[ Organic Herbs of India our Heritage. ]

 https://youtu.be/QUf_C7inNnI

pure Natural orgaNic sustaiNable ethical socially respoNsible
Quinoa
(quiNoa)

Go gluten free with orgaNic iNDia’s  

Quinoa Incredible superfood—abundant in nutrients and
antioxidants.

1) Good source of fiber, protein and iron.
 

2) Gluten-free
 

3) Low GI rating—keeps you satiated for longer.
 

4) Aids in weight loss.
 

5) Promotes brain health.

Source: https://www.organicindia.com/products-information.pdf

[ Good Health]

 South Indian Dosa is a choice anywhere in the world if you know the country you are visiting.

If you don't know you can google it.

However if you are touring in India it may not be available in some states in North India bordering Himalayas. So find out before you land there.

[ Meniscus Tear Knee Injury.]

 

Like a lot of knee injuries, a meniscus tear can be painful and debilitating. Unfortunately, it's quite common. In fact, a meniscal tear is one of the most frequently occurring cartilage injuries of the knee.

So what is the meniscus? It's a piece of cartilage in your knee that cushions and stabilizes the joint. It protects the bones from wear and tear. But all it takes is a good twist of the knee to tear the meniscus. In some cases, a piece of the shredded cartilage breaks loose and catches in the knee joint, causing it to lock up.

Meniscus tears are common in contact sports like football as well as noncontact sports requiring jumping and cutting such as volleyball and soccer. They can happen when a person changes direction suddenly while running, and often occur at the same time as other knee injuries, like an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Meniscus tears are a special risk for older athletes since the meniscus weakens with age. More than 40% of people 65 or older have them.

What Does a Meniscus Tear Feel Like?

Symptoms of a meniscus tear include:

• Pain in the knee
• Swelling
• A popping sensation during the injury
• Difficulty bending and straightening the leg
• A tendency for your knee to get "stuck" or lock up

At first, the pain may not be bad. You might even play through the injury. But once the inflammation sets in, your knee will probably hurt quite a bit.

To diagnose a meniscus tear, your doctor will give you a thorough exam. They will want to hear details about how you got your injury. X-rays may be necessary, to rule out broken bones and other problems. You may also need an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan, which allows a more detailed evaluation of knee cartilage.

What's the Treatment for a Meniscus Tear?

Treatment for meniscal tears depends on the size and location of the tear. Other factors which influence treatment include age, activity level and related injuries. The outer portion of the meniscus, often referred to as the “red zone,” has a good blood supply and can sometimes heal on its own if the tear is small. In contrast, the inner two thirds of the meniscus, known as the “white zone,” does not have a good blood supply. Tears in this region will not heal on their own as this area lacks blood vessels to bring in healing nutrients.

Happily, not all meniscal tears require surgery. If your knee is not locking up, is stable, and symptoms resolve, nonsurgical treatment may suffice. To speed the recovery, you can:

• Rest the knee. Limit activities to include walking if the knee is painful. Use crutches to help relieve pain.
• Ice your knee to reduce pain and swelling. Do it for 15-20 minutes every 3-4 hours for 2-3 days or until the pain and swelling is gone.
• Compress your knee. Use an elastic bandage or a neoprene type sleeve on your knee to control swelling.
• Elevate your knee with a pillow under your heel when you're sitting or lying down.
• Take anti-inflammatory medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like Advil, Aleve, or Motrin, will help with pain and swelling. However, these drugs can have side effects, such as an increased risk of bleeding and ulcers. They should be only used occasionally, unless your doctor specifically says otherwise.
• Use stretching and strengthening exercises to help reduce stress to your knee. Ask your doctor to recommend a physical therapist for guidance.
• Avoid impact activities such as running and jumping.

These conservative treatments, however, aren't always enough. If a tear is large, unstable, or causing locking symptoms surgery may be required to either repair or remove unstable edges. The procedure is usually pretty simple, and you can often go home the same day. You may need a brace afterward for protection if a repair is performed.

For 85% to 90% of people who get the surgery for a meniscus tear, the short-term results are good to excellent. But in the long-term, people who have a large meniscal injury that is unrepairable may be at a higher risk of developing knee arthritis.

 

When Will My Knee Feel Better?

Recovery time for your knee depends on a number of factors, including how severe your meniscus tear is. Full recovery from surgery may take 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of procedure performed as well as other factors. But keep in mind that people also heal at different rates. In most cases physical therapy is used after surgery to minimize complications and speed recovery.

If your medical team agrees, you could take up a new activity that won't aggravate your knee pain while you recover. For instance, runners could try swimming.

Whatever you do, don't rush things. Don't try to return to your old level of physical activity until:

• You can fully bend and straighten your knee without pain.
• You feel no pain in your knee when you walk, jog, sprint, or jump.
• Your knee is no longer swollen.
• Your injured knee is as strong as your uninjured knee.

If you start using your knee before it's healed, you could cause further injury.

How Can I Prevent a Meniscus Tear?

Meniscus tears are tough to prevent since they're usually the result of an accident. But some precautions might lower the risks of a knee injury. You should:

• Keep your thigh muscles strong with regular exercises.
• Warm up with light activities before taking part
• Give your body time to rest between workouts. Fatigued muscles can increase your risk of injury.
• Make sure your shoes have enough support and fit correctly.
• Maintain flexibility.
• Never abruptly increase the intensity of your workout. Make changes slowly.

