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Health benefits of jaggery




Jaggery is famous by the name Gur all over the India and has been used for years all around the world because of its therapeutic and nutritional health benefits. It is prepared using fresh sugarcane juice, date or palm juice which may vary in colors from dark to golden brown. It contains sugar in the form of sucrose. Mix products of the jaggery are prepared using peanuts, coconut, chana dal, milk, til or sesame seeds, white sugar and etcjaggery comes with loads of health benefits? You may have seen older people eating a piece of jaggery with tea after a meal. It is not only because of its sweet taste, but it also has numerous therapeutic properties that do wonders for the body. Jaggery is made from the juice of sugarcane, which is heated to produce thick crystals. It contains sugar in sucrose form and is used in many food products as a sweetening agent. It is considered healthier than refined sugar as certain plant phytochemicals and minerals are preserved in it.
Many people avoid jaggery as its raw appearance is not very appealing. However, it may be time to start making this food a regular part of your diet as it provides many essential nutrients and is an effective remedy for many ailments. By adding jaggery to your diet, you gain a wide range of health benefits that you may not have thought that this food could provide.
Energy Food: We know that carbohydrates, consumed in our food, give us energy upon oxidation. The simpler the carbohydrate, the sooner the energy released. On one hand, this simplicity comes as a blessing for athletes and people suffering from serious fatigue because they need instantaneous energy and can find quick relief. Therefore, sugar and glucose is the proper carbohydrate for them, because they are very simple and are absorbed in the blood stream almost instantaneously to fill them with a sudden burst of energy.
Jaggery/Gur Purifies Blood

Jaggery is a amazing sweet that not only tastes delicious but also purifies your blood. It acts as a cleansing agent for our blood and purifies it. Jaggery consists of modest amounts of calcium, zinc and phosphorous and is therefore useful for purifying the blood, prevent rheumatic difficulties and also treat any bile disorder. Jaggery is used as a traditional remedy to treat jaundice. You just simply have to add jaggery in to your diet and have its all nutritional andhealth benefits of jaggery.
Jaggery is a great remedy for anemia, asthma, joint pains and menstrual pains. It also aids in digestion, purifies blood and keeps the skin away from problems such as acnes and pimples. It is a great energy booster as it provides us lots of energy. If you feel drained at any point of the day, a piece of jaggery with water can do wonders for you.

Cleansing Agent: 

You may not normally connect sweeteners and sugars with “cleansing the body”, but that is actually one of the well-proven benefits of jaggery. Jaggery effectively cleans the respiratory tracts, lungs, food pipe, stomach and intestines. It pulls out dust and unwanted particles from the body, while also giving relief from constipation, perhaps due to presence of fiberin it. Reducing constipation and stimulating the movement of the bowels further cleanses the body of the toxins which jaggery just cleaned out and prepared for excretion.
Treats Acne And Pimples: 

Jaggery helps in treating and preventing many skin problems such as acne and pimples. Hence, it helps in keeping the skin blemish-free. It also delays the signs of aging such as wrinkles, dark spots, etc.
Jaggery in Toothpaste: 

Low-quality jaggery, mixed with the dust of tobacco, is used as tooth paste in many parts of India. It is so widely used that government earns a handsome revenue out of it. It is very popular and very addictive at the same time. Some people, who appear to have nothing to do, can be seen rubbing this stuff on their teeth the whole day and night, very lazily. It is a common sight in villages. Suffice to say, this is not a healthy or good way to treat dental health, or to pass your free time. It is not recommended, as tobacco can be carcinogenic.

Nourishes The Skin: 

Jaggery is rich in many vital vitamins and minerals, allowing it to provide nourishment to every part of the body, including the skin. When your skin gets proper nourishment, it
can stay glowing and healthy.
It helps in purifying whole blood if regularly consumed.It helps in enhancing total blood hemoglobin count and boosts immunity thus prevents from many blood related problems and disorders.
Treats Menstrual Problems: 

Jaggery, due to its richness in many essential nutrients, is an effective natural treatment for many menstrual problems. It also helps in providing relief from cramps and stomach ache that are associated with menstruation.
aggery provides relief from the indigestion, flatulence, intestinal worms and constipation by stimulating the proper bowel movements
It properly nourishes and strengthens the bones and joints by reducing joints pain and other bone problems.

Prevents Anemia:

  Jaggery is rich in iron and folate that help in preventing anemia by ensuring that a normal level of red blood cells is maintained. This is especially beneficial for pregnant women. It also provides instant energy that prevents fatigue and weakness of the body.


For Weight Loss

Jaggery is surprisingly effective as an aid for weight loss. If you are looking to lose some unwanted pounds, include this food in your diet.
During summers, it cools down your stomach and whole body temperature, this will be very helpful.


Jaggery Cures Menstrual Problems

The sweet taste of jaggery releases a feel-good hormone called endorphin, which offers great relief for women during pre-menstrual syndrome. Jaggery also aids in relieving the associatedwater retention and bloating symptoms during menstruation.

Jaggery for hair

Jaggery is the rich source of iron which should be eaten with the vitamin C rich foods like amla, lemon juice etc as it enhances the absorption of iron in the body. It is very good source ofgetting healthy, long, black, shiny and strong hair.
Many folks consider jaggery as an aphrodisiac. For this reason, jaggery is prescribed to those men and women who have low libido. Jaggery may be taken with milk for a long period to see beneficial results.
Reduces Retention Of Water: 

 Water retention is a major problem when you are trying to lose weight. As mentioned earlier, jaggery contains many essential minerals, especially potassium. This mineral helps in the reduction of water retention, thus managing your weight.

Boosts Intestinal Health: 

 As mentioned earlier, jaggery has wonderful effects on the digestive system. It also boosts the intestinal strength due to its high magnesium content. With every 10 grams of jaggery, you get 16mg of magnesium, which is 4 percent of the daily requirement of this mineral.

