Showing posts with label iron. Show all posts
Showing posts with label iron. Show all posts

Sunday, 1 October 2017

Cut Lemons And Keep Them In Your Bedroom… This Will Save Your Life!

We all know that lemons are loaded with a number of nutrients and vitamins. The fresh aroma of lemons is refreshing and good for health. Lemons also possess antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Many people are not aware of the various health benefits of lemons. So, let’s check out how this fabulous fruit can do wonders to our health.
Lemon aroma is clean and refreshing.
It not only brings positivity but also helps in combating anxiety and depression.
There are many restaurants with lemon trees that help in relaxing the guests.
You can also spread lemon aroma in your house to stay fresh every time.
Experts suggest that lemons can clean the scalp thoroughly.
Lemons provide treatment for several skin problems including dark spots, scars, and acne.
Cut a lemon in half and rub on the affected areas of your body.
You can also use lemons for cleaning the stubborn body parts such as elbows, knees, and calluses.
Lemons can also be used for nail whitening, breath freshening, and treating sore feet.
You can get rid of several diseases with this amazing fruit.
Lemons can easily cure numerous diseases such as arthritis, indigestion, and rheumatism.
Consume lemonade every day to get rid of stones naturally.
Lemons can also prevent other severe diseases such as cholera and malaria.
It is because lemons are natural blood cleanser and purifier.
Daily consumption of lemons reduce signs of aging.
Lemons are packed with several nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, copper, chromium, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
Use lemon juice as a natural air freshener to kill bacteria of all types.
Just cut a few lemons and leave them in your bedroom overnight.
The lemon aroma will improve the functioning of your lungs and prevent breathing problems.
If you have asthma, colds, and allergies, then inhaling lemon aroma can clean your throat and air passages naturally.
Share this information with everyone you care for.
Loved this? Spread it out then
https://jerseydemic.com/cut-lemons-and-keep-them-in-your-bedroom-this-will-save-your-life/

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Tuesday, 24 March 2015

How to Get Enough Nutrition on Plant-Based Diet

Heather McClees 
For whatever reason we decided years ago that we had to eat animals to get our nutrients, it’s time to put that nonsense idea to rest. We weren’t meant to survive off
other species to keep us strong and healthy. We also needn’t harm animals, the environment, or our bodies through mass productions of meat, dairy, eggs, and even processed foods that all just contribute even more to the problems at hand.
Our bodies don’t require us to eat animals to get enough nutrition. Period.
Glow-Bowl-1200x800 (1)
Just like animals get their nutrients from plants (which we end up eating them for), we can do the same. Why not cut straight to the source of our vitamins and minerals and save all those steps in the middle? Some of the biggest concerns when it comes to nutrition on a plant-based diet involve protein, iron, and zinc found in meat, along with some other nutrients found in foods like dairy, eggs and fish. Everyone knows where to get their vitamin C, fiber, and magnesium – plants – but what about other nutrients?

How to Get Enough Nutrition on Plant-Based Diet

Below are some nutrients found in meat that are also found in plants. If you’re worried whether you’ll be able to get enough, don’t be. It’s completely possible to get enough nutrients in a plant-based diet when you eat a variety of whole foods. There is also some information included about other nutrients found in animal foods, plus controversial nutrients you can also learn more about.

1. Protein

mushrooms (1)
Why not start with the biggest issue first? The human body is incredible; let’s not undermine it so much that we believe we have to eat animals in order to keep it thriving. Before animals were even considered as a protein source, people ate plants. Why not do that now? Seeds are one of the easiest to digest sources of plant protein, but vegetables are also a great source, not to mention leafy greens, beans, legumes, and even whole grains. The key isn’t to look at just protein grams on a label, but to also consider if that food has amino acids, the building blocks of protein. Your body can use amino acids to form protein that you need to stay healthy and strong. Too much protein has actually been found to be harmful, specifically animal-based protein which is inflammatory. Plant-based foods (especially raw seeds, raw nuts, greens, veggies, and soaked whole grains) can actually reduce inflammation and keep the body alkaline.
Here are some options: hemp seeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, quinoa, oats, almonds or almond butter, leafy greens, broccoli, green beans, lentils, black beans, chickpeas, green peas, and even raw plant-based protein powder if you enjoy smoothies. And of course, tofu and tempeh are also great choices if you tolerate soy.
See our Green Monster’s Guide to Plant-Based Nutrition: Protein for more information and to get some delicious recipes!

