February 20, 2012
There seem to be an air of cynicism whenever I mention the idea of an all female training area. To some, this notion may seem patronising. Would there even be market for them beyond a handful of enthusiasts? There are indeed several advantages training in an all female environment. Firstly, it is a great option to consider especially if you… Read more…
February 13, 2012
If you are bored of the usual workout of dumbbells or treadmill, why not check out Capoeira? Capoeira (pronounced as “Ca-pu-aye-rah”) is a Portuguese word and is derived from the Tupi- Guarani (an Amazonian tribe) language, which relates to a type of low standing grass. Capoeira was thought be developed around the 16th Century by the Afro-Brazilian slaves. The… Read more…
February 6, 2012
Zumba’s appeal lies in its being a dance party rather than a traditional workout routine. As it continues its attraction and people who do not normally exercise get drawn into it, this can heighten the risk of ankle sprains, hamstrings or calf injuries associated with it. Some tips for minimising risk on such injuries include: Consult a physician before embarking… Read more…
January 30, 2012
The fitness industry is constantly evolving with the launch of new programs every other day. And the aerobics and dance moves routine isn’t a new idea too, however, it has also evolved with the introduction of Latin inspired moves program called- ZUMBA ® Fitness. ZUMBA ® Fitness has taken the globe by storm with its high energy music repertoire and… Read more…
January 24, 2012
This section continues to introduce the major Vitamin groups and the food sources which are rich in them. Refer to Part 1 here Vitamin Essential for Deficiency disease Food sources Vitamin D Calcium absorption and prevents bones from being brittle Osteomalacia Fish (especially Halibut, Salmon, Mackerel), Oysters, Eggs Vitamin E Been linked to minimising risk of… Read more…
January 16, 2012
Vitamins refers to an (or a related set of components) organic chemical compound if it cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by an organism, and thus has to be obtained from its diet. However, requirement for vitamin varies from organism to organism. For instance, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a vitamin for humans, but not for most other animals. The… Read more…
January 9, 2012
How do you know when you’re through eating a meal? Do you stop when a) You feel full b) Your plate is clean c) Your fellow diners have “finished” their meal If either option b) and c) is your answer, then you are probably not listening to your body cues. The left posterior amygdala (LPA) of the brain has been… Read more…
January 2, 2012
Bi-carbonate ions function as a buffer to regulate the normal levels of acidity (pH) in blood and other bodily fluids. The pH level is affected by food/fluid intake or medications as well as the function of the kidneys and lungs. The pH level can be affected by the amount of hydrogen ions present. Increases in hydrogen ions, increases the acidity… Read more…
December 26, 2011
Potassium assists in the regulation of the heartbeat and muscular functions. Abnormal increase in potassium (hyperkalemia) or decrease in potassium (hypokalemia) can adversely affect the nervous system and increases the chance of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), which can be fatal. The normal blood potassium range is 3.5 – 5.0 millimoles/liter (mmol/L). Increased potassium is known as hyperkalemia. Potassium is normally excreted… Read more…
December 19, 2011
Excess sodium (such as from dietary sources) is usually excreted in the urine. Sodium helps to adjust the amount of water in the body. In addition, many bodily processes in the brain, nervous system, and muscles, rely on electrical signals (impulses) for communication. The transmission of sodium is critical in the generation of such signals. Hence, too much or too… Read more…
