Dry Hair
Dry hair is due to inactive oil glands. It is also caused by other factors like over exposure to the sun, using harsh shampoo and chemical treatment. Accumulated oil, block the pores not allowing the oil to flow on to the surface. This is another reason for dry hair. Dry hair would need plenty of nourishment.
Massage well with a warm herbal oil at least twice a week. Follow a diet rich in zinc. Use a mild shampoo and avoid harsh ones since the chemicals in them can strip hair of its outer protein layer, further drying the scalp. Do not use electric curlers and hair dryers.
Oily Hair
This is usually accompanied with oily skin. This is due to the over secretion of oil. Hence the scalp and hair gets too oily. Oily hair is easily recognizable. It looks greasy even after shampooing and and attracts more dirt.
The oily hair needs to be washed every third or fourth day or even more frequently depending on individual comfort and rinsed out with lemon. Use oils and shampoos rich in neem and henna. A head massage with a herbal oil helps maintain the pH level of the scalp. Avoid oily foods and binge on green leafy vegetables and fruits.
Balanced or Normal Hair
This is the most ideal hair. It is shining, well balanced and does not dry out. To maintain this ideal condition a well balanced diet and proper care is essential.
To figure out your hair type:
Dab a tissue on your scalp the second day after wash. If it has an oil blot, you have normal hair. If the tissue shows nothing, it is dry. If strands stick to each other then it is greasy hair .
Friday, May 29, 2009
Remedy For Pimples
Apply a mixture of turmeric and neem on the face .
Mix thick curd, turmeric and two drops of oil. Apply on the face.
Make a paste with sandal wood and turmeric and apply it on the face.
Mix thick curd, turmeric and two drops of oil. Apply on the face.
Make a paste with sandal wood and turmeric and apply it on the face.
Remedy For Black Spots
Make a paste with mehndi and oil and apply on the face
Make a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice and glycerin and apply it on the spots
Apply the paste of turmeric and curry leaves on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
Apply a mixture of mehndi and turmeric. For a piece of turmeric, 2-3 leaves of mehndi are used
Grind dried basil leaf, neem and mint (100 gm each). Add some turmeric powder and rose water to make it in a paste form and apply it on the spots.
Grind betel leaf and add a little coconut oil and apply it on the spots
Soak a chappathi in milk overnight . Make it into a paste and apply it on black heads. Repeat for several days
Make a paste of saffron and add some honey , apply it on the face to remove black spots.
To remove black spots... apply a paste of turmeric and basil.
To remove wrinkles on the face, apply a mixture of sandalwood powder, rosewater and glycerin. Wash with cold water after some time
Make a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice and glycerin and apply it on the spots
Apply the paste of turmeric and curry leaves on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
Apply a mixture of mehndi and turmeric. For a piece of turmeric, 2-3 leaves of mehndi are used
Grind dried basil leaf, neem and mint (100 gm each). Add some turmeric powder and rose water to make it in a paste form and apply it on the spots.
Grind betel leaf and add a little coconut oil and apply it on the spots
Soak a chappathi in milk overnight . Make it into a paste and apply it on black heads. Repeat for several days
Make a paste of saffron and add some honey , apply it on the face to remove black spots.
To remove black spots... apply a paste of turmeric and basil.
To remove wrinkles on the face, apply a mixture of sandalwood powder, rosewater and glycerin. Wash with cold water after some time
For Glowing Skin
For Glowing skin
*A facemask of egg white and honey gently removes the tan from your face.
*Mix oats with honey, yogurt and ground almonds. Apply this in your face, leave it for five minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
*Cucumber is a natural cleanser. Mix cucumber juice with milk and use it instead of a cleanser.
*For oily skin, apply a mixture of grapes, lemon and egg white. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. While lemon acts as a natural cleanser, grapes will soften your skin and egg whites will tighten it. Don’t be alarmed if your skin tingles.
*Cut the lemon and rub the wedge all over your face. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water. This will refresh your face. Avoid doing this if you have dry skin.
*Mix honey, lemon and vegetable oil .This mixture is a good moisturiser for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.
*Apply the mixture of honey and milk on the face . This will make your skin glow.
*Prepare a mask by mixing a slice of pumpkin with egg yolk and milk. Let this mask set on your face for 30 minutes for a glowing skin.
*Mix half-a-cup honey to your bath water for soft and smooth skin.
*For a soothing body pack, prepare a paste of mint leaves and almonds. Mix it with warm water and apply all over your body. Leave it till it dries and rinse with warm water.
*Buttermilk dabbed on skin for 15 minutes will soak up oil from your skin without drying it.
*Carrot juice applied daily fades blemishes.
*For dark underarms and neck apply lemon juice mixed with cucumber juice and a pinch of turmeric daily. Leave this on for 20 minutes.
*For removing facial hair.. Apply a sticky paste of egg white blended with sugar and corn flour. When it dries, gently peel it off. Repeat this three to four times a week.
*Thin apple slices rubbed onto oily skin will help in controlling oily shine.
*For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
*Cauliflower juice applied on warts regularly will make them fall.
*For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered)
with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.
*Mix half teaspoon dried curry leaf powder with multani mitti (fullers earth) and apply on the face. Wash it after it gets dry.
*Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.
*Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.
*Add two teaspoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curd and apply on the face.
*Add a pinch of yeast with 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice and apply.
*Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
*Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together and apply it on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
*Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.
*Mix curd and cucumber juice and apply it on the face.
*Apply the mixture of coconut water and thick pineapple juice.
*Make a paste with 1/2 teaspoon of milk powder, 1/4 teaspoon of egg white and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and apply on the face.
*For dry skin, Make a paste with egg yolk, olive oil and lemon juice. Apply it on the neck and face, wash it out after 10 minutes.
*For oily skin, take a mixture of oatmeal and egg white and apply it on the neck and face
*For glowing skin, use basin or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.
*Apply the mixture of raw turmeric and cream of milk on the face and wash it after 20 minutes. It will make your skin fair.
*Apply the mixture of honey, basin, cream of milk and olive oil as a face pack.
*Apply the paste of fenugreek with milk on the face and let it dry. Wash off with luke warm water.
*Make a paste of red sandal wood and apply it on the face every day for glowing skin.
*Make a paste with red sandal powder and coconut milk and apply on the face for soft skin.
*A facemask of egg white and honey gently removes the tan from your face.
*Mix oats with honey, yogurt and ground almonds. Apply this in your face, leave it for five minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
*Cucumber is a natural cleanser. Mix cucumber juice with milk and use it instead of a cleanser.
*For oily skin, apply a mixture of grapes, lemon and egg white. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. While lemon acts as a natural cleanser, grapes will soften your skin and egg whites will tighten it. Don’t be alarmed if your skin tingles.
*Cut the lemon and rub the wedge all over your face. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water. This will refresh your face. Avoid doing this if you have dry skin.
*Mix honey, lemon and vegetable oil .This mixture is a good moisturiser for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.
*Apply the mixture of honey and milk on the face . This will make your skin glow.
*Prepare a mask by mixing a slice of pumpkin with egg yolk and milk. Let this mask set on your face for 30 minutes for a glowing skin.
*Mix half-a-cup honey to your bath water for soft and smooth skin.
*For a soothing body pack, prepare a paste of mint leaves and almonds. Mix it with warm water and apply all over your body. Leave it till it dries and rinse with warm water.
*Buttermilk dabbed on skin for 15 minutes will soak up oil from your skin without drying it.
*Carrot juice applied daily fades blemishes.
*For dark underarms and neck apply lemon juice mixed with cucumber juice and a pinch of turmeric daily. Leave this on for 20 minutes.
*For removing facial hair.. Apply a sticky paste of egg white blended with sugar and corn flour. When it dries, gently peel it off. Repeat this three to four times a week.
*Thin apple slices rubbed onto oily skin will help in controlling oily shine.
*For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
*Cauliflower juice applied on warts regularly will make them fall.
*For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered)
with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.
*Mix half teaspoon dried curry leaf powder with multani mitti (fullers earth) and apply on the face. Wash it after it gets dry.
*Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.
*Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.
*Add two teaspoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curd and apply on the face.
*Add a pinch of yeast with 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice and apply.
*Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
*Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together and apply it on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
*Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.
*Mix curd and cucumber juice and apply it on the face.
*Apply the mixture of coconut water and thick pineapple juice.
*Make a paste with 1/2 teaspoon of milk powder, 1/4 teaspoon of egg white and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and apply on the face.
*For dry skin, Make a paste with egg yolk, olive oil and lemon juice. Apply it on the neck and face, wash it out after 10 minutes.
*For oily skin, take a mixture of oatmeal and egg white and apply it on the neck and face
*For glowing skin, use basin or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.
*Apply the mixture of raw turmeric and cream of milk on the face and wash it after 20 minutes. It will make your skin fair.
*Apply the mixture of honey, basin, cream of milk and olive oil as a face pack.
*Apply the paste of fenugreek with milk on the face and let it dry. Wash off with luke warm water.
*Make a paste of red sandal wood and apply it on the face every day for glowing skin.
*Make a paste with red sandal powder and coconut milk and apply on the face for soft skin.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Home remedies for Hair Fall
Home remedies for Hair Fall and hair Thickness
Eat a protein rich diet including green leafy vegetables, carrots, soybean, mango, dried apricots, whole grain cereals, sprouts, lentils, yeast, wheat germ, milk, yogurt and buttermilk in the daily diet.
Some of the home remedies for hair loss are given below.
Massage coconut milk or Aloe Vera gel into the scalp and hair. Leave it for ½ hour, then rinse with warm water. Repeat 3 times a week.
Massage honey with egg yolk into the scalp and hair. Leave for a 1/2 hour, then rinse.
Scrub the bald portion with onions till it becomes red. Then applying honey.
Massage almond oil on scalp 2-3 times a day, daily. This will stop further hair loss.
Rinse hair with a mix of apple cider vinegar and sage tea to help hair grow
Mix equal amount of warm castor and almond oil and massage over scalp at least once a week.
Make a hair pack by mixing Indian gooseberry powder with one egg. Apply it to your hair and leave for half an hour. Wash hair.
Grind lime seeds and black pepper in equal number in some water and apply on the scalp regularly.
Eat a protein rich diet including green leafy vegetables, carrots, soybean, mango, dried apricots, whole grain cereals, sprouts, lentils, yeast, wheat germ, milk, yogurt and buttermilk in the daily diet.
Some of the home remedies for hair loss are given below.
Massage coconut milk or Aloe Vera gel into the scalp and hair. Leave it for ½ hour, then rinse with warm water. Repeat 3 times a week.
Massage honey with egg yolk into the scalp and hair. Leave for a 1/2 hour, then rinse.
Scrub the bald portion with onions till it becomes red. Then applying honey.
Massage almond oil on scalp 2-3 times a day, daily. This will stop further hair loss.
Rinse hair with a mix of apple cider vinegar and sage tea to help hair grow
Mix equal amount of warm castor and almond oil and massage over scalp at least once a week.
Make a hair pack by mixing Indian gooseberry powder with one egg. Apply it to your hair and leave for half an hour. Wash hair.
Grind lime seeds and black pepper in equal number in some water and apply on the scalp regularly.
Try Pedicure at Home
Try Pedicure at home
Pedicures at the salon are great and you should try to have them sometimes, but when it is not possible, the Lindisima version of a mini spa pedicure is ideal. It will take about 25 minutes or less and your feet will look great and feel even better.
You will need:Great attitude -
this is a time for you25 minutes
A nail file of high quality
A feet file
A plastic or glass bowl big enough for a foot bath with warm water
Cotton balls
2 tablespoons of sugar
5 table spoon of oil, and optional
3 drops of essential oil or lemon juice.
A orange stickNail polish remover
2 fluffy towels and a 2 small towels
Optional: nail polish of your preferred color and color base if you are using a strong color (this will take additional time)hand or body lotion and oil (it can be body oil or a light vegetable oil such as olive or sunflower)
A nail cutter
Steps1- Identify a good place to get your pedicure; it has to have a a comfortable chair. Place all the ingredients and tools next to it. Place one of the towels on the floor
2- Mix 5 tablespoons of oil, essential oil or lemon juice and sugar
3- Prepare the foot bath with warm water, 4 tablespoons of oil. Place on the towel (the one you have put on the floor)
4- Wet the 2 small towels and put in the microwave so they get hot, then place them in a plastic bag for future use.
5- Pedicure time. Eliminate any nail polish you may have to Cut your nails and file them to your desire shape. Put your feet into the water and let them be there for 10 minutes (at least 5 minutes if you do not have time)
6- Now push your cuticles with the orange stick
7- Apply the scrub on your feet. Make sure every area is treated.
8- Wash it out with the foot bath water, dry the feet and move the foot bath to the side.
9- Gently apply some oil or cream to the nail and massage the cuticles
10- Wrap the towel around your hands and leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes or until they are not warm any more.
11- Get your feet file and pass it on the rough areas. If you are not applying polish, you are done; if not
12- Apply the base coat (transparent nail polish) wait for a minute or 2 and apply one coat of you color, wait 3 minutes and apply second coat.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Big picture strategies for healthy eating
Eat enough calories but not too many. Maintain a balance between your calorie intake and calorie expenditure—that is, don't eat more food than your body uses. The average recommended daily allowance is 2,000 calories, but this depends on your age, sex, height, weight, and physical activity.
Eat a wide variety of foods. Healthy eating is an opportunity to expand your range of choices by trying foods—especially vegetables, whole grains, or fruits—that you don't normally eat.
Keep portions moderate, especially high-calorie foods. In recent years serving sizes have ballooned, particularly in restaurants. Choose a starter instead of an entrée, split a dish with a friend, and don’t order supersized anything.
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes—foods high in complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, low in fat, and free of cholesterol. Try to get fresh, local produce
Drink more water. Our bodies are about 75% water. It is a vital part of a healthy diet. Water helps flush our systems, especially the kidneys and bladder, of waste products and toxins. A majority of Americans go through life dehydrated.
Limit sugary foods, salt, and refined-grain products. Sugar is added to a vast array of foods. In a year, just one daily 12-ounce can of soda (160 calories) can increase your weight by 16 pounds. See suggestions below for limiting salt and substituting whole grains for refined grains.
Don’t be the food police. You can enjoy your favorite sweets and fried foods in moderation, as long as they are an occasional part of your overall healthy diet. Food is a great source of pleasure, and pleasure is good for the heart – even if those French fries aren’t!
Get moving. A healthy diet improves your energy and feelings of well-being while reducing your risk of many diseases. Adding regular physical activity and exercise will make any healthy eating plan work even better.
One step at a time. Establishing new food habits is much easier if you focus on and take action on one food group or food fact at a time
Eating smart: A keystep towards healthy eating
Healthy eating begins with learning how to “eat smart”. It's not just what you eat, but how you eat. Paying attention to what you eat and choosing foods that are both nourishing and enjoyable helps support an overall healthy diet.
Take time to chew your food: Chew your food slowly, savoring every bite. We tend to rush though our meals, forgetting to actually taste the flavors and feel the textures of what is in our mouths. Reconnect with the joy of eating.
Avoid stress while eating: When we are stressed, our digestion can be compromised, causing problems like colitis and heartburn. Avoid eating while working, driving, arguing, or watching TV (especially disturbing programs or the news). Try taking some deep breaths prior to beginning your meal, or light candles and play soothing music to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Listen to your body: Ask yourself if you are really hungry. You may really be thirsty, so try drinking a glass of water first. During a meal, stop eating before you feel full. It actually takes a few minutes for your brain to tell your body that it has had enough food, so eat slowly. Eating just enough to satisfy your hunger will help you remain alert, relaxed and feeling your best, rather than stuffing yourself into a “food coma”!
Eat early, eat often: Starting your day with a healthy breakfast can jumpstart your metabolism, and eating the majority of your daily caloric allotment early in the day gives your body time to work those calories off. Also, eating small, healthy meals throughout the day, rather than the standard three large meals, can help keep your metabolism going and ward off snack attacks.
Healthy eating simplified
Despite what certain fad diets would have you believe, we all need a balance of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to sustain a healthy body. But what exactly does that mean? What are good carb, protein, and fat choices for developing your own healthy eating plan? Below you will find more details on each of these topics.
Carbohydrates clarified
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates – food composed of some combination of starches, sugar and fiber - provide the body with fuel it needs for physical activity by breaking down into glucose, a type of sugar our cells use as a universal energy source.
