Top 5 Flat-Belly Foods

Top 5 Foods for a Flat Belly

Dreaming of a flat stomach without hitting the gym? The good news is your dream may not be too far away. Whether you’re hoping to blitz away a muffin top or are battling with bloating, your diet is integral to shaping up this problem area. Start eating your way to a trimmer waistline with these top 5 foods for a flat stomach.

Flax seeds

Flax seeds (often referred to as linseeds) are nutritious seeds packed with monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) - which are actually a lot more diet-friendly than they sound. Monounsaturated fats, unlike saturated fats (the "bad" fats found in junk food), not only lower cholesterol levels but they can also help to reduce body fat. Liz Vaccariello, author of The Flat Belly Diet, advocates these healthy fats for those wanting to specifically target belly fat.

Not only will these super seeds tackle love handles, but they are great for those suffering from bloating. Flax seeds provide high levels of fibre and can help to keep the digestive system running smoothly, helping to banish bloating, constipation and other digestive problems. Try adding a tablespoon of freshly ground flax seeds to your morning cereal, lunchtime salad, or homemade smoothie to start enjoying their belly-flattening benefits.

Berries

Blackberries, blueberries, acai berries... what do these fruits have in common? They could all help you to squeeze back into your skinny jeans. Studies have suggested that those wanting to lose their belly fat should opt for fruit that is blue or red in colour (such as cherries, red grapes and many types of berries). In fact, it is the chemicals that are responsible for giving these fruits their colour (anthocyanins) that, according to recent research, also burn abdominal fat.

Yoghurt

Not only is yoghurt low in fat and calories, so good as a weight loss food, but many yoghurts also contain active cultures (probiotics) which promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut and help with digestion, excess gas and bloating. Yoghurt is luckily easy to fit into any diet plan as part of a meal or a snack between meals. You could also try combining natural yoghurt, berries and flax seeds in a morning smoothie or bowl of cereal, getting you off to a great tummy-trimming start before you even leave the house.

Whole grains

Whole grains are great for weight management and shedding those excess pounds. Not only are they a low-fat source of slow-release energy but, due to their high levels of fibre, they will help to regulate the digestive system and also keep you feeling fuller for longer. Eating whole grains also helps to lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and insulin in the body, both of which encourage fat to be stored around the belly.

Many people, however, instinctively opt for wheat as their primary source of whole grains, which is often not the best choice. Not only is wheat difficult to digest - which can cause bloating in some - but it is better to eat grains in their natural form rather than as a processed flour. Good alternatives to try are brown rice, oats, buckwheat and spelt. Quinoa - although technically a seed - is also a nutritious alternative that can be used in the place of grains such as pasta and couscous.

Water

While it's not technically a food, a lack of water in your diet could be the one thing still standing in your way of a flat stomach. Bloating is something that affects many women and the problem is often worsened - or even instigated - by a lack of fluids in the system. Drinking water will help to flush toxins out of the system, curb hunger, improve the digestive system and reduce fluid retention, all of which will leave your stomach looking flatter.

If you are aiming for a flat belly, it is important to drink a minimum of eight glasses of liquids a day. Although this does not have to be water, it is best to go for liquids that are still (fizzy drinks can cause bloating) and low in calories. If you don't fancy plain water, a good alternative is green tea - which is also rumoured to have fat burning benefits - or fennel, dandelion or peppermint teas, all of which can combat bloating.

Top 7 Flat-Belly Tricks

Top 7 Flat-Belly Tricks

Most women have experienced the feeling of being bloated at some point in their lives. However, for some it can be a recurring problem, leading to frequent discomfort and embarrassment. To help beat bloating and get the flat stomach you’ve dreamed of, check out these 10 de-bloating tips.

Consult your GP

Bloating can be caused by numerous factors including water retention and poor digestion. However, if you frequently suffer from chronic bloating you should visit your GP to discuss your symptoms and try to pinpoint a cause. As bloating can be a symptom of manageable conditions such as IBS or coeliac disease, as well as a reaction to certain medications, it is important to get an expert opinion.

Keep a food diary

If you tend to get bloated following meals, it could be that you are suffering from a food intolerance. It may be worth getting tested for food intolerances; however, experts are unsure of the effectiveness of these tests. The best thing is to keep a food diary, noting everything you eat as well as any signs of bloating, to help identify a link.

Take a probiotic

A healthy gut is packed with good bacteria which help to break down food and prevent yeast overgrowth. However, due to factors such as stress and medication (particularly antibiotics) levels of good bacteria can get low. When this happens, digestion and levels of yeast in the gut are affected, both of which can lead to bloating. To rectify this, try taking a probiotic supplement. Probiotics can also be found in some yoghurts, although dairy can be a cause of bloating for some.

