10 Benefits of Carrots: The Crunchy Powerfood

Forget about vitamin A pills. Carrots provide vitamin A and a host of other impressive health benefits including beautiful skin, cancer prevention and anti-aging. Learn how to reap the benefits from this crunchy powerfood.

Health Benefits of Carrots

1. Improves vision
There’s some truth in the old wisdom that carrots are good for your eyes. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the liver. Vitamin A is transformed in the retina, to rhodopsin, a purple pigment necessary for night vision.

Beta-carotene has also been shown to protect against macular degeneration and senile cataracts. A study found that people who eat large amounts of beta-carotene had a 40 percent lower risk of macular degeneration than those who consumed little.

2. Helps prevent cancer
Studies have shown carrots reduce the risk of lung cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer.

Falcarinol is a natural pesticide produced by the carrot that protects its roots from fungal diseases. Carrots are one of the only common sources of this compound. A study showed 1/3 lower cancer risk by carrot-eating rats.

3. Slows down aging
The high level of beta-carotene in carrots acts as an antioxidant to cell damage done to the body through regular metabolism. It help slows down the aging of cells.

4. Promotes healthier skin
Vitamin A and antioxidants protect the skin from sun damage. Deficiencies of vitamin A cause dryness to the skin, hair and nails. Vitamin A prevents premature wrinkling, acne, dry skin, pigmentation, blemishes and uneven skin tone.

5. Helps prevent infection
Carrots are known by herbalists to prevent infection. They can be used on cuts—shredded raw or boiled and mashed.

6. Promotes healthier skin (from the outside)
Carrots are used as an inexpensive and very convenient facial mask. Just mix grated carrot with a bit of honey. See the full recipe here: carrot face mask.

7. Prevents heart disease
Studies show that diets high in carotenoids are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Carrots have not only beta-carotene but also alpha-carotene and lutein.

The regular consumption of carrots also reduces cholesterol levels because the soluble fibers in carrots bind with bile acids.

8. Cleanses the body
Vitamin A assists the liver in flushing out the toxins from the body. It reduces the bile and fat in the liver. The fiber present in carrots helps clean out the colon and hasten waste movement.

9. Protects teeth and gums
It’s all in the crunch! Carrots clean your teeth and mouth. They scrape off plaque and food particles just like toothbrushes or toothpaste. Carrots stimulate gums and trigger a lot of saliva, which, being alkaline, balances out the acid-forming, cavity-forming bacteria. The minerals in carrots prevent tooth damage.

10. Prevents stroke
From all the above benefits it’s no surprise that in a Harvard University study, people who ate five or more carrots a week were less likely to suffer a stroke than those who ate only one carrot a month or less.

 

Fun Facts About Carrots

• Rabbits love to eat carrots, but they shouldn’t eat too many.
  A rabbit eating a single carrot is like us eating over 20. Carrots are good for rabbit teeth and don’t have artificial sugar, but even too many natural sugars can cause digestive problems and diabetes. They probably would do better with carrot tops!
• Carrots are the second most popular type of vegetable after potatoes.
• The biggest carrot recorded is more than 19 pounds and the longest is over 19 feet!
  You can see them here, but they aren’t particularly pretty!
• There are more than 100 species of carrots.
  Some are big, some are small, and they come in a variety of colors including: orange, purple, white, yellow and red.
• English women in the 1600s often wore carrot leaves in their hats in place of flowers or feathers.
• The name “carrot” comes from the Greek word “karoton.”
  The beta-carotene that is found in carrots was actually named for the carrot itself.
• The average American eats about 12 pounds of carrots a year.
  That’s only one cup per week. We could easily triple that while also eating a variety of other vegetables.

How To Eat Carrots

The nutrients in carrots are tightly encased in protein sacs that have to be broken by heat (cooking) or mechanical action (grinding, juicing, proper chewing).

Cooking the carrots in fat or oils, pureeing or juicing them increases the availability of carotenoids by 600 percent.

Fats also help the absorption of carotenoids into the blood by 1,000 percent, as carotenoids are fat soluble, so pour a little olive oil on top!

13 Health Benefits of Oranges

“Orange strengthens your emotional body, encouraging a general feeling of joy, well-being, and cheerfulness.” – Tae Yun Kim

Who doesn’t love a delicious and juicy orange as a snack? I enjoy eating one or two oranges a day most of the year, since they’re easy to eat and provide quick energy. They also provide the following health benefits:

13 Health Benefits of Oranges:

1. Oranges contain phytochemicals that protect against cancer.
Oranges are rich in citrus limonoids, proven to help fight a number of varieties of cancer including that of the skin, lung, breast, stomach and colon.

2. Orange juice can help prevent kidney diseases.
Drinking orange juice regularly prevents kidney diseases and reduces the risk of kidney stones.

Note: drink juice in moderate amounts. The high sugar content of fruit juices can cause tooth decay and the high acid content can wear away enamel if consumed in excess.

3. Mandarin oranges fight liver cancer, according to studies.
According to two studies in Japan eating mandarin oranges reduces liver cancer. This may be due in part to vitamin A compounds known as carotenoids.

4. Oranges lower cholesterol.
Since they’re full of soluble fiber, oranges are helpful in lowering cholesterol.

5. They are rich in potassium and boost heart health.
Oranges are full of potassium an electrolyte mineral responsible for helping the heart function well. When potassium levels get too low, you may develop an abnormal heart rhythm, known as an arrhythmia.

6. They lower the risk of diseases.

Oranges are full of vitamin C, which protects cells by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals cause chronic diseases, like cancer and heart disease.

7. Oranges fight against viral infections.
Studies show that the abundance of polyphenols in oranges protects against viral infections.

8. They relieve constipation.
Oranges are full of dietary fiber which stimulates digestive juices and relieves constipation.

9. They aid in good eye health and protect vision.
Oranges are rich in carotenoid compounds which are converted to vitamin A and help prevent macular degeneration.

10. They regulate high blood pressure.
The flavonoid hesperidin found in oranges helps regulate high blood pressure and the magnesium in oranges helps maintain blood pressure.

11. They protect skin.
Oranges are full of beta-carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage. Beta-carotene protects the skin from free radicals and helps prevent the signs of aging.

12. Oranges alkalize the body.
Although oranges are acidic before you digest them, they contain many alkaline minerals that help to balance out the body after they are digested. In this respect, they are similar to lemons, which are one of the most alkaline foods available.

13. Oranges provide smart carbs and do not cause a blood sugar spike.
Oranges like all fruits have simple sugars in them, but the orange has a glycemic index of 40. Anything under 55 is considered low. This means as long as you don’t eat too many oranges at one time, they won’t spike your blood sugar and cause problems with insulin or weight gain.

Oranges have a wealth of nutrients including vitamin C, vitamin A precursors, calcium,potassium and pectin. For a complete list of its nutrients go to calories in an orange.

Interesting Orange Facts:

• Oranges are the largest citrus crop in the world.
• Brazil produces more oranges than any other country.
• Navel Oranges are named after the belly button shape near the bottom.
• About 25 billion oranges are grown each year in America.
• In the 18th century British sailors took sauerkraut and citrus fruits on the ships to prevent scurvy.
• Florida produces about 70 percent of the total U.S. crop, and 90 percent of its production goes to make juice.
• In Queen Victoria’s day, oranges were given as Christmas gifts in England.
• Two most common varieties of oranges are Navel and Valencia oranges.
• Orange is the world’s third favorite flavor after chocolate and vanilla.

History of the Orange:

• Oranges were first grown in southeast Asia, northeastern India and southern China and were first cultivated in China around 2500 BC.
• In the first century AD, Romans brought young orange trees all the way from India to Rome. North Africa began growing oranges in the 1st century AD.
• Christopher Columbus brought orange seeds in 1493 across the Atlantic Ocean to Spain’s Canary Islands to Haiti, where he planted orange orchards. By 1518 oranges were introduced to Panama and Mexico, and a little later Brazil started growing orange trees.
• America’s first orange trees were planted in Florida in 1513 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon.

Growing Oranges:

Oranges are tropical to semitropical, small evergreen flowering trees growing to about 5 to 8 meters tall. Evergreen means they produce flowers and fruit all at the same time.

Oranges are either sweet or bitter, but most of us eat only the sweet oranges. The most popular sweet varieties are Valencia, Navel, Persian variety and blood orange.

