Healthy Eating Plans - Healthy Diet Tips and Guidelines

Ten reasons why we should avoid or even stop using Microwaves.......

2011-03-02T15:22:00.001+05:30

Above is a clear picture which indicates why we must avoid using microwaves. See the observations on the growth of plant when two pots containing same plants but different ways of watering is done. The 1st pot is watered using microwaved water where as the second pot is watered using normal pure water. See the amazing difference as the days pass by.

From the conclusions of the Swiss, Russian and German scientific clinical studies, we can no longer ignore the microwave oven sitting in our kitchens. Based on this research, we will conclude this article with the following:

1). Continually eating food processed from a microwave oven causes long term - permanent - brain damage by 'shorting out' electrical impulses in the brain [de-polarizing or de-magnetizing the brain tissue].

2). The human body cannot metabolize [break down] the unknown by-products created in microwaved food.

3).. Male and female hormone production is shut down and/or altered by continually eating microwaved foods.

4). The effects of microwaved food by-products are residual [long term, permanent] within the human body.

5). Minerals, vitamins, and nutrients of all microwaved food is reduced or altered so that the human body gets little or no benefit, or the human body absorbs altered compounds that cannot be broken down.

6). The minerals in vegetables are altered into cancerous free radicals when cooked in microwave ovens.

7). Microwaved foods cause stomach and intestinal cancerous growths [tumors]. This may explain the rapidly increased rate of colon cancer in America.

8). The prolonged eating of microwaved foods causes cancerous cells to increase in human blood.

9). Continual ingestion of microwaved food causes immune system deficiencies through lymph gland and blood serum alterations.

10). Eating microwaved food causes loss of memory, concentration, emotional instability, and a decrease of intelligence.

Have you tossed out your microwave oven yet? After you throw out your microwave, you can use a toaster oven as a replacement. It works well for most and is nearly as quick. The use of artificial microwave transmissions for subliminal psychological control, a.k.a. 'brainwashing', has also been proven.

Source: FORENSIC RESEARCH DOCUMENT

Prepared By: William P. Kopp

A. R. E. C. Research Operations

TO61-7R10/10-77F05

RELEASE PRIORITY: CLASS I ROO1a

Oatmeal - A Magical Health food

2011-03-02T08:28:00.002+05:30

Oats is one of the most miraculous super grains with high soluble and insoluble dietary fibers. As a health conscious family member, opting for oats in your daily diet becomes mandatory as it has immense health benefits. Oats is, indeed, a magical super grain that keeps our heart healthy, helps attain longevity and is also an awesome immune system booster. So you should now consider eating oats everyday and make healthy choices for an energetic life.

As life of a man is getting more stressful and sedentary in this fast-moving yet wonderful and technological world, adding a highly nutritious food like oats should seldom be underestimated.

Here's a simple recipe of oats drink that can be taken either in the morning or at night. This recipe will help you make a delicious oat meal drink in less than 4 minutes:

Ingredients: 2 Cups of water

1 1/2 tablespoon of oats

A pinch of salt

Sugar as needed (optional)

Dry fruits like cashew / almonds (optional)

Soaked (overnight) fenugreek seed - 1/2 or 1 teaspoon (optional)

Milk - quarter of a cup

Method to prepare: Boil water with oats and add a pinch of salt. Let it boil for 2 minutes. Add milk. Also add sugar if needed. (If sugar is added, do not add the soaked fenugreek seeds). Add in dry fruits as well. Drink it hot and enjoy the delicious health drink.

Oats has several health benefits that can be specifically highlighted as follows:

1. Heart Disease & Cholesterol: Oats is a great cholesterol lowering agent. It eliminates the LDL bad cholesterol in the body without lowering the HDL, the good cholesterol which keeps the heart very healthy. Besides, research shows that a person who consumes oats regularly are less likely to have heart related problems and disease.
2. Great Cancer fighter: Oats contain a specific chemical called phytochemicals that prevent and fight cancer. Also as oats aid a lot in bowel movement, it safeguards and protects from gastrointestinal and bowel cancer. In addition, the compound lignans found in oats reduces the risk of hormone related diseases like breast cancer, endometrial, prostrate and ovarian cancer.
3. Immune System booster: Regular intake of oats helps a great deal in boosting our entire immune system thus safeguarding us from viral and bacterial fever and infections.

4. Balanced diet: Oats is a meal of balanced diet with thiamine; riboflavin; iron and foliate; calcium and phosphorous that enhances our life by keeping us physically fit and strong. It also has the nutritional value either equal to or more than the fruits / vegetables thus promoting perfect health.

5. Cures constipation: As the intake of oats aid in bowel movement, it helps to relieve constipation and also prevents gastro-intestinal related health problems.

6. Helps reduce and maintain weight: As oats has more soluble fibers than any other grain, they create a sense of fullness and fight obesity thus help to maintain and reduce weight.

7. Good for Brain & Memory capacity: As Oats is rich in vitamin B, it is an excellent source of diet for good memory and keeps us mentally active and alert.

8. Good for dry skin and hair too: Oats mask along with honey is one of the face mask commonly used to nourish & moisturize your dry skin. Besides, oats is a great product if applied externally to hair too as most shampoos contain oats as one of its main ingredient which leaves the hair silky, soft and strong.

So, if you genuinely care for yourself, your entire family and your friends, the health benefits of oats are definitely not worth ignoring. So, why not cultivate the habit of including Oats in your daily diet? Moreover, it is easy to cook plus a cheap super food too. So, don't delay. Take the initiative to eat oats daily either at night or in the morning, as per your convenience, thus making a substantial difference to your total health.

Tips to lose weight

2010-05-26T15:05:00.002+05:30

Anyone who is overweight will testify that losing weight is not as easy as it seems. The people that are lean, or have gone from fat to skinny will say it’s just a matter of motivation and elbow grease. Although it is not as simple as that.

Our environments have waged war on us. Their weapons are sedentary lives and Trans fats of mass destruction. All is not lost though, here are some quick simple tips to get ahead!

1. Substitute Water. Our bodies are about 65-70% water. It follows that water would be not only essential, but the best possibly choice of liquids to ingest. In fact, our bodies will sometimes simulate a hunger response, when in reality the body is craving hydration. When hungry, drink a glass or two of water to check if it suppresses your hunger.

2. Chew Your Food. Chewing our food very slowly and deliberately has several benefits that are often overlooked. It gives us the ability to relax, and enjoy our meal. Slow chewing is the first, and highly important, step in a complex system of digestion. Besides, if we eat slowly, we might feel full before finishing the whole meal, and can leave the rest for the next meal.

3. Exercise daily. How silly of me to include something as obvious as exercise. I did a 30 day trial with waking up, and walking for 30 minutes first thing in the morning. My journal records that I was feeling amazing during the period of time that I was following this habit.

4. Publicise your intentions. Start a blog, join a forum, and have other people keep you accountable to help. Tell other people your plan, it would help you get the motivation to go with it!

5. Create a food schedule. Plan your day so that you’re eating at approximately the same time each day. This scheduling will incorporate itself into your circadian rhythm, and aid in digestion.

6. Do not over eat. Know your limit and stop eating when you are full. I have often been a victim of wanting to finish a meal so that it doesn't go to waste. This has left me with many a stomach ache. Next time, doggy bag it for later, and don’t hurt yourself!

7. Choose your snacks wisely. Put down the Lays® and cheese puffs. Pick up the apple and baby carrots. Make the right decision, I know you can do it.

8. Lifestyle. Remember, it’s not about special diets, or special exercise programs. The real secret is in turning your health into a lifestyle, and focusing on this healthy lifestyle with every choice you make.

20 Health benefits of Ginger – truly amazing!

2010-04-22T14:58:00.000+05:30

Ginger has been used for its health benefits for over 5000 years and is a favorite medicinal as well as culinary herb.

Unlike most spices, the part that has the most medicinal value grows under ground. Often mistakenly called “ginger root” this is actually the rhizome of the plant which is more of a subterranean stem than a root. Although you can use dried ginger and powdered ginger for health benefits, fresh ginger is preferred.

The list of health benefits of ginger keeps growing and here are the most important ones:

1. The intake of ginger helps stimulate the secretion of mucus, quieting your cough and soothing any scratchiness in your throat..

2. Ginger has been proven (in multiple studies) to treat feelings of nausea, particularly in the form of seasickness, morning sickness, motion sickness and as a side effect of chemotherapy.

{In pregnancy is to be extra careful!! Never use any herb, including ginger, without first discussing it with your doctor!! As for those suffering from ulcer, or other very serious gastric problems, they should also consult their doctor.}

3. Ginger contains anti viral, anti toxic, and anti fungal properties, and is used for the prevention of and treatment against the common cold.

4. Ginger acts as an antihistamine and aids in the treatment of allergies.

5. Ginger displays anti inflammatory properties and can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and various other muscular disorders.

6. The chemical components of the root are instrumental in inhibiting the biosynthesis of prostaglandins which are responsible for causing inflammations.

7. Eating ginger may help to prevent cancer and aging disorders.

8. Ginger contains special enzymes responsible for catalyzing the proteins in your food, thus aiding in digestion and the prevention of cramps.

9. Ginger is good for those with constipation!

{The ancient Greeks used to eat ginger after a large meal, in order to ease the digestion process.}

10. Ginger has proven to help lower your cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of blood clots.

11. As a mood enhancer, ginger's cineole content may help contribute to stress relief.

12. Also used for migraine headache.

13. Ginger can also be used for reducing toothache and the discomfort which arises due to the infection in the upper respiratory tract due to its antibacterial and antifungal nature.

