Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts

28 December 2013

15 Surprising Uses for Bananas



15 Surprising Uses for Bananas

The banana peel, like coffee grounds, tea leaves, and orange peels has a lot of beneficial qualities that’ll make you think twice the next time you toss it in the trash. We've gathered 15 of the best banana  uses for you to try:

 1)   Shoe Polish: Did you know banana peels (on the inside) make a great shoe polish? Just rub it around your shoe and then buff it with a white cloth.

 2)  Itch Soother: Banana peels can help relieve bug bites and poison ivy. It won’t remove the oils that cause the itching but it’ll soothe the bite or rash altogether.

 3)   Treat Bruises, Cuts, and Scrapes. Potassium also helps with the healing process for cuts, scrapes, and bruises.

4)   Splinter Removal: Banana peels help ease splinters out of your skin. Place banana peel on a splinter with athletic tape for a while and then try to ease the splinter out.

5)   Get Rid of Splinters. Can’t get that pesky splinter out of your skin? I feel your pain. Luckily, if you press banana peels onto the splinter, the fruit’s natural enzymes will work to get that sucker out.

6) Bruise Patrol: Banana peels on the inside, if rubbed on a bruise, will aid in making it disappear.

 7) Purify Water. OK, this is perhaps best left to the professionals, but research has suggested that banana peels can actually absorb toxins in polluted rivers. But, if you ever find yourself lost in the woods with only a banana peel, you’ll be prepared!

 12) Compost: Banana peels break down pretty quickly and add wonderful nutrients to your soil. Throw them in your compost!

 13)    Make “Ice Cream.” Craving the sweet stuff but don’t have the time, calories, or budget to spare? Simply blend a frozen solid banana in a food processor or blender. You’ll be surprised how much it tastes like soft-serve ice cream! For more info on frozen banana ice cream

14 )   Dry Skin Cure: If you have psoriasis, try rubbing the inside of a banana peel on your affected areas twice a day and you'll see the dry scaly skin dissipate.

15 ) Banana Peel Message: Leave a message for your child on their banana peel by pricking out letters with a toothpick, the skin will bruise and there will be a dark brown message for your sweetie by lunchtime.

10 Tips for Improving and Maintaining Your Digestive Health




    10Tips for Improving and Maintaining Your Digestive Health





 Your digestive health is directly impacted by the foods you eat and the lifestyle you live. By taking steps to improve your digestive health, your digestive system will function more efficiently, improving your overall health and sense of well-being.

Try these 10 tips for your better digestive health:

1Eat earlier in the day and not too much just before bed. Your body needs adequate time for digestion. Lying down too soon after eating is a recipe for heartburn and indigestion.

2 Skip the bad habits: Smoking and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol. Liquor, coffee, and cigarettes can interfere with the functioning of your digestive system, and lead to problems like stomach ulcers and heartburn.

3 - Try not to eat when you’re feeling stressed out. If you’re frequently stressed try to create a more relaxing time to eat.

4 - Choose lean meats. Protein is an essential part of a healthful diet, but fatty cuts of meat can lead to uncomfortable digestion. When you eat meat, select lean cuts, such as pork loin and skinless poultry.

5- Enjoy peppermint or ginger herbal tea. Both have been shown in studies to improve digestion. They are best drunk between meals rather than with meals.

6 - Get insoluble and soluble fiber. It is important to consume both types of fiber, which each help your digestive system in different ways. "Insoluble fiber, also known as roughage, can't be digested by the body and therefore helps add bulk to the stools," says Adams. "Soluble fiber draws in water and can help prevent stools that are too watery." Good sources of insoluble fiber include wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains; get soluble fiber from oat bran, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

7Supplement with a probiotic supplement on an empty stomach upon rising in the morning. Choose a formula that contains a range of intestinal flora such as lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium bifidus. By regulating intestinal flora, you will also regulate bowel movements and improve digestion.

8 - Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is good for your digestive health, according to Adams. Water in your digestive system helps dissolve fats and soluble fiber, allowing these substances to pass through more easily.

9Take your time. Chew your food well and really savor the taste by slowing down. Chewing mixes food with digestive enzymes that get started immediately to improve digestion.

10 Exercise regularly. "Regular exercise helps keep foods moving through your digestive system, reducing constipation," says Adams. And exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is good for your digestive health. Make it a point to work regular exercise into your weekly schedule.


 

 


27 November 2013

10 Quotes that Will Change the Way You See Alzheimer’s



10 Quotes that Will Change the Way You See Alzheimer’s



Over 35 million people worldwide struggle with Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Yet, despite the prevalence of Alzheimer’s, there’s still a powerful, stigma-fueled taboo attached to the disease.

