Increase Red Blood Cells And Improve Your Blood Count With This Homemade Syrup

With low blood count in your body, you can be prone to symptoms such as lack of energy and constant fatigue.

You can improve this condition by consuming the following natural syrup:

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of beet
• One cup of dried apricots
• 2-3 oranges
• 200 grams of spinach
• 200 grams of kale
• ½ kg of cherries

Preparation procedure:

Chop your spinach, kale, beets, and dried apricots in small pieces. Blend them together using a blender.

Then, transfer your mixture into a bigger container. Squeeze your lemon and oranges and then add their juice to the container. Consider adding 2 tablespoons of honey for taste. Mix well.

Afterwards, pour the remedy into glass bottles or jars with a lid, and store them in a cool, dark place.

This amount should last you about one month.

Use:

You should take 3 tablespoons of this syrup every morning, before breakfast.

It will significantly boost your red blood cells, thereby improving the blood count.

You’re advised to also include beans, legumes, and lentils in your regular diet.

The 3, Ingredient Elixir That Can Clear Mucus From The Lungs And Strengthens The Immune System

Colds and flu are common during the cold seasons. These infections that make our noses runny and throats phlegmy can be very unpleasant. Fortunately, lemon water, ginger, and honey can provide impressive relief to excess mucous in your nose, lungs, and throat.

BENEFITS OF DRINKING WATER
Medical experts recommend intake of plenty of water. Water is effective in loosening and washing down any phlegm at the back of the mouth and in the throat.

It can also eliminate the toxins that contribute to the illness.

Likewise, drinking cold water can boost your immune system and metabolism, whereas drinking warm water can control your body temperature.

BENEFITS OF GINGER
Ginger is effective in alleviating headaches caused by the congestion of the sinuses. It also minimizes the accumulation of phlegm that remains behind after you recover from an infection.

Likewise, ginger significantly boosts the entire system and is also known to promote circulation, which stimulates the elimination of any excess mucus from the lungs.

Regular consumption of ginger is also beneficial for the elimination of inflammation and morning sickness.

BENEFITS OF HONEY
Honey is a superfood, which is rich in anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It is normally used in the treatment of hay fever and seasonal allergic reactions, thanks to its rich content of flavonoids and antioxidants.

Lactobacillus kunkeei is a probiotic bacteria found in honey and it is effective in boosting the immune system. Likewise, honey can effectively reduce mucus and phlegm. It’s also effective in soothing a sore throat.

BENEFITS OF LEMON
Lemon is highly beneficial to the immune system, thanks to its abundance of vitamin C and potassium. It also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in cleansing mucus and revitalizing the immune system.

This citrus fruit can also regulate blood pressure, balance the body pH levels, and stimulate nerve function. Likewise, it will avert dehydration and adrenal fatigue.

RECIPE FOR LEMON-GINGER-HONEY DRINK
You will get 2-3 servings from this recipe

INGREDIENTS:
100 ml of water
100 grams of honey
1 inch of ground ginger
4 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS:
First, mix the ground ginger and water and then boil it for about 10 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool and then add lemon juice and honey. Leave it overnight.
Keep the drink refrigerated and use it for up to one week.
You should take 30-40 ml of this drink every morning, before breakfast.

Consume it for 40 days, take a 2-week break, and then continue taking it for another 40 days.

Your immune system ill be significantly boosted.

12 Superfoods That Stomp Out Cancer Before It Starts

Cancer is one of the most feared illness in America, and people are willing to try almost anything to reduce their chances of getting this illness.

Medical researchers have discovered that 1/3 of cancer deaths are due to increased participation in unhealthy diets. Eating these foods have been proven help fight and prevent the effects of cancer.

Find out what they are, and the specific benefits they have.

1. Cherries.
It doesn't matter the type or taste, cherries are an incredibly healing fruit. Drinking a cup of cherry juice helps reduce any inflammation your body may have.

The high fiber content in the fruit, and the fruit juice are linked to lowering the risk of colon, and rectal cancer, as shown in a study done by the American Institute for Cancer Research.

Cherries are also powerful antioxidants. They are loaded with vitamin E in quantities comparable to a supplement. Sweet cherries also contain quercetin, which is a wide-ranging antioxidant that can have a profound impact on your overall health.

Cherries also reduce inflammation. In one study of 600 volunteers, those who ate a half cup serving of cherries a day, or about 10 cherries, had a 35% lower risk of a gout attack.

Those who ate even more had a 50% reduction in risk. Gout happens because your body cannot filter out uric acid fast enough, and inflammation follows suit. If you're at risk for gout, try eating cherries.

Cherries have also been known to reduce belly fat and prevent post-workout pain and fatigue. They're the perfect fruit to eat after a workout, in conjunction with some nice, lean protein and water.

2. A little pickled pea.
Despite the small size, capers are filled with powerful antioxidants that prevent cancer cells from changing your DNA. Additionally, capers help to breakdown food in your stomach, helping for easier digestion.

The best way to incorporate these into your diet is to pair them with cooked meats, or fish. It's also great with eggs.

Additionally, capers are absolutely fantastic sources of fiber in your diet. They help soften hard stools and help you feel fuller longer.

They may also prevent cardiovascular disease or at the very least lower your risk. A tablespoon of capers contains 3% of your daily fiber needs.

Capers are also high in vitamin K, which is a fat soluble vitamin crucial for the development of strong, healthy bones. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, helping to prevent excessive bleeding.

Vitamin K is also helpful for the growth of new cells and plays a role in your nervous system health as well.

Capers, as small as they are, also contain high amounts of iron, ensuring that your red blood cells are healthy and can carry oxygen and nutrients throughout the body successfully. 1 tablespoon offers 2% of your daily need for iron.

3. Is it grain or wheat?

It's actually neither, buckwheat is an incredible fruit seed that is related to the rhubarb. Buckwheat is high in fiber, essential vitamins and minerals, that are essential to good nutrition.

Adding this to your regular diet can help improve your nutritional health, and an improved healthy diet can reduce the risk of developing cancer.

4. Mushrooms can be medicinal.

Mushrooms have been used around the world for thousands of years as a well known healing food with medicinal effects.

A study done by researchers at a university found that eating mushrooms can protect your body from viruses and shrink tumors. The high amount of antioxidants will boost your immune system and help kill cancer cells.

5. Green superfoods.

Leafy greens including kale, spinach, arugula, and swiss chard are just a few of the superfoods that have been associated with treating chronic diseases.

They include essential vitamins such as A, K, B, and C, which all help increase cardiovascular health. A scientific study stated that eating 15% more leafy greens will reduce your risk of bladder cancer by 5% or more.

6. Little green vegetable.

A single cup of this amazing vegetable has over 100% of your body's daily requirement of vitamin K, and almost 150% of your body's daily requirement of vitamin C.

Broccoli is also very high in fiber, and has been called the one of the worlds healthiest foods by several doctors and researchers.

7. Care for chemotherapy.

A study has found that a compound known as olecanthal, which is found in extra virgin olive oil, has an ability to kill a high number of cancer cells in a short amount of time.

Additionally, virgin coconut oil has actually helped reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. Taking 10 milliliters a day could reduce fatigue, breathing problems, and help you sleep better at night.

8. Your favorite morning beverage.

This fact will make you love coffee more than you already do, and here's why. Drinking your morning coffee can actually protect you from liver cancer.

A recent study done by a nutritionist stated how the coffee reacts with the enzymes to remove carcinogens from your liver.

9. A satisfying snack.

Skip the chips because an avocado is a healthy and filling snack that your body is actually craving. The lipids in avocados were found to be effective in killing leukemia stem cells without harming and of the normal stem cells.

Additionally, it will help satisfy your cravings for longer because of its high amounts of healthy fats.

10. An effective stress reliever.

Holy basil is a great way to decrease stress and increase your mood because it increases your noradrenaline and serotonin.

It has also helped diabetic patients control the levels of their blood sugar by providing the body with dietary fiber, which can prevent spikes in your blood sugar after eating food.

11. Healing grapes.

Your nightly glass of red wine may be more relaxing than you think. Wine's high amount of antioxidants have been shown to prevent cardiovascular disease.

Additionally, moderate drinkers who mostly stay with one serving of alcohol per night, were found to have lower risk of heart problems, and certain types of cancers.

12. Essential calcium.

Because cow's milk has a high omega-3 profile it is great for keeping your heart healthy, and it is a perfect for getting your daily requirements for calcium, and vitamin D.

If you prefer to stay away from dairy products then soy milk is a great alternative and has a high amount of protein.

6 Symptoms Of A Vitamin Deficiency

Due to their increasingly busy lives, Americans are finding it more difficult to balance the stress of their job with their family life.

