20 foods you should always have in your kitchen

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Healthy pantry staples
Cooking healthy meals and choosing smart snacks is easy when you keep your pantry stocked with these healthy staples.
A well-stocked kitchen allows you to throw together a fast, flavorful meal after a long day. And, when you wake up and have to dash out the door for work, it pays to have grab-and-go breakfast and snack options on hand. We tapped registered dietitians, personal chefs, and bloggers for their must-have foods to always keep in their kitchens. (And yes, they’re all good for you, too.) Some you probably already have, while others you’ll want to add to your list.
Extra-virgin olive oil
Why? No surprise here—olive oil is one of the reasons why the Mediterranean diet is considered one of the healthiest in the world.

How to use it: Los Angeles-based personal chef Hallie Norvet recommends buying cold-pressed olive oil for the best flavor. Cook with it, but also drizzle over finished dishes, like grilled fish, pasta, and vegetables sides. (Just be sure not to go overboard. Even though it is good fat, one tablespoon still packs 120 calories.)
Nonfat Greek yogurt
Why? Greek yogurt is packed with 18 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving. Though it’s creamy and seems indulgent, it contains just 100 calories per serving.

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How to use it: Greek yogurt makes a great low-cal and low-fat substitute in recipes for mayo and sour cream, says Melissa Wieczorek, co-owner and chef of A la Maison Personal Chef Service in Newtown, Penn.

Canned olives
Why? They have a long shelf life, they can be thrown into a variety of dishes, and they have heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Go for all-natural without added sodium.

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How to use them: Throw them on top of salads, stir them into pastas, or try snacking on them. You can eat 10 for about 50 calories. “They’re perfect when you’re craving something salty, but it’s more satisfying than a fluffy cracker in your belly,” says dietitian Jenna Braddock, RD.

Honey
Why? It’ll last in your cupboard for years. And in addition to being a versatile sweetener, honey can serve as a hangover helper, cough soother, and more.

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How to use it: Sweeten homemade marinades and salad dressings. Braddock also likes to incorporate it into whole-grain baking. “Whole wheat flour can be denser, but adding honey in place of regular sugar keeps things tender and moist.” In recipes that call for sugar, swap in an equal amount of honey and reduce baking temperature by 25 degrees.

Beans
Why? Not only inexpensive, they’re also a great source of protein and fiber. (One cup of chickpeas, for example, contains a whopping 15 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber.)

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How to use them: Keep beans of all kinds in your kitchen. Gina Homolka of Skinnytaste favors chickpeas, black beans, and white northern, but what you stock in your pantry is up to you. Keep canned around for salsas and salads; dried to make larger servings that will last the week.

Quinoa
Why? For one cup of cooked quinoa, you get 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber for just 222 calories. Plus, the hearty whole grain is a good source of energizing iron and B vitamins. Chef and registered dietitian Allison Stevens also likes it because it’s one of the speediest grains to cook; it’s ready in 15 minutes.

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How to use it: Combine cooked quinoa with shredded chicken, chopped veggies, and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Or, eat quinoa hot as a substitute for oatmeal. Stir in almond milk, dried fruit, nuts, and drizzle with honey.

Eggs
Why? One egg contains six grams of belly-filling protein for only 70 calories. One study found that overweight women who ate egg breakfasts lost twice as much weight as women who started their days with bagels.

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How to use them: Hard boil a bunch at the beginning of the week for an on-the-go breakfast or snack with a piece of cheese and fruit, says Wieczorek. Or, throw a fried egg on top of a rice-and-veggie bowl or a salad for an extra dose of protein. You could also try one of these high-protein breakfast recipes that feature eggs.

Sea salt
Why? Although the CDC recommends limiting your salt intake, excess sodium is often a problem in prepared and processed foods, not the foods you cook yourself. Adding a sprinkle of salt to the foods you cook in your kitchen helps flavors pop.

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How to use it: Use just like you would regular salt. Norvet loves sea salt, which contains a higher mineral content than regular table salt.

Tomato paste
Why? “Tomato paste adds a great umami flavor, or a richness to food that you’re trying to keep low in calories and fat,” says Braddock. Even better: tomatoes, particularly tomato paste, are bursting with cancer-fighting lycopene.

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How to use it: Buy it in a can or in a squeeze tube and use it to add an extra layer of flavor to curries and stir-fries.