In the minds of most, Alzheimer’s is a slow death sentence that gradually morphs a vibrant human being into a pitiable shell of their former selves—a zombie-like figure, sitting in a chair and staring out the window. Those with the disease hesitate to divulge their diagnosis to friends (and even family), for fear of being subjected to unintentional prejudice and isolation.

But the only individuals who really understand what life with Alzheimer’s is really like are those who are living with the disease—the patients, and their family members.

A few of these incredible men and women have decided to share their real-life experiences in Fade to Blank: Life Inside Alzheimer‘s, a story that explores the human side of Alzheimer’s through the eyes of three different families. Their hope is that, by offering their insights, the world will gain a better understanding of the truths of the disease.

Here are just a few of the illuminating things they have to say about their battle with Alzheimer’s:
  ==>  “It was like a weight lifted off my shoulders.“ Rick Phelps, diagnosed with Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease at age 57, discussing how he felt after his neurologist informed him of the truth of his condition.

 ==>   “I live it one day at a time.“ Phyllis June Phelps, wife of Rick, on how she handles the reality of her husband’s disease.

   ==>  “What’s happened with my telling people about my Alzheimer’s has been an incredible deepening of relationships.“ David Hilfiker, remarking on how going public with his diagnosis has been so beneficial to both him and his loved ones.

   ==>  “I just hope I’ll never become so embattled as to lose my love.” Marja Hilfiker, David’s wife, on facing an uncertain future of caring for her husband as his cognitive capacity declines.

   ==>  “My perception has changed a lot since Mom was diagnosed. I always thought of an old person, in a wheelchair, staring out the window.” Michele DeSocio, talking about how much she’s learned about the truths of Alzheimer’s while caring for her mother, Jean.

  ==>  “Today is the best day I could ever have.“ Rick offers his philosophy on making the most out of each day.

    ==> “You can’t pretend it’s not there.“ Phyllis June on why denying the existence of Alzheimer’s is unproductive.

 ==>   “It’s very painful to look at this woman you love and to know what’s coming for her” David’s biggest fear is the impact his disease will have on his wife’s life.

  ==>   “It didn’t feel like the disaster that we had always considered it.“ Marja was surprised by how she and David were able to accept his diagnosis and make a plan for the future.

    ==> “It’s a terrible disease, but there’s a lot of good left in life. You’ve got to learn to adjust to their world.” Michele on how she has learned to find the light inside the darkness while dealing with her mother’s disease.

15 November 2013

The Truth About Coconut Oil





If there is one food product that has exploded onto the health food scene over the last 12 months, it’s coconut oil. Added to chocolate bars, pour it on your cereal, eat it with a spoon, or pour it on your salads.

I’ve seen claims by health food companies that it will burn fat and help you to drop weight fast, reduce inflammation, make you happier, and cure arthritis.
A big part of the coconut oil explosion can be put down to the point in time when super gorgeous, super healthy supermodel (I won’t mention names)announced that she had been eating it since she was a teenager, and has teaspoons of it every day to keep her healthy. Now, who would not have a desire to look like a supermodel, and if it gives us extra nutrition benefits such as clear skin, lower our risk of heart disease and can help to increase our metabolism and lose weight as the supermodel and health food companies say, then we should all be eating it correct?
Well, there are a few facts to the story that need to be made clear, so let’s go through them. I must say, the point of this article is not to scare everyone off coconut oil as we use it in moderation, instead the article is to provide the WHOLE story of coconut oil.
You will notice that there are no doctors, nutritionists, dietitians or food scientists that advocate for coconut oil being the miraculous cure-all ingredient, nor weight loss solution. So why is this?
You probably know that there are two types of fats – saturated (bad) and unsaturated (good). Saturated fats are found in animal products, with loads of evidence to show that a diet high in saturated fats leads to heart disease. On the other hand, unsaturated fats are good for us and can protect us from heart disease and can be found in fish, nuts, olive and other plant-based oils.
Take a look at the graph below. It shows you that coconut oil is made up of a minimum of 92 and up to 96% saturated fat, sitting as the highest in saturated fat content of all oils. Meat contains approximately 46% saturated fat.


Some exciting information emerged that the saturated fat (bad) in coconut oil is in fact a form of GOOD saturated fat called Medium Chain Tryglycerides (let's call them MCT's) and this is in fact true. MCT's are fat molecules joined together in a chain, shorter in length than the other saturated fat called Long Chain Triglycerides (LCT's) and as such, are more readily absorbed by our body, easier to break down, and more quickly used for energy. Wow! Coconut oil advocates jumped on this, claiming that this makes coconut oil a wonderfood. But there is much more to the story.

