Top 20 health benefits of fish oil

Fish oil will never disappoint health conscious folks. Not only is it loaded with essential fatty acids that benefit heart health, it also improves mental disorders like depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Good sources of fish oil are mackerel, sardines, swordfish, oysters, salmon, and tunas. Here are 20 important health benefits of fish oil that everyone should know.

Cardiovascular disease

Fish oil helps in preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Fish oil not only helps in lowering triglycerides, hardening of the arteries and cholesterol, but also prevents certain heart rhythm abnormalities.

Cancer prevention

Fish oil has proved effective against three common forms of cancer - breast, colon and prostate.

Omega 3 helps in maintaining normal healthy cells from mutating into cancerous tumors and restrain unwanted cellular growth.

Normalize cholesterol

One of the main benefits of fish oil is that it helps in regulating cholesterol levels.

The presence of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DPA (docosahexaenoic acid) found in most high quality fish oil supplements helps in regulating cholesterol.

Go slim; with fish oil

Fish consumption can be used to cure hypertension and obesity.

A study in Australia has discovered that a weight-loss diet which includes a regular amount of fish can be quite effective.

Treatment of arthritis

Fish oil helps in treating arthritis. Prolonged use of the oil can be effective in reducing and preventing arthritis pain.

The relief, will not be immediate, and may take days, weeks or even months to show results.

Eye health

Omega-3 offers protection against macular degeneration ( AMD) of the eye and also reduces the risk of dry eye syndrome.

Mental disorders

Fish oil helps in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and schizophrenia.

Skin and hair health

Omega 3 helps lock moisture into skin cells, produces collagen, alleviates skin blemishes, and gives one a youthful look.

The protein content in fish oil helps in hair growth and maintaining strong, healthy hair.

High blood pressure

Omega-3 possesses anti inflammation and anti-coagulant properties, which help in lowering blood pressure.

Blood is pushed more proficiently throughout the body hence there is less pressure exerted on the heart.

Asthma

Fish oil is very effective for respiratory problems like asthma. It helps in reducing asthma attacks and to breathe more easily.

AIDS

Research conducted by the Nutritional Sciences Program in Lexington proved that fish oil helps in the treatment of AIDS, as it helps in reducing triglycerides levels

Nails

Fish oil can also be used in cosmetic enhancement, as high intakes of fish oil can help improve the texture and quality of nails

Health bones

Omega-3s found in fish oil helps in regulating the balance of minerals in bone and surrounding tissue.

Depression

People suffering from depression have lower levels of EPA. Hence, fish oil is beneficial for those suffering with depression.

Happy pregnancy

Fish oil is good for pregnant women as the DHA present in it helps in the development of the baby's eyes and brain.

It helps to avoid premature births, low weight at birth, and miscarriage.

Anti-inflammation

Fish is effective in reducing inflammation in blood and tissues.

Fish oil is effective in treating gastrointestinal disorders, short bowel syndrome and chronic inflammatory diseases.

Brain and nervous system

Fish oil also helps in improving memory, reasoning and focus.

It improves blood flow and may even affect hormones and the immune system, eventually affecting brain function.

Protects against type 2 diabetes

A study has found that fish oil can prevent inflammation in fat cells which can lead to insulin resistance and, ultimately, type 2 diabetes.

Acne

Fish oil is effective for acne as well, because of its EPA properties, which influence the formation of sebum in hair follicle.

Diet

Eat these to prevent diabetes

Diabetes isn't known as a silent killer just for kicks. The growing number of people falling prey to this metabolic disease has raised quite an alarm worldwide.

Being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise and consumption of high calorie, sugary and fatty foods are the reasons that give rise to this lifestyle ailment. Here's a list of foods that help in preventing diabetes.

Turmeric
Studies claim that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric may help delay if not prevent diabetes. There more research to be done in order to determine the long-term effects of turmeric. However, early result show promise.

Strawberries
Strawberries look and taste delicious. So there's no reason why you should not eat them regularly. Scientists are of the opinion that consuming strawberries helps activate a protein in the body which reduces LDL cholesterol and blood lipids. Both these things play a factor in the development of diabetes. Also, scientists who conducted experiments on mice found that consuming strawberries is beneficial in lowering blood glucose levels.