Bananas
Why? They’re economical, available all year, and supply a nice sweetness to foods like smoothies and plain yogurt without adding sugar, says Braddock.


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How to use them: For a quick snack, smear a banana nut butter or top on whole grain toast. Banana turning brown? Freeze it and whirl in your food processor until smooth for banana “ice cream.”

Fresh herbs
Why? Packed with a surprising number of antioxidants in their little leaves, they add a wonderful flavor to any dish. Herbs also give new life when used on leftovers or make already-prepared foods taste homemade.

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How to use them: Keep a variety around, says Wieczorek. Cilantro for Thai or Southwestern dishes; basil for Italian, rosemary for marinades or on roast chicken. (Try these recipes for fresh herbs To make sure they stay fresh, store in in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator (not wrapped in plastic) or stuff the sprigs in a glass of water like a vase. (It’s pretty, too!)

Chocolate
Why? Dark chocolate provides powerful disease-fighting polyphenols and has even been associated with weight loss.

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How to use it: “I always keep dark chocolate on hand, and not just for chocolate cravings,” says Wieczorek. You can also use it as a surprise ingredient in sauces. For example, throw one square into a braising sauce for meat to elevate the flavor. Try these 27 healthy chocolate recipes.

Garlic
Why? “Garlic allows you to add flavor to your dishes quickly and easily without unhealthy fats or processed ingredients,” Norvet says. 13

How to use it: Norvet buys the already peeled variety for fast chopping to add to soups, stews, sautés, stir-frys, and marinades.

Frozen shrimp
Why? Four large shrimp are only 30 calories and contain virtually no fat. Shrimp also offer up a hefty dose of protein.

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How to use them: Buy them peeled and deveined so they can be easily defrosted and incorporated into last-minute weeknight meals. Norvet loves them because of their versatility. She whips them up into shrimp scampi, shrimp tacos, shrimp salad, and bakes and grills them.

Mustard
Why? The condiment is packed with the immune-boosting mineral selenium and turmeric, a spice (that gives it its yellow pigment) with cancer-fighting properties.

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How to use it: Keep a couple different varieties in your refrigerator, says Norvet. That includes Dijon for salad dressings, sauces, marinades, and in a coating for breading chicken and pork. Grain mustard is another favorite as a spread on sandwiches.

Flavored vinegar

Why? This specialty ingredient is actually really versatile, says Braddock, and it’s heart healthy: “Vinegar helps open up your blood vessels to improve blood flow,” she says.

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How to use it: Flavors like blackberry or strawberry balsamic can be drizzled to brighten the flavor of salads for few calories (one teaspoon contains about five).

Oatmeal
Why? Known for helping to lower cholesterol numbers, research suggests oats may also help you control your appetite.

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How to use it: A bowl of oatmeal is a stick-to-your-ribs, wont-be-full-until-lunch way to start your mornings. Homolka also makes oatmeal smoothies: cook the oatmeal in water with cinnamon sticks, let cool and then blend with milk, ice, and a little raw sugar.

Herbs de Provence
Why? This easy-to-find dried herb blend features thyme, rosemary, basil, parsley, oregano, tarragon, marjoram, and lavender that adds a nice herbaceous seasoning for any dish, which is why this is one ingredient Stevens always keeps on hand.

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How to use it: Sprinkle on chicken, potatoes, grilled veggies. Also makes a great seasoning for eggs, combined with panko as a crust for fish, or on pizza.

Broth
Why? You can keep a carton in your pantry for a long time until you’re ready to use it. It’s low in calories (one cup contains 38) with 5 grams of protein.

How to use it: Whether chicken, beef or veggie, Stevens relies on these to make soups, stews, and chilies. It also makes a great substitute for oil when sautéing vegetables. Store leftover broth in ice cube trays in the freezer for quick access. When buying broth, Stevens recommends reading the ingredients list and avoiding those that contain added sugar and caramel coloring. Buy low-sodium whenever possible.

Ground chicken and turkey
Why? Buying lean ground turkey or chicken breast saves on saturated fat compared to ground beef.

How to use it: Stash in your freezer and thaw when ready to eat, recommends Wieczorek. It’s one meat that cooks in a zip and can be used in stir-fries, meat sauces, tacos, enchiladas, stuffed peppers, or rice bowls.

 

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behavioral science

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Turmeric the Root of Life

turmeric

Turmeric-Curcuma longa
The root of turmeric (Curcuma longa) which for centuries has been an ingredient of the Indian curry also has medicinal properties.
The main ingredient is curcumin and because of that spice has a strong yellow color . Contains vitamin B6 , B3 , folic acid and minerals .

