Amaranth is a store house of nutrients

Amaranth is a store house of nutrients

Amaranth seeds have a unique quality in that the nutrients are concentrated in a natural ‘nutrient ring’ that surrounds the centre, which is also the section that contains starch. As a result the nutrients are protected during processing. The amaranth leaf is nutritious & contains high calcium, iron & phosphorous.

The fiber content of amaranth is 3 times that of wheat & its iron content 5 times more than wheat. It contains 2 times more calcium than milk. Amaranth when cooked with wheat, corn or brown rice results in a meal that is complete is protein with a food value as high as fish, red meat / poultry.

ps- for amaranth & other recipes kindly view my blog

http://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/

A cup of yogurt a day... . is a way of keeping the doctor away.

A cup of yogurt a day... . is a way of keeping the doctor away.

Research proves that yogurt is not just a food accompaniment, a dessert or merely a diet food. There is growing Evidence to show that it is packed with microscopic warriors -

Beneficial bacteria that are essential for good health. It is also a nutritional goldmine.

A cup of yogurt (250 mg) contains 370 mg of calcium (compare that with 300 mg in 250 ml of milk). This is 30-40 per cent of most adults' daily needs.

Besides, at eight grams of protein per cup, yogurt meets 20-25 per cent of an adult's average daily needs. It is also a good source of Vitamin B (including folacin) and phosphorus. And, a cup of yogurt contains 250 mg of potassium - almost as much as a banana does.

If you want to have your own stockpile of B vitamins without having to buy them, eat yogurt.
By a strange chemistry, it sets up an efficient  little factory in the intestinal tract and manufactures B vitamins for you.

Besides, yogurt also provides lactic acid, which aids protein, calcium and iron assimilation.

For those on a low-calorie diet, yogurt is a boon in any case. "Easily  available anywhere, it is a snack that tastes great at any time of the day; it is low in calories and can be sufficiently filling when combined  with a high-fibre vegetable or fruit.

The benefits of yogurt go beyond its nutritional value and low-calorie appeal.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, in an article published in 2000, says, "Increased yogurt consumption may enhance the immune response, which would in turn increase resistance to immune-related diseases."

In addition, yogurt plays an important role in restoring the digestive  tract to its normal condition after a course of antibiotics.

"The drugs often wipe out every bacterium in their path, good and bad,  altering the natural balance of the digestive tract.

When harmful bacteria dominate the intestine, essential nutrients are not produced and the levels of damaging substances like carcinogens and toxins rise. By killing the harmful `bugs',
Yogurt helps maintain a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria,"

Doctors and practitioners of alternative medicine often recommend yogurt to patients recovering from diarrhea, and help ease other intestinal tract ailments.

Elixir for women Women stand to benefit immensely from yogurt. For instance, women are often prone to vaginal candidosis, which causes itching and possibly a thick, white discharge.
The risk of this infection increases during pregnancy, diabetes or when a woman is on birth control pills. Eating yogurt that contains natural bacteria and yeasts helps re-establish the
Equilibrium.

A study conducted by E. Hilton et al (Annals of Internal Medicine) in 1992 found that yoghurt consumption decreased vaginal infections  three-fold. "A particular feature of vaginal infection is the reduction  or absence of lactobacilli in the vaginal flora. Yogurt is full of lactobacilli, hence the logic in its use.

Then of course, there is osteoporosis, especially in women. Studies have shown that most people consume far less calcium than the recommended daily levels, which could cause osteoporosis. While there are many calcium supplements that are not readily or effectively absorbed, yogurt provides an excellent source of easily absorbed calcium.

That's not all. Daily consumption of yogurt also helps improve  complexion, making it more radiant.

A word of caution, though. The fruited varieties of yogurt are high in  calories, even though it has a low-fat profile. "The jams and fruit concoctions added for flavour can dump in as much as seven teaspoons of sugar per cup and more than double the calories. So go easy on these, particularly when calories are a concern. If you want a fruit flavour but do not want to lose out on calcium or gain calories, mix chopped fruit with yogurt. You'll get all the calcium, and also the extra vitamins and fiber from the fruit.

However, to be effective, yogurt must contain sufficient amount of `live' lactic cultures, meaning it must be `fresh'.

Make it at home,  Or, when buying it, look for packing as close to the date of manufacture as possible to get maximum beneficial bacteria.  "Always keep it cold, as the helpful bacteria in yogurt cannot withstand high temperatures."

Taking Care of Your Diabetes Every Day

Eat Healthy Food

People with diabetes do not need special foods. The foods on your diabetes eating plan are the same foods that are good for everyone in your family! Try to eat foods that are low in fat, salt, and sugar and high in fiber such as beans, fruits and vegetables, and grains. Eating right will help you:

1. Reach and stay at a weight that is good for your body.

2. Keep your blood sugar in a good range.

3. Prevent heart and blood vessel disease.

People with diabetes should have their own eating plan. Ask your doctor to give you the name of a dietitian who can work with you to develop an eating plan for you and your family. Your dietitian can help you plan meals to include foods that you and your family like to eat and that are good for you.

Action Steps...

If You Use Insulin

• Give yourself an insulin shot before you eat.
• Eat at about the same time and the same amount of food every day.
• Don't skip meals, especially if you have already given yourself an insulin shot because your blood sugar may go too low. 

