Day: July 15, 2014

10 Foods That Ease Anxiety

In today’s fast paced world, anxiety and stress have become a part and parcel of our lives. Nowadays, we find ourselves irritated, overtired and unnecessarily anxious about everything. Mediation and exercise have been known to help ease anxiety but sometimes all it takes to relax your mind and body is the right food. Add these foods to your diet and beat that rising levels of anxiety.

1. Asparagus

If bad mood has been ruining your days then maybe your body is calling out for folic acid. Anxiety and depression have been linked to low levels of folic acid and one plant that packed with mood-enhancing nutrient is asparagus. You might not be a fan of green things on your plate but add this to your omelette or use it as dressing for your favourite snack to get your jittery nerves to calm down.

2. Avocado

Next time you stop by a store to pick up that delicious, full-fat ice-cream or those tempting deserts just to calm your nerves, pick up a pack of avocados instead. Why you ask? Well, if binge eating is the solution then you might as well eat something that will help your body and leave you guilt-free the next morning. B vitamins are needed for healthy nerves and brain cells and lack of this can cause feeling of anxiety. Avocados are rich in stress-relieving B vitamins. Moreover, they help lower blood pressure as they are high in monounsaturated fat and potassium. So, cook up some avocados and eat all you want!

3. Blueberries

These tiny balls are filled with the much needed antioxidants and vitamin C for repairing and protecting cells. Blueberries are one of the best stress-busting foods out there and not only are they tasty but are also low in calories. Grab a handful of them, add to your yogurt, freeze them, bake them or just eat them fresh.

4. Salmon

Eat this pink fillet to put your anxiety at ease. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps in keeping cortisol and adrenaline at check when you are feeling anxious. As an added bonus, salmon also protects against heart diseases by helping in lowering the blood pressure.

5. Milk

When children complain of insomnia, mothers are armed with one sure shot home remedy; milk. Even today when we are anxious or tensed, a glass of warm milk does wonders. If you are a Friends fan you will remember Rachel gulping down a bottle of milk after Phoebe tells her the truth about Paolo in the first season? You might ask why milk. Milk is high in antioxidants, vitamins B2 and B12, as well as protein and calcium. The protein, lactium has a calming effect on the body by lowering blood pressure and reducing the levels of cortisol, a hormone released when the body is stressed. Also, the potassium in milk helps in relieving muscle spasms which are triggered when you are feeling tense. Next time you are feeling anxious, pour yourself a tall glass of milk and feel yourself calming down.

6. Chamomile Tea

If you are feeling anxious or stressed, make yourself a cup of chamomile tea for a soothing relief. This herb relaxes muscles and has a calming influence on nervous system. The aromatic tea helps in revitalizing and rejuvenating the body and one of its flavonoids, apigenin acts as an effective natural sedative relieving anxiety and stress. Brew up some chamomile tea to get that much needed good night’s sleep.

7. Spinach

Ever wondered why on earth Popeye eats so many cans of spinach? Well, not only it gives him the strength but is packed with magnesium, a mineral that helps in regulating cortisol levels and promotes feelings of wellbeing. So, next time you are anxious, eat a bowl of spinach or just put it in your soup and relax.

8. Green Tea

Green tea contains L-theanine which helps in controlling a rising heart rate and blood pressure. After a stressful day, a cup of green tea can provide calming effects like no other. It eases the tension in the muscles and helps you stay alert for a long time.

9. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is made from the oat plant, Avena sativa, a nutritive plant that strengthens the nerves and helps them stay resilient at the time of stress and anxiety. It is also high in minerals like magnesium and phosphorous that helps the brain stay calm and the muscles stay relaxed. Oatmeal also helps in activating the calm-inducing hormone serotonin. Start your day with a bowl of simple, delicious and filling breakfast of oatmeal and experience its calming effect throughout the day.

10. Almonds

Munch on almonds and get some stress relief as they are rich in vitamins B2 and E. These nutrients boost the immune system during times of anxiety and stress. Almonds also contain zinc which helps in fighting some of the negative effects of stress. So whenever you feel anxious or exhausted, grab a handful of almonds and let them relieve some of your stress.

Next time you feel yourself flooded with anxious thoughts, soothe yourself with some green tea or blueberries or oatmeal.

July 15, 2014
Taste Some Magic

All the Harry Potter fans out there would understand the craving that I get when the famous trio enter The Great Hall or go for a walk in Hogsmeade. The delicious Pumpkin Pasties, Butterbeer, Chocolate Frogs and other magical treats sound too delicious to resist. So, if you haven’t got your Hogwarts letter yet but can’t wait to join the feast at the Great Hall then create your own Hogwarts feast wherever you are! Here are few recipes of the famous delicacies from the magical world of Harry Potter. So it’s time to treat your taste buds with some fiction.

BUTTERBEER

Ingredients:

1 cup of sugar

2 tablespoons of water

6 tablespoons of butter

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of cider vinegar

3/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon of rum extract

Cream soda

· Boil a mixture of sugar and water while stirring often.

· Now, in a bowl add the butter, salt, vinegar and 1/4 heavy cream. Set aside to cool. Add the mixture to the rum extract once it has cooled down.

· Take a bowl; combine 2 tablespoons of the sugar mixture with 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Beat until just thickened, but not completely whipped.

