Monday, 10 November 2014

5 Health Benefits of Donating Blood


A spider bite might not transform you into a superhero, but a small needle prick and a little of your time sure can. Yes, by donating blood you’ll be saving up to three human lives each time. And here is even more awesome news: not only is donating blood extremely beneficial to those on the receiving end, it also has proven benefits to the person donatingblood.Here are some of the benefits you gain for you humanitarian efforts.

1. THE JOY OF SAVING HUMAN LIVES

It is such a wonderful feeling being able to help doctors save human lives. There are no perfect substitutes for human blood. The blood you donate is divided into various components according to the needs of patients. Each component can be used by different recipients for various purposes. Many newborn babies may benefit from a single blood donor as their blood requirements are smaller. Every time you donate blood, you can help up to 3 or 4 individual recipients. Be a hero by donating blood.


2. FREE HEALTH CHECK-UP

You can donate blood only if you are fit enough to do so. Before every blood donation process, a series of health check-ups are performed on the donor totally free of cost. This will be of great benefit to you. For example, you will come to know of any blood pressure abnormalities. That will help diagnose some of the indolent diseases at the early stage before they get flared up and present with multiple medical problems. Further, after the blood is donated, the blood and blood products that are derived from them are screened for certain infections. You can choose to be informed if they find any abnormality in those screening tests. Frequent blood donations are good free health check-ups that will help you stay healthy. Here is an interesting story of how blood donation saved a grandmother’s life.

3. REDUCES RISK OF HEART DISEASE

Regular blood donations help to keep the levels of iron in the body in check, especially in males. This has shown to reduce heart disease. Though iron is an essential element for the proper functioning of the body, excessive iron build up can result in excessive oxidative damage. Oxidative damage is the major culprit implicated in accelerated ageing, heart attacks, strokes etc. You can read more of the scientific information on theAmerican Journal of Epidemiology.

4. BURNS CALORIES

One time blood donation helps you shed 650 Kcal. This can aid you in your body weight control measures. However, blood can be donated safely once in two or three months and not more frequently. This will depend on your health status and your blood hemoglobin and iron levels.

5. REDUCES THE RISK OF CANCER

High levels of iron have been implicated in cancer. Theoretically, donating blood frequently will reduce the risk of cancers. More research is going on to find strong evidence on this one. However, the old myth that blood donations may lead to cancer has been put to the grave.
Still having doubts and excuses that prevent you from donating blood? Watch this video.

Donating blood is a very safe procedure and is not harmful to you. You will be assessed for your eligibility by medical personnel before you can donate blood. The bare minimum: A healthy 16 year old weighing at least 110 lbs.Need motivation? Read about this Florida guy who has donated about 100 gallons of blood in his entire life. Read more stories of students who volunteer to donate blood.
 First time blood donors? Check the American Red Cross to know the entire procedure of donating blood. And you can pass this message on and motivate others too.

Drink Coconut water for Healthy Skin and Hair!



Drink Coconut water for Healthy Skin & Hair!
Coconut (Cocos nuciferawater is one of the nature’s most refreshing drinks consumed worldwide for its nutritious & health benefiting properties. It is a clear and sweet liquid inside young coconut, which is botanically a drupeThe liquid is composed of useful compounds such as sugars, vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, enzymes, amino acids, cytokines and phytohormones. Coconuts are found grown in South East Asia, India, Brazil and Mexico

Drinking coconut water offers a lot of health benefits owing to its low fat, carbohydrate and natural sugar content. Studies suggest that this healthy drink contains  up to 1,500 mg/l of potassium & about 400 mg/l of sodium. The natural water has a caloric value of 17.4 /100 g, and is 99% fat free. Owing to its unique chemical composition of electrolytes and nutrients, the liquid is said to be a good natural substitute of sports drinks. Also it acts a nourishing drink for healthy skin and hair! 
Other known health benefits of Coconut water are: 

  • The coconut water is said to be a refreshing drink & provides an instant source of energy.
  • It is known to maintain the body temperature and works as a body coolant. 
  • Functioning as a prebiotic, it supports beneficial bacteria in the gut
  • This health drink improves metabolism, digestion and hence, the bowel movement
  • It is an excellent oral re-hydration medium, an all natural isotonic for all ages 
  • It promotes healthy thyroid function.
  • It is reported to relieve spasms and swellings owing to its high potassium content
  • It is a natural diuretic; studies suggest its role in treating kidney stones
  • It improves blood circulation and is known to lower arterial pressure
  • It is a natural drink for feeding infants suffering from intestinal disturbances 
  • It is also said to control diabetes.
  • Coconut (Cocos nuicfera) Tree
  • For all these reasons as well for its nutritional values, it helps keep skin problems such as eczema at bay & maintains skin's softness & suppleness. 
Drinking this natural sweet beverage has manifold health benefits that would surely gift you with a healthy skin and body. So, its time to cut down on all the aerated, high calorie, sugar full beverages and have an access to 100% health benefits by substituting coconut water for these! This would also help you keep a check on weight gain! 

