Amazing Benefits Of Banana

Amazing Benefits And Uses Of Banana 

 Bananas are exceptionally healthy as they provide numerous health benefits. It is a versatile fruit that contains many nutrients including vitamins A, B, C and E along with minerals like potassium, zinc, iron and manganese. Just as eating a banana helps in keeping your body in good health and great shape, application of this fruit on your hair and skin will help you to keep them in great condition.

Health Benefits of Banana:

1. Gives  Energy:

It does this by converting the natural sugars into instant energy and this is one of the reasons sportsmen consume it during intervals.  Bananas are an excellent breakfast for kids and adults as it provides required energy throughout the day. This probably the most popular health benefit of banana.

2. Helps Keep Blood Pressure Under Control:

Research indicates that potassium keeps blood pressure under control and improved consumption of calcium, potassium and magnesium can also help decrease high blood pressure. Bananas are rich in potassium, calcium & magnesium, so it is a healthy option for keeping blood pressure in check.

3. Helps Lower Cholesterol:

It is said that Pectin which is a soluble fibre in banana helps to lower Cholesterol levels.  According to researchers, fibres that are water soluble such as pectin, psyllium, beta-glucan etc., lower the LDL Cholesterol without disturbing the HDL cholesterol.

4. Supports Renal Health:

Bananas being a rich source of potassium, if consumed regularly in moderation, promote renal health. The International Journal of Cancer states that Bananas being a rich source of antioxidant phenolic compounds, if consumed together with cabbage and root vegetables protect renal health.

5. Improves Nerve Function and Enhances Brain Power:

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Banana is a rich source of B vitamins and therefore perks up nerve function.  Potassium, in banana keeps the mental faculties vigilant and boosts learning abilities.

6. Decreases The Risk of Stroke:

Studies indicate that regular intake of bananas in daily diet helps reduce the occurrence of stroke and this is due to the high amount of potassium.

7. Reduces the Risk of Cancer:

Rich in antioxidants and dietary fibre, consumption of bananas reduce risk of various types of cancer, especially bowel cancer.

8. Helps Build Healthy Bones:

Probiotic bacteria present in bananas is said to have astonishing ability to absorb calcium in the body. Hence, consuming bananas help in building better bones.

9. Enhances Digestive Ability:

It is very rich in fructooligosaccharide which acts as a probiotic (friendly bacteria). It stimulates the growth and activity of probiotics in the colon and produces enzymes that enable absorption of nutrients thus enhancing the digestive ability and preventing unfriendly bacteria from harming the body.

10. Helps Combat Stomach Ulcers:

Certain substances in bananas stimulate the cells which make up the stomach lining, this enables production of a thicker protective mucus barrier against stomach acids.  Also the substance known as protease inhibitors in banana, help getting rid of bacteria in the stomach that produces stomach ulcers, thus protecting against damage of stomach and ulcer.

11. Helps in Controlling Diarrhea:

Raw bananas are astringent in nature and are effective in treatment for diarrhoea.  They also regulate fluid balance.

12. Relieve from Constipation:

Pectin found in Bananas, help to alleviate constipation and improves bowel function.

13. Helps in Curing Piles:

Since bananas help regulate bowel movement they help cure piles.

14. Helps Regulating Anemia:

Bananas are good for Anaemic patients as they contain high levels of iron which help regulate the haemoglobin levels in the body.

15. Helps Alleviating Heartburn:

The antacid substance in banana gives immense relief from heartburn

16. Prevents Allergies:

The presence of benign amino acids in banana helps combat allergies.

17. Helps Withdrawing Smoking Urge:

Vitamins B6 and B12 along with magnesium and Potassium in Bananas helps recover from nicotine addiction

18. Helps Recovering from Hangover:

Bananas when blended with honey and yoghurt cures hangover.

19. Enhance Weight Gain:

The combination of milk and bananas enhances weight gain.  Bananas provide the body with necessary natural sugars and milk provides protein.

20. Bananas Benefits for Weight Loss:

Bananas contain loads of fibre and low amounts of fat and they are also easily digestible. A banana of 100 grams contains approx. 90 calories.  And taking into consideration all its benefits it will not hurt including it into your diet. So dear weight watchers don’t eliminate banana from your diet completely.

21. Prevents Insomnia:

Bananas are rich in amino acids known as Tryptophan.  This substance triggers production of melatonin (sleep hormone) which induces sleep.  Eating banana a few hours before bedtime ensures a peaceful night’s sleep.

22. Reduces Inflammation Due to Mosquito Bites:

Itching and swelling caused by mosquito bites can be reduced by rubbing the inside of a banana on it.

23. Other Benefits of Bananas:

• Bananas curbs morning sickness.  Snacking on bananas at regular intervals helps preventing it.
• Vitamin B6, serotonin, tryptophan, dopamine, etc., in bananas help combat symptoms of PMS, erratic mood swings, and depression.

• Skin Benefits Of Banana:

  Banana fruit has nutrients that are essential for the skin. They contain significant amounts of vitamin C and B6 which plays vital role in maintaining the integrity and elasticity of the skin.
  In addition, the large amount of antioxidants and manganese present in banana protect the body from damage caused by oxygen free radicals which lead to premature aging of the skin.
  So a major benefit from banana is younger looking skin. Banana has about 75 per cent water by weight. Thus banana helps hydrate your skin and prevents it from drying and peeling.
  Here are some benefits of banana for skin care:
  

  24. Natural Moisturiser:

  Banana is a great natural moisturiser for your skin. The Vitamin A present in banana restores the lost moisture and repairs the damaged, dull and dry skin. To instantly moisturise dry and dull skin, mash a ripe banana and apply it on your face. Avoid contact with eyes. Leave it on your skin for 20-25 minutes and then wash it away with lukewarm water. You will instantly have soft and supple skin.If you have extremely dry and flaky skin, you can also add honey to this face mask.This banana and honey mask also helps in getting rid of skin pigmentation.
  Another easy face mask to get moisturised skin is to mash half a ripe banana and mix it with 1 tbsp. yogurt and 1 tsp. Vitamin E oil. Apply it generously on a clean face and wash it away after 30 minutes.
  Banana contains generous amount of Vitamin C that helps in maintaining the natural and youthful glow of the skin.
  Here are some banana face masks that you can use to get that natural glow back on your face.
• Mash half a ripe banana and mix it with 1 tbsp. of sandalwood powder/paste and ½ tsp. of honey. Let it stay on your skin for 20-25 minutes and wash it with lukewarm water. This face mask is beneficial for oily skin as sandalwood helps in cleaning excess sebum and oil from the skin while banana keeps it moisturised.
• Mash one ripe banana and mix it with lemon juice form one lemon (approximately 2-3 tbsp.). Leave it on for 25 minutes. This mask is full of vitamin C which will get rid of dullness and help in reduction of spots and blemishes.
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  26. Banana Skin Scrubs:

  Banana is full of anti-oxidants; mixed with a few ingredients, it not only helps to get rid of dead skin but also leaves it feeling rejuvenated.
  Here are some banana based scrubs that you make using ingredients available in your kitchen
• Take mashed banana and 1 tbsp. of sugar and mix them well. Apply it on your skin and rub it in circular motions. Banana will moisturise the dry skin while sugar granules will get rid of the dead skin.
• Mash a ripe banana; add 2-3 tablespoons of oats, 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon milk. Apply it on your face and leave it 5 minutes, then slowly rub it on your skin. Wash with cold water. In case you have extremely dry skin, you can substitute milk with fresh cream.
• Take half a ripe banana, 1 tbsp. coconut milk, 2 tbsp. uncooked rice, blend everything together to get a thick paste. Gently massage your face with this paste and wash with cold water afterwards.
• To make a body scrub, mash 2 bananas with 4-5 strawberries using a blender. Mix 3 tablespoons of sugar and use it as a body scrub when you take a bath.
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  27. Anti-ageing:

  Nutrients in banana helps in fighting wrinkles and keeps the skin youthful. For an anti-aging facial mask loaded with vitamins A and E, mash together an avocado and a banana. Leave on skin for 25 minutes and rinse. Skin will be soft and youthful. The vitamins E in avocados combined with the nutrients in bananas fight free radicals and repair damage.
  Another simple face mask to fight effect of ageing is to mash 1/4 banana until very creamy and add one teaspoon of rose water. Apply it on face and neck and wash it off after half an hour.
  

  28. Foot Care:

  The moisturizing property of banana can be used to get rid of cracked heels. All you need to do is mash the pulp of two ripe bananas and apply this pulp on clean, dry feet. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse the feet clean. The banana pulp will penetrate deep into dry, cracked skin to create soft and supple feet.
  

  29. Goodbye Puffy Eyes:

  Mash half a banana and apply generously around the puffy eyes. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes and then rinsing with cool water. The puffiness will vanish instantly. The potassium rich banana draws out excess fluid from under my skin and reduces the swelling immediately.
  You can also apply the banana peels instead of mashed banana. This tip can also be used whenever you apply any face pack and think about putting cucumber slices on your eyes.
  

  Hair Benefits Of Banana:

  Banana is rich in potassium, natural oils, carbohydrates and vitamins which help in softening the hair and protects the hair’s natural elasticity preventing split ends and breakage. Banana creates manageability, shine, growth and controls dandruff. Just like a banana facial mask enhances the glow of your face immediately, the following banana hair masks will also improve your hair dramatically. Here are some of the banana for hair benefits.
  

  30. Pack For Soft Hair:

  Mix ripe banana with avocado and add coconut milk to the mixture. Apply it on your hair and wait for 15-20 minutes. The pack conditions damaged hair and makes the hair soft. Instead of avocado, you can also make the same mask by adding cocoa. Presence of cocoa helps in bringing out the natural colour of the hair.
  