Cheese and yogurt
By this we mean low-fat cheese and yogurt. Experts believe that the healthy bacteria found in these fermented dairy products are responsible for this healthy beneficial side-effect.

Red wine
Surprise surprise! Resveratrol, a compound present in red wine helps in improving the function of blood sugar by regulating the hormone insulin. However, there's no reason to get sloshed. Drinking in moderation is the key.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon has numerous health benefits. It helps in lowering fasting blood glucose. Also, it is known to lower triglyceride levels, LDL cholesterol and improve insulin sensitivity too. Sprinkle some powdered cinnamon in your coffee or toast.

Apples
Anthocyanin, a compound is found in abundance in apples, which helps in regulating blood sugar levels.

Spinach
Spinach is rich in many nutrients which makes it so healthy. A British study showed that consuming spinach daily cuts down the risk of diabetes by 14%.

Diet

Medicine of the Prophet

Muslims turn to the Quran and Sunnah for guidance in all areas of life, which may include health and medical matters. The Prophet Muhammad once said that "Allah did not create a disease for which He did not also create a cure." Muslims are therefore encouraged to explore and use traditional and modern forms of medicine, with faith that any cure is from Allah.

Traditional medicine in Islam is often referred to as Medicine of the Prophet (al-tibb an-Nabawi). Muslims often explore the Medicine of the Prophet as an alternative to modern therapies, or as a supplement to modern medical treatment.

Here are some traditional remedies that are a part of Islamic tradition. Note: One should always consult with a medical professional before attempting any treatment. Some herbs may be harmful in certain conditions and in certain amounts.

Black Seed

Black caraway or cumin seed (nigella sativa) is not related to the common kitchen spice. This seed originated in western Asia, and is part of the buttercup family. The Prophet Muhammad once advised his followers: "Use the black seed, because it contains a cure for every type of ailment except death."

Black seed is said to help with digestion, and also contains antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and analgesic properties. Muslims often consume black seed to help with respiratory ailments, digestive issues, and to boost the immune system.

Honey
Honey is described as a source of healing in the Quran: "There comes forth from their [bees’] bellies, a drink of varying colour wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think" (Quran 16:69). It is also mentioned as one of the foods of Jannah: "The description of Paradise which the pious have been promised is that in it are rivers of water the taste and smell of which are not changed; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine delicious to those who drink; and rivers of clarified honey, clear and pure..." (Quran 47:15). Honey was mentioned repeatedly by the Prophet as a "healing," a "blessing," and "the best medicine."

In modern times, it has been discovered that honey has antibacterial properties and has other health benefits. Honey is composed of water, simple and complex sugars, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and several different vitamins.

Olive Oil
The Quran says: "And a tree (olive) that springs forth from Mount Sinai, that grows oil, and it is a relish for the eaters" (Quran 23:20). The Prophet Muhammad also once told his followers: "Eat the olive and anoint (yourselves) with it, for indeed it is from a blessed tree." Olive oil contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as Vitamin E. It is consumed to promote coronary health and is used on the skin to increase softness and elasticity.

Dates
Dates (temar) are a traditional and popular food for breaking the daily Ramadan fast. Eating dates after fasting helps to maintain blood sugar levels, and is an excellent source of dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, and complex sugars.

Zamzam Water

Zamzam water comes from an underground spring in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It is known to contain large amounts of calcium, fluoride, and magnesium.

Siwak

Twigs of the Arak tree are commonly known as siwak or miswak. It is used as a natural toothbrush, and its oils are often used in modern toothpastes. Its soft fibers are rubbed gently over the teeth and gums to promote oral hygiene and gum health.

Moderation in Diet

The Prophet Muhammad advised his followers to sustain themselves, but not overeat. He said, "The son of Adam [i.e. human beings] never fills a vessel worse than his stomach. The son of Adam only needs a few bites that would sustain him, but if he insists, one third should be reserved for his food, another third for his drink, and the last third for his breathing." This general advice is meant to prevent believers from over-stuffing themselves to the detriment of good health.

Adequate Sleep

The benefits of proper sleep cannot be overstated. The Quran describes: "It is He Who made the night a covering for you, and the sleep a rest, and He made the day to rise up again" (Quran 25:47, also see 30:23). It was the habit of the early Muslims to sleep directly after Isha prayer, wake up early with the dawn prayer, and take short naps during the midday heat. On several occasions, the Prophet Muhammad expressed disapproval of zealous worshippers who gave up on sleep in order to pray all night long. He told one, "Offer prayers and also sleep at night, as your body has a right on you" and told another, "You should pray as long as you feel active, and when you get tired, sleep."

