Lychee Fruit Benefits and Nutrition Facts: The gift for a joyful life!

Delicious and juicy lychee or "Litchi" , translated from Chinese as ‘gift for a joyful life’, surely lives up to its name. The lychee fruit contains vitamins and minerals that promote a healthy diet.

Prevents growth of cancer cells:

Lychees is actually Natural Cancer Treatment, it helps 

The Reasons to Love Red Cabbage!

Red cabbage has 10 times more vitamin A than green cabbage but green cabbage has the upper hand when it comes to vitamin K, but they’re both good sources.

The rich red color of red cabbage is due to its concentration of anthocyanin polyphenols. These flavonoids are said to act as an anti-inflammatory, and play a therapeutic roles in a number of human diseases.

Vitamins:

Red cabbage is packed also with fiber, vitamin K, vitamin B6, potassium and manganese, and also contains thiamine, riboflavin, foliate, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Red cabbage is also a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals. A cup of cooked red cabbage will satisfy 85 percent of your daily vitamin C.

Antioxidants:

Researchers found that red cabbage was one effective treatment for diabetes in rats; more research is necessary to see if the same effect would apply to humans. With the highest antioxidant content include red cabbage, Even if you cook red cabbage, you can still get those disease-fighting benefits. Cooking generally increased levels of antioxidants among select vegetables. The color of red cabbage is a giveaway as to what's inside -- other antioxidant-rich foods include red grapes, dark berries and plums.

Considerations

Red cabbage has powerful nutritional properties that can help improve your health and may have the capacity to treat or prevent disease, but it's also important to rely on the other vitamins and minerals that a balanced diet provides. In addition to eating cabbage, have regular servings of other vegetables, fruits, grains, lean proteins and low-fat or nonfat dairy products to fulfill all of your nutritional requirements and stay in the best shape possible.

Cancer Prevention

Red cabbage belongs to the cruciferous, or Brassica, family that includes broccoli, turnips and Brussels sprouts. Cruciferous vegetables are the only source of sulfur-containing compounds called glucosinolates that are responsible for their bitter flavor. Glucosinolates are digested into isothiocyanates that reduce inflammation and fight bacteria. The red pigment comes from a flavonoid, cyanidin, that functions as an antioxidant. Both cyanidin and the isothiocyanates prevent some types of cancer by stopping the growth of cancer cells, inhibiting enzymes that activate carcinogens and helping cells repair damage caused by carcinogens. In April 2012, Vanderbilt University Medical Center released research results showing that breast cancer survivors who ate more cruciferous vegetables reduced their risk of dying by 62 percent.

Treat peptic ulcersCabbage is one of the best natural remedies for stomach ulcers (called peptic ulcers). A study at the Stanford University School of Medicine found that fresh cabbage juice is very effective in treating peptic ulcers. The anti-ulcer properties of cabbage are due to the high glutamine content in it.

Anti-inflammatory propertiesCabbage is good source of the amino acid glutamine and is believed to help those who are suffering from any type of inflammation.

Weight loss dietCabbage is a great diet choice for those who are looking for lose weight. One cup of cooked cabbage contains just only 33 calories. That’s why people who are on the cabbage soup diet can eat endless amounts of the soup without gaining weight, while still staying healthy.

Reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s diseaseRecent research has shown that eating red cabbage may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Red cabbage contains vitamin K and anthocyanin, an antioxidant to help reduces plaque on the brain, thus can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Skin caresThe antioxidants in cabbage help protect the skin from free radical damage known to cause signs of aging.

Relieve muscle sorenessCabbage contains lactic acid which known to help relieve muscles soreness.

To obtain the most health benefits of cabbage, avoid overcooking cabbage since it decreases its nutritional value especially vitamin C and the remaining nutrients will become more difficult to be digested. Cabbage can be eaten in various ways such as boiled, steamed, sauted, stir-fried or even roasted. But cabbage is most nutritious when eaten raw. Add sliced or grated raw leaves in vegetable salad for more taste.

Juicing with red cabbage:

Red Cabbage is an affordable vegetable that has a great amount of water, which means it’s perfect for juicing! Just like its red friend the beet, its best consumed on an empty stomach and is more easily digested raw vs. cooked.

Red Cabbage counts as a “green” for your green juice!

Our daily green juice does our body good, so it’s nice to know that red cabbage gives us the benefits of the “green” in addition to the “red”. It has a slightly bitter/earthy taste, so it’s best paired with a sweet companion, like carrots or an apple.

Jazz it up!

• 6 carrots


• 2 apples


• 1 small wedge red cabbage


• 1 inch ginger

Wash all produce. Cut the tops off of the carrots. Remove the stem and seeds from your apples. Juice and enjoy!

