BENEFITS OF ALMONDS (BADAM)

Almonds are a quality protein source, an excellent source of vitamin E, a good source of dietary fiber, and offer a multitude of essential minerals, making them a smart choice as part of a healthy diet. Almonds are nutrient-dense.

Commonly known as Badam, almonds is loved by kids and elders and regular consumption improves health, memory and builds resistance to the body. Ayurveda recommends having almonds as a whole. Almonds should not be taken on an empty stomach , it should be accompanied with fruits or milk. Ideal for individuals with Vata dosha .

Almonds are a great cholesterol-lowering food

Nearly 70 per cent of the fat in almonds is monounsaturated – a suggested substitute to saturated fats to reduce the cholesterol levels. Research also shows that almonds and almond oil have similar cholesterol-lowering effects. In fact eating almonds consistently lowers total and LDL cholesterol respectively by four and five per cent. This cholesterol-lowering effect is similar to heart-healthy foods such as oats and soy.

Almonds help in fighting diabetes and heart diseases

The presence of powerful nutrients like proteins, dietary fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids [MUFA] and Vitamin E make almonds a rich diet source for combating degenerative diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases.

Almonds are ideal for Weight management

This aspect of almonds remains unknown to the consumers. People follow various diet plans and exercise regimes for weight management, ignorant of certain simple ways to shed those extra kilos. Weight management is a critical issue being faced by the Indian population, which can be attributed to the impact of an inactive lifestyle what with seating jobs and less limb movement that includes both adults as well as children these days. One of the most difficult tasks in the process of weight management is to control the type of food intake. There is a lack of information and awareness about the benefits and nutrient composition of the food we eat. Many essential and beneficial foods are avoided and Almonds is one of them.

Almonds are heart-friendly

In addition to offering “good” fat, nuts are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a nutrient powerhouse. Just a handful of these versatile almonds [one ounce or about 23 almonds] offer vitamin E, protein, fiber, magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and iron in only 163 Kcal. Moreover, almonds contain phyto chemicals – plant chemicals that provide powerful protection against heart disease, stroke, and other chronic diseases. Like all plant-based foods, almonds are also cholesterol-free.

Almonds can prevent cancer

A great example of nutritional synergistic power can be seen with the vitamin E in almonds (vitamin E is one of the most important vitamins one can consume). It enhances selenium’s cancer-preventing capability, protects against pollution, protects against cardiovascular disease, boosts the immune system and protects against neurological disorders.

A healthy and nutritious snack

Almonds can make a healthy nutritious snack. You can carry nutritious almonds easily in small containers as ready-to-eat snack at work and schools or can easily prepare delicious low caloric snacks . Add almonds in breakfast recipes, coolers, sharbat and Thandai. From heart disease to cancer, almonds are fighting for our good health.

Almonds is ideal for hair and ideal for baby massage

The composition of fats and fatty acids is very beneficial for almost all types of hair as it proves to be very nourishing, and softens and strengthens the hair. Recommended for baby massages. Sweet almond oil removes dandruff flakes, promotes hair growth, moisturizes skin especially during winter.

Almonds can make a healthy nutritious snack. You can carry nutritious almonds easily in small containers as ready-to-eat snack at work and schools or can easily prepare delicious low caloric snacks . Add almonds in breakfast recipes, coolers, sharbat and Thandai. From heart disease to cancer, almonds are fighting for our good health.

You can make a good start for the day by opting for the powerhouse of nutrients. There are many advantages of having pre soaked almonds. There are many myths associated with presoaked almonds too. Do not give much importance to such references. Do not think twice , start the habit of consumption of badam in your morning schedule.

BENEFITS OF YAM – ELEPHANT FOOT

Yam is used in traditional medicine systems, and in Ayurveda it is used for numerous illnesses ranging from minor ailments such as coughs through to improving the quality of sperm and for liver and spleen disorders. As a vegetable the tuber is used to treat piles and hemorrhages.

The improved varieties of elephant-foot yam are non-acrid, and endowed with excellent cooking qualities. The tubers are prescribed as medicine in Ayurveda to treat piles, dysentery, asthma, swelling of lungs, vomiting and abdominal pain. It is used as a blood purifier. The paste of tubers is applied externally to reduce pain in arthritis.

In India, yams are eaten only as a supplement to cereals. The main edible species in India (especially South India) is the elephant foot yam. Each vegetable offers varied health benefits and has different cooking uses. In scarcity of different staple foods, yam is used. So it is also sometimes referred to as a ‘famine food’.

Medicinal values of Elephant foot yam

It has been proved that elephant foot yam has many medical benefits as its root is highly stomachic, restorative, carminative and tonic.