2. Iron

quinoa (4)
Iron is necessary by the body for energy, muscle mass preservation, red blood cell function, cognitive function, and it can even affect your digestion. Red meat is not the best choice, nor any animal protein for that matter. Iron is actually very easy to obtain enough of on a plant-based diet. One reason being that plant-based sources, despite being non-heme sources, seem to digest just fine in the body and are easy for the cells to use, though consuming iron-rich foods with vitamin C rich foods will help with absorption even more. Since vitamin C is abundant in a plant-based diet, this is easy to do without much thought if you eat enough fresh fruits, vegetables and leafy greens.
Here are some of the best sources: hemp seeds or hemp protein, raisins, cashews, kale, pumpkin seeds, kaƱiwa, spirulina, beans, prunes, legumes, oats, quinoa, amaranth, teff,chia seeds, blackstrap molasses, cacao, tempeh, and sunflower seeds.
3. Zinc
kalesalad (1)
What about zinc? It keeps our immune systems running well, and yes, it is found abundantly in meat. However, it’s also found in many plant-based foods and requires no special food pairings for your body to absorb. Your best bet for obtaining enough zinc lies in nuts, seeds, beans, legumes, and whole grains (specifically oats and quinoa). Since these foods are also sources of iron and protein, it’s very easy to get enough nutrition.
Here are some specific foods high in zinc: pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds (or tahini),  cashews, hemp, pintos, lentils, almonds, oats, quinoa, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, cacao, tofu, chickpeas, kidney beans and green peas.
See our Green Monster’s Guide to Plant-Based Nutrition: Zinc here for more information and for zinc-filled, immune-boosting recipes!

What About …?

If you’re wondering about calcium,  B vitamins and even controversial items like Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D, here’s what you should know:

Calcium

Breakfast Porridge1
While not found in meat, many people struggle with giving up dairy in order to get enough calcium, though people are starting to realize now that dairy is not the best source. Greens, seeds, some vegetables, and even some fruits are all great sources. These foods do not contribute to inflammation, interfere with magnesium absorption that puts stress on your joints,or cause calcification in the bones that can impair with good bone health like dairy. They’re also helpful for strengthening the body and very nutritious in other areas too.
Eat more: kale, collards, spinach, Swiss chard, oranges, dried figs, chia seeds, almonds, teff, navy beans, fortified non-dairy milk, most beans, and tofu.
See our Green Monster’s Guide to Plant-Based Nutrition: Calcium here for more information and recipes!

Vitamin B12

vitaminb12
turion/Flickr
One exception to getting enough nutrition through our food on any diet (even those from animal-based sources) is Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is derived from the soil- not animals. While meat eaters may obtain more, supplements ensure everyone is getting enough and can even offer additional benefits. While it would be nice to depend on plants from the soil to get us there, that’s not a smart choice due to the way our soil quality has greatly changed. It’s also hard to tell how much of this crucial nutrient we’re consuming through our food. It’s incredibly important for vegans to take a supplement to get enough vitamin B12. Choose sublingual forms, which are easily absorbed in the bloodstream in minutes since they dissolve under the tongue. You can also use liquid forms (choose vegan options) or get a B12 patch from a trusted health professional.
Controversial Options: You may have heard that nutritional yeast, fortified non-dairy milk, and spirulina contain B12. This is true, but there is a great deal of controversy with these options  since they are a different form of vitamin B12 that your body may not absorb as easily.

Other B Vitamins

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No need to worry here; though meat is packed with B vitamins, so are plants! They’re also very easy to absorb and you’ll never have to worry about obtaining enough if you eat whole foods. B vitamins provide energy, enhance mental function, help relieve stress, mild depression and anxiety, red blood cell function, and some also help with digestion.
Here are of the best options: greens, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans, avocados, legumes, and whole grains.

