Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Pain Hurts...
Pain is an odd thing, it's very personal to each individual and you cannot know how someone else's pain really feels due to different tolerances.
I live with a level of pain most of the time, some times it's very mild and local to small areas of my body other days it's intolerable and I just want to roll up in a ball and cry... not that I've ever found that helps relieve the pain.
This week has been a painful week, I've had to resort to painkillers on a regular basis, something I try not to do very often as long term use of any medication concerns me.
I have cervical spondylosis, a form of osteoarthritis in my neck. It was diagnosed several years ago following an MRI scan (not something I would wish to go through again and one plus to having my pacemaker fitted is that I can't have anymore MRI scans, I can only have CT scans which are so much easier to endure). Along with a number of other areas affected by arthritis (hands, feet, hips) my neck is my main problem as when it flares up it's very difficult to cope with the pain.
It doesn't take much to cause a flare up... sitting too long at a dining table on chairs which don't support my shoulders, standing too long taking photos (not that it stops me), sitting too long at my desk without taking breaks (not really conducive to writing a book, but I will bear my pain for my creativity) - nothing major, just simple everyday tasks that I have to manage right in order to reduce the impact on my neck.
Without being aware of what I did wrong last weekend I caused a serious flare up and have struggled with intense pain in my neck and head since. Pain which made me feel as if my skull would explode, the type of pain that had me laid on the floor as it was too painful to hold my head upright.
Finally today, after 5 days of pain, around 3pm, the pain lifted. When it goes it is as quick as that. I don't know what I do that makes the pain go away, it's just one minute it's there and the next my neck is pain free.
I'm looking forward to a relaxing and pain free weekend of doing nothing, just enjoying the peace in my head.
I live with a level of pain most of the time, some times it's very mild and local to small areas of my body other days it's intolerable and I just want to roll up in a ball and cry... not that I've ever found that helps relieve the pain.
This week has been a painful week, I've had to resort to painkillers on a regular basis, something I try not to do very often as long term use of any medication concerns me.
I have cervical spondylosis, a form of osteoarthritis in my neck. It was diagnosed several years ago following an MRI scan (not something I would wish to go through again and one plus to having my pacemaker fitted is that I can't have anymore MRI scans, I can only have CT scans which are so much easier to endure). Along with a number of other areas affected by arthritis (hands, feet, hips) my neck is my main problem as when it flares up it's very difficult to cope with the pain.
It doesn't take much to cause a flare up... sitting too long at a dining table on chairs which don't support my shoulders, standing too long taking photos (not that it stops me), sitting too long at my desk without taking breaks (not really conducive to writing a book, but I will bear my pain for my creativity) - nothing major, just simple everyday tasks that I have to manage right in order to reduce the impact on my neck.
Without being aware of what I did wrong last weekend I caused a serious flare up and have struggled with intense pain in my neck and head since. Pain which made me feel as if my skull would explode, the type of pain that had me laid on the floor as it was too painful to hold my head upright.
Finally today, after 5 days of pain, around 3pm, the pain lifted. When it goes it is as quick as that. I don't know what I do that makes the pain go away, it's just one minute it's there and the next my neck is pain free.
I'm looking forward to a relaxing and pain free weekend of doing nothing, just enjoying the peace in my head.
Benefits of Shilajit A Complete Guide
Genuine Shilajit resin was traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Siberian shamanic medicine almost as a panacea. Since 1960s the modern day medical and pharmaceutical science was looking into the substance known as Shilajit (alternatively known as Mumijo, Shilajeet, mineral pitch, etc.). Even though the science did not find panacea qualities, what was found was an incredibly wide array of profound benefits. This explains why the ancients used this substance to successfully address numerous health issues.
The Benefits of Shilajit Include
Antioxidant properties.
Shilajit not being an antioxidant itself mimics the most powerful antioxidants. Incredibly on one hand it promotes cellular respiration which would normally lead to oxidation, on the other hand, it inhibits damage from oxidation. This is a unique and powerful antiaging property.
Shilajit not being an antioxidant itself mimics the most powerful antioxidants. Incredibly on one hand it promotes cellular respiration which would normally lead to oxidation, on the other hand, it inhibits damage from oxidation. This is a unique and powerful antiaging property.
Antibacterial properties.
On the contact, the substance destroys common pathogenic microbe strains. This includes staphylococci, streptococci, coliform bacteria, enterococci, Proteus.
On the contact, the substance destroys common pathogenic microbe strains. This includes staphylococci, streptococci, coliform bacteria, enterococci, Proteus.
Alcohol withdrawal.
Sometimes Shilajit with other herbs may be effective in reducing alcohol withdrawal anxiety.
