5 FOODS SHOULD BE AVOIDED TO PROTECT SKIN

With growing awareness, people have become more health and beauty conscious. In this aesthetic-loving age, it is very essential to let people know that what they consider 'aesthetic' is also related to their skin.

Importantly, manifestations of your nutritional status as well as body's nutritional needs reflect on the skin's health.

That's why as per Priya Jain, Dietician, P D Hinduja National Hospital & MRC, Mahim, Mumbai here is a list of five foods that can harm your skin.

Foods that disturb water balance
Dehydration causes drying of the skin. Wrinkling is a common side effect of lack of moisture in the skin. Dehydration and acne are interlinked because drying of skin and dead skin cells coming together cause acne.

Excess salt
Excess salt retains additional fluid in the body causing swelling and a puffy look to the skin. The skin texture is spoilt on prolonged salt abuse. Papads, pickles, salted foods, table salt, brined/canned food products are the potential sources of salt to the body.

Excess caffeine
Caffeine is a known stimulant which increase the cortisol production in the body and enhances the ageing process by thinning the skin. This dehydrates the skin and even leads to wrinkling. In addition, caffeine is a diuretic which further increases the risk of dehydration. So beware when you decide to go for an additional helping of coffee, tea or chocolates too!

Alcohol
Alcohol inhibits the Anti-Diuretic Hormone secretion thus causing dehydration. Furthermore, it also causes vasodilatation, which then leads to excess water loss through the skin. This is also known to be a contributing factor to acute phases of psoriasis as per the American Academy of Dermatology.

Foods with high glycemic load
These foods cause drastic fluctuations in the blood sugar. This leads to excess secretion of insulin and androgens during the high and low bouts respectivel. A major reason to contribute to surplus sebum production, enhanced skin cell division and aggregation of dead skin cells - leading to acne.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF GHEE

Ghee is mostly considered unhealthy (and is unhealthy when consumed without any control on quantity), but there are a few parameters that make 'pure ghee' healthy.

"Pure ghee contains only those fatty acids or saturated fats that are primarily (89%) short chain fatty acids, unlike some other animal fats," says nutritionist, Pallavi from Evolve Medspa. She lists out the health benefits of pure ghee. Let's have a look.

Before you indulge in pure ghee, here are the basic guidelines:

- Consume pure ghee if you are free from cardiovascular diseases, are not overweight.
- Completely avoid ghee if you are obese.
- The recommended amount of fat consumed in the entire day is 10 to 15 grams per person.

So, is ghee healthy for you?

Regular consumption of pure ghee enhances physical and mental strength, and keeps the body healthy. It also helps in taking out the impurities from the body. It enhances eyesight, keeps muscles and tendons healthy.

For people with cholesterol problems, ghee is a better option as compared to butter as pure ghee is lower in fat than butter.

Because of lesser amount of fat in desi ghee, it is easier to digest.
Pure ghee can last for a longer duration of time. It can be stored without refrigeration.
Some people believe that ghee can restore balance to the mind and enhance brain function.

Ghee also helps in stimulating the digestive system and hence also aids in weight loss provided your diet is well balanced and you are exercising.

It is full of Vitamins A, D, E, and K. These vitamins are fat-soluble, meaning they have to be digested with other fat molecules in order for these vitamins to make it into our bloodstream. Ghee has lots of dietary fats (mostly saturated fats) that help our bodies absorb and make use of these vitamins.

Ghee is an excellent cooking medium because it does not break down in high heat like many cooking oils do, resulting in free radicals. Ghee has a high burning point, so it will neither smoke nor burn when cooked.

The body needs certain fats in its diet in order to perform vital functions, including protecting the stomach wall from digestive acids, building and strengthening cell membranes and supporting nerve, skin and brain health. The fats in ghee provide these benefits without any of the trans-fats, hydrogenated oils or oxidized cholesterol of butter and other oils.

Keep in mind, that we are only attaching these benefits to pure homemade ghee made with zero preservative or vegetable fats. Store-bought ghee or ghee prepared with any artificial methods will not fit in the same category as pure ghee.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF GRAPE JUICE

1) Flavonoids found in grape juice raise the level of HDL (good)
cholesterol. This prevents blockage of arteries and the heart remains healthy.

2) Resveratrol found in grape juice prevents the formation of tumors
in the body. So this prevents cancer. Purple-colored grape juice
prevents breast cancer.

