• Disease and Care Health Tips
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    10 Health Benefits of Cauliflower

    Many popular diets advise against eating anything white. Foods like pasta, rice, white bread, sugar and other white foods are off limits. However, cauliflower is a white food you can feel good about eating. This nonstarchy vegetable is a cruciferous vegetable like cabbage and broccoli. High intake of cruciferous vegetables is associated with a lower risk of some cancers. They contain vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, or plant nutrients, that may help neutralize damaging toxins.

    1. Provides High Levels of Vitamins and Minerals (especially important Vitamin C and Vitamin K)
    In addition to Vitamin C and other antioxidants, cauliflower is also a good source of Vitamin K. Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin, meaning it is absorbed in the intestines along with fat, so this is one reason why eating cauliflower along with a source of healthy fat (like coconut oil for example) is important.

    2. Reduces Cancer Risk
    Numerous studies have shown that there is a strong tie between someone’s diet and their risk for developing cancer. Studies demonstrate that cauliflower is especially useful for preventing breast cancer in addition to colon, liver, lung, and stomach cancers.

    3. Boost Heart Health
    Sulforaphane in cauliflower and other cruciferous vegetables has been found to significantly improve blood pressure and kidney function.4 Scientists believe sulforaphane’s benefits are related to improved DNA methylation, which is crucial for normal cellular function and proper gene expression, especially in the easily damaged inner lining of the arteries known as the endothelium.

    4. Boost Your Brain Health
    Cauliflower is a good source of choline, a B vitamin known for its role in brain development. Choline intake during pregnancy “super-charged” the brain activity of animals in utero, indicating that it may boost cognitive function, and improve learning and memory. It may even diminish age-related memory decline and your brain’s vulnerability to toxins during childhood, as well as conferring protection later in life.

    5. Antioxidation
    Aside from these antioxidants above, cauliflower also contains carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, and phytonutrients that include kaempferol, ferulic acid, cinnamic acid and caffeic acid. With these antioxidants, you can be certain that eating cauliflower regularly will help protect you from free radical damage and reduce your risk for diseases caused by oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer.3. Detoxification

    6) Digestive Support
    A cup of boiled cauliflower delivers about 3.35 g of dietary fiber, which helps clean your digestive system and gets rid of unnecessary substances. Additionally, a substance called glucoraphin present in cauliflower appears to have a protective effect on your stomach lining. With glucoraphin, your stomach is not prone to the bacterium helicobacter pylori, thereby reducing your risk for stomach ulcer and cancer.

    7. Fights Inflammation
    Inflammation is at the heart of nearly all chronic diseases that we are faced with so commonly today. Cauliflower is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds which lower oxidative stress and the presence of free-radicals in our body.

    8. Aids in Weight Loss
    Cauliflower is extremely low in calories (only 29 calories per cup), has virtually zero grams of fat, very low levels of carbs and sugar, and yet is high in volume and filling fiber. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight, since you can consume large amounts of cauliflower and fill up, without over-consuming calories, fat, sugar, or carbs.

    9. Helps Balance Hormones
    Consuming a diet rich in whole foods and antioxidant-filled vegetables like cauliflower has been shown to help balance hormones partially by reducing unhealthy levels of estrogen. High estrogen foods can be harmful to health when they begin destroying the vulnerable hormonal balance that many people struggle to maintain.

    10. Preserves Eye Health
    The sulforaphane found in cauliflower has been shown to protect the vulnerable tissues of the retinal area from oxidative stress that can result in blindness, cataracts, macular degeneration, and more.

    Sources
    http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/22/cauliflower-health-benefits.aspx

    7 Health Benefits of Cauliflower


    http://draxe.com/cauliflower/
    http://www.healthyfoodhouse.com
    http://www.livestrong.com/article/410151-the-health-benefits-of-cauliflower/

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    14 Tips to Keep Your Kid Healthy

    1. Exercise together
    Parents shouldn’t sit on the sidelines. Instead, lead your family’s physical activities, especially when younger kids are involved. Try to make exercise a fun family event everyone will want to participate in, such as a backyard game of touch football, tag, or badminton.

    2. Be patient
    Most people have developed unhealthy habits over years or decades. Forming new ones takes time. Be patient and recognize it’s a lifelong process. And if you or your kids slip up, don’t feel bad — just get right back on track.

