Followers

Total Pageviews

Jaiho- Dubai. Powered by Blogger.

SPICE UP YOUR FOOD THE HEALTHY WAY

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Wednesday, November 30, 2011 1 comments

Spices contain an impressive list of plant-derived chemical compounds that are known for their anti-disease and health promoting properties.
Since ancient times for these anti-inflammatory, carminative, anti-flatulent properties, spices are healthier than we think.


Salt: This is the king of spices; no meal is complete without it. The unrefined version of salt is known as rock salt and the refined form is called table salt. Salt is involved in regulating the water content of the body. Too much or too little salt in the diet can lead to muscle cramps, dizziness, or electrolyte disturbance, which can cause neurological problems. Excessive intake of salt is also linked to some cardio vascular diseases, blood pressure. Salt is found beneficial in the treatment of edema or water retention issues.

Black pepper: The peppercorn plant is native to the tropical evergreen rain forests of Kerala. Black peppercorns contain minerals like potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. They are also a good source of anti-oxidant vitamins such as vitamin-C and vitamin-A. Excessive consumption of black pepper can cause gastrointestinal irritation, and bleeding from the ulcer sites. Therefore, these should be avoided in individuals with stomach ulcers, or ulcerative colitis conditions.

Cloves: Cloves are well recognized all over the world for their medicinal and culinary qualities. They are known to have antioxidant, anti-septic, local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory properties. The spice also contains good amounts of minerals like potassium, manganese, iron, selenium and magnesium. Clove oil is also used in aromatherapy. Eating large quantities of clove can cause gastrointestinal irritation, central nervous system disorders. It is also said that eating clove should be avoided during pregnancy.

Mustard seeds: This is a very popular spice in the northern and the eastern parts of India. Mustard seeds are very rich in minerals, vitamins and anti-oxidants. These seeds are high in calories; 100 g of seeds contain 508 calories. However they are a good source of dietary fiber and recommended in cholesterol controlling. In general, mustard seeds and mustard oil are considered safe for consumption when used in small amounts. Large quantities of mustard may cause gastric irritation, bleeding from the stomach and intestinal mucosa. It may cause skin burn when applied over skin for long durations.

Saffron: A highly prized spice known for its color, flavor and medicinal properties, saffron's active components have many therapeutic applications in traditional medicines as antiseptic, antidepressant and anti-oxidant. It is also a good source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, selenium, zinc and magnesium and also contains vital vitamins including vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin-C that are essential for optimum health. High doses of saffron are known to act as uterine stimulant and in severe cases can cause miscarriage.

Cardamom: This exotic spice contains many plant derived chemical compounds that are known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing and health promoting properties. The therapeutic properties of cardamom-oil have found application in many traditional medicines as antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, digestive, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant, and tonic. Cardamom is a good source of minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. The copper present in it is required in the production of red blood cells.

Turmeric: The medicinal properties of this spice have been slowly revealing themselves over the centuries. Long known for its anti-inflammatory properties, recent research has revealed that turmeric is a natural wonder, proving beneficial in the treatment of many different health conditions from cancer to Alzheimer's disease. It is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns. Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. It is important for pregnant women to consult a doctor before using it, as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.

WALKING IS AS GOOD AS EXERCISE

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Monday, November 28, 2011 0 comments


London: Overweight patients who are sent on subsidised gym sessions by GPs may as well just go for more walks, researchers claim.
A study discovered only "weak evidence" in favour of exercise referral schemes, which see the NHS help pay for fitness classes ranging from swimming to yoga.
It found no disparity in the physical health of patients referred to exercise classes and those taking part in walking programmes.
Analysis of eight trials showed that when comparing the two groups, there was "no consistent evidence" of differences in fitness, blood pressure, obesity levels, blood sugar, blood pressure or breathing.
There are thought to be some 1,300 exercise referral schemes across Britain in which patients, after assessment by their GPs, are given discounted or free access to swimming, gym sessions, yoga or dance classes.

