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The foundation of good health

2008-04-26T13:52:00.002+07:00

Exercise and eating right are absolutely vital parts of any plan to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. without making significant and permanent changes to your lifestyle, you will be doomed to follow one fad diet after another, losing lots of weight only to gain it back and then some.

MILK IN A HEALTHY DIET

2008-04-02T16:35:00.001+07:00

While many other foods also contain calcium, milk and dairy products have more concentrated levels of calcium, and it is difficult to get the necessary 700-800 mg of calcium without milk in the diet. In order to replace the calcium in a single glass of skim milk it would be necessary to eat three servings of spinach, nine boiled eggs, five large servings of broccoli or 20 servings of lettuce.
Nutritionists recommend that adults drink three and a half glasses of milk every day in order to get the amount of calcium they need in their diet. There are many ways to get that milk besides drinking it plain. For instance, many people find that mixing their milk with a couple of spoons of honey and mixing it in the blender makes a delicious and nutritious smoothie. In addition, milk can be added to your favorite recipes, and used in your daily coffee.

2008-04-02T13:18:00.001+07:00

have a nice day

2007-07-27T12:26:00.000+07:00

have a nice weekend everybody...

Help Prevent Breast Cancer By Eating Healthier

2007-07-11T13:01:00.000+07:00

More and more people are coming to understand the important role diet has to play in the prevention of many forms of cancer, and many recent studies have indicated that it is possible to help prevent breast cancer by eating healthier.

Nutritional experts often recommend eating a diet that is low in fat and high in fiber and other important nutrients. Not only does such a diet show promise in the prevention of breast cancer, but it has a great many other benefits as well. A low fat, high fiber diet, for instance, will help most people lose weight and improve fitness, and it can help lower the incidence of such serious diseases as diabetes and obesity, as well as breast cancer.

Help Prevent Breast Cancer By Eating healthier

2007-05-09T12:03:00.000+07:00

More and more people are coming to understand the important role diet has to play in the prevention of many forms of cancer, and many recent studies have indicated that it is possible to help prevent breast cancer by eating healthier.

Nutritional experts often recommend eating a diet that is low in fat and high in fiber and other important nutrients. Not only does such a diet show promise in the prevention of breast cancer, but it has a great many other benefits as well. A low fat, high fiber diet, for instance, will help most people lose weight and improve fitness, and it can help lower the incidence of such serious diseases as diabetes and obesity, as well as breast cancer.

Explore The Healthy Power Of Seabuckthron Oil 2

2006-12-18T10:08:00.000+07:00

Modern views of seabuckthorn oil

In modern times the seabuckthorn plant began to attract the attention of scientists in China and Russia as far back as the 1950s, and the sees, berries, barks and leaves of the plant, in addition to the seabuckthorn oil, have been studied for their benefits in nutrition, medicine and cosmetics.

These days, seabuckthorn oil is manufactured from the berries and seeds of the plant, as this preserves the vital nutrients. Seabuckthorn oil has been identified as the most valuable part of the plant, and the supplements that use this oil take advantage of that fact. Seabuckthorn oil supplements are rich in many vital nutrients, including vitamin E, vitamin C, beta carotene and many important flavinoids.

These components are all known as powerful antioxidants, and they have been shown to provide excellent protection against a number of diseases caused by the production of free radicals. Antioxidants are thought to interfere with the ability of free radicals to cause damage to the cells of the body.

What is seabuckthorn oil made of?

The seabuckthorn plant is known to contain at least 190 bioactive ingredients, with at least 106 of these ingredients contained in seabuckthorn oil. This seabuckthorn oil is thought to be the single best source of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, essential amino acids, flavinoids and unsaturated fatty acids.

For instance, seabuckthorn oil contains twice the amount of vitamin E as wheat oil, nine times as much as corn oil and a stunning 35 times as much as soybean oil. In addition, over ninety percent of the fatty acids contained in seabuckthorn oil are of the healthier unsaturated variety. Seabuckthorn oil is a rich source of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids.

In addition to these important antioxidants and other nutrients, seabuckthorn oil is also a rich source of flavonoids. Flavonoids are pigments which provide many fruits with their color, and research has shown that flavonoids may have the ability to prevent many common health problems. Flavonoids are also thought to be useful in maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

When buying seabuckthorn oil as a food supplement, it is important to choose supplements made under the strictest quality programs, as improper processing can destroy many of the healthful nutrients found in supplements. It is important to buy your seabuckthorn oil supplements from those companies with a strong reputation for quality and many years of experience in the business.

Exlore The Healthy Power Of Seabuckthon Oil

2006-12-16T18:35:00.000+07:00

Seabuckthorn oil is one of the most exciting nutritional supplements to hit the market in recent years, and there are many studies underway to prove the health benefits of this important food.
Where does seabuckthorn oil come from?

