An apple a day

Foods That Fight Breast Cancer

2007-12-09T00:07:00.000+08:00

With the proven anti-cancer benefits of certain foods, it makes sense to pay attention to what we put into our bodies.

Cruciferous Vegetables like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower are packed with indoles, which lower your breast cancer risk and boost the action of cancer-fighting enzymes. Red cabbage and beetroot have the highest levels of anti-cancer flavonoids.
Citrus Fruits like orange, lime and grapefruit. Monoterpenes in these tangy fruit remove carcinogens from the body. Grapefruit may stop the growth of breast cancer.
Spinach. Eat at least two servings of spinach a week to keep lung or breast cancer away.
Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Mango, Papaya. These yellow and orange coloured fruit and vegetables are high in beta carotene, a protective biochemical that is potent against cancer.
Garlic, Onion, Leeks, Chives. They contain allium compounds that strengthen the immune system; also stop carcinogens from overpowering healthy cells.
Tofu And Soya Bean Products. Eat these regularly cut your risk of breast and prostate cancer.

~ article from 'Simply Her'

Fungi Fighters

2007-06-01T22:07:00.000+08:00

All mushrooms contain the antioxidant ergothioneine, which helps lower risk of illnesses like cancer. Some contain as much as 40 times more ergothioneine than in wheat germ - previously considered the best source.
- article from Women's Weekly

I never liked mushrooms. My daughter, Haneesa ate mushrooms for the first time when she went for an excursion to mushroom farm when she was in Nursery (4 yrs old) and she loved it! Sadly, I never cooked mushrooms. So when i order pizza and it has mushrooms in it, i would pick it out and pass it to her. My first girl, Haseena, loves it too...so does my boy, Raziq...and my hubby too.
Good for them..should start cooking it. Anyways, sometime back as i was walking back from my daughter's school i came across a tiny bunch of yellow mushrooms growing under a tree. I found out that it's called "Leucocoprinus bimbaumii" and it's probably poisonous. Wish i could see some growing again but unfortunately never saw it again.

- read more about mushrooms at mushroomexpert.com

Five De-Stress Solutions

2007-05-18T20:46:00.000+08:00

GET MOVING - Stress raises your levels of adrenalin - the "fight for flight" hormone. Burn it off with a 15-minute walk.
LIGHTEN UP - If you feel heavy-hearted, do something light - listen to soothing music, watch a funny movie or have five minutes of deep belly laughs.
JUICE UP - Fresh juices perk you up with vitamins plus natural glucose. Try six stalks of celery (a natural tranquiliser) plus 20 white seedless grapes, a bunch of watercress and ice cubes. Too much work? Buy 100% Apple Cranberry juice in a pack easily available in stores. Apples are good for the heart and help lower cholesterol levels, while cranberry cleans your urinary tract.
SUPPLEMENT - A balanced diet is best - but sometimes you're too busy. For an Asian slant on supplements, try cracked Lindzhi spores, an all-round tonic. Or try Q10, which supports the immune system and relieves fatigue by helping convert fat into energy. Find Q10 in sardines, mackerel, peanuts and meat.
TRY QI BREATHING

Inhale slowly and deeply through your nostrils.
Pause Hold the breath for another eight seconds by tucking your chin in to "lock" your throat shut.
Exhale by relaxing your chin. Keep your tongue pressed to the roof of your mouth. Slowly breathe out through your nose.
Pause Tuck your chin in again. Pause for a few seconds. Repeat the breathing cycle for 10 minutes.

- article from Singapore's Women's Weekly

Cleanse Body & Soul in the Comfort of Home

2007-05-03T14:34:00.000+08:00

Toxins reportedly come from the air we breathe, the food, water and drugs we consume or from products rubbed into skin or used on hair.
According to many naturopaths and medical doctors, a toxic body can be the root to many chronic and degenerative diseases. These include inflammation, autoimmune disorders, allergic conditions, kidney and gall stones, digestive abnormalities, skin disorders and even cancer, reports Sue Davis, health & vitality manager for Chiva Som International Resort.
Sally Mathrick a naturopath, recommends a moderate detox at home, particularly for those who regularly smoke, drink or have a high sugar diet.
She says that toxicity occurs from poor eating habits, excessive intake of caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. All of this coupled with stress, living in a polluted environment and minimal physical activity can contribute to a clogged system.
Ms Mathrick says doing nothing gives the body time to repair. Ideally, you will begin eliminating all processed foods, fatty foods, carbonated drinks, sugar and dairy from your diet a week earlier. Say goodbye to your morning espresso and stock up on herbal teas and purified water. Increasing your intake of antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables, and juices would give the body support in cleansing, adds Ms Mathrick.