The latest study into their results, featured in the British Medical Journal, was carried out by research teams at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry (PCMD) and the universities of Exeter and Brunel.
‘More work needed'
Toby Pavey, an associate research fellow at PCMD who co-ordinated the analysis, said there was no doubt that exercise prevented ill-health — but he warned that referral schemes had not proved their worth.
"Our study does not question the importance of physical activity for good health," he said. "What it does do is question the effectiveness of the referral programme as it is delivered at present.
"It is clear that, with increasing pressure on NHS budgets and changes to the way in which services are commissioned as part of current NHS reforms, more work needs to be done to establish how existing referral programmes may be made more effective and who they should be targeted towards."
Despite his misgivings, Dr Pavey admitted that there was "weak evidence" of a short-term increase in physical activity and a drop in depression levels among unfit patients who were invited to complete 10 to 12 sessions of exercise at a local fitness centre.
Eva Cyhlarova, head of research at the Mental Health Foundation charity, said: "We would like to see further research into the mental health benefits of exercise referral schemes for targeted groups of people, such as those with common mental health problems."

EATING CANNED SOUP POSES A CHEMICAL RISK

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Sunday, November 27, 2011 0 comments


People who eat canned soup should be aware that a chemical used to line the tin can leach into the food and end up in the body, say scientists.
Tests on 75 volunteers revealed the compound bisphenol A (BPA) was readily ingested and detected in large amounts in the urine, the Journal of the American Medical Association reports.
Past studies have linked high BPA levels with adverse health effects.
In the EU the chemical is already banned from baby bottles.
But it is still used in cans as a coating to prevent rusting and keep the food fresh. Some soft drink cans and bottles also contain BPA.
Dr Jenny Carwile, lead author of the latest study at the Harvard School of Public Health, said: "We've known for a while that drinking beverages that have been stored in certain hard plastics can increase the amount of BPA in your body. This study suggests that canned foods may be an even greater concern, especially given their wide use."

Start Quote

Our current advice is that BPA from food contact materials does not represent a risk to consumers but the agency will be looking at this study”
The UK's Food Standards Agency
Worrying levels
Her team asked the volunteers to eat either a freshly made 12oz serving of vegetarian soup or one out of a can once a day for five days.
After a weekend of rest, the groups switched over so that the fresh soup group now ate the canned variety and vice-versa.
Tests on their urine revealed detectable BPA in 77% of samples after fresh soup consumption and 100% of samples after canned soup consumption.
A serving of tinned soup a day appeared to increase BPA 20-fold.
The average concentration of BPA was 1.1 μg/L after fresh soup consumption compared to and 20.8 μg/L after eating soup from a tin.
The researchers say levels like these are "among the most extreme reported in a non-occupational setting".
The study did not look at what the health impact of this might be, but they say this warrants further investigation, even if rises might be temporary.
Fellow researcher Karin Michels said: "The magnitude of the rise in urinary BPA we observed after just one serving of soup was unexpected and may be of concern among individuals who regularly consume foods from cans or drink several canned beverages daily.
"It may be advisable for manufacturers to consider eliminating BPA from can linings."
The UK's Food Standards Agency said: "Our current advice is that BPA from food contact materials does not represent a risk to consumers but the agency will be looking at this study, as it would at any new piece of work, to see if it has any implications for our advice to consumers."
The North American Metal Packaging Alliance said that BPA is "highly unlikely" to affect health.
Reference: BBC NEWs

LUNGS DISEASE & LUNGS CANCER ....

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Friday, November 25, 2011 1 comments

Cases of chronic lung disease and lung cancer are rapidly rising in India, remaining mostly undiagnosed until it is too late, experts say.

As Thursday marked World Lung Cancer Day, doctors say changing lifestyles, smoking and air pollution have alarmingly raised the number of lung problems. 

"There is a huge increase in the number of lung cancer and other lung diseases cases," Harit Chaturvedi, chief consultant and director (Surgical Oncology) at Max hospital here, told IANS.

