Category: Drinks

6 Motivational ways to stay healthy

Eat a healthy breakfast –

Most of us are unaware of some facts about breakfast. Even I used to think that taking breakfast daily will lead to me putting on weight and taking an egg and milk daily is so boring. But this type of thinking got clear when I came to know some interesting facts about breakfast. Now a days foods are high in calories and low on nutrition. A healthy breakfast is the cornerstone of a good and perfect diet. It sets you up so that you are full of energy and fuel for physical and mental performance. A healthy breakfast includes high fiber cereal which keeps diabetes, heart disease and stroke away from us. Researchers have shown that the one who take breakfast as a routine is leaner than who skip the morning meal.

Adding a little lean protein to the breakfast works as a booster of energy and helps you feeling full until lunchtime. Protein blunts your hunger and is the most satiating. The human body uses up a massive 440 calories during eight to nine hours sleep, that’s why breakfast in morning is so important.

To get you started here’s an idea of breakfast meal –

1egg

Oatmeal

Flax seeds

Almond slivers

1 glass milk

Fruits

Physical Exercise-

It is world known that physical activity is vital for your health. Regular physical activity both moderate and vigorous bring health benefits. Exercise can improve one’s performance by as much as 50% if they eat dark chocolate regularly. Regular exercise results in increased energy, increased metabolism, stress reduction and increased muscle tone, controls blood pressure, healthy weight etc. It also keeps you in shape so that you can enjoy leisure activities and offers great mental and social benefits. It protects you from stroke and heart diseases. Physical activity also stimulates various brain chemicals which may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. Exercise and physical activity delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system to work more efficiently. Get ready to work out with the given best exercises for heart health-

Walking

Cycling

Swimming

Yoga

Weight lifting

Regular Sleep hours-

Although most of the people are fond of sleeping but some of them are too busy in their work that they don’t find enough time for sleep. They don’t have any idea that lack of sleep can increase a person’s risk of serious health problems. Lack of sleep can make you put on weight by slowing the metabolism down. Researchers have found that getting good sleep works as a supplement medication for pain. Sleep also increases blood supply to our muscles, allowing our body to recover from the day’s stresses. When you are in a good sleep, your body temperature lowers, and this energy is utilized on growth and repair of tissues and cells.

So it’s an advice that make sleep a priority. Naps can help pick you up and make you work more efficiently.

Drink water at least 8 glasses a day-

Today most of the people prefer cold drinks over water. Drinking coke, Pepsi, etc. daily is their routine. There is something interesting which they are missing out. Let them think over this habit after reading the article. A human body is from 55% to 78% water. Every cell in your body needs water from head to toe. It is essential to consume water every day to prevent dehydration. You will look younger when your skin is properly hydrated. Water works as moisturizer for skin and increases skin elasticity. The waste is thrown out of the body in form of sweat and urine which reduces the risk of kidney stones and urine infections. It helps you in losing weight, building muscles, and is healthy for your joints. Also it saves your money as Water is FREE!

Eat fruits and vegetables-

Now a days whether he is a kid or adult, everyone like to eat junk food like burger, pizza, etc. They are unaware of the fact that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits may reduce risk of heart diseases and protect from cancer. Fruits and vegetables provide fiber that helps to maintain your digestive system. Freshly squeezed juices from fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of minerals and vitamins that catalyzes chemical reactions in the body. Also, fruits promote detoxification in the human body.

Food to maintain healthy joints-

Bone and join pain is common when you have reached on the age of 40. But here is something for your joint pain which really works. What you eat has direct effect on your joints and bones. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet really help you to keep your joints healthy. Several scientists have proved that tart cherry juice and fresh cherries may curb inflammation. Vitamin C helps your body to make collagen which is a part of our ligaments and cartilage which cushion your joints and hold them together. Calcium and vitamin D makes your joints strong.

June 28, 2014
Mainstream Nutrition Myths

People generally have a lot of nutrition myths in their knowledge and they follow it as they have heard it from somewhere and consider it as a true fact. But today science and technology has progressed a lot. We no longer live in the world where facts cannot be verified. The scientific studies have proved that the following mentioned myths are baseless and people should ignore them completely. So here we go.

You should eat less salt so as to prevent the heart attacks: Yes you may have heard this myth from a lot of people advising you to eat less salt as in helps in preventing the heart attacks. While this has been proved that eating less salt reduces the blood pressure of the human body to a very slight level, there has not been any link established between the heart attacks and the salt consumptions. If you are suffering from hypertension then salt intake should be restricted to prescribed limit. So don’t go for the boring and tasteless food. Eat as such as salt you feel like.

Having several small meals is more beneficial for health: people often argue that that those who eat several small meals in a day are more active as their metabolism rate is higher than the people who eat at the fixed timings. This is again a myth and it is not correct. The activeness of the human body depends upon the calories that are burnt throughout the day. So if you are having 6-7 small meals or going for the regular 3 meals, the effects will be same. Eating very often can also increase the abdominal fats which is very harmful.

