HEALTH CARE TIPS

Super Foods for health

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:56:00 +0000

In this short article I touch on some foods which are easily available but ignored by people as they do not find them maybe tasty / interesting or attractive to eat. However these everyday foods and fruits provide tremendous natural benefits and eaten right, can add to health and healthy living. It makes a lot of sense to include these foods in one's diet to enjoy their benefits over the long term. Not all of them can be eaten everyday, but try and include them in your diet pattern so as to enjoy their benefits over the long term, especially in your middle and old age.

The first food is a herb - Cinnamon. This herb is a must have for all. It helps control blood sugar levels, lowering the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The spice's active ingredients- especially thylhydroxychalcone polymers - increase the human cells' ability to metabolize sugar by up to twenty times. Increase usage of this herb, by adding it to your coffee, tea or breakfast cereal. Sprinkle this herb and add value to your foods. Cinnamon has been found to significantly reduce bad cholesterol levels and is a must add on for people with a penchant for eating out, eating fast foods and generally unable to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy the natural protection provided by mother nature and stay fit.
The second food is a fruit juice - Pomegranate Juice. This juice is a super health drink and helps fight blood pressure and health problems. Drinking just two ounces of this juice daily, helps decrease systolic blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart. It also provides a significant portion of the daily vitamin C requirement. It makes sense, to drink a little everyday or if the bottled juice is not easily available, simply eat the fruit.
The third food is a vegetable - Cabbage. This not a much loved food in many households. But one cup of chopped cabbage has only 25 calories but enough valuable nutrients such as sulforaphane, which increases the body's production of enzymes, which disarm cell damaging free radicals and reduce cancer risk. It therefore makes eminent food sense to munch some cabbage salad along with your meals daily.
The fourth food is a root - Beetroot. This is one of the best sources of folate and betaine. They work together to lower the blood levels of homocysteine, which reduces damage to arteries and helps prolong life. Beetroot is also a natural cancer fighter and a little of this root taken every other day helps keep the body fit. The root can be taken as a salad or as a side dish, lightly sautéed and cooked.
The fifth food is a fruit- Guava. This is an excellent source of lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant that helps fight prostrate cancer. It also has a lot of potassium and vitamin C. Enjoy it whole along with the skin, which is where most of the vitamins are hidden.

These five foods help in keeping the heart healthy, fight cancer and also fight age related debilitation. Enjoy a healthy, long life with them. It makes sense to add them to your diet and cut out the red meat and heavy salt intake.

Daily Foods for a Healthy Heart

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:54:00 +0000

I have written articles on foods for skin and foods that you can apply on the skin for that special glow. In this article I talk about some natural herbal foods that are excellent for the heart and help decrease the possibility of heart damage. Of course, these foods need to be combined with daily exercise, moderate drinking and reduced ( zero) smoking. There are many foods available in nature which help decrease bad cholesterol, reduce blood pressure and keep arteries healthy. I give below some of the foods that are helpful. It is recommended that a person include these foods in one's diet slowly and tries to ingest at least two out of the below mentioned foods daily to stay healthy and fit.

First let me give some general life style tips which help in reducing heart related problems.
Stop smoking and kick this bad habit to lower heart damage and lung damage.
Try brisk walking for 20 minutes at a time and find long term benefits.
Try cutting down on sugar and salt intake. A reduced intake of common salt is also recommended for people with blood pressure problems.
It also important to reduce weight if overweight. The heart of an overweight person has to work harder and over weight people tend to have fat deposits and bad cholesterol which clogs up arteries.
Avoid junk food. Reduce intake to once in a month. This kind of food contains harmful trans fats which clog up the arteries.

The following foods help fight heart problems. They might just be the thing for you. So try them out by incorporating them in your diet.
Soya lowers bad cholesterol, provides health proteins and helps fight heart disease. Try mixing 50 / 60 grams of Soya to your daily food and find a marked difference to your energy levels.
Bengal Gram can be prepared in the form of a soup and ingested everyday. It is delicious and provides significant nutrients which help fight bad cholesterol and triglycerides. 40/50 grams of this lentil ingested every other day provides health benefits which lead directly to a better heart and lowers the risk of an heart attack by up to 20%.
Garlic is a wonder herb. It helps fight against cough, cold, minor infections and also helps boost immunity levels. Ingesting just 2-3 cloves daily helps reduce fat deposits in the arteries and lower heart threatening homocystenine/homocysteine levels in the blood.
Psyllium Husk , just 2- 3 small spoons (10-15 grams) a day , taken with water daily helps with digestion, lowers blood cholesterol and also aids in reducing blood sugar levels in type II diabetes. So go for this herb on a daily basis and let your body feel the difference.
Fenugreek is a well known herb used worldwide for treatment of type II diabetes and is well known for it's anti inflammatory properties. This specific characteristic helps in prevention of narrowing of arteries, helps control blood pressure and blood sugar levels and cuts the risk of a stroke in some cases by up to 30%. Do incorporate 20/30 grams of this herb in your daily diet to significantly reduce stroke risk over the longer term.
Just two pieces of Indian Gooseberry a day significantly cut the risk of an heart stroke by up to 15%. This fruits contains powerful anti oxidants and vitamin C which help boost immunity levels in the body and lower bad cholesterol formation. Enjoy this fruit raw or preserved and enjoy the benefits of the natural herb over the whole day.

I would recommend consuming at least two of these foods daily to find significant benefit. However do try to consume all of the above foods on a weekly basis. The combination of these foods is extremely beneficial over the long run for the human heart and body and the benefits can only be experienced.

Hair Loss Prevention and Help

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:54:00 +0000

Hair is continuously growing and is being shed simultaneously. At any time, hair is growing and replacing shed hair. When this process gets disrupted, hair loss may occur. Hair loss can be psychologically a big put down, because every one is to some extent, worried about baldness and looks. Hair loss can be a major blow to a person's self esteem and if it can be checked, it can certainly add value to external beauty and looks and give a boost to self confidence and self worth.
Some common causes of hair loss are as follows.

Hormonal changes in the body related to medication, pregnancy, thyroid problems can cause hair loss. Normally if the hormonal balance is restored, hair loss can be checked to some extent.
Some diseases like, diabetes etc can result in hair loss. This kind of hair loss problem is normally difficult to control but with proper care and treatment, it may be possible to reduce the hair loss.
There are some life saving drugs and other strong antibiotics which can result in hair loss. If it is possible to find the exact medicine causing the problem, it may be possible to change the medication and prevent hair loss.
Fungal infections and bacterial infections can also cause hair loss. This kind of hair loss can normally be treated well, by correct medication given by a skin specialist.
Improper hair care, especially regular perming ( resulting in scarring of the scalp), continuously blow drying hair and continued use of chemicals for hair coloring purposes can cause permanent hair damage and loss.
Some people have a hereditary tendency to baldness. This may be termed male pattern baldness, leading to hair loss with a receding hairline, thinning hair and baldness at the top of the scalp.

I will give below some herbal home remedies for hair loss. It is suggested that you may try them for a month or so to find some change in your hair loss problem. Incase, one home remedy does not seem to work, do try a different remedy to find relief. Not all remedies work on all kind of problems.

Take 50 ml of coconut hair, heat it and add three flakes of garlic (squeeze the garlic juice into the oil) and four peppercorns (crush them into the oil). Let the oil cool by itself and then massage this oil into the hair. Regular application, will stimulate hair growth and result in healthy voluminous hair over time.
An excellent hair tonic can be prepared by mixing almond oil, olive oil and castor oil in equal proportion. Massage this daily into the hair to stimulate hair growth and improve hair texture.
Another herbal remedy that works to reduce hair loss is prepared with olive oil. Take 20 ml olive oil and add one teaspoon honey and one teaspoon cinnamon powder to the mixture. Mix well to create a smooth paste. Apply this paste to the scalp and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Repeat every three days for a month to find reduced hair loss and better thicker hair.
Many people suffer from minor infections in the scalp, which may be causing hair loss. A simple herbal remedy to check this kind of hair loss is easy to prepare. Mix two tablespoons (around 20 ml ) of ginger juice with one tablespoon (10ml) of lime juice in a bowl. Apply this to your hair, by massaging the same into your scalp. This will help prevent minor infections, reduce itching and stimulate hair growth. Leave on for 30 minutes and then wash off with warm water. Create this mixture, fresh every time, and use it once a week for 4 weeks to find significant improvement.
A quick and simple remedy for hair loss is simply crushing some garlic cloves and massaging the same into your scalp. This will improve blood circulation and it is recommended once every two weeks as a good way to stimulate hair follicles.
Good diet is also essential for improving the condition of the hair. It is important to drink plenty of water, raw salads, yoghurt, leafy vegetables and whole grain cereals. Cutting down on fried snacks, salt, sugar and aerated drinks helps in general skin and hair care.
Try shifting to herbal shampoos containing, herbs such as henna, Lemon grass, Mint, Hibiscus, Neem. These shampoos are any day better then detergent based shampoos which can contribute to hair loss.

In case, hair loss is permanent and irreversible, then the only recourse is hair grafting or a wig. However many males look stunning with a bald head also so all is not lost if hair loss does not stop. The above remedies will normally work well in cases of minor hair loss if started well in time. It is best to treat conditions of severe hair loss through medical intervention. Take care.