Vitamin D

sunlight1
GeraintRowland/Flickr
This vitamin is so important for your health; do not disregard it. It acts like a hormone in the body, can greatly affect your mood, helps your body use calcium to build strong bones, and has even been shown to reduce the rates of colon cancer. It’s important to know what forms of vitamin D the body can use. It absorbs D3 the best, not D2 which is found in the form of yeast, mushrooms and fortified non-dairy milks. Meat does not contain vitamin D, and even milk is fortified with vitamin D, therefore it’s not a natural source either. Though fish may be a food source, the risks that come with eating fish are not worth it or necessary. Vitamin D3 comes from the sun, so your best option is to get 15-20 minutes of sunlight daily if possible or take a vitamin D3 supplement (no more than 10,000 I.U. a day). Of course, you can still use mushrooms and drink non-dairy fortified milk, but you shouldn’t rely on one (or even two) food sources alone.
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We hope this will inspire all of you to choose vegan every time you eat. Be smart about your health; avoid processed foods, meat and meat products, dairy, eggs and other animal-based foods, and learn to prepare your meals from whole, plant-based foods. Don’t be afraid to supplement with vitamin B12 and vitamin D, get enough sunlight and exercise, and choose organic when you can. Though all these seem like a lot of tips, taking it meal by meal each day is really so easy and less stressful than you think.
What’s your next plant-based meal going to be?
Lead Image Source: Lentil Quinoa Burgers
This content provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Sunday, 7 December 2014

After Reading This, You’ll Never Look At Beets The Same Way Again




Beets are really unique healing vegetables. 

 Their nutritional value is kept both raw and cooked. In ancient times, Hippocrates viewed beets as a medicinal plant. Throughout centuries beets were used to treat many diseases. Beets have been used  in the treatment of blood disorders such as iron deficiency – anemia. Beets contain a lot of iron, of all plant products iron content of the beets is the second to garlic. And the iodine content of the beets is the second to Kale. Beets not only provide your body with important nutrients and stimulate your metabolism but also saturate the body with powerful  powerful antioxidants that are prevalent in red beets.


Reasons why you should include beets in your diet

·         Beets contain polyphenols and betalains which reverse the effect of free radical damage and oxidative stress in people.
·         Beets contain various vitamins: B complex vitamins, PP which strengthen capillary walls.
·         Beets contain a lot of minerals – potassium and folate, which aid in healthy heart; magnesium, which aids in bone health; iron and phosphorus which produce energy;  copper, which destroys free radicals; iodine which is involved in the biosynthesis of thyroid hormones, and magnesium.
·         Beets contain cobalt which  promotes the formation of vitamin B12 (which is synthesized by intestinal microflora. Without this vitamin and folic acid the  formation of red blood cells would be impossible.
·         Beets rejuvenate our bodies due to folic acid, which contributes to the creation of new cells.
·         Beets remove toxins from our bodies due to betalin pigments.
·         Beets contain betacyanins, which inhibits the growth of cancer cells.
·         Beets improve digestion due to the dietary fiber.
·         Beets stimulate metabolism.
·         Beets help digest Vitamin D in our bodies.
·         Beets help prevent dementia due to high concentration of nitrates which transformed in the mouth  into nitrites. Researched have showed that nitrites  open up the blood vessels in the body which increases blood flow and helps oxygen to get to to oxygen lacking areas.
·         Beets contain pectin which is in greater numbers than in carrots or apples. Pectin deals  with  excretion of radioactive and heavy metals from the body. In addition, pectin also inhibits the spread  of harmful intestinal bacteria and prevents the development of a whole range of diseases.
As you can see beets possess a plethora of medicinal and healing properties which  also include  lowering the amount of cholesterol, blood pressure, strengthening capillary vessels, providing anti-sclerotic effect and improving brain and liver function, and  help improve fat metabolism.