Stay hydrated

Ironic as it may sound, staying well hydrated is one of the best ways to reduce the water retention which can lead to bloating. Furthermore, getting enough fluids can help you to improve your digestion and avoid constipation. Try to drink regularly throughout the day, opting for uncarbonated drinks such as water, peppermint or fennel tea.

Avoid gas-inducing foods

The leading cause of bloating is excess gas, so try to limit your intake of gas-inducing foods such as cabbage, sprouts, beans and grains. Also, avoid the sweeteners sorbitol and maltitol, try not to overdo your intake of fibre, and avoid chewing gum, which can exacerbate bloating. Try to also cut down on refined sugars, fermented products such as alcohol and cheese, and foods containing yeast, as these can cause yeast in the gut to thrive, which can lead to excess gas and bloating.

Concentrate on your meals

Many of us eat our meals on the go or while chatting with family and friends; however, taking more time over your meals and not talking while you eat could help reduce post-meal bloating. Eating too quickly and talking while eating can cause you to swallow air, leading to excess gas. Also, as digestion begins in the mouth, not chewing your food enough times can affect how well it is digested. It is also beneficial to eat little and often, as large meals can overload the digestive system.

12 Tips to Feel Sexy in 2012

Top 12 Tips to Feel Sexy in 2012

1. Look at yourself in the mirror every day. Get up close so you can look directly into your own eyes. Smile and say, “I love you.” Do this every day until you really, truly, deeply believe it. Don’t be surprised if this deceptively simple exercise brings tears to your eyes.

2. Think about a time when you felt sexy and confident. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and totally immerse yourself in the memory. Recall every detail you can, until you feel the feelings bubbling up to the surface. Hold onto the feelings for a few seconds, and while they’re still strong, open your eyes and smile. You’re training yourself to feel sexy and confident when you do this regularly.

3. Let your clothing reflect you. Go through your closet and get rid of any clothing that no longer fits or feels good. If you don’t love it, donate it. You should be left with only things you love or need. Any time you wear frumpy, ill fitting clothing, you tell yourself you don’t deserve to feel sexy. This doesn’t mean you always have to dress up. Simple, casual, well-fitting clothing can stay.

4. Put on your favorite outfit. Look at yourself in a full length mirror. Compliment yourself out loud about how great you look, and be specific. Parade around your bedroom and strike a few poses. Don’t forget to smile as you do it; remember, it’s all about attitude!

5. Sign up for pole dancing classes. No, I’m not kidding. Take classes for at least a month. Not only is pole dancing a kick-butt workout, but you can’t help feeling sexy... and strong, and powerful... when you master a move. As an added bonus, the classes will make you stronger and more confident, and there’s nothing sexier than a strong, confident woman. 

6. Take the initiative. If you have a romantic partner, take the initiative and do something sexually you’ve never done.  I guarantee, your partner will be so stoked, you’ll feel like a goddess. Need an idea? Try this: look him (or her) right in the eye, with your chin lowered so you’re looking up into their eyes. Say, “I want to make love to you... right now.” Then take their hand and walk into the bedroom. Even that little bit of initiative will put some sizzle in the act.

7. Learn how to hula hoop. It’s cheap, and you can find lots of great tutorials on YouTube. Hooping gets you into your body, and when you’re tuned into your body it’s easy to treat it well. It helps loosen the hips, which makes it easier to express your emotions. I know that might sound strange, but energetically we store grief in our hips. Tight hips mean a lot of grief, and it’s hard to feel sexy when you have a lot of unexpressed grief.

8. Give yourself permission to feel sexy. One of the great gifts of the female body is that it’s full of soft lines and curves. Being sexy doesn’t mean you’re stupid. Being sexy doesn’t mean you think your value is in your beauty. It means that you appreciate this body you’ve been given. It means you don’t have to compete with men on their turf; you’ve got your own. Gone are the days when women find self confidence from acting like men. Act like a real woman!

9. Do something creative. The second chakra is the home of sexuality and creativity. It’s an energy wheel that sits inside the pelvic bowl. Its center, in women, is in the womb. Energetically, creativity and sexuality are inseparable. If you’re really stuck trying to feel yourself sexy, do something creative instead. So you say you’re not an artist? Bake something, or experiment with a new dinner recipe. It will set the creative juices flowing and give you the same energetic lift as any of these other steps.

