The Truth About Red Wine and Its Health Benefits

Every year there are numerous headlines about the health benefits of red wine. But can drinking it really make a difference? The good news is yes. Recent studies that there are many health benefits associated with moderate red wine consumption. Not only can consuming one to two glasses a day help protect us from heart disease, it also safeguards against many other ailments.
For many centuries, several cultures have found that wine is an important role in happiness and a healthy lifestyle. In the modern world, wine is accepted as a healthful drink, and in the United States are we are rediscovering its medicinal value and benefits.
The French Paradox
The French paradox was a term coined by Dr. Serge Renaud to describe the apparent unusual relationship where the French, especially those in the South of France, eat incredible amounts of artery clogging and heart-stopping saturated fats, smoke heavily, and exercise very little, yet their incidences of coronary heart disease are very low. Their daily and moderate consumption of red wine was given as the most likely factor for this phenomenon. His investigation into this paradox led to the conclusion that it was the French people's consumption of red wine protecting their hearts from the saturated fats they consume. Renaud appeared on 60 Minutes in 1991 to outline the details of his French paradox theory and within weeks of this program airing, sales of red wine in the United States increased by 40 percent (about 2.5 million bottles).

The Healing Properties of Red Wine
Red wine is made from a fruit which is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances or nutrients in our foods which help to protect our bodies from free radicals. Antioxidants act as "free radical scavengers" and hence prevent and repair damage done by these free radicals. Today, many studies have shown that red wine derives its health benefits from high levels of an antioxidant called "resveratrol" present in the seeds, skins and fermented grapes. Because of the long process and extensive fermentation of grapes in red wine production, high levels of resveratrol are found in bottled red wine. As defined, resveratrol is a type of polyphenol known as "phytoalexin" that is a group a compounds that plants use to defend themselves attacks such as undue stress, possible injuries, or UV radiation, and certain diseases such a fungus and infection.
The Health Benefits of Consuming Red Wine

• It is good for the heart - There are specific substances in wines like tannins and flavonoids which can increase the levels of good cholesterol or high density lipoproteins (HDL) in an individual's blood. Wine's antioxidants also lower the bad cholesterol or low density lipoproteins (LDL) therefore preventing an individual from developing various cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, and strokes. It also contains resveratrol which has an anti-clotting effect, lowering the risk of stroke and heart attack.
• It may help prevent menopause, breast cancer - and estrogen related conditions in the body because resveratrol is also a phytoestrogen, which mimics the estrogen in the body
• Helps prevent the development of certain neuro-degenerative diseases - Studies have shown that that the resveratrol present in wine can help prevent aging individuals from developing diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's, that affect people as they age.
• It can help prevent food poisoning - Certain compounds in the wine help cleanse toxins from the body. It can also help an individual to avoid dysentery and diarrhea.
• Red wine can prevent and cure various gum diseases - Gum disease which is caused by inflamed tissue in the gums is a common affliction, especially among smokers. Individuals with gum disease are often advised to drink red wine because the polyphenols in it can lower the levels of free-radicals that cause infection and bacterial growth in the mouth.
• Consumption can help prevent certain cancers - Due to the antioxidant effect of resveratrol, experts believe that moderate and regular consumption may help possible cancer cells from multiplying
• It can prevent the development and progression of dementia - especially in older individuals.

While many Europeans would argue that many glasses or even of bottles of wine each day with dinner is moderate and healthy, many experts define moderate consumption as two glasses a day for men and one glass a day for women (due to differences in metabolism and weight). Over four glasses a day, Renaud warns wine has an adverse effect on death rates. Although it still protects the heart, excessive drinking increases the risk of cancer and liver and kidney disease. In moderate amounts, detoxifying small amount of alcohol is not a strain on these organs. However, once you exceed four glasses a day the liver and kidneys become overworked cleaning out your system.

So where does all this leave us? Is red wine beneficial to our health?
The answer is certainly yes, but you must temper your enthusiasm for wine with responsibility. If you can drink moderately then you will benefit, if you cannot you may suffer the harmful effects of alcohol. In addition, wine is not a cure-all. Simply drinking wine is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet, regular exercise and not smoking. So drink to your health! But do so responsibly and moderately so that you may continue to enjoy great wine for many years to come!

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10 Health Benefits of Carrots

The Many Health Benefits of Selenium Will Amaze You

The importance of trace minerals in the body cannot be overstated, especially when talking about the benefits of selenium. Your bodys immune system must have the right vitamins and minerals to work, and they all have their importance. But selenium is one of the special trace minerals, that can really help you if it's adequately in your system, or can lead you to illness and death if it is not.

Selenium is found in nearly every cell of your body, pancreas, spleen and kidneys and insures normal liver function. Like other essential minerals, selenium acts as an antioxidant that destroys free radicals that roam the body like little devastators. More and more, this super mineral is being linked to its role in combating a number of human diseases and illnesses.

