A

lot of people made major life changes during the pandemic, but none more so than the Canadian comedian Kate Barron. Just a few months into a new life in Britain having split with her long-term partner in Canada, left her job and home and moved here with the intention of finally taking comedy seriously as a career, only to be stuck in a houseshare in London with people she barely knew she made a secret decision. Without even telling her flatmates, she got on a plane, flew to Turkey, signed a few forms she literally couldnt read and, without telling a soul, had 80 per cent of her stomach removed.

By the time any of her family found out and saw her again she had shed 13 stone, which is, to give you some contemporary context, almost exactly the weight of Chris Evans bulked up to play Captain America.

Barrons decision, the journey to making it, and the journey it began is the subject of her new Edinburgh show, Losing Myself. And as she genially weaves a tale of what is, really, an extreme transformation, you begin to realise the extent of how the world is simply not set up for larger people.

Its hard to freely develop your own style because there just arent enough clothes available in the shops, and where there are, theyre usually at the very back where no-ones going to see you. A long-haul flight in economy is physical torture to the overweight, chairs of all kinds are a source of trepidation. Barron tells a story about arriving for a lovely dinner, and all my skinny little beautiful friends took all the chairs without arms, she says. Too embarrassed to speak up, Barron spent four hours eating and drinking in what was effectively a vicious arse-vice.

That shame is something she deals with in the show, but her attitude to it isnt remotely self-pitying. When a friend who had been at that dinner saw a preview of the show, she was horrified. Shes like, Im so sorry, I never thought and Im like, Its okay, Barron says when we meet in the Standards photo studio after her shoot.

I also never said anything. So it cant entirely be on you, because I never said it. I just took these moments of discomfort and anxiety and I held them all into myself, which made it really painful and lonely, but I was too ashamed to have those conversations with my friends.

But surely thats not on you, I say. I think it is and it isnt, she says. You want to have close relationships with people and I dont think I was being really authentic with them either. My weight was definitely me wearing my mental health on the outside. And it was just so visible to people. But I couldnt expect people to know all these things about me if I wasnt being honest with them, either.

And my friends, after I lost all this weight, were going, I didnt even know this was an issue for you. I just thought you were super confident and happy with who you are. You never let it show that you were anything other than that. And that just goes to show how isolating it can be, because its all I thought about.

And yet for the past seven years, at her heaviest (she wont divulge the weight she reached, but shows me a picture of herself on stage and she genuinely looks like a different woman), she was getting up on stage night after night to do stand up, something most people, no matter their shape or size, wouldnt dream of doing.

TODO: define component type tiktok

I wanted to do it since I was a kid, she says, but I just didnt have the guts. And I thought it was one of those things that only famous people did. I didnt know you could get famous doing comedy.

She doesnt come from a performing family, but they were loud and crazy. She and her brother and sister were largely raised by her grandmother while her parents worked, and I was definitely the one being like, Look at me, look at me. Im the baby. Thats why Im so obnoxious.

But by the time she realised comedy was something anyone could have a stab at, in her 20s, I had no self confidence; they would have eaten me alive up there. I couldnt have done it. She comes from a family of large people, but her weight gain had crept up on her. It happens gradually. You just start to get less and less comfortable in your own skin and in the world.

Ultimately it was lockdown that pushed Barron to the point of drastic action. I just finally went, Enough. And I think it maybe it was Covid, it was not being able to perform, it was being lonely being over here and away from people and distractions.

I'm very much a go go go kind of person. When I first moved here, for the whole first year, I had a full-time job and I was doing around 12 shows a week, still trying to have a social life and make friends in a new city and everything. I just would not allow myself to slow down for a minute. Because if you slow down, you'll hear your thoughts, basically. And then Covid hit, and there was nothing but thoughts.

I just thought, What am I doing with my life? I'm really miserable. And eventually, you need to take accountability for that, eventually you cannot blame your upbringing or the poor nutrition we had, or being working class. And my parents, they only knew what they knew, and they were doing their best. And you know, I haven't lived with them for almost 20 years. So is this really their problem still? Or is it mine? I just had to sort of own that and go, I am still in my 30s; I can choose to get this under control.