  31. Pack For Shine And Health:

  Peel a banana and add 1/4 cup of olive oil and one egg white and put in a blender. Puree for a couple of minutes. Let it stay on your hair for 15 minutes followed by hair wash with your favourite shampoo and conditioner.
  

  32. Pack To Fight Hair Loss:

  To Treat Hair Loss, mix ripe banana pulp with yoghurt. Apply the smooth paste on your scalp and rinse with cool water after 15-20 minutes.
  
  

  35. Pack For Acne:

  To treat acne with banana peel, cut a small piece of the peel. Rub the inside of the peel gently over the acne affected area. Rub for about 5 minutes or until the inside of the peel gets brown. Clean the skin around with lukewarm water but let the banana dry out on the affected area to do. Repeat this at least 3 times a day and the acne and pimples will subside within a week.

  36. Treating Itchy Skin:

  If you suffer from itchy and swollen skin, just rub the banana peel on the effective area and you will feel the itching and swelling subside.

  37. Pack For Wrinkles:

  Banana peel can also be used to get rid of wrinkles. Apply fresh peel on the affected area for 15 minutes every day and there will be noticeable change in a few weeks.

  38. Pack For Treating Warts And Psoriasis:

  Banana peel is also helpful to treat warts and psoriasis. Just apply the banana peel on the affected area and rub it for 10-12 minutes twice every day. The results might take time to show but this definitely works much better than artificial creams and treatments for these skin problems.

  39. Bananas and Beauty Sleep:

  We all know how essential a good night sleep is for maintaining the health of your skin and hair. Melatonin is the sleep inducing hormone in the human body and Tryptophan is an amino-acid that is necessary for the production of this sleep hormone.
  Bananas not only contain large amounts of tryptophan and serotonin but also have very high carbohydrate content. This helps the brain to utilize tryptophan and serotonin to produce the sleep hormone. Eating banana few hours before going to bed will help you in getting that essential beauty sleep and thus a refreshed and healthy skin.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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Amazing health Benefits Of Garlic

Garlic might not be your first choice when it comes to consuming, thanks to the garlic breath that it leaves behind but just before you dismiss it completely let me tell you that garlic is one element that has been valued, for over 5,000 years for its ability to provide benefits ranging from acne free bright and healthy skin to thick, lustrous hair.
Garlic, botanically known as ‘allium sativumis’ or most commonly (lasun/lahsun) in Hindi, ‘Vellulli‘ in Telugu, ‘Poondu‘ in Tamil, ‘Veluthulli‘ in Malayalam, ‘Bellulli‘ in Kannada, ‘Rasoon‘ in Bengali, ‘Lasan‘ in Gujarati, ‘Lasun‘ in Marathi and ‘Lassan‘ in Punjabi. Garlic is rich in compounds like Allicin, Sulphur, Zinc and Calcium that have health benefits, beauty benefits as well as antibiotic and antifungal properties. It is also a rich source of a mineral known as selenium. Selenium is known to fight cancer and it works with vitamin E in the body to boost antioxidant power. Garlic also acts as a blood thinner due to its salicylate content. This enables proper blood flow and enhances circulatory health.
Nowadays, garlic’s reputation as a medicinal herb is significantly growing. This is because it has been confirmed by many researchers to be highly effective in preventing and treating a wide range of health conditions . In fact, for decades, garlic has been recommended by natural medicine practitioners all over the world to be included in the daily diet because of its many powerful effects on health. As you may already know, it can fight different types of cancer and lower cholesterol levels naturally

Health Benefits 

1. Acne, Pimples And Spot Treatment

As I already mentioned, allicin has antifungal properties which can be used to get rid of those stubborn acne that have been giving you sleepless nights.
a. Just cut a freshly piece of raw garlic and apply a little pressure on it to release some juice and then rub this garlic pod onto the affected area. Leave it for 5 minutes and was off with cold water. You’ll see a reduction in redness and swelling within the day. Also, this helps in prevention of acne leaving behind marks on your skin.
b. Another simple technique to get rid of acne using garlic is mixing juice from 2-3 pods of garlic with an equal quantity of white vinegar and applying it to the affected area. The white vinegar helps in maintaining the skin’s pH levels while garlic fights infection.

2. Blackhead And Whitehead Removal

One of the most common skin problems is blackheads. Their occurrence is particularly very high when you have oily skin.
a. Take 2-3 cloves garlic and crush them. Add 1 tbsp. of oatmeal, 1-2 drops of tea tree oil and half tsp. lemon juice. Mix these ingredients with honey to form a thick paste. Spread a thin layer of this paste onto clean skin. After letting it sit for 2-3 minutes, gently exfoliate your face followed by a rinse with warm water. Use this mask thrice in a week to see a visible reduction in blackheads.
You can also add a few drops of garlic juice in the homemade scrub made out of chickpea flour and turmeric.

3. Anti-ageing And Pore Minimization

Garlic beauty benefits also include the aid for anti aging. The strong anti-oxidants present in garlic help in reducing the free radical build up in the skin thus keeping it firm and youthful. It also contains sulphur, which helps the body to produce collagen which inturn helps in fighting wrinkles. Garlic also contains a large number of skin-protective polyphenols. Just crush some garlic pods and add the juice into your regular face masks for added goodness and preventing premature aging.
a. Enlarged pores are a common problem in ageing skin. To minimize pores make a paste by mashing together half a tomato and 3-4 pods of garlic. Spread a thin layer of the paste onto your face. After 20 minutes, wash your face with lukewarm water and seal your pores with a final splash of cold water. Tomato and garlic both have antiseptic qualities that help in unclogging the skin, minimizes pores and tightens the skin.
b. Consuming pill-size pieces of garlic every day also works great to protect the skin from damages caused by free radicals, oxidation, and environmental stressors that eventually results in wrinkles.

4. Stretch Mark Removal

There are not many things that you can do to prevent stretch marks from appearing but garlic can definitely help you in getting rid of them. Stretch marks are known to reduce and vanish if you use garlic.
a. Hot oil massage is one of the most commonly suggested home remedy for this problem. To make more effective, add juice from crushed garlic pods in the hot oil that you use. Use this oil regularly on your stretch marks and you will notice the difference in a few weeks. Instead of using garlic juice, you can also use garlic oil. Do take care not to add more than half tsp. of garlic oil.
b. Also increase consumption of garlic in your diet as the allicin and sulphur in garlic are known to increase the elasticity of the skin which prevents the stretch marks from occurring

5. Garlic Benefits For Hair

Garlic is excellent for hair growth. It helps in decreasing hair fall, boosts regeneration of new hair follicles, removes harmful toxins from the scalp, enhances hair texture, and reinforces the hair roots.
The allicin in garlic helps in increasing blood circulation in the scalp which in turn reduces hair fall and helps in stimulating hair growth. Garlic also has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that help in treating dandruff and itchy scalp. The sulphur present in garlic reduces the severity of dandruff and prevents it from coming back.
a. The simplest way to use garlic for hair is to add a clove of garlic in either your shampoo or conditioner. But make sure that you don’t use the garlic shampoo or conditioner more than twice a month as excessive use of garlic can cause dryness of scalp and hair. To get rid of the overpowering smell and slight tingling sensation that garlic causes, add honey along with garlic when you add it to your conditioner. Honey will also work as a natural conditioner for your hair.
b. To reduce hair fall, soak a handful of garlic cloves in olive oil for a week. After a week, use this oil to massage your scalp and leave it overnight and wash your hair as usual. Use this oil once a week and you will notice a reduction in hair fall.
c. To avoid grey hair, heat some coconut oil and add a few dry black pepper seeds and 3 cloves of garlic. When it cools apply this oil to your hair. Use this hair oil continuously for a few days to note the difference.

6. Garlic Benefits For Nails

The benefits of garlic are not only restricted to skin and hair. Garlic can also help you in getting rid of dull and brittle nails. As it has anti-bacterial properties, it also helps in preventing any kind of cuticle infection.
a. To get rid of yellowness of nails, do the following. Whack garlic clove using a mallet to release the juice and rub this clove all over your fingernails. Repeat this twice a week and you will have long and strong nails in no time.
b. You can also add a few drops of garlic oil or garlic juice in your regular cuticle cream or lotion to reap the benefits garlic has to offer whenever you apply these to your nails.

7. Treats Fungal Infections

The anti-fungal properties of garlic can also be used to treat fungal skin infection such as athlete’s foot and heat bumps on legs. Mince a few cloves of garlic and cover the affected area with it. Cover this with gauze and let it stay overnight. After washing your feet in the morning, apply garlic oil on the affected area and cover with your sock. Repeat this process for a few days and you will notice the redness and itching subsiding.

8. Supports Body Metabolism

Another huge benefit of garlic is that the sulphur in garlic works with B complex vitamins and support body metabolism, which in turn helps in keeping the healthy which shows on your skin and hair and also helps with weight loss. Take juice of half a lemon and mix it with lukewarm water and consume it with two cloves of garlic twice a day for 2-3 months to see results.

9. Cures Hypertension

Garlic contains an active substance called allicin, and it is this substance that is believed to have the ability to lower the risk of hypertension or high blood pressure. According to researchers, allicin can relax blood vessels and reduce the damage and pressure that affect the blood at the same time . It can also lower the levels of cholesterol and platelet aggregation by breaking down fibrinolytic activity that takes place in the blood. Allicin is present in raw garlic, but a large percentage is destroyed when it is cooked.
The second reason garlic can effectively prevent high blood pressure is due to its ability to stimulate the production of nitric oxide synthase and hydrogen sulphide . Experts say that these substances help to relax blood vessels. Garlic also has natural antispasmodic properties that give it the ability to ease spasms that may occur in small arteries and prevent blood clot development.