Sometimes Shilajit with other herbs may be effective in reducing alcohol withdrawal anxiety.
Anabolic benefits.
Mineral pitch is a natural alternative to anabolic substances. Healthy and naturally it increases strength and muscle mass while promoting the corporations well and fast.
Mineral pitch is a natural alternative to anabolic substances. Healthy and naturally it increases strength and muscle mass while promoting the corporations well and fast.
Blood sugar control and diabetes.
In vivo the Shilajit-based formulation showed to effectively repair and regenerate tissue of a pancreas. It also maintained healthy levels of blood glucose and lipid profile.
In vivo the Shilajit-based formulation showed to effectively repair and regenerate tissue of a pancreas. It also maintained healthy levels of blood glucose and lipid profile.
Immune benefits.
Genuine and high quality Resin is a potent and nonspecific stimulator off the immune system.
Genuine and high quality Resin is a potent and nonspecific stimulator off the immune system.
Cognition enhancing benefits.
It promotes learning, memory and cerebral activity.
It promotes learning, memory and cerebral activity.
Inhibition of painkiller tolerance development.
While taking Shilajit a body may not develop a tolerance to pain killers. This means that it could be an effective way to counter addiction to painkillers.
While taking Shilajit a body may not develop a tolerance to pain killers. This means that it could be an effective way to counter addiction to painkillers.
Sedation and pain control.
Shilajit could be used complementary for sedation and pain control in certain situations.
Shilajit could be used complementary for sedation and pain control in certain situations.
Anti-toxic and anti-radiation.
Moomiyo/Shilajit can be used to detoxify the body/liver and to counter side effects of x-ray radiation.
Moomiyo/Shilajit can be used to detoxify the body/liver and to counter side effects of x-ray radiation.
Anti-allergic.
Shilajit stabilizes mast cells over time and can have anti-allergic properties.
Shilajit stabilizes mast cells over time and can have anti-allergic properties.
Anti-inflammatory.
Moomiyo is a potent anti-inflammatory agent which naturally reduces inflammation. It was traditionally used to address wound healing, tissue damage and multiple inflammatory conditions.
Moomiyo is a potent anti-inflammatory agent which naturally reduces inflammation. It was traditionally used to address wound healing, tissue damage and multiple inflammatory conditions.
Energy production.
Mineral Pitch (a.k.a. Shilajit, Moomiyo, Salajeet, etc.) activates mitochondrial respiration on a cellular level and contributes to the long-lasting energy without being a stimulant.
Mineral Pitch (a.k.a. Shilajit, Moomiyo, Salajeet, etc.) activates mitochondrial respiration on a cellular level and contributes to the long-lasting energy without being a stimulant.
Tissue regeneration. (Bones, skin, organs, muscles)
There are extensive studies on mineral pitch use (Moomiyo) use for regeneration of broken bones. Shilajit was traditionally used to regenerate damaged tissue in a body. Tradition was confirmed by Soviet doctors in the 60s 70s and 80s, who routinely used Moomiyo to accelerate healing of broken bones.
There are extensive studies on mineral pitch use (Moomiyo) use for regeneration of broken bones. Shilajit was traditionally used to regenerate damaged tissue in a body. Tradition was confirmed by Soviet doctors in the 60s 70s and 80s, who routinely used Moomiyo to accelerate healing of broken bones.
Mental and physical performance enhancer.
Genuine mineral pitch resin substantially improves performance on mental and physical levels.
Genuine mineral pitch resin substantially improves performance on mental and physical levels.
Don’t believe the HYPE!
Before we start talking about Shilajit benefits, I would like to point out that genuine Shilajit is RARE and VALUABLE. They are countless companies trying to “sell” the consumer on countless benefits. The reality is very different… Behind many benefits claims, there is nothing but marketing.
The truth is over 99% of products sold as Shilajit are FAKE. Besides being counterfeit, in the best case scenario be soil extractions, and in the worst case scenario will be a substance loaded with side effects from contaminants and for processing.
To my best knowledge there are less than five companies in the Western Hemisphere of the world offering genuine and quality resin. Even between these companies it is still questionable who has the best quality to offer.
Having that said here are the Benefits of Shilajit based not on HYPE but actually real historical records and and scientific studies.
Shilajit Benefits in Ayurveda
Caraka Saṃhitā is the foundational body of knowledge of Ayurveda. Translated as simply “Compendium of Caraka” is an ancient Indian medical text. It comprehensively addresses health, disease and practice of medicine. Roughly 2000 years of age it is still valid as far as health maintenance manual. According to Caraka Samhita, there is no curable disease, which can be treated without Shilajit.
