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.

Home Remedies for Asthma

Asthma is a lung disease that causes difficulty breathing. Asthma can be either acute or chronic. Asthma attacks occur when there is an obstruction in the flow of air in the lungs.

Here are the top 5 home remedies for asthma. Also, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ginger

Ginger is a well-known natural treatment for various ailments including asthma. Researchers have found that it can help reduce airway inflammation and inhibit airway contraction.

Mix equal quantities of ginger juice, pomegranate juice and honey. Consume one tablespoon of this mixture two or three times a day.

Alternatively, you can mix one teaspoon of ground ginger in one and a half cups of water and take one tablespoon of this mixture at bedtime.

Cut one inch of ginger into small pieces and add it to a pot of boiling water. Let it steep for five minutes, allow it to cool down and then drink it.

To detoxify your lungs, prepare a fenugreek decoction by boiling one tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in a cup of water and mixing one teaspoon each of ginger juice and honey in it. Drink this solution every morning and evening.

You can also eat raw ginger mixed with salt.

Mustard Oil

When having an asthma attack, massaging with mustard oil can help clear the respiratory passages and restore normal breathing.

Heat some mustard oil with a little camphor.

Transfer it in a bowl and when it is comfortably warm, gently rub it on the chest and upper back and massage.

Do this several times a day until the symptoms subside.

Figs

The nutritional properties of figs promote respiratory health and help drain phlegm and alleviate breathing difficulties.

Wash three dried figs and soak them in a cup of water overnight.

In the morning, eat the soaked figs and drink the fig water on an empty stomach.

Continue this home treatment for a couple of months.

Garlic

The following garlic remedy can help clear congestion in your lungs during the early stages of asthma.

Boil two or three cloves in one-quarter cup of milk.

Allow it to cool to room temperature and then drink it.

Coffee

The caffeine in regular coffee can help control asthma attacks because it acts as a bronchodilator. Hot coffee helps relax and clear the airways to help you to breathe easier. The stronger the coffee, the better the result.

But try not to drink more than three cups of black coffee in a day. If you do not like coffee, you can opt for a cup of hot black tea. Do not use caffeine as a regular treatment though.

Health Benefits of Jaggery

Sweetening Agent:  The first benefit of jaggery is that it is a colorful, taste explosion when consumed, and secondly, it is a sweetener.

Energy Food:   Sugar and glucose is the proper carbohydrate, because they are very simple and are absorbed in the blood stream almost instantaneously to fill them with a sudden burst of energy. Jaggery is digested and absorbed gradually and releases energy over an extended period of time. This can provide the eater with warmth and energy for a more extended period without harming their internal organs.

Digestive Agent:  it is recommended to take a few grams of jaggery after a heavy meal or after eating meat because it facilitates digestion.  Jaggery activates the digestive enzymes and itself changes to acetic acid in the stomach, thereby speeding up digestion and making the process go very smooth, reducing strain on the intestines and digestive tract.

Cleansing Agent:  Jaggery effectively cleans the respiratory tracts, lungs, food pipe, stomach and intestines. It pulls out dust and unwanted particles from the body, while also giving relief from constipation, perhaps due to presence of fiber in it. Reducing constipation and stimulating the movement of the bowels further cleanses the body of the toxins which jaggery just cleaned out and prepared for excretion.

Source of Minerals: Unlike sugar, jaggery is rich in minerals, mainly iron with traces of other mineral salts. While most of the iron in jaggery comes through its processing in iron vessels, the other minerals come directly from the sugar cane juice.

Health Benefits of Cranberry Juice

Urinary tract Infections (UTI) :-  This juice helps to cure urinary tract infection .

Antitumor Effects :-Cranberry juice contains a high amount of salicylic acid which can help reduce swelling, prevent blood clots, and eliminate tumors.

Cardiovascular Health :- Cranberry juice can help lower the risk of heart related ailments and assist in sustaining cardiovascular health. The flavonoids present in cranberries have antioxidant properties and may decrease the threat of atherosclerosis.