10. Controls Cholesterol Level

A recent Australian study has found that consuming dried garlic powder or taking garlic supplements regularly for 8 to 12 weeks can reduce as much as 8% cholesterol level in our blood. It can also regulate the presence of triglycerides and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or ‘bad cholesterol’ in our body.
Now, here are some important facts that you should know about garlic and its usage in the reduction of cholesterol levels in our body:

1. Aged garlic extract and garlic powder are more effective in lowering cholesterol level than raw garlic cloves.

2. Fresh garlic oil is capable of reducing triglycerides level in the body.

3. Garlic can reduce total serum cholesterol, LDLs and triglycerides as much as 20 mg/dL in human beings.

4. It has no effect on HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or good cholesterol.

5. It should be consumed along with a healthy (high in dietary fibers and low in fats) diet.

6. The effects are proportional to the dosage or the amount of garlic taken every day.

7. It has minimal to no side effects when compared to similar or other cholesterol-lowering drugs.

11. Cures Cold

Garlic contains a sulfuric enzyme known as allicin that blocks the pathogens and plays an important role in fighting viral and bacterial infections. A biologically active compound, allicin offers preventive powers to the clove. On the lighter side, the strong odor of garlic keeps people away from you, thereby preventing the transfer of germs.
You can introduce garlic in different forms in your food. Use garlic seasoning, or garlic salt or garlic powder to enhance the flavor of the recipe and also to introduce the goodness of the clove to our diet. However, the best results can be had only when you eat the raw garlic for colds as they have more infection-fighting properties. Use the cloves liberally in soup or herbal tea or drink to get the benefits.

12. Clears Ear Infection

The antiviral and antibacterial components like allicin present in garlic help kill the germs that cause ear infection and subsequent pain . It also brings down the inflammation caused by such infections. Ideally, you should make garlic oil at home to get the best results in this regard.
You can also use minced and chopped garlic directly around and on the ear to treat the infection. However, not everyone is comfortable about the pungent and strong aroma of garlic. The oil, when prepared with other natural oils, wouldn’t have that pungent smell anymore.
So the next time you try and run away from garlic, just remember how these smelly little pods have so many health as well as beauty benefits. One thing that you do need to keep in mind is that the most important compound of garlic- allicin is produced only when garlic is finely chopped or crushed. So the intensity of allicin depends on how finely you chop or how intensely the pods have been crushed.

Pro Tip

When using garlic keep in mind that allicin starts to degrade immediately after it is produced, so use it immediately. Never use the microwave for any of these home remedies as microwaving the completely destroys allicin and eliminates any health and beauty benefits of garlic.
Also, make sure you use garlic very carefully. It is a very strong anti-oxidant and thus too much exposure to it might leave you with blisters and rashes. It is always advisable to do a patch test to make sure that garlic doesn’t cause any reaction. Due to the strong nature of garlic, these skin and hair masks are not advisable for people who have very sensitive skin.


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Benefit of apple

Your mom didn’t use the term powerfood but she knew about apples. “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” was the first nutritional advice  and many children heard from their moms.  For this reason we call them “the first powerfood.”

Health Benefits:

          Apples are filled with soluble fiber  (5 grams)

• This fiber has been shown to reduce intestinal disorders, including diverticulitis, hemorrhoids and possibly some types of cancer.
• Helps control insulin levels by releasing sugar slowly into the bloodstream.
• Cleanses and detoxifies, which helps eliminate heavy metals, such as lead and mercury.

2. Apple pectin helps reduce cholesterol levels by lowering insulin secretion.
3. In two studies researchers found that eating five apples a week lowered the risk for respiratory diseases like asthma.
4. According to Chinese Medicine: Apples strengthen the heart, quench thirst, lubricate the lungs, decrease mucous and increase body fluids.
5.  Apple cider vinegar can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
6. Studies indicate that eating apples daily can reduce skin diseases.
7. According to a Brazilian study, eating an apple before a meal helped women lose 33 percent more weight than those who didn’t.
8. An apple has only 50-80 calories and has no fat or sodium.
9. Apples are packed with vitamins C, A , and flavonoids and with smaller amounts of phosphorus, iron,  and calcium.
10. Apples provide a source of potassium which may promote heart health.
So there you have it…lots of good reasons why it is good for you to eat an apple a day! I like apples so much that when I started living by myself I substituted those sugar laden cereals with an apple.
So there you have it…lots of good reasons why it is good for you to eat an apple a day! I like apples so much that when I started living by myself I substituted those sugar laden cereals with an apple.

       Interesting apple facts:
 

• There are more than 7,500 varieties of apples. When I lived in England I tasted many different and delicious apples that I never see in Canada.
• The apple tree is a member of the rose family.
• When you eat an apple you are consuming a lot of air; 25 percent of their volume is air!
• Apples have 5 percent protein.
• Apple trees can live to be 100 years old!
• The largest apple weighed three pounds.
• In ancient Greece when a man proposed to a woman would he would toss her an apple and if she decided to catch it, it meant she accepted.
• The original proverb about eating an apple a day, which came about in 1866, was: “Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.”
• It takes the energy from 50 leaves to produce one apple.

To get the most from eating powerfood apples:

• Eat apples with skin to get the nutrients; many of the nutrients are in the skin or just under the skin (most of the vitamin C and vitamin A are in the skin).
• Apples have been found to be the most heavily pesticide-contaminated produce products according to The Environmental Working Group. The most common pesticides found on apples are Permethrin and DDT. Non organic apples are often waxed which is not digestible.  Try to buy organic apples or if you cannot, wash them thoroughly before use preferably with a fruit and vegetable wash or peel them.

Apple Cautions:

• As apple seeds are toxic when eaten in high doses, they should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women and children.
• Apple juice concentrate can be full of arsenic when it is not organic according to Dr. Oz in his research. They did not find arsenic in organic apple juice.

“Any fool can count the seeds in an apple. Only God can count all the apples in one seed.” –Robert Schuller
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Worry about Heart problem

Food is directly involved in many of the risk factors for coronary heart disease. Paying attention to what you eat is one of the most important preventative measures you can take.

 

 

 

Characteristics of heart disease

Coronary heart disease is characterised by a narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis). Fatty deposits, or plaques, cling to the artery walls and can clog the arteries, making it more likely that a blood clot will form.

A heart attack occurs when a blood clot blocks one of the arteries of the heart. This prevents the flow of blood, cuts off the oxygen supply to the heart and damages or kills the heart cells.

Risk factors for heart disease

A number of factors are associated with the build-up of fatty deposits in the coronary arteries, including cigarette smoking, lack of physical activity and a family history of the disease.

Other risk factors include:

• Type of fat eaten – saturated and trans fats increase blood cholesterol and heart attack rates. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats lower the risk of heart attacks.
• Obesity – many overweight and obese people have diets high in fat, particularly saturated fat. A person who carries the bulk of their body fat around their stomach (an ‘apple’ shaped body) is at greater risk of heart disease than someone whose body fat tends to settle around their bottom, hips and thighs (a ‘pear’ shaped body).
• High blood pressure (hypertension) – blood pressure is the amount of pressure within the arteries (blood vessels that carry blood around the body). High blood pressure, or hypertension, means that the pressure in the arteries is higher than normal. This may be because the arteries are less elastic, there is more blood volume, or more blood is being pumped out of the heart. 

• Uncontrolled diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance

  In healthy people, insulin keeps the blood sugar level relatively constant. However, for those vulnerable to type 2 diabetes, the body gradually loses its sensitivity to insulin. This leads to chronically elevated blood sugar levels, also known as impaired glucose tolerance.
  
  Uncontrolled diabetes can damage the artery walls and contribute to coronary heart disease. People who are obese are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than people of normal weight. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have much higher rates of diabetes than other Australians, even at lower body weights.

• Cholesterol levels and dietary fats

  Cholesterol is a fat that is crucial to many metabolic functions and is an essential part of all the body’s cell membranes. Cholesterol is produced in the body from the food we eat and is produced in the liver.
  
  Blood lipids (fats) that contain cholesterol include low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque forming on arteries. HDL cholesterol helps the body to remove cholesterol from the body and makes it harder for plaque to form in the arteries.
  
  Saturated and trans fats in the diet tend to increase LDL cholesterol in the blood. Common sources of saturated fats include animal products (butter, meat fat, beef, lamb, chicken skin and full cream dairy foods), and processed foods like pastries and biscuits.
  
  Trans fatty acids and saturated fats, such as elaidic acid, are formed when monounsaturated or polyunsaturated vegetable oils are hydrogenated and hardened to form margarines. This applies particularly to the harder vegetable fat and shortening used by the food industry in products such as cakes and biscuits.
  
  Most monounsaturated and polyunsaturated table margarines sold in Australia have very low levels of trans fatty acids. The small amounts present in table margarines are not significant and do not negate the benefits of substituting these margarines for saturated fats like butter. Trans fatty acids also occur naturally in some meats, butter and dairy products. These trans fats tend to increase the LDL cholesterol.

• Foods that help prevent heart disease

  There is no ‘magic’ food to decrease the risk of developing heart disease. You need to eat a healthy diet and have plenty of exercise. High-salt diets increase blood pressure and the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  
  Most of us consume more than ten times the amount of salt we need to meet our sodium requirements (salt contains sodium and chloride). However, there is evidence that plant foods – especially wholegrain cereals, legumes, nuts, fruits and vegetables – may decrease the risk of heart disease.
  