· To serve, fill 1/4th of 4 tall glasses with the sugar mixture. Add 1/4 cup of cream soda to each glass, and then stir them together. Fill it till top and serve.

PUMPKIN JUICE

Ingredients:

2 cups chopped edible fresh pumpkin chunks

2 cups apple juice

1/2 cup pineapple juice

1 tablespoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ginger

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

3/4 teaspoon allspice

Preparations:

· Grind the pumpkin pieces and squeeze out juice through a fine mesh strainer.

· Blend all ingredients together. Keep it in fridge and serve it with ice.

CHOCOLATE FROGS

Ingredients:

Plastic Frog Moulds

One package of melting chocolate

· Boil a pot of water, place a heat proof bowl on the top of the pot and put the chocolate inside.

· Stir the chocolate until melted.

· Pour your melted chocolate into your plastic moulds. Use a wooden spatula to help pour chocolate.

· Place moulds in the freezer and let it cool. Remove chocolate frogs and turn mould upside down onto a plate.

CAULDRON CAKES

Ingredients:

For the chocolate cupcakes

Butter

Chocolate chips

½ cup cocoa powder

¾ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

Salt

2 eggs

3/4th cup sugar

For the Cauldron Cupcakes

1 dozen cupcakes

1 cup chocolate chips

4 teaspoon butter

½ cup melted chocolate

½ cup icing

Preparations:

· Melt the chocolate chips, cocoa powder and butter.

· Use a mixer to beat the eggs and vanilla together. Add sugar, baking powder, salt, and flour and mix them well. Now, add the melted chocolate mixture and stir well.

· Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Oil the cupcake tins and fill them with the mixture. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Take it out and allow them to cool.

· When the cupcakes have cooled, use a sharp knife to carve a small cone in the middle of it. To make the cauldrons, flip the cupcake and serve it bottoms up.

· Melt one cup of chocolate chips and 4 teaspoon of butter slowly. Dip the tops of the cupcakes in the glaze to make the cauldron bottom.

· Once the cupcakes are cooled, fill the core with the icing.

· To make the cauldron handles, take some melted chocolate in a Ziplock bag. Cut a small corner and make the handles on a wax paper. After it has cooled, attach them to the cupcakes.

· Serve your very own Cauldron cakes!

PUMPKIN PASTIES

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup salted butter

1 cup water

3/4 cup sugar

2 cups fresh pumpkin

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1 teaspoon of cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon of ginger

1/4 teaspoon of cloves

1 ½ cups of milk

1/2 teaspoon of allspice

Preparations

· Whisk together the flour, sugar and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the butter until it resembles coarse yellow mixture.

· Add around 4 to 5 tablespoons of water and mix it until it starts clumping together.

· Now wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for an hour.

· Grind the pumpkin to get a thick paste. In a mixing bowl add sugar, milk, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Mix it well.

· Now make small balls out of the dough and roll it out on a flat surface. Using a small bowl cut out circles out it.

· Place the filling inside, fold over like a taco and crimp the edges together with a fork.

· Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.

LICORICE WANDS

4 ounces of white chocolate

20 licorice twists

Sprinkles

· Melt the white chocolate, stirring frequently.

· Dip the ends of the licorice twists in the white chocolate. Put the sprinkles on it and let it cool. Serve it and taste the magic it creates!

ACID POPS

12 sour lollipops

4 packages pop rocks

1/4 cup honey

· Put the pop rocks in a bowl.

· Heat the honey for 20 to 30 seconds

· Coat the lollipops in the honey and roll in the pop rocks. If the honey thickens, heat it again.

· Place the lollipops on wax paper until dry.

· Prepare these as closely as possible to the serving time. If kept aside for a long time the pop rocks might become soft by absorbing some of the moisture in the honey

I bet these recipes got you excited to do some experimenting in your kitchen. Go on; turn your muggle kitchen into a portkey to the magical world of Harry Potter!

July 15, 2014
The 7 Best Foods For Your Eyes
About half the people above the age of 70 have cataracts and a major part of population especially in India suffer from diseases of the eyes. Various researches, reports and surveys over the years have pointed out on the importance of healthy eyes and several nutrients that can help protect our eyes have been brought into notice. Yep, we are talking about the nutrients that come from food. Food always comes into picture whether we talk about beauty, glow, health or lifestyle. Here we bring to you foods and their nutritional value that are rich in nutrients good for our eyes. A little change in our eating habits and lifestyle can indeed have great repercussions on our health and body.
- Carrots
Most of us have a childhood memory where our mom used to tell us how important carrot was for our body and eyes, and we ran away from it. But guess what, mothers are always right! Carrots are rich in beta carotene which is an antioxidant and helps in reducing the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. According to a survey conducted in America recently, more than 13 million people had macular degeneration.

Carrots are always famous in the salad world. They do great in soups too, and are always a great side vegetable with lunch and dinner. You can also try dipping them in salsa or hummus or peanut butter or about anything! Carrot juice tastes good too!
- Bell peppers, broccoli and brussels sprouts
Bell peppers, Broccoli and Brussels sprouts provide a great amount of vitamin C and this vitamin C is quite vital for the eyes! It is a key antioxidant shown specifically to protect the eyes.