Because of this people are turning to TV dinners, and boxed meals for a convenient, and easy to make dinner. However, eating these meals too regularly put you at higher risk for vitamin deficiencies.

Vitamin deficient people often experience fatigue along with other strange symptoms that usually go unrecognized.

Here are some of the signs you may be vitamin deficient, and how you can treat this problem naturally...

1. Need a mint?
If you still have bad breath even after brushing and flossing your teeth, your oral hygiene probably fine, and a vitamin B3 deficiency is the likely cause.

Since vitamin B3 is responsible for liver function, not having enough can result in your stomach and intestines to work improperly, and poor digestion, which is a major cause of bad breath.

This deficiency is also commonly found in people struggling with long term alcoholism. To get more of this vitamin in your diet you can eat fatty fish, organic meats, sunflower seeds, and beets.

2. Feeling more down than usual?
It's normal to feel a little blue sometimes, but if you notice your sadness lingering around, and you begin to feel depressed on a daily basis, you could be experiencing a deficiency in vitamin B1.

In order for your brain and nerve cells to function properly your body needs adequate vitamin B1 levels.

Alcoholism, anorexia, and Crohn's disease are likely causes of low vitamin B1 levels, and are likely to result in psychological problems when left untreated. Adding foods like peas, lentils, blackstrap molasses, and organ meats are great ways to get the B1 you need.

3. Cuts and bruises won't heal.
Injuring yourself is just a part of life, everyone gets cuts and bruises, but they should heal themselves after a couple days. However, if you are finding that the healing process is taking longer than normal, you may need more vitamin C in your diet.

When your body is deficient in vitamin C it lacks the nutrients it needs to heal properly, and puts the wound at a greater risk for infection. Citrus fruits, and leafy greens are a great ways to introduce more vitamin C into your diet.

4. Slower reaction time.
Having difficulty reacting to basic tasks on time like catching soda can someone trows to you, or putting on your breaks when another car is trying to merge onto the highway could be caused by a lack of vitamin E in your diet.

Similar to vitamin B1, vitamin E is responsible for communication between your brain nerves. When you are lacking in this vitamin communication is increasingly difficult, and your reflexes suffer.

Eating more avocados, seeds, nuts, and wheat germ, which is the richest source of vitamin E, are great foods to get your reflexes back to full working condition.

5. It's hard to see at night.
Do you find yourself constantly canceling dinner plans because you don't want to worry about driving, or being in a low light environment, you need more vitamin D in your life.

Vitamin D has the pigments needed for the photoreceptors in your eyes, which are responsible for your eyes ability to see in low light, and dark, night time settings.

Getting more vitamin A is one way to help this problem, leafy greens, orange vegetables, and eggs are other sufficient sources.

6. Can't feel your feet?
We've all woken up with a numb tingling in your feet that make it hard to balance or walk straight, but if you notice this happening on a regular basis, you may be experiencing a vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 is responsible communication to the nerves that are responsible for feeling and balance, so deficiencies in this vitamin result in constant numbness and problems balancing.

In order to get more B12 into your diet you need to start eating more dairy products, and plant based foods, along with breakfast cereals fortified with B12 if you prefer not to eat animal based products.

How to Make the Mediterranean Diet Work for You

The Mediterranean dietary pattern has long been revered as incredibly heart-healthy, but it also has been shown to be friendly to your waistline.

The traditional Mediterranean dietary pattern has been well studied, and details about its health benefits continue to roll in. Research studies that have included more than 1.5 million people have demonstrated that following a Mediterranean diet decreases the risk of several major chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. This eating pattern has also been shown to help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight. In fact, this beneficial dietary pattern has been praised by all of the major scientific organizations.

Main Points of the Mediterranean Diet

• Based on traditional diets of Greece and southern Italy

• The biggest component? Eat predominantly plant-based foods: vegetables, fruits, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

• Emphasis on heart-healthy fats, including olive oil, nuts, and seeds (rather than butter)

• Focus on fatty fish (at least two servings per week)

• Savor small amounts of lean poultry, low-fat dairy products (especially yogurt), and eggs (in smaller portions than are typical of what is consumed in the U.S.).

• Use less sodium and flavor food with spices, herbs, and aromatic vegetables.

• Very little red meat is consumed--once or twice a month at most--usually used in small amounts to add some flavor to sauces or pasta, bean, or veggie dishes.

• Save sweet treats for special occasions.

• If you like red wine, enjoy it in moderation.

• Eat mindfully and center meals on family and friends.

• Get plenty of physical activity, aiming for a great deal of outdoor exercise.

Making Your Meals More Mediterranean
You can easily add a few components at a time into your diet to slowly transition into a more Mediterranean style of eating. Making a couple of small changes that you can sustain over a lifetime is much easier than trying to overhaul your diet overnight. Start by adopting one new food habit a week. Because a Mediterranean diet is just a term used to describe an overall eating pattern rather than a strict, structured “diet," you will not feel restricted.

• Tack on an extra serving of fruit and an extra serving of vegetables to each day (replace a starchy food). One simple way to achieve this goal is by adding produce to foods you already enjoy eating. For example, sauté shredded carrots or zucchini with lean ground beef for tacos, or toss in a couple handfuls of broccoli or cauliflower to your pasta dishes.

• Once a week, swap out one serving of red or processed meat for a serving of fish (particularly fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, lake trout, rainbow trout, albacore tuna, herring, sardines, or anchovies).

• Up your exercise with an easy physical activity that is an integral part of the Mediterranean lifestyle — walking! Tack on a twenty-minute evening stroll to burn calories while also relieving stress.

• Rather than using a refined grain like all-purpose flour to coat your fish or chicken, try using crushed up nuts as a crunchy, heart-healthy coating. Or, add a 1.5 ounce serving of unsalted nuts to your day twice a week and work your way up to relishing a daily serving of nourishing nuts. To intensify their flavor, trying roasting or toasting them.

• Snack on a serving of plain, low-fat yogurt topped with berries at least once per week.

• To cut back on red and processed meat without eliminating it completely, start subbing in beans, a Mediterranean mainstay, for half of the amount of ground beef or turkey in your recipes.

• The Mediterranean diet is not low-fat. Rather, it underscores the priority of consuming healthy fats--olive oil in particular. Seek out extra-virgin olive oil as it is the least processed and contains the most beneficial antioxidants. Use olive oil to sauté or drizzle over roasted vegetables, to dip your whole-grain bread in, and in homemade salad dressings.

• For a crunchy, more nutrient-dense snack than potato chips, try roasted chickpeas.

• Don’t forget to spice things up — literally. The Mediterranean diet is lower in sodium than most Western diets, but you can amp up the flavor with herbs and spices.

• Make dining a social event by enjoying meals with loved ones.

10 Ways Honey Elevates Your Beauty Routine

Ditch all of your beauty products and swap them out with a simple bottle of honey and watch your natural glow peek through.

With the often dizzying array of beauty products on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with the choices and may also lead you to wonder if any of them truly do any good. Fortunately, more and more people are deciding to skip manufactured beauty products altogether and instead opt for all-natural products for their beauty regimens.

One of the best ones to try is honey … yes, that sweet, sticky natural sweetener also has a myriad of beauty benefits to take advantage of. Not only does it save you tons of money, but you also don’t have to worry about coming in contact with any harsh chemicals. While there are over a hundred ways to use honey as part of your beauty routine, here are the top 10 that you need to try out immediately!

1. Moisturizing Mask – Keeping your skin thoroughly moisturized and hydrated is essential to an overall radiant complexion, but many beauty products tend to sit on top of the skin and leave a layer of residue instead of fully adding moisture. Honey is different because it is a natural humectant which draws moisture from the air into the skin and ensures it's retained in the layers where it’s needed most, making it an ideal moisturizing mask.

2. Pore Cleanser – Cleansing your skin deep down to its pores is one of the most important things to do to ensure that your skin is not only clean but also free from build-up and impurities. The reason why honey works so well as a pore cleanser is because of the enzymes it has that clarify skin while clearing pores and keeping them clean.

3. Gentle Exfoliator – Exfoliating your skin not only scrapes away dead skin cells, but the process also brightens up your complexion for ultimate radiance. Nixing your current exfoliating method in favor of honey is definitely an upgrade that you should give a try. Simply combine raw honey with baking soda, rub all over your face (or any other part of the body that needs it) and rinse.

4. Scar Fader – The unpleasant presence of scars is one of the hardest skin issues to deal with and you may find yourself spending hundreds of dollars trying to find the one miracle product to get rid of them. Fortunately, your miracle scar fader could be in your kitchen right now because honey is known to fade scars immensely. Honey lightens skin, and the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds it contains help to decrease the appearances of scars and increase tissue regeneration.