The seabuckthorn is a wild bush which grows in the Gobi desert. This hardy bush is capable of growing in even the poorest of soils, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as –40 Celsius and as high as +40 Celsius. The seabuckthorn oil taken from plants grown in these harsh conditions provides the greatest nutritional benefits, so it is important to know the origin of the seabuckthorn oil you buy.

The value of seabuckthorn oil and the seabuckthorn plant has been known at least as far back as the eighth century, and for many centuries the Tibetan and Mongolian people have known of the health effects of this valuable plant.

The Beauty Of The Pomegranate 2

2006-12-14T17:15:00.001+07:00

The history of the pomegranate

The name pomegranate is derived from the Latin term for “fruit of many seeds”, due to the many seeds the interior of the fruit hold. From ancient times onwards, the pomegranate has been associated with fertility, and this fruit often makes appearances in the folklore of ancient Egypt and in Greek mythology as well.

Eating a pomegranate can be a labor intensive experience, as the edible seeds must be eaten one at a time to avoid the bitter membrane that encases them. There are a number of varieties of pomegranate available throughout the world, and one of the best ways to distinguish between these types is by the color of the seeds, which range from light red and dark pink through a deep scarlet color.

What to look for

When buying pomegranates, it is best to choose those with the best color, and those which feel heavy. Pomegranates that are dry looking and wrinkled, or which have a cracked rink, should be avoided. Pomegranates will keep at room temperature for two or three days, and in the refrigerator for up to three months.

In most parts of the United States, the pomegranate is typically available from September through November. Availability of fresh pomegranates varies by region of the country, however.

A typical pomegranate contains only about 100 calories, making an excellent food for dieters. Most nutrition experts recommend eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, and pomegranates are an excellent addition to anyone’s daily diet.

In addition to fresh pomegranates, pomegranate juice is another popular way to enjoy this popular fruit. Pomegranate juice can be used to make a wide variety of products, including jellies, sauces, marinades and vinaigrettes. In addition, the seeds of the pomegranate are often sprinkled over salads and desserts, or used to garnish meats, poultry and fish.

With all these things going for it, it is no wonder that the pomegranate enjoys such long lasting popularity. While it is not in season for very long, adding a fresh pomegranate or two to your late fall diet can be very rewarding.

The Beauty Of The Pomegranate 1

2006-12-14T17:15:00.000+07:00

The pomegranate has been a much loved part of the diet of many cultures for thousands of years, and scientists have recently begun to take a look at its possible health benefits, over and above those derived from the vitamins and minerals it contains. Some studies have suggested that the juice of the pomegranate contains nearly three times the antioxidants found in such foods as green tea and red wine. In addition, the pomegranate contains substantial quantities of such important minerals as potassium, such important vitamins as vitamin C and niacin, and significant amounts of fiber as well.

Traditional uses of the pomegranate

The pomegranate has long been used in traditional folk medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including sort throat, inflammation and rheumatism. These folk uses of the pomegranate are common throughout the Middle East, Iran and India, where the fruit is common.

The pomegranate has a touch rind which is either dark red or brownish in color, and it is similar in size to an apple or an orange. The edible part of the pomegranate is the juicy red pulp.

The Health Benefits Of Pygeum 1

2006-12-13T19:14:00.000+07:00

Prostate problems are a growing problem for many men, and it is estimated that most men will experience some type of problem with their prostate at one time or another.

Fortunately, there are a number of excellent supplements on the market that have shown great promise in treating some of the most common prostate problems. One of the most exciting of these compounds is known as pygeum.

Pygeum and the prostate

Often, pygeum will be combined with a number of other prostate effective compounds, such as saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol and nettle. These products are often sold as “prostate health” supplements or similar items. Some of these combinations will list a huge number of ingredients, but often the concentration of each ingredient is too small to be of value. Those who are seeking such a combination product will need to learn to read the labels carefully to make sure that the product they are buying will provide the benefits they hope for.

The diet Experts Agree More Than They Admit !

2006-12-05T10:34:00.000+07:00

The Diet Experts Agree More Than They Admit!

Lately, I've been hearing a lot about how wrong for our bodies the current recommendations from our most respected medical institutions are. Well-known diet gurus and nutritional researchers have stepped up to the plate to declare that the high carbohydrate, low fat diet regimens recommended by such institutions as the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association and the United States Department of Agriculture are misinformed, and frankly unhealthy.
Instead, they charge, our diets should include lots of high quality protein, fat should not concern us, and carbohydrates are the enemy. This has set the stage for battles between the weight loss industry and the health industry - with the only agreement between them seeming to be the need to lose weight.

