Foods that don't let you slim down
Your diet staples could be sabotaging your efforts to slim down and denying you vitamins and minerals
Those low-fat, low-taste alternatives passed off as 'health foods' could, in fact, be costing you your health. It's easy to be misled with labels such as 'high fiber', and 'natural'. In reality, many so called 'healthy' foods contain high levels of fat, sugar and salt. Reading the ingredient list and nutrition facts column could help you choose the right items. Here's a round up of the things you consider good that may actually be bad:
Honey
You think honey is healthier and more natural than sugar? You are wrong. Both contain similarly high levels of glucose. Because honey is denser, one tablespoon actually contains more calories than the same sized spoonful of granulated sugar. Eat too much honey and you'll gain just as much weight as you will gorging on other sweet stuff.
Low-fat salad dressing
Scientists at Iowa State University, US, have found that low-fat dressing cancels out the goodness in salad. Conversely, using olive oil, or a little butter, boosted vitamin intake because fat helps your body absorb nutrients from vegetables more efficiently.
Breakfast cereals
Studies show that people who eat cereal for breakfast tend to be slimmer than those who don't — but only if they're opting for a healthy brand. Choose the wrong box and you may as well start your day with a slice of cake, as some cereals are high in sugar and fat. The main ones to watch out for are your flavoured, chocolate and sugar-coated or frosted kids' ones. So always read the label. .
Skimmed milk
Although guzzling whole milk has been demonised as a health no-no in recent years, research shows that it could be a better choice than its skimmed counterpart.
Whole milk only contains around 4 per cent fat per 100ml as opposed to the 20 per cent plus deemed to be in the 'high fat' category. Skimmed milk contains 0.1 per cent fat. So switching from whole to skimmed milk won't make a huge difference.
Skimmed milk is less nutritious because cream contains fatsoluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Research reveals that full-fat milk boosts metabolism and help you burn more calories, while also lowering the risk of heart disease.
Raw vegetables
Cooking is believed to kill the vitamins and minerals, but studies have found the opposite. While cooking may destroy some (but not all) vitamin C, the process boosts the uptake of disease-fighting nutrients — antioxidants. A 2008 study found that vegetables such as carrots, spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, cabbage and peppers supply more antioxidants when cooked than when eaten raw.
Diet drinks
They seem like a straightforward way for soft drink lovers to cut calories but experts think diet drinks could actually scupper weight loss. While the artificial sweeteners in such drinks can convince the taste buds they're consuming sugar, the brain can't be tricked so easily. When it's denied the calories it's expecting, your body goes on a calorie hunt, making you feel hungry and eat more.
Those low-fat, low-taste alternatives passed off as 'health foods' could, in fact, be costing you your health. It's easy to be misled with labels such as 'high fiber', and 'natural'. In reality, many so called 'healthy' foods contain high levels of fat, sugar and salt. Reading the ingredient list and nutrition facts column could help you choose the right items. Here's a round up of the things you consider good that may actually be bad:
Honey
You think honey is healthier and more natural than sugar? You are wrong. Both contain similarly high levels of glucose. Because honey is denser, one tablespoon actually contains more calories than the same sized spoonful of granulated sugar. Eat too much honey and you'll gain just as much weight as you will gorging on other sweet stuff.
Low-fat salad dressing
Scientists at Iowa State University, US, have found that low-fat dressing cancels out the goodness in salad. Conversely, using olive oil, or a little butter, boosted vitamin intake because fat helps your body absorb nutrients from vegetables more efficiently.
Breakfast cereals
Studies show that people who eat cereal for breakfast tend to be slimmer than those who don't — but only if they're opting for a healthy brand. Choose the wrong box and you may as well start your day with a slice of cake, as some cereals are high in sugar and fat. The main ones to watch out for are your flavoured, chocolate and sugar-coated or frosted kids' ones. So always read the label. .
Skimmed milk
Although guzzling whole milk has been demonised as a health no-no in recent years, research shows that it could be a better choice than its skimmed counterpart.
Whole milk only contains around 4 per cent fat per 100ml as opposed to the 20 per cent plus deemed to be in the 'high fat' category. Skimmed milk contains 0.1 per cent fat. So switching from whole to skimmed milk won't make a huge difference.
Skimmed milk is less nutritious because cream contains fatsoluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Research reveals that full-fat milk boosts metabolism and help you burn more calories, while also lowering the risk of heart disease.
Raw vegetables
Cooking is believed to kill the vitamins and minerals, but studies have found the opposite. While cooking may destroy some (but not all) vitamin C, the process boosts the uptake of disease-fighting nutrients — antioxidants. A 2008 study found that vegetables such as carrots, spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, cabbage and peppers supply more antioxidants when cooked than when eaten raw.
Diet drinks
They seem like a straightforward way for soft drink lovers to cut calories but experts think diet drinks could actually scupper weight loss. While the artificial sweeteners in such drinks can convince the taste buds they're consuming sugar, the brain can't be tricked so easily. When it's denied the calories it's expecting, your body goes on a calorie hunt, making you feel hungry and eat more.
5 secrets to maintain a steady weight
Now that you have reached your weight loss goal, we are sure you wouldn't want to slip down the slipper slope of weight gain again.
The real task of managing your weight lies ahead. So, what will be your plan of action? The most pivotal point to note here is that you have to make your weight loss a permanent one. For doing so, today, Dr. Sukhvinder Singh Saggu, Sr Consultant Laparoscopic, Gastro & Obesity surgeon at Fortis Jessa Ram Hospital, New Delhi, gives us his insights on the top 5 secrets for maintaining a steady weight.
Get exercise in unexpected ways. To maintain the ideal weight, for men and women, one needs to be active in their whole day. Ideally, it is recommended to burn at least 2000 calories per day for men & 1600 calories for women.
There are several ways to burn your calories. For example, if men and women wash their cars, an activity that takes at least 30 minutes, it easily burns approximately 300 calories. Similarly, instead of using elevators/lift, if they use stairs, they will burn upto 100 calories, and so on.
Don't try to be perfect. Maintaining weight or losing weight should not be a short duration target. It should be an on-going activity, which needs to be achieved slowly and in a steady manner. It should be pursued with the intent to learn, rather than the attitude that declares it as learned or perfect.
Keep fizzy drinks at bay as much as you can. Surely, soft drinks and other carbonated drinks need to be on check. If you are on your way to being a fit person and want to live your life healthier, then stay away from fizzy drinks as much as you can. Instead, go for home-made lemonade, fresh fruit juice or prepare your own ice tea. Carbonated, aerated drinks simply elevate the symptoms of diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, liver damage, heart ailments and even cancer to some extent.