Let's go over it:

==>  So the  saturated fat content of coconut Oil is approx maximum 96%

==> The truth is, that not all this saturated fat is good.
 ==> It is only approximately 50% that is the good MCT's.
==> Remember the total saturated fat content of coconut oil is 96% right?
==> So you are probably wondering what the other 46% of the saturated fat in coconut oil is made up of?

Unfortunately it is the Long Chain which are not good for our health, and this is what the producers of coconut oil don't tell us.
46% of coconut oil is the unhealthy saturated fat in the form of LCT's.

There is not a lot of evidence to show that either the MCT's in coconut oil can prevent heart disease or are in fact good for us. Many of the studies are on rats, in which case the results of the studies are difficult to apply to humans. There is however, a strong amount of evidence on humans to show that a diet containing polyunsaturated and monounsaturated oils found in olive oil and polyunsaturated oils from oily fish, are protective against heart disease and can also assist our brain function and produce healthy skin and nails . Fish oil is also proven effective in reducing pain from athritis and inflammation.

Take another look at the graph, and you will see that coconut oil provides extremely little of the heart healthy mono and polyunsaturated oils. On the other hand oils such as rice bran, olive, and sunflower oil contain high amounts of these and much less saturated fats.

The other claim that coconut oil advocates use is that the islanders have been living off coconut oil since the dawn of time, that this also makes it a natural food taking us back to our roots and back to nature. Sure, this is true, but the communities of islanders that consume coconut oil, also eat larger quantities of fruit and vegetables, much less meats and do a ton more exercise than we as a nation do. They walk for miles to get water, and spend 3 hours fishing just to provide dinner. So you can see, it is all relative to their total lifestyle.

Coconut oil advocates also claim that it holds anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory powers, but so does garlic, onion, honey and ginger.

Going back to the supermodel, she follows a mostly vegetarian diet, containing little fat, sugar or processed foods and as such her diet is also low in kilojoules. On top of this, she does a load of exercise so for her, a few tablespoons of coconut oil a day will not be putting her above her daily intake of kilojoules that she requires.

Remember, that fats contain the most kilojoules of all macronutrients, more than carbohydrates and proteins. If you eat above what your body requires in kilojoules, this will be stored as fat. So if you are already eating more than 100g per day of meat as well as eating oils, fats, takeaway, sugary drinks, chocolate etc, the addition of coconut oil will only put you above your kilojoule requirements and lead to weight gain, which negates any of the proposed benefits of the good fats in the coconut oil anyway!

The most important thing - coconut oil does NOT contain less kilojoules or total fat than any other fat or oil out there. If I'm going to eat a fat, I would prefer it to contain a high proportion of the mono and polyunsaturated fats.

Coconut oil does have its place.


☺ A well balanced diet high in fruit and vegetables, low in processed and foods can afford to have the addition of coconut oil in moderation.
☺ It is also a good option for vegetarians and vegans as their diet is already lower in fat.
☺ Because of it's higher smoke point is also a better option for cooking foods at extremely high temperatures and therefore preventing oxidative damage to the oil if you are concerned about cancer (More on that in another post).
☺ A small amount in cakes and treats is fine to add a delicious coconut flavour and works well for people who are allergic or intolerant to dairy.
☺ I use coconut oil each day on my wiry, frizzy hair and we both use it as a skin moisturiser religiously as it has no hidden nasties compared with other skin creams.
☺ Try coconut water which contains no fat, is a delicious drink, and can be added to smoothies and curries.
☺ Coconut flesh contains fibre and other nutrients and is lower in fat and kilojoules compared to the oil.
☺ Add chia seeds to smoothies for a dose of omega oils and fibre.

The Verdict:

Coconut oil isn't a cure-all, much more research is needed. Eat a varied and balanced diet containing healthy oils from avocado, fish, eggs, nuts and seeds and remember that coconut oil still contains fat and kilojoules. Consume coconut oil only in moderation, being aware that it is not all that it is MARKETED to be. What I can't agree with is the marketing and hype that coconut oil has suddenly recieved and the false advertising you may call it, as a 'weight loss' product. Walk into any supermarket or health food store now, and there are at least 7 different brands of coconut oil on the shelves.

Knowledge is power, and now that you have the knowledge you also have the power to make your own decision about coconut oil.

Stay happy and healthy

10 November 2013

Top 9 Super Immune Boosting Breakfasts








We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It’s possible to kick up the immune-boosting power of this daily meal to make it even more valuable against any cold and flu viruses going around.

Before I share my picks for the top 9 immune-boosting breakfasts, it is important to consider that what you eat is as important as what you don’t eat. Skip the sugary donut, Danish, or breakfast cereals. Even a small amount of sugar can depress your immune system between 4 and 6 hours. So regardless of which breakfast you choose, keep it low in sugars of all kinds—refined or so-called “healthy” sweeteners since they all have the same immune-lowering effect.