The problem is - they're both wrong. And they're both right. The most regularly leveled criticisms of each seem legitimate - until you examine the recommended diets in depth. Sit down and look at the recommended menus. Take them to the calorie calculators and compare ingredients and nutrients. I did, and what I found was a revelation.

In the most practical sense, they're all talking about the same diet.

Oh, there are minor variations that have been grossly blown out of proportion by the advertising hype. There are misinterpretations that have been stated as fact. The bottom line of each and every one of the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet, the Zone Diet, the American Diabetes Association diet, and the American Heart Association's Heart Healthy Diet -- all of them - is to derive the greatest portion of your caloric intake for the day from low carbohydrate vegetables. Spinach, broccoli, cabbage - leafy green. Carrots, summer squash, deep rich orange vegetables. Fruits with high calorie and antioxidant counts. Whole grains - and this is where the controversy seems to arise.

Almost without exception, proponents of the low carb diets for weight loss and maintenance have condemned the recommended diets for suggesting that adults should derive the greater portion of their diets from carbohydrates. What they fail to note is that also without exception, each of those 'healthy' diets strongly suggest avoiding white breads, starchy, processed foods, sweet snacks high in sugar and preservatives, and white rice.

On the other hand, the medical community has roundly condemned the low carb diets for encouraging the consumption of a diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol. But there is also a strong suggestion in each of those diets along the lines of "eat only until you are no longer hungry". .. and a minimum consumption of vegetables. Dinner's minimum suggested amount of vegetables is 2 1/2 cups. How hungry will you be after consuming two and a half cups of vegetable?

In the end, the bottom line of every weight loss program advertised is the same:
* Eat a well-balanced diet where most of the calories are derived from whole grains, vegetables and fruits.
* Eat fewer calories than you expend.
* Exercise moderately every day.
* Learn to eat that way as a lifestyle and you will lose weight—and keep it off!

The Benefits Of Spinach

2006-11-24T09:49:00.000+07:00

One of the most significant benefits of spinach in the diet is that it is a very rich source of insoluble fiber. Most Americans eat a diet that is deficient in fiber, and this lack of fiber can lead to a number of serious medical complications, including stomach problems, intestinal issues and even some forms of cancer.

The insoluble fiber contained in spinach has also been associated with protecting the heart and other vital organs from damage. In addition to the value of spinach as a possible heart diseases fighter, recent studies have shown real promise in using spinach as a cancer fighter. The nutrients and fiber in spinach are thought to provide protection against such common cancer killers as breast cancer and lung cancer.

Spinach and cancer protection

One reason for this strong cancer fighting ability is the high level of vitamin E contained in this delicious vegetable. Vitamin E has long been thought to provide protection against cancer, and the high levels of vitamin E in spinach make it one of the best sources of this strong antioxidant vitamin.

Spinach is also a rich source of lutein and zeaxanthin. These substances are important carotenoids, and like the other well known carotenoid, beta carotene, they are excellent antioxidants, which help to protect the body from the effects of free radicals and cell breakdown.

Finding the best spinach

Another great thing about spinach is that it is easy to buy, available virtually everywhere, and quite reasonable in price. Fresh spinach is available in just about every supermarket and grocery store chain, and it is available for a significant portion of the year in most parts of the country.

In addition to its availability, spinach is quite reasonably priced compared to many other common fruits and vegetables. Spinach can even be grown in the home garden quite easily, as it grows quite well in many areas of the country.

Whether you choose store bought spinach or buy your own, however, it is important to select the greenest and healthiest looking spinach for your recipes. It is also important to not cook spinach longer than necessary, as some of the vital nutrients can be lost through overcooking or excessive heat. It is best to quickly steam the spinach to preserve its nutritional value.

With all the benefits spinach has to offer, it is surprising that more people do not enjoy this wonderful food. Spinach is versatile, and it can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from soups to salads, from side dishes to main courses. There is a reason why spinach has such a reputation as a health food; it seems that the reputation is more than deserved.

2006-11-23T18:42:00.000+07:00

The Power Of Spinach In A Healthy Diet

For many years, nutritionists and mothers have known about the awesome power of spinach and its importance to a healthy diet. After all, there is a reason your mother always encouraged you to eat your spinach, and Popeye can certainly attest to the awesome power of this food.

Spinach is packed full of such important nutrients as vitamin C, calcium and beta carotene. In addition, spinach is one of the richest plant sources of iron, and it should be part of a healthy diet for everyone, from the youngest child to the oldest adult.

2006-11-17T16:14:00.000+07:00

Peppermint has long been known for both its great taste and its soothing medicinal properties. Many people use peppermint leaves, brewed in a tea for instance, to soothe stomach ailments and other mild illnesses. Fresh peppermint and peppermint leaves have long been used for these purposes, both in traditional medicine and in more modern terms.

