Reduce your blood cholesterol during National Cholesterol Week

Have you had your cholesterol checked recently? Now is the time. Cholesterol is the biggest single risk factor for heart disease, and cholesterol testing is a good way to highlight that risk.

This week in the United Kingdom has been designated National Cholesterol Week (13 – 19 September), and national charity HEART UK has organised activities and events to promote the importance of knowing your risk for cardiovascular disease.

"There is still a lot of work to be done in improving the nation's knowledge about cholesterol and also eradicating many misconceptions," says Jules Payne, Chief Executive of HEART UK. " Everyone should get their cholesterol checked, "even if you are fit, young and healthy and you don't think you are at risk," adds Payne. "It can be a silent killer with few visible symptoms and often the first sign could be a fatal heart attack."

Oily fish, such as mackerel pictured here, are among the richest sources of healthy omega-3 oils. Photo: Nazma Lakhani

One way to lower your cholesterol is to replace foods that are high in saturated fat (such as fatty meats, full-fat dairy products or ghee) with foods that contain unsaturated fats (like oily fish, spreads made from olive or sunflower oils, and avocado). Saturated fat is one of the causes of high blood cholesterol levels. Having too much saturated fat can raise your bad cholesterol levels (LDL), increasing your risk of heart disease.

• Choose lean varieties of meat and cut down on the amount of mutton and lamb served in a portion. Remove the skin from chicken and turkey as it is rich in saturated fats.
• Choose fish twice a week and make sure that one portion is an oily fish, such as mackerel, salmon, trout, herring, tuna, sardines or pilchards. Oily fish are the richest sources of healthy omega-3 oils. Avoid frying fish — you can make delicious masala fish by smothering your favourite fish with spices and tomatoes and baking it in the oven.
• Minimise the use of oils and fats used in cooking. When cooking meat-based dishes, try cooking onions and spices in the meat juices rather than frying them first.
• Butter is rich in saturated fat; use a poly or mono-unsaturated spread instead. This simple swap can help to reduce your overall saturated fat intake.
• Avoid using ghee or creamed coconut in cooking. Did you know that there are ten grams of saturated fat in just one tablespoon of ghee? Vegetable ghee is often rich in trans-fat — another bad fat — so choose oils made from rapeseed (canola), olives, corn or sunflowers instead.
• Remember, fat is often hidden in foods, so you could be eating it without realising. Mithai, like burfi and penda, are often made with ingredients like ghee, butter, condensed milk and full cream milk powder.
• Choose lower fat dairy products such as skimmed (1%) or semi-skimmed (2%) milk, low-fat yoghurt and reduced fat cheeses.

Have at least five fruits and vegetables every day, eat oily fish once or twice a week, use less salt, eat more whole grains and be more active. Photo: Nazma Lakhani

Here are some additional tips that will help you to keep your cholesterol level in check and your heart healthy:

• Reduce sugar intake by choosing lower-sugar foods and drinks. Too much sugar can increase your blood triglycerides, a type of fat in your blood. People with high triglyceride levels are at greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
• Include whole grain foods in your diet such as granary bread, and chapattis made from wholemeal flour. Increase your soluble fibre with oats, lentils (dhals), beans and fruit. Try lentil soup or warming porridge for breakfast topped with dried fruit. Whole grains have been shown to be heart-protective.
• Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day.
• Try taking a plant sterol or stanol drink daily. Some companies make yoghurts and spreads with plant sterols or stanols. You need two grams per day (check the label). Studies show that this amount can reduce your blood cholesterol by up to 15 per cent, when eaten regularly as part of a balanced diet.
• To cut down on unhealthy fat and salt generally, eat fewer fried foods like samosas, and fewer processed foods, like burgers, pastries and pies.

Be wise with your fats. Have at least five fruits and vegetables every day, eat oily fish once or twice a week, use less salt, eat more whole grains and be more active. Most importantly, if you smoke — stop!

Food as Medicine

 

