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Index


1 - 10 tips for good night's sleep

2 - 8 Effective Cold Prevention Strategies

3 - Prevent Bad Breath

4 - 12 Ways to Stay on Top of Stress

5 - Eye Care

6 - Custard Apple - Health Benefits

7 - Summer Care - Beat the heat with Fruit Juices

8 - Summer Care - How to Avoid Heat Exhaustion

9 - Health Benefits of Dietary Fiber

10 - Calcium Builds Strong Bones

11 - Some Very Common Vegetable

12 - How to Overcome STRESS

13 - The fear of Cholesterol

14 - Mango Health Benefits

15 - Almonds - A healthy and nutritious food

16 - DrinkinG HOt Water After Meals

17 - Ayurvedic-Natural Man's Health

18 - Ideal Diet For Working Women




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Regular Health Mistakes


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All of us make little health mistakes that cause damage to our bodies in the long run - simply because we are unaware we are doing something wrong. Here are some of the most common mistakes made by many of us.


Crossing our legs
Do you cross your legs at your knees when sitting? Although we may believe that this is the lady-like elegant way to sit, sitting this way cuts down circulation to your legs. If you don"t want varicose veins to mar the beauty of your legs and compromise your health, uncross your legs every time you realise you have one knee on top of the other. The best way to sit is to simply place both legs together on the floor, balancing your weight equally. If you feel like changing position, instead of crossing your legs, simply move both legs together to one side. As an alternative, you could also consider crossing your legs loosely at the ankles. This is a classically elegant way to sit, and is far better for your legs and your health than sitting with your legs crossed at your knees.


Not changing our toothbrush
How often do you change your toothbrush? Most of us wait until most of the bristles have either fallen off, or are in such bad shape that we"d be embarrassed to pull out our brush in public. However, since not many of us need to pull out our brush in public, we carry on with our frayed one until we lose it. Replace your toothbrush often. Damaged bristles can harm the enamel, and don"t massage your gums well. If you find brushing your teeth a pain like I do, but know you must do it, you might as well be doing it right. Imagine going through the annoyance of brushing your teeth twice a day only to find out that you"re damaging your enamel every time you clean your teeth. Also, use a brush with soft bristles unless your dentist has advised otherwise.


Eating out often
There are oils that are high in cholesterol, and oils that cause little harm and are better for your heart. However, no matter how light the oil is, it is never a good idea to eat too much of it. Avoid fried foods.Remember that in all probability your favourite Indian food restaurant throws a huge, HUGE chunk of butter in a tiny bowl of dal. Rita, who worked in the kitchen of a 5 star hotel, was shocked when she saw the cook chop a 500gm butter slab in half, and throw half into a Paneer Makhani dish. No wonder the customers left licking their fingers. And no wonder they felt so stuffed and heavy afterwards. Limit outdoor eating unless you know that you"re getting served light and healthy food.


Skipping breakfast
Never, ever skip breakfast. Remember, when you wake up in the morning it"s been around 10-12 hours since your last meal. Your body needs food now, more than at any other time. Eat a heavy breakfast. You will then be busy through the day, and the calories will get expended quickly. If you are trying to diet, eat a light dinner. Here are some more common health mistakes we make. Being informed and making a few changes can help make us feel a whole lot better.



High heels
High heels sure look great, but they're murder for your back. This however doesn't mean you should steer clear of stilettos. Wear them, but not when you know you will be walking around a lot. Wear them when going out for lunch or dinner - when the only walking you will be doing is to your car, to the table, and back. Avoid high heels when you are going somewhere on foot. If you are constantly tempted to wear your heels, take a good look at your flats. Is there something about them you dislike? Invest in a new pair of beautiful flats or shoes with a low heel. Buy something you love, that you will enjoy wearing. If possible, get a matching bag. You will then enjoy your flats as much as you do your heels.



Sleeping on a soft bed
You don't have to sleep on the floor be kind to your back, but do make sure you have a firm mattress. Although a mattress on springs is soft and lovely to sink into, it's bad for your back. If you already have an old bed with springs, you don't need to invest in a new one - simply get a thick wooden plank put over the springs, and place the mattress on the plank. Similarly, if your mattress is old and lumpy, throw it out and get a new one. Your neck and your back will thank you. The same rule applies to sofas. If you will be spending hours on a sofa, get a firm yet comfortable one. Sofas you completely sink into are not the best idea.


Pillows
No matter how comfortable sleeping with ten cushions is, have pity on your neck and resist. Sleep with one pillow, and make sure it is not too thick. If your pillow gets lumpy, discard it and go for a new one. Get a thin pillow if you sleep on your stomach, and something a little thicker if you sleep on your back, to give your neck adequate support



Not exercising
So all of us know we should exercise more, but many of us don't. This is a health mistake we consciously make! And why is that? Simply because we refuse to admit the damage we are causing to our bodies by not working out. A number of people only start working out once they've experienced a warning signal. Don't wait for a heart attack to strike before you decide to opt for a lifestyle change. Make the change now. You don't need to train for the marathon to be in top shape. Half an hour of brisk walking three to four times a week will make a world of difference to your health. You could then increase this to forty minutes, four times a week - and you're all set. If you haven't exercised for a week, you're making a mistake.