Major benefits of selenium include heart and cancer protection

Seleniums role in protecting the heart is an incredible one. This mineral helps prevent your blood from sticking to the inside of your arteries, decreasing the risk of clotting, heart attack and stroke. How's that for a triple-threat? And, benefits of selenium include elevating levels of good cholesterol, another advantage in keeping your heart healthy.

Cancer has a natural enemy in selenium. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, high levels of selenium in the blood decrease many forms of cancer including prostate, colorectal and lung. The antioxidant properties of selenium actually prevent the formation of some cancer cells and tumor cells. And because selenium effectively raises the fighting levels of the immune system, studies show that the development of blood vessels, that support and grow tumors, is suppressed! Needless to say, medical research is conducting ongoing selenium testing against many other forms of cancer.

This essential mineral is important in overall body health, too. For instance, it's been shown to help increase male potency and fight arthritis. Its antioxidant quality helps defend the body from the effects of alcohol and other toxins. And like copper, it has an important maintenance role in your skin and your hair. Selenium supplementation helps improve asthma symptoms and helps patients recover quicker from pneumonia and bronchitis.

Certain foods, supplementation can give you the benefits of selenium

If you can find produce that has been grown in selenium-rich soil, improve your diet with nuts, oats, brown rice and leafy greens. However, most foods that used to contain beneficial levels of selenium don't have those levels, anymore. That's because farm soil has been worked so many times, that selenium levels have plummetted.

So, keep eating as healthy a diet as you can, but know that most doctors today recommend that you take a selenium supplement, so that you can maintain a healthy selenium level. The prescribed selenium dosages are 55mcg daily for women, and 70mcg daily for men. However, for cancer patients or patients with a larger risk of cancer, doctors recommend dosages of up to 400mcg to get the full benefits of selenium.

As you can see, selenium is an all-around super trace mineral that can help your body in so many important ways. Trace minerals like selenium prove the old adage that good things really do come in small packages. Your body must have selenium, so if you do not take a multi-vitamin, chances are you're shorting yourself on this essential mineral. Get some selenium into your diet just as soon as you can, so that you can start getting the healthy benefits of selenium.


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How Much Fruit is Too Much Fruit?

Raspberry Ketones for Weight Loss

There has been a lot of talk about raspberry ketones this year thanks to a mention on the Dr. Oz show. With a discussion of the benefits of these ketones, the stores couldn't keep them in stock. Things have settled down a little since then, but they are still extremely popular.

Raspberries, like all fruit, are good for you as part of a healthy diet. Raspberries have a special benefit that not many fruits provide. That is, raspberries can provide ketones to our bodies.

The problem is raspberries contain such small quantities of ketones that you could eat until you're full and only receive a tiny benefit of the ketones from raspberries. That's why supplements are beneficial; they contain a concentrated form of ketones extracted from raspberries.

What are ketones?

Ketone enzymes occur naturally in our bodies. Ketones (ketone bodies) are the result of our bodies metabolizing fatty acids. If we do not consume enough carbohydrates to provide our bodies with the sugar energy (glucose) it needs, it breaks down fat for energy and ketones result from this process. Our bodies will then use ketones instead of glucose for the energy it needs.

What is ketosis?

When our bodies are in ketosis (elevated ketone levels), we feel less hungry and eat less than we would if not in ketosis. While in ketosis, our bodies are burning fat as the main source of energy. Our brains use glucose for the energy it needs. But when glucose is not available our brains switch to running on ketones since they can't burn fat for energy.

What are raspberry ketones?

Raspberry ketones are a compound found in, and derived from, raspberries. They are what give raspberries their unique aroma. They are a natural dietary supplement that boosts our body's ability to burn fat and lose weight, naturally.

Raspberry ketones help our bodies produce and release adiponectin. Adiponectin is secreted from fat tissues and from our liver and is a protein that helps regulate our metabolism. Higher levels of adiponectin are associated with lower levels of body fat.

They are an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect against cell damage (oxidation) and help fight off diseases.

When taken as part of a healthy diet and exercise, you can expect good results from taking raspberry ketones. This would be the most beneficial way to go about making a healthy change in your weight. You can rely solely on the ketones, but you will have longer lasting and better results if combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan.

Some of the benefits of raspberry ketones are:

Benefit #1:They help our bodies produce adiponectin.

Benefit #2: They are an antioxidant.

Benefit #3: They are all natural (the raspberry ketones).

Benefit #4: Assist with the elimination of fat.

Benefit #5: They boost metabolism.

So far to date, there have not been any studies done on the effects of raspberry ketones on humans. Japanese scientists did a research study on mice and found raspberry ketones to significantly increase the burning of stored fat and inhibit fat from being stored.

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If You Eat Soaked Almonds Every Morning Before Breakfast, This Will Happ...

Are Cherries Healthy?

Are cherries healthy? This is a question that many people have been asking over the last few years. The reason they have been asking it is because word has been going around that pound for pound cherries are one most nutritional fruits you can eat. Due to their very small size when compared to other fruit, this is hard for most people to believe. Thus, the question - Are cherries healthy?

