Scientists Combating Diseases using Pumpkin

A group of researchers are studying the properties of the seeds of this fruit and its ability to fight degenerative diseases.

MEXICO – A group of scientists from the Technological Institute of Tuxtepec investigated the functional properties of the seeds of the pumpkin to attack degenerative diseases.

Pumpkin seed oil has high levels that are not yet exploited. The seed is regularly consumed as a snack but its bioactive components are yet to be tapped, said project manager, Cecilia Martinez Sanchez.According to her, the composition of the pumpkin seed contains significant amounts of essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid and oleic acid. The latter is used industrially to produce commercial oils such as corn or sunflower.

The oil is obtained by ultrasound process, which places the sample of plant material and exposed to waves breaking the cell wall to liberate the compounds present in the sample matrix (fatty acids).

In an interview with the News Agency of the National Council of Science and Technology (CONACYT), Martinez Sanchez explained that the research also conducts laboratory studies of phenolic compounds with antioxidant capacity, and determine if they are affected during the extraction process.

The antioxidant effect of the bioactive compounds of pumpkin seeds retarding cellular aging, reducing the risk of various degenerative diseases, she added.

After the extraction process a flour that can be used in baking as an alternative to traditional flours such as wheat, corn, soy is obtained. It can also be made into pastas, highlighted Martinez Sanchez.

“At the moment we continue with the analysis of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity also studying the thermal properties, melting and crystallization temperature,” she said.

She also said from oil extraction, it has high content in linoleic and oleic acids, so it is considered a promising substitute for sunflower oils, cotton, sesame or soy used in the Mexican diet.

http://www.newslodi.com

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Study: Coffee by-products rich in antioxidants, use can help reduce global waste

Global coffee production leads to more than 2 billion tons of coffee by-products every year, most of which is thrown away.

Coffee is a huge part of our world today. From workers needing a cup to get going in the morning to college students brewing up a pot for an all-nighter, it's everywhere.

Every year, global coffee production contributes to more than 2 billion tons of by-products such as coffee spent grounds and coffee silverskin that are thrown away and aren't used for other purposes.
In a recent study published in the journal Food Science and Technology, researchers found that coffee by-products actually have the powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Researchers found that the by-products are rich in fiber, phenols, and that coffee grounds have antioxidant effects that are 500 times greater than those found in vitamin C.

As a result, we could soon be seeing more functional foods with significant health benefits made from coffee by-products, which the world's coffee producers was previously throwing away.
With his research, Professor Rufián Henares said that coffee by-products "contain high levels of melanoidins, which are produced during the roasting process and give coffee its brown color. The biological properties of these melanoidins could be harnessed for a range of practical applications, such as preventing harmful pathogens from growing in food products." However, he also adds: "If we are to harness the beneficial prebiotic effects of the coffee by-products, first of all we need to remove the melanoidins, since they interfere with such beneficial prebiotic properties."

Some companies, like KonaRed, have already been quick to jump on the "more than just coffee" movement. President and COO Kyle Redfield said, "This study supports what we have been saying all along: that the coffee byproducts including but not limited to the fruit are actually nutritional powerhouses both beneficial to the human body and delicious tasting." KonaRed's Coffee Fruit products are sold today in select Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons, Vitamin Shoppe, Whole Foods, and 7-Eleven stores.
As research studies and companies continue to find ways to turn these 2 billion tons of by-product into something that's good for us, the world's love for coffee shows no signs of slowing down.

http://www.examiner.com/

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Secret to good health, fitness: Maintaining a food diary

 The act of writing down or documenting what you eat is part of a much larger trend overseas.

Recently, Sonam Kapoor’s personal fitness trainer Radhika Karle shared a picture on Instagram of what the Bollywood actor’s diet usually consists of.
The caption of the picture read: “Want to know @sonamkapoor’s secret to keeping her nutrition on point even when she’s super busy?
1. Sonam is vegetarian
2. She loves hummus, avocados, and grilled vegetables stuffed in a pita
3. She’s been eating on the go at Cannes but everything has been fresh. Stay tuned for more! (sic).”


Although this was just a one-off listing of the actor’s meal, the act of writing down or documenting what you eat is part of a much larger trend overseas. Maintaining a food journal or diary that documents everything about your daily diet has several health benefits. Many experts, too, encourage the fitness-conscious to maintain a ‘food journal’.
“Tracking what you eat and drink can keep you focused on your diet. It can motivate you and increase your efficacy. Eventually, it can help you achieve your fitness goals,” says Sheela Tanna, dietician.
The challenge, however, lies in the fact that a food journal needs to be updated throughout the day, and every time a person eats or drinks anything. And with our busy lifestyles, it can often get difficult to find the time to fill in these details. Nonetheless, in the long run, experts feel it can become a good habit to maintain.

Sonam Kapoor’s personal fitness trainer Radhika Karle shared a picture on Instagram of what the Bollywood actor’s diet usually consists of. (Instagram)

Benefits of food journaling
 
Tackling weight-loss
A food journal is perfect for those who worry about their weight, and don’t know how to reduce it. Writing down what you eat, and how you feel after eating it, can help you compare your daily food habits, and plan balanced meals, thereby, improving your nutritional intake. Furthermore, this activity also makes you accountable for everything that goes into your mouth, including high-calorie indiscretions. Food journaling helps reduce and eliminate mindless eating habits too.

