Health Benefits of Curd

Curd (Yoghurt) is a semisolid preparation of milk prepared by fermentation. It has zero carbohydrates, zero sugar, and zero trans-fats with 20 % calcium for bones. Curd has various health benefits. They are as follow : 

• It helps to improve the digestive system.
• Curd helps to strengthen the immune system.
• It helps to manage with stomach problems.
• It is beneficial for dealing with osteoporosis.
• Consuming curd or yogurt increases the capacity to absorb the nutrients and minerals form other food stuffs.
• It proves beneficial for the lactose intolerant as they can gain all the nutritive contents of milk through curd.
• Consumption of curd provides relief to the person suffering from dysentery.
• Consuming curd proves beneficial for those suffering from vaginal infection.
• It helps to get strong bones and teeth as its calcium content is high.
• It helps to minimise the risk of high blood pressure.
• It help in managing high level of cholesterol.

Side Effects of Drinking Tea on Our Health by Mohan Gupta (Hindi) (1080p...

Watch out side effect of drinking tea on our health by Achariya Mohan Gupta (Naturecurist, Natural Life Style, Delhi).

Tea is obtained from the botanical plant named as “Camellia Sinensis”. This plant has a big botanical importance in pharmacological/medical studies.

When you drink tea in the proper times in the proper amounts, tea can be the healthiest drink you can have for your body and mind. Green tea is considered to have the most health benefits of any type of tea.

Black tea, which makes up 75% of the world's consumption, may have healthy properties from its plant chemicals called polyphenols, which are antioxidants.

There are some side effects of tea that could be harmful to human health. Tea has the potential to lead to some unpleasant side effects. They are as follow :

• Inebriation : Tea can also cause inebriation. If you drink too much strong tea, it can have repercussions on your body. Drinking too much tea can bring negative consequences.
• Osteofluorosis : Tea leaves contain small amounts of fluoride, it’s large quantity intake of the body can lead to the disorder named as “osteofluorosis”. But fluoride is present in older leaves mainly. So, the leaf picking methods can be effective in terms of resolving this issue.
• Effect of Urinary System : Tea is also a major cause for kidney disorder. 5 cups of tea increases a person’s urine by 400- 500%. Tea also creates kidney stone as it contains high concentration of oxalate.
• Effect on Nutrient Absorption : Try to avoid drinking tea after a meal. Tea contains tannin, especially dark teas which contain higher levels of tannin, which can possibly react to iron in your food.
• Effect on Digestive System : If you drink more than 10g of tea daily, it can irritate the stomach and esophagus lining which can lead to ulcers, acid reflux, and can make you feel slightly intoxicated.
• Insomnia : Tea’s large quantities while taken induce insomnia in the persons addicted to drink it. Sleeping disorders are very common side effects of tea drinking that affect on human health negatively.
• Effect on Teeth : The plaques are accumulated on the surface of teeth when persons are habitual drink tea or coffee frequently.

People who rarely drink tea are much more sensitive to the effects of tea.

Precautions while drinking Tea

• Drinking tea, especially very hot or cold tea, on an empty stomach can cause sudden change of temperature in your stomach and spleen, and cause some unwanted side effects.
• Do not drink tea right before your meal time. Drinking tea right before having meals usually leads to dilution of saliva, loss of appetite and problems with meal digestion. It is recommended not to drink tea 30 minutes before the mealtime.
• It is also a good idea to take your tea with a snack or a meal so that you have something to help absorb the tea in your stomach. 
• Avoid drinking tea during pregnancy and lactation because caffeine and stimulant substances in tea can stimulate uterine contractions. In addition to nursing mothers would disrupt production of milk-producing glands, or milk.

Similarly Coffee interferes with your body’s ability to use folate, and vitamins B12 and B6. Your body needs these nutrients in order to keep your homocysteine level in the healthy range. 

Coffee or Tea raises the acidity level of your blood, causing calcium to be pulled from your bones and teeth for use as a buffering agent.

Caffeine is a psychoactive substance in Tea able to alter the way your brain functions, bringing about temporary changes in your behaviour and mood.

Caffeine is particularly addictive because it goes straight to the brain. It triggers a fast release of the stimulant adrenalin, which makes you feel more alert.

Its well-established caffeine increases blood pressure. A high caffeine intake has also been strongly linked with miscarriage.

The amount of caffeine is small and makes tea a healthier alternative to coffee. Water is also thought to be better than tea for the health of your gut.

If you have likely developed a dependence on the stimulant from tea, upon lowering your caffeine intake or stopping altogether, it's possible that you might experience withdrawal symptoms, including trouble concentrating, headaches and excessive fatigue.

Health Benefits of Tulsi Tea

Tulsi is full of antioxidants, which are nutrients that fight the free radicals in your body and prevent oxidation damage. Cells damaged through oxidation leave the door open for disease to invade your body.

Antioxidants help your body resist heart disease, Alzheimer’s, Parkin­son’s, cancer, and even the aging process.

Tulsi tea contains phytochemicals, compounds which have health promoting prop­erties. The combination of antioxidants and phytochemicals found in tulsi can improve your overall health in a variety of ways. They are as follow : 

• Tulsi support for our immune system
• It improves digestion system.
• Tulsi increase our resistance to stress.
• It promote healthy metabolism.
• It maintains healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
• It provide you with skeletal and joins support.

Tulsi tea has a naturally delicious taste - a bit spicy. You can add a natural sweetener like raw honey or Stevia, and raw milk as desired. You can also drink it iced with a touch of mint.

Health Benefits of Raw Garlic

We can use garlic in our juices, in our smoothies, in our salads, or in soups, rice or other meals. We prefer to use it in its raw form, because the beneficial chemical from Garlic, called Allicin disappears when cooked. Garlic is incredibly nutritious.