5. Acne Treatment – If there is one pesky skin issue that everyone has experienced at some point in their lives, it’s the presence of acne. There are so many products on the market that claim to combat it, but you can save yourself the time and trouble and use honey for your acne flare-ups instead. The antibacterial and antifungal properties that thwart bacteria and the anti-inflammatory properties that calm redness and irritation are the key reasons why honey should be your go-to acne treatment.

6. Bath Soak – Soaking in a warm bath is an ideal way to erase away the memories of a hectic day on your body and skin, and honey just makes the process even more beneficial. Obviously honey is very hydrating to the skin, but it also contains antioxidants that repair skin issues, while protecting it from any future damage.

7. Cuticle Moisturizer – You could have the best manicure around, but if it’s offset by dry, brittle and ragged cuticles it pretty much ruins the whole look. Sure using hand moisturizer and applying hand treatments can help, but instead give honey a shot as your new cuticle moisturizer. A quick mixture of honey, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil gives you soft and supple cuticles in a flash.

8. Hair Conditioner – Dull hair can make even the most gorgeous hairstyle look underwhelming and if you are tired of filling up your bathroom cabinets with an overabundance of hair products to combat the problem, then honey is your easy answer. Honey has the natural enzymes and nutrients in it that give dull hair shine without weighing it down, making it a great conditioner. Just mix up some honey, olive oil or coconut oil, let sit and rinse.

9. Shampoo Booster – Keep the shampoo you love, but give it an all-natural boost by adding in a little bit of sweet honey. If you’re wondering how honey works with shampoo to give your hair a deep and healthy cleanse, it’s rather simple. Honey’s humectants regulate and retain hair moisture, while also strengthening hair follicles to initiate growth.

10. Hair Highlighter – While not as strong as over-the-counter hair highlighter products that contain a host of chemicals, honey does indeed have the ability to lighten your hair at an effective albeit slower rate. The glucose oxidase that lies in honey gradually releases hydrogen peroxide, which is known to lighten hair color.

7 Powerful Home Remedies For Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or chemical irritants. The body usually prevents these organisms from infecting your lungs but, at times, they may succeed in overpowering your immune system even if you are generally in good health.

It is a serious infection or inflammation in which the air sacs fill with pus and other liquid. In most cases, pneumonia occurs as a mild condition and clears up in two to three weeks. However, it can become very serious and may even prove fatal. It is especially dangerous for infants, young children, adults age 65 or older, and people who have a weakened immune system or underlying health problems.

The most common symptoms of pneumonia include a cough, fever, shaking chills, and shortness of breath. Also, it can cause other symptoms, such as a headache, loss of appetite, fatigue, sweating, nausea and vomiting, muscle pain, and chest pain when breathing deeply or coughing.

It is especially important to see a doctor if you are having chest pain, difficulty breathing, persistent fever (102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) or a persistent cough.

Home remedies for pneumonia

1.Holy basil leaves

Holy basil leaves are beneficial for your lungs and useful in the natural treatment of pneumonia. Simply chew on a couple of holy basil leaves and swallow them. It will help a lot to relieve a cough and the flu.

2.Garlic
Garlic has antimicrobial properties that fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It also helps bring down the body temperature and increases expectoration to clear phlegm out of the chest and lungs.
You should mix 1 cup of milk in 4 cups of water and add one-half teaspoon of crushed garlic to it. Boil the solution until it reduces to one-fourth of the original amount. Drink it three times a day.

3.Ginger
Ginger is a well-known remedy to treat most of the respiratory diseases. Taking homemade ginger tea will improve a cough and lung irritation. It’s pretty effective in treating flu too.

4.Fenugreek tea
Fenugreek has mucolytic properties, that is, it helps break up congestion. Furthermore, it induces sweating which reduces fever and helps remove toxins from the body.

Prepare some fenugreek tea (boil 1 teaspoon fenugreek with a cup of water). Then add a few drops of lemon juice and drink. This will clear up all the fluid in your lungs, and relieve your cough too.

5.Turmeric
Like fenugreek, this medicinal herb also works as a mucolytic to expel mucus from the body, particularly from the respiratory tract. Plus, it has antiviral and antibacterial properties that assist in fighting infection.

You should mix one-half teaspoon of turmeric and one-quarter teaspoon of black pepper powder in a glass of warm water. Drink it once a day.

6.Oregano oil
Oil of oregano combats pneumonia-causing germs due to its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It also helps thin mucus and clear congestion.
Add two or three drops of oregano oil to a glass of water or fresh juice. Drink it three times daily. Also, you can pour some oil into a piece of clean cloth and breathe in it whenever you feel stuffed.

7.Steam inhalation
Steam gives you a helping hand in combating with infection and enhancing breathing by easing a severe bout of a cough and congestion.

You should add some essential oils such as eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, lemon, or camphor oil into boiled water.

Breathe in the heat from this mixture. While breathing, wear a towel in order that the steam is not out of your body.

8 Things Your Eyes Are Trying To Tell You About Your Health

The human body is a pretty amazing thing. When something isn’t quite right, your body has a way of sending you signals to give you a heads up.

One of the ways your body lets you know that something is off is through your eyes, specifically for your present state of health. Here are eight eye conditions, and what they mean in terms of your health.

1. A stubborn stye
If you have ever had a stye, you know how painful and irritating it can be, especially if it is a common occurrence. While the condition, which is characterized by a bump that forms on your eyelid due to a blocked sebaceous gland, typically only lasts a few days, it can persist for months.

If you experience a stubborn stye, it could be a sign of something more sinister – a rare form of cancer known as sebaceous gland carcinoma. So, if you have a long-lasting stye, or even a stye that occurs regularly in the same location, it is probably time to see your doctor.

2.Thinning eyebrows
There are several reasons why you might experience thinning eyebrow hair, including aging, stress, and a nutritional deficiency. It may also be a result of a condition known as alopecia areata, or spot baldness, although unlikely since this only affects about 0.1 % of the population. Also, another reason for hair loss in this area is thyroid disease.

3.Blurry vision
If you’re a frequent computer user, you may experience burning eyes or blurry vision. If your vision becomes blurry while you’re staring at a computer screen, it’s the result of computer vision syndrome. Your eyes become strained due to the lack of contrast on the computer screen, combined with the extra work of focusing on pixels.

4.Blond spots
If you have ever experienced a small blind spot in your vision, it can be quite scary. However, this situation can also indicate that you are experiencing a migraine aura, especially is you also see shimmering lights or a wavy line. This blind spot and lights may be followed by a painful headache.

5.Bulging eyes
Your eyes can definitely play tricks on you. However, if you feel a bulging sensation in your eyes, it could be related to your thyroid. The most common cause of protruding eyes is an overactive thyroid gland, known as hyperthyroidism.

6.Yellow whites in your eyes
Jaundice, the term used to describe a yellowing of your eye whites and skin, can occur in newborns who have an underdeveloped liver function but adults can also experience this condition, which is a sign you are experiencing some type of liver problem. It can also be related to your gallbladder or bile duct, so if you find your eyes are yellowing, speak to your doctor immediately.

7.Blurred vision in diabetics
People with diabetes are at an increased risk for several different eye problems. The most common is diabetic retinopathy. This condition affects the circulatory system of the eye. It’s the leading cause of blindness in American adults.

8.Double vision, dim vision or vision loss
Anytime you experience vision changes, it can be alarming. Our eyes are vital to us. So any sudden double vision, dim vision or loss of vision at all means you should see your doctor right away. If you are seeing double, dimly lit objects or losing your vision altogether, contact a health care professional immediately. as these symptoms can all be warning signs of a stroke.

11 Ways To Boost Your Metabolism

Most people know that having a fast metabolism is good for overall health, but they aren’t sure how to do it. Fortunately, there are a number of effective ways to boost your metabolism, including proper diet, early exercise, increasing omega-3s, working out, adding protein, boosting activity levels, varying caloric intake and many more!

Boost Your Metabolism
There is a lot of talk about metabolism in health and lifestyle circles these days, as more people are beginning to understand and actively promote a healthy, normal metabolism. By definition, metabolism is a combination of two processes, catabolism and anabolism. The former is the breakdown of various molecules in our diet to create energy, while the latter is the production of all the compounds needed by the cells for normal bodily functions. Both of these elements need to be accounted for in order to have a healthy overall metabolism. As the definition above may suggest, metabolism is closely linked to the nutrition and diet that our body receives, but also in the way that we treat our body throughout the course of each day.