She didnt go into it completely recklessly. Barron understood her action was drastic and started getting regular therapy before she made the trip, to cope with the inevitable emotional rollercoaster. I was like, Alright, what are we going to talk about? My messed up relationship with my family, or my f***boys ? And she was like, No, I think the worst relationship you have in your life is with yourself. And I was like, Hey, coach, Im paying you a lot of money. Isn't this supposed to make me feel good?

The therapist was right, though. I just hated myself. Anything you thought about me, when you saw me as a bigger person, I guarantee you, I thought it, but much, much worse. And that's how I would talk to myself all the time. I try really hard not to do that now.

The surgery hasnt been a magic bullet. Part of Barrons show goes into the insanely strict diet that she had to adopt after the surgery, and the weird stuff shes not allowed to do (you cant chew gum, drink through straws or drink carbonated drinks because it creates too much air in your tiny stomach; all the precious space must be preserved for nutrition). And there are other, less obvious pitfalls. Shopping is still a nightmare, but for different reasons.

Because I was always bigger, the clothes I would gravitate towards would just be big, black, oversized baggy clothes to hide myself. So now I dont even know what my style is. Ill go to Westfield and Ill get completely overwhelmed. Where can I even start? How do you find your style after [so many] years?

Shes still getting used to her new self. Even now I will see a chair now or see a booth in a restaurant, Ill be like, Im not gonna be able to fit. Ill catch myself in the mirror sometimes and I dont even really recognise myself. But I also dont really recognise who I was before. I look at these pictures sometimes, and I go, who even was she? I dont feel like her anymore.

Barron says shes happier now than shes ever been. She has just turned 39, and on August 10 itll be seven years since I went up and did my first open mic, she says, with deserved pride.

She is a little envious, she says, of comics her age who have been on stage for decades, but then says that until shed lived a bit more she wouldnt have had anything to talk about. My [earlier] comedy was very surface. It was about like dating and sex; the easy jokes. This is the first time Ive ever opened up and have talked about vulnerable things on stage, and really had something to say.

It seems to be having an impact. Barrons been developing her latest show on stage, and after one recent gig, I had a woman who was sobbing. She came up to me afterwards and said, can I just hug you? And I had another guy last night, this really classically handsome man, great physique. And he was like, You probably don't think it's true, but I'm telling you, a lot of that shit hit home. And I was like, Wow. I don't know why, maybe he has somebody big in his life and hes never really thought about these things before, or maybe he was a bully, or maybe he had weight issues. I don't know. But it's been really interesting to get feedback from people. And I just feel like, because I'm being more real on stage, I think people can feel it, so they're giving me so much more love and appreciation now.

How often are people actually that focused, listening to you share your ideas and thoughts? I just think comedy is the most beautiful, pure art form. I love it so much.

Kate Barron: Losing Myself is at Just the Tonic at the Tron, Edinburgh from August 4-14 and 16-28; edfringe.com

See the original post:
Comedian Kate Barron on drastic weight loss, why chairs were a source of terror and her new Edinburgh show - Evening Standard

Opt for organic foods instead of consuming small portions of junk foods

As most people know, the right way to lose weight is to keep your body in a calorie deficit state. Being calorie-deficit refers to being in a state where one burns more calories than one consumes. When our bodies are in a calorie-deficit state, it burns fat to retain energy.

Keeping a calorie-deficit state might seem easy. However, many people often make mistakes trying to follow this to lose weight. In this article, we discuss some mistakes and the correct way to lose weight.

Other things to consider when going on a calorie-deficit diet:

1. Watch what you eat

Being on calorie-deficit means consuming lesser calories than you are burning. However, consuming a burger worth 400 calories instead of a salad with the same amount of calories is not the answer. You must still consume foods that provide nutrition.

2. Don't skip on fibre

When going on a calorie-deficit diet, many people consume foods rich in various nutrients but skip fibre. Fibre is often considered useless' when trying to lose weight but it is essential to manage the healthy functioning of your digestive system.

3. Skipping meals isn't healthy

A calorie-deficit state does not only mean sticking to a certain amount of calories for the day. You must correctly divide these calories into different meals. Consuming one unhealthy and high-calorie meal and skipping other meals is not the right way to manage your calorie-deficit diet.

