10 early signs of liver problems!

The human liver is an important bodily organ essential for living a healthy life. Its primary function is to breakdown nutrients from food we eat and help with digestion. It performs several other functions which makes it important to pay attention to the health of your liver.
Here are symptoms of liver damage that should be taken seriously:

1. Skin changes

One visible symptom of liver damage is changes in the color of your skin. If your skin starts becoming paler or yellowish and your nail tips turn yellow your liver is not performing well and requires help. Newly yellow tints in skin are caused by the liver not releasing toxins which leads to bilirubin accumulation beneath the skin.
 

2. Abdominal changes

The liver is located near the rib cage, when liver health starts deteriorating it causes pain in the lower abdomen and ribs. Ascites can develop if the problem goes untreated.

 

3. Frequent gassy sensation

If you frequently suffer from a gassy sensation accompanied by stool pressure its an indication that the liver is not able to secrete digestive juices which are essential to break down food. It also means the digestive system is affected by liver problems.

4. Tiredness

When the liver breaks down food it releases energy used to perform daily tasks. Getting tired easily is a sign of lack of energy which can indicate the liver is unable to do its job properly.

5. Urine changes

When our liver starts getting damaged the color of urine changes to darker variants of yellow. It may also become bloody or tar-colored. Some think this change in color is due to dehydration, if you are ingesting sufficient fluids it indicates poor liver health.

6. Itchy skin

An indicator of liver problems associated with skin is itchiness. If you find itchy areas on your skin that continuously get worse its a sign of liver problems.

7. Nausea

Digestive issues such as indigestion and acid reflux are symptoms of liver damage. If digestive problems or nausea dose not improve with dietary changes its a sign of liver damage. In severe cases it may also lead to vomiting.

8. Severe weight loss

Sudden, unplanned weight loss can be seen as a symptom of liver damage. If you are losing weight without trying it may be from loss of appetite which happens when the liver becomes weak making you thin and malnourished.

9. Fluid retention

Fluid retention in various parts of the body, especially feet, is a sign of weak liver. This condition is known as edema and looks like swelling, it can happen in your ankles, hands, feet, and thighs. If you press a finger gently into a swollen area the imprint will stay a few seconds with edema.

10. Stool changes

Changes in stool can indicate liver problems. If you observe traces of blood in the bathroom, call your doctor. Other signs of liver damage associated with stool may include periods of constipation or irritable bowel syndrome.
 

Source- http://www.activebeat.com/your-health/10-telling-symptoms-of-liver-damage/6/

Source- http://www.livestrong.com/article/22836-early-signs-liver-problems/

Bipolar Disorder Facts

1- Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder marked by bouts of extreme and impairing changes in mood, thinking and behavior.

2- Bipolar disorder can be treated but not cured, it tends to be episodic in nature, but the goal of treatment is to manage the disease, decrease the severity of depressive and manic episodes and keep recurrences to a minimum.

3- There are many differences between bipolarity and depression, also known as unipolar depression because a person’s mood swings only in one direction, down, meanwhile manic depression is bipolar, because the mood swings range from low to high and back again.

4- A significant number of teenagers who abuse of alcohol and drugs are suffering from an underlying mood disorder such as depression or bipolar disorder. Without realizing it, they may be trying to self- medicate their symptoms of clinical depression or manic depressive illness, since they offer temporarily relaxation, or help them to feel confident or energetic, which can actually deepen depression.

5- All mood disorders start in the brain. Since the brain is an organ of the body, mood disorders are physical, biologically-based disorders. However, in mood disorders, the chemical processes responsible for normal brain function are disrupted.

6- How can I tell whether someone is bipolar or just dealing with stress? The signs to watch for are persistent changes in moods or behaviors that make the person seem different from normal.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder may include:
• Elevated mood—silliness or extreme happiness that is inappropriate
• Grandiosity—inflated sense of importance
• Racing speech and thoughts
• Talking more than usual
• Irritability or hostility
• Excessive distractibility
• Decreased need for sleep
• Reckless behavior or poor judgment (daredevil acts, hyper-sexuality)
• Hallucinations and psychosis

Symptoms of depression may include:
• Lack of pleasure in life
• Withdrawal from favorite activities
• Agitation and irritability
• Persistent feelings of sadness and/or crying spells
• Sleeping too much or inability to sleep
• Drop in grades or inability to concentrate
• Thoughts of death and suicide
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Significant weight loss, weight gain, or change in appetite

7- Important relationships are often damaged or strained as a result of clinical depression or bipolar disorder.

