Diabetes

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Best iPhone and iTouch Apps For Moms and Kids

If you’re a techie mom you’ve already found how much an iTouch or iPhone can be a lifesaver in terms of entertaining your kids or killing time when you’re waiting for naptime or sitting in traffic/dr. appts. They’re also easy on the wallet, often around $1.99 per app and sometimes there are “lite” versions as well for free. It’s a great way to try out an app before committing to paying something.

Here are ones I’ve downloaded so far. Because I have an iTouch some things are just not as useful because I don’t have internet connection while outside. But, I will put some that are useful for iPhones as well. All you have to do is search it in the iTunes store.

Novelty Apps: Not useful–just fun! But, you get bored of them easily…

Bubble Wrap: As addictive as the real thing…great for kids.

Fluid: Touch the screen and it’s like you are touching a pond. The water ripples at the touch of your fingers.

iSteam: Your screen steams up and you can write images on it. Nice way to write notes to people–like a steamy love note

Mini Piano: a small piano that your kids can tap tunes into.

TicTacFree: I like playing this with my daughter (though I feel embarrassed when she wins!)

TouchPhysics Lite: You create shapes in order to move other shapes around. Seems simple, but it’s hard! A fun way to learn physics.

Tap Tap Revenge: Sort of like Guitar hero but you use your finger to tap out the songs.

Air Hockey: Looks like the real thing! The small screen is limiting, though.

Lie Scan: Supposedly you can tell if someone is lying…they put their finger on the screen and you ask them a question. It measures their body temperature. It hasn’t always been right, though.

FOR KIDS

Tapping Zoo: Animal flash cards for kids. It makes the sound of the animal, too. Great for 2yrs age.

iWriteWords (Lite): Kids use a crab on the screen to connect the dots to create numbers/letters. Great for preschool level to teach writing skills.

Pocket Phonics: Also teaches kids how to write letters/numbers. But they sound out the letters for the kids, too.

Wheels on the Bus: This is an award winning app. They also just came out with Itsy Bitsy Spider. More interactive than other kids apps, it’s a virtual “book” that goes along with the song. My favorite part is when you make the wipers go “swish swish” and wipe away the raindrops. My kids love it.

Pet Playpen: This is my absolute favorite app–for me and my kids! You adopt a virtual pet (up to 3)–Rabbit, stone, cat, dog, or penguin. Play games to win money that you can use to buy food, toys, hygiene items for your pet. Clean their poop, win challenges, and keep your pet happy. You can even have your pets play with each other. Great graphics and awesome games. I’m only unhappy that the “reset all data” button is so easy to click on. My daughter erased everything and I have to start all over again. The frisbee game is also frustrating. I’m hooked!

USEFUL INFO

Big Oven: load recipes and find recipes. Great way to streamline your shopping lists to recipes.

Flixster: find movies that are playing near you.

iKidNY: An amazing NY mommy created this app that allows you to easily find bathrooms/changing tables, subway elevators, kid friendly restaurants, indoor/outdoor activities. WOW! Now, you can go into the City with ease. I heard from her that she’s developing app for NJ so stay tuned!

Other apps that I’ve downloaded but haven’t been able to use yet: Gap stylemixer, trapster (find out where police are hiding on the roads), Where (find anything near you–better for iphone users), iFart (play pranks on your friends), French and Korean language apps.

http://www.MiraBest.com

Best iPhone and iTouch Apps For Moms and Kids - Dating

Low Carb Meal Plans For Weight Loss

Are you following a strict low calorie diet plan but not able to get satisfactory results till now? You might be skipping high fat diets, but would be consuming more carbohydrates! Though carbohydrates count less on calories when compared to fats, carbohydrates could be adding more fat to body than you might think!

Carbohydrates, shortly called carbs, are essential nutrients only in SMALL amounts. When they are consumed in excess they can actually add to body weight.

Low carb meal plan is essential for weight loss for two major reasons:

a) Carbohydrates when stored in body tend to increase water absorbing capacity of the body. What this means to you? You might be looking bulgier than you actually would. You would experience an increase in body weight due to increased water in body.

b) There are certain foods that can increase the metabolic rate of body. They accelerate the digestion and fat burning capability of the body. There are some other foods that can act in an opposite way. Yes, these foods can reduce the metabolic rate. Whenever the metabolic rate of body is retarded, your body would be burning less calories per hour than it would normally do.

