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#Benefits

The Whys and Hows

Avocado Oil : Uncover It’s Unknown Secret Advantages

The popularity of avocado oil has increased recently as more individuals become aware of the advantages of including healthy fat sources in their diets. Avocado oil has a number of potential health benefits. It is a good source of fatty acids, which are known to promote and shield heart health. Carotenoids and vitamin E are two more anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components found in avocado oil.  In addition to being nutrient-dense, avocado oil can be utilized in a variety of ways to make delectable, heart-healthy meals and is safe to use in high-heat cooking.Breaking Down the Health Promoting Proportions ~  (Source: Google Images) Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), a kind of fat molecules that can help decrease LDL cholesterol, are abundant in avocado oil. 71% of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), 13% of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and 16% of saturated fatty acids (SFA) are found in avocado oil.  Monounsaturated fat-rich diets have been linked to a number of health advantages, including the prevention of diseases like heart disease. People who consumed MUFAs from plant sources had a considerably lower risk of dying from cancer and heart disease, according to a study that contained data on over 93,000 individuals. The same study demonstrated a substantial reduction in the overall risk of mortality when substituting MUFAs and SFAs from animal sources with a similar caloric intake of MUFAs from plant sources.  Additional studies demonstrate a considerable reduction in the risk of heart disease when MUFAs from plant foods are substituted for SFAs, trans fats, or refined carbs.  Additionally, oleic acid, one of the primary fats in avocado oil, may maintain a healthy body weight by controlling energy expenditure and hunger as well as decreasing belly fat.Of course, a Reliable Vitamin E Source ~(Source: Google Images ) One nutrient that is essential to the body is vitamin E. It works as a potent antioxidant, shielding cells from oxidative damage that could otherwise result in illness. The nutrient also has a role in other metabolic processes, cellular communication, and immunological function.Studies reveal that around seven milligrams (mg) or 47% of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin E can be obtained from a two-tablespoon intake of avocado oil. However, the processing avocado oil undergoes before it is sold in grocery stores can affect its vitamin E content. Advice on How to Use Avocado Oil ~ Avocado oil is a multipurpose lipid that works well in baking and cooking.  The smoke point of avocado oil varies with variety. The smoke point of refined avocado oil is 520°F, whereas that of unrefined avocado oil is approximately 482°F. Avocado oil can be utilized for higher-heat cooking techniques like frying due to its high smoke point. Avocado oil that hasn't been refined can also be used to produce dressings and sauces.  Here are some great ways to use avocado oil:- Whip up homemade marinades and salad dressings with the rich, buttery flavor of avocado oil.- Drizzle unrefined avocado oil over pastas, roasted vegetables, or grain-based dishes for a delicious finishing touch.- Cook meats, eggs, seafood, and veggies using avocado oil, which has a high smoke point and works well for sautéing or frying.- Swap butter for avocado oil in recipes for muffins, breads, and other baked goods for a healthier, plant-based alternative.- Store your avocado oil properly—it lasts up to 210 days at room temperature. To protect it from light and heat, opt for oils in dark glass or metal containers, and keep them in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.‘The real secret to guacamole is that you use exactly the elements that you need, which are cilantro, onion, tomato, and jalapenos. And, of course, avocado." ~Demian Bichir

11 Sep 2024
The Whys and Hows

Does Afternoon Napping Make Sense?