14. Chewing on fresh ginger, can help freshen the breath.

15. Being a warming herb, ginger can help knock out a fever. This property also makes it effective in stimulating circulation of the blood.

16. Ginger can also help relax muscles around the blood vessels and is said to help prevent blood clots from forming. The warming effects make it a natural decongestant as well as an antihistamine, making it the perfect remedy for colds.

17. Some studies show that it can even help inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus.

18. Recent studies show that ginger might also have a role in lowering LDL cholesterol because the spice can help reduce the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed.

19. It has also been shown in animal trials to help slow or even prevent cancerous tumor growth.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Ginger may be powerful weapon in the treatment of ovarian cancer. A study conducted at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that ginger powder induces cell death in all ovarian cancer cells to which it was applied.

Colon Cancer Prevention

A study at the University of Minnesota found that ginger may slow the growth of colorectal cancer cells.

20. Ginger helps stop Diarrhea.

To discover the health benefits of ginger for yourself, simply make a tea by steeping about 5 slices of ginger in hot water.

If you prefer it in your food, Ginger is excellent in many dishes and is perfect when combined with garlic. Ginger doesn't only spice up your food it can also help to put some extra spice in your intimate life too. It improves blood flow to your sexual organs, and contains Vitamin C, zinc and magnesium.

Health tips to prevent Cancer

2010-04-19T15:31:00.000+05:30

AFTER YEARS OF TELLING PEOPLE CHEMOTHERAPY IS THE ONLY WAY TO TRY AND ELIMINATE CANCER, JOHNS HOPKINSIS FINALLY STARTING TO TELL YOU THERE IS AN ALTERNATIVE WAY ...

Cancer Update from Johns Hopkins

1. Every person has cancer cells in the body. These cancer cells do not show up in the standard tests until they have multiplied to a few billion. When doctors tell cancer patients that there are no more cancer cells in their bodies after treatment, it just means the tests are unable to detect the cancer cells because they have not reached the detectable size.

2. Cancer cells occur between 6 to more than 10 times in a person's lifetime.

3. When the person's immune system is strong the cancer cells will be destroyed and prevented from multiplying and forming tumors.

4. When a person has cancer it indicates the person has multiple nutritional deficiencies. These could be due to genetic, environmental, food and lifestyle factors.

5. To overcome the multiple nutritional deficiencies, changing diet and including supplements will strengthen the immune system.

6. Chemotherapy involves poisoning the rapidly-growing cancer cells and also destroys rapidly-growing healthy cells in the bone marrow, gastro-intestinal tract etc., and can cause organ damage, like liver, kidneys, heart, lungs etc.

7. Radiation while destroying cancer cells also burns, scars and damages healthy cells, tissues and organs.

8. Initial treatment with chemotherapy and radiation will often reduce tumor size. However prolonged use of chemotherapy and radiation do not result in more tumor destruction.

9. When the body has too much toxic burden from chemotherapy and radiation the immune system is either compromised or destroyed, hence the person can succumb to various kinds of infections and complications.

10. Chemotherapy and radiation can cause cancer cells to mutate and become resistant and difficult to destroy. Surgery can also cause cancer cells to spread to other sites.

11. An effective way to battle cancer is to starve the cancer cells by not feeding it with the foods it needs to multiply.

WHAT CANCER CELLS FEED ON:

a. Sugar is a cancer-feeder - By cutting off sugar it cuts off one important food supply to the cancer cells. Sugar substitutes like NutraSweet, Equal, Spoonful, etc are made with Aspartame and it is harmful. A better natural substitute would be Manuka honey or molasses but only in very small amounts. Table salt has a chemical added to make it white in colour. Better alternative is Bragg's aminos or sea salt.

b. Milk causes the body to produce mucus, especially in the gastro-intestinal tract. Cancer feeds on mucus. By cutting off milk and substituting with unsweetened soy milk, cancer cells are being starved.

c. Cancer cells thrive in an acid environment. A meat-based diet is acidic and it is best to eat fish, and a little chicken rather than beef or pork. Meat also contains livestock antibiotics, growth hormones and parasites, which are all harmful, especially to people with cancer.

d. A diet made of 80% fresh vegetables and juice, whole grains, seeds, nuts and a little fruits help put the body into an alkaline environment. About 20% can be from cooked food including beans. Fresh vegetable juices provide live enzymes that are easily absorbed and reach down to cellular levels within 15 minutes to nourish and enhance growth of healthy cells.

To obtain live enzymes for building healthy cells try and drink fresh vegetable juice (most vegetables including bean sprouts) and eat some raw vegetables 2 or 3 times a day. Enzymes are destroyed at temperatures of 104 degrees F (40 degrees C).

e. Avoid coffee, tea, and chocolate, which have high caffeine. Green tea is a better alternative and has cancer-fighting properties. Water--best to drink purified water, or filtered, to avoid known toxins and heavy metals in tap water. Distilled water is acidic, avoid it.

12. Meat protein is difficult to digest and requires a lot of digestive enzymes. Undigested meat remaining in the intestines become putrified and leads to more toxic buildup.

13. Cancer cell walls have a tough protein covering. By refraining from or eating less meat it frees more enzymes to attack the protein walls of cancer cells and allows the body's killer cells to destroy the cancer cells.

14. Some supplements build up the immune system (IP6, Flor-ssence, Essiac, anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals, EFAs etc.) to enable the body's own killer cells to destroy cancer cells. Other supplements like vitamin E are known to cause apoptosis, or programmed cell death, the body's normal method of disposing of damaged, unwanted, or unneeded cells.

15. Cancer is a disease of the mind, body, and spirit. A proactive and positive spirit will help the cancer warrior be a survivor.

Anger, unforgiveness and bitterness put the body into a stressful and acidic environment. Learn to have a loving and forgiving spirit. Learn to relax and enjoy life.

16. Cancer cells cannot thrive in an oxygenated environment. Exercising daily, and deep breathing help to get more oxygen down to the cellular level. Oxygen therapy is another means employed to destroy cancer cells.

Secrets to Natural Health and Weight Loss - Garlic & Corn

2010-04-19T15:16:00.000+05:30

Garlic

Through the centuries, garlic has been both reviled and revered for its qualities. Today, the gossip about garlic and its apparent disease-preventing potential has reached a fevered pitch. For garlic lovers, that's good news; adding garlic to dishes can punch up the flavor.

When it comes to weight loss, garlic appears to be a miracle food. It contains the compound allicin which has anti-bacterial effects and helps reduce unhealthy fats and cholesterol.

Once you learn to appreciate its pungency, most anything tastes better with garlic. And once you learn its possible health benefits, you may learn to love it.

Health benefits

The list of health benefits just seems to grow and grow. From preventing heart disease and cancer to fighting off infections, researchers are finding encouraging results with garlic. Behind all the grandiose claims are the compounds that give garlic its biting flavor. The chief health-promoting "ingredients" are allicin and dialyl sulfide, sulfur-containing compounds. Although allicin is destroyed in cooking, other helpful compounds are formed by heat or aren't destroyed by it. This lets cooked garlic give you a health boost. Garlic also contains the powerful antioxidants C and E, and the mineral selenium.

Garlic has been found to lower levels of LDL cholesterol, the "bad" cholesterol, and raise HDL cholesterol, the "good" cholesterol in the short term. Its effects last about three months when taken daily. It may also help to dissolve clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Even when cooked, garlic helps keep cholesterol in your bloodstream from oxidizing and damaging the lining of your blood vessels, which helps prevent the formation of plaque.

Garlic has also been found to inhibit the growth of, or even kill, several kinds of bacteria, including Staphylococcus and Salmonella, as well as many fungi and yeast. Animal studies have found that garlic helps prevent colon, lung, and esophageal cancers. How much is enough? Researchers suggest you can enjoy the benefits of garlic every day by eating a typical clove weighing 3 grams.

Corn

Corn is a low-fat complex carbohydrate that deserves a regular place on any healthy table. Unfortunately, as with many other naturally low-fat foods, the American tendency is to smother corn-on-the- cob with butter.

But these high-fiber, fat-fighting kernels of goodness are better served with seasoning. Because corn is hearty and satisfying, it can curb your appetite.

Health Benefits

This popular food is high in fiber. In fact, it's notoriously hard to digest. But its insoluble fiber is tops at tackling common digestive ailments (like constipation and hemorrhoids) by absorbing water, which swells the stool and speeds its movement.

Corn is a surprising source of several vitamins, including folic acid, niacin, and vitamin C. The folic acid in corn is now known to be an important factor in preventing neural-tube birth defects. It's just as important in preventing heart disease, according to studies that show folic acid can prevent a buildup of homocysteine, an amino acid, in the body. Long-term elevation of homocysteine has been linked to higher rates of heart disease; folic acid helps break it down.

Correct way of eating Fruits

2009-08-13T09:35:00.007+05:30

We all think eating fruits means just buying fruits, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths. It's not as easy as you think It's important to know how and when to eat.

What is the correct way of eating fruits?
IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS! - FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit on an empty stomach, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD - Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so.

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid.. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil.

So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining - every time I eat water-melon I burp, when I eat durian (fruit from Asia with a foul smell yet delicious flavor) my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet etc. - actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes - all these will not happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans.. Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste.

