In the nation’s ongoing battle of the bulge, there’s a fight in New York City to get calories on the menus of all major fast-food restaurants. Talk about sticker shock.

Though the proposal has already been denied once by a judge, city health officials have tweaked and reworked their original plan, hoping that the changes will be just what the doctor ordered. The idea behind the law would be to assure that burger-and-fries consumers were aware of the nutrition values of their food. To do this, calorie counts would be displayed next to their corresponding offerings, as large and prominent as their prices.

Resistance to the law has been met on several counts, most understandably with the restaurants that feel they are being micromanaged by the government. Their argument? Nutrition information is readily available online and many times onsite, so to add calorie counts to the menu would cause unnecessary clutter. Additionally, customers may not want to see the nutritional information for what they’re ordering. Furthermore, fast-food chains have said that the health department simply doesn’t have this kind of authority.

Only time will tell what happens on New York City’s fast food menus, though one thing is true: the country is fighting a weight battle and something must be done.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Many people start their day off on the wrong foot by eating an unhealthy breakfast. While sugar filled cereals and pancakes topped with butter and syrup are popular breakfast food options, you can find much healthier choices without having to sacrifice taste.

1) Cereal with fruit
If you love sweet cereal, you aren’t stuck with sugared cereals. Instead, you can eat healthy whole grain cereal and add fruit. Blueberries, strawberries and bananas are examples of fruits that go great with cereal.

2) Low fat, low sodium bacon
Low fat, low sodium bacon has all the great taste you expect from bacon, but it’s much healthier. You can also try turkey bacon, which doesn’t taste quite the same but is even better for you!

3) Protein shake
If you want to add more protein to your diet, a good way to do so is to start your day with a protein shake. You can either buy a premade shake at the store or you can blend your own. You should be able to get at least 20 grams of protein per glass.

4) Eggs with salsa
Instead of using butter to add taste to your eggs, use salsa instead. Salsa is very low in calories and tastes great when mixed with scrambled eggs. You can also add vegetables such as onions, peppers and tomatoes.

5) Peanut butter pancakes
You can replace the syrup on your pancakes with peanut butter. Peanut butter has a lot more healthy vitamins and minerals than syrup. You can also top your pancakes with fresh fruit or low sugar jelly.

Popularity: 61% [?]

Do you ever feel like you are having trouble thinking? Take a look at these brain foods. Brain food, as the name suggests, is food that aims to feed your brain and help it work as well as possible.

Here is a list of the top ten brain foods:

1. Water: Water doesn’t contain any vitamins but it’s essential for your body. Dehydration is a big enemy for your brain so make sure you drink enough water throughout the day.
2. Grape juice: With a healthy amount of antioxidants, grape juice is great for brain function. It should help you short-term memory and hand-eye coordination.
3. Eggs: Having eggs for breakfast is a great way to start your day. Eggs contain choline, which is great for improving your memory.
4. Beef: Beef has a lot of iron in it, which is vital for your brain – especially for children. Lean beef is perhaps the best source of iron available.
5. Hot cocoa: If you want a dessert, consider having hot cocoa. Cocoa has antioxidants that have proven to slow the aging process.
6. Olive oil: Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is very good for your brain. It contains polyphenols which helps regulate your blood pressure.
7. Milk: Milk has a lot of vitamins that help your brain including phosphorus and vitamin D. It also contains a healthy amount of protein.
8. Spinach: If you eat a lot of salad, consider switching from lettuce to spinach. Spinach is nearly four times healthier for you than lettuce.
9. Almonds: Although almonds have a relatively high amount of fat, the type of fat in almonds is actually good for your body – and specifically your brain.
10. Blueberries: Blueberries are the ultimate brain food. Not only is it a fantastic source for antioxidants, it has many other vitamins and minerals helping your brain.

Popularity: 72% [?]

If you’re on a high protein diet, it can sometimes be difficult to find a variety of foods that are high in protein. It’s easy to tire of a high protein diet if you only limit yourself to a few select options of meat. Fortunately, many other foods that you wouldn’t think of right away are also high in protein.