If You Don't Use Insulin

• Follow your meal plan.
• Don't skip meals, especially if you take diabetes pills because your blood sugar may go too low. Skipping a meal can make you eat too much at the next meal. It may be better to eat several small meals during the day instead of one or two big meals.

Get Regular Exercise

Exercise is good for those with diabetes. Walking, swimming, dancing, riding a bicycle, playing baseball, and bowling are all good ways to exercise. You can even get exercise when you clean house or work in your garden. Exercise is especially good for people with diabetes because:

1. Exercise helps keep weight down.

2. Exercise helps insulin work better to lower blood sugar.

3. Exercise is good for your heart and lungs.

4. Exercise gives you more energy.

Before you begin exercising, talk with your doctor. Your doctor may check your heart and your feet to be sure you have no special problems. If you have high blood pressure or eye problems, some exercises like weight-lifting may not be safe. Your doctor or nurse will help you find safe exercises.

Try to exercise regularly. Exercise at least three times a week for about 30 to 45 minutes each time. If you have not exercised in a while, begin slowly. Start with five to 10 minutes, and then work up to more time.

If you haven't eaten for over an hour or if your blood sugar is less than 100-120, eat or drink something like an apple or a glass of milk before you exercise.

When you exercise, carry a snack with you in case of low blood sugar. Wear or carry an identification tag or card saying that you have diabetes.

Regular exercise such as walking and bicycling can help keep your blood sugar in a good range.

If You Use Insulin

• Exercise after eating, not before.
• Test your blood sugar before, during, and after exercising. Don't exercise when your blood sugar is over 240.
• Avoid exercise right before you go to sleep, because it could cause low blood sugar during the night.

If You Don't Use Insulin

• See your doctor before starting an exercise program.
• Test your blood sugar before and after exercising if you take diabetes pills.

Good places on your body to give shots are:

• The outside part of your upper arms.
• Around your waist and hips.
• The outside part of your upper legs.
• Avoid areas with scars and stretch marks.
• Ask your doctor or nurse to check your skin where you give your shots.

You may be a little afraid at first to give yourself a shot. But most people find that the shots hurt less than they expected. The needles are small and sharp and do not go deep into your skin. Always use your own needles and never share them with anyone else.

Tests for Your Diabetes

Urine Tests

You may need to test your urine or blood for ketones when you are sick or if your blood sugar is over 240 before eating a meal. These test will tell you if you have "ketones" in your urine or blood. Your body makes ketones when there is not enough insulin in your blood. Ketones can make you very sick. Call your doctor right away if you find ketones when you test. You may have a sickness called "ketoacidosis." Ketoacidosis is serious. If not treated, it can cause death. Signs of ketoacidosis are vomiting, weakness, fast breathing, and a sweet smell on the breath. Ketoacidosis is more likely to develop in people with insulin-dependent diabetes.

You can buy strips for testing urine ketones at a drug store. Also, some blood glucose meters can detect ketones with specializes strips. Your doctor or diabetes educator will show you how to use testing monitors correctly. 

The Hemoglobin A1c Test

Another test for blood sugar, the hemoglobin A1c test, shows what your average blood sugar was for the past 3 months. It shows how much sugar is sticking to your red blood cells. The doctor does this test to see what level your blood sugar is most of the time.

See your doctor for a hemoglobin A1c test every three months. To do the test, the doctor or nurse takes a sample of your blood. The blood is tested in a laboratory. The laboratory sends the results to your doctor.

If most of the blood sugar tests you do yourself show that your blood sugar is around 150, the hemoglobin A1c test should be almost near optimal levels. If most of your tests show high levels of blood sugar, then the hemoglobin Alc test is usually high. Ask your doctor what your hemoglobin A1c test showed.

Keep Daily Records

Write down the results of your blood tests every day in a record book. You can use a small notebook or ask your doctor for a blood testing record book. You may also want to write down what you eat, how you feel, and how much you have exercised.

By keeping daily records of your blood and urine tests, you can tell how well you are taking care of your diabetes. Show your book to your doctor. The doctor can use your records to see if you need to make changes in your insulin shots or diabetes pills, or in your eating plan. Ask your doctor or nurse if you don't know what your test results mean.

Things to write down every day in your notebook are:

• if you had very low blood sugar
• if you ate more or less food than you usually do
• if you felt sick or very tired
• what kind of exercise you did and for how long

Skin care for Diabetics

Common Diabetic Skin Complications

• Bacterial and fungal skin infections  are a very common complication for people with diabetes, and often result when a bacteria or fungus invades a cut; scratch; dry, cracked skin; or other wounds.
• Acanthosis nigricans is a frequent diabetes skin problem, especially for Latinos and African-Americans. Characterized by tan or brown, velvety skin developing at the neck, groin, and underarms, acanthosis nigricans is often a sign of insulin resistance.
• The brown, scaly patches of diabetic dermopathy  are often mistaken for age spots. Small oval or circular, and harmless, these spots tend to occur on the front of both legs.
• Lower extremity changes like ulcers, erosions, or discoloration are another common skin complication associated with diabetes and are often the result of poor circulation.

