like an endlessly gray Twin Peaks highway scene, then you prob arent getting enough vitamin D from the sun. According to research from 2013, folks who live far north or south of the equator often do not produce enough vitamin D from sunlight.

As a result, an estimated 50 percent of the global population is low in vitamin D. And some groups are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, such as:

Dated research from 2003 and 2004 suggests that a higher body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage are associated with lower blood levels of vitamin D.

One theory is that folks with obesity might eat fewer vitamin D-rich foods, but there isnt much research to support that link.

Other possibilities are that obesity exposes less skin to the sun and that folks with obesity spend less time outdoors but again, there doesnt seem to be any supporting research.

Your body also needs certain enzymes to convert vitamin D into its active form. And, according to a 2013 research article, levels of these enzymes tend to be lower in people with obesity. Still, we need more research to find out more about this link.

The amount of vitamin D your body needs may be connected to your weight.

A 2012 study found that if people with obesity were theoretically at their bodys ideal BMI, then they would be getting enough vitamin D for their body size.

In another 2012 study of women who were overweight or had obesity, those who lost weight had an increase in their vitamin D levels.

A large 2016 review echoed this finding, with researchers concluding that weight and fat loss seem to increase the vitamin D levels of people who used to have obesity.

Studies also suggest that vitamin D levels climb higher as people lose more weight. In a 2011 study, researchers found that people who lost 15 percent or more of their body weight experienced vitamin D increases 3 times greater than those who lost 5 to 10 percent of their body weight.

On the other hand, a 2014 study suggests that boosting vitamin D levels in the blood might help reduce body fat and encourage weight loss. So this may be a bit of a chicken-or-egg situation.

So now we know that weight loss = higher vitamin D levels. In true mathematical fashion, it seems the reverse is also true. Heres the research breakdown:

Some research from 2008 notes that vitamin D could potentially suppress the formation of new fat cells in the body. Additional 2016 research supports this finding, showing that vitamin D also seems to suppress the storage of fat cells, which basically makes it hard for fat to form in your body in the first place.

Vitamin D also boosts levels of serotonin (the feel-good hormone), which might play a part in appetite control and increase feelings of fullness after eating. Naturally, this could decrease your calorie intake and, likewise, your body weight.

According to the National Institutes of Health, adults need at least 600 IU (15 mcg) of vitamin D each day.

Still, its not exactly a one-size-fits-all situation, since a decent amount of research suggests the ideal dosage should be based on body weight.

Researchers in a 2012 study adjusted vitamin D levels for body size, calculating that 32 to 36 IU per pound (70 to 80 IU per kilogram) is needed to maintain adequate blood levels.

So, depending on your body weight, this level could be much higher than the current standard upper limit of 4,000 IU per day. Doses of up to 10,000 IU have also been reported without any observed negative effects.

Keep in mind that vitamin D can still cause toxicity when consumed in large amounts, so its a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional before taking more than the upper limit of 4,000 IU per day.

Need more big D energy in your life? Heres how to get it.

Some of the top vitamin D foods to fill up on are:

Venturing into the sun requires a delicate balance of getting enough vitamin D to feel amazing but not getting burnt to a crisp (or otherwise harming your skin). Dont forget the SPF!

Some scientists recommend exposing about one-third of your skin to the sunlight for optimal absorption so maybe some pants and a tank? According to the recommendation, getting 10 to 30 mins 3 times a week during the summer should be enough for most people with lighter skin.

Since a lot of people with darker skin tones need more vitamin D, they may need more time in the sun.

If you live in a cloudy place, a sun lamp can also do the trick.

Theres def a correlation between vitamin D levels and weight. Though experts dont know for sure whats at work, people with obesity are more likely to have lower levels of vitamin D. Meanwhile, those who increase their vitamin D levels seem to be more likely to lose fat and weight.

You can get your fill of vitamin D with foods, sunlight, and if necessary supplements. When in doubt, talk with a healthcare pro about whats right for you.

The rest is here:
Vitamin D Weight Loss Benefits and Dosage - Greatist

With weight loss being such a sought after process, numerous methods, diets and hacks have come up. Exercise routines, HIITs, Intermittent fasting, keto diet and what not, you might have tried out everything and found that none of it has been as effective as promising it claimed to be. Add to it, the side effects of certain exercises and diets, the entire process becomes extremely complicated and uncertain vis--vis results. What if you are told that there exists a method that can help you lose weight without getting into intricately planned diets or workout regimen. Detox drinks are beneficial for various reason that include eliminating toxins from the body thereby aiding weight loss, hydrating the body and beating the heat. Here are five detox drinks that you can have in order to lose weight.

