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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Ginger - The Wonder Root

Ever walk along the produce aisle and find yourself staring at the earthy fascination of a ginger root? Oddly shaped, and with a distinctive flavor, this "wonder root" is an excellent dietary addition because it includes varying amounts of magnesium, manganese, potassium, and vitamins B6, C, and E. Besides being loaded with anti-inflammatory properties, ginger root offers a variety of other health benefits. Some studies indicate it is an aid to digestion, is beneficial both to cholesterol levels and blood pressure, helps with arthritis, and even aids nausea. It is quite a versatile root to boot! Ginger can be incorporated into countless recipes and should be included in your regular diet.
Considered a staple in China and India, ginger root has been used for centuries in cooking and for medicinal purposes. It has a thick, tan, knotty, and bulbous appearance and grows somewhat horizontally. In actuality, it is not a root, but rather it is a "rhizome," an underground stem. Harvested year-round, ginger root is available fresh in most grocery stores, usually in the produce section.
Several studies have investigated the health benefits of ginger. The advantages range from decreased joint inflammation and arthritis to help with nausea, athlete's foot, heart disease, lowered cholesterol, and better circulation. Ever get bloated? Ginger may be the answer. Many people take the strange-looking stem in some form to help with their digestion. Ginger has also been shown to be anti-viral, making it a great support for your immune system during periods of increased risk of common colds and flu. It helps to reduce muscle spasms, and some women take ginger for menstrual cramping. Ginger is also an aid in managing fevers, bronchitis, respiratory symptoms, and headaches. Feel dizzy during a ride on an airplane or while traveling on a cruise? The characteristics of ginger have even been shown to help people with motion sickness.

In our practice, we have seen the most success when ginger is used to assist with digestive, bowel, and gastrointestinal issues, stomach cramping, and arthritis of the fingers. For many of our pregnant patients ginger has provided relief from their symptoms of nausea. Some individuals choose ginger in place of pain relievers. Ginger also benefits healing in cases of skin wounds, aiding in the decrease of pus and infected areas. Note that ginger is contraindicated for people with gallstones and gastric/peptic ulcers and should not be used by them. During a recent symposium hosted by the American Association of Cancer Research, a particular study demonstrated that ginger suppressed cancer cells and cleansed the body of toxins. Although more research is needed, the documented curative effects of ginger are welcome news.
Ginger can be taken in whole, liquid, or powder form. If the wonder root does not appeal to your taste buds, try taking it in capsules, which are available in most health food or nutritional stores. The dosage for adults is typically 25 to 100 milligrams (or 1.5 to 3 milliliters of liquid) daily, although for digestive issues it may be helpful to increase the dosage. Use of ginger root in its natural state is preferred, and it is particularly beneficial and tasty when steeped in hot water with green or white tea. See the recipe at the end of this article for a pleasant concoction known as "Oooss Juice."
Ginger has many uses beyond medicinal and is versatile in the kitchen. Several cultures include it in making wine, and it is an ingredient in various candies, teas, curry, sushi, and some French liquors. In the US, ginger is probably most popularly known as the basis for ginger ale, gingerbread men cookies, cakes (gingerbread), jellies, jams, and other delicious confections and flavorings. Consider adding ginger to your favorite stir-fry recipe, dressings, salads, and even barbecue sauce.

As already described, ginger is a multipurpose and extraordinary herb! Its numerous health-promoting and symptom-fighting components make it desirable and appreciated. Whether the issues are digestive or fighting inflammation and bloating, ginger can contribute to the good health of people at any age.
One of my favorite ginger-based "brews" is Oooss Juice, for which the recipe follows:
Oooss Juice
- Use a high-quality, heat-retaining, stainless steel 2- to 4-gallon pot.
- Boil 1 gallon of water; add ½ pound of sliced ginger; lightly boil for 5 minutes, and turn the burner off.
- Add 2 to 6 organic green tea bags, steep for 30 to 60 minutes, and remove.
- After 4 to 12 hours, strain out the ginger, place the juice in a glass container, and cool in the refrigerator. Drink cold or hot.
Ginger, the wonder root, is an ingredient in many interesting recipes, adds a pungent and exotic flavor to foods and beverages, and offers notable health benefits to those who add it to their diet.

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Slow Down Your Aging Process And Improve The Glow Of Your Skin With Dry Fruits

Dry Fruits have a number of health benefits to offer as they are packed with a number of nutrients and vitamins and thus, considered as the great source of food. One can easily consume them on a regular basis and they don't affect your health in bad manners until or unless you have any allergic reaction from having the same. Eating them is the healthy and tasty ways to boost up your energy level and slow down your aging process. Here are some of the dry fruits that help you in this, so, take a look at the list and be ready to reap their benefits.