"Usually the peak age when lung cancer attacks is the 50s and 60s," he said, adding that cancer cases are seen in Indian patients a decade earlier than their western counterparts "for unknown reasons". 

Along with cancer, rising equally rapidly are cases of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease that causes acute breathing problems, also related to smoking in most cases. 

"Currently, India has close to 24 million COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) cases which are expected to increase by 34 percent to 32 million by 2020," said Vivek Nangia, additional director and head, pulmonology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj.

"The number of men with COPD is approximately 14.11 million, one and a half times more than the number of women in 2010 which was approximately 9.57 million," he says. 

According to Nangia, smoking is the primary cause of COPD, also causing cancer in long term in many cases.

"Most COPD patients are ex or current smokers who experience morning cough and sputum, the intensity of which gradually increases over the years and the patient develops breathlessness," he says. 

"It may pose serious limitations in daily activities of the sufferer. Frequent acute increase in symptoms may lead to repeated visits to doctors' clinic or hospital admissions," he adds.

The biggest issue however remains that lung problems are often ignored and go undiagnosed due to lack of information.

"Symptoms like cough, blood in sputum and irritation in throat often get ignored because these are common symptoms," says Chaturvedi.

"Generally, healthy people don't think about disease," he says.

The doctor adds that smokers in general, after the age of 40 years, should go for yearly X-rays to check the situation of their lungs.

"Quitting smoking is the best option but even reducing the frequency helps in a big way," he says.

SOME MYTHS ABOUT CHOLESTEROL

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Thursday, November 24, 2011 0 comments


Cholesterol can be good and bad for you. So, a little knowledge about it will keep you in good stead. To start with, let us burst some myths about cholesterol.

Healthy diet and lifestyle can control cholesterol: This is not completely true. For some people the liver produces more cholesterol than the intestines absorb. Only medicines can control cholesterol in such cases. But a healthy diet and regular exercise are necessary for all to maintain cardiovascular health.

People with cholesterol should avoid eating shrimps and eggs: Shrimps are not that bad. Shrimps are high in cholesterol but like eggs they are low in saturated fat and have the added advantage of fish oils. But if you have fried shrimps then you are at risk. Only some of the cholesterol in food ends up as cholesterol in your bloodstream, and if your dietary cholesterol intake rises, your body compensates by producing less cholesterol of its own. The good news is you can have eggs a few times a week.

Thin people don't have cholesterol: It is not just obese or overweight people who have to battle high cholesterol, even thin people should regularly check their cholesterol. Often people who don't gain weight easily are not aware of the saturated and trans fat they consume. So, irrespective of their weight everyone should check their cholesterol regularly.

Young people won't have cholesterol: There is a notion that you don't have to check your cholesterol until you reach the middle age which is not true. In fact, even a 20-year-old should check cholesterol.

I'm taking medicines so I can eat anything: Medicines are prescribed for those who have elevated levels of cholesterol. There are advanced medicines to help control blood cholesterol levels. But making diet and lifestyle changes along with the medication your doctor prescribes are the best way to prevent heart disease.

TOSS UP AN ITALIANO SALAD

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Wednesday, November 23, 2011 0 comments

This oregano-flavoured macaroni salad is sure to please pasta lovers. 

Preparation Time : 20 min 
Cooking Time: 15 min 
Serves: 

Ingredients 
1 teacup macaroni 
1 tomato, deseeded and diced 
1 capsicum, diced 
3 spring onions with greens, chopped 
2 tablespoons oil 

For the dressing 
Vinaigrette dressing with 1/2 teaspoon oregano or curry sauce 

For the garnish 
5 to 6 stuffed olives, cut into halves 

Method 
Boil the macaroni in sufficient water along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of oil. Drain thoroughly, wash and cool. 
Add the remaining salad ingredients and mix. 
Put in the refrigerator. 
Just before serving, add the dressing and toss. 
Serve cold, garnished with olives. 

Handy Tip: With vinaigrette dressing take 1/2 teaspoon oregano or curry sauce. 