Warm weather can cause the orange skin to re-green, but it will still taste good.

Orange peels contain many volatile oil glands in pits. Interior flesh is composed of segments, called carpels, made up of numerous fluid-filled vesicles that are actually specialized hair cells.

Selection and Storage:

• In the northern hemisphere orange fruit season begins in October and lasts until February.
• The bigger the navel in an orange, the sweeter it will be.
• Buy fresh fruits that are firm, yet yield to gentle pressure.
• Fresh oranges have bright color, no wrinkles on the skin and feel heavy for their size.
• Avoid overly soft oranges with spots and mold.
• Oranges can be kept at room temperature for a week or so and but keep well for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Keep them loose in the fruit container and place in the cool area away from excessive moisture, as they tend to get mold easily.
• Store freshly squeezed orange juice inside the freezer compartment for later use.
• Store dried orange zest in a cool, dry place in an airtight glass container away from moisture.
• Moro oranges are also called blood oranges, because the pulp is bright red.

Orange Cautions:

Insecticide is sprayed over most orange crops. It is important to, at the very least, wash the oranges in cold running water before use, or even better, wash them in a fruit and vegetable rinse.Organic oranges do not have these chemicals and are best suited for zest preparation.

For those susceptible to foodborne illness, you may need to avoid drinking unpasteurized or fresh-squeezed juice that could contain harmful bacteria. Try sticking to pasteurized juices.

Preparation and Serving Tips:

It is simple to eat a fresh orange anytime or anywhere. Be sure to wash them under running water to remove surface dirt and any pesticide residues.

Making fresh orange juice at home is easy and much better than commercial drinks that may contain preservatives and artificial coloring. Oranges will produce more juice when warmer, so always juice them when they are at room temperature. You can roll the orange under the palm of your hand on a flat surface to help extract more juice. Also, it is best to drink the juice at room temperature.

The outermost part of the rind can be grated to produce orange zest. It is important that you use an organic orange as this is where all the pesticides will be.

4 Types of Foods to Help Boost Your Memory

If you're feeling forgetful, it could be due to a lack of sleep or a number of other reasons, including genetics, level of physical activity and lifestyle and environmental factors. However, there's no doubt that diet plays a major role in brain health.

The best menu for boosting memory and brain function encourages good blood flow to the brain — much like what you'd eat to nourish and protect your heart. Research found the Mediterranean Diet helps in keeping aging brains sharp, and a growing body of evidence links foods like those in the Mediterranean diet with better cognitive function, memory and alertness.

Strengthen Recall by Adding These Foods to the Rotation

Eat your veggies. You're not likely to forget this message. Getting adequate vegetables, especially cruciferous ones including broccoli, cabbage and dark leafy greens, may help improve memory. Try a kale salad or substitute collard greens for a tortilla in your next sandwich wrap. Broccoli stir-fry is also an excellent option for lunch or dinner.

Be sweet on berries and cherries. Berries — especially dark ones such as blackberries, blueberries and cherries — are a rich source of anthocyanins and other flavonoids that may boost memory function. Enjoy a handful of berries for a snack, mixed into cereal or baked into an antioxidant-rich dessert. You can reap these benefits from fresh, frozen or dried berries and cherries.

Get adequate omega-3 fatty acids. Essential for good brain health, omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in particular, may help improve memory in healthy young adults. "DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain. It makes sense that if you have higher levels of DHA in the blood, then the brain will operate more efficiently," says Andrea Giancoli, RD, registered dietitian and past Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson (2005-2014).

Seafood, algae and fatty fish — including salmon, bluefin tuna, sardines and herring — are some of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Substitute fish for meat a couple of times each week to get a healthy dose. Grill, bake or broil fish for ultimate flavor and health. Try salmon tacos with red cabbage slaw, snack on sardines or enjoy seared tuna on salad greens for dinner. If you don't eat fish, discuss other food options and supplementation with your doctor or registered dietitian nutritionist. You can get omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, seaweed or microalgae supplements.

Work in walnuts. Well known for a positive impact on heart health, walnuts also may improve working memory. Snack on a handful of walnuts to satisfy midday hunger, add them to oatmeal or salad for crunch or mix them into a vegetable stir-fry for extra protein.

These foods are not just good for the brain, they sustain a healthy heart and all parts of the body. While there's no guarantee that these foods will help you remember where you put your keys tomorrow, over time they can support lifelong good health.

8 Foods to Eat During Pregnancy for Fair and Intelligent Babies

Every pregnant woman wants that after delivery her baby got a fair skin complexion, the food which we tell you are really very awesome for the fair complexion of your fetus and you definitely got a fair baby.

It’s very natural when you are pregnant; the cravings for food go in excess of amount. Even though, a lot of our Asian people are educated, the desire for having a fair baby is very imperative. Conferring to professionals, it’s not important that what you eat during pregnancy for desire of fair baby.

In fact the facial appearance of the fetus which is budding inside your womb will be a combination of both mother and father. Though, since mostly follow blind faith on myths, but it’s also observed that there are a few of food which you can eat all through your pregnancy to get a fair baby.

Foods To Eat During Pregnancy To Get A Fair Baby

Saffron Milk:

Several of pregnant women who take saffron milk at their time of pregnancy. It is supposed the saffron aids to make the baby complexion fair. It recovers the fairness of the child developing in the womb.

Coconut Pregnancy Benefits :
If it’s your desire to have a fair baby, make it a routine to take a good amount of kernel during pregnant. Conferring to peoples beliefs, the white kernel of the coconut will play an important character in the fairness of your child.

Milk in Pregnancy First Trimester:
Milk is essential for a pregnant woman to take at the time of pregnancy. Milk is also one another good thing for the growth of the fetus.

Egg Benefits During Pregnancy:
It is expected that the egg white must be taken by pregnant women in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy if you need to have a fair child.

Almonds Benefits During Pregnancy:
A pregnant woman must eat dry or soaked almonds during her pregnancy, if she needs to deliver a fair baby.

Ghee:
A lot of research says that at what time a pregnant woman enhances ghee to her meal, by using this she will have a not as much of painful delivery, beside this ghee moreover supports to improve the color of the skin for the fetus.

Oranges in Pregnancy:
During pregnancy orange is the best fruit for pregnant women. It is full of Vitamin C which is desirable for the development of your baby and also to recover the skin tone.

Pineapples:
Pineapples is also which is ironic in Vitamin C, have said to recover the color tone. If you need to have a fair baby, it is good to consume a glass of fresh pineapple juice one time in a week.

Health Benefits Of Garlic – Anti-Cancer, Anti-Infection, Detoxify, And More

A common ingredient for sautéing, garlic is an amazingly healthful and popular spice relative of onion, leek, chive and shallots. While a cooking favorite thanks to great taste, the health benefits of garlic have also been recognized and taken advantage of since the ancient times, showing countless individuals the compelling reasons to increase garlic consumption.

The Many Health Benefits of Garlic – Experience them Today

If you aren’t already a fan of garlic, you will likely load up your kitchen with the food after reading all it has to offer. Here are some of the health benefits of garlic:

Boosting the Immune System, Anti-Infection

If history tells us anything about garlic, it is that the food has many well-known health benefits – the most popular being its anti-infection uses and overall power to boost the immune system. Garlic possess antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal properties allowing it to stand against all infections. Skin conditions caused by bacteria, virus, fungi or yeast can be treated by rubbing raw chopped garlic on the affected area.

Garlic has been studied not only for it’s ability to fight bacterial and viral infections, but also infection from other microbes including yeasts/fungi and worms. One particular substance found in garlic called ajoene has been used to help prevent infections with the yeast Candida albicans.

Other research has shown that crushed garlic can help prevent infection by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with burns.

And of course, garlic is great for boosting the immune system, containing high levels of vitamin C and being identified as a serious anti-cancer food. Because of its high potassium content, it can aid in absorption of essential nutrients, and help avoid digestive problems and fatigue as well. Garlic can also help in lung and throat problems due to its pungent smell. Since consuming garlic can irritate the digestive tract because of its pungent smell, a signal travels to the brain to release watery fluid in the lungs to counter the pungent property, thereby helping clear the lungs out of cough and colds.