Relief from Sun Burns, the Easy Natural Way

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:53:00 +0000

The human skin is delicate and reacts to prolonged exposure to sun light especially the Ultra Violet light. Prolonged exposure to sun rays leads to red inflamed skin which can cause itching and burning sensations. Too long an exposure to sun, can have detrimental long term effects on the skin.
There are many sun protection creams available in the market with variable SPF levels. In general, what ever cream, you use, you need to re apply same every 2-3 hours for it to remain effective.
The best protection against sun burn is to wear long sleeved cotton shirts and pants and try to protect the neck and face with sunglasses and a sun hat. Incase this is not possible and the desire to get a tan is strong, then you need to be prepared for a sun burn which can happen to anyone.
In general, dark skins are better equipped to handle harsh sun compared to light skinned people. This is nature's way to protect people in harsh climatic conditions.
If the skin has been sun burnt, some natural remedies that you can use are as follows.
These remedies are effective in light sun burn cases and will provide relief after the first application itself. You will need to repeat them every six hours for a complete solution.

An easy to use remedy is to take 3 tablespoons of milk and add a pinch of soda bicarbonate to the same. Dab this mixture on the face and affected areas with a cotton swab. Let it dry naturally and wash off with cold water after fifteen minutes. You will find a cool sensation and relief. Repeat this remedy, 4 - 5 times to find complete cure.

Another remedy suited especially to oily skin which has been sun burnt is to mix one tea spoon of potato juice with one teaspoon of lemon juice in a cup. Apply this mixture with a cotton swab to the affected area and leave on for 15 minutes. Wash off with cold water to find relief. Repeat 3 - 4 times every six hours to find a change in complexion and relief from that sun burn.

If the skin perspires and smells bad and is sun burnt the following remedy will be useful. Add 20 ml of rose water to 5 ml of lime juice and apply with a cotton swab to the affected areas. Leave this overnight and get up in the morning smelling fresh. Wash off with cold water to find relief from sun burns.

Banana is a natural skin whitener and used in many beauty treatments also. Mash a banana in a cup and apply it on the affected areas. Leave on for 15 minutes and then wash off with cold water. Repeat this every six hours to find relief from sun burns.

It is highly recommended that prolonged exposure to the sun be avoided. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause many long term problems including premature wrinkling, skin discoloration and in severe cases, a form of skin cancer. Severe sun burn cases need to be treated in a specialized hospital as they are a serious skin condition. Stay safe..

Tooth Ache- Herbal Home Cures

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:53:00 +0000

Toothache is one of the most unbearable conditions that can be experienced by a person. It can be throbbing, continuous pain, totally disrupting normal day to day work or it can be severe, unrelenting pain which can make a person scream in agony.
The best solution is to rush to a dentist and get a professional to look at it. However, in cases where this might not be immediately possible, it may be necessary to try a few herbal home remedies for temporary relief.
Tooth ache caused by Cavities which involve the root (nerve ending) to be exposed to the elements requires a filing or in severe cases, a root canal treatment. The last and least recommended recourse is tooth extraction.
The following home remedies can provide some relief.
Dip a cotton swab in vanilla essence and press it against the affected tooth. Do make sure you target the correct tooth, as referral pain can sometimes make identification difficult.
Clove oil is a well known and favored home treatment for tooth ache. It does work, but it is important to be careful to avoid excess of this oil especially on the gums, as it can cause ulcers to develop.
Try a little Turmeric powder pressed into the affected tooth. This can also provide relief without any ill effects. Take Turmeric powder on a cotton swab and push it into the cavity of the affected tooth for relief.
Another easy to use remedy is to peel a clove of garlic and press it against the tooth for relief. The juice of the garlic is an effective natural anaesthetic and will provide immediate relief.

At times, tooth ache may develop after an extraction or after serious dental work has been performed. Normally the dentist will recommend pain killers to provide relief. In case of severe pain and in case, you would like to avoid these pain killers try the following. Bleeding gums can also be treated with these remedies.
Take a tea bag and dip it in a bowl of iced water. Apply this moist cold tea bag to the affected area for relief.
Take black pepper and holy basil (Tulsi) leaves in equal proportions and grind them into a paste. Apply this paste on the affected areas to find relief and also faster healing.

I hope you found some remedy for immediate relief from tooth pain. A visit to the dentist is very important to understand the reason for this ache. Sometimes minor aches may be caused by bleeding gums or abrasion of the tooth enamel and receding gums. These kind of problems may require home treatments or specialized care ( especially professional cleaning) and improvement in oral hygiene. Take the advice of a dentist to find permanent relief and cure

Fix a loose Stomach, the natural Way

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:52:00 +0000

A loose stomach can happen to anyone and anywhere. It may be caused by infected food or water. It may also be caused by food that is not compatible with the body or weather conditions.
A bad stomach will normally cause discomfort and weakness. It may fix itself in a few days but it is important to prevent dehydration during the period. To prevent dehydration, a good solution is to drink lemonade with added sugar and salt. Another option is to use oral hydration packets available at all major chemist shops.
Incase, of severe stomach problems the doctor will prescribe some sort of an antibiotic for the problem. However this will normally leave a bad taste in the mouth and spoil the appetite of the patient.
There are some home remedies and natural remedies that work well in many cases. A patient can avoid the use of strong antibiotics and get the problem in control in many of these cases. However if the stomach is not improving even after 2 days of home treatment it is advisable to visit a doctor to prevent weakness and dehydration and serious complications.
Some remedies that work in the case of an upset loose stomach are as follows.
A simple cure involves chewing raw guava leaves. Take two to three leaves, wash them and chew them. This will normally help stabilize the stomach quickly. Repeat after 5 hours till problem is fixed.
Another quick cure for diarrhea is with fenugreek seeds. Roast 5 grams (one teaspoonful) of fenugreek seeds and then add them to a glass of semi (slightly ) warm water and drink up. Repeat after 4 hours to find relief.
I have also experienced gratifying results with homeopathy. Two remedies that have worked very well for me are as follows.
For diarrhea (diarrhoea) accompanied with lots of flatulence, alternate Podophyllum 30CH with Nux Vomica 30 CH four times daily. Relief should be experienced within 3 hours. In case there is slight fever, then stomach infection may be indicated. In such a case, a doctor is recommended. Meanwhile a few doses of Arsenicum Album 30CH should also help fix the stomach.
For a loose stomach without any apparent cause, where the motions are difficult to control, Aloe 30CH is very effective. Alternate this with Nux Vomica 30CH to find a fix within hours.
Needless to say, if self medication, does not work, it is important to rush to a doctor. It is also important to keep the body hydrated during the treatments.
It is always better to find a cure with natural remedies. If these remedies do not work, a doctor will normally recommend an antibiotic which may be necessary in severe stomach infections

Protect your Throat, the Natural Way

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:51:00 +0000

One source of infection that is over looked by most people is the humble toothbrush. Left over night, it can be a potential source of problem for the throat and mouth. I would suggest keeping a small box or container of common salt in the kitchen cabinet. Every morning, before brushing the teeth, soak the brush in a glass of hot water to which a teaspoonful of common salt has been added. This helps to disinfect the toothbrush and also helps keep it clean.
Cloves are a natural antiseptic and very useful in treating throat and mouth infections.They can also act as a preventive measure and protect the throat. Just chew one clove every morning (after removing the 'flower') to find daily protection for the throat against harmful germs.
Some individuals may not like the smell or taste of cloves. They may alternatively chew five to six holy basil leaves, every morning. In the Ayurveda system of medicine, Holy Basil is well renowned for the protection it offers to the throat . If you do not have access to these leaves every morning, try cultivating a small plant at home.
Another simple way is to squeeze a little fresh ginger juice (3-4 ml) in the morning. Mix it with 5 ml of honey and take it after brushing the teeth. Ginger and honey will help protect the throat during the day.
Another herb that helps to protect the throat is Turmeric. Turmeric has anti allergy properties and will help in protecting against allergic conditions of the throat. To use it effectively, take half a cup of hot water, add a pinch of salt and 5 grams of Turmeric powder to it. Drink this mixture every night during the 'allergic' season to protect your throat.
Incorporate the habit of gargling with a glass of lukewarm water to which a pinch of salt has been added every night before bed, after brushing your teeth. This good habit will help disinfect the throat and mouth and is very beneficial for long term protection of the throat.
Many people have trouble with their throats and bronchial tubes during the dusty weather and in work environments that include a lot of dust and outdoor sales work. These kind of individuals can benefit immensely by chewing a small lump of Jaggery , during the day. The Jaggery helps cleanse the throat and bronchial tubes off dust and other irritants providing, a moisturizing and cleaning effect. it goes without saying that diabetics, cannot use this remedy as Jaggery is primarily unprocessed sugar.

