Health Benefits of Dates

 Health Benefits of Dates

Various Types of Dates

 Health benefits of dates are uncountable, as this fruit is affluent in natural fibres. Dates are even rich in several vitamins and minerals. These natural products contain oil, calcium, sulphur, iron, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, copper and magnesium which are advantageous for health. It is said that consumption of one date daily is necessary for a balanced and healthy diet. Dates help in fighting constipation, intestinal disorders, weight gain, heart problems, sexual weakness, diarrhea and abdominal cancer. 
Health benefits of dates have made them the best nourishment for muscles development. People consume dates in several ways, like mixing the paste of the dates with milk, yoghurt or with bread or butter to make the food tasty and healthy. This paste is beneficial for both adults and children, especially during the time of recovery. According to the modern medicine survey, it is known that dates are useful in preventing abdominal cancer. It is also seen that many Muslims break their fast by eating dates and water according to their traditions. Breaking fast with eating dates helps us to avoid overeating of the food after the fast. When the body absorbs the nutritional value of the dates, the feeling of hunger gets pacified. Dates are termed as a crown of sweets and ideal food which easily balances and digests food. It gives extra energy to a tired human body within half an hour after taking it. Dates are considered to be the best diet for confinement of the women. American Cancer Society recommends intake of 20-35 grams of dietary fibre in a day, supplied through dates. It is said that taking one date in a day will help you to maintain your healthy eyes for your lifetime. They are quiet effective in guarding the night blindness problems. Health benefits of dates Constipation: Date is termed to be a laxative food. This is the reason that dates are beneficial for people suffering from constipation. For getting the laxative effect from dates, you need to soak dates for one full night in water. You should consume these soaked dates in the morning like syrup to get their actual advantages.

Intestinal Disorders:

 The nicotinic content that is present in the dates is said to be beneficial for curing any kinds of intestinal disorders. Continuous intake of dates helps to maintain a check on the growth of the pathological organisms and thus, helps in the rise of friendly bacteria in the intestines.

Weight Gain: 

Dates are said to be a part of healthy diet. They consist of sugar, fats, proteins as well as many essential vitamins. If the dates are consumed with the paste of cucumber, one can easily come out from the problem of over-slimming. One kilogram of dates contains almost 3,000 calories. These calories alone are sufficient to meet the daily requirements of a human body.

Healthy Heart: 

Dates are quite helpful in maintaining your heart in a healthy condition. When soaked for a night and crushed in the morning and consumed, they prove to be quite advantageous for weak hearts. They help in fortifying the heart, if taken twice in a week.

Sexual Weakness: 

Dates are even beneficial for increasing sexual stamina in the human body. A handful of dates, when soaked in fresh goat's milk for the night and then grinded in the same milk with the mixture of cardamom powder and honey, becomes a very useful tonic for increasing sex endurance and sterility caused due to functional disorders.

Diarrhea: 

Ripe dates contain potassium. Potassium is beneficial for controlling diarrhea. They are easily digestible, which helps to cope up with the problems of diarrhea. Intoxication: Dates are known as an excellent remedy for alcoholic intoxication. Dates provide quick relief in the case of alcoholic intoxication. They should be rubbed and soaked overnight for getting more nutritious values from them.

 Abdominal Cancer: 

Dates are beneficial for curing abdominal cancer. They work as useful tonic for all age groups. They work as better as the medicines, and are natural and do not bear any side effects in the body. They can be easily digested and used for supplying extra and needed energy.

Although dates carry tremendous nutritional values, great care should be taken in their selection because they consists of sticky surface which attracts various impurities in them. Hence, you should consume only those dates that are processed and packed properly. Make sure to wash them thoroughly before consuming. This will help remove the impurities present in them. 