Enjoy a Spanish omelette or Spanish Tofu Scramble containing onions, garlic, tomatoes, and red peppers.  This simple meal is loaded with vitamin C (tomatoes and red pepper), the antiviral phytonutrient allicin (garlic and onions).  A touch of turmeric gives tofu a brilliant yellow color and adds an anti-inflammatory punch to any viruses you may have been in contact with.

Start with a glass of water with lemon, lime, or grapefruit juice, all of which are high in immune-boosting vitamin C and the antiviral phytonutrients called terpene limonoids, that help give cold a flu viruses the boot.

Go Granola. Make a simple immune-boosting granola from gluten-free oats, sunflower seeds, cinnamon, chopped almonds, a touch of honey or pure maple syrup (just a bit), and a little coconut oil or olive oil.  Mix together and bake at 300 until lightly browned (about 10-20 minutes). Store. Top with immune-boosting, Omega-3-rich flax seeds and pumpkin seeds and almond milk. These essential fats are needed for a properly-functioning immune system. Pumpkin seeds add a hefty dose of zinc, which is also critical for immune health.

Savor a Sweet Potato Hash with sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, red peppers, and beta-carotene and vitamin B6-containing kale. Sweet potatoes contain vitamin B6, which is an important immune-system strengthener, along with beta carotene, the precursor of immune-building vitamin A, and even a vegetarian source of vitamin D, which reduces the risk of catching a cold or flu and speeds recovery.

Go for a Side of Grapefruit since this fruit is packed with vitamin C and and anti-flu phytonutrients known as terpene limonoids.  These compounds are naturally anti-viral, giving the immune system the help it needs to fight off infection.

Brown Rice with Almond Milk and Cinnamon.  Brown rice is a good source of vitamin B6 which protects the lungs against invaders.  Brown rice also contains the potent antioxidants vitamin E and zinc—the latter of which reduces the duration of colds by about 36 hours, according to recent research published in Reuters.  Zinc was particularly effective against the rhinovirus (linked to colds).

Cooked Quinoa with Apples—Protein-rich quinoa doesn’t need to be reserved for lunch or dinner.  Give it a breakfast twist by adding chopped apple during the cooking process.  Sufficient protein is needed to make immune system cells.

Green Tea—There are dozens of reasons to drink green tea, but during the colder seasons there are even more.  According to research in the Journal of Applied Oral Science, green tea kills some forms of strep infections.  Finish off your immune-boosting breakfast with a hot cup of green tea sweetened with the herb stevia (to avoid immune crashes linked to sugar).


Simple Natural Ways For Hair Loss Treatment





Hair loss problems experienced by many people, in general due to the lack of sufficient nutrients and vitamins to the hair roots. The conclusion is the lack of hair treatment. Inadequate intake of nutrients and vitamins, making the hair roots become brittle and cause hair loss. Whereas if the hair loss occurs in women, it is caused by many things such as overuse of dryers and curling irons, frequent use of chemicals on the hair, a result of free radicals, often tying the hair too strong and other things that can disrupt healthy hair.

Some causes of hair loss:

  ==>  Rarely in shampooing hair

  ==> Overuse of hair dryers and curling hair faster resulting in damaged

  ==> Hormone imbalance and hormone changes that lead to hair loss, especially for us who are over 30 years old

  ==>Too often hair coloring, which means that too often use chemicals on the hair


  ==> Stress that is too heavy, causing the nerves to force the hair root hair is getting weak and easily fall out.

Few steps to treat hair loss

   1-   Do not tie your hair too tight. Avoid tying the hair tightly, hair ties that are too tight can pull the hair roots and weaken it. Avoid using heavy hair accessories.
   2-  Use conditioner. Too frequent shampooing is actually not good for your hair. The resulting natural oils to protect the scalp hair will be eroded by the shampoo. It would be better if you wash it once in 2 days and always use conditioner. Using conditioner purpose is to reduce frizz and eases the process of combing the hair after shampooing.
3-    Wide comb when wet. It would be better if you do not comb wet hair. Wet hair, has a more fragile roots. If you do not want to frizz, use a wide comb to avoid loss. Remember not to rub too hard when drying your hair with a towel. Gently pat the excess water until the hair is reduced.

  4-   Use hair serum. Often use vise or hairdryer? So do not ever forget to use a hair serum specifically formulated as a hair protector of various hair styling tools. Use of serum is also necessary to protect hair from pollution and harmful effects of sunlight.