Cure the Cough, the Natural Way

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:50:00 +0000

Cough can happen to anyone for multiple reasons. It may be a symptom of a throat infection caused by a bacterial infection or it may be an allergic reaction to the environment or some specific food.
Nature has provided many herbs and foods that help in curing minor coughs and irritations. These home cures work well in cases where the cause of the cough may be indeterminate or allergic in nature. In case of severe bacterial infections of the throat with high fever, these remedies can only provide some relief but the curative solution will lie with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
However, these cough cures are an excellent alternative to alcohol based cough syrups and concoctions available in the market which may case drowsiness and at times do more harm than good.
I am giving below multiple herbal home cures for cough. All of them work but you need to find one that works for your specific kind of problem.
Honey is well accepted way of providing cough relief. One way to us it effectively is to combine it with the curative properties of the onion. To get rid of an irritating cough, pour 2 teaspoons of honey on a freshly cut slice of onion. Cover it and let is lie for four to five hours. Then take one teaspoon of this honey after removing the onion piece. You will find immediate relief. Repeat the second teaspoon after three to four hours.
Another remedy effective in cough with a cold is as follows. Take one onion, five basil leaves, two cloves and five peppercorns in 200 ml of water. Boil them together till the water reduces by half. Sip this hot concoction, thrice daily to find substantial relief from cough and cold.
A persistent allergic cough is very irritating. It dies not seem to go away easily and keeps the patient irritated all day long. If you can't find a cause, try this cure. Take a guava (fruit) and bake it in an oven. Eat this baked guava once a day for three to four days and you will find substantial relief.
Another quick fix for minor coughs is turmeric. Take half a glass of hot water and add a pinch of salt to it. Stir. Then add half a teaspoon of turmeric powder to it. Drink this mixture once daily for three days to find relief. This is also an effective pre emptive way to protect the throat from persistent infections.
For a sore throat and cough, try turmeric with milk. Add a teaspoonful of turmeric powder to a glass of milk and boil it. Sip this hot milk, morning and evening to find relief from a sore, painful throat and cough.
Another herb that works well in case of throat problems in ginger. Squeeze one teaspoonful of ginger juice and add an equal quantity of honey to it. Ingest this concoction and then follow up with a cup of hot milk to find relief from cough and minor throat problems.
Another remedy is to take half a cup of hot water, add three teaspoons of fresh lime juice to it, one teaspoon of honey and one teaspoon of ginger juice. Mix well and sip this concoction, three times daily, to find relief from cough.

Cervical Spondylosis: Corrective Measures and Relief

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:48:00 +0000

This is a common degenerative condition of the Cervical Spine. As Cervical Disks age, they fragment, desiccate and collapse. The condition in general is referred to as Cervical Spondylosis. There may be various degrees of pain and symptoms may vary in intensity and time. There does not seem to be a permanent , complete solution to this problem, however remission and possible slowdown of this condition is possible through some traditional and non traditional measures.

This condition causes various symptoms. Some common ones are as follows.
Stiff ( rigid ) Neck with pain.
Neck Pain radiating to the shoulders.
Pain at the Neck and Shoulder joints.
Unexplained Headaches.
Spinning Sensation in the Head.
In some cases, loss of manual dexterity and numbness in arms and hands may be experienced.

Some Possible Causes are as follows.
A genetic propensity to this problem cannot be ruled out.
Repeated Occupational Trauma can be a cause.
Accidents or injuries caused to the Neck area may be a contributing factor.
Smoking may also aggravate this problem.

This problem can be reduced and relief from pain can be experienced by a combination of following possible treatments.

Neck exercises, advised and supervised by a trained Chiropractor can help in strengthening neck muscles and can provide relief. It is important to strictly follow the advice of a trained doctor and practice the light exercises on a regular basis to find relief.
A light massage by a trained practitioner can help in this condition. Ancient Indian Ayurveda treatments for this condition can and will be useful. They can help in providing long term remission and relief.
Hot and cold packs applied by a trained doctor can also help in remission and relief. It is important to take the advice of a doctor to get the treatment right.
Some doctors recommend soft collars or a cervical pillow for neck support. This may help to a certain degree in a few specific cases.
Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs like aspirin etc taken on the advice of the doctor can provide temporary relief.
Life style modification is highly recommended for long term relief. Light exercise, avoiding Cigarettes and some Yoga will definitely help in long term remission of the problem. Some doctors call this disease a 'Life style disease' as many patients have sedentary work habits, with long hours on the computer , sitting on poorly designed chairs with poor posture. Changes made to the life style incorporating better posture, exercise, regular breaks and nourishing foods will definitely help.
Homeopathy can also help in this condition. It is a generally safe and symptomatic treatment. A trained Homeopath will study the broader patient life style, symptoms exhibited and recommend remedies. The following over the counter approach may also be tried. Take one dose, ( couple of drops of the remedy in a spoon of water) of Homeopathy remedy Cimicifuga Racemosa in potency 30CH every one hour alternating with Homeopathic remedy Cicuta Virosa 30CH. If relief is felt after one day of treatment, reduce dosage to once every two hours from the second day onwards. Stop after 3-5 days of treatment. This should help in controlling the symptoms while you look for life style modification to find longer term relief.

Hepatitis (Jaundice) - Causes and Some Herbal Cures

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:47:00 +0000

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. There are broadly two kinds of hepatitis (Jaundice) , infectious and serum. The disease is primarily caused by a virus which affects the liver's functioning. The liver gets impaired and is unable to function properly. When the liver is affected, it is unable to efficiently purify blood, store vitamins and other nutrients essential for proper functioning of the body, release bile for digestion and release glycogen for reserve energy.
From the above it will be obvious that the body will experience symptoms such as nausea, indigestion, weakness, a desire to rest and sleep, dark colored urine and finally yellow colored skin and eyes.
Infectitious Hepatitis is caused by contaminated water and food (carrying the virus). Some other common causes are excessive alcohol which impairs the liver and sea food from contaminated water sources. The other kind of hepatitis-Serum is caused by un sterilized hypodermic syringes and shared needles. There are multiple causes of Hepatitis including toxic chemicals, reactions to different medicines ( drugs), As the name suggests , blood from infectious Hepatitis patients needs to be handled with care as this disease can spread through contact. Hepatitis is categorized into A, B , C depending upon the cause. The net effect is the same- Liver impairment. The treatment of the different kinds of Hepatitis in allopathic medicine is different depending upon the cause. In this article we will discuss some natural and alternative cures and solutions to stimulate the Liver functioning.

One Homeopathic Remedy that works well to stimulate the liver is Lycopodium. This remedy taken in potency 200 CH , once every day in the morning for 10-12 days has a beneficial effect on the Liver. It is important to consult a Homeopathic doctor to get remedies targeted to the specific symptoms being experienced by the patient. Homeopathy can be effective in treating this problem but the patent needs regular supervision.
A Fresh Pineapple slice dipped in honey refrigerated over night is a great booster for the Liver. Try this natural remedy for 15 days to find better liver functioning.
Blend Pineapple juice 10 grams with turmeric powder 2 grams, and 3 grams crystal sugar. Take this concoction twice a day for faster recovery from this disease.
6 grams of turmeric powder in a small glass butter milk taken once a day will also help in the recovery.
Radish juice with jaggery is a good stimulant for the liver. Take 40 grams of Radish juice mixed with 10 grams of jaggery once or twice a day for 10 days to find marked improvement.
Fresh Sugarcane juice taken once daily for 2- 3 weeks is an excellent tonic for the stimulation of the liver. This boosts energy levels and keeps the patient active with a better appetite and enthusiasm for recovery.

The recovery can be judged by regular blood tests which chart the functioning of the liver. A doctor will guide the patient with the correct diet which is most essential for recovery from this problem. Normally, a very light boiled and bland diet of vegetables which can be easily digested will be recommended. Alcohol will be totally banned and can be fatal.

This disease is primarily best treated with natural liver stimulants. Diabetes can be an added complication which can negate the use of many traditional remedies. It is best to discuss all possible natural remedies you may be interested in trying with a doctor before starting the same.

Asthma : Relief, the Natural Way

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:47:00 +0000

Asthma is a chronic disease that causes the inside walls of the air passages taking air to and from the lungs to swell up. This swelling causes reduction in the size of the air passages leading to difficulty in breathing and discomfort. The inflamed airways are sensitive to allergens and swell up causing wheezing, breathing difficulties, Chest tightness, and mucous formation.
Asthma can be of various degrees starting from the very mild to the serious. Serious attacks if left untreated can cause choking and breathing problems and in rare cases can cause death.
Normally Asthma can be treated with Quick Relief Medicines which are primarily bronchodilators. These are combined with long term inhaled corticosteroid to reduce swelling of the air passages and reduce the recurrence of asthma attacks. Most asthma treatments are inhaled to enable the medicines to act directly on the air passages or lungs.
In this article we will focus on some natural cures for asthma. There are many natural remedies available in nature which can act as natural bronchodilators and reduce swelling in the air passages. These treatments can be combined with normal asthma medication and over time they will reduce the need for strong medicines. Try a combination of two or more remedies and try to work with one natural treatment which you find effective.
Tomato juice with a spoonful of turmeric powder once daily will help in reducing tropical eosinophilia and free the pangs of breathlessness in asthmatics. Try taking half a glass of fresh tomato juice daily mixed with a heaped teaspoon of turmeric powder for a week or ten days before experiencing substantial relief.
A teaspoon of lettuce seeds mixed with honey given twice daily during the treatment of asthma and bronchitis is a very useful tonic. Regular usage will reduce dependence on asthma medicines and improve the quality of life. Take a ounce of honey and mix a teaspoon of raw lettuce seeds in it. Take the concoction on empty stomach twice a day to find substantial relief over the long term. As an added benefit, the seeds contain lignose, which is an effective intestinal antiseptic also.
A teaspoonful of fresh mint juice with 2 teaspoonfuls of pure malt vinegar and an equal quantity of honey stirred in four ounces of carrot juice given thrice daily as a medicated tonic during the treatment of bronchitis and asthma has many positive effects. It helps in reducing the swellings in the air passages and helps build immunity to various allergens.
Try fresh Spinach leaves prepared with two teaspoonful of fenugreek seeds mixed with a pinch of ammonium chloride and honey, an ounce thrice daily. This is an effective expectorant during treatment of bronchitis, asthma and dry cough. It will help open up the chest and remove mucous that is forming in the upper chest. It soothes the bronchioles, liquefies the tenacious sputum and forms healthy tissue in lungs and membranes and helps prevent respiratory infections.
A cupful of fresh Bitter Gourd juice mixed with a table spoonful of honey taken once daily for three months can cure asthma and bronchitis in specific cases. It is worth a try for patients suffering from mild recurrent asthma and is an easy to prepare cure. A little bitter though!
The leaves of Brinjal or egg plant are antispasmodic and half a teaspoon of this juice mixed with one teaspoonful of honey given thrice daily is effective against problems of congestion in the lungs, bronchitis and whooping cough. This is particularly effective in allergic cough and allergic bronchitis. However the treatment may be stopped after 10 days or so if no relief is seen.