Traditional uses of peppermint

Peppermint leaves have long been used in traditional medicine, and this preparation has a long history. Peppermint teas, made from fresh peppermint leaves, have been popular preparations for many years, and they continue to be used by many people today.
In addition to soothing the digestive tract and helping to reduce indigestion, peppermint leaves have been shown to help reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Cases of irritable bowel syndrome are on the rise, and more and more people are troubled by its symptoms. Fresh peppermint and peppermint leaves have long been used to treat these types of conditions.
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enjoy of wolfberry

2006-11-16T21:21:00.000+07:00

What Is The Wolfberry?

The wolfberry is actually a member of the family solanacea, and it grows wild on bushes found in the northwest part of China. The Chinese people have been growing the wolfberry for thousands of years, both for its pleasant taste and its strong nutritional value and role in traditional medicine. Wolfberry blooms between April and October in its native China, and it is typically harvested from June to October depending on the local weather and growing conditions.

The wolfberry signals its readiness for harvest by turning red, and the fresh fruit is oblong in shape and very juicy. The wolfberry is full of juice and is very sweet to the taste. The primary active ingredient in the fruit of the wolfberry is known to science as Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide, or LBP for short. The amount of LDP contained in the wolfberry will vary according to the type of berry, with the top quality wolfberries containing the highest concentrations of LDP.

The wolfberry contains 19 different kinds of amino acids and 21 trace minerals. In addition, the wolfberry has more beta carotene than a carrot, nearly as much vitamin C as an orange and almost as much protein as bee pollen.

wolfberry 1

2006-11-14T20:14:00.000+07:00

Enjoy The Many Health Benefits Of The Wolfberry

The health benefits of the wolfberry have long been known to the world of traditional medicine, these health benefits were explored throughout China many thousands of years ago. As far back as the Tang Dynasty, in the years from 1000 to 1400 A.D., there are references the wolfberry in the traditional Chinese Medica. Among the health benefits cited by the Chinese was the ability to nourish the Yin. In traditional Chinese medicine, the Yin represents the material part of the body, while the Yang is concerned with the energy and function of the body instead.
Health Benefits Of The Wolfberry

Other health benefits of the wolfberry included the ability to strengthen the liver, the kidneys and the eyes, as well as the ability to nourish the blood. The fruits of the wolfberry are well known to the world of herbal medicine, and they show up in a number of herbal formulas used to maintain overall health. The wolfberry is also used in herbal medicines used to treat chronic health problems such as fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, ringing in the ears, vision problems, insomnia, headaches, chronic liver disease, tuberculosis, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Traditionally, the fruit of the wolfberry has been used to map teas, soups, stews and even wine. In addition, the fruits of the wolfberry are often chewed, much like raisins. In modern China, scientists have extensively studied the fruits of the wolfberry to determine their nutritional value and medicinal benefits. These modern studies have backed up the traditional uses of the wolfberry. The wolfberry has been found to be of assistance in maintaining the health of the immune system, improving eyesight, helping to keep the liver healthy and helping to maintain healthy blood sugar and blood pressure levels. In addition, the fruits of the wolfberry are thought to have strong antioxidant and antiaging properties.

The wonder Of Whole Wheat

2006-11-03T11:42:00.000+07:00

One of the easiest dietary changes to make, and one that carries a real health punch, is replacing refined grains with more healthful whole wheat. This one change in diet can have a significant impact on health, from helping to maintain a healthy weight to helping to avoid certain kinds of cancer. Recent studies, including one at the University of Iowa, have suggested that higher levels of whole grain, including whole wheat, in the diet were associated with a lower risk of both breast cancer and heart disease.
Other studies have associated the consumption of whole wheat and other whole grains with a reduced risk of diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. The USDA is now recommending that every adult consume three servings of whole wheat and other whole grains every day, but most people fall short of this important mark, averaging only one serving per day of whole wheat and other whole grains.

Whole Wheat And Cancer Prevention

There is now considerable evidence that a diet rich in whole wheat and other whole grains plays an important role in lowering a person’s risk of cancer. The major cancer fighting ingredient of whole wheat is thought to be dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is thought to play an important role in the prevention of cancer, and whole wheat breads and other products are rich sources of this dietary fiber.

In addition, whole wheat and other whole grains are thought to reduce levels of serum insulin. High levels of serum insulin have been associated with higher risk of cancers of the breast and colon, so lowering these levels may have an effect in the prevention of cancer.