Benefits of Jaggery with Milk

A mixture of milk and jaggery is very effective for treating heart conditions.

The pasty concoction of milk and jaggery should be taken every morning on an empty stomach.

Jaggery acts like a stimulant for the heart and thus is useful during cardiac failure.

Prevents Nervous System Problems: 

 This food has many natural properties that help in keeping the nervous system functioning normally and staying healthy. This, in turn, keeps a wide range of nervous system disorders at bay.
Cold-cough: Jaggery is hot so its intake gives relief in cold and cough. If you do not want to eat raw jaggery during cold then you can eat in tea or laddoo.
Body temperature: Jaggery controls the temperature of the body. It has anti-allergic ingredients so it is quite beneficial for asthma patients.

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Health benefits of beetroot


The health benefits of beets include the treatment of anemia, indigestion, constipation, piles, kidney disorders, dandruff, gall bladder disorders, cancer, and heart disease. It also helps to prevent macular degeneration, improve blood circulation, aid in skin care, prevent cataracts and mediate respiratory problems. These health benefits of beet roots can be attributed to their richness in nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

*Beets are highly nutritious and “cardiovascular health” friendly root vegetables. Certain unique pigment antioxidants in the root as well as in its top-greens have been found to offer protection against coronary artery disease and stroke, lower cholesterol levels within the body, and have anti-aging effects.
*Beetroot juice has been elevated to the status of a super-food owing to its many benefits. But, did you know that it can boost your stamina? Or remove blemishes from your skin?Beetroot juice has some rather surprising benefits to offer for your skin, hair, and health
Beetroot is of exceptional nutritional value; especially the greens, which are rich in calcium, iron and vitamins A and C. Beetroots are an excellent source of folic acid and a very good source of fibre, manganese and potassium. The greens should not be overlooked; they can be cooked up and enjoyed in the same way as spinach.
*Beetroots have long been used for medicinal purposes, primarily for disorders of the liver as they help to stimulate the liver's detoxification processes. The plant pigment that gives beetroot its rich, purple-crimson colour is betacyanin; a powerful agent, thought to suppress the development of some types of cancer.
*Good for Heart Health: Beet fiber helps to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides by increasing the level of HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol). Having a high level of triglycerides increases the risk for heart related problems, so increased HDL is a good line of defense against that. The presence of the nutrient betaine lowers the levels of homocysteine in the body which can also be harmful to the blood vessels. Thus, consumption of beetroot helps to prevent cardiovascular diseases in multiple ways, so conditions like ahterosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes are less likely to develop. The fiber in beets also works to strip excess LDL cholesterol from the walls and help to eliminate it from the body quickly.The root is rich source of phytochemical compound, glycine betaine. Betaine has the property of lowering homocysteine levels within the blood. Homocysteine, one of highly toxic metabolite, promotes platelet clot as well as atherosclerotic-plaque formation, which, otherwise, can be harmful to blood vessels. High levels ofhomocysteine in the blood result in the development of coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and peripheral vascular diseases.



Other studies have looked at the effect of beetroot juice on blood pressure. A reduction in blood pressure is beneficial for the avoidance of heart disease and stroke. Studies state that nitrate rich foods like beetroot may help in heart attack survival.

Prevents Hair Loss

Another benefit of beetroot juice is that it can help prevent hair loss
Potassium deficiency is often linked to hair loss. It is a nutrient that is crucial for hair growth. Beetroot juice is a good source of potassium, which is why ingesting it can prevent hair loss and promote hair growth 

Boosts Hemoglobin Levels

It is very necessary for your hemoglobin to stay at an optimum level for your body to function properly. A low hemoglobin level can cause anemia, which can be averted by regular consumption of beetroot juice.
*The production of hemoglobin requires iron, folate, and vitamin B12. Beetroot is an excellent source of folate and a considerably good source of iron . In fact, anemic patients are often asked to include beetroot in their diet.

Prevent Certain Cancers: 

Studies have revealed that beets are good at preventing skin, lung, and colon cancer, since they contain the pigment betacyaninis, which counteracts cancerous cell growth. Nitrates used in meats as preservatives can stimulate the production of nitrosamine compounds in the body which can also result in cancer. *Studies have now shown that beet juice inhibits the cell mutations caused by these compounds. Researchers in Hungary have also discovered that beet juice and its powdered form slows down tumor development. Adding a healthy weekly amount of beets to your diet can keep your body cancer-free for a very long time.
Prevents Respiratory Problems: Beetroot is a source of vitamin C that helps to prevent asthma symptoms. The natural beta carotene in beetroot also helps to prevent lungs cancer. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system in a number of ways. Besides acting as an antioxidant itself and defending against the effects of free radicals in the body, vitamin C also stimulates the activity of white blood cells, which is the body’s main line of defense against foreign bodies, as well as viral, bacterial, fungal, and protozoan toxins that can result in a multitude of infections and illnesses. Vitamin C’s range goes from fighting the sniffles to reducing the chances of cancer, and beets has plenty of vitamin C




Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is usually a sign of your immune system acting up in response to trauma or infection. But the symptoms, which include redness, swelling, and pain, can cause a lot of discomfort. Ingesting beetroot juice has been shown to reduce inflammation
Beetroot juice contains betalains that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties
Helps In Detoxification
For your body to function optimally, it is necessary that it gets rid of toxins that might otherwise cause harm. Beetroot juice can help with your body’s detoxification process.
There are certain compounds present in beetroot juice called betalains that help your body excrete toxins

Aphrodisiac: 

Beets have been considered an aphrodisiac or sexual booster for millennia. Part of this stems from the fact that beets contain significant levels of the mineral boron, which has been shown to boost the production of sexual hormones. This can lead to a boost in your libido, increased fertility, sperm mobility improvement, and a reduction in frigidity in the bedroom. Your sexual life can get a legitimate and time-tested push in the right direction by adding beets to the diet of you and your partner.