Top 10 Foods to Gain Muscle Mass

To get you started, here is my list of the top ten foods to help you gain more muscle mass and strength:
top 10 foods for muscle gain, eating for muscle gain, muscle gain diet

1. Lean Beef

This should be a STAPLE of your diet if you want to gain muscle mass. Why? Because it is loaded with all sorts of things conducive to muscle growth. On average, a three-ounce serving of lean beef is only 154 calories, yet it provides ten essential nutrients, including iron, zinc and B-vitamins. More importantly, it provides your body with high quality protein (not all proteins are equal), and a high level of amino acid that works with insulin to promote muscle growth. For those who are trying to lose weight, this should come as great news – a 3 ounce serving of lean beef provides roughly the same amount of protein as 1.5 cups of beans, but at half the calories.

2. Skinless Chicken

Like beef, it is an excellent source of high quality protein, which is important for muscle maintenance and repair, bone health, and weight maintenance. And of course, there are so many ways you can cook and prepare chicken. Go down to the store and you can easily find chicken meat cut into single serving sizes that can be seasoned and quickly cooked.

3. Cottage Cheese

top 10 foods for muscle gain, eating for muscle gain, muscle gain diet
Not many people know this, but cottage cheese constitutes relatively pure casein protein. For those who don’t know, casein protein is a slow-digesting protein, which means it is perfect for muscle maintenance. This is useful especially for guys who have no choice but to go long periods without eating. Not forgetting, cottage cheese is also an excellent source of vitamin B12, calcium, and other important nutrients. My advice: buy the nonfat/low-fat versions.

4. Eggs

Eggs contain high quality protein, nine essential amino acids, choline, the right kind of fat, and vitamin D. To sum it up, they are the most value for money. And please note, eggs are not harmful for your health, as numerous studies have already shown.

5. Whey Protein

top 10 foods for muscle gain, eating for muscle gain, muscle gain diet
There is a reason why whey protein supplementsare the most popular supplement in the bodybuilding world: because they provide a fast and convenient source of protein at an affordable price. Bodybuilders normally use them when they wake up, right after their workout, and mixed with some of their meals. However, for those of us non-bodybuilders, simply using it right after our workouts can be very effective for muscle mass gains. Do not rely on it completely though. It’s more important to get high quality protein fromwhole foods, and use whey protein as a boost. There’s so much more about whey protein, if you want to find out more, click hereto read a comprehensive article I have written on how to best benefit from it.

6. Tuna and Other Fish

High in protein, low in fat, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The key here is omega-3 fatty acids. They are essential, not only for health reasons, but also because they improve fat lossand ensure the proper function of your body processes, such as your metabolism.

7. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is an ideal source of carbs due to both its low glycemic index (GI) value and the fact it is minimally processed. The benefits of a low GI diet are as follows:

  • Better micronutrient profile and more fiber
  • Increased satiety
  • Decreased hunger
  • Lower subsequent energy intake (second meal effect)
  • Fat loss

In short, enhanced fat loss for those looking to lose weight, and a constant source of carbs for muscle preservation.

8. Whole Grains

Whole grains digest more efficiently and provide more nutrients than refined grains, and as such promote sustained energy levels and overall health. For instance, brown rice can help boost your growth hormone levels, which are critical for encouraging lean muscle growth, fat loss, and strength gains.

9. Fruits and Vegetables

top 10 foods for muscle gain, eating for muscle gain, muscle gain diet
Firstly, fruits and vegetables are a rich source of antioxidants, which are essential for the healthy functioning of your immune system. Secondly, they provide tons of other nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. Finally, your body requires the fiber these fruits and vegetables provide, which helps to flush out the substances your body does not need.

10. Healthy Fats

I know some of you shudder at the thought of consuming fats, but good fats are essential for muscle growth. In fact, they play an essential role in hormone production (testosterone and growth hormones) that is responsible for muscle growth and strength gains. Your metabolic rate is elevated as well, which helps you shed more fats. In addition, fats are needed for many important maintenance functions. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats are the good fats. You can find them in salmon, other fishes, nuts, leafy veggies, oils such as flaxseed, avocados, and seeds. They are also all rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

Natural Herbal Remedies for Hair Loss!