Modern-day science when studying Shilajit confirmed many ancient applications and demonstrated efficacy in vivo (in living organisms) and in vitro (in the lab). The prominent names in Shilajit are the Soviet physician A. Shakirov and the Indian pharmaceutical chemist S. Ghoshal. Much follow-up work was conducted by their followers countless physicians, biologists and chemists.
Shilajit Benefits verified by science.
Antioxidant Properties of Shilajit
Shilajit is a compound with potent antioxidant properties. In an article called: “Antilipid Peroxidative Property of Shilajit” the researchers demonstrated that Shilajit inhibits lipid peroxidation induced by cumene hydroperoxide and ADP/FE**. It also reduced the rate of oxidation of reduced glutathione content and inhibited ongoing lipid peroxidation, induced by these agents immediately after its addition of the incubation system. (Yamini B. Tripathi 1996)
Processed extract of mumie efficiently traps hydroxyl radicals, NO- and SO -radicals and also can regenerate ascorbic acid [Ghosal, 1995]. Mumie is an inhibitor of lipid peroxidation induced by cumene hydroperoxide and ADP/Fe2+ complex in a dose-dependent manner. It decreases the rate of oxidation of reduced glutathione and inhibits ongoing lipid peroxidation, induced by these agents, immediately after its addition to the incubation system. Antiradical properties of mumie extract can be attributed to the presence of dibenzo-a- pyrones and fulvic acid It is assumed that the therapeutic properties of some multicomponent preparations, containing mumie in their composition, are caused by anti radical properties of this humus matter. Mumie activates mitochondrial respiration but suppresses activity of succinate – oxidase and NADH-oxidase in mitochondrion. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Antibacterial Shilajit.
Genuine mumie has a pronounced antimicrobial activity and on contact will neutralize different pathologic microbe strains such as staphylococci, streptococci, coliform bacteria, enterococci, Proteus. This was established by Dr. A. Shakirov in 1967-1969. Traditionally the substance was used to heal wounds producing pus. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Shilajit as a natural treatment for Alcohol withdrawal.
“Evaluation of the Anxiolytic Activity of NR-Anx-C (a poly-herbal formulation) in ethanol withdrawal-induced anxiety behavior in rats. In this study, a Shilajit-based formulation was used to control alcohol withdrawal symptoms in vivo. The study demonstrated that the use of the Shilajit based herbal formulation is comparable in efficacy to the use of a pharmaceutical known as Alprazolam (also known as Xanax). The scientists managed to reduce anxiety in rats resulting from alcohol withdrawal symptoms. (I. Mohan 2001)
It is rather exciting to me that it is naturally possible to support emotional health and stability with Shilajit. The frustrating part is that so far only Pürblack was capable of replicating such results naturally by claiming cumulative effects of alcohol neutralization and emotional resilience. Strange is the fact that if in the study one required several auxiliary herbs to create the effect of effective alcohol withdrawal, the leading Shilajit brand on the market seems to manage replicate the effect simply using Shilajit resin alone.
Natural Anabolic Benefits of Shilajit.
Mineral Pitch is a natural anabolic agent. It was traditionally used by Soviet sports and military to maintain health and increase strength and muscle mass while recuperating well and fast. The anabolic effect includes activation of an anabolic process on cell and molecular levels in different organs and tissues. Research have shown that a mumie extract accelerates the process of protein and nucleic acid synthesis, stimulates energy providing reactions in the liver, and promotes transport of minerals into muscle and bone tissue. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Immune benefits.
Moomie (A.k.a. Shilajit) is a nonspecific immune system stimulator. It proliferates lymphocytes, activates the macrophages. It was shown to accelerate regeneration of the immune system (lymphopoietic erythropoiesis). The resin restored more rapidly the number of lymphocytes and peripheral blood, bone marrow and spleen. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Blood sugar in diabetes.
In “Effect of D-400, and Ayurvedic Herbal Formulation on Experimentally Induced Diabetes Mellitus” published in Phytotherapy Research volume 10 (1996). In this study, Shilajit was used as a part of an herbal formulation. Obviously the scientists knew that ancient physicians have consistently used genuine Shilajit to treat diabetes often with herbs added to such formulations. In their study, they induced diabetes in vivo to animals and successfully demonstrated that would application of Shilajit based formulation diabetes can be successfully treated through repair and regeneration of endocrine pancreas. (S. K. Mitra 1996)
In a similar study called “effect of Shilajit on blood glucose and lipid profile in alloxan – induced diabetic rats” scientists so that Shilajit produced a significant reduction in blood glucose levels and also produced beneficial effects on the lipid profile. Even though in this study Shilajit was combined with pharmaceuticals in two doses out of three in each case results on blood sugar were beneficial. (N. A. Trivedi 2004) The study confirmed in a way knowledge accumulated prior by Soviet physicians who did not use Shilajit (Moomiyo in Russian) as a self standing drug in medical therapy, but as a supplement to support efficacy of medical treatments. On the other hand, both studies also validated ancient therapies throughout Asian Shilajit/Moomiyo producing regions where the resin was used to actively control and treat people with diabetes prior to availability of modern-day pharmaceuticals.
