Thursday 23 January 2014

HEALTH BENEFITS OF GARLIC

HEALTH BENEFITS OF GARLIC

Indian curries are incomplete without garlic – a simple ingredient with packed health benefits. It is very strong and bitter but adds an unbelievable flavor to the cuisine. Any description of garlic is incomplete without mentioning its medicinal values. This miracle herb Garlic has been used since time immemorial as a medicine to prevent or treat various diseases and conditions.

Here are some health benefits of garlic
Grow beautiful hair with garlic.
Garlic could end your hair loss problems because of its high levels of allicin, a sulfur compound similar to that found in onions, which were found to effectively treat hair loss. Rub sliced cloves of garlic on your scalp, squeezing as you go for the most benefit. You can also infuse oil with garlic and massage it into your scalp.

Garlic clears acne.
Garlic makes a great natural remedy to banish acne. Its antioxidants kill bacteria, so rub a sliced clove of garlic on the pimple for an effective topical treatment.

Garlic prevents and treats colds.
Packed with antioxidants, your immune system could benefit if you give it a constant boost of powerful garlic in daily recipes. If a cold does sneak by, try sipping garlic tea: steep chopped or minced garlic in hot water for several minutes, then strain and drink. You can add a bit of honey or ginger to improve the taste.

Soothe psoriasis with garlic.
Since garlic has proven anti-inflammatory properties, it could be useful in relieving uncomfortable psoriasis outbreaks. Try rubbing a little garlic oil on the affected area for smooth, rash-free skin.

Control your weight with garlic.
Garlic could help you control your weight, garlic rich diet reduced weight and fat stores. Try to cook with garlic daily for tasty and waist-friendly meals.

Treat athlete's foot with garlic.
With its anti-fungal properties, garlic could be a good way to get rid of itchy athlete's foot. Soak your feet in a bath of warm water and crushed garlic. 

How does one actually consume one raw clove of garlic a day? It’s easier than you think. Here are some suggestions:
  • Finely minced a clove and sprinkle on your salad
  • Mix with cold pasta and vegetables
  • Use as a dip with hot bread. Mix olive oil, spices and garlic
  • Mix with mayo and use on your next sandwich
  • Garlic, butter, and toast are best friends. You can toast up a slice of bread, butter it generously, and sprinkle raw minced garlic on top as a super garlic toast.
  • Garlic + butter + potatoes is just delicious. Make up your potatoes with butter and plop them on your plates. Once cooled for a few minutes you can add some minced garlic to spice them up.
Just use your imagination....

You can mince or dice garlic and put in soup and salads. Using garlic twice daily helps one to cut down on fat and salt, making your meals healthier. One can also mix garlic with warm water in a glass and drink.

Monday 20 January 2014

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ANJEER

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ANJEER
Figs contain a beneficial nutrients including vitamin A, vitamin B2, calcium, iron, phosphorous, manganese, sodium, potassium and chlorine. Figs are low in fat and sugar.


HEALTH BENEFITS OF ANJEER:

1. PREVENTION OF CONSTIPATION :  Fiber present in anjeer helps promote healthy , regular bowel function and prevents constipation.

2.  WEIGHT LOSS : The fiber in figs also helps to reduce weight and is often recommended for obese  people .

3. LOWER CHOLESTEROL : Figs contain Pectin, which is a soluble fiber. When fiber moves through the digestive system, it basically mops up excess clumps of cholesterol and carries them to the excretory system to be eliminated from the body.

4. PREVENTION OF COLON CANCER : The presence of fiber to stimulate elimination of free radicals and other cancer causing substances , particularly in the colon.

5. PROTECTION AGAINST POST –MENOPAUSAL BREAST CANCER : Fiber content in the figs have been known to protect against breast cancer and after menopause, the hormonal balance in women can often fluctuate.

6. GOOD FO DIABETIC PATIENTS : Figs leaves reduce the amount of insulin needed by diabetic patients who have to regularly take insulin injections. Figs are rich in potassium, which helps to regulate the amount of sugar which is absorbed into the body after the meal.

7. PREVENTION OF HYPERTENSION : Figs are high in potassium and low in sodium , so they are a perfect defense against the appearance and effects of hypertension.

