Thursday, 30 January 2014

The Best Foods to Eat for Energy

Healthy Foods
Healthy Foods
If you have to drag yourself with the day, it’s easy to think popping a supplement or chugging an energy drink might help recharge your battery. Not so fast. All-day energy doesn’t originate from a pill or a concoction inside a can. It comes from real food, that is packed with nature’s secret stash of natural revitalizers such as complex carbs, protein, and fiber. All foods and most drinks contain calories which we are able to use as an energy source. The nutrients that provide us with energy are carbohydrates, fats, protein and alcohol.

Many of these food choices are healthy and will provide energy because according to the study they contain an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, while being low in calories. Try these energy boosters on the run, inside a recipe, for a snack, or in a meal.

Red Beans

Small and dark red beans are low in fat, high in protein and fiber that will leave you feeling full and energized. A good source of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and thiamin red beans also contain phytonutrients.

Bananas

Since they're composed mostly of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fiber, bananas really are a foolproof energy food. Top them with peanut or almond butter for any well-rounded snack, or slice one into your morning cereal for an extra boost that will keep you going until lunchtime.

Salmon

Salmon is low in saturated fats and cholesterol and is a good source of protein. Most importantly though salmon is definitely an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are a type of fat which makes your blood less likely to form clots and could also protect against irregular heartbeats, decrease triglyceride levels, decrease the growth of artery-clogging plaques, lower blood pressure and prevent stroke.

Beans

Lean protein, iron, B-vitamins and amino acids make beans a clear go-to for energy, but another big benefit originates from their fiber content. Fiber slows digestion, giving your body a longer-term source of energy.

Brown Rice

Rich in manganese, the mineral that helps produce energy from protein and carbs, it can help you maintain high energy all day. A versatile ingredient, brown rice can be served like a side dish with your favorite lean proteins (together with nutrient-packed veggies!) for a powerhouse your meal.

Sweet Potato

With only 54 calories in one small sweet potato, this delicious food is fat-free and low in calories. Additionally, the deep orange-yellow color of sweet potatoes means that they're high in the antioxidant beta carotene. Energy food sources of beta carotene, that are converted to vitamin A in your body, might help slow the aging process and prevent some cancers. Sweet potatoes are also good sources of fiber, vitamins B-6, C and E, folate and potassium.

Yogurt

Having a rainbow of flavors to choose from, yogurt is really a healthy breakfast or snack option when you’re on a tight schedule. Rich in magnesium, which is crucial for that release of energy, yogurt also adds a dose of calcium to your diet. Enjoy it post-workout to help replenish your glycogen sources.

Almonds

Almonds, like many nuts, are one of the best plant sources of protein. Protein will help regulate your blood sugar and keep your energy level stable through the day. Almonds are also good for your heart simply because they contain monounsaturated fat which may help lower blood cholesterol levels. Along with protein, almonds contain fiber, riboflavin, magnesium, iron and calcium.

Apples

Fiber will help satisfy your appetite and provide you with a quick energy supply by making you are feeling full. Apples contain pectin, a soluble fiber that may lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Antioxidants, like vitamin C, will help protect your body's cells from damage and fresh apples are an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C also helps make up the connective tissue collagen, keeps your capillaries and blood vessels healthy, and helps with the absorption of iron.

Carrots

Carrots are high in fiber, so that they are a great crunchy way to take the edge off hunger, while providing some good nutrition. They contain high amounts of Vitamin A, in the form of Beta-Carotene, which is good for that eye sight. Since they are a veggie which mixes well with most other foods, they are great to snack on through the day.

Blueberries

Blueberries have been shown to improve short-term memory and promote healthy aging. Blueberries will also be a low-calorie source of fiber and vitamin C. Just 1 cup of fresh blueberries has 84 calories, 3.6 grams of fiber and 14 mg of vitamin C.
Foods that Give You Energy
Foods that Give You Energy

Broccoli

Broccoli is another great source of the antioxidants vitamins A and C to safeguard your cells from damage. It's also a good source of calcium, potassium, folate and fiber. Many of these will leave you with energy and a powerful immune system.

Lemon Water

It may sounds simple, but sipping water with lemon (cold or hot) may provide energy. One of the biggest forms of fatigue is dehydration, so be sure to sip up! Lemon gives an additional boost of vitamins and enzymes. Be sure to start your day having a cup of hot water with lemon.