Many of us decline power naps because we believe they may interfere with a restful night's sleep in the future. However, it might be advantageous to us. Taking a nap in the afternoon is a common practice in many cultures. The Japanese are known to take "afternoon naps," or “hirune'', after lunch. The Spanish are also known to enjoy regular "siestas".  Tech behemoths like Google, Samsung, and Facebook provide their employees with sleep pods in their workplaces so they can get some rest throughout the workday. A growing global trend is power sleeping. But is it really effective to take a little catnap during the day? Does it make you feel renewed and energized, or does it make you feel even more exhausted than before? Studies indicate that taking regular naps is beneficial to the long-term functioning of our brains. According to a 2023 study by researchers at University College London (UCL) and the University of the Republic in Uruguay, taking regular naps may help keep our brains bigger for longer and increase their general health. The scientists examined information from 35,000 participants, ranging in age from 40 to 69, who were involved in a study conducted by UK Biobank, a biomedical database and research resource. They examined previously discovered DNA fragments linked to individuals who frequently take naps.Those who napped frequently had brains that were more than 15 cubic centimeters (0.9 cubic inches) bigger than those of those who never napped during the day.How long should you nap for?(Source: Google Images) Timing is key for the perfect power nap. If you are going to have a nap, make sure you do it in the mid-afternoon and don't allow it to go on for longer than 20 minutes, says Morgan ( Kevin Morgan graduated in psychology from the University of Ulster before completing his doctoral research into sleep, hypnotic drug use and aging) . Your body is going to be more accommodating of daytime sleep between 2 pm and 4 pm as this is when there is a dip in the circadian rhythm and our body temperature drops, explains Morgan. If you try to nap in the morning your body temperature is still rising, meaning you feel more alert. You will have trouble sleeping at night if you put it off until too late in the day. It is very well known that a natural remedy is sleep for a lot of stress-related problems. Given our high level of evolution, mental capacity is essential. We require a lot of sleep at night because of this. Individuals who have trouble sleeping at night, like shift workers or parents of small children, will likely benefit from a time of controlled sleep during the day. For those who are able to nap, it's akin to using sleep as a resource that they can access whenever they choose. Yet that does not imply that we should all take naps.A nap may make you more alert, but it depends on when and how you do it ~(Source: Google Images) We have a phrase: 'irresistible napping,'" referring to the nearly uncontrollable temptation to nod off during the day. According to this, if a person finds themselves unable to avoid taking naps on a daily basis, it may be a sign of a sleep disorder that requires professional attention. It might also indicate that they are not receiving enough sleep at night or that they have a serious case of insomnia that calls for medical treatment, such as untreated sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or severe insomnia.  It's critical to keep in mind that naps are not a substitute for getting a regular, deep sleep at night.The National Sleep Foundation states that if you are a healthy adult, you don't always require naps. Many adults don't want to take naps. However, a nap can be wise depending on how you're feeling in the afternoon. Individuals who find that naps are beneficial for them report that they provide them a creative boost that can increase their productivity in the second half of the day, extending the amount of time they can work efficiently and solve difficulties."Sleep is an investment in the energy you need to be effective tomorrow." — Tom Roth

4 Sep 2024
The Whys and Hows

Worthwhile Influence of Eating Chocolates in Daily Life

Craving a bite? Don't stop and get some! I am here to tell you that you should celebrate your relationship with chocolates with good intentions and no guilt trips. Yes, indeed before establishing a fruity connection with chocolates you should be aware of the resultant healthy impacts on your overall well-being. “You take dark chocolate, you mix it with white milk, and it becomes a delicious drink. That is the chocolate I am talking about.”-Ray Nagin Cherish Your Sweeter Place: According to various readings, it is kind of evident that dark chocolate and many types of choco-driven sweeteners are packed with antioxidants. These types of components are found in plants that combat inflammation and protect against any sort of cell damage. Besides all this, the sweet melodies give value additions to your happiness. Chocolate is profoundly called “Drinks of the Gods” for numerous insightful reasons. Not only are they a package of antioxidants and a mix of minerals but also act as stress busters and cardiovascular support wherein eating dark chocolate in moderation lowers your chances of heart-related diseases. At last a sustainable element for any sort of healthy relationship is to maintain a balanced and positive outlook towards it. Therefore, eat chocolate whenever you can enjoy its essence.

