Monday, November 29, 2010

Holiday Dessert Tips


Yes, it is that time of year: holiday desserts tempt you at every social gathering. If you don't have the will-power to avoid your favorite pie, take some hints from this article in Women's Health magazine. Pumpkin pie, it turns out, is one of the best choices you can make, especially if you avoid some of the crust. Even that heavenly delicacy known as pecan pie offers some good news: the healthy fat in the pecans can help you feel full longer. Chocolate mousse pie can give you a calcium boost; skip the whipped topping to trim some calories. And, as always, be mindful of portion control. A half of a slice can be just as satisfying as a whole.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

What Cardio Can Do for You

Experts agree that cardio is the king of exercise. Strength training and flexibility are important, but regular cardiovascular exercise - like indoor cycling - is crucial to your overall health. What kind of benefits does cardio provide? According to WebMD, it can reduce your risk of heart attack, improve your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, help you build muscle mass and may even reduce your risk of osteoporosis. And, we would add, it just plain old makes you feel good. Both The American College of Sports Medicine and the CDC recommend at least 30 minutes of activity on most days of the week. So come grab some cardio with us!