Tuesday 31 March 2015

Become Hydrated In Summer Eating Watermalon

Watermelon is one of the most refreshing, thirst quenching fruit available year round. Watermelon is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Studies have shown that deep red varieties of watermelon have displaced the tomato as the lycopene king. 

Lycopene, however, is fat-soluble, meaning that it needs certain fats in the blood for better absorption by the body. Watermelon consists of 92% water and 8% sugar. 

Benefits of eating watermelon daily:

•Achieve that younger-looking skin with just 2-cups of watermelon daily. Research showed that watermelon cuts the risk of sun related skin damage by 40%. That's because watermelon is nature's richest source of lycopene, an antioxidant that scavenges the UV-induced free radicals that cause sunburn and wrinkling. Lycopene may also help reduce the risks of cancer and other diseases. 
•Watermelon can help improve sleep. By eating a few slices of this fruit after dinner can extend the deep stages of sleep by 27%. The reason is watermelon's polysaccharide carbohydrates rev the body's output of serotonin. When levels of serotonin increase at night, the brain is less sensitive to disruptive stimuli (like noise) during sleep.


•Watermelon can boost energy. A daily serving of watermelon has been shown to boost energy levels by up to 23%. This is because watermelon contains vitamin B6, which the body uses to synthesize feel good dopamine. It also contains magnesium which assists in the body's formation of adenosine triphosphate. Like a rechargeable battery, this nucleotide fuels cellular function for all-day energy.
•Watermelon can help in the faster healing of wound and other skin problem. The fruit is packed with the amino acid citrulline, which the body converts to arginine. Arginine speeds the delivery of white blood cells to injury sites, plus spurs the growth of new skin tissue. Study show that these processes can help skin heal 3x faster.



Start Your Day With Green Tea

Why do you think you need a cup of Dragon Well Tea everyday? Here’s what you exactly need to know:
One of the secrets to having a longer life is to have a nice and healthy body. By staying fit and healthy, you would be able to avoid certain diseases that can threaten your life such as cancer, stroke, hypertension, and heart attack. That is why health experts in many parts of the globe are encouraging the people to shun unhealthy diet and engage in physical activities, including sports and exercise.
However, discarding old habits is really not that easy, especially if you are used to eating sweets and fatty foods. But if you really want to extend your lifespan and be free from diseases, you have to make certain sacrifices – exerting some good efforts to make it happen. You have to remain committed to your goal of having a nice and healthier body. And to make your task easier and more fun, there is Dragon Well
Tea to help you along the way.
Dragon Well Tea is highly commended by its drinkers because of the following: its taste, aroma, health benefits and most of all slimming and beauty effects. Smelling like fresh fruits and flowers, this first-grade Chinese green tea is indeed an ancient Chinese secret to natural weight loss – safe, organic, effective and affordable.
Also, this refreshing drink has become more and more popular nowadays because it can help many people stay fit and healthy – containing all-natural ingredients. So, there is nothing to worry about; certified no side-effects that can be potentially harmful to your body and vital organs. Above all, it tastes good and can be consumed anytime, unlike synthetic diet pills.
What are you waiting for? Start changing your unhealthy habits by eating right and having your daily exercise. And most of all, do not forget your daily dose of Dragon Well Tea for a healthier you. Grab a box of Dragon Well Tea now.
For first-class and quality green tea products, visit Tea Amigos Store and maximize your shopping carts today. Enjoy each cup as often as you want – get hooked with your refreshing tea-drinking experiences today and always. Cheers!



Benefits Of Black Pepper

• Black pepper has known to have antioxidant and antibacterial effects which promotes the health of the digestive tract. It improves digestion and promote intestinal health. Also it stimulates the taste buds in such a way that an alert is sent to the stomach to increase hydrochloric acid secretion.
• Black pepper has a property like diaphoretic (promotes sweating), and diuretic (promotes urination).
• It also stimulates the breakdown of fat cells, reduces fat content, keep you slim, and provide you energy to burn.
• Black pepper also alleviates conditions such as hemorrhoids, gas, constipation and also loss of appetite.
• It is helpful in providing relieve to cough and colds and clear up sinusitis too.
• Black pepper extract are also found to reduce symptoms associated with quitting smoking.
• An alkaloid named, piperine found in black pepper is responsible to enhance the bioavailability of some nutritional substances and drugs and also have anti-carcinogenic properties.
• Black pepper could help to treat skin conditions and decrease susceptibility to skin cancers which is caused by excess ultraviolet radiation.
• Pepper also fight against tooth decay and provide relief from toothache.
• Black pepper may be used as a natural antidepressant and promotes the absorption of nutrients like selenium, vitamin B, curcumin, and beta-carotene to all the tissues of the body, thus improving overall health.
• Eating black pepper promotes the absorption of nutrients to all the tissues of the body, thereby improving overall health.
• Black pepper could also helpful in reducing inflammation and stimulates appetite which is helpful in treating anorexics and people with eating disorders.