They are often added to soups and omelettes but can also be steamed or roasted, according to one’s taste. Combing all three is a great idea too!
- Ostrich
Ostrich is an extremely healthy and delicious substitute for any meat, be it chicken or turkey or beef or pork or lamb. It can replace any of them in your favorite recipes and provide you with good nutrition. Ostrich is rich in protein, iron and zinc. A very few people know that zinc is indeed one of the main ingredients for maintaining healthy eyes. It is originally found in the retina of the eye and is helpful in the functioning of enzymes that are responsible for the health of our eyes. People who have macular degeneration, have low levels of zinc in the retina. Eating food rich in this nutrient becomes quite a must for them.

Ostrich can be available in specialty stores, if not, you might also look for it online!
- Turkey
Turkey is hugely loaded with the B-vitamin niacin and zinc. While we already discussed how zinc can be good for eyes, B-vitamin niacin specifically protects one against cataracts. Also, it is a fantastic lean substitute for the high fat beef and is greatly versatile. You can use your own imagination and creativity to cook an incredible dish. While it can be easily stuffed in a breakfast or snack time sandwich, you can also use lean ground turkey for burgers, chilli and tacos.
- Spinach
Spinach is always said to be incredibly wonderful for the eyes. It provides not one or two, but four eye protecting ingredients! It is loaded with Vitamin C, beta carotene and large amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein and zeaxanthin are a matched pair of antioxidants that are found in the tissue of macula, and well, are found in quite high concentrations. These nutrients interestingly, act like sunscreen for your eyes since they are capable of absorbing around forty to ninty per cent of blue light intensity. Spinach thus helps in providing better retina protection and prevention from macular degeneration. Spinach is usually used in salads and as a side vegetable with dinner. Suette it in an omelette and it comes with a great taste there as well!
- Sweet potatoes
These sweet special spuds bring once more, beta carotene! They are rich in beta carotene, as rich can be and make your eyes healthy and along with providing taste for your tongue. They can be baked and had as fries. Making mashed sweet potatoes also works as a nice choice! They often work well as a side dish along with dinner and are easily available.
- Wild salmon and sardines
Wild salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 and many a study have shown that foods rich in omega-3 can work wonders for the eyes. They help in protecting little blood vessels that are buried within our eyes. They can be among your best sources to take good care of your eyes!

These foods are mostly readily available, easy to cook and tempting for the tongue too, if cooked well. Try them and give some nutrition to your eyes. Trust you me, your eyes deserve to be pampered more than you think! Try inculcating each of these foods in your meals and you will start to observe the difference gradually. You don’t want to spend all your life with those spectacles now, do you?
July 15, 2014
Ramadan

Sweet and savoury delights, evening get togethers, group prayers, sighting sunrise at the dawn and sunset at dusk and thirty days of being peculiarly polite and gentle in all the dealings, Ramadan, the holy month of Islam is celebrated annually across the world. It is the ninth month according to Islamic Calender, which marks as the most sacred period of the year. In this month all the muslims over the world fast, from dawn till dusk. The significance of fasting is ‘purifucation of one’s soul’ and thus, a manner through which the devotees connect better with Allah.

Every person who has faith in Islam and has hit puberty, is morally and spiritually constraint to fast in Ramadan. Each day 1/30th part of ‘Quraan Sharif’ is read/recited, hence, till the end of month the whole of Holy book is completed and people put efforts in implementing all the teachings of Quran in their respective lives. Since in these days, people engage in prayers and kindness more and thus, help themselves to get free from moral defilement, so as to get better treat ‘after life’. Though, the pregnant ladies, menstrual hit women, extremely ill, who are always monitored for medical issues, travelers and sole feeders of infants are exempted from fasting. But they are better asked to make up for the left times afterwards.

Everyday of Ramadan is the day of hard fasting, i.e., no drinking and eating. Therefore, the devotees wake up early before the sunrises and have heavy and abundant breakfast, to keep them going for the whole day. The breakfast is called ‘Sehri’ or ‘Suhoor’. After this, Muslims begin their fasting with first morning prayer, called ‘fajr’. Here lies another important teaching of Ramadan, that is, self-control, self-discipline and sacrificial traits. The all day fasting keep Muslims aware of the hardships and other difficulties faced by the poor and unprivileged ones. Hence empathizing with them and thus performing good deeds.

When sun sets in the evening, Muslims break their fast usually by eating dates or simply drinking water. After the long day of fasting, a good and great amount of meal is prepared. This is called ‘Iftar’. They offer another prayer, and then after it the main meal is served. Iftar is chiefly organised in gatherings at mosques. But nowadays, iftar parties are also conducted by hosts for their respective guests, at banquets or at homes. A large buffet styled meal is served to the invitees. A wide range of delicacies is plated on. Traditional, as well as bit modern blended dishes. A few most sighted dishes in India are shammi kebabs, meat samose, bread pakoras, fruit chaat, chicken rolls, spring rolls, rosuba (pancake filled with cheese), etc.

In beverages too, a lot of varieties are served. Rooh Afza, being the most prefered choice amongst all. Other than it there is lemonade sharbat, which is evenly liked. Apart from them, flavored milk, fruit juices and tea are also a great deal to sight.

Most portion of iftar is sweet and dessert like. A few to name, sheer, shahi piece, fruit custard, jalebi-rabdi, milk falooda, buttered noodles pastries with cheese, etc are a common delight to see.