Detecting food intolerance
Recording how you feel physically after eating certain meals can help you discover your food intolerances. If you consistently feel bloated, nauseous or have diarrhoea an hour after drinking milk or eating ice cream, you could be lactose intolerant. Similarly, if you feel uncomfortable after eating bread or other food items that contain wheat, you could be gluten intolerant.

Keeping chronic diseases in check
If you have chronic diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension, keeping a food diary can help you plan your diets better. “Keeping a food diary for two weeks helped around 75% of all patients with chronic medical conditions identify their problem foods,” says Santosh Kumar Pandey, naturopath.


How to maintain a food journal
 
Write down everything about the food you eat
For every meal or snack. This must include the portion sizes of all the food items, and any extra ingredients you consume. Also include any fluids or fruits you have
Write down how you feel before and after a meal
Are you eating more fries when you are happy? Or do you opt for more ice cream when you feel low? These may help you cut down on some emotional eating habits.
Be honest
Write down everything without trying to make the chart look good or convincing.
Take a break
If thinking about food is stressing you out, then stop writing for some time. Take a break and resume the process when you feel ready.
Don’t expect immediate results
This is a slow process and tangible results can be calculated only after about a year.
Read:
Apps that help you with food journaling
* Calorific
* My fitness Pal
* Lose It!
* My food diary
* My net diary
* Myplate

Follow @htlifeandstyle for more.


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This Is What Your Body Does When You’re Walking (Infographic)

Human beings were designed to move, and the movement our ancestors did most often was walking. We didn’t sit in our caves for long hours each day or, later, in our fields. We didn’t get food by dialling a phone number or opening a refrigerator door. And we didn’t spend our leisure hours — if we had any — on our backsides, straining our eyes, necks, and backs staring at screens. We walked. We ran. And we were good at it.
These two behaviours formed the backbone of our early hunting strategies. Humans are slower over short distances than most prey we hunt, thanks to our bipedal posture, and so we relied on our endurance instead in a technique called persistence hunting, which means walking, running, and tracking animals to exhaustion. Our ability to sweat to cool our bodies coupled with our relative lack of body hair also worked in our favour here.
And so it should come as no surprise that walking is good for us. Our bodies were meant to do it. While running does have its benefits, it can be prohibitive as well, putting a lot of stress on the body, particularly for the elderly or those with joint or respiratory problems. Walking, on the other hand, can be done by just about anybody, and results in immediate and tangible benefits.
Exercise does not have to be high-intensity in order for it to be effective, and walking is the most accessible option for people of all fitness levels. It requires no gym, no fancy equipment, and no training. All you need are a pair of good shoes and the desire to move!
So what are the benefits of walking?
Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons to take up walking is its effect on your mood. Physical activity of any kind can reduce symptoms of depression drastically, and walking is no exception. If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, stressed out or angry, a brisk walk can bring you back to centre, and your body and brain will benefit from the fresh air and sunshine, too.
Walking also promotes creativity and focus, so if you’re having a difficult time being productive — maybe you’re struggling with writer’s block, staring at a daunting blank page, or maybe you can’t concentrate and have been reading the same paragraph for the last 20 minutes — the best thing you can do is get up and move those legs.
Though it might seem counterintuitive, walking also diminishes fatigue, meaning that if you’re feeling tired or drowsy, you’ll benefit more from getting up and moving around than reaching for another coffee.
Walking is also the perfect activity to practice mindfulness, a meditative technique proven to benefit us both physically and psychologically in countless ways. When you set out for a walk, use it as an opportunity to unplug from the stresses of daily life and allow your mind to rest. Stay off your cell phone or, better yet, leave it at home.
Focus on your physical senses — the feeling of the breeze whispering across your skin, the sun shining against your face, your lungs expanding with air as you breathe in, compressing as you breathe out — and try to slow your breathing, making each breathe deliberate and full. Concentrating on these more immediate inputs will naturally result in a more quiet mind, which in turn results in a more peaceful state of being.
Need more proof? A study released by California State University, Long Beach titled “Amount of Daily Walking Predicts Energy, Mood, Personality, and Health” studied the effects of walking on the mind, with spectacular results:

Walking more each day is related to a wide variety of mood and personality variables.  The more people walk each day, the more energetic they feel and the better their mood.  Although intuitively it would seem that walking more reduces energy, the opposite is true. More walking is associated with more energy.  In addition to more energy and better mood, self-esteem and happiness increase when people walk more.  Also, walking more appears to result in better nutrition.  Why this occurs is unclear, but it may be related to the energy connection (Thayer, 1996).  It is apparent that energy is an important variable as demonstrated by increased sleep being associated with more walking.

To further benefit from the regenerative power of your walk, make sure to do it in nature.
For more reasons to include this simple activity into your daily routine, including the many ways it will improve your physical health, check out the infographic below!





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Your Chance To Appear on Virgin TV and Waterloo Stn Billboard

Asking supporters to join in to support our campaign – via Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat etc.
If you would like the chance to feature their Pitchathon message of support on the #VOOM billboard at Waterloo Station (and on Virgin or Virgin Media Business' owned and social media channels), simply:

• ●  Take a landscape photo of yourself holding up an A4 sheet of paper with your message of support written on it.
  
• ●  The message should include the Ankh Rah's name- Ankh Rah Ltd
  
• ●  Don’t worry about using a fancy camera, you can even use your iPhone!
  
• ●  Email it to our social team at pitchathon@albion.co, by no later than 31 May. 
  