In a word, YES. Research on cherries health benefits have shown them to be one of the best fruits you could eat. The issue of taste is actually a secondary concern since there are some types of cherries that taste better than others. This is why cherries are usually divided into two main categories, sweet cherries and sour cherries.

Sweet cherries, such as Bing cherries are the variety found as fresh fruit on the grocer's shelves during season. This variety of cherry is very sweet and delicious to eat just as they are. Sour cherries have a very tart taste so they are the ones used in desserts like cherry pies. There are plenty of other ways one can use tart cherries in cooking to negate its sour taste. If you are open to the idea of learning more about cherries, read on to learn the health benefits of this small 'super fruit' as well as the cooking options you can pursue to make cherries more palatable to your discerning taste buds.

Here is a short list of the known cherries health benefits to finally give rest to the question "are cherries healthy."

1 - Cherries are packed with antioxidants which are crucial for reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease. The red color of cherries contains compounds known as bioflavonoids which functions in a variety of ways to boost health. Bioflavonoids react with free radicals to minimize cellular damage and boost the immune system. When eaten regularly, cherries health benefits give the body plenty of ammunition that it can use to lower cellular damage caused by free radicals which are caused by stress, bad sleeping habits, poor food choices, and many other bad lifestyle decisions like cigarette smoking.

2 - The same bioflavonoids in cherries also contain anti-inflammatory properties which make them great against arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. Arthritis occurs because the joints are inflamed and this leads to pain. Eating cherries can help lower the incidence and severity of arthritis attacks among those who suffer from the problems. This is one of the best known of all the cherries health benefits as they have been used to help the inflammation of gout for centuries.

3 - Cherries are also packed with plenty of vitamins and minerals. Cherries are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and manganese. If you want a well-rounded fruit that is very accessible, you can never go wrong with cherries.

4 - Cherries are low calorie and have a lot of water content. This makes them a great diet food, and we all know how important it is to keep our body hydrated.

Are cherries healthy? It seems the answer cannot be denied.

Now, we've already mentioned how nutritional benefits are less a concern for many when eating sour cherries because of their tart taste. Well, one has plenty of options. First, always consider only eating sweet cherries raw. For sour cherries, you can use these for cooking pies, cakes, brownies, cookies and as ingredients in frozen yogurt, just to name a few. Sour cherries are great for cooking because sugar can be added to reduce the sour taste while still enjoying the cherry flavor.

So the next time you find yourself eating a portion of this delicious little fruit, just think about these answers to the question - are cherries healthy? Then you can focus on all the benefits you are getting in each serving, and enjoy them even more.

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Health Benefits of Astaxanthin, The Super Antioxidant

I began taking astaxanthin over 10 years ago. I played a lot of tennis and I had developed a case of tennis elbow. I started taking the astaxanthin and the symptoms disappeared within about a week.

I continued to use astaxanthin because I also like to spend time in the sun and astaxanthin helps to protect your skin from UV damage and photo aging and you can stay in the sun longer with a reduced risk of sun burn - even fair skinned people can stay in the sun longer with less risk of getting a sun burn.

Anti Aging - Skin Health:

Astaxanthin helps to reduce fine wrinkles and improves the elasticity of your skin and helps to increase the moisture in your skin. Astaxanthin also helps to reduce age spots. So you can see that astaxanthin is a super supplement for its anti aging health benefits.

What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is a marine algae. It is what salmon and pink flamingos feed on that gives them their color. It is in the carotenoid family. It is a very powerful antioxidant that helps to destroy free radicals.

In fact, it is several times more powerful than vitamin c, vitamin e and CoQ10. It is also about 500 times more powerful than the catechins in green tea.

Astaxanthin is absorbed into your cells and tissue throughout your entire body, unlike most other antioxidants that only benefit certain bodily functions or organs.

Brain Health:

Astaxanthin can cross the blood brain barrier, so it helps to protect your brain neurons and reduces the risk of brain diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's.

Eye Health:

Astaxanthin can cross the blood retinal barrier, so it helps to:

reduce UV damage to the eyes,

eye fatigue,

age related macular degeneration,

cataracts,

high eye pressure that can lead to glaucoma or eventual blindness.

Joint Health:

And as I already touched on, astaxanthin really helps to improve joint health, by reducing inflammation and pain caused by free radicals and protecting your joints.

Astaxanthin strengthens your over all immunity so you are better able to resist disease and illness.

Astaxanthin is fat soluble and best absorbed with healthy fats.

Dosage: Take 4 mgs daily for skin health and up to 12 mgs daily for joint health.

How long before you see results?

It can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks to see results depending on the person. There are some people who have trouble absorbing carotenoids, and so for those people, astaxanthin will be less effective.

With good supplementation like astaxanthin, along with eliminating sugar and processed foods and eating a healthy diet, you can live a healthier, more active lifestyle.

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What Exactly Is A Collagen Diet?

Collagen diet is the hottest topic of discussion these days. Collagen is a skin protein that our body produces naturally. As we age, the production of collagen tends to reduce, which results in aging skin, freckles, fine line, wrinkles and other prominent signs of aging. A collagen diet seems to be the perfect solution to fight these skin complications.