The 3 C’s (carrots, celery, cabbage)

• 3-4 carrots


• 2-3 stalks of celery


• I small wedge of red cabbage

Wash all produce. Cut the tops off of the carrots and celery. Juice and enjoy!

Purple Passion Juice

• 2 cups red grapes


• 1 cup blueberries


• ½ red cabbage


• 4 celery stalks


• 8oz of sparkling water (or filtered water)

Wash all produce. Juice. Mix juice with sparkling water in a pitcher (do NOT put water through juicer!) Makes 2 servings.

Sources:

http://www.livestrong.com

http://healthyeating.sfgate.com

http://www.healthonlinezine.info

http://www.fitsugar.com

http://www.877myjuicer.com

World's most expensive Cheese: Made from Donkey's Milk!

 

It is said that Cleopatra, Queen of Ancient Egypt, took baths in donkey's milk to preserve the beauty and youth of her skin. Legend has it that no less than 700 donkeys were needed to provide the quantity of milk necessary for her daily bath.



You could never imagine it but still it is true. Serbia produces the world's most expensive and rare cheese, that too from donkey's milk. The cheese, called Pule.

Donkey cheese is produced at only one farm in Serbia and is one of the world's most expensive foods.

Health Benefits Of Carrots!

Naturally sweet, delicious and crunchy, carrots are healthy additions you can make to the vegetable list in your diet. Indeed, these root vegetables come with wholesome health benefiting compounds such as beta-carotenes, vitamin A, minerals and anti-oxidants in ample amounts.

1. They are exceptionally rich source of carotenes and vitamin-A. 100 g fresh carrot contains 8285 µg of beta-carotene and 16706 IU of vitamin A. Studies have found that flavonoid compounds in carrots help protect from skin, lung and oral cavity cancers.

Health Benefits of Mangos!

“The king of the fruits," mango fruit is one of the most popular, nutritionally rich fruits with unique flavor, fragrance, taste, and heath promoting qualities making it a common ingredient in new functional foods often labeled “super fruits."

Health benefits of Mangoes

1.  Prevents Cancer:
Research has shown antioxidant compounds in mango fruit have been found to protect against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers. These compounds include quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat, as well as the abundant enzymes.

2.  Lowers Cholesterol:
The high levels of fiber, pectin and vitamin C help to lower serum cholesterol levels, specifically Low-Density Lipoprotein (the bad stuff) 

Is the Popcorn Diet Healthy?

There is a weight loss diet that focuses on just about every type of food out there, and popcorn is no exception. Popcorn is a handy food that is inexpensive, easy to make and high in fiber. Eating popcorn regularly, as long as there isn't butter or excessive salt added, can be part of a healthy, low-calorie diet for weight loss.
Buy a hot air popper and popcorn kernels, and use those items to make popcorn instead of using microwave popcorn in your diet. Pop the popcorn without using oil to keep it low-calorie.

Health Benefits of Raisins!

Raisins are very good for our health, in fact, they are considered to be one of the most nutritious dried fruits in the world.

Brain Food

One of the interesting health benefits of raisins is that it is a great brain food. Raisins contain high amounts of boron that is an essential mineral for a well-functioning brain. 100mg of raisins contains 2.2mg of boron, which is a potent brain-boosting mineral. Boron improves concentration, hand-eye co-ordination and enhances memory. Additionally, boron also helps promote the functioning of important minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

Blood Pressure

Raisins not only help purify blood and eliminate toxins but they also help reduce high levels of blood pressure. There is a significant amount of Potassium, a potent mineral said to be able to help lower blood pressure, in raisins. Potassium also helps keep in check the sodium levels in our body. Too much sodium in the body is one of the root causes of high blood pressure.

Health Benefits of Eating Kiwi Fruit Daily!

The kiwi is a small fruit that packs a wallop of nutrition. It contains more vitamin C than an orange. The national fruit of China, where it has been called a macaque peach, vine pear, or hairy bush fruit, among other names, it was introduced to New Zealand at the turn of the last century. The kiwi was called the Chinese gooseberry before its name was changed to kiwifruit upon its move to the USA in the 1960s. Currently, Italy, New Zealand, Chile, France, Japan and the United States are the world's top producers of kiwis. 

Amazing health benefits of bananas!

bananas have more nutrients and vitamins than apples. Its consumption can help people live healthier and more active lives through taking advantage of the energy and health benefits it can provide. Fresh bananas provide adequate levels of minerals like copper, magnesium, and manganese. Copper, along with iron, is necessary to produce hemoglobin.