Cognition enhancing effect.
Mumie / Shilajit Was traditionally used in Indian medicine to attenuate cerebral functional deficit, including amnesia, in geriatric patients. It was shown that Shilajit promoted learning and memory. (Cho-Rok Jung 2002) (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Painkiller tolerance
In 2001 S. Ghosal with other two scientists published a paper called: “Effects of Shilajit on the development of tolerance to morphine in mice”. The scientists empirically demonstrated that administration of Shilajit on a daily basis inhibits development of tolerance to morphine induced analgesia. Morphine being an opioid is traditionally used to control pain. The downside of morphine use is the development of tolerance to it and constantly requiring higher doses leading to addiction to the compound. In the discussion part of the paper one concluded that Shilajit could have a great potential as a prospective inhibitor of analgesic tolerance to morphine. (P. Tiwari 2001)
Interestingly, most Shilajit on the market except only one brand does not demonstrate this effect. This is exactly why in order to get maximum benefits from your Mineral Pitch it is important to go for the brand that is not all hype, but demonstrates efficacy through unique quality. On the other hand, the problem with multiple brands and merchants offering “Shilajit” or imitations is that most of them will never show the efficacy of the substance originally tested in the lab environments.
Sedation and pain control.
“Glycine- and Gaba-mimetic Actions of Shilajit on the Substantia Gelatinosa Neurons of the Trigeminal Subnucleus Caudalis in Mice” was an in vitro study performed at the Department of Oral Physiology at Chonbuk National University, Korea. The research demonstrated that Shilajit mimics GABA and glycine receptors activation in the brain tissue. It was also suggested that it can be used to control certain types of pain. (Hua Yin 2011)
Human growth hormone and testosterone production naturally.
Moomie (Shilajit) may contribute to stimulation of the human body to produce more of its own growth hormone and testosterone. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Sedation and pain control.
“Glycine- and Gaba-mimetic Actions of Shilajit on the Substantia Gelatinosa Neurons of the Trigeminal Subnucleus Caudalis in Mice” was an in vitro study performed at the Department of Oral Physiology at Chonbuk National University, Korea. The research demonstrated that Shilajit mimics GABA and glycine receptors activation in the brain tissue. It was also suggested that it can be used to control certain types of pain. (Hua Yin 2011)
Human growth hormone and testosterone production naturally.
Moomie (Shilajit) may contribute to stimulation of the human body to produce more of its own growth hormone and testosterone. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Antitoxic and anti-radiation.
Mumyo was traditionally used in To detoxify and nourish. In a doctoral dissertation called “Moomiyo effect on tumor growth and creation of blood subjected to x-ray radiation”, a Russian doctor Kaligin V. I. demonstrated the benefits of mineral pitch to counter negative effects of radiation sickness. (Kaligin 1984) Unfortunately, this work is available only in Russian through the central scientific, medical library in Moscow.
Antialergic
Ghosal in 1888 and Bhattacharya in 1989 Demonstrated significant anti-allergic activity of Shilajit stabilizing mast cells and decreasing degranulation. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Antiinflamatory.
Mineral Pitch (a.k.a. Moomiyo, Mumie, Shilajit, Shilajit) is a traditional anti-inflammatory agent. Greek physicians of antiquity used this medicine for various problems including arthritis and inflammation. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Antialergic
Ghosal in 1888 and Bhattacharya in 1989 Demonstrated significant anti-allergic activity of Shilajit stabilizing mast cells and decreasing degranulation. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Antiinflamatory.
Mineral Pitch (a.k.a. Moomiyo, Mumie, Shilajit, Shilajit) is a traditional anti-inflammatory agent. Greek physicians of antiquity used this medicine for various problems including arthritis and inflammation. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
The Momie resin is an excellent tool against inflammation. Indeed traditionally it was used in folk medicine to treat people with inflammatory issues. Multiple modern scientific studies demonstrated its efficacy. As an auxiliary, it was conventionally used to support patients with paradentosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and cervical spondylosis. Soviet doctors have routinely used it to clean wounds from necrotic tissues, granulation, epithelization, and decrease the period of wound healing. In the lab, Shilajit have demonstrated to be a powerful tool to suppress artificially induced inflammation. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
“Complement-fixing Activity of Fulvic Acid from Shilajit and Other Natural Sources was published in by an international group of scientists from the Montana State University demonstrated that Shilajit is a highly potent complement fixing agent. Even though the study was performed in vitro it in a way revealed why Shilajit was traditionally used in folk medicine for the treatment of a variety of disorders, including syndromes involving excessive complement activation. The study established that multiple fractions of Shilajit are products of broken down polysaccharides and suggested that such from different plans enhance wound healing and have potential to treat inflammatory disease. (Igor A. Schepetkin 2009)
Energy Production.