Deen Aur Hum

Ek Angrezz Ne Huzur Mufti-e-Azam se SawaaL
Poocjhaa ::: QAYAMAT KA MAIDAN KITNA BARA
HOGA ? ISS DUNIYA ME TO AYSI KOYI JAGA NAHIN
JAHAN PER ADAM NABI SE LE KER QAYAMAT TAK KE
PAIDA HONE WALA INSAN-JANWAR-PA -RINDE-

ZAMIN KE ANDER AUR BAHER JINAY WALE TAMAM KIRAY SAB MAINDAN-e-MAHSH -ER ME JAMAA HOGE !
YE KAISE MUMQIN HAIN!?!?!
is per HUZUR MIFTI-e-AAZAM ne uos AngRezz Se
SawaaL kiya"kya aap cigaret smoke kerte hai? Jee
Haa ! jawab diya angrez ne ,
Kitne kass khinchne se Ek Cigaret Khatm ho jati hain? HUZUR MUFTI AZAM se sawal kiya..
Angrez ne jawab fiya taqriban 20 Kass Me Ek
Cigaret Khatm ho Jaati hain,
HUZUR MUFTI-e-AZAM ne sawal kiya"ek Packet me
kitni Cigaret aati hain??
ANGREZ NE JAWAB DIYA"ek packet taqriban 20 Cigaret aati hai""
HUZUR MUFTI-e-AAZAM ne irshad fermaya"""
1 Kass Khinchne se Insan ke Jism me 80 Laakh
Jarasim)Disease -pet me jaate hain- 80Laakh Disease
x 20 Kass= 160,000,000 ( 16Caror) Disease Ek
Cigaret ke Smoke karne se Insan ke Jism me dakhil ho jate hain,
AB 16 Carore ko 20 Cigaret se Multiply Karo
3,200,000,000 Disease Kaa Hisaab MiLtaa Hain ,
------AY INSAN : TU EK CIGARET KE PACKET ME
3,200,000,000 Disease Jamaa Jer Sakta hain( jise
tunay paida nahi kiya) TO KYA MERA ALLAH EK MAINDA-e-MAHSHE -R ME APNI PAIDA KI HUYI
MAKHLUQ KO JAMA NAHI KAR SAKTA !!!!

Fight age with vitamin C

The sunshine vitamin can knock back the years

There is nothing like Vitamin C to fight off ageing, say top dermatologists and it's on top of the popularity charts all over again this season. As one of the most popular ingredients in skin care products today, it is one of the most sought after vitamins around. But if you are not seeing enough results on your face when it is in combination with other anti ageing ingredients in a cream, you could use it on its own, as is sold by pharmaceutical companies today, both as ampules or as an injection. Many dermatologists now even say that Vitamin C can be the 'prime beauty product' in your skincareroutine.

While many noted international skin care giants have long known the benefits of Vitamin C and often offer a cocktail of anti-oxidant ingredients which usually includes Vitamin C, women now want vitamin C to reach them, directly into the skin, either on the face or the body. But experts warn that since an injection is rather extreme, it is important to do so only under medical supervision and only if the kidney and liver organs are completely healthy. And it is always best to remember that what suits one person may not suit someone else, so any jab should be taken only under medical supervision.

An expert dermatologist from a Bangalore hospital explains, "Vitamin C has anti-oxidant properties, protects against sun damage and lightens skin too. It removes all the free radicals which can injure cells. It is one of the best anti-ageing remedies. But for best results it has to be used in conjunction with sunscreen."

And while the jury is still out on the vitamin being injected into the skin, it is widely believed that Vitamin C is a good addition to a skin care routine, but is best to consult a dermatologist first, if you are prone to allergies or other problems.

Best fruits for diabetics

Fructose is a form of sugar present in fruits that has a negative impact on diabetics and overweight individuals.

But you can still enjoy the seasonal mango and grapes provided you consume them in moderation. Doctors encourage diabetics to consume particular fruits that are not only beneficial to the body but also control insulin. We separate this fruit salad and present a list of diabetic friendly fruits.

