7 Days Stop Smoking Program

The first thing to do is set a date when you are going to stop smoking. Let’s start one week from today. That will give you plenty of time to practice with the weapons in your arsenal. Eight days from today, it will be the beginning of the end of your smoking habit.

Days 1 and 2

Examine your smoking behavior for the first two days. Every time you light up, ask yourself:

1. Why am I smoking this cigarette?
2. Would this be an easy one or a difficult one to do without?
3. If I did not smoke this cigarette, what would I do instead?

Day 3

Let’s get out and test your weapons today.

At least once today, use your weapons to shoot down the urge to smoke.

During the five minutes that it will take for the urge to pass, try out some of your arsenal. Try one, or all, or find a combination that works for you.

Day 4

Today is the big testing day. If you haven’t already tried it, skip those one or two cigarettes that you feel may be the toughest to give up in your daily routine. Pick the ones that you rated “difficult” during your monitoring period.
Remember, this is a practice period, and you must not get upset if you are unable to give up a difficult cigarette. You must practice and experiment with your different weapons to realize how you can be more effective.
If you found skipping that cigarette very hard or even failed in the end, review any factor that got in the way of your success. The most common causes of difficulty or failure that a potential quitter faces are:

Chemical properties of addiction

When you do not have that cigarette, you feel lousy. If you are a heavy smoker, a nicotine patch may help to relieve your bad feelings.

Social pressures

You may find yourself in a situation like, card game, party, coffee break during which you would normally smoke. It may help to let others know of your desire to stop smoking, and also your reasons to stop smoking.
Enlisting the aid of a non smoker to confide in may also help. Make sure that he or she is aware of your goals so that they do not say or do anything to instill a negative impact on your desire to stop smoking.
If you feel that you may not resist the social pressures of smoking, consider the option of giving up these social encounters for two or three weeks until the urge passes and you can be comfortable again.

Tension and negative emotion

A crisis occurs during your work or personal day, and one of the main reasons for you to smoke has been tension reduction. Try to deal with your negative emotions and use the tension reducing methods that we talked about earlier.
Get away from the area that the tension is associated with. Take a walk, or go to another room. You may also find that nicotine gum will give you enough tension relief to get through.

Days 5, 6, and 7

You are now heading down the home stretch. In the next three days, your goal is to come out of this week smoking half the cigarettes that you would normally smoke. If you started as a one pack a day smoker, cut back to ten cigarettes per day, or less.

The fewer the better

During days 5 and 6, set your goals toward achieving positive results on day 7. Maintain your smoking record during these three days, and continue to decrease your dependency on nicotine.

What do you do if you still have doubts? This is probably due to your chemical dependency on nicotine. It is a highly powerful drug, and many factors have been working together to make you dependent.

Discuss with your doctor about the feasibility of a patch or nicotine gum. Nicotine is the hook that has gotten you to smoke which carries the harmful effects to your body. With the help from the patch or the gum, you will have all he tools you need to successfully quit.

The nicotine patch or gum will give you a steady influx of nicotine into your system, which will be reduced slowly over a period of several weeks. Do not smoke while on the nicotine patch. You could experience a dangerous overdose of nicotine.

National Drug Take-Back Day

If you have expired, unused, or unneeded drugs in the house, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) wants to make it easier for you to dispose of them. Saturday, September 29th has been designated as National Drug Take-Back Day and sites throughout the United States have been designated to take your unwanted drugs for disposal. Drugs may be turned in at these sites from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Can

Health tips: Quality magnifiers can help sharpen low vision

When a patient is diagnosed with low vision, this means vision impairment that is not correctable by standard glasses, contact lenses, medicine or surgery. This vision loss can affect an individual’s independence and quality of life, but it doesn’t have to.

There are many tools available for these individuals to remain independent and continue to do things they enjoy — like reading, writing, crocheting, etc. Many people with low vision don’t know about the resources that are available to them.

Low vision aids keep getting better each year with newer technology. Quality low vision aids can only be purchased through low vision specialists and dealers. Magnifiers purchased from the local drugstore are meant for people with healthy eyes and good vision; these magnifiers only have a minimal amount of the power that low vision magnifiers provide.

A hand-held low vision magnifier comes with or without lights, with or without a base and in many different powers. Hand-held electronics that can be easily taken in a pocket or purse are great for viewing prices, reading a menu, writing checks and viewing books. These handy magnifiers have different contrast adjustments and a variety of powers.

Another option is a CCTV, which is a device for writing and reading that allows a much larger field of view than hand-held devices.

Lighting is another important factor in dealing with low vision. A good light directed onto what you are reading can improve what you are able to see.

If you have been diagnosed with low vision and are wondering which piece of equipment would be best for you, an evaluation with a low vision specialist is the right place to start. Always continue to have routine eye exams and monitor Amsler grids as instructed by your doctor. Call your eye care provider if you notice any changes in your vision.

Source  http://www.chieftain.com/health/health-tips-quality-magnifiers-can-help-sharpen-low-vision/article_ff53657e-06ca-11e2-b072-001a4bcf887a.html

Spinach

Spinach

Spinacia oleracea
Amaranthaceae

Popeye wasn’t kidding when he said eating spinach was his trick to being fit and strong. Spinach is one of the most nutrient filled foods in the world and has been in the food spotlight for the last few years thanks to baby spinach salads and creamy spinach dips.

