DailySpark Blog http://www.dailyspark.com/ The DailySpark is a blog brought to you by SparkPeople.com. Topics included in the blog include the latest news in nutrition, fitness, and health, food features, and more. DailySpark.com http://www.dailyspark.com/images/dsp_logo.jpg http://www.dailyspark.com/ Poll: Would You Attend 'Fat Camp' For Adults? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=poll_would_you_attend_fat_camp_for_adults Weight loss retreat centers for adults have gained popularity in recent years. Are these centers a good way to jump start your weight loss? Tue, 9 Mar 2010 13:57:30 EST The Secrets of Success: Make A Plan http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_make_a_plan During our special 15-day series, "The Secrets of Success," find out how thousands lost weight, improved their health, and changed their lives--forever!<br><br> Tue, 9 Mar 2010 06:00:00 EST Let's Celebrate Registered Dietitian Day http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=lets_celebrate_registered_dietitian_day Learn how to find the best source of practical, affordable, and accurate nutrition information. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 13:18:11 EST The Secrets of Success: Mix It Up to Keep It Off http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_mix_it_up_to_keep_it_off People who vary their workout routines tend to get better results than those who don't. Discover the two BIG reasons why it works--and learn how to do it yourself. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 06:08:20 EST The Week's Healthiest Headlines http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_weeks_healthiest_headlines We've rounded up links to some of the week's top healthy living headlines. Find out we've been reading--and talking about at the SparkPeople office. Sun, 7 Mar 2010 11:49:38 EST The Secrets of Success: Start Small to Achieve Big Results http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_start_small_to_achieve_big_results During our special 15-day series, "The Secrets of Success," find out how thousands lost weight, improved their health, and changed their lives--forever!<br><br> Sun, 7 Mar 2010 06:00:00 EST The Secrets of Success: Move It to Lose It http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_move_it_to_lose_it The idea that exercise aids weight loss is nothing new. But how much do you really need? Find out how much successful "losers" really did to drop the pounds. Sat, 6 Mar 2010 06:08:02 EST 'We Lost 100 Pounds Without Dieting--So Can You!' http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=we_lost_100_pounds_without_dietingand_you_can_too Learn how four SparkPeople members made small changes to lose more than 100 pounds each! Fri, 5 Mar 2010 15:15:36 EST Senior Playgrounds Offer New Exercise Options http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=senior_playgrounds_offer_new_exercise_options Who says that playgrounds should be just for kids? London's Hyde Park area is set to open a new outdoor playground specifically geared toward older adults. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 10:15:50 EST The Secrets of Success: Eat Your Fruits and Veggies http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_eat_your_fruits_and_veggies During our special 15-day series, "The Secrets of Success," find out how thousands lost weight, improved their health, and changed their lives--forever! Fri, 5 Mar 2010 06:00:00 EST Diet Friendly Dining: IHOP Restaurant http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=diet_friendly_dining_ihop_restaurant The new 'For Me' menu provides some healthier options for you and your family. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 12:58:37 EST The Secrets of Success: Take the 'Work' Out of Your Workouts http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_make_exercise_fun Why do so many of us trudge through workouts that we don't enjoy? Learn to love working out (yes, it's possible!) and you'll be an exerciser for life! Here's how. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 06:13:50 EST Who Dat Sparkers Take on the Mardi Gras Rock 'n' Roll Marathon and Half-Marathon http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=who_dat_sparkers_take_on_the_mardi_gras_rock_n_roll_marathon_and_halfmarathon Spark members traveled across the United States and Canada to run and walk a race of a lifetime. Come share the journey with us. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 14:55:40 EST The Secrets of Success: Be A “Goal-Getter” http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_be_a_goalgetter During our special 15-day series, "The Secrets of Success," find out how thousands lost weight, improved their health, and changed their lives--forever! Wed, 3 Mar 2010 06:00:00 EST 'Diabetes was My Wake-Up Call to Lose 100 Pounds' http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=diabetes_was_my_wakeup_call_to_lose_100_pounds If you're a fan of the Dr. Oz show, you might soon recognize SparkPeople member Jill Knapp, aka Bluesky97. She shares her secrets in an episode that airs tomorrow. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 05:12:40 EST Are You Eating More Because of Health Claims on Food Labels? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_health_halo_effect_are_health_claims_on_food_packaging_leading_you_to_eat_more_than_you_think Low fat. Reduced calorie. All natural. Zero transfat. Are food labels making these health claims causing more overeating? Tue, 2 Mar 2010 18:10:39 EST Confession: I'm A Napper http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=confession_im_a_napper It's true- I LOVE to take naps. That's why I was interested to read a new study that claims and afternoon nap might refresh the brain's capacity to learn, making you smarter. Tue, 2 Mar 2010 14:03:46 EST The Secrets of Success: Don't Skimp on Strength Training http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=the_secrets_of_success_dont_skimp_on_strength_training Did you know that people who reach their weight-loss goals are twice as likely to pump iron as those who are "stuck" on a plateau? Find out why! Tue, 2 Mar 2010 06:05:22 EST Should You Be Planning a Victory Garden? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=should_you_be_planning_a_victory_garden Simple ideas to help you plan a victory-type garden for your family. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 13:32:37 EST The Secrets of Success: Know How Much You're Eating http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=test_the_secrets_of_success_1 Today we're launching a special 15-day series called "The Secrets of Success." Find out how thousands lost weight, improved their health, and changed their lives--forever! Mon, 1 Mar 2010 06:09:10 EST This Week's Top Health Headlines http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=this_weeks_top_health_headlines We've rounded up links to some of the week's top healthy living headlines. Sun, 28 Feb 2010 12:36:12 EST SparkPeople Members Take on New Orleans http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=spark_members_take_on_new_orleans On Sunday SparkPeople members from around the country converge on the Crescent City to run in the Mardi Gras Half and Full Marathon. Read their stories on how they got there. Sat, 27 Feb 2010 13:26:07 EST Win 1 of 5 Mrs. Dash Prize Packs http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=win_1_of_5_mrs_dash_prize_packs Mrs. Dash is giving 5 bottles of seasonings to 5 readers. And we've got <b>10 great tips for reducing sodium intake</b>, too! Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:46:21 EST Lower Slower for Better Strength Gains http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=fitness_defined_concentric_and_eccentric_contractions_and_why_it_matters Learn how to build more strength and get better results from your weight training without spending more time in the gym. Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:19:33 EST We Tried It: The 'Squeeze It In' Workout DVD http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=we_tried_it_squeeze_it_in_dvd One of my personal goals is to stay fit, which is tough on days where I'm short on time. So I was excited to check out the DVD our friends at SqueezeItIn.com sent us to to try. Fri, 26 Feb 2010 06:09:40 EST Think You're Too Big to Run? Think Again http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=running_while_chunky_a_guide Since joining SparkPeople, Kristina has taken up running and dropped from 279 pounds to 212 pounds--and she's still going. She shares her secrets in a light-hearted blog! Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:14:33 EST Our Exclusive Interview with 4-Time Olympic Speed Skater Jennifer Rodriguez http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=our_exclusive_interview_with_4time_olympic_speed_skater_jennifer_rodriguez Jennifer Rodriguez came out of retirement to compete in her fourth Winter Olympics. A few months back, she talked with the dailySpark! Thu, 25 Feb 2010 06:04:27 EST Runners Are Being Urged to Limit Caffeine Consumption http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=runners_are_being_urged_to_limit_caffeine_consumption Read why runners are being urged to limit caffeine consumption to no more than 200 mg prior to a race or training run. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:30:50 EST Exclusive: Olympic Curler Nicole Joranstaad Talks to the dailySpark http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=exclusive_olympic_curler_nicole_joranstaad_talks_to_the_dailyspark Curler Nicole Joranstaad shares her favorite meals, tips on staying motivated and common misconceptions about her sport. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 10:50:07 EST Confession: I Make Special Requests When Dining Out http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=confession_i_make_annoying_requests_when_dining_out Is it possible to eat healthy at a restaurant without making lots of special requests? This blogger doesn't think so! Wed, 24 Feb 2010 06:14:10 EST Is A Thin Body Celebrated More Than A Fit One? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=is_a_thin_body_celebrated_more_than_a_fit_one Most female Olympic athletes wouldn't grace the cover of a women's magazine or walk the runway at a fashion show. Why? Because they aren't skinny. Tue, 23 Feb 2010 14:17:39 EST Avoiding Cookies at the Cleaners http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=avoiding_cookies_at_the_cleaners We’ve all heard the usual explanations for Americans’ expanding waistlines. But might hardware stores and hair salons also be responsible? Tue, 23 Feb 2010 06:15:28 EST An Exclusive Interview with Olympic Alpine Skier Julia Mancuso http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=an_exclusive_interview_with_olympic_alpine_skier_julia_mancuso Julia Mancuso is now the most accomplished American skier in Olympic history--and we have an interview with her! Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:17:18 EST Is Agave Nectar Really a Healthier Option? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=is_agave_really_the_healthier_option The Blue Agave is famously used to make tequila. Now, the nectar has become a popular "natural" sweetener option. Learn more about the latest concerns. Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:07:40 EST Weekly Links: What We're Reading http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=weekly_links_what_were_reading We've rounded up links to some of the week's top healthy living headlines. Sat, 20 Feb 2010 18:14:54 EST Make Your Own Yogurt--It's Easy http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=make_your_own_yogurtits_easy I feel like my childhood "Little House on the Prairie" daydreams are becoming a reality. I'm making my own yogurt--and so can you! Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:11:42 EST Are Genes To Blame For Your Battle With Weight? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=are_genes_to_blame_for_your_battle_with_weight Can you look at your mother (or father) and see yourself in 20 or 30 years? New research is analyzing genes and how much they determine your body shape and weight. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 09:55:37 EST 132 Pounds Down, 'I Have Nothing to Lose But the Weight' http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=132_pounds_down_i_have_nothing_to_lose_but_the_weight On his way to reaching a healthy weight for the first time in his life, Ryan has quickly become an unlikely inspiration for others. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 05:21:03 EST Speak Up and Be Heard, Win $100 SparkCertificates http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=speak_up_and_be_heard_win_100_sparkcertificates As we like to say, small steps can yield big results. You've got the chance to do something small and achieve something great while helping SparkPeople! Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:37:29 EST Healthy Living Unites 3 Generations http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=3_generations_grow_closer_through_healthy_life_changes Greg's daughters are growing up healthy and happy, and he's closer than ever to his father, thanks to his life changes, inspired by SparkPeople! Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:41:33 EST You Asked: What is the Whole Grains Council? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=you_asked_what_is_the_whole_grains_council Learn how this consumer advocacy group is helping people around the world enjoy whole grains for good health. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 06:10:36 EST Binge Eating to Become an Official Mental Disorder http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=binge_eating_set_to_become_an_official_mental_disorder The new version of the official manual for diagnosing mental disorders will include binge eating. Is this a good thing or bad? Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:13:29 EST 4 Workouts for People with Limited Mobility http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=4_workouts_for_people_with_limited_mobility From chair workouts to cardio cleaning, there are plenty of ways to get stronger--even if you can't stand or walk. Get tips from a member who has lost more than 100 pounds. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:02:44 EST Slash Your Child's Risk for Obesity by 40%--Without Diet or Exercise http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=reduce_your_childs_risk_for_obesity_by_40without_diet_or_exercise What if preventing obesity in kids had nothing to do with exercise or nutrition? Recently published research shows it's easier than we may think... Wed, 17 Feb 2010 06:54:46 EST 6 Weeks In, How Are Your Resolutions Going? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=6_weeks_in_how_are_your_resolutions_going Before the excitement of 2010 begins to wear off, let's revisit your goals for the year. Are you staying focused? Do you even remember what your New Year's Resolutions were? Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:02:46 EST 8 Tips to Help Kids Feel at Home in the Kitchen http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=8_tips_to_help_kids_feel_at_home_in_the_kitchen With all the talk of how we should help kids stay healthy, my mind keeps returning to the same idea: <b>Teach them to cook! </b> Here's how. Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:58:49 EST Poll: Is Age Just a Number to You? http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=poll_is_age_just_a_number_to_you Ever since I was a child, age has seemed like just a number. Should we feel "old" or "young," or is age just a number? Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:06:59 EST Your Life Changes Are Changing the Lives of Others http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=your_life_changes_are_changing_the_lives_of_others Every time we take the stairs instead of the elevator or cook at home instead of picking up takeout, we're setting an example. See how members are influencing their families. Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:45:22 EST Weekend Reading: The "Let's Move" Edition http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=weekend_reading_the_valentines_day_edition We've rounded up links to some of the week's top healthy living headlines. Sun, 14 Feb 2010 11:18:46 EST 'I Carried the Olympic Torch!' http://www.dailyspark.com/blog.asp?post=i_carried_the_olympic_torch SparkPeople member ALLEYCAT12380 shares her story about what it was like to carry the Olympic torch. Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:12:52 EST