Sources:https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/meniscus-tear-injury

[ Short and long naps both have benefits. Photo by Rawpixel.com/ Shutterstock.]

Some people swear by an afternoon nap – whether it’s to catch up on lost sleep or to help them feel more alert for the afternoon ahead. Even Boris Johnson supposedly favours a power nap during his work day (though the prime minister’s staffers contest this claim). Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, and Leonardo Da Vinci were all famous nappers.

But while many of us may not feel we usually have enough time to squeeze a nap into our day, working from home during the pandemic may now afford us an opportunity to give napping a try.

Napping is a great way to feel more rested and alert – and some research shows it can benefit our cognitive function. However, you may want to consider how long you have to sleep before heading to bed for your midday nap.

If you need to be alert right after waking up (for example, if you’re catching a few extra minutes of sleep during your lunch break), so-called “power naps” of 10-30 minutes are recommended. Longer naps may cause some initial drowsiness – though they keep sleepiness at bay longer. But drinking coffee directly before a nap may help you wake up without feeling drowsy while also boosting your alertness.

While short naps are great for increasing energy, longer naps are both more restorative and beneficial for learning. For example, they improve activation of the hippocampus – an area of the brain important for learning and memory. A one to two hour afternoon nap is shown to benefit both your motor skills and your ability to recall facts and events.

A study from China has even suggested that regular afternoon napping is linked to better cognitive function in older adults. The researchers asked 2,200 over-70s about their napping habits before having them undergo a series of cognitive tests which measured things like memory and language skills. They found that those who usually napped were less likely to have cognitive impairments than those who didn’t. This was true regardless of age or level of education.

But nap length may play a role here – a similar study showed that those who usually napped for 30-90 minutes had better overall cognition compared to those who napped for longer or shorter, or who didn’t nap at all.

Why Naps Work.

The reasons why short naps are so beneficial for alertness and focus are not well understood. It’s possible that napping helps the brain clean up sleep-inducing waste products that would otherwise inhibit brain activity, and that they replenish the brain’s energy stores. Short naps may also help improve your attention by letting particularly sleepy areas of the brain recover, thereby preventing instability in the brain’s networks.

A man laying on a gray couch next to a plant, rubbing his eyes.

Longer naps are more restorative, but you may feel more drowsy after waking up. Photo by Dusan Petkovic/ Shutterstock.

Longer naps, on the other hand, are more restorative partly because there is time to enter multiple sleep stages, each of which supports different learning processes. For example, during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, the brain is almost as active as when awake. This activity in different brain regions – including those important for learning and memory – may be why REM sleep supports both long-term memory and emotional memory.

During REM sleep in particular, the brain strengthens newly developed connections that are important for improvements in motor skills. Longer sleep also reduces unimportant connections, and this balance can improve how quickly and effectively the brain works as a whole.

Non-REM sleep – the sleep stage we spend most of our time in – contains both slow brain waves and sleep spindles. The sleep spindles are periodic burst-like signals between different brain areas, which are believed to reactivate and consolidate memories. Both the slow brain waves and the spindles increases plasticity – the brain’s ability to learn and adapt to new experiences.

Although napping has many positive short-term effects, they are not recommended for people who suffer from insomnia. Because naps decrease sleepiness, they may make it harder to fall asleep when going to bed in the evening. Naps should also be avoided in situations where optimal performance are needed instantly afterwards, as it may take some time to fully wake up.

Other research has shown that frequent napping was related to high BMI and high blood pressure. Napping was more common in shift workers, retired people, and smokers, and in people with genes related to sleep disorders or obesity. To what degree napping was harmful or beneficial for these groups remains unknown, but it’s clear that napping is more common in groups who have disturbed sleep or need more sleep.

If you’re finding that your attention span is wavering in the afternoon while working from home, perhaps try squeezing a nap into your lunch break. Short naps are great at improving alertness and attention – and if you have time for a longer nap, this can support memory and learning.

John Axelsson is an associate professor of psychology at Karolinska Institutet.

Tina Sundelin is a research fellow in psychology at Stockholm University.

SOURCES
https://getpocket.com/explore/item/napping-in-the-afternoon-can-improve-memory-and-alertness-here-s-why?utm_source=pocket-newtab-intl-en

Dr Hegde. Eat in Silver Plate & Drink in Silver Glass - Love all to get +energy.

[ The diet and diabetes link: It’s not what you think.]

Israeli researchers find a conventional diabetes diet faulty and offer a new breakfast-heavy approach that reduces weight and blood-sugar levels.

By Brian Blum December 16, 2019, 4:36 pm.

Can diabetics throw away their insulin pumps simply by changing their diets?
Israeli research published in Diabetes Care suggests that the standard diet recommended for diabetics is making things worse.

Perhaps counter-intuitively, eating a big breakfast of starches and sugars can help diabetics replace the need to inject insulin, while at the same time reducing the weight gain associated with diabetes and improving overall cardiovascular health.

Type 2 diabetics must inject themselves with insulin, a hormone that regulates the movement of sugar into liver, muscle and fat cells, up to four times a day. The injections keep patients alive but trigger a vicious cycle where increasingly higher doses are required.

In addition to insulin injections, diabetics generally follow a diet nicknamed “6M” –six small meals spread throughout the day, including a bedtime snack to prevent a drop in sugar levels during the night.

The new diet protocol is dubbed 3M and calls for just three meals a day, starting with bread, fruit and sweets in the early hours of the morning, a substantial lunch and a small dinner (specifically lacking any starches, sweets and fruits).