Boosting your metabolism can be done in numerous ways, both through dietary and lifestyle choices, because the body is uniquely flexible. It can adapt to new conditions and improve itself when driven properly. Similarly, it can fail to adapt and react negatively to the way we treat it. Increasing the efficiency or nutrient uptake and improving the rate of fat-burning by the body are two key components of metabolism that must be handled. Many people actually harm their anabolic and catabolic rates through other weight loss or health strategies, such as dieting, but one of the fundamental ways to improve your overall health is to improve your metabolism. Now, let’s take a more in-depth look at some of the best ways to boost your metabolism.

11 Best Ways To Boost Your Metabolism
Adding Protein: Protein is one of the most important elements in any diet, but it is particularly key in the development of lean muscle. That is the type of muscle that is closely associated with a high metabolic rate. Protein is also harder to digest than fat or carbs; this means the body spends more time (and calories) digesting protein than it does many other elements of your diet. In other words, add protein-rich foods like salmon, red meat, cheese, beans, yogurt and seeds if you want to increase your metabolic efficiency.

Vary Caloric Intake: If your body gets into a routine, it can get lazy, so it’s important to keep your digestive system and metabolic system dynamic and on its toes. The best way to do this is to vary your caloric intake between days, ensuring that your body learns to be adaptable and work harder or less depending on your intake. This will increase your metabolic flexibility, and improve your fat-burning and digestive efficiency.

Exercise More: Research has shown that exercise is one of the most basic ways to improve your metabolic pace. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, your metabolism is going to suffer. Exercising 3-5 times a week is an excellent way to shore up your metabolic rate. Also, if you regularly exercise, but still haven’t seen the improvements you’re looking for, try shorter bursts of activity throughout the day, such as three 15-minute chunks of exercise, rather than one session of 45 minutes.

Eat Enough: One of the biggest mistakes that people make when trying to improve their metabolic speed and lose weight is dieting! The foundation of a good metabolism is an appropriate amount of nutrients and calories in the body. If you cut down too far on your calorie intake, your body may start devouring your muscle tissue for energy, because it is lacking in the nutrients it needs. In other words, improving your metabolic rate can be achieved through calorie reduction, but don’t go too far!

Boost Activity: Even if you regularly exercise, more frequent activity can do wonders for your metabolic rate. For example, if you have a workout in the morning, but then sit at a desk all day, you may very well be undoing all the good that you did in the morning! Ensure that you maintain activity within your body; even climbing the stairs a few times a day, rather than taking the elevator, can give your body the type of constant exertion that keeps your metabolic rate high!

Increase Omega-3 Intake: By increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, you not only help to optimize your metabolism, but also protect heart health and reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can help to increase your anabolic and catabolic rates, while also increasing the function of leptin within the body, which is a hormone directly linked to fat-burning!

Iron-Rich Foods: In order to burn fat, the muscles in our body need to be properly oxygenated; that’s also how you are able to increase the duration of your workout and burn as many calories as possible. The only way you can ensure that your body is properly oxygenated is by increasing your intake of iron-rich foods, since that mineral is necessary for the production of red blood cells. Some great iron-rich foods include red meat, seafood, beans and spinach.

Customize Your Diet: While eating enough food and ensuring your body gets enough calories is important, you also need to be conscious of how you’re getting to your calorie and food intake goals. You may be someone who works out occasionally, isn’t particularly diligent about what they eat, and are relatively happy with your weight. However, without optimizing your metabolism through proper food choices, like those high in protein and healthy fats, you’ll never be able to reach your health goals!

Choose Organic Foods: Although much of the research is still out on this issue, there are those who believe that the many chemical compounds that are used in processed foods and GMO fruits and vegetables can actually cause obesity in human beings. Some of these preservatives have been coined obesogens, as they are believed to convert normal cells into fat cells and affect the appetite in ways that are detrimental to the metabolism. To prevent this from happening, choose organic foods, without all those potentially dangerous preservatives!

Drink More Milk: Nicotinamide riboside (NR) may not be a molecule that many people have heard of, but it is becoming a very popular word in health circles. Called the miracle molecule by some, this vitamin, closely related to vitamin B3, has been known to speed up fat-burning and give a much-needed bump to your metabolism. This particular molecule can more efficiently turn fat into energy, which is precisely what you want if you’re trying to improve your overall health.

Bring Back Snacking: Many people see snacking as a bad thing, as it can interrupt your appetite for more planned, healthy meals and can often take the form of junk food. However, grazing throughout the course of the day can be a great way to keep your digestive system active and working, rather than dumping large amounts of calories into your system all at once, which can make you feel sluggish. Slowly giving your body bursts of energy throughout the day can be a great practice for improving your metabolism, provided that you are snacking on healthy foods, like nuts, raw vegetables and fruit.

Carrot Juice for Cancer

Drinking carrot juice is one of the best ways to prevent cancer or fight cancer. According to the "Antioxidant Miracle," carrot juice provides powerful antioxidants that support health and the immune system. Eating raw or cooked carrots are great ways to obtain vitamins, minerals and even fiber, yet it would be difficult to consume enough carrots in your daily routine to meet your body's cancer prevention needs. The juice from 1 lb. of raw carrots makes one glass of juice.

Nutrients
Carrots contain the cartenoid alpha carotene, beta-carotene and potent antioxidants. Recent studies published in the "Antioxidant Miracle," indicate that alpha carotene is a more potent cancer preventative and fighter than even beta-carotene. Carrots contain one of the few cartenoids with pro Vitamin A activity, which means that the body converts the beta-carotene into Vitamin A as needed. In addition, carrots contain calcium pectate, a source of soluble fiber, Vitamin B-complex, C, D, E and K, iron, calcium and phosphorous and manganese.

Preparation
Remove the tops from the carrots. Use organic carrots for juicing to ensure that you do not introduce pesticides into your juice. Wash the organic carrots before juicing, but do not peel them. If you do not use organic carrots, wash them using a vegetable wash solution to remove pesticides and scrape the peel, if desired, before juicing. The authors from "Juicing for Life, recommend preparing carrot juice to work in combinations with other nutrient-filled vegetables, to boost nutrients to fight cancer.

Tips
Serve your juice immediately after juicing. According to "Juicing for Life," that is when the juice is at its peak for flavor and antioxidants. If you cannot drink your juice immediately, cover the glass and refrigerate the juice so that it does not oxidize. Begin and end juicing with the softest vegetables or fruits. For example, to create an apple-carrot cocktail, begin with half of the apple, then add the carrots next and end with the remaining half of the apple.

Prevent Cancer
Since cancer is a complex disease, preventing what causes cancer is equally as complex. From research taken from the "Antioxidant Miracle," one of the best cancer preventative methods is to juice not only raw carrots, but carrots in combination with foods that have equal cancer fighting properties such as ginger root, garlic, apples, celery, green peppers, onion, spinach and parsley. For a cleansing carrot juice drink, add a ¼-inch of fresh ginger, one peeled raw beet and half of an apple.

Fight Cancer
Authors from "Prescription for Cooking," recommend creating carrot juice cocktails that are beneficial as cancer fighters. Add to your carrots juiced collard greens, kale, parsley and spinach for additional sources of cancer fighting beta-carotene. To add more Vitamin C in your diet, add kale, parsley, green pepper or broccoli with two carrots daily. Since juicers do not juice bananas, avoid adding them to the juicer. Carrots blend well with nearly every other fruit and are as delicious as they are refreshing.

15 Foods to Eat and Avoid on an Empty Stomach

It is a well-known fact that breakfast is one of the most important meals. But are you sure what makes an appropriate breakfast?
List of Heart Healthy Foods

Although healthy, some foods should not be eaten on an empty stomach. The following list of foods will help you choose what food to consume and what to avoid for breakfast.

Choose: Oatmeal
Oatmeal will create a protective layer around the stomach lining. This prevents the hydrochloric acid to damage the stomach walls. Oatmeal is also high in soluble fiber, a substance that reduces the levels of cholesterol, improves digestion, metabolizes the vital minerals, carbohydrates and proteins. Also, oatmeal will keep you satiated for longer than for example yogurt.

Avoid: High sugar, fruit juices
They are high in refined sugar that can cause a sharp increase of the blood sugar levels. This will leave you less satiated and you will crave for energy sources throughout the whole day.

Choose: Eggs
This a potent and healthy starter of the day. Boiled, poached or scrambled eggs will provide the needed nutrients and will keep you full for a longer period. Also, they will cut down your daily calorie intake.

Avoid: Tomatoes
If you have problems with stomach ulcers or acid reflux, please avoid consuming tomatoes for breakfast. It’s the tannic acid that increases the acidity in the stomach that makes the reflux symptoms even worse.