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10 tips for good night's sleep

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Stick to a schedule. Erratic bedtimes do not allow for your body to align to the proper circadian rhythms. Mum was right when she set a time we always had to go to sleep as kids. Also, make sure you try to keep the same schedule on weekends too, otherwise the next morning, you

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8 Effective Cold Prevention Strategies

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1. Wash your hands - The world we live in is filled with viruses and bacteria that can make us ill. Your hands are no exceptions. Wash your hands often to keep them clean. If you cannot wash them, at least use some hand sanitizer, such as Purel.



2. Drink hot fluids, especially in the morning - The rhinovirus incubates in the back of the throat and spreads in the upper respiratory area because it's cooler than the body temperature. Rhinovirus can't survive at 98.6 (hence it doesn't travel far down into the bronchi or the lungs). By drinking hot fluid (such as hot tea and lemon) you can prevent the virus from incubating.



3. Keep your hands out of your face - We have already discussed the germs and viruses on your hands. You cannot wash them continuously, so in between washings keep your hands out of your face. Your face is an open portal to your insides. Keep the germs away from your portal.



4. Drink water - Drinking more water is my answer to everything. Water will help clean out your body and keep it clean. It will also keep your body functioning at 100%. You should drink at least (eight) 8oz glasses of water everyday. This will also help you lose weight.



5. Eat your fruits and vegetables - There are phytochemicals and antioxidants in fruits and vegetables that can help strengthen your immune system and prevent diseases. You should eat at least four servings of vegetables and two servings of fruits every day.



6. Multivitamins - If you are not eating all of your fruit and vegetable servings, you should take a multivitamin to ensure you are getting all of the vitamins your body needs to function properly. Take a simple one-a-day multivitamin everyday.



7. Stay warm - Being cold weakens your immune system and makes your body more susceptible to illness. Look at the day

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Prevent Bad Breath
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Many people have bad breath without even realizing it. This can cripple your likelihood of enjoying a healthy social life, finding a significant other, and even advancement in your career. Halitosis or bad breath is mostly a result of poor hygiene and is completely treatable. It is quite easy to prevent and fix bad breath with the following guidelines.


Brush your teeth and scrape your tongue first thing every morning, and also after each time you take a nap. Foul-smelling bacteria have had a chance to take over your mouth while you slept, and are most likely causing yucky "morning breath." Tongue scrapers can be found in most health food stores, and also in drug stores and convenience stores as they become more popular.


After you brush your teeth and scrape your tongue, rinse your mouth thoroughly and gargle with fresh, cool water. This is a very important step, one that many people overlook. Nobody likes to smell your breath when it's laden with dirty, used toothpaste scum.


Drink plenty of water - Insuring that you drink plenty of water throughout the day can help to control bad breath (halitosis). This can be an especially important consideration for those people who suffer from xerostomia (chronically dry mouths).


      If you allow yourself to become dehydrated your body will try to conserve moisture by reducing its production of saliva. Saliva has a cleansing and diluting effect on the bacteria and bacterial waste products that cause bad breath. A reduction in the amount of saliva in your mouth can make it harder for you to control odors associated with your breath.


   Rinse your mouth with water often - Rinsing with water can mitigate bad breath problems for brief periods of time. Rinsing will both dilute and partially remove the bacterial waste products that are the cause of breath odors.


  Stimulate your mouth's flow of saliva - You can help to minimize bad breath odors by stimulating your body's flow of saliva. This is because saliva has a cleansing and diluting effect on the bacteria and bacterial waste products that cause bad breath.


      One way to stimulate salivary flow is to chew on something. Doing so will trick your body in to thinking that it is getting a meal. And in preparation for digesting this meal your body will increase its production of saliva.


      Chewing gum, cloves, breath mints, or lozenges can also be used to stimulate salivary flow. If you elect to use one of these products make sure it is sugar-free since sweets will promote the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.


   After you eat or drink anything (besides water), thoroughly rinse your mouth and gargle with water. Use this practice without fail, day and night, and you will keep abreast of nasty bacteria buildup in your mouth, which cause bad breath. Run your tongue along the surfaces of your teeth throughout the day, and if you ever notice any plaque buildup, brush your teeth again and rinse thoroughly with water, making sure that you feel your teeth, not plaque buildup, which is a contributing factor in bad breath.