With the decreasing collagen production, free radicals tend to develop and cause horrors for the skin. All skin problems are caused by free radical damage.

There are various skin care products that claim to contain collagen as an active ingredient. This is simply falsifications. Collagen has large molecules that cannot penetrate into the skin. It is also not possible for the skin to absorb collagen in the form of powder or pills. Therefore, all the ultra pure collagen skin care creams and supplements are next to worthless.

Furthermore, collagen actually becomes inactive when it is being recreated in any skin care cream. This actually means that even if the skin would be able to absorb the ingredient, it would hardly have any function.

So, what is the concept of a collagen diet?

Well, a collagen diet incorporates all these foods that contain antioxidants for combating free radicals. This would primarily include different types of green vegetables, particularly the colored ones. Vitamins are very important for the production of collagen; have fruits that contain vitamin C in abundance.

Maintaining such a diet would not only benefit your skin conditions, but would also take care of your overall health. If you are expecting miracle, you will be disheartened. Therefore, take one step at a time.

Along with these dietary changes, you must also take certain essential skin care ingredients into account. Coenzyme Q10, Cynergy TK and Phytessence Wakame are some of the most essential skin care ingredients that can make a great difference. These are very essential for encouraging the production of collagen naturally.

While Coenzyme Q10 helps in protecting the skin against harmful UV rays and also helps in destroying free radicals, Cynergy TK helps in improving the radiance and glow of the skin. It also promotes skin elasticity and firmness.

Phytessence Wakame is essential for promoting skin elasticity. It is a powerful antioxidant too that works towards enhancing the smoothness of skin and also helps in soothing irritated skin. It acts as a natural emollient and moisturizing agent as well.

There's nothing like the collagen diet, its just about eating healthy and good foods that will complement your skin. Use good skin care products that contains ingredients which will stimulate collagen production.

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Top Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Taste and nutrition as well as the health benefits of tomatoes have been highly valued. Enjoyed all over the world, they are essential ingredients in the diets of many cultures. Yet the plant has a spotty past, including myths, misconceptions and controversy, and the challenges of modern mass production of the tomato continue to spark debate. Yet there is no debate over the intrinsic health benefits of the tomato. The tomato is treasured for its nutritional value as much as for its delicious taste.

History of the Tomato

Peru is generally credited with first cultivating of the fruit now known as the tomato. The tomatoes of that day were tiny compared to modern tomatoes, but were already a valued food, bred for flavor. From Peru, the tomato spread through Southern and Central America. Mexico's Aztecs prized them, using them extensively in their cooking, including salsa. When the Spanish invaded Mexico during the early 1500's, the Aztecs developed a new, gruesome recipe involving tomatoes. The fruit was served with the flesh of the Spanish invaders.

Some believe it was the Spanish Conquistador Hernando Cortés who brought the tomato to Europe after conquering the Aztec capital, Tenochtítlan, now Mexico City. Others believe Christopher Columbus brought plants back to Europe with him as early as 1493. An Italian herbal document in 1544 mentions the tomato as pomo d'oro, or golden apple. In 1597, English surgeon John Gerard published an herbal declaring that the tomato was poisonous and not to be eaten, prompting a century or two of excluding the fruit from British and colonial diets.

Several theories exist as to why so many believed the tomato was poison. One theory puts the blame on pewter plates, which had a high lead content. Acidic food like tomatoes caused some of the lead to leach into the food, leading to lead poisoning. However, lead poisoning occurs so gradually, over such a long period of time, that many consider it unlikely that the tomato would have been identified as the cause. A more likely theory is that the tomato is considered a member of the nightshade family of plants. Indeed, the tomato leaf is not safe to eat. Eating tomato leaves can cause vomiting, diarrhea and dizziness, and in severe cases, can lead to death.

Controversy also existed for a time over whether the tomato is a fruit or a vegetable. Botanically, the tomato is a berry, a subset of fruit, but its content is more like a vegetable. Perhaps the best way to describe the tomato is as "the fruit that behaves as vegetable."

Mass-Produced Tomatoes

Today, tomatoes are grown around the world, adapted to a variety of growing conditions with thousands of cultivars. Tomatoes vary in size, color and flavor, from four-inch diameter beefsteak beauties to the elongated plum tomatoes prized in sauces. Tomatoes rightfully take their place along nutritional super foods, yet in some areas of the world, efforts to mass produce the fruit are causing concern among health experts.

In Florida, much of the land used for agriculture was carved out of the everglades. The sandy soil and humid air doesn't suit the temperament of tomatoes, so farmers add quantities of chemical fertilizers to prompt growth. The fruit is shipped to market while still green, before the sun has ripened their taste and color - the tomatoes are treated with gas to make them look red. When compared to organic tomatoes, they are higher in sodium, while lower in vitamins and minerals. Many of these tomatoes wind up in fast food restaurants and grocery chain stores. It is recommended that consumers buy locally-grown tomatoes whenever possible. When not possible, canned tomatoes are more healthful - the tomatoes found in canned tomatoes are typically allowed to ripen before processing.

Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Naturally-grown tomatoes contain many valuable nutrients, including lycopene, which has been linked to preventing cancer. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants are nutrients that can slow or repair the damage that can be caused when the body's cells metabolize oxygen. As cells take in oxygen, molecular bonds can break, causing by products called free radicals. Free radicals immediately try to stabilize themselves by latching on to the nearest molecule. This process can damage healthy cells. Too many free radicals - or not enough antioxidants - can predispose the body to cancer. Antioxidants may also help maintain the body's immune system, reducing the instances of conditions and diseases associated with a weakened immune system. Notably, the skin of the tomato also contains powerful antioxidants.

Tomatoes contain other beneficial nutrients, including beta carotene and lutein, as well as vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. Tomatoes are also rich in potassium. In addition, the nutrients in tomatoes become more powerful or efficient when combined with certain other foods. A Ohio State University study found that consuming tomatoes with healthy fats, such as olive oil or avocado, intensifies the body's ability to absorb antioxidants by as much as 2 to 15 times. A study published in Cancer Research observed more positive effects in treating prostate tumors in rats when tomatoes were combined with broccoli. No allergies or adverse effects have been definitively associated with tomatoes.

Enjoying Tomatoes

The healthiest way to enjoy tomatoes is to either grow them in a home garden or purchase organically and locally grown tomatoes at a farmer's market or health food store. When this is not possible, canned tomatoes are an acceptable alternative. One medium tomato, cup of tomato juice or soup constitutes one portion of recommended daily vegetable consumption. To receive the added benefits from combining tomatoes with other nutritionally-rich food, try adding a few broccoli florets to tomato soup. Add both tomatoes and broccoli florets to a salad. Reduce the amount of cheese on a pizza and drizzle olive oil over it for a rich flavor. Chop avocado into your favorite salsa, or chop tomato into your favorite guacamole. However you enjoy the health benefits of tomatoes you will be boosting your system and sampling one of life's culinary delights.

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The Health Benefits of Oregano Oil

Oil of Oregano has been renowned for hundreds of years for its wonderful healing power. The oil extracted from wild plants of oregano is different from kitchen oregano. Oregano oil belongs to the hilly regions in the Mediterranean. However, due to its many advantages it is widely cultivated today.

The advantages of oregano oil are in abundance. It is used as an anti fungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory cures. The oil with medicinal value can be administered internally or applied externally. It is obtainable in the forms of oil, tablet or gel. It has been found that the oil forms and gel forms are more beneficial than the capsule forms.

Oregano oil has been found to be very effective in the treatment of yeast infections, also known as candida albicans. It is useful in various other persistent fungal diseases like athletes foot, ring worm etc. Oregano oil wards off viruses which cause cold and fever, if taken on a daily basis. It is effective in eradicating already existing infections and speeds recovery.

Oregano oil is also famous for its ability to fight bacteria. It matches up to the strongest of antibiotics known as Vancomycin. The oil successfully eliminates Escherichia coli or rather known as E. coli and staph infections. Natural antibiotics like Oil of Oregano do not produce altered strains caused by bacteria which are drug- resistant. They are free from side effects also.

The powerful oregano oil ward off parasite, reduce the effect of worms and amoeba and eliminates fleas, mosquitoes, lice, bed bugs, ticks etc. The magical oil is a super antioxidant which can slow or stop the oxidation process of molecules. It also has the ability to neutralize free radicals, lessen possible harm to your body and repair already prevalent damages of the body. It also acts as an anti aging agent, safe guards against different types of cancers, degeneration of eye sight, wrinkles, mental disorders and many other age connected issues.

Oregano oil has the power to relieve inflammation. The presence of terpenes which is a natural kind of anti-inflammatory present in the oil is the cause for this healing effect. This feature also makes it a good cure to reduce the pain of inflammation caused due to arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, sinusitis, irritable bowel syndrome, hepatitis, eczema and much more!

Oil of Oregano is found to be loaded in two key compounds namely, carvacrol and thymol. When you buy Oregano Oil, you should check if the strength of carvacrol is no less than 70%. If the oil is not thinned in carrier oil when you buy it, ensure you dilute it before you use it internally or externally.

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Benefits of Chocolate Topping The Super Food List

We all know fruits have beneficial antioxidants that put them on the super food list, but one of the surprising benefits of chocolate is that it is also a source of these compounds. Enjoying delicious dark chocolate every so often is no longer just an indulgence for your sweet tooth; new research finds the high antioxidant content in dark chocolate and cocoa powders is quite good for your heart as well.

In fact, antioxidant-rich chocolate might just become the next "super food" we're all hearing about thanks to its sky-high antioxidant content.

In this latest work, the researchers found that the antioxidant action of both cocoa powder and dark chocolate were the same as or more than found in other more obvious super foods, like fruit. However, this does not mean that chocolate is healthier than fruit.

Most people don't realize that cocoa powder comes from seeds from the cacao tree that are then dried and processed into powder. So cocoa powder comes from a plant, just as fruits and veggies do.