Hair Loss
Natural Herbal Remedies for Hair Loss!

Hair loss (Alopecia) can be a result of heredity, certain medications or an underlying medical condition, harmful chemicals used in hair products, malnutrition, prolonged periods of stress, pregnancy and childbirth. It’s better to use natural products to control hair fall than to go for expensive treatments at the parlor! 

Try these time-tested natural remedies that are effective in reducing & curing hair loss, and have no side effects either!
  • Mix the powder of dried Indian gooseberry fruit powder with honey. Take it twice daily. Washing the hair with Indian gooseberry fruit powder also helps.
  • Add henna leaves to mustard oil & heat on low flame to prepare a medicated hair. Use this formulation for massaging the scalp.
  • Washing hair with a decoction of Liquorice (mulathi) is also beneficial in controlling hair loss.
  • Mix a few drops of lemon juice in coconut oil. Massage the scalp and wash off hair after 30 minutes.
  • A regular massage of the scalp with mustard, coconut or almond oil with the fingertips improves blood circulation and strengthens the hair.
  • Mix a cup of curd and a tsp of lemon juice. Apply it on scalp and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. This remedy is also beneficial in treating dandruff.
  • Pound fresh coriander leaves to extract the juice & apply this on the scalp.
  • Massage the scalp and hair with oil of bhringraj (Eclipta alba).
  • Pound kalaungi (Nigella sativaseeds & apply the paste at the affected area. 
  • Apply wheat grass juice to the scalp to combat dandruff and hair fall.
  • To control hair fall, apply a paste of carrot on the scalp. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and wash thoroughly.
  • An easy cure for loss of hair is to massage the scalp with sesame oil which promotes hair growth. Eating 3-4 tsp of sesame seeds every morning nourish the hair.
  • Take 1 tsp of equal amounts of powdered Indian gooseberry, Harad (Terminalia chebula) & Baheda (Termainalia bellirica) with lukewarm water daily for a week.


Hair loss


One must daily have a healthy and nutritious diet that includes green leafy vegetables, fruits, milk and milk products, sprouts and whole grains. Drink plenty of water daily. Cut down on spicy and greasy foods, excess salt and/or sugar intake, alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking! 

Maintain hygiene and brush your hair daily with widely spaced teeth. Do not comb when hair are wet. Avoid use of dryers, synthetic hair colors and dyes. Try to keep dandruff at bay as this hair problem can further worsen the condition of hair loss. Do regular exercise and meditation for a healthy mind and body!

Best Food for Perfect Skin!






As we age, the layers of the skin start losing collagen and elastin fibres that leads to wrinkling and sagging of the skin! Unhealthy diet, smoke and pollution, sun exposure are some of the culprits that aggravate the skin related problems. UV rays damage the skin and generate free radicals that wreak further havoc by breaking down collagen. 
Let’s add to your diet chart some of the foods that are a rich source of antioxidants and help maintain our skin firm and supple!

Almonds- Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E. It acts like antioxidant which helps protect skin cells from the Ultra violet rays.

WalnutsWalnuts contain omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are said to improve skin elasticity. The nuts are also rich in a mineral, copper, that boosts collagen production.


Tomatoes-These plump red beauties are a rich source of Lycopene, a photochemical which protects your skin from free radicals (due to UV radiations), that cause wrinkles and skin aging!


Vegetables & Beans- Women who eat green and yellow vegetables regularly tend to have fewer wrinkles, especially around the eyes. Vegetables and beans are good source of antioxidants, monounsaturated fats, carotenoids, proteins and minerals like zinc that do the trick!

Yogurt- It is good for overall health, improves bowel movement and improves appetite. Daily intake of yogurt makes skin and hair beautiful and smoother.



Dark Chocolates – Dark chocolates contain high levels of flavonols, a potent type of antioxidant which reduces roughness in the skin and protects against sun damage. Cocoa hydrates the skin, making it firmer and supple.

Green Tea- Thanks to its storehouse of polyphenols, green tea is high on the list of skin-friendly beverages. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-cancer properties. It is said to protect against skin cancer.


Water- Drinking about 3 - 4 liters of water daily keeps your body and skin hydrated, adding further glow to your skin. It also regulates the body temperature and improves digestion.

Walk for Healthy Mind and Body!