Choose: Blueberries
Blueberries belong to the group of the world’s healthiest foods. They are low in calories, improve the blood pressure, memory, circulation and metabolism. Their benefits are even greater when consumed on an empty stomach. You can combine them with oatmeal, salad or just blueberries.

Avoid: Tea or Coffee
Most of the people practice drinking coffee or tea as a morning ritual. However, this is definitely not the best choice. Try to replace this morning caffeine intake with something else because it can increase stomach acidity and worsen the symptoms of gastritis and reflux. Tea, for example, can cause nausea and stomach discomfort.

Choose: Watermelon
For those fruit lovers, watermelon is the ideal solution. It will provide the needed amount of fluid as well as will improve the health of the heart and eyes as a result of the high levels of lycopene.

Avoid: Citrus Fruits
This could not apply to everyone, but the citrus fruits can irritate the inflamed lower esophagus. So, you can limit the intake of these citrus fruits, especially oranges and grapefruits on an empty stomach.

Consume: Nuts
The nuts are rich in  protein and healthy fats that make them an excellent food item for breakfast. If eaten on an empty stomach, they can normalize the pH levels in your stomach and thus improve the digestive health and prevent ulcers and excessive stomach acid.

Avoid: Short Crust/ Puff Pastry
Although croissants and Danishes are delicious and easy breakfast meals, they contain yeast, bacteria that can irritate the stomach lining and cause flatulence. So, think twice before you choose this type of breakfast.

Consume: Papaya
It’s papain, a powerful enzyme from papaya that improves the digestion process and lowers the danger of colon cancer by removing the free radicals from the digestive system. It is rich in vitamin C, E, fiber, healthy properties that are important for healthy digestion.

Consume: Buckwheat
Buckwheat is loaded with iron, protein, vitamins and stimulates digestion. You can add it to pancakes, smoothies, waffles or some buckwheat bars for breakfast.

Avoid: Carbonated Drinks
These types of drinks are one of the greatest causes for obesity in America. Although there are sugar-free varieties, you should not use them on an empty stomach because you can damage the mucous membrane and reduce the blood supply to the stomach. In this way, you can slow down your food digestion thus causing constipation.

Consume: Wheat Germ
Just 2 tsps. of wheat germ a day can give 15% of vitamin E and 10% of folic acid from the recommended daily dose. This will improve the work of your digestive system.

Consume: Whole Grains
These types of grains possess complex carbohydrates that are important for a healthy diet and do not contain yeast. Consume them in the morning so that you burn off those carbohydrates throughout the day. You can combine them in some whole grain waffles or pancakes.

Conclusion
Normal levels of stomach acid will protect your stomach and will absorb the proper nutrients that are needed for the rest of the day and the overall health. This post will definitely help you how to protect your stomach and choose the foods that can help and boost your health.

Top 10 Vitamins for Women

This Is the Alkaline Diet Every Cancer Patient Needs to Know (Immediately!)

Healthy lifestyle and diet is crucial for your overall health, and this is especially important when diagnosed with some life-threatening disease. You must change your diet as soon as possible, and in this post you will learn how.

According to numerous studies and researches, the development of diseases like diabetes, arthritis, and cancer is closely related to the consumption of highly processed foods.

How Does an Alkaline Diet Fight Cancer?
An alkaline diet consists of alkaline foods, and excludes all acidic foods. What’s more, some believe that you should cut out all foods which lead to acidic environment from your everyday diet. The concept behind this is the notion that cancer cells can’t thrive in an alkaline environment, ending up dead. Since consuming alkaline foods will naturally make your body’s environment alkaline, these foods help the eradication of cancer cells.

Inflammation is one of the major causes of cancer, and did you know that acidic foods can cause inflammation?

The Battle against Inflammation
The inflammatory process in a healthy person begins when the damaged tissue releases chemicals. This causes white blood cells to produce substances which cause division of cells and trigger their growth to rebuild tissue and repair the damage. This whole process ends when the wound is healed.

The inflammatory process in case of chronic inflammation starts even if there’s no injury, and can last more than is needed. Chronic inflammation can be caused by abnormal reactions to normal tissues, obesity, infections, etc. Sometimes, it can even lead to cancer and DNA damage.

10 Steps towards an Alkaline Diet
We are constantly surrounded by acidic foods which in fact consist most of the modern western diet. With the help of the following 10 steps, you can significantly simplify this process.

1. Eat Your Greens
Latent acidosis is an acidic pH caused by an acidic diet. This environment is perfect for thriving cancer cells, so an alkaline diet will help you restore the normal pH balance and prevent cancerous cells from spreading.

It’s recommended consuming green leafy veggies like cabbage, kale, broccoli, leek, beans, etc. Although the best way to eat them is raw, you can also find out other ways to prepare them. It’s also recommended eating 2 to 3 fruits a day to reduce your acidic level and keep your pH level balanced.

2. Swap Your Protein
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Heterocyclic amines (HCAs) are caused when meats like beef, fish, pork or muscle, are cooked on high temperature. These substances are mutagenic so they can damage the DNA and cause cancer.

IARC (the International Agency for Research on Cancer) states that lunch (cold) meats raise the risk of colorectal cancer. Therefore, it’s recommended to reduce the consumption of meat and always go for organic, free-range and appropriately fed meat. Good alternatives for protein sources are beans, lentils, peas, nuts, and seeds.

3. Eliminate Sugar
Cancer cells use more sugar (glucose) per unit of time than healthy cells. Also, the metabolism of sugar produces acid, which further contributes to cancer progression.

High intake of sugar causes insulin resistance, since it causes further pressure on the pancreas to produce insulin. This in turn is strongly connected to proliferation of cancer. You should also avoid high fructose corn syrup due to the carcinogenic mercury it contains.

That’s why you should eliminate all forms of sugar from your diet, including high fructose corn syrup, honey, agave, and all other “natural” sugars. This will also prevent lack of magnesium in your organism which is often depleted as a result of metabolizing excess sugars.

4. Eliminate Gluten
Glutinous grains like rye, spelt, and wheat, cause inflammation. What’s more, wheat is loaded with pro-inflammatory pesticides. Therefore, you must avoid baked goods like cookies, cakes, bread, muffins, crackers, pasta, cereals, etc. in order to adopt cancer-suppression diet.

Processed gluten-free foods might be convenient, but they are also packed with unhealthy oils and sugars which destroy their health benefits. Instead of these grains, consume amaranth, millet organic rice, buckwheat, and teff.

5. Stop Eating Dairy
One of the major cancer-causing foods is cow dairy, as stated by Prof. T. Colin Campbell, PhD., Cornell University. The protein casein, which is often added in powdered milk used in the production of yogurt and cheese, causes inflammation and bone deterioration. Swap your dairy foods with almond or coconut milk.

6. Switch to Heart-Healthy Oils
Stop eating processed corn, hydrogenated, safflower, soy, sunflower oil and margarine. The communication of neurons requires fat. Neurons function as a bridge for electrical impulses to travel from one place to another within your nervous system. This communication is vital for survival on a daily basis. This task however, can’t be performed by hydrogenated fats.

When absorbed, they prevent the function of cells, and these inefficient cells compromise the transition of electrical impulses, thus creating electrical dead spots in the body. As a result, those parts of your body won’t receive important messages from neurons, or if they do, they will receive them later. This raises the risk of cancer as the cancer cells don’t respond to these messages, affecting other cells.

Always choose organic, and cold-pressed oils like avocado oil, olive oil, and coconut oil, as they have anti-inflammatory properties and help the communication of neurons within the neuron system.

7. Change Your Drinking Habits
Water should be your first option when it comes to beverages. Make sure you avoid beer, soda, and store-bought juices as they contain preservatives, sugar, and color additives. Besides water, you can drink homemade prepared herbal tea, vegetable juice, and green tea. You should also limit the amounts of caffeine, or swap them with detox shots.

8. Avoid Salt (Sodium) Intake
Salt intake increases the risk of cancer, especially stomach cancer. According to statistics, 12 grams of salt a day is enough to double your chances of stomach cancer. As most of the salt we consume comes from packaged and processed foods like processed meats, sauces, soups, and stock cubes, you should try to limit or completely avoid them. Breads and cereals also contain significant levels of salt.

9. Increase your Fiber Intake
Roughage, or dietary fiber has proven to be powerful cancer fighter. You can obtain it only through consuming plant foods. According to studies, high levels of fiber reduce the chances of colorectal cancer. This might be because of its ability to add bulk to the digestive system, which shortens the time of waste traveling through the colon. Quick elimination of waste is recommended as it often contains carcinogens.