Offering of iftar to poors and needy ones is a divine deed. Feeding them with love and affection, who share similar faith in divinity, is considered to be a fortunate chance to compensate for your wrong doings.

Though iftar is enough for one to end his meal need of the day. But many a times people also dine at night, again, after iftar to abide the ‘three times meal a day’ cogitation. Once the sun has been set and the fourth prayer of the day has been offered, Muslims are free to eat whenever they feel like until next day’s suhoor.

There is a large variety and diversity in food which is ingested, across the world. Due to the regional differences, muslims spread over various countries, enjoy eating largely assorted meals during Ramadan. A few famed ones are, Qatayef, Haleem, Kolak, Laghman soup, Balochis, Es boua, etc.

Also, during this period, muslims avoid engaging in bad habits such as using abusive language or having malicious intent for others. Even they refrain from having any kind of physical intercourse. Listening to music and watching tv is also considered to be offensive, as nowadays tv commercials and tv programs come with unethical and immoral scenes, which are not to be observed, in this sacred month of Islam.

After completion of 30 days (or 29, as the case may be), Eid-ul-fitr is celebrated, which is marked as the most awited and happiest festival among muslim community. A three day long celebrated festival, brings happiness and rebuilds faith in Allah, among the devotees. And yet another reason to enjoy world class delicacies and savor the joy of togetherness.

July 15, 2014
Food Addiction: Sign, Symptoms and Treatment
Food Addiction is one of the major problems with many people and no matter how hard they try, they simply cannot overcome it. With the help of the various research conducted in different parts of the world it has now been proved that people get addicted to one or the other food items and they love to eat it frequently. Although they are most likely aware that that eating these food items will harm their body but they cannot help it. This is absolutely wrong and is called as the food addiction. Are you among those people who are addicted to food? Or do you have loved ones who are very much addicted to the food items. Then you must read this article carefully and find out the measures using which you can detect the food addiction and take steps to cure it.

Defining the food addiction is quite easy. It is the scenario where the person gets addicted to the food items just as a drug addict gets addicted to the consumption of drugs. They cannot simply work properly if they are not provided with that food. Some people also term it as the eating disorders. This unhealthy and unwanted relationship with the food is very much harmful for the human body. If you have food addiction, then you must take steps to get rid of it. Mostly people have addiction with the fast food items. They simply cannot resist themselves and love to eat it regularly without considering that it may be affecting their health in a negative manner. Life is precious. You must move forward in life with utmost care and protection else you will be the one who will suffer. Mostly those food items which have wheat and sugar in them are problematic. Their excessive consumption can lead to the emotional and physical instability. Ultimately the quality of life is affected. The following are the symptoms of the food addiction.
1. Although you are feeling full but then also you cannot stop yourself from eating any particular food item.
2. When you are served that particular food item, you eat it excessively which is much more than you have intended to.
3. When you know that this food item is not good for your health and yet you eat it.
4. You have tried to stop yourself from eating a particular food item many times but every time you have failed to capitalize on it.
5. You try to hide you eating habits from other people as you know they will scold you and ask you to stop eating it.
6. When you find excuses so that you can eat the food item that you are carving for.
If you are among such people who experience all of the above mentioned addiction signs, then you must take serious steps immediately to get rid of your food addiction else it will be too late and your health will surely suffer. The alcohol and the drugs addictions are very much similar to the food addictions. The thought process and the consequences of all these addictions are ultimately similar. It is just that the other mentioned addictions here such as the drugs and the alcohol addictions have to face the social consequences too. But what is most important is the health condition and it should not be compromised on any cost. You may suffer from obesity, cancer, heart disease, diabetes among other diseases. So you must understand it quickly that the food addiction is simply ruining your life. You will not be happy when other food items are served to you, even if they are far more beneficial for the health.

More often people get addicted to the junk food as they are spicy and delicious in taste. In today’s culture you will find junk food everywhere and there is no way you can simply eliminate them completely from your lifestyle. So it is important that you understand the pros and cons so that you eat them occasionally and eating junk food does not becomes an addiction for you. To overcome a food addiction, you need proper determination and strong will power. You must be strong enough to convince yourself that eating this particular food item will affect you and your health will deteriorate. Once you have made up your mind, then it becomes easier to avoid such food. Now if you find it difficult to convince yourself then you must prepare a chart of the pros and cons if you continue eating those addicted food items. Your chart should include what all you will gain and what all you will eventually lose if you don’t stop those food items. I bet the cons column will be long enough to convince yourself and you will eventually get rid of your addiction. I know it is pretty much difficult to stop eating the food which you love but for the sake of your health and brighter future, you will have to stop eating them. Once you are confident that your addiction is over then you can start eating those food items occasionally.
July 15, 2014
About fruits and their effects on health

Fruits are very rich in minerals with lot of juice and contain about 75 percent of water.Fruits are naturally enriched with lot of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.In fruits we can find two types of fiber they are soluble and insoluble.These fibers help in weight loss.The soluble fiber helps in controlling blood sugar, hunger and it is also used to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.Because of these soluble fibers type 2 diabetes can be avoided.While coming to the insoluble fibers, they add bulk to your food so you can eat more of it without adding extra calories.