  If selected, your image may appear during the week of the Pitchathon on the Waterloo Station billboard, on Virgin or Virgin Media Business' owned channels (such as a blog) and our social media channels.
  

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Blend Turmeric + Ginger with Coconut Milk.

Drink Before Bed to Flush Liver Toxins While You Sleep


You may have heard about golden milk before, but have no idea what it consists of, nor you are aware of its innumerate health benefits.
Namely, it is a mixture of beneficial herbs with coconut milk, warmed to form a tasty and nutritious beverage that can be consumed throughout the day, but most commonly, in the morning and in the evening.
It is actually called Haldi ka doodh, which translates to turmeric milk, and it is thought that its origins are in the Indian cuisine, as a valuable part of Ayurveda. It has been used for detoxification, in the case of inflammation, high blood sugar, and numerous other health conditions.
You will learn now that this drink is simply miraculous, and it will effectively cleanse your liver if you drink it before going to bed. Moreover, it offers various other health benefits.
It is a mixture of coconut oil, turmeric, ginger root, black pepper, and coconut milk. You can also add some honey to enrich the taste. Yet, its efficacy is mostly due to turmeric, but the other ingredients offer various health advantages as well.
Traditionally, it has been made as a milk, and then heated, but you can also use it when preparing pastes, teas, smoothies, and numerous different meals.
We will now reveal the health benefits of its ingredients, to present you the power of this amazing drink.
Turmeric is one of the most beneficial spices you can use. Namely, it has been used for centuries in the case of liver diseases, muscle and joint pain, arthritis, respiratory illnesses, gastrointestinal problems, skin disorders, and to strengthen the immune system and boost the overall health.
It has powerful Anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, so it is especially useful in the case of chronic and autoimmune diseases.
It neutralizes free radicals and thus cleanses the liver, stabilizes blood sugar, treats depression, and cancer, treats food allergies and intolerances, prevents degenerative cognitive illnesses like dementia and Alzheimer’s, and much more.
Ginger has potent anti-inflammatory properties, and effectively relieves nausea, cold symptoms, helps digestion, alleviates the pain in the muscles, menstrual pain, and regulates blood sugar.
Black pepper prevents anemia, helps digestion, fights free radicals, and soothes cold symptoms. Moreover, it also supports the absorption of turmeric.
Coconut oil has innumerate health benefits as well, as it boosts the immune system, aids digestion, prevents kidney and liver diseases, promotes heart health, balances the body weight, and it enhances the skin and the overall beauty.
Coconut milk is high in electrolytes, vitamin B, magnesium, and fatty acids, and it stabilizes blood sugar, promotes joint health, and helps the process of blood loss.
Honey has powerful antibacterial properties, treats allergies, relieves colds and flu, relaxes the body, helps in the case of sleep deprivation, and has numerous other amazing health benefits.
Therefore, you should definitely use these advantages of the golden milk and its ingredients and prepare it as soon as possible. This is how!

Golden Milk Recipe:

• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• A small piece of fresh ginger root, peeled and minced
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 2 cups of coconut milk
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey(optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (for aroma and taste, optional)

The method of preparation is extremely easy, as you just need to blend the ingredients, and heat them in a pan for 5 minutes, but it should not boil.
Note that you can substitute coconut milk with any other type of milk, but dairy is not advisable, as it often leads to food intolerances and may lead to various symptoms, like acne, irritable bowel syndrome, allergic reaction to dairy, hives, eczema, or breathing problems.
You should drink the golden milk either on an empty stomach in the morning, or before going to sleep, and you will effectively detox your body, prevent inflammation, accelerate healing, and promote overall health!

Sources and References:
theheartysoul.com
www.naturalmedicinebox.net
www.healthandhealthytips.com

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He Drank This Natural Juice and His Gout Vanished in 3 Days! Amazing!

Medical experts define gout as a condition of swelling, stiffness and constant excruciating pain in the joints.
Gout usually affects the feet, especially the large toe, causing unbearable pain in patients you have it.
The causes for gout are basically excessive uric acid in the blood. This condition creates crystals in the joints and that is what causes the pain. The disease appears in overweight individuals, or people who consume immoderate amounts of alcohol or meat products full of purines.
Treating gout
First of all, make sure you visit your doctor and determine the cause and severity of the condition. Sometimes, gout can be mistaken with some body infections, so a detailed doctor’s check-up is in order.
Should you be truly suffering from gout, you will be most probably prescribed non-steroid, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Although these drugs have certain beneficial effect on the disease, they are known to cause stomach pain, bleeding, ulcers and gastrointestinal problems.
No worries here, there is a natural remedy that can get you as good as new- and you will love it!
According to natural and home medicine, the cherry juice is an all-time cure for gout. Due to their content, cherries are able to regulate the blood uric acid level and ultimately deal with gout for good.
Keep one thing in mind when drinking the juice- the cherries need to be organic, without any additives or fabricated substances. Even better, start thinking about gardening and grow your own backyard cherries.
To see how patients actually feel about this remedy, take a look at the video below, presenting one man’s experience with both the disease and the remedy:

Source: www.davidwolfe.com


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10 Signs Your Life Is Better Than You Think

You know the saying “The grass is always greener on the other side”? It’s about being happy with what you’ve got. So often do we compare ourselves to others that we forget how good we have it — how happy we really are without even knowing it.
Life isn’t meant to be perfect, and things won’t always go your way, but that’s not always a bad thing. A challenge, a breakdown, and other seemingly severe events can feel like the end of the world, but if we only saw these situations as blessings in disguise, we might be able to find clarity, growth, and then… opportunity.
Of course our challenges are all based on our perception and it’s important not to downplay it, but feeling genuine gratitude for what is going on in your life and recognizing it can really shift your perception towards what is happening in your life.
Simply, to change your perception of life, you have to see the good. You have to know that you’re perfectly imperfect just the way you are. Not sure where to start? Here are 10 signs that you’re doing it all right, even if it doesn’t always feel that way:

1) You’re here on Earth.