You should go for foods which have high carbohydrates and low fats: Now this is one such myth which is extremely popular. You must have often heard people saying that one should eat food items which have high carbohydrates and low fats, as in this way you can prevent the body from any sort of disease and stay healthy. Further they also help in losing weight and prevent the risk of cancer. This is completely baseless. There has been several studies conducted on this myth but none has been able to give results which can support this claim.

Avoid eating yolks in eggs as they have high cholesterol and causes heart disease: I mean seriously you believe this myth. Yolk has the tremendous source of essential vitamins and minerals which the body requires for proper functioning. It has a high amount of good cholesterols which are essential for the human beings and clearly it does not cause the heart attacks. If you are diabetic then surely you should not eat eggs. But if you are healthy then you must eat eggs as they are among the most nutritious foods that we have. So who so ever tells you to stop eating yolk or eggs, ask them to read about the benefits of eating eggs and get their facts corrected.

Avoid coffee as it is unhealthy: You must have been advised by your loved ones that you should not drink coffee too much as it contains caffeine which is not only dangerous for the health but also gets you addicted towards it. But the latest studies conducted have yielded different results. According to them, coffee offers several health benefits and so you should drink it more often. It is a wonderful source of the antioxidants and helps people in getting rid of the depression and diabetes.

Say no to high protein diets: Most of the people believe that diets which are high in proteins such as the chickens and meats causes the extra strain on the kidneys and make it prone to the diseases. Result of which can lead to the kidney failure. But this is not at all true. The protein intake is completely safe for the people who are healthy and only those people who have kidney diseases should stop themselves from eating protein rich foods. Proteins act as a wonderful agent which suppresses the appetite and helps in the weight loss process.

Avoid full fat dairy products: you must have seen people opting for the toned milk instead of the full cream milk. It is because they believe that fully fat dairy products have a high amount of the calories and saturated fats present in them which results in the increase of obesity and the risk of the heart disease. But none of studies conducted so far have not been able to prove these myths as a true fact. The dairy products are preferred as they have high amount of fat in them and so if you choose to go for the less fat products then it is surely a bad idea.

Sugar is not harmful for the human body: We use sugars in several drinks and food items daily without paying attention towards the amount of sugar that we are consuming. Excess sugar consumption has several health disadvantages. You should check the consumption of sugar as it provides the empty calories which are not good for the healthy body. Not only it can cause you obesity, diabetes but it also affects the metabolic reactions going inside the human body.

June 28, 2014
Easy way of making Wine at home

Wine is nothing but a alcoholic beverage that is made out of fermented grapes.Basically there are two varieties of wines they are red wine and white wine.The simple difference between them is that red wine is prepared by soaking the grapes along with the skin whereas the white wines are prepared by removing the skin of the grapes after fermentation process.By using different types of grape varieties and strains of yeasts, they produce different type of wines.

history of wine

History:

Wine has a very long history and it spans over thousands of years.At first the evidence of wine civilization is found in China around 7000 BCE. Mainly the wine making technology was improved during the roman empire.They used to store them in barrels and shipped them to various parts of the world.The production and consumption has eventually increased during 15th century.Slowly it has spread to all the parts of the world and now it is available everywhere around the world.

history of wine

Making wine at home:

From thousands of years people are making their own type of wine at home.This can be prepared using any type of fruit but most people prefer to make it with grapes.In this process after mixing all of the ingredients we must leave the wine to ferment and then we have to age it before bottling.By using this simple olden process we can make delicious wine at home.

Ingredients:

1) Take six cups of any of the fruit

2) Take two cups of honey

3) Take one packet of yeasts

4) Take filtered water

Step 1:

This is the step we have to prepare all our supplies and ingredients first.Along with the wine ingredients we have to take some of the basic supplies so that our wine can age longer without being affected by bugs and bacteria.As we are making it in home we should see that it should not be much expensive.The supplies that are required for making at home are

1) Take two gallons of glass jar

2) Take one gallon of glass container having small neck

3) Take an air lock

4) Take a thin plastic tube that may be used for siphoning

5) Take clean wine bottles with screw caps

Step 2:

Select any type of fruit for making wine.Most of the people use grapes for the preparation of wine.While choosing a fruit it is better to choose a fruit that is organic as it has to be treated with chemicals if it is not organic.For reduced cost of making this wine take fruits in a farmers market.

Step 3:

At first take the fruits and remove the stems and and leaves and clean them thoroughly so that there should not be any dirt or grit.Next rinse the fruit thoroughly and place it in a crock or glass jar.Before crushing we can peel off the skin, but the actual flavor comes from the skin itself.If we peel off the skin then the wine will be more milder.Few think that natural yeasts lie on the skin of the fruit and does not wash it before crushing.

Step 4:

Now crush the fruits till the juice comes out of it.This process of taking the juice out of fruit is known as crushing.This process must be done until the fruit juice is about one and half inches from the top of the crock or glass jar.In case if the fruit juice is not till top of the glass jar fill the remaining level with mineral water.At this stage add campeden tablet to the mixture as it releases sulphur dioxide which kills wild yeasts and bacteria.In case if we don’t want to use tablet at that stage add two cups of boiling water to the fruit.