The trouble starts when you take that natural product and process it so it appeals to the taste buds, in effect destroying many of the beneficial compounds in the process. Unfortunately, raw cocoa powder is pretty bitter, so it gets sweetened through processing. However, American chocolate makers are belatedly realizing that this strips the cocoa of its beneficial nutrients and are working to make products that keep more of their flavonoids.

Science knows that antioxidants combat the detrimental effects oxidative stress has on the body. We're learning antioxidants are extremely beneficial to the heart as well, having been found in earlier studies to cut the risk of heart disease.

Two particular antioxidants, polyphenols and flavonols, have been at the center of many research studies because of their potential health benefits. Any food that's high in either of these has often been dubbed "superfoods" by the media.

In this study the research team compared the total flavanol and polyphenol content, alongside antioxidant action of dark chocolate and cocoa powder to some more common so called "super fruits" like acai berry, blueberries, cranberries and pomegranate.

The antioxidant action of powdered cocoa was the highest of all the super fruits analyzed. The total flavanol composition of cocoa powder was greater than all the other super food powders tested.

The scientists also compared dark chocolate and super fruit 100% nonblended juices. The overall antioxidant action of dark chocolate was much higher than 1 cup of most of the juices, with the exception of pomegranate. The polyphenol content was 1,000 milligrams for dark chocolate, and the flavanol content was over 500 milligrams, far higher than the 200 milligrams for the fruit juices.

However, it is worth remembering that the overall calorie content and grams of fat in dark chocolate is a lot higher than any of the fruit juices tested in the study. This suggests moderation in usage, which is typically difficult for most people. The experts stress that you don't need a whole bar of rich, dark chocolate to gain health benefits; a daily Hershey kiss sized piece will do just fine - and therein lies the problem...

Also important is the cocoa powders and dark chocolate samples used in the research had natural cocoa that hadn't undergone an alkalizing process. As a process, alkalization mellows the sharp flavor of cocoa, and in so doing, manages to destroy the beneficial polyphenolic compounds nature gives chocolate.

Unfortunately, those hot cocoa mixes that we drink so much of during the colder weather have alkalized cocoa and so give us few, of the benefits of chocolate.

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All About Jackfruit You Should Know

Are you looking for unique fruit to mix with your drinks or dishes? Go to local supermarkets and buy a jackfruit. You probably never knew about this fruit before, but once you taste it, you will love it.

Jackfruit is believed indigenous to the rain forests of the Western Ghats of India. Later on, it spread early to other parts of India, Southeast Asia, the East Indies, and Philippines. Besides being planted in those areas, it is also planted in central and eastern Africa. In Brazil and Surinam, this fruit is increasingly popular. In tropical areas, it is even a common garden tree.

If you do not have any idea about this fruit, just imagine durian, but in larger shape. Do not get surprised on its size since it is known as the largest edible tree-grown fruit on earth! Can you imagine fruit which size is 350-900mm in length and 250-500mm in diameter? The weight even can reach 80 pounds!

When you first experience tasting this fruit, you may think that the smell is unpleasant. The fully ripe smell is "sharp", although it can not be compared to durian. The fruit is unusual as it is borne on the main branches, the trunks, and occasionally even from surface roots of the tree. The tree grows to an enormous size, like a large eastern oak, so it looks sturdy and massive.

When the fruit ripens, the exterior part, or the skin, turns into green or yellow. After peeling the skin, you will find large edible yellow bulbs with sweet taste. Before peeling a fresh jackfruit, you better oil your knife first because it is very sticky.

Jackfruit is often cooked for main course dishes, desserts, soups, drinks, ice creams, fruit salads, and even chips. For main course dishes, people tend to cook it when unripe and immature, but they use the fully ripe ones for desserts. It is also available canned in sugar syrup, or frozen. Some manufactures worldwide also produce dried jackfruit chips which have unique taste. You can even roast and boil the seeds!

Jackfruit contains many vitamins and minerals. It can help prevent cancer since it contains isoflavones, antioxidants, and phytonutriens. It can also help cure ulcers and indigestion. It is also good for your diet since it is a source of dietary fiber. Now, go to local markets, get a jackfruit, and mix it with your dishes!


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Aloe Vera face mask

25 Unexpected And Unusual Uses For Honey

7 Foods That Reduce Inflammation Naturally

Do you or someone you love suffer from inflammation and the pain that comes with it? If so, I'm happy to share with you a little of what I have learned through my journey to heal my inflammation. I will share with you 7 foods that reduce inflammation naturally.

  Before I share some of the secrets I have found, it is important to know what inflammation is. So, what is inflammation?

Inflammation is part of the biological response of vascular tissues to harmful stimuli. These stimuli could be damaged cells, pathogens, or irritants. Inflammation is a protective attempt by your body to remove the detrimental stimuli and to start the healing process. Infections and wounds would never heal without inflammation. Symptoms of inflammation can include swelling, pain, redness, and restriction in movement.