POMEGRANATE JUICE MELTS BELLY FAT

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Tuesday, November 22, 2011 0 comments

It can help prevent cancer, is good for your heart and can even boost your sex life. 

Now, scientists believe that pomegranate juice has the power to reduce the fat around the stomach - the 'spare tyre' in men or the 'muffin top' in women. 

After just one month, volunteers who consumed a bottle of pomegranate juice daily were found to be less likely to develop fatty cells around their abdomen. 

They also had much lower blood pressure, therefore reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease, reports the Daily Mail. 

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh believe pomegranate juice may lower the amount of fatty acid in the blood known as nonesterified fatty acid or NEFA. 

Previous studies in humans and animals have shown that high NEFA levels are linked to a greater storage of fat around the abdomen as well as an increased risk of heart disease and Type II diabetes. 

In the experiment, a group of men and women were given a 500ml bottle of pomegranate juice to drink every day for four weeks. 

The researchers found that nearly half of all volunteers had much lower NEFA levels by the end of the trial. They believe that this will make them less likely to store fat around their stomach. 

Besides, more than 90 per cent of the men and women had lower blood pressure by the month end. 

Emad Aldujaili and Catherine Tsang, lead researchers at Edinburgh University's School of Health Sciences, said: "There is no doubt that pomegranate juice is beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease because our results showed a significant and consistent lowering of blood pressure."

Reference: Leading newspaper

BEST PRACTICES FOR ACNE PREVENTION

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Sunday, November 20, 2011 1 comments


Acne is a skin condition that causes skin inflammation that manifests as pimples or skin rash.
A common reason behind this affliction is the formation of clogged pores that lead to irritations, which multiply either in the presence of hostile environment or hormonal imbalances. While acne is most common among teenagers, it can be a source of frustration for many adults as well. But how can one control this affliction? Here are some best practices for acne prevention and control that may help you move beyond this adolescent-adult problem.

Prevention and control - Unfortunately, because there is no cure for acne, prevention and control is the only way forward. If you've tried everything from skin ointments to blood tests, you can beat the acne with a good skin care routine that incorporates three basic steps. Clean, treat and protect.

Cleansing - The first step is as simple as gently cleansing your skin on a regular basis, also using a good cleansing product to gently wash away dead skin cells and impurities. If your cleanser contains proven acne fighters like benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid it is an added benefit. Wash once or twice a day, including after exercising. However, avoid scrubbing or repeated skin washing. Rubbing, whether with a towel or your hands, will only aggravate the problem.

Treating - It is imperative to treat the skin with something that minimizes bacteria (like benzoyl peroxide) or slows down the shedding of skin cells (like salicylic acid). Avoid greasy cosmetics or creams. Take off make-up at night, and when buying anything that touches your skin - look for water-based formulas.

Protecting - Try not to squeeze, scratch, pick, or rub the pimples. Although it might be tempting to do this, it can lead to skin infections and scarring. Avoid wearing tight headbands, baseball caps, and other hats. Shampoo your hair daily, especially if it is oily. Comb or pull your hair back to keep the hair out of your face.

Be aware of how your food intake affects the acne: A lot of well-wishers will have you believe that what you eat is causing the acne. While this might have some foundation in reality - deep fried foods cooked in low quality oil has been known to affect skin texture - it isn't the sole reason behind acne. Identify which foods irritate your skin or digestion into resulting in acne growths and avoid them. Despite the popular belief that chocolate, nuts, and greasy foods cause acne, research does not confirm this idea. Diets high in refined sugars may be related to acne, though.

Medication and home remedies - Several home remedies have found their way into acne prevention and control, without much foundation in science and belief. If you find that your acne is a result of topical skin issues like clogged pores, try home remedies that solve the specific problems of poor skin texture. Therefore, if oily skin is causing skin formations, rely on homemade skin packs like Fullers Earth to reduce the greasiness. If dry skin is causing breakouts, then rely on milk-based, drying face packs that relieve your skin with moisture.