The 3M diet seems to be better matched to our circadian rhythm, which is optimized for eating in the morning and fasting during the evening and night, the research shows.

The 6M diet, by contrast, “has not been effective for sugar control, so diabetics require additional medication and insulin,” explains co-lead researcher Prof. Daniela Jakubowicz of Tel Aviv University and Wolfson Medical Center’s Diabetes Unit.“Insulin injections [also] lead to weight gain, which further increases blood sugar levels.”

In a study of 29 Type 2 diabetes patients, those on the 3M diet lost weight and experienced substantially improved sugar levels. The 6M diet group did not lose weight or experience any improvement in sugar levels.

“Their need for diabetic medication, especially for insulin doses, dipped substantially. Some were even able to stop using insulin altogether,” said Jakubowicz.

“In addition, the 3M diet improved the expression of biological clock genes. This suggests that the 3M diet is not only more effective in controlling diabetes, it may also prevent many other complications such as cardiovascular disease, ageing and cancer, which are all regulated by the biological clock genes.”

This may be the mechanism that makes the 3M diet successful, “as it enhances insulin secretion and improves sugar delivery into the muscles, creating a balanced daytime and nocturnal glucose metabolism.”

The researchers — also from the Hebrew University, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center and the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, as well as Lund University in Sweden — will next investigate the role certain proteins play in breakfast foods consumed by diabetics.

Source.

https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5334192006772610093#editor/target=post;postID=6075533899129824109

[ Caffeine.]

Upswing: Caffeine There are many different ways blood sugar (glucose levels in the blood) can be affected and cause problems with sugar control in people with diabetes. Each person reacts differently to various items that influence blood sugars. There are some compounds individuals with diabetes may want to examine to see how they influence their own blood sugar levels. For example, blood sugar levels can rise after drinking coffee, black tea, and some energy drinks due to the presence of caffeine. There are other compounds that may alter blood glucose levels and methods people with diabetes can use to see what compounds and actions influence their own blood sugar levels.

[ Spirulina, Mackerl,Banana's, Cinnamon, Ghee. Must in your Meal.]

GHEE

Hormones can cause huge havoc in men and women. Whether it is severe acne and hair on the face, fatigue, yo-yo weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, low libido, brittle hair, depression or poor fertility. The symptoms of hormonal imbalance and their severity may vary but they are very distressing. And are today an epidemic of sorts. Hormones sound complex (after all, there are about 200 of them). To keep your hormones happy include these seven foods in your diet on a regular basis.

Oestrogen imbalance shows up in abdominal obesity, bloating, cold hands and feet, hair loss, mental fogginess, hot flashes, night sweats and temperature swings. Food pick: Spirulina has the essential fatty acids that help the liver metabolise excess oestrogen. Have it mixed with water or add to smoothies.

Thyroid keeps our metabolism in shape, and its imbalance leads to us, feeling cold or sluggish all the time.

Thyroid has the highest selenium content, and its deficiency is often a primary cause of thyroid disorders. Mackerel is a good source of selenium.

This BANANA sleep hormone helps you stay rested and sleep well. And sleep debt is associated with higher weight and hormonal imbalance. Its imbalance shows up as you begin to experience fatigue, impaired memory and lack of concentration. B6 rich foods, particularly banana, as it helps the body produce melatonin naturally.

Insulin is the body’s sugar regulator. Imbalance shows up in the form of lethargy, hunger, brain fog and weight gain. Food pick: Cinnamon helps keep your blood sugar stable through the day and insulin tamed.

Liver is our body’s master filter – it cleans out toxins we are exposed to and is the powerhouse of all hormone production and metabolism. Food pick: Jamun can keep it healthy as it prevents excessive lipid accumulation, which leads to fatty liver and multiple hormonal messes.

Ghee.

When cortisol rises, it makes our body hoard fat as it encourages conversion of blood sugar into fat for long-term storage. It also leads to food cravings and, addictions and irritability, frequent headaches, anxiety, high blood pressure. Food pick: Good fats are building blocks of all hormones – and are especially helpful with stabilising the production of stress hormone cortisol. Eat ghee from grass fed cows to keep cortisol low.

Finally, the important thing to understand is that all our hormones are interconnected, and interact and work together synergistically – so even if one is out of whack, it can start a bad cascading effect. Don’t let that happen – for the sake of your weight and health.

Eat a hormone stabilising diet.

[ Chocolate & Coffee.]

Science Says Chocolate & Coffee May Prevent an Early Death.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods Could Prevent an Early Death.

With the rapid rate at which dietary advice changes, it's sometimes very tricky to keep up with what's supposedly good and bad for you. One of the latest studies to be published in the Journal of Internal Medicine has claimed that you can lower your risk of a premature death by following an anti-inflammatory diet.

Scientists analyzed data from 68,000 Swedish people between the ages of 46 and 83, and discovered that people who followed a diet consisting of anti-inflammatory foods like tea, coffee, fruits and vegetables, breakfast cereal, whole grain bread, olive oil, nuts, and chocolate were 18% less likely to die at a young age.

Most specifically, the participants following an anti-inflammatory diet had a 13% lower risk of dying from cancer and a 20% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular problems. Interestingly, smokers who followed such a diet also saw greater benefits than smokers who didn't.