Cooking destroys all the vitamins.But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it.You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange. APPLE: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoid which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-cloggORANGE: Sweetest medicine, eating 2 to 4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.

Swine Flu

2009-04-29T11:22:00.003+05:30

What is swine influenza?
It is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. It regularly causes high flu outbreaks in pigs but with low death rates. There are four main sub-types of the virus, but the most recent isolated influenza viruses from pigs have been H1N1 viruses.

How does it spread?
Swine flu viruses do not typically infect humans though they do occur through close proximity or contact with infected pigs or contaminated areas. Cases of human-to-human spread have been documented.

What are the symptoms?
The symptoms are similar to those of regular flu:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting and diarrhea in some cases.

How common is swine flu infection in humans?
In the past reports of about one human swine flu virus infection had been received every one to two years in the United States. From December 2005 till February 2009, 12 cases have been reported.

Has this strain of flu been seen before?
No. Flu mutates constantly, so it is common for new strains to emerge. Pigs can also be infected with both human and avian influenza, and the current circulating swine flu strain appears to contain genetic elements from all three.

Can swine flu be treated with antiviral drugs and flu vaccine?
The swine flu is resistant to two common drugs – Amantadine and Rimantadine. The H1N1 swine flu viruses are very different from human H1N1 viruses. Therefore, vaccines for human seasonal flu would not provide protection. However, a “seed vaccine” has been specifically tailored to this swine flu and will be manufactured if officials deem it necessary.

Can people catch swine flu by eating pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products are safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 70ºC and above kills the swine flu virus.

How long is someone with swine flu considered contagious?
People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic; possibly for up to seven days following the onset of the illness. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What can I do to protect myself from the swine flu?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against the swine flu .

However, you can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza by:
- Covering your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue or handkerchief when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the waste basket after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also helpful
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people. - If you get sick with influenza, stay at home and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Consult your nearest healthcare facility if you think you have any of the symptoms.

Effects of Fast Food and Childhood Obesity

2008-12-27T15:00:00.003+05:30

Childhood obesity is on rapid rise in the developing countries like India – in keeping with an unhealthy global trend: in 2007, as estimated 22 million children under the age of five were overweight according to the World Health Organization.

An alarming report present by American Heart Association states the thickness of the artery walls of teenagers who are obese were reported to resemble the thickness of an average 45-year-old’s artery walls i.e. evidence was presented that obese children show early warning signs of heart disease. Childhood obesity is also linked to other serious health complications including juvenile diabetes.

Medical experts attribute the weighty troubles to the changed dietary habits – an over dose of fast food and processed foods and a steep drop in levels of physical activity.

An unhealthy diet is partly because of compulsions of modern life where both parents work and prefer quick and easy processed food options rather than cooking every meal from scratch.For more details on effects of fast food and alternative options to be taken, please read my earlier article -Click here.

12 Avocado health benefits – a misconstrued fruit

2008-12-17T15:32:00.004+05:30

Avocado is a large fleshy pear-shaped berry. It is also known as Alligator Pear and as a Butter fruit. The avocado contains more fat than any other fruit except the olive. Its fat is of the highest quality.

While many people misconstrue avocado as an unhealthy food which is a misconception but the fact is that there is a lot of nutrition packed into these small packages. Along with providing a several essential vitamins and minerals, avocados also help the body to absorb more nutrients from other foods as well.

Creamy rich avocado is considered the world's healthiest fruit, because of its nutrient contents such as vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Iron, phosphorous, calcium, dietary fiber, potassium, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin C, copper, protein and reasonable calories in it.

The protein of avocado is of the finest quality and is much superior to protein of bread and other cereal foods. Its composition is almost identical to that of milk. Prepared thus as a juice, the avocado may be given safely to young infants and to the feeble ones.

Avocados have a good source of Vitamin E, which is not only essential for the normal functioning of the body but is also a potent anti-oxidant which protects polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes from free-radical attack. Free-radicals are linked to the beginnings of cancer and heart disease.

The health benefits of avocado can be highlighted as follows:

1. Cardiovascular Disease:
Avocado protects cholesterol related heart diseases and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Avocado contains a monounsaturated fat called oleic and linoleic acids that are effective in lowering the LDL cholesterol and increasing the good HDL cholesterol.

The American Heart Association (AHA) Dietary Guidelines recommend a diet that has at least five servings of fruits and vegetables, contains up to 30% of calories from fats (primarily unsaturated) and is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, trans fats and sodium while being rich in potassium. Avocados can help you meet the AHA dietary guidelines because they have both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat and contain potassium.

The high levels of foliate in avocado are also protective against strokes. People who eat diets rich in foliate have a much lower risk of stroke than those who don’t.

2. Regulates Blood Pressure:
The high potassium content in avocado regulates and lowers the pressure of blood.

3. Cancer Fighter:
Avocados also have a reputation as a cancer fighter.

Regular consumption of the fruit can help reduce the chances for developing prostate cancer in men as well as breast cancer in men and women.

Researchers at Ohio State University have found that nutrients taken from avocados can attack some oral cancer cells and prevent other pre-cancerous cells from developing into actual cancers of the mouth.

While not seen as a cure for cancer, avocados can be considered a smart food option that helps to lower the risks of dealing with cancer later in life.

4. Eyesight:

The eyes can also benefit from enjoying avocados from time to time. Avocados have more of the carotenoid lutein than any other commonly consumed fruit. Lutein protects against macular degeneration and cataracts, two disabling age-related eye diseases. When included as part of a balanced diet, the lutein content of avocados can help minimize the chances for developing several different vision problems as the individual grows older, making it possible to enjoy excellent eyesight for more years.

5. Baby food:
Because of its high carbohydrates and protein content, mashed avocado is the perfect nourishing food for babies who are beginning to take solids.
6. Immune System:

Regular consumption of avocados strengthens the body's immune system.

7. Digestive System Disorders:
The avocado is an excellent food remedy in acute digestive disorders. Its blandness is comforting to the hypersensitive surfaces of the stomach and duodenum, and its abundant vitamins reanimate the inflamed and crippled cells.

8. Duodenal ulcer:

The blandness of this fruit (and papaya) is comforting and soothing to the hypersensitive surfaces of the stomach and duodenum. Its abundant nutrient and enzymes are an effective remedy to treat this ulceration.

9. Bad Breath:
The avocado is far superior to any mouth lotion or remedies for bad breath. It effectively removes intestinal putrefactions or decomposition which is the real cause of a coated tongue and bad breath.

10. Bright’s Disease:
The avocado is especially useful in cases of bright’s disease because of its small protein content and with none of the poisonous extractives present in the flesh of this fruit.

11. Psoriasis:
The avocado oil is beneficial in treatment of psoriasis and it should be applied gently to the affected parts which helps in taking the scales off.

12. Beauty Aid:

The oil extracted is widely used in preparation of beauty products. These include creams, cleansers and moisturizers to prevent the ageing effect of dehydration; bath oils, shampoos, scalp conditioner and hair tonic.

25 Health Benefits of Cinnamon - a Miraculous Spice

2008-11-06T14:38:00.003+05:30

Cinnamon is one of the world's oldest known spices. The tree is native to Srilanka where it was found thousands of years ago. It is the best spice available in terms of its nutrition and health. It contains unique healthy and healing property comes from the active components in the essential oils found in its bark. Cinnamon has extremely high anti-oxidant activity due to which it has numerous health benefits. Aside from being used as a medicine by other cultures since ancient times, the health benefits may also come from eating it which can be listed as follows:

Lowers Cholestrol:
Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon included in a daily diet can lower cholesterol.
Also Cinnamon may significantly lower LDL “bad” cholesterol, and triglycerides (fatty acids in the blood) and total cholesterol.
Reduces blood sugar levels and treating Type 2 Diabetes:
Several studies have shown improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control by taking as little as ½ teaspoon of cinnamon per day. Improving insulin resistance can help in weight control as well as decreasing the risk for heart disease.
Heart Disease:
Cinnamon strengthens the cardiovascular system thereby shielding the body from heart related disorders. It is believed that the calcium and fiber present in cinnamon provides protection against heart diseases.

Including a little cinnamon in the food helps those suffering from coronary artery disease and high blood pressure.
Fights Cancer :
A study released by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland showed that cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

Besides, the combination of calcium and fiber found in Cinnamon can help to remove bile, which prevents damage to colon cells, thus prevents colon cancer.
Tooth decay and mouth freshener:
Cinnamon has traditionally been used to treat toothache and fight bad breath. Small pieces of cinnamon can be chewed, or gargled with cinnamon water which serves as a good mouth freshener.
Cures Respiratory Problems:
Cinnamon is very useful home remedy for common or severe colds. A person suffering should take one tablespoon of honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses.

Cinnamon also found to cure flu, influenza, sore throat and congestion.
Brain Tonic:
Cinnamon boosts the activity of the brain and hence acts as a good brain tonic. It helps in removing nervous tension and memory loss.

Also, studies have shown that smelling cinnamon may boost cognitive function, memory, performance of certain tasks and increases one’s alertness and concentration.
Infections:
Due to its antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-parasitic and antiseptic properties, it is effective on external as well as internal infections. Cinnamon has been found to be effective in fighting vaginal yeast infections, oral yeast infections, stomach ulcers and head lice.
Eases mentstruation cycles:
Cinnamon has also been found useful for women’s health as it helps in providing relief from menstrual cramping and other feminine discomforts.
Birth Control:
Cinnamon also helps in natural birth control. Regular consumption of cinnamon after child birth delays menstruation and thus helps in avoiding conception.
Breastfeeding:
It is also believed that cinnamon aids in the secretion of breast milk.
Reduces Arthritis Pain:
Cinnamon spice contains anti-inflammatory compounds which can be useful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.