Tuesday, 25 November 2014

The 8 Essential Nutrients Your Body Needs Daily For Optimal Health

grapefruit delicious

HJ: There is a common misconception that we are able to easily meet our nutritional needs from whatever foods we are eating on a daily basis.  While this is possible, it requires a thoughtfully crafted diet that focuses on special foods that provide specific vitamins and minerals we may not be otherwise getting in the proper amounts.  It is not really that hard to do, but requires us to understand which foods provide which nutritional elements.
While a good quality multivitamin (which are hard to come by) can help and make us feel better, they do not truly address any underlying deficiencies.  More often than not, they simply alleviate symptoms which return when one stops taking the multivitamin.  Our bodies are designed to get nutrients from food, which occur in ‘whole food matrices’ along with important phytonutrients, cofactors and other as of yet unidentified nutritional compounds that simply cannot be replicated in a lab.
Speaking from experience, when we finally supply our bodies with high quality, whole food nutrition, and especially foods from the groups below, it makes a world of difference in our mood, energy and overall health.
- Truth
8 Nutrients Every Person Needs To Boost Health
By Karen Foster | Prevent Disease

As people strive to improve their health and evolve their food choices to a more plant-based diet, it is easy to get lost along the way. When you transition to a healthier diet, it is important to educate yourself about the nutrients your body will need on a daily basis.
It’s important to learn how to create a balance of protein, carbohydrates and quality fats with each meal. There are eight essential nutrients including protein, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, B12, iodine and Essential Fatty Acids which are necessary to boost and optimize our health.

1. PROTEIN

A crucial part of any diet, the average RDA for women is 45 grams and for men 55 grams, which you can easily consume in the form of:
Beans, legumes, lentils and peas
Free range eggs
Raw milk, cheese and yogurt.
Nuts and seeds, which benefit from soaking in water or sprouting first
Non-dairy nut and seed milks



NOTE: Pseudo-meats and other pretend protein foods should be avoided if possible, as they are highly processed foods. In an article by Sally Fallon and Mary G. Enig, Ph.D. they write that, “Phytic acid remaining in these soy products greatly inhibits zinc and iron absorption; test animals fed soy protein isolate develop enlarged organs, particularly the pancreas and thyroid gland, and increased deposition of fatty acids in the liver.”

2, 3. IRON AND ZINC

One of the most common deficiencies in the world, iron is an important nutrient, integral to many bodily processes. It is especially essential for pre-menopausal and pregnant women, who tend to have this deficiency. If you feel tired, low in energy, suffer from headaches or hair loss, a pale complexion and weak nails, you could be suffering from iron deficiency.
Strong, healthy blood requires proper amounts of Iron. Average RDA for woman 19-50 years is 18mg, women 51+ years is 8mg and adult male is 8mg.
Two billion people may have a zinc deficiency, yet it’s an essential mineral required by the body for maintaining a sense of smell, keeping a healthy immune system, building proteins, triggering enzymes, and creating DNA. Zinc also helps the cells in your body communicate by functioning as a neurotransmitter. A deficiency in zinc can lead to stunted growth, diarrhea, impotence, hair loss, eye and skin lesions, impaired appetite, and depressed immunity.
Because the human body does not store Zinc, it is essential to obtain it from the food you eat. The RDA for adult women is 8mg and for men is 11mg.
Cocao, oysters, wheat germ (zinc)
Green leafy vegetables: kale, collards, cabbage, spinach, and broccoli
Nuts, seeds: almonds and cashews
Beans, lentils, legumes, peas, in cooked and sprouted form
Fruits and dried fruits: apricots, dates, and raisins
Date syrup and molasses


4. MAGNESIUM

Magnesium plays a more important role than calcium in the body. Itreduces your risk of cancer, and controls the entry of calcium into each and every cell–a physiological event that occurs every time a nerve cell fires! When it comes to building healthy bones, magnesium is as important as calcium and vitamin D are. Without adequate magnesium, too much calcium gets inside the cell. This causes cramping and constrictions in ways you many doctors never consider.
Earlier dietary surveys show that a large portion of adults do not meet even the RDA for magnesium (320 mg per day for women and 420 mg per day for men) which is below the level necessary for optimal health being 500mg+ per day for both men and women.
Green, leafy vegetables, starches,
Grains and nuts, and raw milk.

