Health Benefits of Bajra (Pearl Millet)

• Millet's are a great source of starch, making it a high-energy food. It is also an excellent source of protein and fiber.

• Due to essential nutrients such as methionine (an amino acid), B complex vitamins (niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin), folic acid, lecithin, potassium, magnesium, manganese and zinc, millets are very effective in several roles. Niacin reduces cholesterol while magnesium is essential for maintaining good heart health, as it lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart attacks.

• Pearl millet is a rich source of phosphorus, which plays an important part in the structure of body cells.

• Regular consumption of pearl millets help in preventing gallstones in women. Pearl millets are known to increase insulin sensitivity and lower the level of triglycerides.

• Regular intake of millets provides protection against breast cancer in pre-menopausal women.

• Millet's contain an essential phytonutrient, lignin, which is very beneficial for the human body.

• Consumption of pearl millets helps in minimizing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

KETOGENIC DIET

To be in the ketogenic state simply means that your lipid energy metabolism has not undergone any alterations. At this point, your body turns to your body fat to break it down for the energy required to keep the normal functions up and running. A ketogenic diet refers to any meal that orients your body to burn fat for energy production. It comes with both pros and cons.

PROS OF HIGH PROTEIN DIET

Reduce insulin level

Decrease insulin resistance

Reduce appetite

Reduce fat storage

Increase the amount of calories you burn daily

Lower cancer risk

Decreases neurological disease

Reduces PCOS

Greater endurance performance

CONS OF KETOGENIC DIET

Triggers Fatigue And Brain Fog

Altered Blood Lipid Profile

Triggers Micronutrient Deficiencies

Triggers Keto acidosis.

CONCLUSION

The Ketogenic diet can be a great way to lose for some people but not everyone. Although it has many benefits that outweigh the pitfalls, it is important to take care when you are switching to such a diet.

Health Benefits of Dandelion

Dandelion is a very rich source of beta-carotene This flowering plant is also rich in vitamin C, fiber, potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus. Dandelion contains protein too, more than spinach. It has been eaten for thousands of years and used to treat anemia, scurvy, skin problems, blood disorders, and depression.

Digestive Aid – Dandelion acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion, stimulates appetite, and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

Kidney – This weed-like super food is a diuretic that helps the kidneys clear out waste, salt, and excess water. This inhibits microbial growth in the urinary system too.

Liver – Dandelion has been shown to improve liver function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance.

Antioxidants – Every part of the dandelion plant is rich in antioxidants that prevent free-radical damage to cells and DNA.

Cancer – Dandelion acts against cancer to slow its growth and prevent its spread. The leaves are especially rich in the antioxidants and phytonutrients that combat cancer.

Diabetes –Dandelion helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels.

High Blood Pressure –Dandelion increases urination which then lowers blood pressure. The fiber and potassium in dandelion also regulate blood pressure.

Cholesterol –Dandelion lowers and control cholesterol levels.

Gallbladder – Dandelion increases bile production and reduces inflammation to help with gallbladder problems and blockages.

Inflammation – Dandelion contains essential fatty acids and phytonutrients that reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can relieve pain and swelling.

Immune System –Dandelion boosts immune function and fights off microbes and fungi.

Health Benefits of Curry Leaves

Skin Care:

Curry leaves can be quite beneficial for your hair as well and when boiled in cow’s milk provides relief from skin infection and heat rash. The herb also possesses the qualities of the herbal tonic and can be consumed along with honey of buttermilk in strengthening the functions of the digestive system.

Eye Disorder:

The fresh juice of curry leaves are also used as an eye treatment for certain eye disorders, especially in arresting the development of cataract.

Stomach Disorders:

Tender curry leaves (plucked fresh, if possible) are mixed with natural honey and consumed to ease any stomach discomfort or indigestion. They can also be mixed with other mild herbs to create a healthy herbal tea.

Cholesterol and Weight Reduction:

Eat a few curry leaves for cholesterol reduction every morning on an empty stomach.

Pregnancy:

Expectant mothers have also been using curry leaves to reduce the discomfort of morning sickness. This condition is usually seen in the first trimester of pregnancy. The changes in a pregnant woman’s hormones cause nausea that may lead to vomiting. A boiled essence of the bark is used to control nausea and prevent excessive vomiting. Chewing on fresh curry leaves is also beneficial for nausea, though the taste may be slightly bitter.

Hair Care:

Using curry leaves for hair problems such as dandruff, hair fall, and graying hair can be extremely beneficial.  It is believed that consuming curry leaves regularly can help give you strong, thick and dark hair.