Inflammation can be acute or chronic. Chronic inflammation is prolonged inflammation. It leads to a progressive shift in the type of cells existing at the site of inflammation and is characterized by concurring destruction and healing of the tissue from the inflammatory process. It can cause a load of diseases, such as arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, periodontitis, hay fever, cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, hypersensitivities, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, acne, celiac disease, autoimmune diseases, asthma, etc. So for that reason, the body closely regulates inflammation.

It is important to reduce inflammation not just because of the pain that it causes you, but also because chronic inflammation is very detrimental to the body. Unlike acute inflammation, where the immune system responds to injury or infection by activating inflammatory chemicals that fight abnormal substances, chronic inflammation isn't beneficial for the body.

The foods you choose to eat can help reduce and prevent inflammation. Foods reduce inflammation naturally, so if you want to get rid of your inflammation naturally, then read on! Below I will share with you 7 foods that reduce inflammation naturally. These foods are called anti-inflammatory foods.

Berries

Goji berries are one of the first foods I choose to eat to rid myself of my horrible inflammation pain, and I noticed a difference within weeks. Goji berries are very high in antioxidants, so they are a great anti-inflammatory along with other wonderful qualities. Blueberries are full of antioxidants and high in phytonutrients. Phytonutrients give anti-inflammatory protection against many diseases. Other types of berries such as raspberries, blackberries, strawberries and cranberries are also high in antioxidants.

Papaya

Papain is a protein-digesting enzyme found in papaya. Papain, along with other nutrients such as vitamin E and C, helps to reduce inflammation and improves digestion. If you are interested in foods that reduce inflammation, and you are a tropical fruit fan, then this is a perfect food for you to eat.

Pineapple

Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in the healing of indigestion, sports injury, trauma and other kinds of swelling and inflammation. Extracts of bromelain are used in various natural anti-inflammatory supplements for arthritis.

Spices

Turmeric is a spice with high anti-inflammatory qualities. Add a teaspoon to your diet each day. Some ways to include turmeric into your diet would be to add it to soups, sprinkling it on scrambled eggs, mixing it into sauces, or salad dressings. Ginger is a relative of turmeric that is also revered internationally for its anti-inflammatory qualities. If you want to reduce inflammation naturally, then try incorporating these spices in your next meals.

Kelp

Kelp contains fucoidan, a kind of carbohydrate that is anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative. Kombu, arame, and wakame are a few types of kelp that can be bought at the grocery store. Kelp has a high fiber content so it also helps to make your feel full and promotes weight loss. Get organic kelp from unpolluted waters.

Spinach

Spinach is a dark green leafy vegetable that is a high source of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative flavonoids and carotenoids. It contains vitamin A, B, B, C, E, K, iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and folate. Make sure to buy organic spinach. Non-organic spinach is sprayed with pesticides and you don't want to be putting more toxins into your body, because that will increase your inflammation. Vegetables, especially dark leafy vegetables are great for decreases inflammation. Choose dark green or brightly colored vegetables.

Broccoli

Broccoli contains anti-inflammatory phytonutrients that help the body to get rid of carcinogenic compounds. It is also a highly nutritious vegetable. Cauliflower is a relative of broccoli, which contains similar components that aid the body's detoxification.

I hope you have found this list of foods that reduce inflammation helpful. Start eating some of these foods, and see what happens. If you already eat some of them, try eating more. The more you eat of these foods, the more you should see a reduction in your inflammation and the pain that goes with it. Here's to a new you... inflammation and pain-free!



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5 Ways to Use Honey In Your Diet

Honey is an extremely versatile food, known worldwide for its numerous health benefits; so versatile is this rich, golden liquid that its usage extends beyond dietary purposes! From food spreads and skin potions to illness remedies and beauty applications, the utilities of honey seem boundless.

Honey possesses hygroscopic, antibacterial, antioxidant and nutritional properties that make it a power food for the whole family. Since honey is an adaptable food, serving multiple purposes, one can include honey in the daily diet in several ways.

1. In your beverages:

Kickstart your day with a tall glass of warm water, two tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. This honey-water-lemon concoction is known to help aid faster burning of fats, when coupled with an active lifestyle. You can replace sugar and other calorie-heavy sweeteners. Opt for honey in milk, instead of sugar. You can also whip up your very own, healthy power drink to immediately feel refreshed and energized. Mix two cups of water, one-fourth cup of fresh lemon juice, one-eighth teaspoon of salt and two and a half teaspoons of raw honey in a water bottle. Consume as and when needed to rehydrate yourself, instead of consuming unhealthy sports drinks and mixes.

2. As a bread spread:

Using honey as a breakfast or bread spread is a smart and healthier alternative to the sugar-packed conventional bread spreads available in the market. Generously spread honey onto your morning toast for a delicious breakfast; remember to have some fruit portions as well. Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder and apply it on bread as a spread, instead of jams and jellies. You can also make a honey-mustard spread for sandwiches in a trice - just blend one-fourth cup of prepared mustard, one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of mayonnaise, and spread the mixture between bread slices. Alternatively, you can use honey as a great dip to go with breakfast rotis or chapatis. A popular way in some rural ways is to dip freshly made Dosas in a mix of honey & ghee.

