Newsletter
HotBod April 02
Welcome to all the new subscribers to the HotBod newsletter as well as those who have been with us from the beginning. Each month we'll explore issues relating to the three major areas of fitness: exercise, nutrition and supplementation. Don't hesitate to write if you have any comments or suggestions.
First, an update on my videos. Koch Vision has begun distributing them into the major retail outlets. By the beginning of December, they should be available everywhere. In addition, they will continue to be available over the Internet. Those interested can check them out at the link below:
Look Great Naked Video Series
TRAINING CORNER: Combating Cellulite
For 90 percent of all women, cellulite remains a bane to achieving the physique they desire. For generations, unscrupulous hucksters have preyed on this fact and peddled a variety of snake oil treatments promising to vanquish this unwanted malady. Unfortunately, none of these treatments have proven beneficial in combating the big "C".
To understand why, it's important to understand the physiologic origin of cellulite. Simply stated, cellulite is a genetic condition related to the composition of your skin. Underneath your dermis (upper layer of skin), you have a layer of fibrous connective tissue called superficial fascia. This connective tissue holds down fat into place. However, in many women, the superficial fascia is discontinuous and has "gaps" that allow fat to poke up onto the skin surface creating the dimpled appearance associated with cellulite.
The truth is, the only way to significantly diminish the appearance of cellulite is through dedicated exercise and proper nutrition. By stripping away fat to low levels, there won't be much fat to press up on the skin. And by adding lean muscle, you'll help to smooth out the area and provide a supporting structure that will provide a firm, toned appearance
NUTRITION CORNER: Cheating
Many people find it difficult to maintain a year-round, regimented program of eating. These people feel a need to satisfy their cravings and, if they are prohibited from indulging every once in a while, they end up going on binges that sabotage their efforts at weight management.
If you are one of these people, take heart. You can cheat a little and occasionally have foods that aren't on your normal meal plan. It is best to limit cheating to one day per week. Pick a day - any day - and designate that as your cheat day. Feel free to have whatever you want (but try not be a total glutton!). Satisfy your cravings and get it out of your system. You then have six days of regimentation to adhere to. And remember, don't let the cheating spill over into your "clean" days. This is a surefire way to diminish the benefits of all your hard work in the gym!
SUPPLEMENT REVIEW: Cellasene
What it is: Cellasene is a blend of various oils and herbs.
What it does: Cellasene purportedly helps to smooth out areas of cellulite.
The verdict: There is no other way to say it: Cellasene is a blatant rip-off. The active ingredients in the product (biloba extract, dried sweet clover extract, grape seed bioflavonids, dried fucus vesiculosus extract and evening primrose oil) will not eradicate cellulite. Because the cause of cellulite is related to the composition of connective tissue (see above), there is no way these ingredients can positively influence this malady. There also is a concern that the product contains excessive levels of iodine, which can be harmful to the body and cause side effects. Bottom line: Save your money and stay away!
Supplement Grade: F