• The cooling effect of yam can be a cure for Hypertension.
• Yam is dried and often used as a treatment for piles and dysentery..
• Yam helps to reduce cholesterol levels in blood. So it can be used as slimming food because it lowers cholesterol levels and promotes weight loss and also has a high concentration of key minerals.
• Yam can even act as an anticoagulant.
• Elephant foot yam can be safely consumed by diabetic people.
• Elephant foot yam helps to maintain the hormonal balance by increasing the estrogen level in women. It can relieve the women from pre-menstrual syndrome as well.
• Hemorrhoids patients are also prescribed to have elephant yam.
• Powerful antioxidant Vitamin C is present which delays aging.
• It is also provided as a medicine for treatment to patients suffering from acute rheumatism.
• Irregular bowel movements and constipation can also be cured by consuming yam.
• Yam reduces muscle spasms.

However, it should be borne in mind that elephant yam is a cooling food. Hence patients suffering from cold, sinus infection or asthma should avoid its intake.

• The sap from the stem is fermented and used to treat diarrhea and dysentery.
• The inside of the stem is cut and eaten raw as an antidote for snakebites.

Nutritional  profile of Elephant foot yam

Elephant foot yam has a rich nutritional profile.

• It provides energy about 330KJ/100g (approximately).
• Potassium, Phosphorous and Magnesium are the key minerals found in elephant yam. It also contains trace minerals like zinc, copper and selenium.
• It also contains Calcium. 50-56mg/100g of its contents is Calcium.
• Its 18-24% is carbohydrate content.
• About 0.8% is fiber..
• Its water content is about 72-79%
• 1.7-5.0% of its content is protein.
• It has omega-3 fatty acids which are known to increase the good cholesterol levels in the blood.
• Diosgenin, a molecular hormone which has potential anticancer effects, is found in yam.
• Elephant foot yam is high on vitamin B6 content.
• It also contains Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

From its wide medicinal benefits and nutritional profile we can hereby conclude that elephant yam is very potent source of nutrition. So its consumption will prove beneficial to health. It can also be consumed by people looking for weight reduction as it is low on fat content (0.2-0.4%). Yam is a healthy low fat food.

SIMPLE WAYS TO INCLUDE AYURVEDA IN EVERYDAY LIFE

Ayurveda is generally associated with medicinal plant extracts, herbal powder, medicated oils, etc in our minds. Ayurveda is a lifestyle to be practiced in day to day life. You can make the most of your circumstances by following a simple pattern in your daily schedule.

You need to have a disciplined approach to the set lifestyle in your daily routine. You can practice the Ayurvedic principles and enjoy life, this will in turn help you age with dignity and grace.

Just like how you catch up with newspaper and media to be updated on all recent developments you need to find time for essential  activities that will improve your physical and mental attitude to life.

Wake up early. 

There is a popular saying: The early bird gets the worm. You need to catch up with  God’s creation in the early morning i.e 4.30 am to 5.00 am. This is the time when the air is fresh and pure, there are very few vehicles on the roads. No chaos and hectic activity in the surroundings. You will hear to nature’s tunes. The freshness in the air is infectious, it will make you active and you will have positive energy throughout the day.

Eliminate your toxins

As soon as you get up, try to clear your bodily toxins in the form of urine or poop. If you delay your excretion process, then indirectly you will be poisoning yourself which can further create never-ending problems later in life. So maintain a schedule to get rid of toxins from your body. Training to be initiated from childhood.

Start your day with sweetness

You should consume honey water in the early morning. Add one teaspoon of honey in 1 cup of water . This honey water will remove all toxins from your body. Honey is known for its anti bacterial properties . Honey boosts immune system therefore ideal to start the day.

Make a schedule

Prioritize your activities by planning for the day. Make a “To do activities list” for the day and you will be able to focus on the activities. If you a have a planned schedule you need not do fire fighting and building your stress levels on the dotted line . Planning will create a mental, physical and emotional balance in your body and you will be in control of the situation.

Walk for better life

Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. It provides mental, physical and emotional peace without straining your body.

Go for a morning walk . If you cannot adjust the time in the morning then select evening schedule at least.  For people in seating jobs it is advisable to take brisk walks in the course of your work to take a break from a very stressful day at work.

Oil massage

Your skin will get nourished , look young and will be ready to face all seasons when you massage with oil. Try oil massage every morning to safeguard yourself from wrinkles and other aging damage. Oil massage in the morning will prevent drying out of the tissues and nurtures your mind and body. Besides, it also gives a healthy looking complexion to your skin.

Hydrate yourself well

Drink sufficient amount of water every day. Drink atleast 10 to 12 glasses of water. Water is the best source to flush out toxins from the body and to ensure smooth running of the digestion system. Your body will be active and skin will be clear.

Exercise is essential

Allocate time for doing exercises. Include exercises like cycling, yoga or any other aerobic exercise in your daily regime. A good 30 minutes of exercise will help to keep disease away, maintain your weight and will enhance your body’s blood circulation. Do it on an empty stomach for better results.

Meditate for inner peace

Just disconnect yourself from the outer world by taking a break. Just sit down and close your eyes for few minutes. Allocate 10 to 15 minutes at least for this activity. This technique will help to give you inner peace and you will feel healed after the session. People use the time to recite a mantra or Gods name. This will bring relaxation and relief from stress and strain.