3. As a salad dressing:

Salads taste great when married with the right dressing! You can use honey to up your salad dressing game, and turn snack time into a delicious, healthy daily routine. Simply add equal parts honey, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil into a jar; add a sprinkling of your favourite herbs and a pinch of salt to taste. Close the jar tightly with a lid and shake thoroughly, or simply use a spoon to mix the contents well. Add a generous portion of the dressing to your salads, instead of using mayonnaise or other calorie-rich salad dressings.

4. As a power snack:

For a quick and nutritious snack, mix your favourite dry fruits, a cup of raw toasted oats, a little warm milk and three tablespoons of honey in a bowl. This muesli-like snack bowl is super-nutritious and packs quite the punch in filling you up; it works perfectly as a light tea-time snack, thus preventing you from binge-eating salty, fried or processed snacks.

5. In your soups:

Honey is an excellent ingredient in soups such as bisques, broths made with carrots, squash, sweet potato of certain fruit, and in soups or curries seasoned with ginger. Just a drizzle of honey works to add more complexity and balance to soups. In case of soups that work on the bitterness angle such as cauliflower or parsnip based soups, honey makes the soup softer on the palate. Spicy soups gain a slightly sweet dimension when honey is added. Moreover, the natural viscosity of honey helps in adding more body and thickness to soups.

Honey works wonderfully in various food preparations, both as an additive and a key ingredient. Experiment with honey by using recipes for whole-cooked meals with honey. But do note that Ayurveda warns against heating honey. If you want to keep it simple, go the easy route and add honey as a table ingredient in your daily meals such as beverages and snacks.

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The Paleo Dieter Eats Breakfast

Breakfast is fairly easy to do Paleo - with plenty of eggs and meats to choose from, making a scramble is quick and easy. One of my favorites I call the Frasier breakfast - tossed salad and scrambled eggs (from the Frasier Show theme song).

Another way is to take leftover veggies and sauté them then add your beaten eggs. Either let them set-up (or stick under the broiler) for frittata or stir them up for a paleo version of Migas.

If you eat bacon or ham (with no nitrates, from organically feed animals), you can fry up the meat and cook eggs in the fat. Very tasty!

And, there's always the power smoothie:

Packed with good fats, proteins, antioxidants and flavor, very satisfying and will keep you going for hours. The possibilities are plentiful; don't limit yourself to the basic egg white protein powder and banana. You can throw into the blender:

Coconut milk, usually a whole can, some coconut cream if you want extra calories and flavor.

Add any whole fresh or frozen fruit. I like frozen berries either mixed or individuals: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries even cranberries (very tangy). The berries add lots of color to the smoothie and antioxidants.

Add one or two whole raw eggs. Don't worry about raw if you use free range, naturally fed organic eggs. Try some duck or ostrich eggs if you can get them from your local co-op or farmer's market. The eggs add protein and fat.

Or, add a spoonful of your favorite nut butter. It will add a subtle taste of the nut to the finished smoothie. If you want crunchy, add the whole nut instead.

Add a spoon of pure vanilla extract and, there you go!

This is a pretty simple recipe, but it's tasty, quick and powerfully good for you.

But let's be honest; sometimes you really miss pancakes. So here's a way to stay paleo and have your (pan) cakes too!

The Paleo Diet Quick Pancake Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 Large eggs 
½ Cup Cashew Nut Butter 
¼ Teaspoon Cinnamon 
½ Cup Apple Sauce (sugarless) 
½ Teaspoon Vanilla Extract 
Coconut oil

Directions:

Combine ingredients 1 - 5 in a bowl and stir the mixture until smooth.

Add a little coconut oil to a frying pan - just enough to lightly cover the bottom. Turn the heat on medium. When the oil starts to pop (or a drop of water dances on the surface), pour the batter and spread it into a pancake shape.

Cook for a minute or two, until the edges start to brown and flip to fry the other side.

Serve with a Paleo-friendly topping of your choice (I prefer Blueberries warmed and mashed into a spread) and enjoy!

Add a Paleo breakfast beverage if you're really hungry.

Paleo Vaninut Milk Recipe:

Ingredients:

4 Cups of That Coconut Water 
1 Cup Raw Almonds 
A pinch of sea salt (if you still use salt) 
Seeds from 1Vanilla Bean 
¼ Cup of Agave Nectar or honey equivalent.

Directions:

Put the coconut water and almonds in a blender and run on high until the mixture looks smooth. Use a nut-milk bag or cheesecloth and strain the mixture, disposing of the pulp.

Return the strained milk mixture to the blender and add the sea salt, vanilla bean seeds, and agave nectar and blend at high speed until smooth.

Want more quick, easy and tasty paleo recipes? Visit The Paleo Dieter blog.

The Paleo Diet may be simple but that doesn't mean you have to eat boring food!

With 21st century technology we can turn bland into exciting, complicated into easy.

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