1 ounce (28 grams) Serving of garlic contains (approximate 3 piece) :

• Manganese : 23% of RDA
• Vitamin B6 : 17% of RDA
• Vitamin C : 15% of RDA
• Selenium : 6% of RDA
• Fiber : 1 gram

Decent amounts of Calcium, Copper, Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron and Vitamin B1.

Some benefits of Garlic are as follow :

• Anti-Inflammatory 
• It keeps Heart healthy.
• High in Antioxidants
• Garlic keeps our Immune System strong.
• Garlic is proven to help reduce Blood Pressure (almost as powerful as Adenol)
• It helps reduce LDL.
• Garlic can help reduce Dementia and Alzheimer.
• It helps to detoxify heavy metals.
• Garlic may help improve Bone Health.

There are recipes of nutritious juice as follow :

• 8 Carrots.
• 8 ribs Celery
• 1/2 Beet with its Greens
• 3 Cloves Garlic
• 2 cups Parsley

This will make about 1 liter of fresh Juice.

How to Survive a Heart Attack when alone

Since many people are alone when they suffer a heart attack, without help, the person whose heart is beating improperly and who begins to feel faint, has only about 10 seconds left before losing consciousness.

However, these victims can help themselves by coughing repeatedly and very vigorously.

• A deep breath should be taken before each cough, and the cough must be deep and prolonged, as when producing sputum from deep inside the chest.
• A breath and a cough must be repeated about every two seconds without let-up until help arrives, or until the heart is felt to be beating normally again.
• Deep breaths get oxygen into the lungs and coughing movements squeeze the heart and keep the blood circulating.
• The squeezing pressure on the heart also helps it regain normal rhythm. In this way, heart attack victims can get to a hospital.

Health Benefits of Coconut Water

Coconut water is the juice in the endosperm of young coconut.

The water is actually obtained by opening a tender, green, healthy, and undamaged coconut. Inside, it's liquid is sweet and sterile and composed of unique chemicals such as sugars, vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, enzymes, amino acids, cytokine and phyto-hormones. 

Young and slightly immature coconuts harvested when they are about 5-7 months of age for the drink. Any nuts younger than five months of age tend to be bitter in taste and devoid of nutrients.

Health Benefits of Coconut Water

• Cardiovascular Health : Coconut water helps improve blood circulation, lowers high blood pressure levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues. It is also said to control your blood sugar levels.
• Reduces Blood Pressure : A disproportionate level of electrolytes can result in high blood pressure. Because coconut water contains an adequate supply of each, it can be used as a balancing mechanism.
• Kidney Stones : Due to its minerals content (Potassium and Magnesium), coconut water is beneficial to a person suffering from kidney stones. This water also acts as a diuretic as it increases the flow and production of urine. It recommend to drink coconut water every alternate day as it can reduce the size of kidney stones and even help eliminate them.
• Boosts Hydration : The ingredients in coconut water are way more effective at hydrating the human body than those of sports and energy drinks. During rigorous exercise or extended periods of physical activity, the human body loses mineral-rich fluids. Coconut water serves as an excellent replacement medium. Despite very light consistency, its water has much better composition of minerals like calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium, and zinc than some of the fruits like oranges. Coconut water is a natural isotonic drink that provides many of the same benefits as formulated sports drinks, including the electrolytes calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and potassium but in their natural form. The minerals are plant based where as sports drinks, spring water and tap water are all metallic based. 
• Improve Digestion : Due to its high concentration of fiber, it aids in the prevention of indigestion and reduces the occurrence of acid reflux. Coconut water is composed of many naturally occurring bioactive enzymes such as acid phosphatase, catalase, dehydrogenase, diastase, peroxidase, RNA-polymerases etc. These enzymes help in the digestion and metabolism.
• Vitamins : Coconut water is also a good source of B-complex vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pyridoxine, and folates. These vitamins are essential in the sense that the human body requires them from external sources to replenish. It is low in fat though rich in vitamins and the potassium level is twice the amount found in bananas.
• Compatible with Human Blood : Coconut water's chemical profile is so similar to blood plasma. As it is isotonic to human plasma, coconut water can be used in severe emergencies to quickly rehydrate the human body.
• Help to maintain Sugar Level : It is excellent drink for diabetics as it is good in nutrients required by diabetics to keep their sugar levels in control. Coconut water's helps increase HDL (good) cholesterol, reduces plaque formation, moderates sugar absorption and improves insulin sensitivity. Regular consumption of coconut water increases the metabolism rate which helps to burn sugar a lot faster.
• Weight Loss : The fat content in coconut water is extremely low. It also suppresses the appetite because of its rich nature. It's cholesterol free, fat free, low in carbohydrates and naturally occurring sugars.
• Anti Aging : Coconut water contains cytokines and lauric acid, the two important elements which are used in the process of cell growth and their regulation. It is a natural source of cytokinins, a group of plant growth hormones that help regulate cell growth, development and ageing. Rich in potassium, antioxidants and lauric acid, cytokinins are said to balance pH levels, strengthen and hydrate connective tissues and even reduce the risk of age-related diseases. Cytokinins has an anti-aging effect on human cells and tissues. When human cells are exposed to cytokinins, aging slows down considerably. Cells treated with cytokinins don't undergo the normal degenerative changes.
• Alkalizing Effect : Coconut water has an alkalizing effect on your body which can help correct the cumulative effects of acidifying foods that make up most diets today.

Coconut Milk and Coconut Water

In mature coconuts, the endosperm solidifies and thickens to form a white edible kernel. Coconut milk is obtained by grating and grinding this kernel with water and passing it through a sieve. Coconut milk is very different from coconut water as this is very high in fat content. 