3) By drinking this juice, the levels of nitric oxide is increased in the
body which reduces the formation of clots in blood vessels. This reduces chances of heart attacks.

4) Drinking grape juice daily helps in lowering blood pressure.

5) Grape juice has anti-aging properties and it also helps to
reduce weight.

6) Antioxidants present in grape juice repair damaged cells and
also prevent them from further damage.

7) Cough and acidity remain away from the person who drinks
grape juice regularly.

8) Taking grape juice in the morning without sugar helps in curing migraine. It is a good home remedy for migraine.

9) Grape juice cures blood disorders and is a very good purifier of blood. It flushes out harmful toxins from the body.

10) Grape juice also cures constipation problem as it acts as a good laxative.

11) Red colored grape juice has strong antiviral and antibacterial properties. So it saves from different infections.

12) Grape juice has been found to be very effective in asthma treatment due to its eminent therapeutic value.

13) Antioxidants present in grape juice can help in preventing aging
related problems like Alzheimer’s disease.

14) The purple grape juice helps in fighting atherosclerosis.

15) Antioxidants present in grape juice boost the immune system.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF GUAVA

Guava is a laxative fruit. Being a rich source of dietary fiber, it helps to cure constipation.

Magnesium in guavas helps to relax the nerves and muscles in the body.

Guavas are low in calories and fats but contain several vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant poly-phenolic and flavonoid compounds that play a pivotal role in prevention of cancers, anti-aging, immune-booster,etc.
Guava is packed with vitamins and minerals that help to keep the skin healthy, fresh and wrinkle free.

Guavas are very good sources of vitamin A, the nutrient best known for preserving and improving eyesight.

Guava is rich in Vitamin C which helps to prevent the viral infections like cold and cough. It also effectively helps in treating scurvy.

One cup of guava juice is packed with almost the same potassium as bananas. Potassium works as an important factor in regulating blood pressure by reversing the role of sodium in unbalancing normal blood pressure.

Regular guava consumption can also do the skin good through its vitamin E content. Vitamin E helps maintain healthy skin through its antioxidant properties.

Guava is a cholesterol free fruit. It satisfies and keeps the stomach free from hunger for a long time. It assists in weight reduction and helps to control diabetes.

Guava should be consumed regularly if you want to avoid heart attack.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF POMEGRANATE JUICE

1. Fights Breast Cancer
Studies in Israel show that pomegranate juice destroys breast cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone. It may also prevent breast cancer cells from forming.

2. Lung Cancer Prevention
Studies in mice show that pomegranate juice may inhibit the development of lung cancer.

3. Slows Prostate Cancer
It slowed the growth of prostate cancer in mice.

4. Keeps PSA Levels Stable
In a study of 50 men who had undergone treatment for prostate cancer, 8 ounces of pomegranate juice per day kept PSA levels stable, reducing the need for further treatment

5. Protects the Neonatal Brain
Studies show that maternal consumption of pomegranate juice may protect the neonatal brain from damage after injury.

6. Prevention of Osteoarthritis
Several studies indicate that pomegranate juice may prevent cartilage deterioration.

7. Protects the Arteries
It prevents plaque from building up in the arteries and may reverse previous plaque buildup.

8. Alzheimer's Disease Prevention 
It may prevent and slow Alzheimer's disease. In one study, mice bred to develop Alzheimer's disease were given pomegranate juice. They accumulated significantly less amyloid plaque than control mice and they performed mental tasks better.

9. Lowers Cholesterol
It lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) and raises HDL (good cholesterol).

10. Lowers Blood Pressure
One study showed that drinking 1.7 ounces of pomegranate juice per day lowered systolic blood pressure by as much as 5 percent.

11. Dental Protection
Research suggests that drinking pomegranate juice may be a natural way to prevent dental plaque.

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KNOW 30 COMMON HERBS AS NATURAL MEDICINE

Aloe Vera : Antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, wound and burn healer, natural laxative, soothes stomach, helps skin disorders.

Basil : Powerful antispasmodic, antiviral, anti-infectious, antibacterial, soothes stomach.

Black Cohosh : Relieves menopausal hot flashes, relieves menstrual cramps, helps circulatory and cardiovascular disorders, lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol, useful for nervousness and stress. Note: Do not use during pregnancy.

Black Walnut : Good for eliminating parasites, good for fungal infections, good for warts and poison ivy, aids digestion.