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Benefits of Plums

Health Benefits of Plums

Plums

Health benefits of plums include relief from indigestion, influenza infectivity and anxiety-related problems. The antioxidant power of plums helps in treating ailments such as osteoporosis, macular degeneration, cancer, diabetes and obesity. It helps in maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol, cardiovascular health, cognitive health, immune system, cellular health, electrolyte balance, nervous system and aids in skin care and blood clotting. Plum is a juicy and delicious fruit belonging to the genus Prunus of Rosaceae family which also entails peach, apricots and nectarines. It exists in diverse colors and shapes with over 2000 different varieties. Plums are broadly divided into following three groups: European-Asian (Prunus domestica), Japanese (Prunus salicina) and Damson (Prunus insititia). China is the leading harvester of plums followed by the United States, Serbia, and Romania. Within the US, major production of plums happens in California. Along with the hand-picked fresh variety, plums can also be dried or canned which are referred to as prunes. Plums are small deciduous trees which grow to a height of about 10-15 m and bears fruit with different characteristics basis the country of origin. Plum is a drupe or stone fruit with a smooth pit and a crease running down on one side. It has a juicy pulp varying from creamy yellow to crimson red. The color of outer skin may vary considerably from yellow to dark red to purple to black.

  Plums: Nutritional facts

  Plums contain an assortment of healthful components, vitamins and minerals. Plums are an excellent provider of vitamins such as vitamin A, C(ascorbic acid), folate and vitamin K(phylloquinone).They are also a good source of vitamin B1(thiamine), B2(riboflavin), B3(niacin), B-6 and vitamin E(alpha-tocopherol). Mineral treasure present in plums includes potassium, fluoride, phosphorous, magnesium, iron, calcium and zinc. Plums also supplies dietary fiber and offer very low calories and no harmful fats. 

Health benefits of plums

Plums are packed with an immense range of phenols and flavonoids which offers a range of health benefits.

Antioxidants: 

Plums contains vitamin C and phytonutrients such as lutein, cryptoxanthin, zea-xanthin, neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acid. These components possess effective antioxidant qualities which help in preventing the damage caused by oxygen radical called superoxide anion radical. The phenols present in plums also extend their protective effect on the essential fats in the neurons and cell membranes against the injuries caused by oxidative stress.

Obesity: 

Plum extracts are valuable in treating obesity and other complications associated with obesity. Studies have shown that consumption of stone fruits such as plum help in fighting metabolic syndrome attributing to the presence of bioactive compounds. The flavonoids and phenolic components such as anthocyanins, chlorogenic acids, quercetin and catechin present in plums exert anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effect on the different body cells including the fat cells and also help in preventing obesity-related problems such as cholesterol disorder, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Osteoporosis: 

Consumption of dried plums exerts anabolic and anti-resorptive actions which aids in maintaining healthy bones. Flavonoids such as caffeic acid and rutin present in plums help in inhibiting the deterioration of bone tissues and prevent diseases such as osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Polyphenols along with the potassium content present in dried plums encourage formation of bones, enhances bone density and prevents bone loss caused by ovarian hormone deficiency. Research has demonstrated that regular consumption of dried plums help in the restoration of bones that have already been lost due to aging.

Digestion: 

Plums are a good source of dietary fiber along with the components sorbitol and isatin which helps in regulating the digestive system. According to the research studies, dried plums or prunes are more effective in treating digestive disorders such as constipation as compared to other remedies such as psyllium husk. Sorbitol and isatin have a laxative effect and encourages secretion of fluids in the bowel and promotes efficient flushing of wastes through the colon.
  

Cognitive health:  

Studies have shown that flavonoids present in plum juice are effective in providing protection against age-related cognitive impairment. The healthful phytonutrients present in plums help in reducing the inflammation in the neurological processes and improve learning and memory functions. Regular consumption of plums also helps in preventing age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Healthy cholesterol levels:  

Dried plums or prunes helps in preventing hypercholesterolemia and hyperlipidemia. A comparative study has proven the efficacy of prunes over grape-juice in maintaining healthy levels of plasma and liver cholesterol. The fiber content present in plums also adds to the protective effect in the reduction of LDL cholesterol and helps in elevating the levels of HDL cholesterol.

