Author: hfhadmin

Categories
Healthy Drinks Recipes

Low Calorie Cocktails For Perfect Summer Refreshment

Welcome Summer 2013 !

If you are a big lover of party and cocktails, the following cocktails recipes will take your breath and make you pleased. Besides the ten minutes required to be prepared, here’s a chance to try out the role of a barman J

Asian Mojito (105 calories)
Fresh mint and lemon juice make this cocktail a real “keeper” of excess calories.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 25ml/ 0.85oz white rum
  • 15ml/ 0.5 oz pineapple juice
  • 10ml/ 0.35 oz apple liqueur
  • 5 fresh mint leaves
  • 3 pieces Lime
  • Soda water
  • Lemon (for decoration)

Preparation:
Add the pieces of green lemon, mint and brown sugar in a bowl and smash them, then add the rum, soda water, apple liquor and pineapple juice. Shake together and put the mixture into a tall glass. Decorate with pieces of lemon and enjoy …

low-calorie-cocktails-asian-mojito

Frozen Margarita (153 calories)
Crisp, tasty and most famous tequila cocktail. One of the favorite women’s cocktail.

Ingredients:

  • 20ml/ 0.68 oz Tequila
  • 10ml/ 0.5 oz Triple Sec.
  • 5ml/ 0.17 lemon juice
  • Ice

Preparation:
Stir together all ingredients, and then place it  in the “Margarita” glass, which previously you decorated the tops with salt.

The article continue on page 2…

Categories
Fruits Health Natural Remedies Vegetables

Best Foods To Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol is primarily needed for the body as participate in many biochemical processes. But on the other hand, his excessive increase, i.e. high cholesterol can be harmful and can cause certain disorders and diseases.

High cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as are smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and a sedentary lifestyle. People can also inherit high cholesterol levels – a condition called familial hypercholesterolemia, which usually requires medication.

So we listed the best 6 foods that have proven effect against high cholesterol levels:

Apple
-Apple lowers cholesterol even to 40% if it used regularly. Apple juice is very practical and natural treatment for all who have high cholesterol. Except for cholesterol apples are a boon to the health of the whole organism. The latest research showed that a group of healthy older adults ages 40 to 60 who ate an apple a day for four weeks ended up lowering their levels of LDL — called the “bad” cholesterol because it gums up the arteries — by a whopping 40 percent.

Garlic
-Garlic is a really very powerful “ally” to human health. Beside as a natural antibiotic, garlic is a great fighter against cholesterol and can decrease to 11%. If you can’t use fresh garlic, be sure to tell your health care provider that you are taking garlic supplements to lower your cholesterol, since they may interact with certain disease conditions or medications you are taking. Moreover recent studies prove the effect of garlic in improving circulation. Additionally, it seemed that the garlic lowered total cholesterol and triglyceride levels by up to 20 mg/dL.

Bean
-According to recent research, beans can lower cholesterol by 5-15%, and with its regular use in less than a month. The research in this area is clear and consistent: you can expect to get a 5-15% reduction in your LDL-cholesterol level when you change your diet to include about 1.5 cups of cooked legumes 4 days per week.

Cereals
Grains are rich in fiber. Fiber is excellent in reducing the amounts of LDL or bad cholesterol.

Celery
-Celery reduces LDL cholesterol and gives elasticity of the arteries, which significantly prevent the atherosclerosis, heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases. According to researchers at the University of Chicago, celery reduces cholesterol levels by as much as 7 points with as little as 2 stalks a day. Celery also aids in increasing bile acid secretion which helps to remove cholesterol from the body.

Categories
Fruits Health

Health Benefits of Berries

Hot weather brings us the healthiest fruits in the world. It is about berry fruits that are real little treasure of vitamins and minerals.

Did you know that all kinds of berries have same, very strong and positive properties. Wild strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberry, cranberries … are just some of the fruits that should be on your menu.

Except that berries are low-calorie food, also they are real small vitamin bomb. Berries are rich in antioxidants, bioactive nutrients and also berries contain high amount of flavonoids that are real guardians of our immune system and also are considered highly effective in preventing cancer.