Eat at proper intervals. If one wants to maintain his/her lost weight or intends to lose weight, then the most important point to keep in mind is to have food at proper regular intervals. Skipping any meal of the day, will not help one to lose weight, rather it creates problems. It is recommended to have 6 to 7 meals in a day but of small portions. The count is of calories, i.e. how much you consume in a day. The small portion of meal helps you digest food faster. And not to forget, eat a light dinner at least a couple of hours before sleeping to avoid acidity and other indigestion issues that indirectly affect weight management.
Do not forget your strength training routine. Not only does strength training give men and women a fit and toned body, but it also helps the joints and muscles work more efficiently against injuries. It makes joints and bones more flexible and strong, and increases stamina. It is ideally suggested that one should opt for strength training for at least three times a week. Strength train all parts of your body by targeting different body muscles on a daily basis.
The real task of managing your weight lies ahead. So, what will be your plan of action? The most pivotal point to note here is that you have to make your weight loss a permanent one. For doing so, today, Dr. Sukhvinder Singh Saggu, Sr Consultant Laparoscopic, Gastro & Obesity surgeon at Fortis Jessa Ram Hospital, New Delhi, gives us his insights on the top 5 secrets for maintaining a steady weight.
Get exercise in unexpected ways. To maintain the ideal weight, for men and women, one needs to be active in their whole day. Ideally, it is recommended to burn at least 2000 calories per day for men & 1600 calories for women.
There are several ways to burn your calories. For example, if men and women wash their cars, an activity that takes at least 30 minutes, it easily burns approximately 300 calories. Similarly, instead of using elevators/lift, if they use stairs, they will burn upto 100 calories, and so on.
Don't try to be perfect. Maintaining weight or losing weight should not be a short duration target. It should be an on-going activity, which needs to be achieved slowly and in a steady manner. It should be pursued with the intent to learn, rather than the attitude that declares it as learned or perfect.
Keep fizzy drinks at bay as much as you can. Surely, soft drinks and other carbonated drinks need to be on check. If you are on your way to being a fit person and want to live your life healthier, then stay away from fizzy drinks as much as you can. Instead, go for home-made lemonade, fresh fruit juice or prepare your own ice tea. Carbonated, aerated drinks simply elevate the symptoms of diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, liver damage, heart ailments and even cancer to some extent.
Eat at proper intervals. If one wants to maintain his/her lost weight or intends to lose weight, then the most important point to keep in mind is to have food at proper regular intervals. Skipping any meal of the day, will not help one to lose weight, rather it creates problems. It is recommended to have 6 to 7 meals in a day but of small portions. The count is of calories, i.e. how much you consume in a day. The small portion of meal helps you digest food faster. And not to forget, eat a light dinner at least a couple of hours before sleeping to avoid acidity and other indigestion issues that indirectly affect weight management.
Do not forget your strength training routine. Not only does strength training give men and women a fit and toned body, but it also helps the joints and muscles work more efficiently against injuries. It makes joints and bones more flexible and strong, and increases stamina. It is ideally suggested that one should opt for strength training for at least three times a week. Strength train all parts of your body by targeting different body muscles on a daily basis.
Health benefits of Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Everyone is familiar with amla or the Indian gooseberry, it is used in a variety of products like sweets, jams, powder, pickles, while some simply like to pluck and eat them.
But are the health benefits of amla overrated? Along with Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee, Ayurvedic consultant with Satvikshop, we explore this popular Indian fruit.
Amla is known as a good source of vitamin C, but is that all? What are the other health benefits of the Indian gooseberry? Dr. Jaishree gives us a detailed list, "Amla has loads of benefits. It is a super food of Ayurveda due to its antioxidant property. It has beneficial effects on almost all the systems and organs of body." She explains:
-It controls blood sugar in diabetes
-Lowers cholesterol level
-It is a natural anti ageing agent for skin; nourishes scalp and hair roots and encourages hair growth
-It improves digestion and alleviates constipation
-It improves blood circulation
-It ensures proper functioning of liver.
-It is a strong immunomodulator and protects from the onset of many diseases if taken regularly
-Amla is a good hematinic as it raises hemoglobin level
She also goes on to list out other sources of vitamin C, "There are many good sources of vitamin C beside amla:
-All leafy vegetables like palak, bathua etc.
-All kind of peppers have loads of vit-c
-Fruits like mangoes, pine apple, oranges, kiwi, strawberry, berries, papaya,
-Vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, red cabbage, etc
-Herbs like basil, mint, coriander, rosemary"
You can get these health benefits by including amla and the other vitamin C rich foods in your diet. On the other hand, if fresh produce is a problem, you can invest in some organic amla products.
But are the health benefits of amla overrated? Along with Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee, Ayurvedic consultant with Satvikshop, we explore this popular Indian fruit.
Amla is known as a good source of vitamin C, but is that all? What are the other health benefits of the Indian gooseberry? Dr. Jaishree gives us a detailed list, "Amla has loads of benefits. It is a super food of Ayurveda due to its antioxidant property. It has beneficial effects on almost all the systems and organs of body." She explains:
-It controls blood sugar in diabetes
-Lowers cholesterol level
-It is a natural anti ageing agent for skin; nourishes scalp and hair roots and encourages hair growth
-It improves digestion and alleviates constipation
-It improves blood circulation
-It ensures proper functioning of liver.
-It is a strong immunomodulator and protects from the onset of many diseases if taken regularly
-Amla is a good hematinic as it raises hemoglobin level
She also goes on to list out other sources of vitamin C, "There are many good sources of vitamin C beside amla:
-All leafy vegetables like palak, bathua etc.
-All kind of peppers have loads of vit-c
-Fruits like mangoes, pine apple, oranges, kiwi, strawberry, berries, papaya,
-Vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, red cabbage, etc
-Herbs like basil, mint, coriander, rosemary"
You can get these health benefits by including amla and the other vitamin C rich foods in your diet. On the other hand, if fresh produce is a problem, you can invest in some organic amla products.
Will eating corn make me fat?
It's difficult to say no to a delicious, piping hot corn on the cob seasoned with spices in this monsoon weather. But lately, it seems that many people are more reluctant than eager to take a bite.
This is because of the latest health buzz that eating corn will make you fat. As a matter of fact, nowadays many people have parted ways with corn altogether because of the fear of weight gain. Today, we take a look at this dilemma and help you answer the question: Will eating corn make me fat?