 Improves Stamina

Beetroot juice, when used as a supplement, can help boost stamina and improve athletic performance.Beetroot helps in better circulation of oxygen to the muscles, which results in improved stamina and better performance
In India, the roots are eaten boiled in curries with other vegetables such as carrot, potato, tomato, etc.

Strokes: 

A deficiency of potassium in the body increases the risk of stroke. Therefore, the potassium-rich beetroot is recommended to boost heart health for that reason as well. Potassium is called a vasodilator, meaning that it relaxes the blood vessels and reduces blood pressure throughout the body. When blood pressure is reduced and the vessels and arteries are no longer contracted, blood clots are far less likely to form, or get stuck, and the plaque that may have built up along the walls of your blood vessels will not accumulate more detritus to form additional clots. Clots are what eventually lead to heart attacks and strokes, so beets and their potassium content are quite a health booster




. Prevents Dementia

Dementia is usually observed in the elderly. It is the loss of cognitive functions, which results in impaired memory, personality changes, and faulty reasoning. There have been a number of studies that sought to find a cure or delay the progress, and beetroot juice has been heralded as the way to prevent it.
Prevents Cataracts: The presence of beta-carotene, which is a form of vitamin A, helps to prevent age-related blindness called cataracts as well as a reduction in macular degeneration that commonly occurs as we get older. Vitamin A is considered a powerful antioxidant substance that is involved in many essential activities in the body.
Capillary Fragility: The flavonoids and vitamin-C in beets help to support the structure of capillaries.

Boosts Energy Levels: 

Beets contain a significant amount of carbohydrates that provides fuel for energy and prolonged sports activities. These are the natural building blocks of energy metabolism, and beets provide them without any of the negative side effects of many other carbohydrate-heavy foods. When the body has a sufficient amount of carbohydrates, it is able to fuel all of the necessary bodily functions as well, including the important metabolic reactions that keep your organ systems functioning efficiently.


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Health benefits of carrots


Carrots are one of the most popular, versatile vegetables in the world! Whether they are eaten raw, cooked or juiced, people from nearly every culture have consumed carrots in their many forms throughout history.
Sweet and crunchy, carrots are also called as ‘Gajar‘ in Hindi, ‘Gajjara gadda‘ in Telugu, ‘Mangal Mullangi‘ in Tamil, ‘Karat‘ in Malayalam, ‘Gajjari‘ in Kannada, ‘Gazar‘ in Marathi, ‘Gajar‘ in Punjabi and ‘Gujar/Gajor‘ in Bengali. Carrots have been an important part of vegetarian diets. Who doesn’t love munching on fresh and sweet carrots?
Carrots are often used in juice therapy for the treatment of certain diseases. In fact, carrots were initially grown as medicine for treating a variety of ailments. This vegetable can be eaten both in its raw and cooked forms. It serves as a fat substitute when used as a thickener in soups, sauces, casseroles and quick breads. A steaming bowl of carrot soup is a great way to boost your nutrition in winter.
This crunchy power food is low in calories and contains no fat. However, it can provide you with high doses of vitamin A and other antioxidants. Here are the benefits of eating carrot – for skin, hair 
and health.
Carrots have a wealth of valuable nutrition and when you juice them, you can get a concentrated dose of their healing power. From balancing blood sugar, improving blood health, relieving congestion, fighting inflammation and cleansing the kidneys to protecting eyesight, brain function and fighting Leukemia, carrot juice benefits can help nearly every part of your body
We are fortunate to have the results of a new 10-year study from the Netherlands about carrot intake and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD)—and those results are fascinating. Intake of fruits and vegetables in the study was categorized by color and focused on four color categories: green, orange/yellow, red/purple, and white. Out of these four categories, orange/yellow (and in particular, foods with deeper shades of orange and yellow) emerged as most protective against CVD. And even more striking, carrots were determined to be the most prominent member of this dark orange/yellow food category. Participants who had the least carrot intake had the least amount of CVD risk reduction, even though they still received risk-reducing benefits from their carrot intake. However, participants who ate at least 25 more grams of carrots (with 25 grams being less than one-quarter of a cup) had a significantly lower risk of CVD. And the groups of participants who ate 50- or 75-grams more had an even more greatly reduced risk of CVD! We're not sure how any study could better demonstrate how easy it can be to lower disease risk by making a food like carrot part of the everyday diet in such achievable amounts.
Benefits of Carrots.

. Improved Vision: 

Western culture’s understanding of carrots being ‘good for the eyes’ is one of the few we got right. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the liver. Vitamin A is transformed in the retina, to rhodopsin, a purple pigment necessary for night vision.
Beta-carotene has also been shown to protect against macular degeneration and senile cataracts. A study found that people who eat the most beta-carotene had 40 percent lower risk of macular degeneration than those who consumed little.

Carrots For Glowing Skin:

The consumption of carrots keeps your skin healthy and vibrant as they are loaded with Vitamin C and antioxidants. Carrots can also be used to prepare an inexpensive and convenient face mask. All you need to do is to mix grated carrot with some honey and apply it as a face mask to get glowing skin.

Boosts Skin Health and Wound Healing


Beta carotene is critical for healing any type of wound. Carrots have even been used as a poultice to help heal wounds for centuries due to their high beta carotene content. If you have any type of skin infection, cuts, or other wounds, you’ll find that carrots and carrot juice benefits your skin health by increasing your ability to heal faster and to fight infection and noticeable signs of skin inflammation.

