JUICE ISN'T THE FOOLPROOF SODA ALTERNATIVE Sports drinks, energy drinks and juices seem to provide at least some nutritional benefits and are often the alternative to sugary sodas; however, according to Jennifer Bowen, a dental assistant in Carmel, Indiana, "These drinks are loaded with sugar, too, which eventually causes tooth decay." Children are especially susceptible to tooth decay caused by sugary drinks, depending on their sippy cup usage. (The spout of the cup places drinks in close contact with tooth enamel, and children often "nurse" a cup in such a way that their teeth are constantly bathed with the sugary drink.) Even 100 percent pure juice is advisable only in limited quantities because of its naturally high sugar content. Bowen says that moms often give their children fruit juice, milk or fruit snacks before bed. The sugars coat the teeth overnight and can cause a condition called baby bottle tooth decay, which is early childhood tooth rot. Prevent this overnight decay by always brushing your teeth and your kids' teeth before bed. YOU'RE NOT THE ONLY ONE EATING THAT CANDY The bacteria in your mouth are loving your sweet tooth, too! These bacteria feed on the sugar in candy and produce acids that attack your enamel for up to 20 minutes after each bite. So if you're snacking on candy throughout the day (and not brushing your teeth constantly at the same time!), your teeth are constantly bombarded with the acids those bacteria create. Choose snacks such as cheese, yogurt and raw vegetables, or try one of these sweets that are actually good for your teeth. CUT THE CARBS Your tush and your teeth will thank you if you just step away from the carbs. Foods that contain sugars and starches -- aka carbohydrates -- fuel the bacteria that live inside your mouth. Like we said before, these bacteria produce acids that destroy tooth enamel, which ultimately results in tooth decay and cavities. You don't have to quit the carbs altogether, though: Just brush after you eat sugary and starchy foods, and limit snacking between meals. PUCKER UP YOUR POUT A surprising number of people eat lemons, according to Dr. Somers, without realizing that lemons' acidity causes teeth to erode. Get your lemon fix by drinking lemonade instead, but beware of both store-bought and homemade mixes with tons of sugar. If it feels like you just can't win, slice a lemon and toss it in a pitcher of water overnight. The lemon juice will infuse the water, giving you that lemon tang you desire without the dangers of straight lemon juice on your pearly whites. Sipping through a straw also helps the liquid bypass your teeth and prevent additional damage. MORE HARM THAN HELP Cough suppressants such as lozenges, cough drops and cough syrup often contain large quantities of sugar. According to Somers, sucking on a lozenge or cough drop can be just as damaging to your teeth as sucking on hard candy. Plus, she said, most people don't realize just how much sugar is in these medications, so they don't brush after consuming them -- which, of course, can cause tooth decay and cavities. Look for sugar-free versions of cough medicine, sip more water and brush regularly when taking any medication.

  1. Bananas help overcome depression due high levels of tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin -- the happy-mood brain neurotransmitter 2. Eat two bananas before a strenuous workout to pack an energy punch and sustain your blood sugar 3. Protect against muscle cramps during workouts and night time leg cramps by eating a banana 4. Counteract calcium loss during urination and build strong bones by supplementing with a banana 5. Improve your mood and reduce PMS symptoms by eating a banana, which regulates blood sugar and produces stress-relieving relaxation 6. Bananas reduce swelling, protect against type II diabetes, aid weight loss, strengthen the nervous system, and help with the production of white blood cells, all due to high levels of vitamin B-6 7. Strengthen your blood and relieve anemia with the added iron from bananas 8. High in potassium and low in salt, bananas are officially recognized by the FDA as being able to lower blood pressure, and protect against heart attack and stroke

