Author: hfhadmin

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Beauty Health

A Spice For Life – Health Benefits and Uses of Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several trees from the genus Cinnamomum that is used in both sweet and savory foods. Cinnamon is used in traditional medicine, and several studies have tested chemicals extracted from cinnamon for various possible medicinal effects.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon

1. May lower blood sugar in people with diabetes

2. Cinnamon is used to treat pain(Pain Relivier) because it reacts with the hormone-like substance prostaglandin, which contributes to the contraction and relaxation of muscles.

3. Cinnamon may reduce inflammation, have antioxidant effects, and fight bacteria.

4. Cinnamon has been used for centuries to help women with heavy menstrual bleeding, whether it be due to endometriosis, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, or primary menorrhagia as well as a result of childbirth, miscarriage, or any other fertility condition.

5. Cinnamon is commonly used across East Asia and Europe as a warming herb for conditions involving the body to become cold. In these cases, cinnamon is combined with ginger to treat a cold or flu.

6. A combination of honey and cinnamon is known to help relieve stomachache. The pair – which are packed with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties – not only treats ulcers but also reduces gas in the stomach.

7. Dermatologists at the University of Grenoble say that the extract of cinnamon is one of the most effective cellulite removers. In the conducted experiment were involved 80 women who had this cosmetic problem. And the results were excellent. Also it has been proven that cinnamon extract improves the look of your skin.

Categories
Recipes

Oranges With Cinnamon Recipe

Cinnamon as a spice can be used in sweet and savory dishes. You must prepare and taste this delicious and healthy recipe – cinnamon oranges.

 

INGREDIENTS:

  • 500 grams Orange
  • 4 tablespoons Orange Juice
  • 2 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • Honey
  • Cinnamon

PREPARATION:

Time to prepare: 10 min
Cooking time: 10 min

Peel the oranges and cut into 5-6 pieces.
Mix the juice of orange and lemon with cinnamon and honey.
Pour the mixture over each portion.

Categories
Health Recipes

Raspberry & Mint Infused Water

Berry season is finally here!

Raspberries make such a sweet and flavorful water – you are going to love experimenting with them. Not only is this infused water delicious, but the water becomes slightly pink, which makes it an ideal drink to impress guests with.

This recipe includes raspberries which are packed with vitamin C, and help boost your immune system at the same time. The mint gives it a fresh flavor and helps you detox too.

 

Ingredients:

  • Use 1/3 cup of raspberries
  • 8 sprigs of mint
  • 5 cups of filtered water
  • 1tbsp of orange water (optional)

Preparation:

Use a BPA-Free pitcher or mason jar, add 5 cups of filtered water.
Let the mixture infuse in the fridge for at least one hour
The vitamin water can keep up to 2 days and you can refill it too.

Advice: If you do not like mint you can use rosemary or thyme instead.
Enjoy.

Categories
Fruits Health

Watermelon – Healthy & Sweet

-Many people don’t know that watermelon beside water, contains many vitamins and minerals that contributes to our health. Watermelon should be in our daily menu during the summer because it restores the lost fluids, minerals and vitamins.

Although watermelon is a vegetable from cucumber family, we all know as a fruit.
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) originated in Africa and first breeding as domestic species began in Egypt.

Watermelon is used in the diet in almost all countries of the world. Watermelon is a year plant, usually with a ball-shaped, often with green and white stripe.
It is low calorie and contains many useful substances.

Watermelon Nutrition Facts

-Watermelon contains large amount of water, but it is low in calories, so it’s perfect for cleansing the body and as diuretic. Watermelon also contains beneficial nutrients such as: nitric acid, copper, beta-carotene, fiber, vegetable oil, plant hormones, vitamin A, vitamin B1 , B2, B3, B5, B6, then vitamin C, iron, essential oils, malic acid, iodine, potassium, calcium, lycopene, citric acid, magnesium, mineral salts, organic acids, protein, folate, phosphorus, cellulose, zinc and sugar.