Whole Wheat And Selenium

Whole wheat and other whole grains can also be rich sources of the mineral known as selenium, although the actual selenium content of the grain will vary according to the selenium content of the soil. Vitamin E, however, seems to be present in high amounts in just about all whole wheat and whole grain products. Vitamin E is thought to be a strong cancer fighter which has the power to prevent cancer causing chemicals from doing harm. In addition, whole grain products like whole wheat bread and crackers also contain many important micronutrients.

Whole wheat products and other whole grains have been shown to have a significant impact on overall health, and a diet rich in whole wheat and other whole grains has been associated with an overall increase in health and an overall decrease in obesity. That may be because whole wheat is a high energy, nutrient rich and relatively low calorie food. The rich nature of many whole wheat products seems to promote a feeling of fullness and reduce the risk of overeating.

What To Look For

When purchasing whole wheat products, it is important to find those products that are processed as little as possible. Excessive processing can add unhealthy ingredients and it can also strip away some of the valuable nutrients contained in whole wheat bread, crackers and other products. As always it is important to read the nutritional label on any whole wheat products you buy, and to buy the most natural, highest quality products you can find.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TOMATOES TO A HEALTHY DIET

2006-10-30T18:19:00.000+07:00

The health benefits of tomatoes are well known, and tomatoes are known to contain a great many important compounds that play an important role in the prevention of cancer, heart disease, cataracts and many other common health problems. Tomatoes are rich sources of many important nutrients, and more and more people are coming to realize just how important tomatoes are to a healthy diet.

Tomatoes and vitamin C
For instance, tomatoes contain as much vitamin C as many citrus fruits, with a normal sized tomato providing up to 40 percent of the recommended daily intake of this important nutrient. In addition, tomatoes contain large amounts of vitamin A, potassium and iron. And tomatoes are one of the most delicious, and most versatile of all foods. From fresh tomatoes in your salad to ketchup on your burger, tomatoes are everywhere, and this makes it quite easy to enjoy their many health benefits.

Enjoying the benefits of parsley

2006-10-10T17:50:00.000+07:00

Enjoying The Benefits Of Parsley
Most people know parsley as those little springs of green often used to dress up food at the finer restaurants. Did you know, however, that parsley has many health benefits?
Parsley actually has a delicious and unique taste, so the next time you see it why not try eating this colorful dinner plate decoration? Parsley is actually quite nutritious and quite good tasting, and parsley can generally be found year round in the local supermarket.

Enjoy Strawberries For Good Taste And Good Health 1

2006-09-10T17:52:00.000+07:00

Everyone knows that strawberries are delicious as well as nutritious, and strawberries, both fresh and frozen varieties, should be a part of every person’s daily diet. There are many health advantages to eating strawberries, and strawberries are among the most delicious of all fruits.

The USDA now recommends that every American eat at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables every day, but the fact is that most people end up falling far short of this important goal. Adding fresh strawberries to your diet, whether in salads, in shakes or on their own, is a great way to get the servings of fruit you need for a healthy body and a healthy immune system.

The MAny Benefits Of Ginger

2006-09-08T16:10:00.000+07:00

There are many reasons to love the pungent aroma and great taste of ginger, but there is increasing evidence that ginger provides strong health benefits as well as great taste. Ginger has a long tradition of use in traditional medicine, and cultures around the world have long used ginger as a healing compound as well as a cooking ingredient.
For many hundreds or even thousands of years, the spice we know as ginger has had great significance to the practitioners of Chinese, Japanese and Indian medicine. The nausea reduction effects of ginger have long been known, and some recent studies suggest that ginger can be effective against the nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy treatments.

The effects on circulation

Ginger is also thought to be good for the circulation, and many ginger enthusiasts have used it for that purpose. Ginger is thought to aid circulation and help the body sweat, and this can be an important factor in fighting colds and flu. Ginger is even being studied as a possible way to reduce the incidence of heart disease. It is not certain whether these possible heart benefits are a result of the increased circulation produced by ginger, or if there is some other mechanism at work.

Ginger has a great many uses in traditional folk medicine, and there is much anecdotal evidence of its reported health effects. Those health benefits are the subject of much ongoing research, and many clinical studies are currently underway into the many health benefits of ginger.

Ginger and motion sickness

Many frequent travelers swear by the effectiveness of ginger at preventing motion sickness, and some studies have suggested that it is just as effective as Dramamine and other common drugs used to treat motion sickness. While these effects are still being studied, it can’t hurt to add a bit of ginger to the meal you eat before hopping on that plane or boat.

Most major supermarket chains carry fresh ginger root, and if they do not chances are the local organic grocery store or health food store does carry this herb. When choosing ginger, it is important to choose those roots that are firm, and that have a distinct aroma. The more strong the odor of the ginger in the store, the more aromatic it will be in your recipes.

