Nuts Nutrition
February 20, 2010
In this age of fitness and weight loss management, most people stop eating essential foods which are meant for the well being of the growth and development of the body.
Alas, if only people knew the importance of certain foods that may contain few more calories than steamed vegetables. But most prefer the high end calories of cheese burgers, fries and a large glass of soda. Sometimes just the sight of nuts turns dieters away. Nuts are the richest source of vitamins and have been available in nature for the enhancement of mankind.
Fistful of assorted nuts on a daily bases can eradicate the need of taking a vitamin pill. Anything eaten naturally is more beneficial that processed protein or fiber. A sneak peek to the world of nuts is as follows.
1) Almonds: They are the best natural form of antioxidants. It is best to eat it with its skin. It is rich in protein, vitamin B and E. It contains mono saturated fats which actually work to reduce cholesterol. It helps to keep skin radiant and healthy.
2) Brazil Nut: This too has similar benefits like the almond. But its specialty is that it contains a lot more percentage of selenium which helps to keep off a wide variety of cancer including breast and prostate cancer.
3) Cashew: This is the most common and well loved nut. People usually like to eat their cashew in the form of salted, roasted or sweetened. This should be avoided. Cashew should be enjoyed plain for its high nutritional benefits. It has immense percentage of iron and magnesium which helps to combat osteoporosis. Besides, it helps to reduce blood pressure, severity of asthma and works on the overall immune system.
4) Chestnut: These come in various varieties. There are the American chestnut, the European chestnut, Chinese and the Japanese chestnut. They are a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, calcium and potassium.
5) Hazelnut: These nuts are more memorable when they are dipped in chocolate. I am sure you agree with me. But these should be enjoyed as they are without any sugar coating or frostings. It contains a lot of Vitamin E that is why its extracts are used in body creams and lotions to soften skin. It is a rich source of all forms of vitamin B mainly B1, B2, B6 along with iron, zinc, calcium and potassium. It helps to maintain strong and healthy bones and teeth.
6) Pistachio: This nut is only remembered as ice cream toppings but truly this nut is not given sufficient credit for its enriching properties. It contains fiber, protein, iron and magnesium. They too like hazelnuts are vital source of vitamin E.
7) Peanut: Peanuts are most popular nuts and known to everyone worldwide. These nuts are truly magical because they work wonders in filling up a growling stomach. This nut energizes the body rapidly and prevents muscle fatigue. They are highly rich in proteins and vitamin B.
8) Walnut: This nut is known as brain food. Indeed, they resemble the brain in appearance and work wonders to control cholesterol. Arthritis, psoriasis, eczema and asthma patients get relief to some extent with the consumption of walnuts as it has anti-inflammatory properties.
9) Coconut: The largest of all nuts is the coconut. Every part of this nut is widely used and has been discussed in detail in our previous post – Coconut Water Benefits Every Lifestyle. Coconuts are a rich source of calcium and iron.
Everything in moderation is good for living. Similarly eating nuts in limited and monitored quantities is extremely beneficial to the body.
©Nayna Chakrabarty, 2007-2010. All Rights Reserved.
Smelly Feet
January 26, 2010
Are you afraid to take off your footwear in the presence of other people? Are troubled that your foot odor will repel your girlfriend away?
Stinky feet are always embarrassing. A lot of people mask this odor by spraying deodorants but this is only temporary. There are many causes for smelly feet. But here are some simple home remedies that can be tried out.
1) Wash your feet regularly in warm water and dry it thoroughly, especially between the toes.
2) Change your socks regularly. Sweaty socks after a workout can emit bad odor.
3) Use foot powder especially designed to combat smelly feet.
4) Use a foot scrubber as often as possible to get rid of dry and dead skin cells.
5) Apply a light, moisturizing foot cream before bedtime. This will heal any cuts, cracks and calluses that could be emitting the stinky odor.