    3. Make sure your child gets enough sleep
    Children need about 10 hours of sleep per night. Very young children also benefit from naps during the day. Make bedtime special with a routine that includes bathing, teeth brushing, getting ready for bed, and reading a story in bed. Choose relaxing or happy stories… stay away from scary stories just before bed (these can cause nightmares)

    4. Keep junk foods to a minimum
    Birthday cake at a party is fine, but cake and ice cream every day is not. Empty calories in soft drinks and fatty foods promotes obesity, which causes all kinds of health problems.

    5. Keep kids away from smokers
    Second-hand smoke can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory problems.

    6. Promote good personal habits
    Make sure children always wash hands after using the restroom, before eating, before helping with food, and after wiping their nose. Teach them how to blow their nose into a tissue. Teach them to cough into the crook of their elbow instead of out into the open air. These measures may do more to protect those around them than protect themselves…but maybe their good habits will spread to their peers.

    7. Be a good role model
    You don’t have to be perfect all the time, but if kids see you trying to eat right and getting physically active, they’ll take notice of your efforts. You’ll send a message that good health is impor­tant to your family.

    8. Teach Them to Hydrate
    Our brains are 80 percent water, so hydration is extremely important, especially for growing little ones. A great way to teach your kids to stay hydrated is to have them look at their pee. Being hydrated means drinking enough so that your pee looks like water.

    9. Keep things positive
    Kid’s don’t like to hear what they can’t do, tell them what they can do instead. Keep it fun and positive. Everyone likes to be praised for a job well done. Celebrate successes and help children and teens develop a good self-image.

    10. Get the whole family moving
    Plan times for everyone to get moving together. Take walks, ride bikes, go swimming, garden or just play hide-and-seek outside. Everyone will benefit from the exercise and the time together.

    11. Be realistic
    Setting realistic goals and limits are key to adopting any new behavior. Small steps and gradual changes can make a big difference in your health over time, so start small and build up.

    12. Make dinnertime a family time
    When everyone sits down together to eat, there’s less chance of children eating the wrong foods or snacking too much. Get your kids involved in cooking and planning meals. Everyone develops good eating habits together and the quality time with the family will be an added bonus.

    13. Open Your Windows
    The air we breathe can have a profound effect on our mood and cognitive abilities, so it is important to keep it clean. Sometimes the air in our homes can be even more polluted than the air outside. Gigi Lee Chang, former CEO of Healthy Child Healthy World, recommends opening windows, using fans and vents, and having indoor plants in the home to help clean and circulate the air.

    14. Limit Their Sugar Intake
    Finally, if you want to prevent your kids from getting sick this winter, try to minimize the amount of sugar in their diet. According to Dr. Jay Gordon, sugar interferes with the body’s immune system by binding up the antibodies that the immune system needs to fight viruses.

    Sources:
    http://www.todaysparent.com/family/family-health/4-great-tips-for-keeping-your-kids-healthy-and-active/
    http://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Your-Child-Healthy
    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kidsinthehousecom/7-ways-to-keep-your-kids-_b_8923884.html
    http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/HealthyKids/HowtoMakeaHealthyHome/Top-10-Tips-to-Help-Children-Develop-Healthy-Habits_UCM_303805_Article.jsp#.VsP9RPl97IV
    http://ameriqua.com

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    11 Home remedies for Measles

    Measles treatment largely involves symptomatic relief. If you have measles the best thing you can do is rest in bed until the fever, cough, and cold have abated. This will also prevent other people from getting infected and spreading the disease. The patient should in fact be kept in isolation for at least ten days after the infection abates. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids throughout the day. Lukewarm sponge baths may help reduce the fever and body aches, and using a vaporizer or humidifier may ease the discomfort of your cough and cold. Fever can also be controlled using warm water enemas to remove toxins from the body. There are no specific medical remedies for measles apart from painkillers and medicines that reduce the fever. It is best to keep yourself as comfortable as possible and let the infection run its natural course. Children (and adults) should be kept in a well-ventilated room that is away from direct light. The eyes get very sensitive during measles and should be kept shaded to prevent further fatigue or irritation.

    The only proven way to prevent measles is with the measles vaccine. The CDC recommends a schedule of vaccines that immunize children against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). This vaccine called the MMR or the MMRV (Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella) needs to be administered before the age of 12 for optimum efficacy. Generally two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended before the age of one. Check with your doctor or pediatrician for the complete list of vaccinations and proper dosages for your child.