Benefits Of Papaya

Papaya is one of the most nutrient dense and healing fruits on the planet. It is extremely high in beta carotene, vitamins C & A, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. It is a phenomenal fruit for helping to heal any type of digestive disorder such as constipation, acid reflux, colitis, pancreatitis, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, celiac’s disease, H.pylori, diverticulitis, indigestion, bloating, flatulence, and stomach upset. Papaya has a soothing, cleansing effect on the digestive tract and gently removes toxic debris while decreasing swelling and inflammation. Its high nutrient value also provides the body with all the essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, and essential fatty acids it needs to rebuild muscles, tissues, bones, and organs. Papaya contains potent anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties and can provide significant relief for those suffering with joint pain, shingles, chicken pox, arthritis, colds, flu, and autoimmune disorders such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, lyme disease, lupus, and cardiovascular disease. Papaya is also an excellent food for the convalescing and can help rebuild the body after a long illness or from being bedridden. If consumed regularly, papaya will greatly improve skin, hair, and nails and keep eye’s bright and clear. The black seeds inside the papaya are completely edible and can act as an effective vermicide or worm/parasite remover. The black seeds are peppery and when eaten with the sweet papaya taste like a spicy-hot cinnamon candy. They can also be sprinkled into smoothies or onto a salad for added health benefits. The seeds are an excellent digestive aid and contain more enzymes than a whole bottle of digestive enzyme capsules, plus the fresh seeds have all the nutrients necessary for almost instant assimilation. Ripe papaya is delicious with a fresh squeeze of lime and can also be made into a healing and soothing pudding by simply blending the ripe papaya flesh until smooth. There are two major varieties of papayas on the market today: the big football-size Maradol papayas and the small hand-size solo or strawberry papayas. The large Maradol papaya variety contains the most nutrition and healing properties and are NOT GMO. The smaller varieties are sometimes grown GMO and should be avoided when possible. Maradol papayas are ripe when they yield to gentle pressure. Once fully ripe, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Maradol papayas can often be found year-round in supermarkets, health food stores, and speciality produce stores.


Benefits of Eating Zucchini

Zucchini is a highly alkaline food that is one of the mildest and easiest vegetables to digest. Zucchini is a great source of vitamin A, C, & B-complex as well as minerals such as iron, zinc, potassium, and manganese. It is high in fiber and low in calories which makes it a great weight loss food and helps to reduce constipation and bloating. Zucchini is rich in poly-phenolic antioxidants which are essential in helping to protect the body from aging, illness, and disease. Zucchini is also a good source of potassium which is an important intra-cellular electrolyte that helps to maintain fluid balance and normalize blood pressure and is vital in helping to prevent heart attacks and stroke. Zucchini contains phytonutrients that are important for prostate health as they can help to reduce the symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BOH). They also contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds which can aid asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia. Zucchini is also known to be particularly beneficial for hypertension, cataracts, macular degeneration, atherosclerosis, diabetes, edema, multiple sclerosis, and stomach and colon cancers. Zucchini can be eaten raw, steamed, roasted, or sauteed. Raw zucchini can be spiralized into spaghetti and is a healthy substitute for pasta dishes for gluten-free, grain-free, raw food, vegan, vegetarian, or paleo diets.


Natural Benefits of Cumin

Cumin is one of the best spices to therapeutically use for digestive disorders such as indigestion, dyspepsia, stomach cramps, gastritis, bloating, constipation, nausea, and flatulence. Cumin seeds contain good amounts of vitamins E, A and B-complex and is an excellent source of minerals such as zinc, selenium, iron, copper, calcium, and manganese. Cumin helps the body absorb and assimilate nutrients much more efficiently. It also contains anti-cancer and anti-tumor properties and have beens shown to significantly reduce the risk of stomach, colon, and liver tumors. It has also been shown to detoxify the body by boosting liver and kidney function. It is known to help benefit colds, flu, insomnia, asthma, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, muscle spasms, and arthritis. Many of the health properties in cumin seeds are found in their essential oils which include cuminaldehyde and thymol. These compounds help to support healthy immune, respiratory, circulatory, reproductive, lymphatic, and digestive systems. For pregnant woman and new mothers, cumin has been known to help relieve morning sickness and to strengthen milk production for breast feeding. Cumin seeds can be made in a tea by gently boiling two cups of water with 2-3 teaspoons of cumin seeds for 10 minutes or more. Allow to cool and sip throughout the day. Cumin tea is also excellent for weight loss as it can help to boost the metabolism and energize the body. In biblical times, cumin seeds were highly valued for their digestive properties and were used during times of ceremonial fasting to help cleanse and purify the body. Topically, crushed cumin seeds or cumin powder can be mixed with coconut or olive oil and be applied to boils, scrapes, burns, and insect bites to help disinfect and soothe the skin. Consider finding new ways to add this healing spice into your weekly meals.