Morning walk is the best exercise for your body, mind and spirit. It rejuvenates and revitalizes the body's cells, stimulates the skin, releasing muscular tension and relishing our energy levels. Walking decreases stress hormones, helps elevate the mood and increase the sense of well being. This simple exercise supplies you with the much needed fresh oxygen required for the many bodily functions including the working of lungs.

Morning walk also helps to burns calories, increases the metabolism of the body & strengthens joints and bones. Muscles of the limbs are toned up as they get an extra workout in walking include the entire back of the leg, shoulders, calves, hamstrings, and gluteus. Walking four times a week, 35 - 45 minutes each time, the average person can lose 15-18 pounds in a year with no change in diet. 

Walking can help you trim fat as well as tone your muscles. It also helps to control your appetite. Walking is a form of low-impact exercise, which puts less strain on bones and tissues and prevents dangers associated with other types of exercise. A regular walk with a balanced diet can give good results in weight loss.



Also, walking reduces blood pressure and the risk of stroke, type-2 diabetes & cancer, reduces cholesterol, improves blood circulation and treats insomnia. It boosts the immune system, improves brain power & gives mental clarity. It works to build fitness, slimness and cardiovascular health. It is perhaps the most overlooked form of exercise because morning walk looks easy! It costs nothing, requires no partner or expensive gadgets! Walking as exercise will restore your peace of mind, and control your appetite.The most important thing is to do it regularly!

Natural Herbal Remedies for Dandruff!



Dandruff is one of the common hair related problem these days! This may result from disturbed metabolic process of the body, improper diet, untidy hair, use of strong shampoo, insufficient rinsing of hair after wash, poor blood circulation and/ or excessive shedding of outermost cells of the scalp. 
Harsh environment, chemical assaults, junk food and diet deficient in nutrients can further lead to hair related problems such as hair falling out, infection, itching and flaking over the scalp and dandruff. 
Find in this post some of the natural herbal remedies to treat dandruff:
  • For dandruff treatment, take coconut & castor oil in equal amounts and massage into the hair roots. Head massage pure coconut oil is also beneficial in dandruff.
  • Soak fenugreek seeds (10g) for overnight and prepare a paste of the same. To this, add neem (margosa) leaves juice (5ml). Apply the mixture over the scalp and wash after an hour..
  • To 2 tbsp of coconut oil, add 1/2 tsp of lemon juice and massage on to the scalp, followed by a “steam-towel-wrap over the head” for 10-15 minutes. This remedy is surely effective in curing dandruff.
  • Massaging hair with mustard oil is also beneficial in curing dandruff.
  • Take 5 ml of almond oil & add a tbsp of amla (Indian gooseberry) juice to it. To cure dandruff, apply this on the scalp.
  • For dandruff, massage the sesame oil into the scalp and leave it overnight. This treatment not only cures dandruff, but also provides relief of the itchy scalp.
  • Juice of hibiscus flowers is also a useful remedy to cure dandruff.
  • To a cup of yoghurt, mix 1 tsp lemon juice and a tsp of fenugreek seeds powder. Apply this on the scalp and leave for 30 minutes. It helps in strengthening of hair and removal of dandruff.


To keep dandruff at bay, one must keep hair and scalp clean. A regular oil massage helps prevent occurrence of dandruff.  Include green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, sprouts, salads, milk and milk products in your routine diet. Eat a diet rich in proteins (such as beans, eggs, cereals, fish, sesame seeds, yogurt, cheese, etc). Drink about 3-4 liters of water daily. Cut down on cold salty, sugary drinks & foods high in calories. 
Take care not to comb hair when wet. Avoid consumption of alcohol and tobacco in any form. Follow any form of exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle!

Winter Care: Natural Remedies for Dry Skin


The onset of winters also brings uncomfortable dryness to the skin of the face, hands and feet. For some people, the problem may be worst and may result in flaking, cracking, and sometimes eczema! 

Try these simple natural remedies to combat skin dryness, especially during winters-
  • Mix equal amounts of glycerin, lemon juice and rose water and store in a glass bottle. To combat dryness, apply this regularly before retiring to bed.
  • Add dry orange peel powder to yoghurt to make it into a paste. Apply the paste on the skin for a moisturized and glowing skin.
  • Mix some saffron to two tsp of milk cream and leave it overnight. Use the mixture to massage your face and neck. This remedy would help you to combat winter dryness.
  • Mix equal amounts of milk cream with almond oil and massage your skin with the same. This remedy is helpful to fight skin dryness during winters.
  • Mash a banana and to it, add a tsp of honey. Apply this paste over face and neck for 20min to moisturize your skin.
  • For chapped lips, gently massage the lips with clarified butter (ghee) or coconut oil. Application of milk cream is also another helpful option for dry lips.