Tender corn has about 1/3rd the calories of dry corn. At 125 calories per 100 g, it contains about 5 g of protein and negligible amount of fat.
Bangalore-based Registered Dietitian and Wellness Consultant, Sheela Krishnaswamy answers the top 5 FAQs on corn for us:
Corn is full of natural sugars and carbs; does this make it unhealthy? Corn is not at all unhealthy. Since it's rich in carbs, it's a great source of energy. High in nutrients, corn is extremely rich in Vitamin B1, Vitamin B5 and Vitamin C, which helps in fighting diseases and generating new cells. High in fibre, corn also helps in lowering cholesterol levels in the body by reducing the levels of blood sugar in diabetics too. A whole grain product, it can be easily included in a healthy diet.
If raw and fresh corn is healthy, then why is popcorn unhealthy? Popcorn is not unhealthy either. It's a great filler between meals, as long as it's unbuttered and contains less salt. The buttered and salted popcorn should be restricted because of the fat and sodium content in it. Also, since popcorn is normally eaten while watching television or a movie, there's a greater chance of eating large quantities of popcorn because one is more engrossed in the film rather than the quantity of popcorn eaten. Excess intake of fat and sodium has its consequences on health, as we all know.
Will eating corn chips make me fat? Yes, if the chips are fried and it's consumed in large quantities and the excess calories are not burnt off, they are sure to make you fat. Weight gain is not about just one food, but an energy balance.
Are cornflakes healthy? Cornflakes are very low in fat and contain mostly starch. Also it's eaten in combination with milk, which brings in a balance of carbohydrates and protein.
Regular consumption of corn, in moderate quantities, has been associated with better cardiovascular health. How true is the statement? Corn by itself cannot protect the heart. But yes, it's as good as any other grain like brown rice, wheat, ragi, jowar, etc.
Corn can be used in many ways - as a breakfast cereal, as a snack (boiled corn / corn cup / popcorn), as part of a salad or soup, as an ingredient in a baked dish, etc. At the risk of sounding cliched, weight loss or gain is not about one single food. It's about a healthy lifestyle.
Bottom-Line. Add corn to your meals and snacks to receive its health benefits. Just watch the amount you eat and practice portion control when eating corn and it will not make you fat!
This is because of the latest health buzz that eating corn will make you fat. As a matter of fact, nowadays many people have parted ways with corn altogether because of the fear of weight gain. Today, we take a look at this dilemma and help you answer the question: Will eating corn make me fat?
Tender corn has about 1/3rd the calories of dry corn. At 125 calories per 100 g, it contains about 5 g of protein and negligible amount of fat.
Bangalore-based Registered Dietitian and Wellness Consultant, Sheela Krishnaswamy answers the top 5 FAQs on corn for us:
Corn is full of natural sugars and carbs; does this make it unhealthy? Corn is not at all unhealthy. Since it's rich in carbs, it's a great source of energy. High in nutrients, corn is extremely rich in Vitamin B1, Vitamin B5 and Vitamin C, which helps in fighting diseases and generating new cells. High in fibre, corn also helps in lowering cholesterol levels in the body by reducing the levels of blood sugar in diabetics too. A whole grain product, it can be easily included in a healthy diet.
If raw and fresh corn is healthy, then why is popcorn unhealthy? Popcorn is not unhealthy either. It's a great filler between meals, as long as it's unbuttered and contains less salt. The buttered and salted popcorn should be restricted because of the fat and sodium content in it. Also, since popcorn is normally eaten while watching television or a movie, there's a greater chance of eating large quantities of popcorn because one is more engrossed in the film rather than the quantity of popcorn eaten. Excess intake of fat and sodium has its consequences on health, as we all know.
Will eating corn chips make me fat? Yes, if the chips are fried and it's consumed in large quantities and the excess calories are not burnt off, they are sure to make you fat. Weight gain is not about just one food, but an energy balance.
Are cornflakes healthy? Cornflakes are very low in fat and contain mostly starch. Also it's eaten in combination with milk, which brings in a balance of carbohydrates and protein.
Regular consumption of corn, in moderate quantities, has been associated with better cardiovascular health. How true is the statement? Corn by itself cannot protect the heart. But yes, it's as good as any other grain like brown rice, wheat, ragi, jowar, etc.
Corn can be used in many ways - as a breakfast cereal, as a snack (boiled corn / corn cup / popcorn), as part of a salad or soup, as an ingredient in a baked dish, etc. At the risk of sounding cliched, weight loss or gain is not about one single food. It's about a healthy lifestyle.
Bottom-Line. Add corn to your meals and snacks to receive its health benefits. Just watch the amount you eat and practice portion control when eating corn and it will not make you fat!
Ways to beat holiday weight gain
Just when you've finally managed to get your weight under control, boom comes the holiday season. We can't blame you for a li'l indulgence. We will tell you ways to get rid of the excess weight. All you have to have is focus and discipline. Happy Working Out!
The few weeks filled with holiday feasting and no work-out regime become a dire threat to your increasing waistline. Wellness expert Namita Jain says, "Most people find it very difficult to get back into their strict exercise and diet right after the holidays. But it is crucial to motivate yourself to exercise to get back into shape."
The hardest part about exercise is getting started. So, make your fitness programme fail-proof with this simple DIY guide.
Go easy
It is important to start with a routine which is easier. Since getting back to strenuous working out is difficult, starting on a simpler one will boost your confidence. Start going to the gym four to five times a week and concentrate more on cardio than weights.
Innovate
Try and bring fun elements to your work-out regime. Include rope jumps or hula hoop in between your work-out to make it interesting. If you find it boring to do the same exercises every day, change your routine. Take a walk, cycle or go for a swim.
Stress buster
Stress plays a huge role in gaining weight during the holidays. Excess stress hormones in the body encourage the storage of fat. Find something that you enjoy doing. Practice yoga or meditation. If you find it difficult to gym for an hour or 45 minutes at a stretch, make your resolution more attainable by devoting just about half an hour daily.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is a must. Sleep deprivation leads to several hormonal problems, one of them being weight gain. When you are tired, unhappy or dissatisfied, you tend to eat more and exercise less. Experts say that when you are not well rested, you don't want to move and that essentially leads to fewer calories burnt.
Eat healthy
Foods that are loaded with carbohydrates are a major source of problem. Not only does it play havoc on your blood sugar level, but also produces insulin which triggers weight gain in your body. Jain says, "Include fibre in your diet. Fibre fills you up and helps you lose weight. Good choices are veggies, fruits, whole grain cereals, unpolished rice and whole grain bread."