Your skin is an extension of your physical and mental health: Many times it just boils down to what you are experiencing physically and mentally. Stress and hormonal imbalances are the leading causes behind acne that refuses to go away with the early 20s. If topical treatments, skin texture solutions and homemade packs don't solve the problem, then make an appointment with your physician. Remember - if you can't solve it with an ointment or a dietary and exercise routine, then there's more to it and there's always an expert who can help diagnose the situation.

Reference: Beauty related books

The rainwater tanks are a great option for saving the valuable water of the country. These tanks hold huge amount of rainwater for use. They can be used in gardens, in household chores and with water purifier can even be safe for drinking. About 30% of the water from these tanks are use to water the gardens. The rainwater is much helpful in saving a lot of water bill. To make these tanks popular, the governments of Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane are giving concessions on its sale. Every form of house can install a rainwater tank, even those with tiny roofs. This is possible primarily because of the availability of the tanks in different shapes and sizes. The household that is willing to get a tank must realize the amount of rainfall that area gets before ordering one tank. 
Australians are using these tanks primarily to cope up with the droughts that are rampant in their country. Moreover, every city is having tremendous problem in supplying adequate amount of water to its people because of severe shortage of fresh water. To avoid this crisis also, the tanks are a good option. 
Water tanks can be found in various shapes. Usually, small families can have tanks with a capacity of 5000l but even 20,000l tanks are also commonly used. Though almost nothing is required to be done to maintain these tanks but different insects and harmful animals like frogs must be prevented from entering. The Bushranger Water Tanks are one of the most famous water tank brands throughout Australia. They embody quality and excellent service. They are also very economic and thus produce the largest amount of water tanks in the country. The latest Tankmasta Tanks are a hit among the masses. 
The firm primarily sells their products in and around Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. Usually various government sections and the builders are their main customer. They also have patents in New Zealand and America. The tanks usually have numerous outlets and inlets. The company offers bendable installation. They have a capacity to fill 200mm from various inlets. The company offers 10-year guarantee for over ground tanks and 7-year guarantee for underground tanks. The company is also recognized by ISO 9001: 2000. 
The tanks are often ordered via online and are delivered by the companyandrsquo;s vehicles. The drivers will deliver them at the place where the customer wants it to be delivered. Usually the tanks have a capacity to hold 45,000lt of water and are 3.5m wide and 5.1m high. The Bushranger tanks are designed according to the Angle Dissemination Pivot (ADP) roofs, which are very useful for the country folks. The tanks also have two access hatches, which make it very flexible to use. They are also equipped with barrel filter and are made up of stainless steel. They are easy to maintain and requires no extra cost. 

FIGS

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Tuesday, November 15, 2011 0 comments

1.Figs are a fantastic source of vitamin B6. B6 is responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin, lowering cholesterol and preventing water retention, all characteristics that help balance the moods of a menstruating woman. Also, hormonal forms of birth control (such as the pill or the patch) deplete vitamin B6, so those using this method of birth control should try to eat more foods that are rich in B6- like figs.


2.Figs are very high in dietary fiber, which makes them an ideal weight-loss aid. Fiber creates a feeling of satiety, or fullness, which means that you will feel more full and eat less. Fiber also regulates the digestive system and alleviates the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a common female ailment.


3.Fruit fiber from figs and other fruits has been shown to help prevent breast cancer in pre-menopausal women and also protects against age-related macular generation that leads to vision loss.


4.The high calcium content of figs promotes bone density and can guard against osteoporosis, another common female ailment.


5.Figs are one of the most alkaline fruits; alkalized foods and water are important for a balanced system since most of us consume a highly acidic diet in an acidic environment.


6.One serving of figs (three large figs) provides 14% of your daily value of manganese, a very important trace mineral that most women are severely lacking in their diets.


7.Figs are an excellent source of potassium, a necessary mineral for the active woman to insure than her muscles work well and are cramp-free.