Garlic is a Powerful Cancer Fighter

Adding more to the health benefits of garlic list, garlic’s role in the prevention of cancer is perhaps one of the most notorious. Scientists believe that the exceptional anti-cancer properties may have to do with the way that garlic boosts the production of something known as hydrogen sulfide. It is the hydrogen sulfide production that researchers believe to be why garlic is so effective at preventing a wide variety of cancer including, prostate, breast, and colon cancer.

One study out of the National Cancer Institute found that eating 10 grams (about two teaspoons) or more of garlic, onions or scallions each day could significantly reduce prostate cancer risk. But this isn’t the only type of cancer garlic can prevent.

Other research conducted at Case Western Reserve University indicated that garlic may help reduce the occurrence rate of pre-cancerous tumors (polyps) in the large intestine.

Further showcasing garlic as one of many cancer-fighting foods, several other population studies conducted in China also found that frequent consumption of garlic was associated with reduced risk of esophageal and stomach cancers. The risk seemed to drop as the amount of garlic consumed went up.

Garlic Fights Inflammation, Protecting Against Numerous Conditions

Research shows that anti-inflammatory compounds in garlic can also benefit our musculoskeletal system and respiratory system. Two sulfur containing constituents in garlic, diallyl sulfide (DAS) and thiacremonone, have anti-arthritic properties. Garlic has also been shown to improve inflammatory conditions when referring to allergic airway inflammation.

Surprisingly, the sulfur-containing compounds in garlic may even help the inflammatory aspects of obesity. Fat cells cannot grow 100% unless they are able to move from a preliminary stage called “preadipocytes” to a stage called “adipocytes.” As you may have guessed, thanks to one of the sulfur compounds in garlic, garlic halts this progress. The sulfur compound is 1,2,-vinyldithiin, or 1,2-DT, and the impact of 1,2-DT appears to be inflammation-related. This is exciting because inflammation is being recognized more and more as being a part of obesity.

Garlic for Detoxification

Another one of the many health benefits of garlic, this food may also be used to detoxify – an extremely important method everyone should be doing to cleanse the body of toxins. While the benefits of garlic for liver health and beyond are many, one reason for its superior effects has to do with the fact that garlic contains numerous sulfur-containing compounds that are known to activate the liver enzymes responsible for expelling toxins from the body. Another lies in the presence of both allicin and selenium, two important nutrients that play an integral role in the protection of the liver from damage

It is also important to note that many cancers are thought to be caused by damage to DNA, which could be the result of exposure to environmental toxins. One study conducted at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center found that eating a teaspoon of fresh garlic and a half cup of onions per day could remove toxins in the blood cells due to an increased production of a key toxin-removing enzyme.

These are only some of the health benefits of garlic.

Other Health Benefits of Garlic

• Toothache – Among many home remedies for toothache, the use of garlic has been passed down for years to treat this issue; the antibiotic compound called allicin is what give garlic this ability. When garlic is crushed, this compound is released, helping to slow bacterial activity upon application and ingestion. Try applying a crushed garlic clove or garlic powder to the area. It may burn, but the pain from the toothache could vanish within minutes, although it could take hours. Repeat this over a few days, and you all should be well.

• Repel mosquitoes – Although not conclusive, there is a long history of using garlic to get rid of many insects. Garlic has a reputation for protecting people from mosquito bites, specifically.

• Warts – Each night before bed, crush up a clove of garlic, rub it on the wart, and apply a bandage. Additionally, cover the wart with juice from garlic twice a day.

• Earache – Mix some sesame oil with a garlic clove and warm the mixture up in a pan. Afterwards, use it as ear drops. It is recommended that you allow the mixture to sit in the ear for 10 minutes or longer.

• Cough – Boiling cloves of garlic and drinking it like tea will not only make it easier to breathe, but it will also help to alleviate itchiness which could cause you to cough continuously. Check out other home remedies for cough here.

• Stuffy nose or nasal congestion – Adding to garlic benefits, this spice is one ingredient in one of the most popular home remedies for nasal congestion: tomato tea. Tomato tea is by far the most effective method as reported by peers on Earthclinic. It’s hot and spicy, providing steam and pepper to clear your sinuses, as well as a wallop of vitamin C and a boost to the immune system. Combine the following ingredients in a food processor and heat over a stove until steaming.
  • 1 cup tomato juice
  • 1 tsp fresh garlic
  • ½ tsp of hot sauce
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Pinch of sea or celery salt

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A Little Information on Cooking

It’s important that you’re preparing garlic the right way, as improper preparation and consumption could negate the positive effects. Oftentimes, home chefs will cook garlic immediately after crushing or chopping it, which is not allowing optimal time for enzyme reactions that boost the healthy compounds in garlic. Instead, crush the garlic at room temperature and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. In addition, never cook garlic at high heat — try consuming it raw or cooked lightly.

Raw garlic can be used to kill bacteria, but cooked garlic has more potency in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

If you are worried about garlic causing bad breathe, you can counter this by consuming garlic prepared as pills or capsules. If you want to experience the health benefits of garlic and stave off the odor a different way, consume garlic with parsley, as the herb counters garlic’s bad smell.

Lastly, much of the research on garlic as an antibiotic has involved fresh garlic extracts or powdered garlic products and not garlic in it’s whole food form. You will, however, experience garlic benefits simply from ingesting the powerful health food.

Garlic Benefits Summary – Garlic is Great for:

• Cancer
• Detoxification
• Boosting the immune system
• Infections
• Inflammation
• Heart Health
• Toothache
• Repel mosquitoes
• Warts
• Earache
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Stuffy nose or nasal congestion

Health Benefits Of Mangosteen

Health benefits of mangosteen include reduced risk of cancer, inflammation, allergies and diabetes. It has antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial properties which help in protecting the body against various health ailments and also boosts immune system. Mangosteen is beneficial in maintaining healthy skin, weight management and providing relief from diarrhea and dysentery.

The fruit is reddish or dark purple in color. Due to its good taste mangosteen is also known as queen of fruits.

The place of origin is not known but it mangosteen is said to have been first domesticated in Southeast Asian countries. Thailand, Burma, India and Vietnam are some of the countries where it was cultivated since many years. Apart from these countries it is now grown in other Asian countries and some African countries.

Mangosteen does not have many varieties except for the one which is found in Sulu Islands. It is an ultra-tropical plant which needs humidity, rainfall and cannot survive in long periods of drought. And it cannot be grown at very high altitude regions. Harvesting seasons vary on the basis of location and altitude. In India there are two seasons for harvest, monsoon period and between April and June. In Ceylon, the fruit season is from May to Jul for low altitude regions and for higher altitude regions the fruit ripens from July to August or August to September.

It seems that the people of Southeast Asia realized the medicinal value that this fruit had long time ago. Relying on it as a form of treatment to different medical conditions is the reason why scientists have continuously carried out studies and researches to confirm these healing allegations. So far the benefits of this fruit have been proved scientifically over the past 3 decades to be true.

Nutritional Value of Mangosteen

Mangosteen is a healthy fruit which is rich in water, energy, protein, carbohydrate and fiber. Essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper and manganese are found in this fruit. It contains vitamin C, vitamin B6,vitamin B12 and vitamin A which are required for maintaining good health. Other vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, folate, folic acid, carotene and cryptoxanthin are also found in mangosteen.

Health Benefits of Mangosteen

Anti-cancer properties: Health benefits of mangosteen include anti-cancer properties. The pericarps of mangosteen contain xanthones which exhibit anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. The xanthones inhibit the cell growth in human colon cancer and as per a research study conducted by Akao Y et al. they exhibit the potential to be developed as agents to prevent cancer or can be used in combination with anti-cancer drugs for beneficial effects.

Anti-inflammatory properties: Mangosteen has been used as an anti-inflammatory agent since many years in Southeast Asian countries. Scientific research study also showed that the extracts of mangosteen have anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties and they inhibit the release of histamine and prostaglandin which are associated with inflammation in the human body.

Healthy skin: Mangosteen helps in maintaining healthy skin. The anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-allergy and anti-oxidant properties help in reducing risk of various conditions such as skin inflammation, skin aging, eczema, allergies and bacterial infections. Research studies have been carried out to ascertain the various benefits of mangosteen for skin and one such study suggests that mangosteen has anti-skin cancer properties and has the potential of being an anti-skin cancer agent.

Healthy immune system: Mangosteen is rich in various nutrients, minerals, vitamins and xanthone which help in boosting the immune system. These nutrients protect the body from various health ailments that weaken the immune system.