8- Adolescents suffering from depression may not behave like themselves, and they are unable to tell others how awful and worthless they feel. Be supportive.
There are many ways you can support others with depression and bipolar disorder. Most importantly, encourage them to get treatment and follow their physician’s instructions.

9- Their self-esteem may be so low that it is difficult for them to believe that they matter to anyone. You may have difficulty because people with mood disorders are not always easy to be around and may even reject those closest to them. You should not take this personally, it is just another indication of how bad they feel most of the time.

10- It is important to have a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, such as Omega 3s, folate, and B vitamins, which may have a positive impact on mood, and have some impact on general health. It is important to have a healthy lifestyle, diet, exercise, and good sleeping habits to manage bipolar disorder more effectively


Source PositiveMed’s Costa Rica Team  Edited By: Stephanie Dawson

Stress buster smoothie

Stress can be anything that poses a threat or challenge to our well-being. We tend to use the word ‘stress’ when things become too much for us and we wonder whether or not can we cope with the situation. At this point, stress-busters can help you relax. Stress-busters can be any product, practice, or system designed to alleviate stress and can be of great help during times when you are having stress.




Following is a recipe for a stress-buster smoothie, which tastes great and will help you release stress and become calm and composed.
Ingredients:
• Blueberries – 150 grams or 4-5 ounces
• Small Banana – 1
• Natural yogurt – 200 mL or 6 ounces
• Ground Flaxseed – 1 Tablespoon
• A pinch of cinnamon
• Ice to blend

Method
Use a high-speed blender mixing all ingredients together until smooth and creamy and your stress-buster smoothie is ready to be consumed.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

While this stress-buster smoothie is easy to prepare, tastes great, and helps you to chill, the ingredients provide many health benefits as well.

• Blueberries – Like cranberries, blueberries contain compounds that prevent bacteria from adhering to bladder walls which are helpful in treating urinary tract infections. Moreover, blueberries get their blue hue from anthocyanins. These are known to attack cancer-causing free radicals and can even block the growth of tumor cells. They are also good for your brain.

• Bananas – Bananas are a calorie-dense fruit and consuming one banana can make you feel energetic. They are a good source of potassium and magnesium which are heart-protective, help maintain blood pressure, and are good for bone health. Bananas also protect against stomach ulcers as they have an antacid effect.

• Yogurt – Yogurt is an excellent source of protein and is easier to digest than milk. Eight ounces of plain yogurt contains ten to fourteen grams of protein. It can also help to lower the blood cholesterol. It is also a rich source of calcium. Absorption of calcium in the body is increased by the live active cultures in yogurt and that is a reason why yogurt gets more calcium in your body than milk does.

• Flaxseed – They are a rich source of micronutrients, dietary fiber, manganese, vitamin B1, and the essential fatty acid alpha-linoleic acid also known as ALA or omega-3. Flaxseeds can help lower risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease besides being a source of healthy fat, antioxidants, and fiber.

• Cinnamon – Cinnamon is helpful in treatment of muscle spasms, diarrhea, vomiting, infections, loss of appetite, the common cold, and erectile dysfunction. Its also helpful in stabilizing blood sugar and is capable of fighting bacterial and fungal infections.

Because of the above mentioned benefits of the ingredients of stress buster smoothie you can have this treat as often as you like, you can be certain that every time you consume this smoothie you are not only cutting your stress but getting health benefits from it.

(source - PositiveMed-Team  Edited By Stephanie Dawson)

10 Tips for choosing the healthiest mattress

Various factors like comfort, room temperature, and stress level determine how good of sleep you get. One thing you require as a basic need for a good night’s sleep is a mattress that is comfortable for you to sleep on and takes care of your health in every possible manner. Following are the tips that you should keep in mind before buying a new mattress:

• Have a word with your doctor – Talk to your doctor or physical therapist if you have a health condition, keep in mind what they recommend. Your doctor or therapist will know your physical condition so will be in a good position to give you useful advice.

• Choose one good for your back – Firm mattresses are not always good for your back. You should know the difference between firm support and firm feel. The one you look for should have firm support with a comfortable feel. Studies show medium-firm mattresses are best for low-back pain rather than firm mattresses.



• Check the chemical component – Have a look at the label on the mattress for information that will tell you if it contains many chemicals. If its not mentioned on the label ask the shopkeeper about it. Too much chemicals can lead to allergic reactions for people who have sensitive skin.