Curry Leaves Nutrition Facts

Curry leaves contain iron, calcium, vitamin C, and phosphorous. It is also high in proteins, carbohydrates and fibers.

Remedies for Dark Patches

Remedies for Dark Knees and Elbows

1. Sugar

A sugar scrub will improve your elbow and knee skin tone. Moreover, it removes the dead skin and soothes your skin.

Instructions:

Take equal amount of olive oil and sugar and make a thick paste. Then, apply the paste on the area and rub it for 5 minutes. Afterwards, use warm water to rinse it off. Practice this treatment on a daily basis until you see improvements, then you can do it only once in a week.

2. Lemon

Lemon eliminates dead skin cells, improves the skin tone and regenerates the skin.

Instructions:

Use lemon juice directly to your knees and elbows and rub it for 2mins or so. Leave it on for 20mins. Then, wash it with warm water and moisturize the area.

3. Almonds

Almonds are very good when it comes to the skin toning.

Instructions:

Apply warm almond oil on the area and rub for 5 minutes. Repeat for several times a day for a several days. Moreover, you can make a mixture of yogurt and almond powder to make a paste. Apply the mixture on the area and wash it with cold water. This treatment should be practiced for 2 weeks, several times a day.

Remedies for Dark Patches on the Neck

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda removes the dead cells, improves the skin tone and can eliminate the patchiness on the neck.

Instructions:

Mix water and baking soda in the ratio or 1:3 until you get a thick paste. Apply the paste on the dark spots on the neck and let it dry. Then, rinse it well. Repeat twice a week.

2. Potatoes

Potatoes have the property to help your skin get a lighter tone. The catecholase chemical contributes to the healing power of the potato.

Instructions:

Grind the potatoes to get enough juice and then apply it to your neck. Leave it for 15mins and then wash it using icy cold water.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is an amazing remedy for reducing the dark spots and removing dry skin.

Instructions:

Get the gel out of Aloe Vera leaf and then use it on the neck. After that, rub it for about 20 minutes and wash with clean water. It is better to follow the procedure daily and repeat several times a day.

Benefits of Kalonji (Nigella sativa)

• Prevent Diabetes

• Boosting Memory

• Relieve Headache

• Cure Joint Pain

• Healthy Functioning of Kidney

• Cure Cough and Cold

• Promote Weight Loss

• Heal Cracked Heels

• Prevent Hair Loss

• Cure Liver Disorders and Jaundice

• Cure Anemia

Health Benefits of Mint Leaves

Digestion: Mint is a great appetizer or palate cleanser, and it promotes digestion. It also soothes stomachs in cases of indigestion or inflammation.

Nausea & Headache: The strong and refreshing aroma of mint is a quick and effective remedy for nausea.

Respiratory Disorders and Coughs: The strong aroma of the herb is very effective in clearing up congestion of the nose, throat, bronchi and lungs, which gives relief for respiratory disorders that often result from asthma and the common cold.

Asthma: Regular use of mint is very beneficial for asthma patients, as it is a good relaxant and relieves congestion. That being said, using too much mint in this way can also irritate the nose and throat.

Breast Feeding: For many women, breastfeeding is a beautiful part of raisinga child, but it can seriously damage your breasts and nipples.

Depression and Fatigue: Mint is a natural stimulant, and the smell alone can be enough to charge your batteries and get your brain functioning on a high level again.

Skin Care and Pimples: While mint oil is a good antiseptic and anti-pruritic material, mint juice is an excellent skin cleanser.

Memory Loss: A recent study explored the effects that mint has on alertness, retention, and cognitive function.

Benefits of Cloves

Benefits of Cloves for Teeth

• Relieves tooth pain
• Cures bad odour

Benefits of Clove for Digestive System

• Relaxes gastro-intestinal tract
• Prevents from acidity
• Stimulates salivary gland secretion

Benefits of Clove for Diabetes

• Keeps diabetes under control

Benefits of Cloves on Skin

• Improves skin health
• Reduces skin problems
• Removes acne
• Treats skin ailments
• Delays ageing
• Prevents from skin infection

Benefits of Cloves for Hair

• Promotes hair growth
• Good hair conditioner

Benefits of Clove Powder

• Regulates blood sugar level
• Regulates blood cholesterol level
• Relieves fever
• Cures cough problem

Benefits of Clove Oil

• Relieves pain & inflammation
• Relieves body pain
• Relieves ear pain

How to Get Rid of a Headache Fast

Water

If the cause of your headache is dehydration, you can easily get relief from the pain by re hydrating your body.

