Watermelon helpful for health

Watermelon is an amazing fruit. It acts as a natural moisturizer as well as a toner and keeps the skin cool, glowing and fresh.

Watermelon has always been a good source of vitamins A and C, and provides potassium and fiber. But now consumers have even more reasons to enjoy a sweet fruit.

Scientists indicate that watermelon contains high levels of lycopene-an antioxidant that may help the body fight cancer and prevent disease. Found only in select fruits and vegetables, lycopene is very effective at trapping cancer-promoting agents called free-oxygen radicals.

It contains many great nutrients, is fat free, available nearly year round and is cheap.
In addition, it's full of water and sweet enough to be a favorite for adults and children alike.

The watermelon consists of 93% water. A two- cup serving of watermelon contains many important vitamins and minerals. It is a multi-vitamin fruit and contains vitamins A, B6 and C to potassium and iron, which will surely boost your health. Dieticians advise that we should begin the morning with diced melon as they cleanse the body. A bowl of watermelon every morning starts a summer day off with close to no- fat, high fiber goodness. Taken with breakfast, it helps to protect you from the heat. Watermelon is also recommended to be taken in the evenings which are filled with physical activity.


TIPS TO REDUCE CANCER

Have a plate of water melon every alternate day.It has high levels of lycopene, an antioxidant that helps reduce the risks of cancer and other diseases

Pomegranate Benefits and For Wrinkle Free Skin

Pomegranates possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and they aid in strengthening of the immune system along with aiding in wound repair. They can also help in fighting osteoporosis as they help in slowing down the deterioration of cartilage.

Pomegranates are one of the richest sources of natural antioxidants. The antioxidants help counter daily effects of oxidation and the aging effects of too much exposure to the sun

It is a rich source of various vitamins. Pomegranate is a good, natural source of vitamins A, C and E as well as folic acid.

You can also use a cotton ball to apply pomegranate juice to your face after cleansing.

The potassium in pomegranates, which is important for muscle contractions, possibly has a role to play in preventing high blood pressure.

Pomegranates have already been associated with reducing the risk of heart disease and preventing prostate cancer.

consuming a glass of pomegranate juice everyday extended the doubling period to 54 months, and that there was also evidence that the juice was actually killing off prostate cancer cells.

Studies have shown that pomegranate seed extract applied to the skin may reduce the formation of some forms of skin cancer, suggesting that its antioxidant capabilities may be responsible for some of pomegranate's skin benefits.


HOME MADE FACE PACK OF POMOGRANATE

Dry and Mash the shells of pomegranate & orange

Add 1tsp of mashed pomegranate powder with 1tsp of Orange peel powder little bit of turmeric and Mix it with lemon juice.

Make a thin paste of it and apply it on the face.

Wash it after 10mins.

It will remove the pimples/acne from the face.

Pomogranate and Orange are rich in vitamn C and act as scrubbers and Tumeric acts as an anti-bacterial.

GREEN TEA BENEFITS

Green tea helps to lower LDL cholesterol, which is responsible for the formation of blood clots and thus reduces the risks of stroke and heart attacks. It is in fact as effective as aspirin in preventing platelets from clotting and greatly reduces levels of thromboxane, which is the villain in causing blood clots. It also promotes the production of HDL and does away with plaque present in the arteries. This fact maybe explains why the Japanese who drink a lot of green tea do not suffer as much from heart disease as their compatriots around the world. The anti oxidants in the green tea are supposed to ensure that the liver is protected against toxins present in cigarette ad alcohol. Early days yet, but the research done seems to point that way.

Green tea also helps to burn those extra calories and when combined with caffeine augments the calorie burning. It increases the energy that is expended, helps to oxidize fats.

green tea and its extracts have also been used to prevent dental plaque and hence prevent tooth decay. Deodorants and creams promoting oral health are being advertised strongly as science and technology has provided evidence that green tea can actually afford some protection against bacteria causing cavities because of its fluoride content.

The anti oxidant present in green tea help to decrease inflammation of blood and this in turn helps to prevent arthritis. New studies indicate that the beneficial effects of green tea could also include means to combat cancer especially lung cancer.

Special Benefits of Green Tea

Reduces high blood pressure

Lowers blood sugar

Fights cancer

Green tea also boosts the immune system because of its high concentrations of polyphenols and flavenoids.


What else can tea be used for?