Being alive is enough to celebrate, am I right? Despite all the trials and tribulations you’ve faced, you’re still here. In the words of Osho, “Being alive is such a gift, but nobody ever told you to be thankful for existence.” We are conditioned to want more for the fear of settling, but when we shed the layers of need, we realize we are enough.

2) You have a home to call your own.

Whenever you’re having trouble being grateful, just think about how lucky you are to have a roof over your head. Remember this:
On a single night in January 2013, there were 610,042 people experiencing homelessness in the United States, including 394,698 people who were homeless in sheltered locations and 215,344 people who were living in unsheltered locations.
– The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

3) You’re trying to improve yourself.

Being conscious is enough. While you may not always make actions, it counts for something to want to break through barriers, to grow, to see the world, to have dreams and aspirations, to know you are capable of more. It means something to know that you are better than some of the current happenings in your life.

4) Your dreams are big.

Some of the greatest ideas in the world came about because of dreaming. If you find yourself dreaming outside of what seems realistic, be proud. Your are not limited by what people say you can and cannot be. In the words of Albert Einstein, “Never give up on what you really want to do. The person with big dreams is more powerful than one with all the facts.”

5) You let go of anger.

“Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned,” Buddha once said. If you are forgiving, see it as a positive attribute, because it is this type of quality that gives you lightness in your life.

6) You have love in your life.

Loving and being loved is one of the greatest joys in life. From your family to your friends and significant other, love is all around you. You give it, and you receive it. Be thankful for having people in your life to share this wonderful feeling with.
“The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves.”
— Victor Hugo

7) You are clothed.

Along with shelter, this is another basic, yet often overlooked part of life. While sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the fact that you don’t like your wardrobe, or don’t have a very big one at that, remember how nice it is to have clothes to wear; clothes that shelter you, that warm you, that allow you to express yourself.

8) You have access to clean water.

While your biggest concern over water these days may be if it’s alkalized or not, or if you’ve consumed the recommended eight glasses a day, you’re among the lucky ones. There are 783 million people in the world without access to clean water, according to a report released by the UN. And almost 2.5 billion people don’t have access to adequate sanitation.

9) You’re authentic.

“Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You,” Dr. Seuss once said.
What is better than being you? In a day and age where we are surrounded by the idea that perfection means conforming, it is a miracle that any of us have a sense of individuality anymore, yet we do. Be thankful for the simple fact that you are “Youer than You.”

10) You have traveled to various parts of the world.

Perhaps you’ve only traveled to one other country, but that is exposing yourself to one more culture than your one.
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” – Unknown
http://www.collective-evolution.com/

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This Woman Uses a Cup of Potato Skins To Get Rid of Gray Hair On Early Ages

Grey hair is a common issue of all people, especially after the 30s, and while some people love the gray hair that appears from time to time, others struggle to hide them with hair dyes. However, this is an individual issue and people start going gray at various stages in life.
Women usually solve this issue by dying the hair with dyes, which are, unfortunately, loaded with harmful chemicals.
Namely, a single box of hair dye contains over 5000 different chemicals, many of them proven to be carcinogenic. According to statistics, even 1/3 of women older than 18, and 10% of men older than 40 use hair dyes.

Here is a list of some of the most dangerous chemicals in hair dyes:

Resorcinol: This toxic dye is an allergen that disrupts the endocrine system, and may also lead to irritations of the scalp.
DMDM Hydantoin: In the hazard list by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), it is listed at moderate/high, since its by-product is formaldehyde. It is also included in polymers, herbicides, and floor waxes.
PPD: This is the abbreviated form of para-phenylenediamine, commonly used as a wood preservative, and in those cases, the contact with skin is avoided. Its combination with Hydrogene Peroxide is extremely toxic and causes cancer.
Parabens: The two most commonly used parabens preservatives include Propylparabens and Methylparabens, often included in various hair care products, and may cause irritations of the skin, and severe allergies.
Ammonia: It is an irritating and highly corrosive gas, which has a suffocating smell, and may lead to lung irritations and burns.
However, this article offers a better alternative- a completely natural way to achieve the same, or even improved effects! Namely, this homemade hair dying method has been long used, and it consists of potato juice!
A woman, after treating her hair with over-the-counter hair dyes for years, and she has thus subjected herself to harmful influence. Nevertheless, as soon as she tried this natural method, her hair no longer had gray hairs, and it was even better than before in quality.
She witnesses that it is the best way to color the gray hair and enhance its quality.
Namely, potato skins darken the hair, and not only in the case of blond hair but for all hair colors. The juice from potatoes will soak in your gray hair, and will leave a semi-permanent stain on the hair that will remain for few washes.
This is the explanation of the method:
You will need:

• 6 potatoes
• 2 cups water
• Pot
• 1 clean squeeze bottle

Instructions:

1. You should peel the potatoes, and place them in a cup. Then, place the cup of potato skins in a bowl, pour them with two cups of water, and boil them.
2. As soon as the mixture boils, lower the heat and leave to simmer for 5 minutes. Then, strain and throw away the skins.
3. Leave the liquid to cool and then pour it into the squeeze bottle.