4. Working out is crucial

There are certain amounts of calories we burn without working out or engaging in physical activities. Consuming lesser calories than that might help you lose weight in the beginning but it can affect your energy levels, moods and overall health.

5. Eating less is not the key

This might seem contradictory but it is true. Although calorie-deficit diet refers to consuming lesser calories than one burn. It is important to consume the right amount of foods and calories your body requires for its healthy functioning.

6. Don't obsess over calorie-counters

Similar to the point discussed above, this might seem confusing. However, to successfully lose weight through a calorie-deficit routine, you must perform it correctly. Obsessing or being too calculative with your calories might affect your mental health and make eating a dreadful task.

7. Be consistent

Be it your diet or workout routine, it is crucial to follow a proper routine. Being consistent is the key to losing weight in a healthy way. Eating the right amount of calories and working out regularly are essential to losing weight successfully.

8. Not counting alcohol

Most people often forget the number of calories they consume when drinking alcohol. There are various factors that can help you consume alcohol without it exceeding your calorie goals for the day. Avoiding cocktails, high-calorie drinks like beers, etc. can help you maintain a calorie-deficit state.

In conclusion, our bodies are complex and so are trying to lose weight. Going on a calorie-deficit diet and routine may seem easy but it is more complicated than consuming fewer calories than you are burning. It is crucial to pay close attention to what you are consuming and how often are you working out.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Waiting for response to load...

More here:
Weight Loss: Being In Calorie Deficit Isnt The Key To Weight Loss, Here Are Other Things To Consider - NDTV

We have a variety of foods available. Aise mein kisi ek ko chochna aur aske saath karna karna hmeti mushkil hota hai. This diet also includes a low-carb diet, which is the first to remember for weight loss. A low-carb diet is when a person stops consuming carbohydrates and instead eats protein, healthy fats and vegetables. It helps in easy weight loss by reducing food cravings, replacing carbs with protein.

Kya Hota Hai Carbohydrate?Carbohydrates are one of the main types of food that we need for all body functions. When we consume carbs, our body breaks them down to get energy from them. When the body does not need those carbs immediately, it stores them in our muscles and liver. When these accumulated carbs become unusable for a long time, our body turns them into fat.

What is a low carb diet?A low carb diet can include many different types of foods and can lead to weight loss. Losing weight through low-carb diets is effective because they suppress your appetite. You eat fewer calories without feeling hungry, because protein and fat fill you up. A low-carb diet also speeds up the weight loss process in the first six months, and helps you lose weight faster if you need it.

What to avoid and what to eatNatural fats like butter, nuts, seeds and oils along with protein along with leafy green vegetables make up a low carb diet. Care should be taken to avoid sugary and starchy foods like bread, rice, potatoes, fruits, chocolate, soda etc.

Eat chia seeds to avoid these diseases in addition to weight loss

Read more:
What is low Carbs Diet and connection with weight loss know facts - Globe News Insider

Showing off! 90 Day Fianc: Happily Ever After? star Andrei Castravet is known for his disastrous relationship with his wife Elizabeth Potthasts family, but the Moldova native isnt shy about sharing his major weight loss transformation.

The future dad of two tied the knot with the Florida native in December 2017 and made his debut to the franchise in season 5 of 90 Day Fianc after meeting his wife on a dating app. At the time, Andrei lived in Ireland and worked as a bouncer.

After falling in love, the pair decided to apply for the K-1 visa. Following their 90 day race down the aisle, Elizabeth became the sole breadwinner of the household with Andrei becoming a stay-at-home dad to care for their young daughter, Eleanor. The new family dynamic caused the former police officer to face harsh criticism regarding his work ethic and gained a reputation among viewers as a free-loader. Elizabeths family also questioned whether the former bouncer was using her for a green card.

Following the couples return in season 5 of the spinoff, the duo got married in front of Andreis family in Moldova, and Andreis friends joked he had gotten soft since his time in the United States.

America is kind of changing Andrei, Marcel, his long time friend and previous roommate, confessed to producers in a July 2020 episode. He used to be a hard worker. Hes becoming too soft.

However, the TLC alum has changed his lifestyle since being stuck in quarantine and proved hes dedicated when it comes to his health. Andrei now rocks a very toned physique and will often share his workouts with his more than 344,000 Instagram followers.