Antioxidant properties: Mangosteen is among the fruits that are known to contain powerful antioxidants that are useful to the immune system and the entire body. These antioxidants contain cell boosters that are referred to as xanthones which contain various properties that have medicinal value. This is why mangosteen is termed as a healing fruit which can be used to reverse to the effects of diseases that are associated with common man.

Medicinal use: Mangosteen with its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties is beneficial as a medicinal drink and for quick healing of wounds. The leaves and bark of the tree can be mixed with other medicinal herbs and applied to the wounds for a faster recovery. The medicinal drink can be prepared by boiling the leaves and the bark of the tree.

Diarrhea and dysentery: Use of mangosteen is beneficial in stomach disorders as well. The mangosteen pericarp and peel are effective in providing relief from stomach disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery.

Menstrual problems: The roots of mangosteen also provide health benefits. Mangosteen root helps in regulating menstrual cycle in women.

Astringent properties: The bark and leaves of the mangosteen tree exhibit astringent properties and are beneficial in curing thrush or aphtha.

Cardioprotective effect: Mangosteen may also be helpful in reducing risk of stroke or myocardial infarction. Findings of a study indicate the cardio protective effect of mangosteen on antioxidant tissue defense system and lipid peroxidation during stroke.

Diabetes: Diabetes is a medical condition that is also common in the modern society. Though it is manageable using prescribed medication it can be a health risk especially if adequate precautions are not taken. Mangosteen one natural remedy which is effective in managing and maintaining blood sugar levels in the body

Weight loss: Incorporating mangosteen in diet may be effective in weight loss. The various nutrients found in mangosteen also ensure good health and well-being.

Other uses of mangosteen

Apart from the various health benefits mangosteen is useful for other commercial purposes. In china it is used for tanning leather and in Ghana the tree twigs are used as chewsticks. The wood is also used for making rice pounders, handles and is also used in constructing furniture.

How to prepare and consume mangosteen?

Fresh mangosteen fruit is eaten as a dessert. Juice made from mangosteen flesh is can be prepared at home and is also available as a health drink “xango juice”.

It is also made into jams and thus can be stored for longer duration and can be consumed any time of the year. Mangosteen products are available in tablet or capsule form. Apart from the fruit the seeds are also edible. They can be consumed after roasting or boiling.

How to select and store?

Due to ease of transportation in all parts of the world this fruit is stocked in different stores even in countries where it is not grown. This is an advantage because one does not have to be a farmer of mangosteen in order to enjoy all its health benefits.

While buying the mangosteen fruit select those which have less seed and more fleshy segments. Choose the fruits which have highest number of stigma lobes at the apex.

Mangosteens generally do not have a long shelf life. They can maintain their freshness up to a period of two weeks of which they tend to lose flavor and nutritional value. Placing this fruit in a cool place that has adequate supply of fresh air is the best way to ensure that this fruit maintains its freshness and nutrition content .Following these simple guidelines makes it simple for a person to select the best fruits without any assistance.

10 Home Remedies You Can Find in Your Kitchen

Natural-born soothers

You already know that consuming the right foods can boost your intake of minerals, vitamins, and nutrients. But there are a few out there that could also alleviate some of your most pesky daily problems, like hiccups or even rashes like eczema. Though it's important to keep in mind that serious conditions need the attention of a doctor, it might not hurt to reach for one of these 10 items the next time you have a minor health problem.

Ginger for menstrual cramps

Traditional Chinese medicine has relied on ginger for more than 2,000 years. "Ginger can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in your muscles, including those in the uterus where cramps originate," says Mary Rosser, MD, PhD, assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, New York.

What's more, a preliminary study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine even found that ginger was as effective as ibuprofen for relieving period pain (more research is needed). To make your time of the month a little more bearable, try brewing up a cup of warm ginger tea.

Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, a compound that fends off the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTI). "E. coli is one of the top offenders in triggering a UTI," Dr. Rosser says. "This substance has been shown to prevent infection by keeping the bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls." If you already have a UTI, cranberries probably won't cure it, but consuming cranberries daily may help protect against future infections. About 20% of women who get a UTI will contract another one, so drinking one to two glasses a day of 20% pure cranberry juice will help prevent recurrence, Dr. Rosser says.

Calcium-rich foods for PMS

Prone to irritability and mood swings before your period? You're not alone. About 85% of menstruating women experience at least one PMS symptom each month. The good news is tweaking your diet might help lessen your symptoms. "It's been shown that people with PMS have lower blood calcium levels than those without PMS," Dr. Rosser says. The National Institutes of Health recommends adults consume about 1,000 milligrams of calcium a day. You probably already know that dairy products are rich in calcium, but so are almonds, broccoli, leafy greens, and sardines.

Oatmeal for eczema

Calm itchy, inflamed skin using this breakfast food. Oatmeal soothes rashes because it's packed with phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties. Create a soothing bath by grinding 1/3 cup of plain oatmeal (no flavors!) into a fine powder using your blender; pour the powder into lukewarm water and stir in evenly with your hands until the water is a milky color, suggests Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist. Another option: use 1/4 cup of oatmeal and enough water to make a paste that you can apply directly to the skin for 10 minutes, she says.

Sea salt for dry skin

You don't need an expensive skincare product to treat rough patches on your knees, elbows, and heels. A sea salt scrub made at home will work just as well. "Sea salt is a good exfoliator because it has thicker grains that do a good job of clearing away dry skin," Dr. Mariwalla says. Just mix one cup of sea salt with 1/2 cup of a light massage oil. "Use a bowl to make sure the mixture stays moist, like wet sand, and not runny," Dr. Mariwalla says. It's best to keep this scrub away from your more sensitive areas like your face and the back of your arms, though. It can be harsh on skin that doesn't require as much exfoliation.

Cucumbers for puffy eyes

Laying cold cucumber slices over your eyes may look a little silly, but the age-old beauty trick really does reduce puffiness. Cucumbers, which are 95% water, offer a nice cooling sensation and the cold temperature causes blood vessels to constrict and reduce inflammation. And there's a reason why cucumbers in particular work even better than ice packs. "Cucumber slices perfectly fit to the contours of your eyes to help reduce swelling," Dr. Mariwalla says. You'll only need to leave them on for 10 minutes for fresher-looking eyes.

Prunes for constipation

Dried plums are rich in insoluble fiber, a key nutrient to help fight constipation. "Insoluble fiber doesn't dissolve in water and creates more bulk so waste can push through the digestive system," says Wayne Andersen, MD, medical director of Take Shape for Life, a weight loss program from Medifast. Prunes also contain two substances that act as natural laxatives, sorbitol and dihydrophenylisatin, which will work much better for your system over time than drugstore constipation aids. "The body can become desensitized over time to over-the-counter laxatives," Dr. Andersen says. Start with just one prune a day first and bump up your intake to two if you don't see a response.

Sugar for hiccups

When you hiccup, the diaphragm undergoes a series of spasms, but you can fool your body into stopping that reaction by putting a teaspoon of sugar underneath your tongue. The sweet sensation is strong enough to stimulate the vagus nerve. That's the longest cranial nerve in your body, starting at your brain stem and extending as far down as your diaphragm to control the stomach. "Keep the sugar under your tongue until you stop hiccupping, and then swallow to fill the back of your throat with even more sensation," Dr. Andersen says.

Apples for heartburn

Avoiding trigger foods like soda, high-fat beef, and anything fried is the best way to deal with acid reflux. One food that should keep in your diet: apples. "Apples have pectin, a soluble fiber that's really great at absorbing stomach acid," says Dr. Andersen. Plus, the fruit contains two types of acid (malic and tartaric) that work to beat back any juices that flow up from your stomach. "Buy organic red or golden delicious apples that are sweeter than the tart granny smiths," Dr. Andersen suggests. "Sweet apples are considered alkaline foods that work at a cellular level to restore pH balance and prevent GERD."

Turmeric for infections

Turmeric is revered in India as a "holy powder" that can be used to prevent infections and treat wounds. That's thanks to a compound called curcumin. "Foods with curcumin have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties so they can help with cleansing and healing," says Dr. Andersen. A study in the Biochemical Journal even found that curcumin has the ability to stop bacteria from multiplying. If your medicine cabinet is running low on antibiotic ointment, try dabbing a little turmeric on your cut or scrape instead, but only for minor or superficial wounds. Dr. Andersen suggests using half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a drop or two of water to make a paste, or if the wound is still bleeding a bit, you can apply the powder without water. After the area is dry, cover with a dressing and let the healing begin.