I enjoy my food.  Do you??   Very   informative - spread  the  information     Here is to your health, a good read.   Food as Medicine    HEADACHE?   EAT   FISH!    Eat   plenty of fish -- fish oil helps prevent  headaches..  So  does ginger, which  reduces inflammation and pain.    HAY   FEVER?   EAT   YOGURT!  Eat   lots of yogurt before pollen season..   Also-eat honey from  your area (local  region) daily.  TO   PREVENT STROKE   DRINK   TEA!    Prevent   build-up of fatty deposits on artery walls  with regular  doses of tea.  (actually,   tea suppresses appetite and keeps the  pounds from  invading....Green tea is great  for our immune  system)!   INSOMNIA   (CAN'T SLEEP?)   HONEY!    Use honey as a tranquilizer and  sedative..   ASTHMA?   EAT   ONIONS!!!!    Eating   onions helps ease constriction of  bronchial tubes.  (onion   packs place   on chest  helped   the respiratory ailments and actually made   breathing   better). ARTHRITIS?   EAT   FISH, TOO!!    Salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines  actually  prevent arthritis.  (fish   has omega oils, good for our immune   system)   UPSET   STOMACH?    BANANAS   - GINGER!!!!!    Bananas   will settle an upset stomach.  Ginger  will cure morning  sickness and nausea..   BLADDER   INFECTION?   DRINK   CRANBERRY  JUICE!!!!    High-acid   cranberry juice controls harmful bacteria.    BONE   PROBLEMS?   EAT   PINEAPPLE!!!    Bone fractures and osteoporosis can be  prevented by the  manganese in pineapple.   MEMORY   PROBLEMS?   EAT   OYSTERS!    Oysters   help improve your mental functioning by  supplying  much-needed zinc.   COLDS?   EAT   GARLIC!    Clear   up that stuffy head with garlic.  (remember,   garlic lowers cholesterol,  too.) COUGHING?   USE   RED PEPPERS!!    A substance similar to that found in  the cough syrups is  found in hot red  pepper. Use red (cayenne) pepper  with  caution-it can irritate your tummy.    BREAST   CANCER?    EAT   Wheat, bran and  cabbage    Helps to maintain estrogen at healthy  levels.   LUNG   CANCER?   EAT   DARK GREEN AND ORANGE AND  VEGGIES!!!   A   good antidote is beta carotene, a form of  Vitamin A found in  dark green and orange  vegetables.   ULCERS?   EAT   CABBAGE ALSO!!!    Cabbage contains chemicals that help  heal both gastric  and duodenal ulcers.   DIARRHEA?   EAT   APPLES!  Grate   an apple with its skin, let it turn brown  and eat it to cure  this condition.  (Bananas   are good for this  ailment) CLOGGED   ARTERIES?   EAT   AVOCADO!    Mono   unsaturated fat in avocados lowers  cholesterol.    HIGH   BLOOD PRESSURE?   EAT   CELERY AND OLIVE  OIL!!!    Olive oil has been shown to lower  blood pressure.   Celery contains a  chemical that lowers pressure too.    BLOOD   SUGAR IMBALANCE?   EAT   BROCCOLI AND PEANUTS!!!   The   chromium in broccoli and peanuts helps  regulate insulin and  blood sugar.   Kiwi:   Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of  potassium,  magnesium, Vitamin E &  fibre. It's Vitamin C content is  twice  that of an orange.   Apple:   An apple a day keeps the doctor away?  Although an apple has  a low Vitamin C  content, it has antioxidants &   flavonoids which enhances the activity of  Vitamin C thereby  helping to lower the  risks of colon cancer, heart  attack &  stroke..  Strawberry:   Protective fruit. Strawberries have the  highest total  antioxidant power among  major fruits & protects the body  from  cancer causing, blood vessels clogging   free radicals.(Actually,   any berry is good for you..they're high in  anti-oxidants and  they actually keep us  young...........blueberries are the best  and  very versatile in the health field........they  get rid  of all the free-radicals that  invade our  bodies) Orange :   Sweetest medicine. Taking 2 - 4 oranges a  day may help  keep colds away, lower  cholesterol, prevent  & dissolve kidney  stones as well as lessen the risk  of colon  cancer..  Watermelon:   Coolest Thirst Quencher. Composed of 92%  water, it is also  packed with a giant dose  of glutathione which helps boost  our  immune system..  They are also a key source  of  lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant.   Other  nutrients     Found in watermelon are Vitamin  C  & Potassium. (watermelon   also has natural substances [natural SPF  sources] that keep  our skin healthy,  protecting our skin from those darn UV   rays) Guava   & Papaya:   Top awards for Vitamin C. They are the  clear winners for  their high Vitamin C  content. Guava is also rich in fibre  which  helps prevent constipation.    Papaya   is rich in carotene, this is good for your  eyes.  (also   good for gas and  indigestion)   Tomatoes   are   very good as a preventative measure for  men, keeps those  prostrate problems from  invading their  bodies......GOOD   AS MEDICINE..         Very   informative - spread  the  information

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Positive vibes have definitive curative powers that often turn the tables around when medications fight a losing battle