5. CALCIUM

In a nutshell, your body needs calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth, and for your nervous system to function properly. The RDA for adults is 1000-1200mg and can be found in a variety of foods, such as:
Dark greens: broccoli, kale and Chinese cabbage
Sea Vegetables: wakame, arame, dulse, hijiki, and kelp
Dairy products: milk, yogurt and cheese

6. IODINE

Iodine is a mineral found mostly in seafood (including seaweed) that helps the body synthesize hormones, including thyroid hormone. This important mineral has been slowly but steadily leaving our food stream. The chemicals in fertilizers used in modern farming and chlorine added to water bind to iodine and prevent it from being utilized by our bodies. Iodine deficiency significantly affects the brain development of unborn babies and young children and is the main cause of preventable mental retardation and brain damage across the world. It also leads to underactive thyroid and may increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, which could be a major problem given the numbers of women suffering from this deficiency. Iodine deficiency is not only common in developing countries, research has suggested that more than two thirds of teenage girls and 15 percent of adult females in the US have an iodine deficiency.
Caution: Too much iodine can also be harmful. although the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 200-300 micro grams of iodine daily during pregnancy for normal fetal thyroid hormone production and neurocognitive development, 1,100 micro grams is considered to be the safe upper limit for daily ingestion by the US Institute of Medicine.
Eggs, fish and seafood are good sources.
Vegans can go for seaweed, cranberries, organic strawberries and himalayan crystal salt.


7. VITAMIN B12

Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient, especially for those following strict vegan lifestyles. It is required by your body to make new red blood cells and help keep your nervous system healthy. Without it, permanent damage can result. B12 can also lower homocystein levels, which is great news since elevated homocysteine levels may cause heart disease and strokes. A deficiency leads to anaemia and its symptoms include tiredness, pale complexion and breathlessness. It can also cause memory loss, confusion, mood swings and depression.
Vegans and vegetarians who do not eat eggs or dairy will need to take this essential nutrient in the form of a B complex supplement that includes the RDA for B12 of 1.5 microgram for adults. Shitake mushrooms, sea vegetables and algae contain something similar to B12, but it does not work in the body in the same way as B12 from animal sources. Some nutritional yeast food products contain some Vitamin B12.Meat and eggs are some of the best sources, however, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, it may be essential to occasionally use a B12 patch or high quality B12 supplement in your diet.

8. ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS
Research says that eating more omega-3 fatty acids makes one live longer, look better and feel happier. A deficiency, on the other hand, can cause depression, mood swings and even aggressive behaviour. These fatty acids prevent heart disease, are good for your eyes, help you shed pounds and keep your skin and hair in good condition.
The body needs quality fats to help absorb the ‘fat soluble’ vitamins A, D, E and K, to regulate cholesterol, provide energy, maintain heart health and a number of other important functions. Saturated fats from animal sources is limited in a vegetarian diet, but hydrogenated and trans fats in baked goods and chips should be avoided for their harmful health effects. Recommended RDA for Omega Fatty Acids is 1-2 tablespoons.
Extra Virgin Olive oil
Sesame oil
Raw butter and clarified butter
Coconut oil: a saturated vegetable oil that has proven beneficial in the diet
Omega-3 oils: Flax, hemp and walnut oils

Karen Foster is a holistic nutritionist, avid blogger, with five kids and an active lifestyle that keeps her in pursuit of the healthiest path towards a life of balance.
http://www.thehealersjournal.com/2013/06/27/8-essential-nutrients-your-body-needs-daily-for-health-and-how-to-get-them-from-food/

Monday, 13 October 2014

The Health Benefits Of Pine Nuts

The health benefits of Pine Nuts - By Cynthia Sass MPH, RD



Vegan Stuffed Squash With Dates & Pine Nuts



There are many different types of winter squash, each one with a unique and incredible flavor. Most of us are familiar with the butternut, a wonderful gateway into the world of winter squash, but if you're looking to expand your squash repertoire, I encourage you to visit your local farmers' market. You're sure to find an exciting assortment to try!
This recipe works well with many different types of squash and is a perfect opportunity to try something new. Make this as side for your next gathering, or let it shine bright as the main entrƩe. I love to make an extra large batch of the mixed grains and add it to salads for a quick lunch option.
Vegan Stuffed Squash With Dates And Pine Nuts
Makes 4 – 6 servings, depending on size of squash
Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup barley
  • 1/3 cup brown rice
  • 1/3 cup farro
  • 3 cups water or broth
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 cup almonds, chopped
  • ½ cup pine nuts
  • 5 dates, pitted and chopped
  • ½ + cup vegetable broth
  • Sea salt
  • 4-6 small winter squash (I love golden nugget!)
Directions
Combine grains and water (or broth) in a pot and bring to boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the grains are tender. Set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a small pan and add the onion. Over medium-low heat, cook the onions until slightly caramelized, about 15 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 Fahrenheit. Slice the tops off of each squash and use a sturdy spoon to scrape out the seeds and pulp.
Spread the almonds and pine nuts on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, until nuts are golden brown.
Once the grains are cooked, add in the onion, almonds, pine nuts, dates and vegetable broth. Mix until well combined.
Fill each squash with the stuffing, top off with 1 Tbsp. of vegetable broth and bake for 30-45 minutes, until tender.