Use:
After washing your hair, you should dry it with a towel, and pour the potato juice on your hair slowly. Leave the potato juice to soak in, and towel dry once more. You can repeat the procedure if needed, as it is completely natural.

Source: familylifegoals.com
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This is The Best Natural Way To Clear Your Lungs Of Nicotine and Tar

Smokers, as well as those who have quit smoking, should be aware of the fact that their lungs are full of tar and nicotine.
This article offers a natural way to remove that built-up tar and nicotine. Ideally, the first things to do is to quit smoking if you still do because tobacco smoke and nicotine seriously damage the lungs, and those effects are irreversible.
The following natural recipe will cleanse the lungs  of these tar and nicotine and help you avoid further complications. What’s more, it consists of only 4 ingredients:

• ginger root (an inch piece)
• 2 teaspoons turmeric
• 400 g sugar or honey
• 400 g onion
• 1l water

Method of preparation:
Boil the water and add the sugar. If you have decided to use honey, it should be added at the end. Then, grate the ginger root and chop the onions, and add them to the boiling water.
When it boils again, lower the heat and add 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder. Next, just simmer the mix until its amount is reduced by half.  Finally, take the mixture off of the heat and strain it into a jar.
Leave the remedy to cool and then store the jar in the fridge.
Use:
You should take two tablespoons of this natural remedy two times during the day: in the morning on an empty stomach, and again after your dinner or afternoon snack.

Health benefits

Ginger
Ginger has been used as a natural medicine for thousands of years, and it has numerous health benefits like preventing the accumulation of mucus in the lungs.
Turmeric
Turmeric is also a popular ingredient due to its powerful antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic effects. It fights inflammation and purifies the blood.
Onion
It is extremely effective in preventing respiratory issues. Similar to garlic, onions have powerful anti-cancer properties, which is why they are often included in the therapies of malignant diseases.

Sources:
greenfoodmagazine.com
healthierwayoflife.com


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A Big Thank You For All Your support!

Ankh Rah has made it through to the shortlist. A huge thank you to everyone who voted, pledged and shared our story to others.

It means more than you know and has helped us get this far!

Next up will be the pitchathon running June 1st and 2nd, where we will have a few short minutes in which to convince a panel of judges of our vision. So wish us the best of luck!

Stay tuned via our social networks for further updates!

The entire world record attempt Pitchathon is going to be streamed live on the internet so be sure to like the Facebook page and follow the Twitter account to know what time you can tune in and see.

 

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15 Signs You Have a Magnesium Deficiency

We all know that magnesium is important for our health, but many of us are not actually aware of its great meaning for the overall health.
Namely, it is needed for almost all body organs, tissues, and functions, from cellular to heart health. Therefore, its deficiency in the system leads to numerous health issues, a weakened immune system, and various chronic and acute ailments.
Moreover, only a few know the needed levels of magnesium in the body. The newest study has found that most people in the United States, actually 80 percent according to Dr. Mercola, lack magnesium in their bodies.
Yet, luckily for us, it can be obtained through food, such as nuts, bananas, fish, grains, dark-green leafy vegetables, fruits, avocados, dark chocolate.
Yet, if you review this list, you can easily conclude that these foods are not on the common daily menu, as we generally consume processed foods, which are devoid of nutrients, including magnesium.
Once more, magnesium plays an essential role in the overall health, as it performs numerous vital body functions, such as:

• Promotes proper digestion
• Enzyme activity, it supports thousands of biochemical processes
• The internal instructions of the body for the formation of new cells and proteins
• Mineral balance
• Production of energy, the energy storage unit of the cells

Namely, it stimulates the activation of over 300 enzymes, regulates vital body functions, like muscle contractions and production of energy. It gives the stimulus for the muscles to relax and contract, and as soon as the muscles which line major blood vessels contract, it affects the blood pressure.
Moreover, it supports every other chemical in the body to perform its function. It is mainly intracellular ion, and it is mostly concentrated in the skeleton of the body, 20- 30 percent are located in the muscles and only 2 percent outside of cells.
Since its deficiency can affect the entire body and functions in it, it should be treated on time. Therefore, you need to know the signs the body sends that it is deficient in magnesium:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Leg cramps
• Muscle pain or fibromyalgia
• High blood pressure
• Type II diabetes
• Persistent migraines
• Osteoporosis
• Fatigue

Also, one may experience overall weakness, nausea, and appetite loss.
If it is not treated on time, this issue may cause more complicated symptoms. These are some of the severe signs of magnesium deficiency:

• Personality changes
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Muscle contractions and cramps
• Seizures
• Numbness and tingling
• Coronary spasms

The diet is the first thing you should change in order to treat some vitamin or nutrient deficiency. Therefore, you should incorporate foods rich in magnesium into your daily diet, and create a balanced diet, in order to treat this issue.
Foods high in magnesium include: nuts and seeds (squash and pumpkin seeds), avocados, dried fruits (dates, prunes, apricots), dark leafy greens (kale, spinach), beans and lentils (soybeans, chickpeas, kidney beans), fish (especially mackerel), whole grains (quinoa, brown rice), dark chocolate, low-fat dairy (plain non-fat yogurt, goat cheese), and bananas.
Furthermore, you can also take some magnesium supplements to boost the levels of this mineral in your body. However, note that you should not shock your body with high amounts, but slowly increase the amount of magnesium intake through supplementing.
Experts advise that you begin with a dosage of 300-400 milligrams daily. You should not worry if you get frequent urges to visit the bathroom, as it can act as a laxative. Yet, if you increase its amounts gradually, you will prevent this.
Magnesium is vital for your body and health, so you should not ignore symptoms of its deficiency, and should treat it on time in order to keep your body healthy and prevent numerous health issues.