Bad carbs are foods that have been “stripped” of all bran, fiber, and nutrients. They have been processed in order to make cooking fast and easy. Examples are white flour, refined sugar, and white rice. They digest so quickly that they cause dramatic elevations in blood sugar, which over time can lead to weight gain, hypoglycemia or even diabetes.
Good carbs are digested more slowly. This keeps your blood sugar and insulin levels from rising and falling too quickly, helping you get full quicker and feel fuller longer. Good sources of carbs include whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables, which also offer lots of additional health benefits, including heart disease and cancer prevention.
Whole Grains for long-lasting, healthy carbohydrate energy
In addition to being delicious and satisfying, whole grains are rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants, which help to protect against coronary heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes. Studies have shown people who eat more whole grains tend to have a healthier heart. Make whole grains an important part of every meal.
Make sure you're really getting whole grains. Focus on including grains that are in their whole form, such as whole grain brown rice, millet, quinoa, and barley in your meals. When you want to eat healthy grains in the form of breads or cereals be aware that the words stone-ground, multi-grain, 100% wheat, or bran, don’t necessarily mean that a product is whole grain. Look for the new Whole Grain Stamp from the Whole Grains Council. If there is no stamp look for the words “whole grain” or “100% whole wheat,” and check the ingredients to make sure each grain listed is specified as whole grain. Some good sources are dark breads and toasted wheat cereals.
Avoid: Refined grains such as breads, pastas, and breakfast cereals that are not whole grain.
Fiber
Dietary fiber is found in plant foods (fruit, vegetables and whole grains) and is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps support a healthy diet by:
Helping you feel fuller faster and longer, which can help prevent overeating.
Keeping blood sugar levels even, by slowing digestion and absorption so that glucose (sugar) enters the bloodstream slowly and steadily.
Maintaining a healthy colon - the simple organic acids produced when fiber is broken down in the digestive process helps to nourish the lining of the colon.
The two types of fiber are soluble and insoluble:
Soluble fiber can dissolve in water and can also help to lower blood fats and maintain blood sugar. Primary sources are beans, fruit and oat products.
Insoluble fiber cannot dissolve in water, so it passes directly through the digestive system. It’s found in whole grain products and vegetables.
A healthy diet should contain approximately 20 to 30 grams of fiber a day, but most of us only get about half of that amount.
Vegetables and Fruits: Vitamin, antioxidant and fiber powerhouses
Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and are packed with vitamins, minerals, protective plant compounds and fiber. They are a great source of nutrients and vital for a healthy diet.
Fruits and vegetables should be part of every meal, and be your first choice for a snack. Eat a minimum of five portions each day. The antioxidants and other nutrients in these foods help protect against developing certain types of cancer and other diseases.
Greens: Dark leafy green vegetables are a vital part of a healthy diet since they are packed with nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, zinc, and Vitamins A, C, E and K. Greens help to strengthen the blood and respiratory systems. They are currently the most lacking food in the American diet. Be adventurous in your choice of greens: kale, mustard greens, broccoli, Chinese cabbage are just a few of the many options.
Sweet Vegetables: Naturally sweet vegetables are an excellent way to add healthy sweetness to your meals and reduce your cravings for other sweets. Some examples of sweet vegetables are corn, carrots, beets, sweet potatoes or yams, winter squash, and onions.
Fruit: Eating a wide variety of fruit is another very healthy part of any diet. They provide us with beneficial properties such as natural sugars, fiber, Vitamins and antioxidants. Choose fresh or frozen, and focus on variety. Berries are cancer-fighting, apples provide fiber, oranges and mangos offer vitamin C, and so on.
Go for the brights: The brighter, deeper colored fruits and vegetables contain higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Avoid: Fruit juices can contain up to 10 teaspoons of sugar per cup; avoid or dilute with water. Canned fruit often contains sugary syrup, and dried fruit, while an excellent source of fiber, can be high in calories. Avoid fried veggies or ones smothered in dressings or sauces – you may still get the vitamins, but you’ll be getting a lot of unhealthy fat and extra calories as well.
Support your health and the environment by eating locally-grown food
Eating fresh food is an important part of a healthy diet. It has become standard practice for fruits and vegetables to be shipped across the country or even across the world before they arrive on our supermarket shelves. Locally-grown food is fresher than what you'll find in the supermarket, which means that is tastier and more nutritious. And since the food travels a shorter distance to get to you, it is better for the environment and helps us reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Following are some ideas on easy ways to increase your consumption of fresh local foods.
Visit a local farmer’s market. Farmer’s markets are springing up all over the U.S. They usually offer a wide variety of products such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, baked goods, eggs, and meat. Small farmers care about their land and the health of their farms, so even if they are not “certified organic” the food they produce is of a very high quality.
Join a Community Supported Agriculture group (CSA). A CSA is partnership between a local farm and its members who sign up and pay in advance for a box of goods that they will receive on a regular basis (typically once a week). These partnerships help farms receive a better price for their products while giving you a wide variety of fresh local produce.
By supporting your local farmers you are also supporting the local economy. To find local growers, farmer's markets, and CSAs in your area, visit Local Harvest.
Putting protein into perspective
During digestion, protein in food is broken down into the 20 amino acids that are the basic building blocks our bodies use to create its own protein. Our bodies need protein to maintain our cells, tissues and organs. A lack of protein in our diets can result in slow growth, reduced muscle mass, lower immunity, and weaken the heart and respiratory system. Protein gives us the energy to get up and go –and keep going. Keep in mind that it is vital to eat healthy protein that is free of hormones and antibiotics. Also, the majority of people in the U.S. eat more protein than is necessary. So focus more on getting higher quality versus more quantity. Each person is individual and may need different amounts of protein depending on their body and activity level.
A complete protein source is one that provides all of the essential amino acids. Examples are animal-based foods such as meat, poultry, fish, milk, eggs, and cheese.
An incomplete protein source is one that is low in one or more of the essential amino acids.
Complementary proteins are two or more incomplete protein sources that together provide adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids. For example, rice and dry beans. Similarly, dry beans each are incomplete proteins, but together, these two foods can provide adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids your body needs.
Do complementary proteins need to be eaten in the same meal? Research shows that your body can combine complementary proteins that are eaten within the same day.
Nuts, Seeds, Beans, and Tofu: alternative sources for healthy proteins
Beans, nuts, nut butters, peas, and soy products are good sources of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Many of the foods in this group provide iron, which is better absorbed when a source of vitamin C is consumed with the meal
Choose: Black beans, navy beans, garbanzos, lentils, and other beans. Nuts like almonds, walnuts and pecans. Soy products like tofu, soymilk, tempeh and veggie burgers. All of these are great sources of protein for vegetarians.
Avoid: Salted or sugary nuts; refried beans.
Dairy products and other sources for calcium and vitamin D
Dairy products provide a rich source of calcium, necessary for bone health. Most are fortified with vitamin D, which helps the small intestine absorb calcium. Calcium can also be found in dark green, leafy vegetables, such as kale and collard greens, as well as in dried beans and legumes.
Recommended calcium levels are 1000 mg per day, 1200 mg if you are over 50 years old. Take a vitamin D and calcium supplement if you don’t get enough of these nutrients from your diet.
Choose non-fat or low-fat dairy products that do not contain rBST (bovine growth hormone). If you're lactose-intolerant, choose lactose-free and lower-lactose products, such as lactose free milk, hard cheeses and yogurt.
Avoid full-fat dairy products or products from cows treated with rBST.
Fats: avoid the bad fats and enjoy the good fats
Fats are another vital part to a healthy diet. Good fats are needed to nourish your brain, heart, nerves, hormones and all your cells, as well as your hair, skin, and nails. Fat also satisfies us and makes us feel full. It’s the type of fat that matters in addition to how much you consume.
Saturated fats, primarily found in animal sources including red meat and whole milk dairy products, raise the low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol that increases your risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Substitute lean meats, skinless poultry, and low-fat or nonfat dairy products, fish and nuts. Other saturated fat sources include vegetable oils such as coconut oil, palm oil and foods made with these oils.
Trans fat raises low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol that increases your risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), as well as lowering HDL, or good cholesterol. Trans fats are created by heating liquid vegetable oils in the presence of hydrogen gas, a process called hydrogenation. Primary sources of trans fat are vegetable shortenings, some margarines, crackers, candies, cookies, snack foods, fried foods, baked goods, and other processed foods made with partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.
Monounsaturated fats - People following traditional Mediterranean diets, which are very high in foods containing monounsaturated fats like olive oil, tend to have lower risk of cardiovascular disease, Primary sources are plant oils like canola oil, peanut oil, and olive oil. Other good sources are avocados; nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, and pecans; and seeds such as pumpkin and sesame seeds.
Polyunsaturated fats – These includes the Omega-3 and Omega-6 groups of fatty acids which your body can’t make. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in very few foods – primarily cold water fatty fish and fish oils. Foods rich in certain omega-3 fats called EPA and DHA can reduce cardiovascular disease, improve your mood and help prevent dementia. See below for more on Omega-3. Other sources of polyunsaturated fats are sunflower, corn, soybean, and flaxseed oils, and walnuts. It is important to know that these oils become unhealthy when heated due to the formation of free radicals, which can lead to disease.
How much fat is too much? It depends on your lifestyle, your weight, your age and most importantly the state of your health. Focus on including Monounsaturated fats and Polyunsaturated fats in your diet, decreasing Saturated fats, and avoiding Trans fats as much as possible. The USDA recommends that the average individual:
Keep total fat intake to 20-35% of calories
Limit saturated fats to less than 10% of your calories (200 calories for a 2000 calorie diet)
Limit trans fats to 1% of calories (2 grams per day for a 2000 calorie diet)
Limit cholesterol to 300 mg per day, less if you have diabetes.
Managing all fats in your diet
Dietary cholesterol is also is a very important form of fat that has its own set of considerations. See Healthy Fats to learn more on managing fats your diet.
Healthy Fats and Oils to support brain and body functions
Foods rich in certain omega-3 fats called EPA and DHA can reduce cardiovascular disease, improve your mood and help prevent dementia. The best sources for the EPA and DHA omega-3 fats are fatty fish such salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and some cold water fish oil supplements. Canned albacore tuna and lake trout can also be good sources depending on how the fish were raised and processed.
You may hear a lot about getting your omega-3’s from foods rich in ALA fatty acids. Main sources are vegetable oils and nuts (especially walnuts), flax, soybeans, and tofu. Be aware that our bodies generally convert very little ALA into EPA and DHA, so you may not get as big of a benefit from these foods.
Some people avoid seafood because they worry about mercury or other possible toxins. But most experts agree that the benefits of eating 2 servings a week of cold water fatty fish outweigh the risks.
The role of sugar and salt in a healthy diet
Sugary Drinks and Sweets
It is natural to like sweets. And it is okay to enjoy them as an occasional treat, but it is vital to keep consumption to a minimum. Refined sugar is one of the bad carbs mentioned above. Not only does it cause problems with our blood sugar level, but it also uses up stored resources within our body (such as minerals and enzymes) in order to process the sugar. In addition there are many negative health effects that sugar contributes to including: hypoglycemia, suppression of the immune system, arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, headaches, and depression.
Choose sweet treats that are home made or have naturally occurring sugar, such as fruits. Try making your favorite dessert with half or one-third less sugar than usual. Make dessert a special event once a week. Many foods have naturally occurring sugars, such as fruits, vegetables, grains and beans. Incorporate naturally sweet foods into your diet to help crowd out unhealthy sweets. Strawberries, apples, sweet potatoes or winter squash are all great options.
Avoid or severely limit sugary drinks – they are an easy way to pack calories and chemicals into your diet without even noticing it. One 12-oz soda has about 10 teaspoons of sugar in it! And just because a soda is sugar-free doesn’t make it healthy. Recent studies have shown that the artificial sugar substitutes used in soft drinks may interfere with your body's natural regulation system and result in your overindulging in other sweet foods and beverages. Try water with a squeeze of lemon or water with a splash of 100% fruit juice.
Salt
Once again the problem with salt comes with the over-use and over consumption of processed salt most commonly used. It is best to limit sodium to 2,300 mg per day – the equivalent to one teaspoon of salt. Most of the salt in our diets comes from processed, packaged, restaurant, and fast food. Processed foods like canned soups or frozen meals can contain hidden sodium that can quickly surpass this recommended amount. Many of us are unaware of how much sodium we are consuming in one day.
Salt itself is not bad. A high quality sea salt can have up to 90 minerals, which are healthy for our body. Look for sea salt that has a reddish or brownish tint, has no coloring, additives, chemicals and has not been bleached.
Eat a wide variety of foods. Healthy eating is an opportunity to expand your range of choices by trying foods—especially vegetables, whole grains, or fruits—that you don't normally eat.
Keep portions moderate, especially high-calorie foods. In recent years serving sizes have ballooned, particularly in restaurants. Choose a starter instead of an entrée, split a dish with a friend, and don’t order supersized anything.
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes—foods high in complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, low in fat, and free of cholesterol. Try to get fresh, local produce
Drink more water. Our bodies are about 75% water. It is a vital part of a healthy diet. Water helps flush our systems, especially the kidneys and bladder, of waste products and toxins. A majority of Americans go through life dehydrated.
Limit sugary foods, salt, and refined-grain products. Sugar is added to a vast array of foods. In a year, just one daily 12-ounce can of soda (160 calories) can increase your weight by 16 pounds. See suggestions below for limiting salt and substituting whole grains for refined grains.
Don’t be the food police. You can enjoy your favorite sweets and fried foods in moderation, as long as they are an occasional part of your overall healthy diet. Food is a great source of pleasure, and pleasure is good for the heart – even if those French fries aren’t!
Get moving. A healthy diet improves your energy and feelings of well-being while reducing your risk of many diseases. Adding regular physical activity and exercise will make any healthy eating plan work even better.
One step at a time. Establishing new food habits is much easier if you focus on and take action on one food group or food fact at a time
Eating smart: A keystep towards healthy eating
Healthy eating begins with learning how to “eat smart”. It's not just what you eat, but how you eat. Paying attention to what you eat and choosing foods that are both nourishing and enjoyable helps support an overall healthy diet.
Take time to chew your food: Chew your food slowly, savoring every bite. We tend to rush though our meals, forgetting to actually taste the flavors and feel the textures of what is in our mouths. Reconnect with the joy of eating.
Avoid stress while eating: When we are stressed, our digestion can be compromised, causing problems like colitis and heartburn. Avoid eating while working, driving, arguing, or watching TV (especially disturbing programs or the news). Try taking some deep breaths prior to beginning your meal, or light candles and play soothing music to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Listen to your body: Ask yourself if you are really hungry. You may really be thirsty, so try drinking a glass of water first. During a meal, stop eating before you feel full. It actually takes a few minutes for your brain to tell your body that it has had enough food, so eat slowly. Eating just enough to satisfy your hunger will help you remain alert, relaxed and feeling your best, rather than stuffing yourself into a “food coma”!
Eat early, eat often: Starting your day with a healthy breakfast can jumpstart your metabolism, and eating the majority of your daily caloric allotment early in the day gives your body time to work those calories off. Also, eating small, healthy meals throughout the day, rather than the standard three large meals, can help keep your metabolism going and ward off snack attacks.
Healthy eating simplified
Despite what certain fad diets would have you believe, we all need a balance of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to sustain a healthy body. But what exactly does that mean? What are good carb, protein, and fat choices for developing your own healthy eating plan? Below you will find more details on each of these topics.
Carbohydrates clarified
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates – food composed of some combination of starches, sugar and fiber - provide the body with fuel it needs for physical activity by breaking down into glucose, a type of sugar our cells use as a universal energy source.
Bad carbs are foods that have been “stripped” of all bran, fiber, and nutrients. They have been processed in order to make cooking fast and easy. Examples are white flour, refined sugar, and white rice. They digest so quickly that they cause dramatic elevations in blood sugar, which over time can lead to weight gain, hypoglycemia or even diabetes.
Good carbs are digested more slowly. This keeps your blood sugar and insulin levels from rising and falling too quickly, helping you get full quicker and feel fuller longer. Good sources of carbs include whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables, which also offer lots of additional health benefits, including heart disease and cancer prevention.
