Friday, December 12, 2008

Foods and their antioxidants

· Orange, yellow fruits and vegetables and green leafy vegetables contain Vitamin C, carotenoids such as beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin.
· Citrus fruits contain flavonones, d-limonene and flavonoids.
· Cruciferous vegetables contain indoles, isothiocyanates and beta carotene.
· Garlic and Onion family contain allylic sulfides and quercetin.
· Legumes contain isoflavanoids, phytic acid and phytosterols.
· Spices like turmeric and mustard seeds contain curcumin and isothiocynates.
· Red grapes contain quercetin, resveratol and anthocyanidine.
· Tomatoes contain lycopene.

Pomegranate for Heart

The plump red seeds of pomegranate are rich in poly-phenols, which are antioxidants. They also contain lots of Vitamin C and potassium. The recent research has shown that pomegranate can lower the blood pressure by 5% in people with hypertension and lessen damage by LDL cholesterol on artery walls. Recent study also shows that one cup of pomegranate juice a day for three months improved blood flow to the heart in people with coronary heart disease

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

CT Coronary Angiography - Advantages

Chest CT angiography with Coronary CT angiography (CTA) is a diagnostic procedure using computed tomography to scan the chest and coronary arteries. It is a non-invasive technique that allows clear visualization of narrowed and clogged arteries that can cause heart attack and stroke. It has greater potential to revolutionize the practice of cardiovascular medicines. By using CT, physicians would move away from determining ‘probability’ to establishing a definitive diagnosis of CAD which is the major cause of deaths worldwide.

Advantages:

It is a painless procedure.
Quick and non-invasive.
No hospitalization required.
Immediate resumption of normal activities.
Cost effective to conventional angiogram.
It is a three-dimensional modality.

CT Coronary Angiography - Advantages

Chest CT angiography with Coronary CT angiography (CTA) is a diagnostic procedure using computed tomography to scan the chest and coronary arteries. It is a non-invasive technique that allows clear visualization of narrowed and clogged arteries that can cause heart attack and stroke. It has greater potential to revolutionize the practice of cardiovascular medicines. By using CT, physicians would move away from determining ‘probability’ to establishing a definitive diagnosis of CAD which is the major cause of deaths worldwide.

Advantages:

It is a painless procedure.
Quick and non-invasive.
No hospitalization required.
Immediate resumption of normal activities.
Cost effective to conventional angiogram.
It is a three-dimensional modality.

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Benefits of Cucumber

Cucumber is the main ingredient of Salads. They are used topically. They help in maintaining youthful appearance which is due to its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. When ingested, the high water and balanced mineral content makes it one of best diuretics. They are the rich source of silica, a mineral needed for healthy skin, bone and connective tissue. Silica plays a major rule in preventing cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.

Benefits of Avocado

Avocado are loaded with Vitamin C and Vitamin E, which are excellent for keeping skin soft, supple and healthy and also for maintaining glossy hair. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids which help in preventing wrinkles, enhance brain power and treating arthritic pain. They contain the antioxidant lutein, which has been shown to protect against eye problems and cardiovascular disease.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries are the excellent source of Vitamin C which is essential for the manufacture of collagen – a protein which helps to maintain the structure of the skin. Vitamin C also helps in healing wounds and can ward off gingivitis, the gum disease. They also contain ellagic acid, a phytochemical with powerful anticarcinogenic properties.

Benefits of Pineapple

Pineapple has major benefits from bromelain, which is an effective anti-inflammatory, making it exceptionally good for Joint pains. It is rich in Vitamin C which in turn supports the immune system and defends against free radicals which causes premature ageing. It is an excellent source of manganese, which is an antioxidant defense to the body.

Friday, September 12, 2008

Benefits of Bananas

Bananas contain major percentage of water in it. They are high in potassium, which controls high blood pressure and reduces risk of the heart diseases. In conjunction with Sodium they help maintain the fluid and electrolyte balance in body cells which in turn maintains healthy nerve and muscle function. They also contain tryptophan which the body converts to serotonin to aid peaceful sleep.