Raspberries

A shrub that originated in South East Europe with soft fruit and strong and evocative flavor, contains large amounts of plant fiber that positively affect the digestive system, keep the wall of the stomach and intestines, protect the body against the harmful effects of free radicals and affect the harmful bacteria and fungi in the body.

Blackberries

Wild plant with excellent taste whose fruit is used in daily diet in the form of juice, wine, jams, and from blackberry leaves you can make tea.

In the past, they were used as a remedy for anemia, because are full with iron and vitamin A, C, E and K. Blackberry is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cardiovascular system, slows body aging and protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

Blueberries

The dark color of this fruit is an indicator of the strong antioxidant properties. Very effectively protects blood vessels and boost your immunity.

Numerous studies have confirmed that they are a great ally in the fight against cancer of the esophagus, stomach and lungs, and have a beneficial effect on the digestive system.

Currants

Although there are several different varieties of currant, this fruit in every way is a real vitamin bomb. Currants contain more than twice vitamin C than lemons.

Currants eliminate toxins that negatively affect the liver and kidneys. The seed of this fruit is very healing and act against digestive disorders also help to treat skin disorders such as psoriasis.

Wild Strawberries

Contain large amounts of vitamin C, vitamin B and E, carotene, flavonoids and numerous minerals like iron and manganese that positively affect the entire metabolism, brain, blood and bones. Wild strawberries contain ellagic acid, which keep human cells healthy.

Categories
Healthy Drinks Recipes

Strawberry Lemonade Recipe

Summary: Homemade strawberry lemonade recipe, made in the blender using lemons, strawberries and honey. Replace lemons with limes for strawberry limeade.

Ingredients:

(Always use organic ingredients when available.)

  • 1 ¼ lb strawberries, washed thoroughly & cut in halves, about 4 cups
  • 2 lemons, washed and quartered (use limes to make strawberry limeade)
  • ½ – ¾ cup honey or organic sugar to taste, adjust based on your preference & sweetness of strawberries
  • 6 cups of purified water
  • Ice (made from purified water)
  • Garnishes: Strawberry slices, lemon slices and/or fresh herbs

Preparation:

Blend the strawberries, lemons and honey with 2 cups of purified water.
Strain the strawberry lemon mix, add the additional 4 cups of purified water through the strainer.
Taste and add additional honey/sugar if needed.
Serve cold over ice and garnished with strawberry slices, lemon slices and herbs.

Categories
Diet & Weight Loss Low - Fat Protein Foods

Almonds – Superfood For Weight Loss

Eating almonds helps in the fight with excess weight, because they reduce the appetite for the rest of the day, according to recent studies.

Almonds are really healthy because they are low in glycemic index. Glycemic index provides a measure of how quickly blood sugar levels (i.e., levels of glucose in the blood) rise after eating a particular type of food. Almonds cause slow and steady increasing of blood sugar and insulin, which makes people feel full longer, explain the experts.

“That makes the food with low glycemic index more effective in preventing overeating and is a healthier option for people suffering from diabetes,” says Professor Richard Mathis University of Indiana, who was doing the research. He said that participants who took breakfast with whole almonds, feel fuller longer and was registered lower concentration of glucose in the blood after breakfast and lunch, compared to those who did not have a low-glycemic breakfast.

Also it is important to intake enough calories for a balanced diet, moderate amounts of foods with low glycemic index such as almonds for breakfast, can reduce the amount of food that people need to eat to feel full and to help them to reduce or to maintain their weight.

Categories
Diet & Weight Loss Health

The Amazing Benefits of Honey

Honey is very rich in various beneficial substances and can be used even for weight loss. For centuries it treated wounds, and also lung, gynecological, skin and heart diseases.

According to some statistics, about 1/3 of the drugs contain honey, bee venom, propolis and beeswax. One drop of honey contain 70 important substances for the human body, such as carbohydrates – glucose and fructose, which unlike regular sugar is easily digested in the body, and also these substances are contributing to the preservation of muscle strength and normal muscles growth.