A study conducted at Copenhagen University, where patients were given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month
Digestive Tonic:
Cinnamon should be added to most recipes. Apart from adding flavor to the food, it also aids in digestion. Cinnamon is very effective for indigestion, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea and flatulence. It is very helpful in removing gas from the stomach and intestines. It also removes acidity, diarrhea and morning sickness. It is often referred to as a digestive tonic.
Reduces Urinary tract infections:
People who eat cinnamon on a regular basis report a lower incidence of urinary tract infections. Cinnamon is diuretic in nature and helps in secretion and discharge of urine.
Anti clotting Actions:
A compound found in Cinnamon called as cinnamaldehyde has been well-researched for its effects on blood platelets. [Platelets are constituents of blood that are meant to clump together under emergency circumstances (like physical injury) as a way to stop bleeding, but under normal circumstances, they can make the blood flow inadequate if they clump together too much]. The cinnaldehyde in cinnamon helps prevent unwanted clumping of blood platelets.
Natural Food Preserver:
When added to food, it prevents bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.
Headaches and migraine:
Headache due to the exposure to cold wind is readily cured by applying a thin paste of powdered cinnamon mixed in water on the temples & forehead.
Pimples and Blackheads:
Cinnamon helps in removing blood impurities. Therefore it is often recommended for pimples.

Also external application of paste of cinnamon powder with a few drops of fresh lemon juice over pimples & black heads would give beneficial result.
Thinning of the blood and improves blood circulation:
Cinnamon is a blood thinning agent which also acts to increase circulation. This blood circulation helps significantly in removing pain. Good blood circulation also ensures oxygen supply to the body cells leading to higher metabolic activity. You significantly reduce the chance of getting a heart attack by regularly consuming cinnamon.
Toning of tissues:
Considerable anecdotal evidence exists to suggest that cinnamon may have the ability to tone and constrict tissues in the body.
Muscle and joint pain relief:
Those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis often report that their muscle and joint pain, as well as stiffness, is reduced or even eliminated.
Immune System:
Honey and cinnamon paste is good for boosting the immune system, removing regular fatigue and increasing the longevity of an individual. It is also known to have anti-aging properties.
Itching:
Paste of honey and cinnamon is often used to treat insect bites.
It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.
Healing: Cinnamon helps in stopping bleeding. Therefore it facilitates the healing process.

Indeed, cinnamon has several health benefits as highlighted above that can be used to improve one's health and boost one’s immune system. This is a great reason to keep some cinnamon around. Sprinkle it in your tea or coffee, over oatmeal or a sweet potato and, this will do wonders to your health.

[However, there’s a word of warning to be taken that over dosage of cinnamon may be unwise. Also it is not recommended for pregnant women.

Also, people who have been prescribed medication to manage their blood sugar should not reduce or discontinue their dose and take cinnamon instead, especially without consulting your doctor.]

Grapes – a queen of all fruits

2008-10-20T14:24:00.005+05:30

Grapes are one of the most valuable fruit that is known to revitalize our entire system. They are delicious, highly nutritious and very easily digestible.

Grapes can be eaten fresh or dried (raisins) or can be consumed as a grape juice. Although seedless grapes are highly sought after for table grapes, the absence of seeds does diminish the phytochemical content of the grape. To receive the maximum nutrients from grapes, it is recommended that the seeds are also consumed.

Many of the health benefits attributed to red/purple grapes are due to the pigments that are concentrated largely in the skin and seeds, which have about 100 times higher level than the pulp of the grape.

Grapes are rich in content with water, protien, fat, minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron) and vitamins (Vitamin C, Vitamin A and P). Due to its rich content of sugar which is formed of glucose, they are easily absorbed in the body soon after its consumption thus supplying heat and energy within a short time.

Health benefits are massive and can be illustrated as follows:

Cancer:
Grapes seem to be very good cancer fighting fruit. (They are an excellent source of health promoting flavonoids. Usually, the stronger the color of the grapes, the concentration of flavonoids are found higher.)

Grapes are also rich in ellagic acid, a potent flavonoid that helps fight cancer. Besides there is a substance found in the skin (not flesh) of grapes, called "resveratrol". Researchers reported in a study that resveratrol is converted in the body to a known anti-cancer agent that can selectively target and destroy cancer cells.

Besides, red grape skins and seeds contain recently isolated compounds shown to reduce the size of estrogen-dependent breast cancer tumors.
Still more interesting fact is that grapes acts as a preventative agent in prostrate, lung, liver, and breast cancer.
Heart Disease:
Grapes are abundantly useful in the treatment of heart disease as they tone up the heart and are effective in cardiac pain and palpitation of the heart. Besides grape juice is highly valuable for a person who is suffering from a heart attack which will avert serious consequences and by reducing the pain and palpitation.

Also eating fresh grapes may prevent the accumulation of harmful oxidized cholesterol as well as the development of atherosclerotic lesions. According to the study, as reported in the Journal of Nutrition (vol. 135, pp. 722-728, 2005.), naturally occurring antioxidants in fresh grapes known as polyphenols are believed to be responsible for this beneficial impact.

The flavonoid compounds found in grapes called resveratrol appear to decrease the risk of heart disease by:
-Reducing platelet clumping and harmful blood clots
-Protecting LDL cholesterol from the free radical damage that initiates LDL's artery-damaging actions
-Boosts good type of HDL cholesterol
They are also known to keep heart flexible and healthy.
Blood Pressure :
The intake of grapes regularly in our diet reduces the risk of hypertension.
Alzheimer’s disease: Resveratrol, a beneficial polyphenol present in grapes reduces the levels of amyloidal-beta peptides in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Studies suggest that grapes can enhance brain health and stall the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.
Constipation:
As grapes are a laxative food, it is valuable in relieving constipation. It tones up the stomach and intestine and relieves the most chronic cases of constipation. When fresh grapes are not available, raisins soaked in water can be used.
Dyspepsia :
Grapes constitute a light food that eliminates indigestion and irritation of the stomach and, is valuable in dyspepsia.
Asthma :
According to Dr. Oldfied, grapes and their juices are beneficial in the treatment of asthma.
Body building fruit:
Grapes are very good for the blood and a body builder - it is also a quick source of energy.
Migraine:
The grape juice is very effective home remedy for severe migraine.
Kidney Troubles:
It is an excellent food remedy in acute and chronic nepthritis and bladder stones. Also grapes help to decrease the acidity of the uric acid greatly and, lends itself further in aiding the elimination of the acid from the system, thus benefiting the kidneys greatly.
Antibacterial activity: Red grapes have strong antibacterial and antiviral properties and can protect you from infections. They have a strong antiviral property against poliovirus and herpes simplex virus.
Liver Disorders:
Grapes activate liver to glycogenic functions and bile secretions and is highly useful for all types of liver disorders.
Pyorrhoea :
The organic acid of the grapes are strongly antiseptic and has a strong effect on the gums. According to Johanna Brandt, “Every tooth may be loose in its socket and pus may be pouring from the gums, but after a few weeks on the exclusive grape diet, it will be found that teeth are firmly set in the jaws and that every trace of pyorrhea poisoning has disappeared”.
Alcoholism :
Grapes are an effective remedy for those craving alcohols as it is the most purest form of alcohol. So grapes must form an exclusive diet in treating the alcoholics.
Eyesight:
Grapes can contribute to reducing the risk of loss of eyesight (a major problem among the elderly). By increasing grapes intake we can reduce the risk of macular degeneration (the main cause of vision loss) by 30-40%.

Flavonoids present in grapes have antioxidants, which can reduce and fight the damage caused by free radicals such as cataract.
Anti-aging & Life-prolonging properties :
The resveratrol found in grapes seems to influence genes controlling the aging process. According to Harvard Medical School researchers, this substance can restrict calories intake. It activates enzymes that slow aging, thus increasing DNA stability and extending life span by 70%.

In short, for taste and for health, put either some grapes or grape juice in your daily diet that will do wonders to your overall health and immune system!
(However, a word of warning, grapes have many health benefits, but have a high sugar content and should therefore be eaten in moderation or choose the less sweet ones).

Tips on Low Back Pain Relief and Prevention

2008-10-07T14:17:00.023+05:30

What can cause low back injuries?
Muscle strain or spasm, sprains of ligaments (which attach bone to bone), joint problems or a "slipped disk." The most common cause is using your back muscles in activities you're not used to, like lifting heavy furniture or twisting a body.
A slipped disk (also called a herniated disk) happens when a disk between the bones of the spine bulges and presses on nerves. This is often caused by twisting while lifting.

What can I do for relief when I've hurt my lower back?

What else can I do for relief?
Heating pads can help to relax painful muscle spasms. Use heat for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. Massages may also give relief.

Call your family doctor if:
Pain goes down your leg below your knee
Your leg, foot, groin or rectal area feels numb
You lose control over going to the bathroom
Your pain was caused by an injury
Your pain is so intense you can't move around
Your pain doesn't seem to be getting better after 2 to 3 days

Tips for preventing back strain

Don't lift by bending over. Lift an object by bending your knees and squatting to pick up the object. Keep your back straight and hold the object close to your body. Avoid twisting your body while lifting.