Thursday, 9 January 2014

Nutrition Benefits of Baked Beans

Baked beans have been a family favorite for a large number of years. They come in many flavors and match barbecued foods such as hot dogs or burgers. Created using wholesome beans and a thick sauce, they offer a hearty side dish. Although people eat all of them over the United States, the nutrition they provide is something no one talks about. Here's a breakdown on a barbecue's favorite friend and why they and then any bean packs a nutritious punch.

The nutritional benefits of baked beans and the tomato sauce they're cooked in relate to iron, folate, protein, fibre and lycopene. Here's how baked beans can also add nutrition to your life:

Fiber Benefits

Beans are a great source of fiber. Fiber keeps your intestines working properly by preventing constipation. A good number of people stay away from beans because of the gas they experience. Gas occurs following the bacteria in the bowels digest fiber. It's a byproduct of the digested fiber and relieves itself once you eliminate your bowels. If gas becomes a big problem when eating foods containing fiber, reduce the amount and this usually solves the gas problem.

Folate

All women of child bearing age should consume adequate folate. Folate or folic Acid is linked to many health benefits. Folate deficiency can result in anaemia and the most publicly promoted advantage of folate is that it helps reduce the incidence of neural tube defects in infants if consumed prior to conception but for the first three months of pregnancy. 

Vitamin and Mineral Content

Baked and other types of beans contain folic acid, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and vitamin B6. Folic acid is excellent for pregnant or child-bearing women. Iron helps promote healthy blood cell production. Vitamin B6 helps with metabolic process and potassium regulates fluids within the body. Manganese is important for your bones, a thyroid problem, sexual health and the metabolism of food. Magnesium is necessary for bone for mation and cell function. Additionally, it keeps the heart functioning properly and lowers cholesterol.

Different Varieties

Baked beans are available in a small number of delicious flavors. They've more than the plain variety with a bit of pork in the can. You can now enjoy them in honey, barbecue, and maple brown sugar flavors. This encourages children to eat them as well with the addition of more taste and texture.

Diet

If you are on a high fiber or protein diet, beans are the healthiest way to incorporate these nutrients. They're better for that body and provide more vitamins and minerals than red meats. When you are having a barbecue or just looking for a side dish, remember the baked beans.

High in Protein

The building blocks of muscles begin with protein. This important nutrient is required to promote healthy muscle tissue that not only helps you get strong, but increases energy. If you have more energy, you can exercise longer. Protein also promotes strong hair and nails. Beans are often considered the poor man's meat, however the amount of protein in them provides a insightful health benefits.

Wednesday, 8 January 2014

Health Benefits of Eating Dry Fruits

Few are accustomed to eating dried fruits, but consciously injecting such food components of one’s diet can actually be very beneficial. Dried fruits can be anything between your range of prunes, dried oranges, dried mangoes, dried kiwis, and basically any fruit variety that has been processed carrying out a dehydration method wherein water content of the fruit is extracted.

This will make dried fruit a great source of energy and an excellent snack food, particularly well-liked by small children. However, the high calorie content can spoil small appetites for meals and it is something weight watchers should be aware of. The high sugar content does mean that dried fruit is best not eaten frequently between meals because this could increase the risk of cavities.

Prunes

Prunes are rich in vitamins and minerals both of which have vital importance for our body's metabolic process and health. They are a source of antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin A which aids vision and also the well being of our skin as well as vitamin C, a really important vitamin for the regeneration of tissues.

Raisins

Raisins are in fact dried grapes and have high nourishing qualities. They've sufficient sugar content and thus higher food value. Raisins are a great food and are also important during period of recovery. They enrich our blood as it is a very good source of iron.

Dates

Dates contain natural sugar in type of fructose and glucose. Dates represent a really nutritious fruit. Crushed dried dates soaked in water are good remedy which Strengthens Heart and it is vital functions. Also dates are effective natural fix for a hangover.

Prunes

Prunes are a very good source of fiber, vitamin A, potassium, and copper. Helping you fight with weight loss which help maintain normal blood sugar levels, Beta-carotene in prunes decreases free radicals. Keep a good stock of the above listed healthy dry fruits in your house. It's possible to always carry a handful in pocket and munch on these to keep the energy levels high all through the day.

Dried figs

Dried figs remain to dry in the sun without adding any preservative chemicals. They are delicious and very nutritious. They're rich in minerals such as Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium in vitamins such as vitamin A and fibres which altogether make them a good source of energy for that human body. A large dried fig contains 60 calories.