Coconut milk comprises of about 50 percent fat/protein and 50 percent water whereas Coconut water is a clear, light, refreshing liquid (95 percent water) extracted from young, green coconuts that have not reached maturity.

How to Drink

• Enjoy the coconut drink without any additions.
• Iced coconut water can be a refreshing drink.
• Fresh water can be made special drink adding lemon slices, mint leaves, orange zest, etc.

Coconut water can be consumed at the start of each day to foster the balance of these electrolytes. Drink it in the morning for some extra energy or to rehydrate you after a long night's sleep

Drink it in the afternoon to get you out of a slump or after working out to replenish lost electrolytes. 

Once a coconut is cut open, the water should be consumed quickly as exposure of coconut water to air can result in loss of nutrients. The fresher the coconut water, the better. Once exposed to air and warm temperatures, it rapidly ferments and loses its nutritional value.

High Blood Pressure - Top 3 Home Remedies

World's medical fraternity has rightly dubbed hypertension as the 'silent killer'. Hypertension relates to rush of blood pressure in the arteries. Constant high blood pressure can lead to life-threatening complications like:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Kidney failure
• Eye damage
• Arteriosclerosis

Normally, systolic and diastolic blood pressure should be around 120/80 mm/Hg. However, when it shoots up to 149 mm/Hg and 90 mm/Hg or more, then it is referred to as hypertension.

Systolic blood pressure measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart muscles contract. Diastolic reading refers to the pressure exerted on the artery walls between heartbeats as the heart relaxes.

The most common symptoms of this condition are:

• Severe headache
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Nosebleed
• Palpitation

However, many people do not experience the symptoms even when the blood pressure readings are alarmingly high.

Hypertension cannot be attributed to one single factor. It can be caused by a combination of factors such as:

• Smoking
• Alcoholism
• High-Salt Diet
• Lack of Exercise
• Stress
• Obesity
• Genetics
• Increasing Age
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Pregnancy
• Adrenal Diseases
• Certain Medications, Antidepressants, Decongestants, Oral Contraceptives, etc.

But don't lose heart. To keep the 'silent killer' at bay, some simple home remedies can be of use to you:

Home Remedy 1

• Take a cup of warm water.
• Squeeze half a lemon in it. To reduce sourness, you can add honey.
• Mix it well.
• Drink this on empty stomach, regularly.

Home Remedy 2

• Grind equal quantities of dried watermelon seeds and poppy seeds (khus khus).
• Take 1 teaspoon of this mixture in the morning on an empty stomach and again in the evening.
• If you do not have poppy seeds, just add ground watermelon seeds in warm water and steep for half an hour. Strain the solution and drink it.

Home Remedy 3

• Have 1-2 crushed garlic cloves daily.
• If you do not like eating raw garlic or if it causes a burning sensation, then take it along with a cup of milk.

Tips

• Include watermelons and bananas in your diet.
• Coconut water is also good for high blood pressure and nausea.
• Have oats.
• Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.
• Reduce salt intake. To avoid salt, flavor your food with herbs and spices, even lemon.

Effect of Coconut Oils on Hypothyroidism

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism such as cold hands and feet, low body temperature, sensitivity to cold, a feeling of always being chilled, headaches, insomnia, dry skin, puffy eyes, hair loss, brittle nails, joint aches, constipation, mental dullness, fatigue, frequent infections, hoarse voice, ringing in the ears, dizziness, loss of libido, and weight gain, which is sometimes uncontrollable. 

Refined sugars and grains have harmful effects on our health. These foods are very taxing on the thyroid gland and we consume them in large quantities.

Low iodine intake leads to low thyroid function and eventually to goiter. Iodized salt was intended to solve this problem but it has not been the answer. There are a number of foods known as goitrogens that block iodine. Two goitrogens are peanuts and peanut butter and soybeans used most often in prepared foods as textured vegetable protein (a refined soy food) and soybean oil.

Environmental stress such as chemical pollutants, pesticides, mercury, and fluoride also has harmful effect on the thyroid. Fluoride which is prevalent in toothpaste and water treatment may inhibit the functioning of the thyroid gland. Mercury can reduce thyroid function because it displaces the trace mineral selenium, and selenium is involved in conversion of thyroid hormones T4 to T3.

The polyunsaturated oils have their interference effect on the function of the thyroid gland. Unsaturated oils block thyroid hormone secretion, its movement in the circulatory system, and the response of tissues to the hormone. When the thyroid hormone is deficient, the body is generally exposed to increased levels of estrogen. The thyroid hormone is essential for making the ‘protective hormones’ progesterone and pregnenolone, so these hormones are lowered when anything interferes with the function of the thyroid. The thyroid hormone is required for using and eliminating cholesterol, so cholesterol is likely to be raised by anything which blocks the thyroid function.

The fattening effect of polyunsaturated oils is due to the presence of Linoleic and linolenic acids, long-chain fatty acids which have an anti-thyroid effect.

Coconut oil is a saturated fat made up primarily of medium chain fatty acids. The medium chain fatty acids (medium chain triglycerides or MCTs) are known to increase metabolism and promote weight loss. Coconut oil can also raise basal body temperatures while increasing metabolism. 

One of the reasons the long chain fatty acids in vegetable oils are so damaging to the thyroid is that they oxidize quickly and become rancid. Food manufacturers know about this tendency of vegetable oils towards rancidity and they highly refine their vegetable oils. The trans fatty acids, present when vegetable oils are highly refined (hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated), are especially damaging to cell tissue and can have a negative affect on the thyroid as well as health in general. Because the longer chain fatty acids are deposited in cells more often as rancid and oxidizing fat, impairment of the conversion of thyroid hormone T4 to T3 occurs which is indicative of hypothyroidism. To create the enzymes needed to convert fats to energy, T4 must be converted to T3.