Use Banans in Your Daily Routine for Eat

If you think bananas are just for monkeys, think again.

  1. Bananas help overcome depression due to high levels of tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin -- the happy-mood brain neurotransmitter.
  2. Eat two bananas before a strenuous workout to pack an energy punch and sustain your blood sugar.
  3. Protect against muscle cramps during workouts and nighttime leg cramps by eating a banana.
  4. Counteract calcium loss during urination and build strong bones by supplementing with a banana.
  5. Improve your mood and reduce PMS symptoms by eating a banana, which regulates blood sugar and produces stress-relieving relaxation.
  6. Bananas reduce swelling, protect against type II diabetes, aid weight loss, strengthen the nervous system, and help with the production of white blood cells, all due to high levels of vitamin B-6.
  7. Strengthen your blood and relieve anemia with the added iron from bananas.
  8. High in potassium and low in salt, bananas are officially recognized by the FDA as being able to lower blood pressure and protect against heart attack and stroke. 

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Beat The Heat Using cucumber, Stay Cool

To beat the summer heat coming what else can be as cool as a cucumber?
Unfortunately the cumbers are not given the respect that they deserve by the culinary world. They are usually restricted to salads or sometimes used as a garnish.

Cucumbers belong to the same plant family as squash, pumpkin, and watermelon (the Cucurbitaceae family). Like watermelon, cucumbers are made up of mostly (95 percent) water, which means eating them on a hot summer day can help you stay hydrated.
However, there's reason to eat cucumbers all year long. With vitamin K, B vitamins, copper, potassium, vitamin C, and manganese, cucumbers can help you to avoid nutrient deficiencies that are widespread among those eating a typical American diet.
Plus, cucumbers contain unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases and much, much more.

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Saturday 28 March 2015

Benefits of Lemon Verbena

Lemon Verbena is a fragrant medicinal herb that has mild antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties. Lemon verbena is excellent for the digestive tract as it is known to be good for relieving nausea, cramps, bloating, indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, diarrhea, stomach or gastro-intestinal spasms, and colon irritability. It is also often used as a natural slimming aid as it has been shown to burn fat, break down cellulite, and regulate the metabolism. Lemon verbena is highly beneficial for crohn’s disease, colitis, celiac disease, sciatica, nervous twitches and ticks, and any stress related disorders. Lemon verbena also works as a natural remedy for Candida due to its powerful anti-fungal properties.



Lemon verbena is also particularly good for the nervous system and can help relax the nerves and muscles, calm the mind, alleviate depression, ease anxiety, and provide a general overall feeling of peace. Lemon verbena is also effective at loosening up and removing mucus from the lungs and sinus passages and can aid in providing relief from the symptoms of colds, coughs, flu, asthma, and sinus and respiratory infections. It is also helpful in reducing fever in the body. Lemon verbena is often used by women for its ability to help regulate their menstrual cycle and reduce the symptoms of PMS. Lemon verbena has a bright lemony scent and is a great addition to salad dressings, smoothies, fruit salads, baked goods, and rice and vegetable dishes. Lemon verbena tea is a relaxing and medicinal tea that can be prepared by adding two teaspoons of dried or fresh herb to 1 cup of boiling water and allowing to steep for at least 15 minutes or more. Fresh lime and raw honey can be used if desired. Lemon verbena is a relatively easy herb to grow in a pot or in the garden.

Benefits of eating Guava

Guava is a sub tropical sweet fruit that has several healing properties. It is exceptionally high in vitamins C, A, E, & K and minerals such as potassium, copper, and manganese. In fact, guavas have 5 times the amount of vitamin C than oranges! It is also packed with antioxidants that are known to boost the immune system and help to prevent colon, skin, lung, breast, and prostate cancer. Guava is a rich source of lycopene and has nearly twice the amount than tomatoes. Lycopene is known to be an essential nutrient in helping to prevent prostate cancer, osteoporosis, macular degeneration, cardiovascular disease, skin damage, and chronic illnesses.



 Guavas are also known to be particularly beneficial for constipation, diabetes, high blood pressure, gastroenteritis, and weight loss. Guava is a perfect anti-aging food as they help to keep skin smooth, glowing, and wrinkle-free. They also provide a good source of energy and nourishment to keep the body strong and active. Guavas are ripe when soft and they have a sweet, creamy texture that is excellent when eaten fresh, juiced, or blended into smoothies. Bottled guava juice can be readily found in supermarkets and health food stores and is a good substitute when the fresh fruit is out of season or hard to find. Guava leaves also provide several medicinal benefits and can be crushed or chewed for gum or tooth infections or pain as well as used for reducing mucus in the lungs and disinfecting the respiratory tract. Guava can be found in fresh, juice, nectar, dried, and frozen form at your local supermarket and speciality food stores.

