Experts have in recent years started using DNA-based techniques to help people lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. In order to understand all about DNA-based diets, we need to first understand what is DNA. Deoxyribonucleic Acid commonly referred to as DNA is a type of molecule that carries almost all genetic-related instructions. The information contained within such instructions includes those that relate to the reproduction, development, and functioning of a living organism.
The functioning of DNA has been a mystery to man for many years. However, in recent years, scientists started making headways in the ways food and genes make complex interactions. Such discovery was not only important in knowing how well people should now be eating but it also meant that scientists can explain what foods a person should eat to avoid certain diseases based on a person’s DNA composition.
Science has evolved to a stage where proteins from your body can be taken and passed through a spectrometer and be analyzed. Such a study can easily help a scientist advise you on the best nutritional food and mineral supplements that you can use to boost your physical form as well as your overall health. Many types of research done to date give a direct link between vitamins and several other nutrients and the way genes perform. Such nutrients have also been found to protect the genes from damage. Obviously good genes ensure you live a healthy long life.
Every other person has a unique composition of genes. Such genes affect the way our bodies absorb, digest, and store the nutrients we take. All the food that we eat is slowly broken down into molecules. These molecules then join with certain proteins in the body and this subsequently leads to making the genes in the body acquire a certain desired equilibrium. Studies in biosciences and the genetic sector have come to prove that genes impact the way our bodies work and they also influence our wellness and overall health.
Scientists are sure that there is a strong relationship between DNA and the diet of a person. Because every other person has a unique composition of DNA it is impossible to come up with a universal dietary program that will take care of all DNAs of different people. In the studies that have been done by experts, a gene has been found to comprise of very many bases. However, such bases are easily categorized into (Adenine –A, Thymine –T, Cytosine – C, and Guanine – G). A change in any one of the bases leads to the whole body reacting in a certain way. Such changes are called Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). A shift of an SNP in your body will cause your body to be prone to disease, live longer, increase metabolism, or be active among other things.
A Few Important changes in your DNA that are Influenced by your diet
Methionine Synthase Reductase – This is an enzyme that is vital in the making and reformation of Vitamin B12. This enzyme is vital in the body because it is the one that keeps desired levels of Vitamin B12 as well as controls the levels of other molecular elements. By extension, this enzyme helps keep away cardiovascular-related diseases.
Vitamin D receptor gene – The SNP VDR gene is very important because it directly influences the composition and the strength of the bones. It is critical in the body because it determines what level of calcium necessary in the body. For a person to be considered to have a healthy bone structure, their bone formation compounds should comprise 75% of the SNP VDR gene. The other functions that are directly related to this gene include blood sugar regulation, the growth of teenagers, production of parathyroid hormone, and cell division.
DNA Diet
Manganese Superoxide Dismutase – This gene whose acronym is SNP SOD is vital in the normal functioning of the body. Superoxide is important in fighting off free radical cells. This element is readily available in all cells and eating foods that contain it gives you an upper hand in eliminating all harmful free radical cells in your body.
Apolipoprotein – Its acronym is SNP APOB. This gene plays an important role in the metabolism of all lipids. Among the different lipoproteins that flow through your bloodstream, cholesterol is present. Cholesterol has for the longest time been seen as a bad thing in the bloodstream. For a person with adequate SNP APOB, the risk of encountering Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), as well as High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) health problems, diminishes considerably. LDL and HDL are components of cholesterol.
Reasons why you should go for DNA Based Diet
It helps people know what foods to eat and in what quantity. A person could be gaining weight or not losing any of their excess weight because their body doesn’t have enough SNP SOD to help the body get rid of free radical cells. Once this person eats foods that are rich in manganese superoxide dismutase, they are likely to lose weight faster even without doing any exercise.
A person can easily know what to eat in order to counter an effect of a type of undesirable food they have already consumed.
A person is able to maintain a balanced DNA hence a healthy body.
The choosing of a DNA-based diet comes with many benefits such as stronger bones, improved willpower, strong physique, improved IQ and so many other things.
You are able to plan your day and journeys well. If you are visiting a friend in a different country and you know that a majority of the foods there don’t have your preferred gene enhancing nutrients, you can carry with you complimenting supplements.