When the oils are stored in our tissues, they are much warmer and more directly exposed to oxygen and so their tendency to oxidize is very great. These oxidative processes can damage enzymes and other parts of cells, and especially their ability to produce energy. The enzymes which break down proteins are inhibited by unsaturated fats; these enzymes are needed not only for digestion, but also for production of thyroid hormones, clot removal, immunity, and the general adaptability of cells. 

Since the unsaturated oils block protein digestion in the stomach, we can be malnourished even while “eating well.” There are many changes in hormones caused by unsaturated fats. Unsaturated oils block thyroid hormone secretion, its movement in the circulatory system, and the response of tissues to the hormone. 

Coconut oil has ability to prevent weight-gain or cure obesity by stimulating metabolism. It is quickly metabolized and functions in some ways as an antioxidant.

Coconut oil is saturated and very stable. Coconut oil does not require the enzyme stress that vegetable oils do, preventing T4 to T3 hormone conversion, not only because it is stable oil, but also because it is processed differently in the body and does not need to be broken down by enzyme dependent processes as do long chain fatty acids. Also, since the liver is the main place where damage occurs from oxidized oils that cause cell membrane damage, and since the liver is where much of the conversion of T4 to T3 takes place, eliminating long chain fatty acids from the diet and replacing them with medium chain fatty acids found in coconut oil can help in rebuilding cell membranes and increasing enzyme production that will assist in promoting the conversion of T4 to T3 hormones.

Natural Treatment and Cause of Hypothyroidism

The thyroid is the thermostat of the body. It produces hormones that work to keep our metabolic rate stable and keep energy-producing processes in balance. The thyroid is essential in protein synthesis, growth, temperature regulation, and oxygen consumption of cells. If the thyroid is deficient, the rest of the body functions poorly. With low thyroid, cholesterol can shoot up to dangerous levels.

Hypothyroidism is a health problem that occurs due to underactive thyroid gland. Due to hypothyroidism the metabolism rate of the body gets affected as metabolism is controlled mainly by the help of thyroid gland. Under-active or hypothyroid conditions can cause low energy.

Symptoms associated with hypothyroidism are fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, puffy face, hoarse voice, cramping of muscles, sudden weight gain, depression and brittle fingernails and hair.

Causes for Hypothyroidism

Some causes of low thyroid besides inheritance are : iodine depletion, x-rays or low dose radiation, pituitary and thyroid malfunction, air and environmental pollutants, overuse of diet pills and other drugs, and vitamin A, E, and zinc deficiency. 

Many times it is caused by lifestyle factors such as poor eating habits, lack of sleep, not handling stress well. Other times it can be environmental toxins causing or contributing to such a condition.

Home Remedies for Hypothyroidism

• The enzymes from live foods help the body to maintain proper metabolism. Foods that heal include sprouts, salads, raw vegetables, and thermos cooked grains to retain enzymes which heal and feed the glands.
• Eat foods rich in vitamin A, such as yellow vegetables, eggs, carrots, and dark green vegetables. 
• Iodine rich foods that nourish the thyroid are: fish and sea vegetables such as kelp. Seaweeds are very nourishing to the glands.
• Zinc and copper are important in helping the body make thyroid hormone. 
• Foods rich in zinc are : beef, oatmeal, chicken, seafood, dried beans, bran, spinach, seeds, and nuts. 
• Foods rich in copper are : organ meats, eggs, yeast, legumes, nuts, and raisins.
• The amino acid tyrosine is helpful. Tyrosine is found in beef, chicken, and fish. Soy should be only used in small amounts.
• Meditation and visualization using colour therapy may be helpful. Visualize a beautiful blue light and feel the colour into the thyroid area. Blue is a very soothing and healing colour. It stables our energy.
• Aerobic exercise such as jumping or fast walking may enhance our nutritional program and help to strengthen the thyroid. Exercises regularly help us to improve our blood flow which will help supply the cells in your body with fresh nutrients and oxygen while burning off toxins.

Effect of Coconut Oils on Hypothyroidism

When the oils are stored in our tissues, they are much warmer and more directly exposed to oxygen and so their tendency to oxidize is very great. These oxidative processes can damage enzymes and other parts of cells, and especially their ability to produce energy. The enzymes which break down proteins are inhibited by unsaturated fats; these enzymes are needed not only for digestion, but also for production of thyroid hormones, clot removal, immunity, and the general adaptability of cells. 

Since the unsaturated oils block protein digestion in the stomach, we can be malnourished even while “eating well.” There are many changes in hormones caused by unsaturated fats. Unsaturated oils block thyroid hormone secretion, its movement in the circulatory system, and the response of tissues to the hormone. 

Coconut oil has ability to prevent weight-gain or cure obesity by stimulating metabolism. It is quickly metabolized and functions in some ways as an antioxidant.

Coconut oil is saturated and very stable. Coconut oil does not require the enzyme stress that vegetable oils do, preventing T4 to T3 hormone conversion, not only because it is a stable oil, but also because it is processed differently in the body and does not need to be broken down by enzyme dependent processes as do long chain fatty acids. Also, since the liver is the main place where damage occurs from oxidized oils that cause cell membrane damage, and since the liver is where much of the conversion of T4 to T3 takes place, eliminating long chain fatty acids from the diet and replacing them with medium chain fatty acids found in coconut oil can help in rebuilding cell membranes and increasing enzyme production that will assist in promoting the conversion of T4 to T3 hormones.

There are many natural remedies that can help in preventing, controlling and treating Hypothyroidism.