8 Aug 2023
The Whys and Hows

Global News

FDA finds Out That Yogurt Helps to Reduce Type 2 Diabetes

Yogurt is a dairy product made by fermenting milk with a bacterial yogurt culture. It provides protein and calcium and can enhance healthy probiotic gut bacteria. However, some yogurt products are less healthy than others. There are different types of yogurt ~ Low-fat or fat-free Low-fat or low-fat yogurt is made with 2% milk. Fat-free yogurt is made from zero percent, or fat-free, milk. Kefir Kefir is a liquid drinkable yogurt. It contains probiotics and is easy to make at home by adding kefir grains to milk and letting it sit for 12-24 hours. Greek yogurt Greek yogurt is thick and creamy. It withstands heat better than regular yogurt and is often used in Mediterranean cuisine and dips. It is made by straining regular yogurt to remove the liquid whey further. The result is a higher protein content due to its thicker content. , but the added strain results in a lower calcium content. Greek yogurt is full-fat, low-fat, and fat-free, or zero percent. Skyr Skyr, like Greek yogurt, skyr, pronounced "skeer," is an Icelandic-style yogurt. that is thick, creamy, and high in protein. Compared to regular yogurt, skyr requires 4 times more milk and contains 2-3 times more protein. Frozen yogurt Frozen yogurt is often considered a healthy alternative to ice cream. However, many frozen yogurts contain the same amount of sugar or more than regular ice cream. Also, according to the National Yogurt Association, not all so-called frozen yogurts contain live and active cultures. Some use processed yogurts that kill live, active cultures. Dairy-free yogurts Dairy-free yogurts include soy yogurt and coconut milk yogurt. In The Headlines ~  Yogurt sold in the U.S. can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, the U.S. (FDA) Food and Drug Administration said. The agency acknowledged there is some evidence, but not strong scientific evidence. According to the research, at least 2 cups of yogurt per week can reduce the chance of developing the disease, which affects about 36 million Americans. For yogurt, Danone North America, the U.S. arm of the French company whose brands include yogurts Dannon, Activia, and Horizon Organics, applied for approved health claims in 2018. It provided data on studies that followed participants over time and found an association between eating yogurt and lower signs of diabetes. The FDA acknowledged that there is "credible evidence" that eating yogurt as a whole food is beneficial, but not because of a specific nutrient it contains. Various critics say that no single food can reduce the overall risk of diet-related disease, the Center for Science in the Public Interest reported. It also said the label change could increase the risk of diabetes by encouraging the use of yogurt, including varieties with added sugar, and mixes such as crackers and pretzels. Let's look forward to more updates in this debatable news to unravel certain facts if backed by evidence shortly. These are some of my favorite ways to mix things up and add more weight-loss yogurt to your diet. You'll still get all the calcium and protein you get from regular yogurt, but you'll also enjoy the fun ingredients and fruity flavor (not to mention the added vitamins and antioxidants!) Try one of these healthy yogurt recipes for breakfast or afternoon snack and enjoy your weight loss journey one sweet, creamy bite at a time! 1. Yogurt and Blueberry Jam Vapes Juices are a fun way to eat more yogurt! These frozen yogurt dishes feature Greek yogurt, blueberry jam, and crunchy granola. They come in so many colors, flavors, and textures that it's hard to believe they're good for you! They're sweet, creamy, and fruity - not to mention the added antioxidants from the blueberries! 2. Greek Yogurt Orange Pound Cake This delicious Greek Yogurt Orange Pound Cake is so light and delicious! It's perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or even an after-dinner dessert! And the clean ingredients make it both healthy and delicious! 3. Breakfast Yogurt Parfait To Go The list of the best yogurt recipes would not be complete without a classic yogurt parfait! It's a classic that combines creamy yogurt, crunchy cereal, and fresh fruit. It is a sweet start to your day, full of proteins, vitamins, and all kinds of nutrients. This recipe includes fruits like strawberries, yogurt, bananas, coconut and granola. It is served in a mason jar for display and to go. It's a great way to start your day with yogurt! 4. Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Blueberries and Honey I am used to using yogurt in pancakes! Homemade pancakes from scratch are a million times better than box mixes. IIf you've never tried whipping them up at home, the Greek Yogurt Pancakes is an absolute must-try! They're delightfully light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor!                      

4 Mar 2024
Global News

How Seaweed Fertilizers are Transforming Farming

The world is teeming with life, and the population is rapidly increasing by the day. As the demand for food surges, the agricultural industry is stepping up to the plate, tirelessly supplying nourishment for billions of people worldwide. However,  traditional farming methods have brought forth a wave of environmental destruction.  The widespread use of chemical fertilizers in farming practices has caused a catastrophic chain reaction, leading to the pollution of our precious water resources. Thankfully, farmers are now turning to seaweed fertilizers as a solution to this problem. Seaweed fertilizers have been shown to be promising in improving crop yields and water quality. The nutrients released when seaweed fertilizer enters surface water encourage the growth of microorganisms, which can be harmful to aquatic life when they grow uncontrollably.  Yet, seaweed fertilizers have enormous potential in reducing nutrient runoff and promoting sustainable economic growth. Organic farming techniques are becoming increasingly popular, and seaweed-derived fertilizers and soil additives are receiving more attention. By using seaweed fertilizers, farmers can improve crop yields while reducing their impact on the environment. Seaweed fertilizers offer a sustainable solution to the negative impact of conventional farming practices on water quality. The use of sustainable farming practices like seaweed fertilisers is necessary for the preservation of our water resources and the overall health of our planet. By embracing these solutions, we can work towards a more sustainable future.