Diabetic Skin Care Tips

• Get educated. One key to preventing diabetic skin problems is to understand what causes them. Talk to your doctor. Learn about diabetic skin complications, what your particular risks are, and how you can lower them.
• Control your diabetes.  Getting -- and keeping -- your blood glucose within normal range can go far toward preventing common diabetic skin complications. If you're already experiencing skin issues, managing your diabetes can help prevent problems from getting worse.

To get a handle on your diabetes, strive for a healthy weight, eat right, cut back on salt, maintain a healthy blood pressure, and exercise. That's a tall order, but talk to your health care team for support.

• Be aware.  If you suffer from diabetic nerve damage (neuropathy), you could have an infected cut, scratch, or skin puncture and not know it. Don't let a small problem turn into a big one -- be aware of your body. Check your feet, ankles, in between your toes and legs regularly for wounds that aren't healing.
• Do something about wounds and sores. Don't neglect wound care. If you find a nick, a scratch, a small cut, anything that isn't healing or that worries you, talk to your doctor immediately.
• Cover up.  This simple first line of defense can help you avoid the cuts and scratches that can lead to infection. Whether you're gardening or walking the dog, cover your legs with long pants and your feet with flat, good-fitting shoes.
• Practice good skin care.  Keeping skin clean and dry, but not too dry, is key to good diabetic skin care. 

To take care of your skin:

• Keep skin comfortably dry , especially at armpits, toes, and groin. Talcum powder can help.
• But avoid drying skin out. Skin that's too dry can crack, itch, and get infected, so prevent that by taking short, lukewarm showers or baths and using mild soaps and shampoos when you wash. Avoid deodorant or scented cleansers, which can be harsh on sensitive skin.
• Moisturize if your skin is dry . The best time to moisturize is right after a shower or bath, when skin is still moist.
• Dry well by patting gently -- don't rub -- focusing on underarms, between legs, under breasts, and between toes.

Basic skin care can go far toward helping you prevent diabetic skin complications, but if you have questions, or if a cut, scrape, or bruise worries you, don't wait, talk to your doctor or dermatologist right away.

Benefits & Risks of Aspirin

The Benefits

1. It could lower cancer risk.

The three new cancer studies support long-term daily aspirin use. Overall, researchers found that aspirin reduces the risk of dying from cancer by 15 percent—with notable benefits seen within three years for those taking a high dose (more than 300 mg a day) and within five years for low doses (less than 300 mg a day). Long-term use was particularly striking. After five years of regular use, risk of dying from cancer dropped by 37 percent.

Aspirin benefits were most strong with daily use or usage three to six times a week, and were less clear-cut for use only once or twice a week. The research shows "quite convincingly" that aspirin reduces cancer incidence and death ... with an apparent delayed effect," according to a commentary published alongside the new studies.

2. It may even lower risk for breast cancer.

Aspirin may lower a woman's risk of breast cancer recurrence, or possibly even its development. A 2010 report based on data from the Nurses' Health Study suggested that women who had breast cancer and took a low-dose aspirin two to five times weekly were 71 percent less likely to have a deadly recurrence than those who took little or no aspirin. And a research review published in 2008 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found a 13 percent relative risk reduction in women who used aspirin regularly, compared with those who did not. The findings found an overall reduced risk of 12 percent for regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in general. Previous research on breast cancer risk and NSAID use had shown conflicting results.

3. It could help during pregnancy.

A research review published in the Lancet in 2007 suggested that pregnant women who took aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs were 10 percent less likely to develop pre-eclampsia, which involves high blood pressure and potentially serious complications for mother and fetus. Aspirin therapy during pregnancy should definitely be discussed with an obstetrician.

4. There is some hope for Alzheimer's protection.

Research has been inconclusive, but a 2008 review published in Neurology found that people who used aspirin had a 13 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer's. The study added to an ongoing debate about whether certain types of NSAIDs—say, ibuprofen versus aspirin—were more beneficial.

5. It may help prevent strokes—unless you also take ibuprofen.

A small study published in 2008 in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that stroke patients who took daily aspirin to prevent another stroke and also took ibuprofen—say, for their arthritis—reaped no antiplatelet benefit. After a patient stopped the ibuprofen, the aspirin became effective. The Food and Drug Administration warns that aspirin's benefits may be diminished by ibuprofen use.

6. It may protect against Parkinson's disease.

A 2007 study published in Neurology suggests that women who used aspirin regularly (defined as two or more times a week for at least a month at any point in their lives) may be 40 percent less likely to develop the disease.

7. It may prevent asthma in middle-aged women.

A 2008 study published in Thorax found that women 45 and older who took 100 mg of aspirin every other day were 10 percent less likely to develop asthma over the next decade than women given a placebo. The study authors noted that aspirin could exacerbate symptoms in about 10 percent of people already diagnosed with asthma.

The Risks

8. It may throw off test results for prostate cancer.

In a 2008 issue of the journal Cancer, researchers reported that men who used aspirin and other NSAIDs regularly had about 10 percent lower levels of prostate-specific antigens. The researchers suggest this may hinder the detection of prostate cancer in regular aspirin users.

