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Attempt and success are co-related.

Some of us tend to slow down our pace when burdened by responsibilities and struggles of life. However, only a few of us have the capabilities to stand for our own. It is not important whether these people succeed or fail. The important thing is the "attempt" that they made.

An attempt can be classified as an individual to stand by his own principles and thoughts; it can be a good attempt and even a bad attempt. No matter the result, the power to act with an attempt is what is counted at the end of the day. In life, you will see several strong-built people who fail to climb even the first step of hurdles. You may also come across thin-built people who stand against all odds defying them with their true power. If body strength is not the reason for an attempt, what can be the possible reason for an individual to make an attempt?

All of us have dreams. All the dreams can be made possible. A dream which is not possible is nothing but just a mere wastage of life, which came as a result of self-illusions and over-estimation of self capabilities. There is no point in criticizing or praising destiny for the bad and good times of your life. If you are strong in your will-power and possess the zeal to come out strong, you will attempt. On the other hand, if you are made of sand, you will be blown into pieces by the heavy showers of ocean waves.

Unless you can dream and make those dreams realities of life, there is no use of you living in the dark shadows of life. If you cannot think beyond the comfort zone of yours, you will never ever succeed in your life. There is no use of nurturing dreams for this section of people. However, these people can also change their lives but that needs some concrete efforts. They need to prioritize things, work on their dreams by coming out of their comfort zones. Always remember that no one of us is born with pre-embedded qualities, we all learn on this Earth and no one as an individual is an exception.

Learn to fulfill your dreams; do not go blindly for unrealistic dreams. Start working, it does not matter if you run at tortoise's pace in the initial stages and later on, start walking like a human being.

Life is like a see-saw, one day you are up, the next day down!!!

With the help of this article, I would like to help those people who think that bad times are forever and tend to lose their inner strength over a period of time. No doubt, bad times do shatter our long-cherished dreams besides having a severe impact on our standing and self-confidence. But does that mean that we start accepting defeat even before embarking on our personal goals?

Let me help you break the shackles of low esteem and bring forward the winner in you. We all strive for the best and feel unhappy when things do not go as we expected. My motto in life is different than many others; I believe that success though important is not the sole criteria to judge a person's abilities. Failures bring the best out of us and allow us to stand tall in the turmoil of devastating failures. You must have heard of the famous saying, “Failures are the stepping stones to success”. Since no one is born perfect, we need to be perfect in our actions at all times and it just does not matter if we fail at times while giving an attempt. A perfect individual is one who can tolerate the failures of his life to go strong.

The basic reason why most of us fail meeting our expectations is not because we lack the killer instinct but because we tend to over-estimate over capabilities. In addition to that, we allow the "silent" happy moments of the life to be overshadowed by bad times of life.

I am no exception to this rule but one thing that makes me distinct from others is my zeal to be happy amidst all the worries and tensions of my life. When I was a teenager, I was quite emotional and used to feel low while encountering family issues and facing frequent abuses. This continuing phenomenon had a severe impact on my self-esteem, confidence and social interactions. I used to spend sleepless nights at my bed thinking about an amicable solution but just could not find any.

After a period of almost eight months, I decided to change my reasons of life and followed a zero tolerance policy towards all besides making myself prepared for all the unforeseeable family events. Things did take a lot of time to settle down but like all dreams come true with efforts; this dream of mine finally saw a hope. This hope was identified by me at an earlier stage and I started managing my personal relationships in a better way. I started prioritizing things of my life and worked towards them, ignored things and followed a "forget all" attitude. My family members were initially astonished to see such a considerable change in my personality and soon followed in my footsteps. Today I am a winner in my own eyes and that’s what matters to me.

Several years have passed by and now our family is one of the happiest families in the world. Being a happy family does not just mean giving respect or doing small yet meaningful favors for the other members but means a family happy in its entirety with each member able to contribute to its growth and happy in individuality as well as entirety.