• Iodine : Iodine is essential to ensure proper functioning of thyroid gland. The iodine level of our body can be increased by including natural sources of iodine in our diet. Some of natural sources of Iodine are yoghurt, fish, meat, eggs, seafood, potato, radish, bananas, oatmeal and salt.
• Ginger : Ginger is a good source of zinc, magnesium and potassium and its powerful anti-inflammatory properties can help in improving the functionality of thyroid. Fresh ginger root slices can be added to soups and other dishes or used as ginger herbal tea. Herbal tea with ginger is beneficial for thyroid functioning.
• Coconut Oil : Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids which help in improving the functionality of thyroid. It also boosts the body metabolism rate. Coconut oil is a saturated fat that we can consume by adding it to milk. 
• Primrose Oil : Primrose oil is rich in amino acids which nourish the thyroid gland. This oil can help in improving the functionalities of thyroid gland and it also remove the problems associated with hypothyroidism such as hair loss and heavy menstrual flow.
• Black Walnut : Black walnut is a good source of organic iodine. Black walnut which is also rich in magnesium helps in improving the functionality of thyroid gland.
• Flax Seeds : Flax seeds contain a good amount of omega 3 fatty acids which are essential for smooth functioning of the thyroid gland. Take a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds and have with water every day on empty stomach. We can also consume a teaspoon of flax seed oil daily to improve the functionality of the thyroid gland. 
• Nettle Herb : Nettle herb is a rich source of iodine. Nettle herb is good to balance the thyroid with both under and over activity. Nettle can be used to make an herbal tea which can be consumed three times a day. We can use nettle oil for gently massaging the neck area. This will encourage production of thyroid.

For proper functioning of thyroid gland, it is important to expose your body for twenty minutes daily to early morning sunrays. This helps us to maintain the vitamin D level of our body which plays a important role in maintaining healthy immune function and calcium metabolism.

The use of "toning" or singing the tone of G may also help to balance and stimulate the throat area. 

Precautions for Hypothyroidism

• Avoid refined foods, saturated fats, sugars, and white flour products. If the thyroid problem is severe it is then good to avoid brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, kale, mustard greens, peaches and pears as they have anti-thyroid substances and may suppress the thyroid function.
• Carbohydrates other than those contained by potatoes and whole wheat products should be avoided. Cakes, pastries, sweets and other calorie rich items should be avoided.
• Certain food items containing preservatives, white flour products and stuffs high on sugar should be avoided by thyroid patients.
• Beverages including coffee, tea, carbonated drinks and alcohols should be avoided by patients afflicted with thyroid disorders. In its place herbal tea may be an alternative option.

Origin of Diabetes

Diabetes is an important human ailment afflicting many from various walks of life in different countries. In India it is proving to be a major health problem, especially in the urban areas. Though there are various approaches to reduce the ill effects of diabetes and its secondary complications, herbal formulations are preferred due to lesser side effects and low cost.

One of the etiologic factors implicated in the development of diabetes and its complications is the damage induced by free radicals and hence an antidiabetic compound with antioxidant properties would be more beneficial. 

Diabetes is a chronic disorder of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism characterized by increased fasting and post prandial blood sugar levels. Studies conducted in India show that it is increasing rapidly in the urban population. It is estimated that there are approximately 33 million adults with diabetes in India. This number is likely to increase to 57.2 million by the year 2025.

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder resulting from either insulin insufficiency or insulin dysfunction. Type I diabetes (insulin dependent) is caused due to insulin insufficiency because of lack of functional beta cells. Patients suffering from this are therefore totally dependent on exogenous source of insulin while patients suffering from Type II diabetes (insulin independent) are unable to respond to insulin and can be treated with dietary changes, exercise and medication. 

Diabetes Type II is the more common form of diabetes constituting 90% of the diabetic population. Symptoms for both diabetic conditions may include: (1) high levels of sugar in the blood; (2) unusual thirst; (3) frequent urination; (4) extreme hunger and loss of weight; (5) blurred vision; (6) nausea and vomiting; (7) extreme weakness and tiredness; (8) irritability, mood changes etc.

Free radicals are capable of damaging cellular molecules, DNA, proteins and lipids leading to altered cellular functions. Studies reveal that antioxidants capable of neutralizing free radicals are effective in preventing experimentally induced diabetes in animal models as well as reducing the severity of diabetic complications.

In diabetic patients, extra-cellular and long lived proteins, such as elastin, laminin, collagen are the major targets of free radicals. These proteins are modified to form glycoproteins due to hyperglycemia. The modification of these proteins present in tissues such as lens, vascular wall and basement membranes are associated with the development of complications of diabetes such as cataracts, microangiopathy, atherosclerosis and nephropathy. During diabetes, lipoproteins are oxidized by free radicals. There are also multiple abnormalities of lipoprotein metabolism in very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and high density lipoprotein (HDL) in diabetes. 

Lipid peroxidation is enhanced due to increased oxidative stress in diabetic condition. Apart from this, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed by non-enzymatic glycosylation of proteins. AGEs tend to accumulate on long-lived molecules in tissues and generate abnormalities in cell and tissue functions. In addition, AGEs also contribute to increased vascular permeability in both micro and macrovascular structures by binding to specific macrophage receptors. This results in formation of free radicals and endothelial dysfunction. AGEs are also formed on nucleic acids and histones and may cause mutations and altered gene expression.

Patients of diabetes either do not make enough insulin or their cells do not respond to insulin. In case of total lack of insulin, patients are given insulin injections. Whereas in case of those where cells do not respond to insulin many different drugs are developed taking into consideration possible disturbances in carbohydrate-metabolism. For example, to manage post-prandial hyper-glycaemia at digestive level, glucosidase inhibitors such as acarbose, miglitol and voglibose are used. These inhibit degradation of carbohydrates thereby reducing the glucose absorption by the cells. To enhance glucose uptake by peripheral cells biguanide such as metphormine is used. Sulphonylureas like glibenclamide is insulinotropic and works as secretogogue for pancreatic cells. 