All you need is a nice kettlebell (60 lbs) for an amazing full body workout, the Happily Ever After star wrote while flexing a shirtless selfie in his backyard. Apart from an intense workout regimen, Andrei emphasized the secret to losing weight is healthy meals filled with vegetables and protein.

Although the reality TV star has yet to reveal exactly how much weight hes dropped, his latest selfies only prove he has been doing major work in the gym.

Scroll through the gallery below to see photos of Andreis weight loss journey.

Read the original here:
90 Day Fiance Star Andrei Castravets Weight Loss Transformation: Photos of His Fitness Journey - inTouch Weekly

Losing a little weight doesn't have to mean completely transforming how and what you eat. By simply making some healthy food swaps, you can make surprisingly drastic changes.

While there are plenty of great ways to improve your diet and lose weight, such as trying one of the best protein powder for weight loss, making little adjustments to what you eat during the day can make a big impact, too.

We spoke with a few dietary experts to bring you a guide to the best healthy food swaps that you can start making in your diet today.

We all know that sodas like Coke and Sprite are filled with sugar and empty calories but they are undeniably delicious. Instead of reaching for a can of soda, which contains around 139 calories, Ashley Bannister, Noom Coach and registered dietitian, recommends making yourself a zero calorie soda water with lemon instead.

While full fat sour cream is definitely delicious in all kinds of dishes or as a dip, it isn't always the healthiest option. Full fat sour cream can contain 198 calories per 3.5 ounces along with 19 grams of fat.

Instead, try opting for greek yogurt "for a boost of protein with a similar flavor," says Bannister. Greek yoghurt contains only 100 calories and 1 gram of fat per 3.5 ounces, plus it's a wonderful source of protein, making it a much healthier option.

After a while, you could even swap out your greek yogurt for milk or coconut yogurt. As Dr. Kellyann Petrucci, M.S., N.D. suggests, kiss sweetened yogurt goodbye and reach for unsweetened, full-fat milk or coconut yogurt instead to give your gut all the probiotic power you want, without the sugar overload.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

We all know that salty potato chips aren't exactly healthy but once you start munching on them, they can be hard to put down. Popcorn is a perfect substitute.

"Popcorn is a low-calorie grain high in saturated fiber and nutrients," says registered dietitian Edibel Quintero. "As long as popcorn isn't seasoned with salt, butter, or syrup, it's perfect for weight loss."

While it's much easier to grab a carton of juice from the fridge, using fresh fruits to make your own homemade juice is much healthier, as your juice won't contain any unhealthy preservatives or added sugars. As one 2021 study notes, added sugars in fruit juices can play a large role in weight gain and diabetes.

"Replace store-bought sweetened fruit juices with freshly squeezed ones," says Quintero. "Most store-bought juices are high in sugar, so frequently drinking them puts you at risk for diabetes and heart disease. If you cant live without this drink, its advisable to opt for freshly squeezed juice, as it contains more vitamins, minerals, and other nutritional compounds. Another alternative is to drink water with a slice of lemon, orange, or other favorite fruit."

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Instead of buying frozen french fries, you can make your own potato wedges in the oven.

"Make your own baked potato fries," says Bannister. "Theyll still have a similar crispy texture, but will have loads fewer calories and less saturated fat."

Butter is a common ingredient in many dishes, but if you regularly use butter in your recipes, you may be making your food less healthy without realizing it. Instead, try using olive oil when frying foods.

Or, if you love having butter on toast in the morning, try swapping it out for some smashed avocado thats rich in healthy fats and fiber.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

You may not have realized that soft and hard tacos were all that different in anything but texture, however, hard shell tacos are a lot less healthy. As registered dietitian nutritionist Vandana Sheth explains, this is because hard tacos are fried in oil, while soft tacos are not. Hard tacos may have fewer calories, but that doesn't make them healthier.

To really make a difference, try using wholewheat wraps instead of soft tacos for an even healthier meal.

Whether you're making burritos, lasagne or pasta, mincemeat can add a big pop of flavor. However, trying an option with less red meat can make your dish a lot healthier.

Don't worry you don't need to give up your mincemeat altogether. "Blend chopped mushrooms with meat 50:50 in your favorite burger recipe," suggests Sheth.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

You can make snack time a lot healthier by "choosing fresh fruit or no added sugar dried fruit over canned fruits with added syrups," suggests registered dietician Patricia Kolesa.