  The foods that best protect against heart disease include:
• oily fish – such as mackerel, sardines, tuna and salmon which contain omega-3 fatty acids. This type of fat has been shown to decrease triglycerides and increase HDL-cholesterol levels, improves blood vessel elasticity and thins the blood, making it less likely to clot and block blood flow
• some vegetables oils – such as corn, soy and safflower, which contain omega-6 fatty acids, and those containing omega-3 fatty acids such as canola and olive oil. All of these can help to lower LDL cholesterol when used instead of saturated fats such as butter
• fruit and vegetables – antioxidants in fruit and vegetables offer protection against heart disease. Fruit and vegetables are also important sources of folate, which helps lower the blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which appears to be linked to an increased risk of heart disease
• fibre – wholegrain cereals and fruit and vegetables
• unrefined carbohydrate sources with a low glycaemic index – foods such as wholegrain breads and breakfast cereals, legumes, certain types of rice and pasta are important for people prone to diabetes because they help keep blood sugar levels in check
• legumes and soy – soy protein has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels, especially if blood cholesterol levels are high
• nuts and seeds – they should be eaten in small quantities, as they are high in kilojoules
• tea – some evidence suggests that the antioxidants in tea can help prevent the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries. The antioxidants may also act as an anti-blood clotting agent and improve blood vessel dilation to allow increased blood flow
• alcohol – it is thought that a moderate intake of alcohol may have some potential health benefits. For example, some types of alcohol (such as red wine) may contain protective factors like antioxidants, although this is still being researched. Alcohol also increases the HDL (‘good’) cholesterol and this helps clear cholesterol from the body. However, a high intake of alcohol increases blood pressure and also tends to increase triglycerides (a type of fat) in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease. Current guidelines for alcohol intake in Australia recommend no more then two standard drinks per day for men and one for women to reduce the risks of harm related to alcohol
• foods containing vitamin E – some studies indicate that vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect against ‘bad’ cholesterol. Good sources of vitamin E include avocados, dark green vegetables, vegetable oils and wholegrain products. It is better to eat foods containing vitamin E rather than take supplements, which do not have the same protective effects
• garlic – a compound in fresh garlic called allicin has been found in some studies to lower blood cholesterol
• foods enriched with plant sterols – a daily intake of 2–3 g of phytosterols/stanols lowers LDL cholesterol levels by approximately ten per cent in healthy people and in those with high cholesterol and those with diabetes. This intake can be achieved by the consumption of two to three serves of phytosterol-enriched foods like margarine spreads, reduced-fat yoghurts, milk and breakfast cereals.

• Help reduce your risk of heart disease

  To substantially reduce your risk of developing coronary heart disease:
• Avoid fried fast food and processed foods containing vegetable shortening.
• Choose a variety of oils (extra virgin olive oil, canola, peanut) and foods containing natural fats (nuts, seeds, avocado, olives, soy, fish).
• Switch to low-fat or non-fat dairy products.
• Increase the amount and variety of plant foods consumed – eat more unrefined vegetables, fruits and wholegrain cereals. Reduce intake of refined sources of carbohydrates with higher glycaemic indices.
• Include legumes (like baked beans, soybeans, lentils and tofu) in your diet.
• Have a handful of a variety of raw, unsalted nuts on most days of the week, especially walnuts and almonds.
• Eat oily fish at least once per week.
• If you drink alcohol, have no more than two drinks per day.
• Trim all visible fat from meat.
• Remove poultry skin and eat only the meat.
• Avoid added salt at the table and cooking and salty foods. Check the sodium content of foods and choose the lowest sodium products.

Include physical activity

Exercise is vital to reduce your risk of heart disease. Walking at least 30 minutes each day at a vigorous pace (at least 4 km per hour) reduces heart disease risk by 30 per cent. How do you measure how briskly you are walking? Rule of thumb – walk as fast as you can, so you can still talk but not sing.

If you are over 40, have a heart condition or haven’t exercised for a long time, see your doctor before you start any exercise program.

 

Yoga for heart problem  click for video

Things to remember

• Diet is an important risk factor in coronary heart disease.
• Food-related risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes and a diet high in saturated fats.
• A low-saturated fat, high-fibre, high plant food diet can substantially reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

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Benefit Of Tomatoes

When we compliment someone on their robust health we often say “your cheeks are as red as a tomato”. Good health and ripe, juicy tomatoes are always interlinked in our minds

  What Is A Tomato?

• Tomato is a fruit that is also considered a vegetable and is extensively used in making a wide variety of dishes.

• It is used in vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes all over the world and also for snacks. It is famous for being used in pizzas, sandwiches and cocktails too. This widely used fruit has many nutritional benefits in addition to its preference in many cultures
• It belongs to the nightshade family of vegetables and its cultivation has been dominant in ancient Spain since the Aztecs.
• It was introduced to the world by Spanish explorers, and it has since gained massive popularity across all regions of the world.
  

  Health Benefits Of Tomatoes

  Given below are few amazing health benefits of tomatoes:
  

  1. Work As A Filling Food

  As tomatoes have high water content, they work perfectly as filling food. Tomatoes, with their water content, moisturize our skin and keep it healthy and shiny.
  

  2. Vitamins And Nutritional Content

  It provides almost 20 percent of the daily vitamin intake required, per serving, which is necessary for maintaining good health. It is also known to have all the positive nutrients needed for proper functioning of the human body according to USDA.
  

  3. Control Heart Rate

  Being rich in potassium content, it gives about 237 mg of potassium which is useful for controlling heart rate and is helpful in preventing heart diseases and strokes.
  

  4. Prevent Eye Diseases

  The vitamins such as vitamin A, flavonoid B complex, thiamine, folates, niacin, etc. are also present in tomatoes that help cure skin and eye diseases.
  

  5. High Blood Pressure

  Tomatoes, with a powerful punch of minerals and nutrients, also help in safeguarding our body from high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
  

  6. Good For Bones And Teeth

  Being rich in Calcium, it tends to improve bone strength and bone formation in the body. It is also beneficial in maintaining the teeth in a healthy state.
  

  7. Protect From Free Radicals

  Some of its flavonoid antioxidants, such as lycopene and zeaxanthin are best known to health specialists for their anti-free radical behavior.
  

  8. Anti-Cancerous

  The antioxidant behavior of this vegetable also helps to prevent many unwanted reactions in the lungs, colon, and breasts that can tend to be cancerous. The antioxidants help in the treatment of cancer by preventing carcinogenic reactions in the body which stop by blocking free radicals from proceeding further.
  

  9. Cell Repair And Muscle Building

  It is a naturally rich source of protein, which is good for cell repair and muscle building.
  

  10. Less Fat Content

  Other basic nutrients include 4 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, 18 calories and 0 grams of saturated fat. This vegetable can be eaten in good amounts due to the lower rate of calories in tomato.
  

  11. Lower Cholesterol

  Tomatoes seeds have no cholesterol. Thus, tomato seeds don’t add cholesterol to your diet. Tomato seeds are high in fiber; fiber is known to lower cholesterol. Tomato seeds also are rich sources of niacin (vitamin B3). Niacin has been used to lower cholesterol levels for many years.
  

  12. Lower Blood Pressure

  An Israelite researcher found that tomato seeds bring about a significant drop in blood pressure. The research was spread over eight weeks, where subjects ingested seeded tomatoes daily. It was noted that their blood pressure levels dropped. Tomato seeds and the berry itself contain an antioxidant called lycopene complex. This encourages a drop in both systolic (upper limit) and diastolic (lower limit) by approximately 5 points.
  

  13. Prevent Blood Clots

  Along with Vitamin C, lycopene and niacin, tomato flesh contains many health benefits. However, the seeds are surrounded by a mucus layer. The layer has been patented as Fruitlow by researchers. Fruitlow and lycopene both help unblock and prevent blood clots. Blood clotting is one of the major reasons for heart diseases today. Tomato seeds help prevent blood clots.
  

  14. Anti-Inflammatory

  Free radical production can activate the inflammatory compounds. Inflammatory compounds promote chronic ailments like atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular disease. Tomato seeds’ lycopene and beta-carotene eradicate free radicals. This, in turn, helps arrest inflammation. Tomato seeds are thus an effective anti-inflammatory agent.
  

  15. Prevent Acidosis

  The human body is designed to maintain a pH of 7.365. However, our diet, irregular food patterns, and no exercise ensure that our body has a higher concentration of acid. This can cause acidosis, congestion, and reflux. Usually, the pH balance can be maintained by including calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium. Tomato flesh and seeds contain high amounts of these essential bases, and tomato seeds help us maintain the required pH balance and thus prevent acidosis.
  

  16. Boost Immunity

  Tomato seeds and flesh have been credited as immunity boosting agents. They help avoid common cold and influenza, especially for males. Carotenoid deficiency has been identified as the main culprit in these commonly occurring diseases. Low amounts of lycopene and beta-carotene have also been held responsible. Tomato seeds are excellent sources of the antioxidant lycopene and beta-carotene. Thus, they are effective immunity boosting agents.
  

  17. Improve Eyesight

  Tomatoes and their seeds contain high amounts of Vitamin A. Vitamin A has often been associated with excellent eyesight, and a deficiency of this vitamin causes night blindness. Tomato seeds thus help improve eyesight.
  
  

  Skin Benefits Of Tomatoes

  Besides cooking, tomato can be used in a number of ways to enhance your beauty. It is considered to be the panacea of skin. It is believed that consuming tomato and tomato products will give you a healthy and beautiful skin. Its beauty benefits are gaining popularity with every passing day. Benefits of tomatoes for skin include the following:
  

  18. Treat Open Pores

• Add four drops of tomato juice to 1 tablespoon of water and apply it on your face with the help of a cotton ball.
• Gently massage your skin with this mixture and leave it on for 15 minutes. Regular application of this will shrink the pore size.