What makes spinach so special is the number of amazing nutrients that it packs into its small leafy frame. Spinach is rich in vitamin K, vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin B2, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin B. It also has an abundance of folate, iron, calcium, zinc, protein, copper, magnesium, selenium and fiber. Spinach is similar to salmon in that it contains the amazing omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, it has lutein and many flavonoid compounds. With so many nutrients Popeye is starting to look like a smart guy! The healing properties of spinach are practically endless. Here are a few:

1. Flavonoid compounds make it effective in cancer prevention

2. Carotenoid compounds help maintain good prostate health

3. Vitamin K helps keep bones healthy and strong

4. Vitamins C and A help prevent heart attacks by cleaning up the free radicals in your blood stream

5. Promotes colon health

6. Protects against dangerous diseases like dementia

7. Helps brain function after a stroke

With so many healing attributes it’s no surprise that spinach has become a popular item at the dinner table. Baby spinach salads are the fad right now but there are many other ways to eat spinach. If you’re in a southern cooking mood you can try cooking creamed spinach or wet spinach, which is, similar to collard greens. If you want more of a lunchtime favorite try spinach on top of a chicken breast in a pita or use it to complement a fresh mozzarella and tomato salad.
Bonus Tip: spinach is best eaten raw for the maximum nutrient punch... if you cook it avoid doing so for too long as it can lose up to 50% of its mineral content.

NOTE: spinach has goitrogens which can inhibit thyroid function therefore we like to suggest to people experiencing hypothyroidism to limit its consumption, and to enjoy it cooked. As we said before not all people experiencing hypothyroidism respond the same way to goitrogenic foods. That is why weencourage these people to be very aware of the unique way their bodies respond and to eat with gusto and joy, never with fear!

Lavender Oil

Lavender Oil

Lavender, the common name of the genus Lavandula, is an herb closely related to rosemary, sage, and thyme. It is a summer flowering perennial shrub with flower colors that typically range from deep purple to pale blue, and also includes some pink, green, and white varieties. Lavender has been used for edicinal, cleansing, culinary, aromatic, horticultural,decorative, and other purposes for centuries. Today, lavender is xperiencing a resurgence of popularity, with its many uses ranging from fresh and dried floral arrangements to crafts and aromatherapy. Lavender oil is a staple of the cosmetics and industrial fragrance industries.

Lavender is one of history’s most celebrated and versatile essential oils. It is steam distilled from Lavandula angustifolia, a perennial, bushy shrub with a flowery top. Historically, Greeks used lavender as a perfume. The Romans used it in their baths for washing, for its cleansing qualities, and to deter insects.

The Egyptians used lavender as an ingredient in incense and perfume. Queen Elizabeth I used it in her tea to soothe tension. The many plant constituents in lavender essential oil contribute to a vast range of usage. Today, we use lavender as a tea and to cleanse, support normal sleep, ease occasional depressed moods, soothe sun-exposed skin, and reduce stress.

Lavender oil is one of the safest essential oils and can be applied neat to the skin. The benefits of lavender essential oil are limitless, and modern research will continue to yield new and exciting uses for this amazing plant.

Benefits
1. Balances normal body functions
2. Supports normal sleep
3. Cleanses skin irritations
4. Soothes and relaxes the mind and body
5. Eases bodily tension and stress
6. Lavender has long been used to repel moths and to enhance the aroma of rooms, closets,and linens.                                                            
7. As a sedative and disinfectant, the medicinal uses of lavender are well known, and with modern trends toward herbal remedies, it is regaining popularity.
8. Those seeking a calming, relaxing influence and a break from hectic daily activities
9. Those looking for improved support for healthy skin
10. Those looking for a lift in mental acuity and concentration

Dietary: Add to food or rice milk as a dietary supplement.
Topical: Apply 2–4 drops topically to skin irritations, cuts, or as needed.
Aromatic: Diffuse up to 1 hour 3 times daily or inhale directly for aromatherapy
Inhaling lavender essential oil soothes and relaxes the bodyand mind.

French scientist Rene Gattefosse was the first modern scientist to document lavender’s more dramatic skin applications.
In ancient Greece, Pedanius Dioscorides, a physician, pharmacologist, and botanist, extolled the many
qualities and uses of lavender.

Cautions:
Keep out of reach of children. 
If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult a health professional prior to use. 

Sugary Facts

Sugary Facts

Sugar, like starch, is a carbohydrate.There are many different types of and names for sugar. For example sucrose or ‘table sugar’ is added to drinks, baked goods and confectionery. Fructose is naturally found in fruit and honey and lactose is naturally present in milk. Glucose is one of the simplest forms of sugar and is the basic building block of starch. Starch is the main form of carbohydrate found in bread, pasta, potatoes, rice,pulses, whole grains and cereals. Glucose is also the type of sugar that circulates in the blood, often referred to as ‘blood sugar’ or ‘blood glucose’, and provides the body with energy.

Carbohydrates are the body’s main energy source and sugar is an important source of carbohydrates. Sugar also has an important role in providing flavour and texture to foods. As sugar contains calories but few nutrients, eating too much sugar and foods and drinks rich in added sugars, instead of other foods, may make your diet less nutritious.

The only health problem directly linked to sugar is tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth use sugars to produce tooth-damaging acid.Weight gain occurs when we eat more calories than we burn.  Sugary foods and drinks can only make us gain weight if overall we eat more calories than we use for energy. One level teaspoon of sugar (4g) contains 16 calories and as sugary foods (e.g. chocolate, cakes and biscuits) and drinks taste great and can be rich in calories, it is easy to eat too many calories from sugary products.  

Some research suggests that sugary drinks make it harder for us to regulate the overall amount of calories eaten and a regular intake may be a factor contributing to obesity in children,diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.  However being overweight increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. People with a family history of diabetes are advised to enjoy a healthy diet and regular exercise to control their weight.