Inflammation is believed to be the root of many illnesses, including dementia, cardiovascular issues, and certain types of cancers. Therefore, using certain types of foods to reduce inflammation seems to be a good way of fighting back any damage caused. According to lead author Joanna Kaluza, "even partial adherence to the anti-inflammatory diet may provide a health benefit."A study that was carried out earlier this year shows that eating three bars of dark chocolate each month may actually lower your chances of getting heart disease. This adds to a body of research that has shown how moderate consumption of chocolate may be good for the heart. Similar research has also shown that drinking coffee may also be connected to improved health and longevity.

[ 7 Great Health Benefits of Wheat Grass]

1. It's Full of Purifying Properties

Have you ever tried drinking a shot of wheatgrass? If not, then you might want to consider getting your hands on some, since wheatgrass contains a whole host of powerful health-related properties, which is why nutritionists around the world unsurprisingly refer to it as a superfood.

Here are 7 reasons why you should definitely make wheat grass an essential part of your diet:

Wheatgrass is full of amazing components that help to purify your body. Not only will it remove plenty of toxins from inside your body, but it'll also get rid of many carcinogenic agents and heavy metals from within your liver and bloodstream.

2. It speeds Up Your Thyroid.

If you're trying to lose weight, then you should definitely add some wheatgrass to your 

diet. This is because wheatgrass helps to stimulate your thyroid gland, which in turn boosts your body's base metabolic rate, thereby assisting in burning off extra calories.

3. It Lowers Cholesterol In High Fat Diets.

When you add wheatgrass to a high-fat diet, you'll not only end up reducing the amount 

of bad cholesterol (LDL) in your body but you'll also increase the amount of good
cholesterol (HDL) that your body so badly needs. As an added bonus, it also helps
to reduce your blood by dilating many of your body's blood pathways.

4. It Boots Your Immune System.

Wheatgrass contains more vitamin C than oranges as well as more vitamin A 
than carrots. This is why adding wheatgrass to your diet will result in a boost to 
your immunity, thereby reducing your likelihood of catching a cold, flu, or other 
more serious diseases, such as bronchitis.

5. It's a Natural Energizer

Taking a 2oz shot of wheatgrass before or after workingout will help keep exhaustion 
at bay,leaving you feeling satisfied and full of life. This is because wheatgrass has
the incredible ability to supply red blood cells to the entire body, keeping it
well-oxygenated.

6. It Helps to Purify the Air Around You

Thanks to wheatgrass' oxygen-promoting properties, it can not only help you from within 

your body but from the outside as well. Many people find that placing a tray of wheatgrass 

beside their bed helps them get a better night's sleep. You can also leave wheatgrass 

growing around your home or office to help rid your environment of any nasty toxins in 

the air, which helps to keep you healthier, happier, and more alert.

7. Its Benefits Are Still Being Discovered.

With every year that passes, scientists keep on discovering more and more 
benefits of this wonderful superfood. Apart from all of the benefits mentioned 
above, researchers now believe that wheatgrass could be a vital tool to help
the well-being of cancer sufferers, particularly when it comes to colon, liver,
stomach and gastrointestinal cancer cases.

Courtesy - Baba e-Mail.

[ 12 Health Benefits of Pomegranate.]

1 - Pomegranates Are Loaded With Important Nutrients.
Pomegranates are among the healthiest fruits on earth. They contain a range of beneficial plant compounds, unrivalled by other foods. Many studies have shown that they have incredible benefits for your body, and may lower the risk of all sorts of diseases. Here are 12 evidence-based health benefits of pomegranate.
The pomegranate, or Punica granatum, is a shrub that produces a red fruit (1). Categorized as a berry, the pomegranate fruit is about 5-12 cm (2-5 inches) in diameter. It is red, round and looks 
kind of like a red apple with a flower-shaped stem.The skin of 
the pomegranate is thick and inedible, but there are hundreds of
edible seeds called arils within.The arils are what people eat, 
either raw or processed into pomegranate juice. Pomegranates 
have an impressive nutrient profile: One cup of arils (174 grams) contains (2):

Fiber: 7 grams.

Protein: 3 grams. 
Vitamin C: 30% of the RDA. 
Vitamin K: 36% of the RDA. 
Folate: 16% of the RDA. 
Potassium: 12% of the RDA.

The pomegranate arils (seeds) are also very sweet, with 

one cup containing 24 grams of sugar, and 144 calories. 

However, where pomegranates really shine is in their 

content of powerful plant compounds, some of which have 

potent medicinal properties. 

BOTTOM LINE:

The pomegranate is a fruit that contains hundreds of edible seeds called arils. They are rich in fibre, vitamins, minerals 
and bioactive plant compounds, but they also contain some sugar. 

2 - Pomegranates Contain Two Plant Compounds With Powerful Medicinal Properties.

There are two unique substances in pomegranates that are responsible for most of their health benefits.

Punicalagins.

Punicalagins are extremely powerful antioxidants found 

inthe juice and peel of a pomegranate.

They are so powerful that pomegranate juice has been 

found to have three times the antioxidant activity of 

red wine and green tea.


Pomegranate extract and powder is typically made from 

the peel,due to its high antioxidant and punicalagin

content.


Punicic Acid.


Punicic acid, also known as pomegranate seed oil, is the 

main fatty acid in the arils.


It is a type of conjugated linoleic acid with potent 

biological effects.


BOTTOM LINE:


Pomegranates contain punicalagins and punicic acid, unique 

substances that are responsible for most of their health 

benefits.