9 Health Benefits of Blueberries

Turmeric Lemonade That Treats Depression Better Than Prozac! How To Prepare?

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by low mood and a wide range of other possible symptoms, which will vary from person to person. Depression is common, and in its mildest form, most people can lead a healthy and active life with the right treatment and support. When it gets severe, depression can be devastating and even life-threatening, so don’t go through it alone.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

Some of the signs and symptoms of depression include:

• Sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Feelings of guilt
• Irritability, restlessness
• Fatigue and decreased energy
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

The good thing is Nature is blessing us with great spices, such as turmeric, that can fight most types of diseases. It helps prevent the breakdown of cells into cancerous cells. It can be beneficial if you have Alzheimer’s. It fights skin cancer, prevents cholesterol oxidation, heals stomach disorders and pains, reduces acidity, arthritis, stops diarrhea, heals liver disorders, jaundice and more.

THE HEALING POWERS OF TURMERIC

Turmeric …

is loaded with antioxidants
has powerful anti-inflammatory benefits
has amazing benefits for your brain
helps in lowering the chances of developing heart disease
helps in fighting depression

HOW DOES TURMERIC FIGHT DEPRESSION?

- There are several methods and drugs to fight depression with one of the most common drug in the market being Prozac. The sad thing is that these drugs have been known to cause severe side effects most notably: difficulty in breathing, suicidal effects and bleeding in the stomach.

- Researches conducted on turmeric and its uses found that the ingredient curcumin present in it is effective against major depressive disorder in the same way as fluoxetine (Prozac). But it doesn’t cause any side effects that come with the medication.

TURMERIC LEMONADE RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 cups of cold filtered or sparkling water
• 1 teaspoon of freshly grated or powdered turmeric
• 3 tablespoons of 100% maple syrup, honey (or Stevia if you are avoiding sugar)
• Juice of 1 organic lemon or 2 limes
• Juice of 1 or 2 blood oranges or regular oranges.

Directions
Combine all ingredients into a small pitcher, stir and serve with a slice of lemon as a garnish. Add ice cubes for a refreshing drink!

The ginger-turmeric tea that anyone with joint, muscle or back pain needs to make tonight!

How Does the Tea Work?
The herbs used in this recipe can actually bring balance to the digestive, circulatory, reproductive, and musculoskeletal system of the human body. It is also packed with antioxidants and analgesic properties that can help in treating spinal problems, rheumatism, arthritis, bursitis, fibromyalgia, tendonitis, osteoporosis, and muscular pains and aches triggered by strenuous physical activity.

This tea can support the immune system and relieve and ease the body’s muscular inflammatory response to all of the extra physical activity.

The medicinal herbs included in this recipe is inexpensive, safe and effective and have been used for years to fortify the body against inflammatory conditions and decrease pain in a natural way.

The following herbs have medicinal actions able to reduce pain and act as a powerful anti-inflammatory agents, which can be compared to the effects of NSAIDs or any pharmaceutical pain-killers.

This herbal blend is a healthful tonic for overall health and well-being:

- Ginger Root:
It is a traditional medicine used for years to lower inflammation. Furthermore, ginger root should be taken to relieve the arthritis symptoms, in particular osteoarthritis symptoms. If mixed with cinnamon, this remedy can completely relieve any type of pain.

- Turmeric Root:
This herb has been used in the traditional medicine for years all over the world. Curcumin, which is its primary chemical constituent has received positive attention in the last few years as a result of its strong antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Additionally, curcumin makes this herb a remarkable healing remedy for fatigue and traumatic pain.

- Cinnamon:
It is a popular herb, which is used in the treatment of a wide array of inflammatory disorders, common cold, and arthritis. Namely, manganese is the extremely effective ingredient that gives cinnamon’s efficacy as a great anti-inflammatory agent. This ingredient is needed for the strong bone and connective tissue formation.

- Devil’s Claw Root:
There are 3 bioactive compounds in this herb: procumbine, harpagide, and harpagoside, providing analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. The last compound has been found to be an excellent substitute for synthetic, pharmaceutical analgesics.

Herbal Tea Blend Recipe

Needed Ingredients:
(Use wild harvested or organically-grown herbs.)

• 1 part of turmeric root powder
• 1 part of ginger root
• 2 parts of true cinnamon chips
• Half a part of devil’s claw root
• 2 parts of lemongrass
• Half a part of lemon peel

Note: Parts are measured by volume, not weight.

Instructions:
Combine well the ingredients in a large bowl.

Take a single serving tea carafe, tea pots or tea infusers, and a cup! However, you can make a larger batch by adding 4 tablespoons of the herbal mix to a quart-size glass jar. Afterwards, the jar should be filled with boiled water, steeped for several minutes, and strained.

This herbal tea blend can be stored in a cool, dark place for about 6 months.

How to use it:
This tea can be freely consumed as often as needed for great results.

Detect Colon Cancer Early

Colon cancer is dangerous, and difficult to detect. There are certain symptoms that can be early warning signs of the disease. Learn how to detect colon cancer early in this article.

Colon cancer is one of the most diagnosed types of cancer in the world. It’s a cancer that develops in the part of the digestive system called the colon, or the rectum, generally over a period of 10 – 15 years.  It starts with slight swelling of the tissue in the colon, and over time becomes cancerous.

In the beginning, this type of cancer is silent and presents no concrete or alarming symptoms; which makes it very dangerous because many times by the time it is detected it may be too late.  It’s very important to get regular check-ups and be aware of any changes in bowel movements, which can be one of the first signs of this terrible disease.

Symptoms to watch out for
One of the biggest disadvantages of colon cancer is that it doesn’t present any specific symptoms in the beginning; small signs can be confused with other more common digestive problems. That’s why it’s very important to consult with a medical specialist for any type of digestive troubles, changes in bowel movements, or blood in the stool.

The following are some other symptoms that could help you detect colon cancer early:

• Bloody, black, or tarry stool.
• Intestinal changes affecting digestion.
• Pain in the lower abdomen.
• Diarrhea, straining or the sensation that the intestines are not completely evacuated.
• Stool harder than normal
• Strong abdominal cramps, swelling, gas
• Obstruction of the intestine
• Chronic anemia due to low iron due to hemmohraging and blood in the stool
• Constant tiredness and fatigue
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Fever and general discomfort

How can you prevent colon cancer?

Prevention of colon cancer is possible, and every one of us are responsible for this. There are different ways to prevent this diseases, and to know which one is right for you, you should know how much at risk you are to develop colon cancer.

• One of the ways to prevent this cancer is to be aware of your genetics.  You should be aware of your family history, and find out if anyone in your family has suffered from colon cancer- this could be a key factor in helping detect it in time, along with finding the best treatment.
• If you feel you may be experiencing symptoms of colon cancer,  it’s very important to see a specialist and get and exam, and if possible, a colonoscopy.
• If you are over 50, you are at a higher risk of colon cancer.  For this reason, you should have more frequent check-ups.
• Avoid consumption of tobacco and alcohol; these bad habits are a big cause of colon cancer, according to a study conducted by the Word Cancer Research Fund.
• Watching what you eat is another way to prevent colon cancer, as well as other types of diseases. Nutrition has a big impact on the cure or development of the illness. In the case of colon cancer, it is recommended avoiding red meat, and opt instead for chicken or fish.  It is highly recommended to consume whole grains, legumes, whole wheat, dried fruit, organic vegetables, and foods rich in calcium.
• Consume foods rich in Vitamin D and minerals.
• Drinking water is great for your health, and for your organs in general. Drinking water daily is ideal for cancer prevention.
• Reduce refined sugars; instead use natural sweeteners with honey or agave nectar.
• Staying active. Persons who are obese have a higher tendency to develop colon cancer and other diseases.
• Keep good, healthy habits- like exercising 30 minutes per day, 4 days per week; this will help prevent an array of illnesses and promote healthy organs.

10 Best Remedies For Acne Scars - Get Beautiful Skin Overnight!

Every woman (and man too!) dreams of beautiful skin without acne scars. However, it seems that only a blessed few are known to have great genes to attain this. The skin is a reflection of all that is going on in the inside. So, it makes sense to cleanse the body from the inside out. A good diet is essential to lighten blemishes and acne scarring and also enhance detoxification. Apart from eating well (fruits and veggies, nuts and seeds!) and applying sunscreen daily, the following remedies can help you get rid of acne scars, overnight, or at least in a week. Make sure you diligently use these remedies to see results.