Dr Love

Outside the world of Bollywood potboilers where emotions make a dead person come alive, the standing of love and other intangibles is often debated. Recently, this newspaper's report of a man from Nallasopara plunging into depression owing to his family's neglect made one sit up and take notice. Earlier it was the case of Mekhala Mukherjee, a schizophrenic abandoned by her family that made headlines. Doctors said if these individuals had received attention, perhaps they could have led a healthy, normal life.
    Scientific studies too are increasingly recognising the role of love and family support in one's recovery from serious ailments. Research at the University of Pittsburgh found that postmenopausal women who were optimistic were less likely to be diabetic. Another study by the Columbia University Medical Center says that positive emotions protect a person from a first heart attack.
    Here are three case studies that prove the curative powers of a few kind words and unshakeable faith. 'I KNEW SHE WOULD LIVE'
    If you don't give up on someone, they won't give up on themselves.' That was Mahesh Killa's rebuttal when told his wife Vimla won't survive for more than three years. The family was already in turmoil after she suffered a brain hemorrhage. After over a month in hospital, she went through a painful process of medication and therapists. When she just started recovering, doctors detected another aneurysm in the brain. The second surgery saved her life, but she (again) lost her memory, speech and mobility. "I decided that my wife would live irrespective of what doctors said," says Killa.
    Often, recovery after surgery is slow. The patient is flustered by a near-handicapped life and the family finds it difficult to sustain the level of care. Gradually, (s)he starts withdrawing. "I decided to jam-pack her schedule so she didn't have time for negativity. Also, we decided to never lose our cool with her," says Killa.
    Vimla was never left alone. "We constantly told her about our children's career achievements. Every small improvement in her health was conveyed to her. After she regained mobility, we'd go for movies, walks, and to the club to meet friends. We ensured she was a part of every conversation, though she couldn't speak. When she couldn't go to the club, friends came over," recalls Killa.
    Dr Abhijit Chatterjee, the family's neurophysician, says, "When the person realises that (s)he is needed, the internal motivation aids healing." Also, that she was kept busy "exercised her brain unknowingly". Vimla's recovery even surprised doctors. "Looking at the improvement, doctors refused to believe that the grim CT scan was hers," smiles Killa.
    It's been almost 16 years and Vimla has outlived the three-year concessionary life that science predicted. What worked was her family's support and most importantly, her husband's. "I knew she would live. I just knew it," he gushes.
'I AM A CONQUEROR, NOT A SURVIVOR'
    How would you determine the extent of your recovery from a terminal ailment? Neerja Malik did it by the number of movies she watched. "The first year of my battle against cancer I watched 56 movies... in the theatre!" laughs the 56-year-old. This humour, coupled with a positive attitude and unending support of dear ones, helped Neerja beat breast cancer twice — in
1998 and in 2004. "I am not a survivor, I am a conqueror," she quips.
    It was an ominous date when she was diagnosed the first time — February 13, 1998. Even as surgery arrangements were being made at her native Chennai, her Mumbai-based family urged her to fly here for treatment and TLC. "In all 25 people came to see me off at the airport. Here I was received by as large a group and every day I had visitors," recalls Neerja.
    The drill of chemotherapy and radiation sessions covered the next few months as her family built a wall of positive energy around her. "We never behaved as if we were going through a difficult situation," says her feisty 81-year-old mom Kamala Bhushan. They went for movies, parties, bhajan sessions and card games. Her husband and twins held her hand throughout.
    She recovered but cancer struck more aggressively in 2004. "We did the same all over again," she says. And she again emerged triumphant. "Coping is complex; it includes finding out, accepting, leading a healthy life thereafter… Neerja did it wonderfully," says her oncologist Dr Vijay Haribhakti.
    Meanwhile, Neerja gave life a new direction by setting up a Cancer Support Group in Chennai. She also founded Sahayika, an NGO that funds treatment for children. The role of a counsellor fulfils her the most. "After my second surgery, as I was out of anesthesia, a friend called for some advice for his cancer-afflicted wife. I gave him the dope — from the hospital bed!"
    Two maxims define her life — 'This too shall pass'; 'Love makes the world go around'. "I have only one answer to those who ask how my life is — 'Rocking'!" she says. 'I STOPPED LYING TO CURE MYSELF'
    When someone recommended the 'Who Am I' counselling session to Kavita Sanchite, she didn't think twice. Tested HIV positive after her (late) husband, she was "desperate, open to almost anything". "Even if it didn't help, at least it wouldn't harm," she says. Her tryst with medications had already begun as she started falling ill frequently, once even being admitted for a relatively simple illness. "This was 14 years ago. My first (and only) thought was that I have to get out of this," says the Nasik resident.
    With an undertone of spirituality, the three layers of the session concentrated on getting in touch with one's body, mind and soul. "The emphasis is to better one's thinking pattern," says Ranganathan of the counselling group. "Most disorders arise out of negative thoughts — fears, anxieties and suppression of emotions. Asthma and arthritis being the best examples. In case of HIV, even if it's an external agent causing the problem, the fight lies within," he adds.
    Sanchite practised the philosophy zealously and her positive thinking bore results. "To begin with, I stopped blaming others. I accepted that my condition is nobody's fault. It was the most difficult aspect — to accept," she says. Her first step, as Ranganathan explains, "put her in charge. If she is the cause, she'd also have the power to set it right." With the acceptance that everybody makes mistakes, the energy body expands. Another inexplicably simple (but not easy) change that came next was to quit lying. "Despite what I was going through, I felt a never-before-experienced peace," she says. Ranganathan explains, "When you lie, subconsciously, you ask yourself to 'remember' to hide it. With more lies comes more pressure, a very exhausting state of mind to be in." The peace of mind boosted Sanchite's health and miraculously, she was completely off medicines.
    The session, she claims, taught her to listen to her body and get rid of "tensions". "Earlier, I confronted situations with a knee-jerk reaction. Today, I observe and a lot of times, the situation solves itself," she smiles. The near absence of stress played a pivotal role in reclaiming her health. However, she doesn't discount the improved relations with her in-laws and family members whose presence is "comforting". As Ranganathan says, Sanchite's success exemplifies what a positive mind can do. Optimism does have its perks.

BEHIND THE SCENES
DR HARISH SHETTY, counsellor and psychiatrist, elaborates on the role of optimism and positive outlook in your overall health. » Under stress, the first thing to take a beating is your immunity; you become susceptible to a host of illnesses. Love and attention helps deal with that stress, boosts the biological fight-spirit of the body and hence, is directly connected to one's health. » During illnesses, positive vibes give that much-needed push to the body. Support and care helps release 'happy' chemicals in the brain and helps deal with the imbalance in the body. » Family support is effective in dealing with anything that disturbs one's equilibrium, even an economic disaster, for instance. When a situation is met with a level of acceptance and understanding, it helps him/her think rationally and look for better options he may have hitherto missed. » One can't put 100 per cent in dealing with a situation when there are other preoccupations. That's where the acceptance factor comes in, from the person and of the person, both. It helps resolve old worries.

Mahesh and Vimla Killa (seated centre) share a happy moment with the family

Neerja (centre) with her twins

New Stats Gadgets

Posted by Wiktor Gworek, Software Engineer

Update, 9/29: 
Based upon your feedback, we've added two gadget options:

1. In the Popular Post gadget, you can now choose the number of posts you want the gadget to display
2. In the Blog's Stats gadget, we've added an option to let you choose the time window of your pageview counts (All Time, Last 30 days, Last 7 days)

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After we launched the Blogger Stats to Blogger in Draft, we’ve made some improvements based on your feedback. (See the updates on our original blog post for the list of changes.) Additionally, we’ve created two new gadgets that you can add to your blog to show your readers interesting stats from your blog: Blog’s stats and Popular Posts gadgets.

The data for these gadgets is automatically taken from Blogger Stats. To use them, go to Design | Page Elements, and click on “Add a gadget.”

The Blog’s stats gadget displays total pageviews* of your blog. The gadget comes in different styles and also features an optional sparkline graph.

(* The pageviews are counted from when we rolled out the Stats feature, not from the first day your blog was created.)

The Popular Posts gadget helps your readers quickly find out which of your posts have been viewed the most by your readers. The gadget also comes with several different styles and configurations.

The new Stats gadgets are available now on Blogger in Draft, so you can go ahead and give them a try now. For any bugs, questions, or suggestions, please send them our way through the comments to this post or our Blogger Help forum.

Graviola

Graviola

Data sheet : GRAVIOLA

Scientific Name : Annona muricata L.