Start the day with dry skin brushing that will speed up the detoxification process through the skin followed by a salt scrubs and Epsom bath. Cold showers are good for boosting circulation and will give you extra energy. Ultimately, though, you're bound to want to sleep a lot so it's a good time to relax and do nothing.
Afterwards, expect to feel so rejuvenated you may want to eliminate old habits forever. Once you've had a taste of what it's like to live life with better energy, clearer thinking and more happiness you may want to make detox a regular ritual.

3-day detox programme

Begin the day with a glass of warm lemon water (half lemon squeezed into purified/boiled warm water) or 1 tsp apple cider vinegar diluted in warm water.

Dry brush the skin with a natural loofah in upwards strokes towards the heart.

Spend 30 minutes walking or doing gentle yoga stretches to awaken the body and mind (twisting postures help squeeze toxins out of the kidneys). Deep full breathing allows the lungs to expel excess waste.

Breakfast - start the day with a fruit salad mixed with nuts, seeds and flax seed. Before lunch and dinner, sip half a cup of warm water with 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar to improve digestion. A mixed raw food salad with seeds and nuts is recommended for lunch. For dinner, a plate of lightly blanched or steamed greens. For meat eaters, steamed fish is recommended.

Hydration - the key is to drink 10 glasses of warm water slowly throughout the day.

The best shot of life is wheatgrass that can easily be grown at home. It helps clean the blood and is reportedly equivalent to 4kg of fresh green vegetables. You can arrange delivery from your local organic store or grow this easily at home on your kitchen shelf.

Home spa recipes

Daily dry skin brushing followed by a salt scrub is beneficial for detoxifying the skin. You can buy a salt scrub at natural health stores or make it yourself from the following recipes.

Scrub recipes

Sea kelp & salt scrub

Ingredients:
2 tbsp fine sea salt
1 tbsp kelp powder
1 1/2 tbsp coconut oil
1 1/2 tbsp sweet almond oil
1 tsp spirulina powder
4 drops each grapefruit, lemon, cypress and peppermint essential oils

Method
Mix all the ingredients together well. Step into the shower and massage the blend into your skin starting with the feet and working your way up. Turn on the shower and repeat the scrub all over the body by scooping water into your hands and massaging until the salt granuals have disappeared.

Thai salt & herb scrub

Ingredients:
1/4 cup (60g) fine sea salt
3 drops lime, 3 drops ginger and 2 drops lemongrass essential oils
1 heaped tsp fresh lemongrass chopped finely
1/4 cup (50ml) coconut oil

Method
Blend all ingredients into a smooth paste, then use circular movements to rub the entire body before rinsing off in the bath or shower.

~ article by Judy Chapman from The Business Times

Crazy About Dark Chocolate

2007-04-09T00:31:00.000+08:00

Did you know that the scientic name for cocoa tree is Theobroma cacao and the word "Theobroma" is Latin for "food of the gods."
Chocolates...yummy...chocolates. I just love dark chocolates, they are slightly bitter and much better than milk chocolate as i find most milk chocolate too sweet. I guess it's because more sugar is added than milk.
Moreover, dark chocolate has fewer calories than milk chocolate and it has more than twice anti-oxidant properties than milk chocolate. This means that it can protect the heart and arteries from oxidative damage. However, adding milk to chocolate may cancel out these health benefits.
Chocolate and cocoa butter contain two main saturated fats (palmitic and stearic acids) and one mono-unsaturated fat (oleic acid). Unlike other saturated fats, stearic acid is a neutral fat and does not appear to raise bad cholesterol (LDL). Oleic acid is the same type of fat in olive oil and may actually raise good cholesterol levels (HDL).
Scientists found the key ingredient, theobromine, is nearly a third more effective in stopping persistent coughs than the leading medicine codeine but it only works for certain types of coughs.
Researchers found that a chemical, "catechins" (polyphenolic substances, an anti-oxidant) found in chocolate are believed to protect against heart disease, some cancer and decreasing the effects of aging on the brain. So eating products that contain them could have health benefits. Up till now tea was thought to contain the largest amount of catechins but the new research indicates that dark chocolates has four times as many. The chemical called phenols found in chocolate, reduces the presence of free radicals that damage cells and DNA, carrying diseases.
Great news for moms-to-be...scientists in Finland say eating chocolate during pregnancy may make happier, livelier babies. This is derived after a test done on 300 pregnant women.
However, chocolate is high in calories and eating too much can therefore make you put on some pounds, increasing risk of heart disease. Well, too much of anything is bad, just have to make sure it is moderately consumed.
At the end of the day, eating chocolates makes me happy and i believe it does reduces my stress level.