Benefits of Pecans

Pecans are a nourishing food and contain several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for optimum health. Pecans are an excellent source of vitamins A, E and B-complex as well as minerals such as zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium, iron, and manganese. They are a wonderful source of high quality protein that is easy to digest and quickly assimilates into the body. Pecans contain ellagic acid, lutein, and zea-xanthin which are all known to help protect the body from infections, diseases, and cancers. They are also rich in oleic acid which helps to decrease LDL “bad” cholesterol and increase HDL “good” cholesterol in the blood. This can help to prevent heart attacks, heart disease, and strokes making pecans of of the best heart healthy foods you can eat. Pecans contain beta-sitosterol which is a compound that has been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) which is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland in men.



 They are also one of nature’s richest sources of vitamin B-6 which it vital for a healthy and strong nervous system as well as for the regeneration of damaged cells in the body. Pecans have been found to be beneficial for Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. Contrary to the standard belief that “nuts are fattening”, 1 oz of nuts a day can actually help to decrease body fat and aid in weight loss by helping the body to feel satiated for longer periods of time. Pecan meal can be made by simply grinding raw pecans into a fine powder, this then can be used to sprinkle onto salads or added to smoothies for a nutritional boost. Also, try sprinkling a teaspoon of pecan meal over a bowl of fresh berries with a drizzle of raw honey. It is the perfect breakfast, snack, or desert that is packed with antioxidants and immune boosting properties that will give you stable, consistent energy all day long. Raw pecans can be readily found online or at your local health food store.


Sunday 22 March 2015

Drink More Water in summer

Your body functions best within a certain temperature range and when your body gets too warm, it needs to cool off. A couple of things happen to accomplish this. Your blood vessels dilate to increase blood flow to the skin. This allows excess heat to radiate away from your body. You also start to sweat. Evaporation of the sweat cools the skin, which in turn helps to cool the whole body.


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40 Amazing Benefits Of Coconut Water For Skin, Hair And Health

The temperature is increasing day by day, and now is the perfect time to sip our favourite summer drink, coconut water! Coconut water is a very popular drink and is consumed by people of all ages across the world. It is touted for its healing and medicinal properties. And on top of that, it is easily available all over the country and is affordable too. It is a gift of nature that benefits us both internally when ingested and externally when applied topically.
It has been used to treat a variety of health problems from the time unknown. It has been used for everything, from a medicinal tonic in tropical lotions to sports recovery drinks, because of its high content of potassium and antioxidants. Coconut water has less sugar than any other sports drink and much less sugar than sodas and some fruit juices. On any given day, Coconut water is always a better option for kids and adults looking for a beverage. It is the most natural way to replenish the supply of electrolytes in our body and prevent dehydration and acidity.

29 Amazing Benefits Of Amla Juice For Skin, Hair And Health

Amla or Indian gooseberry is popular since decades due to its nutritional benefits. In India, this fruit is used in making pickles, chutneys, jams and murabbas. Amla juice is a healthy drink as it is a storehouse of vitamin C and other nutrients which provide an array of health and beauty benefits. Amla fruit is greatly renowned and amla juice is also used in Ayurvedic medicine.

It is regarded as the juice of immortality or the magic potion which keeps you young and fit. Drinking amla juice twice a day can do wonders for your body and skin. It not only improves the appearance of your skin but also helps maintain proper body functions. It also makes your hair grow stronger. Today amla juice is commercially available in medical stores but it is advisable to prepare it at home in order to ensure that it is pure and contains no added preservatives. All these qualities make it a healthy alternative for aerated and processed drinks.

How to Prepare Amla Juice?

The advent of winter season marks the availability of fresh amlas. It is quite simple to prepare amla juice at home. Though it is usually sweetened by adding sugar, you can also add a little jaggery or brown sugar, salt and pepper to the drink to get a different taste. You can also flavor it with a little cardamom powder.

Thursday 19 March 2015

What Diet Soda Does to Belly Fat

A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that people who drank diet soda gained almost triple the abdominal fat over nine years as those who didn’t drink diet soda. The study analyzed data from 749 people ages 65 and older who were asked, every couple of years, how many cans of soda they drank a day, and how many of those sodas were diet or regular.
Those answers ended up being extremely predictive of abdominal-fat gain, even after the researchers adjusted for factors like diabetes, smoking and levels of physical activity. People who didn’t drink diet soda gained about 0.8 in. around their waists over the study period, but people who drank diet soda daily gained 3.2 in. Those who fell in the middle — occasional drinkers of diet soda — gained about 1.8 in.