Benefits of Lemon

Lemon has the high level of Vitamin C which are vital for healthy skin and gums. It is also a good source of bio-flavonoids, such as quercetin, which boost the effects of Vitamin C. Lemons are particularly important for the health of blood vessels and to prevent varicose veins and are also anti-carcinogenic. It is also an important ingredient of juices which quenches your thirst.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil contains vitamin E, which helps keep skin wrinkle free and hair glossy. It is rich in monosaturated fat. It has anti-carcinogenic properties. It also helps in lowering blood pressure and prevents diabetes. It is also a rich source of polyphenols, known to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is thought to help stave off conditions such as arthritis.

Benefits of Honey

Honey is the sweetest healthy ingredient. Honey is 79 per cent sugar. Remaining 21 per cent is water. It also contains small amounts of Vitamins, including the Vitamin B6, which is good for brain. It also contains calcium which helps strengthen bones. Used topically, honey is a humectant, attracting and retaining water, which helps skin supple. It is also good for the person who has Cough.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Benefits of Ginger

Ginger is one of the most important ingredient used in cooking. It protects the digestive system against premature ageing, thus aiding the general absorption of nutrients. The Ginger Root helps in regulating blood sugar by stimulating the cells in pancreas and by lowering cholesterol levels. It is also anti-inflammatory and protects against arthritis.

Benefits of Parsley

Parsley is the richest herbal source of the mineral potassium. It stimulates the kidneys to eliminate any waste matter present in them. It also reduces high blood pressure. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, thus protecting against arthritis. It is also good source of vitamin A, magnesium and calcium to protect bones and nervous system.

Saturday, July 5, 2008

Importance of Chicken

Chicken meat is a good source of protein contributing to the growth and repair of cells in the body. Chicken is also rich in selenium, which helps to prevent wrinkles and keeps hair glossy. Chicken contains iron and zinc to boost energy levels and immunity. The breast is particularly high is vitamin B6, which protects the heart.

Importance Of Lambs

Lambs are rich in proteins which is necessary for repairing of the old cells in the body. Lamb is rich source of Vitamin B, including Vitamin B12 which is vital for the healthy heart. The Lamb meat is also rich in easily absorbed iron, that prevents anaemia.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

GOOD AND BAD OF DRINKING COFFEE.

Coffee is one of the most custom beverages around the world. Most of them start their day with the sip of coffee one or two. But Coffee has advantages and disadvantages too. Find below the Pros and Cons of drinking Coffee.

Advantages

- Coffee contains antioxidant that can help fight skin cancer. The moderate coffee drinking can reduce the rick of skin cancer.

- Some preliminary studies show that topically applied coffee can yield beautiful skin.

Disadvantages

- Coffee is a mild diurectic. If drunk in large quantity, coffee can cause dehydration of the skin.

- drinking coffee can interfere with a good night's sleep, which is essential to good skin.
So drinking small amount of coffee shouldn't affect the health of skin. But at large quantity, you should talk to your doctor first to find out if the antioxidant benefit is worth it.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Benefits of Drum Stick

Available in plenty, the drumstick is valued mainly for its render pods, interestingly all its parts – bark, root, fruit, flowers, leaves, seeds and even the gum – have medicinal value. They are used in the treatment of ascites, rheumatism and venomous bites as antiseptic and as cardiac and circulatory stimulants. Its seeds are acrid and acts as stimulants. The oil of the seeds us used to treat gout and rheumatism. The leaves are rich in Vitamins A and C and are considered useful in catarrhal affections. The pods made into a soup are prescribed as a diet in sub-acute cases of enlarged liver and spleen, articular pains, tetanus, debility of nerves, paralysis, pustules, patches and leprosy. A curry made from unripe pods is effective for keeping intestinal worms at bay.
Drumstick is generally included in sambar or kurma. For a different recipe, add it your soup to give it a very oriental taste. The same can be said for drumstick leaves, which can be mixed in dosa batter or in channa dal vada. Add it to akki rotis or sambar for an interesting twist. Boil the leaves, blend it with some green chilies, garlic and cooked thuvar dal. Season and serve hot with rice and rotis.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Benefits of Cabbage

Cabbage is particularly rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants minimize damage and keep your cells healthy. It also contains significant amounts of fibre, folate, B group vitamins, vitamin K and minerals such as iron, potassium and calcium. A single cup of shredded cabbage has a substantial amount of calcium, potassium and vitamin A. It also contains varying amounts of many phytochemicals including some really important ones like vitamin C, flavonoids and carotenoids. It has virtually no sodium or fat, ample fibre, and contains compounds that fight the effects of cancer causing agents. It’s perfect for preventing high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.
The best way to consume cabbage is in your salad or soup. Alternatively, shredded cabbage can be added to roti dough or dosa batter. Cabbage can be shredded, steamed and mixed with wheat flour and fired to make tasty pakodas. Stuff broad cabbage leaves with any stuffing of your choice and shallow fry to make cabbage packets.