Step 5:

Add honey to the fruit juice as it adds sweetness to the wine and also provides food for yeasts.We can also add sugar if we don’t have honey available.

Step 6:

Now the main thing yeasts are to be added to the mixture taken and stir them well continuously by using a long handed spoon.For the preparation this is a step is a must and should not be ignored.

Fermenting wine:

wine-fermentation

Step 1:

Now after adding yeasts cover the crock by using a lid such that i must keep bugs away from it and it must allow air to flow in and out.Then tie it with a t shirt at the opening by using a rubber band.Now leave this undisturbed over night by providing it a temperature of 70 degrees.

Step 2:

Continuous stirring must be done for every four hours and must recover it such that the mixture starts bubbling so that yeasts start their action.This continuous stirring will help in making delicious wine.

Step 3:

Now as the bubbling slows down after few days take this to a glass container with a small neck for longer storage.Now place the small balloon over the opening to let the gas collected and replace it in a right away.

Step 4:

After this process let the wine be stored for few months but at least one month as the age for the wine increases the taste for it also increases.

Step 5:

At last preserve the wine by taking it in clean bottles and close it immediately by using a cork.Generally use dark bottles to preserve red wines.Allow it to preserve for longer age or can also take it immediately depending on one’s requirements.

Wine stored in dark bottles especially red wine

June 28, 2014
So you love Coffee?!

Do you think yourself as a coffee freak who just feels refreshed only after having that cup of hot coffee? Don’t worry, as your love for coffee is not in vain, rather it has some good things to offer. Go on, and discover the reasons why having that refreshment cup is good for you and you can continue with it without feeling guilty for the caffeine craving. There won’t be any person in this big world who hasn’t tasted coffee. Coffee and caffeine are most common and widely used substance used psychoactive substance used in the world. Many researchers have found that drinking two to four cups of coffee has many health benefits. Coffee was discovered around 850 A.D. in Ethiopia and after that it has become the world’s most popular beverage. Coffee is believed to be a good source of antioxidants and many studies have found that it elevates the mood, stop headaches, reduce cavities, improves athletic performance and yes, of course, is also helpful in reducing the risk of cancer, diabetes, gall stones and Parkinson’s disease. Coffee is something that can be pretty amazing for your brain, skin and your body. Don’t believe me? Have a look on these brimming coffee benefits, enlisted below and know about this super awesome beverage.

Just the Smell of coffee can reduce Stress: The aroma of coffee is such a stress-busting therapy. If you have been stressed or feeling anxiety due to non-sleepy nights and sleep deprivation, just the smell of coffee can make you feel better. The fragrance is so refreshing that it will be such a boost to your mood and mind and then drinking coffee is always so good. Give it a try and feel yourself.

Coffee can fight depression and makes you feel happier: It has been found in a research study that people who drink two to four cups of coffee are less likely to suffer from depression than the ones who never had it. Coffee helps in the upliftment of mood and makes you feel happy and also reduces the chances of suicide in a human being because it has slight antidepressant properties. The proposed reason for this is the presence of those healthy antioxidants that makes you feel light and healthy and happy.

Coffee can make you more intelligent and keeps your brain healthier: Usually, one drinks coffee when he feels tired or stressed, and just a cup can make you feel lively and alert because it boosts your energy levels and makes you smart. It has been reported by CNN that coffee allows your brain to work in a more efficient and smarter manner. It is linked with intelligence because when you take your cup of coffee, you somehow feel more alert and your reaction time, vigilance, logic and attention increases; things which are associated with intelligence and that is the reason you should not underestimate the cup of coffee.
Coffee improves your physical performance and makes you good athlete: Drinking Coffee increases the adrenaline levels in the blood, which is a hormone designed to make our bodies ready for physical exertion and also releases the fatty acids from fat tissues. It is mainly helpful in endurance sports and thus helps in improving the athletic performance. Because of this reason, it is recommended to have a strong cup of coffee one or half hour before workout as it will give a jolt to your athletic performance or gym workout.
Coffee can lower down the risk of Cancer: Cancer is the most deadly disease in the world and is caused due to uncontrolled growth of cells. Drinking coffee can reduce the risk of skin cancer, especially in women and also helps in lowering the risk of liver cancer or colorectal cancer. So, drinking coffee can prove to be really good against this disease.
Coffee drinkers have lower risk of developing Type II Diabetes: Diabetes and increased levels of insulin and elevated blood sugar levels has become a most common problem in today’s world, affecting almost 300 million people in the world. But it has been found in many observational studies that coffee drinkers are at much lower risk of having Type 2 diabetes than those who don’t have it. So, it is actually good if you fancy this drink.
Coffee may protect you against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease: These diseases have become the most common neurodegenerative disorders in the people specifically above 65 years of age. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for it, but yes, with some precautions you can lessen the symptoms of these diseases. Drinking coffee is one of them and it can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by 65% if you are a regular coffee drinker. Though eating healthy is important, but coffee can prove to be incredibly effective in lowering the risk.
Well, what are you thinking now? Amazed with all these perks of COFFEE. The best part of this beverage is that almost everyone loves to have and is completely affordable and tasty too. Moderation is the key and then you are free to enjoy the benefits. Afterall, Brewing that great cup has always been Exciting.