• See if your mattress contains pesticides – There are many active ingredients in pesticides still used in the U.S. that are carcinogenic. One such pesticide is organo–phosphates that are used in some mattresses and are known to have serious long-term effects on human health.

• Do not fall into the trap of “Hypoallergenic mattresses” – Many people think that buying this type of mattress will solve their allergy problems whereas the fact is that it can actually make them worse.

• Can obesity be caused by a mattress? – For everyone who thinks this is not possible, they should have a close look at this. While we all agree that getting a good sleep is very necessary for all human beings, we should also understand the repercussions of not getting good sleep. Sleep deprivation can result in overeating throughout the day to increase energy levels, overeating can result in obesity.

• Off-gassing – During off-gassing toxic gases are released from plastics or material and can be strongly felt for the first few days, afterwards it starts fading but has adverse health effects. One way to combat the toxicity of regular mattresses is to off-gas the mattress for the first few days in a garage or room that can be easily ventilated.

• Opt for an organic mattress – When you choose an organic mattress you eliminate risk of adverse health effects you might face by using a mattress loaded with chemicals and the toxic effects are minimal.

• Get the right size – It might sound obvious but one should not compromise on the size as it is important, especially for people who have had a back problem in the past.

• Consider your body type – Your body type plays an important role in determining the type of mattress you will buy. For example, a softer mattress will be a better option for you if your hips are wider than your waist as the width of your pelvis can be accommodated by the softer mattress and it allows your spine to remain natural.

(Source PositiveMed-Team  Edited By Stephanie Dawson )

How Long to Nap for the Best Brain Benefits

Taking a nap, we've seen time and again, is like rebooting your brain. But napping may be as much of an art as it is a science. Scientists offer recommendations for planning your perfect nap, including how long to nap and when.

The sleep experts in the article say a 10-to-20-minute power nap gives you the best "bang for your buck," but depending on what you want the nap to do for you, other durations might be ideal:
For a quick boost of alertness, experts say a 10-to-20-minute power nap is adequate for getting back to work in a pinch.

For cognitive memory processing, however, a 60-minute nap may do more good, Dr. Mednick said. Including slow-wave sleep helps with remembering facts, places and faces. The downside: some grogginess upon waking.

Finally, the 90-minute nap will likely involve a full cycle of sleep, which aids creativity and emotional and procedural memory, such as learning how to ride a bike. Waking up after REM sleep usually means a minimal amount of sleep inertia, Dr. Mednick said.

In addition to those recommendations, one surprising suggestion is to sit slightly upright during your nap, because it will help you avoid a deep sleep. And if you find yourself dreaming during your power naps, it may be a sign you're sleep deprived. While you're planning your nap, don't forget to time it during the right time of day as well.

Read more at http://www.naturalcuresnotmedicine.com/2013/10/how-long-to-nap-for-best-brain-benefits.html#pmymMmL5qsp33BV6.99

What is the biggest mistakes people make in trying to lose weight

What is the biggest mistakes people make in trying to lose weight?

1. Losing weight. You don't want to necessarily lose body mass. You want to lose body fat. You probably need to GAIN body mass, if anything. I'm not talking about being bulky. Most people don't realize how incredibly disciplined and dedicated you must be in order to build enough muscle for people to call you bulky. If you're trying to lose weight, you're most likely losing muscle by slowing your metabolism; when you want to lose fat and gain muscle by healing and building your metabolism.

What is the biggest mistake in people make in trying to lose excess fat through diet?

2. Grazing. I'm not talking about the obvious: snacking on junk food and processed crap throughout the day whenever you're bored, when you don't feel full, or when your blood sugar dips for a moment. Yes, that must stop, but most people can't; especially if you face the challenges of obesity like I did.

I speak here to healthy food grazing. Grazing upon healthy food to transition from eating unhealthy snacks helps you shift and heal your biochemistry from fast carbs (sweets, breads, pastas and dairy) to slow carbs (fruits then veggies). Shifting from fast to slow carbs will make more manageable your volatile biochemistry, and allow you to get a grip on the compulsive eating caused by damaged cells which have been unregulated to only crave fast fuels.

But even healthy grazing won't speed up your metabolism. In fact, it will keep it slowed or if used as a substitute for eating meals instead of a transition off of unhealthy junk, it will even inhibit your metabolism further. Even slow carbs are still carbs, and elevate your blood sugar levels, without allowing you the rebuilding properties of lean proteins and healthy fats. Transitioning from fast unhealthy carbs to slow healthy carbs is just the 1st Step. The 2nd Step is crucial, and most people neglect to make it, which results in preventing the repair of their metabolism.