    Home remedies for Measles

    1. Neem Leaves
    Neem, also known as Indian lilac, has antibacterial and anti-allergenic properties, and hence it can be very helpful in relieving itching that often occurs with the rash.

    2. Garlic
    Garlic also can be an effective natural cure for measles. Powder the cloves of garlic and mix with honey and this can be had daily for better results.

    3. Olive Leaf
    Olive leaf is another most effective natural treatment against measles. Olive leaf has antimicrobial and antiviral properties that help kill the virus that causes measles. Plus, it is a natural antibiotic with antioxidant effects, which help in the healing process.

    4. Barley
    Barley water is a very effective natural cure to treat the coughs, in measles. The patient should drink barley water flavored with a few drops of sweetened almond oil as frequently as possible.

    5. Coconut water and flesh
    Coconut water has nutrients and natural sugar , which help in cleansing the body of toxic elements , which makes it a very effective drink. Coconut flesh is rich in anti-oxidants and a liberal intake of coconut water helps in speedy recovery from measles.

    6. Tamarind seeds and turmeric
    Tamarind seeds and turmeric are very effective natural cure for measles. Powder tamarind seeds, mix equal portion of the tamarind seeds powder with turmeric powder , this mix should be given in the doses of 350gm to 425gm, three times, daily to the person suffering from measles.

    7. Aloe Vera & Lemon Juice
    Aloe vera is useful for the treatment of measles. Application of aloe vera on the affected areas of skin rashes would help in soothing the inflamed and red skin. It is quickest method of treating measles. Pulp of aloe vera can be used for the treatment.

    8. Gooseberry (Amla)
    ndian gooseberry, also known as amla, is an excellent source of vitamin C that enhances the immune system. Plus, it’s high in antioxidants and hence very effective in the treatment of measles.

    9. Orange juice
    Orange is an excellent natural cure for measles. As the patient will feel a loss of appetite and the lack of saliva in his tongue, often the patient does not feel thirsty or hungry. Orange juice makes good for this loss of appetite.

    10. Butter
    If measles is accompanied by fever, mix butter and sugar candy in equal quantity and lick 2 tsp. in the morning.

    11. Eggplant Seeds & Yarrow
    Eggplant seeds are useful for the treatment of measles. This natural remedy is helpful in the development of immunity towards measles. Consumption of five hundred milligrams to one gram of seeds is recommended. It can be taken on a daily basis. Continue using this remedy for around three to five days.
    Sources:
    http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/remedy/Measles.html
    http://home-cure.net/best-natural-cure-measles-home-remedies/
    http://www.findhomeremedy.com/top-11-natural-cures-for-measles/
    http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-measles.html/2
    http://www.immunize.org/photos/measles-photos.asp

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    Top 7 Stress Relieving Teas

    1. Mint
    Mint is well known for its aromatic flavor. If you add mints like peppermint and spearmint, your tea is not just well-flavored it’s relaxes your mind. It’s also an excellent combating agent for upset stomach.

    2. Chamomile
    Chamomile is a very good tea to drink if you are suffering from stress. Its essential oil is known as bisabol which is known to help address irritations, inflammation and microbial infections. Regular chamomile tea drinking will help people with the challenges of stress and anxiety attacks. This tea is also good to help people sleep better. Chamomile tea is best to take when you are about to sleep. It is also good for the skin as chamomile tea bags are often used as part of a skin cleansing routine.

    3. Ginseng
    Ginseng does not only give you more energy, it is known to help people who are having sleeping problems such as insomnia. People who are not getting enough sleep are often suffering from very high stress levels. While Ginseng may not be able to cure the cause of stress itself, it can help alleviate the symptoms. It is one of the best adaptogens and as such it is able to find imbalances in the body and helps bring the chemistry towards equilibrium. It is also thought to help prevent cancer-induced stress.

    4. Passionflower
    Passionflower was first used by Native Americans. It is known to have the chemical flavone chystin which is great against anxiety and stress. In fact, it has been observed to be as effective as Xanax. In twin studies, passionflower performed at par with anti-anxiety medications, but without as much drowsiness. It is advisable to drink the passionflower tea before retiring for the night.

    5. Lemon Verbana
    An herbal tea with Lemon Verbena is just the dose you need to an upset stomach and nausea. If you have insomnia problem, you will find it to be just right for your curing this problem.

    6. Catnip
    This herbal ingredient is well-known for its properties to reduce excitement and palpitations. When stomach is unable to digest properly, it results in digestion-related headaches. At such times, a cup of catnip tea is just the thing you need for relief. It’s very good for quieting the mind.