Keep drinking it. Keep loving it.

June 28, 2014
The Love For Cherry
If life is a bowl full of cherries, then we are all in for a treat…!!!

This bite size stone fruit in its vivid red hue is a summertime favorite- and each little sweet cherry packs a powerful punch of nutrients. Sweet or sour, cherries are bursting with nutrition.

Cherries have a very short fruiting season. In Australia, they are usually at their peak around Christmas time. In many parts of North America, cherry fruit trees are among the first fruit trees that ripen. In addition, to being a delicious fruit, they have attractive flowers and are commonly planted for their flower display in spring.

A handful of fresh cherries in the summertime are a natural gourmet natural. Cherries, along with other berries, are a rich source of anti-oxidants. Queritrin – a flavinoid is rich in cherries, and has been found by researchers to be one of the most potent anti-cancer agents.

More than just a delicious fruit, cherries are low in calories. Eating cherries can help u lose weight and stay trim. A cup of cherries is less than 100 calories and packs only in 3 gm of fiber, which helps you in keeping full for a longer time.

Also, these little beauties contains vitamin B such as- thiamine, riboflavin and vitamin B 6, these vitamins are crucial for the body and help in conversion of nutrients to energy.

Cherries are not only healthy and delicious, but versatile also. They can be added to anything to everything from dairy, to pork, eaten raw or cooked down to make a sauce or a shake.

They are a power-pack remedy to a large number of disorders-

1. Lowers down blood pressure-

Cherries are an excellent source of potassium, which helps in lowering of blood pressure by helping the body to get rid out of excess blood pressure. Eating cherries can help you maintain the balance between sodium and potassium.

2. Cherries get good sleep-

Tart cherries contain melatonin, a hormone that makes you sleepy. Two tablespoons of little tart juice is used as a tasty bedtime sleep aid.

3. Cherries help fight cancer-

The distinctive red hue of the cherry is due to the flavinoid called cynaidin, which in combination with anti-oxidants of cherry can help fight the free radicals of the body. Also cynaidin, helps to keep cancerous cells in control.

4. Cherries help ease arthritis pain-

For those who suffer from arthritis and gout, eating 2 cup of binge cherries can give a lot of relief. Cherries can also reduce painful inflammation by decreasing the amount of the reactive protein produced.

5. Helps cure migraine-

Cherries help in curing migraine problem, by reducing the inflammation in the body. The cynaidin flavinoid of the cherry can aid in reducing the migraine headaches.

6. prevents premature ageing-

cherries are rich in two important flavinoids- queritrin and isoqueritrin, which act as antioxidants and work by removing the by-products of oxidative stress, thereby slowing down the process of pre-mature ageing.

Some easy cherry recipes:

1. Cherry beer cake-

A. 3/4 cup cherries

B. 2 cup all- purpose flour

C. 2 tbsp baking powder

D. 1/4 tbsp salt

E. 4 eggs

F. 2 cup granulated sugar

G. 2 tbsp vanilla extract

H. 2 tbsp melted butter

I. 1 cup cherry wheat beer

J. 1 tbsp baking soda

K. 1 pack cream cheese

L. 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

In a large bowl, add butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, flour, baking soda, vanilla extract, baking powder and salt. Add walnuts and cherries to the mixture.

Transfer the mixture to a battered pan, which is greased with oil. Bake the cake in the preheated oven kept at 350` C for 25-30 minutes. Cool it for 10 minutes.

For frosting in a large bowl, beat cream cheese till fluffy. Then add sugar and water, to achieve consistency. Add food coloring, if required. Spread the frosting over and between the cake layers.

Spread walnuts over the top layer.

2. Cherry milkshake-
1. Vanilla ice-cream
2. 2 tbsp milk
3. Fresh cherries
4. Marshmallows for garnishing
Chop the cherries, into small dices by removing the stalk and the seeds. Blend ice-cream, milk and the chopped cherries until smooth. Do not over blend it. Pour the shake into glasses and garnish with stalked cherries and marshmallows.

3. Vegan cherry pie-

A. 1 1/4 cup dark cherries

B. 1 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour

C. 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

D. 1 tbsp baking soda

E. 1/2 tbsp salt

F. 1 cup sugar

G. 1/2 cup oil

H. 1 tsp vanilla extract

I. 1 cup coffee powder

J. 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Preheat the oven to 375` C and in a medium bowl mix together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda and whisk them. In another bowl, add coffee powder with cold water, oil and vanilla extract. Now mix both of them together. Now, add the apple cider vinegar and mix till it is evenly distributed in mixture. Add cherries to the mixture, and do not whisk now. Bake for 35 minutes and then let it cool.