Cinnamon : It has been proven that 99.9% of viruses and bacteria can not live in the presence of cinnamon. So it makes a great antibacterial and antiviral weapon.

Cayenne : Catalyst for other herbs, useful for arthritis and rheumatism (topically and internally), good for colds, flu viruses, sinus infection and sore throat, useful for headache and fever, aids organs (kidneys, heart, lungs, pancreas, spleen and stomach, increase thermogenesis for weight loss.

Clove Bud : Improves the immune system, they are also an antioxidant and doubles as an antibacterial and antimicrobial fighter.

Cypress : The therapeutic properties of cypress oil are astringent, antiseptic, antispasmodic, deodorant, diuretic, haemostatic, hepatic, styptic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor, respiratory tonic and sedative.

Dandelion : Helpful for PMS, good for menopause, increases ovarian hormones.

Echinacea (coneflower) : Boosts white blood cell production, immune system support, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, good for colds, flu and infection. Note: Use no more than two weeks at a time. Do not use if you are allergic to sunflowers or related species.

Eucalyptus : Anti-infectious, antibacterial and antiviral.

Garlic : Helps fight infection, detoxifies the body, enhances immunity, lowers blood fats, assists yeast infections, helps asthma, cancer, sinusitis, circulatory problems and heart conditions.

German Chamomile : Helps stress, anxiety and insomnia, good for indigestion, useful for colitis and most digestive problems, effective blood cleanser and helps increase liver function and supports the pancreas. Improves bile flow from the liver, it is good for healing of the skin that might come from a blistering chemical agent.

Geranium : Dilates bile ducts for liver detoxification,antispasmodic, stops bleeding, anti-infectious, antibacterial.

Ginger : Helps nausea, motion sickness and vomiting, useful for circulatory problems, good for indigestion, and is also an effective antioxidant.

Lavender : Assists with burns, antiseptic, used as a stress reliever, good for depression, aids skin health and beauty.

Lemon : Is known for its antiseptic properties, Essential Science Publishing says that: According to Jean Valnet, M.D. the vaporized essence of lemon can kill meningococcal bacteria in 15 minutes, typhoid bacilli in one hour, Staphylococcus aureus in two hours and Pneumococcus bacteria within three hours. Lemon also improves micro-circulation, promotes white blood cell formation, and improves immune function.

Marjoram : Anti-infectious, antibacterial, dilates blood vessels, regulates blood pressure, soothes muscles.

Marshmallow : Aids bladder infections, diuretic (helps fluid retention), helps kidney problems, soothes coughs, sore throats, indigestion, and as a topical agent it is said to be anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound-healing.

Melissa : Assists in issues with the nervous system, blisters, and has antimicrobial properties.

Mullein : Can be used as a laxative, good for asthma and bronchitis, useful for difficulty breathing, helps hay fever.

Myrrh : Anti-infectious, antiviral, soothes skin conditions and supports immune system. Also an antispasmodic that helps to reduce spasming due to spasms caused by nerve agents.

Oregano : is a powerful antibiotic and has been proven to be more effective in neutralizing germs than some chemical antibiotics. It has been effective against germs like Staphylococcus aureas, Escherichia coli, Yersinia enterocolitica and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Pine : Antidiabetic, cortisone-like, severe infections, hypertensive

Rosemary : Antiseptic, Antibacterial, Cleansing and detoxes the body. Supports the liver and combats cirrhosis.

Rosewood : Anti-infectious, antibacterial, and antiviral.

Sage : Used in anxiety, nervous disorders, as astringent, in abdominal disorders, anti inflammatory.

Spearmint : To calm the Nervous System, aide with Nerve Agents.

Tea Tree : Disinfectant, antibacterial, anti-fungal, burns, good for all skin conditions.

Thyme : Effective against Anthrax and Tuberculosis.

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LEMON : AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS

Bowel Cleansing : The bitter taste of lemon gives these fruit the ability to increase peristalsis–a pumping-motion in the bowels–which helps to eliminate waste from the bowels and improve regularity. Add the juice of one lemon to warm water and drink first thing in the morning.


Cancer : Lemons contain 22 anti-cancer compounds, including limonene—a naturally-occur ring oil that slows or halts the growth of cancer tumors in animals. Lemons also contain a substance called flavonol glycosides which stop cell division in cancer cells.