  Cheese is a great source of protein and calcium. Since protein curbs hunger and keeps you feeling satisfied after meals and snacks, cheese can help you to lose weight. As part of a well-rounded nutrition plan, the protein in cheese can slow down the absorption of carbohydrates eaten at the same meal or snack and therefore help balance your blood-sugar levels and improve mood as well. Blue Cheese Reduced-fat or fat-free blue cheese is a good dietary choice to help with the management of gout and osteoporosis, and it also helps you to maintain strong, healthy teeth. Regular blue cheese is high in saturated fat, so limit your intake if you’re trying to lose weight or if you have high cholesterol, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, or memory problems. If you’ve identified aged cheese as a trigger food for your migraines, or cheese in general as a trigger for IBS, you should steer clear of blue cheese altogether. Cheddar Cheese Cheddar cheese is a sharp-tasting cheese that, like other cheeses, is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also calorie-dense and high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and memory loss, not to mention impede your weight-loss efforts. Choosing reduced-fat or fat-free cheddar cheese is a great way to take advantage of its nutritional benefits while minimizing unhealthy extras. The calcium in cheddar cheese helps maintain strong bones and teeth, may relieve PMS symptoms, and can help maintain healthy blood pressure. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts, choose low-sodium brands, and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) If you get migraine headaches, it’s important to know that aged cheeses like cheddar are a common trigger. IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Cottage Cheese Cottage cheese is a good source of protein and can be part of a healthy diet if you choose fat-free or reduced-fat varieties. (Full-fat cottage cheese contains extra calories and saturated fat, which can increase cholesterol levels and contribute to weight gain if eaten in excess.) Cottage cheese is also a good source of selenium, an antioxidant that can help prevent arthritis, and vitamin B12, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and memory loss. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts, choose low-sodium brands, and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Cream Cheese Cream cheese is a soft cheese spread that doesn't contain as much protein or calcium as other cheeses. Regular cream cheese is very high in fat, especially saturated fat, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and memory loss, not to mention impede your weight-loss efforts. Look for fat-free or reduced-fat cream cheese, and use it in moderation. IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Feta Cheese Feta cheese is a crumbly, salty cheese, commonly used in Greek food. Regular feta is relatively high in fat, especially saturated fat, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and memory loss, not to mention impede your weight-loss efforts. To keep calories in check, enjoy feta cheese in moderation — limit yourself to a one to two ounce portion per meal, and consider choosing reduced-fat varieties. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Goat Cheese Like other cheeses, goat cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also high in fat, especially saturated fat, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and memory loss, not to mention impede your weight-loss efforts if eaten in excess. To keep calories in check, enjoy goat cheese in moderation — limit yourself to a one to two ounce portion per meal. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) If you get migraine headaches, it’s important to know that aged varieties of cheese are a possible trigger. IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Mozzarella Cheese Mozzarella cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also calorie-dense and high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and memory loss, not to mention impede your weight-loss efforts. Choosing reduced-fat ("part-skim") or fat-free mozzarella cheese is a great way to take advantage of its nutritional benefits while minimizing unhealthy extras. The calcium in mozzarella cheese helps maintain healthy blood pressure. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts, choose low-sodium brands, and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) If you get migraine headaches, it’s important to know that aged cheeses like mozzarella are a common trigger (although mozzarella cheese is aged for less time than most aged cheeses and may be better tolerated). IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Parmesan Cheese Parmesan cheese is a popular hard cheese used in salads and pasta dishes. Because of its intense flavor, a little bit of Parmesan can go a long way, making it easier to eat in moderation. If you get migraine headaches, it’s important to know that aged cheeses like Parmesan are a common trigger. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Ricotta Cheese Ricotta cheese is a soft cheese and a good source of calcium and protein. Ricotta cheese can be part of a healthy diet if you choose reduced-fat ("part- skim") or fat-free varieties. (Full-fat ricotta contains extra calories and saturated fat, which can increase cholesterol levels and contribute to weight gain if eaten in excess.) Ricotta is also a good source of selenium, an antioxidant that can help prevent arthritis. IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Romano Cheese Romano cheese is a hard cheese with a sharp, salty flavor, similar to Parmesan cheese. Because of its intense flavor, a little bit of Romano can go a long way, making it easier to eat in moderation. If you get migraine headaches, it’s important to know that aged cheeses like Romano are a common trigger. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it. Swiss Cheese Swiss cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also calorie- dense and high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and memory loss, not to mention impede your weight-loss efforts. Choosing reduced-fat or fat-free Swiss cheese is a great way to take advantage of its nutritional benefits while minimizing unhealthy extras. The calcium in Swiss cheese helps maintain healthy blood pressure. (Note: Since most cheeses are high in sodium, people with high blood pressure should eat only moderate amounts, choose low-sodium brands, and factor the sodium content into their daily totals.) If you get migraine headaches, it’s important to know that aged cheeses like Swiss are a common trigger. IBS sufferers take note: Some people with IBS are sensitive to dairy and experience discomfort after eating it.