Curcumin, stimulates the flow of bile, which helps in the breakdown of fats. Curcumin is a cure against inflammation and therefore reduces the pain associated with arthritis.
It has been proven that curcumin recommended as therapy for diabetes .

But recently in this spice has been found one until now undiscovered molecule called CNB- 001, which has incredible power over the brain, and in the recovery of the human body . The action of this molecule is not preventive but curative.

As one of the most important properties of turmeric still its diverse anticancer activity, particularly in the treatment of ovarian cancer and breast cancer.

Researchers, however, have expanded the list of healing powers of turmeric proving that helps in the prevention of colon and prostate cancer and helps in the treatment of leukemia, especially at children.

turmeric2

15 good reasons for adding turmeric in your daily menu:

  • – Has antiseptic and antibacterial properties , it is useful for disinfecting wounds and burns ;
  • – Excellent in the prevention of prostate cancer, at the existing prevents further development ;
  • – Inhibits the growth of breast cancer ;
  • – Turmeric is a natural prevention of melanoma; at the current kills cancer cells and prevents its further development ;
  • – Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia;
  • – Cleanse the liver in a natural way ;
  • – May slow or prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease ( destroys accumulated amyloidosis in the brain ) ;
  • – Prevents the growth of metastases in many cancers ;
  • – Natural remedy against pain ;
  • – Regulates metabolism and helps in weight loss ;
  • – In China has been used as a cure for depression for a long time ;
  • – Cure for arthritis ;
  • – Protects against cancer of the thyroid gland ;
  • – Accelerates wound healing and quickly restores the injured skin ;
  • – Assists in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin diseases .

Note:

  • – Pregnant women should consult with an expert before using turmeric .
  • – A study on animals has shown that turmeric reduces fertility . If a woman is trying to conceive or had problems with fertility , you should consult with an expert before using turmeric .
  • – If a person has a blood clot disorders, before use of turmeric should consult with a specialist.
  • – Children and people over the age of 65 years should use lighter products . Do not give to children under the age of two years .

Source: secretly healthy

Super tonic sore throat

32a4c939cf1483d54944e4adcb854b61Ingredients and Directions:

  • 1 30 oz. bottle Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
  • -1/4 cup chopped Garlic
  • -1/4 cup Onions
  • -1/4 cup Habanero peppers (or hottest peppers you can find)
  • -1/4 cup grated Ginger
  • -1/4 cup grated Horseradish
  • -2 T Turmeric
  • -1/4 cup elderberries

Preparation

  • Blend ingredients together for a couple of minutes
  • Then add a 1/4 cup of Elderberries.
  • let stand 6 weeks then strain. Pour liquid in dark bottle. You can store the tonic in a cupboard for long periods of time.No need to keep in the refrigerator.
  • You can also use it mixed with olive oil for a salad dressing.
  • Or a shot full on you stir fry.

*For sore throat, gargle a bit in the mouth and swallow.

*For an illness, such as a cold or flu, take about 2 droppers full or a Tablespoon every couple of hours.

*For daily immune support drink 2 droppers full/ 1 Tablespoon every day.
Build up tolerance to a shot glass full.

*Eat an orange, lemon, or lime slice after to ease the heat.

Source: secretly healthy

Food for weight loss: Cinnamon or dalchini

cinnamon

 

You may have believed that dalchini or cinnamon is simply added to a pulav or biryani to spice up their taste but that’s not the only things these little barks do. Cinnamon is one of those magical ingredients that helps you to heal from cough and cold and also lose weight!

Cinnamon does this by activating insulin receptors and stimulating various enzyme systems involved in the carbohydrate metabolism in your body, eventually regulating the level of blood sugar and increasing metabolism. It also helps to delay the passing of food from stomach to the intestines which keeps you satiated for a longer period of time and eventually reduces your food intakes.

How to add cinnamon in your diet

Tip#1: Include about one teaspoon of cinnamon in your daily diet by sprinkling cinnamon powder on food you eat – breakfast cereal, tea and coffee, fruits such as apples and pears or curds.

Tip#2: Combine cinnamon with honey in the form of a tea by mixing one tablespoon of each in half a cup of hot water. This tea should be drunk about 30 minutes before breakfast every day to see a noticeable weight loss.