Also read: Summer foods that will help you lose weight

Read the original here:
Lose weight with these five detox drinks | The Times of India - Times of India

Omelets are a fantastic way to include some high-quality protein at breakfast. Eggs are a complete protein, which means they contain all nine essential amino acids which are the building blocks of protein to help build and strengthen muscles and repair damaged tissues and fibers. There's only so much you can do with an egg that's over-easy or hard-boiled, though. That's why omelets are awesome for maximizing nutrition and flavor, simultaneously, and are incredibly versatile.

Add-ins vary in colors, textures, and flavors, for omelet combinations for weight loss that not only taste great but also are rich in antioxidants and fiber to fill you up. "However, an omelet can be an ally for weight loss or a saboteur, depending on its preparation, portion size, cooking method, and choice in toppings," says Lauren Harris-Pincus, MS, RDN, dietitian, and author of The Everything Easy Pre-Diabetes Cookbook.

Keep omelets minimal in ingredients, with combos containing both protein and fiber, which are best for weight loss. Here are six omelet combinations for weight loss that are high in protein and fiber, along with healthy fats and antioxidants. Read on, and for more on how to eat healthy, don't miss Eating Habits to Lose Abdominal Fat As You Age, Say Dietitians.

"When at home, get rid of some of the yolk to help lower calories and cholesterol by combining 1 whole egg and 2 egg whites (or 6 tablespoons of liquid egg whites)," says Harris-Pincus. This is a great omelet combination for weight loss since it cuts back on calories but has more nutrition than you'd find in a traditional egg white omelet. For example, choline promotes brain health but is in the yolk, so you'll get nutrition, flavor, and color from just a single egg yolk.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Sign up for our newsletter!

Give your omelet a Southwest flair and use add-ins like green peppers, chopped tomatoes, and 1-2 tablespoons of cheddar cheese, which keeps calories and saturated fat in check and maximizes fiber and other essential vitamins and minerals to complement protein from the eggs.

"Top it off with salsa for extra fiber and antioxidants, and for only a few additional calories, which keeps it appropriate as an omelet combination for weight loss," says Harris-Pincus.

"Bring the heat with a Mexican-inspired omelet with jalapeos and tomatoes, as well as onions and a bit of Mexican-blend, shredded cheese if you like, for flavor and satiety power," says Harris-Pincus. Jalapeos' kick can help you avoid using condiments or salt. "Plus, spicy foods, like jalapeos, very slightly boost metabolic rate for a period of time after you've eatenwhile it won't make a major contribution towards weight loss, every little bit helps," Harris-Pincus adds.

RELATED:The #1 Easiest Way to Boost Your Metabolism, New Study Says

"Because caramelized onions are so savory, they can help you achieve the flavor you desire while cutting back elsewhere, like with cheese, which reduces saturated fat and calories," says registered dietitian nutritionist Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, CSO, author of Anti-Inflammatory Diet Meal Prep and How to Eat to Beat Disease Cookbook. Eggs have protein, while onions offer fiber and antioxidants. And while caramelization makes it tasty as is, you can sprinkle a little cheese, like goat or feta, on top, if desired.

This combo is high-protein, flavorful, and rich in anti-inflammatory, omega 3 fatty acids, which are found in salmon. "For an added benefit, choose 'omega-3' rich eggs, and use a dollop of plain non-fat, Greek yogurt, which offers protein, calcium and a boost in probiotics for your gut," says Hultin, since good gut health aids in weight loss. Garnish with fresh chives for flavor, fiber, and anti-inflammatory antioxidants.

Maximize your veggie intake with this Mediterranean-inspired omelet, which offers excellent protein, antioxidants, and fiber, plus healthy fat, thanks to the addition of olives. "The veggie density and bulk in fiber keeps you feeling full and satisfied for the entire morning," says Hultin. If you want to increase calories, protein, and fat for a larger meal, Hultin suggests using a little bit of crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocado.

Original post:
6 Best Omelet Combinations for Faster Weight Loss, Say Dietitians Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

Yep, you read that right you don't have to stop eating bread on your weight loss journey.

Low carb zealots will have you believe that you have to cut out your favorite sandwich, toast, and dinner roll if you want to lose weight. Lucky for you, we know that's not true. Weight loss can be simplified by taking in less calories than you burn in a day. While that explanation is simple, the implementation is considerably more challenging.