Though these natural remedies are a beneficial solution to skin dryness, but intake of fresh fruits, green vegetables, grains, cereals, milk and milk products is equally important for a healthy skin. Eat a balanced diet, follow regular exercise and take enough rest. Drink plenty of water every day to keep your skin hydrated. Learn to cope up with day to day stress! 
Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy!

Drink Water to Maximize Health Benefits!





It's an interesting fact that drinking water at the correct time maximizes its effectiveness on the human body system! Our body is composed of about 60% water. The functions of these bodily fluids include digestion, absorption, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature! 

Drinking adequate amounts of water keeps skin hydrated and glowing. It is equally good for maintaining healthy hair! Water is helpful in flushing out toxins and waste products from the body.
  • Having 2 glass of Water after waking up helps activate internal organs of the body. 
  • Drinking a glass of water 30 minutes before meals helps improve digestion and keeps a check on weight.
  • A glass of water before taking a bath helps lower blood pressure.
  • Having a glass of water before going to bed avoids heart attacks and strokes. 
Hence, keeping body hydrated and drinking about 3 to 4 liters of water daily is good for our overall health! 

Rose Water for Refreshing Beauty!


Since time immemorial, rose water has been used throughout the world for its 
cooling and refreshing properties during summers, as well as for its ability to smooth and brighten complexionsRose water and rose oil are one of the oldest skin care and grooming products that always found a place in every household. 



Rose water is a well-known for its natural healing properties as a good anti-septic, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory product. It used to be added to baths as also to treat mild skin conditions. One of the examples is of Cleopatra, who used it to keep her skin dewy and supple during her reign as queen of Egypt. 

What is Rose Water?


Rose water is a byproduct of rose oil collected through the distillation of fresh rose petals. This water is called rose hydrosol or rose water

How to Prepare Rose Water at Home?
The benefits of rose water can be enjoyed by simply preparing it at home. This can be done by storing fresh rose petals in a jar filled with distilled water &  placing them under the sunshine for a number of days. The other method is to boil 200 ml of water in a pot. Crush about a cup of the rose petals and add to the pot. Stir a few times and cover the lid. Let it sit until completely cooled. Now strain into pretty bottles or spray bottles for instant use.

What are the Uses/ Benefits of Rose Water?

Skin- Rosewater is a natural toner. It’s properties benefit sensitive, irritated, dry, as well as oily skin by controlling sebum production. Put a few drops of rosewater into the bathing water for refreshing and soothing bath. Since rose oil has anti-inflammatory properties, using rose water can help in reducing the redness from irritated or over-heated skin. Rose water can be mixed in equal amounts of glycerin and lemon juice and can be used to nourish and moisturize skin during winters. This treatment would also help clear all impurities that your face has collected through the day. 

Rose water is also a great cleanser and aids in removing oil and dirt accumulated in clogged pores, thus, preventing pimples. Pour 2-3 drops of rose water on a cotton ball & wipe the face and neck to remove dirt and grit. This would impart a natural glow and tone up the skin. Rose water has astringent properties & balances the skin’s PH levels which is why it is used after facials & clean ups to close open pores.



Hair- Rose water works as a natural conditioner and has moisturizing properties. A few drops of rose water can be added with shampoo for a long-lasting fragrance to hair and to help combat inflammations on the scalp. Rose water also promotes  hair growth. After shampoo, pour half a cup of rose water on the wet hair and gently massage scalp for a few minutes. To cure dandruff, mix rose water with glycerin or fenugreek powder & apply on the scalp.
Eyes- For a soothing & cooling effect, mildly soak cotton swab in rose water & place it over the eyes. Pour 2-3 drops of rose water to get instant relief from burning, red eyes. One can get relief of tiredness, dark circles or even eye infections by putting a few drops of rose water before going to bed. To treat tired eyes, mix sandalwood with rose water & apply on the eye lids. Wash off with cold water after 15-20 minutes. For eye fatigue, gently dip a cloth in rose water and place it on the eyelids for a soothing feeling.





Insect bites- Rose water can be applied over insect bites to give relief from the itchy feeling, reduce inflammation of the bitten area.
Mood Enhancer- The aroma of roses is said to be a wonderful mood enhancer! It helps get rid of anxiety and promotes emotional well being, thereby making you feel & look relaxed! Since its aroma tends to reduce stress and anxiety, this helps one sleep better & wake up feeling fresh.