HOW TO ADD FIGS INTO YOUR DIET


Besides all of the health benefits, figs are also delicious with a unique texture, sweet taste, and crunchy little seeds. It is easy to incorporate figs into your diet:


Dried figs are readily available and easy to store, but make sure you choose ones that are sulfite-free otherwise you will negate the fruit’s positive health characteristics by consuming sulfites.


Choose fresh figs that are tender, plump and bruise-free, and wash them only right before you eat them.


Add fresh or dried figs to oatmeal or any other whole grain breakfast porridge.


Fresh figs stuffed with goat cheese and chopped almonds make fabulous hors d'oeuvres.


Add figs to baked goods like muffins and scones.


Poach figs in red wine or fruit juice and serve over Greek yogurt with a sprinkling of sliced almonds.


Add chopped figs to rice or couscous dishes.


Enjoy figs alone and savor their taste, texture and shape

WONDER GRAIN THAT TRIMS YOU INCHES

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Sunday, November 13, 2011 0 comments


Here is a wonder grain which can trim your inches considerably!
A unique grain, barley is filled with benefits manifold. Extremely low in calories it acts as a wonderful diet supplement and helps maintain a slim stature. Being low in cholesterol, it is known to reduce cholesterol levels.
The core ingredient in this highly useful grain is beta-glucan that is also found in oat bran. Explaining it's benefits nutritionist Aruna Kulkarni elaborates, "Barley is packed with insoluble fibre which retains water. So it flushes out intestinal contents with great speed. This also minimises the risk of cancer, since the possibility of harmful elements accumulating in the intestines is less. It is also a good cure for digestive problems like constipation."
While the market is filled with varieties like pearl, pot or whole hulled barley, the latter is known to possess the maximum health benefits. Being from the brown family, whole hulled barley has twice the fibre and vitamins compared to the other varieties. Although the pearl variety is the most refined, it contains ample quantity of iron and fibre.
Barley water is a boon for kidneys as well. It can combat arthritic and rheumatic problems if consumed in large quantities. It is advisable to prepare your own barley water rather than picking up the readymade stuff as it is known to be laded with excess preservatives and sugar. Kulkarni shares with us the recipe of making an ideal glass:
- Boil 1 kg of barley until soft
- Strain the extract
- To make it tasty mix fresh lemon or orange juice
- One can add Demerara or golden sugar if required
Can be used for longer periods if refrigerated
If stored in a dark place, away from the light, barley pods can last up to one year. So, make this wonder grain a part of your daily diet regimen. Include it in soups, cereals, salads or have it plain, and raise a toast to your good health.

GOING NUTS ABOUT PEANUTS

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Friday, November 11, 2011 0 comments

Whole peanuts also known as earthnuts, ground nuts, or pygmy nuts contain high amount of protein, which makes it a preferred diet of those people engaged in body-building and also those who are underweight. 

In fact, not many know this but the raw peanut butter with crushed skin contains much higher amounts of nutrient than refined 'nut-only' butter. But whichever form you prefer it in, there's no denying its health benefits

- Peanuts contain high concentrations of antioxidant polyphenols, primarily a compound called p-coumaric acid. Roasting peanuts increases its p-coumaric acid levels, boosting it overall antioxidant content by as much as 22 per cent. Roasted peanuts rival the antioxidant content of blackberries and strawberries, and are far richer in antioxidants than apples, carrots or beets. 

- Unsalted peanuts are good for your arteries. One quarter cup of peanuts contains as much monounsaturated fat as a tablespoon of olive oil. Monounsaturated fats have been shown to lower blood cholesterol. 

- Peanuts' high niacin content helps in the recovery of cell damage and provides protection against Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive problems. 

- Peanut contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that is shown to significantly reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. 
- Peanuts contain iron, that's essential for the correct functioning of red blood cells. 

- Peanut is rich in calcium which helps promotes healthy bones. 

- Peanut has high bioflavonoid resveratrol. This bioflavonoid helps improve blood flow in the brain by as much as 30 per cent, thus reducing the risk of stroke. Adding even small amounts of peanut products to the diet can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol by 14 per cent. 