Whole Grains for long-lasting, healthy carbohydrate energy
In addition to being delicious and satisfying, whole grains are rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants, which help to protect against coronary heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes. Studies have shown people who eat more whole grains tend to have a healthier heart. Make whole grains an important part of every meal.
Make sure you're really getting whole grains. Focus on including grains that are in their whole form, such as whole grain brown rice, millet, quinoa, and barley in your meals. When you want to eat healthy grains in the form of breads or cereals be aware that the words stone-ground, multi-grain, 100% wheat, or bran, don’t necessarily mean that a product is whole grain. Look for the new Whole Grain Stamp from the Whole Grains Council. If there is no stamp look for the words “whole grain” or “100% whole wheat,” and check the ingredients to make sure each grain listed is specified as whole grain. Some good sources are dark breads and toasted wheat cereals.
Avoid: Refined grains such as breads, pastas, and breakfast cereals that are not whole grain.
Fiber
Dietary fiber is found in plant foods (fruit, vegetables and whole grains) and is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps support a healthy diet by:
Helping you feel fuller faster and longer, which can help prevent overeating.
Keeping blood sugar levels even, by slowing digestion and absorption so that glucose (sugar) enters the bloodstream slowly and steadily.
Maintaining a healthy colon - the simple organic acids produced when fiber is broken down in the digestive process helps to nourish the lining of the colon.
The two types of fiber are soluble and insoluble:
Soluble fiber can dissolve in water and can also help to lower blood fats and maintain blood sugar. Primary sources are beans, fruit and oat products.
Insoluble fiber cannot dissolve in water, so it passes directly through the digestive system. It’s found in whole grain products and vegetables.
A healthy diet should contain approximately 20 to 30 grams of fiber a day, but most of us only get about half of that amount.
Vegetables and Fruits: Vitamin, antioxidant and fiber powerhouses
Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and are packed with vitamins, minerals, protective plant compounds and fiber. They are a great source of nutrients and vital for a healthy diet.
Fruits and vegetables should be part of every meal, and be your first choice for a snack. Eat a minimum of five portions each day. The antioxidants and other nutrients in these foods help protect against developing certain types of cancer and other diseases.
Greens: Dark leafy green vegetables are a vital part of a healthy diet since they are packed with nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, zinc, and Vitamins A, C, E and K. Greens help to strengthen the blood and respiratory systems. They are currently the most lacking food in the American diet. Be adventurous in your choice of greens: kale, mustard greens, broccoli, Chinese cabbage are just a few of the many options.
Sweet Vegetables: Naturally sweet vegetables are an excellent way to add healthy sweetness to your meals and reduce your cravings for other sweets. Some examples of sweet vegetables are corn, carrots, beets, sweet potatoes or yams, winter squash, and onions.
Fruit: Eating a wide variety of fruit is another very healthy part of any diet. They provide us with beneficial properties such as natural sugars, fiber, Vitamins and antioxidants. Choose fresh or frozen, and focus on variety. Berries are cancer-fighting, apples provide fiber, oranges and mangos offer vitamin C, and so on.
Go for the brights: The brighter, deeper colored fruits and vegetables contain higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Avoid: Fruit juices can contain up to 10 teaspoons of sugar per cup; avoid or dilute with water. Canned fruit often contains sugary syrup, and dried fruit, while an excellent source of fiber, can be high in calories. Avoid fried veggies or ones smothered in dressings or sauces – you may still get the vitamins, but you’ll be getting a lot of unhealthy fat and extra calories as well.
Support your health and the environment by eating locally-grown food
Eating fresh food is an important part of a healthy diet. It has become standard practice for fruits and vegetables to be shipped across the country or even across the world before they arrive on our supermarket shelves. Locally-grown food is fresher than what you'll find in the supermarket, which means that is tastier and more nutritious. And since the food travels a shorter distance to get to you, it is better for the environment and helps us reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Following are some ideas on easy ways to increase your consumption of fresh local foods.
Visit a local farmer’s market. Farmer’s markets are springing up all over the U.S. They usually offer a wide variety of products such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, baked goods, eggs, and meat. Small farmers care about their land and the health of their farms, so even if they are not “certified organic” the food they produce is of a very high quality.
Join a Community Supported Agriculture group (CSA). A CSA is partnership between a local farm and its members who sign up and pay in advance for a box of goods that they will receive on a regular basis (typically once a week). These partnerships help farms receive a better price for their products while giving you a wide variety of fresh local produce.
By supporting your local farmers you are also supporting the local economy. To find local growers, farmer's markets, and CSAs in your area, visit Local Harvest.
Putting protein into perspective
During digestion, protein in food is broken down into the 20 amino acids that are the basic building blocks our bodies use to create its own protein. Our bodies need protein to maintain our cells, tissues and organs. A lack of protein in our diets can result in slow growth, reduced muscle mass, lower immunity, and weaken the heart and respiratory system. Protein gives us the energy to get up and go –and keep going. Keep in mind that it is vital to eat healthy protein that is free of hormones and antibiotics. Also, the majority of people in the U.S. eat more protein than is necessary. So focus more on getting higher quality versus more quantity. Each person is individual and may need different amounts of protein depending on their body and activity level.
A complete protein source is one that provides all of the essential amino acids. Examples are animal-based foods such as meat, poultry, fish, milk, eggs, and cheese.
An incomplete protein source is one that is low in one or more of the essential amino acids.
Complementary proteins are two or more incomplete protein sources that together provide adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids. For example, rice and dry beans. Similarly, dry beans each are incomplete proteins, but together, these two foods can provide adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids your body needs.
Do complementary proteins need to be eaten in the same meal? Research shows that your body can combine complementary proteins that are eaten within the same day.
Nuts, Seeds, Beans, and Tofu: alternative sources for healthy proteins
Beans, nuts, nut butters, peas, and soy products are good sources of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Many of the foods in this group provide iron, which is better absorbed when a source of vitamin C is consumed with the meal
Choose: Black beans, navy beans, garbanzos, lentils, and other beans. Nuts like almonds, walnuts and pecans. Soy products like tofu, soymilk, tempeh and veggie burgers. All of these are great sources of protein for vegetarians.
Avoid: Salted or sugary nuts; refried beans.
Dairy products and other sources for calcium and vitamin D
Dairy products provide a rich source of calcium, necessary for bone health. Most are fortified with vitamin D, which helps the small intestine absorb calcium. Calcium can also be found in dark green, leafy vegetables, such as kale and collard greens, as well as in dried beans and legumes.
Recommended calcium levels are 1000 mg per day, 1200 mg if you are over 50 years old. Take a vitamin D and calcium supplement if you don’t get enough of these nutrients from your diet.
Choose non-fat or low-fat dairy products that do not contain rBST (bovine growth hormone). If you're lactose-intolerant, choose lactose-free and lower-lactose products, such as lactose free milk, hard cheeses and yogurt.
Avoid full-fat dairy products or products from cows treated with rBST.
Fats: avoid the bad fats and enjoy the good fats
Fats are another vital part to a healthy diet. Good fats are needed to nourish your brain, heart, nerves, hormones and all your cells, as well as your hair, skin, and nails. Fat also satisfies us and makes us feel full. It’s the type of fat that matters in addition to how much you consume.
Saturated fats, primarily found in animal sources including red meat and whole milk dairy products, raise the low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol that increases your risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Substitute lean meats, skinless poultry, and low-fat or nonfat dairy products, fish and nuts. Other saturated fat sources include vegetable oils such as coconut oil, palm oil and foods made with these oils.
Trans fat raises low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol that increases your risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), as well as lowering HDL, or good cholesterol. Trans fats are created by heating liquid vegetable oils in the presence of hydrogen gas, a process called hydrogenation. Primary sources of trans fat are vegetable shortenings, some margarines, crackers, candies, cookies, snack foods, fried foods, baked goods, and other processed foods made with partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.
Monounsaturated fats - People following traditional Mediterranean diets, which are very high in foods containing monounsaturated fats like olive oil, tend to have lower risk of cardiovascular disease, Primary sources are plant oils like canola oil, peanut oil, and olive oil. Other good sources are avocados; nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, and pecans; and seeds such as pumpkin and sesame seeds.
Polyunsaturated fats – These includes the Omega-3 and Omega-6 groups of fatty acids which your body can’t make. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in very few foods – primarily cold water fatty fish and fish oils. Foods rich in certain omega-3 fats called EPA and DHA can reduce cardiovascular disease, improve your mood and help prevent dementia. See below for more on Omega-3. Other sources of polyunsaturated fats are sunflower, corn, soybean, and flaxseed oils, and walnuts. It is important to know that these oils become unhealthy when heated due to the formation of free radicals, which can lead to disease.
How much fat is too much? It depends on your lifestyle, your weight, your age and most importantly the state of your health. Focus on including Monounsaturated fats and Polyunsaturated fats in your diet, decreasing Saturated fats, and avoiding Trans fats as much as possible. The USDA recommends that the average individual:
Keep total fat intake to 20-35% of calories
Limit saturated fats to less than 10% of your calories (200 calories for a 2000 calorie diet)
Limit trans fats to 1% of calories (2 grams per day for a 2000 calorie diet)
Limit cholesterol to 300 mg per day, less if you have diabetes.
Managing all fats in your diet
Dietary cholesterol is also is a very important form of fat that has its own set of considerations. See Healthy Fats to learn more on managing fats your diet.
Healthy Fats and Oils to support brain and body functions
Foods rich in certain omega-3 fats called EPA and DHA can reduce cardiovascular disease, improve your mood and help prevent dementia. The best sources for the EPA and DHA omega-3 fats are fatty fish such salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and some cold water fish oil supplements. Canned albacore tuna and lake trout can also be good sources depending on how the fish were raised and processed.
You may hear a lot about getting your omega-3’s from foods rich in ALA fatty acids. Main sources are vegetable oils and nuts (especially walnuts), flax, soybeans, and tofu. Be aware that our bodies generally convert very little ALA into EPA and DHA, so you may not get as big of a benefit from these foods.
Some people avoid seafood because they worry about mercury or other possible toxins. But most experts agree that the benefits of eating 2 servings a week of cold water fatty fish outweigh the risks.
The role of sugar and salt in a healthy diet
Sugary Drinks and Sweets
It is natural to like sweets. And it is okay to enjoy them as an occasional treat, but it is vital to keep consumption to a minimum. Refined sugar is one of the bad carbs mentioned above. Not only does it cause problems with our blood sugar level, but it also uses up stored resources within our body (such as minerals and enzymes) in order to process the sugar. In addition there are many negative health effects that sugar contributes to including: hypoglycemia, suppression of the immune system, arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, headaches, and depression.
Choose sweet treats that are home made or have naturally occurring sugar, such as fruits. Try making your favorite dessert with half or one-third less sugar than usual. Make dessert a special event once a week. Many foods have naturally occurring sugars, such as fruits, vegetables, grains and beans. Incorporate naturally sweet foods into your diet to help crowd out unhealthy sweets. Strawberries, apples, sweet potatoes or winter squash are all great options.
Avoid or severely limit sugary drinks – they are an easy way to pack calories and chemicals into your diet without even noticing it. One 12-oz soda has about 10 teaspoons of sugar in it! And just because a soda is sugar-free doesn’t make it healthy. Recent studies have shown that the artificial sugar substitutes used in soft drinks may interfere with your body's natural regulation system and result in your overindulging in other sweet foods and beverages. Try water with a squeeze of lemon or water with a splash of 100% fruit juice.
Salt
Once again the problem with salt comes with the over-use and over consumption of processed salt most commonly used. It is best to limit sodium to 2,300 mg per day – the equivalent to one teaspoon of salt. Most of the salt in our diets comes from processed, packaged, restaurant, and fast food. Processed foods like canned soups or frozen meals can contain hidden sodium that can quickly surpass this recommended amount. Many of us are unaware of how much sodium we are consuming in one day.
Salt itself is not bad. A high quality sea salt can have up to 90 minerals, which are healthy for our body. Look for sea salt that has a reddish or brownish tint, has no coloring, additives, chemicals and has not been bleached.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
No More Sun Tan
With sun soaring up the heat summer skin care would become a prime concern now.
The most used cosmetic during summers are sun screen lotions. The SPF is the measurement of the effectiveness of a sunscreen. Still, the skin does get tanned anyhow.
Here are most trusted remedies to wipe off the tanning of the skin and provide a glowing fresh skin to flaunt entire summer.
A classic home remedy for sun tan is to mix equal quantities of sugar granules and lemon juice. Using lemon peels apply this mixture all over the exposed skin and go on scrubbing. Go on scrubbing till 20 minutes. Keep for another 15 minutes. This will provide a natural bleached effect.
Mash out pulp of tomatoes. Apply it on the skin and let it work for 30 minutes. Wash off with fresh water. Preferably use it before evening bath so that skin gets to rest.
Another mashing remedy is of papaya. Mash papaya with cold milk. Apply it on face and neck regions. This soothes the skin. It also calms the sun affected skin.
You may add little honey if you have dry to normal skin. Drinking Lassi also helps skin healthy during summers. It is prepared by beating curd smooth enough and adding water to make up to one glass. Take rice and using mixer grind to obtain fine flour.
Rice flour is also available in market. Make a paste out of it using curd and apply all over the sun tanned regions. Let it dry for 30 minutes then bathe.
Do not use if you have oily skin. You may add rose water and milk with rice flour to prepare paste. This is for dry to normal skin.
Topical treatment is necessary but unless you eat healthy the skin will have a hard time fighting odds.
Therefore, eat fresh fruits and salads which provide good amounts of antioxidants
The most used cosmetic during summers are sun screen lotions. The SPF is the measurement of the effectiveness of a sunscreen. Still, the skin does get tanned anyhow.
Here are most trusted remedies to wipe off the tanning of the skin and provide a glowing fresh skin to flaunt entire summer.
A classic home remedy for sun tan is to mix equal quantities of sugar granules and lemon juice. Using lemon peels apply this mixture all over the exposed skin and go on scrubbing. Go on scrubbing till 20 minutes. Keep for another 15 minutes. This will provide a natural bleached effect.
Mash out pulp of tomatoes. Apply it on the skin and let it work for 30 minutes. Wash off with fresh water. Preferably use it before evening bath so that skin gets to rest.
Another mashing remedy is of papaya. Mash papaya with cold milk. Apply it on face and neck regions. This soothes the skin. It also calms the sun affected skin.
You may add little honey if you have dry to normal skin. Drinking Lassi also helps skin healthy during summers. It is prepared by beating curd smooth enough and adding water to make up to one glass. Take rice and using mixer grind to obtain fine flour.
Rice flour is also available in market. Make a paste out of it using curd and apply all over the sun tanned regions. Let it dry for 30 minutes then bathe.
Do not use if you have oily skin. You may add rose water and milk with rice flour to prepare paste. This is for dry to normal skin.
Topical treatment is necessary but unless you eat healthy the skin will have a hard time fighting odds.
Therefore, eat fresh fruits and salads which provide good amounts of antioxidants
Hair Style and EyeWear Secrets
If you've ever struggled with trying to find the right hairstyle (and I think most women have at some point in their lives), you're about to discover how easy it really can be! If you've given up on your hair you're about to read some encouraging information. You see, just like choosing the right style of glasses, the right hairstyle is based on one key principle: the shape of your face. That's it.
Now that you know that, all you need to do is learn the basic "rules" that go with your particular face shape. First though, let's talk about the different face shapes and the characteristics of each.
1. The Round Face: this is a full-looking face with a round hairline and chin. The cheeks/ears tend to be the widest point.
2. The Square Face: this face shape has a strong, square jaw line and usually a square hairline.
3. The Oval Face: the oval shape has a gently rounded hairline and is only slightly narrower at the jaw than at the temples. Very balanced.
4. The Diamond Face: the widest point on this face is at the cheekbones, and is equally narrow at the jaw line and forehead.
5. The Oblong Face: this face is long and slender. The area just below the cheekbones and the forehead are about the same width. Could have a high forehead or a narrow chin.
6. The Triangular Face: has a dominant jaw line and narrows at the cheekbones and temples.
7. The Heart Shaped Face: the face is widest at the hairline and temples and narrows to a small chin. The opposite of the triangular face.
Now that we've covered the characteristics of the different face shapes...
Let's Get Started!