(Family Annonaceae; Genus Annona)

Common Names: soursop (US and the Caribbean); guanabana (Cuba, Caribbean); corosol (West Indies); katara ara tara (Cook Islands); laguana (Guam); sowasap (Nicaragua).

Clinical Overview

Graviola is mainly used for high blood pressure, as a sedative, as a stimulant of the central nervous system to treat nervous tension, for healing baths, and as an antibiotic, antiviral and antibacterial agent. It is often used to treat flu and fevers, while the leaves are used to relieve insomnia.

Anti-amoeba Activity

An extract from graviola has been found effective against some species of amoeba.

Anti-bacteria Activity

Various extracts (acetone, ethanol, or water) from graviola dried leaves, stem, bark, and roots have shown antibacterial action against E. coli and various species of Salmonella, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Bacillus, and other bacteria.

Anti-depressant Activity

The fruit has been found to provide anti-depressive effects, believed to come from constituents such as annonaine, nornuciferine, and asimilobine. Any or all of these constituents appear to have the ability to stimulate serotonin receptors, helping to fight depression.

Antifungal Activity

Various extracts of graviola dried leaves, bark and stem have been effective against several fungi species such as Penicillum oxalicum, Cladosporium cucumerinum, and Neurospora crassa.

Liver protective Activity

A decoction of dried graviola leaves, tested in vitro, has demonstrated some protective activity against hepatocytes.

Anti-malaria Activity

Extracts from the dried leaves of graviola has shown mild protective activity against certain species of the malaria-causing Plasmodium.

Antiparasitic Activity

Graviola extracts from seeds have shown significant ability to protect against several species of parasites, including Nippostrongylus brasiliense, the infective larvae of Molinema desetae, and Trichomonas vaginalis.

Anti-tumor Activity

Methanol extracts from graviola leaves have shown therapeutic activity on tumors, consistent with acceptable therapeutic indexes.

Antiviral Activity

Extracts from graviola fruit has shown the ability to inhibit the actions of Herpes simplex virus -1.

Cardiac depressant Activity

A water extract from graviola bark has demonstrated depressant effects on the heart in animal studies.

Cytotoxic Activity

Extracts from graviola leaves and bark have been found to exercise toxic effects on cancer cells of the pancreas, lungs, prostate and liver. The most active constituents isolated from the graviola extracts include annopentocins, annomuricine, muricapentocin, muricoreacin, murihexocin, muricins A-G, muricatetrocins A-B, longifolicin, corossolin, and corossolone.

Data from in vitro studies have shown that alkaloids from graviola are detrimental to dopaminergic nerve cells. The cell-deaths induced by graviola extracts may be due to energy depletion, since the effect was slowed down after glucose supplementation. This could lead to neuron dysfunction and degeneration.

Blood pressure Effects

Ethanol and water extracts from graviola leaves and stem, administered intravenously to dogs at doses of 0.1 ml/kg body weight, have shown some hypertensive effects. On the other hand, hot water extracts of dried graviola leaves, administered intravenously to rats at doses of 1.0 ml/animal (not ml/kg body weight), have exercised hypotensive effects, lowering blood pressure by more than 30 percent.

Smooth Muscle Relaxant Activity

Ethanol and water extracts of graviola leaves and stem has shown relaxant effects on the smooth muscles of rabbit duodenum (the first section leading from the stomach of the small intestine), at concentrations of 3.3 ml/liter.

Spasmogenic Activity

Ethanol and water extracts of graviola leaves and stem has shown the ability to relieve spasms on the guinea pig ileum (the last section of the small intestine leading to the anus), at concentrations of 0.033 ml/liter.

Uterine Stimulant Activity

Ethanol and water extracts of graviola leaves and stem has stimulant affects on the uterus in animal studies, at a concentration of 0.033 mg/liter.

Other uses

Usage varies from one country to another, but in general graviola leaves, roots, and bark are used in traditional folk medicine treatments for cancer, convulsions, diarrhea, dysentery, fevers, venereal disease, and male impotence. Tea infusions from graviola are used for treatments of eye disease and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Drinks made from graviola leaves are also tapped for their relaxant and antispasmodic properties, to soothe muscles and relieve ulcer symptoms.

Dosing

There is no information on dosage for specific ailments. It is clear there are health potential and benefits to be obtained from graviola, but there is a risk of hazardous side effects. Use of graviola for medicinal purposes should therefore be done only with professional guidance.

Contraindications

There are no large scale clinical studies on the effects of graviola in humans.

Pregnancy/Lactation

There are no large scale clinical studies on the effects of graviola in humans.

Interactions

There are no large scale clinical studies on the effects of graviola in humans.

Adverse Reactions

Graviola may cause neural disorders affecting movement, resulting in symptoms akin to Parkinson’s disease, because of detrimental effects on dopaminergic nerve cells.

Toxicology

There are no large scale clinical studies on the effects of graviola in humans.

Botany

Soursop is a cherished fruit of the botanical family Annonaceae. It is native to tropical America. It is cultivated widely in the tropical regions of Central and South America, Florida and tropical Africa, as well as other tropical countries worldwide. It is a small tree that grows up to about 7 meters in height. Its leaves are oblong or nearly obovate, up to 15 cm long, smooth, shiny and pointed at both ends. They exude a pungent odor when crushed. The fruit is ovoid, about 18 cm long or longer, and is covered with scattered spine-like structures. The pulp is soft white, aromatic, fibrous and fleshy, with a pleasant sour flavor, and is often juiced or made into ice cream.

History

Graviola has been used for various purposes in many countries, including for asthma, chills, colds, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, fever, gallbladder ailments, high blood pressure, insomnia, internal ulcers, nephrosis, neurosis, palpitations, pellagra, skin diseases such as ringworm, scurvy and sores, and intestinal worms. Ecuador natives used graviola leaves as analgesic and antispasmodic. Tea made from graviola leaves in Latin America as a sedative and tranquilizer. Fasting patients drink graviola fruit juice for leprosy and liver ailments.