10. Take a dance exercise class. Nia and Zumba are the most popular, and they’re are also hybrid yoga classes that incorporate dance. Or you could fulfill a childhood dream and take ballet, jazz or tap lessons. Dance classes help you get in touch with your body- how it feels, how it moves, what it needs. Being in touch with your body is sexy. Best of all, you don’t have to be in great shape to start, and they’ll help you become more fit and healthy.

11. SMILE! Smiling is sexy. It makes you feel good, and when you smile, other people around you will feel good. Smiling is contagious, and in some situations will make people wonder what you’ve been up to. That combination of happy and mysterious is sexy.

12. "Love" Yourself. Give yourself an orgasm (or two!) before you go out on the town with your girlfriends. The endorphins flowing through your body, plus the subtle scent to pheromones, will drive guys wild. The fact that you are the one responsible for your sexual pleasure is empowering and super sexy. And every time you remember your little secret, you’ll get a sly smile or a big grin on your face.

The worrying trend of 'sexting'

Sexting: You Can Do Something About It

A growing trend among youngsters to take and share indecent photos through mobile phones is a matter of grave concern. 

Two major surveys involving more than 3,000 children suggest that four out of ten have received or seen an indecent image via a mobile, reports the Daily Mail .

As if you weren’t concerned enough about your child’s online life, the topic of sexting is another important facet to our modern day e-world. Sexting encompasses any electronic exchange that contains sexual talk and or pictures. In mild cases it can look like flirting, while in severe cases it can be considered a crime. Take, for example, a just barely 18 year-old 12th grade boy who is texting an almost 15 year old freshman. He asks her “how far she has gone,” which then leads to other graphic questions. In the end he asks her if she’d send him a suggestive picture of herself. She obliges, and suddenly you have a very serious offense. 

A serving police officer seconded to the survey, Alan Earl, has given talks in scores of secondary schools about the dangers of children swapping explicit photographs of themselves. "Boys ask girls to take pictures of themselves naked, and the girls do it to please them. Not all girls, but those who have boyfriends: they think their pictures are not going to be shown." 



 "After my talk, at almost every school, a teacher will approach me and confide that they've already had to deal with an incident like those I've described," Earl added. 

More typically, the naked images sent around phones are static poses, usually of girls standing up or lying down. 

"It is girlfriend/boyfriend stuff, but then the relationship breaks down and the boy sends the pictures on," said Alan Earl. 

A photograph of a young girl in the wrong hands is the beginning of a nightmare.  Because teens can “hide” behind their screens, sexting, allows them to learn about sexual behaviors without the face-to-face embarrassment. Even “good” girls and boys may be tempted to sext.

When should you talk to your teen about sexting?  And what should you say? The answer is to talk opening about cell phone use and sexting before it happens. 

• Tell your child/teen that YOU have the ability to monitor their texts.  Let him or her know that if sexual talk, body pictures or other crude information is exchanged, you will suspend cellular use. 
• Enforce a NO BODY PICTURES rule.  No excuses.
• Monitor their texts! If this feels violating, then monitor the time texts are sent (aka 2 am) and to whom they are sent.
• Children under the age of 16 do not REALLY need smart phones with high resolution picture capabilities, etc.  This only facilitates sexting.
• Talk to girls about the dangers of having text conversations about sexual experiences – past and potential future. Boys will quickly become more bold and eager to text more and ask more graphic questions. Girls sometimes do not know how to stop unsolicited questions or requests for pictures of themselves.
• Talk to boys about the trouble that can result from blatant sexual solicitations. Girls will often-times NOT tell them they are uncomfortable, or can turn around and claim “sexual harassment” when none was intended (this should be judged by a case-to-case basis obviously.)

With the prevalence of cell phones, sexting is on the rise. Parents need to be aware of the threats and talk to their children about the dangers to prevent the potentially devestating, and long-lasting effects of sexting.

5 Most Common Sex Mistakes That Men Make

The Most Common Sex Mistakes That Men Make

When it comes to sex, a lot of men are left to their own devices to figure out what their partner wants, which lead to some basic errors. Men make these mistakes due to the perceptions they have about what they think their partner wants or needs based on their previous experiences. Most have only adult movies to guide them, which are absolutely not based on reality and are misleading.Guys tend to forget that these movies are just an act and that it would be foolish to model their sexual behaviour on the basis  on these films.

Her is a list of few of the most common mistakes that men men make during sex:

1. Men presume that they know what a women wants in bed: Relationships are complicated and a lot of men assume that they know what their current partner wants in bed based on previous relationships that they have had(men that is). This is a major error as every women is a different individual with her own set of sensibilities when it comes to sex. Men need to understand and adjust to their partner’s needs and comfort level about sex. As what worked for their previous partner may not do so with their current one.