Monday, March 31, 2008

Benefits of Ridge Gourd

Ridge gourd is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, high in dietary fibre, vitamin C, riboflavin, zinc, thiamin, iron, magnesium and manganese. The nutritional value of gourd makes it suitable for maintaining optimum health, weight lose. It has excellent cooling properties.
Ridge gourd can be cut into slices and fired in batter like our chilli bajjies. A healthier option would be to make gravy out of it. Fry some onions, tomatoes, garlic with some salt and chilli powder. Add some cubed ridge gourd and let it cook on a simmering flame. Add half a cup of milk and let the gravy thicken. After removing from flame, season and serve hot.

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Benefits of Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd is the most uncommonly used vegetable around the world. The name itself speaks of its taste, which is bitter. Its nutrient content surpasses all other vegetables. Bitter gourd contains Vitamin A, B1, B2, and C. It also contains minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, copper and potassium. It purifies blood, enhances digestion, and stimulates the liver. It is an excellent natural source of insulin. The skin, seeds and the vegetable on the whole can be consumed in many forms. Diabetics are recommended to drink the juice of tender bitter gourds to keep their sugar levels in check. It can be stuffed with potato masala and shallow fried. You can even grill it. It can be cut into thin slices and fried like chips with salt and chilly powder. The skin can be washed, fried well and ground with coconut, green chilly and tamarind to make chutney. In whole, bitter gourd plays a vital role in keeping the sugar under control for a diabetic.

Friday, March 21, 2008

Nutritional Values of Egg

The eggs are having the high nutritional values to the body. The latest research suggests that eating whole eggs may actually result in significant improvement in one’s blood lipids (cholesterol) profile, even in persons whose cholesterol levels rise when eating cholesterol-rich food. Lutein, a carotenoid thought to help prevent age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, may be found in even higher amounts in eggs than in green vegetables. Eggs are a good source of low cost high quality proteins, providing 5.5 gm of protein in one egg for a caloric cost of only 68 calories. Another half benefit of eggs is their contribution to the diet as a source of choline. Choline is a key component of acetylcholine. A neuro-transmitter that carries messages from and to nerves, acetylcholine is the body’s primary chemical means of sending messages between nerves and muscles.

Friday, February 22, 2008

Causes for Liver Damage

1. Sleeping too late and waking up too late are main cause.2. Not urinating in the morning.3. Too much eating.4. Skippingbreakfast.5. Consuming too much medication.6. Consuming too much preservatives, additives, food coloring , and artificial sweetener.7. Consuming unhealthy cooking oil. As much as possible reduce cooking oil use when frying, which includes even the best cooking oils like virgin coconut oil. Do not consume fried foods when you are tired, except if the body is very fit.8. Consuming raw (overly done) foods also add to the burden ofliver.Veggies should be eaten raw or cooked 3-5 parts. Fried veggies should be finished in one sitting, do not store.We should prevent this without necessarily spending more. We just have to adopt a good daily lifestyle and eating habits. Maintaining good eating habits and time condition are very important for our bodies to absorb and get rid of unnecessary style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt; COLOR: red; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">chemicals according to "schedule."Because :Evening at 9 - 11 PM : is the time for eliminating unnecessary/toxic chemicals (detoxification) from the antibody system (lymph nodes). This time duration should be spent by relaxing or listening to music. If during this time a housewife is still in an unrelaxed state such as washing the dishes or monitoring children doing their homework, this will have a negative impact on health.Evening at 11pm - 1 am : is the detoxification process in the liver, and ideally should be done in a deep sleep state.style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt; COLOR: red; FONT-FAMILY: Arial">Early morning 1 - 3 am : detoxification process in the gall, also ideally done in a deep sleep state. Early morning 3 - 5 am : detoxification in the lungs. Therefore there will sometimes be a severe cough for cough sufferers during this time. Since the detoxificationprocess had reached the respiratory tract, there is no need to take cough medicine so as not to interfere with toxin removal process.