Include Ayurveda eating

Include Ayurveda eating in your diet, your body will start developing energy and help to clear toxins. The secret of living healthy and free from diseases is to focus on your diet, eat healthy, avoid junk food. Include fresh foods, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Select essential foods that will cut down fats.

It is OK to have a change in food when you are on travel, attending a party etc, but do not make it a part of your diet daily.

Restful sleep is important

Our body needs time to rejuvenate and to detoxify, and the best time for this process is sleeping. When we get good sleep, our inner cells work in harmony to strengthen our immune system and circulate vibrant energy throughout our body.

For individuals who have restless nights waking up , tossing and turning it is advised to  take a warm bath before bed and use essential oils such as lavender or sandalwood to calm you down. Complement this with slow and deep breathing.

Go for the milk therapy

At times you may get frustrated because you are constantly tossing and turning in bed , unable to get sound sleep, in spite of a tiring day, then drink a glass of warm milk. This technique will help you to fall asleep quickly. Preferable have Organic milk ,free of additives, and boiled with a pinch of cardamom , enables easy digestion.

Make your own skin pack

Instead of using artificial skin products and spending more money , opt in for totally naturally products on your skin. The best way to nourish your skin is by making your skin-packs by yourself. Make your skin-packs using those ingredients which are totally safe to eat like honey, rose water, cucumber, almonds, milk and yoghurt to moisturize your skin. Follow the article Quick and Easy Natural Homemade Beauty Face Mask

Bond with nature

When you have a break, instead of spending time with your gadget spend time with flowers and trees. You can spend time in hobbies like gardening, painting which will make you forget all your worries, problems and stress. You will be associated with nature, build a connection with Mother nature . You will find contentment by giving something in return to the Earth for future generations to witness

I conclude with the following words…. Before going to bed thank God for making one more day pass away. Feel gratitude for all the blessings you have received and seek support for all challenges to be faced in the future by you, your family , near and dear ones.

I’m sure you will sleep in peace and you will wake up with the spirit to handle life as it comes.

 

ESSENTIAL FOODS THAT CUT DOWN FAT

To cut down fat you need not change your food pattern or introduce new things you may not feel like having. Instead look around your kitchen , there are few ingredients in the racks that ensure weight loss by cutting down fat.

Ayurveda recommends to include all tastes – sweet, sour, bitter, salty, astringent, pungent in at least one meal each day  This will help balance unnatural cravings. My earlier article The importance of six tastes in Ayurveda describes this.

Turmeric

Curcumin, the active component of turmeric turn off certain genes that cause scarring and enlargement of the heart. Regular intake of turmeric may help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol and high blood pressure, increase blood circulation and prevent blood clotting, helping to prevent heart attack.

Garlic

It is considered that a garlic a day keeps sickness away. An effective fat-burning food, garlic contains the sulphur compound allicin which has anti-bacterial effects and helps reduce cholesterol and unhealthy fats.

Cardamom

Cardamom is a thermogenic herb that increases metabolism and helps burn body fat. Cardamom is considered one of the best digestive aids and is believed to soothe the digestive system and help the body process other foods more efficiently. Added in spicy dishes , desserts and in many recipes to maximize benefits.

Chillies

Foods containing chillies are said to be as foods that burn fat. Chillies contain capsaicin that helps in increasing the metabolism. Capsaicin is a thermogenic food, so it causes the body to burn calories for 20 minutes after you eat the chillies. Minimize quantity intake to avoid spoiling the day.

Honey

Honey is a home remedy for obesity. Honey mobilizes the extra fat deposits in the body allowing it to be utilized as energy for normal functions. One should start with about 10 grams or a tablespoon, taken with water early in the morning. It boost immune system and contains anti bacterial properties. Be careful to pick the natural variety when you purchase.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk contains just 2.2 grams of fat and about 99 calories, as compared to whole milk that contains 8.9 grams fat and 157 calories. Regular intake provides the body with all essential nutrients and does not add fats and calories to the body. It is thus helpful in weight loss. You can consume this with a little of salt and curry leaves. Relieves tiredness of the scorch heat.

Curry leaves

Incorporating curry leaves into your daily diet can help you lose weight. Curry leaves flush out fat and toxins, reducing fat deposits that are stored in the body, as well as reducing bad cholesterol levels. If you are overweight, incorporate eight to 10 curry leaves into your diet daily. Chop them finely and mix them into a drink, or sprinkle them over a meal.

Moong dhal

The bean sprouts are rich in Vitamin A, B, C and E and many minerals, such as calcium, iron and potassium. Moong dhal is recommended as a food replacement in many slimming programs, as it has a very low fat content. It is a rich source of protein and fiber, which helps lower blood cholesterol level. The high fiber content yields complex carbohydrates, which aid digestion, are effective in stabilizing blood sugar and prevent its rapid rise after meal consumption.

Oatsmeal

Oatmeal is high in soluble fiber and that will reduce cholesterol significantly. It will also help flush many acids and fats out of your body. It is important to eat oatmeal without putting sugar and butter on it to make it more palatable. If you have to sweeten it, do it with fresh fruits or natural honey.

