I personally don't have a problem with a cup of either once a day, but it's debatable when you add 2,3, 4 or more. Coffee is a definite diuretic and you should drink one glass of water for every cup of coffee you drink to neutralize the effects. Experts say that caffeine has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, risk of osteoporosis, and restless sleep. On a more positive note, both coffee and tea are loaded with antioxidants and of course they both have caffeine. Now, I'm not a big drinker of either, but if I were to choose then green tea would win my vote. Both coffee and tea do offer compounds such as caffeine and EGCT (epigallacatechin gallete), which increases metabolism, prevent the storage of fat, actually burn fat, and block the absorption of dietary fat and blood glucose levels. Keep in mind as this may sound like a reason to start this habit, balance is key in all things that we do and consume.

It's important to become armed for summer with the proper hydration, nutrition, and sun-block, but it's just as important to have "arms" for summer! Most women are very self-conscious about their arms and by doing my Visibly Fit program you will see very strong and lean arms in a short amount of time. I recently received this email and thought I would share it with you.

Hi Wendie,

I wanted to write to let you know that I'm 54 years old and my arms look better than ever since I started doing the exercises on your 7X11 DVD. I am not a bit worried about wearing sleeveless tops this summer. Thank you,

Sue

Tank top season is almost here so get in gear so that you won't have to be worried about going sleeveless either!

I've been attending a seminar in central California for the last few days and it hasn't allowed much "down" time. Seminars or conferences can be very draining at times, especially if the event is compiled of long hours. My Visibly Fit exercises came in handy to give me the energy required to be alert and responsive. If I only had a 10-20 minute break then I would run up to my hotel room and get a few exercises into my sedentary, seminar day. In doing this, I was able to be "on my game" and keep up with the conditioning that I am accustomed. Make sure to incorporate exercise in your day, no matter where you are or what you're doing. It will make a difference in the ability to absorb information, stay alert, and to interact in a way that you and those around you deserve.

One of the hardest things to hear and accept from a loved one are words of truth when it comes to your personal health. It's easier to have a total stranger, a doctor, or even a talk show host suggest healthy ideas that you should be doing and you're more likely to take heed. Why is that? Not quite sure, but there are some subtle ways to motivate your loved one without getting an eye-rolling look (or worse) in return.

1. Now that it is nice outside, go for a walk after dinner. Ask your loved one if they want to join you. It may take a few times of asking, but eventually they will catch the spirit.

2. Create a fun exercise chart and make it competitive. If your loved one accomplishes all for that week then offer a reward such as a message, dinner and a movie, or tackle their chores for a day. Get creative. The whole family could get involved.

3. Offer to cook dinner, do the bills, watch the kids, or whatever is keeping your loved one from using a little time for themselves. The number one excuse for people not exercising is that they are too busy and just can't find the time–so eliminate that for them!

4. Plan a beach vacation. This is usually a great incentive to get motivated to exercise. Make a goal together- reach it - then take the much deserved trip.

5. Walk/run for a cause. Enter the event together and start training for it. The 3-day Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer walk (for example) would be something to work towards. 

6. Take your loved one to a park for a picnic. Take along a frisbee, soccer ball, basketball or football and just play. You'll burn a lot of calories in the process of having fun. The whole family would enjoy this as well!

7. Tell your loved one how proud of them you are and how you enjoy doing physical activities with them. They will become encouraged instead of discouraged.