Chemistry

Graviola is rich in vitamins B and C, and phosphorus. For every 100 g of fruit, some of the constituents reported include 14 mg calcium, 21 mg phosphorus, 0.5 mg riboflavin, 1.3 mg niacin, and 24 mg ascorbic acid. The seeds contain 22.1 percent oil and 21.4 percent protein. The fruit is high in linoleic acid and contains unsaturated fats. Various acetogenins are present in the leaf and stem, which can be prepared as insecticides. Other compounds isolated from graviola include quinolines, annopentocins, annomuricins, and coreximine.

Medicinal Benefits of Soursop

Origin: Tropical America

• Family: Annonaceae
• Botanical Name: Annona muricata
• Varieties: about nine, differing in shape, texture in flavors
• Season: almost all the year round
• Tree: height; up to 10 m

• Fruit: length:12 - 24 cm; weight: 400 - 800 gm

Soursop is a fruit that has the most delectable flavor. The soursop is a large fruit of a small, fast-growing tree. The fruit is picked from the tree before it has fully ripened as it will be badly bruised if allowed to ripen and fall. The fruit is mature and is ready for eating when it feels slightly soft and is light green externally. The skin is thin and is covered with conical nibs. The white, pulpy flesh, which contains juice, is peppered with small shiny, black inedible seeds, and has a pleasant, sweet-acidic taste. As it is rather fibrous, its squeezed juice makes a better choice, and has, in fact become more popular than the fresh fruit as such. Soursop has few seedless varieties, but they are rare, and tend to have fibrous flesh.

Medicinal Benefits: Soursop is not only a delicious and healthy fruit but it is use medicinally to treat illness ranging from stomach ailments to worms.

• The seeds, which have emetic properties, can be used in the treatment of vomiting.
• The leaf decoction is effective for head lice and bedbugs.
• The crushed fresh leaves can be applied on skin eruptions to promote healing.
• The juice of the fruit can be taken orally as a remedy for urethritis, haematuria and liver ailments.
• The juice when taken when fasting, it is believed to relieve liver ailments and leprosy.
• To speed the healing of wounds, the flesh of the soursop is applied as a poultice unchanged for 3 days.
• A decoction of the young shoots or leaves is regarded as a remedy for gall bladder trouble, as well as coughs, catarrh, diarrhea, dysentery, fever and indigestion.
• Mashed leaves are used as a poultice to alleviate eczema and other skin problems and rheumatism.
• The root bark is use as an antidote for poisoning.
• Soursop flowers are believed to alleviate catarrh.
• Decoction of leaves used as compresses for inflammation and swollen feet.

Nutrient Value per 100 grams servings:

• Vitamin: C 20.6
• Calcium: 14
• Iron: 0.6
• Calories: 66
• Dietary Fiber: 3.3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 14mg
• Sugars: 13.54g
• Total Carbohydrate: 16.84g
• Total Fat: 0.3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.05g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 0.09g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.06g

Culinary uses: eaten fresh as fruit; made into cakes, ice cream, preserved, beverages and for flavoring. The young soursop, where the seeds are still soft, is used as a vegetable. The fermented fruit is also use to make an apple cider-like drink.

The other heartburn

Yet another reason to give up junk. What you think is heartburn can lead to a far more serious condition, GERD

It is a feeling most foodies are familiar with. You binge on deep fried stuff, spicy curries and lots of booze, only to get that unbearable burning sensation in your chest hours later. The nausea and discomfort is enough to put you off food for the next few days. While you may blame acidity for the symptoms that can be cured by a few home-made concoctions, at an extreme level they can lead to a far more serious condition called the Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or acid reflux, a major digestive disorder.
WHAT IS IT?
To understand GERD, here's a bit of a biology lesson. The food you eat goes to the stomach through a tube called the esophagus, and from there to the duodenum and intestines. The Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) is the junction or gate between the esophagus and stomach. In GERD, the LES loosens and the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates to the esophagus. This liquid usually contains acid, hydrochloric acid pepsin (an enzyme) and bile, each of which can injure the esophagus.
    GERD is a chronic condition and even when the esophagus has healed, the injury can return causing severe discomfort and complications.
WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?
It's not exactly clear why it happens though there can be several reasons. Recurrent vomiting, increased abdominal pressure due to obesity, hiatal hernia, smoking and most importantly reduced LES pressure gives rise to GERD. But over and above, faulty eating habits are the main culprit. Reflux symptoms worsen if you consume too much citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, colas, red meat, fatty and fried foods, garlic and onions, spices and tomato based foods such as spaghetti sauce, salsa and pizza.
ACIDITY AND GERD
While GERD, per se, is not a very common condition, it often manifests in its earliest symptoms - acidity. To counter it, ensure that your diet has enough alkaline food that acts as a foil. The balance between acid and alkaline is essential as it acts as a buffer leading to better absorption of food. But how does one differentiate? Here's a quick checklist:
Acidic foods: Bread, noodles, ragi,
naachni, poha, rava, tuvar dal, soya beans, butter, palak, canned food, dry coconut, tea, coffee, alcohol,
confectionary, sugar, etc.
Alkaline food: Potato, fresh figs, asparagus, leek, radish, beans, celery,
wheat grass, cucumber, grape fruit,
artichoke, onion, etc.
FIGHT GERD
Modify your lifestyle
» Avoid tight-fighting clothes after a meal or tightening trouser belts. It
exerts pressure on the intestines » Avoid vigorous activity soon after eating » Avoid cigarettes and alcohol » Avoid being on empty stomach or unhealthy snacking » Try to maintain ideal weight » Have light meals at night » Chew properly and eat slowly » Eat in a calm and stress free environment » Avoid irregular and hurried meals and those with high PH acid » Drink plenty of water » Maintain upright position during and at least 45 minutes after eating each meal to enhance digestion.
Through dietary means
» Avoid large fat-content meal especially before retiring to bed » Avoid high sugar content because fermentation of sugar inside the stomach produces more gas. It has a hostile effect on the stomach lining, stimulates acid and weakens LES » The volatile oil in peppermint and spearmint weakens esophageal sphincter, so avoid having too much chewing gums and mouth freshners » Watch your chocolate and caffeine consumption »Unlike popular perception, milk is not a cure for heartburn; it only neutralises its effect. Remember, milk is acidic/ » Avoid confectionery items, artificial sweeteners, processed food.
A RECIPE PRESCRIPTION
Here is a quick alkaline recipe that can help suppress GERD...
ANTI REFLUX-FUSION SOUP Ingredients: 1 cup sliced zucchini, 1/2 cup bottle gourd, 1 medium onion, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 3-4 basil leaves, 2 tbsp fresh kokum syrup, one-inch piece of ginger, salt to taste. 1 tbsp onion, carrot, spring onion leaves.
Method:
Cube the vegetables and pour seven cups of water and pressure cook it. Keep aside. In a pan, add all the vegetables with stock and cook for at least 20 minutes. Add salt and kokum syrup. Garnish and consume lukewarm.
» 'Alfa alfa' juice can help because of high alkalinity. As can potato juice. Shred a little potato in water, let it sit overnight and then drink it.