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Wednesday 18 March 2015

Natural Remedies for Stomach Care

Food:
  1. Its important to eat but in small quantities and in every 2 to 3 hours  you should consume food . If you eat in big qunatities your stomach faces a big load so it gives problem to you like gas,acidity etc. Its just like your washing machine if you load with too many clothes in the spinner ,it won’t work properly or even if it works it will not function the way it should.So eating right on right time is  equally important for your stomach to fully  function. Breakfast is very important its okay if you skip your lunch but please make it a point to have yourbreakfast. Its very important for you and your body. Also try to make an effort to eat after every 2 hours like you can munch on   almonds,walnuts,fruits,cheese,juice,healthy biscuits,fibrous food etc. Please include lots of chapatis,sabzi to your meal and tiffins. Its very important you have your dinner before eight or max till eight thirty for proper digestion. Avoid heavy meals during night time instead go for a lighter meal like roti sabzi. If you feel hungry late nights you can have fruits.
  2. Too Spicy and Salty food should be avoided. Consumption of warm water or Lukewarm water should be taken after 30 mins from Lunch and Dinner. When you drink hot water it helps in digestion of food and discarding toxins from your body. Avoid Cold Beverages or cold water immediately after food insteadd have lukewarm water or hot water.
  3. Avoid Vegetables which increases Pitta Dosh Inyour body like            Groundnuts,Cabbages,Brinjal,capsicum,Prawns,Crabs,Shells,Cauliflower.Also avoid Dals(lentils) you can have tur and mung dal.
  4. Try to drink coffee and tea in a moderation.If you are addicted to tea like me you can make tea mix with herbs like Tulsi,Elaichi,Lemon Grass even Galangal(Thai ginger) is very effective if added while boiling tea. The other option is you can switch to Green tea( i.e tea without milk).
Sometimes we go for marriages,functions,office parties, etc in such scenarios obviously we don’t have any option. When we  don’t have much of choice  but to eat what is served or we just eat anything to avoid starvation.In such cases when you reach home and you have gas or acidity and you are in catch22 situation. In such situations what to do? Don’t worry I will tell you how to care for your stomach.
I will help you with some natural remedies which will help in curbing gas or acidity problems and in daily stomach care.
  • Hing (asoefoetida) Take 1 teaspoon of hing add to a glass of hot or lukewarm water and gulp it.You will immediately get relief.If its with infants than you can rub hing and cocunut oil on the childs body.This will aslo give relief to the child/baby.This is a tried ,tested and proved example.My Mum used to rub hing with coconut oil on my stomach when I was a infant and I used to get instant relief.Hing has got healing properties and will give you instant relief .
  • Always eat cummin seeds after lunch or dinner and keep some cummin seeds handy in your bag so when you are travelling or feellike munching you can pop some jeera in your mouth.Its good for aneamic patients and beneficial for gas.Even badi saunf is great for gas and Pitta.
  • Drink lots of warm water as this will keep your body clean and flush all toxins from your body.So keep drinking as much water as you can.You can also drink Nariyal Pani(Coconut Water) 3 to 4 times a day.Coconut water is cooling.Also Sabja soaked in water than consumed is effective remedy for curbing heat in your body
  • Eat Ajwain(Ova) or Ova Leaves .Ova also is excellent for gas problems so try to eat Ova if you have gas problems.
  • You can also eat Tulsi leaves on empty stomach every morning which will help you to build immunity and help in digestion.
  • Aloevera is the best way to heal stomach disorders.Drink aloevera juice every morning and eat Aloevera if eaten daily is very benefical for Gas,Acicity and Pitta.It helps in building immunity and resolving stomach disorders
  • Please destress your body by doing yoga and meditation.this will help to calm your body and bring harmony to your mind,being and body.Start loving yourself and your body.Start accepting the way you are and what you are.
  • Lastly sleep well .

5 Best Remedies for the Stomach Flu

Nobody likes getting sick, especially when it’s the stomach flu: whether it causes a fever, nausea and/or vomiting, the chills, diarrhea, aches and pains, or some or all of the above, they add up to an awful feeling. While there is no cure for the stomach flu, the remedies below may help provide relief from this condition’s most difficult symptoms.



What Causes the Stomach Flu?

The stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, can be caused by a number of different viruses that attack your gastrointestinal system. These viruses can be contracted from food that was inadequately prepared or from coming into contact with an infected person, especially if you have bad hygiene. Certain bacteria can also cause gastroenteritis. People with the stomach flu often have symptoms of diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, fever, headache, and sore muscles.