    7. Ashwagandha
    An herbal medicine grown in Africa, the Mediterranean and India, ashwanganda (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogen. This class of herb helps the body fight stress by reducing the production of stress hormones that result in the fight-or-flight response. This adaptogenic quality can help the body relax and help the body stay strong. It also is a potent antioxidant as well.

    Sources:
    http://worldvitae.com/blog/6-best-herbal-teas-for-stress-relief/
    http://www.doctoroz.com/article/best-teas-stress-and-anxiety?page=4
    http://www.ahealthy.us/top-10-stress-relieving-teas/
    http://www.marksdailyapple.com/6-more-tea-ingredients-that-can-help-you-unwind-relax-and-chill-out/#axzz3zwW4Gw18
    http://wtbangels.com

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    10 Easy Tips for Staying Healthy in Winter

    1. Stay hydrated
    Don’t forget to keep drinking water! As the weather cools down and our thirst decreases it is easy to forget to drink enough water. You still need to aim for about two litres/day of water during winter as it is essential for our body to function. If you struggle with plain water (like we do sometimes) try herbal tea. There are so many flavours available now that you’re sure to find some you enjoy.

    2. Eat a healthy diet
    Maintaining a good healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables and minimal amounts of organic meats is another way to keep your body clean and in good working order. Try eating an extra piece of fruit or veggie every day too!

    3. Skin health
    The cold weather can affect our skin and contribute to conditions such as dry, itchy skin, chill blains and eczema. This may be due to the reduced humidity, drinking less water than you would during summer or possibly due to reduced circulation which may decrease the flow of blood and nutrients to the skin. Using moisturisers daily may help to keep the skin moist and supple whilst supplements containing vitamin E or garlic help assist blood circulation. If any of your family suffers psoriasis or eczema, try taking fish oils.

    4. Keep moving
    While it’s a little harder to find the motivation to exercise when it is cold outside, remember that keeping active during winter is essential to support our health and wellbeing. Moving your exercise indoors during winter will help to keep you warm as well as fit and healthy. Be sure to spend time warming up before you start your exercise as it can take a little longer for your joints to loosen up in the cold weather.

    5. Wash your hands regularly
    Keep the bacteria and viruses off your hands and out of your mouth and eyes. Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer close-by for those instances where you can’t get to soap and water.

    6. Don’t smoke
    Most of you already know this, but it bears repeating because smoking significantly weakens your immune system. If you want to quit and have tried everything else, let me know. I have some nutritional recommendations that can help you quit!

    7. Eliminate all forms of sugar
    This includes not only the obvious kinds (cake, cookies and sweets, in general), but bread, pasta, rice, yogurt and commercial, store-bought fruit juices. Although all of these things are made with different types of sugars, your body still converts them to sugar, which will compromise your immune system.

    8. Weight management
    Ditching the exercise as well as the salads during winter can often lead to weight gain. While it may only be a small weight gain, it begins to add up as you get more and more winters under your belt! Although it’s tempting to hide behind those bulky winter clothes, by sticking to your healthy diet and exercise routine all year round, you’ll be much healthier in the long run and won’t dread the next swimming season with the kids!

    9. Sleeping well
    Proper sleep (eight hours for an adult) can help keep the body’s immune system healthy and fight off colds. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes as these substances can affect the quality of your sleep. Regular, moderate exercise, relaxation techniques and establishing a regular sleep routine may help to promote improved sleep.

    10. Circulation
    During winter our hands and feet can often feel cold. Our hands and feet are at the extremities of our bodies which means they are the furthest from the heart which is pumping blood around our body to help keep us warm. Vitamin E and the herb Ginkgo help to support peripheral blood circulation, thereby alleviating cold hands and feet. Keep moving with gentle exercise to help improve circulation to the extremities of the body and don’t forget your socks and gloves! If you can’t seem to keep your hands warm (and it’s not bothering you excessively) take solace in the old saying “Cold hands, warm heart”!

    Sources:

    Raising physically literate kids | Kids Activities


    http://cenovis.com.au/10-tips-for-staying-healthy-this-winter/
    http://stayhealthyandwell.com/10-tips-to-stay-healthy-during-the-winter-season/

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    13 Reasons Why You Should Be Eating More Mushrooms

    Mushrooms, though classified as vegetables in the food world, are not technically plants. They belong to the fungi kingdom and although they are not vegetables, mushrooms provide several important nutrients.