Moomiyo activates mitochondrial respiration but suppresses activity of succinate – oxidase and NADH-oxidase in Mitochondrion. It induces adults related increase in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities as well. This means that while increasing production of energy through a cellular respiration the substance simultaneously protects from damage that usually goes along with increased production of energy. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
“Complement-fixing Activity of Fulvic Acid from Shilajit and Other Natural Sources was published in by an international group of scientists from the Montana State University demonstrated that Shilajit is a highly potent complement fixing agent. Even though the study was performed in vitro it in a way revealed why Shilajit was traditionally used in folk medicine for the treatment of a variety of disorders, including syndromes involving excessive complement activation. The study established that multiple fractions of Shilajit are products of broken down polysaccharides and suggested that such from different plans enhance wound healing and have potential to treat inflammatory disease. (Igor A. Schepetkin 2009)
Energy Production.
Moomiyo activates mitochondrial respiration but suppresses activity of succinate – oxidase and NADH-oxidase in Mitochondrion. It induces adults related increase in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities as well. This means that while increasing production of energy through a cellular respiration the substance simultaneously protects from damage that usually goes along with increased production of energy. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Bones, skin, muscle, organs and other tissue regeneration.
In the article “Medical Drugs From Humus Matter: Focus on Moomie” researchers I. Schepetkin, A. Khlebnikov and Byoung Se Kwon discuss medicinal properties of Moomiyo (also known as Mumie, Shilajit, Salajeet, etc.). According to the article the substance was traditionally used in Asian herbal medicine both inwardly and outwardly against injuries, bone fractures, dislocations, diseases of skin, diseases of peripheral nervous system and also as a soothing and anti-inflammatory agent. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
In the same article, it is noted that the resin will regenerate damaged bones approximately 2 times faster than they normally would. This effect was used by Soviet surgeons consistently for many years. (Igor Schepetkin 2002)
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
15 Benefits of the Holy Basil (Tulsi)
The tulsi or holy basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition and is worshiped in the morning and evening by Hindus at large. The holy basil is also a herbal remedy for a lot of common ailments. Here're top fifteen medicinal uses of tulsi.
1. Healing Power: The tulsi plant has many medicinal properties. The leaves are a nerve tonic and also sharpen memory. They promote the removal of the catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tube. The leaves strengthen the stomach and induce copious perspiration. The seed of the plant are mucilaginous.
2. Fever & Common Cold: The leaves of basil are specific for many fevers. During the rainy season, when malaria and dengue fever are widely prevalent, tender leaves, boiled with tea, act as preventive against theses diseases. In case of acute fevers, a decoction of the leaves boiled with powdered cardamom in half a liter of water and mixed with sugar and milk brings down the temperature. The juice of tulsi leaves can be used to bring down fever. Extract of tulsi leaves in fresh water should be given every 2 to 3 hours. In between one can keep giving sips of cold water. In children, it is every effective in bringing down the temperature.
3. Coughs: Tulsi is an important constituent of many Ayurvedic cough syrups and expectorants. It helps to mobilize mucus in bronchitis and asthma. Chewing tulsi leaves relieves cold and flu.
4. Sore Throat: Water boiled with basil leaves can be taken as drink in case of sore throat. This water can also be used as a gargle.
5. Respiratory Disorder: The herb is useful in the treatment of respiratory system disorder. A decoction of the leaves, with honey and ginger is an effective remedy for bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough and cold. A decoction of the leaves, cloves and common salt also gives immediate relief in case of influenza. They should be boiled in half a liter of water till only half the water is left and add then taken.
6. Kidney Stone: Basil has strengthening effect on the kidney. In case of renal stone the juice of basil leaves and honey, if taken regularly for 6 months it will expel them via the urinary tract.
7. Heart Disorder: Basil has a beneficial effect in cardiac disease and the weakness resulting from them. It reduces the level of blood cholesterol.
8. Children's Ailments: Common pediatric problems like cough cold, fever, diarrhea and vomiting respond favorably to the juice of basil leaves. If pustules of chicken pox delay their appearance, basil leaves taken with saffron will hasten them.
9. Stress: Basil leaves are regarded as an 'adaptogen' or anti-stress agent. Recent studies have shown that the leaves afford significant protection against stress. Even healthy persons can chew 12 leaves of basil, twice a day, to prevent stress. It purifies blood and helps prevent several common elements.