  Use these tips to reduce your salt intake: Avoid adding salt to foods at the table. Take stock of the sources of salt in your diet, such as restaurant meals, salt-based condiments, and convenience foods. Some of these are really loaded with salt. Read the labels when shopping. Look for lower sodium in cereals, crackers, pasta sauces, canned vegetables, or any foods with low-salt options. Or, eat less processed and packaged foods. Ask about salt added to food, especially at restaurants. Most restaurant chefs will omit salt when requested. If you need to use salt while cooking, add it at the end. You will need to add less.

  Generally, women complain of weakness, pain, heaviness and strain in their legs during pregnancy. There are a few women who develop strain and cramp problems in legs before going to bed while others suffer from leg swelling, especially during initial pregnancy days. The swelling increases in the evening and decreases in the morning. Many-a-times, women develop blue spider-web on thighs in this condition which gets thicker. This is called varicose veins problems. Sometimes blood gets accumulated in the leg veins resulting in red rashes and swelling. This may prove fatal for mother and foetus as well. 1. During pregnancy, regular jogging and simple leg exercise are important. 2. If any above symptoms arises during your pregnancy, do not avoid these and immediately consult a good vascular or cardio vascular surgeon. Get a check-up of your legs done every two months from a good vascular surgeon. 3. You should take care of legs to avoid these problems because their occurrence will require you to take lots of medicine which will be harmful to foetus. 4. Avoid standing for more than an hour in the same posture. Do not sit on the chair with legs hanging down for a long time. Do not use hard edged chair. 5. Working pregnant women should move their legs every hour in their work place. They should go for a short walk at regular intervals. 6. Do not use very hot water in winters for bathing and do not sit in the sun for a long time because excess heat increases the length of leg veins resulting in the accumulation of more impure blood there. 7. Pour cold water on legs after every tired activity. Place a pillow under the legs while lying. 8. Wear graduated compression stockings every day. This stockings made of special technique helps to prevent accumulation of impure blood in legs and improves blood circulation. 9. If sudden swelling develops in your leg, immediately go to a hospital which houses a cardio vascular or vascular surgeon and also has the facility of angiography, MR Venogram and Doppler study.

  కొన్ని ఆహార నియమాలు పాటించడం ద్వారా గుండె జబ్బులకు దూరంగా ఉండవచ్చంటున్నారు నిపుణులు. అవేంటో చూద్దాం. గుండె ఆరోగ్యానికి యాపిల్ చాలా మంచిది. అందులో ఉండే ఫైబర్ చెడు కొలెస్ట్రాల్‌ను గణనీయంగా తగ్గిస్తుంది. ఒక కప్పు యాపిల్ ముక్కల్లో 3.7 గ్రాముల ఫైబర్ ఉంటుంది. నారింజపండ్ల రసంలో బి9 విటమిన్ ఉంటుంది. ఇది గుండెజబ్బులకు దారితీసే హోమోసిస్టైన్‌ను తగ్గిస్తుంది. పచ్చిబఠానీల్లో బి2, బి6 విటమిన్లు పుష్కలంగా ఉన్నాయి. ఈ విటమిన్లు రక్తనాళాలను పదిలంగా కాపాడతాయి. రక్తనాళాలు దెబ్బతినడం వల్ల గుండెజబ్బులు వచ్చిపడతాయి. ద్రాక్షపండ్లు గుండెజబ్బులను దూరంగా ఉంచుతాయి. ద్రాక్ష వల్ల కొలెస్ట్రాల్ అదుపులో ఉంటుంది. ఫ్లావాన్స్, ఆంతోసైనిన్ వంటి ఎన్నో మంచి లక్షణాలు ద్రాక్షపండ్లలో ఉన్నాయి. ద్రాక్షను గోరువెచ్చని నీళ్లలో లేదా ఉప్పు నీటిలో క డిగి తీసుకోవడం వల్ల రసాయనాల ప్రభావం మనపై పడకుండా ఉంటుంది. వేరుశనగపప్పులు గుండెకు ఎంతో మేలు చేస్తాయట. రోజూ కాసిని వేరుశనగ పప్పులు, బాదంపప్పు, వాల్‌నట్స్ తీసుకుంటే గుండె నిక్షేపంగా ఉంటుందంటున్నారు నిపుణులు. వీటితో పాటు బీన్స్ కూర తరచుగా తనడం వల్ల కూడా మీ గుండె ఆరోగ్యంగా ఉంటుంది.