3 -  Pomegranate Has Impressive Anti-Inflammatory Effects.


Chronic inflammation is among the leading drivers of many 

killer diseases.This includes heart disease, cancer, type 

2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and even obesity.Pomegranate

has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which are largely 

mediated by the antioxidant properties of the punicalagins.


Test tube studies have shown that it can reduce inflammatory

activity in the digestive tract, as well as in breast cancer

and colon cancer cells.


One study in diabetics found that 250 ml of pomegranate 

juice per day for 2 weeks lowered the inflammatory markers 

CRP and interleukin-6 by 32% and 30%, respectively.




BOTTOM LINE:

The punicalagins in pomegranate juice have been shown to 

reduce inflammation, one of the leading drivers of many 

killer diseases.





4. Pomegranate May Help Fight Prostate Cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men.

Laboratory studies have shown that pomegranate extract can 

slow down cancer cell reproduction, and even induce

apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells.The PSA 

(prostate specific antigen) is a blood marker for prostate 

cancer.Men whose PSA levels double in a short period of 

time are at increased risk of death from prostate cancer.

Interestingly, a human study found that 237 ml (8 oz) of

pomegranate juice per day increased the PSA doubling time 

from 15 months to 54 months, which is huge.



A follow-up study found similar improvements using a type 

of pomegranate an extract called POMx.



BOTTOM LINE:

There is preliminary evidence that pomegranate juice can 

be useful in men with prostate cancer, potentially 

inhibiting cancer growth and lowering the risk of death.



5 -  Pomegranate May Also be Useful Against Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women.




Pomegranate extract has been shown to inhibit reproduction 

of breast cancer cells, and may even kill some of them.

However, this is currently limited to laboratory studies. 
More research is needed.



BOTTOM LINE:

Laboratory studies have shown that pomegranate extract can 

help fight breast cancer cells, but human studies are 

needed to confirm this.



6 - Pomegranate May Lower Blood Pressure.
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading 

drivers of heart attacks and strokes.

In one study, people with high blood pressure had a significant reduction after consuming 150 ml (5 oz) of pomegranate juice daily for 2 weeks (15).

Other studies have found similar effects, especially for systolic blood pressure (the higher number in a blood pressure reading)

BOTTOM LINE:

Regular intake of pomegranate juice has been shown to lower blood pressure levels in as little as 2 weeks.

7 - Pomegranate May Help Fight Arthritis and Joint Pain.

Arthritis is a common problem in Western countries.

There are many different types, but most of them involve some form of inflammation in the joints. Given that the plant compounds in pomegranate have anti-inflammatory effects, it makes sense that they could help treat arthritis. Interestingly, laboratory studies have shown that pomegranate extract can block enzymes that are known to damage joints in people with osteoarthritis.

It has also been shown to be beneficial for arthritis in mice, 
but there is very little evidence in humans so far.

BOTTOM LINE:

Studies in animals and isolated cells have shown that pomegranate extract may be beneficial against several forms of arthritis, but human research is needed.

8. Pomegranate Juice May Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease.

Heart disease is currently the world's most common cause of premature death.

It is a complicated disease, driven by many different factors.

Punicic acid, the main fatty acid in pomegranate, may help protect against several steps in the heart disease process.

In a study in 51 people with high cholesterol and triglycerides, 
800 milligrams of pomegranate seed oil per day for 4 weeks was shown to significantly lower triglycerides and improve the triglyceride: HDL ratio.

Another study looked at the effects of pomegranate juice in people with type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol. They noted significant reductions in LDL cholesterol, as well as other improvements.

Pomegranate juice has also been shown, in both animal and human studies, to protect the LDL cholesterol particles from oxidation, one of the key steps in the pathway towards heart disease.

BOTTOM LINE: Several human studies have shown that pomegranate can have benefits against heart disease. It improves the cholesterol profile and protects LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage. 

9. Pomegranate Juice May Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction Oxidative damage can impair blood flow in all areas of the body, including erectile tissue. Pomegranate juice has been shown to be beneficial in increasing blood flow and erectile response in rabbits. In a study of 53 men with erectile dysfunction, pomegranate appeared to have some benefit, but it was not statistically significant. 

BOTTOM LINE: Pomegranate juice has been linked to reduced symptoms of erectile dysfunction, but more research is needed. 

10. Pomegranate Can Help Fight Bacterial and Fungal Infections The plant compounds a pomegranate can help fight harmful microorganisms. For example, they have been shown to be beneficial for some types of bacteria, as well as the yeast Candida albicans. The anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects may also be protective against infections and inflammation in the mouth. This includes conditions like gingivitis, periodontitis and denture stomatitis. Pomegranate has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, which may be useful against common diseases of the gums. 

11. Pomegranate May Help Improve Memory There is some evidence that pomegranate can improve memory. In one study in surgical patients, 2 grams of pomegranate extract prevented deficits in memory after the surgery. Another study in 28 elderly individuals with memory complaints found that 237 ml (8 oz) of pomegranate juice per day significantly improved markers of verbal and visual memory (37). There is also some evidence from studies in mice that pomegranate can help fight Alzheimer's disease.

BOTTOM LINE:

Some evidence shows that pomegranate can improve memory in the elderly and post-surgery, and studies in mice suggest that it can protect against Alzheimer's disease.

12 - Pomegranate May Improve Exercise Performance.

Pomegranate is rich in dietary nitrates, which have been shown to improve exercise performance.