It's not physically possible to "spot reduce" abdominal fat over other areas of fat in the body. However, you can absolutely influence visceral fatthe type of fat found in the abdominal region around our organswith diet changes.

We've done the heavy lifting for you with the best breads to choose from if you are currently focused on weight loss! Then, for more healthy shopping tips, here are9 Breads to Always Leave on Grocery Store Shelves.

Whole grain bread is the MVP of American bread. It's hearty, chewy, and goes well with everything. Most whole-grain bread is high in calories because it is quite dense, but not Dave's Killer Powerseed Thin Sliced. This bread is well-rounded in every way: it's hearty, high in fiber, and low in calories. With only 60 calories per slice, you can't go wrong with their line of thin-sliced bread.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Sprouted grains became popular with the rise of gluten-free living. While sprouted bread is not gluten-free, it is often touted as more digestible due to the grains being "sprouted" prior to6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Sprouting grains breaks down some of the starch and increases the total nutrient density of the final product. It also yields a lower glycemic product, meaning this bread may not spike your blood sugar when compared to other conventional grain products.

Ezekiel Bread offers 80 calories per slice and three grams of fiber!

If you are concerned about your blood sugars, any bread might be a contentious food to navigate. Let us quell your thoughts with a low-carb bread that actually tastes good and won't wreak havoc on your blood sugars. One slice of Old Thyme's 647 bread is just 40 calories and contains a whopping 7 grams of fiber!

Sourdough made a comeback during the pandemic, but its nutritional value has been long-recognized by health experts. Sourdough is made through a fermentation process that breaks down some of the starch in the flour. The process of fermentation decreases the glycemic index of the final bread product and adds naturally occurring probiotics.

Most sourdoughs are made with simple white flour, and tend to be low in fiber. Simple Kneads uses a mixture of ancient grains. This hearty sourdough bread clocks in at 90 calories per slice and three grams of fiber!

If white bread is your jam, we've got you covered.

Though it sounds like a refined, white bread, white wheat is actually a type of whole grain. It's milled differently than traditional whole grains, and the final product is much lighter than classic wheat. Thus, it appears to resemble white bread.

Nature's Own Whitewheat delivers three grams of fiber in each slice! You'll be hard-pressed to find a white bread chock full of fiber like this one.

A gluten-free lifestyle is for those who have been diagnosed with celiac disease or a significant gluten sensitivity. You should work with a trusted healthcare professional before making a drastic switch to gluten-free products.

In fact, many gluten-free alternatives are higher in refined flours and lower in fiber. They also tend to have a crumbly texture without the gluten to "glue" the bread together.

Out of all the gluten-free products on the market, Udi's Multigrain actually resembles tasty wheat bread. Udi's Multigrain option provides 120 calories per slice and 1 gram of fiber.

See the original post here:
The Best Bread to Lose Abdominal FatRanked! Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

The most difficult part about dieting is resisting the urge to dig into our favourite indulgent foods. The mere thought of avoiding pizzas, burgers and pasta makes us cringe, and sometimes, even stops us from dieting in the first place. Weight loss is important, not just to lose excess weight, but also to stay healthy and fit. So, don't let your unrequited cravings come in the way of that. Instead, embark on the weight loss journey without compromising your taste and health, both. How? Make healthier versions of your favourite foods.

We have a recipe that fits the bill. If you didn't know it already, pizza can be healthy too! It's just the way you make it and the ingredients you use. This paneer pizza recipe, in particular, is so healthy and tasty that you would binge on it on your weight loss diet, totally guilt-free.

Wheat flour pizza base replaces refined flour base, paneer (cottage cheese) replaces processed cheese, and olive oil replaces butter. With all the healthy and loved ingredients, now indulge in your favourite dish without having to count the calories.

(Also Read:7 Desi-Style Pizza Recipes That Will Blow Your Mind)

Click here for the complete recipe for healthy paneer pizza.

First of all, make pizza sauce with tomatoes, garlic, basil leaves and Italian seasonings in olive oil. Then smear the pizza base with the sauce and top it with onions, capsicum, tomatoes and olives. Grate a block of cottage cheese all over it and bake it in the oven or cook covered in a pan.

Simple! Isn't it?

Next time, the recurring pizza craving nudges you and you look at the weighing scale in dismay, stop right there. Pick this recipe and indulge yourself, because you deserve it.

About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.