Garnish with chocolate chip and stalked cherries.
June 26, 2014
Berry healthy, Berry delicious, Berry juicy

Strawberries are the most popular type of berry fruit in world. The strawberry is also known an aggregate fruit because it is formed from separate carpels of a single flower. Its red fleshy part does not develop from the flower’s ovary, but derived from the non-reproductive parts of the flower. Studies have shown that strawberry is a perishable, fragile and delicate fruit. It is the only fruit whose seeds are visible from outside. Strawberries are used as fresh or as a part of processed foods like ice creams, jams, juices, chocolates and milkshakes because of their extra juicy and sweet flavor. These berries have the taste which from quite sweet to acidic. Calories in strawberries are much lower than many fruits. A strawberry has about four calories. Strawberries are a healthy and tasty option for many weight watchers, also they are a great source of nutrition for the body.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS-

Strawberry is an excellent source of manganese, flavonoids, vitamin C, and E and beta carotene. It is a good source of fiber, copper, vitamin K, zinc, iodine, fatty acid and some healthy minerals. Strawberries have some phytonutrients which helps them to work as antioxidants in our body. Strawberry also contains some small amounts of salicylic acid which is an anti-inflammatory compound very similar to acid of aspirin. It is low in calories, sugar and protein and devoid of cholesterol and fat.

HEALTH BENEFITS-

Strawberry has around 32 Kcal/gm which is very low and it is very low in fat as well. But, it is a rich source of vitamins and minerals which are essential for your health. There is a compound in strawberries called phenol, it fight against many inflammatory disorders, such as asthma, osteoarthritis etc. They do not carry unwanted side effects like intestinal bleeding. Strawberry is listed as one of top foods which helps in lowering the cancer rate because of its very high content of anti-oxidants which work synergistically and more powerfully against oxidation and prevents damages caused by free radicals in our body. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin-C which helps the body to develop resistance against inflammation and infectious agents. It is rich in B complex group of vitamins which helps as cofactor to help the body in metabolizing proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Acetyl acids are also found in strawberries, it helps to prevent blood clots formation and hence improves the function of heart. It is also found that strawberries can help in improving memory, and brain’s ability to process information which helps in preventing brain defects in babies during pregnancy. Strawberry improves your immunity and keeps you fit. It also enhances your blood sugar regulation.

SKIN BENEFITS–

Skin Cleanser– Strawberries have great cleansing properties. Strawberry extracts are used as an ingredient in skin cleansers, face washes. Ellagic acid is present strawberry which combats skin damage to maintain its freshness and youth. They remove impurities and soften the skin as well as soothe allergies and other irritants and provide protection against pollution.

Treatment of pigmentation- Since strawberries are rich source of ellagic acid, its oral ingestion can cure hyper pigmentation caused by Ultra violet rays by inhibiting the synthesis of melanin, the chemical which gives the skin its color.

Food scrub- Strawberries are very effective in giving you crack free and soft feet. Strawberry foot scrub can be easily prepared by mashing 6-7 strawberries and mixing them with a few drops of glycerin and oats. This mixture will exfoliate your dead cells and rough skin. Strawberry can also be used as a skin toner. It gives you wrinkle free, blemish free and younger looking skin.

Strawberry is an astringent, it reduces dark circles and under eye puffiness. Strawberries repairs your skin, save your skin from damages and heal wounds. It contains some ingredients which reduces oiliness of your skin and controls acne.

HAIR BENEFITS-

Strawberries protects the cell membrane of the scalp because of its antioxidant property, and hence prevents the formation of layer on their surface which separates the scalp from contact of water. Manganese, copper and magnesium in strawberry controls the growth of fungus on your scalp. Strawberries are rich in allegic acid which protects your hair from falling and thinning. It also prevents hair loss and provides extra shine to your hair as it works as a natural conditioner. It can be mixed tea or tree oil to get rid of dandruff.

The acids in strawberries are known to remove stains. They helps in removing plaques and strengthen and heal gums and gives you white and shiny teeth. Strawberries are rich in potassium which is a mineral, it helps to regulate the electrolytes in the body pushing down the dangers of heart attacks and strokes. They are very beneficial as a healthy morning breakfast and also gives you the perfect energy boost for the whole day.

June 26, 2014
Aloe Vera comes with an antiseptic and medicinal properties

You all must be aware about the benefits of aloe Vera when skin issues are concerned.. Whether it might be rashes, sunburns etc..!! But do you people know about its health benefits..?? I think over millions of people only thousands of them know its other part and the rest must be treating it as an antiseptic for their skin.

Aloe Vera is a succulent plant that is very short-stemmed and naturally grows up to 60-100 cm. The leaves of this plant are fleshy green with small white teeth over it. It has entitled as the ‘Wand of the Heaven’ by the Americans for having widespread antiseptic properties.

Aloe Vera in its history is known for its medicinal and antiseptic properties. According to scientific researches it is generally considered as the beauty secret. Aloe Vera extract can be used as a lotion or is diluted to form aloe Vera gel. These extractions or prepared gel are applied on the skin to make it more smooth and shiny. It is used to obliterate your eye makeup very smoothly and also helps in providing relief to tired and swells eyes. Skin specialist considers it as a remedy for sunburn, skin irritations, acne etc. It is applied 2-3 times a day and its cooling properties help in curing sunburns.