Almonds

The almonds are rich in vitamins and therefore are even easier to digest then milk. The unsaturated fats in almonds have good curative values because they are rich in iron, copper, phosphorus and vitamin B1. Include the high dry fruits for health in your dally diet as they assist in developing new blood cells and hemoglobin. They strengthen the brain, heart, nerves, bones and liver.

Wednesday, 25 December 2013

Protein-Rich Foods That Build Muscle

Protein isn't the only thing you have to gain muscle mass. Don't be afraid of the carbs. Before you reach for a loaf of bread, listed here are seven nutrient-packed foods that give you the dose of protein and carbs you need to get big. And they're all readily accessible at your local supermarket. Proteins are important nutrient components which are made of essential and non-essential amino acids which offer energy to the body. Protein controls many important metabolism functions within the body and is a fundamental component of all living cells.

Some people get more protein than they need within their daily diet, protein deficiencies can lead to loss of muscle tissues, reduced immunity, a weak heart as well as death. When you're looking at ways to choose protein rich foods, some choices healthier than others.

Oysters

Oysters can raise testosterone levels in men, however it can also supply the muscles using the necessary protein they need. If you’re in the mood for seafood after or before a workout, eat these.

Cottage Cheese

To begin with, one cup of low-fat cottage cheese has 28 grams of protein! Additionally, it contains high amounts of casein protein, (which provides a sustained protein release on the longer period of time) great for night time. A low-fat cottage cheese constitutes a great protein packed snack anytime and can be eaten with virtually anything.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is higher in protein than regular yogurt and it’s filled with a variety of vitamins. In addition to this, yogurt can also be full of calcium and probiotics that help keep your body healthy. Should you prefer a quick snack before or after exercising, try a Greek yogurt without any added sugars.

Lentils

A really nutritious legume; containing loads of fiber and minerals. This muscle building protein food provides a great carbohydrate, that is slow burning. These can help power workout sessions and replenish lost nutrients.

Beef

A pleasant steak is something you don’t need to feel guilty about eating. It’s high in protein together with creatine and iron. Eating this will build your muscles stronger; just be sure you don’t add unnecessary butter and marinades.

Monday, 16 September 2013

Effective Coconut Oil For Acne Mask That You Can Try

Coconut Oil
Acne can not only affect your physical appearance but could also affect you emotionally as well. Your skin may be the first thing people see so it’s hard not to be self-conscious about your acne-prone skin.

Coconut oil has been used for centuries to cleanse, protect and heal skin. It's rich in fatty acids that are beneficial for skin, contains many vitamins and protective elements, and it is useful for so many hair and body treatments.

Coconut oil has been found to possess numerous benefits when used externally. Virgin coconut oil is advantageous in the treatment of virus, fungi and bacteria, which can cause acne and skin problems. Using coconut oil around the face to reap its benefits on the skin is simple, and can be done a few different ways.

Why Use Coconut Oil For Acne


Coconut oil has created a lot of bad press because of its high levels of saturated fat. However studies are now shedding light that this belief is erroneous. The saturated fats in coconut oil is different to other fats and for that reason possess unique health enhancing effects. 50% of the fat in coconut oil is lauric acid, a medium chain essential fatty acid.
This is the reason for its antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial properties. Once consumed, the body converts lauric acid to monolaurin. a potent monoglyceride that destroys lipid coated viruses. Lauric acid is the reason why mothers milk so important for any newborn. It strengthens the immune system.

Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Acne Treatments

  • Coconut oil is soothing and inflammatory reducing redness and discomfort related to acne.
  • Coconut oil makes a great makeup and eye makeup remover. Removing all traces of makeup prevents pores from clogging.
  • Extra virgin coconut oil won't clog pores and cause blackheads or breakouts like many synthetic oils since it is non-comedogenic.
  • Virgin coconut oil will not clog pores, cause blackheads or breakouts since it is non-comedogenic. (however refined coconut oil is not non-comedogenic).
  • Lauric acid is 50% of the fat in coconut oil. Since it's antibacterial, antiviral and antimicrobial it targets the source of acne bacteria.
  • Coconut Oil For Acne Mask
    It helps with wound healing and it is great for acne scars.
  • Because coconut oil is anti fungal it helps with candida which can be a fundamental cause of acne.
  • Mental sharpness, weight loss and better digestion will also be reported to be improved with two teaspoons of coconut oil put into your diet every day.
  • Coconut oil exfoliates the outer layer of dead skin cells.
  • Coconut oil resists oxidation and free radical formation. In essence it is an antioxidant.
  • Strengthens connective tissue in the skin.

