Monday, December 10, 2007
Spinach - Rich source of Iron
Health Benefits of Onion
chives, scallions and shallots. In the ancient times the Greeks and
Romans used onions for their medicinal value. They used Onions to
treat headaches, snakebites, hair loss, infertility etc., Onion is
being used for centuries not just to add flavor to foods but also for
its therapeutic properties. Egyptians worshipped onions. The onions
formed an integral part of all their burials as they thought the
strong aroma of the onions would bring breath back to the dead.
The onion is a biennial plant, producing a bulb in the first season
and seeds in the second. Onions are grown from seeds and sets. Onion
sets produce a less durable bulb than onions grown directly from seed.
Anyone of the planting method may be used to produce spring onions or
green onions, which are onions harvested while immature. Seeds are
sown directly into the garden, covered with one-fourth inch of soil
and should sprout within 7- 10 days. The leaves of the plant are long
cylindrical and have a smooth surface.
Onions possess antibacterial and anti fungal properties. Onions are
said to the lower the glucose levels in the blood stream. Onions are
a very good source of chromium. chromium deficiency arises due to the
consumption of refined sugars and white flour products and lack of
exercise. One cup of raw onion contains over 20% of the Daily Value
for this important trace mineral. The regular consumption of onions
has resulted lower high cholesterol levels. Onions are used to heal
blisters and boils. Onion helps lower risk of heart attack or stroke.
Onions are a rich source of flavonoids, substances known to provide
protection against cardiovascular disease. Onions helps destroy worms
and other parasites in the stomach.
Onion has been used as an ingredient in various dishes for thousands
of years by many cultures around the world. The onion production is
steadily increasing, onion is now the second largely grown crop after
tomatoes. Onions can be eaten raw, cooked, fried, dried or roasted.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Mangoes - Health Benefits
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Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Tomatoes - Redder the Better
Tomatoes are an integral part of all kitchens. It enhances the taste of the foods that it is added to. While choosing tomatoes always remember 'Redder the better'. listed are some of the health benefits of tomatoes.
Potent source of vitamin C.
Rich in antioxidant Lycopene.
Helps prevent prostrate cancers.
Nourishes the skin.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Heart Burn
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Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Oregano - Uses and Curative Properties
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Thyme for flavour
Thyme species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera insect species including Chionodes. Thyme is widely cultivated as a herb, grown for its strong flavour, which is due to its content of thymol. Thyme tea is good for cough and bronchitis. It has anti-spasmodic and carminative properties.
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Worm Infestation
There are different types of worms like the thread worm, round worm, hook worm, tape worm etc., The round worm is the most common. Worm infestation if left unattended may prove to be fatal.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Yam - Health Benefits
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Sweating
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Friday, August 24, 2007
Cabbage- Health benefits.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Bitter Gourd - Health Benefits
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Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Avacado - Health Benefits
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Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Rosemary for flavor and Good Health
'Dew of the sea' Rosemary is widely known for its culinary use. Rosemary took its origin in the Mediterranean region. It grows well in breezy ocean areas. It is a perenial plant and the leaves can be harvested from May through July. The leaves are deep green in colour and needle like. They are used for seasoning food. The leaves have a astringent bitter taste which goes best with rich oily food. Rosemary can be grown from the cuttings or seeds. Foods like pork and meat are seasoned with fresh or dried Rosemary leaves. Rosemary imparts a pungent flavour which goes well with all meat preparations.
Rosemary is said to be one of the herbs present in the manger where baby Jesus was born. Rosemary is indispensible in all Roman religious affairs. Rosemary has the ability to cure many ailments like digestion problems, liver problems, respiratory problems etc. Rosemary oil is used to prevent scalp and skin dryness and promote circulation.
Rosemary is rich in fiber and minerals. Rosemary oil has an mesmerising aroma and helps in relaxation. Inhaling Rosemary oil provides relief from throat congestion. Dried Rosemary is used in cupboards for frangrance. Rosemary is used to cure nerve ailments.
Rosemary essential oil is beneficial to improve concentration and memory. It is suggested that rosemary essential oil should not be used by pregnant and breastfeeding or nursing women. Excessive dosage of the oil may lead to miscarriage. Rosemary helps prevent breast cancer. The natural acids present in rosemary have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Rosemary is also one of the ingredients used in the preparation of Eau-de-Cologne.