Health benefits of banana fruit:

 

Keep blood pressure under check
Bananas are very rich in potassium yet almost completely devoid of sodium, and as such very well suitable to preventing high levels of blood pressure from overcoming the body. Blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors and indicator for heart disease.

9 Health Benefits of Almonds!

By Diana Herrington, car2.com

Do you know how beneficial almonds are for your health?

Almonds are my favorite nut. Most mornings I add 7 to 10 almonds to my breakfast.  Almonds are tasty and nutritious as most people will agree.

9 Health Benefits of Almonds:

1.  They reduce heart attack risk.
Those who consume nuts five times a week have about a 50 percent reduction in risk of heart attack according to the Loma Linda School of Public Health.

2.  They lower ‘bad’ cholesterol.
Almonds added to the diet have a favorable effect on blood cholesterol levels, according to a clinical study by Dr. Gene Spiller, Director of the Health Research and Studies Center, Inc.

Top 10 Health Benefits Of Olive Oil!

Olive oil is pressed from olives, which are mainly grown in the Mediterranean area. The oil is widely used throughout the world in cooking and baking, soaps and cosmetics, as well as in prescription drugs. Olive oil is available in several different grades, such as extra-virgin, virgin, pure, as well as refined olive oil.

Cold pressed extra-virgin olive oil is the healthiest, because it comes from the first pressing and is darker in color. The darker oils naturally are more expensive, but the benefits associated with them are well worth the extra price.

1. Naturally Nutritious

Cold pressed olive oil is all natural, and has not been exposed to heat or any other ingredients. This process leaves all the nutrients and antioxidants in their natural state, so that your body can obtain maximum benefits. The oil is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D, E and K. It is also high in omega fatty acids and antioxidants. These nutrients work together for the overall health of the body.

Why Whole Milk is the Healthiest Choice?

I drink whole milk and eat full-fat yogurt, cream cheese, and sour cream. Sure, full-fat dairy products taste better than the skim/fat-free versions, but I don’t eat them for the taste. I eat full-fat dairy because it’s better for my health and my weight.

Yep, you heard me right: I eat dairy products with all the fat god gave ‘em, and I do it because it’s good for me.

Here’s why:

1. Our bodies cannot digest the protein or absorb the calcium from milk without the fat.

2. Vitamins A and D are also fat-soluble. So you can’t absorb them from milk when all the fat has been skimmed off. (This makes fortified skim milk the biggest sham of all — you can pump fat-free milk full of a year’s supply of vitamins A and D, but the body can’t access them).

3. Milk fat contains glycosphingolipids, types of fats linked to immune system health and cell metabolism.

Nutritional Benefits of Wheat Germ!

By Uttara Manohar

A storehouse of essential nutrients, wheat germ is one healthy addition you can make to your diet. Here is a quick read on the health benefits of eating wheat germ.

The general term 'germ' refers to the core embryo or the kernel of a wheat grain. It is a rich source of protein, fiber, unsaturated fat, vitamin E, omega-3 / 6 fatty acids, vitamin B1, B2, B6 phosphorus, zinc, thiamine, magnesium, folic acid, and pantothenic acid.

The Goodness of Wheat Germ
1- Wheat germ helps in reducing blood cholesterol levels hence reducing the risks of further cardiovascular problems.

2- It helps to improve the storage of energy in muscles and also enhances the endurance and overall stamina of the body. 

Is Sesame Oil Healthy?

Sesame oil has been used for centuries in Asian cuisine. It has also been commonly used for medicinal purposes, especially in Ayurvedic medicine. It has a subtle nutty flavor and is used both as a cooking oil and condiment. Sesame oil is made from toasted and untoasted sesame seeds, with the oil from toasted seeds possessing a stronger sesame flavor. Sesame oil also has many health benefits that make it a good alternative oil to use in moderation.

Good Fats

Sesame oil is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. According to MayoClinic.com, eating foods rich in polyunsaturated fats helps cholesterol levels, lowers your risk of heart disease and reduces your risk for type 2 diabetes. Eating polyunsaturated fats has also been credited with reducing the risk for developing dementia. In a 2010 article in the “Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease,” researchers found that elderly people who consumed higher amounts of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats had a reduced likelihood of developing mild cognitive impairment, a precursor for dementia. 

6 Amazing Benefits of Juicing Vegetables!

Rediscover the benefits of juicing vegetables as an adult through a raw food diet. You can't have dessert until you eat your vegetables! Many of us often heard this ultimatum at dinnertime, while we were growing up. And for that reason many of us have developed a lifelong dislike for certain veggies, with leafy greens and spinach being some of the usual suspects. However, as an adult you can rediscover vegetables through a raw food diet and the benefits of juicing vegetables.