Malungay (moringa)

Elevated Blood Pressure Blood pressure tends to rise with age. Following a healthy lifestyle helps some people delay or prevent this rise in blood pressure. High blood pressure increases your chance (or risk) for getting heart disease and/or kidney disease, and for having a stroke. It is especially dangerous since it often has no warning signs or symptoms. Regardless of race, age, or gender, anyone can develop high blood pressure. It is estimated that one in every four American adults has high blood pressure. Once high blood pressure develops, it usually lasts a lifetime. High blood pressure can eventually cause blood vessels in the eye to burst or bleed. Vision may become blurred or otherwise impaired and can result in blindness. As people get older, arteries throughout the body “harden,” especially those in the heart, brain, and kidneys. High blood pressure is associated with these “stiffer” arteries. This, in turn, causes the heart and kidneys to work harder. The kidneys act as filters to rid the body of wastes. Over time, high blood pressure can narrow and thicken the blood vessels of the kidneys. The kidneys filter less fluid, and waste builds up in the blood. The kidneys may fail altogether. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attack. The arteries bring oxygen-carrying blood to the heart muscle. If the heart cannot get enough oxygen, chest pain, also known as “angina,” can occur. If the flow of blood is blocked, a heart attack results. High blood pressure is the number one risk factor for congestive heart failure (CHF). CHF is a serious condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to supply the body’s needs. The important nutrients needed by a person suffering from high blood pressure are Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc, and Vitamin E. Moringa contains these entire nutrient in it. Moringa contains Vitamin C helps support the body’s production of nitric oxide, which is critical to normal functioning of blood vessels. The better your blood vessels work, the lower your risk of hypertension. Calcium is needed for smooth muscle relaxation and contraction; increased consumption can have a direct effect on blood vessels. It’s best to get your calcium from your diet; studies have found that compared with supplements, dietary calcium has twice the benefits for blood pressure. Potassium content of the Moringa is 15 times more compared to Banana. Potassium acts by increasing sodium excretion in the urine, which helps blood vessels dilate, and changing the interactions of hormones that affect blood pressure. Diet high in magnesium benefits those with hypertension, most likely by contributing to the relaxation of the smooth muscles of the blood vessels. Moringa also contains magnesium along with zinc and vitamin E which takes part in decreasing the blood pressure along with other nutrients.

Diabetes Diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the human body does not produce or properly uses insulin, a hormone that is required to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy. Diabetes mellitus is characterized by constant high levels of blood glucose (sugar). Human body has to maintain the blood glucose level at a very narrow range, which is done with insulin and glucagons. The abnormally high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) resulting from insufficient levels of the hormone insulin which is characteristic symptoms polyuria, polydipsia, glucoseuria, unexplained weight loss, and lethargy. There are two types of diabetes: Type I diabetes known as insulin dependent diabetes and Type II diabetes refer to insulin non dependent diabetes. It is possible for us to treat diabetes II through proper dieting, medication and regular exercise. Untreated diabetes will lead to complications such as retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, cardiovascular problems etc., researchers recently reported that vitamin D is essential for the islet cells in the pancreas to be able to secrete insulin properly. The studies have shown that individuals with low vitamin D levels experienced the worst blood sugar-handling problems and had a greater risk of developing diabetes. Moringa as a rich source of ascorbic acid helps in insulin secretion. It is interesting to note that certain nutrients like vitamins B1, B2, B12, pantothenic acid, vitamin C, protein and potassium – along with small frequent meals containing some carbohydrate – can actually stimulate production of insulin within the body. Vitamin A as an antioxidant helps convert beta-carotene efficiently, which reduces the risk of blindness in diabetics. Vitamin B 12 is effective in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. High dose supplements of vitamin C have been shown to prevent sorbitol accumulation and glycosylation of proteins, both of which are important factors in the development of diabetic complications such as cataracts. Studies have shown that a low vitamin-E concentration was associated with a 3.9 times greater risk of developing diabetes. Vitamin E reduces oxidative stress, thus improving membrane physical characteristics and related activities in glucose transport. This antioxidant promotes healing of diabetes-related lesions. Magnesium helps in the metabolism of glycogen, Mg works closely with vitamin B 6 to help the metabolic process with in the cell. Moringa has all these nutrients and helps the diabetic patient control their blood glucose level.