Aloe Vera is rich in Vitamin C and E and our skin needs these vitamins so that it always remains hydrated and soft. And nothing can be better than adding coconut oil to it so that essential nutrients and required fats all together are provided to our skin. It internal qualities keep our skin moisturizing and it’s under layer effects keeps it shiny. Aloe Vera gel is also applied on hairs to make it smoother.

This is all about its healing properties and its major concern with skins. Now let’s talks about its health benefits. Aloe Vera extract is not only applied on skins rather it is also used in preparing aloe Vera juice. This aloe Vera juices in turn is taken and overpower its medicinal properties. This plant has a magical property which is used in the treatment of various diseases. So the major issue is How to prepare this aloe Vera juice. It’s quite easy and has a homemade recipe.

Aloe Vera Juice: Initially breaks off some of the leaves from Aloe Vera plant. Then, with the help of knife, take out the extract from the leaves gently. Peel out the yellow layer from the extract so that we are left with only a clear gel. Place this in the blender and add one cup of grapes/orange juice into it. Blend these into it for some time until it is fully mixed. Pour this into a glass and your Aloe Vera Juice is ready.

Aloe Vera juice helps in maintaining our digestive system and allows food particles to pass through our intestine flawlessly. It acts as a detoxifier and helps with alleviating ulcers, acidity and inflammation. Drinking this regularly helps in removing joint pains and decreases swelling. It also reduces rigidness of bones and makes them soft. It also cures diabetes and decreases sugar level to the large extent. Its antibacterial properties help in promoting cell growth and increases mouth gums. It also helps in improving immunity and boosts our immunity. It also increases energy along with maintaining weight. It contains minerals and nutrients which help in improving blood pressure and blood oxidation.

To make it more delicious to drink instead of preparing aloe Vera juice we can make Aloe Vera Cocktail. Just by adding few more ingredients to it, it can take a new form of drink. Firstly, prepare aloe Vera juice as usual and then add 1-2 cup of pineapple, one carrot and one green apple along with 2-4 tbsp of water to it. Finally, blend them and pour it into a glass with a straw. Now this exotic cocktail is ready to be served.

Now we are all familiar with its health and skin benefits, but these are all due to its nutritional value. It consists of 12 vitamins, 75 nutrients, 18 amino acids, 20 minerals and 200 enzymes in it. When Vitamins is concerned, it consists of Vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C and E. These minerals have their effects internally or externally. It also consists of various compounds such as mannans, lectins and polysaccharides etc.

Aloe Vera Gel: Take out the extract and place it into the blender. Foe every ¼ cup of aloe add 400IU Vitamin E and 500mg Vitamin C. Blend these together and placed the prepared gel in refrigerator.

As we know every coin has two faces similarly Aloe comes with its advantages and disadvantages both. Excess drinking of aloe juice may be a cause of cancer in later days and can lead to serious kidney diseases and sometimes even results in death. So it’s better to consult a doctor before its intake.

June 26, 2014
World’s Best Selling Cocktails

People just love to drink cocktails as they are not only alcoholic but also refreshing in taste. The main constituents of the cocktails are water, sugar, alcohol and sour and they are mixed according to the recipe of the drink being prepared. Many people belief that the experience of the bartender matters a lot as making cocktails requires expertise. All the ingredients to be used in the particular drink are required to be mixed in right proportion and then only the actual taste can be experienced. Further the steps involved in their preparations should also be strictly followed. People select cocktails according to their taste and desire. Some like to drink those cocktails which have less alcohol in it while some go for the cocktails with more alcohol. Today there are endless recipes available for making cocktails. But some of them have made their own name and are loved in every corner of the world. Hereby we are mentioning the most sold cocktail drinks in the whole world.

Bloody Mary:

Without a doubt Bloody Mary is the most favorite cocktail in the whole world. It is mostly served in the tall glasses. Since tomato juice is used in its preparation, it has a red blood like color. Vodka, flavoring agents and tomato juice are used as the main ingredients in its preparation. The flavoring agents which can be used are olives, black pepper, lemon juice, salt, Tabasco sauce, horseradish and many more. Its preparation is quite complex and so everybody cannot prepare it easily. To prepare Bloody Mary cocktail, take 4.5 cl Vodka, 1.5 cl Lemon Juice and 9 cl Tomato Juice. Add other sauces along with pepper and salt. Stir it gently and then pour it into a tall glass with ice cubes.

Margarita:

Margarita is one of the Mexican cocktail which is now loved everywhere, mostly by the females. Many believe that Margarita was invented by a person named as Carlos Danny Herrera in the year 1938. He created this drink for his friend Marjorie King who had special love for tequila. There is a special type of glass used for serving this cocktail named as Margarita glass. Tequila, Lime juice and Cointreau are taken into a high ball glass along with ice and are mixed properly. Along the rim of the Margarita glass, salt is applied and the drink is poured in it in such a way that the salt does not get disturbed.