Push rather than pull when you must move heavy objects.

If you must sit at your desk for long hours, break up the time with stops to stretch

Tips for preventing back strain
Wear flat shoes or shoes with low heels (1 inch or lower). Exercise regularly. An inactive lifestyle contributes to lower back pain.

What's the best way to sit?

What's the best position for standing?

If you must stand for long periods, rest 1 foot on a low stool to relieve pressure on your lower back.

Every 5 to 15 minutes, switch the foot you're resting on the stool.

Maintain good posture: Keep your ears, shoulders and hips ina straight line, with your head up and your stomach pulled in.

What's the best position for sleeping?

The best way to sleep is on your side with your knees bent. You may put a pillow under your head to support your neck. You may also put a pillow between your knees.

If you sleep on your back, put pillows under your knees and a small pillow under your lower back. Don't sleep on your stomach unless you put a pillow under your hips.

Proper sleeping positions
What you sleep on can also impact how comfortably you sleep. If adjusting your sleeping position doesn't help reduce pain, try adjusting your sleeping surface. Mattress firmness is an individual choice. It should not be too hard or too soft.

What exercises can I do to strengthen my back?

Olives – a Superb Nutrition to Mankind

2008-10-07T14:01:00.003+05:30

Olives are one of the oldest foods known to man, dating back some thousands of years in the Mediterranean region. The olive tree was valued as a symbol of peace and happiness and is well-known as a blessed tree. While olives were used as food, olives leaves are widely used for medicinal values and, olive oil are treated as perfect oil for cooking purposes.

Olives are concentrated in monounsaturated fats and a good source of vitamin E. Because monounsaturated fats are less easily damaged than polyunsaturated fats, it’s good to have some in our cells’ outer membranes and other cell structures that contain fats, such as the membranes that surround the cell’s DNA and each of its energy-producing mitochondria. The stability of monounsaturated fats translates into a protective effect on the cell that, especially when combined with the antioxidant protection offered by vitamin E, can lower the risk of damage and inflammation. (In addition to vitamin E, olives contain a variety of beneficial active phytonutrient compounds including polyphenols and flavonoids, which also appear to have significant anti-inflammatory properties.)

It's true that olives do have some fat, but it's the incredibly healthy monounsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats have been found to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.

Current research shows there are around 100 naturally occurring compounds in fresh olive leaves. These all work together in ‘natural synergy’ to provide an effective year-round defense system for the olive tree. These compounds include a unique group of powerful polyphenolic antioxidants which are potent scavengers of free-radicals. In simple terms, they defend their cells against attack and damage.

The antioxidants in olive leaf scavenge free-radicals eliminating them before cell damage is done. Olive Leaf does not cure diseases, it is however a cold blooded killer of most pathogens. Once the pathogens have been stunned or killed off, the immune system can rebuild it and cure the disease or get rid of the symptoms. One compound in olive leaf is oleuropein which converts to elenolic acid in the body. The oleuropein and its related sub compounds target viruses and bad bacteria's while relaxing blood vessels.

Nutritional Value of Olives
Given below is the amount of nutrients present in three olives, combined together:
Fat - 2.5
Cholesterol - 0mg
Sodium - 110mg
Carbohydrate - 1g
Calories - 25
Protein: 0g
Iron
Vitamin E
Dietary Fiber
Copper
Fatty Acids
Amino Acids
Due to fat content olives are highly energetic especially when ripe. They should be used preferably in the winter. Moreover, Olives are easy to digest if well chewed and, black olives are better than green olives.

The health benefits of Olives, Olive leaves and Olive Oil are listed as follows:

General consumption of Olives, due to their high anti-oxidant properties, help to combat against diseases such as cancer (particularly breast cancer and colon cancer).
The nutrients in olives help to prevent heart disease. Olives Leaves help combat against strokes, heart-disease, High blood pressure, diabetes. The olive leaves tea helps prevent and defends against High blood pressure.
The Vitamin E in Olives may even help to reduce the frequency and/or the intensity of hot flashes in women going through menopause.
The anti-inflammatory actions of monounsaturated fats and, the Vitamin E contained in Olives is the body's primary fat-soluble antioxidant. Anti-oxidants help to strengthen the body's immune system; reducing the severity of asthma, cancer, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, premature ageing, as well as delaying the effects of ageing.
Olives are also very light foods (i.e. it contains low calories), but at the same time very filling; being able to quickly satisfy hunger and, lead to fewer total calories ingested at mealtime.
The chronic ulcers and boils, which show difficult healing condition, are healed up with the use of olive oil generally. The local application of olive oil or the water extracted from the crushed olive oil leaves is effective on boils, rashes and itching.
The Olive oil can also be used on hands, hair and as a base for massage oil. When used as a balm it fortifies the hair and it keeps the hair shiny and prevents dandruff.
Olive Oil when used as a balm fortifies and moisturizes the skin, combating dry skin and softening it. It also combats against acne.
Massaged onto the body, Olive oil fortify the limbs, combat against inflammation, and sooth away aches and pains from tired muscles and so on.
Olives aids in digestion and strengthens the bowels, as well as the stomach.

Dates a wonder fruit of Arabia

2008-09-11T14:29:00.006+05:30

Dates are the fruits of the date palm tree which is a food of high nutritional value. They are used abundantly in the month of Ramadan when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. The sweetness of the date takes the edge off hunger and this is another reason why fasts are opened with dates. This prevents a person from overeating after he has opened his fast.

Dates contain calcium, sulphur, iron, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, copper, magnesium, volatile oils, Vitamin-B6, folic acid, Potassium, Iron and Magnesium, proteins, sugars, vitamins and are rich in natural fibers which contribute to a healthy body and mind.

Dates provides natural sugar in the form of glucose and fructose which is ready for immediate absorption and, is infinitely far superior to cane-sugar.

Eating dates has great benefits which can be illustrated as follows:

Prevents Cancer: Dates are very nutritious and contain natural fibres. Modern medicine has shown that they are effective in preventing abdominal cancer. In general Bedouin Arabs, who eat them on a regular basis, show an extremely low incidence rate of cancer.

Weak heart: Dates are an excellent remedy for weak heart. Dates soaked overnight should be taken twice a week which strengthens the heart.
Bedouin Arabs who regularly consume dates have shown an extremely low rate of heart disease.

Treatment for Obesity: The wide variety of nutritious elements in dates makes it hunger-resistive! So treatment by eating few dates when feeling hungry helps reduce hunger and be filled. These dates will provide the body with the necessary sugar and stimulate the intestine which reduce hunger greatly, and eventually, reduce food consumption.

Eases child-birth: Eating dates eases the pain of childbirth. Scientifically they are known to contain hormones which strengthen the uterus, help produce milk for nursing mothers and also prevent blood loss after childbirth. (The ripe fruit contains a substance that urges uterine spasms and increases contractions especially in the time of delivery. This substance resembles ‘oxytocin’ that is secreted by pituitary gland, which encourages contractions of the uterus. Dates contain some stimulants which strengthen the muscles of the uterus in the last months of pregnancy. This helps the dilation of the uterus at the time of delivery and reduces post-natal bleeding).

Ideal for breast-feeding mothers: Dieticians consider dates the best food for breast-feeding mothers. This is because dates contain elements that assist in alleviating depression and enrich the breast milk with the nutrients needed to make the child healthy and resistant to disease.

Bones: Calcium is important for strong bones so this is an additional benefit that dates provide. As dates are rich in calcium, they contribute to healthy bones. For this reason it is recommended that children and older adults, especially women, eat plenty of dates to strengthen their bones.

Modern science has also proved the effectiveness of dates, in preventing diseases of the respiratory system.

Intestinal Disturbances: Eating dates in the morning on an empty stomach kills intestinal worms and other parasites, for dates have an antidotal potency which restrains their growth. According to Metchnikoff, a great Russian scientist, liberal use of dates keeps in check the growth of pathological organisms and helps to establish a colony of friendly bacteria in the intestines.

Improves Eye sight: Dates are also important in maintaining good vision and are effective in guarding against night-blindness.

Cures constipation: Dates are also highly beneficial in the treatment of constipation as the roughage provided by it stimulates sluggish bowels. They should be immersed in water at night and taken after making them into fine syrup the next morning to secure laxative effect.

Remedy for Sexual Debility: Date syrup can be used as a treatment for weak heart. It can also be use for the treatment of sexual weakness. When it’s mixed with milk and honey, dates can be used as a tonic for the treatment of sexual disturbances for both sexes. And such syrup strengthens the body and raises its energy levels. The elderly would benefit from this syrup too. It improves their stamina and purges their bodies from the toxins that have accumulated in their cells along the years.

Remedy for Liver and Inflammations: Dates remedy Lever and purge it from toxins, Breaking the fast with dates, is one of the most magnificent of natural remedies for the maintenance and purging the Lever from accumulated toxins. And also drinking dates juice could be used in the treatment of sore throat, various types of fever, rhinorrhia and common cold.

Remedy for Intoxication: Dates are an excellent remedy for alcoholic intoxication. In such a case, drinking water in which fresh dates have been rubbed or soaked will bring quick relief

Children’s Disease: Dates tied to a wrist of the baby and allowed to be sucked during teething period hardens the gums and also prevents other complaints like restlessness and diarrhea.