5 Ways to Beat The Heat– With Food!

Eat Light. You may find that you don’t want to eat the same heavy meals in the summer that you crave in the winter. Listening to your body about this is important as sticking to several lighter meals throughout the day really can keep you cooler. After we eat, the thermic effect of food takes place, in which our body temperature rises as we digest the food- the larger the meal, the greater this effect. In addition, just say no to spicy food on hot days as the compound capsaicin (which gives spicy food its heat) can also raise body temperature and make you sweat!
Freeze Your Favorites. Something ice cold always sounds good on a hot day, but slushies and sno-cones can pack on the calories. Instead, try freezing your favorite fruits and veggies. I love freezing berries and snacking on them on hot afternoons for a nutritious way to cool down. And you can do the same with some veggies too! I have a friend who loves to freeze English peas and let them melt in her mouth!
Bonus: Homemade Ice Pop Recipes Under 100 Calories
Eat Your Water. Did you know that 20-30% of your fluid needs should be met through high water foods like fruits and veggies? Eating plenty of these foods can help you stay hydrated and cool throughout the summer. Some produce is as much as 85% water, so shoot for those with highest water content. Best bets include: watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, grapefruit, broccoli, cabbage, and carrots.


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7 foods to help you beat the heat

Fresh, fabulous tasting and sure to help take the sweat out of summer eating, these 7 summer chillers are good for you too!
As the days of summer get longer and warmer, it can seem nearly impossible at times to keep cool in the blistering heat. Staying cool can depend on much more than icy-chilled beverages and air conditioning, and the foods you eat can absolutely lend a hand. Luckily for us, it's difficult to think of a more joyful time for eating than summer. From ripe and juicy berries to plump and bursting cherry tomatoes, this vibrant season enjoys a particularly abundant and colourful array of fresh and seasonal foods. An added bonus? Many seasonal summer fruits and vegetables are simply superb for helping us lower our body temperature to stay cool and refreshed, despite the soaring temperatures! Here are 3 cool fruits and chilled out veggies that will help you stay energized and cool—even when the heat turns up.




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How to Stay Cool and Feel Fresh During the Summer

Sick of sweating through your clothes in 100 degree weather, unable to resist the intense heat? Is your hair frizzy from the humidity and your face and body getting riddled with pimples? Are you constantly trying to stay cool, but just don't know the RIGHT way to do it? Read on for some unexpected, simple and helpful tips!


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Tuesday 17 March 2015

23 Super-Hydrating Foods to Beat Summer Heat

"There's recently been a lot of interesting research about how hydration affects our mind, our mood, memory and learning, thinking and reaction time," Seattle sports dietician Kim Larson, R.D.N., a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, told weather.com. "Even if you're just mildly dehydrated, it can lead to mood changes and fatigue."
For athletes, hydration is essential, especially during the hot, humid days of summer. Kids need water, too, particularly when they're outside playing in the sun all day. "Consistently drinking water during activities is really important," Larson said. "Drinking throughout the day in general is important, too. It's just as important for someone who is working at a computer all day [to drink water], as it is for somebody who is running a marathon."
A good rule of thumb, according to Larson: Sip half your body weight in ounces of water every day. A 150-pound person, for example, should then down 75 ounces, or just more than 9 cups of liquid daily.



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14 steps to a healthy summer diet!

1. Water is the best option to quench thirst.
It is a key ingredient in keeping the body cool. With high humidity levels, sweat will not evaporate quickly. This prevents the body from releasing heat in an efficient manner. This is why it is necessary to hydrate and drink water, even when you are not thirsty. Increase water intake regardless of your activity levels.
2. Avoid caffeinated or carbonated beverages, alcoholic beverages, and those high in sugar.
All these drinks contain preservatives, colours and sugars. They are acidic in nature and act as diuretics. They cause loss of fluids through urine.
Many soft drinks contain diluted phosphoric acid, which damages the inner linning of the digestive tract and, therefore, affects its functions.
An excessive intake of soft drinks increases phosphorous levels in the blood. This separates calcium from the bones and moves it into the blood.
This calcium displacement from the bones makes them porous and brittle. It also causes plaque on the teeth, kidney stones, arthritis and bone spur.



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How to Look After Your Skin in Summer

Summer sun and temperatures are beloved because they provide you with the opportunity to spend more time outdoors doing the things you love. However, the sun and temperatures come at a price and it is your skin that pays that price. Sun damage can lead to premature aging of the skin, wrinkles, marks, dry skin, and even skin cancer over time. The hottest season of the year requires careful thought for your skin even as you enjoy the heat and freedom of summer.