    It’s common knowledge that the key to getting enough vitamins and minerals in the diet is to eat a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables – the more color, the better. However, this philosophy tends to leave mushrooms in the dark. In many cases, if a food lacks color, it also in turn lacks necessary nutrients. However, mushrooms – which are commonly white – prove quite the contrary.

    Benefits of Mushroom

    1. Looking Young
    Mushrooms contain selenium, an antioxidant that helps to control damage done by free radicals. This, in combination with mushrooms’ offering of Vitamin E, works to protect cells and will help reduce signs of aging.

    2. Lose Weight
    Because mushrooms are low in calories, but high in nutrients, they can be used to help you control your weight. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be added to host of delicious salads, soups, sauces, or other dishes.

    3. Essential Micronutrients
    Mushrooms are an excellent source of water-soluble vitamins (vitamin B6, thiamin and vitamin C) and magnesium. They are also very low in calories and high in potassium. In fact, at just 4 calories, one medium Portobello mushroom houses more potassium than a medium-sized banana.

    4. Diabetes Management
    Between the obesity epidemic and the proliferation of food deserts, it’s no wonder that diabetes rates have skyrocketed. Mushrooms are considered a good tool for dietary management of this condition, as they contain natural insulin and enzymes which help the body break down sugar and starch in other foods.

    5. Immune Health
    As we’ve mentioned many times before, food–not pills–is your best chance for a strong immune system and overall health. Long before we had the word “superfood,” humans were reaping the immune benefits of eating mushrooms. As one of the highest antioxidant foods in the world, it’s no surprised that mushrooms have been found to stimulate and regulate the body’s immune system. Research also indicates that mushrooms can help reduce risk of breast and prostate cancer, two of the most common kinds.

    6. Lower Blood Pressure
    Mushrooms offer up a healthy dose of potassium, and research shows that diets that include natural sources of potassium are important in reducing high blood pressure because potassium lessens the effects of sodium on the body. This also helps to reduce the risk of stroke.

    7. Strengthens the Immune System
    It was found that one or two servings of dried shiitake mushrooms strengthened the immune system.

    8. Good for Digestion
    Mushrooms have good dietary fiber and fungal enzymes to help with digestion.

    9. Good for the Heart
    Eating mushrooms can help to lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases because they are high in potassium, fiber and low in sodium.

    10. Antioxidants
    Mushrooms are an excellent source of selenium, a trace mineral antioxidant that works with vitamin E to protect the body’s cells from the damaging effects of free radicals. Selenium has shown to greatly protect against heart disease, arthritis, and numerous types of cancer.

    11. Versatile for cooking
    Mushrooms can most certainly stand alone but they also taste great in just about any food preparation including salads, soups, stews, omelets, and stir-fried dishes. In addition, their “meat-like” consistency makes mushrooms a popular substitute in vegetarian entrees.

    12. Help liver problems
    There was a study done in Beijing, China, in which scientists were trying to figure out whether or not Cordyceps (a type of mushroom) could have a beneficial effect on liver ailments – specifically Hepatitis B. The results were astonishing. 81% of the patients taking the Cordyceps had a significant reduction in liver enzyme levels (consistently high levels are indicative of serious liver malfunction or disease) and also had decreased liver inflammation.

    13. Reduce risk of cancer
    The Chinese have been using mushrooms medicinally for centuries. They also don’t historically have a lot of the chronic diseases that we have. Scientific research has now discovered that mushrooms have the ability to fight cancer, inflammation and viruses.

    Sources:
    http://www.thenaturalsinger.com/recipes/medicinal-mushrooms/
    http://www.ninacheriephd.com/you-your-body-and-your-health/5-reasons-why-you-should-eat-mushrooms
    http://www.care2.com/greenliving/8-reasons-to-eat-more-mushrooms.html

    3 Reasons Why You Should Eat Mushrooms


    http://ecowatch.com/2014/05/27/5-reasons-eating-mushrooms/
    http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/278858.php
    http://http://www.theguardian.com

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    12 Bad Habits that can Wreck your teeth

    1. Chewing ice
    It’s natural and sugar free, so you might think ice is harmless. But munching on hard, frozen cubes can chip or even crack your teeth. And if your mindless chomping irritates the soft tissue inside a tooth, regular toothaches may follow. Hot foods and cold foods may trigger quick, sharp jabs of pain or a lingering toothache. Next time you get the urge for ice, chew some sugarless gum instead.