Children and Young Adults Lack of consumption of balanced nutrients or feeding the wrong kind of food leads to an accumulation of toxins within the body, resulting in chronic diseases. Since no single food group can nourish the body with all the vital ingredients it requires, it is important that we consume a variety of healthy foods to derive the nutrition our body needs. Children are the vulnerable groups, they need complete nutrition for their growth, physical and mental fitness. Moringa is a very good natural supplement needed by every child for their well being. Calcium is particularly important in building strong bones and teeth. Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the body, gets particular attention for its role in keeping bones strong. Moringa contains 17 times the calcium content in milk. Fractures reported among children and young adults are on the rise due to calcium deficiency. It is also a key mineral needed for muscular contractions, wound healing and proper function of hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain. Calcium in the blood helps maintain heart rhythm, and promotes proper blood clotting and muscular function. Magnesium is important to 300 bodily functions, including the muscles, nerves and heart. It boosts your immune system and strengthens bones. Iron is an oxygen-carrying component of the blood. Children need iron for expanding blood volume which is accompanied during periods of rapid growth. Iron content of Moringa is 25 times of iron in spinach. When children do not eat enough fruits and vegetables they run the risk of having low intakes of vitamins A and C. B Complex Vitamins (thiamin, niacin, riboflavin and other B vitamins) come from a variety of foods, including grain products, meat and meat substitutes and dairy products. Most of the children are not consuming the healthy foods instead they are attracted towards the mal-nutrient snack foods. When appetites slow down and children do not seem to be eating nutritiously, concerned parents consider using a vitamin-mineral supplement. Moringa plant is one of the richest sources of Vitamins. Moringa has Vitamin A (Beta Carotene), Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B6 Pyrodixine), Vitamin B7 (Biotin), Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol), Vitamin E (Tocopherol) and Vitamin K, Calcium, Copper, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium, Manganese and Zinc. Moringa has 17 times more Calcium than that of milk, Moringa, with 25 times more Iron than that of Spinach, 15 times the potassium in banana assists in the regulation of the acid-base and water balance in the blood and the body tissues. It assists in protein synthesis of amino acids and in carbohydrate metabolism. Vitamins and other nutrients are critically important for the proper physical, cognitive and even emotional development of young children. Vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients help create the neurotransmitters that relay signals between these brain Children who do not get adequate nutrition in their first few years of life are more likely to have problems throughout life. This includes lower IQ, slower language and motor development, and poor school performance.

Anti-Aging Aging affects our social environment. Symptoms of old age includes wrinkles and liver spots on the skin, hair loss , lessened hearing , poor eyesight , slower reaction times and agility , reduced ability to think clearly , difficulty recalling memories , greater susceptibility to bone diseases such as osteoarthritis. Elderly people tend to have lower body temperatures and infections that would cause fever. Elderly pneumonia sufferers may present symptoms such as rapid breathing, reduced appetite and reduced functioning. Elderly urinary tract infection sufferers may present symptoms such as incontinence, confusion and may suffer from falls. Malunggay is rich in vitamin to the extent that it is one of the richest plant source of Vitamins. Moringa has Vitamin A (Beta Carotene), Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B6 Pyrodixine), Vitamin B7 (Biotin), Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol), Vitamin E (Tocopherol) and Vitamin K. Vitamin A is needed to prevent night blindness, promotes healthy skin, and fights infections. Vitamin C is needed to maintain healthy gums, assists in healing wounds, and helps the body use iron. Vitamin E will protect your body against free radical damage to cells. Calcium and Vitamin D are essential to maintain strong bones and teeth. The list of Minerals present in Malunggay is abundant and few of the main minerals include Calcium, Copper, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium, Manganese and Zinc. Calcium is one of the most important minerals for the growth, maintenance, and reproduction of the human body. Blood coagulation, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation, normal heart beat, stimulation of hormone secretion, activation of enzyme reactions, as well as other functions, all require small amounts of calcium. After age 50, more calcium or 1,200 milligrams are needed to prevent a disease called osteoporosis. As you age, minerals in your bones are lost and bones may get thinner. Malunggay contains all the essential minerals needed for maintaining strong bones. Good nutrition can help lessen the effects of diseases prevalent among elderly population and improve their quality of life. Malunggay is the richest source of Calcium. Malunggay has 17 times more Calcium than that of milk, helps to avoid the occurrence of osteoporosis during old age and strengthen the bones of the young and middle age people. Malunggay, with 25 times more Iron than that of Spinach, helps in the formation of hemoglobin and myoglobin, which carry the oxygen in the blood and the muscle. Iron also makes up part of many proteins and enzymes in the body, deficiency of which leads to the weakening of the immune system, helps in improving the mental ability as the oxygen supply to the brain increases. Malunggay with 15 times the potassium in Banana assists in the regulation of the acid-base and water balance in the blood and the body tissues. Body proteins are constantly being made and used during your lifetime to maintain cell and organ functions. Adequate protein intake and protein reserves are important for older adults, especially during periods of emotional and physical stresses. Protein helps to prevent muscle loss. As the richest source of Calcium and Potassium it helps in the reducing the blood pressure. It assists in protein synthesis from amino acids and in carbohydrate metabolism. Malunggay capsules are the best natural supplement which provides all the necessary nutrients needed by the body. The bioavailability of the nutrients in Malunggay more compared to other supplement as Malunggay is 100% natural.

Lactating Mothers A new born baby has only three demands. They warmth in the arms of its mother, food from her breast and security in the knowledge of her presence. Breast feeding satisfies all the three. Breast milk is the natural and complete food for infants. It is safe, inexpensive and provides all nutrients most babies need for the first 6 months of life. Researches have shown that breastfed babies are less likely to suffer eczema, food allergy and respiratory illness than formula-fed babies. In the Philippines, 85 % of mothers initiated breast feeding soon after delivery but only 22% of these mothers are still exclusively feeding by one month old. Most mothers after initiating expression of breast milk on the first few days postpartum complain of insufficient volume of breast milk. This has prompted mothers to shift their children to bottle feeding and stop breast feeding. Galactagogues are herbs that promote and establish the flow of mother’s milk. Malunggay is one of the most studied herbs in the Philippines. As a galactogogue, several studies confirm its efficacy. However, it is usually promoted to be given 3 days postpartum or after delivery to induce lactation. The lactation enhancing effects of malunggay leaves as evidenced by a greater increase in maternal serum prolactin levels. Prolactin is the most important hormone in the initiation of laction. Malunggay capsules are effective galactagogues if given prior to delivery with onset of adequate amount.