19. Glowing Skin

Tomatoes are not just an important part of a healthy diet but also work wonders when applied topically on the skin. Applying tomato juice or rubbing tomato halves on the skin evens out the skin and revives the glow giving you a healthy looking skin. It contains a high amount of Vitamin C, which is known to brighten skin.

20. Prevent Signs Of Aging

Tomatoes and its products enable the skin to absorb oxygen and prevent the signs of aging. It provides an amazing natural skin treatment that can make the skin look younger and healthy with less effort.

21. Act As A Natural Sunscreen

According to various studies, tomato contains an antioxidant called lycopene which acts as a natural sunscreen. This provides the skin protection from harsh UV rays.

22. Act As A Stress Reliever

Tomato extract is often used in luxurious body massage oils to combat visible sign of stress on the skin. Tomato extract is also used in eye creams, which, along with other essential ingredients, leaves the eyes looking fresh and revitalized.

23. Perfect Astringent

The astringent properties of tomato make it an excellent choice for combination skin.

• A pack made from mashed avocados and tomatoes soothes the skin and cleanses it thoroughly to give you a glowing complexion.

• Apply this face pack and wash it off with lukewarm water after 20 to 30 minutes. Tomato contains natural oil reducing and astringent properties while avocado provides an antiseptic and moisturizing effect to the skin.

24. Fight Cellular Damage

Consumption of at least 16 milligrams of lycopene every day reduces the amount of free radicals in the body to give you a youthful skin. It fights cellular damage and reddening of the skin and also retains the moisture, thus preventing fine lines and wrinkles. This property of tomato makes it an amazing anti-aging product.

25. Natural Bleaching Agent

Tomato is considered as a natural bleaching agent and is very helpful in lightening the skin tone.

• Prepare a face pack by mixing 1 teaspoon of oatmeal, 1 teaspoon of yogurt and 2 teaspoons of tomato pulp.

• Apply it on the face and neck and leave it for 20 minutes. Oatmeal will gently exfoliate the skin, while yogurt and tomato will help to clear the blemishes. This improves the complexion.

26. Prevent Sunburn

According to Prevention Magazine, people who consumed five tablespoons of tomato paste daily for three consecutive months were naturally protected against sunburn. Sun burnt skin can also be treated by applying tomato on the affected parts.

• Make a pack by mixing 2 teaspoons of tomato pulp with 1 teaspoon of yogurt. Apply this on the face, neck, hands, and feet.

• Tomato cools the skin while yogurt provides a protein boost to make the skin soft and supple.

27. Smooth Skin

Mix honey with tomato juice to make a thick paste. Apply it on the face and wash it off after 15 minutes to get a smooth and glowing skin.

28. Remove Dead Skin Cells

Tomatoes can greatly help you to remove dead skin cells.

• Grind tomatoes in a mixer with the seeds and add 1 teaspoon of sugar to it.

• Apply it on the face and massage gently in circular motion.

You can also cut 1 tomato into 2 halves and sprinkle some sugar on it. Gently scrub your skin with it to do away with dead skin cells and get a clean and fresh looking skin.

Hair Benefits Of Tomatoes

You must have noticed that many hair care products including shampoos and conditioners contain tomato extract as one of the ingredients. This is because tomato contains important nutrients like Vitamin A, B, C, and E, which are excellent stimulants for healthy hair. Some of the benefits of tomatoes for hair include these below.

29. Tomatoes are considered to be an excellent cure for hair loss. It is believed that application of tomato pulp on the scalp can prevent hair loss.

30. Tomatoes are amazing natural conditioners coming straight from your kitchen. It provides natural shine to the hair and makes it soft and manageable.

• Take a few drops of tomato oil in your hand and apply it on your hair. This will act as a leave-in conditioner and will keep the hair manageable and frizz free.

31. Pure, homemade tomato puree can help in bringing radiance and elasticity to dry hair.

• Mix tomato puree with oil and apply it on the hair.

• Leave it for 20 minutes and then wash it off. This will make the hair super smooth, shiny and flexible as it contains high amounts of protein in it.

32. Regular swimming often changes the color of the hair due to the high amount of chlorine present in the pool water. Tomato can be a great help to remove the stains from the hair.

• Apply pure tomato juice to the hair and leave it for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with water, followed by shampoo and conditioning.

33. Tomato juice also acts as a soaking agent to remove odors. Apply freshly squeezed tomato juice on the scalp and massage your hair with it for a few minutes. Leave it for 30 minutes and then wash it off as usual.

34. Moisture often escapes from the scalp during winters, making the hair strands dry and brittle, leading to breakage. So make sure to keep your hair replenished with the help of tomatoes. Tomatoes help to lock the much-needed moisture in the hair to prevent it from dry.

35. Tomatoes are very useful for curing itchy scalp and dandruff. Itchy scalp and dandruff lead to other scalp problems, like eczema and scalp psoriasis. Tomato contains a high amount of Vitamin C, which fights dandruff and provides collagen for proper tissue development of the scalp.

• Take 2 to 3 ripe tomatoes and make a thick pulp out of it.

• Add 2 tablespoon of lemon juice to it and mix well to form a smooth paste. Apply the pack gently on the scalp. Do not scratch the scalp with nails.

• Apply it properly on the scalp and leave it for 30 minutes. Rinse your hair with water and let it dry.

36. Tomato hair rinse can be used to impart shine and remove excess build-up from the scalp. Take 3 ripe tomatoes, remove the skin and seeds and squeeze the juice out of it. Spray it on your hair and scalp and wash it off after 1 hour.

Selection, Storage, And Uses

a. Selection

Tomatoes are available all year round in both fresh and preserved form. There are thousands of varieties of tomatoes which are available in various shapes, sizes, and colors.

• Two common shapes of tomatoes are round or pear-shaped, and cherry sized. Select tomatoes that are rich in color like deep red, vibrant oranges, or tangerines.

• Tomatoes are also available in yellow and purple colors, but these are less acidic and thus don’t have much flavor.

• They should be well shaped, devoid of any dent, cracks, or bruises.

• The skin should be taut and not shriveled or wrinkled. Fresh and ripe tomato yield to slight pressure and emit a sweet fragrance.

• b. Storage

  Tomatoes are quite sensitive to cold as it can impede its ripening process and even nullify its flavor.
• Store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and consume it as early as possible.
• Purchase tomatoes that ripen on the vine as the sugars, acidic, and aroma compounds remain intact in vine ripened tomatoes. Avoid buying tomatoes that are overripe and soft.
• If, by mistake, you have bought slightly unripe tomatoes, then wrap them in a paper bag with banana or apples and leave overnight. Ethylene gas emitted by these fruits will speed up the ripening process. Place them in the refrigerator after they are fully ripe, where they will stay fresh for 2 to 3 more days.
• Take them out from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before using them as this will enhance their flavor and juiciness.
• While purchasing tomato ketchup, purchase only organic ketchup to avoid unwanted pesticides residue and other contaminants. Overripe tomatoes are easily perishable and should be ideally stored in the refrigerator.
• The high acidic content of the tomato is the prime reason that tomatoes are canned more than any other fruit or vegetable. Canned tomatoes come in many varieties like whole, chopped, crushed, and pureed and sauce like. Unopened canned tomatoes can be consumed within six months while opened tomatoes should be consumed within a week.
• You can also freeze the tomatoes if you have excess of it. Freezing will not alter the flavor or texture of the tomatoes. All you need to do is wash it thoroughly and leave it to dry. Place the tomatoes in a zip lock pouch and suck out the air with a straw. When required, remove from the bag and thaw to remove the skin.

c. Uses

There is no dearth of uses of this versatile ‘vegetable’. Tomatoes are used extensively in cooking and are a staple in our Indian cuisine. Tomatoes are mixed with other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish. Green tomatoes are used to prepare chutneys and pickles in our cuisine.

• Tomato juice is gaining immense popularity as a popular health drink. Opt for organic tomato juice as it contains three times more lycopene than the regular ones.

• Regular tomatoes, mainly cherry tomatoes are used in the preparation of salads and sandwiches.

You can also stew tomatoes to prepare tomato soup, sauce, and other baked dishes. Homemade tomato sauce is way better than those available in the market.


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Diet chart for weight loss

 

 

 Ever heard about Indian Diet Chart for Weight Loss that can make you active and energetic all day long? I am sure you have not because most of the times weight loss diet has been attached with feelings such as tiredness, deprivation, giddiness, feeling dull throughout the day and being on salads and soups.