There are certain limitations of these medicines like high cost and side effects such as development of hypoglycemia, weight gain, gastrointestinal disturbances, liver toxicity etc. 

Based on involvement of oxidative stress in complicating diabetes mellitus, we can use suitable antidiabetic and antioxidant therapy to treat diabetes

Bitter gourd powder lowers blood and urine sugar levels. It increases body’s resistance against infections and purifies blood. Bitter Gourd has excellent medicinal virtues. It is antidotal, antipyretic tonic, appetizing, stomachic, antibilious and laxative. It contains compounds like bitter glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, reducing sugars, phenolics, oils, free acids, polypeptides, sterols, 17-amino acids including methionine and a crystalline product named p-insulin. It is reported to have hypoglycemic activity in addition to being antihaemorrhoidal, astringent, stomachic, emmenagogue, hepatic stimulant, anthelmintic and blood purifier.

Easy Steps to maintain Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar or glucose is the main source of energy for every cell in our body. A figure indicates that diabetes affects one in every 19 people on the planet. If we can not stabilize blood sugar levels, glucose in the blood can cause complications such as heart disease, diabetes, and memory problems. We can stabilize blood sugar in natural way :

1. Exercise :

Physical activity helps control blood sugar in the body. Walking can extend the life of people with diabetes, insulin-sensitive cells such as controlling blood sugar better. Half an hour walk every day will help your blood sugar level. It helps the sugar and the sugar in the blood to absorb but also to increase insulin sensitivity and metabolism in general.

2. Eat Smaller Meals :

In order to stabilize blood sugar levels, you must eat small meals and eat balanced meals every 2-3 hours. In order to avoid peaks in blood glucose and high insulin release the results allow a full meal, and blood sugar levels for some time between meals. 

3. Dietary Fiber Foods :

Fibers are the undigested part of fruits, grains, nuts and legumes. While eating high-fiber foods, glucose is absorbed more slowly, so blood sugar and avoid the sharp spines. A diet containing insoluble fiber reduces the risk associated with type 2 diabetes.

4. Lemon Juice :

Lemon contains vitamin C, which can reduce the glycemic index of food sufficient. Drink a glass of lemon juice after each meal, it will help to maintain blood sugar. 

5. Protein :

The proteins are also known to degrade the quality of their blood sugar. The consumption of dairy products low in fat such, as low-fat milk, cheeses etc are useful for diabetic patient.

6. Green Tea :

Regular consumption of green tea without sugar helps to reduce blood glucose. You can also drink black tea without sweeteners to control blood sugar. It has the same effect with green tea.

7. Chromium :

Chromium is an active ingredient helps the glucose tolerance factor (GTF) to improve the effectiveness of insulin. chromium supplementation may improve diabetes control. The best sources of chromium are eggs, meat and cereals.

8. Laugh :

Researcher showed that people with type 2 diabetes, those watch the comedy programs immediately after a meal, their blood sugar levels get significantly lower. So, laughing can be helpful to maintain blood sugar too.

The levels of sugar in the blood of the healthy range can reduce the risk of complications and lead a healthy life.

Natural Remedies for Diabetes

Diabetes is among the most common disorders in the world today. Diabetes is a lifestyle disease caused when either levels of insulin drop in body or body cells resist insulin. Insulin is a hormone which lets blood sugar/glucose go inside body cells. Therefore its deficiency leads to increased blood sugar level in blood stream and keeps body cells deprived of energy. 

Here are a few natural remedies that can be helpful in reducing the sugar levels in a diabetic patient :

Fenugreek : Fenugreek seeds are rich in sugar-lowering properties. Fenugreek helps to reduce the insulin dependency when taken in regular intervals. A teaspoon-full of seeds should be soaked in a glass of water over night and the water along with the seeds should be drunk on empty stomach. This treatment is recommended for 2 – 3 times per week. 

Cinnamon : Cinnamon has beneficial anti-diabetic properties. It is recommended to take half spoon of cinnamon powder everyday to get the desired effect. It can also be chewed in its natural form instead of being made into a powder.

Jamun : The leaves of the Jamun tree are useful in reducing the sugar levels. 100 grams of this fruit consumed per day to maintain the blood glucose levels. Jamun fruit is considered as an effective medicine for diabetes considering its effect on pancreas. The seeds too can be dried, powdered and had with water twice a day.

Bitter Gourd : Bitter gourd is an ancient remedy to treat diabetes at home. It can be taken in the form of juice, or cooked and fried and consumed with food daily. The best effects can be gained when taken on empty stomach every morning.

Garlic : The chemical Allicin in garlic is believed to have hypoglycemic effects. Garlic has the cholesterol-reducing effect as well as anti-diabetic effect too.

Aloe Vera : Aloe Vera is well known for its hypoglycemic characteristics. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that promote wound healing. It is best taken with buttermilk to improve the taste. 

Neem : Neem has anti-diabetic properties as well. It has been found to reduce insulin requirements by up to 50%. 

Holy Basil : Basil leaves bring about a significant reduction in the blood glucose level. It is recommended to extract the juice from Holy Basil leaves and consume it. This leaf also has anti-stress, anti-asthmatic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, gastric anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, anti-viral, anti-tumor, anti-mutagenic and immuno-stimulant properties. 

Lady's Finger : Lady's Finger helps to slow down the absorption of glucose from the intestine. It is rich in soluble fibers. You can soak one lady's finger slit in the middle in a glass of water overnight and consume it on an empty stomach. Done over a month, it reduces the blood glucose level to a great extent. 

Fig Leaves : Figs leaves are believed to have anti-diabetic properties that help them to reduce the sugar levels in the blood. Fig leaves can be directly chewed on an empty stomach, or the leaves can be boiled in water and the water can be drunk like tea. 