Stay hydrated
Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Also consume high water content fruits like watermelon, oranges, pineapples, tomatoes and cucumber which help in the reduction of weight.
The few weeks filled with holiday feasting and no work-out regime become a dire threat to your increasing waistline. Wellness expert Namita Jain says, "Most people find it very difficult to get back into their strict exercise and diet right after the holidays. But it is crucial to motivate yourself to exercise to get back into shape."
The hardest part about exercise is getting started. So, make your fitness programme fail-proof with this simple DIY guide.
Go easy
It is important to start with a routine which is easier. Since getting back to strenuous working out is difficult, starting on a simpler one will boost your confidence. Start going to the gym four to five times a week and concentrate more on cardio than weights.
Innovate
Try and bring fun elements to your work-out regime. Include rope jumps or hula hoop in between your work-out to make it interesting. If you find it boring to do the same exercises every day, change your routine. Take a walk, cycle or go for a swim.
Stress buster
Stress plays a huge role in gaining weight during the holidays. Excess stress hormones in the body encourage the storage of fat. Find something that you enjoy doing. Practice yoga or meditation. If you find it difficult to gym for an hour or 45 minutes at a stretch, make your resolution more attainable by devoting just about half an hour daily.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is a must. Sleep deprivation leads to several hormonal problems, one of them being weight gain. When you are tired, unhappy or dissatisfied, you tend to eat more and exercise less. Experts say that when you are not well rested, you don't want to move and that essentially leads to fewer calories burnt.
Eat healthy
Foods that are loaded with carbohydrates are a major source of problem. Not only does it play havoc on your blood sugar level, but also produces insulin which triggers weight gain in your body. Jain says, "Include fibre in your diet. Fibre fills you up and helps you lose weight. Good choices are veggies, fruits, whole grain cereals, unpolished rice and whole grain bread."
Stay hydrated
Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Also consume high water content fruits like watermelon, oranges, pineapples, tomatoes and cucumber which help in the reduction of weight.
10 foods that protect your heart
Heart disease is one of the most feared ailment and a side effect of sedentary lifestyle. You can control the effects of your lifestyle by eating the right food.
It's quite often difficult to change your lifestyle drastically in this competitive world. But you can surely change a little bit of eating and ensure you are protecting your heart.
Here's a list of food that can help you protect your heart.
1. Black beans: Black beans are packed with folate, antioxidants, magnesium which are good for lowering blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. This in turn keeps your heart in safe zone. But if you are planning to use tinned beans, please drain the liquid and wash them before use to reduce the sodium content.
2. Salmon and tuna: These two fish are rich in anti-oxidants and omega-3, two important candidates who help heart.
3. Walnuts: A handful of them a day helps lower your cholesterol and reduce inflammation in the arteries. Replace them as mid-meal snacks instead of chips etc.
4. Oranges: They contain cholesterol-fighting pectin. The fruit is also rich in potassium that helps control blood pressure. Antioxidant hesperidin also helps lower blood pressure.
5. Carrots: Though sweet, they are good to control diabetes, which increases heart attack risk. They also help fight bad cholesterol.
6. Sweet potatoes: They are rich in vitamin A, fiber and lycopene making them a healthy substitute for the white brethren.
7. Oats: Oats in all forms help your heart by lowering bad cholesterol.
8. Flaxseeds: Fiber, phytochemicals called lignans, and ALA - these three ingredients in these small seeds make them a powerhouse of health. Sure protector of heart if had spoonful in powdered form everyday in cereals or salads.
9. Chilli powder: Difficult to believe, but these Indian tasty spice actually protects heart and body from diabetes with its ability to spike up the natural insulin levels in the body.
10. Coffee: It can keep away type 2 diabetes, but people having high blood pressure should be cautious as it can have a counter effect.
It's quite often difficult to change your lifestyle drastically in this competitive world. But you can surely change a little bit of eating and ensure you are protecting your heart.
Here's a list of food that can help you protect your heart.
1. Black beans: Black beans are packed with folate, antioxidants, magnesium which are good for lowering blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. This in turn keeps your heart in safe zone. But if you are planning to use tinned beans, please drain the liquid and wash them before use to reduce the sodium content.
2. Salmon and tuna: These two fish are rich in anti-oxidants and omega-3, two important candidates who help heart.
3. Walnuts: A handful of them a day helps lower your cholesterol and reduce inflammation in the arteries. Replace them as mid-meal snacks instead of chips etc.
4. Oranges: They contain cholesterol-fighting pectin. The fruit is also rich in potassium that helps control blood pressure. Antioxidant hesperidin also helps lower blood pressure.
5. Carrots: Though sweet, they are good to control diabetes, which increases heart attack risk. They also help fight bad cholesterol.
6. Sweet potatoes: They are rich in vitamin A, fiber and lycopene making them a healthy substitute for the white brethren.
7. Oats: Oats in all forms help your heart by lowering bad cholesterol.
8. Flaxseeds: Fiber, phytochemicals called lignans, and ALA - these three ingredients in these small seeds make them a powerhouse of health. Sure protector of heart if had spoonful in powdered form everyday in cereals or salads.
9. Chilli powder: Difficult to believe, but these Indian tasty spice actually protects heart and body from diabetes with its ability to spike up the natural insulin levels in the body.
10. Coffee: It can keep away type 2 diabetes, but people having high blood pressure should be cautious as it can have a counter effect.
How to use ginger for better health
It is a well known fact that a majority of Indians prefer home remedies to OTC drugs. The use of ginger is numero uno when it comes to curing common cold and cough.
But there are other reasons why ginger is a remedial herb. Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee, Ayurvedic consultant with Satvikshop.com shares some top tips and methods to use ginger for various ailments. Read on to discover how you can use ginger for better health.
Why is ginger important?
Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee explains the importance of ginger, "Ginger is very popularly used in Ayurveda for its benefits in digestion and respiratory disorders. It is a wonderful carminative, ant flatulent, stimulant and expectorant." She adds, "Ginger has many useful minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, copper, zinc and few others."
Ginger as an appetizer?
Our specialist also makes a unique point about the benefits ginger, "When used before meals, ginger improves appetite by igniting jatharagni (digestive fire) due to its hot potency. It also enhances digestion due to its pungent taste and alleviates ama (toxins of indigestion) from the body."
Besides cold, ginger is useful for...