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12 Ways to Stay on Top of Stress
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It takes a million years for one gene to change in our bodies. One million years! I'm bringing this up because, physiologically, we're the same humans we were 300 years ago. But look at how things have changed in that short time. Some things make life easier now: washers and dryers, transportation, abundance of food, electricity, etc. But some things make life today more insane: cell phones, traffic, increased population, fake food, TV, busy schedules. I heard a statistic from a doctor-friend that we make more decisions in one day than people used to make in a year. No wonder we're stressed out and reaching for doughnuts or alcohol to cope.


All this craziness and high-speed living isn't going away. Since we can't change our genes, we have to create a map to navigate this crazy life. What can you do to try and stay on top of the stress so it doesn't affect your health, happiness, or waistline?


1. Exercise.
Amen for endorphins. Believe me, they've helped me many days with my perspective. If you have to work out, then go take a brisk walk and get that blood flowing. It isn't about working out to lose weight -- it's about being healthy and staying sane.


2. Eat the real stuff.
Crappy food (fast, processed, and loaded with sugar) doesn't help your chemical brain and body handle stress. Living food, real food, helps support your mind and body while it's trying to deal with the million things coming its way. Every time I reach for the chocolate, I'm looking to feel something from it. Don't get me wrong -- if it's just a little here and there because I enjoy the taste of it, great. But if I'm using it the minute I feel overwhelmed, then that's when that food is no longer OK to eat. It doesn't make the problem go away, and then I just feel bad about eating the food to pacify myself. Grab green food instead. Put things in your mouth that are going to support your immune function and keep you levelheaded.


3. Notice.
Try not to let the stress overtake you. Recognize the situations that cause the stress and notice them coming your way. You have a better shot at fending off the full effects of the stress when you can anticipate it.


4. Get it off your chest.
Talk to a friend or partner about the stress. Sometimes just getting it off your chest can help unload some of the burden.


5. Keep your sense of humor.
If you do have the chance to talk about it, try to see the irony and humor in the wacky bits. I think someone is dead in the water once they lose their sense of humor.


6. Stay grateful.
My daughter has large lungs and verbal skills she likes to display. Just when I start to wishfully think about her being quiet, I remind myself to be grateful that she can talk to me at all. In almost all of our problems are boatloads of blessings. "Oh, I don't feel like going to the gym." Well, Amen that you have the means and the health to even be able to wrestle with the idea of going to work out. Make a habit of saying thank you. You will notice the sunny spots a lot more often, and not just the gray skies and storms.


7. Ask, "What's the hurry?" Have some fun.
We're always so busy going somewhere, we miss just enjoying the moment. If an opportunity comes your way to do something fun, take it.


8. Take a deep breath.
When you feel the stress getting to you, take a moment. Get away, even if it's just for an hour, to be with yourself and your thoughts. Some people like to take a walk, meditate, lock themselves away in a beautiful bath, or go to church. Find the peace and the silence.


9. Keep it simple.
Simplify where you can. Does Junior really need to be in 78 activities at the age of 5? Do you have to go to every little party or gathering you're invited to?


10. Turn of the TV.
A lot of it is bad news anyway, and it robs us of hours that we could use to be getting other things done. Since everyone complains that they have no time, get some by unplugging from the tube.


11. Sleep.
If you're rested, you have a better shot at handling things. Not to mention, you may not stress out as easily if you have a chance to recover at night.


12. Drink water.
I have said it before: Americans consume 21 percent of their calories through liquid consumption. Hydrate with water. Help you entire system function better just by drinking enough water. Oh, and by the way, if you don't think that weight loss and proper hydration have a relationship, think again. Shift the paradigm on its side -- don't think about exercise and nutritional eating just as something you have to suffer through to get into those jeans. Instead, think of them as armor that will protect you in this crazy world, with all of the bazillion details you deal with every day.

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Eye Care
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With so many of us spending lots of time in front of the computer every day it comes to no surprise that research is showing a rise in visual problems. What can one do? First, it

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Custard Apple  - Health Benefits
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Custard Apple or Seethaphal is a tropical fruit tree that grows easily. It was first culivated in West Indies. Its botanical name is 'ANNONA SQUAMOSA'. It is very popular in India. The pulp of the fruit is mixed with milk to make custard. As it has the taste of custard it is called 'Custard Apple'. The fruit has a peculiar aroma. Custard Apple is used to make Jams, Jellies and sherbets.


The plant is propogated by grafting as well as through the seeds. Grafted plants produce fruits from the first year itself. The plant usually flowers between March and July. The fruits should be plucked before they are ripe and stored for ripening.


Custard apple promotes digestion and is used as a cure for vomiting, diarrhoea, dysentry and vertigo. The unripe fruit is dried and powdered and is used as a cure for treating lice. The fruit is low in calorie content and contains minerals like iron, phosphorous, calcium and riboflavin.


The plant is a evergreen shrub and reaches a maximum of 6 mts. The plant bears flowers in the mature branches and the fruits develop in the mature branches and are usually round. The flesh is white and creamy with a sugary taste. The seeds are black in colour with a shine. The seeds are not consumed for they are slightly poisonous.