Grape Seed Extract : Grape seeds are a rich source of vitamin E, flavonoids, linoleic acid and oligomeric proanthocyanidins. It proved that they can be used in treating diabetes. The grape seeds are ground and placed in capsules; the person can take up to 300mg per day to reduce the blood sugar levels. 

Indian Gooseberry : Indian Gooseberry is rich in vitamin C also has hypoglycemic properties. The seeds of this fruit are also taken in ground and powdered form which has much slower effect in reducing the blood glucose levels. 

Beans : Beans help to slow down the digestion process thereby preventing the rise in blood glucose level. 

Soy : Soy contains isoflavones that help to reduce blood sugar levels while keeping the body well nourished. It also prevents the accumulation of fat as it gives very little calories. 

Papaya : Papaya has natural blood sugar controlling capability that helps to control diabetes. It is also a rich source of vitamin C and anti-oxidants along with carotenes and flavonoids.

Guava : Guava has high vitamin C and fibre content that helps diabetics to reduce the sugar concentration in the blood. However, a recent study has shown that having guava with its skin can heighten the blood sugar levels, so make sure you peel off the skin before consumption.

Mango : The leaves of the mango tree are believed to have anti-diabetic properties. It helps to reduce the intestinal glucose absorption, which is the reason behind its anti-diabetic effect. 

Almonds : Almond is rich source of calories and protein. Regular consumption of almond can keep diabetes in control. It also improved LDL Cholesterol levels substantially in pre-diabetes adults. 

Vinegar : Vinegar helps diabetics to reduce the sugar concentration in the blood. Two spoons of vinegar before food helps in the reduction of glucose influx. 

Oysters : Oysters is a rich source of zinc and they help to promote wound healing in diabetics. It is advisable for diabetics to include oysters in their diet for better wound healing capability. 

Olive Oil : Olive oil have beneficiary effects such as reducing the cholesterol and triglycerides level in the blood. It also helps to reduce blood sugar level.

Black Coffee : Studies have shown that black coffee without sugar cuts the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Green Tea : Green Tea is also helpful in reducing the blood sugar and insulin levels in the body.

Vitamin C : 600mg of vitamin C daily can help to normalize the blood glucose levels. Foods rich in vitamin C should be consumed daily by chronic diabetics. 

Chromium : Studies have found that diabetics have lower levels of chromium in their bodies. Chromium is a mineral which facilitates metabolism and improves response of body cells towards insulin.

Magnesium : Magnesium is a mineral found in green leafy vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains etc. It is essential for more than 300 biochemical reactions in body. The mineral also helps in regulating blood sugar levels and facilitating normal functioning of muscles, nerves, heart etc. However, magnesium must be taken in appropriate quantity as high levels of magnesium could cause, diarrhea, nausea, weakness of muscle, irregular heart rate.

Zinc : Zinc is a mineral which helps in production and storage of hormone insulin. It found that people suffering from type 2 diabetes had low levels of zinc in their bodies. Zinc is found in egg yolk, oysters, ginger root, liver of beef, almonds, chicken, walnut etc.

Bone Mineral Density (BMD)

A bone mineral density (BMD) test is the best way to determine your bone health. The test can identify osteoporosis, determine your risk for fractures (broken bones).

Bone density is a medical term referring to the amount of mineral matter per square centimeter of bones. Bone density is used in clinical medicine as an indirect indicator of osteoporosis and fracture risk.

A bone density test uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone.

The absolute amount of bone as measured by bone mineral density testing generally correlates with bone strength and its ability to bear weight. The BMD is measured with a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry test.

It is measured by a procedure called densitometry performed in the radiology departments. The measurement is painless and non-invasive and involves low radiation exposure.

By measuring BMD, it is possible to predict fracture risk in the same manner that measuring blood pressure can help predict the risk of stroke.

The T-score is the relevant measure when screening for osteoporosis. It is a comparison of a patient's BMD to that of a healthy thirty-year-old. 

The Z-Score is the number of standard deviations a patient's BMD differs from the average BMD of their age, sex, and ethnicity. This value is used in premenopausal women, men under the age of 50 and in children

• Normal : A bone BMD is considered normal if the T-score is within 1 standard deviation of the normal young adult value. T-score between 0 and -1 is considered a normal result. 
• Low Bone Mass (Osteopenia) : A BMD defines osteopenia as a T-Score between -1 and -2.5. This indicates an increased fracture risk.
• Osteoporosis : A BMD greater than 2.5 standard deviations from the normal identify osteoporosis.

BMD analysis is recommended for women between ages 50 and 65 with risk factors for osteoporosis and for all women over the age of 65. 

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that is characterized by bones that are less dense than normal bone. Osteoporosis increases the risk of breaking a bone with even minor trauma such as a fall from standing height or even from a cough or sneeze.

Osteoporosis is a deconditioned state in which bones become weak and get worse over time. It is a loss of bone mineral density and bone mass which can cause your bones to become fragile and more likely to break.

Bone is constantly being remodeled. This is healthy state of continuous uptake of old bone (resorption) followed by the deposit of new bone. 

Bone formation initially exceeds bone resorption, but by the third decade this has reversed resulting in a net loss of bone mass. This leads to an increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture.

The cells that lay new bone down are called osteoblasts and the cells responsible for resorption of old bone are called osteoclasts. Osteoporosis occurs as a result of a mismatch between osteoclast and osteoblast activity.

This mismatch can be caused by many disease or hormonal changes. It is also result of aging, change in normal hormones as occurs after menopause and with diets low in calcium and vitamin D.

Women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. Other risk factors are older age, family history of osteoporosis, thin stature, inactive lifestyle, smoking, alcohol, and use of certain medications including steroids.

The result is a thinning of the bone with an accompanying loss in bone strength and a greater risk of fracture.