- Peanuts' fiber content helps lower the risk of colon cancer. 

- Peanuts accelerate the growth of male and female hormones. 

MOBILE PHONES A HEALTH TIME BOMB

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Thursday, November 10, 2011 0 comments


London: Mobile phones could be a "health time bomb", say experts who are urging UK ministers to warn the public.
More than 200 academic studies link use of the devices with serious health conditions such as brain tumours, according to a group of leading scientists.
In a report published on Tuesday, they say the UK government is playing down the potentially "enormous" health risks — especially for children, whose smaller, thinner skulls are more susceptible to radiation.
Although the experts concede the links are not proven, they argue that "schools, phone shops and the health care system" should be enlisted into a campaign to reduce mobile phone use.
Their report states: "Both the government and phone companies could very easily do far more to alert the public, particularly children, to the emerging risks and safety measures." It accuses officials of "downplaying uncertainty" over safety.
However, critics stress scientists have found inconclusive evidence and a campaign would cause panic. The authors point to several studies linking long-term mobile phone use to development of a rare brain tumour called a glioma.
A 2008 Swedish study suggested children who use mobile phones are five times more likely to develop it. Other peer-reviewed studies have found inconclusive links to low sperm counts, behavioural problems in children whose mothers used them during pregnancy, and damage to brain cells.
One author, consultant neurosurgeon Kevin O'Neill of London's Charing Cross Hospital, said the latency period for brain tumours is 30 years so it is possible the consequences of phone use are not yet apparent.
The report, Mobile Phone Health Risks: The Case for Action to Protect Children, was released by the charity Mobilewise, set up last year.
It says the UK is lagging behind countries such as France, where phones are banned in primary schools, and Canada, where phone shops offer safety leaflets.
Last month a Danish study of 358,000 people concluded there was no link with brain cancer.

FOODS YOU NEED TO EAT AND DONT

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Tuesday, November 8, 2011 0 comments


Deanne Panday, who trains the bodies and minds of stars, has put her stress-fighting weapons in a book. Here's an excerpt on what foods you need to eat and avoid.
Stress is the silent killer that affects 50 per cent of the country's working population. Panday says it has a lot to do with the kind of food we eat.
The following excerpt from the book I'm not stressed, which has been endorsed by a bevy of Bolslywood stars, tells you what foods help you manage stress better and what don't. Read on to find out.

Foods that help you destress 
Certain food items in our diet can actually help reduce stress in our bodies. While apricots and greens like spinach replenish the body with magnesium, which is known to relax the muscles and help with headaches, nuts and dark vegetables like almonds, pistachios, broccoli, and okra are rich in vitamins B and E that help lower blood pressure. Citrus fruits, which are a storehouse for Vitamin C, also help in controlling blood pressure. Other food items like sweet potatoes provide insulin to the body, provide energy, and help deal with fatigue in a stressful situation. Below is a list of foods I recommend for stressed-out people:
- Low-fat dairy products like lowfat cottage cheese and cheese
- Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, etc
- Nuts like almonds, pistachios, etc
- Decaf green tea or rosemary tea
- Dark coloured vegetables like beetroot, okra, and peas
- Beans or lentils
- Brown rice
- Oats
- Oily fish like salmon and tuna
- Lean beef
- Egg whites
- Chicken without the skin
- Asparagus
- Artichokes
- Sweet potatoes
- Leeks
- Watercress
- Sesame, sunflower, and flax seeds
- Also, drink lots of water, with a few squeezes of lime (lemon is a natural metabolizer)