Fruits are almost juicy as they contain lots of water in them.By the intake of fresh and frozen fruits which are having high water will have low calories because the high water level leads to the dilution of those calories.This helps in weight loss.The water contained in fruits helps in maintaining optimal energy levels.People can get over cardiovascular diseases.Fruits containing vitamin A are used for skin health.It helps in the growth of skin tissues which protects skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays that are coming from sun.It also keeps our hair strong and healthy.

By taking fruits containing vitamin B is used to cure heart diseases, healthy hair, and improved memory.Where as vitamin C contains a protein that helps to maintain healthy skin and cartilage.Vitamin E works with vitamin C to provide anti-aging skin protection.Generally vitamin E help to protect the skin against damages caused by sun.Eating fruits that are rich in potassium can help to lower blood pressure.

Apples:

Most of the people like to eat apples as it is delicious juicy and also healthy.Apples contain large amounts of water and are having soluble fiber.Is is a best diet for most of the people who choose to loose weight.Type two diabetes can be avoided by taking this fruit regularly.Apples that are having red cover are mostly preferable as it helps in lowering memory loss.But in some cases people get mild headaches when they eat more red apples, but green and yellow apples are safe a bit.

green-apple-yellow-apple-red-apple

Apricots:

Apricots are also rich in water and contain soluble fiber and hence are used for weight loss or to reduce high cholesterol. They are also a very good source and help in maintain healthy skin and hair.Potassium that is present in apricots helps to lower blood pressure.

Apricots

Bananas:

Most of the people eat bananas daily as it is a easy grab and go fruit with a good amount of fiber present in it.It is used to reduce weight , heart diseases and type 2 diabetes.Potassium is present in bananas which lowers blood pressure.If we eat bananas before going to bed, it helps in good sleep as it contain a sleep-promoting chemical.

Bananas

Dates:

Generally dates are taken as dry fruit as it contain lot of soluble fiber.Type 2 diabetes can be reduced and the people who are trying to loose weight can take this daily.They are mostly grown in very hot areas.

Dates a nutricious fruit

Grapes:

In grapes we can find many varieties like rd grapes, purple grapes and black grapes.They contain minerals like quercetin and anthocyanins, antioxidants.People who are suffering from maigrane are advised to avoid dark skinned grapes which contain tyramine, a possible migraine trigger.

Different varieties of grapes

Guava:

Guava is one of the tropical fruit that is rich in vitamin C.Guava helps in maintaining healthy hair and skin.Guava contains large amounts of water and has large amount of carbohydrates.So this fruit is good in regulating the weight loss.

Guava and their benefits

Lemons:

Lemons are the fruits that are rich in vitamin C.They have high amounts of citric acid.They have antioxidants that are found in many of the fruits that helps prevent and manage arthritis, cataracts, macular degeneration, and maintain healthy hair and skin.These lemons are used in all type of food items to add lemon flavor and it is also a low calorie food to add for salads and also to jazz up chicken and fish.We can also take it in a glass of water by adding salt or water to it which acts as glucose to our body.

Yellow_lemons

Mangoes:

Mangoes are a type of tropical fruit which are rich in vitamin C.Mangoes are useful in fighting against cancer.It contain large amounts of fibers that help in reducing cholesterol.They help in keeping our skin fair by opening up the pores.Mango can be advised to sugar patients but it is also restricted not to take it more.It also helps in good digestion , eye care, heart strokes, strengthen your immunity, reduces stones in kidneys,provides high iron for women.

Mangoes and their benefits

Oranges:

Orange also belongs to citrus fruit and is used in fighting against cancer of skin, lung, breast, stomach and colon.Drinking orange juices regularly reduces kidney diseases.They contain soluble fiber and reduces cholesterol.It also fights against viral infections.It helps in preventing skin diseases and also helps to keep skin wrinkles free.

Oranges a variety of citrus fruit

Watermelon:

Watermelon name itself specifies that it contain large amount of water.They are advised in summer and people take it more during summer to avoid dehydration.It is used as a natural medicine for health problems.Taking this water melon daily acts as natural Viagra.It is very rich in vitamins and minerals and is low in calories.

watermelon a delicious fruit

July 15, 2014
Why Processed Foods is bad for Your Health?

Currently there are lots of processed foods in the market and its consumption is increasing at an alarming rate. People are eating the processed foods without considering the fact they are actually very much harmful for their health. Processed foods are bad of the human body and it is also one of the major reasons why you are getting fat and often fall sick. Recently various surveys were conducted on the people who adopted the western countries influenced diets. These diets have large amount of processed food items in it. The results are quite shocking. The processed food affects the human health and it decreases the body’s ability to fight with the disease causing germs and bacteria. Isn’t it quite surprising? These food items were rolled out in the market so that in this fast paced life style you may easily get the foods that you love to eat. But people have now started to use it regularly and it is not at all good for the human body.

When the food items are treated chemically so that the essential nutrients and minerals level in it is maintained intact, it is called as the processed food. In order to achieve this goal artificial and refined ingredients are added to these food items which in turn have several side effects. There is a very major difference between the chemical processing and the mechanical processing of the food items. While it is beneficial to process foods mechanically, the chemically processed foods on the other hand are actually harmful for the health.