15 REASONS WHY SWEET POTATOES ARE PERFECT FOR DIABETICS

Sweet potatoes are a particular type of potatoes from the same order as regular ones with the difference that they are part of different species and a different family. You can find sweet potatoes in a variety of colors.

The most frequently found are the ones with white-cream and yellow-orange color. There are also sweet potatoes with purple flesh and they are extremely abundant in antioxidants. The most important thing about them is that they have excellent nutritional values.

15 Nutritious Facts:

1. Sweet potatoes are an excellent choice for diabetics since they contain natural sugars that decrease and stabilize the insulin resistance in diabetics. They are also good for the regulation of the sugar levels.

2. Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fibers which are good for digestion. They also prevent colon cancer and help with constipation.

3. Sweet potatoes contain carotenoids which help in producing Vitamin A. This vitamin regenerates the respiratory system. So, people with respiratory problems, especially smokers should consume sweet potatoes more often.

4. Vitamin D is also contained in sweet potatoes. This vitamin is good for the teeth, heart, skin, bones, energy levels as well as for the normal function of the thyroid gland.

5. In general there can be an improvement of the heart functioning with the help of the potassium. This vitamin lowers the impact of the sodium, regulates blood pressure and makes a balance of the electrolytes.
The sweet potato has Vitamin B6 that prevents heart attacks, strokes and degenerative diseases.

6. The potassium in the sweet potatoes is good for healthy tissues and muscles. It also helps in reducing swelling and cramps, provides with energy and relaxes the muscles. It also regulates heartbeats and nerve signals.

7. Beta –carotene in the sweet potato acts like an anti –oxidant. It helps with arthritis, gout and asthma, protects against lung and breast cancer and it also reduces aging effects.

8. Since sweet potatoes are rich in folic acid, they are a great source of folic for healthy fetal development. Pregnant women should consume more sweet potatoes.

9. The potassium content in potatoes increases the flow of oxygen, regulates the balance of the body’s water and normalizes the heartbeats. The magnesium content on the other hand acts as an anti-stress agent.

10. Vitamin C is crucial for the entire body’s function and sweet potatoes have abundance of it.
11. Sweet potatoes are also rich in iron that has a crucial role in the producing of red and white blood cells. That’s why they help against anemia.

12. Did you know that you can use the water from the boiled potatoes for treating your skin? Especially for irritation of the skin, cleaning the pores and absorbing impurities.

The Vitamin C contained in the sweet potato will produce collagen while the vitamin E will help in the improvement of the complexion of the skin. Anthocyanins will help you in removing wrinkles and purifying the dark circles around the eyes.

13. If you suffer from painful pre-menstrual symptoms, the iron and manganese in sweet potatoes will soothe them.

14.Having problems with damaged hair and dandruff? The beta-carotene will prevent them and it will also stimulate hair growth.

15. Since sweet potatoes have an abundance of the vitamins vital for the enzyme, protein and carbohydrate metabolism you should consume them more often. However, you need to consult a doctor if you have ever had oxalate urinary tract stones.

SIGNALS OUR BODY SENDS TELLING US WE ARE NOT HEALTHY – DO NOT IGNORE THEM!

The human body is a complex system and every possible change indicates a condition that you should pay more attention to. It is in its nature to detect whenever things go wrong.

We have covered the most important “signals” your body sends every time something wrong happens. Make sure you do not ignore none of them.

#1: Moles
Moles are usually harmless, but if you notice moles appearing after your skin has been exposed to sun, make sure you consult your doctor.

#2: Gray Hair (sooner than you turn 40)
If 50 percent of your hair turns gray in younger ages, and there is no similar case in your family history, you may be dealing with diabetes.

#3: Cracked Lips
This is commonly caused by temperature changes and wind. But, if you deal with this condition more often, you may have a fungal infection or vitamin B deficiency.

#4: Swollen Neck
You should most certainly not ignore this. Human neck swells as a result of thyroid malfunction, usually in women aged between 20 and 50.
#5: Eye Whites
They should be always white, as literal as it may sound. Of course, that does not apply in cases of insufficient sleep or cold. Yellow eye whites indicate jaundice or liver/bile related problems. If your eye whites are red, you may have hypertension or any viral disease.

#6: Red Palms
This is a sign of eczema, dermatitis or allergic reaction. Red palms sometimes indicate liver problems.

#7: Eye Brows
If you lose your eye brows suddenly, you may have problems with your thyroid gland, it could be either hyperthyreose or hypothyreose.

#8: Changes in Nails
Nails tell a lot about your health condition, and certain changes may indicate a wide number of ailments. Thin and cracking nails are oftentimes a matter of genes, but they may also indicate calcium deficiency. Improper thyroid function also causes changes in your nails.

8 Excellent Reasons to Eat More Eggplants

I have always been an eggplant lover. I was shocked to hear that the Hindi word for them, ‘baingan,’ is actually derived from another word that means ‘without merit,’ since the eggplant has for long time been misunderstood as a non-nourishing food.

Whoever floated this idea, should be eating their words—and more eggplants! Here’s what the humble eggplant can do to help you live healthier:

The iron, calcium and other minerals in eggplant supply the essential nutrients required by the body. All this, while relishing a highly flavorful veggie, is a good deal, indeed! Stuff, grill, bake, roast, stew your eggplants—they’re delicious in most avatars!

Eggplants contain certain essential phyto nutrients which improve blood circulation and nourish the brain. But remember—these nutrients are concentrated in the skin of the eggplant, so don’t char and throw it away.

They provide fiber, which protects the digestive tract. In fact, regular intake of eggplants can protect you from colon cancer.

Eggplant is low in calories, with just 35 per cup. It contains no fat and its high fiber content can help you feel full.

For centuries, eggplants have been used for controlling and managing diabetes. Modern research validates this role, thanks to the high fiber and low soluble carbohydrate content of the eggplant.

Eggplants have a role in heart care, too. Research studies show they can lower ‘bad’ cholesterol. But you must cook them the right way to get these benefits. Fried eggplant soaks up a lot of fat, making it harmful and heavy. Instead, bake it at 400 degrees, which brings out glorious flavor and gives you all the goodness an eggplant holds!

The heart-healthy benefits of eggplant don’t end with limiting cholesterol. Eggplants are high in bioflavonoids, which are known to control high blood pressure and relieve stress.

Regular consumption of eggplant helps prevent blood clots—thanks again to Vitamin K and bioflavonoids, which strengthen capillaries.

Guyabano: A Natural Cancer Cells Killer

Guyabano has been used as folkloric herbal medicine in many regions thought the world. It is considered to be antispasmodic, sudorific and emetic.

The benefits of Guyabano Include:

• Protect your immune system and helps you avoid deadly infections.
• Feel stronger and healthier throughout the course of the treatment.
• Boost your energy and improve your outlook on life.

The Guyabano tree, its fruit, leaves, stem, bark may be a natural cancer cell killer. The source of this information is just as stunning. Extracts from the tree were shown to: Effectively target and kill malignant cells in 12 types of cancer, including colon, breast, prostate, lung and pancreatic cancer.

What’s more, unlike chemotherapy, laboratory tests shows that the compound extracted from the Guyabano tree selectively hunts down and kills only cancer cells. It does not harm healthy cells! Various parts of the tree–including the bark, leaves, roots, fruit and fruit-seeds–have been used for centuries by medicine men and native Indians in South America to treat heart disease, asthma, liver problems and arthritis.

The results showed that Guyabano’s “leaves and stems were found effective in attacking and destroying malignant cells. In many independent laboratory tests has proven that Guyabano may be a potent cancer killer.

The most significant part of the report is that Guyabano (Annona Muricata) was shown to selectively target the cancer cells, leaving healthy cells untouched. Unlike chemotherapy, which indiscriminately targets all actively reproducing cells (such as stomach and hair cells), causing the often devastating side effects of nausea and hair loss in cancer patients.

A study at Purdue University found that the leaves from the Guyabano tree killed cancer cells among six human cell lines and were especially effective against prostate, pancreatic and lung cancers.

