A recent  study challenged some of the concepts behind the diet-and-obesity link and suggests that meal-size  - more than total calorie intake or feeding frequency - is a key factor in the development of obesity.  (more…)

Whole fruits and vegetables are the best sources of insoluble fiber.

It’s already been well-established that increasing dietary fiber has all kinds of benefits for you; lower cholesterol, lower risk of disease, better elimination and detoxification and even better weight management. And it’s also pretty well-established  that most people don’t get enough dietary fiber in the first place.  So it’s always been easy to make a case for fiber supplements, since they’re so inexpensive, safe and easy-to-use.

But there are different types of fiber, and they  have different effects and benefits. So you want to make sure you’re using the right kind of fiber supplement for your situation. If you’re using or considering using fiber for weight management,  there’s new information that points to a crucial difference between the type of fiber and whether it promotes weight loss or weight gain. It’s good food-for-thought for anyone trying to lean up and looking for safe, effective and non-stimulant options.

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The EndoBarrier lines the intestine preventing absorption of food calories.

Reducing calorie consumption is a proven way to lose weight, but people aren’t always disciplined enough to maintain a reduced calorie diet on their own. That accounts for some of the success and popularity of gastric bypass and gastric band surgeries, both of which reduce the quantity of calories absorbed.  But since both procedures carry considerable risks, there’s been strong interest in developing effective alternatives that are less dangerous to the patient.

Makers of a new device called the EndoBarrier say that’s just what they’ve accomplished.  (more…)

Don't worry about holiday weight gain, we've got you covered!

Every year around this time, the forces of nature collaborate and conspire to add as many pounds as possible to our bodies before we know what’s happened. The weather has grown colder, curtailing all those great outdoor activities that let us burn calories while having fun. The days are growing shorter, too, forcing us to live more “indoor” and sedentary lives.  But the real trouble is looming just over the horizon; from Thanksgiving onward, parties and other holiday get-togethers promise an onslaught of tempting foods. What’s more, these temptations are often presented in social situations that may be awkward, boring or stressful - all of which encourage unrestrained or excessive snacking and grazing.  (How do you think Santa got so fat?) It’s no wonder that nearly everyone gains some weight over the holidays, but you’re not “nearly everyone” are you?  No, and because you’re reading this blog, we’re going to let you in a few products that will let you enjoy yourself this holiday season without nuking the results of all your hard work dieting and working out this past summer and fall. (more…)

Q: Dear AllStarHealth.com,

My husband and I have decided to start doing something about our weight now before the holidays add another 10+ lbs. But we’re confused by all the options, and products and to-good-to-be-true claims. What do you think are your best weight-loss products?

A: There are so many types of weight loss products available now, that you’d really have to be more specific before we could make specific product recommendations.  To help you sort it out, here’s a quick overview of the different types of weight-loss supplements we sell. (more…)