Red grapefruit
Grapefruit reminds you of an orange or sweetlime, but it is sweet, sour and juicy. Grapefruits are the healthiest option for diabetics. It is advisable to have half a grapefruit a day.

Berries - Cranberries, Raspberries, Blueberries
We love berries; select your favourite berry and rest assured the anti-oxidants will do their work. Besides, berries provide fibers, low carbs and various vitamins. 3/4th cup of berries will do the trick.

Melons
Water melon, muskmelon or honeydew; pick any melon as it is rich in vitamin B and C, as well as beta-carotene, potassium and lycopene. A slice of any of these melons will give you the necessary vitamins you need.

Cherries
Cherries have anti-oxidant properties, plus they are low in carbs and glycemic levels. 12 cherries a day is all you need.

Peaches
It may have a velvet coat, but a peach is a good source for vitamin A and C. It is also low in carbs, rich in potassium and fiber.

Apricot
Low carb, high in fiber, rich in vitamin A, apricots are a great option for diabetics. Include one apricot in your daily diet.

Apple
When you are eating an apple, do not peel it. The skin is rich in anti-oxidants, besides apples are a good source for fiber and vitamin C.

Kiwi
That fuzzy fruit is a power house for potassium, fiber, and vitamin C. It also contains low carbs that are necessary for diabetics. One kiwi will regulate your health.

Pears
Loaded with potassium, fiber and low in carbs, pears should be part of your diet.

Orange
Oranges are known for their vitamin C content. They are also low-carb and contain potassium. Related to grapefruits, oranges are a safe bet for diabetics.

EAT YOUR GREENS...!!!

FOR YOUR HEART VEIN OPENING

Its amazing

cold shower

The best way to beat the summer heat is a cold shower, but there are more uses to a cold shower than we realize.

For one, a cold shower will cool your mind after a hot hard day in the city. You ought to know cold showers can help improve metabolism, prevent post-workout injuries and regulate uric acid levels in your body. This is just the tip of the iceberg, read further to learn about how cold showers can rejuvenate you.

Male fertility: Very few men may know this fact but heat is bad for your testes, it can potentially lower the sperm count. If you want a child, it's time to shower in cold water, plus you're saving electricity. So next time you visit the sauna you may want to think again.

Enhances blood circulation to eliminate toxins: This requires some concentration - when cold water hits the surface of your skin, the blood vessels under the surface contract. This reduces the circulation of blood, but at the same time your body's automated blood pressure mechanism kicks in and targets the tissue. This causes the blood to circulate with extra boost, hence the blood flows with vigor improving the circulation.

Builds immunity: Do you want to increase white blood cells? Take a cold shower, it will increase your metabolism, which in turn increases the body heat, therefore invigorating your immune system, releasing white blood cells.

Increases metabolism: When you're cold you reach out for a sweater. Similarly, when your body is cold it automatically generates heat, putting the metabolism into fast gear. That's when crabs and fats are burned to keep you warm.

Avoid sport or workout injuries: After you have over exercised your muscles, that is when they are inflamed and you need them to relax. To improve strength and muscle mass your muscle fibers expand and contract, hence to prevent ruptured fibers due to over training, cold water showers are advised.

Additional benefits: Cold showers can decrease chronic pain, reduce body aches, improve your hair health, improve kidney function, reduce swelling and edema, heal and tone skin and regulate your autonomic nervous system.

Cold water and body rhythm: It deepens your breathing. If you're tired, a cold shower will do the trick as it helps to fight fatigue. Can't sleep? A cold shower will help you hit the snooze button. If your hair products are not giving you the desired sheen, try cold water. Who knew cold showers had so many health benefits!

Mangoes not only taste sweet, but are loaded with nutrients too.

We have reached the peak of summer and heat is becoming unbearable. However, the summer season has its benefits as well. It is the season of fleshy and juicy mangoes, the king of fruits. Apart from the fact that it tastes sweet, mangoes are loaded with nutrients. Check out these facts.

- Mango fruit is rich in pr-biotic dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and has antioxidant compounds. It is beneficial for digestion too.

- According to a new research, mangoes have been found to protect against colon, breast and prostate cancers.

- Fresh mango is a rich source of potassium, which is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps to control heart rate and blood pressure.