Almonds: One of the most popular dry fruits out in the market is almonds. Eating a handful of almonds has a very good impact for radiant skin. These are considered as the king of the dry fruits that are very much helpful in improving the hemoglobin in the blood that promotes blood circulation and ensures glowing skin.
Raisins: Another dry fruit everyone must have is raisins as they are popular and highly known to slow down your aging process. Apart from their beauty benefits, raisins also aid to combat the tooth decay. All the nutrients and vitamins present in them take care of your eye vision and keep the cavities at bay.
Walnuts: Another important dry fruit in the list is walnuts. They are packed with omega -3 fatty acids, which is majorly known for improving the skin texture and resist dryness. Having them regularly not only ensures the glowing skin but also improves your mental power as they are good for your brain and sharpen your memory.
Cashew: Everyone loves the sweet and salty taste of the cashews. And having this power food is good for skin care. It is proven to slow down the aging process because they are the great source of Vitamin E.
Pistachios: Pistachios are a true powerhouse of the nutrients that play a major role in stopping the premature aging. They are rich in Vitamin E, which has the ability to keep your skin nourished and keep them protected from the harmful UV rays.
Next, to fruits, dry fruits are the super food that contains a number of Nutrients, Antioxidants, Vitamins, and Minerals, which plays a vital role in taking care of your Health, Skin, and Hair. What are you waiting for? Go into the kitchen to get any of the dry fruits in the limited quantity and have them to reap their benefits for your glowing skin.






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Ketosis Diets For Weight Loss And Other Health Benefits

Ketosis diets are sometimes called ketogenic diets or very low-carb diets. Ketosis is a biochemical phenomenon which occurs during starvation or extreme carbohydrate restriction, but the word is not supposed to be confused with ketoacidosis, which is something that happens to diabetics when their blood sugar goes out of control.

Ketoacidosis is dangerous, but only happens to diabetics. Ketosis is a natural phenomenon that is in no way dangerous and has some miraculous health benefits. Some people like to think that Ketosis is in some way harmful, but they are confusing these two terms.

Ketosis diets have been used in the past for controlling epileptic seizures in children who haven't responded to any sort of medication. These diets were in common use for this purpose earlier in the 20th century. Interest in this diet plan has been reestablished for diseases such as brain cancer, obesity, diabetes and many, many more.

Ketosis Diets and Obesity

Low-carb, ketogenic diets have been studied and well documented with regards to obesity, and participants usually notice an appetite suppressant effect. When researchers compare low-fat to low-carb diets, they need to actively restrict calories in the low-fat group in order to achieve comparable results.

Low-carb diets are often high in saturated fat, but are still able to improve biomarkers such as HDL cholesterol, insulin resistance, triglyceride levels, and have a positive effect on LDL cholesterol patterns, changing them to large, fluffy type (good) instead of small, dense type (bad).

There are often claims about ketogenic diets being restrictive, but in many studies the people following those diets have a higher chance of completing the studies than the comparison groups (usually low-fat/high-carb diets).

Ketosis Diets and Epilepsy

Most research studies on the benefits of ketosis diets for epileptic seizures in children show a large improvement, which is especially significant since these children usually did not respond to previous medication therapy. In one study, 38% of the kids on the ketosis diet had more than a 50% reduction in the frequency of seizures while 7% had greater than a 90% reduction. A modified Atkins diet, basically an extended Atkins induction phase, showed similar results.

Conclusion

There are many other diseases that may massively benefit from ketosis diets, and it is strange that these kinds of diets are not more often used for therapeutic purposes. The side effects of drugs, which are often not that effective, are most certainly a lot worse than the mild side effects and minor nuances of following a restricted diet.



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Pork - A Different Perspective

Pork is one of the most patronized food products worldwide. You can find different pork cuisines in every culture which are commonly presentable in various cuts. It can be enjoyed grilled, fried, stewing and many other cooking methods. But because pork mainly lacks in fiber, it became a primary suspect in various known diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

If you are a health advocate, you probably preferred promoting vegetables and fruits instead of meat products especially pork meats. Although people sees pork as a food that gives higher health risks, there are still a number of positive health benefits that pork products are known for. Let me site some information about pork's important health benefits.

To change your perspectives about pork, let me give you some of the nutrients that pork offers which less people are aware of. First thing you should know is that pork contains less salt and a perfect source of protein. As you know, protein is a very important component to produce body energy and for building muscles and strength.

This food also contains important minerals and vitamins that our body needs. It includes the following.

1. Fats
Pork fats depends on the meat cuts. A 100 grams lean meat contains six grams of fats. If the meats are cut well, you can enjoy more unsaturated fat that saturated fat which are more beneficial to health.

2. Iron
Iron is abundant in various meat products especially in pork. A 100 grams of pork can give you 15% of your daily iron needs.