Read out more about Chocolates in CHOCOLATE HEALTH FACTS if you want to find the answers for these questions...
Does chocolate cause cavities?
Will I live longer if I eat chocolate?
Does chocolate cause acne?
Will eating chocolate make me fat?

Lemon Power

2007-01-02T22:55:00.000+08:00

The citric acid in lemon acts as a natural astringent and antiseptic, helping to balance skin's pH by countering acidity, making it ideal for acne-prone or oily skin. It also works as a very mild natural bleach, brightening dull skin and lightening pigment spots. But beware, skin can get sunburned more easily when you use fruit acids, so apply sunscreen.
Lemons can help cleanse the body of toxins (to soothe indigestion) or strengthen the immune system - drinking lemon juice when you have the flu halts the progress of infection because of its antibacterial benefits. The zesty scent of lemon helps ease anxiety, promote mental clarity and decisiveness. Place a few lemon essential oils drops in our burner if you're feeling stressed.
Home Remedy ~ To treat dandruff, mix a few tablespoons of fresh lemon juice with warm olive oil and gently rub into scalp. Shampoo and rinse out well after 15 minutes.
Tip ~ To help remove blemishes, rub a slice of lemon on your face and leave overnight, rinsing off in the morning.

- article taken from 'Simply Her'

Crabtree & Evelyn

2006-12-30T03:25:00.000+08:00

So glad that i got this blissful product with my cousin's help.
It was during the Women's Fair 2006. My cuz/sis-in-law, Yas, went to Marina Square Central Atrium on Nov 3rd around 10+am to queue up to subscribe 'Simply Her' magazine and to get fabulous gifts. She called me and convinced me to subscribe the magazine. Thanks to Yas, for S$84, i received a Happy Bag for $3, tea 6 piece pouch set worth $106.40 and English Floral Luxury Hatbox from Crabtree & Evelyn worth $125. Apart from 'Women's Weekly', 'Better Homes & Gardens', 'Woman's Day', i have added 'Simply Her' magazine as my favorites. Received my January issue, two weeks ago and it's Simply Wonderful! The articles are interesting, worth reading, worth buying!

Exfoliating Your Skin

2006-06-15T10:03:00.000+08:00

I was holidaying with my family in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia (my parent's home) for a week. We also stayed at my sister's place for 3 fun days in Taman Sri Gombak. One morning, I woke up around 6.30am, the atmosphere was very quiet as everyone else was still asleep. Thought it would be a nice time to catch up on reading and I saw quite a number of magazines in my sister's magazine rack. I came across an interesting December 2005 issue of Malaysian Health style magazine called 'Radiance'. It was so interesting that later during the day all of us (9 ppl) went to Jaya Jasco for our usual shopping when we go to KL. We stop by at MPH bookstore and i bought the latest issue of Radiance for just RM5.90. Worth every cent!

Also went to Body Shop to look for Cranberry Body Scrub(saw in 'Radiance' Dec. issue). The sales lady told me that they do not sell that range anymore and introduced me to Brazil Nut Body Scrub and Strawberry Body Butter as moisturizer. Every product smells great there. Used it twice so far in two weeks and my skin feels much better. This is the first time i'm exfoliating my skin and it's long overdue. Thanks to my sister for bringing me there and thanks to my husband who insisted that I buy it.

All this started after i read the magazine and below article is by Elsa Samuel taken from the December issue of 'Radiance'.

You certainly cannot reveal your fresh new layer of skin just by regular cleansing alone, eventhough it is an essential practice in hygiene and skin care. This is because regular soaps and cleaners do not work to shed old skins cells for new. Dermatologist recommends exfoliating 2 to 3 times a week. To further enjoy the benefits of exfoliating, always follow up with a relevant moisturizer as skin absorbs the moisturizer extra efficiently after it is exfoliated. This deep moisture penetration allows skin to feel soft, smooth and hydrated.

