An Abyss Of Imagination » Fitness Quotient

Root Vegetable Wonders

Nayna — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 04:30:01 +0000

Root vegetables are often ignored and not given its due importance. We concentrate a lot on our greens and proteins. No one actually goes to look for root vegetables when we head to the supermarket. I guess mainly because no celebrity diets or nutritionist has ever written a book on “How To Lose Weight With Roots” or “Look Youthful And Sexy with Roots Diet.” Maybe I should write one on this- something like Hoot For The Root. (Remember, this title is copyright protected so don’t you dare steal my idea.)

The advantage of eating root vegetable is that they are economical, versatile and is more filling that your average green salad without dressing. One tip to know how to buy root vegetable-always chose them when they are smaller in size and deep in color. The richer the color of root vegetables the more nutritious it is. All roots are excellent source of fiber and nutrients.

Here is a list of root vegetables that should be added in everyone’s diet irrespective of age and gender.

Beets: The lovely colored beet not only adds color to the food but is a mine of nutrients and iron. One half cup of beet contains only thirty-five calories. Beet can be incorporated in the diet in the form of mixed salad, a slice in a sandwich or can even be used in mixed vegetable soup.

Carrots: They are excellent for the eyes because of beta carotene. Its juice helps in weight loss and it is a great crunchy delight to overcome hunger pangs. Read our special article on Vegetable Juices.

Parsnips: They are closely associated with carrots. They are good source of vitamin C, folate and potassium. It can be enjoyed in mixed salads and soups.

Radishes: Radishes are a great source of vitamin C and phytochemicals. Read more growing organic vegetables.

Turnips: These are available in many varieties across continents. They make excellent soups and help in making good broths.

Rutabagas: They look similar to turnips and often referred to as yellow turnips. They are vitamin C enriched and delicious when cooked and seasoned properly.

Jicama: These taste excellent when added in the wok along with other vegetables and stir fried. They are sweet, crunchy and crisp so it’s a delight to the palate in a salad.

Colocasia: This is rich in iron and potassium. It should be eaten as much as possible because of its healing properties. They make great puree for stews and soups.

Tapioca or Cassava: This does have a little more calories but indulging in them gives us a good supply of vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. They act as good thickening agents in soups and stews. They are easy to digest and filling.

Everything we eat should be ingested in moderation. Creating a balance of different food groups not only gives us variety in our diet but enhances our taste buds and provides us with the necessary nourishment. Naturally grown fruits and vegetables should be given priority over instant foods and frozen dinners.

Nuts Nutrition

Nayna — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 04:30:37 +0000

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.

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Smelly Feet

Nayna — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 04:30:43 +0000

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.

Eucalyptus Oil Uses And Benefits

Nayna — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 04:30:36 +0000

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.

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Coconut Water Benefits Every Lifestyle

Nayna — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 04:27:25 +0000

Coconuts are widely found in most continents. Each and every part of this fruit provides us with nutrition and well-being. The most common natural health drink is coconut water. Most of us ignore coconut water as a drink and prefer aerated drinks to quench our thirst. Here are some reasons to help you change that thought:

1) Coconut water has zero cholesterol and lesser fat.

2) It aids in circulation.

3) Detoxifies the body

4) Strengthens immune system

5) Prevents constipation

6) Helps in patients suffering from kidney stones and kidney related problems.

7) It helps to solve problems of the urinary track

8) Hangover problems are tackled with ease by drinking tender coconut water.

9) Electrolytes in tender coconut water help to prevent dehydration.

10) Potassium present in tender coconut water helps to regulate blood pressure and various functions related to the heart.

Sunburn, heat boils and redness of the skin due to extreme heat can be smoothened by dabbing coconut water on the skin. It gives a very cooling effect and has no side effects.

Coconut water should be taken daily and preferably on an empty stomach. It helps to clear the toxins from the body. It is an ideal drink and gives a feeling of fullness especially for a person on a weight loss diet.

Drinking coconut water has no side-effects. It can be consumed 2-3 times a day. It is an ideal beverage for the summer season. It is better than any canned juice, aerated drinks and flavored sodas.

A dash of salt and sugar added to tender coconut water helps to relax an upset stomach. It prevents cramping caused to due stomach infection.

The best way to serve coconut water is to add rose petals in it and serve it in its kernel itself with a straw. So here’s to good health and we hope that this article will help you change your drinking habits.

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Group Exercise

Nayna — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:16:39 +0000

Exercising in a group can be a lot of fun. It builds morale, motivation and excitement. Group exercise is a great way to develop interaction, increase social circle and develops good bonding with others. It is a gathering of like-minded people where the objective is to be fit and healthy.