1
Understand how the summer sun impacts your skin. It's important to know how the sun's rays impact your skin, especially when you're seeking to cut through the hype on cosmetic labels. The following basics should assist your understanding:[1]
  • Ultraviolet A (UVA): The longest wavelength of the sun, this one penetrates the dermis, your skin's deepest layer. Sun damage can activate free radicals and promote skin aging.
  • Ultraviolet B (UVB): This wavelength penetrates the skin's upper layer, the epidermis. These rays cause sunburn, allergic reactions and skin cancers. After six times of being burned, the skin has double the risk of developing a fatal melanoma.[2]
  • Ultraviolet C (UVC): Generally these rays are filtered by the ozone layer and they're the most damaging rays.
  • Scratch Test (ST): Sometimes if you scratch your skin with a back of your heel, the test will reveal your sensitivity.
  • Infra-red (IR): This is the "heat" from the sun and too much can negatively impact collagen, elastic and your immune system.
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8 Healthy Summer Foods to Add to Your Diet

It’s summer—that amazing time of year when fresh produce abounds. As a dietitian and nutrition editor I love that there’s an abundance of fresh, delicious and healthy choices. Better yet: many of summer’s fruits and vegetables are brimming with secret health benefits. Here are some of my favorites and why they’re a particularly good choice in the summer.




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Monday 16 March 2015

7 benefits of regular physical activity

Want to feel better, have more energy and perhaps even live longer? Look no further than exercise. The health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore. And the benefits of exercise are yours for the taking, regardless of your age, sex or physical ability. Need more convincing to exercise? Check out these seven ways exercise can improve your life.

No. 1: Exercise controls weight

Exercise can help prevent excess weight gain or help maintain weight loss. When you engage in physical activity, you burn calories. The more intense the activity, the more calories you burn. You don't need to set aside large chunks of time for exercise to reap weight-loss benefits. If you can't do an actual workout, get more active throughout the day in simple ways — by taking the stairs instead of the elevator or revving up your household chores.

No. 2: Exercise combats health conditions and diseases

Worried about heart disease? Hoping to prevent high blood pressure? No matter what your current weight, being active boosts high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good," cholesterol and decreases unhealthy triglycerides. This one-two punch keeps your blood flowing smoothly, which decreases your risk of cardiovascular diseases. In fact, regular physical activity can help you prevent or manage a wide range of health problems and concerns, including stroke, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, depression, certain types of cancer, arthritis and falls.

No. 3: Exercise improves mood

Need an emotional lift? Or need to blow off some steam after a stressful day? A workout at the gym or a brisk 30-minute walk can help. Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. You may also feel better about your appearance and yourself when you exercise regularly, which can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem.

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31 Healthy Foods You Should Be Eating and living healthy forever

Fear not; eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. With the help of several nutrition experts, Healthland has taken the guesswork out of creating the perfectly healthy diet for you and your family. With the right kinds of foods, you can stave off heart disease, stay slim and boost your immune system. So what follows is a list of the 31 healthiest foods you should be eating now. Start stocking your fridge and pantry!


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10 Health Benefits of Honey

1. Prevent cancer and heart disease:
Honey contains flavonoids, antioxidants which help reduce the risk of some cancers and heart disease.
2. Reduce ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders.
Recent research shows that honey treatment may help disorders such as ulcers and bacterial gastroenteritis. This may be related to the 3rd benefit…
3. Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-fungal:
“All honey is antibacterial, because the bees add an enzyme that makes hydrogen peroxide,” said Peter Molan, director of the Honey Research Unit at the University of Waikato in New Zealand.


4. Increase athletic performance.
Ancient Olympic athletes would eat honey and dried figs to enhance their performance. This has now been verified with modern studies, showing that it is superior in maintaining glycogen levels and improving recovery time than other sweeteners.
5. Reduce cough and throat irritation:
Honey helps with coughs, particularly buckwheat honey. In a study of 110 children, a single dose of buckwheat honey was just as effective as a single dose of dextromethorphan in relieving nocturnal cough and allowing proper sleep.

12 Unexpected Reasons to Drink More Water

Water It Down—The Need-to-Know

Water is the second most popular beverage in the U.S. after soft drinks. This is a scary stat, since sugary soda is a huge health hazard, upping the risk of obesity, stroke, and other heart problems . However, these dangers can be avoided if people choose to drink water, which doesn’t have negative side effects. So help put the sugary stuff to the side and make water the number one drink of choice. The benefits really are endless. (Just take a look!)

Fluid balance

Roughly 60 percent of the body is made of water. Drinking enough H2O maintains the body’s fluid balance, which helps transport nutrients in the body, regulate body temperature, digest food, and more.

Calorie control

Forget other diet tricks—drinking water could also help with weight loss. Numerous studies have found a connection between water consumption and losing a few pounds . The secret reason? Water simply helps people feel full, and as a result consume fewer calories.

Muscle fuel

Sweating at the gym causes muscles to lose water. And when the muscles don’t have enough water, they get tired . So for extra energy, try drinking water to push through that final set of squats.

Clearer skin

Certain toxins in the body can cause the skin to inflame, which results in clogged pores and acne . While science saying water makes the skin wrinkle free is contradictory, water does flush out these toxins and can reduce the risk of pimples.