Ginger and good cooking

If you need ideas on how to use ginger in your recipes, be sure to check out recipes used in traditional Indian and Middle Eastern cooking. These cultures have made extensive use of ginger for many centuries, and there are some excellent recipes using ginger in combination with lamb, beef and even tofu.

Ground ginger can be quite a valuable substitute when fresh ginger root is not available, but fresh ginger is always preferred, both for its greater health benefits and for its superior taste. Fortunately, in most parts of the country fresh ginger root is available year round, so finding it should not be a problem for most shoppers. Ginger may be an ingredient that is unfamiliar to many, but it definitely pays to get to know this great herb.

The Health Benefit of Green Tea 2

2006-09-04T10:23:00.000+07:00

Modern research

Research done by modern scientists has backed up the traditional benefits of green tea, with many studies, both in Asia and the West, finding solid evidence of the many health benefits associated with drinking green tea on a regular basis. On often cited study showed a sixty percent decreased in the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women who drank green tea on a regular basis. The study concluded that a compound in green tea served to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

In addition, other research seems to indicate that green tea has the ability to lower both total cholesterol levels and the ratio of good cholesterol (HDL) to bad cholesterol (LDL).

Some of the many conditions for which green tea is thought to be effective include cancer, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular problems, infections and lowered immune system function.

The Health Benefit Of Green Tea

2006-09-03T14:07:00.000+07:00

There few drinks with as many important health benefits as green tea, and the Chinese have long known about the many benefits of this exciting foodstuff. The Chinese have been using green tea in traditional medicine to treat problems ranging from headaches and insomnia to depression and stomach aches.

Welcome..

2006-08-31T18:48:00.000+07:00

this is my 1st blog

The Many Health Benefits Of The Billberry

2006-08-29T19:39:00.000+07:00

Bilberry, known to science as actinium myrtillus, is a member of the blueberry family, and it is known for producing sweet blue colored berries. The bilberry bush is found both in North America and Europe, and it grows best in damp, acidic soils. The blue to black bilberries are used for many medicinal purposes, while the leaves have additional healing properties.

Bilberry and vision

One of the most significant properties of the bilberry is its ability to enhance night vision. From at least as far back as the sixteenth century, the bilberry was mixed with honey in order to create a syrup known as rob. This syrup was traditionally used to treat diarrhea, but today the fruits of the bilberry bush are being used to promote good vision, particularly night vision. In World War II, those pilots who ate large quantities of bilberries claimed to enjoy more accurate night vision, and many scientific studies have shown that bilberry is able to slow down the degeneration of sight, and may even improve visual acuity. In addition, bilberry has been used in traditional medicine for treatment of indigestion and diabetes, among other conditions.

Bilberry and nutrition

The bilberry contains large numbers of phytochemicals, which are thought to help lower blood pressure, inhibit the formation of clots and enhance the supply of blood to the nervous system. Some studies have shown that the antioxidants found in the fruit of the bilberry bush are up to fifty times as powerful as vitamin E and ten times as powerful as vitamin C.

Bilberry also seems to show great effectiveness at reducing vascular insufficiency and other related conditions. Bilberry seems to work in much the same way as ginkgo biloba and horse chestnut, and the circulatory effects it produces are thought to be quite effective at increasing circulation and the health of the eyes and organs.

What to look for

Bilberry is available in a wide variety of sources, including fresh bilberry and a number of extract and capsule forms. When shopping for bilberry, either the fresh or the supplement variety, it is important to buy only the highest quality products.

That is because how the fruit of the bilberry tree is harvested can make a lot of difference in its effectiveness as a health booster. It is important for the bilberry to be harvested at the peak of ripeness, and it is just as important that it be processed into supplements and capsules in facilities that use the best manufacturing equipment. Problems can be caused by contaminated manufacturing equipment, and buying bilberry from the most highly respected sources is the best way to ensure you get all the important benefits of the bilberry bush in your daily diet.

The bilberry, like the blueberry and other related berries, is among the best and highest quality foods on the market. Whether you buy your bilberry fresh at the supermarket or health food store, or opt for the stability and ease of bilberry supplements, it is important to incorporate this valuable food into a healthy diet, for the health of your eyes, circulatory system and nervous system.

Basil Is An Herb For All Seasons

2006-08-27T17:57:00.000+07:00

Basil is one of the most commonly used of all herbs in cooking, and there are many recipes that are enhanced by this minty, aromatic plant. Many cooks like to grow fresh basil in an herb garden, for an endless supply of the freshest, best tasting herb for their recipes. Basil is quite easy to grow, and quiet inexpensive as well, so serious cooks should definitely consider growing their own basil.