Source: yahoo news

Food To Avoid During Pregnancy

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Eating well balanced meals is important at all times, but it is even more essential when you are pregnant. There are essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that your developing baby needs. Most foods are safe; however, there are some foods that you should avoid during pregnancy.

Raw Meat: Uncooked seafood and rare or undercooked beef or poultry should be avoided because of the risk of contamination with coliform bacteria, toxoplasmosis, and salmonella.

Deli Meat: Deli meats have been known to be contaminated with listeria, which can cause miscarriage. Listeria has the ability to cross the placenta and may infect the baby leading to infection or blood poisoning, which may be life-threatening. If you are pregnant and you are considering eating deli meats, make certain that you reheat the meat until it is steaming .

Fish with Mercury: Fish that contain high levels of mercury should be avoided. Mercury consumed during pregnancy has been linked to developmental delays and brain damage. A sample of these types of fish include: shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish. Canned, chunk light tuna generally has a lower amount of mercury than other tuna, but still should only be eaten in moderation. Certain types of fish used in sushi should also be avoided due to high levels of mercury. Please see Mercury in Fish for specific types of fish and further information on how to calculate mercury levels.

Smoked Seafood -Refrigerated, smoked seafood often labeled as lox, nova style, kippered, or jerky should be avoided because it could be contaminated with Listeria. (These are safe to eat when they are in an ingredient in a meal that has been cooked, like a casserole.) This type of fish is often found in the deli section of your grocery store. Canned or shelf-safe smoked seafood is usually OK to eat.

Fish Exposed to Industrial Pollutants: Avoid fish from contaminated lakes and rivers that may be exposed to high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls. This is primarily for those who fish in local lakes and streams. These fish include: bluefish, striped bass, salmon, pike, trout, and walleye. Contact the local health department or Environmental Protection Agency to determine which fish are safe to eat in your area. Remember, this is regarding fish caught in local waters and not fish from your local grocery store.

Raw Shellfish: The majority of seafood-borne illness is caused by undercooked shellfish, which include oysters, clams, and mussels. Cooking helps prevent some types of infection, but it does not prevent the algae-related infections that are associated with red tides. Raw shellfish pose a concern for everybody, and they should be avoided altogether during pregnancy.

Raw Eggs: Raw eggs or any foods that contain raw eggs should be avoided because of the potential exposure to salmonella. Some homemade Caesar dressings, mayonnaise, homemade ice cream or custards, and Hollandaise sauces may be made with raw eggs.

If the recipe is cooked at some point, this will reduce the exposure to salmonella. Commercially manufactured ice cream, dressings, and eggnog are made with pasteurized eggs and do not increase the risk of salmonella. Restaurants should be using pasteurized eggs in any recipe that is made with raw eggs, such as Hollandaise sauce or dressings.

Soft Cheeses: Imported soft cheeses may contain bacteria called Listeria, which can cause miscarriage. Listeria has the ability to cross the placenta and may infect the baby leading to infection or blood poisoning, which can be life-threatening. You would need to avoid soft cheeses such as: Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Feta, Gorgonzola and Mexican style cheeses that include queso blanco and queso fresco, unless they clearly state that they are made from pasteurized milk. All soft non-imported cheeses made with pasteurized milk are safe to eat.

Un pasteurized Milk: Un pasteurized milk may contain a bacteria called listeria, which can cause miscarriage. Listeria has the ability to cross the placenta and may infect the baby leading to infection or blood poisoning, which can be life-threatening. Make sure that any milk you drink is pasteurized.

Pate: Refrigerated pate or meat spreads should be avoided because they may contain the bacteria listeria. Canned pate, or shelf-safe meat spreads can be eaten.

Caffeine: Although most studies show that caffeine intake in moderation is OK, there are others that show that caffeine intake may be related to miscarriages. Avoid caffeine during the first trimester to reduce the likelihood of a miscarriage.

As a general rule, caffeine should be limited to fewer than 200 mg per day during pregnancy. Caffeine is a diuretic, which means it helps eliminate fluids from the body. This can result in water and calcium loss. It is important that you are drinking plenty of water, juice, and milk rather than caffeinated beverages. Some research shows that large amounts of caffeine are associated with miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and withdrawal symptoms in infants. The safest thing is to refrain from consuming caffeine.