Treatment of Skin Ailments:

Carrots are effective in the prevention and cure of various skin ailments. The antioxidants in this vegetable can treat skin conditions like pimples and acne, rashes, dermatitis and other skin problems caused due to Vitamin A deficiency. However, keep in mind not to consume carrots in excess as they can cause your skin to temporarily turn yellowish-orange in color.

Cancer

Antioxidants in carrots, including beta-carotene, may play a role in cancer prevention. Research has shown that smokers who eat carrots more than once a week have a lower risk of lung cancer,4 while a beta-carotene-rich diet may also protect against prostate cancer.
The consumption of beta-carotene is also associated with a lower risk of colon cancer6 while carrot juice extract may kill leukemia cells and inhibit their progression.
Carrots also contain falcarinol, a natural toxin that protects carrots against fungal disease. It's thought that this compound may stimulate cancer-fighting mechanisms in the body, as it's been shown to cut the risk of tumor development in rats.Studies have shown carrots reduce the risk of lung cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer. Researchers have just discovered falcarinol and falcarindiol which they feel cause the anticancer properties.
Falcarinol is a natural pesticide produced by the carrot that protects its roots from fungal diseases. Carrots are one of the only common sources of this compound. A study showed 1/3 lower cancer risk 

Decreases Risk for Heart Disease and Stroke

Eating more deeply colored orange vegetables like carrots decreases the risk ofcardiovascular disease, especially in adult women. Regardless of other cardiovascular risks, current research indicates that drinking carrot juice benefits heart health by lowering oxidative stress and improves the body’s defense against various forms of cardiovascular disease. Studies show that diets high in carotenoids are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Carrots have not only beta-carotene but also alpha-carotene and lutein.From all the above benefits it is no surprise that a Harvard University study, people who ate more than six carrots a week are less likely to suffer a stroke than those who ate only one carrot a month or more.The regular consumption of carrots also reduces cholesterol levels because the soluble fibers in carrots binding with bile acids.
This effect is likely due to the high antioxidant content that carrots contain. Carrots also work to lower cholesterol, and boost bile production, which increases the body’s ability to digest fat. This not only helps your digestive system to properly absorb nutrition from your food, but also directly impacts the good cholesterol levels in your body — which protects your heart.
I
mportant for Maintaining Oral Health

The nutrients found in carrots help improve immunity, including the body’s ability to fight bacteria and toxins that enter through the mouth and live within the gums and teeth. Certain minerals in carrots can be antibacterial and help prevent cavities and tooth decay. (Carrots can also help remove plaque and stains from teeth if eaten after meals. Once eaten, the fiber in carrots also boosts immunity by acting as a natural digestive system brush, scrubbing away unwanted bacteria in the gut and promoting better digestion of immune-boosting nutrients.Carrots are beneficial for your teeth and mouth as they scrape off plaque and food particles. Carrots stimulate the gums and facilitate the formation of a lot of saliva. Saliva is alkaline in nature and balances the acid-forming and cavity-forming bacteria. The minerals present in carrots kill the harmful germs in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.
Studies show that diets high in carotenoids are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Carrots have not only beta-carotene but also alpha-carotene and lutein.
The regular consumption of carrots also reduces cholesterol levels because the soluble fibers in carrots binding with bile acids.
Anti-Ageing Benefits:

Carrots also contain Vitamin C that aids the collagen production in the body. Collagen is a type of protein that is vital for the maintenance of the skin elasticity. It helps prevent wrinkles and locks the process of aging. Vitamin A, being an antioxidant, also attacks the free radicals to prevent the signs of aging like wrinkles, pigmentation and an uneven skin tone.

Protects Brain Health & Cognitive Function

Carrots and carrot juice benefits brain health by helping to prevent against Alzheimer’sdisease, improving memory, and defending against other types of cognitive decline. This is due to carrot’s ability to lower oxidative stress in the brain that can weaken nerve signaling capacity.
Sun Protection:
    Beta-carotene, found in carrots, is a skin-friendly nutrient that is converted to vitamin A inside the body. It helps in repairing the skin tissues and provides protection against the sun’s harsh rays. The antioxidants and carotenoids protect and condition the skin to increase its immunity against the sun and heal sunburns. In fact, the consumption of carrot juice in summer acts as a natural sun block.


    A Powerful Antiseptic. 

    Known by herbalists to prevent infection. They can be used on cuts shredded raw or boiled and mashed.

    Hair Benefits Of Carrots:

    Since ages, carrots have been known to promote hair growth and add thickness to the hair. Being loaded with vitamin A, carrots offer the following benefits for your hair.
    Treatment Of Hair Loss:

    Carrots are great for combating hair loss as they provide your hair with vital vitamins, making them stronger, thicker and shinier. Drinking carrot juice makes your hair healthy. This is the best benefit of carrots for the hair.Consuming 3 to 4 ounces of carrot juice daily stimulates the hair growth and thickens your hair. Vitamin C and Vitamin E in carrots improve the circulation in the scalp, thus promoting hair growth and prevent premature graying of hair





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    Health benefits of spinach