Aerobics is enjoyed best in a large group and the enthusiasm of the class helps in burning a lot more calories when compared to a single person doing cardiovascular exercise on a treadmill. All members performing the workout in harmony and synchronization can really boost a person’s adrenalin. Spinning is another variety of cardiovascular exercise that is enjoyed best in a group.

Working out in a group also helps an individual to understand problems that everyone faces like occasional weight gain, bloating and a feeling of heaviness. Motivation is not always high and sharing these thoughts and shortcomings with others has a good cathartic effect. One watches another member of the group and aims to be like them or follows the same exercising rhythm and improves themselves. We learn better when in a group rather than doing things on our own.

Pilates and yoga performed in a group helps an individual to focus better. A person can get distracted and allow his mind to wander but when it is done together, he or she can watch the persons around and follow with ease. There are less chances of injury.

Group exercise studio is an ideal place to socialize, network with people and attract new business ventures. It is a vibrant place for exchange of ideas and marketing. Many consumer and fitness related products are promoted at such places. Health and energy drinks, fitness gear, sports shoes, spa treatments, foot massage salons are some examples. The target audience at various exercise studio is huge and to tap into this market is everyone marketer’s dream.

Exercising in a group drives away the fears and inhibitions from many. Some people are afraid to try many things but when they see others doing it with ease; they too feel motivated to give it a shot.

But there are some disadvantages of group exercising as well. If most members in the group are not too serious in their fitness regime, it affects others. In group workouts, it is impossible for the instructor to keep an eye on everyone as a result there are chances of injury.

Group exercise does provide variety to everyday workout and the interactions with others is an added bonus. So take up a Pilates or spinning class today and see the difference from your routine jogging or weight training.

Traveling With Food Allergies

Nayna — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 04:30:14 +0000

The symptoms of food allergies vary from person to person. But usually the most noticeable signs are redness of the skin, the skin breaking into hives, sudden itchiness, puffiness of the areas around eyes and lips, rash and general feeling of uneasiness. At the first sign of any kind of allergy, it is essential to consult a specialist. There are many types of food allergy tests conducted to pinpoint the exact type of allergy you are suffering from.

Allergies cannot be ignored like a fever, thinking that the symptoms will go away with time. They need to be dealt with at the earliest. Doctors subscribe medications to control it in an instant. Sometimes the allergic condition may go on for days together. When this happens, you will need to keep the doctor posted on the developments of the reaction of the medicine on your body. At times, multiple combinations of pills are needed to reduce the redness and hives.

There are some cases where people suffer from delayed food allergies or multiple food allergies. This makes it very difficult to recollect what all you ate that lead to a breakout of the skin. In such cases, food allergy testing is crucial and most beneficial.

Life cannot come to a standstill because you suffer from food allergies. There are certain precautions that can be taken so that you do not trigger the allergies and enjoy a relaxing vacation.

Here is a list to be memorized when traveling with food allergies:

1) Make sure you get an allergy test done to understand the sources that trigger your allergy. Once you know this, it is easy to stay away from that product.

2) When on a vacation, always read labels on food to make sure it is doesn’t contain those ingredients that give you food allergy.

3) Carry light, packaged snacks. This will act as reserve food in case you don’t find anything suitable.

4) Always carry medications subscribed by the doctor for allergies. Avoid keeping it in the suitcase where the accessibility gets restricted once you board the flight.

5) Carry the prescription as well in case you need a doctor in a foreign country. This will help the practitioner to know the nature of your problem and what medicines will be compatible with your system.

6) Make sure you carry sufficient amounts of allergy medications to last you your entire vacation. All medicines are not available with the same chemical composition across continents.

Is Your Exercise Routine Not Working Out For You?

Nayna — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 04:30:20 +0000

Are your gym workout routines unsatisfactory? Has your enthusiasm plummeted to follow your daily exercise routine? Then join the gang.

Many times our energy levels get lowered than usual and we are not able to perform to the optimum level. If you feel that your weight training is not giving you the rush that you regularly feel or you are unable to burn sufficient calories on the treadmill then don’t feel left out. This happens all the time and it is caused due to various reasons.

One of main reason for hindrance in the exercise routine is stress. People carry the stress of their daily life to the gym. Silently the stress plays on your mind and affects the workout performance. It is a commonly known fact that regular exercising curbs anxiety but the hidden stress at work affects the performance of your workout routine.

Stress management is the key to solve this problem affecting your daily workout routine. One of the tips to tackle this is to leave the work stress at work and not carry it with you. Keep your mind free and then begin your exercise workout at the gym. You will find weight training more exciting and be able to excel in it. This stress if not managed and channelized properly can also cause injury during workouts. Remember always focus on the positive aspects of life.

Obsessive exercising or exercise addiction can also affect the slump in your workouts. Balance your workout sessions with proper rest and maintain a balanced exercise chart. Strength training exercises alternating with cardio exercises or circuit training with fat burning exercises can help to shock the body and get it going again. A change in workout program can also bring out a drastic change in your performance. Try a Pilates class or take up hiking for a change. Join an exercise boot camp for a refreshing fitness challenge.