10. Mouth Infections: The leaves are quit effective for the ulcer and infections in the mouth. A few leaves chewed will cure these conditions.
11. Insect Bites: The herb is a prophylactic or preventive and curative for insect stings or bites. A teaspoonful of the juice of the leaves is taken and is repeated after a few hours. Fresh juice must also be applied to the affected parts. A paste of fresh roots is also effective in case of bites of insects and leeches.
12. Skin Disorders: Applied locally, basil juice is beneficial in the treatment of ringworm and other skin diseases. It has also been tried successfully by some naturopaths in the treatment of leucoderma.
13. Teeth Disorder: The herb is useful in teeth disorders. Its leaves, dried in the sun and powdered, can be used for brushing teeth. It can also be mixed with mustered oil to make a paste and used as toothpaste. This is very good for maintaining dental health, counteracting bad breath and for massaging the gums. It is also useful in pyorrhea and other teeth disorders.
14. Headaches: Basil makes a good medicine for headache. A decoction of the leaves can be given for this disorder. Pounded leaves mixed with sandalwood paste can also be applied on the forehead for getting relief from heat, headache, and for providing coolness in general.
15. Eye Disorders: Basil juice is an effective remedy for sore eyes and night-blindness, which is generally caused by deficiency of vitamin A. Two drops of black basil juice are put into the eyes daily at bedtime.
DISCLAIMER: These are only general guidelines as a first aid. It is always better to see a doctor depending upon the intensity of the case. The views expressed above are entirely those of the author.
3 health benefits of chickpeas
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Whether you call them chickpeas or garbanzo beans, these little legumes are a tasty and healthy treat! One of the oldest cultivated vegetables in the Middle East, chickpeas have been a fan favourite for hundreds of years -- and it's easy to see why.
Here are three health benefits of chickpeas:
1. Hunger control: Chickpeas are high in fibre and protein, and they have a low glycemic index. This powerful combination can help control your weight. Enjoying as little as 1/2 cup (125 mL) of chickpeas daily can keep you feeling full -- and consuming fewer calories.
2. Cholesterol reduction: Including 3/4 cup (175 mL) of chickpeas in your diet each day can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
3. Versatility: Chickpeas can be used in salads, soups, curries, chilis and stews. Or consider roasting them with your favourite savoury spices. High-protein chickpea flour (also called garam) is gluten-free and can be used to make pakoras, pappadams or pancakes, or can serve as a substitute for eggs in baked goods.
Here are three health benefits of chickpeas:
1. Hunger control: Chickpeas are high in fibre and protein, and they have a low glycemic index. This powerful combination can help control your weight. Enjoying as little as 1/2 cup (125 mL) of chickpeas daily can keep you feeling full -- and consuming fewer calories.
2. Cholesterol reduction: Including 3/4 cup (175 mL) of chickpeas in your diet each day can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
3. Versatility: Chickpeas can be used in salads, soups, curries, chilis and stews. Or consider roasting them with your favourite savoury spices. High-protein chickpea flour (also called garam) is gluten-free and can be used to make pakoras, pappadams or pancakes, or can serve as a substitute for eggs in baked goods.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Health Benefits of Soybean
Soybean is hailed as the most protective bean. Soy contains 40 percent protein. It has the highest protein content amongst plant products. “Soy protein” refers to the protein found in soybeans. As animal protein contains all the essential amino acids, lacking in pulse protein, soy is often used to replace the animal proteins in an individual's diet. Soybean is the only vegetable food that contains all eight essential amino acids. Soyabeans are processed to various soya products namely soy flour, soy milk, cottage cheese like tofu, fermented products like tempeh and miso.
Macronutrients-
Protein
Soyabean is the richest plant source of protein. It contains 43 percent protein as compared to other legumes which contain 20 to 25 percent protein. Soy protein is also of the highest quality amongst all legumes. Under guidelines adopted by the Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization for evaluating protein quality for children and adults, soy protein isolate receives a rating of 1, which is the highest possible score. This means that the quality of soy protein is equal to that of meat and milk proteins.
Most plant proteins are considered "incomplete" proteins because they are low in one or more essential amino acids. Levels of one amino acid or another are insufficient for human needs. Grains are typically low in lysine; beans are typically low in the sulfur amino acids, methionine and cysteine. However, the level of sulfur amino acids in soybeans is higher than in other beans, and therefore soy protein is equivalent to animal protein in quality.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Food and Drug Administration use an alternative method for evaluating protein quality called the protein digestibility corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS). The PDCAAS for soy protein isolate is 1.0, which makes soy equivalent to animal proteins in quality and higher than other plant proteins foods. Soy foods if used smartly contribute significantly toward meeting protein needs, and could be an excellent addition to a diet for a variety of reasons.