As we discuss this further we'll talk about some do's and don'ts for hairstyling and picking out the proper eye wear.
The Round Face: The goal of the person with the round face is to lengthen it. This can be done by adding height and fullness at the crown. Layering will help to achieve this. An off centre part will help to make the face appear longer. The rest of the cut should stay close to the side of the head to avoid adding more fullness.
Length: A round face can wear a shorter cut but hair should be swept back. Or a cut longer than the chin will also work.
Avoid: Hair that's chin length with a rounded line, like a bob. This will only make the face appear even more round. Bangs cut straight across the forehead and short crops. Also avoid a centre part. It tends to accentuate the roundness.
GLASSES: The best shaped frame for the round face is a rectangular one. This frame contrasts the round face, making it appear thinner and longer. Frames with clear bridges make close-set eyes appear further apart. Frames with higher, coloured temples will lengthen the appearance of the round face.
The Square Face: The goal of the person with a square face is to soften it. Hair with lots of waves and roundness will help to achieve this. If your hair is straight you may want to consider a soft perm to offset the straight lines of your face. Layers and wispy bangs work well. Off centre parts and height at the crown will help to elongate the face.
Length: Short to medium length hair works best for this shaped face. Long hair, straight bangs and centre parts tend to emphasize the square features. Just make sure your cut ends just above or a little below your chin.
Avoid: Centre parts and hairstyles ending at the jaw line.
GLASSES: Look for frames where the lower part is curved with some weight on top as well. Centred temples are desirable. Look for a frame wider than the widest part of the face. This will soften the angular appearance of the square face. Stay away from rectangular frames.
The Oval Face: Most any hairstyle looks good on an oval face. The goal is not to hide your features. Slicked back styles also work very well. Length: You can wear short, medium or longer styles.
Avoid: Remember not to cover up your balanced features with your hair.
GLASSES: Look for frames that will maintain the balance of your oval face. Frames should be as least as wide as the broadest part of your face. You can wear round, square or rectangular shapes. Avoid frames with low or "dropped" temples. This will detract from your face's natural features.
The Diamond Face: You also have balanced features so you can wear a variety of styles. If you are going with a shorter style make sure you have weight in the nape area to help balance your high cheekbones and delicate chin.
Length: You can wear short, medium or longer styles.
Avoid: Hiding your features with your hair.
GLASSES: Select a frame that will accent the forehead and jaw and draw attention away from the temple. Choose frames that are decorated along the top. Rimless frames are also nice. You can wear glasses with geometric or oval shapes to minimize the distance between your temples.
The Oblong Face: The person with the oblong/rectangular face wants to make it appear fuller. Try to create fullness at the sides of your face. Layers will help to achieve this and to add softness to the lines of your face. Try off centre parts and wispy bangs to shorten the appearance of length.
Length: Short to medium lengths work best.
Avoid: Longer styles tend to drag the oblong face down, making it appear longer. Also avoid straight hairstyles and centre parts.
GLASSES: Choose frames with equal top to bottom depth and decorative or contrasting temples. Avoid frames that have too much weight on the bottom. They tend to make the face appear even longer. Round or square frames work well but make sure they don't extend beyond the widest part of the face.
The Triangular Face: Choose styles that are fuller at the temples and taper at the jaw. Lots of layers will help you to achieve this. This style will help to balance your prominent jaw. Off centre parts work best for you. Also hair can be tucked behind ears, still working to achieve the fullness at the temple area.
Length: Shorter hair works best to help balance the prominent jaw line. If wearing long hair, make sure it's pulled back at the nape.
Avoid: Centre parts, longer hairstyles that have fullness at the jaw- gives the appearance of extra weight in the face.
GLASSES: Look for a frame that is slightly top heavy. Decorative accents on top of the frame will draw attention away from the wide jaw line. A frame that has no lower rim is an excellent choice.
The Heart Shaped Face: Chin length styles work best. This creates a more balanced look, adding fullness where you need it most. An off-centre part is a good choice. Wispy bangs and soft layers swept forward work well. If you have a dramatic heart shaped face (high cheekbones) make sure you have weight in the nape area to help balance the look of the dramatic cheekbones and delicate chin.
Length: Chin length works best.
Avoid: Short, full styles-they emphasize the upper face, making the chin look even narrower. Height at the crown- makes the chin look narrower and longer. Avoid severe looks.
GLASSES: An excellent choice is light coloured or rimless frames with low temples. Frames that are wider at the bottom will also help to balance the face by drawing the eye away from the wider temple area.
Now that we've covered off what hairstyles and glasses work best for each particular face shape, don't be afraid to make some changes to your image. If you're not sure where to start, start small. Maybe start by styling your hair differently or changing your frames.
If you're ready to make some big changes, talk to your stylist about what kind of cut you want. You've got the right information now. Don't rely on your stylist to choose the appropriate style for you. Good luck and have fun!
Now that you know that, all you need to do is learn the basic "rules" that go with your particular face shape. First though, let's talk about the different face shapes and the characteristics of each.
1. The Round Face: this is a full-looking face with a round hairline and chin. The cheeks/ears tend to be the widest point.
2. The Square Face: this face shape has a strong, square jaw line and usually a square hairline.
3. The Oval Face: the oval shape has a gently rounded hairline and is only slightly narrower at the jaw than at the temples. Very balanced.
4. The Diamond Face: the widest point on this face is at the cheekbones, and is equally narrow at the jaw line and forehead.
5. The Oblong Face: this face is long and slender. The area just below the cheekbones and the forehead are about the same width. Could have a high forehead or a narrow chin.
6. The Triangular Face: has a dominant jaw line and narrows at the cheekbones and temples.
7. The Heart Shaped Face: the face is widest at the hairline and temples and narrows to a small chin. The opposite of the triangular face.
Now that we've covered the characteristics of the different face shapes...
Let's Get Started!
As we discuss this further we'll talk about some do's and don'ts for hairstyling and picking out the proper eye wear.
The Round Face: The goal of the person with the round face is to lengthen it. This can be done by adding height and fullness at the crown. Layering will help to achieve this. An off centre part will help to make the face appear longer. The rest of the cut should stay close to the side of the head to avoid adding more fullness.
Length: A round face can wear a shorter cut but hair should be swept back. Or a cut longer than the chin will also work.
Avoid: Hair that's chin length with a rounded line, like a bob. This will only make the face appear even more round. Bangs cut straight across the forehead and short crops. Also avoid a centre part. It tends to accentuate the roundness.
GLASSES: The best shaped frame for the round face is a rectangular one. This frame contrasts the round face, making it appear thinner and longer. Frames with clear bridges make close-set eyes appear further apart. Frames with higher, coloured temples will lengthen the appearance of the round face.
The Square Face: The goal of the person with a square face is to soften it. Hair with lots of waves and roundness will help to achieve this. If your hair is straight you may want to consider a soft perm to offset the straight lines of your face. Layers and wispy bangs work well. Off centre parts and height at the crown will help to elongate the face.
Length: Short to medium length hair works best for this shaped face. Long hair, straight bangs and centre parts tend to emphasize the square features. Just make sure your cut ends just above or a little below your chin.
Avoid: Centre parts and hairstyles ending at the jaw line.
GLASSES: Look for frames where the lower part is curved with some weight on top as well. Centred temples are desirable. Look for a frame wider than the widest part of the face. This will soften the angular appearance of the square face. Stay away from rectangular frames.
The Oval Face: Most any hairstyle looks good on an oval face. The goal is not to hide your features. Slicked back styles also work very well. Length: You can wear short, medium or longer styles.
Avoid: Remember not to cover up your balanced features with your hair.
GLASSES: Look for frames that will maintain the balance of your oval face. Frames should be as least as wide as the broadest part of your face. You can wear round, square or rectangular shapes. Avoid frames with low or "dropped" temples. This will detract from your face's natural features.
The Diamond Face: You also have balanced features so you can wear a variety of styles. If you are going with a shorter style make sure you have weight in the nape area to help balance your high cheekbones and delicate chin.
Length: You can wear short, medium or longer styles.
Avoid: Hiding your features with your hair.
GLASSES: Select a frame that will accent the forehead and jaw and draw attention away from the temple. Choose frames that are decorated along the top. Rimless frames are also nice. You can wear glasses with geometric or oval shapes to minimize the distance between your temples.
The Oblong Face: The person with the oblong/rectangular face wants to make it appear fuller. Try to create fullness at the sides of your face. Layers will help to achieve this and to add softness to the lines of your face. Try off centre parts and wispy bangs to shorten the appearance of length.
Length: Short to medium lengths work best.
Avoid: Longer styles tend to drag the oblong face down, making it appear longer. Also avoid straight hairstyles and centre parts.
GLASSES: Choose frames with equal top to bottom depth and decorative or contrasting temples. Avoid frames that have too much weight on the bottom. They tend to make the face appear even longer. Round or square frames work well but make sure they don't extend beyond the widest part of the face.
The Triangular Face: Choose styles that are fuller at the temples and taper at the jaw. Lots of layers will help you to achieve this. This style will help to balance your prominent jaw. Off centre parts work best for you. Also hair can be tucked behind ears, still working to achieve the fullness at the temple area.
Length: Shorter hair works best to help balance the prominent jaw line. If wearing long hair, make sure it's pulled back at the nape.
Avoid: Centre parts, longer hairstyles that have fullness at the jaw- gives the appearance of extra weight in the face.
GLASSES: Look for a frame that is slightly top heavy. Decorative accents on top of the frame will draw attention away from the wide jaw line. A frame that has no lower rim is an excellent choice.
The Heart Shaped Face: Chin length styles work best. This creates a more balanced look, adding fullness where you need it most. An off-centre part is a good choice. Wispy bangs and soft layers swept forward work well. If you have a dramatic heart shaped face (high cheekbones) make sure you have weight in the nape area to help balance the look of the dramatic cheekbones and delicate chin.
Length: Chin length works best.
Avoid: Short, full styles-they emphasize the upper face, making the chin look even narrower. Height at the crown- makes the chin look narrower and longer. Avoid severe looks.
GLASSES: An excellent choice is light coloured or rimless frames with low temples. Frames that are wider at the bottom will also help to balance the face by drawing the eye away from the wider temple area.
Now that we've covered off what hairstyles and glasses work best for each particular face shape, don't be afraid to make some changes to your image. If you're not sure where to start, start small. Maybe start by styling your hair differently or changing your frames.
If you're ready to make some big changes, talk to your stylist about what kind of cut you want. You've got the right information now. Don't rely on your stylist to choose the appropriate style for you. Good luck and have fun!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
5 Tips to Overcome Laziness
Laziness means a mental inertia, indicating the inactive status of a person. We also refer to a lazy person as indolent and sloth. When we proceed to ask why a person remains lazy, there are many causes. The foremost cause is that a child develops laziness through her/his parents by way of observing them in its childhood. Constantly viewing TV either by a child or an adult develops laziness in the concerned person. Laziness also means lust, craving for more slumber and idleness. Laziness begins from one’s attitude or willingness to remain in bed for more time or from one’s tendency to delay to do a thing or work In short, laziness can be explained that it is a kind of mental block, keeping a person very slow, dull and not moving, thereby preventing his progress.
Therefore, it is our duty to free a person from the chains of laziness. Here are some useful tips for keeping a person free from laziness:
1) Parents should be a role model for their children, keeping themselves always alert and brisk, doing things quickly and systematically without any scope for even a slightest form of laziness.
2) One should avoid delay or postponement in doing a work or project. Suppose if a project is too big, do not get overwhelmed by it. You may get the project divided into small and easy parts and proceed to finish it one by one or step by step. Then you will learn time management and there will not be any scope for laziness.
3) A person should periodically subject himself to self-analysis, so as to assess himself, his merits and demerits etc and how far his/her laziness prevented his/her progress. Then one should aim to achieve something in life and constantly remember that goal. In other words you may set a target and try to achieve it within a specific timeframe. Find out your strengths and weaknesses. You must be having a talent for something, say business, politics or academic. Choose one of them and go in that direction. Your laziness is gone once for all.
4) The adults should view TV programmes restrictively based on their utility and usefulness and make the children follow you. This will help both the adults as well as the children from becoming addicts to TV programmes and thereby avoid laziness on their part.
5) Try to wake up early in the morning, say at 0500 am and begin the day with a walk or a jog. If you are unable to wake up yourself in the early morning, you can avail somebody’s help. You can seek the help of your spouse or parents or brothers and sisters and even ask them to give company to you.
It will be helpful not only to do your activities correctly, but also you will have a real interest for others. You will also become close and develop a friendship with others. In the process, you will not have laziness.
Therefore, it is our duty to free a person from the chains of laziness. Here are some useful tips for keeping a person free from laziness:
1) Parents should be a role model for their children, keeping themselves always alert and brisk, doing things quickly and systematically without any scope for even a slightest form of laziness.
2) One should avoid delay or postponement in doing a work or project. Suppose if a project is too big, do not get overwhelmed by it. You may get the project divided into small and easy parts and proceed to finish it one by one or step by step. Then you will learn time management and there will not be any scope for laziness.
3) A person should periodically subject himself to self-analysis, so as to assess himself, his merits and demerits etc and how far his/her laziness prevented his/her progress. Then one should aim to achieve something in life and constantly remember that goal. In other words you may set a target and try to achieve it within a specific timeframe. Find out your strengths and weaknesses. You must be having a talent for something, say business, politics or academic. Choose one of them and go in that direction. Your laziness is gone once for all.
4) The adults should view TV programmes restrictively based on their utility and usefulness and make the children follow you. This will help both the adults as well as the children from becoming addicts to TV programmes and thereby avoid laziness on their part.
5) Try to wake up early in the morning, say at 0500 am and begin the day with a walk or a jog. If you are unable to wake up yourself in the early morning, you can avail somebody’s help. You can seek the help of your spouse or parents or brothers and sisters and even ask them to give company to you.
It will be helpful not only to do your activities correctly, but also you will have a real interest for others. You will also become close and develop a friendship with others. In the process, you will not have laziness.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Recipie Pie
STRAWBERRY PIE RECIPE
Ingredients:
9" baked Pie Shell
1 cup Sugar
1 cup Water
3 tblsp Cornstarch
2 tbsp White Corn Syrup
4 cup sliced Strawberries
How to make strawberry pie recipe:
Boil sugar, water, cornstarch and corn syrup in a pan.
Let the mixture cool till it starts to thicken.
Now add the strawberries.
When the mixture gets cool pour into the pie shell.
Put it in the freezer before serving.
Serve the pie with whipped cream or ice cream.
2.Fresh Strawberry Pie
1 baked 9-inch deep-dish or regular
10-inch pie shell (9-inch deep dish crust is
recommended as a 9-inch regular crust will
make the filling overflow)
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 ounces strawberry Jell-O
1 quart fresh strawberries, cleaned, hulled and sliced
1 1/2 cups water
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch. Add water and lemon juice. Over high heat, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook stirring until slightly thickened and clear, 4 to 5 minutes.
Add gelatin, stirring until dissolved. Allow to cool to room temperature.
Stir strawberries into gelatin mixture. Turn into a baked and cooled 9-inch deep-dish or regular 10-inch pie shell. Chill 4 to 6 hours or until set.
Serve topped with whipped cream, if desired.
Ingredients:
9" baked Pie Shell
1 cup Sugar
1 cup Water
3 tblsp Cornstarch
2 tbsp White Corn Syrup
4 cup sliced Strawberries
How to make strawberry pie recipe:
Boil sugar, water, cornstarch and corn syrup in a pan.
Let the mixture cool till it starts to thicken.
Now add the strawberries.
When the mixture gets cool pour into the pie shell.
Put it in the freezer before serving.
Serve the pie with whipped cream or ice cream.
2.Fresh Strawberry Pie
1 baked 9-inch deep-dish or regular
10-inch pie shell (9-inch deep dish crust is
recommended as a 9-inch regular crust will
make the filling overflow)
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 ounces strawberry Jell-O
1 quart fresh strawberries, cleaned, hulled and sliced
1 1/2 cups water
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch. Add water and lemon juice. Over high heat, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook stirring until slightly thickened and clear, 4 to 5 minutes.
Add gelatin, stirring until dissolved. Allow to cool to room temperature.
Stir strawberries into gelatin mixture. Turn into a baked and cooled 9-inch deep-dish or regular 10-inch pie shell. Chill 4 to 6 hours or until set.