The 2nd step involves restoring your meal-eating of balanced macronutrients (complex, or slow, carbs; lean, genetically unmodified proteins; and healthy, natural fats). Here's the most overlooked aspect of neglecting to transition back to meal-eating: you cannot eat a sufficient amount of food to repair your metabolism by grazing; the sum total food that you can consume by grazing does not equal the total food that you can eat across several meals. You primarily cannot eat sufficient meals while grazing because you don't experience true hunger enough to consume sufficient quantities of complex carbs, lean proteins and healthy fats.

If you continue to spike your blood sugar with carbs alone, the insulin levels will prevent you from properly utilizing the lean proteins and healthy fats when you do eat them at your meals. (This applies, too, if you snack on only healthy proteins or on only healthy fats.) This will slow your metabolism, so that when you do eat your meals, your slowed metabolism will perceive the healthy proteins and fats as "excess" and ship them out to fat storage rather than using them to build the furnace of your metabolism.

To heal your metabolism, take the 1st step: to transition off of fast fueled junk to slow burning healthy snacks. But as soon as you do, then take the 2nd step: to begin the weening process off grazing in order to build your meals. To build your meals, fast between them as much as possible: only water, unsweetened hot tea, and as little unsweetened coffee as possible. Fasting begins around 1.5-2 hrs and optimizes at around 3-3.5. At 4 hours, your begin the process of downshifting your metabolism because your chemistry assumes a meal isn't coming: so it slows down. This means, begin eating a meal every 4 hours approximately.

Yes, I vehemently disagree with fasting for weight loss, for the above mentioned biochemical reasons. The body does occasionally need a reset, and will intuitively not desire food approximately once every 3-5 weeks, but if it is abused as a weight loss method rather than a detoxification process from the hidden chemicals in our food, then you'll only damage your metabolism and downshift it, while upregulating your cells to crave fast burning fuels. (If you are fit, healthy and sustainably high performing in your job and life all day long without lulls, by consistent fasting or single end of day meal feasting, then you'll be the first I've ever met in my decades as a national coach.)

Once you've begun this process of weening off of grazing and building your meals, not only will you see your stored body fat begin to disappear as you start reconverting it to fuel, but you will also see that you're building muscle again, as your protein is no longer being shipped out to be stored as body fat, and begins being utilized.

Trying to lose weight means that you're slowing your metabolism, cannibalizing your own muscle, and any healthy food you do eat will be shipped out to be stored as body fat. Build your meals by weening off the (necessary transitionary step of) grazing, and you will heal your metabolism and restore the natural muscle-building, fat burning furnace.

USEFUL AND HANDY USES OF SALT !!!!

 

 1. If you drop a whole egg on the floor, pour salt all over the egg, let it sit for awhile, then use dustpan, the egg will come right up, without all that mess. ...

2. Soak stained hankies in salt water before washing....

3. Sprinkle salt on your shelves to keep ants away.

4. Soak fish in salt water before descaling; the scales will come off easier.

5. Put a few grains of rice in your saltshaker for easier pouring.

6. Add salt to green salads to prevent wilting.

7. Test the freshness of eggs in a cup of salt water; fresh eggs sink;bad ones float.

8. Add a little salt to your boiling water when cooking eggs; a cracked egg will stay in its shell this way.

9. A tiny pinch of salt with egg whites makes them beat up fluffier.

10. Soak wrinkled apples in a mildly salted water solution to perk them up.

11. Rub salt on your pancake griddle and your flapjacks won't stick.

12. Soak toothbrushes in salt water before you first use them; they will last longer.

13. Use salt to clean your discolored coffee pot. 14. Mix salt with turpentine to whiten you bathtub and toilet bowl.

DONT FORGET TO SHARE IT

Meen Pollichathu - the less spicy version

Meen Pollichathu (a modern version!)

This recipe is a modern and less spicy twist to the traditional preparation. Learnt this one from a television cookery show, but unfortunately cannot remember which one to give due credit. A great option if you want to enjoy this delicacy with less oil and spice.

Ingredients:...