Guyabano Fruit Nutrition

Guyabano belongs to the family of Annonaceae, (A. muricata L.). The flesh of the fruit consist of a white edible pulp that is high in carbohydrates and considerable amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Potassium and dietary fiber. Guyabano is low in cholesterol, saturated fat and sodium. No only is guyabano a good health food, it also taste delicious. The tree and fruit is known in various names: Guyabano in Filipino, Soursop in English, Graviola in Brazil, and Guanabana in Spanish.

About the Guyabano

The heart shaped / oblong Guyabano fruit has a dark green, leatherly abd soike-like skin that measures from 8 to 12 inches long and can weigh up to 2.5 kilos. The creamy and delectable flesh contains from 60 to 100 black-brown seed that are indigestible and non-edible. The Guyabano tree is relatively small. It usually grows from 8 feet to less than 20 feet high and is sensitive to very cold temperatures. The Guyabano tree requires a lot of water, warmth and humidity and is usually grown in the tropics. It is cultivated commercially in Central & South America, West Africa, Asia and South Florida in limited numbers.

Products made from Guyabano tree

Aside from being eaten raw, the guyabano fruit is processed into candies, tarts, shakes, ice-cream, sherbets, beverages. The leaves are made into tea and the leaves and stem are made into Guyabano vitamins and supplements.

Medicinal Uses of Guyabano

A decoction (boiling in water) of guyabano leaves is used to kill bedbugs and head lice.

To reduce fever, a decoction of leaves can be taken internally or the leaves added to bathing water also has the same effect. The crushed fresh leaves are also applied on skin eruptions for faster healing. A poultice of young guyabano leaves is applied on the skin to alleviate rheumatism and other skin infections like eczema. Applied during the healing of wounds, this can result in less or no skin scars. The decoction can also be used as a wet compress on swollen feet and other inflammations.

The juice of the fruit is taken orally as a herbal remedy for urethritis, haematuria and liver ailments.

Studies are underway by leading medical institutes, universities and pharmaceutical companies of the healing properties of guyabano against cancers. Initial findings show that certain compounds and chemicals extracted from guyabano leaves, seeds, fruit and bark appear to kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells remain unaffected.

The cure for cancer may lies in a guyabano tree

The Guyabano tree consists of many chemicals, but what makes the Guyabano tree special is that this tree contains a natural compound named ‘acetogenins’. Research has found that this compound can slow the growth of tumor cells and be toxic to tumor cells without harming healthy cells. Especially the latter is a problem of recent anticancer drugs. Chemotherapy kills growing cells, bad (the cancer cells) and good (the healthy cells). The best cure for cancer is a product that can target only the cancer cells. And this is just exactly what the natural compound found in the Guyabano tree does.

The tree produces these ‘acetogenins’ in the leaves, stem and bark. What you can do is drink the extracts of the tree and this may help you fight against cancer.

Chemical compound

What everyone would like is to make these acetogenins in big quantities, to help everyone. However, the natural ‘acetogenins’ are very complex in structure and is not easily to make by chemists. To make it easier to produce large amounts of this medicine, research has been done to find the active parts of the compound against cancer. If the active parts can be found, the medicine would be easier to produce and be more available to everyone. Unfortunately, scientists have not been able to find the active parts of the Guyabano tree.

Until then, you can turn to the natural acetogenins and drink the tea, juice or use the supplements.

Other uses of Guyabano

Pulverizing the guyabano seeds and mixing it with soap & water is used as effective spray against caterpillars, armyworms and leafhoppers on plants.

The guyabano leaves are believed to have a tranquilizing and sedative properties. In the Netherlands Antilles, the leaves are placed inside pillows or placed on top of the mattress to induce a good night’s sleep.

11 Proven Health Benefits of Ginger

Ginger is among the healthiest (and most delicious) spices on the planet.

It is loaded with nutrients and bioactive compounds that have powerful benefits for your body and brain.

Here are 11 health benefits of ginger that are supported by scientific research.

1. Ginger Contains Gingerol, a Substance With Powerful Medicinal Properties

Ginger is a flowering plant that originated from China.

It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, and is closely related to turmeric, cardomon and galangal.

The rhizome (underground part of the stem) is the part commonly used as a spice. It is often called ginger root, or simply ginger.

Ginger has a very long history of use in various forms of traditional/alternative medicine. It has been used to help digestion, reduce nausea and help fight the flu and common cold, to name a few.

This is what ground, fresh and sliced ginger looks like:

Ginger can be used fresh, dried, powdered, or as an oil or juice, and is sometimes added to processed foods and cosmetics. It is a very common ingredient in recipes.

The unique fragrance and flavor of ginger come from its natural oils, the most important of which is gingerol.

Gingerol is the main bioactive compound in ginger, responsible for much of its medicinal properties. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Bottom Line: Ginger is a popular spice. It is high in gingerol, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

2. Ginger Can Treat Many Forms of Nausea, Especially Morning Sickness

Ginger appears to be highly effective against nausea.

For example, it has a long history of use as a sea sickness remedy, and there is some evidence that it may be as effective as prescription medication.

Ginger may also relieve nausea and vomiting after surgery, and in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy .

But it may be the most effective when it comes to pregnancy-related nausea, such as morning sickness.

According to a review of 12 studies that included a total of 1,278 pregnant women, 1.1-1.5 grams of ginger can significantly reduce symptoms of nausea.

However, ginger had no effect on vomiting episodes in this study.

Although ginger is considered safe, talk to your doctor before taking large amounts if you are pregnant. Some believe that large amounts can raise the risk of miscarriage, but there are currently no studies to support this.

Bottom Line: 1-1.5 grams of ginger can help prevent various types of nausea. This applies to sea sickness, chemotherapy-related nausea, nausea after surgery and morning sickness.

3. Ginger May Reduce Muscle Pain and Soreness

Ginger has been shown to be effective against exercise-induced muscle pain.

In one study, consuming 2 grams of ginger per day, for 11 days, significantly reduced muscle pain in people performing elbow exercises.

Ginger does not have an immediate impact, but may be effective at reducing the day-to-day progression of muscle pain.

These effects are believed to be mediated by the anti-inflammatory properties.

Bottom Line: Ginger appears to be effective at reducing the day-to-day progression of muscle pain, and may reduce exercise-induced muscle soreness.

4. The Anti-Inflammatory Effects Can Help With Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common health problem.

It involves degeneration of the joints in the body, leading to symptoms like joint pain and stiffness.

In a controlled trial of 247 people with osteoarthritis of the knee, those who took ginger extract had less pain and required less pain medication.

Another study found that a combination of ginger, mastic, cinnamon and sesame oil, can reduce pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients when applied topically.

Bottom Line: There are some studies showing ginger to be effective at reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis, which is a very common health problem.

5. Ginger May Drastically Lower Blood Sugars and Improve Heart Disease Risk Factors

This area of research is relatively new, but ginger may have powerful anti-diabetic properties.

In a recent 2015 study of 41 participants with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of ginger powder per day lowered fasting blood sugar by 12%.

It also dramatically improved HbA1c (a marker for long-term blood sugar levels), leading to a 10% reduction over a period of 12 weeks.

There was also a 28% reduction in the ApoB/ApoA-I ratio, and a 23% reduction in markers for oxidized lipoproteins. These are both major risk factors for heart disease.

This graph shows what happened:

Photo Source: Suppversity.

However, keep in mind that this was just one small study. The results are incredibly impressive, but they need to be confirmed in larger studies before any recommendations can be made.

Bottom Line: Ginger has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve various heart disease risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes.

6. Ginger Can Help Treat Chronic Indigestion

Chronic indigestion (dyspepsia) is characterized by recurrent pain and discomfort in the upper part of the stomach.

It is believed that delayed emptying of the stomach is a major driver of indigestion.

Interestingly, ginger has been shown to speed up emptying of the stomach in people with this condition.

After eating soup, ginger reduced the time it took for the stomach to empty from 16 to 12 minutes.

In a study of 24 healthy individuals, 1.2 grams of ginger powder before a meal accelerated emptying of the stomach by 50% .

Bottom Line: Ginger appears to speed up emptying of the stomach, which can be beneficial for people with indigestion and related stomach discomfort.

7. Ginger Powder May Significantly Reduce Menstrual Pain

Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) refers to pain felt during a woman’s menstrual cycle.