3. Vitamin B12
100 grams of pork meat can give you 70% of your daily needs of vitamin B12 which promotes better nerve health.

4. Zinc
Pork is also a good source of zinc than any other foods. A regular dose of pork can give you adequate body requirements of zinc.

The only thing that makes pork bad is the lack of fiber. This is the reason why pork should be taken in moderation to prevent serious diseases. It is wise to apply a balanced diet in your daily meals.

So the next time you dine-in to your favorite restaurants, it is okay to choose a pork dish from the menu because not all things are bad when it comes to pork. Just make sure that you consume meat moderately and never indulge too much in its fats because that can give you more health problems. So in summary, avoid fats and it is considered safe to eat pork!

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The Health Benefits Associated With Sparkling Water

If you have ever been to an exhibition in Europe, or visited a European company at their stand, you'll know that the water on offer almost invariably include sparkling. The normal question is "Wit-Gas?" (with-gas) or as we commonly refer to it as carbonated water or sparkling water. The law relating to carbonated water was formulated by William Henry in 1803. Known now as Henry's Law it states:

"At a constant temperature, the amount of a given gas that dissolves in a given type or volume of liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of that gas in equilibrium with that liquid"

Probably most people don't know of Henry's Law, or even care, but what they are interested in are the unsung benefits associated with chilled and sparkling water. Increasingly, water dispensing equipment suppliers in the are now offering a sparkling or carbonated option.

Water "wit-gas" also known as soda water, fizzy water, sparkling water and seltzer water has shown it can ease indigestion symptoms, and reduce levels of cholesterol and associated cardiovascular risks.

A study was undertaken which showed that consumers of sparkling water had a higher average drinking water as a percentage of total water intake than non-consumers intake. A number of diet drinks are carbonated because it has been suggested that this is one of the ingredients contributing to weight loss.

A downside is the exacerbating of IBS - irritable bowel syndromes of bloating due to CO2 being released in the digestive tract.

Scientific research suggests that water is a benefit to persons trying to lose weight - that's probably most of us in any January, by supplementing a diet program. The stomach too feels fuller with sparkling water and it is also well- known for allaying feeling of hunger.

The ability to have carbonated water on tap in the home or office is growing rapidly as consumers discover the health and taste benefits.

The visible bubbles seen in carbonated drinks are the gas escaping from the liquid, even though the gas itself is invisible. The word to describe this is effervescence. The same phenomenon can be seen in other drinks such as champagne, beer and some wines as well as non-alcoholic drinks.

Drinking carbonated water actually changed drinking habits as it diluted alcohol and became a recognised mixer back as early as 1965. Throughout the 70s and 80s the market declined and as of today the estimated market domestically for the traditional soda-syphon is around only 120,000 (2009 estimates).

Strangely, demand for this product is now increasing again, and the market has seen the introduction of units supplying boiling, chilled and sparkling water instantly.

Commonly seen more in commercial situations such as office tea points and breakout areas, these taps offer improved efficiency and productivity because of their immediate availability and associated health benefits.

Undercounter boiling, and chilled water units were first manufactured in Australia as recently as 1990. The current range has added sparkling options, mixer taps for hot water and a number of different tap configurations. Aiming at the commercial market, Billi UK LLP has experienced massive growth since being introduced into the UK by Billi in 2013.

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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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Swimming Pool Chemicals

Every swimming pool contains a combination of chemicals - anyone that has ever been in a swimming pool will know this. In fact, anyone who has ever been near a swimming pool will recognise the strange odour that wafts through the air! This smell is caused by swimming pool chemicals that are added to every public and private swimming pool as a matter of course.

Swimming pool chemicals are generally chlorine based and come into a variety of forms. Chlorine has distinct properties that attack germs and bacteria that may build up in a pool. Concentrated chlorine can actually damage human cells, especially mucus membrane like the eyes; however in its dilute form it does not prove to be as harmful. The chlorine is carried around the pool via the water molecules and can protect patrons of the pool for at least a couple of weeks before it needs replenishing.

Chlorine and other swimming pool chemicals are essential elements of any pool. Not only does the chlorine kill harmful germs and bacteria, but it also has properties that neutralize and cleanse other, ahem, less savoury substances. Anyone that has seen a "Don't pee in the pool" sign will know what I am talking about.

Although chlorine is the common swimming pool chemical used, a good percentage of individuals are actually allergic to it. Alternatives has been created, and non-chlorine swimming pool chemicals are now commonly available. They come in several forms. Bromine is commonly used, as is oxy shock. The latter is an oxygen product, potassium mono peroxy sulphate, that is actually odourless and does not tend to provoke allergic reactions, yet does the same job as chlorine.

You can purchase swimming pool chemicals from a variety of places. There are companies that sell them on the World Wide Web and some companies even operate via mail order for this kind of commodity. However, if you do need some advice then you should first go to the site listed below, then, armed with knowledge, to specialist stores that stock swimming pool chemicals. These include, garden centres, sports stores and home design stores.