Numerous scientific studies have proved that watermelon because it contains large amounts of vitamin C and beta-carotene, it is very useful in the prevention of many heart diseases and chronic inflammation.

This fruit is an excellent source of B vitamins, which are responsible for the processes of metabolism and production of body energy. It also contains high levels of B6, which acts to improve mental abilities and relieves stress and tension.

The Best Way To Consume Watermelon

The best way to consume watermelon is cold and sliced. Watermelon juice or in combination with other fruits has a great healing properties… In many countries watermelon is the main ingredient in most of the dessert. Is interesting that in Africa the watermelon seeds are used for some types of bread.

The article continue on page 2…

Categories
Recipes

Macedonian Salad Recipe

Macedonian cuisine is one of the best cuisines on Balkan.

Many people who have tasted Macedonian cuisines, say that Macedonians have one of the most delicious food in the world. You should try this recipe: “Traditional Macedonian Veggie Salad”

 

Ingredients:

  • 250 grams of low-fat cheese
  • 200 grams Peppers
  • 20 ml Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 200 grams Onion
  • 200 grams Cucumber
  • 1 bunch parsley
  • 400 grams Tomato

PREPARATION:

Time to prepare: 10 minutes.

 

Clean the peppers, tomatoes & cucumber and chop them into cubes and add in a bowl.
Into the bowl add the onions sliced into thin wheels. Stir nicely,  and over the mixture add parsley and apple cider vinegar. For the lovers of hot taste you can also add chopped hot pepper. Shred the low-fat cheese over the salad and decorate with parsley.
Enjoy in this delicious traditional Macedonian salad ! 

Categories
Bodybuilding & Fitness Nutrition Diet & Weight Loss Fruits

Avocado – The World’s Healthiest Food

Proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, all these are contained in one fruit – Avocado. Eating avocados is just like having a full meal from different types of food, and this is just one of the many benefits of avocados.

Except that the avocado has amazing health benefits it is also very nutritious food. Avocado is rich in protein (4.02 grams, compared to Apple which has 0.47 grams), fiber (13.5 grams) and also is full of antioxidants.

Avocados contain a lot of potassium and along with intake of sodium through salt protects arteries against damage. The salt that we consume in large quantities is a risk for the heart and for the cardiovascular system, but with eating avocados we reduce that risk.

Folic acid in just one avocado is a 23% of our daily needs and plays a major role in protecting the heart, and also folic acid is very important in pregnancy because it prevents the baby to get any anomalies.

Another strong argument that will make you to eat avocados is fatty acids. The fatty acids that are contained in avocados are the same like those in olive oil, and are the healthiest fatty acids known to science that prevent breast cancer and heart disease. If your cholesterol is a problem, avocado is the answer.

Consumption of avocados is also beneficial to the eyes because avocados contain lutein, (one of many natural pigments). This substance prevents cataracts and macular degeneration.

Avocados For Weight Loss

The health benefits of avocados are well known, but just few people know that avocados can actually help with weight loss. Although avocado is “fat” fruit, it is useful in weight loss.

Monounsaturated fats which are also present in avocados act on the way that keep you full and satisfied and reduces the temptation of eating chocolate and sweets. Except that, avocado prevents diseases caused by deficiency of vitamins or minerals, which often occurs with unbalanced diet.

But it is very important to know that 125 grams of avocado contains 200 calories more than other fruits and vegetables, but less than french fries, cookies and other sweets.

In the table below you can see the wealth of vitamins and minerals that are contained in only one medium piece of avocado.

Potassium      975mg Vitamin A                293 IU
Phosphorus    105 mg Vitamin C                20.1mg
Magnesium     58 mg Vitamin B1               0.135 mg
Calcium         24 mg Vitamin B2               0.261 mg
Sodium          14 mg Niacin (B3)               3.493 mg
Iron              1,11 mg Folic acid (B9)           63 mcg
Selenium       0,8 mcg Pantothenic acid (B5) 2.729 mg
Manganese    0,285 mg Vitamin B6                5.17 mg
Copper         0,382 mg Vitamin E                  4.16 mg
Zinc              1,29 mg Vitamin K                  42.2 mcg

Bodybuilders Advice:
Bodybuilders that are looking for some healthy and perfect fats before and after hard workout combined with their protein shake, they must consume avocado.