Foods that aggravate your stress levels 
Certain food groups like caffeine, alcohol, and salty foods are known to aggravate stress in our bodies. Caffeine increases the production of norepinephrine, which keeps us alert and awake. These foods also interfere with our sleep and prevent us from relaxing. Alcohol can lower the amount of sugar in our blood and cause us to feel less energetic. It can also lead to an irregular heartbeat, which triggers panic attacks, among other things. Salty foods increase the blood pressure and makes us feel stressed.
Below is a list of foods you should avoid as much as possible especially during stressful days: - Hydrogenated fats: Some varieties of margerine, crackers, cookies, baked foods, bread
- Artifical flavour and colouring: Potato chips, chewing gum, some cereals, soft drinks
- Preservatives: Canned food and fruits, canned meats, pickles, butter, potato chips, baked goods, chocolate
- Glutamates: (MSG or Aginomoto) Soy and soy protein, canned tuna, powdered milk, dried and canned soups, flavoured chips, sauces, salad dressing, canned foods, soya sauce
- Artificial Sweeteners: Aspartame, saccharine, found in diet foods, sodas, chewing gum
- High-fructose corn syrup: Corn sweetner, corn syrup solids
- Packaged and processed foods: All canned foods, packed soups, cereals, bacon, sausages, cold cuts
- Sugar and sugary foods: Frozen desserts, donuts, pastries, candy, honey
- Foods with tannin: Wine, coffee, beer, maple and caramel flavouring
- Refined grain: White bread, white pasta, white rice, low fibre sugar cereal
- Sodium: Found in most processed foods, soups, soya sauce, canned foods, fast foods and preserved meats like ham and bacon
- Fats found in all fast food items like burgers, fish and chips, fries, etc.

CORN

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Monday, November 7, 2011 0 comments

With bhuttawalas putting up makeshift stalls at almost every corner in the neighbourhood during the rains, most people love to have this healthy snack. 

Corn is high in nutrients, which are extremely beneficial for you. Rich in Vitamin B1, which is used in the metabolism of carbohydrates, Vitamin B5, which helps with physiological functions, folate, that helps generating new cells and Vitamin C, which helps fight diseases, corn should be a must in your diet

Corn is also high in fibre, which helps you fight digestive problems like constipation. Fibre also helps lower cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of colon cancer and is also useful in helping to lower blood sugar levels in diabetics. Folic acid present in corn is known to prevent neural-tube birth defects. Experts also recommend corn for people who suffer from Anaemia. Make a delicious and easy side dish - corn sauteed with green chillies and onions not only tastes good but is healthy, too! 

OSTRICH MEAT

Posted by Elizebath Bijoy Thursday, November 3, 2011 0 comments


If you want to eat red meat for your protein requirement, ostrich meat is your healthy choice. Ostrich meat is a red meat that is nearly identical to beef in appearance, texture and taste but without the unhealthy qualities associated with beef. Ostrich meat is already a popular menu item at upscale restaurant worldwide; it will soon be "the premier red meat of the next century."
Ostrich meat is offered in a variety of cuts including tenderloin filets, steaks and ground. Ostrich meat can be prepared and enjoyed as you would in any of your favorite recipes calling for ground beef, pork, chicken or turkey.
Health Benefits of Ostrich meat:
  • Ostrich has less than half the fat of chicken and two-thirds less fat than beef and pork.
  • Ostrich has less cholesterol than beef, chicken, pork, or lamb
  • Ostrich has less calories than beef, chicken, pork, turkey or lamb
  • Ostrich has more iron than beef, chicken, pork, turkey or lamb. Its greater iron content is seen in the deeper red color of ostrich meat.
  • Ostrich meat is naturally rich in protein and contains no marbled fat.
  • Ostrich meat does not attract harmful bacteria like E-coli or salmonella because of ostrich's ideal pH balance.

About Me

My photo
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Warm welcome to my health blog! This was introduced with an objective to educate and spread awareness among people, encouraging them to live healthier lives with longevity. Let me emphasize that our contemporary situation in individual’s life are so fast moving that we tend to neglect and spare some moments for our own health. My inspiration has turned into passion in a health care that turned into a blog. The ample of support and response was tremendously changed into positive results. I dedicated this blog for all those people who are very conscious for their health and life style. Hope so, I can bring differences for healthy living the fore my viewer comments are always valuable and your continued patronage is important for me. Wish you a happy and healthy life ahead!

BMI Calculator

live traffic feed

DAILY BRAIN GAME