I have mentioned a few effective natural remedies for asthmatic conditions above. It is suggested that a patient may try a few remedies to find what best suits hi/her body and try to continue that natural treatment for at least 10 days to find relief. It is hoped that some of these natural treatments will be effective in many mild to medium cases of asthma and provide relief the natural way reducing dependence on modern drugs.

Urinary Tract Infections - Causes and Prevention: the Natural Way

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:46:00 +0000

Urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract. It is normally referred as UTI. This infection may not be life threatening in the initial stages but can be extremely painful. It is also difficult sometimes to get rid of all bacteria with conventional medicine and a relapse can be painful and also extremely disconcerting. Women are particularly susceptible to this problem, although men have their share of this problem.
Some causes for this problem are particularly common and can be fixed easily if a person is well advised. Long intervals between urination weakens the bladder muscles and some urine gets left in the bladder. This is a potential source of infection. Low water intake reduces urination, allowing bacteria present time to multiply and grow. Kidney stones which may obstruct the flow of urine can cause this problem. Another potential source of UTI is unclean toilets and bad hygiene. Catheters and tubes placed in the bladder during and after surgery can also cause this infection. Sexual intercourse can cause transmission of UTI causing bacteria.
Some common symptoms may be as follows:
Frequent Urination.
Frequent urge to urinate
Pain / burning sensation in the urethra when urine is released.
Soreness in the lower abdomen and back.
When the infection is well developed and had spread top the kidney and uterus, the patient may experience symptoms such as back pains, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting.

This problem is diagnosed through a urine test. At times repeated testing may be required to identify the infection.
Traditional treatment of UTI is with the use of anti bacterial antibiotics. Particular care has to be taken to avoid a relapse.

Prevention of UTI requires basic sense of hygiene and needs to be combined with some common natural remedies which help prevent and fix a urinary tract infection at the first stage. Good personal hygiene and access to clean toilets is the most important factor preventing a UTI. It is important to drink a lot of water and not hold back urination when the urge is present.
Some natural remedies that help prevent and cure a urinary tract infection are as follows:
Cranberry juice is a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants which has been shown to clear minor infections in the urinary tract. A patient must drink, 3-4 glasses of undiluted cranberry juice for a few days for it to be effective.
Orange juice is rich in vitamin C. This juice mixed with tender coconut water is a very valuable natural diuretic in all conditions of scanty urination, urinary tract infections and other painful conditions related to the urinary tract. Take this combination twice a day, as a natural cure.
Lime Juice ( Lemonade) prepare with water, sugar and a little salt is also recommended. This is rich in vitamin C is helpful in acute conditions.
Raw Grapes are rich in oxalic, recemic, malic and tartaric acid and ozolized matters. Eating white grapes regularly help prevent formation of kidney stones in the bladders, prevent acidity in the urine and help in cases of scanty urination. An ounce ( 30 gms apx.) of grape leaf juice taken with an equal amount of carrot juice daily also helps preventing kidney stones.
A banana a day eaten regularly is useful in scanty urination, cystitis, nephritis etc. However bananas are not recommended in cases of kidney failure because of its high potassium content.
Water melon seeds are being used from ancient times in India as a base in many Unani and Ayurvedic preparations. These seeds contain a glucoside called Cucurbotrine. The milk juice of the seeds obtained by grinding and staining them through a muslin cloth is very useful. A spoonful of this juice taken twice a day is very useful in cases of scanty urination, burning micturation and urinary problems.
Homeopathic remedies such as Sulphur, Belladonna, Arsenicum Album and Oxalicum Acidum are effective against UTI. It is important to consult a trained homeopath to find relief.
The above information should put a patient on the right path of finding alternative cures for long term relief. Although UTI can be treated with antibiotics but relapses are common. Therefore a few of the above traditional herbal cures can be quite effective.

Stress : Causes and Possible Solutions

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:45:00 +0000

Stress is subjective. Different people react differently to stressful experiences. Although the events that cause stress are subjective, what happens inside your body when you are under stress follows a fixed pattern which can be objectively measured. When the body registers that you are stressed, the hypothalamus ( a tiny section of the brain) engages in a feedback loop with the pituitary gland. An incredible relay system of hormones is produced. The body produces catecholamines or 'stress hormones'. Produced by the adrenal glands, these hormones are known as epinephrine, or adrenaline. Their job is to orchestrate the body's reaction to stress.
Symptoms of stress fall into five different categories- physical, emotional, mental, spiritual and social and are often elaborately interlinked. It may not be easy to list mental , spiritual or emotional symptoms in this short article but we can understand the physical symptoms and the effect on stress on human behavior, which can give us a good indication of the mental and emotional effect of stress on the human body.
The physical signs of stress may be reflected in the various body parts being affected. The major areas affected are the muscles, circulation and the digestive system. Some symptoms that may indicate stress are : Headaches, Muscle spasms, Teeth Grinding, Aching jaw, Indigestion, Nausea, Ulcers, Diarrhea, Constipation, Shortness of breath, Heart palpitations, Cold hands and feet and various Skin problems including acne, eczema, psoriasis.
The common effect of stress on behavior may be easily discernible. Some common features include, Pacing and fidgeting, Talking too fast and rushing everywhere, Hyperventilation, Nervous tics such are wringing hands, Inability to relax, Crying, Constant fatigue, Increased fatigue, Substance abuse, Indecisiveness, Insomnia and sleeping problems, Increased eating and weight gain, Loss of effectiveness at work, Over spending, Increased smoking and drinking.
Some inappropriate responses to stress include comfort eating of sugary snacks, smoking cigarettes and too much alcohol. All these reactions to stress have bad short term and long term implications and are not recommended.
I give below some possible ways to fight stress. Not all solutions suit everyone and it is important to understand the underlying factor causing stress before you try to treat it. Stress may be caused by work pressures, travel, home environment, mental trauma, anxiety, depression, poor food habits, family problems, marriage related issues, the physical environment and in may cases by factors out of ones physical control. It is therefore important to learn to live with stress causing factors without being a victim thereof.
Stress - Reducing Foods: You may be able to reduce stress by changing your diet. Foods and beverages that are helpful can be found in many stores. Herbal teas such as chamomile and peppermint have a calming effect. Foods high in vitamin B-6 like yeast extracts, liver, whole grains, nuts, and bananas are categorized as stress preventers. Citrus fruits, bell peppers and baked potatoes are rich in vitamin C, which help the human body to maintain resistance to infection when under stress.
Good Night's Sleep: Sleep deprivation is one of the leading causes of stress. And stress is one of the leading causes of insomnia. It is important to maintain a regular sleep routine, avoiding large meals just before sleeping and getting regular exercise. It is also important to avoid exercise just before sleep time and extremely important to buy a comfortable bed and pillows. Ensure you have the right blankets and comfortable room temperature which makes you fall asleep naturally.
Unwind with Muscle Relaxation: learn deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation techniques. Find tranquility through sensory deprivation. This technique is beneficial for stress related problems such as high blood pressure, migraines, headaches, persistent anxiety, muscle tension and fatigue.
Visualization and Meditation techniques: The brain is a very powerful organ. Strong visualization and mental preparation can help de stress and relax. There are soothing sounds that can help in deep relaxation. The simple act of concentrating the mind on a single word or object (in meditation) has been found to slow down body processes and increase serenity. Learn to meditate to reduce stress.
Chiropractic techniques: Stress related tension can cause nerve compression, which in turn may induce head, neck and back pain. To relive it chiropractors apply manual pressure to muscles, bones and joints, particularly the spine. This can help in relieving a few specific stress related problems.
Yoga exercises: Yoga - the Sanskrit word for 'union'- is an ancient tradition that combines exercise and meditation. It is useful for relieving stress, and the stretching exercises are beneficial for everyone regardless of age or level of fitness.
Tai Chi Chuan: This is a combination of exercise, Chinese medicine, and Oriental philosophy. It's slow harmonious movements can help people relax and alleviate stress.
A Strong Back: Stress makes the human body mentally and physically tense. Appropriate exercises can relieve aching back and break the vicious circle. Try Spinal strengthening exercises under expert guidance. Try and fix bad posture with the Alexander technique. This goes a long way towards righting the bad effects of stress on the body. Many of the physical stresses caused by using a computer, such as back strain, eyestrain, headaches, and upper limb strains can be avoided by using a properly designed workstation. Protect your eyes by taking repeated breaks and avoid Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI) by appropriate exercises.
Positive Thinking: Fight stress with the philosophy of positivism. By changing the way you think, you can turn a negative experience into a positive one. This new look at life can help fight stress and reduce its occurrence.
Acupressure: Stress caused by chronic pain can be relieved by acupressure. An acupuncturist places needles along energy pathways, known as meridians, to balance the flow of Chi through the body. The reduction of pain directly reduces the stress related to the problem
Aromatherapy: This technique uses essential oils that give various plants their scents to relax the body and mind. Some common oils that are useful include the following. Chamomile is a reliable remedy for relieving stress and insomnia. Neroli (orange blossom) is used for treatment of anxiety and depression. Sandalwood is useful for tension and anxiety and as an aphrodisiac. Llang-ilang, with its spicy scent is used as a tonic and to stir the senses. Lavender has a wide variety of uses including treatment for depression and high blood pressure. Cedar wood is useful for anxiety related problems. There are between 60 and 70 essential oils in the aroma therapist's armory. It is important to take the help of a trained expert especially if the person is pregnant or is suffering from allergies. This therapy can be very useful if correctly applied.
Homeopathy: This is a system of medicine that uses highly diluted substances to boost the body's natural ability to cure itself. Practitioners view illness as a sign of inner imbalance and consider all aspects to a patients lives when treating complaints. This technique is very useful in treating stress related complaints related to the lower back, pains, high blood pressure, lack of concentration and depression. A trained homeopath can normally cure and fix imbalances with a few appropriate doses of homeopathic remedies.