Most of a person's bone mass is achieved by early adulthood. After that time, the bone mass gradually declines throughout the rest of a person's life. There is a normal rate of decline in bone mass with age in both men and women.

For women, the menopause transition itself causes an extra degree of bone loss. Women can lose up to 20% of the total bone mass during this time. 

Men may also be at risk for osteoporosis if they have certain illnesses, low testosterone level, are smokers, take certain medicines or are inactive. The best method to prevent osteoporosis is to achieve as high a bone mass by early adulthood with a proper diet and regular exercise.

The purpose of BMD testing is to help predict the risk of future fracture so that the treatment program can be optimized.

The following are risk factors for low bone density :

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Low Body Weight
• Parent with a Hip Fracture
• Individuals with Vertebral Abnormalities
• Long-Term Glucocorticoid (Steroid) Therapy
• Primary Hyperparathyroidism
• History of Eating Disorders
• Thyroid Disease
• Excessive Caffeine Consumption

Other considerations include smoking habits, drinking habits, the long-term use of corticosteroid drugs, and vitamin D deficiency.

Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) is the most common method to measure a patient's BMD. DXA is relatively easy to perform and the amount of radiation exposure is low. At present, DXA scanning gives information on the BMD two main areas, the hip and spine. 

Ultrasound is a relatively new diagnostic tool to measure BMD. There is no radiation source with this procedure. An ultrasound beam is directed at the area being analyzed. The scattering and absorption of the waves allow for an assessment of bone density.

Bone Mineral Density (BMD) (Hindi) (720p HD)

Most of a person's bone mass is achieved by early adulthood. After that time, the bone mass gradually declines throughout the rest of a person's life. There is a normal rate of decline in bone mass with age in both men and women. For women, in addition to age, the menopause transition itself causes an extra degree of bone loss.

Bone formation initially exceeds bone resorption but by the third decade this has reversed resulting in a net loss of bone mass. This leads to an increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture.

Men may also be at risk for osteoporosis if they have certain illnesses, low testosterone level, are smokers, take certain medicines or are sedentary. 

The best method to prevent osteoporosis is to achieve as high a bone mass by early adulthood with a proper diet and regular exercise. 

BMD analysis is recommended for women between ages 50 and 65 with risk factors for osteoporosis and for all women over the age of 65.

By measuring BMD, it is possible to predict fracture risk in the same manner that measuring blood pressure can help predict the risk of stroke.

A bone mineral density (BMD) test is the best way to determine your bone health. The test can identify osteoporosis, determine your risk for fractures (broken bones).

The osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become more fragile and more likely to break.

The absolute amount of bone as measured by bone mineral density (BMD) testing generally correlates with bone strength and its ability to bear weight.

A bone density test uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone.

Ultrasound is relatively new diagnostic tool to measure BMD. An ultrasound beam is directed at the area being analyzed. The scattering and absorption of the waves allow for an assessment of bone density.

The T-score is the relevant measure when screening for osteoporosis. It is a comparison of a patient's BMD to that of a healthy thirty-year-old.

• Normal : A bone BMD is considered normal if the T-score is within 1 standard deviation of the normal young adult value. T-score below -1 is considered an abnormal result.
• Low Bone Mass (Osteopenia) : A BMD defines osteopenia as a T-score between -1 and -2.5. This signifies an increased fracture risk.
• Osteoporosis : A BMD greater than 2.5 standard deviations from the normal defines osteoporosis.

Z-Score is the number of standard deviations a patient's BMD differs from the average BMD of their age, sex, and ethnicity. This value is used in premenopausal women, men under the age of 50 and in children.

The purpose of BMD testing is to help predict the risk of future fracture so that the treatment program can be optimized.

Source of Vitamin B12

Source of Vitamin B12

• Cyanocobalamin is a plant-based source of B12, which is added to soymilk, vegan vitamins and found naturally in spirulina. 
• Cow Milk provides the B12 nutritional requirements of human body. 

Some bodies are better at retaining B12 than others. The individual body has varying ability to absorb Vitamin B 12. Absorption of vitamin B12 adversely affected by these conditions :

• Lack of intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein secreted by the stomach. This condition is present in pernicious anemia.
• Poorly functioning terminal ileum (this refers to receptors in the small intestine).
• Part of the stomach surgically removed.
• Inadequate digestive enzymes and gastric acid.
• Impaired liver and/or pancreatic function: Liver stores B12, and secretes it in bile. The pancreas is part of the end stage of absorption.
• Old Age : Absorption of Vitamin B12 tends to decrease as you age. B12 is a factor in conditions normally associated with aging, which respond to supplements.
• B-vitamins can make a great difference for an impacted system (long-term exposure to modern living, process foods, no sunlight, chemicals, stress etc.). Which if they accumulate cannot absorb the nutrition anymore? However, at the same time a young system or a cleansed body will absorb the nutrition again.

This young science bases a lot of its research on already 'ill bodies' how they react. That is why western medicine does not heal but surpress pain (far from removing the cause) - it has its place on structural illnesses - broken bones, eye laser etc. - but the subtle causes are induced over time through nutrition and emotional imbalances. And nutrition can remove them again - Food is medicine! 'Young Science' has good pointers but will not replace the 'old science of a holistic long-term view like Ayurveda, Chinese medicine etc. which is based on our entire being, body, soul and spirit' or ultimately to learn to follow your intuition. 

As for what constitutes a "scientific option," nutrition is a remarkably young field. Scientists change their mind constantly about what's good, what's bad, and what's essential for the body. Nutrition as a field seldom touches the importance of phytonutrients and dietary carcinogens, either. While it's fine to mention "scientific options," it's best to note that there are many possibilities. The American Dietetics Association, for instance, has finally mentioned that a vegan diet can satisfy all nutritional requirements when properly followed including B12 requirements.