A change in weather conditions can also affect your workout routine. Hot, humid weather can slow you down while a breezy morning can really boost your adrenalin to run on the treadmill.

No matter what the problems are in life, there are solutions to them so leave them aside and focus on your workout routine. This kind of sincerity and dedication certainly works in giving you the desired body. This in turn will boost your self confidence and the ear will automatically get tuned to hearing compliments.

Managing Thunder Thighs

Nayna — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 04:30:10 +0000

Thunder thigh is the term commonly used to denote women with heavy legs. Many Bollywood actresses are famous for having thunder thighs. While women try hard to reduce these fat layers, some men on the other hand find this very sexy.

Women with a pear-shaped body commonly suffer from heavy thighs. Indian women are prone to this type of body structure. The thigh region is also prone to develop cellulite which adds to the bulkiness and makes the legs look unattractive.

Managing thunder thighs is not difficult. Selecting silhouettes that are well-fitted at the waist and flowing around the thighs can work wonders. The length of the skirt should be based on the height of the woman and should rest at the narrowest part of the leg. Usually the calves are narrow so if the skirt length stops there, then the emphasis moves away from the thighs. Avoid wearing skinny jeans and Capris. Select trousers with flowing material and with straight fit. Boot-legged cuts in jeans will be a disaster.

Many women go on variety of diets to lose weight at their thighs. No diet gives weight loss for a specific section or provides spot reduction. A diet should be low in fat, rich in protein and contain medium amounts of carbohydrate. Exercising regularly helps to make the thighs thinner.

How To Achieve Thinner Thighs

1) Under the guidance of a trainer, exercises should be undertaken to achieve thinner thighs. The reason behind this is that one needs to know the correct posture and angles in which the exercises should be done. Failing to know the techniques may cause injury to the knees, lower back and spine.

2) Cardiovascular exercises are ideal to burn calories. This can be in the form of jogging, power walking and even skipping. One can use the treadmill, cross training machine, arc trainer and stair climbers. Climbing regular stairs with swiftness also provides a good loss in calories.

3) Lunges, swats and their variations with the help of dumbbells can help provide firmness to the thighs.

4) After any leg workout, stretching the quadriceps, hamstrings, muscles of the gluts and calves are a must, otherwise there is stiffness and soreness of the muscle the following day.

Women should not be conscious of their body. We all have flaws. Some are more noticeable than others. The best way is to work at it, dress appropriately to accentuate the other features of the body, and above all be confident of yourself.

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How To Rest

Nayna — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:21:00 +0000

Hectic schedules, demanding lifestyles, competitive job market and recession has created an imbalance in the quality of our lives. The body knows what it has to do to shutdown and recuperate. But now various energy drinks, medications, supplements are available to help us control our sleep and rest cycle so that we can enhance our creative productivity.

The race to be successful, popular and super rich pays a heavy price on a person’s health. The metabolic rate is confused, the digestion is dependent on antacids, emotions are triggered with the side effects of sleep suppressants and we all escalate to a point that we scream for help.

Tips On How To Rest

1) Find a quiet area where you can sit comfortably. If you need to relax yourself at work then avoid sitting with friends and colleagues. Look for the last table at the back of the cafeteria.

2) Drink a glass of water. Water works wonders when we need to settle and calm the internal chaos.

3) Practice deep breathing exercises. For this to be effective, avoid slouching in your chair. Close your eyes for better results.

4) Be aware of the way you inhale and exhale air.

5) To make this rest more enjoyable, visualize the place you would really like to be in and transport yourself there. It could be at a beach in Florida, Hawaii or on top of Mount Everest. It’s your imaginative world, so make the most of it.

6) Add your partner or lover into this picture and feel the change in the tempo of your heart rate.

7) When you feel at ease and relaxed, open your eyes and blink twice. This is a good eye exercise.

8) Eat a light meal like a bowl of hot soup or salad to energize yourself.

9) If time permits take a stroll around the office building and take in the scenery.

10) Think positive. Call up a loved one to find out how they are managing their day.

Taking rest in between work is the best way to manage stress. It takes the mind off from work and the body is able to cope up with the constant challenges. How to rest effectively depends on you would like to live your life.

An Abyss Of Imagination » Fitness Quotient

Root Vegetable Wonders

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Nuts Nutrition

Random Posts

Smelly Feet

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Eucalyptus Oil Uses And Benefits

Random Posts

Coconut Water Benefits Every Lifestyle

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Group Exercise

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Traveling With Food Allergies

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Is Your Exercise Routine Not Working Out For You?

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Managing Thunder Thighs

Random Posts

How To Rest

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