Thursday, 18 September 2014

Why figs are fantastic for us

figs

Figs are good for relieving constipation, lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, weight loss, preventing osteoporosis and heart disease, promoting tanning, and they are a good source of prebiotics. Figs are high in calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and iron.

Natural remedies and prevention with figs

Figs are high in fiber and are therefore an excellent laxative, so good in fact, you have to be careful not to eat too many. They are also a good source of prebiotics, which provide support for the gut's good bacteria.
Figs and fig juice are highly alkaline and therefore can help balance the body's pH levels, and they are full of antioxidants that help prevent damage from free radicals. They are also a good source of psoralens, a compound that is used to treat skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.

Due to their high potassium content, figs are believed to be useful in prevention of high blood pressure and heart disease. Their combination of potassium and calcium help prevent osteoporosis.

Figs have long been believed to be both an aphrodisiac and a means to aid in male sexual stamina and enjoyment.

Tree sap from the fig tree is used to treat ringworm, warts, insect bites and skin irritations.

Raw or cooked

Figs are picked ripe from the tree. Due to the fact that dried figs are so popular and are available year round, many of us have never tasted a raw fig. Raw figs are quite delicious, though unusual in both texture and taste. The taste of a raw fig is milder, more subtle, than dried figs or cooked figs.
Both raw and dried figs are often used in baking. Figs add moistness and extend freshness in baked goods.

Dried figs can be eaten plain, used for cooking/baking baking in dry form or used for cooking by being reconstituted into a paste or pudding.

Fruit agriculture

Although figs originate on the other side of the Atlantic, we don't have to worry about their carbon footprint. The U.S. is ranked 3rd in the world for production of dried figs with an annual volume of 11,000 tons, and California grows 98% of the fresh figs sold in the U.S.
There are many varieties of figs and several commercial varieties.

Organic vs. conventional figs

Figs, both raw and dried, can be found organic or conventional. 

Things you didn't know about figs

You know how tomatoes aren't vegetables; they are scientifically classified as a fruit? Well, figs aren't really a fruit, but they aren't a vegetable, either. They are actually the flower of the plant, while their seeds are technically the fruit.

Figs are one of the oldest known cultivated foods.

How to store figs so they last longer

Figs are picked ripe and have a very short shelf life. Most sites say they will last 2-3 days, but they may last 5-7 if very fresh. Do not wash them until use. Bag them and refrigerate. You can also bag them and freeze them for up to 6 months.

Dried figs should be stored in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator. Their shelf life is 6 months.

How to Pick Good Fruits

Choose clean, sweet-smelling, fruit that yields to a light touch. Do not buy mushy or split fruit. Scarring on the skin is okay; scars are the result of leaves brushing against the skin.
http://www.naturalnews.com/046872_figs_potassium_fiber.html

Wednesday, 27 August 2014

Moringa Leaf Powder for the skin - video

Your skin is the largest organ in your body so it makes sense to take good care of it and taking Moringa leaf powder supplements may certainly help to maintain its vitality.
No-one wants wrinkles and Moringa can help to cleanse your body of the free radicals that can cause them, while the multitude of antioxidants can revitalise your skin cells to keep them looking fresh and taut.
So what exactly do you get in Moringa leaf powder that can help your skin?
It'd probably be easier to say what you don't get, but I'll give it a go – you'll find calcium; vitamins, A, B, C, D and E; copper, iron, zinc, magnesium and more, all of which will do your skin the world of good.
You'll also find sulphur, which helps to make up collagen and keratin.
The former gives your skin its youthful flexibility and softness, while the latter improves rigidity and strength – and both are crucial for the health of your skin.
Fight the signs of aging by getting your Moringa leaf powder from ankhrah.com today.
- See more at: http://www.ankhrah.com