The above are some of the common remedies and techniques to reduce stress. Stress can also be caused due to numerous other factors such as family problems, marriage problems, children, work, public speaking, travel, death in the family etc. A combination of above techniques and the help of a family therapist can also help in relieving stress. At times better organization and planning at home and the family level can also reduce stress. It is important to recognize situations and problems that are leading to stress and take appropriate action. This can be done only by an objective mind, so the role of a trained professional cannot be discounted.
It is suggested that the reader understand what will work best for him or her and then research the topic further online and offline before approaching the concerned professional. What works well for one, may not necessarily work for another.

Food Allergy

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:44:00 +0000

What are food allergies?
Food allergies are caused by allergens in the food that are a kind of protein in the food. These proteins resist the cooking process, the acid in the stomach and the enzymes in the stomach and intestines and enter the blood stream. They cause the allergy reaction after they enter the blood stream.

What are the symptoms of food allergy?
Food allergies may have multifarious symptoms. Some of the primary ones are listed as follows:
Rashes on the skin
Swollen tongue
Asthma and breathing problems
Light headedness, weakness and drop in blood pressure
Tingling and irritation in the throat.
Discomfort in the abdomen, including upset stomach.
Children are particularly vulnerable although some may outgrow the problem. Children suffering from a food allergy may show symptoms of hyper activity, wheezing, skin rashes, itching and upset stomach.

Can food allergies be life threatening?
If untreated, food allergies can be life threatening. The scientific term used for life threatening food allergies is Anaphylaxis.
It is suggested that an individual suffering from a particular food allergy needs to strictly avoid that particular food. It is difficult to predict severity of an allergic reaction to a particular food item. So it is best to avoid that food.

Are there any other psychological or social implications of a food allergy?
When a child or an adult suffers from a particularly unknown severe food allergy, there may be many associated social and financial implications.
The person and family around that person may suffer from eating disorders and compulsive behavior. There might be substantial hospital expenses on account of emergencies and the patient may require full time care. These various factors may lead to family problems and in extreme cases, breakup of the family.

What are the various kinds of foods that may cause an allergic reaction?
Although there is no definite list, but the following foods are well known to cause allergic reactions in many individuals. The list includes:
Peanuts
Tree Nuts such as Walnuts
Sea Foods including Shell Fish, Shrimp, Cray fish, Lobsters and Crabs.
Eggs
Milk
Tomatoes
Strawberries (and other berries)
Mushrooms

Final Comment
In conclusion, an individual suffering from food allergies needs to avoid that particular food, always carry some emergency anti allergy measures on his person and carry the information regarding a particular food allergy on his person.
It is best to keep well informed by reading up on all relevant information on the web and in latest health publications to stay ahead of the problem. Information is the key to living a healthy and food allergy free life.

Low Blood Pressure Problems

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:43:00 +0000

I recently suffered from continuously low blood pressure and tried to find possible causes and solutions. In case you or someone you know, is suffering from low blood pressure, you should find useful information in this article.
Normally blood pressure is measured when the heart is beating (Systolic) and also when it is at rest (Diastolic). These measurements are normally written as a figure 120/80 mmHg and is indicative of the body's health. Normal Blood pressure values would range between 110-120 (Systolic) and 70-80 ( Diastolic). A blood pressure reading above 140 mmHg ( consistently) can be categorized as High Blood Pressure and a reading below 65 (Diastolic) may be considered as Low Blood Pressure. Normally the working of the body will suffer below 60 ( Diastolic) and this may require investigation and treatment.
This article will discuss Low Blood Pressure, its symptoms, broad outline of investigation as to cause and some solutions.
Some symptoms of Low Blood Pressure may be as follows:
Fatigue, Low energy levels, and a desire to rest.
Throbbing continuous low intensity headache radiating to the eye sockets.
Inability to concentrate and irritable nature.
Nausea / Vomiting sensations.
Dizziness and fainting spells.
Low Libido.
Poor skin tone and dry, falling hair.
A feeling of being sick without cause.
Perspiration and Trembling.
Breathlessness especially while climbing stairs or while walking up a slope.
Some possible causes for low blood pressure and related symptoms could be:
Hypothyroidism. When the body lacks sufficient quantity of thyroid hormone, it can lead to low blood pressure, fatigue, weakness, falling hair and weight gain.
Hypoglycaemia. If blood sugar levels fall below 2.5 mmoI/l , the body will suffer from fatigue and weakness, trembling and perspiration.
Low Haemoglobin levels. In a healthy person, the haemoglobin levels in the blood are measured as grams per 100 milliliters. The normal range for a man is 13.5 to 17.5 and for a woman is 11.5 to 15.5 g/dl. A low hemoglobin level ( normally below 9 g/dl) will lead to less oxygen being sent o the brain and heart and can lead to dizziness, fainting spells, weakness and general ill health.
A Low Irregular Heat Beat. When the heart pumps blood at a slow speed and the heart beat is irregular and below 60 beats a minute (Bradycardia), not enough blood pressure is developed and sufficient oxygen may not reach all body parts. This can also lead to symptoms as described above.
Mental factors such as Stress and Depression can also be a contributing cause.
Constitution / Hereditary factors. Some people constitutionally have a low blood pressure. There might also be hereditary factors at work.
Some possible investigations which can eliminate and confirm factors at work before initiating treatment are:
TSH levels in the blood will tell the doctor if Hypothyroidism is a factor.
Blood Sugar testing both -empty stomach ( fasting) and after meals will tell the doctor if Hypoglycaemia can be ruled out.
A Blood test for Haemoglobin levels may indicate Anaemia ( low haemoglobin levels) as a cause of low blood pressure symptoms.
An ECG test or ECHO test will enable the doctor to eliminate heart related problems as a cause. A cardiologist will advise the correct test after due investigation.
If all of the above causes are eliminated then the cause may be related to Stress and Depression requiring a different set of treatments involving life style modification and relaxation techniques.
At times ( as it happens to be in my case), the body's normal blood pressure is low due to hereditary or constitution factors. This does not require treatment as the body learns to function normally at slightly lower blood pressure levels. However a drop below 60-65 Diastolic will normally require some perk up foods and drinks. A hearty nutritious breakfast and fruit drinks ( with a little salt added) will help in boosting blood pressure levels and bring things online. The doctor may also prescribe vitamins and minerals as dietary supplements to help in stabilizing the body. Some other energy boosters are milk with honey added and fresh lime juice with sugar and salt. .......However, sometimes, a strong cup of coffee is all it takes to fix things..

Alternative Remedies for High Blood Pressure

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:42:00 +0000

The following article is about alternative herbal remedies and techniques to control high blood pressure. I suggest , try these remedies, keep a track of the blood pressure, and you may find it is possible to reduce and slowly eliminate the drugs you are taking. It is important to be careful and take the advice of a doctor also. High blood pressure can be life threatening so it is important to regularly test same and keep it under control.

The first steps to be taken in the fight against high blood pressure are the following.
Reduce weight if obese.
Start daily brisk walk, at least for two kilometers a day.
Reduce common salt intake.

Then try
Some meditation. Find a useful LINK here. The idea is to reduce stress. The modern lifestyle contributes to high blood pressure in a major way. Reducing stress levels is an important step forward.

High blood pressure may be indicative of some other problem with your body . Try to find the cause by clinical investigation. A good doctor should be able to recommend some appropriate tests. Some indications of high blood pressure can be : high frequency of urination, constant headache, tiredness and fatigue, lack of energy, poor concentration and poor mental health.

To control high blood pressure the alternative way , I would recommend the following herbal and natural remedies. It is very important to keep taking normal medication along with these remedies. You may try to reduce the medicines slowly after 2 weeks or so after these remedies start to talk effect. It is extremely important and vital to monitor the blood pressure regularly and take the advice of a doctor during the whole process.
Try Chewing four to five raw curry leaves twice a day - Morning and Evening.
Go for Homeopathic medicines . Try visiting a trained homeopath for the medicines best suited to your particular symptoms. The following medicines in different combinations and potencies are very effective in controlling high blood pressure without the aid of normal energy sapping drugs. I give the homeopathic remedies but urge you to consult the doctor for the correct potencies and daily usage. They are Rauvolfia Serpentina, Crataegus Oxycantha, Passiflora Incarnata, Glonoine, Lachesis. The doctor will select what is best for your condition. Homeopathic treatments are very effective in controlling this problem. It is my personal experience that homeopathy can do wonders in many cases. The trick is to stick on with the remedies for at least 2 weeks to find a benefit. Even the sceptics should try them at least once, before discarding them. Start with Rauvolfia Serpentina -Mother Tincture, 10 -15 drops in 50 ml of water thrice a day. You should start experiencing relief within two weeks when you need to consult a trained homeopath for further advice.
Another home remedy that seems to work with many people is the following. Mix 5 ml of onion juice with 5 ml of honey and take this mixture everyday, first thing in the morning. Try this remedy for 15 days, monitor blood pressure levels regularly and continue, if you experience a benefit.