"Fresh juice of ginger is used to cure symptoms of cough and cold. It helps stop watery discharge from nose and help cure headache and fever associated with common cold if taken in tea or as decoction with basil and honey," Dr. Jaishree continues to list hidden benefits of ginger.
How is ginger beneficial for travellers?
"Ginger regulates digestive enzymes and improves assimilation and transportation of nutrients to body tissues. When kept in mouth before travelling it helps combat motion sickness."
Did you know, ginger is good for joint pain?
The doctor let's you in on a secret, "Dried ginger or sounth has analgesic and anti inflammatory properties which is used therapeutically to alleviate joint pain and inflammation in arthritis. Other than these situations, ginger is an excellent spice that can be used daily."
But there are other reasons why ginger is a remedial herb. Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee, Ayurvedic consultant with Satvikshop.com shares some top tips and methods to use ginger for various ailments. Read on to discover how you can use ginger for better health.
Why is ginger important?
Dr. Jaishree Bhattacharjee explains the importance of ginger, "Ginger is very popularly used in Ayurveda for its benefits in digestion and respiratory disorders. It is a wonderful carminative, ant flatulent, stimulant and expectorant." She adds, "Ginger has many useful minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, copper, zinc and few others."
Ginger as an appetizer?
Our specialist also makes a unique point about the benefits ginger, "When used before meals, ginger improves appetite by igniting jatharagni (digestive fire) due to its hot potency. It also enhances digestion due to its pungent taste and alleviates ama (toxins of indigestion) from the body."
Besides cold, ginger is useful for...
"Fresh juice of ginger is used to cure symptoms of cough and cold. It helps stop watery discharge from nose and help cure headache and fever associated with common cold if taken in tea or as decoction with basil and honey," Dr. Jaishree continues to list hidden benefits of ginger.
How is ginger beneficial for travellers?
"Ginger regulates digestive enzymes and improves assimilation and transportation of nutrients to body tissues. When kept in mouth before travelling it helps combat motion sickness."
Did you know, ginger is good for joint pain?
The doctor let's you in on a secret, "Dried ginger or sounth has analgesic and anti inflammatory properties which is used therapeutically to alleviate joint pain and inflammation in arthritis. Other than these situations, ginger is an excellent spice that can be used daily."
What food should you have on what day?
We suggest ideal foods for different days of the week.
Sunday
Apart from it being a weekly off for most people, this is also the best day to tuck into different kinds of foods including plants, meat and fruits as all of it radiate the Sun's vibrance.
Monday
Since it's the day of the Moon, which signifies the element of water, it makes sense to consume things that have a high water content like watermelon, cucumbers and pumpkins.
Tuesday
Mars is the planet that rules this day and it radiates heat. Try mangoes, dates and pineapples on Tuesday.
Wednesday
This day belongs to Mercury, which is a dual planet. Hence you can consume all kinds of food on this day
Thursday
The day belongs to Jupiter. Consume food that are orange or yellow in colour like oranges, lemons and bananas.
Friday
This day belongs to Mercury, which is a dual planet. Hence you can consume all kinds of food on this day.
Saturday
On the day of Saturn you can gorge on junk and oily food as the planet rules oil.
Sunday
Apart from it being a weekly off for most people, this is also the best day to tuck into different kinds of foods including plants, meat and fruits as all of it radiate the Sun's vibrance.
Monday
Since it's the day of the Moon, which signifies the element of water, it makes sense to consume things that have a high water content like watermelon, cucumbers and pumpkins.
Tuesday
Mars is the planet that rules this day and it radiates heat. Try mangoes, dates and pineapples on Tuesday.
Wednesday
This day belongs to Mercury, which is a dual planet. Hence you can consume all kinds of food on this day
Thursday
The day belongs to Jupiter. Consume food that are orange or yellow in colour like oranges, lemons and bananas.
Friday
This day belongs to Mercury, which is a dual planet. Hence you can consume all kinds of food on this day.
Saturday
On the day of Saturn you can gorge on junk and oily food as the planet rules oil.
Fiber of health
The banana tree is one of those few species where each part is used in some way or the other, be it the leaves which are used for eating food, the fruit which is eaten in the raw or ripe form, or the flower or stem which is also consumed.
Banana stem can be cooked or consumed raw in juice form. The stem is cooked in various ways in South Indian cuisine and in some parts of West Bengal. Dishes such as vazhaithandu usli (dry cooked banana stem with lentils), vazhaithandu kootu (banana stem cooked with lentils), vazahaithandu porial (banana stem tempered and garnished with coconut) are popular in Tamil Nadu. Thor chapper, a dish made of banana stem and lentil, is consumed in West Bengal.
Health benefits
Banana stem is a rich source of fibre and helps in weight loss. Its high fibre content creates a feeling of satiation and hence, reduces the intake of food. It also helps ease constipation. Banana stem is rich in potassium and vitamin B6 just like the fruit. Vitamin B6 helps in production of haemoglobin and insulin. Again, it improves the ability of the body to fight infection. Potassium helps in the proper functioning of muscles, including the cardiac muscles. It also helps prevent high blood pressure, and maintain fluid balance within the body. Banana stem is said to be a diuretic and helps detoxify the body. It is used prevent and treat kidney stones.
Banana stem juice is beneficial to health, according to Ayurveda. To make the juice, combine chopped banana stem and water and grind it in a mixer till it becomes smooth. Add some buttermilk and salt. Mix well and drink it immediately. It will be a little astringent and bitter to taste. Banana stem juice combined with buttermilk and taken on an empty stomach helps in weight reduction. The juice also relieves ulcers, burning sensation and acidity. Its astringent quality helps in blood coagulation. Banana stem is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and hence, is recommended in tropical climates.
Now, for a recipe.
Vazhai Thandu Paruppu Usili
(Banana stem cooked with lentils)
Ingredients
Banana stem, chopped finely: 500 gm
Toor dal: 125 gm
Channa dal: 35 gm
Dry red chillies: 2-3
Turmeric powder: quarter tsp
Refined oil: 50 ml
Asafoetida: 2 gm
Mustard seeds: 5 gm
Salt to taste
Method: Soak the toor dal and channa dal for an hour. Heat oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds. When the mustard crackles, add the chopped banana stem and cook on a low flame for 5-7 minutes until it is half cooked and begins to soften. Grind the soaked dals along with the red chillies, turmeric, salt, and asafoetida to a slightly coarse paste without adding any water. Add this to the semi-cooked banana stem and mix well. Cook on a low flame until the dals are cooked and the banana stem is soft (about 10-12 minutes). Adjust salt if necessary.