  5-  Natural oil treatment. To get the hair strong, not easily broken and fall off, do natural treatments that have been proven from generation to generation. Use olive oil on your hair, coconut oil also has been proven to make hair healthy, strong and shiny. Do this treatment once a week and see the results.

Following tips may also help you.

   Tips to prevent hair loss with aloe vera. Aloe vera contains vitamins and minerals, which is useful to enrich and thicken hair. To use, you can take aloe vera, cut into two parts to be taken the mucus. Apply on half dry hair while massaged. Let stand for 15 minutes then rinse thoroughly.


    Overcome hair loss using celery leaves. Celery turned out to have some useful content for the hair including calcium, iron, sodium, vitamins A and B. Celery can stimulate hair growth to be more healthy, strong and shiny. Take a few sticks of celery then clean, and blended with whipped egg. Once all mixed, apply gently on hair while gently massaged. Let stand for 20-30 minutes then rinse.

  Olive oil and honey. In a container, mix 5 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons of honey, stir together. Then smear the mixture to the hair. Bandaged head with a shower cap, let stand about 15 minutes, then rinse. Do it at least once a week.
  Avocado (for dry hair). Avocado is rich in fatty acids and nutrients. The trick, crushed avocado in a bowl, and stir until it becomes a thick paste. Then, wipe the hair from the roots to ends of hair. Then let stand for 20 minutes. After that, wash hair with shampoo, then rinse.

    Hair loss treatment with green tea. Green tea contains antioxidants that are beneficial to protect hair from pollution exposure. Jasmine tea useful to make hair shiny. Mint tea beneficial for soothing the scalp and remove fat and reduce dandruff and itchy scalp. By brewing tea with hot water, and let stand overnight. Rub the tea water to the scalp, do just before shampooing.

02 November 2013

25 Calcium Rich Foods List As Milk Replacement






So far, we only know that milk is the highest calcium source. In fact, there are many other foods that rich in calcium than milk, such as broccoli, sardines or almonds. Besides, for some people, milk will cause an allergy. But before we discuss more about the high calcium food sources, we should know first what is calcium and its functions for our body.

Calcium (Ca) is one of the Macro Minerals, the mineral needed by the body more than 100mg per day. The main function of calcium is involved in the formation of bones and teeth. Calcium is a mineral that is essential for humans, such as the metabolism of the body, connecting the nerves, heart action, and muscle movement.

Calcium deficiency can lead to impaired bone growth and osteoporosis. After the age of 20 years, the human body will begin to experience a shortage of calcium as much as 1% per year. And after age 50 years, the amount of calcium in the body will shrink as much as 30%. Loss will reach 50% when reaching the age of 70 years and beyond having calcium deficiency problems.


Here are some benefits of calcium for humans:    


   - Activate neural
   - Blood circulation
   - Muscle flexing
   - Normalize blood pressure
   - Balancing blood acidity
   - Maintain body fluid balance
    -Preventing osteoporosis (brittle bones)
   - Prevent heart disease
   - Lowers colon cancer risk
   -Overcoming cramps, back pain, hemorrhoids, and rheumatic
   - Address complaints during menstruation and menopause
   - Minimize bone loss during pregnancy and lactation
   - Mineralization of teeth and helps prevent tooth root bleeding
   - Cope with dry and cracked on foot and hands skin
   - Restoring libido decreased / weakened
   - Overcoming diabetes (activates pancreas)

Calcium rich foods


1. Almonds

Almonds are not only famous for its vitamin E, nuts also contribute about 70-80 mg of calcium.

2. Tofu

The main ingredient of tofu made ​​from soybeans, is recommended as a source of calcium for milk substitute.

3. Cheese

Cheese made from dairy ingredients very well taken by the body. Select the parmesan cheese that has the highest calcium content among other types of cheese.

4. Green vegetables

In addition to milk, other great sources of calcium are green vegetables. To get the maximum calcium, spinach and broccoli are the right choice.


5. White Beans

White bean has a high calcium content. There are 442 mg of calcium per 100 grams.

6. Dried fruits

Dried fruits are able to offer up to 135 mg of calcium in every 5 pieces.

7. Radish

One cup of boiled radish is loaded with about 200 mg of calcium.

8. Broccoli

In one cup of broccoli, there are 180 mg of calcium.

9. Quinoa

One cup of cooked quinoa has offered about 60 to 100 mg of calcium. Additionally, quinoa also contains a number of potassium, zinc, and protein.

10. Soybeans
One cup of boiled soy beans without salt, providing 261 mg of calcium.

11. Salmon
Salmon are loaded with healthy fats and protein. And it turns out, three ounces of canned salmon with bones contain as much as 181 mg of calcium.