The best and most obvious source for high protein foods is meat. While virtually any type of meat contains protein, for a quick meal, you can find some fat-free meat products at your local grocery store such as fat-free hot dogs and fat-free ham. These options are convenient for days when you do not have time to prepare a meal.

Perhaps the best type of meat for you is turkey, which is virtually all protein. Look for low-fat cuts of turkey, such as breasts, as opposed to the legs. The same holds true for chicken – as chicken breasts are a source of high protein and very little fat.

Fish and shrimp are two other great sources of protein. Almost all types of fish is low in fat and high in protein. Consider fish that is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as mackerel, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon. Shrimp, depending on how it’s prepared, is almost always fat-free. Avoid breaded fish and shrimp and do not deep fry it. Instead broil, grill or bake your seafood.

Other sources of protein that might surprise you are milk, cheese, beans and nuts. Fat-free milk and cheese is a great source of healthy protein. Fat-free refried beans are popular and taste almost exactly like regular refried beans. Nuts are also a terrific source of protein, as well as nut based products such as peanut butter. However most nuts are also high in fat, so watch your portion sizes.

There are also a number of foods specially designed for those people on a high protein diet. At your local grocery store, look for protein shakes, protein bars and even products such as protein fortified breads and protein fortified water.

A high protein diet is a good way to gain muscle while losing weight. If you are doing a weight training program, you’ll need to consume more protein than the average person. However, you should also consider the fat content of food because many foods that are high in protein are also high in fat.

Popularity: 65% [?]

Steaz Energy is a new kind of energy drink for athletes or anyone looking for a healthy, organic fuel. An all-natural source of energy that promotes endurance and increased stamina for peak athletic performance, Steaz gives you a natural boost without highly refined sugar, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Steaz Energy comes in four flavors – Berry, Orange, Lime and Diet Berry. The Diet Berry has 50% of the calories of the original without using additives or artificial sweetners.

Steaz is also the maker of a wonderful group of Green Tea Sodas that contain the same health benefits as a full cup of green tea including antioxidants and healthy minerals. The company usea organic cane juice instead of conventional sugar or high-fructose corn syrup like other beverages. The soda comes in a variety of flavors, including Ginger Ale, Root Beer, Cola, Grape, Raspberry, Lemon Dew, Orange, Key Lime and Diet Black Cherry.

I recently had an opportunity to try various flavors of both Steaz Energy and Steaz Green Tea Soda. The energy drinks are refreshing and give you a quick boost. The taste of the Diet Berry is so similar to the regular Berry that it’s probably to your benefit just to get the diet. As for the Green Teas Sodas, it takes some time to get adjusted to the taste compared to traditional sodas. But they are definitely flavorful.

Visit steaz.com to find out where to buy Steaz products.

Popularity: 71% [?]

Researchers recently discovered that, in addition to paving the way for a healthy lifestyle and smaller waistline, low-fat foods may help reduce your risk of ovarian cancer.

Though science has claimed in the past that low-fat diets would reduce the risk of various cancers, no definitive evidence could be produced. But in a recent study of post-menopausal women, the subjects who cut their dietary fat to 20 percent of their total caloric intake also cut their chance of getting ovarian cancer by a stunning 40 percent.

The only caveat? This isn’t a quick fix: you have to stick with the diet for the long haul. This is great news, however, as up until now, the only measures to prevent ovarian cancer were for women of childbearing age to take birth control pills or to have the ovaries removed completely.

While subjects in the study showed reduced risk for ovarian cancer, the rates for breast cancer and colo-rectal cancerwere unaffected. However, unlike other cancers, ovarian cancer is particularly lethal, with a five-year survival rate of only 45 percent.

Popularity: 65% [?]

If you have bad acne, a new study shows that in addition to your usual skin care regimen, a low-glycemic diet may be your ticket to healthier skin.

In addition to helping improve insulin sensitivity, a low-glycemic diet will help with the pathogenesis of acne. In other words, reducing your intake of foods high on the glycemic index may help clear up skin problems and diseases. Of course, a low-glycemic diet is also known for helping reduce body mass and weight, as these foods decrease blood sugar spikes and help you feel full for longer. For this reason, foods low on the GI index are integral parts to diets such as the South Beach Diet.