Monday, 11 August 2014

Mind blowing facts about banana

By DNA

This is interesting. After reading this, you’ll never look at a banana in the same way again.
Bananas contain three natural sugars – sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.
Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world’s leading athletes.
But energy isn’t the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.
DEPRESSION
According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.
PMS:
Forget the pills – eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.
ANEMIA
High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.
BLOOD PRESSURE:
This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.
BRAIN POWER
200 students at a Twickenham school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.
CONSTIPATION
High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.
HANGOVERS
One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.
HEARTBURN
Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.
MORNING SICKNESS
Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.
MOSQUITO BITES:
Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.
NERVES
Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system..
Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.
ULCERS
The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronic cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Many other cultures see bananas as a ‘cooling’ fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.
So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has FOUR TIMES the protein, TWICE the carbohydrate, THREE TIMES the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals.. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, ‘A BANANA a day keeps the doctor away!’

Monday, 4 August 2014

14 Reasons You’re Tired All the Time

Woman drinking water
Lack of sleep isn’t the only thing sapping your energy. Little things you do (and don’t do) can exhaust you both mentally and physically, which can make getting through your day a chore. Here, experts reveal common bad habits that can make you feel tired, plus simple lifestyle tweaks that will put the pep back in your step.

You skip exercise when you’re tired
Skipping your workout to save energy actually works against you. In a University of Georgia study, sedentary but otherwise healthy adults who began exercising lightly three days a week for as little as 20 minutes at a time reported feeling less fatigued and more energized after six weeks. Regular exercise boosts strength and endurance, helps make your cardiovascular system run more efficiently, and delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. So next time you’re tempted to crash on the couch, at least go for a brisk walk—you won’t regret it.
You don’t drink enough water
Being even slightly dehydrated—as little as 2% of normal fluid loss—takes a toll on energy levels, says Amy Goodson, RD, a dietitian for Texas Health Ben Hogan Sports Medicine. Dehydration causes a reduction in blood volume, explains Goodson, which makes the blood thicker. This requires your heart to pump less efficiently, reducing the speed at which oxygen and nutrients reach your muscles and organs. To calculate your normal fluid needs, take your weight in pounds, divide in half and drink that number of ounces of fluid a day, Goodson recommends.
You’re not consuming enough iron
An iron deficiency can leave you feeling sluggish, irritable, weak, and unable to focus. “It makes you tired because less oxygen travels to the muscles and cells,” says Goodson. Boost your iron intake to reduce your risk of anemia: load up on lean beef, kidney beans, tofu, eggs (including the yolk), dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, and peanut butter, and pair them with foods high in vitamin C (vitamin C improves iron absorption when eaten together), suggests Goodson. Note: an iron deficiency may be due to an underlying health problem, so if you’re experiencing these symptoms of iron deficiency, you should visit your doc.
You’re a perfectionist
Striving to be perfect—which, let’s face it, is impossible—makes you work much harder and longer than necessary, says Irene S. Levine, PhD, professor of psychiatry at the New York University School of Medicine. “You set goals that are so unrealistic that they are difficult or impossible to achieve, and in the end, there is no sense of self-satisfaction.” Levine recommends setting a time limit for yourself on your projects, and taking care to obey it. In time, you’ll realize that the extra time you were taking wasn’t actually improving your work.
You make mountains out of molehills
If you assume that you’re about to get fired when your boss calls you into an unexpected meeting, or you’re too afraid to ride your bike because you worry you’ll get into an accident, then you’re guilty of “catastrophizing,” or expecting that the worst-case scenario will always occur. This anxiety can paralyze you and make you mentally exhausted, says Levine. When you catch yourself having these thoughts, take a deep breath and ask yourself how likely it is that the worst really will happen. Getting outdoors, meditating, exercising, or sharing your concerns with a friend may help you better cope and become more realistic.
You skip breakfast