12. Yogurt
Eight-ounce servings of low-fat yogurt has 415 mg of calcium, as well as absorb more calcium to the body than milk with the same amount.

13. Oranges

Oranges is not only contain of vitamin C but also provide 60 mg calcium.

14. Soy Milk

This type of milk has about 300 mg of calcium, if served without any.

15. Oatmeal
In addition to having a high carbohydrate, a bowl of oatmeal also contains 105 mg of calcium. The food is also good for the heart is also rich in fiber and quite friendly with digestion.

16. Kale
A cup of kale has 90 mg of calcium, which means 3.5 cups of kale would be more beneficial than a glass of milk.


17. Sardine

Processed fish is able to meet the needs of up to 33 percent of the body's calcium. Sardine consumption at least once a week.

18. Sesame seeds

An ounce of sesame seeds fortified with 280 mg of calcium, an amount almost equivalent to one glass of milk.

19. Spinach
A cup of boiled spinach has 245 mg.

20. Seaweed

One cup of raw seaweed containing 136 mg.

21. Cabbage or cauliflower

One cup of boiled cabbage or cabbage contains 94 mg.

22. Brazil nuts
Two ounces of Brazil nuts contain 90 mg.

23. Celery
Two cups of raw celery has 81 mg.

24. Papaya
One medium-sized papaya contains 73 mg.

25. Collard Greens
A cup of boiled collard greens contains 266 mg.

15 Effects Of Smoking That Should Know





Everyone knows about effects of smoking, there are also so many public service ads that gives advice to quit smoking. But for smokers, they sometimes assume, breathing disorders is a reference of the effects of smoking. So if they do not cough and shortness of breath, they still continue to smoke. Though the side effects of smoking not only affects the respiratory tract. It seems they have to "give up" before quitting.

Actually, the war against cigarettes has been done by many people individually as well as institutional and organizational. And on each of May 31 whole world celebrates or the World No Tobacco Day campaign. Keep in mind, that the World No Tobacco Day is a member of the World Health Organization-WHO. So, we can be sure the dangers of smoking is indeed true and not a joke.


Well, before we talk about the effects of smoking, let's see the reasons why smoking is harmful to health. The point is, let's look at cigarettes harmful substances that cause health problems in each cigarette puff.

 ==>  Nicotine. This substance containing opium could lead to addiction, the effects on the human body: lead to addiction / dependence, damage the brain tissue, cause rapid blood clot, harden artery walls.

 ==>  Tar. The manufacture of asphalt that can be attached to the lungs and can cause irritation and even cancer, the effect on the human body: kill cells in the bloodstream, increasing the production of mucus in the lungs and lead to lung cancer.

 ==>   Carbon monoxide. Gas that can cause heart disease because it can bind oxygen gas in the body, the effect on the human body: bind hemoglobin (making the body lacks oxygen), blocking transport in the blood.

==>    Carcinogenic substances. Influence on the human body: Trigger the growth of cancer cells in the body

==>   Irritant substances.  Pollute the airways and air sacs in the lungs, causing coughing

Below are side effects caused by smoking are rarely publicized:

   1- Skin Cancer. Smoking does not cause melonoma, but smoking can lead to increased likelihood of dying from the disease. It alleged that, smokers at risk of developing cutaneous squamus cancer cell, a type of cancer that leave patches on the skin.

 2-   Heart disease. One in every three deaths in the world due to cardiovascular disease. Tobacco use is one of the biggest risk factors for this disease. Smoking causes more rapid heart rate, increase the risk of hypertension and clogged arteries and eventually lead to heart attack or stroke.

   3- Cancer. Cigarette smoke contains 40 kinds of carcinogenic substances. The possibility of lung cancer in smokers 22 times greater; tongue, mouth, salivary glands, pharynx and 6-7 times greater, esophageal cancer 12 times greater, esophagus 8-10 times greater (WHO, 2002).

   4- Gastric ulcer. Tobacco consumption, lowered resistance to the bacteria that cause stomach ulcers, also minimizes the ability of the stomach to neutralize stomach acid after eating so it will undermine the stomach wall. Gastric ulcers in smokers is more difficult to cure.

 5-   Uterine cancer. Smoking can increase the risk of cervical and uterine cancer. This cancer can be caused by nicotine in the blood. Because cigarette smoke that enters the body will soon spread to the entire body. Substance nicotine in cigarette smoke will trigger abnormal cell growth which later became the source of the advent of cervical cancer cells.

 6-   Psoriasis. Development of psoriasis / noncotageous inflammation of the skin that leaves a watery and itchy red patches 2-3 times more common in smokers.