Screwdriver:

Ask cocktail lovers about Screwdriver cocktail and they will have special praise for this drink. It is highly popular among the people. Different variations of Screwdriver cocktail is prepared and served at different places. This drink is prepared using vodka and orange juice. To prepare Screwdriver cocktail, add 1 part of vodka and 2 part of orange juice. Shake them well and then serve it in a glass after decorating it appropriately. Many people say that this cocktail was first prepared by the American aviators and they used the screwdriver to stir the drink they made by adding orange juice and vodka. So it is named as Screwdriver.

Apple Martini:

Now the next cocktail that we are going to mention here is Apple Martini which is a variation of the highly popular Martini cocktail. Its basic ingredients are Apple Juice or Apple brandy, vodka and Vermouth. All these are taken in appropriate quantity in a shaker and then poured into a glass filled with chilled ice. In 1995, a bartender working in the Lola’s bar which is in Hollywood, California made this drink for the first time. His name is Adam Karsten and so sometimes this cocktail is also known by the name of Adam’s apple martini. If you will add rum instead of vodka, you will get a new drink named as Rumpletini.

Mojito:

Mojito has a long history behind it. This magic drink was invented by the slaves who used to work in the sugar cane fields of Cuba in the 19^th century. Today it is extremely popular and is served in the Collins glass. The preparation of Mojito cocktail requires 3 parts of Lime Juice which should be fresh, 4 parts of white rum, 2 teaspoon sugar, soda water and few leaves of mint. Lime juice, sugar and mint leaves are first muddled and then white rum is added to it along with the soda water. Few mint leaves are used to decorate the glass in which it is served.

Piña Colada:

The very meaning of the word Piña Colada is strained pineapple and it gives us the idea about the ingredients which are used in its preparation. To make Piña Colada cocktail take 3 parts of pineapple juice, 1 part white rum and one part coconut milk. Mix them well with the crushed ice and then serve in a special glass called as the Poco Grande glass. Piña Colada is slightly yellowish in color and has a very pleasant taste. It was first prepared by Ramon Perez in the year 1952 in the bar of the famous Caribe Hilton Hotel located in San Juan.Since 1978 Puerto Rico has officially named Piña Colada as the official beverage of the country.

June 24, 2014
Different Varieties of Tea

Tea is a form of drink that is enjoyed by people in so many countries. Its popularity has been increased a lot in these years. People love to have a few sips of this amazing drink when they are tired and want to have some freshness. There are many different kinds of tea available in the market like Black Tea, Red Tea, Green Tea and many more. Even though they offer different benefits and have different features they all are originated from the similar plant-‘Camellia sinensis’. It has been found out that tea also provides so many benefits to the health and keeps the body fit and fine. Among the various kinds of tea that we have, some are listed below along with their features and advantages.

Green Tea:

This particular kind of tea is quite prevalent in the regions of Asia and is enjoyed by the people a lot. China and Japan are the chief producers of green tea. It comes in the marketplace with so many essences and tastes. It includes various vitamins beneficial for the health. It’s a sweet smelling and delightful beverage that is relished by the people from all over the world. It is very helpful in burning fat, reducing the danger of strokes and neurological sickness and improving the level of cholesterol. So green tea is a good blend of taste and health benefits. Further if you want to lose weight this is the tea which you need to start drinking.

Black Tea:

It has been widespread in the marketplaces of Europe and US. ‘Chai’- a very much liked drink all over the world is made from black tea. In India Darjeeling and Assam are the biggest producers of black tea. It is gaining popularity and love for its deep and intense flavors. From children to adults, it is appreciated and liked by all. The greatest amount of caffeine is found out in black tea. It is too beneficial for reducing the amount of strokes and offers a great amount of protection to the lungs too.

White Tea:

As the name suggests it is the cleanest type of tea, it is the purest of all the kinds. It is processed in a slightest amount as compared to other kinds of tea and this kind of tea is produced in the rarest amount. The drinks formed from white tea possess a bright color and taste. It has become so prevalent and common recently. It is quite similar to green tea except its light color and flowery taste. The sprouts of the plants are included in the white tea which gives a way to floral taste. It possesses strong and powerful anticancer characteristics. Antioxidant as well as detoxifying advantages is delivered by white tea.

Oolong Tea:

It is quite popular among the people as the Chinese drink as it basically comes from China. It is dissimilar from the others of its kind. It has very intense and powerful flavor in addition with sugary and sweet smelling fragrance. Oolong tea is a kind of semi fermented tea. It is extensively utilized by the in people as it offers great amount of digestive advantages. It is moreover famous as ‘Wu long’ tea with deep essence and delightful smell. It is also considered as a supplement for the loss in the weight.

Red tea:

It is another tea which comes with purity as the additives are not included in it. It is known for its clean and genuine form with no preservatives. The amount of caffeine is quite low in it. This drink is quite suitable for the people having hectic and occupied routine life. All over the day, it can be consumed numerous times. It acts as eminent drink to quench the thirst. Apart from using it in the various drinks it is also utilized in baking as well as cooking. This tea has a gentle and relaxing effect and is sweeter as compared to usual tea.