2. Women’s Orgasm: A lot of men feel inadequate or feel that there is something wrong with their partner if she does not achieve orgasm during sexual intercourse. This is plain foolish as a lot of women if not most need extra stimulation besides intercourse to have an orgasm. Oral sex and adult toys can help their partner reach an orgasm and there is absolutely no need to feel inadequacy if that is what it takes to satisfy their partner.

3. Sex has the same meaning or feel for both men and women: This is another very common error that men make. Sex has a very different meaning for women than it does for men. While for most men sex is more of a physical act; for women emotional reasons play an important role in the build up to and the actual act of sex. To make sure that their partner is going to enjoy sex, men need to make sure that they are emotionally connected with their partner and spend more time in foreplay and other forms of intimacy like kissing and fondling, rather than just indulging in  intercourse straight away.

4. Know when their partner is turned on: A common misconception that men have is that the wetter the women is, the more turned on she is. How much natural lubrication a women has changes form individual to individual and is also dependent on which phase of menstrual cycle she is in. Don’t worry if you feel your partner is not wet enough, just use a good lubricant if you need to. This will ensure that sex is not painful or uncomfortable for both you and your partner.

5. There is no need to talk during sex: Silence is not golden in this case. you need to communicate with your partner during sex to know what is working for you both. Guiding each other during sex will ensure that both partners are satisfied and enjoy their lovemaking. There is no need to be shy and you should encourage your partner to do the same. Be receptive to her suggestions and gently persuade her to yours. Remember not to be critical or rude as nothing can ruin intimacy more than that.

The key here for men is to change their mindset and preconceived notions about sex. Doing so will certainly improve the relationship with your partner in general and your sex life in particular.

What Women Secretly Think During Sex

What Women Secretly Think During Sex

Most Men tend to forget about everything when they indulge in sex, women on the other hand are thinking about a lot of things. According to a survey done by Women’s Health  magazine on their readers; women are thinking about somethings that men would be surprised by. These insights into their state of mind during sex gives you the opportunity to prepare and put them at ease, so that both of you can really enjoy your intimate session.

Some of the things that stood out from this survey included the following:

Women are very conscious of their body hair: More than 50% of the women surveyed said that they were conscious about their body hair when they had sex. So this gives you the clue to not make any remarks about their body hair and go about your lovemaking as if you don’t care about things like unshaved legs etc.

Women want to experiment: A lot of women fantasize about experimenting with things like sex toys etc during sex, but are too embarrassed to speak about them with their partners. So the next time she hints at trying something different, be enthusiastic about it and act on it as soon as possible.

Women think about household chores: More than 25% of the women surveyed said that they thought about routine household chores like washing laundry, cooking etc. during sex, So what you can do to stop her thinking about these mundane matters during lovemaking is to make sure your sex life is not routine and monotonous. This way she will be looking forward to and thinking about what new things or surroundings you will indulge in during sex.

A Hollywood hunk, ex-lovers, a blue film scene and even what to buy in a grocery store-these are things that women think of while having sex. Some women have now revealed what really scores with them between the sheets. 

Single comedian Shazia Mirza, 34, said that some of her friends revealed that during sex they are mentally writing a to-do list, remembering clothes they have to wash, what they've got to buy at Tesco's or those shoes they love in Selfridges. 

And some women even think of men they secretly fantasise of. 

"A friend of mine, who really loves her husband, told me that during sex she can't help thinking about all the men she secretly really desires, like Jeremy Beadle and Jeremy Paxman," the Sun quoted her as saying. 

"I've been married twice and had many lovers and to be honest, with past lovers I've been so bored in bed, I've taken to compiling mental grocery lists and calculating exactly how many shoes are in the wardrobe (82 pairs)," said author Kathy Lette, 51. "Most wives are taken for granted. But how we'd like to be taken is by a muscular-thighed Adonis with pecs appeal. 

"Luckily sex with Johnny Depp is only the flick of a light switch away. Ah, Johnny - a man whose sex appeal is so deadly it should be registered at police headquarters as a lethal weapon. "Doing the horizontal tango with George Clooney is also amazing - if only he'd been with me at the time!" she added. 

Sarah Millican, 33, is in a relationship, and she said: "I never walk out of a film at the cinema. I'm the same with sex. I always think it might get better. To be honest, as long as I've got a bag of Maltesers, I'm not going anywhere." 