There is no point in being the apple of your family's eyes when deep down inside you do things unhappily. Always remember the fact that you, as an individual and as a family member, cannot make all the others around you happy and there is no point in making others happy by destroying your own inner peace. “God helps those who help themselves”. Do things what you want to do, do not worry about the outcome even before you start the journey. If you are happy, others around you will be happy and if they don't, why should you waste your precious time in making them happy. Remember the rule of happiness and love, a person who loves you wants to see you happy at any cost. Try to think seriously about yourself, give yourself the due attention you always deserved. This however does not mean that you need to disrespect others or ride on them. Find things that can help you to positively change your personality. If you can take your own decisions then you cannot blame others if you fail and similarly others cannot take credit if you win. Having this type of approach to life will surely bring happiness to you.

Find happiness in small things, there are a lot of these things around you. I can be happy when I see a child smiling, I feel happy when I can help others to build their careers. The ways may be different but the goal is the same, inner happiness.

The situations in our lives may be different but no one is born happy or sad, lucky or unlucky. There is no point in praising or cursing the destiny for things of our lives. Start having belief in your abilities, perform at your best and the world will be a different platform for you to display your real metal.

I really wish that my words can help you to lead a better life and be a better individual. If I am unable to do this for me, my purpose of writing this article is simply defeated but I really hope that you will not disappoint me by just reading this article by having a glance on it or thinking it as a waste bunch of words.

Herbs and Pregnancy

Most of the problems of pregnancy can be prevented by attention to nutrition. Morning sickness and mood swings are connected to low blood sugar; backaches and severe labor pains often result from insufficient calcium; varicose veins, hemorrhoids, constipation, skin discoloration and anemia are evidence of lack of specific nutrients; preeclampsia, the most severe problem of pregnancy, is a form of acute malnutrition. Excellent nutrition includes pure water, controlled breath, abundant light, loving and respectful relationships, beauty and harmony in daily life, joyous thoughts and vital foodstuffs.
Wild foods and organically grown produce, grains and herbs are the best source of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients needed during pregnancy.
HERBAL TONICS DURING PREGNANCY
These herbs are empirically safe and notably effective. Tonic herbs improve general health by balancing and sustaining energy flow and focus in the body.
Tonics allay annoyances and prevent major problems. They can boost the supply of vital minerals and vitamins, increase energy and improve uterine tone. The tonics indicated for pregnancy need to be used regularly; a tonic is to the cells much as exercise is to the muscles: not much use when done erratically. Of course even occasional use of tonics during pregnancy will be of benefit, since they do contain nourishing factors. Better benefit will come from using them 5 times a week or more.
Women in many cultures have used the following herbs for centuries to have a healthier pregnancy.
RED RASPBERRY LEAVES
Brewed as a tea or as an infusion, raspberry is the best known, most widely used, and safest of all uterine and pregnancy tonic herbs. It contains fragrine, an alkaloid which gives tone to the muscles of the pelvic region, including the uterus itself.
The benefits of drinking a raspberry leaf brew before and throughout pregnancy include:
· Increasing fertility in both men and women. Raspberry leaf is an excellent fertility herb when combined with Red Clover.
· Preventing miscarriage and hemorrhage.
· Easing of morning sickness.
· Reducing pain during labor and after birth. By toning the muscles used during labor and delivery, Raspberry leaf eliminates many of the reasons for a painful delivery and prolonged recovery.
· Assisting in the production of plentiful breast milk. The high mineral content of Raspberry leaf assist in milk production, but its astringency may counter that for some women.
NETTLE LEAVES
Some pregnant women alternate weeks of nettle and raspberry brews; others drink raspberry until the last month and then switch to nettles to insure large amounts of vitamin K in the blood before birth.
The benefits of drinking nettle infusion before and throughout pregnancy include:
· Aiding the kidneys. Nettle infusions were instrumental in rebuilding the kidneys. Since the kidneys must cleanse 150 percent of the normal blood supply for most of the pregnancy, nettle's ability to nourish and strengthen them is of major importance. Any accumulation of minerals in the kidneys, such as gravel or stones, is gently loosened, dissolved and eliminated by the consistent use of nettle infusions.
· Nourishing mother and fetus.
· Easing leg cramps and other spasms.
· Diminishing pain during and after birth. The high calcium content, which is readily assimilated, helps diminish muscle pains in the uterus, in the legs and elsewhere.
· Preventing hemorrhage after birth. Nettle is a superb source of vitamin K, and increases available hemoglobin, both of which decrease the likelihood of postpartum hemorrhage. Fresh Nettle Juice, in teaspoon doses, slows postpartum bleeding.
· Reducing hemorrhoids. Nettle's mild astringency and general nourishing action tightens and strengthens blood vessels, helps maintain arterial elasticity and improves venous resilience.
CHASTE TREE
Another important herbal ally for women over forty who desire a child is chaste tree. It is a strengthening tonic for the pituitary gland, the master control gland for the endocrine system. Daily use of the tincture of the berries (1 dropperful/1 ml 2-3 times daily) had been shown to increase progesterone--the hormone of pregnancy--and luteinizing hormone--which promotes conception. Because it can lower prolactin levels, chaste tree is best discontinues during the last trimester of pregnancy.