Herbal Tea:

It is also known as ‘tisane’ and it usually does not include any caffeine in it. Apart from using it as a drink it is also utilized for various medical advantages offered by it. It is an easy and efficient tea that is available to the people at a very low cost. It is very enjoyable and pleasurable in flavor and provides so many advantages of the herbs. Similar to other drinks, it can be served up as hot and cold both. So it is a very pleasant beverage to enjoy along with its medicinal advantages. Herbal tea is highly preferred in most parts of the world.

So as you can see there are so many kinds of tea which are available now days. Every tea has its own advantages and flavors. Drinking tea is the part of the daily routine and it leaves behind a very soothing and relaxing effect which is required in such as busy routine. In the market you are provided with a great deal of different kinds of tea. So you certainly have many options to select from and enjoy the benefits of that particular type of tea.

June 24, 2014
Tea: A Drink for Every Season

Tea, as evident by the consumption in an average Indian’s household, is most widely consumed drink- after water. Tea is found as an important part in every house and that is what I am taking about today. It is the only beverage commonly available hot or iced for every occasion.

It is not just a beverage for the sake of drinking, but it also has numerous health benefits. Oolong tea and White tea, for example, help in weight control. Black tea helps to reduce stress. Various flower teas help to increase metabolism and reduce stress. There are various reasons to drink a cup of tea everyday and to make your tea experience rich and interesting, here is a list to different type of teas you can try in every season.

Summer:-

We can never give up on drinking tea let it be the 45⁰C heat of summer. For this summer, we have got Iced Lemon tea for you. It is easy to make, cool and refreshing; perfect for a summer evening.

Lemon Iced Tea

Ingredients needed:-

1 Lemon

Sugar to taste

½ cup fresh Mint Leaves

1 Black tea bag

Directions to make:-

Using a vegetable peeler remove bright yellow peel from lemon. Combine lemon and sugar in a medium saucepan with 1/2 cup water and boil. Stir to dissolve sugar. Lower the heat and let it heat for one more minute. Remove from heat and add mint. Cool to room temperature.

Now in 1 cup hot water put the tea bag for 5 minutes. Then remove the tea bag and add the syrup, 1 cup cold water and ice cubes.

Serve in tall glasses filled with ice cubes and a few mint leaves on the top.

Autumn:-

In autumn, there is nothing as delightful as sitting at the balcony in the cold breeze with a hot cup of tea nearby. Cinnamon Apple tea is a perfect tea to sip in the autumn-ish cold morning. As evident from the name, it is an apple based tea and doesn’t need tea bags.

Cinnamon Apple Tea

Ingredients needed:-

½ teaspoon honey

½ teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch of nutmeg

1 cup water (boiling)

Directions to make:-

Cut the apples and mash lightly with a fork in the bottom of a mug. Add the dry ingredients on top. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the apples and other ingredients and stir. Let it simmer in the boiling water for about 5 minutes. Top with whipped cream and enjoy.

Spring:-

It is the most interesting season for trying new tea flavors. In the flowery spring, add some new flavors to the life with some flowery drink.

Lavender Tea

Ingredients needed:-

3 Tablespoons fresh Lavender flowers or 1 1/2 Tablespoons dried Lavender flower

2 cups boiling water

Honey and Lemon (optional)

Direction to make:-

To make Lavender tea put the flowers in a teapot or container along with the boiling water allowing them to stay for a good 4 to 5 minutes.
Pour into cups straining if necessary to remove the flower buds. Drink Lavender flower tea with honey and sliced lemon for better taste.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea has a naturally sweet tasting drink with a tinge of apple flavor. It is a good source of Magnesium and is used as a soothing and relaxing herb.

Ingredients needed:-

1 chamomile teabag or 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers

1 cup fresh water, brought just to the boil

Optional additions to taste such as honey, lemon, or mint

Directions to make:-

Add the teabag or dried flower to a cup. Cool the just-boiled water slightly (chamomile tea is best when steeped in hot – not boiling – water), and then add to your cup. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Its taste and benefits improves with longer steeping time. Remove the teabag or loose tea leaves. Drink it this way or add extras, like honey, lemon, or mint, if you wish.

Winter

Winter, no doubt, is the perfect season for drinking a hot cup of tea every morning and evening. To make winter more healthy and delicious, there is green tea for you to try.

Green Tea

Green tea, with its incredible taste, has many health benefits. Drinking green tea increases metabolism. Also, it helps to maintain a healthy heart. You can also say ‘A cup of Green Tea a day, keeps a doctor away.’

Ingredients needed:-

Green tea leaves- 1 tsp
Water – 1 cup
Honey to taste
Fresh lemon juice to taste

Direction to make:-

Heat 1 cup of water. Do not bring it to boiling point. Switch off before that stage to reduce bitterness. Add 1 tsp green tea and brew it for about 2-3 minutes. If you brew it longer, the tea will taste bitter, so just 2-3 minutes is sufficient. Strain the tea into a cup.
Add honey and a few drops of lemon juice to taste. Do not add milk in this tea. You can use 2-3 fresh mint leaves to get a minty flavor.

So, what are you waiting for? Go make a nice cup of tea for yourself and others. Drink your health and taste at the same time and Enjoy.

June 24, 2014