Health Benefits of Rosemary
'Dew of the sea' Rosemary is widely known for its culinary use. Rosemary took its origin in the Mediterranean region. It grows well in breezy ocean areas. It is a perennial plant and the leaves can be harvested from May through July. The leaves are deep green in colour and needle like. They are used for seasoning food. The leaves have a astringent bitter taste which goes best with rich oily food. Rosemary can be grown from the cuttings or seeds.
Rosemary is said to be one of the herbs present in the manger baby Jesus was born. Rosemary is indispensable in all Roman religious affairs. Rosemary has the ability to cure many ailments like digestion problems, liver problems, respiratory problems etc. Rosemary oil is used to prevent scalp and skin dryness and promote circulation.
Rosemary is rich in fiber and minerals. Rosemary oil has an mesmerising aroma and helps in relaxation. Inhaling Rosemary oil provides relief from throat congestion. Dried Rosemary is used in cupboards for fragrance. Rosemary is used to cure nerve ailments for a very long time. Rosemary essential oil is beneficial to improve concentration and memory. It is suggested that rosemary essential oil should not be used by pregnant and breastfeeding or nursing women. Excessive dosage of the oil may lead to miscarriage. Rosemary helps prevent breast cancer. The natural acids present in rosemary have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Sage - Health Benefits
Sage is known for its healing properties since early history. The Romans and Greeks have used Sage to cure many ailments. Like any other herbs of the mint family, sage is indigenous to the Mediterranean region. The Arabs associated sage with immortality. The sage plant has silvery-green leaves with a pleasantly bitter fragrance.
Sage is also known for its culinary properties. Sage goes well with pork, sausages etc., Sage with other herbs such as Rosemary were used as preservatives in meat preparations. Traditionally it was used to promote and regulate the menstrual cycle in women and also as a remedy for the pain during the menstrual cycle. sage also helps to regulate the blood sugar levels.
Sage is used to control excessive perspiration and cure many ailments like stomach disorders, gastric problems, soar throat, diarrhoea etc., Sage can be grown in the kitchen garden and in pots too.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Fresh Juices - Benefits
Fruits and vegetables contain number of vitamins and minerals that are essential for the human body. These vitamins regulate your metabolism and aid in converting the fats and carbohydrates into energy required by the body. Fresh fruit juices are a good food supplement. Fruits and vegetables have a protective effect which prevents dreadful diseases like cancer and heart ailments. They also contain minerals essential for the nerve and muscle function.
The Juices are the perfect food for today's fast paced life. Fruits and vegetables are a very good source of enzymes. The enzymes are often destroyed by heat. As the fruits and vegetables are juiced raw the enzyme are still available when one consumes them. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, Vitamins C and E and selenium, which are nutrients that protect cell membranes from the damage of free radicals. The phytochemicals present in the plants are capable of preventing most deadly diseases.
Lemon juice is a very good body coolant and the vitamin c present in the lemon juice is used to cure scurvy among sailors and sea travellers. Noni juice is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, magnesium etc. It improves the mental clarity and eliminates stress and depression. Aloe vera juice is very good to cure skin disorders and also cures heartburn, ulcers and digestive disorders. Its used as a laxative too. Orange juice has been an integral part of an healthy diet. The orange juice is rich in calcium and ensures strong teeth and bones. It helps to maintain an healthy blood pressure level. Carrot juice plays the most important part in an infant's supply of vitamin A. carrot juice is consumed jointly with milk, the utilization of carotene as vitamin A is considerably increased.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
What is Eczema?
'Dermatitis' an inflammed itchy skin condition which is commomly known as 'Eczema'. Eczema is a condition that occurs due to extremely dry skin. This appears most often in infants but gets cured as they grow. The affected skin is mostly dry, red and itchy and tends to get infected very easily.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Dental Care
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and ideally after every meal, using fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush preferably one with rounded, synthetic bristles — it's gentler on your gums.
Tooth brush should be changed every two or three months, Old brushes may cause damage to the gums.
The tooth brush should be repalce after one has a cold attack.