Cabbage

Raw or cooked cabbage inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat. Hence, it is of great value in weight reduction. Include it as salads or steamed side dish.

Beans

Cooked beans are very good to cut down fat. You can consume cooked beans like kidney beans, white beans. Include them with breakfast. Makes a good diet for the day. The proteins in the beans will help to burn fats. Beans are high in both fiber and protein and can help in burning down fat while delivering great energy and nutrition. Furthermore, beans are low in calories and saturated fats, though you should avoid consuming refried beans which are actually high in saturated fats.

Eggs

Eggs have a perfect balance of amino acids. These are the protein building blocks your body uses to develop muscle fibers. Eating an egg daily can assist with cutting fat. If you have high cholesterol, you can opt for egg white only.

Be cautious of the food you take . Exercise and maintain good health. You can further follow Simple ways to include Ayurveda in everyday life.

HOW TO REDUCE KNEE PAINS OR JOINT PAINS

Knee joint is the most complicated weight bearing joint of the body which provides movements to us like walking, sitting, standing, running and possesses structures like bones, ligaments, muscles, tendons nerves that supplies the sensation.We extensively use the knees and therefore they are affected by wear and tear.

Causes of knee pain

• Arthritis – which include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
• Injury – a it is the most responsible joint of the body so there is increase risk of injury which, can damage to bone, ligament and cartilage that ultimately leads to severe knee pain.
• Infection – any kind of infection to the knee joint may result in knee pain.
• Obesity and advanced age – Both are very common cause of knee pain.
• Overuse – overuse of knee joint can ultimately lead to intense knee pain.
• Sprain- due to sudden unnatural movements , it causes pain as well as restriction of movement of the knee joint.
• Dislocation of the knee cap – Also causes severe knee pain.
• Other causes – Include Sarcoidosis, Sickle cell anemia, Lupus, Kawasaki disease, Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, bone tumors, bleeding disorders etc.

General symptoms associated with knee pain

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Stiffness
• Disability to move knee properly

The slow, controlled physical movement of joints is helpful for Arthritis patients. It improves the blood circulation in joints, removing unwanted toxins and other waste products. But the problem in the patients is if patient tries to move his limbs & joints then pain increases so patient does not move the limbs and problem increases. So it is vicious cycle, because of pain no movements and because there is no movement, the situation becomes worse. So patient should keep doing the movements which are possible for him.

Home remedies

Since your knees take so much of the impact of exercise and everyday living, it’s important to keep them healthy. Take note of the following home remedies to do just that.

Stay trim. More pounds of body weight (usually from body fat) can really stress the knees. So work on getting and keeping your weight within a healthy range (ask your doctor what that range is for you) by adopting a low-fat, lower-calorie diet, and getting regular exercise.

Buy shoes after looking at your feet. Buy the right shoes if your feet is slightly out of shape. You can order a pair after consultation with your doctor.  Wear the lowest heel possible. The body can tolerate a heel of about one inch; higher heels throw the body forward and stress the knees. Use shoes as per activity.  walking shoes for walking, running shoes for running, and so on. Wearing running shoes for walking can cause pain in the shins and, in some cases, knee pain.

Replace shoes as they get worn out. Often, knee problems are simply the result of walking or running in shoes that are worn out. Replace your athletic shoes every six months.

Don’t rely on OTC braces.. An OTC knee brace may make you aware of the knee and remind you to avoid over training, but it doesn’t really correct or prevent problems — in fact, it can give you a false sense of security and might tempt you to be less cautious than you should be.

Avoid “knee-busting” activities. Kneeling is painful, especially on hard surfaces.If you lift weights, never fully flex the knee, don’t “lock” your knees when you’re in the standing position, and keep the amount of weight you ask your knees to lift to a minimum.

If you’re doing some activity that requires kneeling, use a foam kneeling cushion or knee pads and give your knees frequent rest periods.

HOW TO GROW WHEATGRASS AT HOME

Due to the overwhelming reports on the health benefits of Wheat grass, many are curious to know how to grow them.

It is very easy to grow wheatgrass at home. By harvest time you can also juice the wheatgrass. It grows all round the year. You can use very little place. Your balcony sill is the ideal choice.

Benefits of Wheatgrass:

• It boosts the hemoglobin production. Rebuilds the bloodstream.
• Helps in healing the wounds, cuts, burns. Apply poultice.
• Improves digestion.
• Cleans the liver. Good detoxifier
• Purifies the blood in the entire body. Doubles red blood count
• Anti aging property, aids beauty treatment
• It is economical and hygienic to grow and juice the wheatgrass at home.

For planting wheat grass, select plastic trays or clay pots about 8 to 10” in diameter and height about 3 inches.