Wednesday, 22 May 2013

Butternut Squash Health Benefits


Butternut squash is one of the most popular of the winter squashes.Butternut squash resembles a cream-colored elongated bell that's described as tasting sweet, nutty and a little like a sweet potato. Unlike other winter squash, butternut’s skin is thin and easy to peel, but it can also simply be cut in half and roasted with the skin intact. 

The butternut plant is monoecious as in pumpkins, and feature different male and female flowers that require honeybees for effective pollination. Butternut, in-fact, is the most common among winter squash fruits.

Carotenoids

You may think of vitamin A as a single nutrient, but the term refers to two groups of substances: retinoids and carotenoids. Butternut squash is one of the best sources of four carotenoids: alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. 

Benefit for Heart Health

Butternut squash seeds are a good source of dietary fiber and mono-unsaturated fatty acids that benefit for heart health. In addition, they are rich in protein, minerals, and numerous health-benefiting vitamins. The seeds are an excellent source of health promoting amino acid, tryptophan. Tryptophan converts to health benefiting GABA neuro-chemical in the brain.

Anti-oxidants

Butternut squash contains many vital poly-phenolic anti-oxidants and vitamins. Similar to other Cucurbitaceae members, this too is one of the low-calorie vegetables, which provides just 45 calories per 100 g. It contains no saturated fats or cholesterol; however, is rich source of dietary fiber and phyto-nutrients. Squash is one of the common vegetables that often recommended by dieticians in the cholesterol controlling and weight reduction programs.


Vitamins

Along with the above, butternut squash is also a great source of some essential vitamins and nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy. At the top of the list is vitamin A, a nutritional element that helps with eye function. Butternut squash is also a major source of other vitamins like vitamin C, a classic antioxidant, as well as vitamins E and B6, and other nutrients like thiamin and riboflavin. 


Fiber

Butternut squash contains soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to digested food, which helps it travel through the digestive tract and prevents constipation. 

Tuesday, 21 May 2013

Amazing Health Benefits of Green Apple Juice


Green apple juice benefits have been discussed in various texts however the fact remains that many of us don’t add these to the daily diets as directed. Really fresh kind of a juice, the green elements causes it to be feel like a salad juice, very good like a morning juice.

Green Apple JuiceThe tricky thing with preparing this juice is the fact that most home juicer aren’t that great with leafy products, so attempt to mix them with the more solid ingredients.

The green apple juice is among the most important fresh juices, the medical studies have demonstrated the healthy benefits of the juice as it lowers the bad cholesterol level within the body, and prevents the formation of blood clots which largely reduces the risks of hearth attacks and brain strokes, her same benefits of aspirin which is often used to protect against dangerous blood clots.

Lower Risk of Dementia

Some studies have shown that green apple juice lowers the risk of dementia the aged. Apple juice slows brain aging and helps to help keep it sharp for longer time.

Source of Vitamin Supplement

Green apple juice is recognized as a good source of vitamin supplement for the body. Understanding the benefits of vitamins towards the body, you can be assured of the great benefits of green apple juice. This is quite important than having a meal replacement. All the nutrients contained by green apples are removed which makes them easy to digest and get absorbed through the body unlike whole apples. This way, it is easy to absorb the vitamins and minerals which are available in the fruits.

Heart Diseases

Apple juice prevents cholesterol to create in your blood vessels and arteries. High cholesterol levels level and plaques in the arteries are among the major causes of heart diseases. By drinking green apple juice you lessen the risk of heart diseases.
Health Benefits of Green Apple Juice

Antioxidants

Antioxidants may be used to prevent various illnesses and also try to promote the health of your organs. Phosphorus, iron, chloride, silicon, potassium and calcium can be found in apples and work to supply the body with nutrients and vitamins that will help with the function of organs and also the work of the body as a whole.

Excellent Source of Energy

Green apple juice nutrition comes complete with different vitamins – A, C, E, K, B1, B2, B6 and Folate, so it’s an excellent source of energy. As a result, it’s a great drink to restore your energy following a physical exercise.

Weight Loss

This health benefit of green apple juice is loved by weight conscious persons. Cholesterol and calories are a couple of major causes of extra weight. Apple juice is basically free from calories and fat, it protects you against cholesterol.

Cleaner Organism and Improved Digestion

Green apple juice (especially raw apple juice) helps you to clean the liver and kidneys from toxic compounds. As a result, you have a cleaner organism and you’re simply better protected against liver and kidney diseases.