- Vitamin E, which is abundantly present in mangoes, helps to regulate sex hormones and boosts sex drive.

- Mango helps to clear clogged pores that cause acne. Just slice a mango into thin pieces and keep them on your face for 10 to 15 minutes and then take bath or wash your face and see the results.

- It's a known fact that mangoes are rich in Iron. People who suffer from anemia can take mangoes regularly along with their dinner. It is especially good for women after menopause.

- High level of soluble dietary fiber, Pectin and Vitamin C present in mangoes helps to lower serum cholesterol levels.

- A recent study shows that not only the flesh of a mango but the leaves can fight diabetes.

Health tip: Before going to bed put some 10 or 15 mango leaves in warm water and close it with lid. The next day morning filter the water and drink it in empty stomach. Do this regularly.

Foods that make you look younger

Growing older is inevitable, but looking your age is not - and slashing years off your aging body starts with eating the right foods.

A healthy diet loaded with lean protein and whole grains will allow you to retain muscle tone but lose excess fat as you age, while plenty of antioxidant-ric h fruits and veggies will help stave off those wrinkles.

1. Say yes to whole grains

2. See fish as your ally

3. Bacteria buddies-----hav e a probiotic drink or yoghurt every day.

4. Moisturise from within------Eat ing foods containing healthy, natural oils, such as avocado, nuts, seeds and olive oil can have a softening and plumping effect on skin.

5. Ditch the biscuit

6. Snack with care------Foods such as ice cream, crisps, chocolate and fizzy drinks all fall into this category, so limit them to a twice-a-week treat and snack instead on a platter of brightly coloured fruits.

7. Go easy on the booze

8. Stop skipping meals

9. Antioxidant-ric h foods--------Fr uit, veggies and nuts contain powerful anti-ageing chemicals to keep you youthful.

10. Slash your salt intake.

Improve Eyesight =Eye Exercises:

1. Blink your eyes as fast as you can for some time.
2 .Close the eyes tightly for some time and then open. Do this for 5 times.
3. Roll your eyes in clockwise as well as anticlockwise direction for 5 times.
4. While walking on the road or when you are in an open space, look as far as possible.
5. Look at an advertisement or some written material from a far place and try to read it by focusing your
eyes.

Food that is good for Eyes
1.Carrot
2. Eggs
3. Milk
4. Apricots
5.Berries
6.Black Currants 7_ Cold-water Fish
8.Collard Greens
9.Grapefruits
10.Grapes
11.Lemons
12.Spinach
13.Fish Oils

The benefits of taking milk everyday

 Milk is filled with nine essential nutrientsthat benefit our health:

>Calcium: Builds healthy bones a...nd teeth; maintains bone mass

>Protein: Serves as a source of energy; builds/ ...repairs muscle tissue

>Potassium: Helps maintain a healthy blood pressure

>Phosphorus: Helps strengthen bones and generate energy

>Vitamin D: Helps maintain bones

>Vitamin B12: Maintains healthy red blood cells and nerve tissue

>Vitamin A: Maintains the immune system; helps maintain normal vision and skin

>Riboflavin (B2): Converts food into energy

>Niacin: Metabolizes sugars and fatty acids!

SOME AMAZING FACTS OF ALMONDS:

> Cholesterol regulation is one of the most known benefits of almonds.
> 90% of the fat in almond is unsaturated fat, and frequent consumption, as a result could help lower blood cholesterol level.
> You can eats almonds directly, preferably eat it empty stomach to ensure absorption of their nutrients.
> You can soak them in water overnight and eat in the morning. You can also garnish various dishes with crushed almonds.
> Almonds are high in protein, fiber, calcium, magnasium, potassium, copper, vitamin E, and other antioxidents.
> Almonds help prevent osteoporosis and they regulate blood pressure.
> Almond induces high intellectual level and has been considered as an essential food item for growing children.
> Mono-saturated fat, protein and potassium cotained in almonds are good for the heart and Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and reduces the risk of heart diseases.
ALMONDS ARE ALSO HELPFUL IN
> Regulates blood pressure
> Skin care
> Prevention of cancer
> protection against diabetes
> Good in pregnancy
> Weight loss
> Prevention of constipation
> Boosts energy

Best brain foods for everyone

As you age, your memory goes for a toss. Eating right will help those grey cells in working condition and you in tip-top shape!
Can't find your keys ... again? Whether your momentary memory loss is linked to doing too many things at once or just a bad case of menopausal brain fog, you don't have to put up with it.
Studies suggest that natural chemicals in these foods, spices, and drinks combat cognitive decline.
Here is a list of some of the foods that help us keep our memory active and sharp.