Honey For Weight Loss

This product should be used regularly and can be very helpful to lose weight. It contains enzymes that stimulate the digestive process and boost your metabolism, which contributes to weight reduction.

The proteins that contain honey take part in the formation of hormones. Minerals matters regulate the activity of the nervous system and blood production. Regular use of honey strengthens the immune system of the body.

Honey Can Protect Your Eyes

Honey can help us to protect the eyes from redness, fatigue and computer radiation. Honey is able to act in the body through the skin. Put linden honey at fingers ends and rub the area with redness for about 5-6 minutes.

If honey get soak, repeat the procedure two or three times. If this area of the body constantly absorbs honey, it means that there is no lack of nutrients. If honey is not soaking, prepare yourself a hot bath (35-40 Celsius degrees water) and relax in it for about 10-15 minutes. Repeat the procedure twice a week – it has a beneficial effect on eyes and improves eyesight.

Honey Masks

In ancient times honey was used to preserve the freshness and beauty of the face skin. Honey masks are also very popular today.

Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 1 egg yolk. With brush apply the mixture on your face and let it act for 20 minutes. This mask is very beneficial for people with oily and normal skin.

For dry skin is recommended mask that consists equal parts of honey and cream – it’s smooth wrinkles and makes the skin soft and supple. Mixture that consists of 1/4 cup honey and juice of half a lemon will improve the color of the face, will lighten the skin and will make freckles and pigment stains less visible.

Honey For Acne Treatment

Acne can be treated with honey, believe experts from the University of Oklahoma. The fact that honey has unique healing properties is not a secret. One teaspoon of honey reduces pain in the throat, and even can calm nerves. Dr. Sarah Maddox from the University of Oklahoma explains that the nutrients contained in the honey helps against various inflammations of the skin.

This refers to acne. The scientists say that honey may be more effective than medical treatment. When we have skin inflammation appears bacteria and honey is able to contribute to stop the formation of microorganisms. Honey nectar contains folic acid, which contributes to the production of antibodies.

Categories
Fruits Health

Papaya For Rejuvenation

Christopher Columbus called papaya “fruit of the angels”. This delicious, sweet fruit with spherical or pear shaped form hides interesting secrets.

Vitamins

Papaya is a rich source of vitamin C and beta carotene, two powerful natural antioxidants. These two substances besides “fighting” with free radicals and prevent their action, also are slowing the process of atherosclerosis and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Papain

Papaya is rich with the enzyme called papain or protease papain (cysteine protease), which acts to decompose proteins and peptides.
This enzyme helps in the process of digestion and encourages the “elimination of the waste products”. In some countries papaya is traditionally used in cooking with many types of meat. Today we know that actually this enzyme begins the process of decomposition of the meat and facilitates its digestion.

Papain also has anti inflammatory effect, i.e. relieves the inflammation in the body. If it’s properly used as a skin lotion(mask) dissolves the dead cells and acts as a mild exfoliation of the skin.
So here is a Papaya lotion recipe for exfoliation!

Lotion for exfoliation of papaya

Ingredients:

  • a large fresh papaya
  • cloth (gauze)
  • a cup of chamomile tea cooled

Preparation:

Peel papaya and remove the seeds. Then grind/mix the papaya in a blender or food processor. Drain the puree through a filter paper or a piece of muslin (gauze). In this juice add the chamomile tea, and make it 1:1, and stir well. With cotton balls apply the mixture on the face and neck, avoiding contact with eyes and skin area around them. Allow it for 10 minutes, and then rinse your face.
The mixture(lotion) can be stored in refrigerator up to 2 days.

Note

Do not use this lotion if you are allergic to papaya, pineapple, kiwi or nutmeg. Also, be careful how you are applying the lotion. Try not to come in contact with eyes.

Categories
Beauty Recipes Vegetables

Vegetable Masks For Glowing Skin

Vegetables are one food group that can also be processed into a beauty treatment. If you have problems with your facial skin, try some of these masks and natural treatments.

Face Mask of Tomatoes

Make tomato puree. In the mixture add a few drops of lemon juice, half a teaspoon of clay powder and mix it well into homogeneous mixture.Apply the mask on your face and neck and allow it to dry. Then wash it with cold water to get beautiful skin.