9. It may increase the risk of hearing loss.

In 2010, researchers reported in the American Journal of Medicine that regular use of aspirin—at least twice weekly—upped the risk of hearing loss by 12 percent in men. Those younger than 50 had a 33 percent increased risk of hearing loss. Use of other NSAIDss or acetaminophen also increased the risk of hearing loss.

10. People with diabetes might not get some benefits.

In 2008, the British Medical Journal published research that suggests diabetics taking aspirin to prevent a first heart attack are no less likely to experience an attack than those taking a placebo. People with diabetes are at least twice as likely to develop heart disease or have a stroke as the general public.

11. There is such a thing as "aspirin resistance."

A 2008 research review published in the British Medical Journal found that nearly 30 percent of people with cardiovascular disease who took prescribed aspirin were resistant to its effects. Such "aspirin resistance," the study found, makes such patients four times as likely as those for whom aspirin had an effect to have a heart attack, stroke, or die.

12. In some cases, it may be less effective in women.

In 2008, a research review published in the journal BMC Medicine found that earlier studies showed a large benefit in men taking aspirin to reduce the rates of fatal heart attack, but women did not receive the same advantage. A 2009 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation suggests some women may benefit from aspirin's action against ischemic strokes, however.

13. It may cause stomach troubles.

People taking aspirin or another NSAID are at higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and stomach ulcers—particularly with long-term use of the drug.

14. It may increase the risk of bleeding.

Aspirin makes the blood's platelets less sticky, and the blood less likely to clot. This is especially risky if bleeding occurs in the brain, which can be fatal.

Benefits & Risks of Aspirin

The Benefits

1. It could lower cancer risk.

The three new cancer studies support long-term daily aspirin use. Overall, researchers found that aspirin reduces the risk of dying from cancer by 15 percent—with notable benefits seen within three years for those taking a high dose (more than 300 mg a day) and within five years for low doses (less than 300 mg a day). Long-term use was particularly striking. After five years of regular use, risk of dying from cancer dropped by 37 percent.

Aspirin benefits were most strong with daily use or usage three to six times a week, and were less clear-cut for use only once or twice a week. The research shows "quite convincingly" that aspirin reduces cancer incidence and death ... with an apparent delayed effect," according to a commentary published alongside the new studies.

2. It may even lower risk for breast cancer.

Aspirin may lower a woman's risk of breast cancer recurrence, or possibly even its development. A 2010 report based on data from the Nurses' Health Study suggested that women who had breast cancer and took a low-dose aspirin two to five times weekly were 71 percent less likely to have a deadly recurrence than those who took little or no aspirin. And a research review published in 2008 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found a 13 percent relative risk reduction in women who used aspirin regularly, compared with those who did not. The findings found an overall reduced risk of 12 percent for regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in general. Previous research on breast cancer risk and NSAID use had shown conflicting results.

3. It could help during pregnancy.

A research review published in the Lancet in 2007 suggested that pregnant women who took aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs were 10 percent less likely to develop pre-eclampsia, which involves high blood pressure and potentially serious complications for mother and fetus. Aspirin therapy during pregnancy should definitely be discussed with an obstetrician.

4. There is some hope for Alzheimer's protection.

Research has been inconclusive, but a 2008 review published in Neurology found that people who used aspirin had a 13 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer's. The study added to an ongoing debate about whether certain types of NSAIDs—say, ibuprofen versus aspirin—were more beneficial.

5. It may help prevent strokes—unless you also take ibuprofen.

A small study published in 2008 in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that stroke patients who took daily aspirin to prevent another stroke and also took ibuprofen—say, for their arthritis—reaped no antiplatelet benefit. After a patient stopped the ibuprofen, the aspirin became effective. The Food and Drug Administration warns that aspirin's benefits may be diminished by ibuprofen use.

6. It may protect against Parkinson's disease.

A 2007 study published in Neurology suggests that women who used aspirin regularly (defined as two or more times a week for at least a month at any point in their lives) may be 40 percent less likely to develop the disease.

7. It may prevent asthma in middle-aged women.

A 2008 study published in Thorax found that women 45 and older who took 100 mg of aspirin every other day were 10 percent less likely to develop asthma over the next decade than women given a placebo. The study authors noted that aspirin could exacerbate symptoms in about 10 percent of people already diagnosed with asthma.

The Risks

8. It may throw off test results for prostate cancer.

In a 2008 issue of the journal Cancer, researchers reported that men who used aspirin and other NSAIDs regularly had about 10 percent lower levels of prostate-specific antigens. The researchers suggest this may hinder the detection of prostate cancer in regular aspirin users.

9. It may increase the risk of hearing loss.

In 2010, researchers reported in the American Journal of Medicine that regular use of aspirin—at least twice weekly—upped the risk of hearing loss by 12 percent in men. Those younger than 50 had a 33 percent increased risk of hearing loss. Use of other NSAIDss or acetaminophen also increased the risk of hearing loss.

Coriander helps to fight Arthritis

A study has found that coriander plays a significant therapeutic role in managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Coriander was found to inhibit joint swelling & prevent the progression of the disease among adult albino rats.

Arthritis is basically an inflammation of the joints. This swelling is triggered by the release of some mediator substances known as pro-inflammatory cytokines. The researchers have found that extracts of coriander seeds prevent the release of these mediators in the body.