    Spinach is available all year round but is in season during the spring (March - June). It is well known for its nutritional qualities and has always been regarded as a plant with remarkable abilities to restore energy, increase vitality and improve the quality of the blood. There are sound reasons why spinach would produce such results, primarily the fact that it is rich in iron. Iron plays a central role in the function of red blood cells which help in transporting oxygen around the body, in energy production and DNA synthesis. Spinach is also an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C and folic acid as well as being a good source of manganese, magnesium, iron and vitamin B2. Vitamin K is important for maintaining bone health and it is difficult to find vegetables richer in vitamin K than spinach. Others include kale, broccoli and green cabbage.
    This healthy green is full of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals.Spinach has an extremely high nutritional value and is rich in antioxidants. It is a good source of vitamins A, B2, C and K, and also contains magnesium, manganese, folate, iron, calcium and potassium.The benefits of spinach are many. Leafy greens like spinach provide more nutrients than any other food, when compared calorie for calorie. Here are some spinach facts to consider:
    Those with digestive disorders, alcoholic, older adults and individuals taking medications such as antibiotics and diuretics are more likely to have a magnesium deficiency and should consume more leafy greens.
    The nutritional value of spinach indicates it to be avery nutrient-dense food. It is low in calories yet very high in vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients. When you consume this healthy food, you don’t need to worry about your weight-loss diet as you take in abundant, good-for-you nutrients.
    This leafy green is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, magnesium, folate, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B2, potassium, and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, phosphorus, vitamin E, zinc, dietary fiber, and copper. Plus, it’s a good source of selenium, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acidsThis is a heart-healthy food. It’s an outstanding source of vitamins C and A which are antioxidants that help reduce free radical amounts in the body. The antioxidants work to keep cholesterol from oxidizing. In addition, folate is good for a healthy cardiovascular system, as well as magnesium, a mineral that helps to lower high blood pressure.
    Cooking spinach actually increases its health benefits! Just half a cup of cooked spinach will give you thrice as much nutrition as one cup of raw spinach. That’s because the body cannot completely break down the nutrients in raw spinach for its use.

    In a recent study on the relationship between risk of     prostate cancer and vegetable intake including the vegetables spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, mustard greens, turnip greens, collards, and kale only spinach showed evidence of significant protection against the occurrence of aggressive prostate cancer. ("Aggressive prostate cancer" was defined as stage III or IV prostate cancer with a Gleason score of at least 7. Gleason scores are based on lab studies of prostate tissue and common tumor-related patterns.) The study authors did not speculate about specific substances in spinach that may have been involved in decreased prostate cancer risk. However, we know that certain unique anti-cancer carotenoids—called epoxyxanthophylls — are plentiful in spinach, even though they may not be as effectively absorbed as other carotenoids like beta-carotene and lutein. You can count on seeing future research on neoxanthin and violaxanthin — two anti-cancer epoxyxanthophylls that are found in plentiful amounts in the leaves of spinach.
      Diabetes management: 
    Fresh 100 g of spinach contains about 25% of daily intake of iron; one of the richest among green leafy vegetables. Iron is an important trace element required by the human body for red blood cell production and as a co-factor for oxidation-reduction enzyme,cytochrome-oxidase during the cellular metabolism
    .
    Studies have shown that consumption of green leafy vegetables such as spinach may slow the age-related decline in brain function. So, eat your greens and keep working those crossword puzzles to keep your brain young and agile. 


    There’s a compound in spinach called oxalic acid, which blocks the absorption of calcium and iron. An easy way to solve this problem is to pair spinach with a food high in vitamin C. Mandarin oranges and cantaloupes spring to mind here. Another way to reduce the power of oxalic acid is to boil the spinach leaves for at least two minutes.

    Some conditions that are identified as inflammatory, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, migraine headaches, and asthma, may be helped because of the anti-inflammatory properties of some of the nutrients found in spinach. 

    Neurological Benefits: 

    Several components of spinach like potassium, folate, and various antioxidants are known to provide neurological benefits to people who regularly consume them. According to Neurology, folate reduces due the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease, so spinach is a very good idea for people who are at high risk of neural or cognitive decline. Potassium is an integral part of brain health as well, and it has been linked to increased blood flow to the brain, and heightened cognition, concentration, and neural activity.

    Maintains Blood Pressure: 

    Spinach has a very high content of potassium and a low content ofsodium. This composition of minerals is very beneficial for high blood pressure patients as potassium lowers and sodium raises the blood pressure. The folate present in spinach also contributes to the reduction of hypertension and relaxes blood vessels, while maintaining proper blood flow. By reducing blood pressure and relaxing the tension of vessels and arteries, you can reduce stress on the cardiovascular system and increase oxygenation to the body’s organ systems for optimal functionality.Lowering blood pressure: because of its high potassium content, spinach is recommended to those with high blood pressure to negate the effects of sodium in the body. A low potassium intake may be just as big of a risk factor in developing high blood pressure as a high sodium intake.

    Other high potassium foods include potatoes, tomatoes, lima beans and oranges.
        Asthma prevention: 

        The risks for developing asthma are lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, of which spinach is an excellent source. Apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, pumpkin and carrots are also rich sources of beta-carotene.

         Iron deficiency anemia 

        This is the most common type of anemia, and women are its largest risk group. Without sufficient iron, your blood can’t produce enough hemoglobin, a blood protein that gives blood cells their red color and transports oxygen to organs. Eating iron-rich foods is important for those suffering from or at risk of anemia, and with 36 percent of your daily iron needs per cooked cup, spinach is a good option. The National Organization of Women’s Health, as well as the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends eating spinach as part of an anemia prevention or treatment program.


         Reduced Risk of Cataracts: 

         The lutein and zeaxanthin present in spinach both act as strong antioxidants, thus preventing the eyes from the harsh effects of UV rays that can lead to cataracts. They also reduce the impact of free radicals, which can be a major cause of cataracts and other eye

         Anti cancer 

         Some studies have noted possible anti-cancer effects among prostate, breast and prostate cancers. One study published in the Journal of Nutrition looked at 15 kinds of carotenoids to see if they combatted cancer cells and found only neoxanthin from spinach and fucoxanthin from brown algae to be significantly effective.

        Strengthens Muscles:

        A component of spinach, factor C0-Q10, which is an antioxidant, plays an important role in strengthening muscles, especially heart muscles which continuously pump blood to all parts of the body. According to the Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, C0-Q10 can be used to prevent and treat many cardiovascular diseases like hyperlipidemia, heart failure, hypertension and coronary heart disease.