Serve topped with whipped cream, if desired.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Cook perfect pasta
How to cook perfect pasta
1. One of the best reasons for eating pasta is that, in 15 minutes from start to finish, you can provide yourself with a complete meal. If you want to enjoy cooking and eating pasta at its best, then my advice is to buy good quality. Yes, it does cost more, but we're not talking about great luxury here; we're talking about a main meal for two people that might cost £2 instead of £1. Poor quality pasta often ends up sticky and soggy. So when you buy your pasta, make sure it says pasta di semola di grano duro – durum wheat semolina pasta.
2. Always use a very large cooking pot, making sure you have at least 4 pints (2.25 litres) of water to every 8 oz (225 g) of pasta, with 1 level tablespoon of salt added. I recommend this quantity of dried pasta for spaghetti or any other shape if being served with just sauce. This will serve two as a main course, or use 4-6 oz (110-175 g) as a starter. Before the pasta goes in make sure the water is up to a good fierce boil. Add the pasta as quickly as possible and stir it around just once to separate it. If you're cooking long pasta like spaghetti, push it against the base of the pan and, as you feel it give, keep pushing until it all collapses down into the water.
3. You don't need to put a lid on the pan: if it's really boiling briskly it will come back to the boil in seconds and, if you put a lid on, it will boil over. Put a timer on and give it 10-12 minutes for top-quality pasta, but because this timing varies according to the shape and quality of the pasta, the only real way to tell is to taste it. So do this after 8 minutes, then 9, and 10, and so on. This only applies when you cook a particular brand for the first time. After that you will always know how long it takes. Sometimes you can give it 1 minute's less boiling and then allow an extra minute's cooking while you combine it with the sauce.
4. Have a colander ready in the sink then, as you are draining the water, swirl it around the colander, which will heat it ready for the hot pasta. Don't drain it too thoroughly: it's good to have a few drops of moisture still clinging as this prevents the pasta from becoming dry. Place the colander containing the pasta back over the saucepan to catch any drips.
5. Always serve the pasta on deep warmed plates to keep it as hot as possible as it goes to the table. For spaghetti, the very best way to serve it is to use pasta tongs, and always lift it high to quickly separate each portion from the rest. Presto pronto! – in Italian this means soon and quickly. Always work quickly, as pasta won't hang around – if it cools it goes sticky and gluey, so drain it quickly, serve it quickly and eat it quickly. If the pasta is going to be cooked again, in a baked dish like macaroni cheese, for example, give it half the usual cooking time to allow for the time in the oven.
Dark Circles Remedy
Dark (Black ) Circles
Try one home remedy at a time to get rid of the dark circles.
Drink at least ten glasses of water everyday.
Take all precautions to avoid strain on the eyes.
Eight hours of sleep is a must for all of us, specially for people having dark circles under their eyes.
Do not leave cream on the skin around the eyes for long periods. Remove the cream applied around the eye after 10 min. No cream should be left on the skin around the eyes for long periods.
Close your eyes and cover eyelids with slices of raw potato or cucumber for 15-20 minutes. Wash with warm water and apply a cream.
Make a 1:1 mixture of fresh potato and cucumber juices. Soak some cotton and put on your eyelids and keep for 20 minutes. Wash your eyes with cold water.
Apply a mixture of lemon and tomato juice (equal parts) on the dark circles 2 times a day.
Apply a paste of turmeric powder with pineapple juice for dark circles under the eyes.
Crush some mint and apply it around the eye.
Massage with almond oil under and around eyes at bed time daily for 2 weeks and see the improvement. Almond is very good skin food and helps to remove dark circles.
Rub the area with a powdered Vitamin E capsule and wipe off with a mixture of honey and egg white. This will reduce darkness around the eye.
Put hot and cold clothes alternatively under eyes for 10 minutes. Then apply some almond oil on the dark surface before going to bed.
The acuupressure point for eyes is on the mount below the index finger of your palms. Pressing this mount may help.
Puffiness of Eyes:
Raise the head of your bed at night. This helps prevent fluids from accumulating around your eyes as you sleep.
Apply vitamin E or olive oil.
Tie some potato grates in a cloth and place over eyes for about 15-20 minutes.
Place chilled cucumber slices or damp tea bags over eyes for about 20 minutes.
Practice the exercise for eye puffiness daily.
Apply a 1:1 mixture of cucumber juice and lemon juice for 105 minutes.
Apply a cool tap water compress to the skin under your eyes for about 15 minutes.
For better Vision:
Eat vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin A.
Immerse carrot in hot water and leave for a few minutes. Drink the liquid 3 times a day before meals.
Dip cotton balls in rose water or cold water and keep under the eyes for 10 minutes.
Try placing cooled chamomile tea bags over and around the eyes.
Try one home remedy at a time to get rid of the dark circles.
Drink at least ten glasses of water everyday.
Take all precautions to avoid strain on the eyes.
Eight hours of sleep is a must for all of us, specially for people having dark circles under their eyes.
Do not leave cream on the skin around the eyes for long periods. Remove the cream applied around the eye after 10 min. No cream should be left on the skin around the eyes for long periods.
Close your eyes and cover eyelids with slices of raw potato or cucumber for 15-20 minutes. Wash with warm water and apply a cream.
Make a 1:1 mixture of fresh potato and cucumber juices. Soak some cotton and put on your eyelids and keep for 20 minutes. Wash your eyes with cold water.
Apply a mixture of lemon and tomato juice (equal parts) on the dark circles 2 times a day.
Apply a paste of turmeric powder with pineapple juice for dark circles under the eyes.
Crush some mint and apply it around the eye.
Massage with almond oil under and around eyes at bed time daily for 2 weeks and see the improvement. Almond is very good skin food and helps to remove dark circles.
Rub the area with a powdered Vitamin E capsule and wipe off with a mixture of honey and egg white. This will reduce darkness around the eye.
Put hot and cold clothes alternatively under eyes for 10 minutes. Then apply some almond oil on the dark surface before going to bed.
The acuupressure point for eyes is on the mount below the index finger of your palms. Pressing this mount may help.
Puffiness of Eyes:
Raise the head of your bed at night. This helps prevent fluids from accumulating around your eyes as you sleep.
Apply vitamin E or olive oil.
Tie some potato grates in a cloth and place over eyes for about 15-20 minutes.
Place chilled cucumber slices or damp tea bags over eyes for about 20 minutes.
Practice the exercise for eye puffiness daily.
Apply a 1:1 mixture of cucumber juice and lemon juice for 105 minutes.
Apply a cool tap water compress to the skin under your eyes for about 15 minutes.
For better Vision:
Eat vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin A.
Immerse carrot in hot water and leave for a few minutes. Drink the liquid 3 times a day before meals.
Dip cotton balls in rose water or cold water and keep under the eyes for 10 minutes.
Try placing cooled chamomile tea bags over and around the eyes.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Summer Recipie
Chocolate chip and walnut ice cream
Ingredients
For the seed mix
25g/1oz pumpkin seeds
25g/1oz sunflower seeds
25g/1oz seasame seeds
75g/3oz hemp seeds
75g/3oz linseeds
For the ice cream
100g/3½oz dairy-free dark
chocolate (70 per cent cocoa solids)
1 tbsp chopped walnuts
200ml/7fl oz coconut cream
2 tbsp mixed dried fruit
50g/2oz dates, chopped
50g/2oz ready-to-eat dried apricots, chopped
1 tbsp Cointreau or orange liqueur
2 tbsp agave or maple syrup
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp flax oil
2 tbsp porridge oats
100ml/3½fl oz soya milk
2 tsp carob powder
1 tbsp vegan yoghurt
1 tbsp vegan margarine
Method
1. To make the seed mix, grind the pumpkin, sunflower and seasame seeds in a food processor. Take care not to over-grind, or the seasame will turn to 'putty'. Grind the hemp seeds and linseeds in a herb mill or coffee grinder. Combine the two mixtures.
1. Break the chocolate into pieces, then place 75g/3oz of it in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water and heat until melted. (Do not let the bowl touch the water.)
2. Chop the remaining chocolate into chip-sized pieces, mix with the walnuts and set aside.
3. Place all the remaining ingredients including two tablespoons of the seeds mix in a bowl and use a hand-held mixer to combine until quite smooth. Stir the melted chocolate into the fruit mixture, then mix in the walnuts and chocolate chips.
4. Transfer the mixture to a suitable lidded container and place in the freezer for one hour. Remove from the freezer and break up the mixture with a fork to reduce the ice crystals. Repeat this process every hour for the next four hours.
5. If frozen for longer than 24 hours, remove the ice cream from the freezer 15 minutes before you want to serve it. Serve with drizzles of soya cream, maple syrup, a sprinkle of cinnamon and some fruit of your choice.
Guava kulfi with tropical fruit salad
Ingredients
For the kulfi
350ml/12fl oz whole milk
150ml/5fl oz double cream
125/4fl oz condensed milk
50g/2oz powdered milk
25g/1oz caster sugar
½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
800g/2lb ripe yellow-skinned guavas, trimmed and halved
100ml/3fl oz water
For the fruit salad
500g/1lb 4oz prepared fresh fruit - a combination of Alphonso mango, pineapple, lychee, watermelon, persimmon and starfruit works especially well
2 passion fruit, pulp and seeds scraped out
1 lime, juice and zest only
caster sugar, to taste
Method
1. For the kulfi, place the milk, cream, condensed milk, powdered milk, sugar and nutmeg into a non-stick pan and rapidly bring to the boil. Lower the heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.
2. Meanwhile, place the guavas into a blender with the water and blend to make a purée. Push the puree through a sieve with the back of a spoon and discard the seeds. You should be left with 500ml/½ litre of purée.
3. Add the guava purée to the milk mixture and stir well.
4. Spoon the mixture into six individual kulfi moulds, jelly moulds or yoghurt pots and freeze overnight.
5. Just before serving the kulfi, prepare the fruit salad. Place the prepared fruit into a bowl with the passion fruit pulp and seeds, lime juice and zest and sugar and stir to coat the fruit.
6. To serve, turn the kulfi out of their moulds onto serving plates and serve with the fruit salad.
Diet Chart to increase weight
The bone structure must remain elastic if one is to become taller. One must take exercise regularly. I suggest the following exercises will help one gain height:
(i) Stand in an open space in attention position. In hale deeply through the nose and extend yours arms lifting then slowly up to your shoulders. Keep your arms straight. Hold that position for
some time and then take the arms backwards as far as they will go. No inhale again the release your breath slowly, resuming the former position.
(ii) Stand with your arms straight at right angles to your body. Lift the arms vertically and then bring them to the level of the shoulders. Do not exhale in the process, but stand on your toes, lifting your heels as far as they will go. Exhale slowly after some moments and resume the earlier position.
(iii) Extend your arms forward up to the level of the shoulders. Inhale and fill your lungs to about one-third of their capacity. Wait for a few moments and then take your arms above your head. Now move them in a circular motion-taking them behind your back and in the former position again. Exhale slowly.
How can one increase weight?
Take to a diet for three to four days. Take 100 to 150 grams of bran with the fruits. The best way will be to mix bran with a fruit like papaya. It will increase appetite, improve the digestion and remove costiveness, if any. One will tend to eat more and the capacity to assimilate food will be increased.
Foods like flour, rice honey, raisins, figs, dates, butter, and etc. can help increase weight. Sweat substances can increase weight than fatty foods. Those wishing to increase their weight should become pure vegetarians and eat fruits, rice, flour, fresh vegetables, bananas, dry fruits, butter, and milk. Germinated wheat is also extremely beneficial if taken in the form of gruel mixed with hot
milk.
Take plenty of water, exercise and fast once a week.
Risks associated with being too skinny include complications in surgery and slow recovery after illnesses. However it can be recovered by having proper diet that puts on weight. The energy density of foods is important factor to gain weight. Energy density refers to the amount of energy or calories compared to the weight of the food.
Some people are just naturally thin no matter how much they eat and the envy of those who gain weight easily. If you are thin and want to get bigger and gain weight, here's some "how to gain weight" information that I think you may be able to use.
Following are some of the guide lines for gaining weight
Good habits:
To gain weight, eat food with extremely high caloric value. Try to increase your food intake without consuming too much fat and sugar. Regular meals, especially breakfast, are important if you find it difficult to gain weight. Taking your time with meals and making sure you are relaxed is also important to ensure that your digestive system functions properly. Having some fixed timings and avoid eating in between so as to increase the hunger for food.
Eat more
Eat five or more meals a day. Drink plenty of fluids that supply calories like juice, milk, milkshakes, and sports beverages. Eat starchy grains and vegetables, such as rice, oats, pasta, potatoes, kumara, carrots and pumpkin. Add condiments such as yoghurt, sour cream, sauces and dressings to plain foods and salads. Eat bread with fatty spreads such as avocado, peanut butter and olive or canola oil margarines. Eating an extra 1000kJ over and above your daily needs can produce a weight increase of around 1kg per week.
Protein
Protein is essential to the body, for repair, to enable the immune system to function and for recovery from illness. If you are recovering from illness, it is important to include adequate protein in your diet. Good vegetarian sources of protein include: cereals, nuts & seeds, Soya products (Soya milk, tofu, tempeh etc) and pulses. Milk, yoghurt, cheese, and free-range eggs are also excellent protein sources for the non-vegan.
You must ensure that you include a protein source at each meal. Try to choose the energy dense sources of protein that are relatively soft and which do not contain to much fiber, for example, the Soya or dairy sources of protein. Eat dry fruits daily. Small size cashew nuts, almond and raisins have bundle of energy.
What Should You Eat To Gain Weight?
The following diet for gaining weight can supply those extra calories. Eat at least these group food items.
a) Milk Group: milk, cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese, ice cream.
b) Meat Group: meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dried beans and peas, nuts.
c) Vegetable Group: fresh, frozen, canned, juiced vegetables.
d) Fruit Group: Fresh, frozen, canned, dried, juiced fruits.
e) Grain Group: Cereals, breads, rolls, pasta, muffins, pancakes, grits, rice.
Alcohol can also be taken in small sips, perhaps before meals, as it may help improve your appetite. Alcohol must be taken after your doctor’s permission only. If you like oily food then try adding some vegetable oil or vegetable margarine to your food, particularly to mashed pulses, salads and potatoes. Go for fried foods if you love eating it.
Avoid Caffeine and Nicotine
Caffeine and nicotine are good stimulants and help to increase the metabolism of our body. Avoid having these stimulants in excess quantity to help your body retain maximum nutritional value from what you eat.
Eat Late
Having snacks at bedtime may help to gain weight, as long as it does not interfere with sleep. To gain optimal nutritional value from the food you have eaten you must relax after having meal.
Eat Frequently
If you have food just for one or two times than it slows down the weight gain since it makes you feel that your stomach is full. Go for smaller meals and snacks throughout the day since it increases the food intake of our body.
Exercise
While doing exercise it should be done such that muscles are stretched out. You don't have to do it excessively; rather you must subject your body to out of the ordinary stress each workout to grow muscle and to gain weight.
Inborn factors can play a large role in physique. If our parents are thin means we have less chance to put on weight. Many non-nutritional factors can also contribute to low body weight, such as stress or nervous tension. Good nutrition, rest, relaxation and regular exercise help in increasing body mass. So be happy and eat healthy food after all "Health is wealth".
(i) Stand in an open space in attention position. In hale deeply through the nose and extend yours arms lifting then slowly up to your shoulders. Keep your arms straight. Hold that position for
some time and then take the arms backwards as far as they will go. No inhale again the release your breath slowly, resuming the former position.
(ii) Stand with your arms straight at right angles to your body. Lift the arms vertically and then bring them to the level of the shoulders. Do not exhale in the process, but stand on your toes, lifting your heels as far as they will go. Exhale slowly after some moments and resume the earlier position.
(iii) Extend your arms forward up to the level of the shoulders. Inhale and fill your lungs to about one-third of their capacity. Wait for a few moments and then take your arms above your head. Now move them in a circular motion-taking them behind your back and in the former position again. Exhale slowly.
How can one increase weight?
Take to a diet for three to four days. Take 100 to 150 grams of bran with the fruits. The best way will be to mix bran with a fruit like papaya. It will increase appetite, improve the digestion and remove costiveness, if any. One will tend to eat more and the capacity to assimilate food will be increased.