1. Fish of choice (the usual favourites are pomfret, Karimeen etc.) – use whole fish rather than slices.

For the marinade: (the measurements are given for one whole fish weighing about 1 kg)

2. Garlic – 2 cloves
3. Ginger – ½ inch
4. Turmeric powder – 1 tsp
5. Red chilli powder – 2 tsp
6. Black pepper – 1 tsp
7. Lemon juice – juice of one lemon
8. Salt – to season

For coating the fish:

9. green chilli – 2, finely chopped
10. onion – 1 large, finely chopped
11. tomato – 1, deseeded, finely chopped
12. shallots – 4, finely chopped
13. coconut milk powder or desiccated coconut – 4 tbsp
14. fresh coconut milk – 2-3 tbsp
15. lemon - juice of half a lemon
16. salt – to season
17. oil – 5-6 tbsp
18. lemon wedges – for garnish

Method:

• Prepare a marinade using ingredients 2-8. Marinate the fish in this and keep for at least 2hours and overnight if possible.

• In a bowl, add ingredients 9 – 16 and mix well.

• Shallow fry the fish in oil and keep aside.

• Take clean plantain leaves and flame slightly to make limp. Place one half of the above mixture on one side of the leaf, place the fish on top and spoon the remaining mixture over the fish. Wrap tightly into a bundle. Place on low flame on a hot tawa turning sides and cook till done.

• Garnish with coriander leaves and a wedge of lime. Serve hot.

 

 

Castoreum!!! Sickening Food that we love to eat...

Vanilla is actually the most common flavor they use it in but they also put it in Strawberry and Raspberry flavored 'food products'. You've probably eaten Beaver anal glands without even knowing it since the FDA and their corporate owners call it 'natural flavoring'. Oh and just so you know.. Castoreum is also used to contribute to the flavor and odor of cigarettes.

Definition of CASTOREUM: a bitter strong-smelling creamy orange-brown substance that consists of the dried perineal glands of the beaver and their secretion. It is used in food, beverages, cosmetics, perfumes, etc.

More info: http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20588763_11,00.html...

Pasta Curls in White Sauce with Paprika Mushrooms

Pasta Curls in White Sauce with Paprika Mushrooms

A beautiful contrast of sweet hot paprika with the butteriness of the white sauce. Simple and comforting!

Ingredients:...

1. Pasta curls(any type can be used) – 1 packet
2. White mushrooms – 2 cups, cubed
3. Paprika – 1 tsp
4. Olive oil

5. White sauce:

• Maida/flour – 1 tbsp
• Butter – 1 tbsp
• Milk – 1 cup
• Red onion – ½, finely chopped
• Green bell pepper – ½, finely chopped
• Oregano – to season
• Salt – to season
• Black pepper powder – to season

6. Parmesan cheese – grated, for garnish
7. Salt – to season
8. Pepper – to season

Method:

To make the white sauce:
• In a large pot, add butter and flour on low heat. Mix well and sauté for a minute to remove the raw taste.
• Add milk and stir on low flame. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Continue to stir on low flame till a creamy consistency is attained. Season with salt, pepper and oregano. Remove from flame and keep aside.

To make the mushrooms:
• Heat 2-3 tbsp olive oil in a pan and add the mushrooms.
• Add paprika and season with salt and butter.
• Cook till done and keep aside.

To assemble the dish:
• Cook pasta in boiling hot water, strain and add to white sauce. Mix well and combine.
• Add the mushrooms to the pasta and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese

 

 

Apple Cider Vinegar Bath for Arthritis

How to clean a Rusty Cast Iron Skillet

How To Clean and Season Old, Rusty Cast Iron Skillets
What You Need

Materials
The end chunk of a potato (enough to be able to hold firmly)...
Course salt
A rusty cast iron skillet
A little vegetable oil (canola or olive will do)

Equipment
Gloves (optional, but recommended)

Directions

1. Set your cast iron skillet in the sink and sprinkle a teaspoon or two of Kosher salt in the bottom.

2. Slice off the top of a raw potato. Make sure to leave enough of the potato so you can grab it easily. Use the cut end of your potato to scour the skillet, grinding the salt into any rusty or crusty spots. As you work, rinse off the skillet (and rust!) and add more salt if it requires more scrubbing.

3. Once all of the rust has vanished (Yay!), dry your skillet with a clean towel.

4. If you don’t need to re-season your skillet, just add a few drops of oil to its surface. You can be a tad heavy handed with the oil, as it will mostly just absorb. Rub the oil into your skillet’s surface, that way it’s ready to go for you next cooking adventure.