 

An Indian weight loss diet chart for vegetarians

Early morning (as soon as you wake up) – Detox your body with stomach cleanser like lemon water with honey, amla juice, aloe Vera juice etc.
E.g. have glass of lukewarm water along + half cup of aloe Vera juice.
Breakfast (within half an hour of waking up) – source of high fiber cereal like, oats, wheat flour, bajra, wheat flakes with high protein source like milk and milk product along with one fruit.
For e.g. Bowl of oats porridge + one fruit
Mid-morning (Three hours after breakfast) – 5 almonds
Lunch (around 1-2 pm) – start your lunch with the bowl of salad + one roti with bowl of vegetables + half bowl of rice + bowl of dal
Post lunch (one hour after lunch) – glass of buttermilk + one fruit
Evening snack (Three hours post lunch) – cup of green tea + sprouts be, one bowl
Dinner (2-3 hours post evening snacks) – bowl of soup or bowl of salad 2 + grilled paneer (40-50 g)+ bowl of vegetable
Post dinner (half – one hour before going to bed) – one fruit (preferably papaya)

An Indian weight loss diet chart for non-vegetarians

Early morning (as soon as you wake up) – Detox your body with stomach cleanser like lemon water with honey, amla juice, aloe Vera juice etc.
E.g. have glass of lukewarm water, add tsp. of lemon extract and half tsp. of honey to it.
Breakfast (within half an hour of waking up) – source of high fiber cereal like, oats, wheat flour, bajra, wheat flakes with high protein source like milk and milk product or egg  along with one fruit.
For e.g. 2 slices of multi grain bread/ one roti with two boiled egg white cooked with spinach.
Mid-morning (Three hours after breakfast) – one fruit or cucumber with peel
Lunch (around 1-2 pm) – start your lunch with a bowl of salad + one roti with bowl of vegetables + half bowl of rice + bowl of dal
Post lunch (one hour after lunch) – glass of buttermilk + one fruit
Evening snack (Three hours post lunch) – cup of green tea + popcorn, one small bowl
Dinner (2-3 hours post evening snacks) – bowl of soup or bowl of salad 2 + one roti with grilled chicken+ bowl of vegetable
Post dinner (half – 0ne hour before going to bed) – one fruit (preferably papaya)




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Stop worry about hair loss

 Worry about Hair loss

 The normal cycle of hair growth lasts for 2 to 6 years and each hair grows approximately one centimeter (less than half an inch) per month during this phase. About 90 percent of the hair on your scalp is growing at any one time. About 10 percent of the hair on your scalp, at any one time, is in a resting phase. After 2 to 3 months, the resting hair falls out and new hair starts to grow in its place.
It is normal to shed some hair each day as part of this cycle. However, some people may experience excessive (more than normal) hair loss. Hair loss of this type can affect men, women and children. Genetic baldness is caused by the body’s failure to produce new hairs and not by excessive hair loss.
Both men and women tend to lose hair thickness and amount as they age. Inherited or “pattern baldness” affects many more men than women. About 25% of men begin to bald by the time they are 30 years old, and about two-thirds are either bald or have a balding pattern by age 60.
Male-pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Men who have this type of hair loss usually have inherited the trait. Men who start losing their hair at an early age tend to develop more extensive baldness. In male-pattern baldness, hair loss typically results in a receding hair line and baldness on the top of the head.
Women may develop female-pattern baldness. In this form of hair loss, the hair can become thin over the entire scalp.

Types of Hair Problems

1. Hair Loss

One can suffer from hair loss at any age. A small kid to a senior citizen.. all have this problem of Hair Loss one or other phase of life.

Feeling bald patches on scalp or just having the wild dreaming of it. This is what Hair Loss is. I know how tragic and life threatening is this phase of Hair Loss but Ladies don’t worry, Ayurveda is one cheap and super organic way of heeling your Autumny scalp.

What it basically need is little patience and forgetting that you have any nose to face tragic smells.

2. Dry Hair

Lack of oil and moisture in your hair is what Dry Hair is. When your hair looks lifeless or without shine and texture that time you start understanding the meaning of Dry Hair. Dry Hair is well type of hair but ignoring the dry hair in excess straightaway leads to Hair Loss. Sometimes the reason behind Dryness could be using too much of Hair Dryer or poor quality of Hair Color. Or by getting exposed in Sun too much.

3. Grey Hair

Grey Hair is something we believe that with time happens. But due to pollution and smoking, this comes in early age too. Youngsters these days are facing it very often. Unhealthy diet and hormonal change in our body are also reason of it. Ayurveda here is a slow process, but one if is regular can actually see the changes.

Causes

Disease

• Underlying medical condition: Hair loss can be the first sign of a disease. About 30 diseases, including thyroid disease and anemia, cause hair loss. By treating the disease, hair loss often can be stopped or reversed.
• Illness: Significant hair loss can occur after an illness. A major surgery, high fever, severe infection, or even the flu can cause hair loss. Your dermatologist may call this type of hair loss telogen (tee-lə-jen) effluvium (ih-flu-vee-uhm).
• Some cancer treatments: Radiation therapy and chemotherapy can cause hair loss. This hair loss is often temporary, but it can cause great distress.
• Ringworm of the scalp: This disease is contagious and common in children. Without effective treatment, ringworm can cause balding.
• Trichotillomania: This medical disorder causes people to repeatedly pull out their own hair. They often feel a constant urge to pull out the hair on the scalp. Some sufferers say they feel compelled to pull out their eyelashes, nose hairs, eyebrows, and other hairs on their bodies.

Hormones and stress

• Giving birth: After giving birth, some women have noticeable hair loss. Falling estrogen levels cause this type of hair loss. The hair loss is temporary. In a few months, women see their hair re-grow.
• Menopause: Hair loss is common during menopause. This loss is often temporary. Hair re-grows with time. If a woman is 40 years of age or older, she should not expect her hair to have the fullness that it did when she was younger.
• Stress: Experiencing a traumatic event (e.g., death of a loved one or divorce) can cause hair loss.

Dieting and poor nutrition

• Weight loss: Some people see hair loss after losing more than 15 pounds. The hair loss often appears 3 to 6 months after losing the weight. This hair loss is common. The hair re-grows without help.
• Vitamin A: Too much vitamin A can cause hair loss. People can get too much of this vitamin through vitamin supplements or medicines. Once the body stops getting too much vitamin A, normal hair growth resumes.
• Protein: When the body does not get enough protein, it rations the protein it does get. One way the body can ration protein is to shut down hair growth. About 2 to 3 months after a person does not eat enough protein, you can see the hair loss. Eating more protein will stop the hair loss. Meats, eggs, and fish are good sources of protein. Vegetarians can get more protein by adding nuts, seeds, and beans to their diet.
• Iron: Not getting enough iron can lead to hair loss. Good vegetarian sources of iron are iron-fortified cereals, soybeans, pumpkin seeds, white beans, lentils, and spinach. Clams, oysters, and organ meats top the list of good animal sources of iron.
• Eating disorder: When a person has an eating disorder, hair loss is common. Anorexia (not eating enough) and bulimia (vomiting after eating) can cause hair loss.

Medicines

Some prescription medicines can cause hair loss. These include:

• Blood thinners.
• High-dose vitamin A.
• Medicines that treat arthritis, depression, gout, heart problems, and high blood pressure.
• Birth control pills: Some women who take the pill see hair loss. Sometimes, the hair loss begins when a women stops taking the pill. Women who get this hair loss often have hereditary hair loss.
• Anabolic steroids (steroids taken to build muscle and improve athletic performance) may cause hair loss.

Hair Care

Your hairstyle and even some of the products you use on your hair can cause hair loss.

• Products: Frequent bleaching or permanents can cause the hair to break. Regular or improper use of dyes, gels, relaxers, and hair sprays also can cause hair breakage.
• Blow dryers, flat irons, and other devices: Frequent use of a blow dryer tends to damage hair. The high heat from a blow dryer can boil the water in the hair shaft leaving the hair brittle and prone to breakage.
• Hairpins, clips, and rubber bands: When used to hold hair tightly, hairpins, clips, and rubber bands can break hair.

Hairstyles

Years of wearing hair in a style that pulls on the hair such as a ponytail, cornrows, or braids can cause a type of hair loss known as traction alopecia.

Improper washing, drying, and combing

The following practices often cause the hair to break:

• Too much shampooing, combing, or brushing (100 strokes or more a day).
• Rubbing wet hair dry with a towel.
• Brushing or combing wet hair (especially people who are Asian or Caucasian).
• For many people, hair is more elastic when wet. This means it breaks off more easily than dry hair. When hair breakage occurs, the hair appears shaggy or too thin. For people who are of African descent, their hair is not more elastic when wet.

 

Solution 

Methi and Dahi
Methi is one Ayurvedic ingredient which effects so well. For shoulder length hair, take 3 tablespoon of Powdered Methi and mix it with rosewater to make a medium thickly paste. Lid it and put it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, mix 4 tablespoon of curd and some water into it and make a paste. Well honestly it won’t be that like able for your nose. (In winters, do not put the paste in fridge, instead keep it outside with Lid On. Also before mixing curd into it, microwave the curd for 20 seconds. )
Apply this paste on your scalp and cover it with a plastic hair cap, if you don’t have a haircap than you can use a plastic polythene as well. The motive behind is to never leave your hair open in air with mask on as it dries your hair and while washing, you tend to see a lot of hair fall.
So keep the paste with haircap on your scalp for 45 minutes and wash it with cold water. Shampoo and condition it.
In a month only you will see a fantabulous change in your hair loss. Mark my words on this.

Solution No. 2
Aloevera juices are available in market like anything. From quite costly to pocket friendly, you will find many brands selling it. One of the very famous is Patanjali.
Consuming juice of aloe vera is more effective than applying it. 2 tablespoon in the morning empty stomach with normal or lukewarm water will work great.If you hate its smell and find impossible to consume it because of not so likable task, you can apply it as well. Apply the paste of mixture powdered alovera (easily availlble in market) and Curd or un boiled milk on your scalp and leave it for 30 minutes. Wash your hairs after it by shampoo.

Solution No. 3
Bananas, Eggs, Curd and Honey. Well mixing these four easily available and amazing ingredients, you can switch from amazingly shiny and healthy hair.
For shoulder length hair, take one medium size banana and two eggs.
Grind Bananas and Eggs together. In this paste, mix 5 tablespoon of curd and two tablespoon of Honey. Apply it instant onto scalp and leave it for 30 minutes. Remember to put the hairmask cap on it so that it don’t get too dry. Wash it and become the queen of shiny and never experienced silkiest hair.

Solution No. 4
Using Ayurvedic Oils like Coconut, Almond, Bhringraj, Brahmi Oil . Oil massage is must for our Hair. Switch your fancy hair oils with these traditional ones for daily usage and within 4 months you will see a tremendous change in your hair. For better results, try hot oil massage. Mixing Lemon in oil will help in instant Conditioning effect.