Many dried fruits come with added sugars plus, as fruit shrinks when it dries, it's very easy to eat more than you would if you were to choose fresh fruit.

"Try opting for grilled, baked, boiled chicken over fried chicken," suggests Kolesa.

Fried chicken is cooked in oil while grilled chicken is cooked with just a little seasoning. By swapping fried chicken for grilled chicken, you may shave off 100 calories and 10 grams of fat from your meal.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Candy is always a tempting snack, but as we all know, it's filled with sugar and can lead to weight gain and dental problems.

"Have a handful of nuts as a snack instead of chips, candy or other processed snacks," says Sheth.

Add some dried cranberries into your nut mix, and you'll still get that little kick of sweetness, too.

Today's best protein powder deals

Here is the original post:
11 healthy food swaps that will make losing weight easier - Fit and Well

Published: Published Date - 05:55 PM, Sun - 31 July 22

A weight loss program is necessary if you wish to track your progress and see your desired results. When you are on your weight loss journey, sticking to a weight loss plan that is customized for you is much more beneficial than just including random changes in your diet.

However, not all weight loss program works for everyone. A weight loss program looks into your past medical history, body type, lifestyle, and your sleeping and eating patterns, and it is designed after that. So, it is essential to consider certain things before you choose your weight loss plan. Dietitian and nutritionist Tanvee Tutlani firmly believes that everybody is different, so the requirement varies too. She has different weight loss programs for women suffering from PCOS and PCOD, a curated program for post-pregnancy weight gain and one for obesity.

Tanvee feels that your weight loss plan does not only mean having a diet chart and an exercise routine. An effective weight loss program will significantly change your physical health and lead you toward a healthier lifestyle.

So, here are 5 key things to consider before choosing a weight loss program

1. long-term plan

Weight loss plans that promise to shed kilos within a week or two weeks often wreak havoc on the body. While you may have temporary results, there are high chances of gaining weight again once the plan is done. So, it is important to opt for a weight loss plan that is long-term and aids in the long run for your body. A long-term plan will help you change your unhealthy habits or eating disorders which are beneficial for your health.

2. A customized diet plan

Skipping your favorite meals and substituting them with plain, bland foods will not keep you motivated during your weight loss journey. Nutrition plays an 80% role in your weight loss journey. While choosing a weight loss plan, opt for those where you can have your preferred food in their healthier version. Also, the diet must be realistic. A complicated diet plan makes it easy to lose track and feel discouraged.

3. Physical activity of your choice

Exercise is required to cut off that extra flab from the unwanted body parts. However, never opt for an activity or an exercise routine you detest. If you prefer a Zumba workout or like to go for a run, choose that. So, having a flexible weight loss plan is necessary as it will allow you to pick and choose as per your preferences.

4. Having monthly goals

One of the most effective ways to see positive outcomes in your weight loss journey is to have monthly goals. A curated weight loss plan will have certain goals that will keep you on track and will rejuvenate you every month to hit the next target.

5. A well-researched weight loss plan

Consult a certified dietitian and nutritionist for your weight loss plan. They will do thorough research on you and will suggest you the best suitable weight loss plan. When your plan comes from a credible source, you see quick results and are free from any harmful side effects of a particular plan.

Make your weight loss journey fun by picking the right one for yourself.

Read the rest here:
5 things to consider while choosing an effective weight loss program shares Dietitian Tanvee Tutlani - Telangana Today

The procedure is quite safe. And theres at least one large study that showed that its safe and effective, but theres a much bigger issue here, said gastroenterologist and obesity medicine specialist Dr. Christopher McGowan in an interview with PEOPLE.

McGowan thinks the issues with the procedure for adolescents is more tied to its possible mental effects, due to their lack of emotional maturity.

The question is, is it the right procedure for that person at that time in their life? said Dr. McGowan.

While an ESG may seem like a quicker solution for weight loss, there are still multiple lifestyle changes that need to be added in order to maintain the weight loss. These include diet changes and regular exercise. Due to these factors, Dr. McGowan personally does not recommend the procedure for anyone under the age of 21.