Go here to read the rest:
Make This Healthy Paneer Pizza To Satiate Your Cravings On Weight Loss Diet - NDTV Food

You may think of Costco as the warehouse you run into for a supersized jar of mayo or delicious muffins that are the size of your head. But while Costco does carry great bargains and delicious (and calorie-packed) baked goods, they also have some fantastic snacks that support any weight-loss journey on their shelves.

From pre-packaged granola bars to fresh fruit to even pre-cooked shrimp, this cult-favorite membership store can be a dream come true for people who are trying to manage a healthy weight but still love snacks! Read on, and for more on how to eat healthy, don't miss Eating Habits to Lose Abdominal Fat As You Age, Say Dietitians.

Eating while on a weight loss diet doesn't have to mean doing without sweet snacks (and thank goodness for that). KIND minis are a smaller-sized snack bar that is made with real nuts, cocoa, and other good-for-you ingredients. With only 100 calories per bar along with a boost of protein and healthy fats, these snacks will give you some serious staying power while satisfying a sweet tooth at the same time.

Sign up for our newsletter!

If you get that mid-afternoon candy craving, skip the gummy worms and reach for That's It. mini fruit bars instead. You will get the same satisfying sweet chewy nosh, but with no added sugars or anything artificial. These bars are made with only fruit and are just 60 calories per serving. Perfect for tossing in your desk drawer for mid-day sweet cravings.

About 90% of the fats found in pistachios are unsaturated. Plus, they provide a good source of plant protein and fiber, for a trio of nutrients that may help keep you fuller longer. In-shell pistachios may help you fool yourself full because the leftover shells can be a visual cue for portions, potentially helping to curb intake (some call this the "Pistachio Principle").6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Trying to lose weight doesn't mean doing without your chocolate fix. Leaning on UNREAL Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars can satisfy your craving with 51% less sugar than the leading brand, all in a package that contains dairy, gluten, soy, or anything artificial. The classic taste of chocolate and coconut that can help support weight management? Who doesn't want that?

We all know that eating vegetables is one of the best things we can do to support weight loss, thanks to the fiber and micronutrients they provide, all in a low-calorie package. But, the peeling, chopping, and washing factor that comes into play when snacking on veggies can be a barrier for busy folks.

Taylor Farms Veggie Trays makes snacking on vegetables simple. The veggies are pre-washed, peeled, and sliced, so all you need to do is crack open the container and enjoy. While the tray comes with ranch dressing, you can opt for a lighter or more nutrient-dense dip like hummus or guacamole to support your weight loss journey.

RELATED: 20 Food Combos to Triple Your Weight Loss

Fresh fruit is always a winner when it comes to weight loss-supporting snacks. With no added sugar, fiber, and tons of vitamins, any fruit you can get your hands on is a good idea. And since Costco has amazing prices on fresh fruit, adding some varieties to your cart can be a wise choice.

Kiwis are a favorite snack fruit because they are incredibly easy to eatsimply slice one in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Kiwis are loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and they have a unique taste that makes for a satisfying snack addition any day of the week.

Avocados are packed with healthy fats and minerals that support weight loss, making them a dream addition to a healthy diet. But as nutrient-dense as these fruits are, they can be quite caloric when compared with other produce.

Wholly Guacamole Classic Guacamole Mini Cups makes enjoying avocado-based guac super weight-loss friendly, thanks to their portion-controlled mini cups. Each serving provides only 120 calories along with a serious dose of healthy fats, making it a perfectly satisfying dip for fresh veggies, baked pita chips, or really any other nutrient-packed dip vessel.

Frozen fruit can be just as nutritious as fresh varietiesand in some cases, they can be even more nutrient-dense! Tru fru strawberries are frozen real fruit covered with dark chocolate. These snacks can be a nice sub for classic frozen treats that are loaded with empty calories. And since they are frozen, you are forced to eat these slowly and perhaps be a little more mindful with your noshingotherwise, you may get a brain freeze!

Acai bowls can be messy to make at home, and they can be super pricy to buy at a restaurant. Tattooed Chef takes away all of the barriers of eating an antioxidant-rich acai bowl by making a pre-made frozen option that is loaded with weight loss-friendly nutrients and a naturally sweet taste. Top with natural nut butter and cacao nibs for a balanced snack that can fit into any weight loss-supporting diet.

When a person is focused on snacking for weight loss, protein is one macro that can't be ignored. In fact, several clinical trials have found that consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight but also decreases fat mass while preserving fat-free (muscle) mass.