Caring for your skillet
Never, ever, ever wash your skillet with soap again. Don’t even let a drop near it. The soap will wear off your fresh coating of oil and it will likely make your next meal taste a tad sudsy. After you finish cooking with your skillet, immediately rinse it out to remove any burned on bits. If you need more scrubbing, let it cool, and then use salt and a coarse scrubbing pad to get rid of any burned bits. Don’t let your skillet soak for long periods of time, and never put it in the dishwasher

The science behind wearing toe rings

Why Indian women wear toe rings (BICHHIYA)? there is a Science Behind this..read n share

Most Indian women who are married wear a toe-ring. It’s not only a sign that the woman is married, it’s also science. Indian Vedas (Vedham or Vedam) say that by wearing this in both feet, it is believed, that their Menstrual cycle course is regularized with even intervals. This gives good scope for conceiving to married women. Also it is said just because that particular nerve in the second finger from toe, also connects the uterus and passes through heart. If you notice, the toe ring will always be on the second toe of the right leg and also the left leg. It will control the uterus and keep it healthy by producing evenly balanced blood pressure to the uterus...
As Silver being a good conductor, it also absorbs the energy from the polar energies from the earth and passes it to the body, thus refreshing the whole body.
...
In great Indian epic called 'Ramayana' toe ring plays a vital role. When Sita was abducted by Ravana, she threw her toe ring (kaniazhi) somewhere along the way as an identification for lord Rama. This shows that toe ring is used from ancient time.

Toe rings were introduced to the United States by Marjorie Borell who, after returning from India began manufacturing and selling them in New York in 1973. Her first retail outlet was Fiorucci, a trendy fashion retailer located on 59th Street in New York.

Think about it...
 

Herb Omelette Sandwich

Herb Omelet Sandwich

Spice up your regular omelet with some Italian herbs…

Ingredients:

1.Eggs – 2, beaten well
2.Salt – to season
3.Black pepper – to season...
4.Dried oregano – to season
5.Dried rosemary – to season
6.Dried thyme – to season
7.Red chili flakes – to season
8.Vegetable oil

For the sandwich;

1.White bread slices – 2
2.Cole slaw

Method:

•Beat the eggs well and season with all the herbs and spices.
•Heat oil in a pan and pour the egg mixture. Cook on both sides till done.
•To assemble the sandwich, simply spread coleslaw on the bread slice and place the herbed omelet on top.

 

Spicy Egg Masala Fry

A quick, simple recipe that is perfect as a starter or an accompaniment to the main meal. Try different spice mixtures to get a different taste each time!

Ingredients:
...
 Eggs – 4, boiled and halved

Spice blend:
• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
• Red chilli powder – 1 tsp
• Coriander powder – ½ tsp
• Cumin powder – ¼ tsp
• Fennel powder – ¼ tsp
• Mace – ¼ tsp

 Vegetable oil – 4-5 tbsp.
 Curry leaves – a big handful

Method:

• Boil the eggs and halve these.
• Make the spice blend and rub the eggs carefully with this mixture.
• Heat oil in a flat pan and place the eggs, yolk side down first.
• Lightly fry both sides.
• Add curry leaves a few seconds before turning off the flame.

 

Kachumber

 Kachumber, also known as Kachumbari is a simple fresh salad prepared using onion and tomato. In India, it is known as Kachumber and is a staple of the North Indian thali while in the African regions, it is served as an accompaniment to pilafs and roasted meats. The other famous variation of this simple salad is ‘salsa’ made popular by the Latin American countries. Today, there are so many variations to this salad adding other ingredients like cucumber, avocado etc....

Ingredients:

1. Red onion – 1 large, finely chopped
2. Ripe red tomatoes – 2, finely chopped
3. Lebanese cucumber (any type can be used) – 1, deseeded and finely chopped
4. Green chilli – 3, finely chopped (if you do not like it spicy, remove the seeds and veins)
5. Lemon juice – juice of half a lemon
6. Salt – to season
7. Coriander leaves – a bunch, finely chopped

Method:

• Take a bowl with a tight lid and add all the chopped ingredients in it.
• Season with salt and shut the lid tight.
• Shake the bowl vigorously (shake, baby, shake!) so that all the ingredients mix well.
• Serve it as a salad or on top of fried pappad (masala pappad) or with wheat wafers as I did.

 

 

Food cravings!

Baked Chicken Chimichangas

8oz pkg. cream cheese
8oz. Pepperjack cheese, shredded
1 1/2 Tbsp. taco seasoning
1 lb. cooked chicken, shredded
8 flour tortillas
cooking spray
shredded cheddar cheese
green onions, for garnish
sour cream
salsa

Stir together cream cheese, Pepperjack cheese and taco seasoning.
Fold in chicken.
Divide among flour tortillas.
Tuck in sides, and roll up each tortilla.
Lay seam side down in a sprayed 9x13" baking dish.
Spray tops of tortillas with cooking spray.
Bake at 350 for 15 minutes.
Turn chimi's over, and bake an additional 15 minutes.
Serve with cheddar cheese, green onions, sour cream, and salsa.