IT can be used as garden fertilizer or compost.
IT can be used to sooth puffy eyes by placing used tea bags over them.
IT can be added to herbal bath mixes for skin care.
IT can relieve sunburn by applying a tea soaked compress.
IT can be used to relieve the itch from mosquito bites.
IT can be use for cooking.
IT can be used as a fabric dye.

Red Wine Increase Your Life

Moderate consumption of red wine has been widely reported to reduce risk for cardiovascular disease.

Many studies investigated the benefits of red wine suggested that moderate amount of red wine i.e one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men lowers the risk of heart attack for people in middle age by ~ 30 to 50 percent.


It is also suggested that alcohol such as red wine may prevent additional heart attacks if you have already suffered from one.



Other studies also indicated that red wine can raise HDL cholesterol (the Good cholesterol) and prevent LDL cholesterol (the Bad cholesterol) from forming.


Red wine may help prevent blood clots and reduce the blood vessel damage caused by fat deposits. Indeed, studies showed that people from the Mediterranean region who regularly drank red wine have lower risks of heart disease

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a type of chemical produced by plants to ward off fungi and bacterial infections. It is often found in their skins since this is the main point of access by parasitic invaders.

Resvartrol has antioxidant properties. Many beneficial health effects in connection to resveratrol have been reported, such as anti-cancer, antiviral, neuroprotective, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects. This has led some to call resvaratrol a longevity enhancer, good for overall health. Resveratrol is most often associated with its cardioprocective (heart and artery-healthy) benefits.

Resveratrol in red wine

Some researchers believe that resveratrol might be the key ingredient in red wine that helps prevent damage to blood vessels, reduces "bad" cholesterol and prevents blood clots.

The resveratrol in red wine comes from the skin of grapes used to make wine. Because red wine is fermented with grape skins longer than is white wine, red wine contains more resveratrol. Simply eating grapes, or drinking grape juice, has been suggested as one way to get resveratrol without drinking alcohol. Some studies have suggested that red and purple grape juices have some of the same heart-healthy benefits of red wine.

Other foods that contain some resveratrol include peanuts, blueberries and cranberries. It's not yet known how beneficial eating grapes or other foods might be compared with drinking red wine when it comes to promoting heart health. The amount of resveratrol in food and red wine can vary widely.

Liver Protection Tips

Ways to Protect Liver

Liver is one of the most important organs of our body which perform number of important works inside our body.It builds complex molecules from simple substances absorbed from the digestive tract. It also do processing of alcohol and toxic substances in blood and produce important substance like bile which help body in absorbing fats and cholesterol.

Symptoms
Fatigue, general malaise, digestive disturbances, allergies and chemical sensitivities, premenstrual syndrome and constipation.

Diet and Lifestyle:

• Eat a balanced diet. You may need to watch how much protein and sugar you eat.

• If you drink alcohol, the most important way to help yourself is to stop.
  

• Avoid strenuous exercise

• Always wash properly fruits and vegetable before eating them.

• Add good amount of high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetable, food grains, cereals etc in your food.

• Drink enough amount of water during day.

• Decrease the intake of food high in fats. Thus reducing the risks of gallbladder disorders like gallstone etc.

• Visit your doctor regularly for regular checkups.

• Follow day routine of regular exercise and meditation.

• Avoid buying eatable items from unhygienic and roadside vendors.

• Avoid intake of high salt in your food because it can lead to water retention and liver problems.

• Avoid intake of calorie rich food, desserts, snacks, cold drinks etc.

• If diabetic, put control on diabetics.

• Maintain your weight under control to ideal levels because obesity can increase the chances of liver disorders.

• Consumption different medication with care because some medicines can affect our liver negatively. Do not consumption more amount of medicines as directed by your doctor.

• Do not mix different medicines without your doctor’s permission.

• Try to reduce the intake of alcohol and avoid mixing drugs with alcohol intake.

• Get yourself and your family members vaccinated for available liver protective vaccinations.

• Use only disposable springs, needles because liver disorder like Hepatitis C can transmit through

• use of contaminated springs.

• Always go for safe sex, use condoms.

HONEY :- A Natural Beauty

Today manufacturers are increasingly using honey in skin moisturizers, facial masks, hair conditioners and shower gels in response to consumer demand for more natural formulations.

Did you know!

All-natural honey is an effective treatment for minor abrasions and burns. A recent review of medical research documents its effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent.