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Summer Care - Beat the heat with Fruit Juices

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Try out juices of grapes, watermelon, banana, jack fruit, lemon and pineapple during summer. Consumption of fruits and juices reduces body heat and benefits in controlling body temperature.


SUMMER is one of the six seasons of the year. Every two months will make a season or Ritu. Summer is in between the 16th May to 15th July. The strength of the body will be lost during this period. People feel tired and exhausted during the season due to extensive heat rays of the sun, the watery portion (or Kapha) of the body of people, animals, plants, foods and the entire environment will become dry and the vata will become more in the body and the atmosphere. The skin will become dry and may precipitate skin diseases as eczema..

What to Drink and Eat: One must drink the juices of grapes, watermelon, banana, jack fruit, lemon and pineapple. This is to say foods and juices of sweet and cold and easily digestible must be consumed. The preparations of sugar, barely/green gram, sharbats, buttermilk with sugar candy are to be used daily to cool the body. One must take the food of white rice with meat soup of meat of animals reared in cold areas.


The juices of dry grapes, cucumber, kharjura with Dalchini, Cardamom must be drunk along with pure cold water kept in a pot or a freezer or these must be kept at night in moon light and used along with buffalo's milk. Water with parijatha flowers and usheera can also be used for drinking.


- One must not take foods of pungent, sour, dry and salty foods. Foods of rice with milk, sugar candy, butter milk, lassie are good for good health. Ghee can be used.


- Coffee and tea are not all good as they stimulate the central nervous system. Taking them on empty stomach is harmful as they mix with acid and circulated all over the body producing several diseases.


- Alcohol is a hot drink and must not be used druing this season, either avoid it or drink it with plenty of water.


REGIMEN


One must spend time in a place surrounded by water and green trees, or mountains, with the family and children. Must sleep during day. Swimming is also advisable in a pond, lake or river. Stay exposed to moon's rays at night. Should wear light cotton clothes. Must have minimum coitus during this period.


Wear Pearls and flower garlands. Body must be anointed with sandal and usheera paste which cools the body. Cold-water bath is good for the body. Exercise must be limited. Avoid exposure to sun's rays especially during peak hot time.


Man is a microcosm of the universe that is macrocosm. Man is made up of Panchamahabutas in mini form and the universe is made up of Panchamahabutas in mega form.


Any changes in the environment of nature will have deleterious effects on the health of people. So one must adjust and adopt measures suitable for the particular season for maintaining good health.


In this season satvic type of foods is advocated to promote and to preserve good health.

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Summer Care - How to Avoid Heat Exhaustion
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Heat exhaustion leads to severe effects on skin and body. Care should be taken to avoid heat exhaustion and keep the body cool. The below tips and technics can be followed meticulously to safeguard from heat durin summer seasons


Get out of the sun, drink plenty of water. Ideally you should have plenty of water atleast half an hour before you go out into the sun.


Eat more fruits and vegetables. This is because they have fairly high water content and good salt balance. Drink diluted electrolytes.


People who sweat heavily tend to loose a lot of potassium and sodium. There are many over the counter electrolyte packs.


Avoid salt tablets, alcohol, caffeine, smoking and do not bare your chest.


Do not suddenly go out into the sun from an air-conditioned room or do the opposite. Learn to acclimatise slowly.


Dousing your head and neck with cold water will help if it is hot and dry.


Use a newspaper, handkerchief or a traditional hand held fan to keep yourself in cool breeze.


Wear light and light coloured clothes. the preferred coloured is white because it reflects the heat. Use cotton or polyester blends because such cloth material can breathe.


Use an umbrella or a hat, preferably one that also shades the neck and is well ventilated

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Health Benefits of Dietary Fiber
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In the modern era our life style has changed such that our food contains very little amount of fiber. The food that is devoid of fiber may pave way for disorders like constipation, colon cancer etc., Fiber is essential to maintain a healthy digestive tract. It aids in softening of the faeces and aids in quick passage through the intestines, reducing the chances of constipation and prevents colon cancer.


Dietary fiber is the undigested residue that is majorly represented by the outer material or the plant wall material. The dietary fiber has two main classifications like the soluble and insoluble fiber. The soluble fiber is one that dissolves in water and is sticky in nature. Diets rich in soluble fiber are fenugreek, lenthils, bananas, ladies finger, plums etc., The insoluble fiber is one that does not dissolve in the digestion process and in largely unchanged. The food rich in insoluble fiber are skin of fruits and vegetables, peas, wheat barn etc.,


Consumption of a fiber rich diet ensures the lower levels of serum cholesterol which causes heart problems. Researches have proven that the consumption of soluble fiber reduces the bad cholesterol in the body and also lowers the blood glucose levels and hence is beneficial for people with diabetes too. Fiber rich food is ideal for weight watchers as it is filling and low in calories too.