Your Morning Coffee   Good Morning, greets your Coffee!! You might be getting ready for work, or hurrying up your spouse for work, or your child. Having breakfast without fail is the best for you to stay healthy on a long run and gather some energy for the day. As tempting as it may be to heat up a cup of lukewarm coffee that you have forgotten to drink...the longer you leave the same coffee in a cup, the more likely it is to become contaminated by dirt, dust, or even a fly. it's especially risky if you use a dairy creamer. Not only could reheating dairy cause bacteria to grow, but it can also make it curdle, which might upset your stomach. Plus, the coffee quality suffers the more you reheat it, the more concentrated the brew (decoction) becomes and the more bitter it tastes. That's not a good way to start the day!!   - Prathyusha Talluri  

  కాళ్ళ నొప్పులు తగ్గాలంటే ఈ క్రింది చిట్కాలు పాటిస్తే సరిపోతుంది. గోరు వెచ్చటి నీటిని ధారగా ఎత్తి నొప్పి ఉన్నచోట పోయాలి. కాళ్లను కొబ్బరి నూనెతో, వంట నూనెతో గాని మర్దనా చేయడం వల్ల నొప్పి తగ్గుతుంది. కాళ్ల కండరాలకు వారానికి రెండు సార్లు కోల్డ్‌ ప్యాక్‌ వేసుకుంటే రిలాక్స్‌ అవుతాయి. వ్యాయామం, యోగ అలవాటు చేసుకోడం వల్ల శరీరంలో ఒత్తిడి, ఆందోళన తగ్గి కాళ్లు తేలికబడతాయి. వ్యాయామం చేస్తున్నప్పడు కాళ్లు నొప్పిగా అనిపిస్తే చెయ్యడం ఆపేయండి. అదే పనిగా చేస్తే కండరాలు దెబ్బతినే అవకాశం ఉంది. వాకింగ్‌ చెయ్యడం, నిద్రపోవడం, లేవడం ప్రతిరోజూ ఒకే సమయంలో చెయ్యాలి. రోజుకి కనీసం ఏడు గంటలైనా నిద్రపోవాలి. పొగాకుకు, మద్యానికి దూరంగా ఉండాలి. తాగే కాఫీ, టీలలో ఎక్కువ డికాషన్‌ ఉండకుండా చూసుకోవాలి. ఎలా బడితే అలా లేవకూడదు. అలా లేస్తే కండరాల నొప్పులొస్తాయి. అలసిపోయిన కాళ్లను మందులతో తగ్గించే ప్రయత్నం చెయ్యకుండా కాస్త విశ్రాంతి ఇస్తే త్వరగా ఉపశమనం ఇచ్చేవీలుంది. నొప్పి ఎక్కువగా వస్తుంటే వెంటనే డాక్టరుదగ్గరకు వెళ్లడం మంచిది.