One of the traditional uses of ginger is for pain relief, including menstrual pain.

In one study, 150 women were instructed to take 1 gram of ginger powder per day, for the first 3 days of the menstrual period.

Ginger managed to reduce pain as effectively as the drugs mefenamic acid and ibuprofen.

Bottom Line: Ginger appears to be very effective against menstrual pain when taken at the beginning of the menstrual period.

8. Ginger May Lower Cholesterol Levels

High levels of LDL lipoproteins (the “bad” cholesterol) are linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

The foods you eat can have a strong influence on LDL levels.

In a 45-day study of 85 individuals with high cholesterol, 3 grams of ginger powder caused significant reductions in most cholesterol markers.

This is supported by a study in hypothyroid rats, where ginger extract lowered LDL cholesterol to a similar extent as the cholesterol-lowering drug atorvastatin .

Both studies also showed reductions in total cholesterol and blood triglycerides.

Bottom Line: There is some evidence, in both animals and humans, that ginger can lead to significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and blood triglyceride levels.

9. Ginger Contains a Substance That May Help Prevent Cancer

Cancer is a very serious disease that is characterized by uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.

Ginger extract has been studied as an alternative treatment for several forms of cancer.

The anti-cancer properties are attributed to 6-gingerol, a substance that is found in large amounts in raw ginger.

In a study of 30 individuals, 2 grams of ginger extract per day significantly reduced pro-inflammatory signalling molecules in the colon.

However, a follow-up study in individuals at a high risk of colon cancer did not confirm these findings.

There is some, albeit limited, evidence that ginger may be effective against pancreatic cancer, breast cancer and ovarian cancer. More research is needed.

Bottom Line: Ginger contains a substance called 6-gingerol, which may have protective effects against cancer. However, this needs to be studied a lot more.

10. Ginger May Improve Brain Function and Protect Against Alzheimer’s Disease

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation can accelerate the aging process.

They are believed to be among the key drivers of Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline.

Some studies in animals suggest that the antioxidants and bioactive compounds in ginger can inhibit inflammatory responses that occur in the brain.

There is also some evidence that ginger can enhance brain function directly. In a study of 60 middle-aged women, ginger extract was shown to improve reaction time and working memory.

There are also numerous studies in animals showing that ginger can protect against age-related decline in brain function.

Bottom Line: Studies suggest that ginger can protect against age-related damage to the brain. It can also improve brain function in elderly women.

11. The Active Ingredient in Ginger Can Help Fight Infections

Gingerol, the bioactive substance in fresh ginger, can help lower the risk of infections.

In fact, ginger extract can inhibit the growth of many different types of bacteria.

It is very effective against the oral bacteria linked to inflammatory diseases in the gums, such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Fresh ginger may also be effective against the RSV virus, a common cause of respiratory infections.

Walking: Trim your waistline, improve your health

Physical activity doesn't need to be complicated. Something as simple as a daily brisk walk can help you live a healthier life.

For example, regular brisk walking can help you:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes
• Strengthen your bones and muscles
• Improve your mood
• Improve your balance and coordination

The faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits.

Consider your technique

Turning your normal walk into a fitness stride requires good posture and purposeful movements. Ideally, here's how you'll look when you're walking:

Your head is up. You're looking forward, not at the ground.

Your neck, shoulders and back are relaxed, not stiffly upright.

You're swinging your arms freely with a slight bend in your elbows. A little pumping with your arms is OK.

Your stomach muscles are slightly tightened and your back is straight, not arched forward or backward.

You're walking smoothly, rolling your foot from heel to toe.

As you start your walking routine, remember to:

Get the right gear. Choose shoes with proper arch support, a firm heel and thick flexible soles to cushion your feet and absorb shock. Wear comfortable clothes and gear appropriate for various types of weather. If you walk outdoors when it's dark, wear bright colors or reflective tape for visibility.

Choose your course carefully. If you'll be walking outdoors, avoid paths with cracked sidewalks, potholes, low-hanging limbs or uneven turf. If the weather isn't appropriate for walking, consider walking in a shopping mall that offers open times for walkers.

Warm up. Walk slowly for five to 10 minutes to warm up your muscles and prepare your body for exercise.

Cool down. At the end of your walk, walk slowly for five to 10 minutes to help your muscles cool down.

Stretch. After you cool down, gently stretch your muscles. If you'd rather stretch before you walk, remember to warm up first.

Set realistic goals

For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, or an equivalent combination of moderate and vigorous aerobic activity a week. Physical activity can be spread throughout the week. The guidelines also recommend strength training exercises of all the major muscle groups at least twice a week.

As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day. If you can't set aside that much time, try several 10-minute sessions throughout the day.

Remember, though, it's OK to start slowly — especially if you haven't been exercising regularly. You might start with five minutes a day the first week, and then increase your time by five minutes each week until you reach at least 30 minutes.

Track your progress

Keeping a record of how many steps you take, the distance you walk and how long it takes can help you see where you started from and serve as a source of inspiration. Just think how good you'll feel when you see how many miles you've walked each week, month or year.

Record these numbers in a walking journal or log them in a spreadsheet or a physical activity app. Another option is to use an electronic device such as a pedometer to calculate steps and distance.

Stay motivated

Starting a walking program takes initiative. Sticking with it takes commitment. To stay motivated:

• Set yourself up for success. Start with a simple goal, such as, "I'll take a 10-minute walk during my lunch break." When your 10-minute walk becomes a habit, set a new goal, such as, "I'll walk for 20 minutes after work." Find specific times for walks. Soon you could be reaching for goals that once seemed impossible.
• Make walking enjoyable. If you don't enjoy solitary walks, ask a friend or neighbor to join you. If you're invigorated by groups, join a health club. You might like listening to music while you walk.
• Vary your routine. If you walk outdoors, plan several different routes for variety. If you're walking alone, be sure to tell someone which route you're taking. Walk in safe, well-lit locations.
• Take missed days in stride. If you find yourself skipping your daily walks, don't give up. Remind yourself how good you feel when you include physical activity in your daily routine, and then get back on track.

Once you take that first step, you're on the way to an important destination — better health.

The Top 10 Health Benefits of Avocado

There are some amazing avocado benefits for your health and appearance.

If you would like to lose weight, improve your skin and lower your risk of many life-threatening diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart disease, here’s why it’s well worth including more of this extremely healthy fruit in your diet.

Also ahead is how avocado helps high blood pressure and constipation, why it’s beneficial as a arthritis treatment, important for pregnant women and has even been shown in studies to help you live a longer and healthier life.

Here’s a list of the top 10 benefits of eating avocados and just why they are considered so good for you.

1. Cardiovascular Health

Many experts now believe that high consumption of pro-inflammatory processed vegetable oils are a significant risk factor in cardiovascular disease. They advise lowering polyunsaturated fat intake and increasing the amount of healthy monounsaturated fatty acids in your diet.

Avocado is an excellent source of monounsaturated oleic acid. Research has shown this beneficial form of fat reduces dangerous LDL cholesterol in the blood at the same time as increasing the more beneficial HDL cholesterol.

As well as lowering LDL cholesterol, studies like this have found eating avocado can also decrease high blood triglyceride levels, another common predictor of cardiovascular problems.

That eating a high fat food like avocado can actually lower the amount of fat in your blood clearly shows that all fats are not equal. It’s important to get enough of the right ones if you value your health and, as you’ll see ahead, doing so can have many benefits for losing weight, improving your skin and much more.

If you’d like to increase your intake of monounsaturated fats, while reducing polyunsaturates, then replace damaging vegetable oils with a good cold-pressed avocado oil like this. UK readers can also find the fair trade and organic avocado oil I use here.

Avocado oil is an excellent cooking oil, much healthier than polyunsaturated vegetable oil and even better than olive oil, particularly for high-temperature frying.

Aside from their beneficial monounsaturated fats, avocados also contain a rich variety of other heart-healthy nutrients.

The high levels of vitamin E in avocado help prevent cholesterol oxidation, while their potassium can regulate high blood pressure that may lead to both heart disease and kidney problems.

Avocados are also an excellent source of folate, known to reduce dangerous homocysteine levels in the blood, another predictor of cardiovascular disease. Folate is a nutrient many of us are low in and it is especially important for pregnant women.