8. RELIEF FOR THROAT PAIN : The high mucilage content in figs helps to heal and protect sore throat . The soothing nature of figs and their natural juices can relieve pain and stress on the vocal chords.

9. STRENGTHENS  BONES : Figs are rich in Calcium. Calcium helps to strengthen bones.

10. SEXUAL WEAKNESS : Figs are known since ages for reducing sexual weakness. Soak 2-3 figs in milk overnight and eat them in the morning to enhance your sexual power. It also helps in gaining weight.
Figs are sweet and soft and their paste is used as a replacement for sugar. Processed figs are used to make pies, pudding, cakes, other bakery products, jam, jellies and preserves.


Precaution: Taking too much fig can cause diarrhea. Dried figs are high in sugar and might cause tooth decay.

Thursday 9 January 2014

HEALTH BENEFITS OF DONATING BLOOD

HEALTH BENEFITS OF DONATING BLOOD

IMPROVES HEART HEALTH
Donating blood improves your overall cardiovascular health. Increased level of iron in the blood raises the chance of heart disease. Regularly donating blood helps males in particular to reduce the amount of iron in the blood. This can reduce the chance of heart attack by 88%. Additionally, regular blood donation can lower the risk of severe cardiovascular events such as stroke by 33%.

ENHANCES THE PRODUCTION OF NEW BLOOD CELLS
When blood is withdrawn, the donor's body immediately begins to replenish the lost blood. New cells are produced by marrow within 48 hours of donation, and all of the red blood cells the donor loses during donation are completely replaced within one to two months. Therefore, donating blood helps to stimulate the production of new blood cells. This process of replenishment can help your body stay healthy and work more efficiently.

BURNS CALORIES
Donating blood on a regular basis can also improve fitness. Donating one pint of blood (450 ml) burns 650 calories in donor's body.

ENHANCES FEELING OF WELL BEING IN ELDERLY PEOPLE
Many elderly people who are in good health have reported feeling invigorated and reenergized by giving blood on a regular basis.

REDUCES CANCER RISK
Give blood to help lower your risk of cancer., consistent blood donation is associated with lowered risks of cancers, including liver, lung, colon, stomach and throat cancers. Risk levels drop in correlation with how often participants donate blood.

FREE HEALTH SCREENING DONE
In addition to all of these benefits, a donor receives a free prior health screening plus mini blood test. There will be an HB level test, as well as a blood pressure and body check.  Blood is also tested for some major diseases and the donor is immediately informed in strict confidentiality if any of these tests show positive results.

SAVES LIVES
By donating blood, many lives are saved and hope is given to many whose situation may otherwise be hopeless. Blood donors give such patients a second lease of life.

BRINGS JOY TO MANY
When you donate blood, you impact not only the patient whose life may depend on your donation, but also all those who depend on that patient. The entire community will benefit from the spirit of generosity.


ELIGIBILITY TO DONATE

You should not be suffering from any of the following diseases or taking medicines for them:
  • Hepatitis B, C
  • AIDS
  • Diabetes (are you under medication currently?)
  • Fits/ Convulsions (are you under medication currently?)
  • Cancer
  • Leprosy or any other infectious diseases
  • Any allergies (Only if you are suffering from severe symptoms)
  • Hemophilia/ Bleeding problems
  • Kidney disease
  • Heart disease
  • Hormonal disorders
  • Any other type of Jaundice (within 5 years)
  • Tuberculosis (within 2 years)
  • Chicken Pox (within 1 year)
  • Malaria (within 1 year)
  • Organ Transplant (within one year)
  • Blood Transfusion (within the last 6 months)
  • Pregnancy (within the last 6 months)
  • Blood Donation (within the last 3 months)
  • Major Surgery (within the last 3 months)
  • Small Pox Vaccination (within the last 3weeks)
  • Hemoglobin deficiency / Anemia (recently)
  • Drastic weight loss (recently)

Tuesday 7 January 2014

AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS DOCTOR AWAY
 

HEALTH BENEFITS OF GREEN APPLES

Some of the primary health benefits of green apple are:

  • Contains a lot of fiber, which is good for digestion.
  • The chances of colon cancer are less if one eats green apple.
  • Relieves constipation.
  • Beneficial in treating gout.
  • Useful in controlling diarrhea.
  • Reduces blood pressure.
  • Blood sugar gets stabilized.
  • Helps in treating rheumatism.
  • Improves one’s appetite.
  • It contains carbohydrates and therefore provides much energy.
  • It contains protein.
  • Have plenty of vitamins, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6 and it is one of the most prominent green apple benefits.
  • It also has plenty of minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, Manganese, Iron,  Potassium, Copper, Zinc
  • It helps in preventing liver problems.
  • It has less cholesterol and is therefore useful for those losing weight.
  • It purifies the blood as it contains a lot of minerals.
  • One also less chances of suffering from liver problems.
  • Apples have essential nutrients and green apple is no exception to it. Green apple has lots of benefits due to which it should be included in the daily diet.
Green Apple: Skin Benefits

  • Green apple is an excellent beauty enhancer. Lots of skin care and hair care benefits are associated with green apples.. 
  • Green apple is a great anti-aging ingredient. Antioxidants and fibers present in this apple keep your skin elastic and youthful for long.
  • A face mask involving the use of green apple can deeply moisturize your skin and help eliminating the appearance of wrinkles while improving the overall texture of your skin.
  • Owing to its dense vitamin content, green apple helps in maintaining your skin and has great whitening and nourishing effects on your complexion.
  • It helps preventing various skin diseases caused by the lack of essential vitamins.
  • Green apple is a highly effective anti-acne treatment as well. Regular consumption of green apple help you control and prevent pimple eruptions.
  • In addition, it also facilitates the elimination of dark circles, leaving your eyes refreshed and refreshed.

Green Apple: Hair Benefits

Green apple is not only good for our skin but for our hair as well. Here we have a few of the benefits listed for you.

  • A paste created with the leaves and skin of green apple works wonders to fix dandruff. You should use this paste as a shampoo. Green apple juice also has the same effects if massaged regularly onto the scalp.
  • It is also a recognized remedy for strengthening the locks, enhancing hair growth and preventing hair loss.

Green Apple: How to Select
Apple is quite a sensitive fruit and one has to be careful in its selection and storage.

  • While buying green apples look for firm, brightly colored apples having no bruises or damaged, shriveled skin.
  • It is always better to prefer individual apples over the pre-bagged one. This way you’ll be able to smell the  apples before paying for them. Never buy the apples that smell musky.

Some useful tips:

Making different recipes with green apples can be fun! They are not just delicious but healthy as well, provided that you bake apples the right way.

Here are some helpful tips on green apple usage:
  • Apples can speed up the ripening process of other fruits as it emits a natural gas called Ethylene. To use these ‘ripening’ benefits of apples, wrap it up along with the unripe fruit in a plastic bag.
  • While cooking apples, add a little bit of sugar. This done at start of cooking can help the apples hold their shape better.
  • It helps to use a greased muffin tin for baking apples. The tin provides enough support to the baked apples.
  • Green apples can be consumed in a number of ways. You can eat the whole fruit either peeled or unpeeled, or can make an apple shake as well. Make pies out of them or add them to your deserts and ice creams. The best way is to consume it as a whole fruit, this way it retains all the natural nutrients.
  • Oh! Remember, never eat the seeds of an apple because they are slightly poisonous and hence may prove detrimental for your health.

Please let us know your inputs on this article and share this with your friends!

Saturday 4 January 2014

HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURMERIC

Turmeric is a popular spice for cooking, but it has a long history of medicinal uses, too. It provides a wide variety of benefits. Once you know about these benefits you’ll be Eagar to add the spice to your diet.

 

1. Helps to prevent cancer

There are also indications that it may help to prevent breast, skin and pancreatic cancer, childhood leukaemia and multiple myeloma.

2. Reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes

Curcumin also has a positive effect on cholesterol; it may help lower cholesterol and prevent the build-up of LDL ("bad" cholesterol) in the blood vessels. It could therefore stop the build-up of plaque (atherosclerosis) that can block arteries and cause heart attacks and strokes.

3. Combats inflammatory diseases

Turmeric's natural anti-inflammatory qualities mean it may work as well as some anti-inflammatory medications, without the side effects. It may help with inflammation of the eye (uveitis), inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis) and multiple sclerosis.

4. Fights colds and flu

Turmeric may help reduce the severity of bacterial and viral infections.