Sources and References:
justnaturallyhealthy.com
www.beautyhealthpage.com
articles.mercola.com
wisemindhealthybody.com
Featured image source: justnaturallyhealthy.com

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Asda to become first UK supermarket to sell wonky veg boxes

The box costs £3.50 and the supermarket says they contain enough to feed a family of four for a week

• Samuel Osborne 

 

Asda's wonky vegetable box contains vegetables which are misshapen, have growth cracks, or are a different size than average Asda

Asda will become the UK's first supermarket to sell a box of wonky vegetables in 128 of its stores on Friday.
The box costs £3.50 and the supermarket says they contain enough to feed a family of four for a week.

It contains seasonal vegetables and salad ingredients including carrots, onion, peppers, potatoes, cucumber, cabbage, leeks and parsnip.
Wonky vegetables are selected from farmers' crops because they are misshapen, have growth cracks, or are a different size than average.
They are sold at a reduced price as customers may take longer to peel and prepare them.

An example of some of the wonky vegetables available

Asda introduced imperfect fruit and vegetables into its stores in January 2015, in a move championed by Jamie Oliver and Jimmy Doherty.
During the latest series of Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast on Channel 4, the pair revisited Asda's wonky veg and challenged the supermarket to extend the range even further.

http://www.independent.co.uk/ 

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Malunggay anti-tumor research!

By: Tricia Aquino, InterAksyon.com

Cebu lass wins award at Intel science fair

Arianwen Rollan, 17, won an award for her research on the anti-tumor properties of malunggay.

The online news portal of TV5

MANILA - Arianwen Rollan, a 17-year old student of Cebu City National High School, has won the First Award presented by the Qatar Foundation for Research and Development in Medical Science at the recently concluded Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

Rollan was honored for her research on the anti-tumor properties of malunggay (moringa) seeds.

A global high school science research competition, the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair drew some 1,700 participants from over 77 countries this May.

The top Intel honor went to Han Jie Wang, 18, from Canada, for developing microbial fuel cells that "more efficiently convert organic waste into electricity," according to a press release from Intel.

Wang received the first place Gordon E. Moore Award and a $75,000 prize money for his work.

"Intel sees the potential in aspiring young people who have an unquenchable curiosity in the things around them. We are proud that this curiosity resulted in Arianwen's research being recognized in this year's ISEF among other projects from young innovators around the world," said Intel Philippines Country Manager Calum Chisholm.

Rollan was one of eight students from the Philippines who submitted their work. Aside from the award, she also received $1,000 for her study.

"What inspired me to conduct this study was that a lot of people die of cancer. One of those was my grandmother, and my sister was also diagnosed with a tumor," the 17-year-old student told InterAksyon in an interview conducted via e-mail.

She was also exposed to the experience of cancer patients because her mother was a doctor, and she would see how frail they became because of complications from chemotherapy.

That prompted Rollan to seek a less harmful and more inexpensive alternative.

In this interview, she recounts her experience in the competition, and reveals her plans in connection with her award-winning research.

InterAksyon.com: Tell us about yourself.

Rollan: I'm Arian, I'm 17, and I'm just very happy that I have been given this opportunity to represent my country in this very prestigious competition.

Have you always been interested in science and research?

Yes. Also, I attend a science high school, so we have extra subjects. For example, not all other schools have courses or subjects on research, or they don't really underscore research that much. In our school, research is very important. That is one thing that made me more inclined towards science and research.

What do you plan to take up in college?

Right now, since we have the K-to-12, my strand is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). I am not really sure about what specific field I'm going to pursue, but right now, I'm thinking of taking up biology as a steppingstone to medical studies. [I want to] be an OB-Gyn and also undertake further research on in-vitro fertilization. That's what I'm thinking of right now, but I still think this could change.

What are your hobbies?

I love reading and watching movies. I also like participating in programs inclined toward journalism, leadership and citizenship, and youth development programs. I also love traveling and building relationships with people from other cultures. I have experienced an international exchange program in Thailand. I met a grand winner there in their school, so I thought it was a sign. I was also able to meet the students who worked on that project. I really love traveling and communicating with people who are different from me.

How did you come up with the idea of doing research on malunggay?

What inspired me to conduct this study was that there have been a lot of people that died because of cancer. Personally, that's one thing that really pushed me to pursue my project. Second, is that I have observed many people who could not afford the medications needed, because these are very expensive. Plus, only a few of these cancer medicines have minimal side effects. When you take these medicines, they may make you better, but the side effects are also very bad. This is why I thought of a plant that is locally and widely available – the malunggay seed – to test it for its anti tumor potential. My sister was the one who started this [study]. She started it with another assay and her model was the sea urchin. At that point, she was still investigating the leaves, the bark and the seed. She was observing the effect of the extract on the mitotic activity of the sea urchin's cells. She found out that the seeds had the best effect amongst the three, which is why I proceeded to another study and the model I used was the chick embryo. It's a higher class of organism, and it's also used to test if a substance is pro or anti angiogenic [the physiological process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing ones].