Alcohol: There is NO amount of alcohol that is known to be safe during pregnancy, and therefore alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy. Prenatal exposure to alcohol can interfere with the healthy development of the baby. Depending on the amount, timing, and pattern of use, alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or other developmental disorders. If you consumed alcohol before you knew you were pregnant, stop drinking now. You should continue to avoid alcohol during breastfeeding. Exposure of alcohol to an infant poses harmful risks, and alcohol does reach the baby during breastfeeding.

Unwashed Vegetables: Yes, vegetables are safe to eat, so you still need to eat them. However, it is essential to make sure they are washed to avoid potential exposure to toxoplasmosis.

Source: American pregnancy

Typhoid – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

typhoid

The Facts on Typhoid

Typhoid, also known as typhoid fever or enteric fever, is an infection caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhi.

Across the world, millions of people are infected annually by typhoid, and about 200,000 of them die. The number of people infected with typhoid each year is very low in North America and the industrialized world, but typhoid is common in developing countries.

Typhoid is usually curable, but some bacterial strains are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics. Most people with typhoid in North America acquire it while travelling to developing areas of the world.

If untreated, about 10% to 16% of people with typhoid will die. This drops to less than 1%when people are treated promptly.

Causes of Typhoid

Typhoid is usually transmitted by water or food, in much the same way as cholera. People who are infected excrete live bacteria in their feces and urine. They are usually contagious for a few days before any symptoms develop, so they don’t know they need to take extra precautions. If they don’t wash their hands properly, the typhoid bacillus can be transferred to food or water and from there to another person. Also, it can be spread directly from person to person via contaminated fingers.

About 3% of infected people (treated or not) become asymptomatic carriers of Salmonella typhi. This means that they continue to shed bacteria in their feces for at least a year and often for life but don’t have any symptoms of typhoid. There are a small number of typhoid carriers in every country. Even Canada and the United States report dozens of locally transmitted cases of typhoid each year, though most cases in these countries are among travellers or people immigrating who are ill when they arrive.

Symptoms and Complications of  Typhoid

Symptoms usually appear 1 or 2 weeks after infection but may take as long as 3 weeks to appear. Typhoid usually causes a high, sustained fever, often as high as 40°C (104°F), and extreme exhaustion.

Other common symptoms include:

constipation
cough
headache
loss of appetite
stomach pains
sore throat

Rarer symptoms include:

bleeding from the rectum
delirium
diarrhea
temporary pink spots on the chest and abdomen
With antibiotic treatment, symptoms start to subside after 5 to 7 days, but without treatment they continue to get worse for several weeks, and more than 10% of untreated people may die.

A small number of people who recover from typhoid may have a relapse of their symptoms just a few weeks later. The second bout tends to be less severe than the first, and clears up quickly with further treatment.

Many people suffer from mild intestinal bleeding, but it is severe in only a small minority of cases. The main way typhoid kills is by causing perforation of the small intestines, causing bacteria to pour into the abdominal cavity. This condition is called peritonitis, and is often fatal.

Other complications of typhoid occur when a large number of bacteria get into the bloodstream, causing bacteremia. They can travel to the lungs, causing pneumonia, or to the lining of the brain (meningitis), the bones (osteomyelitis), the heart valves (endocarditis), the kidneys (glomerulonephritis), the genital or urinary tract, or the muscles. Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) can also occur.

Diagnosing Typhoid

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. If your doctor suspects typhoid fever, it is diagnosed by culturing, a blood or stool sample and, in rare instances, bone marrow. A blood test that checks for antibodies can be used to make a diagnosis. However, this test is not very accurate. Your doctor may do other tests to rule out other conditions that cause symptoms similar to typhoid.

Treating and Preventing Typhoid

Typhoid is treated with antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin),* which usually clear up symptoms in less than a week. People with severe typhoid also may be treated with glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone.

Very few people die of typhoid if they are properly treated. However, they are likely to be infectious for at least a week after symptoms pass. Some people remain infectious, excreting the organisms in the stool, for 3 months or more. The long-term carrier state is unlikely to occur except for those with gallbladder disease.

Careful hand-washing after bowel movements and prior to food handling will help prevent the spread of typhoid. Carriers may be treated with antibiotics for 4 to 6 weeks.