The fiber content in our diet should be gradually increased as the sudden loading of fiber into our diet may cause gastric disorders, abdominal pain etc., Too much of anything is bad, likewise, too much of fiber intake may prevent our digestive system from absorbing certain minerals like calcium, iron, zinc etc., One main advantage of fiber rich food is that they maintain their nutritive value at all stages either raw, chopped, mashed or ripe. Care should be taken to increase the fluid intake with your diet.


Some of the ways to add fiber to you diet are:

1. Start your day with wholesome diet like cereals, whole grains, dried fruits.
2. Make it a point to consume 5-6 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables.
3. Include more salads in your diet.
4. While snacking include fiber rich fruits and vegetables.

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Calcium Builds Strong Bones
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Bone building is a complex process that involves minerals and hormones that can be greatly influenced by dietary factors.


The bone thinning condition called osteoporosis can lead to small and not-so-small fractures. Although many people think of calcium in the diet as good protection for their bones, this is not at all the whole story. To protect your bones you do need calcium in your diet, but you also need to keep calcium in your bones.


How to get Calcium into your bones?
Get calcium from greens, beans, or fortified foods. The most healthful calcium sources are green leafy vegetables and lefumes. Broccoli, Brussels, sproouts, collards, kale, mustard greens and other greens are loaded with highly absorbable calcium and a host of other healthfull nutrients. The exception is spinach, which contains a large amount of calcium but tends to hold into it very tecaciously, so that you will absorb less of it.


Dairy products do contain calcium, but it is accompanied by animal proteins, lactose sugar, animal growth factors, occasional drugs and contaminants, and a substantial amount of fat and cholesterol in all but the defatted versions.


Exercise:
Exercise is important for many reasons, including keeping bones strong. Active people tend to keep calcium in their bones, while sedentary people lose calcium.


Vitamin D:
Vitamin D controls your body's use of calcium. About 15 minutes of sunlight on your skin each day normally produces all the vitamin D you need. If you get lettle or no sun exposure, you can get vitamin D from any multiple vitamin. Vitamin D is often added to milk, but the amount added is not always well controlled.


Reduce Calcium losses by avoiding excess Salt:
Calcium in bones tends to dissove into the blood-stream, then pass through the kidneys into the urine. Sodium (salt) in the foods you eat can greatly increase calcium loss through the kidneys. If you reduce your sodium intake to one to two grams per day, you will hold onto calcium better. To do that, avoid salty snack foods and canned goods with added sodium, and keep salt use low on the stove and at the table.


Get protein from plants:
Animal protein---in fish, poultry, red meat, eggs, and dairy products--tends to leach calcium from the bones and encourages its passage into the urine. Plant protein--in beans, grains, and vegetables--does not appear to have this effect.


Don't Smoke:
Smokers lose calcium, too. A study of identical twins showed that, if one twin had been a long-term smoker and the other had not, the smoker had more than a 40 percent higher risk of fracture.


Hormone supplements have serious risks:
Some doctors recommend estrogen supplements for women after menopause as a way to slow osteoporosis, although the effect is not very great over the long run, and they are rarely able to stop or reverse bone loss.


Reversing Osteoporosis:
If you already have osteoporosis, you will want to speak with your doctor about excercises and perhaps even medications that can reverse it.


Osteoporosis in men:
Osteoporosis is less common in men than in women, and its causes are somewhat different. In about half the cases, a specific cause can be identified and addressed: Steroid medications, such as prednisone, are a common cause of bone loss and fractures. If you are receiving steroids, you will want to work with your doctor to minimise the dose and to explore other treatments.


Alcohol can weaken your bones, apparently by reducing the body's ability to make new bone to replace normal losses. The effect is probably only significant if you have more than two drinks per day of spirits, beer, or wine.


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Some Very Common Vegetable
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Spinach
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Spinach is thought to have originated in ancient Persia (Iran). Spinach is a leafy green vegetable with delicate texture and jade green colour provide more nutrients than any other food. Although spinach is available throughout the year their season runs from March through May and from September through October when it is the freshest, has the best flavour and is most readily available. Spinach grows well in temperate climates.  Spinach can have either flat or slightly crinkled leaves.   Spinach grows well on well manured soil.  It is an annual plant. It is a reasonably priced vegetable and is affordable by people across all status.


It is often available as baby spinach, which is especially useful for salads. Spinach can be purchased fresh, frozen, or canned. Fresh spinach is sold in bunches or already washed and sealed in plastic bags. Spinach is usually very sandy and needs thorough washing. Trim the roots and then swish the leaves in a large bowl of water. A number of other greens that are similar to spinach are often sold in specialty stores. These include New Zealand spinach, which comes from a different plant family.  There are three varieties of spinach Savoy, Flat spinach and Semi Savoy spinach.