Usually the processed foods have high amount of the sugar content in it which is quite harmful for the human beings. The level of the sugar content in these food items is increased by adding the fructose corn syrups. The excessive intake of the sugar is very much harmful. There are chances that you may get diagnosed with the diabetes, heart diseases, cancer and obesity. Sugars have empty calories in it which are a rich source of energy but it is also true that it has major devastating effect on the human body. The level of the cholesterol inside the body increases. Moreover the fat accumulation in the abdominal cavity as well as the liver also increases with an alarming rate.

The researchers have termed the processed foods as the “Hyper Rewarding.” Once you start eating such food items you get addicted towards them and very often it lead to the overconsumption. Everybody loves to eat such food items which have excellent taste as it pleases our taste buds. So the processed food manufacturers have started to add several ingredients in it so that the foods can be made desirable and people can be attracted towards it. These processed foods are very much rewarding towards the brain and they eventually affect the normal behavior and thought process.

The major problem with the processed foods is that they are added with lots of artificial preservatives and ingredients. You as a normal human being do not pay much attention towards its ingredients and only pay attention towards the taste. These ingredients are not actual foods and are infact chemicals which have lots of negative impact on the human body. Generally the processed food items have colorants: so that specific color can be provided to them, flavorings agents: so that specific flavor can be provided to them, preservatives: to protect them from rotting and texturants: to provide them with specific texture. Apart from the above mentioned labels there are lot more additional chemicals in the food items and so it is not at all safe to have its consumption.

Carbohydrate is very much useful for maintaining good health. You are often recommended to eat those food items which offer high carbohydrates. The carbohydrates obtained from the whole foods are very much beneficial. But the processed food items have refined carbohydrates in them and this infact makes your health deteriorate. The refined carbohydrate gets broken up quickly which results into the sudden rise of the insulin level in blood. The blood sugar also increases. Later on when the level of the blood sugar goes down, people experience the carb craving. This roller coaster ride of the insulin and blood sugar level has several negative impacts and it leads to various chronic diseases.

When you make a comparison between the unprocessed food and the processed foods, the former one is more equipped with essential nutrients which are beneficial for the human body. During the processing the essential nutrients present in the food gets lost and to compensate for the loss synthetic minerals and vitamins are added. This replacement is not at all wise and it affects your health. The only way you can guarantee the adequate supply of essential vitamins and minerals is by eating the unprocessed foods as they do not have any added chemicals and are completely natural. These processed foods are not good for the human body and you should eliminate it completely from your life.

July 15, 2014
Berrilicious Treats
Richness of yogurt combined with flavor of blueberries make for a delectable treat. From parfait to cake filling. Lick lollies to salad dressing, there are interesting food ideas around the bowl of blueberry yogurt.

From creamy layers in a cake to a delicious, healthy dip, here’s how to add a spin to the usual bowl of blueberry yogurt. 1 Take a big bowl, fill the bottom layer with cake. Top it up with the blueberry yogurt and splash in some chopped berries. Repeat this layer. Add another layer of cake and top it up with icing sugar.this cake will leave you craving for more. 2 Fruit lovers can top their fruit plate with blueberry yogurt and little bit of honey and crunches on the top. This is a tasty, healthy option. 3 Churn blueberry yogurt to get a creamy texture and then freeze it. Your blueberry lick lolly is ready. 4 Blueberry yogurt is a dip in itself. One can also add to it crushed walnuts, sea salt and olive oil to it. Churn it and serve this dip with savory bread or finger vegetables. 5 Blend one cup of yogurt with some fresh herbs. Add 1tbsp of vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use it as a salad dressing and serve it over your favorite greens. 6 In a tall glass, layer blueberry yogurt, corn flakes and fresh fruits. Repeat this layer twice. Top it up with some strawberries and treat yourself with this irresistible parfait. 1. Blueberry smoothie- A. 4 tbsp sugar B. 1 inch cinnamon stick C. 4 dried rosebuds D. 1 star anise E. 1 tbsp coarsely chopped lemongrass F. 3 cups blueberry yogurt G. Mint leaves for garnishing In a medium saucepan, bring 1/2 cup water to boil. Add sugar, cinnamon stick, dried rosebuds, star anise and coarsely chopped lemongrass. Cook while stirring constantly for about a minute, till sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat, cover and let it rest, until flavors are well absorbed. Strain and reserve. In a blender, combine blueberry yogurt and 2 tbsp spiced sugar syrup and blend well. Served chilled, garnished with mint leaves.
1. Blueberry yogurt muffins-
A. 1 cup all- purpose flour B. 6 tbsp sugar C. 1/4 tbsp salt D. 1/4 tbsp baking soda E. 1 egg F. 3 tbsp canola oil G. 1 egg H. 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt I. 2 tbsp 2% milk J. 1/2 cup fresh blueberries K. 1/4 tbsp baking powder In a small bowl,combine all purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and baking soda. In another medium sized bowl,combine egg, yogurt, oil and milk. Stir into dry ingredients, until moistened. Fold in the blueberries.