Based on the above discussions, you should have arrived at a logical conclusion that low carb diets are the only way to achieve your desired shape. Yes, you are correct. You must devise your meal plan very carefully by choosing foods that have very less carbs. Also keep a check on the foods that can retard your metabolism.

Low Carb Meal Plans For Weight Loss - Weight Loss

Diabetic Weight Loss Program - On the Way to Better Health

The diabetic weight loss program aims to stabilize and maintain your ideal weight and your blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It takes a doctor or a dietitian and a willing patient to be able to construct a diabetic weight loss program. That is why it is highly recommended to consult a doctor before entering such programs–you need to be aware of the risks and the proper way to go about it. Here are some tips to help you get started.

It’s not just about weight loss

A diabetic weight loss program is similar in structure to a typical weight loss program, placing emphasis on proper diet and exercise. However, the diabetic should take extra care because the weight loss program is also designed to help control blood sugar and cholesterol levels. These are important in avoiding complications such as hypertension, heart disease, and kidney failure.

Eat healthily

Controlling your glucose and cholesterol levels can be difficult if you do not maintain a healthy diet. In a diabetic weight loss program, proper nutrition is the key to success. Make sure that you get the right amount of important nutrients for your body every day. If your food restrictions prevent you from getting all the necessary nutrients, ask your doctor if you can take supplements.

Stay on the move

Part of an effective diabetic weight loss program is an increase in physical activity. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and get regular physical activity. You have probably heard about all the benefits of exercise, but if you have Diabetes, it’s all the more important.

There are a lot of simple ways to exercise, even when going to the gym or buying exercise equipment is not an option. You can staret by walking, strolling, taking the stairs, or walking your dog. However, before performing any exercise, consult your doctor to see what type of exercise will work best for you.

Eat right, not eat less

A diabetic weight loss program does not necessarily limit your food intake–it just focuses on healthier food choices. Make sure you include foods from all the food groups in the right proportions. A typical weight loss meal plan combines vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meat, fish, poultry, and low-fat dairy products into daily meals.

Low-fat, low-sugar, less salt

Your diabetic weight loss program should also provide you with low-fat and low-sugar options. Scientific studies show that starchy foods can increase your blood sugar faster than sweets and sodas can, so make sure you cut down on the white rice, white bread, and white potatoes. Choose low-sugar or sugar-free options if they are available. You also need to maintain normal cholesterol levels by lessening the salt in your food and cutting down on fatty foods.

A daily dose of fiber

Fiber is essential for regular bowel movement, so your weight loss program should include more fiber-rich foods. You need around 20 to 35 grams of fiber every day, and more if you have diabetes. Good sources include beans, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. However, make sure that you drink lots of water to avoid constipation.

Read the labels

When shopping for food to incorporate in your weight loss program, make sure that you read their nutritional labels. Remember to check the amount per serving of cholesterol, saturated fiber, sugar content, carbohydrate content, and the dietary fiber. Nutrient reference values are expressed in daily value percentages to help you determine if the food can fit in your daily nutritional requirements based on your weight loss program.

Diet fads for the diabetic

Even the so-called “diet fads” such as the South Beach, Atkins, and Mediterranean diet can be modified to become a diabetic weight loss program. However, you need to be careful when trying out athese diets. Each one has its own risks and benefits. For instance, the Atkins diet is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, which can put stress on your kidneys and lead to low blood sugar levels,. Make sure you consult with your doctor first before trying out any of weight loss programs.

The bottom line

Remember, the best way to stay healthy is still to eat right and exercise more. Supplements and diet programs may help, but there is no quick solution to obesity or diabetes. Stick to the basics–you may be surprised at how simple it can be to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Diabetic Weight Loss Program - On the Way to Better Health - Weight Loss

Dating Etiquette for Men in the 21st Century

The day are forever gone when young ladies and women were accompanied by a chaperone and young men would ask the father for her hand in marriage, before he asked her. This however does not mean that chivalry or proper dating manners are out of style, just that they have changed a bit. If you are a little rusty on the rules or etiquette for dating, here is a refresher course to get you started. Keep in mind that these “rules” are basically for the first few dates, say 1-5, after that you should know each other well enough to determine if some rules of etiquette are unnecessary.