   7- Beurger disease. Disease that also known as throaboanginosis obliterans is inflammation in the arteries veins and nerves that lead to inhibition of the main leg blood flow and if left untreated will lead to gangrene (death of cells) so patients need to be amputated.

 8Disklori on fingers. Tar contained in tobacco smoke accumulates on the fingers and nails that yellow and brown leaves.

   9 - Hair loss. Smoking weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to diseases such as lupus erythematosus causes hair loss, mouth sores, and eruption cutan (red spots) on the face, scalp and hands.

    10-Hearing loss. Because tobacco cause deposition on the walls of blood vessels thereby inhibiting the rate of blood flow to the inner ear. Smokers could lose early than people that do not smoke or easier losing on hearing loss due to infection.

    11-Osteoporosis. There is carbon monoxide, which is toxic chemicals that lot of found in car exhaust and cigarette smoke is more easily tied in the blood of oxygen, so the ability of air to remove oxygen down 15% in smokers, as a result of people that smoke lose bone density become more brittle / cracking and healing 80% longer.

  12Caries. Smoking affects the chemical balance in the mouth, forming plaque excessive, make teeth become yellow, and occur caries.

  13Emphysema. Emphysema is dilation and destruction of air sacs in the lungs that reduce lung capacity to inhale CO2 and release oxygen.

  14Skin wrinkles. Smoking can cause premature aging of the skin due to damage to proteins that are useful for maintaining skin elasticity, erosion of vitamin A, and inhibition of blood flow. Smokers skin becomes dry and wrinkled lip and eye area especially.

   15- Cataracts. Smoking is believed to worsen the condition of the eyes. Cataracts, namely bleaching eyepiece that blocks the entry of light that can cause rates of blindness, 40% occur in smokers. Smoking can cause cataracts by irritating the eye with the release of chemicals in the lungs by the bloodstream kemata brought up.

10 Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate





Dark chocolate is known has many health benefits. Results of analysis of 20 studies showed that consumption of dark chocolate every day will lower blood pressure. Research conducted by the Cochrane Group reported, the active ingredient in chocolate is beneficial to make the blood vessels more relaxed. As a result, the blood pressure will decrease.

Many experts suggest that consuming chocolate, just in moderation (because they contain high calories), but undeniably, chocolate also provide health benefits. Various studies have revealed that dark chocolate (dark chocolate) has an antioxidant that can prevent various diseases.


Here are the health benefits of dark chocolate:

1. Improving heart health

Chocolate fans should be happy. Because eating chocolate improve heart health, such as lowering blood pressure, bad cholesterol, and the risk of heart attack. In addition, dark chocolate is also an inflammatory agent that lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease.

2. Making full stomach

Dark chocolate contains high fiber so it makes you more full when eating. Eating dark chocolate also can reduce your snacking habits sugary foods, salty, and fatty foods.

3. Fight diabetes

A small-scale study in 2005 mention eat chocolate on a regular basis can improve insulin sensitivity, so the risk of diabetes will decrease.

4. Lowers the risk of stroke

A study from Sweden in 2011 and then to prove that eating chocolate 45 grams a day for a week potent lowers stroke risk by 20 percent.

5. Protecting the skin

Subsequent health benefits of eating chocolate is to protect the skin from the sun because there flavonoid compounds in chocolate which are antioxidants that fight free radicals. But you still have to put sunscreen if you want to sunbathe.

6. Relieves cough

Can not stop coughing? The ingredients in chocolate called theobromine can help you relieve cough experienced. This compound is precisely reduces neural activity in the brain that trigger cough.

7. Improve mood

Enjoy the occasional chocolate is certainly capable of making you feel more comfortable and relaxed. For enjoying food is one way to live an exciting life. So, take your dark chocolate and feel the benefits in improving mood.

8. Improve blood circulation

Chocolate is anti clotting blood that works like aspirin. So that eating chocolate will improve blood circulation in the body.

9. Improve eyesight

Because chocolate potent blood circulation, especially around the brain, research from the University of Reading suspect that chocolate may also improve blood flow to the retina. So that your vision will be better thanks to the diligent eating dark chocolate.

10. Increasing concentrations

Still related to the blood circulation in the body, eventually eating chocolate can also make you more aware and alert. So when you do something, you are more able to concentrate.