  కొంత మందితో మాట్లాడటానికి ఇష్టపడతాం, మరికొంతమందిని చూస్తేనే చిరాకు వస్తుంది. ఎందుకంటే కొందరు నోటి దుర్వాసన సర్వ సాధారణంగా అందరూ ఎదుర్కొనే సమస్య. అసలు నోటి దుర్వాసన ఎందుకు వస్తుంది? మన ఆహారపు అలవాట్లు అందుకు కారణమా, మరింకేదైనా సమస్య కావచ్చా? ఇలాంటి ప్రశ్నలకు సమాధానాలు ఇవిగో... 1. మన నోటిలోని పలు బ్యాక్టీరియా విడుదల చేసే వాయువులు దంతాలు, చిగుళ్లూ, నాలుకపై ఒక పూతగా ఏర్పడి నోటి దుర్వాసనకు కారణం కావచ్చు. 2. సాధారణంగా పళ్ల సందుల్లో ఇరుక్కున్న ఆహార పదార్ధాలు వల్ల నోటి దుర్వాసన సమస్య తలెత్తుతుంది.అలాగే కట్టుడు పళ్లూ ఉంటే వాటిని సరైన రీతిలో శుభ్రపరచకపోయినా ఈ దుర్వాసన సమస్య వస్తుంది. పళ్లూ తోముకుంటె నోటి దుర్వాసన పోతుందనుకుంటే పొరపాటు. పళ్లూ శుభ్రంగా తోముకున్న కేవలం 60శాతం అదీ కూడా దంతాలపై భాగం మాత్రమే శుభ్రపడుతుంది. 3. ఇక పొగ తాగే వారిలో నోటి దుర్వాసన సమస్య అధికంగా ఉంటుంది. 4. తరచూ నోటితో గాలి పీల్చే వారిలో నోటి దుర్వాసన సమస్య ఎక్కువగా ఉంటుంది. అలాగే వెల్లుల్లి, ఉల్లి వంటి ఘాటైన పదార్ధాలు, కాఫీ సేవనం కూడా నోటినుంచి చెడు వాసనను వచ్చేలా చేస్తాయి. 5. ఏదైనా చిగుళ్ల వ్యాధి లేదా దంత సమస్య వస్తొందన్న సూచనగా నోటినుంచి చెడు వాసన వచ్చే ప్రమాదం ఉంది. 6. సైనసైటిస్‌, బ్రాంకైటిస్‌, డయాబెటిస్‌, కాలేయ, మూత్రపిండ వ్యాధులు లేదా ముక్కు, గొంతు, ఊపిరితిత్తులలో ఇన్‌ఫెక్షన్స్‌ వంటి ఆరోగ్య సమస్యలు కుడా నోటి నుంచి చెడు వాసనల వచ్చేలా చేయవచ్చు. 7. నోరు పొడిబారడం, వైద్య పరిభాషలో దీనినే క్సీరో స్టోమియా అంటారు. దినివల్ల నోటిలో లాలాజలం సరైనంత అందక అతిగా బ్యాక్టీరియా చేరి నోటి దుర్వాసనకు కారణం అయ్యే అవకాశం ఉంది. ముఖ్యంగా వృద్ధులు, గర్భిణీ స్ర్తీలు, మెనోపాజ్‌ దశలో ఉన్న స్ర్తీలలోనూ, పలు మందులు వాడే వారికీ ఈ క్సీరోస్టోమియా సమస్య వచ్చే అవకాశం ఉంది.

  Improves Learning and Memory Studies reveal that people who sleep for the required hours are far off better than those who do not get enough sleep by having a better memory and learning power. Thus, lack of sleep results in lack of memory and eventually, lack of learning. Good sleep alerts the mind and body, preparing it for accepting and learning new information through a process, known as memory consolidation. Hence, this primarily contributes to the critically importance of sleep for children and students. Most students stay awake the whole night to prepare for the upcoming exam not realizing that learning and memory function would be better when they get a proper sleep. Prevents and Cures Diseases One of the major health benefits of sleep is that it assists the body in fighting and recovering from numerous diseases and health problems. Why do your elders suggest you a sleep when you are down with a minor headache? Simple, sleep gives your body a chance to repair the damaged cells and functions, strengthen the immune system and avoid the beginning of other likely problems. Furthermore, proper sleep helps you to deal with physical and mental stress in a better way. Keeps your Weight under Control Are you one of those who’ve been following a strict diet and still putting on weight? Sleep is the answer to your question. Sleep is directly related to the metabolism of our body and hence affects gain and loss of body weight. Shortage of sleep gives a chance to the carbohydrates and fats to accumulate in the body to use them in dealing with the physical and mental stress on body. Per se, it affects the metabolism resulting in weight gain. Also, lack of sleep can cause hormonal changes thereby affecting our appetite. Balances our Moods How do you feel after a bad night’s sleep? Are you fresh and happy or irritable and distracted? Definitely, you are bound to feel sleepy the entire day, resulting in a bad day, undoubtedly. Conversely, observe your mood when you receive a good sound sleep. You will surely be perky and energetic. This is exactly the impact of what sleep has on your daily moods. Prevents Sleep Disorders Disturbed sleeping patterns can further lead to the development of various sleeping disorders, one being insomnia. Eventually, this lack of sleep can induce increased hypertension, stroke and heart diseases, and reduced strength in fighting with stressful circumstances. Therefore, the best way to keep sleeping disorders at bay is have a good night’s sleep. Ensures General Safety There have been two contrary thoughts on the state of a person while he is asleep. While one states that a person is most weak in his sleep, the other comments on the improvement of the person’s health while sleeping. Good sleep enhances body and mind alertness and hence, helps in preventing numerous mishaps and accidents that can otherwise occur due to lack of sleep. The story about ‘a man falling asleep while driving had to pay for his life’ sums up the entire concept behind sleep and safety.