Categories
Recipes

4th of July Healthy Recipes

Celebrate Independence Day with our easy, healthy 4th of July recipes.

1. July 4th Appetizer – Simple Lemon Fruit Dip!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cold almond milk
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant lemon pudding mix
  • 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
  • Assorted fresh fruit

Preparation:

In a small bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes (mixture will be thick). Whisk in sour cream. Chill until serving. Serve with fruit. Yield: 1-2/3 cups.

 

2. July 4th Salad Recipe – Pina Colada Fruit Salad !

Ingredients:

  • 1-1/2 cups green grapes
  • 1-1/2 cups seedless red grapes
  • 1-1/2 cups fresh blueberries
  • 1-1/2 cups halved fresh strawberries
  • 8 ounces pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
  • 10 ounces frozen non-alcoholic pina colada mix, thawed
  • 1/2 cup pineapple-orange juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon coconut extract

Preparation:

In a serving bowl, combine the first six ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk the pina colada mix, juice and extracts. Pour over fruit; toss to coat. Chill until serving.

3. Lemon Vinaigrette Potato Salad Recipe !

Ingredients:

  • 3 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

Preparation:

1.Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until tender. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk the oil, lemon juice, herbs, vinegar, lemon peel, salt and pepper.

2.Drain potatoes. Place in a large bowl; add onion. Drizzle with vinaigrette; toss to coat. Serve warm or chill until serving.

4. 4th of July Grilling Recipes – Grilled Vegetable Recipe !

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • Dash salt
  • 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
  • 3 small carrots, cut in half lengthwise
  • 1 large sweet red pepper, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 medium yellow summer squash, cut into 1/2-inch slices
  • 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges

Preparation:

In a small bowl, whisk the first seven ingredients. Place 3 tablespoons marinade in a large resealable plastic bag. Add vegetables; seal bag and turn to coat. Marinate 1-1/2 hours at room temperature.

Transfer vegetables to a grilling grid; place grid on grill rack. Grill vegetables, covered, over medium heat 8-12 minutes or until crisp-tender, turning occasionally.

Place vegetables on a large serving plate. Drizzle with remaining marinade. Yield: 6 servings.

Advice: If you do not have a grilling grid, use a disposable foil pan. Poke holes in the bottom of the pan with a meat fork to allow liquid to drain.

5. 4th Of July Healthy Snacks !

– Fruit Kebabs – Strawberries, Blueberries & Banana make a perfect snack on the 4th of July, & it’s healthy and easy!

– Toast Layered with blueberries, banana and raspberries! mmmm yummy!

– Thin pieces of watermelon and blueberries! interesting, healthy and easy!
Enjoy !

Categories
Children's Food Fruits Recipes Vegetables

Delicious Juice Recipes And Tips For Your Kids

-Some people are afraid to give their children a natural fruit juice, because they think it can be harmful to them and also can contribute to their obesity. But most of the kids love fruit juice, and juices are a good source of vitamins.

What should you do?

-First of all, you should not be worried. Recent studies have shown that drinking moderate amounts of 100% fruit juice does not affect the weight of the child.

However fruit juice contains calories as any other sweetened drink, and too much juice contributes to weight gain, so follow these tips and stay calm:

1. The first 6 months of birth – is not recommended giving juice to your baby, unless is used for relief of constipation
2. 6 to 12 months – 100 ml/ 3.38 oz per day in a cup (not a bottle) to avoid tooth decay
3. 1 to 6 years – 170 ml/ 5.75 oz per day
4. Over 7 years – 350 ml/ 11.85 oz per day

Check these juice recipes and make your kid happy!