Foods like flour, rice honey, raisins, figs, dates, butter, and etc. can help increase weight. Sweat substances can increase weight than fatty foods. Those wishing to increase their weight should become pure vegetarians and eat fruits, rice, flour, fresh vegetables, bananas, dry fruits, butter, and milk. Germinated wheat is also extremely beneficial if taken in the form of gruel mixed with hot
milk.
Take plenty of water, exercise and fast once a week.
Risks associated with being too skinny include complications in surgery and slow recovery after illnesses. However it can be recovered by having proper diet that puts on weight. The energy density of foods is important factor to gain weight. Energy density refers to the amount of energy or calories compared to the weight of the food.
Some people are just naturally thin no matter how much they eat and the envy of those who gain weight easily. If you are thin and want to get bigger and gain weight, here's some "how to gain weight" information that I think you may be able to use.
Following are some of the guide lines for gaining weight
Good habits:
To gain weight, eat food with extremely high caloric value. Try to increase your food intake without consuming too much fat and sugar. Regular meals, especially breakfast, are important if you find it difficult to gain weight. Taking your time with meals and making sure you are relaxed is also important to ensure that your digestive system functions properly. Having some fixed timings and avoid eating in between so as to increase the hunger for food.
Eat more
Eat five or more meals a day. Drink plenty of fluids that supply calories like juice, milk, milkshakes, and sports beverages. Eat starchy grains and vegetables, such as rice, oats, pasta, potatoes, kumara, carrots and pumpkin. Add condiments such as yoghurt, sour cream, sauces and dressings to plain foods and salads. Eat bread with fatty spreads such as avocado, peanut butter and olive or canola oil margarines. Eating an extra 1000kJ over and above your daily needs can produce a weight increase of around 1kg per week.
Protein
Protein is essential to the body, for repair, to enable the immune system to function and for recovery from illness. If you are recovering from illness, it is important to include adequate protein in your diet. Good vegetarian sources of protein include: cereals, nuts & seeds, Soya products (Soya milk, tofu, tempeh etc) and pulses. Milk, yoghurt, cheese, and free-range eggs are also excellent protein sources for the non-vegan.
You must ensure that you include a protein source at each meal. Try to choose the energy dense sources of protein that are relatively soft and which do not contain to much fiber, for example, the Soya or dairy sources of protein. Eat dry fruits daily. Small size cashew nuts, almond and raisins have bundle of energy.
What Should You Eat To Gain Weight?
The following diet for gaining weight can supply those extra calories. Eat at least these group food items.
a) Milk Group: milk, cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese, ice cream.
b) Meat Group: meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dried beans and peas, nuts.
c) Vegetable Group: fresh, frozen, canned, juiced vegetables.
d) Fruit Group: Fresh, frozen, canned, dried, juiced fruits.
e) Grain Group: Cereals, breads, rolls, pasta, muffins, pancakes, grits, rice.
Alcohol can also be taken in small sips, perhaps before meals, as it may help improve your appetite. Alcohol must be taken after your doctor’s permission only. If you like oily food then try adding some vegetable oil or vegetable margarine to your food, particularly to mashed pulses, salads and potatoes. Go for fried foods if you love eating it.
Avoid Caffeine and Nicotine
Caffeine and nicotine are good stimulants and help to increase the metabolism of our body. Avoid having these stimulants in excess quantity to help your body retain maximum nutritional value from what you eat.
Eat Late
Having snacks at bedtime may help to gain weight, as long as it does not interfere with sleep. To gain optimal nutritional value from the food you have eaten you must relax after having meal.
Eat Frequently
If you have food just for one or two times than it slows down the weight gain since it makes you feel that your stomach is full. Go for smaller meals and snacks throughout the day since it increases the food intake of our body.
Exercise
While doing exercise it should be done such that muscles are stretched out. You don't have to do it excessively; rather you must subject your body to out of the ordinary stress each workout to grow muscle and to gain weight.
Inborn factors can play a large role in physique. If our parents are thin means we have less chance to put on weight. Many non-nutritional factors can also contribute to low body weight, such as stress or nervous tension. Good nutrition, rest, relaxation and regular exercise help in increasing body mass. So be happy and eat healthy food after all "Health is wealth".
Beauty Tips for Dry Skin
Tips 1:
Should use scrubs to remove the dry scaly skin.
Apply ½ tsp of Vitamin E oil with 2-3 drops of lime juice and ½ tsp of glycerin.
Tips 2:
Apply a mixture of 1 tsp warm Olive oil with a few drops of glycerin and 2-3 drops of lime juice.
Tips 3:
1 tsp of milk cream with2-3 drops of lime juice mixed well. This should be applied 10 minutes before a bath. It reduces the dryness and also is good when applied in Winter.
Tips 4:
Plain, whole milk, applied and left on for 10 minutes and washed with cold water helps.
This should be done twice a day.
Should use scrubs to remove the dry scaly skin.
Apply ½ tsp of Vitamin E oil with 2-3 drops of lime juice and ½ tsp of glycerin.
Tips 2:
Apply a mixture of 1 tsp warm Olive oil with a few drops of glycerin and 2-3 drops of lime juice.
Tips 3:
1 tsp of milk cream with2-3 drops of lime juice mixed well. This should be applied 10 minutes before a bath. It reduces the dryness and also is good when applied in Winter.
Tips 4:
Plain, whole milk, applied and left on for 10 minutes and washed with cold water helps.
This should be done twice a day.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Say Good-bye to pimple Marks
Tip 1:
Take a 1 teaspoon of mint leaves, 1 teaspoon of basil leaves, 1 teaspoon of plain yogurt. Put it all in a blender for a few seconds and apply on the pimple marks. Leave it for half an hour or so, and wash. repeat it until the marks are gone.
Tip 2:
Lemons have peeling and bleaching properties. Pat lemon juice over scarred patches with cotton and leave it for as long as you want to, or as long as you are indoors. Lemon renders skin photosensitive so it is best avoided in the sun.
Tip 3:
Sandalwood oil is cooling and helps reduce pigmentation. It can be used as a night renewal oil. Apply over pigmented areas and leave over night. Alternatively, use it during the day instead of a moisturizer. Sandalwood powder mixed with rosewater is also an effective mask to reduce pigmentation.
Tip 4:
Pearl powder is used in many professional beauty treatments to lighten skin color. It can be combined with honey and applied on acne marks to lighten them. Use twice a week and not more.
Tip 5:
Baking soda is abrasive and can help in exfoliating pigmented cells. Mix it with water and allow it to foam in your hand before rubbing it in a circular motion over pigmented areas for a minute, before rinsing off with water. This is an effective alternative to professional micro-dermabrasion treatments.
Tip 6:
Camphor powder mixed with coconut oil is known to be very effective in treating acne marks. Tea tree oil mixed with almond oil is effective in unclogging pores and reducing pigmentation associated with acne. Vitamin E oil applied a couple of times a day also helps to reduce acne marks.
Tip 7:
Virgin coconut oil helps lighten pigmentation. Substitute you moisturizer with virgin coconut oil and use it as and when your skin feels dry. It is very effective in curing most skin ailments. Cucumber juice is a natural cleanser and astringent. It is also known to be effective in reducing acne marks.
Tip 8:
Fruits contain collagen and fruit acid. Collagen helps in maintaining the elasticity of skin. Pulp of fruits like papaya, orange, and pineapple are also effective in treating acne marks. Just smear fruit pulp over the marks and leave for 20 minutes to allow the fruit acid and collagen to work on the marks.
Take a 1 teaspoon of mint leaves, 1 teaspoon of basil leaves, 1 teaspoon of plain yogurt. Put it all in a blender for a few seconds and apply on the pimple marks. Leave it for half an hour or so, and wash. repeat it until the marks are gone.
Tip 2:
Lemons have peeling and bleaching properties. Pat lemon juice over scarred patches with cotton and leave it for as long as you want to, or as long as you are indoors. Lemon renders skin photosensitive so it is best avoided in the sun.
Tip 3:
Sandalwood oil is cooling and helps reduce pigmentation. It can be used as a night renewal oil. Apply over pigmented areas and leave over night. Alternatively, use it during the day instead of a moisturizer. Sandalwood powder mixed with rosewater is also an effective mask to reduce pigmentation.
Tip 4:
Pearl powder is used in many professional beauty treatments to lighten skin color. It can be combined with honey and applied on acne marks to lighten them. Use twice a week and not more.
Tip 5:
Baking soda is abrasive and can help in exfoliating pigmented cells. Mix it with water and allow it to foam in your hand before rubbing it in a circular motion over pigmented areas for a minute, before rinsing off with water. This is an effective alternative to professional micro-dermabrasion treatments.
Tip 6:
Camphor powder mixed with coconut oil is known to be very effective in treating acne marks. Tea tree oil mixed with almond oil is effective in unclogging pores and reducing pigmentation associated with acne. Vitamin E oil applied a couple of times a day also helps to reduce acne marks.
Tip 7:
Virgin coconut oil helps lighten pigmentation. Substitute you moisturizer with virgin coconut oil and use it as and when your skin feels dry. It is very effective in curing most skin ailments. Cucumber juice is a natural cleanser and astringent. It is also known to be effective in reducing acne marks.
Tip 8:
Fruits contain collagen and fruit acid. Collagen helps in maintaining the elasticity of skin. Pulp of fruits like papaya, orange, and pineapple are also effective in treating acne marks. Just smear fruit pulp over the marks and leave for 20 minutes to allow the fruit acid and collagen to work on the marks.
Diet Plan
If you need to follow a 1200 calorie diet take a look at the five diet samples below, they are just over 1200 calories each. The 1200 calorie diets were never used on two consecutive days they were followed day by day then repeated after day five. This was done to limit any possible deficiency in vitamins or minerals.
Some of the meals in the 1200 calorie diets are made up of ready made frozen meals for convenience, I sometimes changed them to another brand with roughly the same calorie content.
I included many of the foods I love to eat, but simply ate them less frequently and replaced most with healthy low fat meals. On the 5th day I ate mostly fruit all day so I could indulge in my favourite take away - a Chinese curry!
The following low-calorie diets are for demonstration purposes only!
If you decide to follow a diet below 1800 calories or any diet samples on this website you must seek the approval of a qualified dietician before starting the diet plan. Please read our Terms!
Breakfast:
Small Bowl breakfast cereal with skimmed milk - 200 calories
Fruit Juice unsweetened - 60 cals
Lunch:
1 Banana - 107 cals
1 Orange - 23 calories
Snack:
Non fat yogurt small pot - 50 cals
Fruit - 40 calories
Dinner:
Vegetable Curry with Fried Rice "Take away meal" - 700 calories
Total calories = 1180 Calorie Diet
Breakfast:
1 large hard boiled egg - 90 calories
2 slices wholemeal toast with thin smear butter - 200 cals
Large slice melon - 47 calories
Lunch:
Baked potato with 100g "Heinz" baked beans - 300 cals
Cottage Cheese with chives reduced fat 100g - 80 calories
Snack:
Muesli meal replacement bar "Boots" - 200 calories
Dinner:
Pasta Salad made with a little olive oil & a little sauce to flavour - 200 - 300 calories ( 250 average )
50g Tinned Tuna in brine - 50 cals
Total calories = 1217 Calorie Diet
Breakfast:
2 rashers leanest bacon grilled - 200 cals
Tinned Tomatoes 100g - 16 calories
2 slices wholemeal bread/toast with little butter & jam - 220 calories
Piece of fruit or fruit juice 50 cals
Lunch:
Cream of Mushroom soup - 96 calories
Slice of bread with butter- 108 calories
Snack:
Packet of low fat chips (crisps UK) - 110 calories
Fruit - 80 calories
Dinner:
Chicken Chow Mein "St Michael" 280g - 240 calories
vegetables - 100 calories
Total calories = 1220 Calorie Diet
Breakfast:
Small Bowl breakfast cereal with skimmed milk - 200 calories
Fruit Juice unsweetened - 60 cals
Lunch:
"Ross" Cod bake frozen meal 300g - 320 calories
Fresh Vegetables - 150 cals
Dinner:
Caribbean Rice & Peas recipe - 434 cals
Snack:
low fat Yogurt - 60 calories
piece of fruit - 50 cals
Total calories = 1274 Calorie Diet
Breakfast:
Muesli with skimmed milk small Bowl - 350 calories
Fruit juice unsweetened - 60 calories
Lunch:
"Ross" French bread Pizza 150 grams - 300 cals
Mixed Salad Large portion - 80 calories
Apple - 49 cals
Dinner:
Lasagne "Birds Eye" Menu Master frozen 250g - 317 calories
Mixed Vegetables fresh or frozen 200g - 100 cals
Total calories = 1256 Calorie Diet
Some of the meals in the 1200 calorie diets are made up of ready made frozen meals for convenience, I sometimes changed them to another brand with roughly the same calorie content.
I included many of the foods I love to eat, but simply ate them less frequently and replaced most with healthy low fat meals. On the 5th day I ate mostly fruit all day so I could indulge in my favourite take away - a Chinese curry!
The following low-calorie diets are for demonstration purposes only!
If you decide to follow a diet below 1800 calories or any diet samples on this website you must seek the approval of a qualified dietician before starting the diet plan. Please read our Terms!
1200 calorie diet sample Day 1
Breakfast:
Small Bowl breakfast cereal with skimmed milk - 200 calories
Fruit Juice unsweetened - 60 cals
Lunch:
1 Banana - 107 cals
1 Orange - 23 calories
Snack:
Non fat yogurt small pot - 50 cals
Fruit - 40 calories
Dinner:
Vegetable Curry with Fried Rice "Take away meal" - 700 calories
Total calories = 1180 Calorie Diet
1200 calorie diet sample Day 2
Breakfast:
1 large hard boiled egg - 90 calories
2 slices wholemeal toast with thin smear butter - 200 cals
Large slice melon - 47 calories
Lunch:
Baked potato with 100g "Heinz" baked beans - 300 cals
Cottage Cheese with chives reduced fat 100g - 80 calories
Snack:
Muesli meal replacement bar "Boots" - 200 calories
Dinner:
Pasta Salad made with a little olive oil & a little sauce to flavour - 200 - 300 calories ( 250 average )
50g Tinned Tuna in brine - 50 cals
Total calories = 1217 Calorie Diet
1200 calorie diet sample Day 3
Breakfast:
2 rashers leanest bacon grilled - 200 cals
Tinned Tomatoes 100g - 16 calories
2 slices wholemeal bread/toast with little butter & jam - 220 calories
Piece of fruit or fruit juice 50 cals
Lunch:
Cream of Mushroom soup - 96 calories
Slice of bread with butter- 108 calories
Snack:
Packet of low fat chips (crisps UK) - 110 calories
Fruit - 80 calories
Dinner:
Chicken Chow Mein "St Michael" 280g - 240 calories
vegetables - 100 calories
Total calories = 1220 Calorie Diet
1200 calorie diet sample Day 4
Breakfast:
Small Bowl breakfast cereal with skimmed milk - 200 calories
Fruit Juice unsweetened - 60 cals
Lunch:
"Ross" Cod bake frozen meal 300g - 320 calories
Fresh Vegetables - 150 cals
Dinner:
Caribbean Rice & Peas recipe - 434 cals
Snack:
low fat Yogurt - 60 calories
piece of fruit - 50 cals
Total calories = 1274 Calorie Diet
1200 calorie diet sample Day 5
Breakfast:
Muesli with skimmed milk small Bowl - 350 calories
Fruit juice unsweetened - 60 calories
Lunch:
"Ross" French bread Pizza 150 grams - 300 cals
Mixed Salad Large portion - 80 calories
Apple - 49 cals
Dinner:
Lasagne "Birds Eye" Menu Master frozen 250g - 317 calories
Mixed Vegetables fresh or frozen 200g - 100 cals
Total calories = 1256 Calorie Diet
Lose abdominal FAT
Developing a lean, flat stomach takes time and patience, especially when it comes to those last few pounds in those hard to lose places. The lower abdominal fat and "love handles" can be two of the most stubborn and exercise-resistant areas from which to lose abdominal fat. Some people slave away day in and day out on the latest new-fangled abdominal fat device or do countless sit ups, side bends, and leg raises every day, all to no avail. There is only one way to lose fat in the so-called "stubborn areas," and that is with the correct combination of proper diet, aerobic exercise, abdominal training, and weight training.