    2. Breathing through the mouth
    If you breathe through your mouth instead of your nose often, you are likely to suffer from a dry mouth. Not only may this result in a hoarse voice and sore throat, but it will mean that you do not have enough saliva in your mouth to help deal with bacterial infections and protect the enamel of your teeth.

    3. Drinking soda
    Soda is sugary and acidic. Even sugar-free soda is acidic and harmful to teeth. Daily consumption of one or more soda products can bathe your teeth in decay-causing fluid. Juice and alcohol aren’t much better. Try to drink water instead. That’s healthiest for your teeth.

    4. Brush correctly
    You should ideally brush your teeth after breakfast, lunch and dinner, but not immediately. Try to wait 30-60 minutes after so that the acid produced by digestion has the time to go away. You want that acid to neutralize and your teeth to remineralize. Also make sure you brush your teeth gently, using a circular stroke and with a soft bristle brush. Brush too hard and you can erode your tooth enamel.

    5. Grinding your teeth
    Some people grind their teeth out of habit or because they are angry, while others inadvertently grind their teeth during sleep. Unfortunately, both grinding and clenching can result in teeth becoming loose or moving. In addition, it can lead to jaw pain.

    6. Snacking on starchy junk foods
    Snacking produces less saliva than eating a full meal leaving the residue from the food in your mouth longer. Starchy snacks, like chips, pretzels and crackers, can produce a buildup of partially chewed food in your teeth. Minimizing junk foods can help improve your oral and physical health.

    7. Chewing on pens or pencils
    Just like with chewing on ice, this habit can cause teeth to crack or chip. Go for the sugarless gum if you feel the urge to chew on something. It will trigger saliva flow which makes teeth stronger and protects against enamel-eating acids.

    8. Smoking cigarettes
    Tobacco wreaks havoc on teeth. It stains them and can cause them to fall out as a result of gum disease. Tobacco is also a cause of cancer to the mouth, lips and tongue.

    9. Biting your lips or cheeks
    Sometimes people bite their lips and inner cheek as a habit without realizing what they are doing. There may be occasions when lip biting accompanies anxiety or fear, and serves as a comforting gesture. Unfortunately, these actions performed repeatedly can cause your teeth to erode faster than they would have otherwise.

    10. Bad bite
    A bad bite can cause the alignment between your jaw and skull to be off balance. This in turn puts a strain on other muscles present in your jaw, neck and back. Tight, sore muscles in the neck caused by a bad bite will result in muscles in the back compensating for the problem.

    11. Biting nails
    Biting your nails can leave you with chipped teeth, or at least teeth that wear away faster than they should.

    12. Potato Chips
    The bacteria in plaque will also break down starchy foods into acid. This acid can attack the teeth for the next 20 minutes — even longer if the food is stuck between the teeth or you snack often. You might want to floss after eating potato chips or other starchy foods that tend to get stuck in the teeth.

    Sources
    http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/ss/slideshow-teeth-wreckers

    Bad habits that can wreck your teeth


    http://www.arlingtondentalteam.com/10-bad-dental-habits-wreck-teeth/
    http://nybogovy.projects-library.com

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    12 Health Benefits of Peas

    The quick growing, sweet and starchy green little balls called peas can do wonder if you include them in your meals. They are not just tasty but also possess many nutrients that make them a compulsory ingredient in your vegetable diet. People often assume them as an inexpensive green vegetable growing on the peas plant, is an ingredient that is served or used for garnishing in cheap restaurants. But it is not so, taking into account the various nutritious benefits that peas provide, they can be considered as a powerhouse of the nutritional values.

    Health Benefits of Peas

    1. Weight Management
    The ideal food for weight loss is the one that packs a nutritive punch in addition to being low in calories. And with peas perfectly fulfilling this criteria, consuming them can aid in weight loss. One cup of matar provides you approximately 118 calories. Also, its high fibre makes you feel full for a long time and thus preventing you from snacking on unhealthy foods.

    2. Stomach cancer prevention
    Peas contain high amounts of a health-protective polyphenol called coumestrol. A study in Mexico City determined you only need 2 milligrams per day of this phytonutrient to prevent stomach cancer. A cup of peas has at least 10.