Antioxidant Properties To Boost Your Immune System If you want to stay healthy, you need to feed your body properly. Although it is recommended to eat several servings of fruits and vegetables, the food pyramid is considered by many to be inadequate for individuals who are trying to maintain their optimum health. So we need supplements which will provide the entire essential nutrients needed by our body. Moringa is recommended as nutrient supplement because it helps digest the food by supplying the minerals for effective digestion. This will help your body to totally absorb all the food nutrients. The Moringa plant provides a rich and rare combination of zeatin, quercetin, β-sitosterol, caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol. Moringa Oleifera is very important for its medicinal value. Various parts of this plant such as the leaves, roots, seed, bark, fruit, flowers and immature pods act as cardiac and circulatory stimulants, possess antitumor, antipyretic, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antispasmodic, diuretic, antihypertensive, cholesterol lowering, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Oxidative by-products of normal metabolism cause extensive damage to DNA, protein, and lipid. This damage (the same as that produced by radiation) is a major contributor to aging and to degenerative diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, immune-system decline, brain dysfunction and cataracts. Research is increasingly showing that those who eat antioxidant-rich foods reap health benefits. Moringa supplements can boost antioxidant levels, Moringa contains 46 antioxidants that helps the cells neutralize the free radicals due to oxidative stress. Antioxidants are also involved in the prevention of cellular damage — the common pathway for cancer, aging, and a variety of diseases. Athletes have a keen interest because of health concerns and the prospect of enhanced performance and/or recovery from exercise. Increased intake of vitamin E is a protection against exercise induced oxidative damage. Moringa contains Vitamin E that neutralizes these damaging conditions.

Athletes and Active Life Styles Constant practice is the key to the success of athletes and sportsmen. But the real secret behind is proper nutrition. Moringa provides people with active lifestyle all the essential vitamins, minerals and protein and helps them in various ways and mainly to improve their strength. Moringa provides the body with 100% natural Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Calcium Iron and many other nutrients. These nutrients are readily bio-available and helps to boost energy instantly. In contrast to caffeine, Moringa not only adds energy but also supplies essential nutrients for the body.

Improves Endurance Moringa, with its high Vitamin A and Vitamin C contents, combined with its extraordinary Iron content. Helps to improve the hemoglobin content of the blood. This in turn helps the blood to deliver more oxygen to the muscles during aerobic and endurance exercises. The increased Oxygen carried by the blood also helps to increase the metabolic rate and assists in burning unwanted fat deposited in the body.

Moringa Oil for Young Looking Skin Moringa Oil or Ben oil is obtained by pressing the seeds of Moringa Oilefera Tree. Moringa oil is the most stable oil in nature and it does not go rancid. Moringa oil has numerous applications in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry. The Moringa seeds yield 38–40% edible oil (called ben oil, from the high concentration of behenic acid contained in the oil) that can be used in cooking and cosmetics. Its nutrient-rich leaves and seeds can be eaten, and the oil pressed from its seeds is chock-full of radiance-boosting fatty acids and vitamins A and C. Beauty companies around the world are now bringing the oil’s skin-smoothing de-puffing benefits to you in brand-new moisturizers. Moringa oil possesses exceptional oxidative stability which may explain why the Egyptians placed vases of Moringa oil in their tombs. The healing properties of Moringa oil, also known as behen oil, were documented by ancient cultures. It has tremendous cosmetic value and is used in body and hair care as a moisturizer and skin conditioner. Moringa oil has been used in skin preparations and ointments since Egyptian times. This is very long lasting oil with a shelf life of up to 5 years. Applications of Moringa Oil is highly valued in the cosmetic industry for its unique property. Moringa oil is light and spreads easily on the skin. It is best for massage and aromatherapy applications. The antioxidants and the nutrients present in the Moringa oil help to curb the activity of free radicals on the skin. The free radicals are the agents that cause damage to the skin tissues and pave way for skin wrinkles. Antioxidants rich Moringa Oil, curbs the activities of free radicals and hence finds a place in the anti-ageing creams. Moringa seed oil contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help heal minor skin complaints such as cuts, bruises, burns, insect bites, rashes and scrapes quickly The addition of Moringa seed oil produces a rich and creamy lather and, unlike any other plant-based oil, actually increases the cleansing ability. It clears pimples and prevents recurrence, if used regularly; it removes wrinkles and will prevent; sagging of facial muscles; helps clears black heads and spots; makes face glow and helps to tighten the skin pores. Skin moisturizing benefits are derived from the fact that moringa seed oil is high in vitamins A and C and unsaturated fatty acids. Moringa seed oil contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help heal minor skin complaints such as cuts, bruises, burns, insect bites, rashes and scrapes quickly. Moringa oil is also helpful for purposes of tanning or maintaining a tan. This oil is rich in copper and calcium, which are important nutrients for the skin. Moringa oil is a very stable carrier which is highly nutritious to the skin and similar in composition to olive oil but much lighter. It is a powerful natural antioxidant with excellent skin smoothing properties.

Food Industy This oil is known as the most stable natural oil, which is a good source of behenic acid and is used as a preservative in food industries. It is an excellent salad oil. The Moringa oil is odorless to mild nutty flavor. It is also used as vegetable cooking oil. Due to its high quantities of Oleic Acids (Mono-Unsaturated Fatty Acid) is good for sautéing and deep frying. The bright yellow oil with a pleasant taste has been compared in quality with olive oil. It can also be used in dressings. The Moringa oil is clear, sweet and odorless, never becoming rancid.