So how do you get on a low-glycemic diet? It’s easier than you might think: first, eliminate “white” foods. This includes potatoes, white bread, pastas, and other treats made with white flour. Try replacing with sweet potatoes, whole wheat bread and whole wheat pasta. Snack on raisins, veggies, and fruits throughout the day, adding some peanut butter for fat and protein.

Other low GI foods include low-fat yogurt, banana bread, baked beans, wild rice, oatmeal, and a host of other goodies. Check out info, facts, and delicious recipes at the Glycemic Gourmet.

Popularity: 69% [?]

You’ve probably heard it before but didn’t want to listen because, hey, your cabbage soup-and-diet water diet was going so well, but unfortunately it’s true: experts have declared that diets fail over time.

Obesity-related problems are among our nation’s most serious health problems, and in a fast-paced world of over-consumption and high-fat foods, it’s very difficult to forever change our exercise and eating habits. And with all the fad diets out there promising to help us lose 82 pounds in the next 30 seconds, it’s tempting to try the easy way.

But, unfortunately, the easy way just doesn’t work; what we need is a lifestyle change. You’ve probably heard the term before, possibly even in relation to certain diets. A lifestyle change is one with which you change your eating habits permanently, for the long-run, thus reducing fat intake and upping the amount healthy foods in your diet.

There are certain “diets”, like South Beach, that teach you how to eat differently and more healthily. They stress terms like whole grains, fresh, lean proteins, and fruits and veggies. While called diets, these ways of eating are not in the same category as such trends that include 7 days of nothing but watermelon or bowls of translucent liquid for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These diets are how you’ll trim your waistline, get your heart in shape, and live a longer life. These are the diets that stand the test of time.

Popularity: 15% [?]

Weight Watchers started in 1960s as a discussion group about how to lose weight. Throughout the years, it has developed into a multi-million dollar business, which provides diet products and support services to those looking to lose weight. Weight Watchers currently operates in over 30 countries around the world.

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Popularity: 14% [?]

If you’re like many dieters out there, your heart is usually in the right place, but sometimes you just don’t have time to homecook a healthy meal. Stressed for time, hungrier than you’ve ever felt before… this is when many of us fall of the nutrition bandwagon.

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Popularity: 11% [?]

Power foods are rich in antioxidants, protein, vitamins and minerals. They are also great sources of healthy fat and fiber. Most power foods are also low-calorie and make for a terrific, nutritional snack.

Here are some top power foods to add to your diet.

Avocado – Many people steer clear of avocado because they are scared away by its fat content. However, avocado is rich in heart-healthy fat, antioxidants, fiber and other nutrients. In fact, ounce-for-ounce, avocado offers more fiber, potassium and folic acid than any other fruit or vegetable.

Blueberries – If you watched the 2006 World Series of Poker, you saw that eventual champion Jamie Gold was eating blueberries throughout the long, grueling tournament. That’s because blueberries contain dopamine, which improves your concentration and memory. All berries are rich in vitamins and powerful antioxidants, while also being very low calorie.

Flaxseed – Ground flaxseed can be a good source of fiber when added to your yogurt, breakfast cereal or salads. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular problems. Omega-3 is also said to relieve depression and anxiety symptoms.

Garlic – Though you might not enjoy the lingering smell, garlic can help reduce your risk of some types of cancer, lower your blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels, as well as fight bacteria and infection. Sprinkle crushed fresh garlic into sauces and other foods, or consider garlic capsules for an extra boost.

Salmon – The omega-3 fatty acids that are found in salmon and other types of fish protect against cancer, reduce blood clothing, relieve arthritis symptoms and reduce risk of heart attacks. Two servings of salmon, mackerel or fresh tuna are great for your diet each week.

Popularity: 15% [?]

Naked Juice is a leader in premium juices, making 100% fruit juices, juice smoothies and protein smoothies.

Their products are made from bare-naked fruits with no preservatives or sugar added.

Recently, Naked Juice introduced their new Naked Juice Probiotic. Its the first 100% juice smoothie with probiotics.