Cold and Flu : Lemons are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids that work in conjunction for a serious punch against infection.

Liver : Fresh lemon juice added to a large glass of water in the morning is a great liver detoxifier.


Nutrition : Lemons contain vitamin C, citric acid, flavonoids, B-complex vitamins,calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and fiber.

Balances Body Chemistry : While lemons are acidic they interact with the body’s metabolism to have an alkalizing effect on the bodily fluids helping to restore balance to the body’s pH.


Allergies : Lemons contain the phytonutrient hesperetin which has been shown in studies to alleviate allergic symptoms.


Brain and Nervous System Disorders : Containing the potent phytonutrient tangeretin in the peel, lemons have been proven to be effective for brain disorders like Parkinson’s disease.



Eye Disorders : Rutin, found in lemons, has been shown in research to improve the symptoms of eye disorders, including diabetic retinopathy.

Anti Viral : In addition to being effective against cold and flu viruses, terpene limonoids found in lemons have proven anti-viral effects on other types of viruses.


Diabetes : In addition to improving eye problems linked with diabetes, lemons contain hesperetin which lowers blood sugar levels (when they are high).

Gall and Kidney Stones : The citric acid found in lemon juice helps to dissolve gallstones, calcium deposits, and kidney stones.


Anti  Aging : The vitamin C found in lemons helps to neutralize free radicals linked to aging and most types of disease.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF APPLE JUICE

1. Reduced Risk of Heart Diseases

Apple juice prevents cholesterol to form in your blood vessels and arteries. High cholesterol level and plaques in the arteries are one of the major causes of heart diseases. By drinking apple juice you reduce the risk of heart diseases.

2. Cleaner Organism and Improved Digestion

Apple juice (especially raw apple juice) helps to clean the liver and kidneys from harmful toxins. As a result, you have a cleaner organism and you are better protected against liver and kidney diseases.

3. Apple Juice is Great for Weight Loss

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

4. Excellent Source of Energy

Apple juice is packed with different vitamins – A, C, E, K, B1, B2, B6 and Folate, so it is an excellent source of energy. As a result, it is a great drink to restore your energy after a physical exercise.

5. Lower Risk of Dementia

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

6. Improved Vision and Eye Health

Apple juice contains vitamin A, which is good for your eyes. Vitamin A helps you to protect your eyes from eye diseases and keeps your sight sharp.

Those were the most important health benefits of apple juice. As a conclusion there is one advice we can give you – drink apple juice and enjoy good health.

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GREEN TEA : VERY USEFUL FOR HEALTH !!

                              Epidemiological studies show that people who take green tea have significantly lower risks of many diseases, including cancer, heart disease and stroke. Laboratory studies show that green tea extract protects against these diseases, and may be an effective treatment for many common degenerative diseases.
The ability of green tea to prevent cancer is so well established that new studies are testing green tea as a potential cancer therapy. Green tea may be especially protective against lung cancer in former and current cigarette smokers. Its lung cancer protective effects are of significant importance based on new studies showing that former smokers are at greater risk for developing lung cancer than was previously thought.

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HEALTH BENEFIT OF NEEM

Neem is a magical tree and especially the neem leaves are used for its medicinal properties. Neem oil that is extracted from neem seed cannot be consumed because of associated disadvantages but neem leaves can be taken internally. But do not consume these if you are pregnant or trying to conceive.


:- Neem leaves in the form of paste can be directly applied to skin. You can use the neem leaves for bathing in water. This cures the skin related problems.

:- Neem leaves are very good in treating chickenpox.

:- If you are diabetic and will consume neem leaves empty stomach in the morning then surely you can cure your diabetes.

:- An inflammation can be subsided with neem leaf paste.

:- These are great detoxifiers so given to purify blood.

:- If you suffer from excessive hunger then eat the fine paste neem leaves with brown rice. This is has curative properties.

:- To cure any kind of skin infection mix turmeric with neem leaves paste and apply it on your body for at least three months.

:- If you have pimples on your face then apply the neem leaf decoction. Even this can be used to treat minor wounds as this reduces the chance of getting further infection. You can also cure dandruff and hair loss with this.

:- It cures urinary tract infections.

:- Neem oil is extensively used in hair fall and early graying of hairs with very satisfying results. It also find its application in dandruff and in lice growth.

:- It has given very good results in diseases like gonorrhea and syphilis

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