Banana stem can be cooked or consumed raw in juice form. The stem is cooked in various ways in South Indian cuisine and in some parts of West Bengal. Dishes such as vazhaithandu usli (dry cooked banana stem with lentils), vazhaithandu kootu (banana stem cooked with lentils), vazahaithandu porial (banana stem tempered and garnished with coconut) are popular in Tamil Nadu. Thor chapper, a dish made of banana stem and lentil, is consumed in West Bengal.
Health benefits
Banana stem is a rich source of fibre and helps in weight loss. Its high fibre content creates a feeling of satiation and hence, reduces the intake of food. It also helps ease constipation. Banana stem is rich in potassium and vitamin B6 just like the fruit. Vitamin B6 helps in production of haemoglobin and insulin. Again, it improves the ability of the body to fight infection. Potassium helps in the proper functioning of muscles, including the cardiac muscles. It also helps prevent high blood pressure, and maintain fluid balance within the body. Banana stem is said to be a diuretic and helps detoxify the body. It is used prevent and treat kidney stones.
Banana stem juice is beneficial to health, according to Ayurveda. To make the juice, combine chopped banana stem and water and grind it in a mixer till it becomes smooth. Add some buttermilk and salt. Mix well and drink it immediately. It will be a little astringent and bitter to taste. Banana stem juice combined with buttermilk and taken on an empty stomach helps in weight reduction. The juice also relieves ulcers, burning sensation and acidity. Its astringent quality helps in blood coagulation. Banana stem is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and hence, is recommended in tropical climates.
Now, for a recipe.
Vazhai Thandu Paruppu Usili
(Banana stem cooked with lentils)
Ingredients
Banana stem, chopped finely: 500 gm
Toor dal: 125 gm
Channa dal: 35 gm
Dry red chillies: 2-3
Turmeric powder: quarter tsp
Refined oil: 50 ml
Asafoetida: 2 gm
Mustard seeds: 5 gm
Salt to taste
Method: Soak the toor dal and channa dal for an hour. Heat oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds. When the mustard crackles, add the chopped banana stem and cook on a low flame for 5-7 minutes until it is half cooked and begins to soften. Grind the soaked dals along with the red chillies, turmeric, salt, and asafoetida to a slightly coarse paste without adding any water. Add this to the semi-cooked banana stem and mix well. Cook on a low flame until the dals are cooked and the banana stem is soft (about 10-12 minutes). Adjust salt if necessary.
How protein meal makes you feel full
Feeling full is not just limited to getting the uncomfortable sensation that your waistband is getting tight.
Investigators have now mapped out the signals that travel between your gut and your brain to generate the feeling of satiety after eating a protein-rich meal.
Understanding this back and forth loop between the brain and gut may pave the way for future approaches in the treatment and/or prevention of obesity.
Food intake can be modulated through mu-opioid receptors (MORs, which also bind morphine) on nerves found in the walls of the portal vein, the major blood vessel that drains blood from the gut. Specifically, stimulating the receptors enhances food intake, while blocking them suppresses intake.
Investigators have now found that peptides, the products of digested dietary proteins, block MORs, curbing appetite.
The peptides send signals to the brain that is then transmitted back to the gut to stimulate the intestine to release glucose, suppressing the desire to eat.
Mice that were genetically engineered to lack MORs did not carry out this release of glucose, nor did they show signs of 'feeling full', after eating high-protein foods. Giving them MOR stimulators or inhibitors did not affect their food intake, unlike normal mice.
Because MORs are also present in the neurons lining the walls of the portal vein in humans, the mechanisms uncovered here may also take place in people.
"These findings explain the satiety effect of dietary protein, which is a long-known but unexplained phenomenon," senior author Dr. Gilles Mithieux of the Universite de Lyon, in France, said.
"They provide a novel understanding of the control of food intake and of hunger sensations, which may offer novel approaches to treat obesity in the future," he added.
Investigators have reported the findings online in the Cell Press journal Cell.
Investigators have now mapped out the signals that travel between your gut and your brain to generate the feeling of satiety after eating a protein-rich meal.
Understanding this back and forth loop between the brain and gut may pave the way for future approaches in the treatment and/or prevention of obesity.
Food intake can be modulated through mu-opioid receptors (MORs, which also bind morphine) on nerves found in the walls of the portal vein, the major blood vessel that drains blood from the gut. Specifically, stimulating the receptors enhances food intake, while blocking them suppresses intake.
Investigators have now found that peptides, the products of digested dietary proteins, block MORs, curbing appetite.
The peptides send signals to the brain that is then transmitted back to the gut to stimulate the intestine to release glucose, suppressing the desire to eat.
Mice that were genetically engineered to lack MORs did not carry out this release of glucose, nor did they show signs of 'feeling full', after eating high-protein foods. Giving them MOR stimulators or inhibitors did not affect their food intake, unlike normal mice.
Because MORs are also present in the neurons lining the walls of the portal vein in humans, the mechanisms uncovered here may also take place in people.
"These findings explain the satiety effect of dietary protein, which is a long-known but unexplained phenomenon," senior author Dr. Gilles Mithieux of the Universite de Lyon, in France, said.
"They provide a novel understanding of the control of food intake and of hunger sensations, which may offer novel approaches to treat obesity in the future," he added.
Investigators have reported the findings online in the Cell Press journal Cell.
Finally, an E coli answer: It was the sprouts
After a month of searching and testing thousands of vegetables, simple detective work trumped science in the hunt for the source of the world’s deadliest E. coli outbreak. The culprit: German-grown sprouts.
Health officials announced on Friday that sprouts from a farm in northern Germany caused the outbreak that has killed 31 people, sickened nearly 3,100 and prompted much of Europe to shun vegetables.
“It was like a crime thriller where you have to find the bad guy,” said Helmut Tschiersky-Schoeneburg, head of Germany’s consumer protection agency.
Health officials said they tracked the bacteria’s path from hospital patients struggling with diarrhea and kidney failure, to the restaurants where they had dined, to specific meals and ingredients they ate, and finally back to a single farm.
There are more questions to answer, including what contaminated the sprouts in the first place: Was it tainted seeds or water, or nearby animals? The answer is still elusive.
Still, it was little surprise that sprouts were the culprit. They have been blamed in least 30 food poisoning cases over the past 15 years in the U S and a large outbreak in Japan in 1996 that killed 11 people and sickened more than 9,000.