The first thing you need to realize is that it is impossible to "spot reduce" fat from one specific part of the body. Fat loss occurs systemically, meaning that you can’t control where the fat comes from. When you burn fat for energy, you will draw it from all areas of the body, and the first place you tend to put it on will be the last place it comes off. The reason everyone has those "stubborn" spots is because each of us is born with a genetic pattern of fat storage, just as we inherit hair color, eye color, and other physical traits. In women, the stubborn areas tend to be hips, thighs, and the waist. In men, the troublesome areas are usually the lower abs and the "love handles."
Many people labor away month after month trying to exercise specific areas of their body with the idea that fat will be burned directly off the area they are working. Training the abdominals every day with hundreds of repetitions will certainly tighten and tone the muscles, but it will do almost nothing to remove the fat obscuring the muscles. In fact, it is possible to have a great set of abs that you can’t even see because they are covered up with a layer of fat!
Contrary to popular belief, the best way to burn the layer of flab from your midsection is not to do more abdominal exercise, but to do more cardiovascular exercise. Aerobic exercise is the real secret to burning fat. Walking, jogging, bicycling, elliptical exercise and stairclimbing are all great fat burners. Most people give up too early in the fat burning workout. During the first 10 minutes of aerobic activity, glycogen (stored carbohydrates) is the primary fuel source. If you stop after 20 minutes, you’re only getting half of your workout done! You get the cardiovascular health benefits, but you don’t get much fat loss. Because you don't burn significant amounts of fat until glycogen stores are depleted, the key to maximum fat loss is to work out aerobically for 30-60 minutes continuously per session. Don't worry though every workout should be easy, like strolling around the shopping malls for an hour can be beneficial, although it would be best if you try not to stop moving!
Even if you’re doing cardio every day, without a good balanced diet, you still won’t see results. Abdominal fat loss is a 50% exercise, 50% nutrition combination. A fat loss diet must be low in calories. Regardless of how much you workout, if the number of calories you take in is greater than the amount you burn, you’ll still put on abdominal fat. Ideally, you should spread your calories out into five small meals a day instead of 2 or 3 big ones so that you don’t overeat in one feeding. Eat a variety of foods that are all natural, low in fat and low in sugar, with about 55% of the calories coming from carbohydrates, 30% from protein, and 15% from fat. If you’re having a really difficult time losing the last few pounds, keep the protein up and decrease your carbohydrate intake, especially late in the day and at night.
Next to "spot reduction," the second most common myth about abdominal training is that sit ups and leg raises are the most effective exercises. Actually, these movements don’t even isolate the abs; they recruit the hip flexor muscles, which are the same muscles used to punt a football. The hip flexors attach the thigh to the spinal column, so working them with exercises such as straight leg raises creates a strong pull on the lumbar area, which is one of the most common causes of lower back pain. Safer, more effective alternatives are crunches, crunch machines (or ab rollers), hip lifts, and reverse crunches.
The final component of your abdominal fat-reducing program is resistance training. It is important to train the entire body. Working one muscle group to the exclusion of others is a common cause of muscular imbalance. Building strong abdominals without also developing the antagonistic spinal erectors of the lower back could easily lead to injury. Many people are under the impression that they should only do cardiovascular activities until the weight comes off, then add weight training later on. It’s true that weight training is an anaerobic exercise, so it burns more glycogen than body fat. However, working out with weights will increase your lean body mass, which in turn raises your resting metabolic rate. The faster your metabolism is, the more fat you will burn! A complete program should always include aerobic exercise and weight training for every muscle group.
Before you decide to resort to drastic measures, give these guidelines an honest try. Losing abdominal fat is not easy, but it is simple if you know the formula. To recap, the formula for losing the last few pounds of abdominal fat is as follows: (1) Losing fat takes time, so get started now! Be patient and don’t expect to get "ultra lean" overnight (2) Burn the fat off the abdominal muscles with lots of cardiovascular exercise or you won’t be able to see them. (3) Choose biomechanically correct exercises to train the abdominal area, including crunching type exercises and avoiding hip flexor exercises, (4) Eat natural, low fat, low sugar, low calorie foods in small servings throughout the day, and (5) Work out with weights; don’t just train your abdominal, train your entire body.
The first thing you need to realize is that it is impossible to "spot reduce" fat from one specific part of the body. Fat loss occurs systemically, meaning that you can’t control where the fat comes from. When you burn fat for energy, you will draw it from all areas of the body, and the first place you tend to put it on will be the last place it comes off. The reason everyone has those "stubborn" spots is because each of us is born with a genetic pattern of fat storage, just as we inherit hair color, eye color, and other physical traits. In women, the stubborn areas tend to be hips, thighs, and the waist. In men, the troublesome areas are usually the lower abs and the "love handles."
Many people labor away month after month trying to exercise specific areas of their body with the idea that fat will be burned directly off the area they are working. Training the abdominals every day with hundreds of repetitions will certainly tighten and tone the muscles, but it will do almost nothing to remove the fat obscuring the muscles. In fact, it is possible to have a great set of abs that you can’t even see because they are covered up with a layer of fat!
Contrary to popular belief, the best way to burn the layer of flab from your midsection is not to do more abdominal exercise, but to do more cardiovascular exercise. Aerobic exercise is the real secret to burning fat. Walking, jogging, bicycling, elliptical exercise and stairclimbing are all great fat burners. Most people give up too early in the fat burning workout. During the first 10 minutes of aerobic activity, glycogen (stored carbohydrates) is the primary fuel source. If you stop after 20 minutes, you’re only getting half of your workout done! You get the cardiovascular health benefits, but you don’t get much fat loss. Because you don't burn significant amounts of fat until glycogen stores are depleted, the key to maximum fat loss is to work out aerobically for 30-60 minutes continuously per session. Don't worry though every workout should be easy, like strolling around the shopping malls for an hour can be beneficial, although it would be best if you try not to stop moving!
Even if you’re doing cardio every day, without a good balanced diet, you still won’t see results. Abdominal fat loss is a 50% exercise, 50% nutrition combination. A fat loss diet must be low in calories. Regardless of how much you workout, if the number of calories you take in is greater than the amount you burn, you’ll still put on abdominal fat. Ideally, you should spread your calories out into five small meals a day instead of 2 or 3 big ones so that you don’t overeat in one feeding. Eat a variety of foods that are all natural, low in fat and low in sugar, with about 55% of the calories coming from carbohydrates, 30% from protein, and 15% from fat. If you’re having a really difficult time losing the last few pounds, keep the protein up and decrease your carbohydrate intake, especially late in the day and at night.
Next to "spot reduction," the second most common myth about abdominal training is that sit ups and leg raises are the most effective exercises. Actually, these movements don’t even isolate the abs; they recruit the hip flexor muscles, which are the same muscles used to punt a football. The hip flexors attach the thigh to the spinal column, so working them with exercises such as straight leg raises creates a strong pull on the lumbar area, which is one of the most common causes of lower back pain. Safer, more effective alternatives are crunches, crunch machines (or ab rollers), hip lifts, and reverse crunches.
The final component of your abdominal fat-reducing program is resistance training. It is important to train the entire body. Working one muscle group to the exclusion of others is a common cause of muscular imbalance. Building strong abdominals without also developing the antagonistic spinal erectors of the lower back could easily lead to injury. Many people are under the impression that they should only do cardiovascular activities until the weight comes off, then add weight training later on. It’s true that weight training is an anaerobic exercise, so it burns more glycogen than body fat. However, working out with weights will increase your lean body mass, which in turn raises your resting metabolic rate. The faster your metabolism is, the more fat you will burn! A complete program should always include aerobic exercise and weight training for every muscle group.
Before you decide to resort to drastic measures, give these guidelines an honest try. Losing abdominal fat is not easy, but it is simple if you know the formula. To recap, the formula for losing the last few pounds of abdominal fat is as follows: (1) Losing fat takes time, so get started now! Be patient and don’t expect to get "ultra lean" overnight (2) Burn the fat off the abdominal muscles with lots of cardiovascular exercise or you won’t be able to see them. (3) Choose biomechanically correct exercises to train the abdominal area, including crunching type exercises and avoiding hip flexor exercises, (4) Eat natural, low fat, low sugar, low calorie foods in small servings throughout the day, and (5) Work out with weights; don’t just train your abdominal, train your entire body.
Recipe for the Day - Chow chow Sabji
Chow Chow sabji (Bangalore brinjal)
Ingredients:
250 gms Chow chow
1 cup chana dal
1 big onion finely chopped
1 big tomato finely chopped
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp MTR MADRAS Sambhar powder
2-3 green chillies finely chopped
2 tbsp tamarind pulp
Salt to taste
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp urad dal
few curry leaves
coriander leaves for garnish
4 tbsp Oil
Pinch of hing
Method:
Peel and chop the chowchow into cubes.
Wash chana dal and mix with chow chow and pressure cook for 5 whistles
In the meantime, Heat oil in kadai.
Add mustard seeds,cumin seeds, urad dal, and fry for 2 mins.
Add hing and fry for few secs and then add curry leaves and green chillies.
Now add onions and saute.Once these become light in color add the chopped tomato and saute.
Now add all the spice powder and fry till oil starts separating.
Now add the pressure cooked mixture and add salt.
Allow to boil.Do not add more water.
Now add the tamarind pulp and allow it to boil.
When the consistency reduces to little thickness, then put off the gas and garnish with coriander leaves.
Serve hot with rice or chapati.
To increase the gravy thickness, mix 1 tbsp of rice powder in water and add the curry is boiling.
Turn Gray hair to Black
Henna for the hair Style
Henna is an excellent conditioner for the hair. For dry hair it is better to avoid it or use it as sparingly as possible, since henna tends to dry out hair further.
Application: Section hair and apply the henna paste all over the scalp and hair ensuring that no portion of hair is left untouched. Pile each section up as you proceed. Cover your head with a shower cap. Soak for at least half an hour. Rinse off thoroughly and shampoo as usual.
Henna as a hair dye: Ideal for those who have a low proportion of grey hair. No need to use chemical dyes! Things required: an iron kadai (frying pan), 1 cup of powdered henna leaves (the powder should be as fresh as possible), 1 tsp dried amla powder, ½ cup strong tea decoction, 1 tsp coffee powder, 1 piece white katha (available in shops selling country medicines or herbs), 1 egg, 1 lemon. You could also add dried and powdered kadukkai and dhaanikkai (The iron kadai will oxidize and add colour)
Preparation: Mix all ingredients except lemon and egg. Add just a little water to make a thick paste in the iron kadai. Leave for at least 12 hours or overnight. Just before applying, add the egg and juice of the lemon. Mix well.
Application: Do not apply oil to the scalp. Section hair and apply the henna paste all over the scalp and hair ensuring that no portion of hair is left untouched. Pile each section up as you proceed. Cover your head with a shower cap. Soak for at least 4 hours. To wash off, first wet hair well. Then slowly loosen the hair stands. Rinse off under running water. Shampoo as usual. The first time the grey hair will turn dark brown (coffee brown). Apply the paste again after a week. Subsequent applications (every month ) will darken it further.
Applying henna on hands/feet
If you are using henna powder: To get a rich red colour, add eucalyptus oil, and tea decoction to the henna paste.
If you are grinding fresh leaves: You can add the sap of ladies finger, tamarind for getting a smooth consistency.
This natural beautifier that is available in plenty is a good alternative to costly chemical treatments that affect the skin adversely.
http://www.chennaionline.com/style/Beautytrends/beautytips/henna.asp
Indian Curry Recipie
Matar paneer
Matar paneer is a simple yet tasty vegetarian dish from the northern part of India around New Delhi and the Punjab. Pair it with a piece of naan or chapati to make a full meal.
4-6 servings
Onion, chopped -- 1
Garlic, chopped -- 3-4 cloves
Ginger, peeled, thinly sliced -- 1 tablespoon
Oil -- 1/4 cup
Paneer, cubed -- 1 cup
Peas -- 1 pound
Tomato sauce -- 1 cup
Water -- 1/2 to 1 cup
Coriander, ground -- 1 tablespoon
Turmeric -- 1 teaspoon
Sugar -- 1-2 teaspoons
Cayenne pepper -- 1/4 teaspoon
Salt and pepper -- to taste
Method
Puree the onion, garlic, ginger and spices in a blender or food processor, adding a little water if necessary. Set aside.
Heat the oil over medium heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the paneer cubes and fry until lightly golden. Remove the paneer to a plate and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium low and add the onion puree. Sauté for 5-8 minutes, or until the onion loses its raw taste and the mixture cooks down.
Add back the paneer and stir in the rest of ingredients. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, adjust seasoning and serve with naan or chapati.
Variations
Aloo Matar: Substitute 1-2 cups of peeled, cubed potatoes for the paneer. Follow the same steps as above, browning the potatoes in the same way as for the paneer.
Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt or cream at the end if you like.
Add 1-2 teaspoons of paprika to the onion-spice puree if you like.
Sprinkle the finished dish with a little garam masala and some chopped cilantro
Friday, May 8, 2009
How to get a sound sleep
How to get a sound sleep
Are you getting enough sleep? If not, you are not alone. A recent study has found that one in every two Indians (46 per cent) sleeps less than six hours. A busy work schedule, a hectic social life, household chores and children’s worries leave little time for sleep. Modern life builds up so much stress and anxiety that when we do get to bed, most of us find it difficult to sleep well.
Adults need at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night, to perform optimally. Children need even more sleep. Less sleep causes morning headaches and daytime fatigue, leading to poor concentration and performance.
Insomnia includes the inability to sleep, frequent awakenings during the night and not being able to go back to sleep, or waking up too early. Women are more likely to suffer from chronic insomnia – the ratio is about two women to one man. Working women, in particular, build up a large sleep debt over the years.
To a large extent, we can control the quantity and quality of our sleep. The key to a restful night’s sleep is to calm down your brain rather than rev it up.
What you eat affects how you sleep. Some food slows down nerve traffic and calms the brain and contributes towards a restful sleep; such food are called sleepers. Other perk up the brain and keep you awake; such food are called wakers.
Sleepers contain tryptophan, an amino acid that makes up protein, which produces the sleep – inducing substances, serotonin and melatonin. Food that contains tryptophan or make more tryptophan available to the brain make us sleepy.
Ideal sleepers are food which contains moderate amounts of carbohydrate stimulates the release of insulin which clears amino acids that compete with tryptophan making it more available to the brain. At the same time, protein contributes tryptophan directly to the brain.
Great snooze food includes; dairy products (paneer, cheese, milk and curd), meat, poultry or seafood, whole grains vegetables and pulses (including soyabeans).
Indian dinners usually have a fair share of these types of food. However, our traditional cooking practices include a lot of fat and spices, both of which in terferes with sleep.
Calcium helps the brain use tryptophan; this explains the soporific effect of a glass of milk at bedtime. Foods containing caffeine such as tea,coffee, colas and chocolates are wakers. a high-protein meal without carbohydrates contains the amino acid, tyrosine, which perks up the brain.
An all carbohydrate snack, especially one high in sugar, is less likely to help you sleep. It will raise blood sugar and inhibit sleep. Later, when blood sugar drops too low, you might wake up and not be able to fall back asleep. Also, you will miss out on the sleep-inducing effects of tryptophan.
Peas Masala
Peas Masala
Ingredients
Peas 500 grams
Tomato 250 grams
Onion 250 grams
Grated Coconut 2 tsp
Poppy Seeds 1 tsp
Green Chilli 6
Garlic 6 pieces
Ginger 1 inch
Butter 2 tsp
Cardamom 2
Cloves 4
Oil 3 tsp
Bay leaves 3 leaves
Jeera 1 tsp
Chilli powder 4 tsp
Turmeric powder 2 pinch
Coriander leaves a bunch
Coriander powder 3 tsp
Salt to taste
Method
Grind Onion, grated coconut, peas, green chilli, garlic, and ginger to a paste.
Boil peas with salt and keep aside.
Heat oil in a pan and fry jeera, Bay leaves, and paste.
Add sliced tomato, powders, peas.
Cook ill the gravy thickens.
After removing from heat, add butter and coriander leaves.
Dole out hot with Puri, Dosa, Bread, Naan.