You should not underestimate the importance of swimming pool chemicals, especially if it is your pool that requires maintenance. The chemicals are inexpensive, but you should always consider the health benefits that you do get as a result of employing them.

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Five Good Reasons to Eat an Avocado Each Day

Avocado

Forget the fat in avocados because they are a super-healthy method to add valuable nutrients and fibers (yes, and healthy fat!) in your perfect diet plan. Many people, within their attempts to become health-conscious, avoid avocados due to its high fat concentration (138 calories and 14.1g fat in a medium-sized avocado). Yet avocados are one of the greatest foods you can eat, filled with nutrients and substances that improve the health of your heart. Listed below are five great reasons to eat them frequently.

1. Avocados are filled with carotenoids

Avocados best source of lutein, also carotenoid works as an antioxidant preventing eye illness. They also develop alpha-carotene as well as beta-carotene, as well as vitamin E.

However avocados aren't just a rich source of carotenoids, they also help you get more of beneficial nutrients from other meals. Carotenoids tend to be lipophilic (soluble within fat, but not in water), therefore eating carotenoid-packed foods like vegetables and fruits together with monounsaturated-fat-rich avocados, helps your body soak up the carotenoids. An easy way to get this done would be to add chopped avocado pieces to a mixed salad.

2. Avocados give you a sense of well-being

A small avocado consists of 3.4 grams of fiber, including soluble and insoluble fibers; both of these variations are needed by the body to keep the digestive tract running smoothly. In addition, soluble fibers slow the breakdown of carbohydrates in your body, helping you feel full for a longer time.

Avocados also contain oleic acids, which make you feel full. Healthier unsaturated fats that contain oleic acid have been shown to create a greater feeling of satiety compared to less-healthy saturated fats in fully processed foods.

3. The nutrients inside an avocado can protect your baby and your heart

One cup of avocado provides almost a quarter of your recommended daily intake of folate, the vitamin which reduces the risk of birth defects. If you're pregnant or going to be then avocados will help protect your unborn child.

A higher folate consumption is also associated with reduced risks of heart attacks and heart problems. Does your family have a history associated with heart issues, or has been showing any symptoms for heart disease? Avocados can help you maintain your heart healthy.

4. Avocados can help reduce your cholesterol

The actual oleic acid in an avocado will help decrease cholesterol levels. In one research, individuals consuming an avocado-rich diet plan had a significant reduction in total cholesterol levels, together with a decrease in BAD cholesterol. Their own amounts of HDL cholesterol (the healthy type) increased through 11%.

Heart problems are among the main risk factors for heart disease. The actual cholesterol-lowering properties of avocado, along with its folate content, help to keep your heart healthy.

5. The avocado has an excellent flavor

The final reason is simple because avocados are really a healthy method to boost the taste as well as size of the meals. Put a sliced avocado in a salad or soup; serve the guacamole as an appetizer or even condiment.

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Benefits Of Himalayan Salts

In our everyday lives, salt has played a significant role in producing the best tasting foods that would come in contact with our palates, may it be at home or at a restaurant.

Most of us believe that salts come in merely two forms - the table and iodized salt. Between the two, the latter obtained a healthier reputation than the former.

However, with the days coming in progress, the search for a better option in almost all aspects, even for the humble salt, continued.

The benefits of Himalayan Salts are huge. Unlike the regular sea or table salt, Himalayan salts contain about 84 minerals which come in an ionic form, thus contributing to its easy-to-absorb and easy-to-use property. This type of salt has the ability to hydrate our body tissues and requires no digestion at all, which in turn allows the body to utilize it shortly after drinking some dissolved in water which by then has converted its molecular property to electrical property. Given this type of nature, it provides additional set of energy to our body which some other foods cannot render.

In addition to the differences between the Himalayan and table salt, the latter has undergone through different processes where most of its natural elements have been washed off. It is also rich in sodium chloride chemical which can cause re-crystallization of table salt if it accumulates in very high levels. The Himalayan salts, however, is a salt that comes in its natural form and has the ability to eliminate unwanted bacteria and toxins which poses a threat to the human body.

The Himalayan salt does not confine its usage merely in the four corners of the dining area but in other aspects of health as well. Himalayan salts, when placed in bath and drinking water, provide relief and relaxation to the body as well as detoxification and improvement in the blood circulation. It also helps combat certain health conditions such as allergies and respiratory problems and in addition, it can also contribute to skin rejuvenation, making it and its appearance healthier.

Salt is essential but it would be better to take into consideration its nature and with the availability of healthier options like the Himalayan salts, it would still pay to give it a try and gain its positive effects. You can check your neighboring and local stores for its availability or explore in some websites who offer such products.

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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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