In a study of 19 athletes running on a treadmill, 1 gram of pomegranate extract 30 minutes before exercise significantly enhanced blood flow.

This led to a delay in the onset of fatigue, and an increase in exercise efficiency.

More studies are needed, but it seems like pomegranate may be beneficial for physical performance, similar to beetroot juice.

13. Anything Else?

If you want to enjoy the health benefits outlined in the article, then you can either eat the pomegranate arils directly or drink pomegranate juice.

At the end of the day, pomegranates are among the healthiest foods on the planet.

They have wide-ranging benefits and may help reduce the risk of all sorts of serious diseases.

An evidence-based article from our experts at Authority Nutrition.

FEEDBACK: 
Written by Joe Leech, MS on August 18, 2016.

[Simple Pressure Point Technique for Easing Shoulder & Neck Pain.]

You won’t believe this amazingly ingenious solution for your neck and shoulder pain or tension! According to yoga expert Jill Miller, we all have a secret pressure point, which we can access to relieve this burdensome discomfort. And surprisingly this pressure point is not located near the shoulders because the source of our suffering actually lies in our hands.

Here is a simple exercise you can do in 2 minutes to remedy the problem. All you need is a rubber ball or tennis ball.

Watch the instructional video,

Now note the following steps before trying this exercise yourself. There are just 5 simple, straightforward steps.Step 1 neck shoulder pain, pressure, hand Locate the juncture where your thumb meets the rest of your hand. This muscle group is called the thenar eminence.

Step 2.

Neck shoulder pain, pressure, hand.

Place the ball down on a surface (e.g. desk). Then repeatedly squeeze one of your hands onto the ball, using it to ‘pry apart’ the thenar eminence. You may feel some uncomfortable pain.

Step 3

Neck shoulder pain, pressure, hand Then pivot your hand as if you are squeezing an orange, rotating it from side to side. After a short time, your hand will feel very warm. May also interest you:

Avoid or Improve Hunchback Posture with These 3 Techniques 7 Yoga Stretches to Relieve Pain & Strengthen the Lower Back Strengthen Your Hips With These Easy Exercises!

Step 4.

Neck shoulder pain, pressure, hand, Let go of the ball and stand up. Raise your arms up with your hands open. Reach as far back as you can. The hand that you have exercised will be able to reach further back than the other.

Step 5

Repeat with the other hand.Cover image courtesy of depositphotos.comH/T: tiphero.com.

[ Why Blood Sugar Goes Up and Down.]

Upswing: Caffeine.

There are many different ways blood sugar (glucose levels in the blood) can be affected and cause problems with sugar control in people with diabetes. Each person reacts differently to various items that influence blood sugars. There are some compounds individuals with diabetes may want to examine to see how they influence their own blood sugar levels. For example, blood sugar levels can rise after drinking coffee, black tea, and some energy drinks due to the presence of caffeine. There are other compounds that may alter blood glucose levels and methods people with diabetes can use to see what compounds and actions influence their own blood sugar levels.

Upswing: Sugar-Free Foods.

A number of foods claim to be "sugar-free," but these foods raise blood sugar levels because many of them contain carbohydrates in starches, fats, and even fiber. Sugar alcohols such as sorbitol and xylitol add sweetness to foods but still may have enough associated carbohydrates to raise blood sugar levels. Foods with high levels of carbohydrates are likely to raise blood sugar levels very high, and eventually may cause organ damage over time in people with diabetes.

Upswing: Chinese Food

Foods high in fat can cause blood sugar to stay higher for longer periods of time. Pizza, French fries, and most fried foods are high in carbohydrates and fat. It’s a good idea to check your blood sugar about two hours after you eat such foods to see how your blood sugar levels are affected.

Upswing: A Bad Cold.

Dehydration can elevate your blood sugar so it is wise to stay well hydrated. If you are sick, diarrhea and vomiting for more than two hours, or illness longer than a few days may alter your blood sugar. Moreover, blood sugar rises as your body tries to fight any type of illness. Medications such as antibiotics and decongestants may alter your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar levels during these intermittent special situations so you can help determine how your body will react to these illnesses and treatments.

[ Color of Vegitebles.]

What explains the color of Vegetables?.

They mean thus.

Mom knew best when she demanded that we eat our vegetables. Vegetables are powerhouses when it comes to maintaining optimal health. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients – all of which help fight disease, obesity, and aging. Vegetables are important sources of many nutrients, including potassium, folate, vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin C, among others. Fibrous vegetables (E.g., peppers, carrots, leafy greens) are especially helpful in weight management: they are high in water, and extremely low in calories and fat, so they fill you up with very few calories. They are high in fiber too, which helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels, lowers the risk for heart disease and aids in proper digestion. The colors found in vegetables are a result of some of the phytonutrients they contain. Phytonutrients are plant compounds that are thought to have health-protecting qualities. Although vegetables contain a lot of nutrients beyond their attributed colored phytonutrient, eating all of the colors of the rainbow helps to ensure that you’re getting a broad spectrum of health-protecting nutrients in your diet. Refer to Every Color of the Rainbow – Vegetables to get a breakdown of typical vegetables, their colors and the associated phytonutrients and their benefits:

Color -  Phytonutrient - Vegetables -  What it Does

Red  Anthocyanins
Lycopene           Beets                  
Radicchio
Radishes                      Keeps urinary tracts healthy
Red Pepper                           Maintains a healthy heart
                                     Boosts memory Lowers risk of cancer.