1. Aloe Vera
This is one of the best natural remedies to remove acne scars and pimple marks from the face quickly. Slice open the Aloe leaf and extract its gel. Apply it all over the acne scars and dark spots. Leave it on overnight. Rinse the face with warm water the next morning. This remedy can also prevent new pimples and blemishes.

Tip: Make the remedy more effective by adding a teaspoon of lemon juice to it.

2. Lemon juice
Packed with vitamin C, this is the best remedy to lighten blemishes and acne scars. Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice on the acne and age spots. Leave it on the pimples for a quarter of an hour before washing the face clean. You can also buy expensive Vitamin C serums to lighten the skin and reduce acne scarring but this inexpensive remedy works great too!

Tip: Make the remedy even more potent by adding honey to it. Honey is antibacterial and reduces new blemishes.

3. Raw potato juice
Another wonderful remedy, potato juice can lighten the skin quickly to help you regain your natural glowing complexion. This remedy is especially recommended for reducing acne marks on oily skin. You can use it for dry skin as well but it will end up drying your skin further. So, make sure you moisturize after with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Simply grate a potato and apply its juice all over the acne marks and pimple scars. Let it air dry. Wash off after the skin starts feeling tighter.

Tip: People with dry skin must drink plenty of water to hydrate the skin from the inside when using any acne-scar lightening treatment.

4. Cucumber juice
Like potato juice, cucumber juice also contains skin lightening properties. Apply it to the acne scars to whiten and lighten them and also to get rid of dark circles and age spots. Leave the juice on the acne scars for at least 15 minutes. Repeat this remedy two-three times a week to see results.

Tip: Add a teaspoon of powdered oats and some honey to cucumber juice. Use this face mask on the acne prone skin to lighten, heal, soothe, protect the skin and eliminate pimple marks permanently.

5. Tomato
Tomato juice is another skin bleaching home remedy that can be used to lighten acne scars quickly. Cut open a tomato and rub the slice on the skin. It might sting a bit, so avoid using it on active acne. Leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing the skin clean.

Tip: Mix tomato and cucumber juice for a power packed acne-scar-minimizing face mask.

6. Pineapple
Pineapple contains many healing compounds and enzymes which can lighten the skin and fade acne marks when used regularly. Squeeze fresh pineapple juice and apply all over the face or simply spot-treat the acne scars. Wash off after 15-20 minutes. Repeat the remedy at least 2-3 times a week to see results.

7. Raw honey
Honey is antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiseptic. Apply raw honey to acne blemishes regularly to lighten the skin and also prevent new breakouts.

Tip: Apply honey and lemon juice to the acne marks as stated above to quickly reduce acne marks overnight.

8. Turmeric
Turmeric is packed with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds that can lighten skin tone and also heal active acne. Apply turmeric paste (made with milk or water) on the skin. Leave it on for 15 minutes. Wash off with a mild soap.

Tip: Include turmeric in your soups, stews and curries to fight inflammation inside the body. You can also make a turmeric face mask with sandalwood powder and milk to reduce acne scarring.

9. Orange peel
Dry some orange peels in the sun. Once completely dried, pulse them in a mixer to powder them. Make a paste of this powder in little water or milk and apply it on the face. This remedy will help you get rid of pimple marks overnight.

Tip: Simply rubbing the inner fleshy part of orange peel on the acne blemishes also works wonders!

10. Rosehip seed essential oil
Rosehip seed essential oil is one of the best oils for fading pimple scars. It contains bio-available form of vitamin C and vitamin A derivative tretinoin which is known to fade pimple marks and blemishes to lighten them overnight.

Tip: Other essential oils to fade pimple marks and acne scars include oils of vetiver, rosewood, St.John’s Wort, calendula, tea tree, lemon balm oil, frankincense, yarrow, myrrh, geranium and helichrysum.

If these above home remedies for acne scars and dark spots on cheeks do not show result, you might want to consider laser therapy. Laser and other skin rejuvenation treatments have come a long way and most of them have minimum down time with quick, guaranteed results. Try these home remedies and homemade acne scar removal creams first before seeking professional help.

Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder With Natural Remedies

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is, in fact, depression caused by the change of the season. It begins and ends at the same time every year, usually commencing in the fall and ending in spring.

Besides making you feel depressed, SAD also displays other symptoms such as low energy levels, sleepiness, weight gain, increased appetite and losing interest in doing the things that you once enjoyed. You might also feel irritable, worthless and anxious.

Although scientists believe that SAD is common in cold and darker areas of the planet, the disorder can affect anyone from anywhere, especially those who spend a lot of time inside their house or office.

There are several natural remedies, as well as lifestyle changes that can help you cope with the situation and eliminate some of the SAD symptoms.

Get Enough Sun
Sun exposure promotes the release of endorphins and Vitamin D, enhancing mood and your energy levels. While at home, leave the drapes open and put large mirrors on the walls. Trim the trees and bushes around your windows and place your working desk in front of a window. You can also choose light therapy, which although it is not cheap, it can help you get rid of SAD.

Have Some Exercise
Exercising helps your body produce the happy hormones or endorphins. Try to spend at least 20 minutes per day to exercise outdoors, to also benefit from the sunlight. You will also keep your weight under control.

Be Active
If only the thought of working out makes you feel exhausted and more miserable, then engage in physical activities that you like: painting, reading, playing chess, writing poems, etc. Keep your mind busy and fill your heart with joy. Choose activities that will help you spend time with your family and friends.

Ditch Caffeine
Your first instinct when you feel sluggish and down is to reach for a cup of hot coffee. Believe it or not, this will do more harm than good. You will end up feeling more depressed once the caffeine in your bloodstream fades away. Also stay away from energy drinks and sodas. Choose water or tea instead. You can add some honey and some lemon juice if you want.

Eliminate Sugar
Similar to caffeine, sugar does give you a sudden energy boost, but then it makes you feel down once it’s out of your system. It’s not just about the sugar you add to your tea or coffee, but also about that delicious cake, muffins, chocolate or ice cream which will make you fat and depressed.

Count on Herbs or Essential Oils
Essential oils and some herbs have proved to be beneficial in warding off SAD symptoms. The passionflower or St. John’s wort can help in getting rid of anxiety and depression. You can add lavender, chamomile or ylang-ylang essential oil to your hot bath. Or you can massage them on your skin, smell them or fill the room with them.

There are numerous options to fight SAD. Try them, and you’ll enjoy autumn and winter without feeling cranky, jumpy and annoyed by everything around you.

These 12 Simple Home Remedies For Sun Poisoning Can Be Your Life Savior!

One would think a tan is the worst of our problems with the arrival of summer. Alas, the sun can poison us too. Before you roll your eyes, let me shed light on the matter.

We all know over-exposure to sunlight and its ultra violet radiation (UV light) can cause severe sunburn. If this sunburn begins to affect your health, it’s time to ring the alarm bells.

So, how do you recognize sun poisoning and what are you going to do about it? I have all the dope right here, collected from experiences of hapless friends. Do take a look.

How Can The Sun Poison You?

We’ve all been sunburned at some point. Tanning begins barely 15 minutes after you step out, maybe before. It is the UV light that causes it. Stay out longer in intense sunlight and the skin becomes red and splotchy.

You may not realize it immediately, but the UV light is slowly poisoning you. Sun poisoning is a severe case of sunburn that does not heal without intervention.

Symptoms of sun poisoning include:

• Red blisters on skin
• Inflammation
• Pain, tingling sensation
• Swelling, including face
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue
• Headache, confusion
• Dizziness, feeling faint
• Nausea
• Dehydration

If you have pale or fair skin, you’re more prone to sun poisoning. Those unfamiliar to tropical heat also develop these symptoms immediately.

I’m Too Cool For The Sun:
“Get some sun” will ever be just that. ‘Some’. I need my vitamin D and to confess, I enjoy the warmth of the rising sun. But, a lot of sun never helped anyone.

So, shall we look at some remedies to cool down sun poisoning?

1. I Am Where The Water Is:
Keep yourself hydrated, it is very important. Sun poisoning brings quick dehydration, which is why drinking enough water keeps the uncomfortable symptoms at bay.

Avoid dehydration by replacing lost water and electrolytes constantly. Water will also hydrate your dry skin, keeping it moist.

2. Bathing Temperatures Take A Dip:
For a change, bathe in cool water to soothe your poor inflamed skin. You can add a few drops of lavender and chamomile essential oils to enhance the relaxing feeling. Without using harsh soaps, simply dip yourself in cool, not cold, water.

Alternately, you can apply a cloth dipped in the water over the burns for similar effect.

3. Gel It Up With Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera gel has a cool, soothing effect on burning, itching skin. This stands particularly true when there is sun poisoning. Apply the gel twice or thrice during the day on the affected parts for relief. It is best to apply gel from a freshly cut aloe vera leaf.