Fill greased or paper lined muffin cups three fourths full. Bake at 350` for 20 to 22 minutes or until the toothpick inserted inside it comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack.
1. Blueberry yogurt pop sickle-
A. 2 cup fresh blueberries B. 2 cups vanilla or plain yogurt C. 1/4 cup white sugar D. 8 small paper cups E. 8 pop sickle sticks Place the mixed blueberries, vanilla yogurt and sugar into a blender. Cover, and blend until berries are chunky and smooth, as desired. Fill paper cups three – fourth with the fruit mixture. Cover the top of each cup with aluminum foil. Poke a pop sickle stick through the center of foil in each cup. Place the cups in the freezer for a minimum of 5 hours. To serve, remove the foil and the paper cups. 4. Lemon- blueberry yogurt loaf- A. 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour B. 2 tsp baking powder C. 1/2 tsp salt D. 1 cup sugar E. 3 large eggs F. 1 cup plain or blueberry yogurt G. 1/2 cup oil H. 1/2 tsp vanilla extract I. 1 1/2 cup fresh blueberries J. 1 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice K. 1 cup confectioner’s sugar L. 2 tsp grated lemon zest Preheat the oven to 350`, grease bottom and sides of loaf pan. In a medium bowl, combine together flour,baking powder, salt and set aside. In another bowl, whisk together yogurt, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract and oil. Slowly combine the contents of both the bowls. In another bowl,add blueberries and remaining flour, and fold them gently into batter. Pour the batter into the oven for 50 to 55 minutes, until it is cooked properly. Let it cool for 10 minutes. While the loaf is cooling, make lemon syrup by mixing in sugar and lemon juice and cooking them for 3 minutes. With toothpick make holes in the loaf, and brush in the lemon syrup on the top and sides of the loaf. For lemon glaze, in a bowl add confectioner’s sugar and lemon juice. Pour the lemon glaze over the top of the loaf and let it harden for 15 minutes before serving. Quick facts about yogurt- 1. Yogurt, got its name from the Turkish word yogurur, which means long life. 2.Yogurt with added fruit jam was patented in 1933 by the Radlicka Mlekarna dairy in Prague. It was introduced to the United States in 1947. 3.It is believed that eating yogurt is associated with longevity. Eating yogurt regularly can help you absorb the nutrients in other foods. 4.According to many historical accounts, the creamy treat originated from primitive methods of milk storage in containers made from animal stomachs. The natural enzymes from these animal parts would curdle the milk, resulting in what we today know as yogurt.
July 15, 2014
Why Biscuits are not Healthy Choice

I, myself is a big biscuit fan and all cookies seems irresistible to me. I fancy them, I eat them and crave them! But yes, this fact is also true that biscuits aren’t too healthy as they are made of flour (Maida), sugar, and edible oil being the main ingredients. A pack of biscuits with a cup of coffee is a good combination for my perfect evening. These biscuits, be it that glucose Britannia biscuits or the creamy oreo ones, that we lick off; they have been part of our life since long ago and people find this snack easy to pick up and keep munching on it whenever they like, ignoring the bad effects involved with the over-consumption. The problem with them are that they are so common that we find it everywhere, be it at tea time parties, boardroom meetings or anywhere else. They are considered unhealthy to munch on because they are made of wheat flour.
Let’s have a look at the constituents of biscuits. The wheat flour mentioned on the packages is generally refined wheat flour, which is not good for consumption because in the processing stage, the brown cover of the wheat that contains essential vitamins and necessary fiber is removed and the residue left is used for biscuit manufacturing and is proved to be unhealthy. In addition, biscuits have a high amount of sugar and thus, they are a source of high calorie content. Also, this high amount of sugar gives an energy spike but doesn’t fill us and has no food value and can even cause diabetes in long run and also prove bad for diabetic patients. Moreover, the other ingredient of biscuits, called hydrogenated oils which are added into the batter while making biscuits and are baked at very high temperature and this is what lead to the most dangerous kind of fats- trans fat. Trans fats are bad as they are known to increase the bad cholesterol and also increases the chance of heart diseases and diabetes. They are high in carbohydrates, so mostly they are recommended to be taken as 1 or 2 at a time, rather than munching on whole packets. Some care would be good if taken and pre-thought should be given rather than mindlessly falling prey to the taste of biscuits. Now, see through some of the key damages, these can do:

They are a source of weight gain: As, it is clear from above the main ingredients it contains, they have calories and carbohydrates and trans fat, all of which contributes to weight gain. It is important if you watch while you picking up one from the attractive plate of cookies. If you are dieting, it is highly advised to avoid the consumption of biscuits and better go for some replacement foods in place of it and satisfy your cravings and sweet tooth.