Hold the brush in a slight angle while brushing.
Brush throughly the inside of the gums and the surface of the teeth.
Do not brush vigorously.
Never cover the used brush immediately, dry it after every use.
Each time you brush, bursh atleast for two minutes.
Clean your tongue bacteria would collect on the tongue surface too.
Limit the intake of sweets.
An half yearly appointment with the dentist is a must.
Keep the intake of soft drinks to a minimum as the acids in the soft drinks cause damage to the teeth.
Friday, June 22, 2007
What is Hemangioma?
The type of hemangioma and its cure should be definitely accertained medically. There are various treatments including surgical corrections available.
To know more about Hemangioma click here
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
What is anemia?
Anemia is caused due to slow but chronic loss of blood and iron deficient diet.This also occurs after and during pregnancy due to the excess demand from the foetus. Frequent pregnancy leads to loos of iron stores in the body. Most common symptoms of anemia are exhaustion, weakness etc., Palpitation occurs when its severe.
Usually iron deficient anemia can be treated using iron supplements. It is always adviced to take medical advice before consuming the supplements. Oral iron supplements are preferable than injections. The oral dose of elemental iron for treatment of iron deficiency anameia
is 100 or 200 daily with meals. Sustained release iron preparations are expensive but have fewer symptoms of gastric trouble.
Use iron preparations only if diagnosed as iron deficiency anemia. Ferrous supplements like Ferrous sulphate are preferable. Iron supplements should be taken after food to reduce gastric trouble. The liquid iron supplements should be diluted with water. Iron supplements will cause black stools. If you experience constipation, use a stool softner. Do not indulge in self medication.
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Sunday, March 11, 2007
What is Thyroid?
The thyroid gland is located in the middle of the lower neck. It lies in front of the wind-pipe , above the level of the collar-bones. A normal gland cannot be felt. The thyroid gland produces hormones like thyroxine nd triiodothyronine which are released into the blood stream.
Certain diseases of the Thyroid gland are common and are caused due to the over or under reactive gland. These conditions are called hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This tends to slow down the body's functions. Symptoms include tiredness, constipation and sensitivity to the cold.
The thyroid gland controls the entire body's metabolism. That means that your weight, you're hair, your skin and all sorts of things that go on in your body depend on your thyroid to work right. If there is a unexpected weight gain or weight loss is the sign that the thyroid gland is functioning as it is expected to function.
Hypothyroidism is caused due to iodine insufficiency. Some common symptoms of Hypothyroidism are Swelling in the Thyroid gland, Dry and thickened skin, Thinning hair, Weight gain, Constipation etc.,
Hyperthyroidism is the result of an overactive thyroid gland. Treatments for hyperthyroidism involves a surgery or treatment with radioactive iodine or other antithyroid drugs which may result in hypothyroidism.
The functioning of the thyroid gland can change during pregnancy. Women with hypothyroidism need more frequent checks during pregnancy.Five percent of women have a mild problem with the thyroid three to six months after delivery. This has an autoimmune cause and can cause hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Although it rarely needs treatment it does mean that thyroid problems are more likely in later life.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Orange- Health Benefits
Citrus are rich in vitamin C. They also contian other essential nutrients and are fat free. It is the best snack for weight watchers. Oranges are rich in vitamin C. Citrus fruits have long been valued as part of a nutritious and tasty diet. They contain both glycaemic and non-glycaemic carbohydrate (sugars and fibre), potassium, folate, calcium, thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus etc., The Vitamin C help in prevention of cancer and improves blood circulation. Oranges also provide anti-oxidants. The oranges are rich in B- Vitamin which helps in preventing birth defects and reduces the chances of birth defects.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Eating Right
These days the market has meal supplements which on consumption provides enough nutrition that is equal to a balanced meal. These powers should be mixed with a glass of milk or water as adviced by the physician and should be had at meal times.
Youngsters should resort to eating fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts instead of junk food. A bowl of fresh fruit salad with nuts provides a complete range of vitamins, minerals and proteins required. The fiber content in the food makes the stomach feel full. The fruits should be consumed fresh and not cut and stocked.