Its a concern that that individual is not ready to really engage in the process long term and they just wont do well. They wont make the necessary changes, he said.

Read the original here:
Is weight loss surgery safe for teens? - The Atlanta Journal Constitution

More than 4 in 10Americans now fit the medical definition for having obesity, putting them at risk for serious health problems, including diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer.The pandemic increased the stakes. In its first year, nearly one-third of severe COVID-19 cases were blamed on excess weight.

USA TODAY decided to take a look at how Americas weight has been changing in recent years, including advances in treatments and the scientific understanding of obesity. We spoke with more than 50 experts in nutrition, endocrinology, psychology, exercise physiology and neuroscience and people who are intimately familiar with the challenges of extra pounds.

The answers arent simple.

But they get to the essence of America: our issues with race, stigma, personal responsibility, economic stability and the power of corporations.

Many people feel shame and guilt when they can't lose weight. Human biology, which evolved to hold onto extra calories, makes it extremely tough to lose weight on your own. Help is hard to find, but it is out there.

Obesity was long considered a personal failing. Science shows it's not.

Despite rising rates of overweight and obesity,the stigma of excess weight remains in virtually every aspect of society. Some people are fighting back, but it isn't easy to counter decades of stereotyping and falsely simple solutions.

Extra weight increases health risk in the long run. Fat shaming hurts now.

Biology makes it hard to lose weight. Our food environment makes it very easy to add excess pounds. What to eat if you're trying to shed that extra weight or avoid unnecessary pounds? Scientists are still searching for answers.

What we eat matters. Researchers are still searching for the 'best' diet.

Extra weight is often considered a personal failing, but lots of factors beyond an individual's power contribute to weight gain,including food deserts, the cost of healthy food, stress and prejudice. The situation isn't hopeless.

Americans don't choose to be fat. Many live within a 'system they don't control.'

Until recently, the only way to lose a substantial amount of weight was through surgery. New medications promise to change that,offering the possibility of shedding 15% to more than 20% of excess pounds. The challenge will be making these medicationsavailable to those who want them.

New drugs and surgery can deliver major weight loss. But they come at a cost.

Any solutionwill have to start with children, experts say. Starting almost from birth, kids learnpatternsthey follow for the rest of their lives, so there's a lot at stake in teaching them to eat healthy, exercise regularly and get enough sleep.

How will the obesity epidemic end? With kids.

Original post:
Obesity in America: Seeking answers to nation's overweight epidemic - USA TODAY

Maj. Gen. David Francis, commander of the Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker, Ala., leads future soldiers as they recite the oath of enlistment June 30, 2022, at the opening of the annual Freedom Fest Rumble Over Rucker event to kick off the Independence Day weekend. (Kelly Morris/U.S. Army)

WASHINGTON The Army has created a new program designed to help potential recruits meet academic and fitness eligibility requirements as the service scrambles to address falling recruitment rates, the service announced Tuesday.

A pilot program called the Future Soldier Preparatory Course is set to start in early August at Fort Jackson, S.C. The program will offer two three-month courses one to help potential recruits raise their Armed Forces Qualification Test score to the desired 31 or higher and another to help recruits slim down to the services body fat requirement, according to the Army.

The course is in response to the precipitous drop in the number of young Americans meeting Army enlistment standards, according to an Army statement. Only 23% fully meet the Armys eligibility requirements, down from 29% in recent years.

To qualify for Army service, potential male soldiers can have a maximum of 20-26% body fat and female soldiers can have about 30-36%, depending on their age. To participate in the new weight-loss course, potential recruits can have up to 6% more body fat than the acceptable amount for their age and gender category.

Participants who meet the standards through the courses will then move on to basic training, the Army said. Participants can take up to 90 days to meet the standards and will be re-evaluated every three weeks to see if they can leave the program early.

Those who do not meet the standards in that time will exit the program and not move forward with basic training, according to the service.

Each course is separate, but potential recruits who need to participate in both programs might be allowed to do so on a case-by-case basis, the fitness portion prior to basic combat training and the academic portion following basic training, the Army said.

Potential recruits must be able to meet all other eligibility requirements, such as moral and medical accessions standards, and be willing to work toward their goals to participate in the program.