- Asparagus

- Blueberries

- Cocoa

- Coffee

- Egg yolks

- Indian curry

- Red wine

- Rosemary

- Salmon

- Tomato sauce

- Walnuts

Foods that keep you hydrated

You're supposed to drink 8 glasses of water a day but how many of us actually do that? Here are some ways you can eat your water content and deliciously hydrate your body by eating certain foods
When you exercise or workout, you usually tend to lose a lot of water through sweat leading to your electrolyte levels going below normal. A wise move for replenishing your hydration levels is to drink electrolyte-rich fresh juices and eat hydration-promoting foods, such as fruits and vegetables. Also, drinking too much water can actually cause a critical loss of vitamins and minerals as they get whooshed out of the body with every trip to the bathroom. When you start 'eating' water, you don't need to count your glasses. You can replace at least one glass of water a day with one serving of raw fruits or vegetables and you will be able to stay hydrated significantly longer. Moreover, you'll get the added boost of fiber, antioxidants and other health-promoting phytonutrients. In fact, by sticking to a healthy diet, you'll end up 'eating' most of the water needed each day to stay hydrated.

Hydrating foods to eat every day

Our body is constantly replacing damaged cells, so it is imperative that we eat and drink to promote our cellular health. The best way to do this is to keep the body flooded with cell-protecting antioxidants and the building blocks of stronger cell membranes. Here are foods that contain high levels of nutrients and 'structured water'.

Mangoes
If your skin frequently feels parched, just eat a mango! Mangoes are bursting with vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A. Vitamin A normalises the production and life cycle of skin cells. Mangoes also improve your skin if you suffer from acne. In skin with acne, there is an overproduction of cells in the stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the skin and is composed of biologically 'dead' cells. These excess dead cells combine with sebum (the skin's own natural oil) to form comedones - the pore plugs that are the defining element of acne. Taken as a dietary supplement, vitamin A helps to prevent overproduction of skin cells in the stratum corneum. You can add 3 to 4 slices of mango to every meal as a refreshing and hydrating naturally sweet treat.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates are a wonderfully hydrating source of antioxidants. They may be the world's most prolific source of polyphenols. The unique combination of elements in pomegranates increases the protective abilities of sunscreens, which can help prevent sun damage. Add pomegranates to your morning cereal or yogurt, fresh green or fruit salads for a refreshing snack or breakfast.

Avocado

The buttery-fleshed avocado may not seem like a hydrating food, but these healthy gems replenish potassium and contain healthy fats and fiber, which help your body hold on to water. As a bonus, the monosaturated fats in avocados contain oleic acid, which has been found to improve fat levels in the body and help control diabetes and cholesterol. Layer your sandwiches with avocado slices, toss diced avocado into your salads or simply scoop avocado out of its peel as a snack.

Cucumber

Not only are cucumbers delightfully crunchy and low in calories, they are composed mostly of water, which will keep you feeling hydrated longer. In addition, cucumbers are an excellent source of silica, a trace mineral that contributes to the strength of connective tissue. Do not peel the cucumber skin! It is a good source of vitamins A, C and folic acid. You can add diced cucumber to green and grain salads or fan sliced cucumber on the side of your plate as a refreshing side dish. You can also cut cucumber into batons for an afternoon snack.

Broccoli
Your mom was right when she said to eat your greens. Broccoli and other green foods, such as spinach, are a great source of alpha lipoic acid which is a potent fat- and water-soluble antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory. Toss raw broccoli into your salads or simply snack on this hardy vegetable all by itself.

Lemon juice for good health!

Lemon juice has more benefits that you'd ever imagine. Lemons have five per cent of citric acid, which gives it its unique taste.

Rich in vitamin C, it also has vitamin B, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, proteins and carbohydrates.

Here are some benefits.

- Suffer from indigestion? Mix a few drops of lemon juice with warm water and sip on it. This is useful for treating nausea, heartburn, diarrhoea, bloating and burping.