        Skin and hair

        “Want healthier-looking hair? Eat more spinach!” raved Ware. “Spinach is high in vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production to keep hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair.”


        To get the most nutritional benefit when cooking spinach, steam it or cook lightly in a small amount of water.
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        Home remedies for typhoid.



        Typhoid is a bacterial disease, which is caused as a result of salmonella typhi bacteria. It is contracted through contaminated water, food or by coming in contact with the infected person. It affects liver, lymph nodes, spleen, gallbladder, and other parts of the body. The main symptoms of typhoid are – fever, diarrhea, skin rashes, weakness, bleeding nose, chills,headache, loss of appetite, sore throat, delirium, blood in stool, lethargy, constipation, and abdominal pain. Typhoid fever can be life-threatening if not cured timely. The course of antibiotics is very important to be completed by the patient. In addition to medication, some natural remedies for typhoid can also be helpful. 

        Apple Cider Vinegar

        ACV helps reduce the high bo        dy temperature. It is very energizing and replenishes the minerals that are lost due to diarrhea. Add a little honey to ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Drink it before having your meal.
        In addition, mix one part of apple cider vinegar with two parts of cold water. Soak a cloth in it and put it on your forehead and stomach. Soak the cloth again, when it gets warm.
        Peel raw garlic and suck. Eat something beforehand even a raw carrot or apple. If you don’t lacerate the garlic clove it won’t sting your mouth. Just suck it like a lolly for 20 minutes or so. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and it will suck up mucous and kill bacteria. If you dare, swallow the garlic whole at the end of the 20 minutes. If the clove is large, cut it into small pieces. Yes you will smell a little and it will feel funny in your stomach but it works. Continue with several pieces of raw garlic a day for a few days.

        HONEY

        Raw honey is also great and you can either flavor the lemon and vinegar medicines as well as add to flavor porridge and teas. If you are used to sweet foods, honey is a great way to get you through a few days without processed sugar. As it’s best to cut out dairy, add honey to herbal teas if you are not used to them.
        Cloves are also helpful for treating typhoid fever. The essential oils in cloves have antibacterial properties, thus cloves can kill the bacteria that cause typhoid. Cloves also help ease vomiting and diarrhea, two common symptoms of typhoid.
        Add 5 to 7 clove buds to 8 cups of water.
        Boil this solution until it reduces by half.
        Remove from heat, cover and allow it to cool.
        Strain and then drink this concoction throughout the day.
        Follow this herbal treatment for at least 1 week.


        Bananas can bring down the fever and treat diarrhea in people enduring typhoid. The pectin present in bananas is a soluble fiber that helps absorb liquid in the intestines, thus reducing diarrhea. Moreover, the potassium in bananas helps replace electrolytes lost during fever and diarrhea.
        Eat 2 to 3 ripe bananas daily until your typhoid symptoms subside.
        Alternatively, mix 2 mashed bananas in ½ cup yogurt and add 1 teaspoon of honey. Eat this 2 or 3 times daily for a few weeks.

        Cold Compresses

        When you have a high fever, apply cold compresses to help your body temperature come down quickly.
        Soak a washcloth in cool tap water, wring out the excess water and place it on your forehead. Change the washcloth frequently. Follow this treatment until your temperature drops.
        You can also use a cold damp washcloth to sponge areas like your armpits, feet, hands and groin to reduce body temperature. Do this at regular intervals to control a high fever.
        *Do not use very cold or ice water as it can worsen the condition.

        APPLES AND CARROTS

        Snack on apples and carrots for good digestion bug cleaning but you may want to dip them in a bowl of water treated with a dash of apple cider vinegar first so ensure all bacteria is gone.
        Grind 4 basil leaves, 7 black pepper tablets and 7 strands of saffron into a paste. Prepare small tablets from the paste, and take these 2-3 times during the day.

        BASIL LEAVES AND BLACK PEPPER

        Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is helpful in replenishing the fluids in your body. It reduces the intensity of typhoid symptoms. You can get ORS solution from any medical store, or it can be made at home. Add 6 spoons of sugar and ½ spoon of salt in 4 cups of water. Drink it several times until you recovery completely.

        Homemade ORS

        Or else, mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of water and heat it. Drink it once a day, for three days.
        Don’t drink too much of wate
        Buttermilk is easy to digest and prevents dehydration. Drink a few glasses of buttermilk for faster recovery. You may also add fresh coriander juice to buttermilk, to increase its effectiveness.
        Buttermilk
        Cut out meats and sugar and eat simple foods like porridge, legumes with rice, grilled fish and boiled or raw vegetables. For filling snacks, dairy free banana smoothies are fine.

        CUT OUT MEAT AND SUGAR

        Theses cures can produce the best results during typhoid infection and fever. You can also try milk thistle and other liver detox remedies to speed up detoxification of the liver.

        Carrot Soup with Black Pepper –

         Boil 6-8 square pieces of Carrot in a glass of water for 8-10 minutes and filter it, mix 2-3 pinches of Black Pepper in it. Drink this soup to stop diarrhea.

        *Pineapple Juice with Lemon grass – Boil Lemon Grass in Half cup water for 3-4 minutes and leave it to cold. Then add 1 cup Pineapple juice in it and drink it. Use it daily
        *Boil 1 teaspoon Echinacea roots or dried flower powder in one glass of water for 8-10 minutes. Filter it and sip it like tea 2-3 times daily. Echinacea enhances your immune system to fight with bacterial infections. It also strengthens the body tissues. Use it only for 2 weeks.

        *Apple Juice with Ginger Juice – Add 1 tablespoon Ginger Juice in 1 glass of Apple Juice. Very useful in typhoid fever.
        *Try to intake more Iron rich foods in your daily diet. Fruits and vegetables with iron are best to use in place of using pills or supplements.