Morning 5 - 7am : detoxification in the colon, you should empty your bowel.Morning 7 - 9 am : absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, you should be having breakfast at this time.Breakfast should be earlier, before 6:30 am , for those who are sick. Breakfast before 7:30 am is very beneficial to those wanting to stay fit. Those who always skip breakfast, they should change their habits, and it is still better to eat breakfast late until 9- 10 am rather than no meal at all.Sleeping so late and waking up too late will disrupt the process of removing unnecessary chemicals. Aside from that, midnight to 4:00 am is the time when the bone marrow
produces blood. Therefore, have a good sleep and don't sleep late.

Friday, February 15, 2008

Brain damaging habits

1. No BreakfastPeople who do not take breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level.This leads to an insufficient supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain degeneration.2. OvereatingIt causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power.3. SmokingIt causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease.4. High Sugar consumptionToo much sugar will interrupt the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing color=blue size=4>malnutrition and may interfere with brain development.5. Air PollutionThe brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our body. Inhaling polluted air decreases the supply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in brain efficiency.6. Sleep DeprivationSleep allows our brain to rest. Long term deprivation from sleep will accelerate the death of brain cells. 7. Head covered while sleepingSleeping with the head covered, increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decrease concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects. color=red size=4>8. Working your brain during illnessWorking hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness of the brain as well as damage the brain.9. Lacking in stimulating thoughtsThinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage.10. Talking RarelyIntellectual conversations will promote the efficiency of the brain.

Thursday, January 31, 2008

Color blindness

Color blindness (color vision deficiency) is an x-linked recessive trait. It means it is a trait that sits upon the X chromosome. The girls are XX and boys are XY, and a recessive trait can only be shown on the person if TWO recessive traits are present in the genotype. Girls would have to receive this trait both from their father and their mother to be affected. Since boys are XY, they only need one color blindness trait to be affected. Hence there is a greater probability that they would inherit it from either their mother or father.
It is recessive in the sense that if you have 1 normal copy of the X chromosome and 1 affected X chromosome; you are still able to see normally. That's why few women are color-blind. But in men, there is only 1 copy of the X chromosome present so if it is affected, then he will be color blind.
Red/Green color blindness is by far the most common form, about 99%, and causes problems in distinguishing reds and greens. Another color deficiency Blue/Yellow also exists, but is rare and there is no commonly available test for it.
There is no treatment for color blindness nor is it any significant disability. However, it can be very frustrating for individuals affected by it. Those who are not color blind seem to have the misconception that color blindness means that a color blind person sees only in black and white or shades of gray. While this sort of condition is possible, it is extremely rare. Being color blind does keep one from performing certain jobs and makes others difficult.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

INSULIN

Insulin has two critical roles in the body that we cannot live without. It can be the root cause of many health problems, including diabetes. Insulin carries sugar (glucose), fat and protein into your cells where they are used for energy and the repair of your cells. When you eat, a certain amount of the food will be converted into glucose and enter the bloodstream. As the sugar levels are high, the body senses it and the pancreas secretes insulin to lower the sugar level. This is insulin's second main function.
If you eat too much of any food, especially carbohydrates (starch and sugar) the levels of glucose in the blood rise to very high levels. In turn this triggers a large release of insulin from the pancreas. Your cells will take what they need and then insulin will begin the process of converting the excess glucose, fat and protein into fat and then put it all away in your fat cells. By combining foods the right way for your body, you will maintain optimum levels of insulin throughout the day.
The best way to control insulin and fight sugar cravings is to eat protein snacks when you are hungry or when you have severe "sweet" cravings. Also, try to limit yourself to three carbohydrate-containing meals per day and try to eat vegetables with most meals and snacks. A particularly good snack is non-fat cottage cheese and salsa. The only vegetables to avoid in the evening are corn, yellow or orange squash, peas, beets and carrots. They have high simple carbohydrate (sugar) content.
Good natural sources of protein for meals or snacks are:
Chicken breast TurkeyFish Lean PorkLean Steak 7% or less Ground BeefEgg whites Egg BeatersTofu Non-fat cottage cheeseNon-fat cheese Non-fat cream cheeseNon-fat sour cream Fat-free Ham or Canadian bacon
The key is to eat frequently throughout the day and also have a real sweet treat once a week if that will help you stay away from sweets the rest of the week.