"Cocoa butter made using cocoa beans from Ghana. Babassu oil from Brazil and Brazil nut oil from Amazon region. It also have evening primrose oil seeds and crushed walnut shells"

Exfoliate at home with - Body & Face Natural Exfoliaters
Sea Salt
Course sea salt or even normal table salt is the ideal exfoliating agent often used to remove dry, flaky dead skin cells and revitalizing skin. Take two tablespoons of sea salt and gently massage your skin with your fingers or using a sponge, loofah or a body brush. For your face, be gentle and focus on your T-zone, cheeks, avoiding the eye area together. After a minute or two, rinse off the cold water to tighten your pores. Do it once a week only to maximize your moisturizer penetration.

Raw Sugar
Another great course of exfoliating agent is sugar. Raw unrefined sugar is even better! Take a couple of tablespoons of sugar and add some olive oil to smooth the sugar out. Gently rub this mixture on your face and body. If you have oily skin, replace the oil with black coffee. Wet your body with water mixed with some coffee powder. After that take some sugar and gently massage it into your skin. You may even use sea salt if you do not wish to use sugar, it's up to what suits you.

Oatmeal
Oatmeal's soft texture is much greater than salt or sugar however it workds just as well to gently abrade skin. Mix some oatmeal with water to create a paste. Rub the paste into our face with your finger pads and then rinse off. For your face instant oatmeal is recommended as it is refined and less course. You can create a simple exfoliating cleanser with oatmeal by mixing sea salt, olive oil, lemon juice or mix ground nuts with powdered milk.

Papaya Face Mask
A papaya face mask is an excellent and cost saving exfoliating mask. The enzymes from papayas help exfoliate skin, gently sloughing away dead skin cells. Scoop a tablespoon of papaya, mash it up, and smear it on your cleansed face avoiding your eye area. Leave it for fifteen minutes. Add sugar, or sea salt for an added exfoliating effect.

Everyone's Favourite Vege - Potatoes!

2006-05-16T18:46:00.000+08:00

CARBO FACTS

One of the most popular nutritional myths today concerns the dietary evils of carbohydrates. Despite the media hype, scientific evidence indicates that when consumed in normal amounts...
* Carbohydrates DO NOT cause weight gain and obesity
* Carbohydrates DO NOT automatically cause blood sugar "spikes" and insulin "surges"
* Carbohydrates DO NOT cause diabetes, heart disease or cancer.

Carbohydrates are the body's primary fuel source. Muscles prefer them and the brain relies on them.
In fact, carbohydrates are so crucial to the body that if you severely cut them from your diet, your
body will begin to breakdown muscle and other protein containing tissues—your heart and other
vital organs—in order to make them.

WATCHING YOUR WEIGHT—AND HEALTH
Leading nutrition experts agree that weight gain is a result of consuming more calories than you expend, regardless of where those calories come from—carbohydrates, protein or fat. Maintaining that important calorie balance is easier with a diet that is rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables as these foods tend to be low in calorie content, yet high in essential nutrients.

THE HEALTHFUL POTATO
Misinformation and misconceptions regarding the nutritional value of the potato abound. In fact, an average (~5.3 oz) potato with the skin contains:

* 45% of the daily value for vitamin C
* as much or more potassium (720 mg) than either bananas, spinach or broccoli
* trace amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, folate, magnesium, phosphorous, iron and zinc
* all for only 100 calories and no fat.

And potatoes with the skin on are an excellent source of fiber. In fact, with 3 grams of fiber per serving, a potato equals or exceeds that of many "whole" grain products—whole grain bread, whole wheat pasta and many cereals.

Despite the popular notion, the majority of nutrients are not found in the skin, but in the potato itself. Nonetheless, leaving the skin on the potatoes retains all the nutrients and makes them easier to prepare.

- taken from Washington Potatoes

Chain Letters pertaining to Health Hazzards

2006-04-24T20:45:00.000+08:00

BUTTER VERSES MARGARINE (Not entirely true)

According to the latest findings in the medical world in 2003, margarine could increase the risk of heart disease, depending upon the type of fat contained in the spread. Margarine is but ONE MOLECULE from being PLASTIC...