These are just a few teasers for you to start looking and treating  your woman in a different light, every one is different and some things may work and some may not. But what is important that you understand that a lot more is happening in your woman’s brain than what you thought and it is important for you to talk and act in a way that will make her feel comfortable and relaxed. You do this and she will most certainly repay you with the type of sex you dreamed impossible.

Top 10 Power Foods

The Top 10 Power Foods 

The top power foods around us might look humble, ordinary and nothing special, but they are packed with abundant nutritional value. These power foods contain high doses of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, among other nutrients. They help prevent illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes, and they also help boost the immune system, improve memory and concentration; all this while slowing down the ageing process. So let's get to know these power foods...

Almonds

Almonds contain a very large number of antioxidants that help fight skin wrinkles, aging, cancer, heart disease and stroke. A cup of almonds contains more potassium than a whole banana and more calcium than milk. They also contain magnesium and phosphorus to build healthy bones. Almonds are good sources of vitamin E, zinc, proteins and fiber for healthy skin and a strong immune system.

Beans

Beans such as kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils are low in fat and rich sources of iron, manganese, antioxidants, B-complex vitamins and protein. The high level of fiber in beans also helps to reduce cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Cabbage

Cabbage contains large amounts of glutamine, an amino acid that has anti-inflammatory properties and is beneficial to the heart and circulatory system as well as for treating stomach, skin and intestinal ulcers. The purple cabbage gets its bright color from the antioxidant lycopene, which reduces the risk of prostate problems in men and helps to repair aged and sun-damaged skin.

Garlic

Garlic is rich in phytochemicals called allylic sulphides that decrease the risk of certain cancers in the body. It also has natural antibiotic and antioxidant effects in the body; this fights colds and flus. Along with this, garlic has heart-healthy benefits such as decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and preventing blood clots in the arteries.

Oats

Oats contain abundant vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. They are rich in silica, a mineral that is important for bone, muscle and joint health. Oats also contain complex carbohydrates, fats and iron, and are an excellent source of long lasting energy.

Pumpkin

Pumpkins are packed with carotenoids, a potent antioxidant that gives them their bright color and helps to protect the body's cells. Pumpkin is also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for eye health and reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, a serious eye disease that can cause blindness.

Berries

Berries, including blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries and red currants, are especially rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Eat a handful of berries every day. You can include them in cereals and salads, eat berries instead of calorie-heavy desserts and use them to make smoothies for breakfast or a snack.

Spinach

Spinach contains abundant calcium, iron, fiber and the vitamins A, C, E and K. it also contains five times more beta-carotene than broccoli and also has natural cancer-fighting phytochemicals called indoles and sulphoraphane.

Whole grains

Whole grains such as wheat and barley contains significant amounts of the soluble fiber beta-glucan that helps to lower cholesterol and balance blood glucose level. This prevents the risk of heart disease and adult onset diabetes.

Top 5 Sex Positions for Women Die to Have

Top 5 Sex Positions for Women Die to Have

It's time to upgrade your sex life, and to get your partner turned on like never before.

We already knew that women love sex, but have we ever thought of sex positions women really enjoy or feel comfortable while reaching orgasm? There are many sex positions out there, only some of them give more pleasure to women. Women are always ready to accept and enjoy men's favorite sex positions but women seldom ask for their favourite position(s). The time has come for men to understand what women really want in bed. Remember, great sex happens only when there is a smooth balance between pleasure and comfort.

We bring you five amazing sex positions you need to explore and women always wanted to have.

1. Get dirty with doggy style: Women definitely enjoy doggy style. It is probably one of the best sex positions, and also the most arousing position for men. Make sure to perform this style with intimacy and pleasure.

2. The overused style, missionary position: No doubt, the man-on-woman position is the most common one. It's boring but sex mostly begins with missionary position, and women still like it. In this position women get more intimate with their partners through eye contact.

3. Women like riding, cowgirl style: It's a big turn-on for both the sexes, and perhaps the sexiest sex position. Sometimes women like to dominate men during sex. In this position women can move back and forth and stimulate their G-spot for a big orgasm. You may also try reverse cowgirl position.

4. Get more intimate with spoons position: Side by side sexual position is one of the most comfortable sex positions, and it can really last long. Get naughtier by doing some dirty talk while you can.

5. Out of control, the standing position: Sometimes women want to jump out of the bed and play again in standing position. In this style, she sits on a surface and he thrust her from the front as deeply as he can, and in all likelihood gets the chance to hit the G-spot. Try this position in the kitchen or on a tabletop.

Simply go ahead and give your girl the most amazing orgasm of her life.