The researchers have suggested that in comparison to steroids, which operate as anti-inflammatory agents, the herb's action against the mediator substances could make it a "disease modifier".

Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), though effective in reducing articular & periarticular inflammation, are less effective in attenuating disease progression. coriander was also found to have steroid like characteristics, as it helped in reducing inflammation far better than standard drugs.

the coriander seeds were ground & the powdered extract was administered to the rats in the experiment group. after dividing the rats into 5 groups, their ankle joint diameter was measured before the study. the control group received standard arthritis medications ( steroids), & the experimental group was given the seed extract. Arthritis was induced by injecting formaldehyde solution into the left hind paw of all animals. In the following 28 days, the swelling of the ankle joint was constantly measured.

The group which was given the coriander seed extract showed far better decline in inflammation, & produced quicker results. While the reduction in the experimental group was 32 mg per kg of body weight of the rat, the control groups only showed reductions from the 9th & 10th days, at a rate of 16 mg per kg of body weight.

The level of the mediators which produce cytokines showed significant decline on administration of coriander while the groups which got standard drugs had no variations at these levels.

The plant extract could be explored to be developed as a disease modifying agent in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, the researchers felt. The toxicity reports showed no side effects of coriander seed extract.

Adding Milk To Tea Not Beneficial

A German study has revealed that adding milk to tea lowers its health benefits. The proteins ( casein) in the milk interact with tea, lowering the concentration of catechins ( antioxidants) in the tea.

Sudden death

Sudden death

This phenomenon of a healthy heart ceasing to beat, often at a time when it is stretched to its limits, is hardly an affliction limited to sports, though it does tend to affect fit people more often than those who are unfit, possible because fitter people are more likely to push their heart to the limit. This may cause an existing heart condition to suddenly turn fatal.

There are certain warning signs which if taken seriously can prevent a heart condition from becoming fatal. Any sudden fainting episode should be taken seriously. If such an episode happens while exercising, it is even more significant. If the heart seems to skip a beat once in a while, that is a warning, as is a family history of any person below 30 years dying in similar circumstances. Deafness is associated with the same gene as sudden death, so that is another red flag.

Common causes of SCD(sudden cardiac death) include malfunctioning of the heart’s electrical circuit ( which provides it the stimulus to keep beating, or if the heart muscle which may, due to some inherent deficiencies- some of them congenital- not be able to translate that impulse into action. In simpler words, it is a condition triggered by a disruption in normal beating of the heart called arrhythmia. This condition is believed to claim some 4,000 younger lives around the world every year.

The lack of awareness also means that a potential patient is rarely ever picked up until t is too late.

Medical discourse on heart is disproportionately loaded in favor of coronary artery disease ( CAD), SCD &  its causes like long/short QT syndrome. Though not very rare, problems kike Brugada syndrome, dilated cardiomyopathy & Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome, are hardly ever talked about.

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart becomes weak & enlarged & hence cannot pump blood properly. This is often caused by common a viral infection which means that working out while suffering from fly can result in far greater complications than resting for a few more days.

Another condition usually associated with athletes, called athletic heart syndrome, can predispose a person to sudden cardiac arrest. It can occur in any individual doing more than 5 hours of aerobic exercise per week or can even occur in people who do extensive weight training. The heart is enlarged & resting pulse rate is lower. In extreme cases, the amount of enlargement can actually reduce the heart’s pumping capacity. Even in moderate cases, the condition may bias the outcome of an ECG & thus prevent an existing heart condition from being picked up.

Screening with an ECG & an echo cardiography most often remains the only way of identifying patients. Anybody with a family history should undergo screening. Defibrillators should be made available in prominent public places & people should be trained in resuscitation.

Head rushes may lead heart failure

Head rushes may lead heart failure

Often feel light headed & woozy when you get out of your seat? Beware you may have a higher risk of developing hear failure, scientists say. According to researchers, dizzy spells experienced after standing up suddenly are caused by a rapid drop in blood pressure known an orthostatic hypotension. Some researchers found that people who experienced the condition frequently were about 54 % more likely to develop hear failure than those who didn’t. The risk still stood at 34 % when researchers took account of those who also suffered from high blood pressure. And it was more pronounced in those aged between 44 & 55years, according to researchers.

Hold a cold bottle to exercise for longer

Hold a cold bottle to exercise for longer

For those who are over weight, over heating can be a mjor hurdle to exercise regularly. For some, the extra fat prevents the body from dissipating heat, causing a steep tise in core temperature that leads to quicker exhaustion. Now researchers have shown that the simple act of carrying a cold thermos can help lower the rate at which the core temperature rises, delay, fatigue, improve performance & cause less perceived effort, for the overweight.

Voice & throat problems likely after anesthesia

 

A fresh look at past research suggests voice & throat problems are common in patients who have had a breathing tube placed during general anesthesia. Researchers pooled a dozen studies that looked at complications following the use of an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask, 2 popular techniques that allow patients to breathe while being put under for surgery,

While the complications rate varies, one study found as many as 7 out of 10 patients suffered a vocal cord injury, such as swelling or internal bleeding. An ENT, said that the devices are put past the soft & delicate tissues in a person’s throat, so it’s not surprising that temporary hoarseness would occur.