Vegetable Juice Recipe:

1. “Mixed power”
Ingredients
-1 Handful of Swiss chard, kale, spinach or a combination
– 1 pear
– 1 cup strawberries
– 1/2 lemon, unpeeled
– 1 apple, cut into chunks

2. “Can’t beet it”
Ingredients
– 2 apples
– 1 beet
– 2 carrots

The article continue on page 2…

Categories
Fruits Grains Health Low - Fat Protein Foods Vegetables

Foods For Better Concentration

Do you wake up feeling sluggish and full of fatigue? Is it a struggle to concentrate on a task longer than a few minutes? If you found that you are not able to concentrate on your work, keep in mind that you are not alone in this problem. In fact, an inability to concentrate is a common problem among people all over the world.

We all know that concentration is very important in our daily life. It is one of the main factors for success in all areas of life. We are what we eat, and if you stock up on foods rich in nutrients that fuel the brain with its essential vitamins, you’re more likely to reap the brain-boosting benefits.

Making the right choices in diet can help improve your concentration. Here are some foods to help with your concentration levels:

1. Avocado

Avocado is a source of healthy fats that stimulates circulation, which is important for the normal functioning of the brain. Avocados can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and lower bad cholesterol. This reduces your risk of plaque buildup and enhances blood flow, offering a simple, tasty way to fire up brain cells.

2. Fish

Fish like sardine tuna, salmon, herring and mackerel contains omega 3 fatty acids, crucial for maintenance the nervous system, also sardine is rich in iodine, which maintains mental clarity.

3. Whole Grain Foods

Wholegrain foods are excellent sources of dietary fiber and vitamin E that is required for improving the memory. Vitamin E can be found in: green leafy vegetables, whole grains, eggs, rice and in pumpkin seeds.  Also wholegrain foods improve circulation and keep the level of glucose in the blood. So it is important to eat breakfast (breakfast that include whole grains) because glucose is the key to concentration.

4. Cranberries

Cranberries contain high doses of antioxidants that protect the brain from some of the free radicals that can cause loss of coordination and memory.

The article continue on page 2…

Categories
Health Healthy Drinks Natural Remedies Recipes

Juice Recipes For High Blood Pressure

50% of people on meds to manage their blood pressure don’t actually have their pressure under control. Whether you’re on medicine or not, doctors say a healthy blood pressure is one of the key steps to preventing heart disease and stroke.

Diet is one of the most effective methods of lowering blood pressure. Juicing allows people to supplement their diets with healthy produce in a form that allows the body to absorb the nutrients most easily.

1. Beetroot Juice
Beat High Blood Pressure with Beet.
Drinking just 500 ml of beetroot juice a day can significantly reduce blood pressure.

2. Golden Juice
Beet Root (golden) – 1 beet
Carrots – 3 large
Celery – 4 stalk, large
Cucumber – 1/2 cucumber
Ginger – 1/2 thumb
Pear – 1 medium

3. Green Power Juice
Apples – 2 medium
Celery – 4 stalk, large
Cucumber – 1 cucumber
Ginger – 1 thumb
Kale – 6 leaf
Lemon – 1/2 fruit

4. Celery Juice
Drink celery juice as much as you can…
If you cannot tolerate its bitter taste mix it with a bit of orange juice.

5. Mixed Power Juice
Cucumber – 1 cucumber
Lemon – 1 fruit
Onion (spring/scallion) – 1 medium
Parsley – 1 handful
Pepper (Sweet red) – 1/2 medium
Tomatoes – 3 small

6. Mexican Juice
Apple – 1 medium
Cilantro – 4 handful
Cucumbers – 2 cucumber
Lime (with rind) – 1 fruit
Pepper (green hot chili) (seeds removed) – 1 pepper

7. Dr. Oz’s green Juice
Apples – 2 medium
Celery – 3 stalk, large
Cucumber – 1 cucumber
Ginger – 1/2 thumb
Lemon (with rind) – 1/2 fruit
Lime (with rind) – 1 fruit
Parsley – 1 bunch
Spinach – 2 cup

8. Celery Cool Down
Celery – 2 stalk, large
Cilantro – 1 handful
Cucumber – 1 cucumber
Tomato – 1 medium