It is not true that margarine is "but ONE MOLECULE from being PLASTIC," and, even if it was, this doesn't mean that eating margarine is like eating plastic (though some would argue it tastes like it). Many items in nature are chemically similar to one another, but that doesn't make them similar in appearance or effect. It's not the molecules that a substance is made of that defines it, but rather how those molecules are arranged. Both butter and margarine contain fats, (more in ...BreakTheChain.org

Both butter and margarine have their pros and cons.
Butter is rich in both saturated fat and cholesterol, so it's potentially highly atherogenic. That means it contributes to the build up of cholesterol and other substances in artery walls. Such plaque deposits increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Most margarine is made from vegetable fat and provides no dietary cholesterol. The more liquid the margarine (in tub or liquid form), the less hydrogenated it is and the less trans fatty acids it contains.

More articles:

Don't Reuse Plastic Water Bottles

Shampoo causes cancer - False

Don't Take Pills With Warm Water?

Coca-cola's other uses

Roach eggs in envelope glue

Apple seeds contain a cyanide compound- True

Ordinary use of Canola oil is dangerous to consumers- False

many many, more...go to Snopes.com, BreakTheChain.org

Did you receive an e-mail on the tale about the $250 Famous Amos cookie? Actually, it's about the Neiman Marcus cookie and it's not true. Another story on a chicken head found in box of McDonald's wings? Read more about this in Urbanlegends.about.com

Trans Fat Overview

2006-04-23T17:39:00.000+08:00

Effective Jan. 1, 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires food companies to list trans fat content separately on the Nutrition Facts panel of all packaged foods. Under this rule, consumers can see how much saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol are in the foods they choose. As food and beverage companies comply with the new labeling regulations, consumers will see nutrition labels listing any measurable (at least 0.5 gram per serving) amount of trans fat in a separate line in the total fat section under saturated fat. However, no “Percent Daily Value” (%DV) for trans fat is shown. This labeling requirement applies only to packaged food products, not foods served at restaurants. However, it is important to note that the FDA is extending the trans fat deadline for those companies who seek a petition. Therefore, consumers should be aware that just because they do not see trans fat on the label of the product, does not mean that the product is trans free.
Trans fat (also called trans fatty acids) is formed when liquid vegetable oils go through a chemical process called hydrogenation, in which hydrogen is added to make the oils more solid. Hydrogenated vegetable fats are used by food processors because they allow longer shelf-life and give food desirable taste, shape, and texture.
The majority of trans fat can be found in shortenings, stick (or hard) margarine, cookies, crackers, snack foods, fried foods (including fried fast food), doughnuts, pastries, baked goods, and other processed foods made with or fried in partially hydrogenated oils. Some trans fat is found naturally in small amounts in various meat and dairy products. The FDA estimates that the average daily intake of trans fat in the U.S. population is about 5.8 grams or 2.6 percent of calories per day for individuals 20 years of age and older.
Evidence suggests that consumption of trans fat raises LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and lowers HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels, causing the arteries to become clogged and increasing the risk of developing heart disease and stroke.
For Summary of Other Fats (saturated fat, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats), go to americanheart.org

8 Dont's After a Meal (True/False?)

2006-03-29T10:06:00.000+08:00

THERE are many myths floating around concerning various subjects. Some of them are about what NOT to do after a meal. Myths are obviously the fruit of partial or total ignorance, and speculations, handed down from generation to generation. While many of them are totally false, some of them are true or partly true. Here are eight of them:

1. "Don't smoke after a meal because the bad effect (emphysema, cancer, etc.) of smoking a cigarette becomes ten times worse."
This is true in the sense that the natural bodily absorption rate following a meal is heightened, magnifying the ill-effects of tobacco (nicotine) on our system. One stick of cigarette, like one drop of any poison, is one too many.

2. "Don't eat fruits immediately after a meal because this will cause the stomach to bloat with air."
This is not true. Fruits improve our digestion. However, there are people who have some degree of intolerance to fruits (fructose intolerance), who will have the sense of bloating after ingestion of fruits. In general, eating fruits right after a meal is good and well-tolerated by the body. Diabetics should discuss this with their physician since fruits will be additional calories that must be taken into account when computing their "diabetic diet."

3. "Don't drink tea after a meal because tea is high in acid which will harden the protein and make it difficult to digest."
It is true that tea is high in tannin or tannic acid, but the rest of the statement is false. Tea, as a matter of fact, improves our digestion. It is a tonic that invigorates the brain, speeds up the circulation, and makes the stomach digest food easier.