Prevents Tooth Decay :-Avoid Respiratory Infections:  cranberry juice helps to inhibit certain strains of the Haemophilus influenza, which is a common cause of ear and respiratory infections in children. The juice inhibits the bacteria’s hair-like structures, inhibiting them from adhering to the surface of the skin.

Prevents Cancer :-Cranberry contains proanthocyanidins, which inhibit the growth of various cancer cells.  

Strengthens Bones and Teeth :- Although cranberry juice is a natural source of calcium.

Cures Cold :- Fresh cranberry juice is effective at fighting against infections. It cures sore throats and colds.

Good for Obesity :-Cranberry juice is rich in organic acids, which have an emulsifying effect on the fat deposits in our body. So, it is good for people who want to shed those extra kilos.

Prevents Kidney Stones :-The high amount of acid components in cranberry juice prevents kidney stone formation.

Peptic ulcers :- cranberry juice helps to cure peptic ulcer. 

Home Remedies for Gas

Cinnamon

Cinnamon will soothe your stomach and also prevent further formation of gas.

Add one-half teaspoon of cinnamon powder to a cup of warm milk. Stir it well and then drink it. You can also add some honey.

Alternatively, you can make cinnamon tea by adding some cinnamon powder to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for a few minutes and then drink it.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, used in the treatment of indigestion, can also help with gas. This remedy will soothe the stomach and give you instant relief. If apple cider vinegar is not available, you can try regular vinegar.

Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water.

Allow the water to cool to room temperature, and then drink it.

Ginger

Ginger is an effective indigestion treatment and is also great for relieving a gas problem.

Take equal parts of ground ginger, fennel, and cardamom. Mix them thoroughly. Now, take a cup of water. Add one teaspoon of this mixture and a pinch of asafetida (hing) in it. Drink this once or twice a day.

Alternatively, you can consume a little ginger juice mixed with a pinch of asafetida.

To prevent gas from forming, chew a fresh piece of ginger regularly after meals. You can also add small amounts of dried or fresh ginger to your food.

Drinking ginger tea can help control the formation of gas in the stomach. Boil one tablespoon of ground ginger in water for a few minutes. Drink this tea two or three times a day.

Another option is to add a few drops of ginger essential oil to any kind of base oil and rub it on your stomach.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk, especially when combined with carom seeds and black salt works as an excellent Ayurvedic remedy to relieve gas and flatulence.

Mix one teaspoon each of carom seeds (ajwain) and black salt in a cup of buttermilk. If you do not have carom seeds, use celery seeds.

Drink this solution.

Baking Soda and Lemon

One conventional home treatment for gas is the use of lemon and baking soda, which combined makes an effective antacid.

Put the juice of one fresh lemon in a glass and add some baking soda to it. This will cause fizzing. Add some more baking soda and a cup of water and stir it well so the baking soda dissolves completely. Drink this slowly.

For instant relief from stomach gas, you can add a small amount of baking soda to a glass of water and drink it on empty stomach.

Garlic

The pungent heating quality present in garlic helps stimulate the gastric fire and thus offers relief from stomach gas.

Try some garlic soup to reduce gas and help with proper digestion. For best results, use fresh garlic.

You can also boil some ground garlic in water for a few minutes, adding a small amount of black pepper and cumin seeds. Strain it and let it cool to room temperature. Drink this two or three times a day to see results in a few days.

Signs Showing That Your Blood Sugar Is Very High

HIGH BLOOD SUGAR CAUSES

Many factors can trigger the increase in blood sugar level, such as:

• An illness, such as a cold
• Stress
• Eating too much, such as snacking between meals
• A lack of exercise
• Dehydration
• Missing a dose of your diabetes medication, or taking an incorrect dose
• Over-treating an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Taking certain medicines, such as steroid medication

HIGH BLOOD SUGAR SYMPTOMS

High blood sugar does not automatically indicate diabetes. High blood sugar is only one symptom of diabetes. Some of the most common symptoms of hyperglycemia are:

• Dry mouth
• Always being hungry
• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Dry and itchy skin
• Daily fatigue or extreme tiredness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Excess abdominal fat/weight gain
• Recurrent infections
• Blurred vision
• Impotence
• Slow healing of cuts and wounds
• Nerve problems
• Stomach problems

7 Signs of Cervical Cancer That Women Need To Observe

Unusual discharge– is a common symptom of this type of cancer. When cancer starts growing inside the cervix, uterine cells lining starts secreting watery discharge.