Pick Her Up?

Traditional dating would indicate that you should pick her up and drive to your destination. This is a good rule of thumb, with a caveat. If you met online either through social mediums or an online dating site, meeting in a public location may be the preferred modus operandi. No woman wants to be featured on the six o’clock news and while you may have hit it off online deep down she may have some reservations and prefer to play it safe.

Timing

Whatever you do, never be late for a first date without one heck of a defense! In fact, it would be better to be significantly early and wait in your car than be late. Every minute past your meeting or pick up time can be excruciating and will not set a jovial tone for the evening. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, particularly if you live in an urban area and there is a traffic jam or some other calamity strikes. Should this happen be sure to call as soon as you are able and explain the delay.

The Date

Are there topics that are strictly off-limits for your first few dates? Absolutely! Your crazy uncle Joe and your ex-girlfriend or wife are definite first date no-nos. It is also important that you are charming, kind and pay attention to what she is saying. Nothing is a bigger turn off than a guy who appears tuned out throughout the date. Other date tips include:

Choose an appropriate venue for talking- a crowded noisy club is not on this list

Pay for the date, modern ideals may state that women want to be seen as equals even in this department, but if you are unsure where she stands and you initiated the date, pay up!

Touching can be appropriate but you are going to have to watch carefully for signs, and do not overdo it. During the course of the evening she may brush your hand in conversation or during a particularly funny interlude, this is a green light that some touching is allowed.

Do you kiss the girl? Probably the number one question asked by dating men and the answer is, it depends. This is where your ability to read body language will come in to play. If the date seemed to go quite well and there was a spark, a good night kiss may be expected. An expectant pause on the door stoop or a slight “leaning in” are good indicators that the kiss is a go.

Final Thoughts

Dating often resembles a delicate dance at best or a cat and mouse game at worst, which leaves a lot of men confused on what is allowed and what is not. In all honesty, if you are unsure about proper dating etiquette let basic good manners guide your way. There will be certain instances where the rules of conduct are simply blown out of the water by a unique individual, which is where your manners are going to come into play.

Dating Etiquette for Men in the 21st Century - Dating

How to Motivate Yourself With Free, Printable Weight Loss Charts

Free printable weight loss charts provide an invaluable guide to assist you when you embark on your diet program. They provide a convenient way to record and track your progress as well as providing tangible evidence of your goals to help motivate you to achieve them. Therefore they are a helpful diet companion to show your progress at a glance.

The charts reveal your weekly and monthly weight loss achievements. This is unbelievably motivating when you can see the results of your hard work. If you can see that you have lost 5, 10 or 15 pounds you don’t feel so guilty and discouraged if you fall off the diet wagon and regain a pound or two.

It is easy to create your own chart but it is easier to download a free one from the internet. Many websites offer them. Ideally they should be printed out so they can be written on.

Accessing software to record your progress is inconvenient. This is why printable charts provide an ideal method to record your progress. After printing your chart, Place it in a prominent location where you will see it regularly. Your fridge is an excellent location because when you are tempted to snack you will see it there where it can motivate you to either skip the snack entirely or substitute something healthy like a carrot or piece of celery. There is no point hiding the chart in a filing tray or drawer where you won’t see it.

If you don’t want family or friends seeing the chart you could hang it on the back of your bathroom or bedroom door. But it’s good for family and friends to see your progress. There is nothing better than the praise of family and friends to help motivate you in your weight loss efforts. Everyone can relate to the pleasure caused by receiving a pat on the back for our efforts.

So why do printable weight loss charts help?

They allow you to quickly record your daily calorie intake, amount of exercise and how much weight you’ve lost. You can also perform weekly or monthly measurements of your chest, waist, hips and thighs to see how much difference your weight loss is making physically. Seeing this is very motivating. With your calorie intake, an approximate figure is okay but make sure you record any extra calories resulting from indulging in high calorie snacks or fried foods. This will provide an indication of problem areas that cause temporary reductions in the rate of weight lost. Over time you will receive a good indication of how much you can eat without gaining weight. You can then use this information to maintain your ideal weight when you have achieved your weight loss goals.