A person has the knowledge of what their body needs at all times. You can easily tell what nutrients your body needs when your body shows certain undesirable symptoms. You can hope to become an expert in what your body needs to keep it healthy.
Knowing how DNA relates with the food you eat is a fun way of knowing your body and discovering different foods and recipes.
Our schedules often prohibit us from finding the time to develop the kind of physique we want to achieve for a healthy life. Disheartening as it may be, this fact also leads to the unnecessary accumulation of fat which only invites poor health. There’s the saying that “The Body is your Temple, keep it clean for the soul to reside in”. The statement though might be highly metaphoric but one thing is for sure, if you want to stay healthy and fit, you need to look out for yourself. This includes consuming the right kind of food. A lot of buzz is out there regarding ‘The Raw Food Diet’. Well, let’s just dig in and see what it’s all about.
The proverbial ‘I am on a diet’ cliché is admittedly becoming tiring for most people. People who want to live a healthy life in 2016 should not deny themselves good food but rather focus more on living fuller lives. As you enjoy life, so will you be able to achieve your diet goals. The diet trend predictions for 2016 which will definitely make this year unique are as follows:
Sugar will be avoided – In recent years, scientists and nutritionists have emphasized the need to reduce sugar intake. However, in recent months, there has been a serious campaign on the need to reduce sugar intake for both men and women. It is recommended that women take a maximum of 6 teaspoonfuls and 9 for men. Reduced sugar helps in weight reduction.
Go for Matcha – The now trending powdered Japanese green tea is definitely a great way to help you achieve your 2016 diet resolution. Simply whisk the powder into hot water and milk and enjoy the drink.
Nut milk(s) is loved – More and more people are now going for nut milk because they are avoiding soy-related products as well as dairy products.
Seaweed instead of kales – Rather than taking a bunch of kales, go for underwater plants such as kelp which come with profound benefits like reducing body weight and skin care capability. Taking seaweed is becoming one of the popular diet trend predictions for 2016 because one can even use it as a replacement for common salt.
More plant protein – While most people insist on eating a piece of meat every so often, plant-based proteins such as quinoa and buckwheat which are healthier will replace the more common sources of protein.
Improve mineral intake – Vitamins have been hyped for a long time probably at the expense of minerals. Minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and calcium among others are bound to take over from vitamins in 2016. You will find many mineral-based supplements readily sold around.
Cook more and avoid eating out – While eating out for a majority of the people is almost a must – at least twice a week-, people are more likely to go back to the basics of cooking. Grocery delivery companies have in the past months once again found themselves getting more calls to deliver groceries.
Bone broth is the new juice – If you are looking forward to cleansing your blood and digestion systems, the bone broth which comes with a plethora of minerals and other nutrients will definitely help you achieve your goal.
Start using legume flour – Many people have never considered cooking beans, lentils, and other legumes in flour form. One of the sure diet trend predictions for 2016 is the use of legume floor which will replace the traditionally used corn and wheat flour.
Take life more positively – Time and again, it has been said that for one to achieve great body shape, they will need to have ample inner strength which will enable them to cope with everyday challenges. More people are definitely going to embrace positive living as one of their strategies for achieving their 2016 diet goals.
Here’s a video going over another perspective of the trends coming in 2016:
The DASH Diet is a healthy eating plan designed to help lower blood pressure without taking medication. DASH is an acronym “Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension.” It has been proven to lower cholesterol, improve insulin sensitivity, and be an effective way to lose weight, thanks to the healthier lifestyle it promotes. Research on the DASH plan was sponsored by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, and numerous studies have revealed that DASH can reduce the risk of several diseases, including certain types of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, heart failure, stroke, and kidney stones. As a result of its many health benefits, the U.S. News & World Report has ranked the DASH Diet as the #1 diet in 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014.
What is the DASH Diet’s Eating Plan?
DASH is high in fiber and low to moderate in fat. Followers of DASH eat a diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and either low-fat or nonfat dairy. The diet also includes lean meats, fish, poultry, whole grains, nuts, and beans. Think of it as an easy-to-follow, Americanized version of the Mediterranean diet. DASH is designed in a way that is flexible enough to meet the lifestyle and food preferences of most people. The original DASH plan was developed specifically to lower blood pressure, but now there is also a weight loss option available.