This wonder fruit even contains phytosterols for reducing cholesterol absorption, as well as significant amounts of dietary fiber. The fiber content of avocados moderates blood sugar levels, guards against both cardiovascular problems and diabetes, and helps prevent constipation.

2. Avocados for Blood Pressure

Many people don’t get enough of the mineral potassium in their diet. This deficiency can lead to high blood pressure, which is in turn a significant risk factor for heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.

Avocados are particularly rich in potassium, even higher than the often touted bananas, and a good food to eat for normal blood pressure and a lower risk of kidney failure and heart disease.

Aside from healthy blood pressure, the oleic acid and dietary fiber in avocados help normalize blood sugar levels, providing further benefits for heart health and lowering the risk of diabetes.

3. Cancer Prevention

Avocados are a good source of antioxidant carotenoids like alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants protect your body’s cells against cancerous changes due to free radical damage and are considered your front line of defense against numerous diseases.

Alpha-carotene appears to be especially important for cancer prevention. This study found a significantly lower risk of death for cancer and heart disease for those with the highest levels of alpha-carotene in their blood over a 14 year period.

The monounsaturated fats in avocado also help with carotenoid absorption and studies suggest it has a protective effect against breast cancer in particular.

Avocados also contain high levels of vitamin C and vitamin E, themselves potent anti-cancer antioxidants.

Vitamin C is considered protective against many non-hormonal cancers, like pancreatic cancer, stomach cancer and lung cancer. Importantly, it appears most effective when it comes from food rather than supplements.

Vitamin E deficiency has been linked to breast cancer and studies have found a dramatic reduction in breast cancer risk at higher intakes, especially for women with a family history of the disease.

Once again, the natural tocopherol and tocotrienol form of vitamin E found in avocados is much healthier than the isolated alpha-tocopherol found in multivitamins.

4. Avocado Skin Benefits

The monounsaturated fats in avocado are also beneficial for improving your skin tone and appearance. They are vital for maintaining good moisture levels in the epidermal layer of your skin that make it look and feel soft and healthy.

These omega-9 fats are known to assist in reducing skin redness and irritation and are involved in repairing damaged skin cells. A good dietary intake of monounsaturated fat can moderate sebum production as well, which helps control acne, blackheads and excessively oily skin.

Avocado benefits also include protecting your skin from wrinkles and other visible signs of aging with its antioxidant carotenoids; vitamin E which helps guard against photo-aging from sun exposure; and vitamin C which is involved in the creation of elastin and collagen for maintaining your skin’s elasticity and firmness.

There’s much more detail on just how good avocado is for your skin here and why it’s such a beneficial food to eat for a healthy appearance.

5. Avocado for Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease reaching epidemic proportions and there are believed to be a significant number of undiagnosed sufferers. If the rate of new cases continues it will put a huge strain on the medical system and our ability to treat people with the disease.

The most common symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes include a sudden and large increase in thirst and hunger and much more frequent urinating. A dry mouth, significant unexplained weight loss, vision problems and leg pain are also common symptoms.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues regularly then please see your doctor for a simple diabetes test.

For those already living with diabetes, the oleic acid in avocado is especially recommended for its ability to lower ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol while raising the ‘good’ HDL cholesterol. Keeping cholesterol levels in check is vital for diabetics as they have a much higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Having more monounsaturated fats in a diabetic diet is also beneficial for reducing high triglyceride levels and may help improve insulin function and blood glucose levels.

Other health benefits of avocado that can help with diabetes include its vitamin C for strengthening blood vessels and capillaries and improving immune function.

Additionally, the vitamin E found in avocado lowers cholesterol oxidation that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. It may also provide some protection from nerve damage in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy.

The high levels of potassium in avocados are another important nutritional factor for diabetics due to the minerals role in maintaining a healthy heart and regulating blood sugar.

All in all, avocados are a very healthy food for those living with diabetes and for people wishing to lower their risk of developing the disease.

Even if you don’t suffer from it, it’s well worth reading this page on the 5 Most Important Natural Health Tips for Diabetics to avoid becoming one of the more than 50 million people in America with pre-diabetes.

6. Arthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition characterised by joint inflammation and soreness that affects millions of people in the USA and UK. Many common foods like wheat, corn, milk and sugar are known to worsen symptoms, but anti-inflammatory avocado is one of the few foods consistently reported to reduce arthritic pain.

Avocados contain high levels of monounsaturated fats, phytosterols and antioxidants like vitamin E, vitamin C and a variety of carotenoids that can help reduce the inflammation that leads to arthritis.

Pineapple, with it’s anti-inflammatory bromelain and rich antioxidant content, is another exceptional food for arthritis sufferers and many notice a reduction in arthritic pain when they eat it regularly.

7. Benefits of Avocado for and Pregnant Women

Avocado is a particularly important food for women who are pregnant, and those trying to be, due to its high concentrations of folate (also known as folic acid).

This B vitamin is needed to prevent birth defects like spina bifida and doctors advise women to get high amounts of folate both before and during pregnancy.

Avocados contain around 45 mcg of folate per half a cup, which is more than any other fruit, making them a great food source for moms to be.

Vitamin K is another valuable nutrient found in high concentrations in avocados that benefit women during pregnancy and their future babies.

Vitamin K deficiency-related bleeding, or VKDB, is a condition where newborn babies cannot stop bleeding as their blood doesn’t contain enough vitamin K. Getting more high vitamin K foods in your diet during pregnancy can help pass more of it onto your unborn child.

8. Avocado for Constipation

Despite their creamy texture, avocados are actually a high fiber food, with 8 grams of both soluble and insoluble fiber per cup of the fresh fruit.

This fiber is beneficial for improving digestion, encouraging regular bowel movements and well known to help prevent constipation. In fact, avocados are often recommended as a mild laxative for people having trouble going to the toilet.

If you’ve been having problems with elimination, whether constipation or diarrhea, then getting more fiber-rich foods like avocados can definitely help keep you regular.

The fiber in avocados isn’t just good for constipation either, it also helps lower your risk of colon cancer and can even assist in losing weight by making you feel more full and wanting to eat less.

9. Avocado Benefits for Weight Loss

Many people would be surprised that a food high in fat and calories like avocado would be recommended for weight loss. However, research has shown that avocado’s monounsaturated fatty acids are much more likely to be used as slow burning energy than stored as body fat.

This steady energy and the feeling of satiety or satisfied fullness that you get from eating an avocado is one of the reasons they are so good at reducing hunger and appetite.

It’s also why including more foods in your diet that are high in healthy fats and less with processed carbohydrates makes such a big difference when you want to lose weight.

Snacking on nuts like almonds and omega-3 rich walnuts, instead of high carbohydrate foods is also highly beneficial for weight loss.

This may go against old nutritional advice but look where that has gotten us. People eat low-fat versions of just about everything these days, yet we are more overweight than at any time in history.

Counting calories, limiting fat intake and starving yourself has failed most people and will continue to do so. Only by eating more fat burning foods and generally going against the majority of what we’ve been taught about dieting is there a real chance at significant weight loss.

The great part about eating like this is you don’t have to go hungry to lose weight. It’s not about eating less food but rather eating the right kind of meals that tell your body to burn fat rather than store it.

10. Better Overall Health

This interesting study, called ‘Avocado consumption is associated with better diet quality and nutrient intake, and lower metabolic syndrome risk in US adults’, found that avocado eaters had a higher intake of vitamins, like vitamin K and vitamin E, and minerals, such as potassium and magnesium. Plus they also had a more dietary fiber and healthy fats with a lower overall intake of sugar.

This improved nutritional intake resulted in a significantly lower body weight, body mass index and waist circumference in those that ate avocados. Good to know for those interested in using avocados to lose weight.

There was also a 50% lower ratio of metabolic disease, a strong precursor to diabetes and heart disease, in the group that enjoyed avocados regularly.

The researchers concluded that: “Avocado consumption is associated with improved overall diet quality, nutrient intake, and reduced risk of metabolic syndrome.” That’s a science backed recommendation to eat avocados more often for a slimmer waistline, a lower risk of metabolic disease and better overall health.

Eating Avocados

Avocado benefits include a healthier heart; lower blood pressure; protection against cancer; better skin; diabetes prevention; arthritis treatment; as a constipation remedy; guarding against birth defects; improving your nutrient intake; and helping you lose weight without feeling hungry.