I hope you found something useful. Go for alternative therapy. This will keep you energetic and full of vigor.

Herbal Remedies for Diabetes Mellitus

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:41:00 +0000

I have scoured the ancient Ayurveda and folk writing of India to look for some herbal cures for mild cases of Diabetes Mellitus. It seems a shame to be on drugs for the whole of ones life, for any problem of the body. At times there may be no recourse but to be on insulin and drugs to control this problem. However there is no harm in trying these herbs. There are many positive cases and at times the patient’s response to these herbs is excellent. However not all humans respond in the same way. So experiment a bit, check your blood sugar levels regularly and try to keep a track of the benefits of these herbs as applicable to your body. If you can find a continuous positive response, you may, after consultation with your physician or doctor start to reduce your allopathic medicines.
Three very effective measures against Diabetes Mellitus are:
Light Daily Exercise: A brisk walk twice a day for a couple of Kilometers each time is very useful in control of blood sugar levels. This is a must for all patients of Diabetes.
Reduce Obesity: If you are overweight for your height and age, you need to reduce your weight. However for patients of diabetes, it is important to reduce the body weight slowly under doctor supervision. The benefits are immense.
Diet Control : Stop over eating and follow a doctors recommended diet strictly.

Some Herbs are found to be effective against Diabetes. I am giving their local name / Latin names and also the method by which the same have to prepared and ingested.

One well known and ancient remedy is Bitter Gourd. This vegetable is an effective cure against diabetes and has been used for time immemorial against this problem. However it may not be effective in all cases but is worth a try. Squeeze and crush the vegetable in a juicer or by hand to collect one ounce (approximately 6 – 7 tea spoons) in a glass. The juice will be very bitter. Drink this juice on empty stomach in the morning and also once in the evening. Try this therapy for at least 30 days to find improvement in blood sugar levels. This therapy is practiced in many households for effective control of diabetes and has been found to be curative also in some cases. So try it.

Fenugreek is also an effective curative herb for this problem. A tablespoonful of fenugreek leaf juice taken early in the morning for about three months has been found to cure early stages of Diabetes Mellitus. The powder of Fenugreek seeds is also effective in this condition. Crush the seeds in a blender and take 5 grams of this powder twice a day with curds to find positive results.

One teaspoon of cinnamon powder taken twice a day , morning and evening with water has also been found to be effective against Diabetes. This is an easy remedy so all patients of this problem , must try it for two to three weeks to find, if it is effective for them or not.

Some other common herbs found useful in treating Diabetes Mellitus are Jamun and its seeds, Gulair (Ficus Glomerata), Coriander seeds, Lettuce, Red rose flower & Fennel seeds. a mixture of the powders from these herbs taken twice a day , is also found to be effective for this problem.

There are a few herbal powders available in the market, which use a combination of two or more of the above herbs. They may be also tried for treatment of this disease. At times for some body types, they can be very effective.

In conclusion, diabetes patient needs to exercise regularly, cut down on white sugar, reduce weight if obese and try some natural herbs. A combination of the above treatment and lifestyle change can work wonders. Take your pick and experiment to find the best solution to your problem.

Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:40:00 +0000

have over the years been searching for some effective home natural remedies for menstrual cramps. This is a very common ailment affecting millions of women but an effective solution seems a little far away. This painful conditions keeps women from work and they suffer silently. A few home remedies detailed below seem to work in most cases. Severe cases of menstrual cramps are best treated by a doctor.
I can suggest the following. Please try them at least once, before discarding same as unworkable. These remedies have been found to be very effective in many women and I can personally recommend them.

One easy and quick fix which every one can try for abdominal cramps is to add 5 grams (One teaspoon) of asafetida powder to 200 ml of warm water (Not hot) and drink same twice with a gap of 30 minutes. This herb has the ability to fix cramps in the abdominal and stomach area and gives partial to total relief in many cases. This home remedy is effective, natural and safe so try it next time.

Another remedy that is effective involves garlic peels. Garlic has many beneficial properties and can also help in alleviating pain and cramps relating to menstrual problems. Peel four to five pieces of garlic and fry them in clarified butter. Let them cool and then sprinkle a little sugar on them. Swallow a couple of pieces and wait for 15 minutes to find relief. For more effective relief, swallow another couple after a couple of hours. You will not believe how effective this can be.

Another quick fix is to apply heat to the abdomen area for partial relief. You can use a hot water bottle, wrap it in a towel and apply directly to affected area for relief.

One cooked banana flower, eaten with curd is a good cure for excessive bleeding during menstruation. This also provides relief from abdominal cramps in certain specific cases so it is worth a try.

I also recommend Homeopathic treatment for a long term cure to the problem of back pain, cramps and general ill health due to menstrual problems. There are many effective homeopathic remedies which work very well for many women. These remedies are safe and very effective. Check out some readymade homeopathic mixtures or visit a homeopathic consultant to get the right combination of homeopathic medicines.

With a little focused effort, you can find relief from this problem and enjoy your life to the full, so start experimenting a bit. For any persistent problem, a professional doctor is best. At times the underlying reasons are not easy to find, so consult a doctor for long term relief.

Five Super Tips to Cure Headaches

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:39:00 +0000

It is best to consult a doctor first to find the cause of a specific headache. I give below some tips which will work for most headaches, but to be sure , always try to find the underlying cause.

Super Vinegar Cure
If you are looking for a quick headache fix , try this. Take a small thin towel and dip it in white vinegar. Rinse out the excess vinegar and wrap the towel around your head and relax with your eyes closed for around fifteen minutes. For persistent headaches, repeat every two hours and find relief. Quick and simple isn't it ? Try it at least once and you will love this quick and simple home cure.

Super Herb Cures
Try applying a ginger paste made from dried ginger powder and water on your forehead. The slight burning sensation will cure your headache and fix you like new !
Crushed Onion paste on the forehead can also work wonders. Beware as it might make your eyes overflow with tears but it is sure to make the headache run for cover too.
Prepare a solution with 3 grams of crushed coves and 10 ml cinnamon oil and apply to the forehead. Find relief in ten minutes. Be sure to wash it off after you find relief.

Super Oil Massage
Ask someone to give you a hair massage with sesame , almond or mustard oil. Dip the fingers in the oil and give a gentle massage which is sure to get the circulation going in the scalp and provide relief from headaches . This is an enjoyable way to get some relief and relaxation at the same time.

Super Meditation Cure
Try to close your eyes and sit straight with eyes closed. Focus between the eyebrows and relax. Let the tension flow out of the body and find the headache run away. Find more information on meditation techniques here .

Super Aromatherapy cures.
Sniffing peppermint oil , rose oil , Lavender oil , Chamomile oil can give relief from headaches. Try burning some candles made with these oils to get a fragrant room while the headaches vanish. Try and consult a aroma therapist for a specific oil recommendation best suited to your problem or experiment with a few smells.

I repeat , for persistent headaches try to find an underlying reason. Once you understand your body better, the cure is only a step away.

Home Remedies and Health Tips

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:39:00 +0000

Check these natural herbal remedies to common ailments. I have colleted these over a period of 3 years and share them here with you for free !
To get immediate relief from an irritable cough, take a thin slice of freshly cut onion and pour two teaspoons of honey on it. Keep aside for 3- 4 hours and then remove the onion and lick the honey to get substantial relief from an irritable cough.
Chew raw guava leaves to get quick relief from diarrhea. Try it and enjoy relief the natural herbal way.
To cure acidity after meals, drink a glass of water with a piece of jaggery (raw brown unprocessed sugar) dissolved in it, after meals. Try this natural way, to get relief from a very common complaint in the modern world.
Hiccups Problem? Roast some peppercorns and breathe in deeply. This will stop hiccups promptly.
Another quick cure for a loose stomach… Try fenugreek seeds in a glass of semi warm water.
Improve the health of your liver by eating a refrigerated fresh pineapple piece dipped in honey, once a day. Experience a marked improvement within 15 days.
To get relief from chronic constipation, try eating half a cup of blanched spinach.
Chewing cloves is a good way to protect your teeth and get rid of bad breath.
Do you need relief from muscular pain? Try a mustard bath! Take 15- 20 grams of mustard powder, tie it in a piece of cloth, dip it into a bucket of hot water for 10- 15 minutes and then bathe with that water. Get relief from muscular pains and cramps.
Do you know raw cabbage and cabbage juice helps to regenerate the frayed mucosal, inner stomach and intestine linings.
To reduce the sting of a bee bite, apply one tsp of onion juice to the affected area. Then remove the stinger with a tweezers.
To cure bad breath, boil a few (4-6) fenugreek leaves in one glass of water and then gargle with this semi warm water. Try it for 7 days, twice a day, to see substantial improvement.
Soak one teaspoon of wheat in 150 ml of water over night. Drink this water in the morning after filtering out the wheat to get immediate relief from acidity and stomach problems. Try it for 3- 4 days to find substantial improvement.
Add a pinch of asafetida to semi hot water (warm water) and drink it to get relief from menstrual cramps. This is a safe natural remedy to an age old problem and works well with most women.
Chew five basil leaves first thing in the morning daily to keep away infection of the throat, mouth and gums. Make this a regular habit and avoid throat problems.
Indigestion any one? One teaspoon of mint juice mixed with an equal amount of honey and lemon juice is a good cure for this problem. Try it for three days after heavy meals and enjoy the difference.
To get rid of bruises quickly before an important engagement, dip cotton wool in undiluted vinegar and bandage the bruised area with same till dry. Find instant relief.
You can use the white of an egg as an emergency burn ointment.
Asthma patients can get some relief by drinking a teaspoon of honey mixed in a cup of boiled water daily.
To get rid of a persistent cough, eat a guava that has been baked in an oven or over charcoal. Try this home remedy for four to five days to obtain relief.
Rub an aspirin tablet on a bee sting to stop pain. The aspirin acts as a local anesthetic!
Tender coconut water applied on a skin regularly for six months reduces and removes small pox scars.
Drinking wheat grass juice is a health tonic. Drink a glass every alternate day to find an increase in vigor.
For immediate relief from aches in your legs or hands, immerse the affected limb in hot water mixed with salt.
One teaspoon castor oil taken with semi hot (warm) water early in the morning on an empty stomach is an excellent cure for indigestion. It also helps alleviate muscular pains.
To get relief from menstrual cramps, peel a few garlic flakes, fry them in clarified butter, cool add sugar and swallow a couple. Find relief in 15 minutes.