• Simply drink a glass of water at the first sign of a headache and continue taking small sips throughout the day.

• Along with water, you can have sports drinks. The electrolytes present in sports drinks can treat headaches caused by tension and dehydration.

When suffering from a headache, stay away from drinks like alcohol that can dehydrate your body.

Ice Pack

Placing a cold compress like an ice pack on your forehead will numb the pain, help shrink the blood vessels and improve circulation to the area. This particular remedy works well for headaches due to stress or sinus problems.

• Wrap some ice cubes or crushed ice in a thin towel. Hold it against your forehead for a few minutes. A bag of frozen vegetables can also serve as an icepack. Never apply ice directly on your skin as it can damage the skin.

• Alternatively, apply a cold cloth on your head and temples for 10 minutes and repeat the process for some time until you get relief.

Hot Water

Applying heat on the back of your neck can relieve headaches caused by stress. Heat relaxes tense muscles, thus alleviating the throbbing pain.

• Simply apply a hot water bag to the back of your neck or take a hot shower directing the water onto the back of your neck.

• Another option is to fill a tub with bearable hot water and put your hands in it for 10 to 15 minutes. This will improve blood circulation and thus give you relief from the headache.

• If you suffer from chronic headaches, you can dip your legs in a bucket filled with hot water for 10 minutes before going to bed.

Lemon

Lemon is a very effective and powerful ingredient to treat headache because it is refreshing and relaxing. Plus, it helps maintain the acid-alkaline balance in the body.

• Drinking warm water mixed with juice squeezed from one-half of a lemon will reduce the intensity of a headache. This particular remedy is beneficial for headaches caused by gas in the stomach.

• Another option is to apply lemon crusts, pounded into a paste, on your forehead to immediately relieve pain.

Apple

Both apples and apple cider vinegar can be used to fight off a headache. They help restore the acid-alkaline balance in the body. Furthermore, simply the smell of green apples can help reduce migraine headaches.

• When you wake up in the morning with a headache, eat a piece of apple sprinkled with some salt. Then drink some warm water.

• Alternatively, fill a large bowl with steaming hot water and add 3 to 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to it. Hold a towel over your head and take in the steam for 10 to 15 minutes.

• Another option is to add 2 teaspoons of some apple cider vinegar to a glass of water. You can also add a little honey and lemon juice. Drink it 2 or 3 times a day.

Health Benefits of Drinking Water

Water has one of the most important roles to play in maintaining a healthy body and some of its benefits of drinking water include:

PH Balance: The human body maintains a pH range of 7.35-7.45 for proper physiological processes. An acidic shift may lead to sickness and an inability of the body to assimilate vitamins and minerals. Thus, it should be above the value of 7, which is favorable to the body’s oxygen uptake, higher energy levels, and a better immune response to diseases. This is attainable by consuming lots of water.

Body Temperature: Much of the human body is made up of water and this fluid is responsible for the regulation of body temperature. We undergo perspiration in summers to dissipate the excess heat in order to lower our temperature. This temperature regulation property has been attributed to water as well.

Breathing: Water plays its role in distributing oxygen all over the human body while collecting the carbon dioxide from all these parts and dissolving these gases.

Metabolism: Water is the carrier of oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to the body’s parts and also provides a medium for the removal of toxins, dead cells, and waste material. The proteins and enzymes involved in various fundamental processes also require water for their proper functioning.

Constipation, Heartburn, Migraine, Gastritis and Ulcers: A number of disorders are related to water deficiency. Constipation, heartburn, migraine, gastritis and ulcers can all be prevented by drinking modest amounts of water routinely.

Kidney Stones:  2 liters or 10 glasses must be consumed each day to prevent the formation of kidney stones. Water is the best solvent and this property does not allow salts and minerals to accumulate to form stones. The salts reaching kidney gets diluted and eliminated in the urine.

Kidney Functions: The excretory material in the form of urea is highly toxic to body tissues and must be diluted before their passage. This is again done by the ‘universal solvent’ – water.

Skin Tone:  It has been established that proper water levels in the body prevent the body from experiencing dehydration. This in turn maintains the turgidity of the skin. A number of skin problems can be prevented by drinking adequate amounts of water.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Joints in the human body are prone to continuous friction and weathering. These can be maintained in proper shape by the intake of proper amounts of water. A decrease in water consumption may lead to rheumatoid arthritis.

Backaches: The back of our body rests on the spinal cord. The spinal disc core is made up of a large volume of water and dehydration, which leads to back pain in many individuals.

ALOE VERA FOR SKIN

1. Wash Thoroughly

Without peeling the plant, wash it thoroughly with water. Use clear water for washing as the leaf may be dirty.