Spinach can be consumed cooked or raw. Baby spinach leaves are especially good in salads with cheese, walnuts, red onions, and a vinaigrette dressing.  Spinach still has a large nutritional value, especially when fresh, steamed, or quickly boiled.  Spinach cooks very quickly, and doesn

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How to Overcome STRESS
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Try out juices of grapes, watermelon, banana, jack fruit, lemon and pineapple during summer.


STRESS cannot be done away unless the cause itself is removed. Good health and stress free life is all that one craves for. According to the American Dietary Association, the main hazard of stress is not that we need more nutrients, but that anxiety or pressure can cause us to neglect proper dietary habits. Prolonged periods of stress lead to depletion of Vitamin C, B and D. Food changes our brain chemistry in a way that it influences our moods.


The key to our emotion lies in certain chemicals in the blood stream. These are called neuro-transmitters. These are produced from the nutrients in the food. Hence, the need for nutritious and balanced diet is a must to free ourself from the physical and mental diseases and relieve stress. A balanced diet should be defined from the nutritional point of view. As one which contains different types of food in such qualities and proportions; the micro-nutrients like minerals and vitamins and macro nutrients like proteins, fats and carbohydrates is adequately met. And a small provision is made for extra nutrient to withstand short duration of leanness (infections in the body).
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Health Tips and Technics

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The fear of Cholesterol
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Warnings about cholesterol has become often these days!!!!!!

Once you hear the word

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Mango Health Benefits
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The mango is the most commonly eaten and popular fresh fruit. The fruit flesh of a ripe mango is very sweet, with a unique taste. Mango leaves occupy a prime position in Hindu tradition. On festival occasions it is used to decorate the entrance of the house. Although it is believed that mangoes originated in southeast Asia however, it is cultivated in mostly all the tropical regions.


The mango is an excellent nutritional source, containing many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Magneferin and lactase in mangoes aid in digestion and intestinal health. Mangoes are rich in vitamin A and have good amounts of vitamins B and C as well as Potassium, Calcium and Iron. Mangoes are high in water content. Mangoes also supply ample potassium, making them ideal for hypertensive patients or anyone looking to replenish energy after physical activity. Mangoes are a rich source of fibre and prevents colon cancer. The high iron content in mangoes aid in treatment of anaemia and are beneficial to women during pregnancy. People who suffer from muscle cramps, stress, and heart problems can benefit from the high potassium and magnesium content. Mangoes are said to be good for the skin too. Ripe mangoes are rich in Beta-carotene which helps prevent heart diseases. Raw mangoes are rich in 'Vitamin C'. Mangoes also aid in maintaining low cholesterol levels.


Mangoes can be eaten both raw and ripe. Mangoes in pickled form are most popular. There are many varieties of mangoes and 'Alphonso' is said to be topping the list. It is cultivated in 'Ratnagiri' in India and is exported world wide. Mangoes are generally plucked when raw and are stored in cool dry places to ripen. Once ripe they impart a sweet fragrance the fruit changes to a bright yellowish-orange colour. Sweetened and dehydrated mango pulp is a available in the market and makes a good dessert. There are many thirst quenchers like juices and milk shakes that are prepared from mangoes. Mango jams are also very delicious to eat.
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Health Tips and Technics

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Almonds - A healthy and nutritious food

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Consumption of Almond lowers cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of lifestyle diseases and gives overall wellness.


In Italy wedding hosts often gave sugar-coated almonds wrapped in shear fabric to their guests symbolising good health, fertility, romance, fortune and happiness.


Throughout history, almonds have maintained religious, ethnic and social significance. Almonds are appreciated as a staple in the Indian culture not only for their crunch, but also for their nutritional qualities and their health sustaining properties.


A seed from the stone fruit family, almonds are a rich source of nutrients, most notably Vitamin E and protein. A research conducted over the past decade has shown strong links of almond consumption with lowering cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of lifestyle diseases, and overall wellness. Research into nuts has been so extensive that a qualified health claims for certain nuts such as almonds; ability to reduce the risk of heart disease has been approved by the Food and Drug administration in the US.


- Almonds help in fighting diabetes and heart Diseases: The presence of powerful nutrients like proteins, dietary fibre, mono unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and Vitamin E make almond a rich diet source for combating degenerative diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases.


- Almonds are the best source of alpha-tocopherol form of Vitamin-E: Almonds are among the best whole food sources and the bet nut source of alphatocepherol form of Vitamin E. The U.S. National Academy of Science (NAS) recommends consuming 15 milligrams of alpha tocopherol Vitamin E per day. Alpha-tocopherol is one of the form of Vitamin E that is most effeciciently used by the human body.


- Almonds are a great cholestrol lowering food: Nearly 70 percent of the fat in almonds is mono saturated, a suggested substitute to saturated fats, to reduce the cholesterol levels. Research also shows that almond and almond oil have similar cholesterol-lowering effects. Infact eating almonds consistently lowers total and LDL cholesterol respectively by four and five percent. This cholesterol lowering effect is similar to heart healthy foods such as oats and soy.