While sprouts are full of protein and vitamins, their growing conditions and the fact that they are mostly eaten raw make them ideal transmitters of disease. Cultivated in water, they require heat and humidity, precisely the same conditions E. coli needs to thrive. Sprouts have abundant surface area for bacteria to cling to and washing won’t help if the seeds themselves are contaminated.
“E coli can stick tightly to the surface of seeds used to grow sprouts and they can lay dormant on the seeds for months,” said Stephen Smith, a microbiologist at Trinity College in Dublin. Once water is added to make them grow, the bacteria can reproduce up to 100,000 times.
Interviews with thousands of patients, mostly women ages 20 to 50 with healthy lifestyles, led investigators to conclude initially that salads could be the problem. .
Health officials announced on Friday that sprouts from a farm in northern Germany caused the outbreak that has killed 31 people, sickened nearly 3,100 and prompted much of Europe to shun vegetables.
“It was like a crime thriller where you have to find the bad guy,” said Helmut Tschiersky-Schoeneburg, head of Germany’s consumer protection agency.
Health officials said they tracked the bacteria’s path from hospital patients struggling with diarrhea and kidney failure, to the restaurants where they had dined, to specific meals and ingredients they ate, and finally back to a single farm.
There are more questions to answer, including what contaminated the sprouts in the first place: Was it tainted seeds or water, or nearby animals? The answer is still elusive.
Still, it was little surprise that sprouts were the culprit. They have been blamed in least 30 food poisoning cases over the past 15 years in the U S and a large outbreak in Japan in 1996 that killed 11 people and sickened more than 9,000.
While sprouts are full of protein and vitamins, their growing conditions and the fact that they are mostly eaten raw make them ideal transmitters of disease. Cultivated in water, they require heat and humidity, precisely the same conditions E. coli needs to thrive. Sprouts have abundant surface area for bacteria to cling to and washing won’t help if the seeds themselves are contaminated.
“E coli can stick tightly to the surface of seeds used to grow sprouts and they can lay dormant on the seeds for months,” said Stephen Smith, a microbiologist at Trinity College in Dublin. Once water is added to make them grow, the bacteria can reproduce up to 100,000 times.
Interviews with thousands of patients, mostly women ages 20 to 50 with healthy lifestyles, led investigators to conclude initially that salads could be the problem. .
Hip strengthening exercises lessen knee pain
An Indiana University motion analysis expert has found that hip strengthening exercises performed by female runners not only significantly reduced patellofemoral pain (PFP) - a common knee pain experienced by runners - but they also improved the runners' gaits.
"The results indicate that the strengthening intervention was successful in reducing pain, which corresponded to improved mechanics," said Tracy Dierks, associate professor of physical therapy at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
"The leg was going through more motion, suggesting that the (pain) guarding mechanism was reduced, and coordination or control of many of these peak or maximum angles in the leg were improved in that they were getting closer to occurring at the same time," she said.
The exercises, performed twice a week for around 30 to 45 minutes, involved single-leg squats and exercises with a resistance band, all exercises that can be performed at home.
The study involved four runners and a control group comprised of another four runners.
Hip strength measurements and kinematic data were taken before and after the runners in the control group maintained their normal running schedule for six weeks.
The measurements were repeated for all of the runners before and after the next six-week period in which they all performed the hip-strengthening exercises.
After the six-week program, the movement of the hips and knees in relation to each other improved for both groups of runners, demonstrating increases in joint angles between the foot, shin and thigh.
Dierks discussed his findings on Wednesday at the American College of Sports Medicine annual meeting in Denver. .
"The results indicate that the strengthening intervention was successful in reducing pain, which corresponded to improved mechanics," said Tracy Dierks, associate professor of physical therapy at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
"The leg was going through more motion, suggesting that the (pain) guarding mechanism was reduced, and coordination or control of many of these peak or maximum angles in the leg were improved in that they were getting closer to occurring at the same time," she said.
The exercises, performed twice a week for around 30 to 45 minutes, involved single-leg squats and exercises with a resistance band, all exercises that can be performed at home.
The study involved four runners and a control group comprised of another four runners.
Hip strength measurements and kinematic data were taken before and after the runners in the control group maintained their normal running schedule for six weeks.
The measurements were repeated for all of the runners before and after the next six-week period in which they all performed the hip-strengthening exercises.
After the six-week program, the movement of the hips and knees in relation to each other improved for both groups of runners, demonstrating increases in joint angles between the foot, shin and thigh.
Dierks discussed his findings on Wednesday at the American College of Sports Medicine annual meeting in Denver. .
Radiation dose limit for eye lens slashed
The lens of the eye is one of the most radiation sensitive tissues in the body. If the eye lens which is normally crystal clear receives a high enough radiation dose it may become partly cloudy or totally opaque depending on the dose. Radiation protection agencies have prescribed dose limits to the lens to prevent induction of lens opacity or cataract.
On April 21, this year, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) which issues recommendations on radiation protection, slashed the dose limit for the lens of the eye to 20mSv in a year, averaged over defined period of five years, with no single year exceeding 50 mSv.
Earlier dose limit
The earlier dose limit was 150mSv in a year. (Sv is a unit of biologically effective dose. The radiation energy absorbed in a sievert (Sv) is one Joule per kilogramme of material; since the unit is large, a sub-multiple such as one thousandth of a Sv or milliSv —mSv — is normally used).
Several studies over the past few years led the Commission to reduce the dose limit steeply.
There are three main forms of cataract depending on its anatomic location in the eye lens: nuclear, cortical and posterior sub capsular (PSC). Among these, PSC is the least common and is commonly associated with exposure to ionizing radiation. Radiation Effects Research foundation (RERF) describes the formation of radiation cataract thus: “There is a transparent layer of cells covering the interior frontal side of the capsule that covers the eye lens.
This layer maintains the function of the lens by slowly growing toward the centre, achieved through cell division at the periphery. Because irradiation is especially harmful to dividing cells, exposed cells at the equator are most prone to damage.
Unknown reasons
For unknown reasons, damaged cells move toward the rear of the lens before converging on the centre. Such cells prevent light from travelling straight forward resulting in opacity.”
So far, scientists believed that cataract will be formed only after the lens receives a typical radiation dose called the threshold. ICRP assumed that threshold was 2Gy for a single dose and 5 Gy when the exposure occurs in a protracted way.