In short sentence, one date satisfies the minimum requirements of a balanced and healthy diet – so cultivating a healthy habit of eating dates miraculously preserves our health and attains longevity.

Avoiding FAST FOOD as much as possible

2008-08-28T16:15:00.004+05:30

As the dangers involved in eating Fast Food is very high due to several reasons as listed below, we have to choose an alternative options of avoiding them as much as we can.

Unhealthy processed foods such as French fries, hot dogs, burgers, pizzas, snacks, chips etc. are a potential health threat since they contribute to the increased prevalence of obesity and chronic disease among both developed countries and developing countries.

Obesity is becoming the largest public health concern as we enter the new millenium, especially among children. Obesity increases the risk for high cholesterol and fatty streak development, which translates into greater risk for cardiac disease and cardiovascular related disease such as high Blood Pressure and Diabetes.

One meal at a fast food restaurant may contribute a significant amount of fat and sodium for the day. For example, McDonald’s new Spanish omelet bagel contains 710 calories, 40 grams of fat, 275 mg of cholesterol and 1,520 mg of sodium. High fat diets and bigger portions in combination with decreased physical activity play major roles in the obesity epidemic.

The high salt content of fast foods also has many threats to the health problems associated with high blood pressure, strokes, and kidney function.

Monosodium glutamate (also known Ajinomoto) is in almost all processed foods and certainly in almost all fast food out there. All sorts of medical studies have revealed that Monosodium glutamate causes obesity, along with a lot of other nasty things. It's a chemical we should never put in our bodies, and yet it's something that is in virtually every processed food we buy whether it’s fast food or snacks.

All the techniques used to process food - canning, dehydrating and freezing - virtually destroy the flavor of food, so chemicals under the guise of "natural flavors" have been added to enhance the flavor, while color additives are added to make the foods look fresh. It might make the food look and taste better, but it's not doing much for our bodies
There is little evidence that if children eat fast food on a very limited basis they are going to have dietary or weight problems. The big problem is that most children eat fast food more than once a week.
It is apparent that fast foods are always a temptation because they are widely available, convenient and cheap, but as parents and educators it is important to set examples for children to emulate. Encouraging the consumption of a balanced diet, high in complex carbohydrates such as legumes, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may result in many health benefits. Parents and teachers can educate and empower children by involving them in creating simple, fun, and creative homemade alternatives.
The key is to limit your intake of fast foods-and choose wisely. Studies show the average fast food meal costs you 1,200 calories, but you can limit these drawbacks by keeping in mind the following guidelines / tips / alternatives:
1. Order grilled chicken sandwiches in place of fried chicken or fried fish sandwiches. Know the fat content of various food choices. For example, choose a grilled chicken sandwich without mayonnaise and a regular order of fries; or have a small hamburger or cheeseburger and skip the fries.
2. Avoid desserts, sweets, milk shakes, pies, etc.
3. To reduce fat calories, omit mayonnaise (one tablespoon=100 calories) add mustard, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles and /or onions as substitutes.
4. Avoid high-calorie beverages, such as regular soft drinks or milk shakes
5. Avoid fried foods. Calories can more than double in deep-fried foods.
6. Cut down on fat in fried foods by removing the outer coating before eating.
7. Order a small cheese pizza with low-calorie vegetables such as green peppers, onions or mushrooms, and eat just two or three pieces. Have a salad / garlic bread to help satisfy your appetite and boost fiber, nutrition and "fullness".
8. Eat lots of lettuce, tomatoes, mushrooms. green peppers, carrots, celery and cucumbers.
9. Avoid french fries and opt for other sides like apples or a baked potato.

10. Free yourself from Monosodium Glutamate (Ajinomoto)by cooking at home.

Reasons and the necessity of intake of Oranges regularly in our daily diet

2008-08-20T15:13:00.010+05:30

Our sedentary, stressful life demands us to eat quality food. That’s why eating miraculously nutritious fruits like oranges regularly in our diet becomes vital and mandatory.

Orange is one of the finest fruits and gifts of nature. It is a rich source of protective food ingredients like Vitamin A, B , C and Calcium. Its also rich in minerals. Oranges keeps us strong, healthy and contributes towards healthy body and long life. Thus importance and benefits of eating oranges can only be emphasized and highligted as follows:

Fights Cancer: As oranges are rich in Vitamin C, they contains antioxidants which helps fight cancer in general and particularly gives some protection of cancers from mouth, skin, lung, breast, stomach and colon.
Rich in Fibre: Oranges are an excellent source of dietary fiber.
Recommended for heart disease :Oranges are an excellent source of nutrition for problems related to cardiovascular disease. Orange juice sweetened with honey is highly recommended and advisable for heart patients who have chronic cardiac conditions like coronary ischaemia and infarctioon. Besides, it is a safe energy producing liquid.
Lowers cholesterol level : Eating oranges regularly have found to be useful for lowering cholesterol level in the blood.
Lowers Blood Pressure : Oranges have also found to have the capacity to lower the high blood pressure level when taken regularly.
Diabetes: Intake of oranges regularly prevents diabetes.
Ailments for Children: Orange juice is a substitute for children who refuse to drink milk as it is a rich source of calcium. Besides orange juice is an excellent food for infants who are not fed on breast milk.
Bones and Teeth: As oranges are rich in calcium and vitamins, it is a valuable source of nutrition for bones and teeth. Dr. Harke, a Chicago physician claimed to have cured many patients of pyorrhea and dental caries by giving them orange juice in large amounts.
Kidney Stones: Oranges when included regularly in our diet have found to remove and sweep away the kidney stones.
Constipation: As oranges are rich in fibre, it is very beneficial in the treatment of constipation. Eating oranges at bedtime and again on rising in the morning is one of the best way to stimulating bowel action.
Orange juice is an effective remedy for tuberculosis, asthma, common cold, fevers, bronchitis and other conditions of cough associated with difficult expectorations.

That's why the importance of eating oranges regularly either as a whole or in the form of juice should not be underestimated.

Different ways to protect our Liver

2008-08-18T14:56:00.014+05:30

9 Ways how you can Love your Liver:

1. Liver stores the iron reserves you need, as well as a lot of vitamins and other minerals. Without liver, you wouldn't have the strength to carry on!

2. Liver makes bile to help digest your food.

3. Liver detoxifies poisonous chemicals you give it, and that includes alcohol, beer, wine and drugs (prescribed and over-the-counter) as well as illegal substances.

4. Liver stores energy, like a battery, by stockpiling sugar (carbohydrates, glucose and fat) until you need it. Without it, the sugar level in your blood could fall dramatically and you'd go into a coma.

5. Liver makes the blood that got your system going even before you were born.

6. Liver manufactures new proteins that your body needs to stay healthy and grow.
7. Liver removes poisons from the air, exhaust smoke and chemicals you breathe.

8. Liver makes clotting factors that stop the bleeding when you accidentally prick yourself.

9. Liver helps defend you against the germs going into your body all the time. It takes those cold germs, flu bugs and other germs you encounter, and knock them dead - or at least weaken them.

Now, let me tell you about a most common liver disease called as Fatty Liver.
What is Fatty Liver?
• Fatty liver is the collection of excessive amounts of fat inside liver cells, also called steatosis - mostly triglycerides.

Common types of Fatty Liver –
1. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) - affect people who drink little or no alcohol. simple fatty liver (steatosis), usually causes no liver damage
2. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more serious type caused by hepatitis infection, malnutrition, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and Reye's syndrome.
3. Alcoholic steatosis – The cause is alcohol by abuse.

What are the symptoms?
Fatty liver usually produces no symptoms. Jaundice, right-side abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, fever.
· At more advanced stage, liver becomes cirrhosis
· Cirrhosis refers to scarring of the liver. It replaces healthy tissue.
· Scar tissue cannot do what healthy liver tissue does.
· Scar tissue also blocks the normal flow of blood through the liver.
· Cirrhosis can be life-threatening, but it can also be controlled if treated early.
How is it diagnosed?
• The liver may be tender when the abdomen is pressed.
• Blood tests - for liver function.
• Ultrasound or abdominal CT scan.

What is the treatment?
1. Treatment for fatty liver is aimed at eliminating or treating the cause of the condition.
2. In some cases, fatty liver is reversible if caught early in its development.
3. Pregnancy-related fatty liver is treated by delivering the baby, if viable.
4. Severe liver damage can occur if fatty liver is left untreated. In these cases, the patient may eventually require a liver transplant

Now, let me tell you some easy ways to take preventive actions to love your liver enough:
1. Don't drown liver in beer, alcohol or wine!
2. Watch those drugs! All drugs are chemicals, and when you mix them up without a doctor's advice you could create something poisonous that could damage liver badly. Medicine is sometimes necessary. But taking pills when they aren't necessary is a bad habit. All those chemicals can really hurt a liver.
3. Be careful with aerosol sprays! Remember, liver have to detoxify what you breathe in, too. So when you are cleaning with aerosol cleaners, make sure the room is ventilated, or wear a mask. That goes double for bug sprays, mildew sprays, paint sprays and all those other chemical sprays you use. Be careful what you breathe!
4. Watch what gets on your skin! Those insecticides you put on trees and shrubs not only kill bugs they can get to me right through your skin and destroy liver cells, too. Remember they're all chemicals. Cover your skin with gloves, long sleeves, a hat and mask every time insecticides are in the air or if you're handling them.
5. Don't eat too much fatty food! Liver makes the cholesterol your body needs, and it tries to make the right amount. Eat a good, well balanced nourishing diet.