DASH Diet Action Plan:
The DASH Diet Action Plan is the original DASH diet plan. Each meal and snack includes protein to help avoid feeling hungry in between meals. Meal plans are adjusted for 1,200, 1,600, and 2,000-calorie diets. Here are some sample meals for the DASH Diet Action Plan:
Breakfast:
Oatmeal mixed with Applesauce Light or Nonfat Yogurt Jam on a Whole Wheat English Muffin Pineapple or Orange Juice
Lunch:
Waldorf Chicken Salad Dinner Roll Baby Carrots Cantaloupe Nonfat Milk
Dinner:
Roasted Chicken Breast Asparagus Tomato Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing Baked Potato Apple Crisp Topped with Frozen Yogurt
Snacks include foods like light string cheese, nectarines, almonds, and kiwi.
DASH Diet Weight Loss Solution
The plan developed for weight loss is the DASH Diet Weight Loss Solution. Its goal is to help followers reprogram their eating habits by teaching them to center their meals around bulky, filling low-calorie vegetables and protein-rich foods. Fruits, dairy, nuts, beans, and seeds serve as healthy supplements to meals and snacks. There are two phases to the DASH weight loss plan. The first phase is turbocharging weight loss and the second phase is eating an abundance of healthy foods. Here is a sample meal plan from the first phase:
Breakfast:
Southwestern Style Mini-Egg Beaters Omelet Low-sodium Tomato Juice
Lunch:
Turkey and Swiss Cheese roll-ups Raw Snow Peas Cole Slaw Sugar-free Orange Jello
Dinner:
Roasted Turkey Side Salad with Italian Dressing Sautéed Carrots and Onions Sugar-free Lime Jello
Snacks include grape tomatoes, light cheese, baby carrots, and guacamole.
DASH is a great option for anyone who is looking to get live a healthier lifestyle. There’s something for everyone, too. In addition to the original weight loss plans, DASH also offers vegetarian options. Check out all of the different options and more sample mean plans at dashdiet.org.
The Mediterranean Diet is Your Solution to a Better Diet
Are you tired of traditional diets? Do you want to change your way of eating instead of just cutting back on delicious foods? The Mediterranean diet focuses on foods such as fish, fruits, vegetables, high-fiber grains, nuts, beans, and healthy oils. This heart-healthy diet helps you consume essential fats like the unsaturated fats found in oils and nuts.
Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet
Do you want to not only improve your health but also your mood and energy? This answer seems obvious, but many people are focused on diet trends that may shed pounds and not ones that improve their entire body. The Mediterranean diet is a better choice than a traditional diet plan because you are not only losing weight, but you are gaining other benefits as well. These benefits include: lowering your risk of heart disease and heart attack, lowering your bad cholesterol levels, and reducing your risk of type two diabetes. According to the Mayo Clinic, this diet reduces a person’s risk of death related to heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
What Should You Eat
Rather than cutting back on foods you love, the Mediterranean diet is all about eating better foods. Indulge in fruits and vegetables like blueberries, tomatoes, grapes, spinach, figs, olives, chickpeas, eggplant, beans, and lentils. You should limit unhealthy fats from animal products, dairy, and sweets. However, you can eat a limited amount of low-fat dairy. Instead, enjoy healthy fats from nuts, olive, canola, soybean, and flax seed oils. Most diets cut out bread, but the Mediterranean diet lets you enjoy plenty of whole-grain foods that include whole wheat bread, brown rice, pasta, and couscous. Don’t forget to add fish to your diet twice weekly. Also, if you enjoy wine then no need to worry. This diet allows for one glass of red wine, or white wine if you prefer, for women and two glasses for men daily.
The Mediterranean Diet is a popular and healthy eating pattern inspired by the traditional diets of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It emphasizes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, healthy fats, and lean protein sources. Here’s a list of foods commonly included in the Mediterranean Diet:
Vegetables: Tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, eggplant, spinach, kale, and more.