4. Where Is My Sweet Calamine?
Calamine lotion helps considerably with blistered skin. Keep the skin moisturized without fail to avoid peeling and itching. Apply calamine lotion directly on burnt skin for relief.

5. This Milk Is Not For Drinking:
Take Joey’s example and pour the milk over your body. No Kidding! Cold milk is one of the best home remedies for sun poisoning.

If you don’t like the mess, use a cloth dipped in cold milk to use as a cold compress. Gently dab the sensitive skin with for at least 30 minutes before rinsing off.

6. Cover Me In Cucumbers:
Sliced cucumbers have a cooling effect on the skin. When applied on burned skin, the vegetable juice draws out the heat and reduces discomfort. The same principle applies for potato peels and onion slices. You can also apply grated cucumbers and potatoes as an effective treatment for sun poisoning.

7. Honey, I’ve Missed You:
Honey, with its anti-bacterial properties, is ideal for sunburns. It prevents any future infections while healing affected skin. You can further mix honey with turmeric powder and basil leaves. Apply the resultant paste to burned skin to deal with irritation.

8. Cool Me Down With Chamomile:
Chamomile tea, when cooled down, has a wonderfully soothing effect on sun poisoned skin. It calms down the irritation and enables healing once applied on the affected area. You can add chamomile to your bath water as well. Apply it regularly for quick results.

9. It’s Green Tea Time All Day:
Green tea, like chamomile tea, is also a great home remedy to treat sun poisoning. Treat severe blisters and rashes with the application of cooled green tea on the burned area. Apply it frequently, at least two times a day, for best effect.

10. Here’s Some Baking Soda For That Rash:
Baking soda, when mixed with water, makes a quite a therapeutic paste for sun poisoning symptoms. Apply the past over the affected area. This will help with your rashes as well as the pain associated with them.

11. A Little Vinegar Is All You Need:
Mix two spoonfuls of vinegar in equal amounts of water. That is all you need to watch the substance work its magic on the sunburn. Vinegar or apple cider vinegar has healing properties on the skin. It restores the skin’s pH balance and offers comfort.

12. Shield Me With Thy Yogurt:
Yogurt with live cultures works splendidly at protecting us from external infections. It improves immunity while handling any microbial invasion in blistering skin.

Use yogurt generously to treat burns and blisters from sun poisoning. Apply it frequently to help cool the skin. Yogurt will further reduce swelling, pain and allow your skin to heal.

When You Step Out Into The Big Bright World:

Sun poisoning can strike any time, what with sun intensity at its peak these days.

• Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 at all times
• Apply it 30 minutes before stepping out into the sun
• Re-apply every two hours or after you’ve had sweating
• Places with sand, water and snow reflect sunlight more intensely. Beware!
• Limit going out into direct sunlight between 10 am and 2 pm
• Cover yourself with protective clothing, hat and sunglasses when out
• Reconsider usage of tanning beds as they are unsafe
• Ensure skin is moisturized and you are hydrated

This Juice Is Excellent For Removing Uric Acid From The Body & Reducing Joint Pain

Inflammatory conditions such as gout, arthritis or even kidney failure, are mostly caused by uric acid crystallization in the joints. When left untreated, the crystallization can cause severe pain and affect your daily activities, while also resulting in acute arthritis. Luckily, we have a natural juice for you which will reduce your uric acid levels and prevent the conditions.

Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized cucumber
• 1 cup of chopped pineapples
• 1 grapefruit
• 2 inches of ginger root

Water

Preparation
The preparation couldn’t be simpler – just put all the ingredients in a blender, mix well for a minute and it’s done!

Use
Consume the amazing juice every day before meals.

Health benefits of the ingredients

Ginger
Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent which can help your body eliminate toxins.

Cucumber
Cucumber is a powerful diuretic which can prevent the formation of kidney stones. Furthermore, the healthy vegetable can relieve the negative effects of uric acid and prevent inflammation caused by conditions such as gout, asthma or arthritis. Cucumber is an alkalizing ingredient which can reduce the amount of uric acid in your joints.

Grapefruit
Grapefruit is rich in vitamin C which can significantly reduce joint pain. The fruit contains calcium as well, which is great for people suffering from osteoarthritis.

Pineapple
Pineapple juice contains bromelain, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain.

7 Ways to Put Your Metabolism into Fat-Burning Mode

“The excitement of vitamins, nutrition and metabolism permeated the environment.” – Paul D. Boyer

Many of us may not share the exuberant enthusiasm that Mr. Boyer does about health and metabolism. Or maybe you do! Regardless, both are essential to a healthy and happy life.

According to WebMD, metabolism is “the process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy.” You consume a food or drink, metabolic processes mix the calories derived from the food/beverage with oxygen, and the byproduct is deliverable energy to your body’s cells.

One’s basal metabolic rate – or number of calories needed to sustain energy functions – accounts for approximately 70 percent of all the calories we burn every day. 70 percent! Therefore, it is important to ensure that our metabolism is in working order.

We’ll see that nutrition and metabolism are inextricably linked; often feeding off one another, and playing key roles in our overall health. Today, we’re going to discuss metabolism a bit further. More specifically, things that we can do to transform our metabolism into a fat-burning machine.

Let’s get started!

HERE ARE 7 WAYS TO GET YOUR METABOLISM FIRING:

1. Get more shut-eye
The amount and quality of our sleep has a big effect on metabolism. People who are deprived of sleep unknowingly alter their appetite/hunger hormones, increasing the likelihood of either overeating or eating unhealthy foods.

In a study undertaken by Stanford University and the University of Wisconsin, adults who slept for five hours or less per night tested for higher amounts of ghrelin – a hormone that stimulates feelings of hunger. Additionally, these individuals tested for lower levels of the appetite-suppressing hormone leptin.

Sleep professionals recommend adults get a minimum of 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Younger demographics (i.e. young adults, teenagers, school-age children, preschoolers, toddlers, infants and newborns) require anywhere from 8 to 17 hours per night, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

2. Get moving
Physical activity plays a direct role in how well your metabolism functions. This is mind, you should make it a priority to get daily exercise.

We’ve said this many times, but it bears repeating: exercise need not be a chore. There are plenty of things one can do to get the recommended amount of physical activity: aerobics, jogging, running, swimming, tennis, walking…the list goes on. All of these activities get your heart rate and metabolism going.

Also, it is completely fine to break exercise up into two (or more!) sessions. Ideally, you should aim for 60 minutes of physical activity every day, but any amount of exercise is better than zero.

3. Wake earlier
You know that you’re waking up too late when there’s just enough time to perform all the essentials before heading out the door. Here’s a big question: are you making time for breakfast?

It may sound redundant, but breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and this includes for your metabolism. Even a quick, nutritious breakfast is okay. Grab some oatmeal or a cereal bar if you have to.

Of course, get some exercise if possible!

4. Eat, eat, eat!
We really should get away from the “three square’s a day” line of thinking. The reason? Because its healthier for your overall health, including for your metabolism, to eat 5-6 small meals.

Eating healthy foods five or more times per day boosts metabolism by providing a steady influx of energy. Compare this method to three large meals, where we often feel stagnant and fatigued afterwards.

Of course, eat mainly healthy and nutritious foods (e.g. fruit, nuts, vegetables, etc.) when following this eating schedule.

A bonus: eating more often throughout the day boosts your brainpower, too!

5. Drink more water
Water really is a magic elixir; it contains no calories, yet it is invaluable to health.

The effects of dehydration are potentially detrimental to our health goals, including the goal of healthy eating. Physiologically, our brains have a way of interpreting thirst for hunger, and we’re more likely to crave unhealthy foods.

Here’s an idea. The next time that you are experiencing untimely hunger pangs, drink an 8- to 12-ounce glass of water and wait 20-30 minutes. If you’re still hungry, by all means eat something, but try and make it something healthy.

6. Reach for some calcium
Research shows that calcium can boost that all-important basal metabolic rate we discussed earlier. Of course, this can manifest into weight loss as well.

One researcher, Hang Shi at the University of Tennessee, says of the findings: “High-fat dietary calcium can establish obesity, but it’s surprising that low-fat calcium may help reduce body fat. The effect is very significant, much more than we imagined it would be.”

7. Eat some spicy food
For those of us who love a spicy dish, this is some welcome news. Spicy foods and ingredients may boost your metabolism.

It works like this: when we eat spicy foods, our internal body temperature rises. When our body temperature rises, heat is released. Consequently, our metabolic rate rises and burns stored fat as energy.

Also, spicy food has been known to increase feeling of satiety, or fullness.