Why did we hate certain vegetables as kids? This could have been due to the preparation of the veggies. Perhaps they were canned, frozen, or overcooked. Yes, raw veggies can be an acquired taste after maintaining unhealthy diets for years. However, juicing vegetables produces a tasty and healthy drink.

Here are some of the biggest benefits:

1. Juicing optimizes the quantity of vegetables that you consume

It’s now recommended that we consume at least five full servings of vegetables every day, but  it's much more practical to juice than to eat two, three, or four pounds of veggies daily! 

8 Health Benefits of Ginger Tea!

Ginger is brown, fleshy, and has a pungent smell and a scorching taste. It is valued for its wondrous qualities that help cure a number of common diseases. Best consumed as tea, ginger is a perfect source of a number of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and magnesium. Ginger tea is best prepared with honey, lemon juice or peppermint. With all of the great benefits it offers, you can never go wrong with drinking a cup of ginger tea. Here are several of the known benefits of ginger tea.

1. Impedes Motion Sickness

Ginger tea can soothe nerves and prevent vomiting, as well as eradicate headaches and migraines. It also keeps you from being nauseous during a trip, so drink a cup of ginger tea before setting off on your travels.

2. Combats Stomach Discomfort

Ginger tea is ideal in assisting digestion, thereby improving food absorption and avoiding possible tummy aches from too much food intake. Unnecessary belching can also be thwarted by ginger tea. What’s more, ginger tea enhances your appetite when you’re feeling bloated, by helping to release gastric acids that aid in digestion. 

The Powerful Health Benefits of the Pomegranate!

One of the oldest known fruits, found in writings and artifacts of many cultures and religions, the pomegranate (punica granatum) is an original native of Persia. This nutrient dense, antioxidant rich fruit has been revered as a symbol of health, fertility and eternal life.

If you're not familiar with the pomegranate, it is a red fruit with a tough outer layer; only the juice and the seeds inside are edible. Pomegranate juice is available year round, but you can purchase fresh pomegranates in most grocery stores from September through January. When refrigerated in a plastic bag, pomegranates keep for up to 2 months. Try tossing the seeds on a salad for a brilliantly colorful, crunchy, and nutritious addition.

Seeding a pomegranate may seem like a lot of work for just a piece of fruit but think again. getting at those seeds may be well worth it. The pomegranate is a nutrient dense food source rich in phytochemical compounds. Pomegranates contain high levels of flavonoids and polyphenols, potent antioxidants offering protection against heart disease and cancer. A glass of pomegranate juice has more antioxidants than  green tea, blueberries, and cranberries.

Amazing Clinical Results
This fantastic little fruit recently made its way back into the news after some spectacular clinical results. Here's what you need to know: 

Anti-Aging Food Pyramid!

By: Chef Wendell

Concerned about how fast you are aging?

Maybe this new Anti-Aging pyramid will give you some helpful tips.

Eating foods that go against our nature is the same as driving your new car with the peddle to the metal constantly. Foods that are easy to digest benefit successful digestion and the complete absorption of all our required nutrients supplied by God's Universal apothecary.

Every food we eat leaves it's imprint on our health. Make every mouthful meaningful.

Making the Food Pyramid Work for You!

http://www.irishpride.ie

To make it a little easier to see what you should be including in your diet to make it healthy, nutrition experts have come up with the concept of the food pyramid. The idea is to eat more foods from the shelves which are larger and less from those which are smaller.

Scroll over the food pyramid to see how many servings you should be eating a day from the various groups.

• Bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and other starchy foods


• Fruit and vegetables


• Milk and dairy foods


• Meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein 

The anti-aging secrets experts use !

As experts on the skin and everything that can possibly go wrong with it, dermatologists are some of the best resources available to learn how to keep our skin healthy and youthful for as long as possible! They have their fingers on the pulse of science and technology and have access to the newest surgeries, injections, peels, creams, lasers, and much, much more. However, we have found that their main recommendations don’t involve any scary lasers, injections, or surgeries! Instead, they recommend good habits and simple life changes to what we eat and drink that we can all take to slow down and prevent the appearance of aging and even begin to reverse it.

Top Tips from the Experts:

1. Choose antioxidants.

Antioxidants are among the most highly recommended ingredients for skincare products. Most dermatologists consider antioxidants in moisturizers essential to target the damage caused by free radicals and help prevent future damage to our skin cells. Just as antioxidants are recommended for the skincare products we apply topically, they are also recommended for the foods we eat! Foods rich in anti-oxidants, including vitamins C and E, are a must for aging skin.  Green tea, fruits, and dark chocolate are among the antioxidant-rich foods that  help