 

P.S. I use whole wheat flour and low fat cream. but then when I eat a portion like this I run twice as much as I normally would :)

Cheesy Cauliflower Patties

If your on a diet this ain't for you, but I make this once a month for my kids :)

1 head cauliflower
2 large eggs
1/2 c cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 c panko ( Bread crumbs)
1/2 t cayenne pepper (more of less to taste) 

salt
olive oil

Cut cauliflower into florets & cook in boiling water until tender about 10 minutes. Drain. Mash the cauliflower while still warm. Stir cheese, eggs, panko, cayenne & salt to taste.

Coat the bottom of a griddle or skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Form the cauliflower mixture into patties about 3 inches across. Cook until golden brown & set, about 3 minutes per side. Keep each batch warm in the oven while you cook the rest.

 

No- Bake Chocolate bars!

 

Worlds Best Chocolate No Bake Bars  - They are not your healthiest bet but they are sooooo good. Its made with coconut oil & honey instead of sugar,  I make these for my kids all the time :) every time I want to eat a piece!

 

1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup unrefined coconut oil (be sure to use unrefined for the coconut flavor)
2 cups dry oats (not instant)
1 C shredded coconut
1/2 C chopped walnuts (optional)
1 1/4 cups dark chocolate chips
1 t vanilla extract

Melt peanut butter, honey and coconut oil over medium-low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and add oats, shredded coconut, chocolate chips and vanilla. Stir until chocolate is entirely melted. Pour into a 9x13 pan and cool in the fridge. When it's set, cut into bars and enjoy. Store in the fridge. If they last that long!

Courtesy of -I hear Exercise will kill me

APPLE CINNAMON WATER

 

APPLE CINNAMON WATER

Boost your metabolism naturally with this ZERO CALORIE Detox Drink. Put down the diet sodas and crystal light and try this out for... a week. You will drop weight and have
TONS ON ENERGY! Sounds yummy!

Makes one big pitcher, re-fill water 3-4 times before replacing apples and cinnamon.

1 Apple thinly sliced (whatever your favorite is)
1 Cinnamon Stick

Drop apple slices in the bottom of the pitcher and then the cinnamon sticks, cover with ice about 1/2 way up then add water.

 

Black Eyed Peas & Mango Salad with Honey cumin Vinaigrette

 

 

 

Ingredients
2 c cooked black eyed peas
1/2 c diced red onion
3/4 c diced red bell pepper

1 medium mango, diced (about 1 cup)
1 medium avocado, chopped
2 T finely chopped cilantro
Honey-Cumin Vinaigrette
1/4 c light oil (canola, grapeseed, etc.)
2 T apple cider vinegar
1 T honey
1/4 c key lime juice (regular lime juice is also fine)
1/2 t ground cumin
Salt & pepper to taste


Directions
1. Prepare the dressing by whisking together all ingredients in a small bowl until thoroughly mixed. Set aside.
2. Combine all the salad ingredients in a larger bowl. Pour the dressing into the salad and fold together gently, so as to not mash the avocado. Serve on its own or as a side to grilled chicken or shrimp, and enjoy!

Source : poorgirleatswell

FAT FLUSH WATER

You should drink at least three 8 oz glasses per day, they say the longer it sits, the ...better it tastes. You can eat them as well but they are intended as flavoring and still work, so that is a personal choice. The Vitamin C turns fat into fuel, the tangerine increases your sensitivity to insulin, and the cucumber makes you feel full. Try it for 10 days and see what you think!

 Ingredients per 8 oz serving

Water
1 slice grapefruit
1 tangerine
½ cucumber, sliced
2 peppermint leaves
Ice – as much as you like

Directions
Wash grapefruit, tangerine cucumber and peppermint leaves. Slice cucumber, grapefruit and tangerine (or peel). Combine all ingredients (fruits, vegetables, 8 oz water, and ice) into a large pitcher.

Stir & Enjoy!