There is no evidence to suggest that low calorie sweeteners, such as saccharin, aspartame and sucralose, are bad for you.  All ingredients added to foods, including low calorie sweeteners, undergo rigorous safety testing before being approved safe for human consumption. Low calorie sweeteners provide a sweet taste to food but little or no calories and they are often used in products such as diet soft drinks, sugar free chewing gum and confectionery and yogurts.People with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic condition, need to restrict their intake of phenylalanine. This is an amino acid (a building block for protein) which is found naturally in many foods and as part of the sweetener aspartame.

A moderate amount of sugar can be eaten as part of a healthy balanced diet. The maximum recommended daily intake of sugars (excluding lactose) is approximately 60 grams per day (10% of our total calorie intake). This includes honey, table sugar and sugars in fruit juices and processed foods.

Many food labels provide information on the amount of sugar in foods but do not distinguish between
total sugars and added sugars. The nearer the sugar is to the start of the ingredients list, the greater the amount in the product. Traffic Light Labelling on some food and drink packaging provides a quick guide to the level of fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar in foods and drinks.  A red light for sugar means a high sugar content, an amber light means it has medium sugar content and a green light means it is low in sugar.

A moderate amount of sugar can be eaten as part of a healthy balanced diet. The maximum recommended
daily intake of sugars (excluding lactose) is approximately 60 grams per day (10% of our total calorie intake). This includes honey, table sugar and sugars in fruit juices and processed foods.

Salmon - Health Benefits

Salmon - Health Benefits

Image Source: Wikipedia

Wild salmon is a favorite amongst bears in Alaska, and those bears are turning out to be some healthy beasts! Wild salmon is a fish loaded with nutrients that help keep the body healthy. And, it should be noted, that Salmon is the only fish on super food list.The others i'll post.
Salmon is loaded with vitamin B6, vitamin B3, vitamin B12, vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium and omega-3
fatty acids. It also contains a good amount of selenium, tryptophan and is high in protein.
Fatty acids are good for the body. That’s right .. not often do you see fatty and good in the same sentence. Fatty acids, specifically the omega-3 fatty acids in salmon, are very beneficial to the body.
Wild caught fish, like salmon, are known to have high levels of omega-3s.
These fatty acids help prevent heart attacks, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and increase blood flow. Possibly the most beneficial aspect of eating foods with omega-3s is the reduction in the risk of stroke. Studies have shown that people who regularly eat salmon or other foods with large amounts of omega-3s have a 27% less chance of having a stroke.

Other benefits of omega-3 include:
1. improvement in insulin sensitivity in people with Type 2 diabetes
2. effective in combating dry eye disease
3. helps protect the body against cancer has been linked to lowering the chances of contracting Alzheimer’s or dementia from aging
4. known to aid in the prevention of sun damage to the skin ease menstrual pain and discomfort

As with any food you should try to get your salmon as fresh as possible. Also, you should look for wild
salmon instead of the farmed variety, which contains antibiotics and artificial additives, which gives it its pink color.Even though salmon is quite popular due to its health benefits fresh wild salmon, can be difficult to get during certain times of the year.

Salmon has a wonderful taste and can be enjoyed many different ways.
Here are some of our favourites:
Naturally smoked salmon tastes great with capers, onion rings,lemon and crackers
Try it with low-fat cream cheese and a whole wheat bagel
Add some grilled filets to the top of a tossed salad
Brush with a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic and dill and bake in the oven for a few minutes
Try a Napolitana sauce made with canned wild salmon and enjoy it with your favorite whole-wheat, kamut
or rice pasta.

If you like avocados try this: mash some avocado with a spoon and mix with onion; put it on slices of naturally smoked salmon and make a roll. Cut it and enjoy as healthy finger food.

Our only fish on the super food list provides an endless amount of nutrition. Be sure to get your fresh salmon before the bears catch them all and eat them up!

Onions - Health Benefits

Onions - Health Benefits

Allium cepa
Family: Alliaceae
Edible Parts: Flowers, Leaves, Root, Seed. 
BULB
Onions belong to the genus Allium along with garlic, chives, shallots, and leeks. The common onion (Allium cepa) is widely grown in Iowa gardens. Onions are grown chiefly as green onions or dry bulbs. A perfectly developed onion will have 13 leaves and 13 rings of scales around the bulb. Each leaf corresponds with a ring in the bulb. Therefore, the larger the leaf above the soil, the larger the ring in the bulb.

Tell me you’re crying because of the onions, not because you’re sad. After you discover the health benefits of onions you can turn those tears into tears of joy.
Onions contain many nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, dietary fiber, folate, potassium, copper, manganese, molybdenum, phosphors and tryophan. Onions are potent in sulphur compounds such as allyl
propyl disulphide, which can help bring high blood pressure down and deter tumor growth. Onions also contain the flavonoid Quercitin that has a high antioxidant activity. Onions have many healing benefits. Among the best is their ability to lower blood sugar levels. This is a great benefit to people with diabetes because it can help regulate blood sugar more efficiently.

They also lower the risk of heart attacks by lowering homocysteine levels and may protect against colon cancer. These pungent veggies are also known to promote bone health and act as a natural antibiotic keeping infections and viruses away.Onions come in a variety of shapes and colors and can be labelled as Spanish, yellow, white and red. There are not any nutritional differences among these types.Onions can be tasty in so many ways! Try French onion soup, sautéed as a topping on a lean steak, chopped in a tossed salad or sprinkled into a chicken fajita. They’re also good to eat on almost any sandwich. While onions may cause you to tear up at first sight, they are certainly a power food loaded
with many great nutrients you don’t want to miss.