Dieting during Pregnancy

Pregnancy is the most beautiful phase in a woman's life. It brings about emotional and physiological changes as well as poses extra demands on the body. A healthy diet is crucial to having a healthy pregnancy. Good nutrition is essential to ensuring that a mother's body can give the unborn baby the nourishment she or he requires to develop and grow.

Energy requirement varies among individuals. It is generally recommended that pregnant women increase their daily intake by 100kcal in the first trimester and 300kcal in the second and third trimester. A daily prenatal multivitamin supplement is often recommended during pregnancy.

The daily diet should include:
Fresh fruit and vegetables, especially citrus fruits and dark green vegetables, which contain folic acid.
Carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, grains, potatoes and cereals.
Lean meat or fish, especially oily fish which has high levels of essential fatty acids.
Milk and other dairy produce such as yoghurt, fromage frais and cheese - choose lower fat options where possible.
Folate, or Folic acid, is a B vitamin found in a number of foods. It is needed to support the increasing maternal blood volume and to decrease the risk of baby Neural Tube Defects (NTD). Diet alone is not likely to provide enough folate. Therefore, it is recommended that women should start taking a daily folate supplement of 400ug (0.4mg) 3 months prior to conception and should continue through the first 3 months of the pregnancy.
Foods that contain folic acid include:
Dark green vegetables
Cereals, especially whole grains - some breads and cereal products are fortified with folic acid (read the packet's nutritional label)
Oranges, grapefruit, bananas
beans and pulses
Milk and yoghurt
Yeast or malt extracts (as drinks or spreads)
Iron is essential to maintaining a sufficient level of blood supply to the growing baby and the placenta. As many women's iron stores are not enough for meeting the increased requirements during pregnancy, a daily low dose iron supplement (30mg) is often recommended during the second and third trimesters. Iron deficiency can be prevented by eating more iron-rich foods like:
Meat (thoroughly cooked)
Dark green vegetables such as broccoli, watercress, spinach and kale
Nuts (although you may need to avoid peanuts) - almonds and brazil nuts are a good source
Pulses such as chick-peas and lentils
Whole grains such as whole meal bread, brown rice and breakfast cereals
Dried fruit
Eggs

Caffeine is harmful during pregnancy
The research shows that high intakes of caffeine may lead to miscarriage. The Food Standards Agency suggests pregnant women limit their intake of coffee to no more than four cups a day. Cola drinks also contain caffeine. Switching to non-caffeine alternatives where ever possible is advisable.

Drinking, smoking and other perils
Pregnant women should avoid alcohol completely. Continuous, heavy drinking can cause permanent brain and developmental damage in the foetus. Smoking raises the carbon monoxide levels in the blood, reducing the amount of oxygen a baby gets, which affects growth and makes him vulnerable to infection. It also puts him at higher risk of stillbirth or being born early. After the birth there's an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS or cot death). Drugs, including cannabis and ecstasy, are risky during pregnancy as they reach the baby's bloodstream as well as yours. Heroin and cocaine can create serious dependency problems in babies. Infectious diseases can be risky, too.

Vegetarian and Vegan diet

What are Vegetarian and Vegan?