Warts– Appearance of small warts -external or internal- is a red flag for some HPV, and it greatly increases chances of cervical cancer

Pain or bleeding– pelvic discomfort and bleeding also typical signs of cervical cancer. It comes because the walls of the cervix dry out and crack due to abnormal cell growth. But, rectal or bladder bleeding also occur though in more advanced stage. It means that any bleeding that comes outside menstrual period requires immediate medical attention.

Anaemia– often accompanies cervical cancer due to excessive bleeding. If you feel constantly tired and eating habits are the same, or heartbeat increases even  in  slightest effort, you must be  examined for anemia and the reason  for it

Urinary problems– Difficulty urinating is one more sign of cervical cancer. Swelling of cervix presses the bladder and kidneys impeding urine passage.

Continuous pain in the legs, hips or back– swollen cervix affect kidneys and bladder, but also internal organs. It puts  pressure on the blood vessels , inhibit blood flow to  pelvis and legs and therefore  producing pain and  ankles and legs swelling

Weight loss– Loss of appetite also weight comes along with most types of cancer. In this case swollen cervix puts pressure on the stomach, and leads to appetite and weight loss.

VERY IMPORTANT – that these symptoms can also be produced by other conditions. But, reporting to gynecologist is vital for early detection. Numerous risk factors can lead to contracting HPV infection, and it is found in both, men and women.

The best-known risk factors:

Being second-hand smoker

Multiple sexual partners

Unprotected sex

Low immunity

Health Benefits of Celery

Reduced blood pressure: Celery contains pthalides, which are organic chemical compounds that can lower the level of stress hormones in your blood. This allows your blood vessels to expand, giving your blood more room to move, thereby reducing pressure.

Reduced cholesterol: Eating celery every day may reduce artery-clogging cholesterol (called LDL or “bad” cholesterol). The phthalides in this herb also stimulates the secretion of bile juices, which works to reduce cholesterol levels.

Antiseptic: Celery seeds help in the elimination of uric acid because it is commonly used for its diuretic properties, meaning that it stimulates urination.

Healthy joints: Celery is great for people suffering from arthritis, rheumatism and gout.  It had anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain around the joints.

Prevents cancer: Celery contains phthalides, flavonoids, and polyacetylenes. These cancer-fighting components detoxify carcinogens. Celery also contains coumarins that enhance the activity of certain white blood cells, which can effectively stave off cancer as well.

Improved immune system: Celery is rich in vitamin C, which greatly boosts the strength of the immune system.

Reduces Asthma Symptoms: Vitamin-C prevents free radical damage and it also has anti-inflammatory properties that lessen the severity of inflammatory conditions like asthma.

Cardiovascular health: The notable presence of vitamin C, fiber, and other organic chemicals in the roots of celery promotes cardiovascular health.

Diuretic activity: Celery is rich in both sodium and potassium, and both of these minerals help to regulate the fluid balance in the body. Potassium also acts as a vasodilator, reducing blood pressure.

Relief from migraines: The presence of coumarins can provide relief from migraines.

Treats rheumatism: Celery extracts, which contain 85% 3nB, are effective for treating arthritis and muscular pains.

Diabetes Health: Celery leaves are also eaten for treating diabetic conditions, particularly because they are high in fiber, which has been shown to help manage diabetic symptoms.

Weight loss: Health benefits of celery include weight management. Regular drinking of celery juice before meals may help you to reduce your weight.

Nerve calming properties: Celery contains high calcium and due to this it is commonly used to calm the nerves.