What did you find out through your research?

My project is basically about preventing the growth of a tumor by impeding or stopping the development of the cancer blood vessels. So, in this study, I used Moringa olefeira seeds. Based on my results, using the Chorioallantoic Membrane Assay, the seeds did manifest anti tumor activity. Further studies can probably validate whether this could be an organic anti tumor agent.

What will happen to your research? Has anyone expressed the intention to develop your idea?

Since my project is still preliminary, I think that there are still other measures and other tasks that could be taken before it could be used commercially. The next step for my study would probably be testing it more extensively. I know that there is a potential for it, based on my preliminary results. I know that I will continue unraveling the potential of Moringa olefeira seed as an anti-tumor agent. Probably, I will use the cash I received toward that effort. I think that could also be a reason why they gave the cash prize to us. One of the judges asked about who funded my research. When I told her that I was the one who personally funded for my research, she was shocked. So I think that's one of the purposes of giving out the awards.

What was the experience like, joining the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair?

My experience in the competition cannot be described by words alone, because in there I was able to meet so many people with so much potential. It's just overwhelming, because it was a gathering of young scientists who just want to make the world better by helping innovate and discover new things. Like, for example, to cure cancer or build software. It was not only about the competition, it was also about building bonds with other young people from around the world. The activities that ISEF prepared for us were really fit for the occasion, like the pin exchange and the student mixer where you can fit in easily because there were a lot of portions in it. Also, in the awarding, I was really amazed because even though it was a competition, I was really happy to see everyone appreciating the winners. You cannot see that they were mad or sad about anything. Even when the top three winners were announced, everyone was in standing ovation. The point of view of the people there was that we were all lucky to be a part of the 2016 Intel ISEF. For us, we already won. Those special awards, the grand award that was given were just like bonuses for us.

What did the competition teach you?

I learned a lot from my experience. Before, I didn't focus as much on details. For me, the small details weren't important. But because of my exposure to research, I realized that details, note-taking and documenting your project are all very important. The experience also taught me that, in life, I should never give up. In research, your project may or may not work. There is a risk because you are investing so much time, money and effort. So, I also learned that taking risks is important. Sometimes the risk you take may not yield good outcomes, but at least even these are lessons.

What advice would you give fellow high school students who want to join the competition?

My number one advice would be to believe in yourself. Because once you believe in yourself, anything can happen. When you have that, you will have confidence. You will not think about the award, the competition, the projects of the people around you, but you will just be there for yourself, your family and your country.

http://interaksyon.com

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Reasons to Start Conquering Calisthenics

Bodyweight moves will help you build a physique that looks as well as it performs.

by Ross Edgley

 

 

The word “calisthenics” might sound antiquated or conjure up thoughts of headband-wearing geriatrics knocking out toe touches or squat thrusts to some youngins, but calisthenics and other bodyweight exercises have proved their worth for centuries.
From the Spartan army to the Navy SEALs, elite fighting forces have relied on humble moves like the pushup, lunge, and chinup as vital training tools. In recent years, the popularity of gravity-defying street athletes such as Frank Medrano or Hannibal for King has caused interest in calisthenics and other bodyweight-inspired training to spike.
See how you can benefit from this training style and use it to build muscle?
 

 

Decent core strength is required to perform just about any bodyweight exercise. You can probably do a heavy leg press with a relaxed core, but a single-leg pistol squat? Not a chance. So you can imagine how much stronger your abs and lower back will get with a regimen of calisthenics. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research detailed how researchers measured the effectiveness of unstable and unilateral exercises to activate the trunk muscles.

Using electromyography technology, researchers tested the activity of the upper lumbar, lumbosacral erector spinae, and lower abdominal muscles. They found that “the most effective means for trunk strengthening should involve back or abdominal exercises with unstable bases.” Unilateral resistance exercises (such as lunges, one-arm pushups) were also found to effectively strengthen the trunk.

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered how effective calisthenic training was after analyzing what type of rep range, volume, and intensity builds the most muscle. They concluded that lifting a moderately heavy weight—approximately 60-75% of your one-rep max—and working to failure produced the best results for pure muscle growth.

Nearly all bodyweight training falls into that category—submaximal efforts repeated for moderate to high reps. And look at some of bodyweight training’s most outstanding proponents: Despite training for functionality, gymnasts boast arguably the most aesthetically pleasing physiques on the planet (with levels of muscle not far behind that of bodybuilders), and YouTube sensation Kali Muscle can perform 14 muscle-ups while weighing 255 pounds.

Renowned Soviet athletics coach Yuri Verkhoshansky—considered by many to be the greatest strength and conditioning coach ever— encouraged the use of the table below (“Where Volume Meets Intensity”) to indicate the best load and rep range for achieving a particular training goal. It was designed with Olympic weightlifters in mind, but the principles apply to any kind of resistance training.

For calisthenics, choose exercises based on the repetitions you need to perform and the level of difficulty (load, on the table) that’s appropriate for your goal.
For instance, ring dips are an advanced movement, so you may not be able to get more than five reps. Therefore, they’re a strength/power exercise and should be done first in a workout, when you’re fresh. Pushups are easier,


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High Quality Moringa Oleifera - Reviews

Here is a short collection of reviews from people who have tried and experienced the benefits of our nutritious natural, award winning high quality moringa leaf powder and other moringa products including moringa seeds, moringa tablets, moringa oil and moringa soaps.