Vegetarians do not eat meat, fish, and poultry. Vegans are vegetarians who abstain from eating or using all animal products, including milk, cheese, other dairy items, eggs, wool, silk, leather, etc. and eats only plant-based foods.. Among the many reasons for being a vegetarian are health, ecological, and religious concerns, dislike of meat, compassion for animals, belief in non-violence, and economics. The American Dietetic Association has affirmed that a vegetarian diet can meet all known nutrient needs. The key to a healthy vegetarian diet, as with any other diet, is to eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, plenty of leafy greens, whole grain products, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Limit your intake of sweets and fatty foods.
Staples of a Vegetarian Diet

A balanced vegetarian diet should include:

Grains and cereals: Wholegrain bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, muesli.
Legumes, nuts and seeds: Soya beans. kidney beans, split peas, lentils, almonds, cashews, sesame seeds
Fruit and vegetables: As much as you want - think variety. Try new fruits and vegetables and include them in your diet every day
Dairy or Soya products: Look out for fat free and reduced calorie options for milk, yoghurts, and cheeses.

A typical vegetarian diet closely matches expert dietary recommendations for healthy eating, being low in saturated fat and high in fiber, complex carbohydrates, and fresh fruit and vegetables. As long as you eat a variety of foods you will be getting all the nutrients you need.

A vegetarian diet tends to be lower in total fat, and vegetarians tend to eat proportionally more polyunsaturated fat to saturated fat compared with non-vegetarians. (Animal products are the major sources of dietary saturated fat).Studies have shown that vegetarians (following a well-balanced low-fat high-fiber vegetarian diet) often have lower incidence of coronary artery disease, hypertension, obesity and some forms of cancer.
Some Americans are obsessed with protein. Vegans are bombarded with questions about where they get their protein. Although protein is certainly an essential nutrient which plays many key roles in the way our bodies function, we do not need huge quantities of it. In reality, we need small amounts of protein. Only one calorie out of every ten we take in needs to come from protein.

How much protein do we need?
The RDA recommends that we take in 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram that we weigh (or about 0.36 grams of protein per pound that we weigh).

Since vegans eat a variety of plant protein sources, somewhere between 0.8 and 1 gram of protein per kilogram would be a protein recommendation for vegans. If we do a few calculations we see that the protein recommendation for vegans amounts to close to 10% of calories coming from protein.

So, in the United States it appears that vegan diets are commonly lower in protein than standard American diets. Remember, though, with protein, more (than the RDA) is not necessarily better. There do not appear to be health advantages to consuming a high protein diet. Diets that are high in protein may even increase the risk of osteoporosis and kidney disease.

Whey Protein powder

Whey protein refers to a complex product made up of lactose, protein, minerals and fats. It mainly consists of protein and consists of several proteins such as Beta-lactoglobulin, immunoglobulins (IgGs), bovine serum albumin (BSA), and lactalbumin in addition to lysozyme, lactoperoxidases and lactoferrin al having their own unique effects on immunity and health.
It is now the most preferred biologically available protein on the Earth and has been the priority for many modern day athletes. It is also absorbed easily by the body and easily utilizable protein and has the largest protein content per serving. It has a remarkably high biological value rating and a remarkably high content of Branch Chain Amino Acid (BCAA). Whey Protein Isolates (WPIs) are considered to contain as much as 90-96% of protein. A good WPI is known to contain large amount of protein and less fat.
Whey protein powder is found to be pleasant in taste and can be easily consumed with any favorite beverage. It may be taken anything between one to two servings depending upon the level of activity and it ensures that the body gets the sufficient amount of dietary protein.
Side effects of Whey protein

Whey protein, if taken in very high quantity can cause overload of the liver and can also pose some serious consequences. Overdose of whey protein can be harmful. Whey protein can also cause allergic reactions in acute cases where people suffer from intolerance to lactose or who are usually allergic to dairy products. The best option is to take consultation of your doctor before consuming Whey protein. It can also result in the deterioration of kidney function.