Face Mask of Carrot

Carrot is rich in vitamin A and is good for sensitive skin. This vegetable is also used as a cure for acne, blackheads and also changes the pigmentation of the skin.

Make carrot juice and add a few drops of lemon juice, honey and milk. Apply the mask and give a massage about 2 minutes. Allow it to stand for 15 minutes and rinse with cold water. Also, with this mask you can treat dark spots on the skin around the knees and elbows.

Face Mask of Potato

This mask is great for those who have problems with dry skin. Nicely smash the potato and massage your face with it. Another way of using the potato is to grate the potato and mix it with little milk. Add on your face and leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse with cold water.

Face Mask of Garlic

Garlic is rich in vitamins A, C and E that protect the skin from sun rays and free radicals.
In a bowl add 1/2 tablespoon corn flour, sandalwood powder, lemon juice and garlic paste.

Mix well and add a few drops of milk to make dough. Apply the mask on your face and leave it for 10 minutes. Wash it with cold water.

Categories
General Herbs & Oils

How To Make Your Own Natural Air Freshener

Today on the market there are many room fresheners, but have you ever wondered are they completely harmless and are not making any harmful effect on your health when you inhale?

Most of the sprays contain chemicals that could harm your health!

Those who suffer from asthma, in particular could be affected by this problem, in the form of allergies, headaches and even depression!

Therefore, here are a couple tips how to make yourself a natural, pleasant room freshener.

Natural oils
Use the scented oils as a freshener for your home.
Here are some common essential oils and their benefits:

  • Lavender: improves sleep quality and calms the nervous system
  • Basil: helps relieve headaches
  • Rosemary: stimulates the mind and improves memory
  • Clary sage: calms the nervous system
  • Clove oil: helps relieve nasal congestion and also contains aphrodisiac qualities
  • Lemon: acts as a natural antidepressant and calms anxiety
  • Orange: refreshes and relaxes


How to make:
Take a tablespoon of your favorite scent of natural oil, mix it with half a cup of vinegar and 14 oz of water. Pour the liquid into sprinkler bowl and your natural freshener is ready!

Floral extracts
Turn your favorite floral aroma into a home freshener.

How to make:
Take some leafs from jasmine, rose,  or lavender(by your scent) and boil them in 14 oz. of water on medium heat for about 30 minutes. Allow to cool, strain the water, pour it into spray bottle sprinkler and the room freshener is ready!

Spices
Take one tablespoon of your favorite spices such as cinnamon, carnation, cloves and similar, and boil them at a high temperature for about 20 to 25 minutes.
Pour into spray bottle sprinkler and let your house smell like India.

Advice: Before using shake well and spray!

Candles from beeswax
Don’t spend your money on expensive scented candles. Make yourself some candles from beeswax because it emits a soft scent and refresh your home.

Categories
Health Healthy Drinks

The Best Heart Healthy Drinks

Most of the heart diseases are genetically conditioned, so caring for your heart through a healthy diet and regular physical activity can keep your heart healthy and protect from diseases. Here are a few drinks that can have a surprisingly big impact on your heart health—or even save your life.

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate has a high antioxidant power. Regular consumption of tasty pomegranate juice can protect your heart so that you reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood and increase blood flow to the heart. Drink this juice fresh and without additional sweeteners.

Black Tea

Black teas contain polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants and have great restorative powers. The powerful antioxidants promote heart health, also lowers cholesterol, reduces the risk of stroke, improve the function of blood vessels and blood flow in arteries. We recommend you to drink hot black tea without sweetener.

Green Tea

This tea has antioxidant that keeps your heart. Increased consumption of green tea reduces the risk of coronary artery disease. It lowers cholesterol and reduces the risk of occurrence of clots and stroke.

Water

Numerous studies have shown that the consumption of water reduces the risk of heart disease. It is recommended to drink eight glasses of water daily. When you’re dehydrated, your blood is thicker, which requires your heart to expend more energy to pump blood throughout the body. Chronic dehydration can lead to high blood pressure.