• Wash and soak good quality wheat grains overnight in water.
• Next day spread the grains in the pots containing soil approximately 2.5 inches high..
• Cover the wheat grains with a thin layer of soil. Maintain space between the grains. Do not add chemicals and fertilizers.
• Keep away from the attack of birds.
• Darkness helps the grains to sprout quickly.  Cover the pot with a newspaper or cloth and leave it for 2 to 3 days.
• Sprinkle with a little water to dampen the soil. You will start to observe the green leaves coming out.
• Stop covering the pots now.  Water the plants lightly.
• Provide sunlight. Leave the plants in sunlight.
• Water the plants daily.
• In seven to eight days time the wheat grass has grown sufficient enough i.e 8” tall.
• Cut the grass blades with a scissor. Leave ½ inch plant above the soil surface. The grass will grow back in a week’s time.

Only two harvests is allowed with a sowing. After the second harvest crush all the roots and it is time for the next sowing. The harvested wheat grass is ready to be juiced.

You can keep wheat grass safely in refrigerator for five to six days keeping the same in foils. It will still retain its nutritional value. It is ideal to manually grind the leaves in a stone grinder with a pestle. Chop the grass blades and add little water gradually as you keep grinding and filter the paste thru a clean cloth. Your wheat grass juice is ready to consume.

The wheat grass juice should be consumed within 30 minutes of preparation. You can also consume juice by chewing the grass . A mouthful of grass is sufficient. Chew till the juice is extracted and the cud becomes white. Do not swallow the cud as it is difficult to digest. A healthy person can take ¼ cup daily, recommended early in the morning.

It is not advised to grind the wheat grass in a mixer or blender as the rapid blade movement oxidizes the chlorophyll and will make the wheatgrass useless . You can maintain the harvest time and the sowing such that you can get the grass all round.

It combines well with apple, carrot , beetroot, spinach leaves, lemon .

Organic wheatgrass powders and juices are an extremely effective way of boosting the body’s immune system to fight against and recover from illnesses and ailments. Wheatgrass is a great source of beta carotene, contains most of the B vitamins and vitamins C, E, H and K, and also contains over 90 different minerals and 19 amino acids. It also contains several active enzymes which play a major role in breaking down fats, undertaking biological functions and assist hugely in weight loss.

 

WHEATGRASS – HEALTH BENEFITS

Wheatgrass is one of the best of all grasses. Wheat grass has the ability to absorb more than 100 elements from the soil and is a rich source of vitamins A , Vitamin C and the B-complex, as addition to calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, sulfur, cobalt and zinc. Wheat grass has 90 different mineral and 19 amino acids. Very few know that wheatgrass is abundant in vitamin B-17 (more commonly known as laetrile), a substance that’s said to selectively destroy cancer cells in the body.

Over time most of us develop an acidic body chemistry, we need alkalizing foods to restore pH balance.  Wheatgrass juice is a powerful alkalizer.  It is also a preferred food because it seems to possess the ability to single-handedly change people’s body chemistry when used in sufficient amounts.  As a result, it is exactly the kind of food needed to help jump start the processes of the body.  It is also the perfect food to consume when life’s challenges (like travelling for work) get in the way of the lifestyle choices you prefer.  For many, consuming wheatgrass juice is like have a license to exist in the world around us. Available in powder form also.

Some of the superior qualities of wheatgrass and the juice that can be extracted from its blades include the following:

• Increases red blood-cell count and lowers blood pressure. It cleanses the blood, organs and gastrointestinal tract of debris. Wheatgrass also stimulates metabolism and the body’s enzyme systems by enriching the blood. It also aids in reducing blood pressure by dilating the blood pathways throughout the body.
• Fights tumors and neutralizes toxins. The many active compounds found in grass juice cleanse the blood and neutralize and digest toxins in our cells.

• Stimulates the thyroid gland, correcting obesity and indigestion.

• Restores alkalinity to the blood. The juice’s abundance of alkaline minerals helps reduce over-acidity in the blood. It can be used to relieve many internal pains, and has been used successfully to treat peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, constipation, diarrhea, and other complaints of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Is a powerful detoxifier, and liver and blood protector. The enzymes and amino acids found in wheatgrass can protect us from carcinogens like no other food or medicine. It strengthens our cells, detoxifies the liver and bloodstream, and chemically neutralizes environmental pollutants.

• Contains beneficial enzymes. The life and abilities of the enzymes found naturally in our bodies can be extended if we help them from the outside by adding exogenous enzymes, like the ones found in wheatgrass juice. We can only get the benefits of the many enzymes found in grass by eating it uncooked. Cooking destroys 100 percent of the enzymes in food.

• Has remarkable similarity to our own blood. The second important nutritional aspect of chlorophyll is its remarkable similarity to hemoglobin, the compound that carries oxygen in the blood.

• Externally applied to the skin can help eliminate itching almost immediately. The poultice after filtering the blended wheat grass can be used for this.

• Will soothe sunburned skin and act as a disinfectant. Rubbed into the scalp before a shampoo, it will help mend damaged hair and alleviate itchy, scaly, scalp conditions.

• Is soothing and healing for cuts, burns, scrapes, rashes, poison ivy, athlete’s foot, insect bites, boils, sores, open ulcers, tumors, and so on. Use as a poultice and replace every two to four hours.