Typhoid fever can be acquired almost anywhere in the world, but it is very rare in developed countries. You have a higher risk of getting typhoid fever if you travel to developing areas such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Preventing typhoid is all about avoiding contaminated food and water. The same healthy practices will also help protect you from diseases such as cholera and hepatitis A, which are transmitted in the same way. Follow these guidelines to minimize your risk:

Boil or disinfect all water before drinking it – use disinfectant tablets or liquid available in pharmacies or drink commercially bottled (preferably carbonated) beverages.
Peel all fruit and vegetable skins before eating.
Keep flies away from food.
Watch out for ice cubes, ice cream, and unpasteurized milk, which can easily be contaminated.

Cook all food thoroughly and eat it while it’s hot.
Be aware of the “danger foods” – shellfish, salads, and raw fruit and vegetables.
Do not eat food or drink beverages from street vendors.

At present, vaccinations against typhoid provide about 70% protection for 2 to 4 years – the duration of protection depends on the vaccine used. The vaccine is available as an oral capsule or powder, and as an injection. Your doctor will determine what form is best for you or your children. Even vaccinated people must follow the food safety tips listed above. It is best to be immunized at least one week before possible exposure.

Source: Chealth

Revealed – how a father’s drinking habits can affect his son

alcohol-abuse

Do you regularly drink to excess? Even before conception, a son’s vulnerability for alcohol use disorders could be shaped by a father who chronically drinks to excess, a significant study indicates. ‘It is possible for alcohol to modify the dad’s otherwise normal genes and influence consumption in his sons, but surprisingly not his daughters,’ said senior investigator Gregg Homanics, a professor at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in the US.

In lab settings, male mice that were chronically exposed to alcohol before breeding had male offspring that were less likely to consume alcohol and were more sensitive to its effects. Previous human studies indicate that alcoholism can run in families, particularly father to son, but to date only a few gene variants have been associated with ‘Alcohol Use Disorder’ and they account for only a small fraction of the risk of inheriting the problem, Homanics said.

‘We examined whether a father’s exposure to alcohol could alter expression of the genes he passed down to his children,’ Homanics added. For the study, researchers chronically exposed male mice over five weeks to intermittent ethanol vapour, leading to blood alcohol levels slightly higher than the legal limit for human drivers. Then, they mated them to females who had not been exposed to alcohol.

Compared to those of ethanol-free sires, adult male offspring of ethanol-exposed mice consumed less alcohol when it was made available and were less likely to choose to drink it over water. The researchers plan to examine other drinking models such as binge drinking, identify how alcohol modifies the genes and explore why female offspring appear unaffected.

Source: health site

5 reasons why eating brinjals or baingan is good

brinjal

Brinjal or baingan as it is called in India, is a vegetable that is extremely high on nutrients and has many health benefits which makes it something you should try and eat at least once every week. A lot of people don’t like the taste, but if you cook it well, it can be extremely delicious too. Here are some of it’s top health benefits.

1. Brinjals prevent cancer
Fibre and antioxidants are just two of the nutrients that make brinjal a food that can keep cancer at bay. Fibre helps clear the toxins present in your digestive tract and has been found useful in the prevention of colon cancer. Additionally, the antioxidants help in fighting free radical damage to your cells which helps keep cancer at bay. Read more to find out the diet changes that can help keep cancer at bay.

2. Brinjals are great for weight loss
Brinjals are great for weight loss as they are low in calories with 100g of the vegetable containing just 25 calories. It is also rich in fibre which helps in promoting the feeling of satiety which means that eating a small serving will make you feel full and prevent you from overeating.

3. Brinjals prevent heart disease
Like most fruits and vegetables, brinjals too are great for your heart. Along with many nutrients, they contain bioflavonoids which controls hypertension and releases stress. Also, they have cholesterol busting properties thanks to a substance called chlorogenic acid.

4. Brinjals can keep your skin looking younger
As we age, our skin undergoes free radical damage which can cause the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on our faces. The antioxidants and vitamins present in brinjals can prevent this from happening. Additionally, it is also high in water which flushes toxins from your body and gives your skin a nice and healthy glow.

5. Brinjals are good for your brain
Eating brinjals can help keep prevent damage to your brain as it contains phytonutrients that can protect your cell membranes. These phytonutrients are also known to boost memory function and aid in transferring messages from one part of your body to another.

Apart from these benefits, brinjal is also known to have nicotine and thus helps in quitting tobacco. However, you’ll have to eat 10 kg of the vegetable to get as much nicotine into your body as a cigarette.
Source: yahoo Life style

15 Amazing Benefits Of Castor Oil For Skin, Hair And Health

castor-oil-and-bean

As a child, I remember my granny recommending castor oil for almost any problem. For her, it was the best home remedy for a host of ailments. Even today, the very mention of castor oil summons the numerous natural health benefits it provides. But before we delve into details, here is a quick brief about its origin.