Ham and bean soup

Ham and Bean Soup

1 lb. dry baby lima beans
8 cups water or chicken broth
4 whole cloves garlic, crushed
... 1 1/2 lbs. smoked ham bone or ham hocks
2 bay leaves
2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
4 stalks celery, thinly sliced
1 large onion, chopped
2 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
1/2 tsp. thyme, crushed (optional)
1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
pinch of cayenne pepper, or to taste

Rinse the beans in cold running water and sort to remove any stones, debris or split beans. Wash several times. Cover the beans with water in a large bowl and leave beans to soak overnight covered. Drain.

In a Crock Pot or large heavy cooking pot bring the beans and broth to boiling. Add a large meaty ham bone or ham hocks, onions, celery, garlic, thyme, pepper, Worcestershire Sauce and bay leaves. Salt may be at the table to suit every ones taste.

Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer over very low heat a couple of hours or until the beans are nearly tender.

Remove the bone or ham hocks. When ham is cool enough to handle, remove any remaining meat from bones and chop. Add meat back to soup.

Add potatoes and carrots. Cover and simmer over low heat 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

Soup is always better the second day, when all the flavors are well blended together. So prepare this dish the day before you want to eat it and enjoy!

Secrets to staying in good shape!

Secrets to staying in top shape in your mid-30s or 40's or 50's  and look like someone half your age,"

Here are the 5 C's

 1. Consistency: Everything consistently repeated becomes permanent, good or ...bad, whether I like it or not. I've learned to be an "All-In" woman; fickle dabbling kills adaptation and progress, and causes backslide. Avoid exceptions. And immediately get back in track when they hiccup.

2. Compassion: Obese and riddled with injuries and illnesses, I know where I come from and how patient I must be. Recovery is where ALL progress happens. Slow and steady wins the race. Baby steps progress fastest.

3. Conviction: Nothing works if I don't. Almost anything works if I do. Challenges MUST come when changing patterns, so I accept surprises and mistakes; learn from them; and keep going.

4. Completeness: it's not possible to be committed in one aspect of my life (like exercise) and wishy-washy milquetoast in another (like nutrition). Everything works together so I work everything together.

5. Courage: It comes before confidence. You won't believe something works until after you dutifully apply it over time. You may lack faith sometimes. Do it anyway. Be brave and you'll discover yourself realizing your confidence through repeated small successes.

Processed meat and Nitrates

What makes eating processed meat unhealthy? Unlike unprocessed meat, "processed" meat refers to any meat that has gone through salting or chemical processes to extend its shelf life. My GO-TO rule of thumb for shopping: if it includes substances to extend its shelf life, it shortens yours.

 Here are some of the complications one can suffer from eating processed meat.

1. Water retention

Processed meat is high in calories, fat and sodium. Although you may only used turkey and ham, the sodium lead to water retention and bloating. Many of these processed meats are casually referred to as "luncheon meats" for good reason. They are easy to slap in between two pieces of lettuce with hummus for mid-day meals on the beach.

Another way that processed meat leads to weight problems is that sodium and fat cause our system to slow down. Salty foods, if you plan to exercise, are ill advise as they make you want to take a long nap rather than a long surf in the waves.

2. Heart Disease

Consider the burden of processed-meats: over three times the amount of sodium you'd get from unprocessed. What makes too much sodium so dangerous? High levels of sodium nitrates weaken blood vessels. This leads to heart disease.

Our body can't accommodate large amounts of sodium. Water retention as a result of sodium builds up blood volume; resulting in a vicious chain of events: the more blood volume you have, the more my heart needs to move the blood through my arteries, and the greater the burden on my arteries.

3. Diabetes

Especially if you come from a family history of diabetes (I do and was once gestational-diabetic myself, this is a real concern of mine). Nitrites in processed meats lessen our secretion of insulin and have negative effects on my glucose levels. Harvard researchers recently have proven eating merely one serving a day of processed meats was linked to a 29 percent risk for diabetes. One serving, for example, is just two slices of ham or turkey cold cuts. Yikes.

4. Cancer

Swedish researchers have discovered a higher risk of stomach cancer among those who eat processed meats. A study from Hawaii that followed participants for seven years, revealed that those who ate the most processed meats showed a 67 percent greater risk of pancreatic cancer over those who did not eat the meats or ate the meats infrequently.

Visible abs don't necessarily mean health but when yours disappear, you should know something is immediately wrong. Revisit the content of what you have been eating to find out that something hsd changed in the quality of your food. If only ONE WEEK of a daily serving of nitrates led to the disappearance of your visible abs, it will take another week of removing it for them to return.

Physique doesn't guarantee health but when you keep fit, any negative changes can be immediately detected and early enough to prevent serious long term damage.