• Works as a sleep aide. Merely place a tray of living wheatgrass near the head of your bed. It will enhance the oxygen in the air and generate healthful negative ions to help you sleep more soundly.

• Enhances your bath. Add some to your bath water and settle in for a nice, long soak.

• Sweetens the breath and firms up and tightens gums. Just gargle with the juice.

• Offers the benefits of a liquid oxygen transfusion since the juice contains liquid oxygen. Oxygen is vital to many body processes: it stimulates digestion (the oxidation of food), promotes clearer thinking (the brain utilizes 25% of the body’s oxygen supply), and protects the blood against anaerobic bacteria. Cancer cells cannot exist in the presence of oxygen.

• Turns gray hair to its natural color again and greatly increases energy levels when consumed daily.

• Wheatgrass is a beauty treatment that slows down the aging process when the juice is consumed. Wheatgrass will cleanse your blood and help rejuvenate aging cells, slowing the aging process way down, making you feel more alive right away. It will help tighten loose and sagging skin.

• Lessens the effects of radiation. One enzyme found in wheatgrass, SOD, lessens the effects of radiation and acts as an anti-inflammatory compound that may prevent cellular damage following heart attacks or exposure to irritants.

• Restores fertility and promotes youthfulness.

• Can double your red blood cell count just by soaking in it. Blood building results occur even more rapidly when patients drink green juices and wheatgrass regularly.

BALANCE OF BODY AND MIND

Ayurveda is a science of life based on the Vedas, the Hindu books of knowledge and wisdom. Ayurveda was introduced for about five thousand years old. Ayurveda is perhaps the most complete system of living, embracing not only medicine, but also philosophy, psychology, lifestyle and health.

Ayurveda is based on the idea that the universe is composed of five basic elements of nature :Ether(space) , Air, Fire, Water and  Earth, known as the Panchamahabhutas. The panchamabhutas combine to form the three vital energies, the doshas known as Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha. The mix of the three doshas in each of us, an inherited trait, determines our physical constitution called prakriti.

• Vata, pertaining to air and ether elements, is responsible for physical and mental movement, circulation, respiration and elimination.
• Pitta, pertaining to fire and water elements, is responsible for physical and mental digestion and metabolism.
• Kapha, pertaining to earth and water elements, is responsible for tissue growth and regeneration, physical and mental lubrication, structure, growth, immunity, stability and protection.

Each Dosha has an effect on the other. While one personality may reflect the prominence of one Dosha rather than another, the ideal for a balanced mind body state is where all three are working harmoniously together in a state of dynamic equilibrium

Methodology adopted in Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that aims to balance the body, mind and spirit for optimum performance of a person and prevention and treatment of disease. Several problems such as headaches, hair loss and weight gain can be cured with this system of medicine. To achieve balance of mind and body, ayurveda recommends a proper diet, exercise and seasonal activities.

Follow Ayurvedic Diet

To do this you will have to establish your dosha typethat depends on your mind and body type. This can guide you on the foods that you should consume and the foods that you should avoid. Following an ayurvedic diet usually does not cost more than you would normally spend on groceries. It is a practical solution which requires discipline .

Practice Yoga

Regular practice of yoga along with a nutritious ayurvedic diet will do wonders for you. You will surely notice improvement in your awareness, physical health, mental stability and your ability to deal with stress. Yoga is considered good for spiritual growth as well. You can take the assistance of your instructor for determining selection of asanas.

Meditate for Balance

Ayurveda encourages meditation as it has several benefits. It clears your mind and improves your awareness. In addition it also improves your self-knowledge; an important factor that leads to a healthier mind and body, greater intelligence and stronger intuition.

Meditation can be classified into two types: daily and awareness meditation.

• Daily mediation: Meditation is done at a specific time daily for relaxation and spiritual growth.
• Awareness meditation: you are supposed to practice the simple art of being in the moment and it is practiced constantly in every activity that you do.

You will have to find the specific type of meditation that works for you. You can learn meditation by joining classes, reading books, CD’s or videos.

Mind Body Harmony

According to Ayurvedic principles, just as every individual has a unique fingerprint, the energy pattern of every individual varies from one another.

Ayurveda helps in bringing about balance of body, mind and consciousness, depending on individual constitution, by incorporating necessary lifestyle changes to maintain this balance.

The factors that disturb the balance of an individual could be external or internal. This would reflect by way of change in one’s constitution from their balanced state. These factors include physical and emotional stress, diet, weather change, work, family relationships and physical trauma.

Ayurveda lays emphasis on prevention and promotes maintenance of health by adopting healthy lifestyle habits.

As it is rightly said….He who has health…….. has everything.

Let’s make Ayurveda a lifestyle… enjoy a balanced life!!