- Since lemon is a natural antiseptic, it is great to cure skin problems. It clears your skin and also acts as an anti-ageing agent by eliminating wrinkles and blackheads.

- Have a toothache? Apply fresh lemon juice where it hurts. If you have bleeding gums, applying lemon juice can curb the bleeding and stop bad breath.

- A sore throat can be cured by gargling with lemon juice and water regularly.

- Nimbu paani is high in potassium, which controls high blood pressure, dizziness, nausea and reduces stress. It also cures respiratory disorders like breathing problems and asthma.

Benefits of papaya

Poets and authors have likened its scent to that of an ethereal, otherworldly experience. Sensual, earthy and almost wildly exotic in an olfactory sense, the humble papaya is one of earth's finest gifts to mankind. Here are a few reasons why you should include this fruit in your diet:

Low in calories, high on nutrition, it's an excellent choice for those on a diet.

The peel of the papaya helps in healing skin wounds and injuries.

The fruit has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties. People affected with osteoporosis, arthritis and oedema should consume it regularly.

The fruit is good for hair growth and is known to check the growth of dandruff.

Papaya is one of the most trusted detox solutions. If taken in moderation, the fruit can help get rid of
toxins from the body.

Those suffering from constipation and indigestion can rely on the papaya for relief.

10 best foods to reduce cholesterol

Have a salmon fish dinner. Snack on a handful of nuts. Pour a dash of olive oil in your salad.

And bite into that sinister chocolate. Now you can do all this guilt-free! All these foods help in fighting bad cholesterol. According to theAmerican Heart Association, 'You can reduce  cholesterol in your blood by eating healthy foods'. So, here we are today with our list of top 10 cholesterol fighting foods.

Oats: If you change your morning meal to oats then you can do your cholesterol level a whole lot of good. Do note that two servings of oats can lower LDL cholesterol by 5.3% in only 6 weeks. Essentially, oats contain a substance called beta-glucan which absorbs bad cholesterol.

Red Wine: Here's yet another reason to toast to your health. The red grapes used in the manufacturing of red wine have an important effect on cholesterol levels. Two glasses of red wine in a week can do you a whole lot of good.

Salmon and fatty Fish: Full of Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a natural health wonder, which helps in keeping heart conditions such as heart attacks, stroke and high cholesterol levels at bay. Fishes such as salmon, sardines and herring help in raising good cholesterol levels by 4%.

Nuts: Mono-unsaturated fats (found in nuts, seeds etc.) have the lowest fatty acid molecules and are the best of the three fats, namely poly-saturated fats, saturated fats and mono-unsaturated fats. Nuts are the best way to get those required healthy fats into your body without feeling guilty. Since the fats that come from nuts are natural and are not chemically processed, this makes them heart healthy, filling, and nutritious options.

Beans: Excellent for the heart, ½ a cup of beans added in our diet (in the form of any dish or soup), helps in lowering cholesterol levels by 8%. You should try black, kidney, or pinto beans; each one of them supplies about one-third of your day's fiber needs.

Tea: Tea has antioxidants and less amounts of caffeine than coffee. An eight-ounce cup of coffee contains around 135 mg caffeine; tea contains only 30 to 40 mg per cup. Tea helps in protecting your bones because of the presence of phytochemicals in them. It is also a great defense against LDL cholesterol levels.

Chocolate: Chocoholics can celebrate with a healthy dose of dark chocolate as it is full of antioxidants and cholesterol-reducing properties. According to a Spanish study published in 2010 in the "Journal of Hepatology,", "the antioxidants in dark chocolate reduce the damage that can occur to blood vessels, which can further threaten the health of people with cirrhosis. The dark chocolate can help prevent the blood vessels in the liver from rupturing". Medical experts suggest that munching on 100 grams of chocolate every day helps in reducing the occurrence of cardiovascular mishaps by 21 percent.

Spinach. Popeye the sailor was quite right when crediting his muscle power to this green leafy vegetable. It is believed that spinach contains around 13 flavonoid compounds which keep us away from cancer, heart diseases and osteoporosis. 1/2 a cup of this lutein-rich food, daily, guards us against heart attacks.

Olive oil: This oil has many health benefits. It contains mono-unsaturated fatty acids which lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides, without lowering good cholesterol levels. Different stages of pressing and processing yield different varieties of olive oil.