Thus, to derive maximum benefits out of the Whey proteins, the intake of whey protein has to be dependent on the level of goals and muscle activity. Bodybuilders would normally require a consumption of 150 grams or more of whey protein a day. It has been recommended that a person must take only 1gm of protein per pound of his body weight. In case of any doubt regarding the usage and effects of whey protein for your body, please beforehand consult your medical practitioner.

Designer Whey protein recipes

What is Whey protein? Whey protein refers to a complex product made up of lactose, protein, minerals and fats. It mainly consists of protein and consists of several proteins such as Beta-lactoglobulin, immunoglobulins (IgGs), bovine serum albumin (BSA), and lactalbumin in addition to lysozyme, lactoperoxidases and lactoferrin al having their own unique effects on immunity and health.

Whey is considered to be a great source of raising the level of glutathione (GSH) in the human body which is considered to be the most significant water-soluble antioxidant in the human body is also helpful to the immune system of the Body.

There are several recipes that can be made to give an extra touch to the No. 1 protein on this Earth.

Designer Whey Breakfast

Ingredients:

1 cup instant oatmeal
1 ¾ cups of water
2 scoops of designer Whey Vanilla
Non-fat milk (if required)
Sugar-free jam, nuts, raisins, and cinnamon (if required)

One cup instant oatmeal needs to be mixed with 1 ½ cups of water in a big microwave safe bowl and has to be stirred until oatmeal is completely moistened. Then cook for 2 minutes on high power in the microwave. Then stir two level Vanilla designer whey scoops into ¼ cup of water and pour this into oatmeal and stir. You can add Sugar-free jam, nuts, raisins, and cinnamon as per your liking.

Make 1 serving
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories 305
Protein 38g
Carbohydrates 29g
Fat 4g
Protein Apple Pancakes

This is great to taste and would put water in your mouth in addition to providing you with all the necessary amount of proteins.

Ingredients:

6 slices of whole wheat bread
3 scoops of Designer Whey Vanilla Praline
½ cup of enriched flour
4 large baking apples, must be peeled and cored
2 Tbs. each of ground cinnamon, granulated sugar and Lemon juice
6 large egg whites (you can add 2 egg yolks, for a fluffy look).
3/4 cup of skimmed milk

The bread can be crumbed and placed in a big mixing bowl using food processor’s chopping blades. Whey and flour can then be added to the bread crumbs and a fork can be used to stir for blending.

Then apples needs to be grated using the food processor’s grating blade and put in the mixing bowl. Lemon juice can then be sprinkled and cinnamon can be put over apples. Then stir with a fork for a while and then milk and egg whites and stir again. Add egg mixture and apple to the mixture of bread crumb and stir again to bend.

Griddle needs to be spread with the help of a non-stick coking spray and then griddle is pre-heated to medium-to-high heating. Dollop batter (1/4 measuring cup) can then be put onto the heated griddle. Batter needs to be spread to 4-inches circles. Do not turn more than twice each side and cook until both of the sides appears to be golden brown.

Make 16 pancakes.
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per pancake)
Protein 6g
Calories 109
Fiber 2g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fat >1g

Protein Loaded Designer Protein Shake

Ingredients:

3 scoops of Designer Whey
½ cup concentrate of frozen grape juice
1 scoop of Phosphagen HP
1 tsp. of Knox ™ unflavored gelatin
8 oz water

Put all of the ingredients in a blender and blend for 1 minute at high speed.

Nutritional Information
Calories 682
Protein 59g
Carbohydrates 107g
Fat 2g
Banana Designer Protein Pudding

Ingredients:

1 packet Jell-O® Brand Banana Instant Sugar & Fat-Free Pudding
2 scoops of Designer Whey Praline
3 cups of skim milk

Put skimmed milk, designer whey and pudding packet at low speed for around 2 minutes in blender. Then pour it into 2 medium-sized bowls and then refrigerate for approximately 7-10 minutes.


Makes 2 servings.
Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories 289
Protein 35g
Carbohydrates 34g
Fat 1g

Renting Fitness Equipment

We all do some common things such as walking the stairs, walking or may be a workout at gym. If that leads to a shortage of breath, weight gain making you go insane and tiredness coming your way every now, and you have finally decided that enough is enough, I am going to change it all finally. Then this is definitely a god decision, better late than never.