Castor oil is extracted by pressing the seeds of castor plant, also known as Ricinus communis. It is a vegetable oil and the plant is largely native to Africa and India. The oil has been famous in the world over for centuries for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. The medicinal and therapeutic benefits of the oil make it a favourite across various industries.

Nutritional Value of Castor Oil:

The high concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, proteins and minerals found in castor oil, together make it highly beneficial.

The uses of castor oil are many for skin, hair and health. It also happens to be one of the most widely-used ingredients in various cosmetics, soaps, textiles, massage oils and even medicines.

Benefits of Castor Oil in Our Daily Life:

Castor oil is one of the few natural products that fight several ailments. Here are the 15 amazing uses and benefits of castor oil in our daily lives.

Castor Oil Benefits for Skin:

1. Skin Problems:

Castor oil is a boon when it comes to skin problems like sunburn, acne, dry skin and stretch marks. It also helps evade infections like warts, boils, athlete’s foot and chronic itching. To treat problems like sun burn, warts, yeast infections, fungal infections or acne, follow these simple steps:

Take a cotton wool ball
Dip it in castor oil
Apply directly to the affected skin area.
Leave it on for an hour
Wash off clearly after an hour.
Repeat this in the morning and night for faster results.
If the affected area is small – soak a band-aid in castor oil and apply it on the affected area. Finally cover it with a clean one.
If the affected area is large – soak a cloth in castor oil and place on the affected area for an hour before washing off.

2. Ring worms:

Castor oil effectively treats ring worms, a common and stubborn skin problem across all age groups. The active compound called undecylenic acid, found in castor oil, helps treat ringworms successfully. Here is a step-by-step guide to its use.

  • Dilute 2 teaspoons of castor oil in 4 teaspoons of coconut oil.
  • Alternatively, you can wash castor leaves in water and soak them in coconut oil for few hours, and then heat gently.
  • Apply over the affected area and cover with a cotton cloth.
  • Keep it overnight for best results.
  • Repeat this procedure until cured completely.

3. Wrinkles and Fine Lines:

Castor oil, when applied to the skin, penetrates deep and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. This in turn helps soften and hydrate our skin. It delays the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, making the skin smoother, softer and younger. The fine lines around the eye area can be treated with its application. For best results, apply it everyday, after washing your face, over wrinkles and fine lines. You may also apply castor oil for skin before bed daily.

4. Acne:

Castor oil is rich in Ricinoleic acid, which fights off the acne-causing bacteria. It effectively penetrates the skin layers, making it an excellent remedy for acne. To use castor oil for skin:

  • Wash your face with warm water, as this will help open your pores.
  • Simply massage your face in a circular motion with the oil.
  • Keep it overnight.
  • Wash off your face the next morning with cold water.

5. Moisturiser:

Castor oil is a wonderful moisturiser. The high concentrated fatty acids penetrate the skin easily. This helps remove dry patches and restores hydration of the skin. Only a little amount of castor oil is required for this purpose. The fatty acids in castor oil make it stand out amongst other vegetable oils. Castor oil finds uses in various industries but it is prized in skincare segment for its ability to quickly moisturise. So if you are looking for an inexpensive and natural skin moisturiser, you know what to reach out for!

Here’s a quick tip:

Apply a few drops on face.
Massage it well on your skin every night.
Just follow the above steps to wake up to smooth, supple and revitalized skin every morning.

6. Fade Scars:

Castor oil is often used for fading scars. Though it works slowly in this regard (needs to be used regularly to see prominent results), it can produce permanent solution naturally. Once again, the fatty acids come to rescue. They penetrate deep within the scar tissue and plump it out while encouraging the growth of healthy tissues around it. It helps the scar diminish slowly.

7. Stretch Marks:

Castor oil is perfect for treating stretch marks. Here are the directions to use:

Rub castor oil over the stretch marks on your stomach and thighs (caused due to pregnancy and/or excessive weight gain).
Apply it regularly to get the best results.
Castor oil is also used to induce labour.

8. Antimicrobial:

Castor oil works as an excellent disinfectant on open wounds. The antimicrobial properties make it effective for treating fungal skin infections, such as ringworm, minor cuts and scratches as well. It can be used as a first aid treatment because of its anti-itch and pain-relieving properties. These properties help heal and ease symptoms of minor skin infections.