Rhubarb Tomatoes Keeps urinary tracts healthy Maintains a healthy heart 
Boosts memory Lowers risk of cancer.

Yellow / Orange      Bioflavonoids
Carotenoids
Vitamin C      Butternut Squash
                     Carrots
                     Pumpkin
                     Summer squash
                     Sweet Corn 
                     Sweet Potatoes     
Yellow Beets
Yellow Peppers
Yellow Squash                           < Keep immune system strong
                                        Supports eye function and health
                                        Lowers risk of cancer
                                        Lowers risk of heart disease
                                        Yellow Tomatoes 
                                        Keep immune system strong
                                        Supports eye function and health
                                        Lowers risk of cancer
                                        Lowers risk of heart disease.>

Green 

Calcium
Indoles
Iron
Lutein
Magnesium          Artichokes
                   Arugula
                   Asparagus
                   Broccoli
                   Broccoli Rabe Brussels Sprouts
                   Celery
                   Chinese Cabbage Cucumbers
                   Endive
                   Green Beans
                   Green Cabbage 
                   Green Peppers
                   Leafy Greens
                   Leeks
                   Green Onions
                   Okra 
                   Peas
                   Snow Peas
                   Sugar Snap Peas
                   Spinach
                   Watercress
                   Zucchini.

                   (Supports eye function and health
                   Lowers risk of cancer.
                   Maintains strong bones and teeth)
Blue / Purple Anthocyanins
Phenolics Eggplant
                Purple Cabbage
                Purple Belgian Endive 
                Purple Peppers
                Purple Potatoes
                Red Cabbage
                Red Onion.
                [Lower risk of cancers
                Good for urinary tract health
                Improves memory function
                Helps to fight effects of aging.]
White/Tan/Brown Allicin Cauliflower
                Jerusalem Artichokes
                Jicama
                Mushrooms
                Onions 
                Parsnips
                Potatoes
                Shallots
                Turnips
                White Corn
                {Promotes heart health & Lowers risk for cancer}

Are you well-rounded in the veggies you eat?

[ Simple Truth. ]

[Suryanamaskar]

[Craving Unhealthy Foods? You Could Be Low on Nutrients ]

There are instances when our cravings can come on pretty strong - such as when you cannot wait to launch into a packet of crisps or sink your teeth into a soft, sugar coated donut. There may be times when you overwhelmingly desire a slab of cheese or a piece of toast.

Whatever your cravings may be, they can be pretty hard to control when they come into play . However, while there are many theories behind why our cravings occur (from what your mother ate while you were in her womb, to the demand of your second 'gut brain,' or even pregnancy cravings) one other, possibly more plausible theory is that our cravings occur due to a lack of a specific nutrient.

Food cravings correspond to a request from our body. This theory maintains that if you replace foods containing the same nutrients you are actually craving, they might help curb the urge to eat unhealthy snacks. In theory, therefore, it should be possible to eat your way out of a packet of crisps, by replacing your desire with a handful of olives. Of course, there are instances when the food you are craving will have to do - after all, a spinach and seafood salad at the movies instead of a box of buttered popcorn isn't going to cut it.

Nevertheless, as with most things, extremes are hard to sustain. Keep in mind that there is a time and a place for everything. But, when your body is calling for more calcium and fatty acids, you should try opt for a dish of eggplant or some crispy kale over a portion of cheese.

Here are some other solutions to curb your food cravings.

To view a larger version of the chart click on the images.

[Eating Guava Can Treat 11 Different Ailments ?]

Guavas are found in the tropics, and invoke images of vacations, summer parties and island life, but this tasty fruit is more than a celebratory food. This fruit is bursting with healthy vitamins and minerals and can be used to treat many serious ailments. You can recognize guavas by their yellow, green or maroon skins and creamy white or pink pulp.

1. Weight loss and gain.

Guava is a winning fruit for its many great benefits. If you’re trying to lose weight, guavas are not a fruit you need to give up. In fact, this snack-sized fruit can satisfy your appetite while adding few calories, low amounts of carbohydrates and no cholesterol to your diet. Also, compared to other fruit,it adds a low dose of sugar. Guavas also offer a great source of vitamins, proteins, roughage, fibre and minerals. For lean people trying to gain weight, this fruit is also beneficial as it promotes the healthy absorption of nutrients and its substantial nutrients regulate one’s metabolism.

2. Blood pressure and Diabetes.

Guavas are hypoglycemic and rich in fibre, which help reduce blood pressure. Dietary fibres maintain the blood’s fluidity and prevent it from thickening, which can worsen blood pressure. Foods lacking in fibre (for example refined flour) increase blood pressure because they convert to sugar more quickly. This can help fight or even prevent diabetes. The fibre regulates the sugar being absorbed by the body and the risk of both high spikes and drops in the body’s insulin and glucose levels is reduced.

3. Diarrhea, dysentery, and gastroenteritis.

The abundant astringent (substances that contract body tissue) make up of raw guava and guava leaves helps loosen the bowels and reduce the symptoms of diarrhea and gastroenteritis. Being highly alkaline, the guavas act as a disinfectant, removing excess mucus from the intestines and inhibiting microbial growth. For these reasons, guavas can also used to treat dysentery. The guavas’ plentiful supply of vitamin C, carotenoids and potassium can also boost your digestive system.