The food you eat fuels your body, and when you sleep, your body continues using what you consumed at dinner the night before to keep your blood pumping and oxygen flowing. So, when you wake up in the morning, you need to refuel with breakfast. Skip it, and you’ll feel sluggish. “Eating breakfast is like starting a fire in your body by kickstarting your metabolism,” Goodson says. Goodson recommends a breakfast that includes whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fat. Good examples include oatmeal with protein powder and a dab of peanut butter; a smoothie made with fruit, protein powder, low-fat milk, and almond butter; or eggs with two slices of whole-wheat toast and low-fat Greek yogurt.
You live on junk food
Foods loaded with sugar and simple carbs (like the ones you’ll find in a box or at the drive-thru window) rank high on the glycemic index (GI), an indicator of how rapidly carbohydrates increase blood sugar. Constant blood sugar spikes followed by sharp drops cause fatigue over the course of the day, says Goodson. Keep blood sugar steady by having a lean protein along with a whole grain at every meal, says Goodson. Good choices include chicken (baked, not fried) and brown rice, salmon and sweet potato, or salad with chicken and fruit.
You have trouble saying ‘no’
People-pleasing often comes at the expense of your own energy and happiness. To make matters worse, it can make you resentful and angry over time. So whether it’s your kid’s coach asking you to bake cookies for her soccer team or your boss seeing if you can work on a Saturday, you don’t have to say yes. Train yourself to say ‘no’ out loud, suggests Susan Albers, a licensed clinical psychologist with Cleveland Clinic and author of Eat.Q.: Unlock the Weight-Loss Power of Emotional Intelligence. “Try it alone in your car,” she says. “Hearing yourself say the word aloud makes it easier to say it when the next opportunity calls for it.”
You have a messy office
A cluttered desk mentally exhausts you by restricting your ability to focus and limits your brain’s ability to process information, according to a Princeton University study. “At the end of each day, make sure your work and personal items are organized and put away,” suggests Lombardo. “It will help you have a positive start to your day the next morning.” If your office needs major reorganizing, avoid becoming totally overwhelmed by taking it one step at a time: start by tidying what you can see, then move through your desk and cabinets drawer by drawer.
You work through vacation
Checking your email when you should be relaxing by the pool puts you at risk of burnout, says Lombardo. Unplugging and allowing yourself to truly unwind allows your mind and body to rejuvenate and return to the office stronger. “When you truly take breaks, you will be more creative, productive, and effective when you return,” says Lombardo.
You have a glass of wine (or two) before bed
A nightcap sounds like a good way to unwind before falling asleep, but it can easily backfire. Alcohol initially depresses the central nervous system, producing a sedative effect, says Allen Towfigh, MD, medical director of New York Neurology; Sleep Medicine, P.C., in New York City. “But it ultimately sabotages sleep maintenance.” Alcohol creates a rebound effect as it’s metabolized, which creates an abrupt surge in the adrenaline system, he says. This is why you’re more likely to wake up in the middle of the night after you’ve been drinking. Dr. Towfigh recommends stopping all alcohol three to four hours before bedtime.
You check e-mails at bedtime
The glaring light of a tablet, smartphone, or your computer’s backlit screen can throw off your body’s natural circadian rhythm by suppressing melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep and wake cycles, says Dr. Towfigh. Sensitivity to the digital glow of tech toys can vary from person to person, but in general it’s a good idea to avoid all technology for one to two hours before bedtime, he says. Can’t avoid checking your device before your head hits the pillow? Then hold it at least 14 inches away from your face to reduce the risk of sleep interference.
You rely on caffeine to get through the day
Starting your morning with a java jolt is no big deal—in fact, studies show that up to three daily cups of coffee is good for you—but using caffeine improperly can seriously disrupt your sleep-wake cycle, says Dr. Towfigh. Caffeine blocks adenosine, the byproduct of active cells that drives you to sleep as it accumulates, he explains. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine revealed that consuming caffeine even six hours prior to bedtime affects sleep, so cut yourself off by mid-afternoon and watch out for these surprising sources of caffeine.
You stay up late on weekends
Burning the midnight oil on Saturday night and then sleeping in Sunday morning leads to difficulty falling asleep Sunday night—and a sleep-deprived Monday morning, says Dr. Towfigh. Since staying in can cramp your social life, try to wake up close to your normal time the following morning, and then take a power nap in the afternoon. “Napping for 20 minutes or so allows the body to recharge without entering the deeper stages of sleep, which can cause you to wake up more tired,” he says.
http://time.com/2828800/bad-habits-drain-energy/