During summer one can supplement the meals with cool milk shakes with a dash of fresh fruits or cream. Breakfast can be made simple with cereals or a bowl of salad with sprouts. The water content in the fruits helps retain mositure in the body and also cools the system. Soups with lots of vegetables can also supplements dinner.
Small packs of fruits and vegetables can be taken along with so that there can be no excuses for junk food or skipping meals.
What is OCD? (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
The reasons for example could be like trying hard to be a perfectionist and so striving for leanliness even when things around are clean. These Behavioural patterns become obsessive and in turn become compulsions.
This is a psychological disorder. However, there are genetic tendencies and environmental factors that lead to the disorder. OCD is controllable. Those under the clutch of OCD are branded eccentrics, senseless and crazy. There are various treatments to cure OCD. Combined with drugs a psychotherapy called Combined Congnitive Behaviour Therapy. The treatment involves relaxation, orientation and replacing of the obsessive thoughts. Doctors say that around 80% of the patients get cured with the above said medication.
Some cases do need a surgical correction. This surgery is called "Stereo Tactic Surgery". Parents and friends of the patients play a vital role in identifying any changes in the behaviour. Once any change is observed it is necessary to be treated. More than treatment support from family and friends help the patient to recover soon.
Skin Disorders and Diabetes
For Example, a skin condition called 'Acanthosis Nigiricans', which is a dark pigmentation around the neck. The person affected by this should be screened often for diabetes. Many times the skin disorders that occur could be symptom for diabetes. Certain fungal infections of the mucous membranes, genitalia and nails are more common in patients with poorly controlled diabetes. Women are prone to such infections more than men. The inflammation of private parts caused by fungus is more common in diabetes. These kind of infections need prolonged treatment.
It is proven that poorly controlled diabetes are prone to many bacterial infections. The unique skin condition to diabetes is carbuncle. It is a bacterial infection of the upper back which when left untreated may spread and may require a surgical correction. Foot care is critical for diabetic patients. Any minor infection should not go unattended. A close watch should be kept on the foot for any discoloration, crack formation or inflammation.
Other common skin infections are itching of the body. Skin dryness is also noticed among diabetic patients. Leucoderma is more common among diabetic patients. It is always advisable to consult a physician for trating any kind of skin disorders at the initial stage.
Cataract Surgery- Advancement
Recently the new advancement in cataract surgery has occured known as 'Micro Pulse Phaco' or 'Cold Phaco'. We saw earlier that the procedure of Phacoemulsification is like a combination of hand held mixer vaccum machine. When we use a mixer for grinding a hard substance and when it is used for a long time it gets heated up. The same thing happens in Cataract surgery too.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Walking the best exercise to prevent Obesity
Sheding a few pounds can reduce the risk of diabetes. It is estimated that at least half of all the complications due to diabetes can be eliminated if weight gain can be prevented.
Many studies have proven that 30 minutes of moderate physical activity such as walking is not only a key element to loose weight, but lowers the incidence of type 2 diabetes. Walking is the best exercise that gives a workout to most of the parts of the body. Walking is a form of aerobic exercise that conditions your heart and lungs too.
Regular exercising and balanced healthy diet would help prevent obesity and diabetes. Regular exercising also helps improve the metabolism. It helps burn the excess fat that gets accumulated thus preventing the risk of heart diseases.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Cauliflower - Health Benefits
It is proud member of the cruciferous family, a family which is known for containing nutrients that fight against several diseases. There are two main ingredients in cauliflower indole-3-carbinol, or 13C, and the photonutrient sulforaphane. Cauliflower also contains vitamin C and folate. The cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale, contain compounds that may help prevent cancer.
Cauliflower contains allicin, which is good for the heart and reduces the risk of strokes, and selenium, a chemical that works well with Vitamin C t improve the immunity of our system. Cauliflower can also help to maintain the cholesterol level. Cauliflower is an excellent source of fiber. Cauliflower helps to keep the bones healthy. Cauliflower is also rich in Folate which is good for pregnant women.
Cauliflower's unique colour and appearance makes it to stand out among the vegetables in the vetable tray. When you shop for cauliflowers always buy the dense flowers which are white and without brown spots. Always store the cauliflower in the fridge. Raw cauliflower has more health benefits than cooked ones.
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