8 Tips for beautiful hair
1. Avoid shampoos that contain sodium laurel sulfate, or sodium laureth sulfate. These chemicals are synthetic detergents that are used in dishwashing liquid and other cleansers. They are valued because they lather well, but they are very harsh, and can dry out your hair. Instead, look for shampoos made with decyl glucose, or decyl glucoside, which are much gentler.
2. Give yourself a hot oil treatment to deep condition your hair. Warm oil penetrates the hair shaft making the hair more flexible and giving it shine. This can also help to prevent split ends which result from dry hair.
3. Eat right and consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements to encourage healthy hair. Several vitamins and minerals have been shown to help hair growth and condition including biotin, vitamin E, vitamin B, vitamin C and MSM.
4. If you are an African American, or if you have extra curly hair, avoid brushing your hair. Use a wide toothed comb, or your fingers to work with your hair. Brushes can destroy African American or extra curly hair by shearing it out of the scalp.
5. Look for essential oils, herbs and vegetable oils in your hair care products. Essential oils such as rosemary, ylang-ylang and west Indian bay help to stimulate hair growth. Lavender and tea tree are naturally antiseptic and help to fight dandruff. Vegetable oils such as soybean oil, safflower oil and corn oil are moisturizing and conditioning to the hair shaft.
6. Avoid sleeping in hair accessories such as barrettes, scrunchies, head bands, etc. This can lead to hair damage.
7. Massage your scalp to help stimulate hair growth. Massaging helps stimulate hair growth by increasing the blood flow to the scalp. This nourishes the hair roots and helps to stimulate the hair growth process.
8. If your hair ends are damaged, give yourself a trim every so often to remove damage.
2. Give yourself a hot oil treatment to deep condition your hair. Warm oil penetrates the hair shaft making the hair more flexible and giving it shine. This can also help to prevent split ends which result from dry hair.
3. Eat right and consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements to encourage healthy hair. Several vitamins and minerals have been shown to help hair growth and condition including biotin, vitamin E, vitamin B, vitamin C and MSM.
4. If you are an African American, or if you have extra curly hair, avoid brushing your hair. Use a wide toothed comb, or your fingers to work with your hair. Brushes can destroy African American or extra curly hair by shearing it out of the scalp.
5. Look for essential oils, herbs and vegetable oils in your hair care products. Essential oils such as rosemary, ylang-ylang and west Indian bay help to stimulate hair growth. Lavender and tea tree are naturally antiseptic and help to fight dandruff. Vegetable oils such as soybean oil, safflower oil and corn oil are moisturizing and conditioning to the hair shaft.
6. Avoid sleeping in hair accessories such as barrettes, scrunchies, head bands, etc. This can lead to hair damage.
7. Massage your scalp to help stimulate hair growth. Massaging helps stimulate hair growth by increasing the blood flow to the scalp. This nourishes the hair roots and helps to stimulate the hair growth process.
8. If your hair ends are damaged, give yourself a trim every so often to remove damage.
Hair Care with Eggs
For strong and beautiful hair you can mix 2 egg yolks (depending on length of your hair) with 2 tsp. castor oil. Massage this mixture on your hair. Keep it for sometime then rinse it thoroughly.
Whip up two raw eggs. Pour this mixture on your hair by massaging. Let it dry. Shampoo your hair and then give vinegar and water rinse. Follow this procedure every month for soft and smooth hair.
Beat egg yolk thoroughly to make a frothy solution. Add 1 tsp baby oil and beat again to make a proper mixture. Add water to this mixture and apply it all over your scalp. Once dry, rinse well to get a proper conditioned treatment.
Mix egg yolk in 1/4 cup of yogurt with a little lime skin. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and apply it to every single strand of hair. After applying keep it for 10 minutes and then wash it off. The combination of yogurt and egg is very good for your hair.
Mix a whole egg to lemon juice. Whisk it properly. Once applied on your hair keep it for sometime. Rinse it thoroughly. This combination gives a shine to your dull hair.
Beat egg yolk to make a frothy paste. Add 1/2 tsp. olive oil and beat the mixture again. Slowly and steadily add 3/4 cup of luke warm water. After shampooing, massage this conditioner and leave it for few minutes. Rinse it later.
It is a good hair treatment for people who are in water most of the times like swimmers, surfers etc. Mix egg, olive oil and peeled cucumber to make a good mixture. Spread it evenly on your hair and keep it for 10 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly.
Mix together 1 tbsp. honey, 1 egg yolk, 1/2 tsp. almond oil and 1 tbsp. yogurt. Make a frothy paste and apply it on your hair. Rinse it in 1/2 hours time. This will smooth your hair and moisturize it evenly.
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautions while following instructions on the recipes from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
Whip up two raw eggs. Pour this mixture on your hair by massaging. Let it dry. Shampoo your hair and then give vinegar and water rinse. Follow this procedure every month for soft and smooth hair.
Beat egg yolk thoroughly to make a frothy solution. Add 1 tsp baby oil and beat again to make a proper mixture. Add water to this mixture and apply it all over your scalp. Once dry, rinse well to get a proper conditioned treatment.
Mix egg yolk in 1/4 cup of yogurt with a little lime skin. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and apply it to every single strand of hair. After applying keep it for 10 minutes and then wash it off. The combination of yogurt and egg is very good for your hair.
Mix a whole egg to lemon juice. Whisk it properly. Once applied on your hair keep it for sometime. Rinse it thoroughly. This combination gives a shine to your dull hair.
Beat egg yolk to make a frothy paste. Add 1/2 tsp. olive oil and beat the mixture again. Slowly and steadily add 3/4 cup of luke warm water. After shampooing, massage this conditioner and leave it for few minutes. Rinse it later.
It is a good hair treatment for people who are in water most of the times like swimmers, surfers etc. Mix egg, olive oil and peeled cucumber to make a good mixture. Spread it evenly on your hair and keep it for 10 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly.
Mix together 1 tbsp. honey, 1 egg yolk, 1/2 tsp. almond oil and 1 tbsp. yogurt. Make a frothy paste and apply it on your hair. Rinse it in 1/2 hours time. This will smooth your hair and moisturize it evenly.
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautions while following instructions on the recipes from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Things that cause hair damage
All to often what we choose to do to our hair in terms of style and supposed "care" actually damages the hair. In addition, our life habits have a significant impact on the health and appearance of the hair.
Caffeine
The jury is still out on the effects of caffeine on the body and its associated systems like the hair. In most cultures, the mild stimulant caffeine, commonly distributed in coffee and soft drinks, is a matter of daily routine. Caffeine has the effect of stimulating the central nervous system, heart, and lungs and will stave off fatigue.
It is a general rule of thumb that anything used to excess in the body has a resulting effect on the hair but the most recent studies conducted in 2005 suggest that caffeine actually prevents hair loss. Used topically, caffeine creams sold in Germany have shown good effect on male pattern baldness.
Your daily coffee consumption may be good for your hair, but stress and fatigue are not. If you are dinking enough coffee that you experience withdrawal symptoms like headaches and trembling hands when you don't get your "fix," it's time to cut back not just for your hair but for your whole system.
If your primary caffeine consumption comes from sodas, these drinks carry a heavy sodium punch that can elevate your blood pressure. Given the fact that some hair loss remedies like minoxidil (Rogaine) were initially developed to combat high blood pressure and were then discovered to stop hair loss, the blood pressure / hair growth link would seem to be confirmed.
Poor Nutrition
A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in fast food and additives will cause hair to grow more slowly. The growth of the a-keratin shafts that comprise hair depends on good blood circulation in the scalp and healthy, oxygenated blood. Our food consumption has a considerable effect on these factors.
The B vitamins are important in maintaining healthy hair, especially B6. Hair that is not getting enough B vitamins will be thin and fine. Foods rich in these vitamins include beans, peas, carrots, cauliflower, soybeans, bran, nuts, and eggs. The E vitamins also play a significant role in hair health. Try to eat more avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Finally, be sure you are getting enough magnesium, sulfur and zinc.
Unfortunately, the poor quality of the modern diet, with its reliance on junk food and on-the-go meals, means most people are not getting the vitamins and minerals they need for optimum health. Most physicians today recommend a good quality multi-vitamin / mineral combination. If you are seeing problems with thinning hair, a B-complex tablet would be a good idea as well.
Lack of Sleep
Studies of male pattern baldness suggest that lack of sleep plays a role in altering the hormone balance in the body that leads to hair loss. In men, hair loss is attributed to the conversion of testosterone to DHT in the body. Since sleep deprivation is a condition of our fast-paced, modern life, there is every reason to suggest that the stress and fatigue it causes will result in hair damage in women as well.
Research indicates that all adult men and women would function better if they got more sleep. Two big tips in this regard are not to fall asleep in front of the television set or with the lights on. The human brain at a low level will continue to process the information being broadcast by the television and our brains are pre-programmed to be more vigilant when it's light outside. We get our best sleep in a quiet, dark room.
Caffeine
The jury is still out on the effects of caffeine on the body and its associated systems like the hair. In most cultures, the mild stimulant caffeine, commonly distributed in coffee and soft drinks, is a matter of daily routine. Caffeine has the effect of stimulating the central nervous system, heart, and lungs and will stave off fatigue.
It is a general rule of thumb that anything used to excess in the body has a resulting effect on the hair but the most recent studies conducted in 2005 suggest that caffeine actually prevents hair loss. Used topically, caffeine creams sold in Germany have shown good effect on male pattern baldness.
Your daily coffee consumption may be good for your hair, but stress and fatigue are not. If you are dinking enough coffee that you experience withdrawal symptoms like headaches and trembling hands when you don't get your "fix," it's time to cut back not just for your hair but for your whole system.
If your primary caffeine consumption comes from sodas, these drinks carry a heavy sodium punch that can elevate your blood pressure. Given the fact that some hair loss remedies like minoxidil (Rogaine) were initially developed to combat high blood pressure and were then discovered to stop hair loss, the blood pressure / hair growth link would seem to be confirmed.
Poor Nutrition
A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in fast food and additives will cause hair to grow more slowly. The growth of the a-keratin shafts that comprise hair depends on good blood circulation in the scalp and healthy, oxygenated blood. Our food consumption has a considerable effect on these factors.
The B vitamins are important in maintaining healthy hair, especially B6. Hair that is not getting enough B vitamins will be thin and fine. Foods rich in these vitamins include beans, peas, carrots, cauliflower, soybeans, bran, nuts, and eggs. The E vitamins also play a significant role in hair health. Try to eat more avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Finally, be sure you are getting enough magnesium, sulfur and zinc.
Unfortunately, the poor quality of the modern diet, with its reliance on junk food and on-the-go meals, means most people are not getting the vitamins and minerals they need for optimum health. Most physicians today recommend a good quality multi-vitamin / mineral combination. If you are seeing problems with thinning hair, a B-complex tablet would be a good idea as well.
Lack of Sleep
Studies of male pattern baldness suggest that lack of sleep plays a role in altering the hormone balance in the body that leads to hair loss. In men, hair loss is attributed to the conversion of testosterone to DHT in the body. Since sleep deprivation is a condition of our fast-paced, modern life, there is every reason to suggest that the stress and fatigue it causes will result in hair damage in women as well.
Research indicates that all adult men and women would function better if they got more sleep. Two big tips in this regard are not to fall asleep in front of the television set or with the lights on. The human brain at a low level will continue to process the information being broadcast by the television and our brains are pre-programmed to be more vigilant when it's light outside. We get our best sleep in a quiet, dark room.
Facial
The facial
Dip a pair of clean cotton pads into a bowl with 1 tablespoon of milk and 1 teaspoon of almond oil. Use these pads to wipe your makeup off your face. Discard leftover mixture.
Wash off the milk and oil with lots of water.
Mix 1 tablespoonful of milk with the almond flour. Use that as a scrub to cleanse your face. Discard leftover scrub.
Wash off the scrub with lots of water.
Dry your face with a clean towel.
Pour boiling water into the bowl of rose petals.
With the towel forming a 'tent' over your head and the bowl, keep your face about 20cm above the bowl. (Caution: Skip this step if you are an asthmatic. The steam could trigger an attack. Skip this step if you have thread veins. The heat could worsen your condition )
Relax and let the steam cleanse your face for 10 minutes.
Put 1 pad soaked with rosewater over each eye
Soak the 3 large strips of cotton wool in buttermilk. Apply that on your face as a mask, avoiding your nostrils so that you can breathe. Put the strip across your neck first, then the strip under your nose, followed by the largest strip above your nose over the rest of your face. Be sure to leave your nostrils uncovered so that you can breathe easily. Discard leftovers.
Relax with the mask for 30 minutes.
Remove the pads and cotton wool.
Wash off the residue with lots of water.
Dip 2 new cotton pads in the witch hazel and use it as a toner to clean your face further.
Apply your favorite moisturizer and you are set to go.
Dip a pair of clean cotton pads into a bowl with 1 tablespoon of milk and 1 teaspoon of almond oil. Use these pads to wipe your makeup off your face. Discard leftover mixture.
Wash off the milk and oil with lots of water.
Mix 1 tablespoonful of milk with the almond flour. Use that as a scrub to cleanse your face. Discard leftover scrub.
Wash off the scrub with lots of water.
Dry your face with a clean towel.
Pour boiling water into the bowl of rose petals.
With the towel forming a 'tent' over your head and the bowl, keep your face about 20cm above the bowl. (Caution: Skip this step if you are an asthmatic. The steam could trigger an attack. Skip this step if you have thread veins. The heat could worsen your condition )
Relax and let the steam cleanse your face for 10 minutes.
Put 1 pad soaked with rosewater over each eye
Soak the 3 large strips of cotton wool in buttermilk. Apply that on your face as a mask, avoiding your nostrils so that you can breathe. Put the strip across your neck first, then the strip under your nose, followed by the largest strip above your nose over the rest of your face. Be sure to leave your nostrils uncovered so that you can breathe easily. Discard leftovers.
Relax with the mask for 30 minutes.
Remove the pads and cotton wool.
Wash off the residue with lots of water.
Dip 2 new cotton pads in the witch hazel and use it as a toner to clean your face further.
Apply your favorite moisturizer and you are set to go.
Reduce Stress
Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
Drumstick Sambar
Murungha kai sambar(Drumstick Sambar)
Ingredients:1 cup of thuar da
l½ tsp of turmeric powder
A small lime sized ball of tamarind
2-3 drumsticks, each cut into 3” pieces
2 tsps of homemade sambhar powder or store bought of your choice
Salt-to taste
To temper,
A tbsp or refined oil
½ tsp of mustards
½ tsp of urad dal
2 pinches of hing/perunkayam
10-15 small sized pearl onions/chinna vengayam/ulli
3 green chillies slit lengthwise
A stalk of curry leaves/karuveppilaiCilantro/kothamalli
Method:
1.Soak tamarind in warm water.Extract the thick pulp.
2.Pressure cook dal in enough water with turmeric powder.
3.Heat oil in a deep pan,keeping the flame medium, splutter mustards and brown the urad dal.Add hing.Immediately add the onions and green chillies , sauteing continuously.Add the curry leaves.
4.Add about 2 cups of water to the pan.when it boils add the drumstick pieces, close the pan with a lid and simmer till they are ‘almost’cooked.
5.Add ½ tsp of salt and the tamarind extract and let it simmer for a few minutes.Now add the sambhar powder,stirring slowly to avoid lumps.
6.Open the cooker,strain the water on top,(keep this aside and add lastly to the sambhar if too thick)and mash the dal well with the round end of a ladle.Add dal to the pan,letting it simmer for 10 more mins.
7.Check salt and the consistency of the sambhar,as it should not be too thick or too watery.Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Health Tip For the day
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise.
Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
Appalam poo kootu
In tamil we called it as "Appalam poo kootu".In goes well with karakuzhambhu.
Fried papad - 6(If big make it into 4pieces)
Channa Dhal -1cup
Potato - 1 medium
Tumeric - 1/4tsp
Chilli powder - 1/2tsp(optional)
Salt- As per taste
SEASIONING:
Mustard
Broken urad dhal
Curry leaves
Hing
Dried red chilli - 1 big
METHOD:Boil potato and channa dhal with little Tumeric, chilli.powder&salt in water.
Make boiled potato into medium size bits ,allow the mixture to cook for some time till it becomes little thick,now add the fried papads.
Finally add Seasioning and stir well...off the stove.
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