Fat
Like protein soybeans are high in fat too. Most legumes (except peanuts) contain between 2 to 14 percent fat, whereas soybean contains 19 percent fat.
At the same time, most of the fat in soybeans is unsaturated and beneficial. Polyunsaturated, monounsaturated and saturated fats make up 63 percent, 23 percent, and 14 percent respectively of the fat in soybeans with saturated fat being the lowest. The polyunsaturated fat content of soybean includes linolenic acid or Omega-3 fatty acid. The presence of omega–3 fats makes it special as soybeans are one of the very few plant sources of this essential fatty acid. Omega-3 fatty acids form an essential nutrient which helps to reduce risk of both heart disease and cancer.
Soybean oil can be used in cooking. Some soy foods have the fat removed. Defatted soy flour is commonly available. Reduced-fat tofu and reduced or non-fat soymilk also form some low fat alternatives.
Fiber
A serving of soybeans provides approximately eight grams of dietary fiber. However, some soy foods are processed in ways that decrease the fiber content significantly. Tofu and soymilk contain very little fiber, while soy foods that utilize the whole bean such as tempeh, soy flour and textured soy protein are high in fiber.
Micronutrients-
Calcium
Soy foods are a good source of calcium in comparison to the commonly used legumes. Processing affects the calcium content of soyfoods considerably. Tofu due to its processing methods can contain between 120 and 750 mg of calcium per 1/2 cup serving. Soymilk contains around 93 mg of calcium per one cup serving. The calcium-fortified soymilk could often contain between 200 and 300 mg of calcium per serving and a good amount of vitamin D.
Although soyfoods are high in both oxalates and phytates that inhibit calcium absorption, the calcium from soyfoods is well absorbed and has an absorption rate equal to that of milk.
Iron
Soya is rich in iron too. However, both phytate and soy protein reduce iron absorption which leads to the iron in soyfoods being poorly absorbed. Iron could be better absorbed from fermented soyfoods like tempeh and miso.
Other nutrients-
Like other whole grains, soyfoods are rich in B-vitamins, particularly niacin, pyridoxine and folacin. Soymilk is well fortified with vitamin B12 which makes it a prominent source of this essential nutrient.
Nutrient Content of Soyfoods
Recommended servings of soy: 1-2 servings per day
There are various anti-nutritional factors in soybean as in other pulses. However most of them are heat liable and can be eliminated by suitable heat treatments.
Soybean in comparison to other legumes is far superior in terms of health benefits.
Low in fat with no cholesterol
Contains essential heart friendly omega-3 fats
An excellent source of fiber
Is a good source of enriched Calcium and Vitamin B12
Is a complete protein, containing all the amino acids essential to human nutrition
Provides important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and selenium
Rich in probiotics in the form of fermented soy products, such as miso, tempeh, and soy yogurt
Contains isoflavones which are beneficial in reducing risk of various cancers, heart disease and osteoporosis
Whole soy foods such as tofu and tempeh form a nutrient rich alternative to meat
Macronutrients-
Protein
Soyabean is the richest plant source of protein. It contains 43 percent protein as compared to other legumes which contain 20 to 25 percent protein. Soy protein is also of the highest quality amongst all legumes. Under guidelines adopted by the Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization for evaluating protein quality for children and adults, soy protein isolate receives a rating of 1, which is the highest possible score. This means that the quality of soy protein is equal to that of meat and milk proteins.
Most plant proteins are considered "incomplete" proteins because they are low in one or more essential amino acids. Levels of one amino acid or another are insufficient for human needs. Grains are typically low in lysine; beans are typically low in the sulfur amino acids, methionine and cysteine. However, the level of sulfur amino acids in soybeans is higher than in other beans, and therefore soy protein is equivalent to animal protein in quality.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Food and Drug Administration use an alternative method for evaluating protein quality called the protein digestibility corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS). The PDCAAS for soy protein isolate is 1.0, which makes soy equivalent to animal proteins in quality and higher than other plant proteins foods. Soy foods if used smartly contribute significantly toward meeting protein needs, and could be an excellent addition to a diet for a variety of reasons.
Fat
Like protein soybeans are high in fat too. Most legumes (except peanuts) contain between 2 to 14 percent fat, whereas soybean contains 19 percent fat.
At the same time, most of the fat in soybeans is unsaturated and beneficial. Polyunsaturated, monounsaturated and saturated fats make up 63 percent, 23 percent, and 14 percent respectively of the fat in soybeans with saturated fat being the lowest. The polyunsaturated fat content of soybean includes linolenic acid or Omega-3 fatty acid. The presence of omega–3 fats makes it special as soybeans are one of the very few plant sources of this essential fatty acid. Omega-3 fatty acids form an essential nutrient which helps to reduce risk of both heart disease and cancer.