Of course the dried basil found in supermarkets, whole food centers and health food stores is perfectly fine as well. The key is to buy only the top quality basil from the best manufacturers. The less processing this important herb goes through on its way to market, the more of its important health benefits it will be able to maintain.

Nutritional Advantages Of Basil

Basil is rich in a variety of important nutrients, most notably calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A and vitamin C. In addition, basil is a good source of iron, potassium and magnesium.

Basil has a long and storied history, and the name basil is actually derived from an old Greek word “basilikohn”, which translates to “royal”. This fact helps to illustrate that basil was held in quite high regard by many ancient cultures around the world, both for its great taste and its many health benefits. This high regard for basil continues to this day, with basil being a symbol of love in Italy and a symbol of hospitality in India.

Basil is believed to have significant health effects, particularly in improving the health of the cardiovascular system. In addition, basil is a particularly good source of vitamin A, which is an essential ingredient of strong eyesight and healthy skin and hair. Basil contains high concentrations of carotenoids like beta carotene, and these substances are converted to vitamin A in the body. Beta carotene offers even more benefits than vitamin A alone, and it is known to be a strong antioxidant.

Antioxidants are important because they help prevent the cell damage that occurs from so called free radicals in the body. These free radicals are a natural part of the cell cycle, and they cannot be prevented. It is, however, possible to mitigate the damage done by these free radicals by eating a diet that is rich in antioxidant vitamins like beta carotene.

What To Love About Basil

In addition to its important health benefits, basil is one of the most delicious herbs on the market, and it is for this good taste that basil is most well known. While basil is a staple of Italian cooking, it is used in a wide variety of recipes in other cuisines as well. If you open your favorite cookbook, chances are you will see page after page of recipes that use this versatile and delicious spice.

When choosing dried basil, however, it is important to choose those brands that have been on the market a long time, and those that are made using the highest quality manufacturing processes. That is because how spices are handled after harvesting can have a significant impact on their health benefits. Choosing the highest quality basil will help you reap the many rewards of this popular herb.

Enjoy Oranges For Good Health

2006-08-26T10:04:00.000+07:00

Oranges in all their forms, from fresh Florida oranges to fresh squeezed orange juice, have long been enjoyed for their delicious flavor as well as their health benefits. Indeed, oranges and other citrus fruits are among the most healthy of all foods, and nutritionists often recommend a diet rich in fruits and vegetables for a healthy body and a long life.

The Health Benefits Of Oranges

In addition to their most well known ingredient, vitamin C, research has shown that oranges contain many other important cancer fighting compounds. Oranges have been found to contain over 170 phytochemicals, including over 20 compounds from the carotenoid family. Carotenoids have shown real promise in fighting cancer and other common illnesses, and oranges are one of the best dietary sources of these important compounds.

In addition, oranges contain compounds known as limonoids. It is these compounds that give oranges and other citrus fruits their tangy and slightly bitter flavor. These limonoids are thought to be highly effective anticancer agents also, and oranges are rich sources of these important chemicals.

Oranges And Vitamin C

But of course it is the high vitamin C content of oranges that has earned them such a solid reputation as a healthy food. One average sized orange supplies more than 92% of the vitamin C a person needs each day, so it is easy to get plenty of vitamin C from a diet rich in oranges and other citrus fruits.

Vitamin C has long been studied for everything from its ability to prevent and treat the common cold to its value as a cancer fighter. While there is still some controversy over the anti-cold and anticancer properties of vitamin C, there is no doubt that vitamin C is an extremely valuable nutrient and a strong antioxidant. Vitamin C is the main water soluble antioxidant vitamin in the body, and it has the ability to reduce the cell damage done by free radicals.

In addition to its possible role in fighting everything from colds to cancer, the vitamin C found in oranges and other foods is thought to have a major role to play in the proper functioning of a healthy immune system. It is this effect on the immune system which may be responsible for the reputation of oranges and other citrus fruits to prevent colds and other common illnesses.

The Importance Of A Healthy Diet

While many people try to make up for a lousy diet by consuming high volumes of vitamin C supplements, the best way to get the vitamin C and other nutrients you need is through a healthy and balanced diet. That is because in addition to vitamin C, oranges contain many other nutrients as well, including the many micronutrients needed for a healthy body and a healthy immune system. It would be impossible to recreate these many nutrients in a vitamin pill, so the best advice is to enjoy several servings of healthy and delicious oranges and other citrus fruits every day. Oranges are so delicious, so inexpensive and so versatile that there is no reason not to enjoy them.

Rich Food From The Amazon

2006-08-25T12:46:00.000+07:00

The Acai Berry Is A Well-Kept Secret Of The Amazon

For many years, the acai berry has been a well-kept secret, but that is beginning to change. Today more and more people are discovering the health enhancing power of this antioxidant rich food from the Amazon.