Green Onion as Alternative Medicine 
1. It is mainly used as a traditional medicine for common cold.
2. It stimulates the respiratory tract and helps in expelling sputum (phlegm).
3/. It contains essential oils that stimulates the sweat glands and promote sweating.
4. It normalizes blood pressure.
5. It increases appetite.
6. It helps prevent diarrhea.
7. It is rich in sulfur, an essential element that kills or inhibits fungus infections.
8. It inhibits cancer cell growth especially colon cancer. Green onion's anti-colon cancer properties are well 9. known among traditional healers around the world.
10. It contains vitamin A and C. The white part of it has calcium, too.
11. It is a good appetizer.
12. Anemia :- Onions are noted for their easily assimilate iron content. They are, therefore, beneficial in the treatment of anemia.
13. The onion are very valuable in heart diseases as they correct thrombosis and also reduce blood cholesterol.
14. Onion is one of the most important aphrodisiac  foods. As an aphrodisiac, onion stands second only to garlic. It increases libido and strengthens the reproductory organs.
15. Onion is irritating to the skin and stimulates  the circulation of blood in the mucous membrane. Warts also sometimes disappear if  rubbed with cut onions.
16. Onion juice dipped on cotton wool and put into  the ear is a popular Russian remedy for ringing sound in the ears. Dropped hot in the ear, it relieves earache.

Other Benefits

• A multi-faceted heart-blood medicine 
• Taking 12 gms of onion juice mixed with the same quantity of honey for 21 days increases virility. 
• Boosts beneficial HDL cholesterol 
• Thins the blood 
• Eating onion helps to clear phlegm from the throat  and mouth. Teeth becomes white, it 
• sharpens the memory and strengthens the nerves. 
• Lowers total blood cholesterol 
• Retards blood clotting 
• Regulates blood sugar 
• Kills bacteria 
• Drinking the mixed juice of onion and memordica charantia (karela) cures severe indigestion. 
• Eating white onion with raw sugar and some turmeric powder daily in the morning and 
• evening time cures jaundice. 
• Giving onion with raw sugar to children help them to gain height. 
• The onion after being crushed and boiled clears phlegm. 
• One spoonfull of onion juice eliminates the worms in the stomach of children. 
• Applying onion juice on the hair eliminates lice. 

Almonds - Health Benefits

Almonds - Health Benefits

Almonds can benefit the body in so many ways that it’s hard to believe such a small nut can pack this much punch. There are many different reasons why almonds are such a powerful food; probably the best way to explain this is by taking a look at all of the nutrients, healing properties, and of course, the best way to eat them.

The extensive nutrients contained in almonds include, among others, vitamin E, vitamin B2, protein, magnesium and potassium. Additionally, almonds are high in dietary fiber and monounsaturated fat, also
known as the “good fat”, which is found in olive oil.

With respect to heart disease, the healing properties of almonds pack a one, two punch. For example, the monounsaturated fats, when ingested, help lower LDL cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. Studies have proven that eating almonds over a period of only two weeks can have a positive impact on LDL levels. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, helps lower cholesterol and magnesium reduces stress on veins and arteries by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain and throughout the body.

For optimal cellular health vitamin B2 is essential. Your body has a high amount of oxygen-containing molecules that are used to produce energy. Sometimes, these molecules can be reactive and cause damage
to the mitochondria; however, this can be prevented with a protein molecule called glutathione, which vitamin B2 allows being recycled within the body. Essentially, without vitamin B2 the glutathione would not be able to recycle itself and defend your mitochondria against danger.

Beyond heart and cellular health almonds possess an array of healing properties that help promote weight loss and colon health as well as protecting you from anemia. Did you know that a quarter of a cup of almonds contains over 4 g of fiber – a whopping 16% of the daily requirement? Or, that eating almonds are a great alternative to red meat for getting your daily dose of protein? Healthy cooking ideas for almonds are far from traditional. You can of course eat them as is, in fact, many health experts recommend eating the skin of an almond to get the maximum benefit. However, there are more
creative ways to get your daily almond fix – for example:

1. Add fresh almonds to a salmon salad in addition to lemon juice and capers
2. If you don’t eat fish, try almonds with some yogurt for a tasty treat
3. For a twist on a holiday favorite try adding almonds to cranberry sauce for a wonderful taste
4. Almond shavings can also be added to a variety of main dishes including roasted chicken with mango for an island flavor.
Can you think of a better tasting way to stay healthy? Make almonds part of your daily life and your body will reap the rewards!

Broccoli - Health Benefits

Broccoli - Health Benefits

Brassica oleracea
Family:Brassicaceae

Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family, and is closely related to cauliflower. Its cultivation originated in Italy. Broccolo, its Italian name, means "cabbage sprout." Broccoli's name is derived from the Latin word brachium, which means branch or arm, a reflection of its tree-like shape that features a compact head of florets attached by small stems to a larger stalk. Because of its different components, this vegetable provides a complex of tastes and textures, ranging from soft and flowery (the florets) to fibrous and crunchy (the stem and stalk). Its color can range from deep sage to dark green to purplish-green, depending upon the variety. One of the most popular types of broccoli sold in North America is known as Italian green, or Calabrese, named after the Italian province of Calabria where it first grew.  

1. The health benefits of broccoli along with the easy availiability of this super vegetable make it one of our most popular vegetables.

2. Broccoli provides a high amount of vitamin C, which aids iron absorption in the body, prevents the development of cataracts, and also eases the symptoms of the common cold.

3. The folic acid in broccoli helps women sustain normal tissue growth and is often used as a supplement when taking birth control pills and during pregnancies.

4. The potassium in broccoli aids those battling high blood pressure, while a large amount of calcium helps combat osteoporosis.

5. The vegetable is also fiber-rich, which enhances the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, as well as aims to reduce blood cholesterol levels.

6. In recent years, broccoli has made the headlines regarding three components found in the vegetable. For instance, indole-3-carbinol has captured the attention of those looking to prevent hormone-related cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer.

