SKINNY BETTY

muffintop-less:

If you have a beach nearby, sand sprints can be a FANTASTIC way to get intense cardio in, in a short amount of time!! HIIT cardio is the  most effective form of cardio for burning fat, as it revs up the metabolism not just while you’re doing it, but for HOURS afterward!

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muffintop-less:

Branched Chain Amino Acids are a great supplemental addition to those involved in intense exercise programs and weight lifting. BCAAs are comprised of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine.Essential amino acids are those that your body cannot make itself; they must be provided by the diet.
Working out also increases levels of cortisol. Supplementing with BCAAs before and after workouts keeps cortisol levels low, which encourages greater muscle growth. Studies have shown that taking BCAAs around your workout will help to decrease delayed onset muscle soreness, which can occur after intense workouts. 
Another awesome benefit of BCAAs is their ability to enhance fat loss. Research on leucine alone has shown that this amino acid can increase metabolic rate, and therefore the amount of total calories and fat burned. 
I like to take my BCAAs before bed personally. But now that I am beginning to diet down a little, I will probably start taking them before and after my workouts as well =) 

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muffintop-less:

I love adding lemon to my water and green tea!! Lemon is a natural diuretic =)

“There are many health benefits of lemons that have been known for centuries. The two biggest are lemons’ strong antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-boosting powers and their use as a weight loss aid because lemon juice is a digestive aid and liver cleanser. Lemons contain many substances—notably citric acid, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C, bioflavonoids, pectin, and limonene—that promote immunity and fight infection.

In addition, lemons can help rid you of acne, eczema, hypertension, and insomnia,

Research has shown that lemon balm has a calming effect and therefore may be able to help remove fatigue, exhaustion, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness, and tension. It is also believed that inhaling lemon oil helps in increasing concentration and alertness. It can therefore be used as a room freshener in offices to increase the efficiency of the employees.”

Read more: http://www.beliefnet.com/Health/Physical-Health/Hidden-Health-Secrets-of-Lemons.aspx#ixzz1jhAdOmSa

muffintop-less:

Natural diuretics can help flush out excess water associated with bloating. Some of my favorites include coffee, asparagus, brussel sprouts and oats! 
Bloating can also come from NOT drinking ENOUGH water! Your body clings to what little water it’s been given for survival by storing it. Make sure you are getting enough H20 to combat this!
Lastly, sodium is a known culprit of water retention. I rarely put salt on my foods. There is sodium naturally-occurring in a lot of vegetables and other healthy foods.. so I try not to add to that.