Not any more. Recent studies appear to show the formation of radiation induced cataracts at much lower doses than the current standards. (Gy is the unit of absorbed dose; the dose is said to be one gray — Gy — when the ionizing radiation energy absorbed per kilogramme of material is one joule).
ICRP now considers that the threshold dose for cataract is 0.5Gy. ICRP also stated that although uncertainty remains, medical practitioners must be made aware that the absorbed dose threshold for circulatory disease may be as low as 0.5Gy to the heart or brain.
“Doses to patients of this magnitude could be reached during some complex interventional procedures, and therefore particular emphasis should be placed on optimization in these circumstances,” ICRP cautioned the specialists. The procedures include angioplasty.
The June 2010 on-line version of Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions and October 210 issue of Radiation Research have published studies on increased risk of cataracts among interventional cardiology professionals. Though the numbers of professionals monitored in the studies was limited, the results demand urgent action.
Chernobyl effect
Cataract analysis of 8607 Chernobyl clean up workers,12 and 14 years after exposure, indicated that posterior sub-capsular or cortical cataracts appeared in 25 per cent of the participants (Radiation Research, February 2007). Researchers found evidence of a dose threshold of less than 0.7Gy.
The researchers noted that the workloads tend to increase in catheterization suites. This, together with lack of training in radiation protection and unavailability or non-use of radiation protection accessories may result in doses to the eyes of cardiology professionals sufficient to cause cataracts.
Studies show that leaded glass alone reduced the dose to the lens by 5 to 10 times; scatter-shielding drapes alone reduced the dose rate by 5 to 25 times; using both reduced the dose rate by 25 times or more .
On April 21, this year, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) which issues recommendations on radiation protection, slashed the dose limit for the lens of the eye to 20mSv in a year, averaged over defined period of five years, with no single year exceeding 50 mSv.
Earlier dose limit
The earlier dose limit was 150mSv in a year. (Sv is a unit of biologically effective dose. The radiation energy absorbed in a sievert (Sv) is one Joule per kilogramme of material; since the unit is large, a sub-multiple such as one thousandth of a Sv or milliSv —mSv — is normally used).
Several studies over the past few years led the Commission to reduce the dose limit steeply.
There are three main forms of cataract depending on its anatomic location in the eye lens: nuclear, cortical and posterior sub capsular (PSC). Among these, PSC is the least common and is commonly associated with exposure to ionizing radiation. Radiation Effects Research foundation (RERF) describes the formation of radiation cataract thus: “There is a transparent layer of cells covering the interior frontal side of the capsule that covers the eye lens.
This layer maintains the function of the lens by slowly growing toward the centre, achieved through cell division at the periphery. Because irradiation is especially harmful to dividing cells, exposed cells at the equator are most prone to damage.
Unknown reasons
For unknown reasons, damaged cells move toward the rear of the lens before converging on the centre. Such cells prevent light from travelling straight forward resulting in opacity.”
So far, scientists believed that cataract will be formed only after the lens receives a typical radiation dose called the threshold. ICRP assumed that threshold was 2Gy for a single dose and 5 Gy when the exposure occurs in a protracted way.
Not any more. Recent studies appear to show the formation of radiation induced cataracts at much lower doses than the current standards. (Gy is the unit of absorbed dose; the dose is said to be one gray — Gy — when the ionizing radiation energy absorbed per kilogramme of material is one joule).
ICRP now considers that the threshold dose for cataract is 0.5Gy. ICRP also stated that although uncertainty remains, medical practitioners must be made aware that the absorbed dose threshold for circulatory disease may be as low as 0.5Gy to the heart or brain.
“Doses to patients of this magnitude could be reached during some complex interventional procedures, and therefore particular emphasis should be placed on optimization in these circumstances,” ICRP cautioned the specialists. The procedures include angioplasty.
The June 2010 on-line version of Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions and October 210 issue of Radiation Research have published studies on increased risk of cataracts among interventional cardiology professionals. Though the numbers of professionals monitored in the studies was limited, the results demand urgent action.
Chernobyl effect
Cataract analysis of 8607 Chernobyl clean up workers,12 and 14 years after exposure, indicated that posterior sub-capsular or cortical cataracts appeared in 25 per cent of the participants (Radiation Research, February 2007). Researchers found evidence of a dose threshold of less than 0.7Gy.
The researchers noted that the workloads tend to increase in catheterization suites. This, together with lack of training in radiation protection and unavailability or non-use of radiation protection accessories may result in doses to the eyes of cardiology professionals sufficient to cause cataracts.
Studies show that leaded glass alone reduced the dose to the lens by 5 to 10 times; scatter-shielding drapes alone reduced the dose rate by 5 to 25 times; using both reduced the dose rate by 25 times or more .
Enjoy the ‘fruit’ of your labour
Trinking a glass of orange juice a day can keep your skin glowing and keep cold away. Orange juice is known to contain a high percentage of Vitamin C, which is helpful in boosting the immune system.
So, you will be less likely to catch various illnesses, such as cold or flu. Also, medical studies show that orange juice may help lower both cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
What's your squeeze?
Don't mix sugar with orange juice. Always remember that you do not need to drink a whole lot of orange juice in order to get these healthy benefits. In fact, since orange juice is fairly high in calories, avoid drinking too much of the stuff. If you are drinking canned orange juice, then be sure to check the sugar content on the label when choosing orange juice if you really want to get the highest amount of health benefits from your orange juice and, ultimately, prevent weight gain (since high sugar levels can cause it).
Pulp fiction
It is often said that orange juice containing pulp tends to be healthier for the body, but it is an issue that is often debated. If you have a stomach condition, remember that orange juice is very acidic and for that reason, it may cause a stomach upset. Due to its acidity, orange juice can also cause tooth damage , if left uncared for.
So, you will be less likely to catch various illnesses, such as cold or flu. Also, medical studies show that orange juice may help lower both cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
What's your squeeze?
Don't mix sugar with orange juice. Always remember that you do not need to drink a whole lot of orange juice in order to get these healthy benefits. In fact, since orange juice is fairly high in calories, avoid drinking too much of the stuff. If you are drinking canned orange juice, then be sure to check the sugar content on the label when choosing orange juice if you really want to get the highest amount of health benefits from your orange juice and, ultimately, prevent weight gain (since high sugar levels can cause it).
Pulp fiction
It is often said that orange juice containing pulp tends to be healthier for the body, but it is an issue that is often debated. If you have a stomach condition, remember that orange juice is very acidic and for that reason, it may cause a stomach upset. Due to its acidity, orange juice can also cause tooth damage , if left uncared for.