Top Health benefits of Spinach

Cancer prevention: Spinach and other green vegetables contain chlorophyll which has shown to be effective at blocking the carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic amines which are generated when grilling foods at a high temperature.

Asthma prevention: The risks for developing asthma are lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, of which spinach is an excellent source. Apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, pumpkin and carrots are also rich sources of beta-carotene.3


Lowering blood pressure: because of its high potassium content, spinach is 

recommended to those with high blood pressure to negate the effects of 

sodium in the body. A low potassium intake may be just as big of a risk factor 

in developing high blood pressure as a high sodium intake.4

Other high potassium foods include potatoes, tomatoes, lima beans and oranges.

Bone health: Low intakes of vitamin K have been associated with a higher risk 

for bone fracture. Adequate vitamin K consumption is important for good 

health, as it acts as a modifier of bone matrix proteins, improves calcium 

absorption and may reduce urinary excretion of calcium.5

Promotes regularity: Spinach is high in fiber and water content, both of which 

help to prevent constipation and promote a healthy digestive tract.

Healthy skin and hair: Spinach in high in vitamin A, which is necessary for 

sebum production to keep hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the 

growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair. Spinach and other leafy 

greens high in vitamin C are imperative for the building and maintenance of 

collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair.

ps- this is only for information, always consult you physician before having any particular food/ medication/exercise/other remedies.

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% seasonal spices to boost the immune system

Rosemary
Add rosemary  to your roast meat, potato mash or even your cookies. Not only does rosemary's green, winter-y aroma evoke the holiday season, it's a health powerhouse, especially if you use a grill: One study  found that adding rosemary extract to hamburger patties reduced the meat's contents of heterocyclic amines (HCAs), which are carcinogens that form on red meat when it is cooked on a grill or broiled.

Ginger

This anti-inflammatory root is found in just about every Christmas dessert worth eating, from gingerbread to pfeffernüsse. But ginger can also help if you've overdone it on the other tasty treats: Studies show that the root helps soothe stomachs by reducing feelings of nausea.

Cinnamon

Sure, you'll sprinkle it into your hot cider or spice your wine with it, but did you know that this bark is actually a health food? Some studies show that including cinnamon in your diet can help stabilize blood sugar levels if you suffer from Type 2 diabetes. There's also some evidence that cinnamon has antibacterial properties. That said, it's important to be moderate with the spice, which was most recently associated with liver damage, according to a report in The Guardian, because of its high levels of the compound coumarin.

Peppermint

Yes, it's probably best not to eat all the candy canes lying around after you've finished decorating the tree, but there's no reason to avoid their star ingredient, peppermint. The mint brightens up chocolate and adds depth to confections, but it also delivers a vitamin-packed punch, thanks to high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin C. What's more, research shows that the flavour may help prevent tension headaches, improve concentration, curb appetite and even reduce cold symptoms.

Nutmeg

While you're grating some over your eggnog, don't forget to give a little thanks for nutmeg, the powerhouse seed that contains anti-fungal and antibacterial properties.

ps- this is only for information, always consult you physician before having any particular food/ medication/exercise/other remedies.

ps- those interested in recipes are free to view my blog-

http://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/

for info about knee replacement, you can view my blog-

http://Knee replacement-stick club.blogspot.com/

for crochet designs

http://My Crochet Creations.blogspot.com

Grilling Tips to Cut Colon Cancer Risk

 Simple changes to your backyard grilling routine could help reduce your colon cancer risk, an expert says.

"Research now shows that diets high in red and processed meat increase risk for colon cancer," a  dietitian  said in a news release. "And grilling meat -- red or white -- forms potent cancer-causing substances. But by keeping five simple steps in mind, it's possible to make this summer's backyard grilling both healthier and more flavourful."

The type of meat you put on the grill is as important as how you grill it. Diets high in beef, pork and lamb are linked to increased risk for colon cancer, as are processed meats such as hot dogs and sausages. Instead of sticking with steak, burgers and franks, use spices, herbs, hot peppers and sauces to get creative with fish and chicken.

Be sure to marinate before you grill. Research has shown that marinating meat, poultry and fish for at least 30 minutes before putting it on the grill can reduce the formation of potentially cancer-causing heterocyclic amines (HCAs) that are formed when cooking with high heat. Use a mixture of vinegar, herbs, spices and lemon juice or wine.

Other potentially cancer-causing substances called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are deposited onto meat by smoke during grilling. Reduce the amount of time that meat spends on the grill by first partially cooking it in a microwave, oven or stove. Be sure to put the partially cooked meat on the preheated grill immediately in order to keep it safe from microbes that can cause illness.

Cook meat over a low flame to reduce the formation of HCAs and PAHs. Reduce flare-ups by keeping fat and juices out of the fire. Cut visible fat off the meat, move coals to the side of the grill and cook your meat in the centre of the grill. Cut off any charred portions of meat before serving.

Your menus should include vegetables and fruits, which contain anti-cancer compounds. Put thick slices of onions, zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers or tomatoes on the grill or in a grill basket. Corn on the cob is another good choice for grilling, which brings out the sweetness in vegetables.