Though probiotics have been popular in Europe for decades, Americans are now realizing their potential benefits. Each bottle of Naked Juice Probotic includes billions of probiotics, which are friendly microscopic cultures that aid in digestion and immune health.

Naked Juice Probiotic is a blend of mango, orange and pineapple that makes for a delicious and nutritious beverage. It is now available in single-serve 10-ounce bottles with a suggested retail price of $2.49 each.  You can find Naked Juice in supermarkets, club stores and other retailers around the country.

Learn more about Naked Juice Probiotic and the rest of the Naked Juice products by visiting NakedJuice.com.

Popularity: 25% [?]

The Zone Diet, developed by Dr. Barry Sears, is a diet plan that many people have found successful in recent years.

This diet plan combines a balance of protein, good carbs and healthy fats to keep you energized and feeling full throughout the day.

People around the world from celebrities to regular people like you and I have found much success on the Zone Diet.

Beautiful actress Rachael Lawrence of the new VH1 comedy series “I Hate My 30′s” was kind enough to offer us at Shapespot these exclusive tips for those on the Zone Diet or really any type of diet plan.

Portion control. Even though you are eating a balanced meals of carbs, fat, and protein, it doesn’t mean you can just eat as much as you want. Just because things are marked “fat free” or “sugar free” doesn’t mean it’s “guilt free.” Eat until you are satisfied, not full. If you wait 10 minutes after you put that fork down, you’ll see that you actually don’t need that second helping

 

Drink lots of water. Stay away from sodas and juices that are high in sugar.

Eat clean. Don’t cover your food in creams and salt. You will find a new love for the way food really tastes without all the extras. Sometimes just a little dressing or a dab of olive oil can go a long way!

Reward yourself! It’s okay to treat yourself now and then. Just remember that if you do, it doesn’t justify a pig out session. You’ll feel guilty afterwards and you’ll just have to work harder to feel better.

Exercise regularly. A combination of cardio and weights/resistance training at least 3 times a week should do the trick.

Thanks for the tips, Rachael and good luck with the new series.

Popularity: 11% [?]

If you have tried every diet plan available and are still having a tough time losing weight, you need to concentrate on your changing your eating habits long-term rather than trying another quick fix fad diet.

Here are some tips to help you get on your way to healthy eating.

- Drink eight glasses of water per day. Try drinking a full glass before each meal.

- Sit down and focus on eating. Don’t stand in the kitchen to eat.

- If you are cooking, don’t sample the food through the process. You’d be surprised how these calories add up.

- Eliminate regular soda altogether. Replace with diet soda, iced tea or water.

- Eat a salad before lunch and dinner. Combine lettuce or spinach with other raw vegetables and use only two tablespoons of fat-free dressing.

- For dinner, two-thirds of your plate should be vegetables with the other third being lean protein.

- If you must eat bread, choose whole grains not white bread.

- Chew your food completely and savor the taste. Don’t put more in your mouth until you’ve finished the previous bite.

- Stop eating when you are full, not when your plate is empty.

- Snack often throughout the day. Have plenty of healthy snacks available such as fresh fruit, nuts and seeds.

- Do some sort of cardiovascular exercise 30-45 minutes a day, even if it’s just walking around your neighborhood.

Popularity: 9% [?]

If you love the taste of a latte but want something a little more healthy, Atkins Advantage introduced a cool new flavor in its Café Nutrition Shake line this summer.

Their Café Caramel Latte shake is a rich blend of coffee and caramel taste that gives you an energy boost like other coffee drinks. However, it’s also very good for you.

The Atkins Advantage Caramel Latte Shake is high in protein (15 grams per can), vitamins and minerals. It has only 160 calories and one gram of sugar. It’s a great healthy snack or can be used as a meal replacement if you are trying to keep your weight under control with a low-carb diet.

Atkins Advantage shakes are available at grocery stores and others retailers for about $6-7 for a four-pack.

These are the best “coffee” diet shakes that I’ve tasted. The Caramel Latte is smooth with no after taste – very similar to a cold coffee drink you’d order at coffeeshop.

If you are looking to learn more about the Atkins diet or purchase Atkins products online, visit Atkins.com.

Popularity: 13% [?]