Fruits: Olives, avocados, grapes, oranges, apples, pears, berries, figs, and other seasonal fruits.
Whole Grains: Whole wheat, oats, barley, brown rice, quinoa, farro, and whole grain bread.
Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, beans (black, kidney, navy, etc.), and peas.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.
Fish and Seafood: Salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, shrimp, and other seafood rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Poultry: Chicken, turkey, and duck (in moderation).
Dairy: Greek yogurt, feta cheese, and other moderate amounts of cheese.
Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, mint, garlic, and various spices for flavor.
Red Wine: In moderation (optional). One glass per day for women and up to two glasses per day for men.
Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, and water is the primary beverage of choice.
Foods to consume in moderation:
Red Meat: Limit consumption of red meat, and opt for lean cuts when consumed.
Processed Foods: Highly processed foods, sugary snacks, and refined grains should be limited.
Sweets and Desserts: Consume sugary treats and desserts occasionally and in small portions.
Remember, the Mediterranean Diet is not just about the individual foods but also about the overall dietary pattern. It emphasizes a balanced approach to eating and places an emphasis on enjoying meals with family and friends, being physically active, and choosing high-quality, fresh, and locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible.
If you’re tired of counting calories then the solution is the Mediterranean diet. It allows you to switch those bad fats for good ones and absolves you of any calorie-counting rules. Just make better choices, such as swapping butter for olive oil or choosing fruit over sugary desserts. The Mediterranean diet is safe for everyone and there are no negative consequences. Just create a sensible plan. You can also follow the diet if you have dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, low-salt, and kosher. In the end, you will be eating plenty of delicious food. Make a Greek salad with fresh, seasonal vegetables and a light and tasty Greek dressing. Enjoy salmon with spinach and couscous. Mediterranean food is rich in spices, so you don’t need to worry about a lack of flavor. You will not only shed pounds but also improve your entire body. The Mediterranean diet improves your food choices rather than just your waistline.
The weight loss industry keeps getting bigger and bigger each year because more people are looking to lose weight. There are so many different diets out there, so it can be difficult to choose one that will work for you. One of the more popular diet plans out there is the coffee diet. The creators of this diet claim that it will help you lose weight without feeling hungry. It is not a quick weight loss plan, but it will help you lose the pounds you want if you stick with it long enough. Coffee can definitely affect your body and make you lose weight, but it can also have some negative effects. It is important to talk to your doctor before you think about starting the coffee diet.
Why Does Coffee Help With Weight Loss?
Coffee can help you lose weight because it suppresses your appetite. You are not as likely to eat as much food when you drink coffee, which can help you drop some weight. For example, if you drink a cup of coffee for breakfast, you probably won’t need to eat that big of a lunch. Another reason the coffee diet is effective is that it helps you burn more calories. The caffeine in coffee can stimulate thermogenesis, causing you to burn more calories. During thermogenesis, the body uses more heat and expends more energy.
Does This Diet Just Rely On Coffee?
The coffee diet does not just rely on coffee. In order for the diet to be successful, you have to eat healthy foods, control your portion sizes, and exercise. If you don’t do that, drinking coffee will not be effective at all. If you just drink a cup of coffee during every meal, you likely won’t eat as much food.
What Are the Positives of the Coffee Diet?
Drinking moderate amounts of coffee can actually be good for you. Drinking coffee can decrease your risk of developing diseases like diabetes, colon cancer, and Parkinson’s disease. If you are very active, coffee can also give you more energy and improve your performance.
Does the Coffee Diet Come With Any Negatives?
Like most other diets, the coffee diet does come with some negatives. If you drink too much caffeine, you can experience excessive urination, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, tremors, and an increased heart rate. That is why you should try not to drink more than three cups of coffee per day. Drink a cup of coffee in the morning, afternoon, and early evening. Avoid drinking coffee after 7 o’clock in the evening to prevent having sleeping problems.
As you can see, the coffee diet comes with both positives and negatives. If you do it the right way, however, it will not be dangerous for your body and can help you lose weight at a slow pace. You just have to avoid drinking too much coffee during the diet. Do take the time to tell your doctor about your diet plan to make sure it’s okay with them.