        *Drinking buttermilk is a good cure for typhoid fever. Add some fresh coriander juice to it for better results.

        *Mash a banana and add some honey to it. The honey-flavored banana tastes good, helps to restore energy lost due to the illness, and aids fast recovery.

        *Banana is a wonder food for recovering from the fever. Add mashed banana to a glass of butter milk and consume this daily.

        *You can also consume orange juice, as it keeps the body hydrated and cool.

        *Pomegranate juice also helps to re hydrate and energize a typhoid fever patient.

        *Apart from oranges and pomegranate, apples and sweet limes are also good for typhoid patients.

        *Include vegetable soups in your diet. However, they should be bland; do not add any spices or condiments that might irritate the intestines. Make sure you boil the soup properly and strain it before consumption.

        *A glass of warm water with a spoonful of honey added to it is a great remedy that helps to soothe the digestive system. Drink it as frequently as you can, as it also restores energy.

        *Boil around 5 cloves in 2 liters of water till only 1 liter of water is left. Remove it from the stove, and let the flavor steep in for some time, and then filter. Sip this concoction throughout the day.

        *Orange & Sweet Lime Juice – 

        Add half glass Lime Juice in 1 glass of Orange Juice and drink it daily 3-4 times. It improves your immune system and lower the symptoms of Diarrhea, Vomiting, Constipation and Nausea.

        Cloves & Honey – 

        Boil 3-4 Cloves in 1 liter water, when water evaporates down into half quantity. Leave it aside until cold. Use this water with 1 teaspoon Honey 4-5 times in a day. This water is very helpful for the weak in patients.

        Banana, Yogurt & Honey –

         Mix 2 Mashed Bananas in ½ cup Yogurt and 1 teaspoon Honey. Use it daily 3-4 times daily. Very much effective to improve the route of your digestive system.

        Coconut Water & Mint Leaves – Blend 3-4 Mint Leaves in ½ cup Coconut Water. Use 2-3 tablespoons 2-3 times daily. Very much effective remedy in Typhoid fever.

        Dry Plum & Raisins – 

        Take 2-3 pieces of Dry Plum and 8-10 Raisins. Soak in 2 glasses of water overnight and next morning blend it. Drink it with an empty stomach. Very much effective remedy in high fever.Drink about 8 to 10 glasses of bottled or purified water daily. To be on the safe side, boil your drinking water if using tap water.

        Along with water, increase your consumption of coconut water, herbal teas, fresh fruit juices, soups and glucose water.        *

        **************





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                                                                          7.8.16

                                                                          How to gain weight fast and quickly?


                                                                          In some people reduction in weight occurs due to decrease of muscle mass, body fluids or fat. These people may want to increase their weight by gaining weight using various methods. Achieving some body weight is known as weight gain. Reduction in weight can occur due to improper diet and also can be due to an illness. The loss of weight along with some chronic illness is known as cachexia. If you find your weight being reduced unintentionally, it is ideal that you seek help from a medical professional.
                                                                          Home remedies for healthy weight gain include exercise, a healthy diet with more carbohydrates and fat content, and eating more frequently. Also, the consumption
                                                                          of nuts,raisins, and dried fruits helps in healthy weight gain.
                                                                          Causes Of Losing Body Weight
                                                                          There are many causes for the unexplained loss of body weight that includes thyroid diseases and celiac diseases. Some of the potential causes of losing body weight are:
                                                                          • Cancer
                                                                          • Dementia
                                                                          • Addison’s Disease
                                                                          • Anorexia and bulimia
                                                                          • Depression of the highest kind
                                                                          • Diabetes
                                                                          • HIV/ AIDS
                                                                          • Heart failure
                                                                          • Hypothyroidism
                                                                          • Hyperthyroidism
                                                                          • Peptic ulcer
                                                                          • Tuberculosis
                                                                          • Ulcerative colitis
                                                                          • Excess alcoholism
                                                                          Some of the other not so common causes of weight loss are:
                                                                          • Dental problems
                                                                          • Medications, both non prescribed or prescribed
                                                                          • Infections due to parasites
                                                                          • Mal absorption
                                                                          • Bowel Obstruction
                                                                          When the actual body weight is 10 to 20 percent lower than the ideal body weight, that person will be considered underweight. Some common causes of being underweight are emotional stress, skipping meals, genetic factors, lack of sleep, excessive physical activity, fasting, weak digestive system, malnutrition, tuberculosis, cancer,diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hormonal imbalances, or anorexia. Besides, poor appetite, weakness and fatigue are other symptoms of continual weight loss. Putting on weight is not that major issue as you think it to be. It can be treated with some dietary changes.
                                                                          Gaining healthy weight is a gradual process. You may be able to put on as much as 1 pound in a week by consuming more calories, but it'll take time to make significant changes in your appearance. Consume a greater number of calories than you burn to put on the weight. Don't assume you should be a couch potato to burn fewer calories and make weight gain possible, either. Modest amounts of healthy exercise help you develop muscle mass in the long term and stimulate your appetite so you can eat more.

                                                                          Home Remedies For Weight Gain


                                                                          If you feel that you are losing body weight unintentionally and if you do not have any medical conditions to explain the weight loss, then you can opt for the home remedies for weight gain to increase your body weight to the optimum level.Figs
                                                                          Figs are mainly made of polyunsaturated fats, which add healthy calories to your diet. Also, figs contain a good amount of carbohydrates that will help you gain weight.
                                                                          Soak five to six dried figs in water overnight. The next day, eat them in two parts during the day. Do this daily for about a month.
                                                                          Alternatively, soak two dried figs overnight in milk and eat it before breakfast. Follow this routine for two months.