Buy AYURVEDA AND THE MIND : THE HEALING OF CONSCIOUSNESS New ed Edition from Flipkart.com

THYROID DISORDERS – HIGHER RATE IN WOMEN

Thyroid disorders are reported in higher numbers for women. Thyroid conditions are not serious and timely treatment will enable the individuals to resume normal lives again. Thyroid hormonal imbalance occurs leading to variation in the outlook of the individual. Increase and decrease production of the hormones will result in symptoms which have an impact on the menstrual cycle.

The other common symptoms observed are gaining weight, tiredness, joint pains etc. At times the resistance of body is very low that you get repeated health problems like disrupted bowel movements, diarrhea, dry skin problems, high fever with body pains, unbearable pain in the muscles of legs and hands. At times you will not have the energy to stand , you will feel like lying down. You become tired quickly and weak.

Upon visiting the Doctor, he will recommend for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) tests results. You can give blood sample upon fasting i.e early in the morning. The normal range is from around 0.5 to 5.5. If the TSH level is below normal, your doctor may determine that you are hyperthyroid (overactive thyroid). If the TSH level is above normal, your doctor may determine that you are hypothyroid (underactive thyroid) .

Based on the results in the medical reports, the Doctor will be able to diagnose and prescribed medications. For a person already taking medication, the dosage will be changed as per health condition.

Few points to remember: take your medication daily. Early morning is the ideal time for taking the tablet as it works well to act on the hormonal changes. Do not neglect health. Conduct blood tests once in 2 to 3 months. This will ensure you keep your Hormonal balance and can keep away from health problems.

It is advisable to perform Sugar tests also simultaneously. There is a tendency for people to get affected by Diabetes. Therefore keep a conscious check on your food habits and overall hygiene aspects.

Anti-thyroid medications are helpful in regulating thyroid levels, but prolonged or excessive use may actually adversely affect the gland and result in hypothyroidism. In some cases, thyroid disorders occur after pregnancy.

The menstrual cycle gets disturbed . For persons suffering with hypothyroidism the problem is excessive bleeding and variations in the frequency of monthly cycle. For individuals suffering with hyperthyroidism the menstruation stops abruptly, symptoms of menopause are seen. In few cases blood flow during cycles becomes very low.

The appetite of the thyroid patient is usually very large and the weight reduction cannot be prevented for some time.

Great care must be taken never to allow the body to become exhausted and any irritation likely to cause emotional stress should be avoided. The cure of thyroid disease is not a speedy one and there is often a recurrence of symptoms but these should gradually become less prominent. Strict adherence to diet is essential for complete cure.

Foods that disturb iodine absorption in the body and lead to swelling of thyroid gland are: spinach, sweet potatoes, cauliflower and peanuts. In case of severe thyroid disorder, it is best to avoid vegetables such as cabbage, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and fruits such as pears and peaches as they may have a suppressive effect on thyroid function.

Iodine is undoubtedly most helpful in many cases, but it should be introduced in organic form,  all foods containing iodine should be taken liberally. These are cabbage, garlic, onion, oats, pineapple, whole rice, asparagus, tomatoes, watercress and strawberries.

Use food which helps curing constipation with rich in fiber, like salads, green vegetables and drink eight to ten glasses of water daily.

For people with hypothyroidism and associated with severe weight gain you can include turkey, yogurt, avocados, lean chicken, fish, lentils, almonds and sesame seeds.

To improve metabolism, it is best to consume smaller, frequent meals throughout the day. Do yoga and exercises to maintain your health.

All efforts should be made to prevent emotional stress. There may be slight recurrence of this extremely nervous complain for some times, but the attacks will become less severe and of shorter duration as the treatment progresses. And above all, the approach to the treatment and personal care should be consistent , the patient’s should put in efforts to help themselves because success can only be attained by constant efforts.

THYROID – RECOMMENDED DIET AND HOME REMEDIES

Thyroid problem occurs mainly due to thyroid hormonal imbalance in the body. You need to understand the basics of thyroid gland and how it affects the well being of the body.

What is Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland situated in the central area of the neck. It is involved in the release of two hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These hormones assist in various functions of the body and must be produced in adequate amounts. Their most important task is to regulate metabolic rate which is imperative for good health of an individual. In case there are problems in the functioning of the thyroid gland, several health complications may arise

Thyroid gland has very important and complex role in human body what includes: keeping normal pace of metabolism of all cells. It also affects regular absorption of glucose, synthesis of proteins, frequency of cardiac activity and circulation of blood in organism. In this way, thyroid gland is directly responsible for regular physical and mental development and good overall condition of the body.

Types of Thyroid

By the disorder of secretion of hormone there are 2 types of illness: and hypothyroidism (condition of reduced function of thyroid gland ) and hyperthyroidism (condition of increased function of thyroid gland). There are many reasons for its disorder and the most common are: irregular nutrition, irregular type of life, chronic anxiety and stress, excessive efforts during the long period of time and hereditary factor.

Symptoms of Thyroid

The patient will have dry hair which would look coarse throughout the day. The skin would be excessively dry while the patient might look tired, weak and fatigued. Other problems include cold intolerance, tremors, cramps, aches, depression, loss of weight, decreased or increased appetite, constipation, unbalanced bowel movements, decreased libido, miscarriages, high cholesterol, memory loss, poor concentration levels, irritability, insomnia, infertility, family history etc.