Almonds can be consumed in various ways. Their delicious tasty flavour relieves the monotony of the regular diets for diabetic and heart patients. Whereas there are still some myths associated with almonds that part us with the wide range of health benefits that this tiny fruit offers. Some of the common myths and their explanations listed below will help you do away with them.


- Almonds should be soaked and peeled before eating: There is no scientific basis linking the practice of soaking almonds. The almond skin contains fibre, which is good for digestion. This is a misconception that you need to peel almonds before consuming but the fact is that the skin of the almonds contributes to a significant part of the fibre content, a nutrient important for regular bowel movement. The kin also contains anti-oxidants.


- Consumption of almonds results in weight gain:
Latest research has shown that a moderate-fat almind-containing diet results in greater satiety and sustained weight loss as compared to a low fat diet containing the same amount of daily calories.


- Almonds can be consumed only in winters: Almonds can be consumed throughout the year. Infact, a nutritious diet consisting of almonds has been shown to be beneficial in combating lifestyle diseases such as cardiovascular disease and obesity. The common belief that almonds cause body heat has not been verified scientifically. But in peak summers, you can also consume almonds in the form of "Badam Sharbat" or "Thandai".

from health tips technics

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DrinkinG HOt Water After Meals
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This is a very good article. Not only about the hot water after your meal, but about heart attacks. The Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals, not cold water, maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating.

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this "sludge" reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine . Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer . It is best to drink hot soup or hot water/tea after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks - You should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line.

You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. 60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know, the better chance we could survive.

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Ayurvedic-Natural Man's Health
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Half teaspoon of ginger juice and honey with a half boiled egg is to be taken for one month. It tones up the sex organs and cures impotency, premature ejaculation and spermatorrhoea, or involuntary seminal discharge.

Coriander seeds check excessive menstrual flow. Ten grams of the seeds should be boiled in a liter water till to reduce to half. Add sugar to taste and drink hot 1/2 glass thrice.



Cardamom(Elettaria Cardamomum)Chhoti elaichi -Impotency and premature ejaculation.

Cardamom is useful in sexual dysfunctions like impotency and premature ejaculation. A pinch of powdered a cardamom seeds boiled in a glass of milk, cool, add a tsp of honey and drink every night would yield excellent results. Over dose results anti effect.

Safed Musli : Amongst medicinal plants, Safed Musli is considered as a Divya Aushad, a nature's gift and God-given wonder drug for powerful sex as well as general debility. It is rich source of over 25 alkaloids, vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, steroid and polysaccharides etc. It is one of the chief ingredients in the preparation of many Ayurvedic formulations and also used in other conventional medicinal systems in Asian countries. Safed Musli is getting vide acceptance as a sex vitalizer and health-giving tonic, a restorative for immunity-improvement and also as a remedy for diabetes and arthritis. Many countries in the Gulf, Europe and USA have traditionally been the major importers of the dry roots of Safed Musli for its use in the making of an assorted range of herbal products.

Alongside, the recent discovery of Safed Musli as a natural and safe aphrodisiac agent has also opened up new channels of application and new demand for it. By virtue of being an herb, Safed Musli has been found to be an ideal aphrodisiac with no negative side effects associated with chemical-based aphrodisiac. Realizing it, the Gujarat State Forest Development Corporation, India, has lately launched a Safed Musli

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Ideal Diet For Working Women
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Is there such a thing as ideal diet? And where do you find it? The answers surprisingly lie in a very common-sensical approach to food. All the nutrients to make you experience a vibrant good-looking body and keep your energy level high and consistent. It should leave you free from a nagging concern over extra pounds and extra inches. The diet should facilitate your body to stabilize to an optimum level unimpelled by toxic waste; which is assimilated into the body after incomplete utilisation/digestion of food.

This diet is based on consumption of a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables as they contain a lot of natural water. The primary component in our body cells is water. So these fresh fruits and vegetables can be most easily digested, absorbed and converted to energy for our day to day activities. The more processed, denatured and dead the food you have,the more energy your body will require to digest it.

This diet programme does not believe in starvation or crash dieting to lose weight. The base is a food group combination and making energy available for body activities other than digestion. Once on this diet programme, the body can easily breakdown foods and eliminate the undigested food-whereas a wrong combination of food consumption would result in accumulation of the waste in the body resulting in weight gain and toxicity.

Wholesome fresh foods brimming with nutrients can nourish your body and reflect the effect on your skin, hair etc. It can additionally help solving symptoms of problems regarding digestion, constipation, allergies, headaches, menstrual problems, pimples, arthritis, eczema, heart problems and other diseases; if followed religiously. If these exciting and innovative aspects of fitness and weight loss are followed you will reward yourself abundantly with a youthful, slender body, beauty, vitality-physical, emotional and spiritual health.