We can thus protect our liver by taking enough careful precautions against the following above guidelines thus keeping our liver healthy and disease-free thus attaining good health as all of us yearn always.

Microwave Ovens : Comfort vs. Health & Nutrition - Tips to Healthy Eating Practise

2008-08-05T15:44:00.000+05:30

Yes, we all agree that nothing is far easy reachable than microwave as it cooks and reheats or even defrosts instantly but did we realize whether it’s worth it???

Since the microwave is so good at killing bacteria, it becomes obvious that it also will kill anything alive in our food. All those vital enzymes that help us digest our food, all the B, C and E vitamins and most trace minerals are destroyed in the microwaving process. As opposed to traditional means of cooking which heat the food from the outside in, microwave ovens heat from the inside out by hurling out high-frequency alternating power fields which forces the molecules within the food to align themselves with the rapidly alternating electric field and sends the molecules flying back and forth at the dizzying pace of about 5 billion reversals per second. This causes a great deal of intermolecular friction which creates heat to heat the food, but it also destroys the cellular structure of the food, and it can change the chemical composition of the food into something that the body no longer recognizes. And if the food was cooked in a plastic container or with plastic wrap on top, plastic molecules are now imbedded into the food, which creates a whole other disaster for the endocrine system.

So eating microwaved food frequently, is a problem because not only have the micro-nutrients (vitamins, minerals, enzymes, phyto-nutrients) been destroyed, but also the macro-nutrients (proteins, carbs, fats) have been molecularly damaged rendering it virtually useless to the body. You can even detect the compositional changes yourself. Don't microwaved eggs seem rubbery to you, too?
Physicians tell new mothers never to heat the baby's milk in the microwave, as it denatures the proteins in the milk. If something is not good for baby, surely it is not good for adults either.
More and more evidence is coming to the fore that electromagnetic fields are damaging to human cells, and the higher the frequency the bigger the problem. Food that is nuked at a rate of the typical 2.45 gigahertz frequency in the microwave has been "energized" and the food gives off that energy to the nervous system, which may cause a stress response of high blood pressure, anxiety, headaches, and dizziness. Eating zapped food can cause abnormal changes in the blood and in the immune system. The Russians, who did most of the research on microwaves, found that there were higher incidences of stomach and intestinal cancers, digestive disorders, and higher rates of all cell tumors in those that ate microwaved foods frequently. So, how does one live microwave free? The biggest thing is to get organized and get into the habit of taking out the frozen meat, poultry or fish in the morning, or to buy fresh on the way home. As for cooking, electric grill is a better option, as it cooks really fast because the grill folds like a waffle iron and grills both sides of the meat at once.
It’s time to stop using microwave at workplace or at home. Try taking your lunch in a Corniwingware lunch dish & using a mini oven, if they have one. Or try taking lunch that does not need reheating or re-heat using a gas oven with patience as it retains all nutritients and keeps the food far more tastier.
There was a time (not to long ago) that microwaves were not in every household or not even in existence. We just have to get back to that era!

Always remember one great formula – Health & Nutrition is our greatest wealth plus the food is tastier while using gas or electric oven or electric grill.

Introduce and include OATS, a super-grain, a great joy to your health.

2008-07-31T14:41:00.001+05:30

Oats ia source of excellent dietary fibre with low calories and and contains antioxidants. Therefore Oats should be used on daily diet compulsorily to attain good health and longevity.

Introducing Oats in your daily diet helps you attain a balanced diet as it has several benefits which are listed as below:

Oats lowers the cholestrol thus keeping your heart very healthy. Its unique antioxidants reduces and prevents the risk of cardiac (or heart related) diseases.

Oats is an excellent source of nutritious food for diabetic patients (also prevents diabetes, a major prevalent disease in the developed and developing countries) as it consistently stabilizess the blood sugar level upon including it in your daily diet.

Oats also contains nutrition that enhances health promoting activity either equal or more than that of vegetables and fruits.

Oats boosts our immune system thus us strong and healthy from any infections.

This (Oats), a super-grain contains phytochemicals called Phytic Acid that controls and prevents cancer, a malicious diseases of this century.

Oats also aids our digestive system organs by clearing all gastro-intestinal problems.

Oats also contains following nutrients which compels us to use this in our daily intake that aids in physical fitness and balanced diet:

Thiamine (Vitamin B1), that needed to release energy from carbohydrates,

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) thats excellent for skin, eyes and nails,

Foliate and Iron that is healthy growth and metabolism,

Calcium which is essential for bones and teeth and also clotting of blood,

Phosphorous is vital for metabolism and healthy growth of bones and teeth.

Miraculous Cure in Pomegranate fruit - a great, happy, healthy news

2008-07-26T15:03:00.001+05:30

Recent research in medical technology proves that pomegranite has great, immensively medical benefits in treating heart related diseases.
Pomegranate clears the blocked arteries thus preventing and reducing the heart attack, heart burn and keeping our heart healthy. Most of the Ayurvedic (life science) medicines use pomegranate as its basic ingredient. It behaves and does the job of a scavanger thus clearing the chlosterol deposited in our arteries thus keeping our heart healthy.
Besides pomegranate has other natual healing benefits which are listed as follows:

Digestive Disorders: The juice of pomegranate has great value in digestive disorders - it binds the stools and tones up the intestine,

Diarrhoea and Dysentry: The chief value of the pomegranate is its astringent properties which causes cells to shrink and is a valuable food for diarrohea and dysentry,

Intestinal Worms: The bark , both of the root and stem of pomegranate destroys the parasitic worms,

Kidney and Bladder Stones: The seeds of sour and sweet pomegranate are useful as a medicine to dissolve gravel in kidneys and bladder,

Teeth and Gum Disease: Powder of the dried rind of pomegranate strengthens the gums, cleans the teeth and preserves them for long time,

Fevers: The juice of the fruit with saffron is useful in fevers and is beneficial in gastric and asthmatic fevers.

10 Powerful foods

2008-07-16T15:25:00.001+05:30

Obviously there are some people who, for whatever reason, are supposed to avoid certain components that may be in the foods listed. These foods are also intended to be part of a varied diet in moderate amounts.
1. Salmon. Fatty fish may not sound healthy, but study after study confirms that consumption of salmon lowers the risk of death from heart disease. It is indeed the fat - in particular, the omega-3 fatty acids - that help the heart by preventing sudden and fatal disturbances in heart rhythm. Research has shown that you are less likely to die from a heart attack if you eat at least one serving of salmon or other oily fish each week. Fresh fish might taste better, but tinned salmon also is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Nuts. Almonds, peanuts, walnuts and hazelnuts are bite-sized powerhouses of health-promoting substances that help prevent heart disease and cancer. High in monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, magnesium and fibre, a 30 or 40 gram serving is all that is needed to provide health benefits. And because they have a high fat content, a small amount is surprisingly filling.
3. Beans. Yes, they are starchy, but they are also a great source of protein, fibre, folic acid, zinc, magnesium and potassium. Drained and rinsed, canned beans are a great, inexpensive and convenient protein source. Mix them with salads or soups.
4. Oranges. These and other citrus fruits are loaded with cancer-battling bioflavonoids and immune system-boosting vitamin C. Go for the fruit, not just juice.

5. Spinach. This dark, leafy green vegetable is packed with vitamin C, beta carotene, vitamin A, fibre, and some calcium and iron. These nutrients and potent antioxidants fight cancer and boost immunity, not to mention that it is a low-calorie food. There are not too many foods with this kind of value for money.
6. Sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are among the most nutritious of vegetables since they are packed with more disease-fighting beta carotene, fibre and other antioxidants. They are starchy, however, so use them in place of white potatoes, rice or other starches.
7. Berries. These colourful fruits contain chemicals that act as antioxidants, believed by scientists to protect the body from the stresses of age, and may reduce risk of cancer. Seek out whatever is in season, or in the frozen section, pick up blueberries, strawberries, cranberries and blackberries. Top cereal, ice cream, yoghurt with a handful of berries or snack on frozen berries for a sweet treat..
8. Porridge. You've certainly heard this before. It's the soluble fibre in oats, barley or other wholegrains that has been shown to reduce cholesterol and risk of heart disease. However, there are other high-fibre cereals that will do just fine.

9. Tomatoes. You say "tomato;" I say "lycopene." This is the one vegetable where fresh is not as advantageous because the powerful antioxidants are more concentrated in cooked varieties. Keep tinned tomatoes on hand to throw in with other vegetables or pair up with fish, chicken, pork or beef.
10. Low-fat milk or yoghurt. I rarely meet someone who gets the recommended amount of calcium in their diet. These dairy products are not that high in calories for the amount of calcium, protein and vitamins A and D that it contains. If you aren't a milk drinker, eat yogurt or low-fat cheese, or get your calcium from green leafy vegetables, beans, pulses and nuts.

Tips for an Exceptionally Superb Powerful Life!!!!

2008-07-16T15:14:00.000+05:30

Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to. Try to get enough sleep.
When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, 'My purpose is to____ today.'
Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy. Watch more movies, play more games and read more books than you did in 2006.
Make time to practice meditation, yoga, tai chi, and prayer. They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.
Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6. Dream more while you are awake.
Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is .
Drink green tea and plenty of water.
Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.
Try to make at least three people smile each day.
Clear your clutter from your house, your car, your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.
Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.
Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energy vampires away.
Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
Have a great nice day!