Lemon has conditioning qualities. You can switch your conditioner with Lemon any time. But daily use of direct lemon leads to Dry Hair. So if you are a person who uses deep conditioning once in a week, than confidently go for lemon juice conditioning. Squeeze 1 lemon and mix it will 1 cup water. After shampooing, pour it on your hair. (Do not rub on scalp). Was with cold water after 10 minutes and enjoy silky layers.

Solution No. 5
Triphala Powder
Triphala Powder is very easily available in market and has many good effects for health and hair. Stomach problems can also be cured through this.
Well for Grey hair, take one tablespoon of powdered Tripahala Churan and take it with lukewarm water in the morning. It is very important to mention here that it is very hard to consume it. It taste very very bad.
So if you are not that comfortable to eat it than you can apply the paste of water and Triphala Powder on your scalp. And can wash it with cold water after 20 minutes. Please keep in mind that the powder should be very finely grinded, else while washing it won’t get off your hair.

Solution No. 6
YOGA for hairloss

see 11.Hair problem




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Diseases you can curb with yoga

The list below peers into the ways through which you could curb and control diseases.

 

1.Thyroid

: Also known as Adams apple regulates metabolic activities of the human body and a disorder in the discharge of hormones can cause grave problems to the body.
Symptoms: Low energy level, Skin problems, Depression, Anxiety, Neck swelling, Hair loss, Constipation.
Suggested yoga poses:

a.Halasana/ Plough pose: 

For video click image

In Sanskrit “Hala” means “Plough” and ‘asana‘ ‘means ‘pose‘. So it is known as Halasana (Plough pose). In this position body shows the shape of the Plough. This pose gives flexibility to spine as well as strengthens the back muscles.  The steps and benefits of Halasana (Plow Pose) as follows.

Steps

1. Lie on your back. Join the legs together. Relax the whole body (Shavasana position).
2. Keep the palm flat on the ground. Keep breathing normally.
3. While exhaling press the palm on ground and raise both the legs upwards straight then try to touch the ground just behind.
4. Breathe slowly and hold the posture for several minutes (1-2 minutes).
5. Now slowly release the pose to return to Shavasana.
6. Repeat this for 3-5 times.

 This pose will give compression to the neck and stimulates the thyroid glands.

Precaution

1. Those suffering from hernia, slipped disc, sciatica, arthritis of the neck,  high blood pressure or any serious back problem, should not do practice halasana.
2. Should practice under expert supervision. In days of periods women should not practice this asana.
3. Pregnant women should not practice halasana.

b.Matsyasana/ Fish pose

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This asana is pronounced as mut-see-ahs-ana
The fish pose, if carried out in water, allows the body to float quite easily like that of a fish; hence the name.

Steps

• Lie on your back. Your feet are together and hands relaxed alongside the body.
• Place the hands underneath the hips, palms facing down. Bring the elbows closer toward each other.
• Breathing in, lift the head and chest up.
• Keeping the chest elevated, lower the head backward and touch the top of the head to the floor.
• With the head lightly touching the floor, press the elbows firmly into the ground, placing the weight on the elbow and not on the head. Lift your chest up from in-between the shoulder blades. Press the thighs and legs to the floor.
• Hold the pose for as long as you comfortably can, taking gentle long breaths in and out. Relax in the posture with every exhalation.
• Now lift the head up, lowering the chest and head to the floor. Bring the hands back along the sides of the body. Relax.

         Matsyasana provides adequate stretching to the neck triggering the thyroid gland.

2.Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome disease

: PCOS is a common occurrence in women at reproductive age. Women suffering from obesity are more prone to PCOS. It crops up when a woman's ovaries or adrenal glands produce more male hormones than normal. Presently, many women have started recognising the role of yoga as a safe PCOS treatment option. Symptoms: Irregular or no menstrual periods in women of reproductive age, excess hair growth on the face and body, thinning scalp hair, acne, weight gain, ovarian cysts (polycystic ovarian morphology)
Suggested yoga poses:

a.Dhanurasana/ Bow pose

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Steps

Lie on your stomach with your feet hip-width apart and your arms by the side of your body.

1. Fold your knees, take your hands backwards and hold your ankles.
2. Breathing in, lift your chest off the ground and pull your legs up and back.
3. Look straight ahead with a smile on your face.
4. Keep the pose stable while paying attention to your breath. Your body is now curved and taut as a bow.
5. Continue to take long deep breaths as you relax in this pose. But bend only as far as your body permits you to. Do not overdo the stretch.
6. After 15 -20 seconds, as you exhale, gently bring your legs and chest to the ground. Release the ankles and relax.

 This posture helps in galvanising reproductive organs.

b.Bhujangasana/ Cobra pose:

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    Steps

• Lie on your stomach with your toes flat on the floor and forehead resting on the ground.
• Keep your legs close together, with your feet and heels lightly touching each other.
• Place your hands (palms downwards) under your shoulders, keeping your elbows parallel and close to your torso. 
• Taking a deep breath in, slowly lift your head, chest and abdomen while keeping your navel on the floor.
• Pull your torso back and off the floor with the support of your hands.
• Checkpoint: Are you putting equal pressure on both the palms?
• Keep breathing with awareness, as you curve your spine vertebra by vertebra. If possible, straighten your arms by arching your back as much as possible; tilt your head back and look up.
• Checkpoint: Are your shoulders away from your ears? Keep your shoulders relaxed, even if it means bending your elbows. With regular practice, you will be able to deepen the stretch by straightening the elbows.
• Ensure that your feet are still close together. Keep smiling and breathing. Smiling Cobras!
• Don’t overdo the stretch or overstrain yourself. 
• Breathing out, gently bring your abdomen, chest and head back to the floor.

3.Arthritis

: Arthritis is a common rheumatic condition among adults aged 65 or more. These days' people of all age groups can be affected by arthritis which includes pain, stiffness and swelling in and around one or more joints. Symptoms: Pain, Stiffness, Swelling, Redness, Decreased range of motion.
Suggested yoga poses:

a.Child Pose/ Shishuasana:  

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 Steps

• Sit on your heels. Keeping your hips on the heels, bend forward, and lower your forehead to the floor.
• Keep the arms alongside your body with hands on the floor, palms facing up. (If this is not comfortable, you can place one fist on top of another and rest your forehead on them.)
• Gently press your chest on the thighs.
• Hold.
• Slowly come up to sit on the heels, uncurling vertebra by vertebra and relax.

This asana can help you straighten your vertebra.

b.Adho Mukha Svanasana/ Downward facing dog pose:

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Adho Mukha Svanasana Asana (Downward Facing Dog ) Yoga Pose
The asana is pronounced as A-doh MOO-kah shvah-NAS-anna
Adho mukha svanasana posture replicates a dog bending forward, hence the name downward facing dog pose.
This asana can be practiced by any beginner too and with all its benefits, one should include it as a part of daily yoga practice.

    steps

1. Come onto your fours. Form a table such that your back forms the table top and your hands and feet form the legs of the table.
2. As you breath out lift the hips up, straightening the knees and elbows, form an inverted V-shape with the body. 
3. Hands are shoulder width apart, feet are hip width apart and parallel to each other. Toes point straight ahead.
4. Press your hands into the ground. Widen through the shoulder blades. Keep the neck lengthened by touching the ears to the inner arms. 
5. Hold the downward dog pose and take long deep breaths. Look towards the navel.
6. Exhale. Bend the knees, return to table pose. Relax.

Tips for Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog Pose) Beginners

• Warm up your calves and arms properly before you do this asana.
• Do Dhanurasana and Dhandasana before Adho Mukha Svanasana.
• This Asana can also be performed as part of Surya Namaskar.

It improves flexibility of the body and stretches the spine.

4.Lower back pain

: The most intricate part of the human body is the lower back. Long hours of desk work can cause severe problems.
Symptoms: Fever and chills, sudden bowel and/or bladder incontinence - either difficulty passing urine or having a bowel movement, or loss of control of urination or bowel movement, severe and continuous abdominal pain.
Suggested yoga poses:

a.Supta Matsyendrasana/ Supine Spinal Twist: 

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     Steps

• SLie on your back with arms horizontally stretched out in line with the shoulders.
• Bend your knees and bring your feet close to your hips. The soles of your feet are fully on the ground.
• Swing the knees to the left until the left knee touches the ground (the right knee and thigh are resting on the left knee and thigh). Simultaneously, turn the head to the right and look at your right palm.
• Checkpoint: Make sure your shoulder blades touch the ground. While the body is twisted, there is a tendency for one of the shoulder blades to get lifted off the ground.
• Feel the stretch in the thighs, groin, arms, neck, stomach and back as you hold the pose. With each exhalation, relax deeper into the pose.
• Hold for several minutes. Slowly turn the head back to the center and straighten your torso and legs.
• Repeat the pose on the other side.

b.Vrikshasana/ Tree Pose:

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Steps

• Stand tall and straight with arms by the side of your body.
• Bend your right knee and place the right foot high up on your left thigh. The sole of the foot should be placed flat and firmly near the root of the thigh.
• Make sure that your left leg is straight. Find your balance.
• Once you are well balanced, take a deep breath in, gracefully raise your arms over your head from the side, and bring your palms together in ‘Namaste’ mudra (hands-folded position). 
• Look straight ahead in front of you, at a distant object. A steady gaze helps maintain a steady balance.
• Ensure that your spine is straight. Your entire body should be taut, like a stretched elastic band. Keep taking in long deep breaths. With each exhalation, relax the body more and more. Just be with the body and the breath with a gentle smile on your face.
• With slow exhalation, gently bring down your hands from the sides. You may gently release the right leg.
• Stand tall and straight as you did at the beginning of the posture. Repeat this pose with the left leg off the ground on the right thigh.

 

This exercise is beneficial for the spine and balances the body.