7. I3C promotes "good" hormones, while working against destructive ones. The sulforaphane in broccoli also helps to increase the level of enzymes that block cancer, while the beta-carotene in broccoli transforms into vitamin A within the body, providing an effective antioxidant that destroys free radicals (responsible for weakening the defense of cells).

8. Additionally, the health benefits of broccoli have been linked to preventing and controlling the following medical concerns: Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, calcium deficiencies, stomach and colon cancer, malignant tumors, lung cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and even the aging process.

9. The next time you're shopping for vegetables, note that some broccoli tops appear purplier than others, meaning they possess a higher level of carotenoids, which is better for your health.

10. The health benefits of broccoli are so great that it is one of those foods that should be a regular addition to your menu.

TOFU - HEALTH BENEFITS

TOFU - HEALTH BENEFITS

Delicate curd made by adding a mineral salt to soymilk; then pressing the curds together into a solid block.

THE MAJOR NUTRIENTS IN SOY: 

Soy foods are rich sources of protein, fiber, calcium, B-vitamins, and iron. They also contain some other substances which may all have potential cancer protective effects. These substances are: phytochemicals, isoflavones (also called phytoestrogens – specifically, genistein and daidzein), protease inhibitors (substances that act to stop the action of enzymes), phytate (acts like an antioxidant), phytosterols (plant substances related to fats – i.e., cholesterol), saponins (antioxidants), phenolic acid (antioxidant), and lecithin (a fat).

HEALTH BENEFITS 

Heart Disease:  Eating soy foods may reduce blood cholesterol levels, which may reduce the risk of heart disease.  Some preliminary research shows that it is the isoflavones or phytoestrogen called  genistein in soy foods that may directly lower blood cholesterol levels.

Osteoporosis:  Eating soybeans, which are good sources of calcium and protein, may be and easy way to help build strong bones and maybe even reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Also, the protein in soybeans helps to conserve calcium in our bodies.

Cancer:  The American Cancer Society’s dietary guidelines for reducing the risk of cancer include choosing plant source foods and limiting the intake of high fat foods.  These two guidelines make soyfoods the perfect solution to potentially reducing the risk of cancer through diet.

1. Protease inhibitors in soyfoods appear to reduce the risk of colon, lung,pancreas, esophagus, and breast cancers. 

2. Phytate in soyfoods acts like an antioxidant, potentially reducing the risk of both breast and colon cancers. 

3. Phytosterols in soyfoods protect the colon from harmful bile acids, potentially reducing colon tumors; they also have been potentially effective in reducing skin cancer.  

4. Saponins in soyfoods are antioxidants that have potentially cancer-protective effects; they also have potential to prevent mutations in cells that lead to cancer.  

5. Phenolic acid in soyfoods is another antioxidant that appears to have cancer-protective effects also – against mutations in cells as well.  

6. Lecithin, a fat in soyfoods, appears to reduce lung tumors in mice.  

7. Plant estrogens, also known as  isoflavones or  phytoestrogens in soyfoods have been identified as having cancer-protective effects by potentially stopping the growth of cancer cells. 

Excerpted from “Estrogen the Natural Way”, Nina Shandler 

Menopause:  Isoflavones in soybeans have the potential of reducing symptoms associated with menopause such as: hot flashes and sleep disturbances.  The weak estrogen-like activity in soyfoods may help to reduce these symptoms.

Detecting and Treating Actinic Keratoses

Following the abuse a summer's worth of sun can deliver to the skin, now is a good time to review the features of a common skin condition related to ultraviolet exposure, actinic keratosis (AK). This is particularly important since AKs are considered to be pre-cancerous with a certain percentage of them advancing into squamous cell skin cancer.

What is an AK?  Actinic keratosis, also known as

Sunflower Seeds - Health Benefits

Sunflower Seeds - Health Benefits

Sunflower seeds are the gift of the beautiful sunflower that has rays of petals emanating from its bright yellow, seed-studded center. The flower produces grayish-green or black seeds encased in tear-dropped shaped gray or black shells that oftentimes feature black and white stripes. Since these seeds have a very high oil content, they are one of the main sources of polyunsaturated oil. 

Looking for a health-promoting snack? Enjoy a handful of mild nutty tasting sunflower seeds with their firm but tender texture to take care of your hunger and get a wealth of nutrition at the same time. Sunflower seeds are available at your local market throughout the year.

Health Benefits
1. A handful of sunflower seeds will take care of your hunger, while also enhancing your health by supplying significant amounts of vitamin E, magnesium and selenium.

2. Anti-Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Benefits from Sunflower Seeds' Vitamin E.

3. Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E, the body's primary fat-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E travels throughout the body neutralizing free radicals that would otherwise damage fat-containing structures and molecules, such as cell membranes, brain cells, and cholesterol.

4. By protecting these cellular and molecular components, vitamin E has significant anti-inflammatory effects that result in the reduction of symptoms in asthma,osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, conditions where free radicals and inflammation play a big role.

5. Vitamin E has also been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer, help decrease the severity and frequency of hot flashes in women going through menopause, and help reduce the development of diabetic complications.

6. In addition, vitamin E plays an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin E is one of the main antioxidants found in cholesterol particles and helps prevent free radicals from oxidizing cholesterol. Getting plenty of vitamin E can significantly reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis.

7. In fact, studies show that people who get a good amount of vitamin E are at a much lower risk of dying of a heart attack than people whose dietary intake of vitamin E is marginal or inadequate. Just a quarter-cup of sunflower seeds contains 62% of the daily value for vitamin E.

8. Phytosterols are compounds found in plants that have a chemical structure very similar to cholesterol, and when present in the diet in sufficient amounts, are believed to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, enhance the immune response and decrease risk of certain cancers.