When should you weigh yourself?

The best time to weigh yourself is in the morning, before eating anything. This is when you will achieve the most accurate weight reading. As the day progresses your body tends to retain fluid which is flushed out during the night or in the morning when you rise. Therefore, it is crucial to weigh yourself at the same time to avoid the inaccuracies caused by regular daily weight fluctuations. It is recommended that you weigh yourself on a weekly basis so that the amount of weight loss is more significant and therefore more encouraging.

It’s a fantastic idea to keep a regular, accurate record of your weight loss progress. This is one of the best ways for you to stay motivated and on track to achieve your weight loss goals. Free printable weight loss charts are easy to use, so make sure you download one today.

How to Motivate Yourself With Free, Printable Weight Loss Charts - Weight Loss

Fast Fat Loss Diet

So you want to lose fat very fast and look great in no time? Now although I know what your current situation is all I can do is give you great fat loss tips to help with the process of losing weight.

So a fast fat loss diet would include better eating habits which is the most important thing. Before you worry about anything else start by eating what you normally eat in small frequent portions. What I mean is to try and eat five or six small meals a day.

If you are used to eating junk food then you can still have it but the point is to start cutting it out one meal at a time. Should be easy enough right? That is how you develop a fast fat loss diet.

A fast fat loss diet would also include lots of water and tea. You should start drinking about 6-8 glasses a day so you help keep your you body healthy. Green tea is a strong remedy for losing fat fast. It is also full of antioxidants and speeds up your metabolism.

A fast fat loss diet should never include fast food or any processed foods. But foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals are always better. Start eating lean meats, fruits, vegetables, nuts. These kinds of foods will help you feel full a lot of the time so you are less likely to eat a lot of junk food.

Exercising should come after you have created a great fast fat loss diet. Walking is always the perfect start if you feel you are very out of shape. Be honest with yourself. Don’t worry about hitting the gym just yet. The best piece of advice you can follow is to go at your own pace and be a good judge of character.

Follow these tips for some great fast results.

Fast Fat Loss Diet - Weight Loss

Thai Online Dating - Thailand's Internet Dating Revolution

Many Thai women are interested in meeting foreign men, but are quite shy about actually taking steps in doing so. Thai culture has always placed a lot value on being ‘proper’ and going to bars, particularly Western style pubs or clubs, are not something that many Thai ladies feel comfortable doing. Fortunately, in recent years the internet has revolutionized the world of dating in Thailand as it has everywhere else. Thai women, like all other women, are great networkers and use the internet to keep in touch with friends and family, but also to make new friends and acquaintances.

Many foreigners who come to Thailand are surprised at how many internet cafés there are. This is because it still isn’t common for Thai people to have internet at home, where a family of several generations may share a smaller apartment, so it can be hard to get privacy. No problem though, as internet café’s are everywhere and cheap. I almost always see Thai girls chatting with their boyfriends online, both Thai and foreign, when I go to one. It’s like the internet offers some protection that makes an otherwise shy, Thai girl open up.

If you are using an internet dating site such as DateInAsia, ThaiLoveLinks or ThaiLoveLines to find your dream Thai girl, then here are a few excellent tips:

Log on between 4pm to 12pm Thailand time to meet Thai women online. This is the time most Thai ladies are online, while some may be online between 8am to 4pm (at work!).

Be honest and open to Thai women online. Many are simply interested in hearing about your life, so share your world with them.

Never accept requests for money in any form, report them to the site admins immediately.

Talk to many Thai women online that you may be interested in meeting and then narrow the list down to who you could see a serious relationship with.

Only meet someone in person after you feel comfortable doing so.

If you follow these simple steps, then you’re already well on your way to meeting the Thai woman of your dreams. Also remember that the girl you are talking to may be very nervous about using online dating for the first time, so be a gentleman at all times unless of course she takes the initiative to take the relationship to the next level. Good luck with finding your Thai girl.

Thai Online Dating - Thailand's Internet Dating Revolution - Dating