A Natural Moisturizer

The skin’s ability to stay hydrated is an important factor in its ability to maintain softness, suppleness and elasticity. As skin ages, or as it is exposed to environmental stresses and chemical agents, it loses this ability to retain water, becomes dry and appears wrinkled. Honey is a humectant, which means it attracts and retains water. So honey is a natural fit for a variety of moisturizing products including cleansers, creams, shampoos and conditioners. Because honey is also an anti-irritant, it is suitable for sensitive skin and baby care products.

Skin Softening Bath

Add ¼ cup honey to bath water for a fragrant, silky bath.

Hair Shine

Stir 1 teaspoon honey into 4 cups (1 quart) warm water. Blondes may wish to add a squeeze of lemon. After shampooing, pour mixture through hair. Do not rinse out. Dry as normal.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Research is currently underway to develop a process using honey to create alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). AHAs are an important ingredient in many skin creams and moisturizers because they help exfoliate the skin. Increased exfoliation, or renewal of the skin cells, gives skin a younger, more vibrant look. Exfoliation can also cause skin irritation so honey’s natural moisturizing ability makes it a perfect fit for AHA products.


Moisture Mask

Mix 2 tablespoons honey with 2 teaspoons milk. Smooth over face and throat. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.


Smoothing Skin Lotion

Mix 1 teaspoon honey with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil and ¼ teaspoon lemon. Rub into hands, elbows, heels and anywhere that feels dry. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with water.


Antioxidants

Preliminary studies have also revealed that honey has significant natural antioxidant properties. Antioxidants play a role in protecting the skin from the damage of UV rays and in aiding in skin rejuvenation. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV radiation can cause skin damage, premature aging and even skin cancer. Because chemical and physical barrier sunscreens can cause skin irritation, companies are researching the use of antioxidants, anti-irritants and moisturizers in their sun care products. The natural properties of honey make it ideal for these products. Look for honey to appear in the ingredient statements of more and more cosmetics, sunscreens and skin care products.

Honey Cleansing Scrub

Mix 1 tablespoon honey with 2 tablespoons finely ground almonds and ½ teaspoon lemon juice. Rub gently onto face. Rinse off with warm water.
Firming Face Mask

Whisk together 1 tablespoon honey, 1 egg white, 1 teaspoon glycerin and enough flour to form a paste. (Approximately ¼ cup). Smooth over face and throat. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.

Honey Pat. This is the best way to bring a lively glow to your face and body while you moisturize and smooth. And it’s so much fun! Just bring one of those cute little honey-bears into the tub with you. Squeeze some honey anywhere on your skin and pat it with both hands. As you continue to pat your skin, the honey gets really sticky, and will pull up your skin gently with every pat. This is the BEST for circulation, and you’ll end up with a gorgeous glow. Rinse off the honey when you’ve had enough.

Honey Bath. If you don’t have time to pat-and-glow, just add 1/4 cup or so of honey to your bath. Mmmm—sweet, silky, and luscious skin.

Honey Shiny Hair. Mix 1 teaspoon honey, a squeeze of fresh lemon, and 1 quart of warm water. After shampooing, simply pour through hair. Let your hair dry as you normally would; you don’t need to rinse it out.

Moisturizing Honey Mask. Mix 2 tablespoons honey and 2 teaspoons milk or cream. Smooth on face and allow to remain for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Honey-Apple Toner. This sweet alpha-hydroxy miracle will help to firm, smooth, and moisturize your skin. In a blender or food processor, combine 1 peeled, cored apple with a tablespoon of honey and pulse until smooth. Apply pulp gently to face and allow to remain for 15 minutes, then rinse.

Good-Enough-to-Eat Facial Cleansing Scrub. Combine 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon finely-ground almonds, 2 tablespoons dry oatmeal, and enough lemon juice to moisten. Massage mixture gently onto face, then rinse with warm water.

Honey Hair Conditioning Treatment. This great formula combines the benefits of honey and olive oil for lustrous, silky, healthy hair and scalp. Simply combine 1/2 cup honey and 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup olive oil (depending on the dryness of your hair and scalp). Saturate hair and scalp with this conditioner, then put on a shower cap and allow the conditioner to remain for 30 minutes before you shampoo and rinse as usual.

Benefits Of Green Vegetables

Benefits Of Green Vegetables !