 

Moringa Seeds for Body Purification

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Iced Matcha Moringa Latte Recipe

 

It's easy being green with this superfood-filled iced matcha latte. Chlorella and moringa powders bring protein and even more antioxidants to already good-for-you green tea for a morning drink with enough nutritional power to keep you going all day long. 

Matcha Moringa Latte

Yield: 1 serving
Active Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened hemp milk
2 dates, pitted
1 1/4 teaspoons matcha powder
1/2 teaspoon high quality moringa powder
1/2 teaspoon chlorella powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend on high until fully incorporated. Serve over ice, if desired.

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Chakra Salad

Sweet, nutty, crispy and crunchy.

This dense, five vegetable salad with an apple-cider-peanut dressing is a potluck crowd pleaser and perfect nourishment for hot weather.
Summer is the perfect time to gorge on fresh, sun-soaked vegetables. Raw veggie salads are high in fiber, water, and antioxidants, especially vibrant, colorful ones like this salad of purple cabbage, red peppers, green onions, and orange carrots. The density of this salad also ensures that you will slow it down while eating and that your jaw gets a workout.
Perhaps noshing on this salad will provide: groundedness and safety (red root chakra), a healthy sexuality (orange sacral chakra), unconditional love (green heart chakra), and calm and focus (purple third eye chakra).
If only it were that easy…
It’s important to dress your salads with healthy monounsaturated oils allowing for full utilization and absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. The fats in this salad come from a perfect combination of nuts, seeds, and avocados.
The dressing makes this salad so, at only 30 calories per tablespoon, don’t be shy. Go ahead, dress it up!

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12 healthy habits to help you feel good

These simple no-fuss tips will slip seamlessly into your daily life and leave you feeling your best
There are certain things we all know are good for us – exercise, a healthy, balanced diet and not watching three hours of cats in hats on social media per day, for example – but “being healthy” can seem time consuming. Not so! Just follow these 12 simple health tips.

Take care of your teeth and gums

Your dentist isn’t just trying to make life difficult – brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing really does have health benefits. Getting rid of food and plaque from between your teeth helps prevent gum disease by removing sources of bacteria. Find out more at nhs.uk

Reach your five a day

Aim to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables each and every day. Reaching your recommended five a day is easier than it sounds. One portion of fruit or veg is 80g and a portion of pure fruit juice is 150ml – it soon adds up. Try including a handful of fresh fruit to your breakfast cereal or porridge; throwing some mushrooms and tomatoes into your omelette; or adding some salad crunch to your sandwich.

Drink a small glass of Tropicana in the morning

One 150ml glass of Tropicana 100 per cent orange juice counts as one of your five a day, provides 60 per cent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, which contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, and it’s also a source of vitamin B9 and potassium.

Go green

The mental health charity Mind undertook several studies in “green exercise” and discovered that 90 per cent of people who undertook “eco-exercise” – such as gardening, walking outdoors, conservation work, running or cycling – reported improvements in wellbeing, stress-levels and physical health. Compare this to the 44 per cent who experienced reduced levels of self-esteem following walks through a shopping centre. For more, see mind.org.uk

Make time to get out of the house and exercise Credit: Alamy

Embrace the whole grain

Choose high-fibre wholegrain varieties of foods: wholegrain foods contain more fibre than white or refined starchy food and often more of other nutrients.

Consume less alcohol

Regular drinking induces enzymes in your liver that metabolise alcohol. The more you drink, the more your tolerance builds and the more you need to drink to feel the same effects, which can be harmful to your long and short-term health. Taking regular breaks can “reset” your tolerance, so that it’s easier to cut back. Find out more at drinkaware.co.uk/make-a-change

Watch your fluid intake

Aim to drink six to eight glasses of fluid every day, according to the Eatwell guide. Water, lower fat milk and sugar-free drinks including tea and coffee all count. Carry a water bottle around and keep it topped up to ensure you reach your recommended intake a day. You’re more likely to use it if you’ve invested in one specially, and it’ll be cheaper and more environmentally friendly than constantly buying plastic bottles from the supermarket.

Taking in the right fluids is key to healthy living Credit: Alamy

Never shop hungry

Studies have shown that you’re more likely to buy unhealthy foods if you visit the supermarket hungry, because your body is craving a quick sugar-based fix.

Make your own meals

Research by The American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that people who spend more than one hour a day on preparing food have a higher quality diet than those who don’t, eating more vegetables, salads and fruits. They also saved money, because the group that didn’t prepare food at home was more likely to frequent restaurants or fast-food outlets.

Cook in bulk

Make sure to make extra when you’re preparing meals. It’ll save you time and money to stick three or four portions in the freezer to take to work for lunch, or to have for dinner later in the week.

Eat two portions of (different) fish a week

Make one portion non-oily – such as haddock, plaice, coley, cod, canned tuna or skate – and one portion oily – salmon, mackerel, trout, herring, fresh tuna, sardines and pilchards. Fish is a source of protein and also vitamins and minerals, while oily fish contains omega-3 fats which help maintain normal blood cholesterol levels.

Sign up to a sleep monitoring app

If you dread heading to bed, consider signing up to a sleep monitoring app. Learning your own personal patterns of disturbed sleep can help you to work out what might be going wrong.

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If meat eaters acted like vegans!

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