According to researchers, some people with hoarseness & injuries recover quickly. Normally the hoarseness should clear up by itself, but if it doesn’t people should see their physician, because it could be a sign of something more serious. “ If you’ve persistent hoarseness following a procedure, then being examined by an ENT physician would be important” the researcher said.

Coriander seeds good for lowering LDL cholesterol

Coriander seeds are rich in 2 main compounds- linaloon & decanoic acid. It has a long history in traditional medicine, with cholesterol lowering & blood sugar lowering effects. Several studies on animals have demonstrated a reduction in total cholesterol, LDL & an increase in HDL. Corander seed powder is an essential ingredient in Indian cuisine, but for therapeutic benefits, a teaspoon or 2 of coriander seeds soaked overnight & consumed in the morning is helpful for people with heart disease & diabetes.

Turmeric

 The benefits for heart health arise from curcumin, an active principle which has anti-oxidant, anti-clotting, anti-inflammatory & anti-proliferative properties. Studies have documented effects of curcumin in decreasing blood cholesterol levels. Its anti—oxidant properties may also help prevent cardiovascular complications among diabetics.

Black pepper- for cholesterol ?

Black pepper

Black pepper contains piperine, which has numerous reported physiological & drug-like actions. Studies provide evidence that pepper has cholesterol lowering properties & may help in cardiac function recovery after heart attacks. A word of caution- piperine can strengthen or modify the effects of other medicines, particularly blood thinning agents.

Watch this slides to learn how to avoid sickness !

https://docs.google.com/viewer?

Crochet Purse

I'm making this purse, only handles are left, this is made with a shiny silver thread. The purse is made in one single piece & folded & joined the sides.

Asparagus- cancer cure !

Asparagus -- Who knew ?

    This is from a friend

     My Mom had been taking the full-stalk canned style      asparagus that she pureed and she took 4 tablespoons in the morning and 4 tablespoons later in the day. She did

     this for over a month. She is on chemo pills for Stage 3

     lung cancer in the pleural area and her cancer cell

     count went from 386 down to 125 as of this past week.

     Her oncologist said she does not need to see him for 3

     months...

                  THE ARTICLE:

Several years ago, I had a man seeking asparagus for a friend who had cancer. He gave me a photocopied copy of an article, entitled, Asparagus for cancer 'printed in Cancer News Journal, December 1979. I will share it here, just as it was shared with me: I am a biochemist, and have specialized in the relation of diet to health or over 50 years. Several years ago, I learned of the discovery of Richard R.Vensal, D.D.S. that asparagus  might cure cancer. Since then, I have worked with him on his project We have accumulated a number of favorable case histories. Here are a few examples:

Case No. 1, A man with an almost hopeless case of Hodgkin's disease (cancer of the lymph glands) who was completely incapacitated. Within 1 year of starting the asparagus therapy, his doctors were unable to detect any signs of cancer, and he was back on a schedule of strenuous exercise.

Case No. 2 , a successful businessman 68 years old who suffered from cancer of the bladder for 16 years. After years of medical treatments, including radiation without improvement, he went on asparagus. Within 3 months, examinations revealed that his bladder tumor had disappeared and that his kidneys were normal.

Case No. 3, a man who had lung cancer. On March 5th 1971, he was put on the operating table where they found lung cancer so widely spread that it was inoperable. The surgeon sewed him up and declared his case hopeless. On April 5th he heard about the Asparagus therapy and immediately started taking it By August, x-ray pictures revealed that all signs of the cancer had disappeared.. He is back at his regular business routine.

Case No. 4, a woman who was troubled for a number of years with skin cancer. She finally developed different skin cancers which were diagnosed by the acting specialist as advanced. Within 3 months after starting on asparagus, her skin specialist said that her skin looked fine and no more skin lesions. This woman reported that the asparagus therapy also cured her kidney disease, which started in 1949. She had over 10 operations for kidney stones, and was receiving government disability payments for an inoperable, terminal, kidney condition. She attributes the cure of this kidney trouble entirely to the asparagus.

I was not surprised at this result, as `The elements of materia medica', edited in1854 by a Professor at the University of Pennsylvania , stated that asparagus was used as a popular remedy for kidney stones. He even referred to experiments, in 1739, on the power of asparagus in dissolving stones. Note the dates!

We would have other case histories but the medical establishment has interfered with our obtaining some of the records. I am therefore appealing to readers to spread this good news and help us to gather a large  number of case histories that will overwhelm the medical skeptics about this unbelievably simple and natural remedy....

For the treatment , asparagus should be cooked  before using, and therefore canned asparagus is just as good as fresh. I have corresponded with the two leading canners of asparagus, Giant and Stokely, and I am satisfied that these brands contain no pesticides or preservatives.