2. Soften it

You may soften the leaf just by thumping gently on it. You can even use a roller for this purpose.

3. Cut it into two

After you soften the leaf, you should cut it into two. Don’t cut a very large portion as you can use the other half for the next time. So you should only the right amount that you want to use.

4. Cut the edges

To peel the leaf you first need to cut the edges of it using a knife. Cut the edges from both the sides, making the leaf open and easy to be peeled.

5. Slit it into two

As the edges are cut, you should slit open the leaf using your hands. If it doesn’t not open easily, you can also use a knife to slit through its center.

6. Scrape out the juice

Using a spoon you can take out the juice from the leaf. Take out as much juice as you can so that nothing goes wasted. Then, you should collect it in a container.

7. Rub all over your face

Using your fingers you should apply the aloe vera juice all over your face. You can even use the same leaf  to rub the mask throughout the face. Leave the mask to dry for about 15-20 minutes.

8. Wash your face

After the mask is dry, you can try to peel it off from your face. Then wash your face with clean water. Don’t use soap or any chemical for washing as it will defeat the purpose of using this remedy.

WHY WHEATGRASS?

Wheatgrass juice is an effective healer because it contains all minerals known to man, and vitamins A, B-complex, C, E, l and K. It is extremely rich in protein, and contains 17 amino acids, the building blocks of protein.

Wheatgrass juice can dissolve the scars that are formed in the lungs from breathing acid gasses.

It is a nutritionally complete food which will sustain the growth and development of laboratory animals and humans alike. Wheatgrass has what is called the grass-juice factor, which has been shown to keep herbivorous animals alive practically indefinitely.

Wheatgrass juice is a superior detoxification agent compared to carrot juice and other fruits and vegetables.

The starch of the wheat berry is stored energy which when converted to simpler sugars is a quick energy source. It is especially good for athletes because it is a juice and is assimilated in 20 minutes or less, and uses very little of the body’s energy to extract the nutrients…

Wheatgrass juice cures acne and even help to remove scars after it has been ingested for seven to eight months. The diet, of course, must be improved at the same time.

A small amount of wheatgrass juice in the human diet helps prevent tooth decay.

Wheatgrass juice held in the mouth for 5 minutes will help eliminate toothaches. It pulls poisons from the gums.

Gargle wheatgrass juice for a sore throat.

Drink wheatgrass juice for skin problems such as eczema or psoriasis.

Wheatgrass juice helps to keep the hair from graying.

Wheatgrass juice improves the digestion.

Wheatgrass juice is an excellent skin cleanser and can be absorbed through the skin for nutrition.

Wheatgrass juice can remove heavy metals from the body.

Wheatgrass juice is great for blood disorders of all kinds.

Wheatgrass is gluten-free because it’s cut before the grain forms.

Health Tips for Diwali

Stay hydrated: While runing errands, most of us forget to drink water. Low water intake can make one feel more tired and low on energy as this inhibits the absorption of other macro nutrients.

Clear urea: The clearing of urea gets inhibited by lack of water.  Urea is toxic for the body; excess urea will only drain one's energy. Low energy levels, makes us crave sugar. So, increase your water intake 15 days prior to the festive day by at least two to three glasses.

Food: Food is a symbol of hospitality and friendship throughout the world and Diwali is one festival, where we spend time with family and friends.  Try and avoid ghee laden sweets like ladoos, kaju katli, etc. Set an example by sending hampers of fruits and dry fruits. Fruits are less calorie dense foods, dry fruits are a better choice of fats, and they also contain a good portion of protein and vitamins.

Pre-Diwali party: Pre-Diwali parties are something one can’t avoid and most parties are incomplete without alcohol and fried starters, rich gravies with cream. Eating a heavy meal and alcohol slows down the metabolism. Avoid this by eating light throughout the day, so you end up consuming lesser calories. Choose salads, soups, fruits, grilled and roasted meats, egg whites, and complex carbohydrates like a whole wheat phulka. Cut out processed food like biscuits, bread, ready to eat porridge etc.

In the night, before stepping out for a party eat a good meal. This will prevent you from binge eating. Also, limit your alcohol intake. Avoid mixing your drinks with juices and aerated waters, which only add to the sugar content and promotes weight gain.

Dessert: If you are planning a party,  choose desserts made at home with skimmed milk and jaggery and honey.

Exercise: More importantly, do not give up on your exercise schedules, in fact for days during Diwali and for a month after Diwali, increase the duration of your exercise by 15 minutes. It is better to stay active and fit and simultaneously keep the weight gain at bay. Do include a few calming poses at the end of the workout to help re-energise your body and mind.