Foods that help you Fight Fat

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:37:00 +0000

I have already discussed foods that are good for skin and foods that can be applied directly on the face. In this article I will discuss some easy to consume foods that help in reduction of body fat and curb hunger.
These are easily available foods and fruits that provide necessary vitamins, fiber and calories to keep the body going and provide a full feeling in the stomach. They are not to be taken as an exclusive diet but should be added to the diet. They will help in the reduction of consumption of fatty foods and also help curb hunger pangs which lead to binging and fat gain.
First of all, it is suggested that food may be cooked in Olive oil. This oil has fat burning properties and is also seen to influence distribution of body fat. Substituting greasy oils and butter used for cooking with olive oil, will generally result in a healthy body and significant weight loss over time.
Try and include fish in your diet, twice a week. A medium sized fish is ideal for fat control as it contains a balanced amount of protein and fat. Fish also contains essential minerals, vitamins and Omega 3 fatty acids which are needed by the body. A little fat in the fish is essential to keep the body fit and curb hunger and desire for more fatty foods. Deep fried fish is not suitable for fat control. Rather try grilled fish or fish cooked with a little olive oil.
Including Green leafy vegetables daily in one meal in the day will do wonders for fat loss and hunger control. Spinach, lettuce, cabbage, fenugreek leaves and radish leaves provide much needed vitamins and calcium and a lot of water and fiber. This helps fill the stomach much faster preventing hunger pangs and also provide much needed antioxidants. They may be taken lightly steamed or in a salad ( where possible) without salad dressings. Salads may be dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to make them more palatable.
Snacking between meals is one easy way to gain weight. One fruit that works very well as a snack is Grapefruit. Snack on the whole fruit ( not juice) between meals. It provides vitamin C, fiber and absorbs water to provide a full feeling and curb hunger.
Cutting out red meat and deep fried foods from the diet is the way to fat loss. However these need to be substituted with healthy foods such as pulses and legumes. Foods such as beans, Bengal gram, red gram, horse gram, green gram, field bean, kidney beans, soybeans help provide protein with low fat content to the body. They are best taken sprouted, which help in easier digestion.
Breakfasts can be enjoyed with white of an egg omelets (without the yolk). A glass of milk also helps the body to stay fit and full for along period of time. However it is best to avoid shakes. A little cottage cheese also provides much need protein and calcium to the body and can be taken twice a week as a fat buster.
The secret to weight loss is a healthy diet. The diet should be balanced and cooked in healthy oils (preferably olive oil) and combined with light exercise. Daily light exercise, helps use up the calories and provides much needed activity to the body resulting in a fit body and mind.
In conclusion, there is no sure shot formula for weight loss. Some people are born with a high metabolism rate and can consume lots of food without weight gain while others have to fight a constant battle. This is how nature has created humans. Healthy foods combined with light exercise can help a person lead a fit life. That should be our objective.

Lips : Dry Lip Care and Herbal Remedies

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:35:00 +0000

It is often observed that make up of lips is given more importance than lip care itself. This is not the right attitude because lips need specific attention as their outermost protective layer is very thin. They contain no sweat glands and few oil glands therefore they are prone to dryness and chapping. Cracked dry lips can be painful and can develop infections also.
Let us first consider the factors that can lead to dry lips.
Dehydration can cause dry lips. Drinking too much coffee and alcohol can cause the body to dehydrate and the first symptoms manifest in dry lips.
Extremes in temperatures both hot and cold can cause lips to chaff. The outer protective layer of the lips is thin and us unable to handle extremes in temperature very well. It cracks and this can also hurt.
Overworking and stress can cause general body breakdown. The lower immunity leaves in the body manifest in minor infections and lips are a first casualty. This can cause dry lips which can crack and turn out really painful.
Irritation and allergic reactions to certain lipsticks and foods can also cause cracked lips. Contact eczema can also be a cause of this problem. This needs investigation by a professional doctor.
Some medications can also cause the body to dehydrate, causing dry lips.
A few medical diseases can have the lips drying as a side effect. This also needs to be investigated by a doctor.

Some common sense remedies and precautions that need to be followed daily to prevent dry lips are as follows.
Hydrate the body well by drinking at least eight glasses of water everyday. Dehydration is a common cause of the problem and drinking water is a simple solution.
Use a good lip balm which should create a moisture barrier reducing dehydration from the lip area. Lip balms with antiseptic properties are also good for cracked lips where infections may have set in.
Eat a diet rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin B, E and various minerals to counter lifestyle problems and boost immunity levels. Check out our article on Healthy Diets also.

Some home remedies to counter dry cracked lips and help moisturize these lips are as follows.
Mix 5 ml of glycerine with 5 ml of lime juice and 5 ml of natural rose water in a bowl. Apply this mixture daily in the morning/ evening to hydrate and disinfect the lips. Let it stay on till it is absorbed or evaporates naturally. Keep the bowl in a refrigerator and re use this mixture for three days before creating a fresh batch.
Another home remedy to cure dry cracked lips is to simply mix equal quantities of nutmeg, turmeric powder and fresh butter and apply to lips. The turmeric acts as an natural antiseptic and the butter helps the cracks to heel.
In case, you find trouble finding the above ingredients, try the following remedy. Take slightly warm to hot water in a bowl and dip a cotton wool in in. Squeeze the water out and apply the hot cotton wool on the lips. Do this six to eight times and provide hot fomentation to the lips. Follow this up with a mixture prepared with an equal quantity of glycerine / Vaseline and honey. Apply the same with a cotton swab and leave on for an hour or so. Try this every alternate day for 10 days to find relief from chapped lips.

Super Tip: While buying lipsticks, do check if the manufacturer offers some kind of barrier protection and hydration of the lips. Many good brands would contain ingredients which would help moisturize the lips and protect them from minor infections. These kind of lipsticks can be useful as a daily defence against cracked dry lips. Many (colourless) lip balms also contain glycerine and antiseptic properties and even men can use them to moisturize their lips. This problem is not specific to women and men are equally prone to same.

I hope you found something useful. In case dry lips are not caused by a serious medical treatment , they can be treated well with home remedies and herbal techniques. Try them to keep you lips moisturized and safe.

Acne Solutions - Causes and Prevention

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:35:00 +0000

Generally people with oily skin suffer from acne. Acne can also manifest when the body undergoes hormonal changes. This is why adolescents suffer extensively from this problem. Oily skin and hormonal changes cause the sebaceous glands in the skin to secrete excess of skin oil called sebum. This sebum can collect in the pores and harden, giving rise to various skin problems like blackheads, white heads and other spots. When the skin tissue around the blocked pore gets inflamed, it rises to form a pimple. If bacteria starts growing around this pimple, it can cause acne. An acne condition may therefore be characterized by blackheads, leading to pimples leading to acne. This acne, if left untreated can spread and if not corrected early can lead to skin scarring. Skin scarring caused by acne is difficult to treat and may require professional care.

Prevention is better than cure is an old adage very much applicable in this condition. Some ways to prevent formation of acne is as follows.
Avoid exposure to harsh sun and usage of sun block creams and gels is important to prevent loss of moisture.
Remove black heads early and prevent them from developing into pimples. Blackheads can be removed at home or by a professional and should not be left to fester especially in oily skin and in teenagers.
For a skin prone to acne, it is important to deep cleanse and moisturize the skin every night before going to sleep.
Switch to a low salt, healthy non fried diet. Fresh fruits, raw salads, sprouted grains and pulses and yogurt can go a long way in reducing oil formation in oily skins.

In case, acne has already formed on the skin, the implications are that pimples have already been infected with bacteria. It is now important to dry the skin around the acne and reduce oil formation. Medicated creams and ointments can help in controlling and reducing acne at the first stage by controlling the bacteria infection.