At some time, we have to make choice whether this particular fitness equipment is worth a buy or not. A good equipment costs somewhat above or around $1000 which is not a usual object to afford for many of us guys. But when did we think of renting it as that would mean the object of our choice without any quality compromises. Isn’t that just great, just what the Heart thought.

This surely has a valid point. We get to have the equipment without actually paying it all the way and there is a variety of equipments that could be grabbed with the same amount that could have bought just single equipment is just too good to resist.

The renting of fitness equipment usually comes with a trial offer where one can have a thorough look at all the aspects of the equipment. It is always better to know your machine perfectly before you begin on it. Then one can also have a look at the benefits that could add to their wardrobe of equipments. That too at no additional cost.

We all know that exercises can be done in a more uniformed and positive way through the use of fitness equipments, and you have an option of renting the fitness equipments.
Benefits of renting fitness equipment:
This is a pretty good option in case one isn’t sure or wants to be completely sure of the equipments he would be using. This would also make the exercises at home with the added comfort of doing it any hour of the day, without waiting for the gym to open or odd hours or when you just feel the desire deep down inside to have it. If you are living in a apartment you must also be aware of several issues that would not have come to the mind at the first instance like space and noise issues.
Renting is economical.
Renting is indeed a cost-saving measure and all the tensions can just be left behind. There are numerous fitness equipments that are out of reach of the common public, and that’s where renting do the wonders. Not only does it provide the option in a very economical way but it also paves the way for using the equipment. This may also be cheaper when compared to the membership of a reputed health club.

Renting is also beneficial in cases where there is a problem of temporary home where the service provider of the equipments makes the necessary arrangements for shifting of the bulky equipments, if that is, of course provided in the terms of the renting agreement.

This may also be helpful in case the person intending to use these equipments wants to use it temporarily. This actually solves the problem of many a busy people who are not blessed with endless money to spend on these equipments. This is a 24*7 facility at no additional costs.

Acetyl L-Carnitine

Acetyl L-Carnitine is primarily derived from the methionine and lysine amino acids and is largely synthesized in the kidney and liver of the human body. It must be carried to other body tissues so that they can use them. The content of L-Carnitine is found in abundant in cardiac and skeletal muscles which use fatty acids of the body as the chief dietary fuel.

The primary aim of L-Carnitine supplements to the human body is the oxidation of fatty acids that helps in regulating the undesired fat in the body. Fatty acids are used predominantly for energy purposes and oxidation refers to the process of burning these fatty acids by breaking them for the purpose of creation of energy. Carnitine is beneficial to carry the fatty acids past the mitochondria membrane for allowing oxidation of fats in the human body.
Benefits of Carnitine:

1. It helps in production of energy.
2. It is also beneficial for weight loss.
3. It slows down aging.
4. It prevent cataract.
5. It improves level of cellular energy in the brain.
6. Reduces depression symptoms and enhance mental performance.
7. Support body functions having a high demand level.

It also plays an important role in the production of energy in the body besides supporting all the functions of the body that needs high doses of energy. Carnitine is present in many food items such as grains, meat and vegetables. It is found in abundance in red meats like lamb and beef.

The human body is able to produce only a meager amount of L-Carnitine daily and that too is concentrated mainly in the skeletal and heart muscles. This may be the most needed essential nutrient in cases where its demand exceed someone’s ability to synthesis it.

Those who are vegetarian are at a loss of Carnitine but that can be easily met with several Carnitine supplements available in the market worldwide today.
Side effects of Carnitine:

Rise in blood pressure.
Heartbeat tends to get faster.
Diarrhea and fever.
Symptoms of Carnitine deficiency:
Weakening of muscles.
Heart irregularities.
Malfunctioning of kidneys after exercise session.
Muscle cramping and muscle fatigue.


How much should I take?

Normally, approximately 2gm can be taken and the supplements of L-Carnitine supplements normally come in 250mg and 500mg.
Thus it can be summarized that Carnitine acts as a mode of transportation of carrying energy to the body and helps in proper functioning of the body. It is found in abundance in red meats and support body functions having a high demand level.