Frequent meals: Avoid consuming a huge meal at breakfast and lunch. Ideally, have more frequent meals, may be eight small meals to keep you going and elude the sugar surge.

Moderation: Moderation is key.Indulge in the festivities but eat right at the right time and in the right amount.

After Diwali: Many people resort to “Detoxification”. They starve themselves to quickly lose those extra pounds gained during Diwali. It’s very important to understand your body here and first access the situation. Is it your weight gain due to extra food intake? Or is it puffiness and bloating due to lack of sleep, rest and less water intake? Or is it avoidance of regular exercise that has caused the weight gain.

Detoxification is good for resting your system and cleansing your liver of the extra sugar, but at the same time it’s not the one stop solution. It can prove detrimental if done without the right goal and extended for a long time.

Follow a balanced diet, eat more veggies and fruits.Consume a lot of fluids in the form of plain water.

Sleep well: A well rested body will ensure the right assimilation and absorption of food and hence this will lead to an active digestibility and promote weight loss.

7 Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Symptoms

1. Get Your Fill of Water

One of the first things to do when you have a urinary tract infection is drink plenty of water. That’s because drinking water can help flush away the bacteria that's causing your infection.

2. Load Up on Vitamin C for a Healthy Urinary Tract

Getting plenty of foods high in vitamin C is important, because large amounts of vitamin C make urine more acidic. This inhibits the growth of bacteria. If you have an active UTI, taking vitamin C supplements may help.

3. Soothe UTI Pain with Heat

Inflammation and irritation from UTIs cause burning, pressure, and pain around your pubic area, applying a heating pad can help soothe the area. Keep the heat setting low, don’t apply it directly to the skin, and limit your use to 15 minutes at a time to avoid burns.

4. Cut Bladder Irritants from Your Diet

When you have a UTI, caffeine, alcohol, spicy food, nicotine, carbonated drinks, and artificial sweeteners can irritate your bladder further, making it harder for your body to heal. Focus on healthy foods, such as high-fiber carbohydrates, which are good for your digestive

5. Go Ahead, Empty Your Bladder Again

Every time you empty your bladder — even if it’s just a small amount — you rid it of some of the bacteria causing the infection.

6. Consider Herbal Remedies

You may find some relief from taking the herb uva ursi (bearberry leaf), which is used as a treatment for lower urinary tract infections.  It should be taken only for short periods of time — five days or less — as it could cause liver damage.

7. Change to Healthier Habits

Lifestyle changes matter because they can help you recover from a UTI and might prevent another infection,

• Quit smoking
• Wear loose cotton clothing and underwear
• Wipe yourself clean from front to back
• Choose only fragrance-free personal hygiene products

Remedies For Constipation

Coffee

This isn’t something that I would recommend as it doesn’t always work for everyone.

The reason coffee can help get rid of constipation is because it stimulates your digestive system to get moving.

This doesn’t mean that you should drink gallons of coffee when you have constipation, though. You shouldn’t drink more than two cups of coffee a day.

Exercise

There is no exact scientific evidence for this one, but many people who have suffered from constipation have said that exercising has helped to stop it and prevent it.

This is probably because moving your body will help stimulate the movement of your internal muscles too including intestinal muscles.

Baking Soda

Baking soda can work wonders for the stomach by neutralizing the acid in the stomach. It will also encourage the release of gas from the stomach which will provide some immediate constipation relief.

All you need to do is put 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a quarter cup of warm water and drink it.

Epsom Salt

Epsom salt will help to soften stools so they are easier to pass which will help get rid of your constipation.

All you need to do is put two teaspoons of Epsom salt in a glass of fruit juice or water and drink it. As well as a softening stool, Epsom salt will also encourage bowel muscles to contract.

You can use standard salt to soften stools however it won’t encourage bowel movements and so Epsom salt is best.

LOSE WEIGHT WITH GRAPES

 

• Prevents heart disease
• Helps you lose weight
• Helps prevent cancer
• Good for your eyes
• Prevents constipation: 
• Keeps you looking younger
• Good for diabetics
• Helps improve memory
• Boosts immunity

A 100g serving contains just 67 calories, and since the fruit is loaded with water and fibre, it’ll make you feel full and reduce hunger pangs for a long time.

Grapes have several antioxidants along with anti-inflammatory properties which makes it really good for preventing cancer.

Grapes have a sweet taste but they have a low glycemic index of 46 making it suitable for diabetics.

Antioxidants in grapes have been associated with reduced risk of uncontrolled immune response.