These days, for the very slightest of the pains we pop in a pain killer tablet. We should take one, when our agonies are beyond our brink! We resort to the ‘Pain Killers’ very casually, rightly these should be called Pain killers with added miseries!! The frequent intake of these pills leads to peptic ulcers, renal failure, allergic reactions and occasionally, hearing loss too. Their intake paramount the risk of hemorrhage, by affecting our platelet functioning, which plays a prime role in blood clotting.  Instead peep into your kitchen for some pain killers! According to Danish Researchers, Ginger is thought to ease muscle and joint pains, swelling and stiffness. Add 2 teaspoons of chopped ginger to your daily meals and say goodbye to achy joints! Fed up with toothaches? Chewing on a clove for two straight hours can ease toothaches and inflamed gums states UCLA researchers. Adding ¼ teaspoon of grounded cloves also maintains blood sugar levels and slackens cholesterol. Our commonest foes are Headache, Arthritis and Gout which can be battled out by a bowl of cherries. These are very modest on your stomach and tongue too! When an agitation is put up within you stomach, nibble on fish. Its fatty acids are potential anti-inflammatory agents! Bloating of tummy is also very annoying but a common issue, Stanford University California recommends a cup of pineapple as an antidote Foot pains can be pacified by warm salt baths. Salt being anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial can cure foot pains within four days!! Is your work piling up because your spine refuses to stand still? A cup of grapes can be of great help! It boosts up the blood flow which is essential in healing back tissues! Next time make sure you have a cup of grapes at your working desk! When migraine never seems to die even after gulping pain killers,  then catch hold of a cuppa! Coffee speeds up and increase the effectiveness of the pain killers Instead of popping in too many Pills!! Try these and stay ache free!!

It is very depressing to know that our standard diets are filled with sugar. Moreover most of us have a sweet-tooth, which is uncontrollable in many! Sugar besides being sweet it is also lousy on our health! The sugary foods we crave for may not be too sweet after all! A normal individual consumes about 20 teaspoons of sugar every day, while the recommended allowance; for women is no more than 6 teaspoons a day, for men no more than 9 teaspoons a day. While our younger folks consume a whooping amount of 32 teaspoons a day! We develop a liking towards sweetmeats because it releases opiate-like substance that activate certain areas of brain, Thus Sugar is addictive The refined sugar we consume in bulk is devoid of nutritional value besides it empties calories. It acidifies our digestive system and drains out vitamin and minerals particularly calcium from bones and teeth. It also depletes potassium and magnesium. It suppresses our immune system and lead to overproduction of enzymes, thus pressurizing Pancreas It causes high blood pressure, skin complications and acne by impairing liver  functions It compresses the blood flow, inducing dental caries and elevates visible wrinkles, thus giving us an aged look! Consumption of refined sugar causes Vitamin B deficiency thus leading to cardiovascular diseases, fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, indigestion, obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. The production of sugar is growing faster than its consumption which makes it cheaper and easily available! The soft drink grab are the main sources of sugars in our diet. An average can of soda has about 40 grams of sugar i.e., 10teaspoons of sugar. So stay away from Cola Cans!! The abrupt withdrawal of refined sugar from our diet is not advisable; instead gradual removal of sugar is much more desirable. The other better substitutes would be honey and jaggery Kick out the sugar coatings from your diets!!