A) Breakfast.
Begin your day with fresh fruits on an empty stomach-they pass from the stomach to the intestines at a very rapid pace. Digestion, absorption and conversion of food to our energy unit glucose is done rapidly. This glucose is to be necessarily supplied in sufficient quantities to our brain cells to let our working be efficient. Now, assuming you eat a heavy breakfast consisting of one, two or three concentrated, processed items like bread, butter, egg etc. then a big amount of energy will have to be diverted to digest this breakfast.
This is the cause of a groggy or drowsy feeling after sometime of consuming breakfast; as the glucose supply to the brains is reduced. Which is why you find women dozing in trains and buses on their morning trip to work. You have put your body to a bigger job of digesting all that you have ingested.
Two or three varieties of dry fruits in the midmorning hours for the ones who are not trying to lose weight or who feel slightly hungry is permissible.


Lunch.
Lunch can consist of a combination of cereal or pulse with a lot of vegetables-cooked and raw. So whole wheat flour, bajra or jowar rotis or moong sprouts should be combined with a lot of high water content veggies. This food combination is again to facilitate only limited amount of energy to be diverted for digestion of food. So the concentration in office work can be still maintained.


C) Snack.
An ideal evening snack, if required, can be a vegetable sandwich containing no cheese or butter and should be made preferably of brown bread. On the days home a hot clear vegetable soup could be a better alternative.



D) Dinner.
For dinner you can have a complete meal of chapatti, vegetable, dal and salad. This meal should be consumed at least two or three hours before you go to sleep. The amount of food consumed should be left on your hunger pangs to decide and not on your taste-bud.



E) Small changes, large benefits:
Non-vegetarian foods like meat, chicken, fish, egg etc. can supplement the basic diet in dinner - but it is not essential for gaining strength.

Give a moment's thought to this; strongest animals like elephant, camel etc. are all vegetarians.
Another consideration is fibre. The importance of fibre is being stressed in every area of health care. Remember meat has no fibre content at all.

Milk and non-veg proteins can easily be substituted by processed soya protein. It is a good quality protein and when processed is void of allergens and toxins to be easily absorbed in our body. It has proven to be a good source of calcium and iron as well as has a protective effect on our body; for e.g. it has an anti-carcinogenic effect.

The oil intake should be limited to two or three teaspoons/day. Latest studies show that corn oil contains a good amount of anti-oxidants like Vitamin E and additionally in the long run helps to regulate blood glucose, blood pressure and serum cholesterol levels.


F) Dos and Dont's.
1. Principle to be followed is NO FASTING, NO FEASTING.

2. Do not increase stimulants like tea/coffee to more than 2 cups/day.

3. Do not consume too much processed, fried or baked food as it is difficult to digest.

4. Your daily diet should be accompanied by 8-10 glasses of water/day.

5. For the body to function effectively it is imperative to integrate the outlined principles of good eating with a well-balanced exercise programme.

6. A minimal of twenty minute aerobic activity like jogging, tennis, brisk walking, swimming, aerobics etc. goes a long way to make your body work efficiently,

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INSOMNIA - common sleep disorder
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Insomnia, the most common sleep disorder, is defined as difficulty falling and staying asleep every night or most nights, despite an adequate opportunity to sleep. Other symptoms of insomnia include waking up too early in the morning and being unable to fall back to sleep, and experiencing an unrefreshing night's sleep. As a result of a poor night's sleep, one usually feels tired and irritable the next day and has trouble concentrating on everyday tasks. Insomnia also can be a symptom of other physical and mental conditions, such as depression, or even of another sleep disorder, such sleep apnea.


Insomnia can last one night or up to several weeks. In some patients, it can be a chronic condition and last for years. Transient insomnia lasts for short periods of time and is described as "intermittent" when it occasionally re-occurs. Chronic insomnia is when episodes occur on most nights and last one month or more. According to the National Sleep Foundation's 2002 Sleep in America poll, 58 percent of adults surveyed reported experiencing one or more symptoms of insomnia at least a few nights a week in the past year, a number that represented 63 percent of adult women and 54 percent of adult men. More than three in ten (35 percent) say they have experienced insomnia every night or almost every night.
Research has shown that sleep loss accumulates over time, causing a sleep debt. Insufficient restful sleep can result in mental and physical health problems, low energy, memory lapses, and difficulty maintaining equilibrium.


Typical sleep patterns can be disrupted by many factors:

* Stress
* Family demands or an overly busy schedule
* Hormonal influences and changes in core body temperature (e.g., during ovulation or menstruation, hot flashes and night sweats characteristic of menopause)
* Dieting, which can lower a woman's body temperature
* Symptoms of pregnancy, such as body aches, nausea, leg cramps, fetal movements and heartburn
* Depression, anxiety and worry.