25 Reason Why you should start drinking Green TEA Now!!!

2008-07-16T15:10:00.002+05:30

Green tea has increasingly become a very popular drink worldwide because of its immensely powerful health benefits.

It is extraordinarily amazing what green tea can do for your health.And if you're not drinking 3 to 4 cups of green tea today, you're definitely NOT doing your health a big favor.

Here Are The 25 Reasons Why You Should Start Drinking Green Tea Right Now:

1. Green Tea and Cancer
Green tea helps reduce the risk of cancer. The antioxidant in green tea is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times better than vitamin E. This helps your body at protecting cells from damage believed to be linked to cancer.

2. Green Tea and Heart Disease:
Green tea helps prevent heart disease and stroke by lowering the level of cholesterol.
Even after the heart attack, it prevents cell deaths and speeds up the recovery of heart cells.

3. Green Tea and anti-aging:
Green tea contains antioxidant known as polyphenols which fight against free radicals.
What this means is that it helps you fight against aging and promotes longevity.

4. Green Tea and Weight Loss
Green tea helps with your body weight loss. Green tea burns fat and boosts your metabolism rate naturally. It can help you burn up to 70 calories in just one day. That translates to 7 pounds in one year.

5. Green Tea and Skin
Antioxidant in green tea protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which cause wrinkling and skin aging. Green tea also helps fight against skin cancer.

6. Green Tea and Arthritis
Green tea can help prevent and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Green tea has benefit for your health as it protects the cartilage by blocking the enzyme that destroys cartilage.

7. Green Tea and Bones
The very key to this is high fluoride content found in green tea. It helps keep your bones strong. If you drink green tea every day, this will help you preserve your bone density.

8. Green Tea and Cholesterol
Green tea can help lower cholesterol level. It also improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol, by reducing bad cholesterol level.

9. Green Tea and Obesity
Green tea prevents obesity by stopping the movement of glucose in fat cells. If you are on a healthy diet, exercise regularly and drink green tea, it is unlikely you'll be obese.

10. Green Tea and Diabetes
Green tea improves lipid and glucose metabolisms, prevents sharp increases in blood sugar level, and balances your metabolism rate.

11. Green Tea and Alzheimer's
Green tea helps boost your memory. And although there's no cure for Alzheimer's, it helps slow the process of reduced acetylcholine in the brain, which leads to Alzheimer's.

12. Green Tea and Parkinson's
Antioxidants in green tea helps prevent against cell damage in the brain, which could cause Parkinson's. People drinking green tea also are less likely to progress with Parkinson's.

13. Green Tea and Liver Disease
Green tea helps prevent transplant failure in people with liver failure.
Researches showed that green tea destroys harmful free radicals in fatty livers.

14. Green Tea and High Blood Pressure
Green tea helps prevent high blood pressure. Drinking green tea helps keep your blood pressure down by repressing angiotensin, which leads to high blood pressure.

15. Green Tea and Food Poisoning
Catechin found in green tea can kill bacteria which causes food poisoning and kills the toxins produced by those bacteria.

16. Green Tea and Blood Sugar
Blood sugar tends to increase with age, but polyphenols and polysaccharides in green tea help lower your blood sugar level.

17. Green Tea and Immunity
Polyphenols and flavenoids found in green tea help boost your immune system, making your health stronger in fighting against infections.

18. Green Tea and Cold and Flu
Green tea prevents you from getting a cold or flu. Vitamin C in green tea helps you treat the flu and the common cold.

19. Green Tea and Asthma
Theophylline in green tea relaxes the muscles which support the bronchial tubes, reducing the severity of asthma.

20. Green Tea and Ear Infection
Green tea helps with ear infection problem.
For natural ear cleaning, soak a cotton ball in green tea and clean the infected ear.

21. Green Tea and Herpes
Green tea increases the effectiveness of topical interferon treatment of herpes.
First green tea compress is applied, and then let the skin dry before the interferon treatment.

22. Green Tea and Tooth Decay
Green tea destroys bacteria and viruses that cause many dental diseases. It also slows the growth of bacteria which leads to bad breath.

23. Green Tea and Stress
L-theanine, which is a kind of amino acids in green tea, can help relieve stress and anxiety.

24. Green Tea and Allergies
EGCG found in green tea relieves allergies. So, if you have allergies, you should really consider drinking green tea.
25. Green Tea and HIV
Scientists in Japan have found that EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) in green tea can stop HIV from binding to healthy immune cells.
What this means is that green tea can help stop the HIV virus from spreading.

Moreover, GREEN TEA tastes great without milk or even sugar - so do enjoy the taste along the marvelous health benefits as highlighted above.

8 Daily Diet Foods

2008-07-16T14:42:00.001+05:30

8 Foods You Should Eat Every Day

1. Spinach
Sexual enhancement, Muscle growth, Heart healthy, Bone builder, Enhances eyesight-

It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or 1/2 cup cooked per day.

2. Yogurt
Cancer fighter, Bone builder, Boosts immunity -

Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food's health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says "live and active cultures." Aim for 1 cup of the calcium and protein-rich goop a day.

3. Tomatoes

Cancer fighter, Heart healthy, Boosts immunity -

There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they're packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it's easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice.

4. Carrots

Cancer fighter, Boosts immunity, Enhances eyesight-

Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids — fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis — but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for 1/2 cup a day.

5. Blueberries

Brain stimulant, Cancer fighter, Heart healthy, Boosts immunity -

Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname "brain berry"). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or 1/2 cup frozen or dried.

6. Black Beans

Muscle growth, Brain stimulant, Heart healthy -

All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That's because they're full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat.

8. Walnuts

Muscle growth, Brain stimulant, Cancer fighter, Heart healthy, Boosts immunity -

Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts — about 1 ounce, or seven nuts — is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack.

8. Oats

Muscle growth, Brain stimulant, Heart healthy -

The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA's first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy.

Miraculous Cure to all diseases by Drinking Water

2007-09-15T15:39:00.002+05:30

Water is an important essence & element of Life. Water contains Hydrogen & Oxygen - a very close component of Hydrogen per oxide which destroys virus that causes cancer.

Water is the best way to fight any major to minor health problems....please read further.....

It is popular in Japan today to drink water immediately after waking up
every morning. Furthermore, scientific tests have proven a its value. We publish below a description of use of water for our readers. For old and serious diseases as well as modern illnesses the water treatment had been
found successful by a Japanese medical society as a 100% cure for the following diseases:

Headache, body ache, heart system, arthritis, fast heart beat, epilepsy, excess fatness, bronchitis asthma, TB, meningitis, kidney and urine diseases, vomiting, gastritis, diarrhea, piles, diabetes, constipation, all
eye diseases, womb, cancer and menstrual disorders, ear nose and throat diseases.

METHOD OF TREATMENT

1. As you wake up in the morning before brushing teeth, drink 4 x 160ml glasses of water

2. Brush and clean the mouth but do not eat or drink anything for 45 minute

3. After 45 minutes you may eat and drink as normal.

4. After 15 minutes of breakfast, lunch and dinner do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours

5. Those who are old or sick and are unable to drink 4 glasses of water at the beginning may commence by taking little water and gradually increase it to 4 glasses per day.

6. The above method of treatment will cure diseases of the sick and others can enjoy a healthy life.

The following list gives the number of days of treatment required to cure/control/reduce main diseases:

1. High Blood Pressure - 30 days

2. Gastric - 10 days

3. Diabetes - 30 days

4. Constipation - 10 days

5. Cancer - 180 days

6. TB - 90 days

7. Arthritis patients should follow the above treatment only for 3 days in the 1st week, and from 2nd week onwards - daily.

This treatment method has no side effects, however at the commencement of treatment you may have to urinate a few times.

It is better if we continue this and make this procedure as a routine work in our life.

Drink Water and Stay healthy and Active.

This makes sense .. The Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals not cold water. Maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating!!! Nothing to lose, everything to gain...

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you.

It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion.

Once this "sludge" reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

So, it's high time we adopted the habit of drinking water regularly preferably warm or hot water to keep our immune system strong and disease free.

Do Not Drink Bottled Water left in your car

2007-09-15T15:32:00.000+05:30

Drinking Bottled Water Kept in Car....a friend whose mother recently
got diagnosed with breast cancer. The doctor told her: women should not
drink bottled water that has been left in a car. The doctor said that
the heat and the plastic of the bottle have certain chemicals that can
lead to breast cancer. So please be careful and do not drink that water
bottle that has been left in a car and pass this on to all the women in
your life. This information is the kind we need to know and be aware
and just might save us!!!!

The heat causes toxins from the plastic to leak into the water and they
have found these toxins in breast tissue.

Miraculous Fruit Banana

2007-09-15T14:06:00.001+05:30

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world’s leading athletes.

But energy isn’t the only way a banana can help us keep fit.It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS:Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood. Anemia:High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure:This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power:200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert. Anemia:High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure:This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Constipation:High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers:One of the quickest
Waysof curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system. Heartburn:Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness. Mosquito bites:Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves:Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.
Overweightand at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers:The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach. Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a “cooling” fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan. Many other cultures see bananas as a “cooling” fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan. Smoking &Tobacco Use:Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal. Stress:Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body’s water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes:According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%! Warts:Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape !

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, “A banana a day keeps the doctor away !”