People with Hyperthyroidism suffer the contradictory situation in which they feel fatigue and lack of energy and yet are compelled to move about, talk and do things. They are constantly fidgeting and the slightest remark may set off an inappropriately angry response.

Severe problems from hypothyroid are the result of failure to develop properly, such as cretinism and juvenile myxodema. Long term hypothyroidism, such as adult myxodema, which is characterized by swelling of skin and subcutaneous tissues; dry, cold and slightly yellow skin, puffy face, loss of eyebrows, anginal pain, bradycardia, anorexia, constipation, and anemia.

Hair loss leading to scanty hair or patches appearing on the scalp is observed. Irritation is observed and feeling of being rejected, unwanted, seeps in and therefore are emotionally down. An individual handling tough situations in high spirits and tackled with ease becomes jerky and emotionally low causing tears to flow for smaller issues too.

With thyroid problems men will have low sperm count and infertility issues. Their nails will be small and brittle. A low performance and low libido will eventually lead to chronic depression. Men often face rejections in most of their decisions which often makes them depressed and unsorted. Hence, even men need to visit their docs periodically that will help them to get over some of the problems with medications and counseling.

Recommended diets

Iodine is undoubtedly most helpful in many cases, but it should be introduced in organic form. All foods containing iodine should be taken liberally. These are asparagus, cabbage, garlic, onion, oats, pineapple, whole rice, tomatoes, watercress and strawberries. The diet should consist of at least 50 percent of fresh foods, organic foods which aid in proper metabolic activity. To improve metabolism, it is best to consume smaller, frequent meals throughout the day.

People with hypothyroidism often face the problem of weight gain. Include turkey, yogurt, avocados, lean chicken, fish, lentils, almonds and sesame seeds.

Certain foods like milk, barley, Green grams, Bengal gram, sugarcane juice, cucumber and milk products are good for thyroids. At times foods like carrot, amla which are high in calcium also needs to be consumed.

Coconut oil is considered better for overall thyroid health. Coconut oil is a saturated fat. Its triglycerides increase metabolism and control weight.

Vegetable juices, unrefined sea salt are healthy foods that can improve thyroid functioning.

Foods to avoid

Certain foods should be avoided as they can disrupt iodine absorption in the body and lead to swelling of the thyroid gland. These foods include spinach, sweet potatoes, cauliflower and peanuts. Avoidance of excess wheat flour, refined sugars, potatoes, and other glycolic foods also helps. Stimulants like caffeine should be avoided at all costs.

In case of severe thyroid disorder, it is best to avoid vegetables such as cabbage, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and fruits such as pears and peaches as they may have a suppressive effect on thyroid function. On the other hand sour foods often worsen the situation.

Useful Herbs:

• Shilajeet-Asphaltum puniabiunum – Shilajeet is known as India’s wonder drug, it contains 85 minerals in different forms.
• Kanchanara – Bauhinia veriegata (purple mountain ebony): Helps in healthy functioning of thyroid.
• Bladder wrack (Fucus vesiculosus) – A natural source of iodine.
• Licorice – Used to maintain a healthy balance between glands and energy building.
• Guggulu: It supports removal of toxins and relief of inflammation, especially in the joints and muscles.

Consult the doctor for medical advice and dosage forms.

Yoga Practices and Exercises recommended

Thyroid disorder can be cured from root if yoga and pranayama is practiced regularly.

• Perform Ujjayi pranayama and other yogas which helps in throat problems.
• Practicing Surya Namaskar benefits the Endocrine system and enables the various endocrinal glands to function properly. These include the thyroid, parathyroid and pituitary glands as well as the adrenal gland, testes and ovaries. Like most forms of exercise, Surya Namaskar provides mental benefits to regular practitioners. You will feel wonderful after performing the Sun Salutation. It is relaxing and rejuvenating, and tension, stress and anxiety melt away as you perform Surya Namaskar.
• Important asanas for thyroid problem are Sarwangasana, Halasana, Matsyasana, ushtrasana, ardhchandrasana, sinhasana.
• Practice bhastrika, anuloma viloma and kapalbhati pranayama daily. Also practice Nadi shodhan. Practice Vajrasana after lunch and dinner.
• Practicing goumukhasana, makrasana, bhuganasana, dhanurasana, shalbhasana can also produce good results in curing thyroid.

 

Always advised to perform the yoga asanas in the presence of the trainer till you are thorough and can do it independently. Walking is an essential exercise , at least 30 minutes.

Home Remedies

• Use food which helps curing constipation with rich in fiber, like salads, green vegetables and drink eight to ten glasses of water daily.
• Prevent emotional stress. Make it a practice to consult the doctor every 2 to 3 months before situation worsens.
• The individual should make a conscious effort to control hormonal imbalances, consuming medication religiously and doing exercises.

Keep your mind occupied. Initiate reading habit and engage yourself with a passion you enjoy and you will definitely see changes.

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