9. Calm Your Nerves, Muscles and Blood Vessels with Sunflower Seeds' Magnesium.Magnesium helps reduce the severity of asthma, lower high blood pressure, and prevent migraine headaches, as well as reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

10. Improved Detoxification and Cancer Prevention from Sunflower Seeds' which contain the trace element Selenium.

Mushroom Facts

Mushroom Facts

Mushrooms are really not a vegetable, but a fungus.  Fungus is a plant that does not have roots or leaves, does not flower or bear seeds, doesn’t make its own food, and doesn’t need light to grow.  Mushrooms grow best in dark, damp places.

Mushrooms come in many shapes, sizes, and colors.  The umbrella-shape at the top of the mushroom is called the cap and can be the most colorful part.  The underneath side of the cap contains spores and gills. The stem of the mushroom is called the stalk.  The base of the mushroom is called the hyphae.

In ancient times, mushrooms were thought to be magical.  People were forbidden to eat them unless they were warriors or kings.

When mushrooms grow in a circle, they are called fairy rings because people in the olden days thought they were made by fairies dancing in the night.

Since mushrooms are grown from microscopic spores, mushroom farming is a step-by-step process that involves: two phases of composting; spawning (mushroom farmers collecting the spores); casing (a soil mixture that acts as a water reservoir that is placed on top of the mushroom spores); pinning (the growth stage where the shape of the mushroom forms); and harvesting.

Archaeological evidence indicates that humans have been eating mushrooms for thousands of years. The first cultivators of mushrooms appear to have been the Greeks and Romans. Ancient Egyptians considered mushrooms to be food for the royals. The French adored the fungus and began harvesting them in caves during the seventeenth century. These famous fungi didn't reach popularity in the United States until the late 1800s.

Mushrooms are found all over the world and have been a very honored food in many cultures.

About half of the mushrooms harvested in the United States come from the Kennett Square area of Pennsylvania.  Kennett Square has been named the “mushroom capital” of the world. There are over 38,000 mushroom varieties today. Some are edible and some are highly toxic.

Here's a small sample of the most popular edible mushrooms you'll see in the market:  
Agaricus (White or Button) - These mushrooms are the most common variety prepackaged in supermarkets; available fresh, canned, or frozen. White mushrooms are mildly flavored, are tasty when eaten raw but even more flavorful when cooked.

Chanterelles, or Girolle - These trumpet shaped fungi are highly regarded mushrooms favored for their gold to yellow color, and rich flavor, ranging from apricot to earthier tasting. Chanterelles are best eaten fresh, although they are also available dried or canned.

Crimini, or Italian Brown - These mushrooms are similar to the button variety, yet they are darker in color, have a richer flavor, and have a more dense texture. Criminis were once an imported mushroom but are now grown domestically.

Enoki, or Enokitake - This fungi takes on a sproutlike appearance with small caps and thin, long, stems. Native to Japan, white in color, with a light fruity taste, these mushrooms are excellent when served raw in soups and salads.

Morel - These mushrooms are highly priced and highly prized for their intense earthly flavor. They are usually found in the wild, although can now be grown commercially. This conical shaped, honey combed surface fungi is small, with dark brown hues, is suitable for stuffing and is ideal for sauces and stews.

Oyster or Pleurotus - These mushrooms grow in clusters, and range in color from off-white to shades of brown. Subtly tasting like an oyster, its chewy texture is more suited to cooked dishes.

Porcini - Porcini mushrooms are well valued for their meaty texture, interesting flavor, and distinguishing shape. These mushrooms vary in size and are domestically grown or imported from Europe depending on the season. This variety is usually expensive, but is considered one of the finest-tasting mushrooms.

Portobello - These are large cremini-like mushrooms that are sometimes the size of a regular hamburger! These fungi are circular, flat, and long, with a dense, chewy texture. Portobellos are excellent for grilling or roasting.

Shiitake - Shiitake mushrooms were originally cultivated on natural oak logs and only grown in Japan, but are now available domestically. These mushrooms are large, black-brown, and have an earthy rich flavor. This fungi is enjoyed in stir-fry, soups, or even a meat substitute. Dried Shiitakes have more intense flavors and are sometimes preferable to fresh.

Cooked mushrooms are an excellent source of niacin and a good source of riboflavin 

Eleven Foods To Keep You Young

Eleven Foods To Keep You Young 

1: Olive oil
Four decades ago, researchers from the Seven Countries Study concluded that the monounsaturated fats in olive oil were largely responsible for the low rates of heart disease and cancer on the Greek island of Crete. Now we know that olive oil also contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that may help prevent age-related diseases.

2: Yogurt
In the 1970s, Soviet Georgia was rumored to have more centenarians per capita than any other country. Reports at the time claimed that the secret of their long lives was yogurt, a food ubiquitous in their diets. While the age-defying powers of yogurt never have been proved directly, yogurt is rich in calcium, which helps stave off osteoporosis and contains “good bacteria” that help maintain gut health and diminish the incidence of age-related intestinal illness.

3: Fish
Thirty years ago, researchers began to study why the native Inuits of Alaska were remarkably free of heart disease. The reason, scientists now think, is the extraordinary amount of fish they consume. Fish is an abundant source of omega-3 fats, which help prevent cholesterol buildup in arteries and protect against abnormal heart rhythms.

4: Chocolate
The Kuna people of the San Blas islands, off the coast of Panama, have a rate of heart disease that is nine times less than that of mainland Panamanians. The reason? The Kuna drink plenty of a beverage made with generous proportions of cocoa, which is unusually rich in flavanols that help preserve the healthy function of blood vessels. Maintaining youthful blood vessels lowers risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia.Any chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa is full of proteins and Vitamin B. Regular small bites into this chocolate will help burn fat and improve your skin and hair.