4. "Don't loosen your belt after a meal because this will cause your intestines to twist and get blocked up."
The first part of the statement is a sound advice, but not for the reason given. Not loosening your belt after a meal makes you more conscious that your stomach is full enough, so you do not overeat. Also, the "normal tightness" of the belt provides one a natural "suck-in-the-abdomen technique" of controlling your waistline. It has been shown that sucking in the abdomen (as in the required military posture among cadets, etc) does help prevent "bulging waistlines," since sucking in the belly is nothing but an exercise to contract the muscles of the abdomen. If one does it every moment of awareness, that is like exercising the abdominal muscles every few minutes to make them taut and firm. The part about intestinal twisting and obstruction is false.

5. "Don't bathe after a meal because this will weaken digestion."
While taking a bath (especially a warm one) will divert some blood from the stomach to the skin, taking a bath after a meal will not significantly impair digestion. The general rule is: after a meal, do not to do strenuous activities that will divert a lot of the blood away from the stomach, which needs "enough" blood for digestion. What's enough for one person may be different from another individual's physiologic need.

6. "Don't walk after a meal. The digestive system will be unable to absorb the food."
Walking or strolling after a meal is not bad at all. It will help burn up some calories without significantly diverting blood from the stomach. Only strenuous physical and mental activities are discouraged immediately after a meal.

7. "Don't sleep immediately after a meal because food will not be digested properly and this will lead to gastric infection."
The first part is true: it is not healthy to sleep with a full stomach. Not that it will cause bangungot or pancreatitis (as another myth claims), but gastric distention can lead to some heart irregularity in some people. Habitually sleeping immediately after a meal will also increase the tendency to obesity. As far as gastric infection is concerned, that claim is false.

8. "Don't eat again until after four hours or longer because this will make the stomach stretch and grow larger."
This is not a myth but a sage advice. The stomach grows larger the more often we eat and the more food we eat, stretching our stomach, and conditioning our brain to crave for more food with every meal. And this will inevitably lead to obesity and its dangerous implications and complications. Drinking a tall glass, or two, of water before each meal will distend the stomach somewhat and "fool" the brain and curb the hunger sooner, leading to less total caloric intake. A simple, cheap and great dieting strategy.

- info by Dr Philip S. Chua

5 Ways to Stay Alert

2006-03-24T23:54:00.000+08:00

Our brain tissue is steadily being chipped away with age and according to some studies, by brain shrinkers such as cigarettes and stress. The good news is you can give your brain a workout and restore maximum power with these tips:
1. Take It Easy
Chronic exposure to the hormones released during brain function, and prevents the brain from laying down new memory. To relieve stress, practise relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
2. Work That Body
Exercising improves circulation, which may be linked to preserving your brain's sharpness. Ageing shrinks neurons (brain cells) and drains neurotransmitters which communicate between cells, making you forget where you places your keys. However studies show that boosting your heart rate can reverse this process to improve memory and overall brain function. Whether it's walking, swimming or gardening, you'll benefit from regular exercise.
3. Go Shopping
In one study, researchers sought to learn why 75 year old women had better memories than their male counterparts. The reason:Shopping! Study author Professor Guy McKhan, of the Mind/Brain Institute at Johns Hopkins University, says shopping requires more physical and mental activity than sitting around watching golf. Making decisions on what to purchase, for whom, and doing quick calculations help keep the brain active.
4. Appreciate Art
Taking in new, complex images can help slow natural brain deterioration. Scientists at the University of California found that the brain first detects recongnisable patterns, then starts to break down different and new elements. So, instead of enjoying a familiar view, expose your eyes and brain to a painting that actively engages your mind. Download a Kadinsky painting as your desktop wallpaper - each time you look at the abstract artist's work, it'll be like doing 10 brain push-ups.
5. Mental Gymnastics
The next time your boss hands you a difficult project, thank her/him. Studies show that having a mentally demanding job in your 30s to 50s may protect you from Alzheimer's disease. After studying the work tasks of people with an without the disease, researchers found that those who were Alzheimer's free were more likely to have held careers that needed creative thinking or juggling various responsibilities. Daily mental workouts may help the brain build more neural connections and lead researchers Dr Kathleen Smyth say this may help delay the disease's on set. If your job is not mentally challenging enough, try learning a new language, playing mahjong and doing puzzles.