6) Air your shoes. Most of the time, after a run or workout at the gym, we pack the shoes back into the shoe closet or cabinet. The bacteria present in the sweat remain in the membranes of the shoe and develop huge colonies of bacteria. These bacteria then work on your feet when you wear the shoes again. The best way to tackle this is to air the shoes.
Leave the shoes in bright sunlight for a day to kill the germs. Also, wash your shoes every month to keep it free from grim and infections. Most sports shoes have washing instructions written on them. If you are too pressed for time, then just soak the shoes in warm sudsy water for couple of hours then wash it under running water and leave it out to dry in the sun.
7) Foot psoriasis can cause terrible foot odor. If such is the case then you should consult a skin specialist or dermatologist at the earliest. These tend to spread so immediate action should be taken. Using ointments over the counter for foot psoriasis is not advisable. It is most essential to get a consultation from a specialist.
8) Many people soak their feet in tannin water to curb smelly feet. Tannin is present in tea. It is said that tannin deactivates the sweat glands of the feet. Brew about two tea bags in around two cups of water for fifteen minutes. Add some amount of plain water to make the temperature ambient and comfortable so that you can soak your feet in it. Allow your feet to relax in this water for around thirty minutes.
Smelly feet can cause discomfort and embarrassment in relationships. Foot care is essential and feet should be well-maintained at all times. Pedicure could be done at home or at salons minimum once a month. Maintaining healthy feet is as important as taking care of your diet or hair care. If nothing helps to curb foot odor then head straight to the doctor’s office.
©Nayna Chakrabarty, 2007-2010. All Rights Reserved.
Eucalyptus Oil Uses And Benefits
December 18, 2009
The aroma of eucalyptus oil brings a sense of relief to our senses. But that is not all what this special healing tree can do for mankind. Eucalyptus Globulus is a tall tree which originated from Australia, Tasmania and India. It is also known as Nilgiri tree, fever tree and blue gum tree.
Benefits Of Eucalyptus Oil:
1) Few drops of eucalyptus oil in a steam inhaler relieve sinus, nasal congestion and bronchitis. If you are pressed for time, add few drops of this oil in your handkerchief and breathe deeply. It will prevent wheezing, coughing and blocked nose. Eucalyptus lozenges are readily available in leading stores to smoothen an irritated throat and constant cough.
2) This essential oil acts as an antibacterial agent and is successfully used to treat cuts, burns, minor scrapes, insect bites and stings. It is always essential to keep this oil handy as you may never know when you would need it.
3) Dental hygiene is best maintained with eucalyptus oil. There are many varieties of toothpastes and mouthwashes that use this oil in their product to keep gums healthy and fight plaque, tooth decay and gingivitis.
4) Feeling feverish? Before you pop pills, make sure you take a whiff of this oil or apply it on your forehead to keep the temperature down.
5) Fungal infections like athletes foot can be curbed with this therapeutic eucalyptus oil.
6) Dandruff and scalp infections are rectified if this oil is regularly massaged gently into the scalp. Many anti dandruff shampoos in the market add this in their list of ingredients.
7) Body massage oils contain eucalyptus oil which works wonders for relaxation along with increasing concentration and alertness. It is frequently used in aromatherapy oils, lotions and creams.
8) This oil is also used in room fresheners to perk up the environment.
9) It is widely used in mosquito repellants in mat and liquid form.
10) The leaves from this tree are used as tea leaves. Eucalyptus tea is a medicinal, healing and an organic tea that cures many ailments.
Eucalyptus is an essential oil and is usually mixed with henna and used by women in many parts of the world to create beautiful designs and patterns on their palms, hands and legs. This oil enhances the rich color of the henna and emits a refreshing fragrance.
So the next time, you need a quick fix for a blocked nose, you now know what to do. People from the ancient civilizations always used eucalyptus oil in their daily living. They knew how to be one with nature and utilize such trees for its medicinal properties. Now if only the new generation can take their lead and help to save the environment.
©Nayna Chakrabarty, 2007-2009. All Rights Reserved.