Place the cooked asparagus in a blender and liquefy to make a puree, and store in the refrigerator. Give the patient 4 full tablespoons twice daily, morning and evening. Patients usually show some improvement in 2-4 weeks... It can be diluted with water and used as a cold or hot drink. This suggested dosage is based on present experience, but certainly larger amounts can do no harm and may be needed in some cases. As a

biochemist I am convinced of the old saying that `what cures can prevent.' Based on this theory, my wife and I have been using asparagus puree as a beverage with our meals. We take 2 tablespoons diluted in water to suit our taste with breakfast and with dinner. I take mine hot and my wife prefers hers cold. For years we have made it a practice to have blood surveys taken as part of our regular checkups. The last blood survey,

taken by a medical doctor who specializes in the nutritional approach to health, showed substantial improvements in all categories over the last one, and we can attribute these improvements to nothing but the asparagus drink.  As a biochemist, I have made an extensive study of all aspects of cancer, and all of the proposed cures. As a result, I am convinced that asparagus fits in better with the latest theories about cancer.

Asparagus contains a good supply of protein called histones , which are believed to be active in controlling cell growth.. For that reason, I believe asparagus can be said to contain a substance that I call cell growth normalizer . That accounts for its action on cancer and in acting as a general body tonic. In any event, regardless of theory, asparagus used as we suggest, is a harmless substance. The FDA cannot prevent you from using it and it may do you much good. It has been reported by the US National Cancer Institute, that asparagus is the highest tested food containing glutathione , which is considered one of the body's most potent anticarcinogens and antioxidants.

The most unselfish act one can ever do is paying forward

all the kindness one has received, even to the most undeserved  person.

Simple guidelines for Happiness

 

Energy-Boosting Foods for COPD

Energy-Boosting Foods for COPD

COPD: Eat Right at Every Bite

Eating right may help boost your energy when you have COPD, and if weight loss is a problem, a few "comfort foods" may be back on your diet. Breathing burns 10 times more calories when you have COPD. For people who are watching their weight, smaller portions of the nutrient-packed foods in this slideshow will keep calories in check and provide the fuel your body needs to help you feel your best.

Eat More Often

If you find yourself getting fatigued while you eat or you have trouble breathing because you get too full, try eating smaller meals more often. Four to six small meals during the day, instead of three large meals, will keep you from getting overly full. It also will require less energy to eat. That means you'll be less fatigued and better able to get what you need from the food you eat.

A COPD Breakfast

Breakfast may be your most important meal. A lot of people with COPD get too fatigued later in the day to eat well. If that sounds familiar, try to have your largest meals early in the day when you have your most energy. And since you should be getting 25 to 30 grams of fiber every day, starting with a bowl of bran cereal and whole-wheat toast gets you headed in the right direction.

Oatmeal With Milk

Another great food for starting your day is hot oatmeal. It's easy to eat and rich in fiber, calcium, iron, and vitamin A. Preparing it with milk instead of water makes it even more nutritious. And if you're trying to shed a few pounds, oatmeal deserves a place in your diet. Its high fiber content helps you feel full with fewer calories. Top it with berries instead of sweeteners to keep the calorie count low.

 

Eat More Nutritious Foods First

If fatigue is making you stop eating before you get the calories and nutrients you need, eat the high-calorie items first. But don't go for the "empty calories" of mashed potatoes or desserts. Sink your fork into chicken, lean beef, baked fish, or tofu so you get protein with every bite.

Say Cheese

Adding cheese to dishes like potatoes, rice, or vegetables will increase both the nutrient value and the caloric value of any meal. Plus you'll get extra calcium to help protect your bones, which can be made brittle by some of the medicines prescribed for COPD. When you want the nutrients in cheese at a lower calorie count, look for those labeled "part-skim" or "reduced-fat."  

Drink Plenty of Fluids

Drinking plenty of non-caffeinated fluids will help keep the mucus in your airways thin and make it easier to clear your lungs. At mealtimes, eat first and sip later. That way you won't feel full before you've had a chance to get a solid, nutritious meal.

 

Milk Please

If you need to gain weight, your body can make good use of the calories in milk, while the calcium and vitamin D help keep your bones strong. Try drinking it in place of water throughout the day.

Avoid Caffeine

Caffeine is not a good choice for someone with COPD. It can interfere with some medicines and may cause nervousness and restlessness, which can exacerbate your symptoms. So avoid or limit coffee, tea, and caffeinated sodas. And yes, unfortunately, the caffeine in chocolate lands it on the no-list.

Better Than Salt

Use herbs and no-salt spices to flavor your food. Sodium can cause you to retain water, which makes it harder to breathe. It's also important to read food labels and to avoid foods that have more than 300 milligrams of sodium per serving. And before you use any salt substitute, be sure to talk with your doctor. Some of them have ingredients that may be just as bad for you as salt.

Eat More Fiber 

Because you're unlikely to get all of the 25 to 30 grams of fiber you need each day from breakfast alone, include high-fiber foods in your other meals. A bowl of low-sodium split pea or lentil soup makes an excellent hot lunch. Other good sources of fiber include dry beans (legumes), whole-grain cereals, and breads, bran, brown rice, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

COPD Caution: Gas-Inducing Foods

While foods like a bean burrito do provide protein and fiber, use caution. Foods that cause gas or bloating can make it feel harder to breathe. Common culprits include carbonated beverages, greasy fried foods, heavily spiced foods, beans, and vegetables like cabbage and broccoli. But each person reacts a little differently. Keep a food diary to see which ones affect you, then steer clear of the troublemakers.