Castor Oil Benefits for Hair:

9. Promotes Hair Growth:

Castor oil is the best remedy for promoting hair growth. It is often advised to apply it topically to the scalp for thick hair. You may mix it with coconut or almond oil. The oil boosts blood circulation to the follicles, leading to faster hair growth. The oil also has omega-6 essential fatty acids, responsible for healthy hair. For best results, apply the oil and leave it overnight after covering it with a cap for deep penetration. Wash it off thoroughly the next day. It also helps reduce split ends and controls hair breakage while conditioning and moisturising your hair.

10. Thickens Eyebrows:

Use of castor oil promotes hair growth and hence helps thicken your eyebrows and eyelashes. It stimulates rapid growth of hair. The unusual chemical composition of the oil helps to keep your eyebrow and eyelash hairs from breaking. Here are the directions to use:

  • Rub castor oil over your lashes and brows before bed.
  • Repeat this procedure every night to get best results.
  • An alternative way is to gently massage each eyebrow with castor oil for a couple of minutes
  • Leave it on for half an hour.
  • Use lukewarm water and a mild cleanser to wash it off.
  • This too needs to be done daily to achieve desired results.

11. Treats Scalp Infection:

Scalp infection can cause major hair problems like bald patches and itchy scalp. With castor oil’s anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, you can fight pathogens and micro-organism, responsible for such problems. Regular use will make your scalp infection-free.

12. Hair Darkening:

Castor oil works well in hair darkening. The humectant properties of the oil, combined with its nutrients, help lock in the hair moisture. Thus helping it appear darker. To use:

  • Take a pea-sized amount of castor oil
  • Mix it with your leave-in hair conditioner or hair mousse.
  • Each time you use it, apply evenly and distribute nicely over your hair.

Vitamin E found in castor oil is excellent for treating brittle nails and ragged cuticles. Massage a small amount of oil for 2-3 months and see the results for yourself.

Health Benefits of Castor Oil:

13. Constipation:

Castor oil is a powerful laxative useful for effectively treating constipation. For best results, have one teaspoon of pure cold pressed castor oil a day – for three consecutive days.

14. Arthritis and Joint Pains:

Castor oil is a great remedy for treating arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal massage oil for relieving joint pain, nerve inflammation and sore muscles. Here is a step-by-step guide for using it for joint pain.

  • Take a piece of flannelette or a soft cotton fabric and fold it into squares.
  • Soak it in castor oil.
  • Press out excess oil and place on the affected joint, taking care to cover with a plastic wrap.
  • Place a hot water bottle or heating pad on this – the plastic will save the bottle from getting oily.
  • Leave it on for an hour.
  • Keep the oil pad in a zip lock bag and store in the fridge – it can be used again.
  • This process should be repeated twice a week for positive results.

15. The Lymphatic System and Liver:

Repeat the above-mentioned steps, but with a larger piece of cloth, to relieve and drain excess fluids from lymph and liver. Place the pack on the abdomen and cover with a plastic sheet and an old towel. Place a pillow under your knees and lay flat on your back for at least an hour to get relief and better result.

16. Treatment of Mild Surface Tumours:

Castor oil has been scientifically proven to increase T-cells production in human body. As a matter of fact, it was recommended by the American psychic, Edgar Cayce, for treating mild surface tumours.

Other Benefits Of Castor Oil:

Apart from the above-mentioned uses, castor oil can also be used to cure problems like

  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Pain from Rheumatism
  • Gastrointestinal Problems
  • Menstrual Disorders
  • Migraines
  • Age Spots
  • Skin Abrasions

Inflammation
Castor oil has no side effects as such. However, if you want to use it internally, like to treat constipation, make sure you take the right dosage. It always better to consult your physician to avoid complications later. Make sure you read the instructions on the label before using it internally.

A Word of Caution:

As much as the castor oil helps in skin problems, it is highly recommended not to use too much castor oil on your face. This is because it is highly concentrated and too much of it can clog the pores, leading to skin irritation or breakouts. So don’t be too generous with its usage.

Advice:

Pregnant and lactating women, those with intestinal blockage or appendicitis should not consume castor oil. Kindly consult your doctor if you want to use this oil.

Hope you enjoyed reading this post on the benefits and uses of castor oil. Do leave your comments below and let us know how castor oil helped you.

Source: Style craze