30 Apr 2023
Global News

Positive Reads

The Wholesome Delights of Onam Sadya: A Nutrient-Rich Feast Celebrating Tradition and Health

Feast - a word often synonymous with calorie concerns, especially during festive times like Diwali or Holi. But hold that thought, for Onam Sadhya is here to flip the script! This culinary celebration is a guilt-free zone, where indulgence comes with a side of wellbeing. Intrigued? Let's unravel why. Picture this: a spread that beckons you with vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and flavors that dance on your taste buds. But unlike other feasts, Onam Sadhya boasts a remarkable difference - it's not just about the delectable bites; it's about relishing every morsel without a hint of guilt. The Onam festival in Kerala is not just a time for vibrant celebrations but also a feast for the senses, especially the taste buds. The iconic Onam Sadya, a traditional culinary extravaganza, brings together flavors, culture, and health in a beautifully balanced spread. This festive feast offers more than just a delightful meal; it's a treasure trove of health benefits derived from its thoughtfully curated ingredients.  At the heart of Onam Sadya lies a medley of dishes, each contributing to a diverse nutrient intake. The symphony of vegetables, legumes, and grains provides a holistic boost to well-being. Fiber Magic: From aviyal's vegetable blend to thoran's coconut-kissed veggies, fiber takes center stage. This aids digestion, fortifies gut health, and aids in weight management. Heart-Friendly Indulgence: Tradition meets heart health as Sadya dishes embrace minimal oils and fats. This clever choice minimizes saturated fats, championing heart health and tackling cholesterol concerns. Plant-Powered Strength: Lentils and legumes, the pillars of Sadya dishes, offer plant-based protein power. Vital for immunity, muscle repair, and growth, this protein punch is a true win. Antioxidant Elixir: Sadya's antioxidant-rich veggies combat rogue free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall vitality. Sweetness Redefined: Enter jaggery, the unrefined sugar savior. Sadya's desserts offer essential minerals while sidestepping the pitfalls of refined sugar. Taming Portions: Banana leaves guide portion control, nurturing mindful eating habits that tame digestion issues and prevent overindulgence. A Symphony of Balance: Onam Sadya is more than a meal; it's a choreographed balance of carbs, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. This feast is more than just food; it's a celebration of Kerala's heritage and eco-conscious spirit. With health, culture, and tradition on the menu, Onam Sadya is a true gift for body, soul, and taste buds alike.

28 Aug 2023
Positive Reads

5 Incredible Benefits of Banana Skin

Banana is an excellent source of nutrition, but did you know that its skin is also equally important as it can be used for many important uses like whitening teeth to removing stains. Read on to find out more. Here are a few excellent uses of banana skin: Whitening Teeth Instead of spending a fortune on chemical teeth whitening agents, you can use the banana peel as a natural teeth whitener. All you have to do is to rub the inner white side of the peel on your freshly brushed teeth for two minutes daily. The plaque-busting, astringent salicylic acid and gently bleaching citric acid in banana peels help to transform your teeth into pearly whites within a week. Effective Against Insect Bites Banana skin has been found to soothe an itchy insect bite. Use it effectively against mosquito or ant bites, by rubbing the inside of the banana peel on the inflamed area. The polysaccharides in the peels seep into skin cells to prevent the swelling and inflammation. Removes Stains Sometimes you may find ink stains on your fingers and hands due to a leaking pen and no amount of soap and water is able to diminish it, that’s where banana peel does the trick. Apply the inner white side of the peel on the stains and rub it. The natural oils in the peel attract the oils in the ink which weakens the pigment's bond with the skin for easy removal. Remove Thorns Or Splinters Easily Just like the stains, banana peel helps to remove thorns or splinters painfully stuck in the skin without even tearing the skin. All you have to do is place the white inner side of the banana peel on it for 30 minutes. The peel contains enzymes that seep into the skin and draws the splinter upwards for easy plucking. A Natural Fruit-Fly Trap We often notice tiny fruit flies hovering over fruits even though they are far from becoming stale. Here is an easy way to get rid of them with banana peels. Take a large yogurt or ice cream container and poke holes on its lid. Put banana peels into the container and cover it with the holed lid. The sweet smell of the peels attracts the fruit flies to enter into the container through the holes on the lid, but they won’t be able to come out. When most of the fruit flies are trapped you can dispose of the container. So next time, before you do away with a banana peel, think whether it could be put to appropriate use.