4. Thyroid health.

A good substance for regulating the thyroid’s metabolism is copper, which guavas have plenty of. The thyroid glands regulate important hormones and organ system functions, which helps maintain a healthy balance in your body.

5. Healthy brains.

Also present in guavas are high amounts of vitamins B3 and B6. These both have benefits for the health of your brain. B3, which is also called niacin, is known to help increase blood flow and stimulate cognitive function, while B6 helps preserve normal nerve function.

6. Scurvy.

Guava is your best source for vitamin C. In fact, it has four times the amount of Vitamin C found in oranges, which are regarded as the go-to food for this vitamin. The concentration of vitamin C can prevent scurvy, a disease caused by a deficiency of this vitamin.

7. Constipation.

The seeds of guavas, either ingested whole or chewed, are excellent laxatives. In addition to the fruits' substantial amount of dietary fiber, guavas are advantageous for treating constipation. These two sources cleanse your intestines and excretory system and help your body retain water, helping you achieve healthy bowel movements. Frequently snacking on guavas, then, can be beneficial for proper digestion.

8. Colds and coughs.

Drinking the juice of guavas and fresh guava fruit helps in fighting colds and coughs. The astringent quality can lessen mucus, disinfect the respiratory tract, throat, and lungs and reduce microbial activity. The substantial amounts of iron and vitamin C in guavas also help treat viral infections. It’s advised to avoid eating overly ripe guavas when you have a cold or cough, as they can actually aggravate them.

9. Eyesight.

The considerable quantities of vitamin A in guavas are extremely beneficial for the health of your vision. This helps slow down macular degeneration, the growth of cataracts and can even improve one’s eyesight deterioration once it has begun.

10. Cancer prevention.

Guava is also valuable in your diet as a preventative measure against cancerous growths and metastasis. The high levels of an antioxidant called lycopene has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer and inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. Guava leaf oil is another anti-proliferative extract from the guava plant that has proven effective in reducing cancer growth.

11. Skincare.

Guavas are also fantastic at improving skin texture and keeping your skin looking fresh. Guavas are full of astringents, particularly in fresh fruit and the leaves of the plant. If you rinse your skin with a guava decoction, the fruit can tone and tighten areas of loose skin. Eating the fruit also provides a rich source of vitamins A, B, C, as well as potassium, which are excellent antioxidants and detoxifiers. They can keep your skin glowing, prevent premature aging and wrinkles, and can speed up the healing process of wounds.

H/T: www.organicfacts.net

[ RELIEVE COMMON ACHES AND PAINS BY PRESSING SPECIFIC POINTS ON YOUR HANDS, WHICH IS KNOWN AS ACUPRESSURE ]

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Relieve Common Aches and Pains by Pressing These Points... If you suffer from certain aches and pains, you may be able to get rid of them using reflexology and acupressure on yourself. By doing so, you’ll do away with waiting for doctor’s appointments or suffering in silence.

If you’re thinking of acupuncture, then you’re right – the two do sound very similar and they actually work on the same principles too. The only difference is that with acupressure, there aren’t any needles to deal with – you apply pressure with your fingers to certain points of your body instead.

On the other hand, reflexology is the use of therapeutic pressure massage on certain areas of our hands and feet. These massages are designed to improve energy flow, relieve pain and optimize our health. Certain areas of our hands and feet correspond to specific areas of our bodies and even specific organs. The theory is that the root cause of pain in specific areas is usually due to a blockage of energy, which is preventing us from being healthy and vibrant.

Here is a list of aches and pains that can be treated using acupressure and reflexology, at home or on the go:
Apply this Pressure for Headaches and Migraines.

Our fingertips (excluding our thumbs), with particular reference to the area at the base of the fingernails, can be massaged to relieve head pain. Do so by focusing on your index fingers, as well as the webbing between the thumbs and your index fingers. The latter is often referred to as the Valley of Harmony.
For Sinus Pressure and Pain.

Turn your palms towards you and apply pressure to the pad of your finger ( the part of your finger you use to type) using the thumb and index finger on your opposite hand. Hold the tip of each finger in turn for 1-3 minutes, lightly massaging when done. This will relieve sinus pain, headaches, dizziness, pressure, stuffy noses and congestion.
For Neck Pain and Tension

Massage the middle part of each of your fingers in turn, and look at your fingers. While you’re doing so, think of your fingertips as your head – working your way down your fingers, therefore, is working your way down your neck and shoulders.

For an Upset Stomach Massage the entire length of your thumb, warming it up in the process. Once you’ve done so, apply direct pressure to the center of your palm using your warmed up thumb, holding it in place for a couple of minutes. For a Cold or Sore Throat Massage the entire length of your thumb, warming it up in the process. Use the index finger and thumb of your opposite hand to apply pressure to either side of your thumbnail. For Fatigue Start off by massaging your whole hand, then apply direct pressure to the point on your middle finger, as shown in the photo. For Menstrual Cramps or Abdominal Pain Additional tips 1. Rub your hands together for one minute prior to starting any of these exercises to increase hand energy and sensitivity. Use the index finger and thumb on your opposite hand to gently massage and warm up the area to be worked on. 2. The ever-present tip - “make sure you drink lots of water and stay hydrated” in beauty and health articles - is here too. Proper hydration allows for optimal tissue health and helps your body get rid of toxins. After all, our bodies are almost entirely made up of water. 3. Avoid deep pressure to the web of the hand if you are pregnant. Content and Image Source: Lifehack