Now, I will mention some acne treatment measures which can be tried at home. There are many herbal remedies in nature which can be quire helpful in controlling the oil formation in the skin and reducing pore blockages. A few of these remedies can also help control, the bacterial infection around the acne, preventing it, from spreading. These remedies may be tried at home with a few precautions. In case, no relief is being felt even after four to five home treatments it is best to consult a trained skin doctor for relief.
Teenagers suffering from persistent freckles can try this remedy. Grate half a white radish into a bowl and mix two tea spoons (10 ml) each of fresh lemon and tomato juice into the bowl. Create a paste and apply it on the face. It may sting a bit. Let it remain for fifteen minutes before washing it off with cold water. Try this remedy once a day for at least a week to find substantial relief. Combine this remedy with deep pore cleansing every evening to find long term relief.
Another home lotion that works well to control freckle formation and reduce pimples is easy to prepare at home. Grate a radish and extract two tablespoons ( 20 ml) of juice in a bowl. Mix this juice with equal quantity of buttermilk and apply this mixture over the face. Leave on for an hour or so and then wash off with warm water. This may be done every day and this will help reduce formation of excess skin oil and control bacteria formation. The freckles and pimples should start reducing and disappearing after seven days of application.
Controlling acne which is spreading is not an easy task. One remedy that works well in many cases is as follows. Grind a tea spoon ( 5 grams) of pepper with seven to eight Margosa (Neem) leaves. Keep in a bowl. Prepare sandalwood paste (20 grams) by rubbing sandalwood on stone with little clean water ( or use commercially available paste). Mix this in the same bowl and prepare a mixture. Apply this on the face and let is remain for at least half an hour. Wash off with warm water. Try this every day for at least seven days to find relief from acne.
Acne and pimples can also be controlled with lime juice. However this will sting and hurt so it is better to blend 10 ml ( two tea spoons) of fresh lime juice with 20 grams of sandalwood paste and prepare a mixture. This mixture can be applied on the face and will help control bacteria formation and reduce acne. It is important to do this every day for at least seven days to find relief. Wash off with cold water after fifteen to twenty minutes.

I sincerely hope you found something useful about acne formation and control in this article. The herbal natural way to acne control and treatment is easy and inexpensive. Try it to find relief.

The Fragrance in You : Hey Girls ..Smell Good

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:34:00 +0000

A perfume is a profoundly intimate gesture that projects your moods and perceptions. The fragrance defines your personality and what you would like others to perceive you as. The perfume compliments your clothes and overall personality to project a certain dominant trait in your personality. As you move, your fragrance defines your presence. It is you at that time and moment.
Let me present a few looks defined by various smells and fragrances. Check the perfumes by leading brands to find a complimentary style.
The Bohemian or slightly wild look can be complimented by Aromatic accords based on herbs like rosemary. sage and basil dispersed with silent floral themes. The top international brands defining this look are Glow by J.Lo and L'Air du Temps by Nina Ricci. So if you want to project that Gypsy look with chunky accessories and hippie clothes, try experimenting with these perfumes.
Simple floral and fruity blends work well with the Casual Look. The casual look is best defined by a luminous scent that keeps you relaxed and glowing. You stand apart and still have the relaxed look. Some of the popular perfumes in this category would include Acqua Di Gio by Armani and Burberry Brit by Burberry. So get your jeans on and relax by looking and feeling Chic.
The Botanical or Garden look can be enhanced by using perfumes derived from Jasmine, rose, lilies and combined with green and woody notes. Some of the best picks in this category would be Jazmin by Campos de Ibiza and Fidji by Guy Laroche. These perfumes can go well with a look patterned on large flowery tropical prints. This is the Green look.
If you are interested in projecting a Traditional look, try combining perfumes which have a fragrance typical to your region or country with traditional clothes. Perfumes with the Cherry blossoms fragrance could be traditional for the Japanese look, while Lavender could be relevant for a Provencal theme. Some good picks in this category would be Shalimar by Guerlain and Amayra by Ally Matthan. You need to explore which perfume best suits your traditional look. A visit to the local perfume shop or the net would help in decision making.
Incase you are looking to leave a lasting impression, try opulent and heady smells like tuberose and champaka. They are strong and leave a Big impression. Some well known perfumes in this category would be Tender Poison by Dior and Jolie Madam by Balmain.
A Film Star flashy look with a presence can be obtained by combining glitzy clothes with heavy amber and oriental top notes peppered with heavy odor types like patchouli and vetiver. Try Opium by YSL or Glamorous by Ralph Lauren for that look that is unforgettable.
Get that Classic look that is understated but distinct. Cologne based fragrances layered with different yet recognizable definitions like floral bouquets complete the look. Some well known perfumes in this category would be Anais Anais by Cacharel and Angel by Thierry Mugler. The classic look is ageless and distinct. Project this look and find a distinctive yet warm presence.
You may obtain a Thin or Skinny look by using minimalist musk notes that smell clean and yet are barely there. The lean look can be enhanced by using perfumes such as Pure White Linen by Estee Lauder and Lauren by Ralph Lauren.
Marine related top notes reminiscent of the ocean air , zesty and spicy can be combined with fabrics with white stripes to get a Nautical or Ocean presence. Try Latitude Longitude by Nautica and L'eau d'Issey for women by Issey Miyake.
Stay Sporty with clean, fresh fragrances created by blending citrus top notes with the essence of exotic fruit and flowers. Stay playful and a tease by using perfumes such as Eau Vitaminee by Biothern and Eau Dynamisante by Clarins. Show of your tanned body and get the right smell to go with it.
The School Girl or the Good Girl presence can be obtained by non shocking fragrance notes. Citrus and aromatic notes blended, exude a clean smell and this goes well with mini skirts and simple shoes. The recommended perfumes in this look are Lemon Sorbet by Etro and Lime Basil by Jo Malone.
Try the Ethnic look by using fragrances that leave a distinct impression. Powerful metallic green notes of galbanum or woody notes like cedar will do very well. Combined with craft based designs on clothes they will help create a strong ethnic look. Try Vent Vert by Balmain or So Pretty by Cartier.
And finally get that Rich / Empire presence with chypre or fougere notes based on woody, mossy and floral accords that leave a rich and lingering odour. Gucci Rush by Gucci and Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel fit well into this category.

Let your fragrance find you. As you change and mature, so will your tastes. Try new fragrances to find what you are comfortable with. Get naughty, flirty, demure or sophisticated with the right perfume. Let the perfume find you. Create a presence today!

Healthy Diet Habits

madinarayana66@yahoo.com (M.L.K . Adinarayana) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:33:00 +0000

The trick is sensible eating with regular light exercise.
Restrict carbohydrate and fat intake
Most diet plans will suggest that the intake of carbohydrates and fats should be reduced. But not eliminated. A threshold level of carbohydrates is required by the body because they convert to energy but excess gets converted to fat. Similarly small amounts of fat are essential for the maintenance of a healthy body, but excess is bad for the heart and the body.
The problem is that most foods which are palatable and enjoyable are carbohydrate and fat rich! So dieting becomes a chore to be hated. But I suggest a little bit of everything is good, it is the excess that is bad.
So add whole grain cereals like brown rice, whole wheat bread, home made breads made with wheat grain, multigrain bread, porridge, and oats as they help to fill you up. They contain vital fiber, most essential to the proper functioning of the stomach and intestines.
Cut out refined cereals (white bread, white rice), roots and tubers such as potato, sweet potato, tapioca and yam. All these have high carbohydrate content. Fast foods like burgers, fries etc also need to be cut out of the diet.
Limit fat intake by reducing intake of red meat, fried foods of all kinds, butter, cream, mayonnaise, cutlets, burgers, fries and other fast foods. In case you cannot eliminate them from your diet, take your favorite food, only once a week.
Cook the healthy way. Reduce and eliminate frying. Instead, roast and bake your food. Eat roasted dry fruits or in the raw and avoid salted and sweetened snacks.
Reduce white sugar intake
One sure way to find good health, increased vitality and energy levels is to cut and reduce white sugar intake. Processed white sugar is bad for the body. Try to sweeten your food by adding honey or jaggery instead. Use natural fruit purees and natural fruit juices as sources of natural sugar and enjoy healthy living.
Eat a balanced Protein Rich Diet
Adequate amount of proteins are a must to feel full and satiated. They also provide necessary health, vigour and energy and are a must in your diet.
Proteins from vegetable sources like pulses, nuts, mushrooms, cottage cheese do not contain harmful cholesterol and are good for the body. Enjoy grilled or baked fish, chicken and seafood. Cut out fried meats and reduce red meat. Frying adds oil and cholesterol to the foods which can be done without.
Add fresh fruits, leafy vegetables and sprouts to your diets in the form of salads before and during meals to get your daily dose of vitamins, minerals and many vital ingredients which your body needs.
Enjoy salads before meals
Incorporate the concept of meal before meal by adding healthy salad ideas before meals. Eat a small plate of raw vegetables & sprouts seasoned with natural seasonings like curds, oregano, basil, thyme and coriander. This meal before meal will reduce your craving for unhealthy foods in the main meal.
Snack often, the healthy way
Snacks such as fresh fruit and roasted dry fruits (without salt or sugar being added to them) are a good way to control hunger pangs. They are healthy and also provide much needed fiber.
Eat more than three meals
Yes! Eat more than three times to stay healthy. Instead of three large meals, it is better to eat say 5 small meals. But the breakfast should be big and healthy as it has to provide calories to jump start the day. Try incorporating this idea into your daily life. It is fun and healthy too. Learn to stop eating after one serving. Never over eat. Your body will always tell you when it is full. It gives you enough hints when it is hungry. Doesn’t it? Listen to it. It knows best.
Chew well and sit straight
Chew food well and sit straight while eating. This will enable better digestion and better food absorption.
Keep temptations out of sight.
Do store sweets and deserts out of sight. This helps in controlling temptations. Enjoy small portions of your favorite deserts only once a week and learn to live a balanced life.
In conclusion, a balanced diet with adequate fat, carbohydrates, protein, minerals, vitamins balanced with less sugar and adequate exercise is must for a healthy body. There are really no fixed ratios for the various parts of a meal. Experiment a bit to find what combination makes you feel good and full of vigor. Then stick to that combination. Every body has different needs so find your combination. Use the above tips to find a healthy way to cook and eat.