The young men and women who will participate in this pilot must have the desire to improve themselves and want to honorably serve their country, said Gen. Paul E. Funk II, leader of the Armys Training and Doctrine Command. This [program] is a great way to increase opportunities for them to serve without sacrificing the quality needed across our force.

The program is part of a series of steps that the Army is taking to expand its pool of eligible recruits as the service remains behind in recruiting goals, service officials told reporters on Tuesday.

Over the past few years, student test scores have dropped and childhood obesity has increased [and] the Army is making every effort to overcome these challenges, said Lt. Gen. Maria Gervais, the Training and Doctrine Commands deputy commanding general. These conditions have negatively affected the Army's ability to meet its recruiting targets.

The service expects its force to drop to about 466,400 by October and believes it could further decrease to between 455,000-452,000 by the end of fiscal 2023, the service said in a statement last week.

Though it will take time, our objective is to regrow our end strength to 460,000 or more as quickly as possible, and we will pursue this objective aggressively, the Army said.

Last month, the Army announced another measure to attract more candidates a $35,000 bonus offer to new recruits willing to sign a four-year contract and ship out to boot camp within 45 days.

Recruiting in the current environment is a challenge, and we have positions we need to fill right now, Maj. Gen. Kevin Vereen, who leads the Recruiting Command, said at the time. Our Army is counting on us to fill these training vacancies quickly, so we are able to offer incentives to gain interest in critical career fields.

Original post:
Army launches weight loss and academic programs to broaden its pool of eligible recruits - Stars and Stripes

Haldi or turmeric has always be intrinsic to Indian food and skin care, all thanks to its antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and vitamin C content. This spice has long been used in condiments, cuisine, and textile dyes, apart from being used medically. In traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, it has long been used as a cure for ailments like skin disorders, allergies, and joint discomfort. In fact, if youre looking for a detox, the health benefits of turmeric water can astound you.

Yes, turmeric water can be even more healthy.

Dietitian Vidhi Chawla of Fisico Diet Clinic, spoke to Health Shots and listed the health benefits of drinking turmeric water regularly.

Turmeric is known to have medicinal benefits and can help you fight many diseases. Alongside, turmeric water works as a natural detox to help your body get rid of toxins and rejuvenate the body, says Chawla.

For starters, its a wonderful way to get the benefits of turmeric without having to put up with its strong flavour. This herb is touted to aid in weight loss because it has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

A 2015 study, European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Science, found that overweight adults who took an 800 mg supplement containing 95 percent curcumin (a compound found in turmeric) along with a strict diet saw Body Mass Index changes of up to 2 percent during the first 30 days, increasing to 5-6 percent after 60 days, equivalent to a loss of more than 8 percent body fat.

Turmeric is known to boost your digestion by increasing the production of bile in the gallbladder and other digestive enzymes. Turmeric helps with reducing the symptoms of bloating and boosting your metabolism. A robust metabolism system also helps with weight loss.

More often than not, heart diseases are caused by an increased level of cholesterol. Turmeric is known to lower cholesterol levels and improve the lining of blood vessels, says Chawla. It also helps in regulating blood pressure and blood clotting.

Also, read: Drink bay leaf water daily and watch the magic it does for you

Medical science still hasnt found a cure for Alzheimers disease, making it essential to prevent it from occurring. Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps in inflammation and oxidative damage, which are the major causes of the disease.

A warm glass of turmeric water at night can help your body to fight inflammation. Vidhi says, The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric help in fighting the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and chronic inflammatory disorder. Turmeric water also eases the pain in the joints of the elderly.

Turmeric is known to purify the blood as it helps to remove toxins. The antioxidants present in it help the cells from damage, brighten the skin tone and slow down the ageing process. Turmeric water makes the skin more radiant and healthier.

Lastly, turmeric water helps in building a robust immune system. Turmeric has antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, which has made it a global sensation for a healthy immune system.

For ages, turmeric has been found to heal and cure many ailments in our body and is an indispensable part of the Indian spice palate. Chawla says, Other than adding a teaspoon of turmeric powder to your meals, you can have turmeric water every day for additional benefits. You can have a glass of warm turmeric waterwith a teaspoon of honey for added tastebefore breakfast or at night before you go to bed.

See the article here:
From weight loss to improving skin health, here are 7 benefits of turmeric water - Health shots