    3. Contains Fiber and Protein
    Peas are free of cholesterol and low in fat and sodium. They feed your muscles and brain. Each cup has 8.5 grams of protein, more than twice as much protein as a tablespoon of peanut butter. A cup of cooked peas also has 9 grams of fiber, adding bulk to your meal and helping you feel full. It also contains 9.5 grams of natural sugar that provides your brain with glucose without causing an abrupt spike in your blood sugar level.

    4. Heart disease prevention
    Niacin present in peas reduces bad cholesterol, which is responsible for many heart related diseases. Additionally, peas are rich in antioxidants that prevent your blood vessels and arteries from getting blocked. Hence, consume soup made out of peas to lower your blood pressure and prevent heart disease.

    5. Healthy for the environment
    Peas work with bacteria in the soil to ‘fix’ nitrogen from the air and deposit it in the soil. This reduces the need for artificial fertilizers since one of their main ingredients is nitrogen.

    6. Prevent constipation
    When you have constipation, it is important that you consume foods rich in fibre to clear your bowel movements. Eating peas that are loaded with fibre might do the trick for you and help you relieve constipation. Apart from this, peas improve your metabolism thereby aiding in better digestion. Here are some home remedies you can try to relieve constipation.

    7. Healthy bones
    Just one cup of peas contain 44% of your Vitamin K which helps to anchor calcium inside the bones. It’s B vitamins also help to prevent osteoporosis.

    8. Reduces bad cholesterol
    The niacin in peas helps reduce, the production of triglycerides and VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein, which results in in less bad cholesterol, increased HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and lowered triglycerides.

    9. Helps reduce depression
    According to a study published inJournal of Affective Disorders low intake of folate, a vitamin, increased the risk of melancholic depressive symptoms. Additionally, people suffering from depression are advised to eat foods rich in antioxidants. As peas are loaded with antioxidants and are easily available, snacking on boiled peas is a great idea to deal with mood swings.

    10. Improves your immunity
    A strong immune system ensures that your body is capable of fighting infections and protects you free from a wide range of diseases. Since peas are a good source of Vitamin C in addition to being packed with various nutrients, eating them improves your immunity.

    11. Good for Eye-Sight
    Peas have adequate amount of anti-oxidant flavonoids like lutein, carotenes, zea-xanthin as well as vitamin-A. Vitamin A is one of the essential nutrients which are required for maintaining the health of mucus membranes, skin and eye-sight.

    12. Blood Sugar
    High fiber and protein content in peas makes sugar digestion slower. Peas do not contain any extra sugars like white sugar or chemicals and hence, it enables blood sugar regulation in the body. Pea proteins play a very important role in this action.

    Sources:
    http://fineartamerica.com
    http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-eating-peas-5767.html
    http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/give-peas-a-chance-10-health-benefits-of-this-small-wonder/

    10 Health Benefits of Peas – They Are an Amazing and Simple Superfood


    http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-peas/

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  • Diet and Fitness Health Tips
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    8 Mistakes You should Avoid That Cause Weight Gain

    1. Going to Sleep Too Full
    Going to sleep on a full stomach can cause discomfort and disrupted sleep, which can wreak havoc on your waistline by causing you to hold on to belly fat and eat more. Make sure you eat dinner at least a few hours before bedtime; if you need a snack later on, keep it under 200 calories.

    2. Going to Bed Hungry
    You may think that going to bed with a grumbling stomach will help your body burn off more fat while you sleep, but studies have shown this isn’t the case. In fact, going to bed hungry may actually cause you to lose muscle instead — which, in turn, slows down your fat-burning potential. Keep your metabolism soaring by having a small, 150-calorie snack before you climb into bed.

    3. Not Factoring In Your Snack
    You’ve powered down for the day and put your food journal away, but don’t think that those late-night nibbles don’t add up. If you’re sticking to a weight-loss plan, make sure you keep track of any postdinner calories, so you’re not left wondering why the number on the scale doesn’t budge. If you know you like to have a snack before going to bed, making sure you’ve “saved” a few calories from the day can help you stick to your limits.

    4. Starving All Day, Feasting All Night
    There’s nothing you like more than relaxing on the couch with a bowl of ice cream, so you pick at your dinner just so you can indulge before bedtime. This is a recipe for disaster; not only are you almost guaranteeing an uncomfortable night with a full stomach, saving your “cheats” for after dinner and beyond can lead to an unhealthy cycle of junk food and regret. Try to disassociate your late-night snack with unhealthy foods, and focus on eating regularly throughout the day and having a healthy snack after dinner only if you’re hungry.