 

5.Diabetes

 : The numbers of Diabetic people have highly increased in the past decade. It is a condition which affects a person's metabolic system as the glucose level rises because of inadequate insulin production or due to the insufficient response of the body to insulin.
Symptoms: Hunger and fatigue, peeing more often and being thirstier, dry mouth and itchy skin, blurred vision.
Suggested yoga poses:

a.Ardha Matsyendrasana/ Half Spinal Twist 

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 Steps

• Sit up with the legs stretched out straight in front of you, keeping the feet together and the spine erect.
• Bend the left leg and place the heal of the left foot beside the right hip (optionally, you can keep the left leg straight).
• Take the right leg over the left knee.
• Place the left hand on the right knee and the right hand behind you.
• Twist the waist, shoulders and neck in this sequence to the right and look over the right shoulder.
• Keep the spine erect.
• Hold and continue with gentle long breaths in and out.
• Breathing out, release the right hand first (the hand behind you), release the waist, then chest,lastly the neck and sit up relaxed yet straight.
• Repeat to the other side.
• Breathing out, come back to the front and relax.

: People suffering from diabetes can do this asana to control body sugar level.

b.Chakrasana/ Wheel pose:

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   Steps

• Lie on your back; feet together and hands relaxed by the sides.
• Bend your legs and place the feet on the floor, close to the buttocks, wider than the hips.
• Stretch the arms away from the body with the palms facing up.
• Gently bring both knees to the ground on your right side, keeping the feet close to the buttocks.
• Turn the head to your left to look at your left palm, keeping both shoulders on the ground.
• Press the knees and thighs to the floor without lifting the shoulders. Hold.
• Gently come back to the centre by bringing the legs up.
• Repeat on the other side.
• Stretches spine and quadriceps.
• Brings a deep relaxation.

 

 Chakrasana can help people suffering from diabetes.

6.Indigestion/ Stomach Disorder

: Stomach disorder and indigestion can lead to a number of health issues such as Gastritis, Diarrhoea, heartburn etc.  Symptoms: Nausea and vomiting, bloating and gas, weight loss or loss of appetite, blood with bowel movement, severe abdominal pain, ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea.
Suggested yoga poses:
Apanasana/ Knees to chest pose:  If you are battling any sort of stomach disorder then this pose can relieve you from constipation, indigestion, bloating and acidity. It is beneficial for digestion and helps in removing toxic substances from the entire system.

Paschimottanasana/ Seated Forward Bend Pose:  This simple stretch can relieve you from digestive problems.

7.Migraine

:  A chronic neurological disease which can lead to recurrent moderate to severe headaches.
Symptoms: Hyperactivity, pain on one side or both sides of your head, sensitivity to light, sounds and sometimes smells nausea and vomiting, blurred vision.
Suggested yoga poses:
Padmasana/ Lotus pose: This asana relaxes the mind and alleviates headache.
Sirsasana/ Headstand or Salamba Sirsasana/ Supported headstand: It is also known as King of all asanas and increases the flow of blood in brain. If the Queen of Belgium can perform this exercise in her 80's then you can definitely make an attempt.

8.Liver problems

 : Liver is one of the most important organs because it influences and regulates many bodily functions such as protein production, blood clotting, cholesterol, and glucose and iron metabolism.
Symptoms: Weakness and fatigue, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and yellow discolouration of the skin etc.
Suggested yoga poses:
Ardha Bhekasana/ Half Frog Pose: This exercise can help people who are suffering from liver problems.
Parighasana/ Gate Pose: It is beneficial for liver ailments.

9.Depression

: Depression, a psychological condition which makes a person gloomy, discouraged, hopeless, unmotivated, disinterested, or bleak. When these feelings last for a long period of time one is sure into depression.
Symptoms: Reckless behaviour, loss of interest in daily activities, appetite or weight changes, sleep changes, anger or irritability, self-loathing, concentration problems etc.
Suggested yoga poses:
Baddha Konasana/ Bound Angle Pose: This yoga can help you out of depression.
Sukhasana/ Easy Pose: Do not confuse it with other traditional postures. In this asana, there should be a comfortable gap between the feet and the pelvis. It is helpful in alleviating mind from depressing thoughts.

10.Kidney

: Kidney is of the essential part of the body as it cleanses blood by removing waste and excess fluid and keeps a balance of salt and minerals in your blood, and helps in regulating blood pressure. Any imbalance in its functions can turn into Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
Symptoms: Changes in urination, swelling of the feet, ankles, hands, or face, fatigue or weakness, Ammonia breath or metal taste in the mouth, Back pain, Itching.
Suggested yoga poses:
Salamba Bhujangasana/ Sphinx pose: The Sphinx pose stretches and strengthens the abdominal organs of the body. It also raises the immunity level.
Naukasana/ Boat pose: The Boat pose strengthens and stimulates the abdominal organs. It also helps improve digestion and alleviates stress.

11.Hair problem

Yoga is the best way to bring about harmony between the body and soul, and live a healthy life. But how do you stop hair loss with yoga? Well, certain yoga poses and pranayama breathing exercises can improve circulation throughout the body and promote healthy hair to prevent hair fall.

Suggested yoga poses:

Anulom Vilom

Anulom Vilom is also called Naadi Shodhan Pranayama. It is a simple, alternate breathing technique that helps to keep the lungs healthy and fight the free radicals produced due to stress. It promotes proper circulation throughout the body and helps relieve cold and promotes the growth of healthy hair by nourishing the scalp. The constant regulated breathing also massages, tones and cleanses the entire nervous system, thereby making you feel relaxed.

Bhastrika Pranayama

This is another pranayama that helps remove excess bile, phlegm and wind from the body. It also purifies the blood and the nervous system. This in turn helps promote hair growth. It is also an amazing exercise to lose belly fat at home

Kapalbhati Pranayama

Kapalbhati is a powerful pranayama breathing exercise that helps the brain receive more oxygen so that it promotes the functions of the nervous system and removes toxins from the body. It also helps fight diabetes and obesity.

Balayam Yoga

Tips for hair growth almost always include Balayam yoga, and it was made famous all over the world by Baba Ramdev. It is very simple to perform and can be done at any time, even when you are sitting at your office.You will just need to rub the fingernails of both hands together. Curl your fingers inwards so that the point towards your palm. Now, bring your hands together so that the nails of all the fingers are in contact with each other. Make sure each nail touches the corresponding nail in the other hand. Rub them vigorously for 5 minutes. Don’t use the thumbnails for this exercise.

Sarvangasana

Yoga tips for hair growth are incomplete without the inclusion of Sarvangasana in the list. This particular asana helps to nourish the thyroid gland and helps in rushing the blood to your brain, which is a very good treatment for stopping hair fall. It is also one of the healing yoga exercises for neck pain

Vajrasana

This is a simple and easy-to-do yoga for hair growth, that can be done by almost anyone. When you perform this asana, blood circulation in the scalp increases, and it enables the hair follicles to grow. This asana also helps relieve bloated abs, promotes digestion and aids in weight loss.

Important Tips for Healthy Hair

Other than doing these yoga asanas and pranayama techniques on a daily basis, you should also follow a few tips in order to promote hair growth and stop hair loss.

• Diet also plays a vital role in promoting healthy hair. You should always try to follow a balanced diet chart that includes fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, pulses, cereals, sprouts, dairy products and proteins in order to provide the necessary nutrients to the hair follicles.
• Keeping your hair clean is also important. Wash your hair with neem water 2 to 3 times a week and massage your scalp with coconut oil in order to get rid of dandruff and fungi.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, dyes, styling products and heated styling tools on your hair to prevent damage.
• Use conditioner after every shampoo or use a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner. A conditioner significantly improves the appearance of damaged hair by adding shine and strength to it and decreasing static electricity. It also offers some protection from the harsh UV rays.
• Choose a shampoo and conditioner specially formulated for your hair type. If you have colored your hair, then use a shampoo designed for color-treated hair.
• Wear a tight-fitting swim cap while swimming in order to protect your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine. You can also use a shampoo and deep conditioner after swimming to replace the lost moisture from the hair strands.
• Avoid shampoo and conditioners that contain silicone, sulfate and alcohols. Silicone coats your hair and makes it heavy, sulfate strips away the natural oil from your hair and alcohols also weight down your hair.
• Try not to brush your hair when it is wet. Brushing wet hair is the biggest cause of hair breakage.
• Shampoo and condition using cold water. Cold water helps to seal the moisture and shine in your hair strands by locking in the conditioning agents.
• Don’t wash your hair every day. Washing your hair on a daily basis dries it out and strips away the natural oils from the hair.
• Don’t wrap wet hair in a towel use an old T-shirt instead. The T-shirt is lightweight enough to soak the moisture but it doesn’t lead to the frizz that is caused by a terrycloth towel. Also, squeeze the excess water out of your hair instead of rubbing it dry. Rubbing makes the frizz worse and causes breakage.
• You can also take hair, nail and skin vitamins and supplements to promote healthy hair.
• Wash your hair as per the requirement. Oily scalp might call for frequent washing as often as once a day. Chemically treated hair may be dry so you don’t have to shampoo your hair frequently. As you get older, your scalp produces less oil, so you may not need to shampoo often. But if you white flakes in your hair then you are not shampooing enough. This can eventually lead to dandruff, scalp itching and other scalp diseases.
• Concentrate shampoo on the scalp and conditioner on the tips of the hair. Cleaning your scalp should be the main aim when you are shampooing your hair. It is best to concentrate on cleaning the scalp rather than the entire length of hair. Washing your hair frequently will only make it dull and coarse. Conditioners can make the hair look limp so it should be used only on the tips of the hair and not on the head or the entire length of the hair.

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