-article taken from The Singapore Women's Weekly

Brain Food

2006-03-23T18:04:00.000+08:00

These will keep your mind sharp:

GINKGO - This herb is said to help the memory by increasing the flow or red blood cells to the brain. New studies also show that ginkgo boosts mental sharpness. If on blood-thinning medication, check with your doctor before taking this.
FOLATE AND B12 - In a study of people aged 60 and older, those with low folate and B12 levels had four times the risk of dementia compared to those with adequate intakes(recommended intake: 400g mcg folate and 6 mcg B12). These vitamins control levels of homocysteine which, when high, may damage brain nerve. Folate sources include cereal and lentlis; B12 sources include salmon and canned sardines.
APPLES - Research shows that animal brain cells treated with the antioxidant quercetin, found in apples, plums and berries, can resist damage from harmful free radical cells.

- typed by my daughter Haneesa, 9
- article taken from The Singapore Women's Weekly

Usefulness of Fruit Juices

2006-02-28T23:00:00.000+08:00

GENERAL USE
For tired body, jetleg, hangover - Apple, Orange, Carrot, Beetroot
For relaxation - Apple, Pineapple, Mint, Lime
For reducing Stress - Tomato, Carrot, Coriander, Broccoli, Celery
For improving Digestion - Apple, Beetroot, Ginger, Carrot
For improving immune system anti flu, anti cold - Apple, Carrot, Lemon, Ginger, Garlic
For detoxing body - Apple, Grapefruit, Watermelon, Ginger
For cleansing liver - Pineapple, Carrot, Beetroot, Lime
As a Skin Tonic - Carrot, Capsicum, Spinach

There are also mixed fruit juices good for specific conditions such as anemia, athritis, asthma, bedwetting, complextion problems, etc...more can be obtained at www.indosnet.com

- e-mail by my sis in 2003, artical from indosnet

Fenugreek

2006-01-01T17:29:00.000+08:00

Indian: mayti
Tamil: venthium
Malay: alba
Fenugreek has excellent medical virtues. It is Nature's great boon to mankind and its regular use will help keep the body healthy. The seeds are brownish yellow and emit peculiar odour.
Fenugreek is grown in India, Morocco, Egypt and England. The seeds are ground and roasted and used to flavor to curry.
The seeds are also soaked and then powdered and used to make lip balm and tonic. The seeds can be used to make tea, which can reduce fever and menstrual pains, or they can be used in an ointment to treat skin infections. The seeds have also been used to increase libido in men and serve as an aphrodisiac. Ground seeds are often used to give a maple flavor to sweets and candies. Fenugreek's leaves, which are high in iron, are used in salads. Taken internally, fenugreek is used to treat bronchitis, coughs, respiratory problems, sinus conditions and to increase milk supply. Many women today take fenugreek in a pill form (ground seeds placed in capsules).

Natural Benefits and Curative Properties
The leaves of fenugreek are aromatic, cooling and mild aperient. Paste of the fresh leaves applied over the scalp regularly, before taking bath, lengthens hair, preserves the natural color and keeps the hair silky soft. Paste of the fresh leaves, applied on the face every night before going to bed and washed with warm water, prevents pimples, blackheads, dryness of the face and early appearance of wrinkles. It improves complexion and makes one look years younger. The seeds of fenugreek are demulcent, diuretic, carminative which relieves gastric discomforts, lactagogue, which increases the flow of milk, astringent and aphrodisiac tonic.' They are the best cleansers to body, highly mucus-solvents and soothing agents. The seeds are used in the preparation of hair tonics and cosmetics in Java.

There are many natural benefits of fenugreek in the treatment of Anemia, Digestive Disorders, Diabetes,etc. ..this can be found in www.indiangyan.com

- article was also given by my aunt

Honey & Cinnamon

2006-01-01T17:15:00.000+08:00

It is found that mixture of Honey and Cinnamon cures most of the diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Ayurvedic as well as Yunani medicine have been using honey as a vital medicine for centuries. Scientists of today also accept honey as a 'Ram Baan' (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used without any side effects for any kind of diseases. Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients also. A famous magazine named Weekly World News published in Canada dated 17 January, 95 has given a list of diseases that can be cured by Honey and Cinnamon as researched by western scientists.