Soybean oil can be used in cooking. Some soy foods have the fat removed. Defatted soy flour is commonly available. Reduced-fat tofu and reduced or non-fat soymilk also form some low fat alternatives.
Fiber
A serving of soybeans provides approximately eight grams of dietary fiber. However, some soy foods are processed in ways that decrease the fiber content significantly. Tofu and soymilk contain very little fiber, while soy foods that utilize the whole bean such as tempeh, soy flour and textured soy protein are high in fiber.
Micronutrients-
Calcium
Soy foods are a good source of calcium in comparison to the commonly used legumes. Processing affects the calcium content of soyfoods considerably. Tofu due to its processing methods can contain between 120 and 750 mg of calcium per 1/2 cup serving. Soymilk contains around 93 mg of calcium per one cup serving. The calcium-fortified soymilk could often contain between 200 and 300 mg of calcium per serving and a good amount of vitamin D.
Although soyfoods are high in both oxalates and phytates that inhibit calcium absorption, the calcium from soyfoods is well absorbed and has an absorption rate equal to that of milk.
Iron
Soya is rich in iron too. However, both phytate and soy protein reduce iron absorption which leads to the iron in soyfoods being poorly absorbed. Iron could be better absorbed from fermented soyfoods like tempeh and miso.
Other nutrients-
Like other whole grains, soyfoods are rich in B-vitamins, particularly niacin, pyridoxine and folacin. Soymilk is well fortified with vitamin B12 which makes it a prominent source of this essential nutrient.
Nutrient Content of Soyfoods
| Food | Calories | Protein grams | Carbohydrate grams | Fat grams | Saturated Fat grams |
| Soybeans 1/2 cup, cooked | 149 | 14.3 | 8.5 | 7.7 | 1.1 |
| Tempeh 1/2 cup | 165 | 15.7 | 14.1 | 6.4 | 1.1 |
| Textured Soy Protein 1/2 cup, cooked | 59 | 11 | 7 | 0.2 | fat free |
| Soynuts 1/4 cup | 202 | 15 | 14.5 | 10.0 | 1.6 |
| Tofu 1/2 cup | 94 | 10 | 2.3 | 5.9 | 0.9 |
| Soy flour, defatted 1/4 cup | 81.7 | 12.8 | 8.4 | 0.3 | .02 |
| Soymilk, plain 1 cup | 79 | 6.6 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 0.5 |
| Food | Niacin mg | B6 mg | Folic Acid ug | Calcium mg | Iron mg | Magnesium mg | Copper mg | Zinc mg |
| Soybeans 1/2 cup, cooked | 1.35 | .20 | 47 | 88 | 4.42 | 74 | .35 | .99 |
| Tempeh 1/2 cup | 3.8 | .25 | 43 | 77 | 1.9 | 58 | .55 | 1.5 |
| Textured Soy Protein 1/2 cup, cooked | .75 | .12 | --- | 85 | 2 | 86 | .32 | 1.37 |
| Soynuts 1/4 cup | 0.6 | .09 | 91 | 59 | 1.65 | 63 | .35 | 1.35 |
| Tofu 1/2 cup | 0.2 | .06 | 19 | 130* | --- | 127 | .24 | 1.00 |
| Soyflour, defatted 1/4 cup | 0.65 | .14 | 76 | 60 | 2.3 | 72 | 1 | .61 |
| Soymilk, plain 1 cup | 1.4 | .10 | 4 | 93 | 1.38 | 45 | .288 | .54 |
| Miso 2 Tbsp. | 0.3 | --- | 10.1 | 23 | .95 | 14.5 | .15 | 1 |
| Adult Recommended Daily Allowance | 15 | 1.6-2.0 | 180-200 | 800 | 10-15 | 280-350 | 1.5-3.0 | 12-15 |
Recommended servings of soy: 1-2 servings per day
There are various anti-nutritional factors in soybean as in other pulses. However most of them are heat liable and can be eliminated by suitable heat treatments.
Soybean in comparison to other legumes is far superior in terms of health benefits.
Low in fat with no cholesterol Contains essential heart friendly omega-3 fats An excellent source of fiber Is a good source of enriched Calcium and Vitamin B12 Is a complete protein, containing all the amino acids essential to human nutrition Provides important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and selenium Rich in probiotics in the form of fermented soy products, such as miso, tempeh, and soy yogurt Contains isoflavones which are beneficial in reducing risk of various cancers, heart disease and osteoporosis Whole soy foods such as tofu and tempeh form a nutrient rich alternative to meat
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