Simple tips for healthy digestion Luxurious living is nothing but having healthy life till your last breath. Once a health expert said to me, “what’s the fun in kicking the bucket time and again and make noise… Kick once strongly and make a goal. I find this statement so very true. Being Fit and fine throughout the life is the best thing one can desire for… believe me nothing can beat this feeling . But how? How do we achieve this? Answer is simple.…. Having good eating habits can alone help you to be there. These habits should be in correct time and correct place to guarantee that your digestive system is in right place.  Here are few simple tips for healthy digestion: Do’s: • Ensure that your food contains more of Fruit juices, leafy vegetables, butter milk, fibre food and you drink plenty of water. • Try to reduce the intake of Meat, starched and oily foods during late evenings. If you happen to eat them drink more water and butter milk. • Always finish your dinner as early as possible; make sure you have 2 hours gap between your supper and sleep. • Stay no to Spicy foods, Tea, Coffee and alcohol before you hit the bed. Don’ts • Never ever swallow food without chewing. • Don’t continue eating even though your stomach is sending a no signal. Have some gap and feel comfortable after completion of meal. • Don’t consume too much of water while eating your food; wait for 20 minutes after the meal and then drink water. • Mid night meals lead to acidity, try to avoid them; whenever you are feeling acidic, give some gap, do fasting by slipping a meal; during this time take cold milk and more water to bring your appetite back to normal. • Avoid stress in your life. M.S. Bhavana  

  Salads : Surprisingly salad are being tagged unhealthy for the sole reason that they are brimming with preservatives and other additives and thus adding an unceasing amount of sodium and sugar which are proven bad for us. Moreover the raw veggies cannot be trusted to be devoid of the chemical fertilizers. Instead it’s better to have veggies that are sautéed in olive oil Trail Mix : Nuts and dried fruit trail mix is a complete misnomer for a healthy snack. As these have the salted nuts and sweetened dried fruit which are sometimes added upon by chocolate. These are full on loaded with sodium and sugar. So jus t a hand full of the trail mix can add on about 300-plus calories!! So read the nutrition labels carefully and replace them with the fresh fruits, unsalted nuts and unsweetened dried fruits Fat free Products : Stay away from the fat free trap. Just because something is fat free doesn’t become healthy. These fat free goods are pumped with loads of sugar. Instead of the sugared goods its better too add on honey or jaggery because they have iron supplements too. Energy Drinks : Wanna boost up your spirits?! Grabbing an energy drink is the unhealthiest way. These Drinks have high amounts of caffeine and sugar which act as stimulants. Our belief, that these supplement for the nutrient is just so wrong. They neither are healthy nor are supplementing our nutritional needs, its best to avoid them. Instead a Banana or water can rehydrate as well as energize us. Frozen Foods : These frozen or the processed foods may seem as the simplest way to check our calories; unfortunately these are far lagging behind at nutrition levels. During preservation process Vitamins are drained out primarily Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2 and Vitamin A. During preservation the pathogens are deactivated but not wiped out thus they resume their growth when the food defrosts, this is a major hazards. Not all frozen foods are labeled healthy foods, before gulping some of these make sure to check out the nutrition facts first!   These are been stereotyped as healthy, though they might prove dangerous to our well being. Keep them away!!   - Siri

  Some foods can prove to be very good for the mastermind organ, Brain. Specific nutrients can also affect cognitive processes and emotions thus controlling the brain functioning. Some of the brainy foods are: Beets : This root vegetable helps in boosting the brain power. Scientists at Wake Forest University stated that the natural nitrates available in Beets are responsible for vasodilatation thus enabling better blood flow to brain and enhancing mental performance. It is a great source of folate manganese and betaine which also reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases Sage extracts : It is indeed sage in its properties! Its constituent compounds prevent the break down of the neurotransmitter; acetylcholine which is chiefly functional in learning, memory and other cognitive processes. Sardine-Oily Fish : This fish is packed with the essential fatty acids, which are polyunsaturated fats and are vital for the functioning of Brain and Retina. It is stocked with Omega-3-Fatty acids, which strengthen the communication between neural cells and reinforce neurotransmitters responsible for mental focus! Egg yolks : Eggs,  more specifically egg yolks are major sources of vitamins and minerals. It contains most of the egg’s fat, cholesterol and protein. Yolks are a leading source of Choline, which is a precursor for acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter. According to Swiss researchers, High protein morning meal improves overall cognitive performance Oats : Oats are touted, commercially nutritious and healthy, because of their unique cholesterol lowering properties. Glucose is the primary fuel for our Brain which comes from carbohydrates which are abundant in oats. Lentils : Legumes are intact with folate and Vitamin B aiding in boosting brain power. Folate plays a vital role in decreasing levels of amino acids that impair brain functioning. Flaxseeds : Flaxseeds are the best source of essential fatty acids and Omega-3-Fatty acids which improve the working of cerebral cortex thus strengthening sensory processes. Walnuts : Scientist at Tufts University in Boston found that a diet rich in walnuts can improve mental performance .It boosts brain power because of specific variants of antioxidants and Omega-3-Fatty acids Gulp down the Brainy Foods!! Stayy Brainyy!!   - Siri