1 Nov 2019
Positive Reads

Know More About the Health Benefits of Soya Bean–The Vegetarian’s Meat

Soya bean is a very versatile food which can be had in the form of beans, chunks, granules, soya milk, soya oil, soya sauce and tofu. Soya is a high-quality protein and is one of the only two plant foods (the other is amaranth seed) to contain all the essential amino acids, similar to those found in meat. Soya bean is rich in fibre and protein and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Soya bean is also high in antioxidants and phytoestrogens. Phyto means plant and phytoestrogens are naturally occurring chemicals found in plants. In conducive situations, these compounds copy the action of the female hormone oestrogen, albeit in a mild way. It is, therefore, said to be extremely beneficial to women as it protects them from coronary heart disease and hot flushes during menopause. Following are the health benefits of soya bean: Protein Soya bean is a very rich source of plant-based protein that keeps your body fit and healthy. It provides ample nutrition and imparts energy. Soya bean also helps in reducing the cholesterol level, which further helps in boosting heart health.  Fat Soya bean is used in making oil which gives our body a balanced dose of fats. It has healthy polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, with small amounts of saturated fat Carbohydrates The good thing about soya bean is that it is a great source of healthy carbs and at the same time its glycemic index (GI) is low. Therefore, it is an excellent food for people with diabetes as it helps improve energy levels without increasing blood sugar levels. Fibre Soya bean is loaded with soluble and insoluble fibres which will keep you full for a longer time, thus aiding in weight loss. The healthy plant-based fibres also help in easing out bowel movements thus giving relief from constipation. Soya bean is a superfood, especially for vegetarians many of whom relish it as meat, hence it is also called vegetarian’s meat. So, include this versatile food in your diet and enjoy wholesome nutrition and amazing taste.  

13 Oct 2019
Positive Reads

Why Coconut Is Rightly Called a Superfood

I have always wondered why Keralites have dark lustrous hair and glowing skin. The secret I guess is in their diet which is rich in coconut. As I tried to find out more about coconut, I realized that it is a versatile fruit with a variety of essential nutrients that can be consumed as water, milk, meat which is edible fresh or dried. There has been a little controversy about coconut oil being unhealthy for the heart. Retired CSIRO scientist and honorary research fellow at the University of Queensland, Mike Foale, who has been studying the coconut palm for more than four decades dismisses such doubts and believes coconut is a superfood.  Here is a list of benefits that you can enjoy by incorporating coconut in your diet: Natural source of energy: Consumption of coconut water leads to an instant source of energy. Coconut water is ultra-hydrating due to the presence of electrolytes in it. It contains simple sugar, electrolytes, minerals, and bioactive compounds. Aids in Digestion: Coconuts are high in fiber, which helps the digestive system and supports bowel regularity. Besides this, coconut meat is known to strengthen gut bacteria, which protects against inflammations. Muscle Regeneration: The protein present in coconut helps in muscle regeneration. Magnesium helps to move calcium and potassium into muscles to aid in contraction and relaxation.  Glowing skin: Coconut contains copper and vitamin C that keeps skin elastic, flexible, moisturized and helps to heal wounds. The medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil also possess antimicrobial properties that can help treat acne and protect the skin from harmful bacteria. Other benefits: Ascorbic acid, B vitamins, and potassium present in coconut aids in heart health and supports the nervous system. Iron builds strong bones and magnesium causes relaxing effects physically and mentally. Did you know that coconut oil fights bacteria responsible for tooth decay and according to Irish research, it could be a healthy, non-chemical additive in toothpaste and mouthwash. I hope that gives you enough reasons to smile and include coconut in your diet.

10 Aug 2019
Positive Reads

Did You Know Music Acts As Therapy and Soothes Our Tired Nerves?

Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything – Plato. Did you know that music also acts as therapy and soothes our tired nerves? Whether you are behind the wheel in slow-moving traffic or you are burdened with household chores, music helps you get through the monotonous drag of daily life. Here, I am sharing with you some incredible benefits of music: Good music helps us to complete our tasks quicker, especially if you are doing something repetitive such as checking email or filing documents. Studies have found that upbeat tunes improved the efficiency and accuracy of workers. Listening to music before surgery reduces anxiety in patients and helps limit the need for sedatives. Studies have confirmed that anxiety and pain levels are considerably less in those patients who listen to music after surgery, thus reducing the need for pain medication. When one is listening to music, time flies. It has been proved that when music is playing, people judge the waiting period as shorter. Retailers use this to their advantage, playing music so that you stay longer and spend more. It has been observed that more food and drinks are sold in restaurants and bars where music is played. People seem to become more creative when happy music is played. They yield excellent creative output while listening to music rather than sitting in silence. This is because music triggers the creative juices to flow or relaxes you enough to enhance your creativity. Music has such a profound effect on our senses that it alleviates discomfort and helps us stay upbeat. That is the reason why music is played in gymnasiums. It reduces your urge to quit the workout and pushes you to exert more.

8 Aug 2019
Positive Reads

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