Kidney function

Our kidneys process 200 quarts of blood daily, sifting out waste and transporting urine to the bladder. Yet, kidneys need enough fluids to clear away what we don’t need in the body. Let's drink to that!

Productivity boost

In order to really focus, a glass of water could help people concentrate and stay refreshed and alert.

Fatigue buster

Move over coffee—water can help fight those tired eyes too . One of the most common symptoms of dehydration is tiredness. Just another reason to go for the big gulp! (Not the 7-11 kind.)

Hangover help

If booze has got the best of you, help a hangover with a glass of water to hydrate the body and stop that pounding headache.

Pain prevention

A little water can really go a long way. Aching joints and muscle cramps and strains can all occur if the body is dehydrated .

Keep things flowing

Nobody wants to deal with digestion issues. Luckily, drinking enough water adds fluids to the colon which helps make things, ahem, move smoothly.

Sickness fighter

Water may help with decongestion and dehydration, helping the body bounce back when feeling under the weather. Just beware—drinking fluids hasn’t been scientifically proven to beat colds in one swoop, so don’t swap this for a trip to the doctor or other cold remedies.

Brain boost

A study in London found a link between students bringing water into an exam room and better grades, suggesting H2O promotes clearer thinking. While it’s unclear if drinking the water had anything to do with a better score, it doesn’t hurt to try it out!

Bottoms Up—Your Action Plan

The amount of water people need per day is up for debate, but studies suggest adults need nine to 16 cups of H2O. However this number varies depending on activity level, age, and how much water people are consuming in coffee, tea, or water-rich veggies and fruit. Here’s how to keep yourself hydrated: Begin by drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up, and 30 minutes before eating any big meal. (This will help control appetite, too.) Get in the habit of keeping a water bottle on hand at all times. And if the taste beings to bore, spice up the taste buds with a squeeze of citrus to the glass! Before you know it, all the benefits of water will be right at your fingertips… and in your body.

Top Thirty Quick and Easy Health Tips

Food and Nutrition

Along with fresh veggies and fruits, eat slim meats (if you’re not vegetarian), nuts, seeds (sprouts) and salads.

Opt for fresh, seasonal and local produce over exotic foodstuff imported over ridiculous distances.

Make sure you get a balanced diet, as often as possible.


Tuesday 10 March 2015

The 20 Best Foods to Eat for Breakfast

Start your day off right

by Amanda MacMillan
The next time you rush out the door in the morning without something to eat, consider this: Skipping breakfast can set you up for overeating later in the day. A healthy a.m. meal, on the other hand, can give you energy, satisfy your appetite, and set the stage for smart decisions all day long.

"You want to aim for a breakfast that combines good carbs and fiber with some protein," says Erica Giovinazzo, MS, RD, a nutritionist at Clay Health Club and Spa, in New York City. Luckily, your options are plenty. Here's a look at some of our favorite breakfast foods, along with expert tips for making them even healthier.


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Fat food items should eat regularly

Whether we're trying to lose weight or just avoid gaining it, many of us think steering clear of dietary fat is the first step. Contrary to common belief that fat is not good for body, one's body requires certain kind of fat for growth, development and glowing skin.                                                                                                          
                                                                                 Saturated fat can lead to heart problems, but eating the right amount of unsaturated fats can protect the heart.

The average adult should get about 20 to 35 percent of their daily calories from fat and less than 10 percent of their daily calories from saturated fats, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

A gram of fat contains nine calories, so a daily diet comprised of 2,000 calories would even out to about 44 to 78 grams of total fat a day, reports huffingtonpost.com.

So where can you find these unsaturated fats? Look no further than the six healthy picks below:

* Avocado: Half of an avocado contains nearly 15 grams of fat total, and almost 10 of those are monounsaturated (two grams are polyunsaturated). Try it in place of mayo on your next sandwich.

* Almonds (And Other Nuts): Just about any nut can make for a healthy fat-filled snack, but almonds happen to be the lowest in calories. One ounce, about 23 whole almonds, contains just over 14 grams of fat, including nearly 9 grams monounsaturated and about 3.5 polyunsaturated.

* Salmon (and other fatty fish): Salmon may be one of the most well-known fatty fish, but tuna, mackerel and sardines also offer a heart-healthy dose of fats.

* Olives (and olive oil): Mixing 10 large olives into your next salad will add about 5 grams of fat, 3.5 of which are monounsaturated and .4 of which are polyunsaturated.

* Flax (and other seeds): One tablespoon of whole flaxseed -- which you can toss into salads, soups, smoothies, yogurt and more -- contains just over 4 grams of fat, including nearly 1 gram monounsaturated and almost 3 grams polyunsaturated.

* Eggs: One large, whole egg has almost 5 grams of fat, including roughly 2 grams monounsaturated and about 1 polyunsaturated.