Go for Potassium

If you're taking a diuretic, you may need more potassium in your diet. Oranges and bananas are two excellent sources that are quick, easy snacks. Potatoes and tomatoes are great mealtime sources of potassium.

Eggs Offer a Calorie Boost

If you're looking for ways to boost your calorie intake, try adding an extra egg to your recipes. Mix a whole egg to your next meatloaf before baking. Or try it in macaroni and cheese. Avoid raw egg, sometimes used in the dressing for Caesar salad, to avoid food poisoning.

Snack Right

If you need to gain weight, keep high-calorie healthy snacks handy. Have a handful of nuts or a ready-to-eat pudding cup. You can buy low-fat or non-fat pudding cups to avoid unhealthy cholesterol and saturated fat. Crackers with cheese or fruits and vegetables with dip are other nutritious snack ideas.

Keep It Fresh

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables whenever you can will yield big benefits. They are packed with nutrients. And eating a balanced diet instead of a meat-and-potatoes regime contributes to better overall health and energy.

Shakes and Smoothies

Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D are essential for keeping bones healthy. That's why milkshakes and smoothies are the perfect snack for many people with COPD. Use milk or yogurt -- choosing lower-fat products if weight control is desired -- and use fresh fruit for nutrients and fiber. Canned, fortified shakes are no-fuss drinks that are ready to be used straight out of the fridge.

Starchy Vegetables

Starchy vegetables like beets, corn, carrots, and winter squash are rich sources of vitamins and minerals. And they have more calories than other vegetables. Baked squash casserole makes an excellent side dish or main course. And soup is a savory way to enjoy these richer vegetables.

Boosting the Protein

Protein is an essential element in everyone's diet, but it's especially important when you have COPD. Add nonfat dry milk, protein powder, or soy protein powder to dishes like mashed potatoes, casseroles, soups, even hot cereal.  

Protein at Every Meal

Peanut butter can pump up your intake of both calories and protein, with little time or energy wasted on preparation. Protein is important at every meal for people with COPD. Good sources include eggs, lean meat, fish, poultry, legumes, and nuts.

Honey & Cinnamon a Deadly combo to cure most Diseases !!

Cinnamon and Honey
Whoever thought?

Honey is the only food (liquid) on the planet that will not spoil or
rot. It will do what some call turning to sugar. In reality honey is
always honey. However, when left in a cool dark place for a long time
it will do what I rather call "crystallizing" When this happens I
would loosen the lid, boil some water, and let the honey container sit
in the hot water, turn off the heat and let it liquefy. It is then as
good as it ever was. Never boil honey or put it in a microwave. To do
so will kill the enzymes in the honey.

Cinnamon and Honey
Bet the drug companies won't like this one getting around. Facts on
Honey and Cinnamon: It is found that a mixture of honey and Cinnamon
cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the
world. Scientists today also accept honey as a 'Ram Ban' (very
effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used
without any side effects for any kind of diseases.

Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the
right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients. Weekly
World News, a magazine in Canada , in its issue, dated 17 January,1995
has given the following list of diseases that can be cured by honey
and cinnamon as researched by western scientists:

HEART DISEASES:
Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, instead of
jelly and jam, and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the
cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack.
Also, those who have already had an attack, if they do this process
daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack.. Regular use of
the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart
beat. In America and Canada, various nursing homes have treated
patients successfully and have found that as you age, the arteries and
veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon
revitalize the arteries and veins.

ARTHRITIS:
Arthritis patients may take daily, morning and night, one cup of hot
water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon
powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a
recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found
that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one
tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast,
they found that within a week, out of the 200 people so treated,
practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain, and within a
month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around
because of arthritis started walking without pain.

BLADDER INFECTIONS:
Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a
glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the
bladder..

CHOLESTEROL:
Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed
in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient, were found
to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within
two hours as mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken three times a
day, any chronic cholesterol is cured. According to information
received in the said Journal, pure honey taken with food daily
relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS:
Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon
lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days.
This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the
sinuses.

UPSET STOMACH:
Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears
stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS:
According to the studies done in India and Japan , it is revealed that
if Honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

IMMUNE SYSTEM:
Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system
and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have
found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts.
Constant use of Honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight
bacterial and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION:
Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before
food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

INFLUENZA:
A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural '
Ingredient' which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from
flu.

LONGEVITY:
Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests
the ravages of old age. Take four spoons of honey, one spoon of
cinnamon powder, and three cups of water and boil to make like tea.
Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and
soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increase and even a 100 year
old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old..

PIMPLES:
Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste.
Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next
morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes
pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS:
Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected
parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

WEIGHT LOSS:
Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty
stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder
boiled in one cup of water. If taken regularly, it reduces the weight
of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly
does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the
person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER:
Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced
cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully..
Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one
tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month
three times a day.

FATIGUE:
Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more
helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body.
Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts,
are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says
that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and
sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the
afternoon at about 3:00 P.M. when the vitality of the body starts to
decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

BAD BREATH:
People of South America, first thing in the morning, gargle with one
teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water, so their
breath stays fresh throughout the day.

HEARING LOSS:
Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal
parts restores hearing. Remember when we were kids? We had toast with
real butter and cinnamon sprinkled on it!