Arthritis
Take one part honey to two parts of lukewarm water and add a small teaspoon of cinnamon powder, make a paste and massage it on the itching part of the body slowly. It is noticed that the pain recedes within a minute or two. Or arthritis patients may daily, morning and night take one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If drunk regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research done at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week out of the 200 people so treated practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

Hair Loss
Those suffering from hair loss or baldness, may apply a paste of hot olive oil, one tablespoon of honey, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder before bath and keep it for approx. 15 min. and then wash the hair. It was found to be very effective.

Bladder Infections
Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of luke warm water and drink it. It destroys the germs of the bladder.

Toothache
Make a paste of one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and five teaspoons of honey and apply on the aching tooth. This may be done 3 times a day daily till such time that the tooth has stopped aching.

Cholesterol
Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, if given to a cholesterol patient, it reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10% within 2 hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken 3 times a day any chronic cholesterol is cured. As per the information received in the said journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complains of cholesterol.

Cold and Cough
Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses.

Infertility
Yunani and Ayurvedic have been using honey for years in medicine to strengthen the semen of men. If impotent men regularly take two tablespoon of honey before sleeping, their problem will be solved.In China, Japan and Far-East countries, women who do not conceive and to strengthen the uterus have been taking cinnamon powder for centuries. Women who cannot conceive may take a pinch of cinnamon powder in half teaspoon of honey and apply it on the gums frequently throughout the day, so that it slowly mixes with the saliva and enters the body.

Upset Stomach
Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS
According to the studies done in India & Japan, it is revealed that if honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

Heart Diseases
Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread or chappati instead of jelly and jam and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also those who have already had an attack, if they do this process daily, are kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart beat.

Immune System
Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacteria and viral diseases.

Indigestion
Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food, relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

Influenza
A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural ingredient which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu. Longevity Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly arrests the ravages of old age. Take 4 spoons of honey, 1spoon of cinnamon powder and 3 cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, 3 to 4 times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life span also increases and even if a person is 100 years old, starts performing the chores of a 20 year old.

Pimples
Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples completely.

Skin Infections
Eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections are cured by applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts.

Weight Loss
Daily in the morning, 1/2 hour before breakfast on an empty stomach and at night before sleeping, drink 2 tablespoons of honey with 1teaspoon of cinnamon powder boiled in one cup water. If taken regularly it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. The honey and cinnamon aids in digestion and rids body of stomach related disorders. Take care that you also eat sensibly a balance nutritional diet. % small meals are better than 3 large ones and soups are a great substitute.

Weight Watchers Menu

Recent research in Japan and Australia has reveled that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month 3 times a day. Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful than detrimental to the body strength. Senior citizens who take honey and cinnamon power in equal parts are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton who has done research says that half tablespoon honey taken in one glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3.00 p.m. when the vitality of the body starts decreasing, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

Bad Breath
People of South America, first thing in the morning gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water. So their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

Sinus & Headaches
Drink mix up with honey & lemon juice helps sinus & headaches.

- article taken from indoindians.com (my sidebar)
- article also given by my aunt and e-mail by my cousin

Apples and Pears

2005-12-29T00:47:00.000+08:00

Apple Dazzle
Grab an apple for your lunch bag and you'll help protect yourself from disease three times over. Studies show that high intakes of quercetin, a nutrient found in apples, is associated not only with a reduction in lung cancer risk, but also with a reduction in the risk of asthma and diabetes. Just be sure to eat the skin, too. That's where a good portion of the quercetin resides. Nutritionally, the apple is a powerhouse. The old saying "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" is rich in validity. Apples are a good source of Vitamin A, containing 50% more Vitamin A than oranges. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant essential for good immune health and eye health. Apples are a plentiful source of Vitamin B, important for healthy nerve function and hormone production. The antioxidant Vitamin C is plentiful in apples and is important for bone, teeth, membrane and immune health.
I love PEARS!!!Especially the green ones. It is soft and not hard to bite and full of juice. Always liked them so now i have started buying pears and i eat a pear a day especially when i feel hungry late at nite. My elder daughter started eating pears too. Pears are sometimes called the "queen of fruits" and placed in the Rose family. Only knew about it today. To me the shape of green pears looks like someone with a big tummy! Anyways about half of the fiber is the cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber called pectin. The rest is insoluble fiber that aids digestion. It delivers vitamin C and potassium and their catechins (a flavonoid with antioxidant qualities) may deliver some cancer-protection properties. Whoo wooh!