A nutrition professor once told me that it was common for our ancient ancestors to eat up to six pounds of leaves per day. He imagined them walking along from one place to another, just picking and eating leaves as they went. Can you imagine eating a grocery bag full of greens each and every day? Few of us even eat the minimum USDA recommendations of 3 cups of dark green vegetables per week. And yet, these veggies deliver a bonanza of vitamins, minerals.
Health Benefits

Dark green leafy vegetables are, calorie for calorie, perhaps the most concentrated source of nutrition of any food. They are a rich source of minerals (including iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium) and vitamins, including vitamins K, C, E, and many of the B vitamins. They also provide a variety of phytonutrients including beta-carotene,and zeaxanthin, which protect our cells from damage and our eyes from age-related problems, among many other effects. Dark green leaves even contain small amounts of fats.
Perhaps the star of these nutrients is Vitamin K. A cup of most cooked greens provides at least nine times the minimum recommended intake of Vitamin K, and even a couple of cups of dark salad greens usually provide the minimum all on their own. Recent research has provided evidence that this vitamin may be even more important than we once thought (the current minimum may not be optimal), and many people do not get enough of it.

Vitamin K:

• Regulates blood clotting

• Helps protect bones from osteoporosis

• May help prevent and possibly even reduce atherosclerosis by reducing calcium in arterial plaques

• May be a key regulator of inflammation, and may help protect us from inflammatory diseases including arthitis

• May help prevent diabetes

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, so make sure to put dressing on your salad, or cook your greens with oil. Almost Carb-Free

Greens have very little carbohydrate in them, and the carbs that are there are packed in layers of fiber, which make them very slow to digest. That is why, in general, greens have very little impact on blood glucose. In some systems greens are even treated as a "freebie" carb-wise (meaning the carbohydrate doesn't have to be counted at all).

Pistachios in demand

Pistachios are a popular snack food and are used to make a variety of sweet and savory foods, from ice cream. Pistachio nuts are especially popular in Indian and Mediterranean cuisines. To remove the brownish skin, blanch pistachios in boiling water for about two minutes. Drain and cool slightly, then rub off the skins while still warm.

Pistachios are an excellent source of nutrients and calories.

At 160 calories per ounce, pistachios are high in important vitamins and minerals like thiamin (B1), phosphorus, magnesium, copper and iron.

Pistachios are also a “Heart Smart” food too with significant amounts of monosaturated fat, which in recent studies has been shown to lower blood cholesterol, possibly reducing the risk of heart disease.

Pistachios are also low in saturated fat and are cholesterol free.


Nutritional Highlights

Pistachios (raw), 30 nuts (18g)
Calories: 99
Protein: 3.68g
Carbohydrate: 5.25g
Total Fat: 7.7g
Fiber: 1.8g

ALMOND BENEFITS

Raw almond nuts are rich in vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and fiber. Bitter almonds are used for almond oil and it is this oil which is famously used in the liqueur Amaretto. Almonds are thought to originally come from the regions of western Asia and North Africa; they are an ancient food which has been eaten since ancient Greek and Roman times. Almonds are now typically cultivated in the Mediterranean countries and also in Spain, Italy, Portugal, Morocco and also in the American state of California.Roasted almonds are slightly harder in texture than natural almonds because the dry-roasting process removes some of the moisture. Natural almonds are better for baking and cooking.

You can create delicious milk shakes by blending almond milk with frozen fruits.

Almonds contain protein and help to prevent diseases such as gallstones, type 1 diabetes, colon cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, cholesterol and aid weight loss. They are a good source of manganese, copper and vitamin B2 which help to fight against the health damaging free radicals and increase oxygen-based energy production which promotes the antioxidant molecule, glutathione. The flavonoids in the skin of the almonds, together with the vitamin E which is in the flesh of the nut, make almonds when eaten with the skin on, an extremely powerful antioxidant food with a double whammy effect.


BENEFITS

• Good source of protein and minerals especially for vegetarians

• Contains the anti-cancer agent leatril

• Very alkaline

• Excellent source of vitamin E and B vitamins thiamine and niacin

DISADVANTAGES

• Immature almonds can contain cyanide-producing compounds

• High in calories

• Some people may have an allergic reaction

Nutrition Information

• Shelled Almonds are a vitamin E-rich food; because of their skins, they are even higher in vitamin E than blanched almonds. One ounce (about 20-25 almonds) provides 35% of the daily value for vitamin E.• Almonds are also high in protein, having as much protein, ounce for ounce, as red meat, but without the cholesterol.

• Dietary fibre

• Folic acid

• Magnesium

• Phosphorus

• Potassium

• Tryptophan

• Vitamin E

• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

• Vitamin B3

• Zinc

• calcium