The acai berry is a dark purple berry that is very rich in a number of nutrients, including all important antioxidant vitamins. The acai berry grows naturally on the top of the many palm trees found in the rain forests of Brazil and the Amazon. The fruit of this tree is harvested in the wild by local farmers and used to make a fruit bulb with is quickly frozen to preserve its nutritional value.

The power of the acai berry

Acai berries contain very high concentrations of nutrients known as anthocyanins. These chemicals are the same ones thought to give red wine its many health benefits. In addition, the acai berry contains large amounts of protein and fiber, as well as healthy omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids.

It is easy to see, therefore, why the acai berry and its fruit pulp has been gaining popularity so steadily. Those concerned about their good health have long been looking for a ready source of antioxidants, protein, fiber and fatty acids, and the little acai berry contains all these important elements and more.

There are many places to purchase acai berries and the juice made from them. These sources include health food stores and whole food retailers. As the acai berry grows in popularity it is likely that even traditional grocery stores will begin to carry this special fruit and juice products made from it. For now, however, the acai berry and juice can be found mainly at specialty and organic grocery stores.

In addition, there are also a number of internet retailers who sell a wide variety of products made from the acai berry. These products include the fresh frozen juice made from the rich pulp of the acai berry, and this is one of the most nutritious product made from this antioxidant rich food.

What to look for

When shopping for acai berry products, however, it is important to buy only from the most reliable suppliers, since how the product is harvested and packaged can have a significant impact on its nutritional value. It is important that the acai berry be wild harvested, and even more important that it be quickly frozen to retain its all important nutrient value. Products that have sat on the shelf too long, or those that were packaged improperly will lose a significant portion of their healthful benefits.

Fortunately, there are a number of excellent manufacturers who sell a wide variety of acai berry products that have been harvested and packaged using the traditional methods of the farmers of the Amazon. These traditional farmers have been working with the acai berry for many years, and they understand how to harvest, freeze and package these delicious berries to retain their nutritional value and their good taste. After all, these farmers have long known of the many benefits of the acai berry, and they are eager to share those health benefits with the rest of the world.

THE DIET EXPERTS

2006-08-25T12:19:00.000+07:00

The Diet Experts Agree More Than They Admit!

Lately, I've been hearing a lot about how wrong for our bodies the current recommendations from our most respected medical institutions are. Well-known diet gurus and nutritional researchers have stepped up to the plate to declare that the high carbohydrate, low fat diet regimens recommended by such institutions as the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association and the United States Department of Agriculture are misinformed, and frankly unhealthy.

Instead, they charge, our diets should include lots of high quality protein, fat should not concern us, and carbohydrates are the enemy. This has set the stage for battles between the weight loss industry and the health industry - with the only agreement between them seeming to be the need to lose weight.

The problem is - they're both wrong. And they're both right. The most regularly leveled criticisms of each seem legitimate - until you examine the recommended diets in depth. Sit down and look at the recommended menus. Take them to the calorie calculators and compare ingredients and nutrients. I did, and what I found was a revelation.

In the most practical sense, they're all talking about the same diet. Oh, there are minor variations that have been grossly blown out of proportion by the advertising hype. There are misinterpretations that have been stated as fact. The bottom line of each and every one of the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet, the Zone Diet, the American Diabetes Association diet, and the American Heart Association's Heart Healthy Diet -- all of them - is to derive the greatest portion of your caloric intake for the day from low carbohydrate vegetables. Spinach, broccoli, cabbage - leafy green. Carrots, summer squash, deep rich orange vegetables. Fruits with high calorie and antioxidant counts. Whole grains - and this is where the controversy seems to arise.

Almost without exception, proponents of the low carb diets for weight loss and maintenance have condemned the recommended diets for suggesting that adults should derive the greater portion of their diets from carbohydrates. What they fail to note is that also without exception, each of those 'healthy' diets strongly suggest avoiding white breads, starchy, processed foods, sweet snacks high in sugar and preservatives, and white rice.

On the other hand, the medical community has roundly condemned the low carb diets for encouraging the consumption of a diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol. But there is also a strong suggestion in each of those diets along the lines of "eat only until you are no longer hungry". .. and a minimum consumption of vegetables. Dinner's minimum suggested amount of vegetables is 2 1/2 cups. How hungry will you be after consuming two and a half cups of vegetable?

In the end, the bottom line of every weight loss program advertised is the same:* Eat a well-balanced diet where most of the calories are derived from whole grains, vegetables and fruits.* Eat fewer calories than you expend.* Exercise moderately every day.* Learn to eat that way as a lifestyle and you will lose weight—and keep it off!