They do not have Fiber: Biscuits have very low fiber in them, due to which they aren’t regarded as a healthy choice. No matter how much appealing the advertisements are regarding the health aspects of biscuits, they aren’t a good choice and have no nutritional value. One should not depend one biscuit for fiber content, rather they should opt healthier choices from among fruits and veggies.
A biscuit is high in calories: Even the biscuits which are considered to be very light biscuits, like MARIE LITE also have calorie content of 56 calories in just 2 of its pieces. So, if this alone has this much calories, you can imagine how much other sweet and cream biscuits have.
They have no nutritional value and aren’t healthy snack replacements: The biscuits are unhealthy choice and have no food value as we can see above the ingredients of biscuit aren’t good for health and then there are artificial flavours which also add to its unhealthiness and all this when, together makes it unhealthy snack and shouldn’t be replaced for something like cornflakes or oatmeal with milk.
Well, the above listed harmful consequences of biscuits are worth noting. This information demands us to be more conscious about our biscuit intake and we must be mindful while its consumption. It is not that we should completely call off cookies and biscuits, but we should limit our cravings to eat them. And it will be good if we take them after or before some strenuous activities as it will burn off some calories and doesn’t do harm at that extent. Also, it will prove to better if we go for other replacement food like oatmeal or chiwda. Biscuits are a good snack and are tasty stuff, just as many other packaged and processed food products but they aren’t a healthy choice to rely on as they have no nutritional content and no food value. All this makes them really very unhealthy, no matter how easily available, low cost products they are. There are many cookies available with loads of varieties, ranging from dry fruits to chocolates to butter and many other, but we should be mindful while choosing them and eating them. Eat them, but don’t over eat them. Keep munching on biscuits; but in moderation. Take a break.

Healthy eating. Happy Life.

July 15, 2014
A look at Irish Culture

Every culture in this global world is unique and gain its own specialty.The Irish Culture too comes into that category.Coming to the Ireland,it is situated in Western Europe,occupying five-sixth of the islands in the North Atlantic Ocean which is to the west of Great Britain.The capital of Ireland is Dublin with a population of about 4,487,000.Irish language known as Gaeilge is a Indo-European Language of the Celtic family.

A picture showing about Irish culture in brief

The people of the Ireland are very culture oriented irrespective of their interests.Irish Culture has a nice variety of traditions,cultures and historic legends.There are some symbols which uniquely relate to the Irish culture.Ireland is often known as ‘Land of Saints and Scholars’ which refers the golden age of monastic learning.It is also referred as ”The Emerald Isle’ which means its green landscape.

Ireland a land of saints and scholars

This old country has many traditions of customs which are practiced from hundreds of years and some of them are found even now.The legends are passed on from generations to generations.The culture here is in a similar way to the Western Culture in TV,movies,music and literature.But the one aspects that makes unique is the pub culture.Pub refers the meaning of public house or bar.The pub culture here has more issues than over-consumption of drinking.Pubs are considered as meeting places where people can gather whether they are friends or neighbors in a peaceful atmosphere.The pubs differ largely with the area it is situated and the customers they serve.In earlier days,pubs were separated as the men would most likely in the main part of the pub while the lounge is filled with women.Due to modernization,it is diminishing and now it is a free space. Since 2004,the Government has made an act which declared that smoking in a place of work,even pubs are considered as illegal.

Irish pub culture

The Irish people are too concerned about their food.The home made meal are loved by them especially the Irish breakfast or a bowl of stew.They even gained the comfort of drinks to ease their homesickness while living in different countries.The Irish diet is similar to that of North European nations.They very much consume meat,cereal,bread,potatoes mostly at meals.The meals are most commonly accompanied with cabbage,turnips, carrots,broccoli.The eating habits of Irish consists four meals which are breakfast,dinner,tea and supper.Dinner is the midday main meal while tea is taken in early evening at about 4.00 p.m. and supper is a light meal before going to sleep.

irish_food_pyramid_mousepad

The traditional meals mostly consists of roasts,stews, beef,ham,pork,beef and turkey.Even fish(mostly salmon) and sea food(preferably prawns) are popular here.Some foods like wheaten breads,sausages,bacon rashers and drinks like Irish whiskey,national beer have a specific symbolic role in Ireland.Many varieties of stews,potato casseroles and breads are considered as the regional foods.

Irish-people-drinks

Ireland has even many people who has great musical talent like U2,folk singer-Christy Moore and many more people.The Irish traditional dancing is even popular there where it is originated and now spread to the whole world and has taken many different forms.

Trinity-Irish-Dancers

The people in Ireland are mostly Roman Catholics.88% of the population there are mostly identified as Roman Catholics according to the records. The church used to have a dominating power in society and politics in early days.Later on ,a generational divide with people over 50 who have observant and conservative views came up.The religion has many sayings of the view of family ,marriage and abortion in the society.They prefer the dominating social structures in their extended family.Even though they move to various cities,they stick to their home bonds.

The Irish people have a great reputation for their wit and humor.Due to this popularity,they are called as ‘craic’.The people are very fast in jokes which brings out humor.They even bring out the humor on themselves even if it is self deprecating.The practice of trading insults and teasing one another among a group of close people are known as slagging.The people there are mostly witty people and won’t take anything too personal.

Coming to the 20th century the people of Ireland have adopted their new western food habits.During the modern age both of the US fast foods and continental European dishes have influenced on the people of Ireland.Here most of the common meals include pizzas, curry, Chinese food.As there are adverse effects of these fast foods and deep fried items the government has broadcast television advertisements to discourage meat consumption.

Sports are popular in Ireland and are widely encouraged.Varieties of sports are played in Ireland and the most played are Football, hockey, hurling, Gaelic, rugby.Along with these sports many of the other sport are practiced like Swimming, golf, aerobics, soccer, cycling, Gaelic football and billiards are the sporting activities with the highest levels of playing participation.At the Olympics, a person from Northern Ireland can choose to represent either the Great Britain team or the Ireland team. Also as Northern Ireland is a home nation of the United Kingdom.They also send their team to Common wealth games every four years.

Irish sports

July 15, 2014