                                                                          Clarified Butter

                                                                          Clarified butter is an excellent source of saturated fat and calories, hence it can increase your body weight. Plus, clarified butter helps your body absorb more vitamins and minerals that help lubricate stiff joints and give your skin a healthy glow.
                                                                          Mix one tablespoon of clarified butter with one tablespoon of sugar.
                                                                          Eat this mixture twice daily, at least 30 minutes before eating your lunch and dinner.
                                                                          Follow this routine for a month.

                                                                          . Mangoes


                                                                          Mangoes are a delicious, juicy fruit that are rich in minerals and vitamins, and free of sodium, cholesterol and fat. The body stores the fructose from the mango as energy and fat, thus helping you put on weight. But eating mangoes alone will not aid weight gain. You need to eat them along with milk.
                                                                          Simply drink a mango milkshake twice daily for a month.
                                                                          Alternatively, eat one ripe mango followed by a glass of milk. Do this two or three times a day for a month.

                                                                          Eggs

                                                                          Eggs contain a good amount of calories, fat and protein and are a popular food among people who wish to increase their weight. The protein in eggs give the body building blocks for muscles, while the fat provides energy. For best results, eat more of the egg white than the egg yolk.
                                                                          Simply eat the white part of about three or four eggs daily. You can eat egg-white omelets or scrambled egg whites for breakfast daily for at least one month.
                                                                          Nuts

                                                                          If you are fond of eating crunchy snacks like peanuts, almonds, cashews, walnuts, raisins and figs, they will definitely help you gain weight. They are full of fats, fibers, vitamins and minerals, and also contain essential oils which enable a thin person to put on some kilos.
                                                                          Chomp on a handful of nuts every day to increase your body weight.
                                                                          Add 3 almonds, 2 dates and 1 dried fig to a glass of milk and boil it. Drink this for a month to witness a significant amount of weight gain.
                                                                          Alternatively, soak 6 dried figs and about 30 grams of raisins in water overnight. Eat them in two parts.

                                                                          Potatoes
                                                                          Potatoes are crammed with carbohydrates. All forms of this stuffy food have major impact on weight gain. You can grill or bake potatoes with butter. People who eat potato chips and French fries tend to gain weight faster. Make French fries using extra virgin oil, if you like them.

                                                                          Moreover, you can also make a delicious potato salad. Peel and slice potato. Boil them and mix them with the high calorie ingredients like buttermilk, mayonnaise, and veggies.
                                                                          .
                                                                          Raisins

                                                                          Raisins are rich in essential fatty acids that help with weight gain. Plus, raisins provide important nutrients to the body.Eat about one-fifth cup of dried raisins throughout the day for about a month. This is one of the easiest ways to gain weight.
                                                                          Alternatively, soak one-fifth cup of raisins and five to six dried figs in water overnight. The following day, eat them in two parts. Follow this routine for about a month.
                                                                          Healthy Diet: While trying to gain weight, the focus should be more on eating healthy foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals. Healthy food includes meat, poultry, unsaturated plant fats, low-fat milk, healthy starch content, vegetables, fruits and nuts. Cashews, almonds, dates,walnuts, dry grapes, apricots, peaches are some of the dried fruits and nuts that can be added to breakfast, salads, cereal and desserts. Sesame seeds, ground nuts, and peanuts also contain fats in them and can help in adding that extra pounds you desire. Sometimes loss of appetite may also cause weight loss. Research suggests that umami flavour inrceases satiety and enhances appetite
                                                                          Increase Food Intake: Increasing the amount of food you eat is the most basic way for you to gain weight. It can either be an increase in the number of meals you eat each day or the quantity of food eaten in each meal. Gaining weight can be just as hard as losing it. It is a time-consuming process that requires devotion.

                                                                          Fat-Rich Diet: 

                                                                          Intake of animal fat content should not exceed recommended levels because of the increased risk of cholesterol in blood. Instead, one can opt for unsaturated plant fats that are healthy and very helpful for weight gain.
                                                                          *Take 1/2 spoon Ashwagandha powder
                                                                          -Take 1/2 spoon Shatavri powder
                                                                          -Take 2 Teaspoon Honey
                                                                          Mix these well and make a paste
                                                                          Now eat this paste with 1 glass of lukewarm milk
                                                                          Take these twice a day for a month.
                                                                          This remedy-
                                                                          Strengthen Immune system,
                                                                          Increase inner strength
                                                                          Increase glow of face and
                                                                          According to Ayurveda Shatavri is very good for females
                                                                              Exercise:

                                                                              Exercise should be performed on a regular basis, even by those who want to gain weight. It increases the appetite and improves overall health. Yoga asanas like surya namaskara (sun salutation), bhujang asana (snake posture), dhanurasana (bow posture) and chakrasana (wheel posture) can be practiced to gain weight. However, expert supervision is advised.
                                                                              Jackfruit: Ripe jackfruit is another tropical fruit that makes weight gain not only possible, but easy! Arils of jackfruit contain sweet flesh that can be added to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner to help you gain weight.

                                                                              Deep Fried Foods:

                                                                                Avoid deep fried foods because they not only add fat but also increase the bad cholesterol levels in one’s blood. This can increase the risk of contracting heart disease in the future
                                                                              Quit Smoking: 

                                                                               Smoking and the weight of a person have an inverse relationship with each other. Smokers will experience weight loss during the time they smoke and weight gain when they quit smoking. This is because tobacco is known to suppress a person’s appetite. Those who stop smoking can improve their appetite and thereby gain weight.

                                                                              Potatoes

                                                                              Potatoes are crammed with carbohydrates. All forms of this stuffy food have major impact on weight gain. You can grill or bake potatoes with butter. People who eat potato chips and French fries tend to gain weight faster. Make French fries using extra virgin oil, if you like them.



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