5: Nuts
Studies of Seventh-Day Adventists (a religious denomination that emphasizes healthy living and a vegetarian diet) show that those who eat nuts gain, on average, an extra two and a half years. Nuts are rich sources of unsaturated fats, so they offer benefits similar to those associated with olive oil. They’re also concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals and other phytochemicals, including antioxidants.

6: Wine
Drinking alcohol in moderation protects against heart disease, diabetes and age-related memory loss. Any kind of alcoholic beverage seems to provide such benefits, but red wine has been the focus of much of the research. Red wine contains resveratrol, a compound that likely contributes to its benefits and, according to animal studies, may activate genes that slow cellular aging.

7: Blueberries
In a landmark study published in 1999, researchers at Tufts University’s Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging fed rats blueberry extract for a period of time that in “rat lives” is equivalent to 10 human years. These rats outperformed rats fed regular chow on tests of balance and coordination when they reached old age. Compounds in blueberries (and other berries) mitigate inflammation and oxidative damage, which are associated with age-related deficits in memory and motor function.

8. Avocado 
Apart from being high in Vitamin E, avocados are rich in antioxidants which help protect the skin. Avocados help in regenerating skin cells which makes your skin look fresh, giving a more youthful complexion.

9. Kidney beans
These pulses are full of fibre and potassium which help reduce the cholesterol levels and thus reduce the risk of any heart disease. But their major health benefit is that they are packed with proteins.

10. Broccoli
Broccolis are a great source of fibre and Vitamin C which not only help control weight, but also help to fight heart diseases.

11. Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in Vitamin C, which help in easy circulation of blood. Blueberries also contain certain minerals which help control the anti-ageing process. High in potassium, these berries help fight puffiness.

A few tips to manage Diabetes

A few tips to manage Diabetes

The problem of high blood sugar levels is  very common these days.These are a few simple tips provided by Pandith Elchuri to manage Diabetes.

Ingredients needed:

1. Gooseberries churna-Amla Powder or amla churna-Usurikaya in Telugu and Nellikai in Tamil.The fruit pieces are dried well the pieces are powdered -This powder(Churna) is available in ayurvedic stores but making it at home is recommended .

2. Turmeric powder -Pasupu in Telugu -Manjal in Tamil,Haldi in Hindi.

Both the ingredients should be pure.
Mix both the powders in equal quantities and store in a dry glass jar.

Eat half a spoon of this with water twice a day.In the mornings it is taken on an empty stomach.The dosage may be increased to 1 spoon if the problem is severe.This will definitely normalise blood sugar levels in a month.
The quantity of rice should also be decreased.

Health Benefits Of PETAI

Health Benefits Of PETAI

Parkia speciosa
Fabaceae

Common names:Bitter bean,twiated cluster bean,Stink bean.It bears long edible beans with bright green seeds with a peculiar smell similar to natural gas.Petai contains three natural sugars,sucrose, fructose and glucose. Combined with fiber, petai gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proved that just two servings of petai provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder petai is the number one BEAN(POD) with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way petai can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

#1. Depression:
According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND among people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating petai. This is because petai contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

#2. PMS(premenstrual syndrome):
Forget the pills - eat petai. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

#3. Anaemia:
High in iron, petai can stimulate the production of haemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anaemia.

#4. Blood Pressure:
This unique tropical bean is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the petai industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

#5. Brain Power :
Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making students more alert and boost memory.

#6. Constipation:
High in fiber, including petai in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

#7. Hangovers:
One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a petai milkshake, sweetened with honey. The petai calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

#8. Heartburn:
Petai has a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating petai for soothing relief.

#9. Morning Sickness :
Snacking on petai between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness in women.

#10. Mosquito bites :
Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of the petai skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

#11. Nerves:
Petai is high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

#12. Overweight:
Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

#13. Ulcers:
Petai is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in chronic cases. It also neutralizes acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

#14. Temperature control :
Many other cultures see petai as a "cooling" bean that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In holland, for example, pregnant women eat petai to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

#15. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) :
Petai can help SAD sufferers because the seeds contain tryptophan,the natural mood enhancer.

#16. Smoking:
Petai can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

#17. Stress:
Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium petai snack.

#18. Strokes:
According to research in "The New England Journal of Medicine, " eating petai as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%".

#19. Warts:
Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of petai and place it on the wart. Carefully hold the petai in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, as you can see, petai really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A Petai a day keeps the doctor away". 

Food as Medicine

Food as Medicine

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” -Hippocrates

1. HEADACHE? EAT FISH!
Eat plenty of fish - fish oil helps prevent headaches.
So does ginger, which reduces inflammation and pain.

2. HAVE FEVER? EAT YOGURT!
Eat lots of yogurt before pollen season.
Also-eat honey from your area (local region) daily.

3. TO PREVENT STROKE DRINK TEA!
Prevent buildup of fatty deposits on artery walls with regular doses of tea. (actually, tea suppresses appetite and keeps the pounds from invading….Green tea is great for our immune system)!

4. INSOMNIA (CAN’T SLEEP?) HONEY!
Use honey as a tranquilizer and sedative.

5. ASTHMA? EAT ONIONS!
Eating onions helps ease constriction of bronchial tubes.

6. ARTHRITIS? EAT FISH, TOO!
Salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines actually prevent arthritis. (fish has omega oils, good for our immune system)

7. UPSET STOMACH?   BANANAS - GINGER!
Bananas will settle an upset stomach.
Ginger will cure morning sickness and nausea.