5. Helps indigestion and weight loss

Curcumin stimulates the gallbladder and produces bile. Because bile helps digest fat, this improves digestion and may help control weight. It treats indigestion, reducing symptoms of bloating and gas.

6. Assists diabetes sufferers

Turmeric may improve glucose control or insulin activity. If you add turmeric to your diet when combined with diabetes medication, it may cause levels to drop too low, resulting in hypoglycemia.

7. Other uses

·       Speeds up wound healing and assist in remodeling of damaged skin.

·       Help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.
·       Is a natural painkiller.
·       Aid in fat metabolism and help in weight management.

How do I take it?

Preparation Methods & Dosage: 4 add black pepper or dried ginger to help activate turmeric. Turmeric can be applied topically to a painful joint or swelling as a poultice to relieve pain.

·   We can add fresh turmeric in smoothie every morning.
·   We can also add it to eggs in the morning. But unlike the powdered kind, add fresh grated turmeric towards the end of dishes so it won’t burn and also to preserve its flavor.
·   We can mix grated turmeric to salads.
·   We can also throw grated turmeric root in our marinates.
·   Like ginger, if you squeeze peeled and grated root in a garlic press you get a nice (orange) juice out of it. You can do a million things with this- add to soups, rice dishes, salad dressings, etc.
·   For a healthy snack you can grate it into plain yogurt, with vanilla and a little honey, maybe some grated carrot too.
·   You can add grated turmeric root to boiled milk.
·   Turmeric pickle can be used along with meals.
·    It tastes good with chopped in a potato or egg salad, or cut in fat slices and substituted for carrots in a soup

HEMOGLOBIN

HEMOGLOBIN

HEMOGLOBIN is the iron carrying protein found in red blood cell that binds to oxygen. The principal function of hemoglobin is to combine and transport oxygen from the lungs following inhalation, and then deliver it to all body tissues, where it is required to provide energy for the chemical reactions of all living cells.  The normal level of hemoglobin in adult female is 12-16 gm% and in adult male is 14-18gm%.

Causes of low level hemoglobin:

Loss of blood (traumatic injury, surgery, bleeding, colon cancer etc.)
Nutritional deficiency
Bone marrow problem
Kidney failure
Abnormal hemoglobin structure (sickle cell, thalassemia)
Pregnancy

Symptoms of low hemoglobin:

1 shortness of breath
Coldness in hands and feet’s
Dizziness
Headache
Pale skin
Lack of concentration

Who is at risk?

Infants and young children
Teens (underweight, Ongoing illness, girls with heavy periods)
Child bearing age women
Adults having internal bleeding

SIMPLE WAYS TO INCREASE HEMOGLOBIN LEVEL NATURALLY:

There are many fruits and vegetables available for us to increase hemoglobin naturally.
Pomegranate
 Pomegranate is delicious fruit that contains three times of antioxidants of green tea.It contains vitamins A, C, E, folic acid Iron...
Dates
Dates or dried dates are considered as nutritious. Along with iron they contain Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium and vitamins A and B. Dates can boost your energy level.
Watermelon
This fruit provides Iron along with high levels of Proteins, Carbohydrates, Potassium, Vitamin C and vitamin B.As the Iron content in watermelon is high it boosts the level of stamina and energy.
Berries
All berries (Blackberries, Blueberries, Cranberries, and Strawberries) contain Iron. This fruit along with Iron contains lots of Antioxidants, Vitamin A and E.

IRON RICH VEGETABLES
Legumes
All types of Legumes are enriched with Iron. Legumes include-Soya nuts, Red kidney beans,, Lentils Chickpeas, Black-eyed peas, Black beans )
Green leafy vegetables
Green leafy vegetables are good sources of vitamins and minerals. Green leafy vegetables contain vitamin A, C, K, Calcium and Iron. One cup of Spinach has nearly 6mg of Iron.
Pumpkin Seeds
 Pumpkin seeds are good sources of Iron,Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc.1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds contain 8.6mg. The better way to eat them is to add them to a salad and eat.
Other sources: cheese, milk, yogurt, red meat, fish, tomato, peanuts, chicken liver.

 Advice:  Comparatively Vegetarian sources of Iron are less readily absorbed. .It is advisable to take these foods along with foods which contain vitamin C it will be more helpful for curing Iron deficiency.