27 October 2013

Health Benefits of Kiwi Fruit







What’s in a Name?
For this fruit, quite a lot! The kiwi, originally called the Chinese gooseberry and later the “sunny peach”, was renamed the kiwi by New Zealand natives after their national bird. There are over 400 varieties of this fuzzy fruit, which grows off of vines on a trellis, much like grapes are cultivated.
Quintessential Kiwi Research
Researchers exploring the potential positive features of the kiwi fruit have conducted several studies involving children and adults. A study in Italy indicated that children had less trouble with wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing in the night when they consumed 5-7 servings of kiwi or citrus fruit a week. Asthma sufferers were found to derive the most benefit from the kiwi, even when eaten as few as 1-2 times a week. Adults can also benefit from eating the jewel-toned fruit! Another study demonstrated that eating 2-3 kiwi fruits a day can reduce the potential for blood clots and decrease triglycerides. Yet another study cited the kiwi’s ability to protect and repair the body from DNA damage, which could protect against cancer.
Nutritional Nods
From disease prevention to an abundance of vitamins and minerals, the kiwi provides a wide array of nutrition benefits. According to a study at Rutgers University, the kiwi is the most nutrient dense fruit, ounce for ounce. Below is a list of the different ways that the naturally fat-free kiwi can help our health:
  • Disease Prevention
    • Fiber: Kiwi provides 16% of the RDA for fiber and has a role in the prevention of constipation and some cancers.
    • Phytonutrients: Kiwis have phytonutrients, which repair DNA, act as the body’s protection against some cancers, and function as antioxidants. Learn more about phytonutrients plant powers.
    •  
  • Vitamins
    • Folic Acid: Kiwi provides 10% of the RDA for folic acid, which is important for expectant mothers and works to produce red blood cells.
    • Vitamin C: One serving of kiwi gives the body 230% of the RDA for Vitamin C, which helps heal wounds, increase iron absorption, and boost the immune system.
    • Vitamin E: Kiwi provides 10% RDA for Vitamin E and decreases the risk of heart disease.
  • Minerals
    • Calcium: Kiwi provides 5.5% of the RDA for Calcium.
    • Chromium: Kiwi aids in regulating heartbeats.
    • Copper: Kiwi provides 8% of the RDA for Copper.
    • Iron: Kiwi provides 4% of the RDA for Iron.
    • Magnesium: Kiwi provides 6% of the RDA for Magnesium, which  can enhance your energy level.
    • Potassium: Kiwi aids in fluid maintenance.
    • Zinc: Kiwi helps keep hair, skin, teeth, and nails healthy.
Selecting, Storing, and Eating a Kiwi
How do I choose a kiwi?
  • Look for a fruit that is plump and fragrant with no visible bruising or wrinkles and a slightly firm feel
What if I chose a fruit that isn’t yet ripe?
  • Kiwis ripen quickly when placed in either a paper or plastic bag with a banana. However, once they are ripened, store them away from other fruit or they will decompose more quickly!
How long are kiwis good for once I buy them?
  • Ripe kiwi fruit can last in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
Can I eat the skin?
  • You can, but wash carefully to remove unwanted pesticides! Rub it a bit to minimize the fuzz. The skin actually provides more fiber to your sweet snack. If you’re not fond of the fuzzy exterior, simply “sloop” it out by slicing the kiwi in half horizontally and spooning out each end to enjoy.
What is a serving size?
  • A serving of kiwi fruit is ½ cup, or 1 medium-sized kiwi.

26 October 2013

Health Benefits of Honey







Health Benefits:
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.
6. Balance the 5 elements
Honey has been used in ayurvedic medicine in India for at least 4000 years and is considered to affect all three of the body’s primitive material imbalances positively. It is also said to be useful useful in improving eyesight, weight loss, curing impotence and premature ejaculation, urinary tract disorders, bronchial asthma, diarrhea, and nausea.
Honey is referred as “Yogavahi” since it has a quality of penetrating the deepest tissues of the body. When honey is used with other herbal preparations, it enhances the medicinal qualities of those preparations and also helps them to reach the deeper tissues.
7. Blood sugar regulation:
Even though honey contains simple sugars, it is NOT the same as white sugar or artificial sweeteners. Its exact combination of fructose and glucose actually helps the body regulate blood sugar levels. Some honeys have a low hypoglycemic index, so they don’t jolt your blood sugar. (Watch this video Sweetener Comparison where I compare stevia, brown rice syrup, honey, molasses and agave, and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each.)
8. Heal wounds and burns:
External application of honey has been shown to be as effective as conventional treatment with silver sulfadiazene. It is speculated that the drying effect of the simple sugars and honey’s anti-bacterial nature combine to create this effect.
9. Probiotic:
Some varieties of honey possess large amounts of friendly bacteria. This includes up to 6 species of lactobacilli and 4 species of bifidobacteria. This may explain many of the “mysterious therapeutic properties of honey.”
10. Beautiful skin:
Its anti-bacterial qualities are particularly useful for the skin, and, when used with the other ingredients, can also be moisturizing and nourishing! For a powerful home beauty treatment for which you probably have all the ingredients in your kitchen already, read Carrot Face Mask.



 

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