8. BLADDER INFECTION? DRINK CRANBERRY JUICE!!!!
High-acid cranberry juice controls harmful bacteria.

9. BONE PROBLEMS? EAT PINEAPPLE!!!
Bone fractures and osteoporosis can be prevented by the manganese in pineapple.

10. PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME? EAT CORNFLAKES!!!!
Women can ward off the effects of PMS with cornflakes, which help reduce depression, anxiety and fatigue.

11. MEMORY PROBLEMS? EAT OYSTERS!
Oysters help improve your mental functioning by supplying much-needed zinc.

12. COLDS? EAT GARLIC!
Clear up that stuffy head with garlic. (remember, garlic lowers cholesterol, too.)

13. COUGHING? USE RED PEPPERS!!
A substance similar to that found in the cough syrups is found in hot red pepper. Use red (cayenne) pepper with caution-it can irritate your tummy.

14. BREAST CANCER?  EAT Wheat, bran and cabbage
Helps to maintain estrogen at healthy levels.

15. LUNG CANCER? EAT DARK GREEN AND ORANGE AND VEGGIES!!!
A good antidote is beta carotene, a form of Vitamin A found in dark green and orange vegetables.

16. ULCERS? EAT CABBAGE ALSO!!!
Cabbage contains chemicals that help heal both gastric and duodenal ulcers.

17. DIARRHEA? EAT APPLES!
Grate an apple with its skin, let it turn brown and eat it to cure this condition. (Bananas are good for this ailment)

18. CLOGGED ARTERIES? EAT AVOCADO!
Mono unsaturated fat in avocados lowers cholesterol.

19. HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? EAT CELERY AND OLIVE OIL!!!
Olive oil has been shown to lower blood pressure.
Celery contains a chemical that lowers pressure too.

20. BLOOD SUGAR IMBALANCE? EAT BROCCOLI AND PEANUTS!!!
The chromium in broccoli and peanuts helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.

21. Kiwi: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, Vitamin E &fiber. It’s Vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

22. Apple: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low Vitamin C content, it has antioxidants &flavonoids which enhances the activity of Vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke…

23. Strawberry: Protective fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits &protects the body from cancer causing, blood vessels clogging free radicals. (Actually, any berry is good for you..they’re high in anti-oxidants and they actually keep us young...blueberries are the best and very versatile in the health field ....they get rid of all the free-radicals that invade our bodies)

24. Orange: Sweetest medicine. Taking 2 - 4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessen the risk of colon cancer.

25. Watermelon: Coolest Thirst Quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione which helps boost our immune system.  They are also a key source of lycopene – the cancer fighting oxidant.  Other nutrients  found in watermelon are Vitamin C &Potassium. (watermelon also has natural substances [natural SPF sources] that keep our skin healthy, protecting our skin from those darn sun rays)

26. Guava &Papaya: Top awards for Vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high Vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber which helps prevent constipation.

27. Papaya is rich in carotene, this is good for your eyes. (also good for gas and indigestion)

28. Tomatoes are very good as a preventative measure for men, keeps those prostrate problems from invading their bodies.

Allergies - Home remedies

Allergies - Home remedies

The term allergy implies an alteration or change in the reaction of a person's bodily tissues after being exposed to any particular antigen or allergen. The reaction can occur if there is a direct contact of the allergen with the skin of the person affected or with various mucous membranes. It can even be through the bloodstream via inhalation or consumption so it would be highly beneficial if one is successful in controlling allergies with home remedies. Common allergens are flower pollen, dust, venomous plants, drugs, cosmetic items, numerous varieties of food and even environmental conditions such as cold or even sunlight. There are a host of foods such as peanuts, strawberries, wheat, eggs and tomatoes that are known to cause allergic reactions.

During an allergic reaction a person may experience symptoms that include sneezing, runny nose, watering eyes, vomiting, urticaria, swelling on face and eyes. In fact there is almost no organ of the body that might not get affected during an allergic reaction. It has been found that consuming too much of refined food laden with chemical preservatives can be one of the underlying causes that contribute to an allergic reaction in a vulnerable person. In this context,  controlling allergies with home remedies is being seen as an attractive alternative to medical interventions of  treating allergic reactions. Since medically, it is really difficult to ascertain the underlying causes of an allergic reaction, there is a high possibility of a person taking a large amount of drugs that might actually cause long term side effects in the person making it prudent to try controlling allergies with home remedies.

Numerous people have reported  controlling allergies with home remedies with the intake of foods which are high in a particular nutrient. Many people have found relief after taking Vitamin B5 in a small dosage monthly. Likewise, Vitamin E taken as a dosage of 400 mg daily is also found to be effective in preventing and treating
allergies. For a person suffering from allergic reactions that affects mainly the intestinal tract or the skin, relief can be found by consuming a few drops of castor oil mixed with any fruit or even with plain water in the morning.

Another ingredient that has proven efficacy for  controlling allergies with home remedies is lime juice. Fresh lime juice, taken with a few drops of honey with warm water provides great relief for an asthma or skin rash sufferer. Similarly another option in controlling allergies with home remedies  is using banana which again has vital usage in containing allergies. To strengthen the body, it is vital that a person consumes adequate quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables. Beet juice,carrots and cucumber juice are all renowned  in these qualities. Consuming a healthy amount of fresh vegetables and greens is another effective method in  controlling allergies with home remedies. This ensures that the natural defenses of the body are built up to withstand any future allergic reactions.

It is also recommended that a person should try out some form of relaxation techniques every day as stress can also bring about allergic reactions. Yoga and meditation are a great way to find a balance between the body and the soul.

Healthy Words of Wisdom

Some
of our greatest writers and thinkers, while not medical experts, per se, have provided
some of the most profound health advice.






"A man's health
can be judged by which he takes two at a time ... pills or stairs."