Whisps Asiago & Pepper Jack Cheese Crisps provide 12 grams of protein per serving, which is more protein than what you would get by eating an egg, a string cheese stick, or a serving of beef jerky. Made of 100% real cheese, these crunchy cheese crisps offer a perfect combo of smokiness, spice, and creaminess to make for a satisfying low-carb, high protein snack.

And for more, don't miss theseThe Best Weight Loss Snacks in 2022.

Read the original:
The 10 Best Snacks to Buy at Costco for Weight Loss, Says Dietitian Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

My breakfast: It's all quantified with calories measured (usually, poha or bread omlette with lots of vegetables, paneer parantha, rgg parantha with one cup of tea with milk)

My lunch: Quantified - Dal, rice, chapati, vegetable curd salad

My dinner: Soya pulao or soya dhokla, egg curry with rice/roti, soya gravy with roti

Pre-workout meal: Bread jam or one cup of black coffee, banana, as per the calories.

Post- workout meal: Whey Protein

I indulge in (What you eat on your cheat days): I don't need cheat days, my meals are so fulfilling and sustainable that I don't need to cheat at all, rather my coach taught me about the process of making mindful choices.

Low-calorie recipes I swear by: Soya pulao, soya dhokla, egg curry.

View original post here:
Weight loss story: People rolled eyes seeing me lift weights in the gym instead of doing cardio! - Times of India

Vannessa Cross shared her weight loss journey on TLCs 1000-lb Best Friends. Since filming began, we can confirm that she has shed some serious pounds as a result of her sheer determination to improve her life.

The 1000-lb Sisters spin-off followed Vannessa and her bestie Meghan as they embarked on a journey to lose weight. Together, they weighed a combined weight of over 1,000 pounds, and so decided to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Vannessa explained in the trailer for the new show that she has found it impossible to stick to a diet, however, went on to say that she is sick of being fat and tired at her then-weight of 448 lbs.

Since then though, she has drastically changed her life around and has dropped to under 400 pounds. Weve even seen pictures on the TLC stars Instagram to prove it. Drum roll please

When Vannessa weighed over 400 pounds, fans praised the TLC star for her confidence to wear whatever she likes, including a bikini she wore during a vacation. In a bid to improve her life though, she decided to take up exercise.

Vannessa explained that both her and her co-star have been dealing with our weight since junior high, followed by Meghan saying they are big as hell. Between the besties, they used to weigh around 1000-lbs combined.

For the past 43 years, she admitted she has done nothing but stretch her body to its max, but the 1000-lb Best Friends cast member was able to reduce it and become the woman she always wanted to be.

In the last six years in particular, her weighthas fluctuated between 350 and 500 pounds, which began with the death of her husband. She first weighed in at 441.6 pounds, after previously losing 20 pounds six months before.

Vannessa claimed that she could not healthy because she could not afford the food. However, that didnt stop her from taking up regular exercise with her best friend Meghan in tow.

After several hard-earned weeks of determination, she managed to get under 400 lbs and was approved for weight loss surgery. Vannessa admitted that not being to eat scared her and claimed she was nervous ahead of the procedure.

With the support of Meghan, and her other two best friends Tina and Ashley, she underwent the bariatric surgery she strived for. The main man behind her progress is Dr. Procter, who assisted her on her diet and exercise program.

Vannessa has declared that she can now live the next 40 years as normal. Following the procedure, she has clearly kept the weight off and looks more transformed than ever on her Instagram page.

She has even shared snippets of her diet, including some super-baked chicken wings, and continues to pay regular visits to Dr. Procter. Just a week ago, Vannessa said he has been busy while waiting in line to see him.

The last scale weight we heard about Vannessas progress revealed she had gotten down to 398 lbs, a massive drop from her heaviest at around 500 pounds. Plus, her confidence is like never before, as she is always smiling!

Her face and neck appear significantly slimmer in her latest photos, which is all thanks to her commitment to exercising and eating healthier than she has ever done in the past.

WATCH 1000-LB BEST FRIENDS ON TLC EVERY MONDAY AT 10/9C

AND GET FREAKY WITH US ONINSTAGRAMANDFACEBOOK

Celine is a journalist with over five years of experience in the media industry and the chief staff writer on Reality Titbit. After graduating with a degree in Multimedia Journalism she became a radio newsreader and reporter, before moving into her current role as a reality TV writer.

More:
With a little TLC, Vanessa Cross has smashed her weight loss aims - Reality Titbit - Celebrity TV News