    While Cooking

    5. Using the Wrong Oils
    Pouring the wrong oil into your pan can do worse than make your eggs taste like olives. “When an oil heats past its smoke point, the fatty acid profile has degraded, producing toxins, free radicals, and even trans fats,” says Batayneh. She recommends using walnut or olive oil for salad dressings since they both can burn at high temperatures. Coconut, grapeseed, and sunflower oils, however, all have high smoke points, making them perfect for sautéing and grilling. Stock up on these four alternative cooking oils.

    6. Baking Without a Roasting Pan
    Baking is a great way to keep your dishes low-cal. But unless you set your meat on a rack, it’s just going to sit in and soak up its own grease, thwarting your weight-loss efforts, says Batayneh. Next time you pop some steak, pork, poultry, or even fish in the oven, make sure it’s on a roasting pan—or at least a wire rack in the bottom of your baking dish.

    7. Skipping the Spice Rack
    “We usually rely on sugar, salt, and fat for flavor, which can up the calorie count of a dish dramatically,” says Batayneh. “Using spices instead allows a cook to cut out those added sugars, oil, butter, or salt—and over time, you’ll also retrain your taste buds to not crave those salty, sugary, fatty additions.” Plus, herbs and spices pack a powerful punch of health-boosting, fat-fighting nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Learn how to add spices to your favorite foods.

    8. Using Too Much Oil
    Healthy fats can help you lose weight, but not if you act like their calories—all 120 per tablespoon of them—don’t count. And when you’re using oil to cook and add flavor to your dishes, those calories can add up fast, says Batayneh. “When you’re cooking, use only enough oil to prevent sticking,” she says Not sure how much that is? Try investing in a spray bottle for your oil so you don’t overdo it by mistake. Find out how much fat is healthy.

    Sources:
    http://www.popsugar.com/fitness/Late-Night-Snacking-Habits-Cause-Weight-Gain-32420584
    http://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/things-that-make-you-gain-weight
    http://www.berkeleywellness.com

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    5 Foods that Contain More Calcium than Milk

    1. Kale
    Kale is loaded with calcium and many other nutrients. A cup of green smoothie made of raw kale contains about 90 mg of calcium. Also, a 3.5 cup of kale salad contains 315 mg of calcium, which is more than the calcium contained than a glass of cow`s milk. Kale is also rich in manganese and phosphorus, both of which play an important role in maintaining healthy bones.

    2. Spinach
    Spinach is an excellent course of calcium, containing 244.8 mg per cup. On most occasions you will eat more than one cup, making spinach a better source of calcium than a cup of milk. One cup accounts for 24.5% of your daily value intake. Also, manganese supports growth and development of normal bone structure and joint membranes. Spinach contains 84% of your daily value intake of manganese.

    3. Organic Yogurt
    People who love dairy products, plain organic yogurt is a great choice as it contains 447.4 mg of calcium in one cup. That’s approximately 45% of your daily value intake of calcium. It also contains 35.2% of your daily value of phosphorus which is important for formation and regeneration of bones and teeth.

    4. Sesame Seed
    Another natural source of calcium is the sesame seed. Only a quarter cup of sesame seed contains 351 mg of calcium, which is a perfect substitute for a glass of milk. Simply sprinkle a quarter cup into your salad or spreading tahini (sesame seed paste) onto the whole grain toast. Tahini is a butter-type paste made from ground and hulled sesame seeds, and can be served on its own or can be found within hummus or baba ghanoush.

    5. Collard Greens
    In two cups of collard greens there are 452.2 mg of calcium, nearly 90% of your daily value intake. If you think you cannot drink the greens then you are wrong. Just prepare smoothies. Collard greens are rich in vitamin B6 and folic acid which reduce the homocysteine levels that damage the bone structure. You can also prepare them lightly steamed and marinated with lemon juice, honey, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and dill weed.

    Sources:
    http://www.healthyandnaturallife.com/5-foods-that-contain-more-calcium-than-milk/
    http://www.justnaturallife.com/5-foods-that-contain-more-calcium-than-milk/
    http://www.foods4betterhealth.com/5-foods-that-contain-more-calcium-than-milk-7211
    http://www.justnaturallife.com/5-foods-that-contain-more-calcium-than-milk/

    5 Foods That Contain More Calcium Than Milk


    http://www.healthyandnaturallife.com

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