  We all believe in the statement that “our food habits and our life style define our age”…. If you have healthy food habits you can stay and look young… this the one good thing we all are aspiring in our lives day in and day out. Few people go to gym and spend time ours together to maintain health. Few people visit parlours and cosmetic clinics to trim down their aging. But do you know that by reducing sugar content in your daily meal you can stay young? How to replace: If are using more sugar in your Tea/ coffee and juices reduce that immediately. If you have a sweet tooth, try to take more fruits which are having sugar in natural form. Say good bye to soft drinks, baked foods and junk foods; Fast foods can slow down your metabolism and push you towards obesity and other health disorders. According to a study, If you like chocolates and eat them often, after few days your habit of eating chocolates and candies only will remain as children’s but you will see early aging symptoms on your face and skin comparative to the people who don’t consume them much. Try to consume drink in milk and juices ( milk or vegetable ) without sugar. You may add honey to them if you want some sweetish taste to the drinks. If you avoid/ cut down the use of sugar in the food given to kids they will enjoy all the food items with their natural tastes. They not only enjoy this when they grow up but live healthily and youth fully.   - M.S. Bhavana

  “Tulasi” scientifically known as  Ocimum sanctum is not only our  holy plant but has lot of medicinal values.  Juice extracted from Tulasi  leaves will build resistance power and immunity in our bodies and can  be consumed as home medicine for several  health disorders. If you are suffering from seasonal fevers like malaria  or  dengue then  extract 1 spoon of Tulasi juice  and prepare a decoction with that and  consume like tea for 2-3 times in a day. Tulasi leaves can increase memory power in children and it also gives  strength to the nervous system in the body. therefore try to give 10-12  leaves to children every day. Take around 10 Tulasi leaves, add 1 tea spoon of Ajwain (also known  as carom) , prepare a decoction and drink twice a day to get relief from  respiratory problems. Combined paste of Tulasi leaves, Neam leaves added with turmeric powder  can reduce your skin disorders if applied regularly to the acne face and  effected areas. Tooth problems like tooth decay, gum disease  and  bad breath  can be  cured using Tulasi leaves powder   mixed along with tooth paste. If you are having severe head- ache,  Take some Tulasi leaves powder and  mix it with sandal powder make a paste using rose water and apply this on  your forehead to get a quick relief. So, If you have Tulasi plant in your premises make use of it ; if not then   plant Tulasi immediately and stay healthy.   - Bhavana

  Undoubtedly we all are rain lovers and love to enjoy during this Monsoon season by doing so many adventurous things right from Crazy drives to Trekking…. Eating road-side chat to experimenting in different hang-out spots. Drenching ourselves completely is the most maddening and fun full part during the rainy season. However we tend to fall sick so very often which might cause so much of disturbance in our daily routine. To avoid this situation and stay fit and healthy during the Monsoon, Here are few tips for you: 1. Avoid outings when you expect a heavy pour. If you still have an emergency to go out, try to carry your umbrella all the time. Even if you are travelling in car, still try to have an umbrella as it protects you from sudden showers when you are walking down the parking area. 2. Whenever you get wet, you must take bath and also wash your hair with lukewarm water; mix 1 spoon turmeric powder and 2 table spoons of rock salt in 1 bucket of water and use this for bathing. 3. Try to add 2-3 drops eucalyptus oil in 1 full bucket of Water and take bath with this water. 4. Never skip your early morning walks and jogging as that makes you lazy. If you cannot complete the full session, at least make it half; so that, this will help you to continue better workouts in future seasons. 5. Don’t neglect your health disorders; Even if you have little cough or cold or fever, visit your doctor immediately and get the right medication done. 6. If you have small kids in the family, reduce your outings and cut down on your eat outs. As food is the major source to spread allergies and infections. 7. Cut down the junk foods from your routine and fat contained food from your regular diet as digestion process will be little dull during Rainy season. 8. If you have severe cold, it may lead to constipation also; take more of semi liquids and fibre food. 9. Being discipline at food and exercise can definitely help you to be fit and fine throughout the season. All the best!! Have a healthy and Happy Monsoon!!   - Bhavana