Diabetes: 

Plums exert anti-hyperglycemic effects and helps in combating diabetes. Studies have shown that consumption of plum extracts aids in reduction of blood glucose and levels of triglyceride in the body. The flavonoids present in plums exert protective effect against insulin resistance and helps in enhancing insulin sensitivity in the body.

Nervous System: 

Plums contains vitamin B-6 which helps in the transmission of nerve signals and aids in smooth functioning of nervous system. Plums also help in normal growth of brain and assists in the formation of mood influencing hormones. Tryptophan, an amino acid present in plums helps in the production of neurotransmitter serotonin which plays an important role in the sleep, appetite and concentration.

Cardiovascular health:

 Consumption of plums helps in maintaining cardiovascular health. . Research has provided supportive evidence regarding the fact that regular intake of dried plums helps in promoting fluidity of blood in the arteries. This protective effect aids in the prevention of various cardiac disorders such as development of atherosclerosis and help maintain a healthy heart.

Immune system:  

Plums are beneficial in strengthening the immune defense of the body attributing to the presence of high vitamin C content. It promotes body’s resistance against various infections and inflammations. Research has shown that oriental plum has immunostimulatory constituents that encourages the production of nitric oxide in the body, impedes the feasibility of tumor cells and are valuable in preventing various diseases.

Cellular health:  

Plums contains essential iron and copper which assists in the formation of red blood cells and facilitates blood purification and healthy circulation. Copper in plums acts as an antioxidant and is essential for nerve health and aids in the formation of collagen. Consumption of copper-rich plums also helps in absorption of iron and prevents various diseases such as anemia and osteoarthritis.

Anxiety:  

Regular consumption of plums help in reducing anxiety. Studies have provided supportive evidence regarding the anxiolytic effects and antioxidant properties of chlorogenic acids present in plums which helps in curing anxiety-related behaviors and damage caused by oxidative stress.

Influenza:  

Japanese plum is effective against the infection caused by influenza A virus. Studies have shown that concentrated juice of Japanese plum contain lectin-like molecules which helps in inhibiting and treating the infectivity caused by human influenza A virus.

Pregnancy:  

Plum and plum products are beneficial during pregnancy attributing to the abundance of multiple vitamins and minerals. These healthful components are vital for the eye-sight, development of bones and tissues and cellular health for the mother and the growing baby. The fiber content aids in preventing constipation and improves digestion. Inclusion of plums as a part of balanced diet helps in fighting various infections and maintains overall health. One should be watchful regarding the choice of commercially available plum juices as they might contain high amounts of sugar.

Cancer:  

Plum extract has been proven beneficial in the treatment of cancer. Studies have shown that component epicatechin present in plums help in inhibiting the growth and proliferation of malignant cancer cells and induce apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma or liver cancer. Plums are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients such as chlorogenic acid and neo-chlorogenic acid which have a curative effect against breast cancer cells without harming the normal healthy cells of the body.

Electrolyte balance:

 Plums contain abundant quantities of potassium which is an electrolyte and is required for the efficient functioning of cells and tissues of the body. Consuming potassium-rich plums help in muscle contraction and regulate the acid-base balance of the body.

Skin care: 

Plums are rich in vitamin C along with other antioxidants which helps in maintaining healthy, radiant and youthful skin. Consumption of plums helps in reducing dark spots and wrinkles attributing to the presence of anti-aging nutrients. Plums extracts are used in various skin care products such as face wash and packs.

Macular degeneration:  

Plums contains vitamin A and beta-carotene which are beneficial in maintaining healthy eye sight and prevents age-related macular degeneration. The carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin present in plums reside in the macular tissues of retina and provides protection against the damage caused by UV radiations.

Blood clotting: 

Plums and prunes contain vitamin K which helps in normal clotting of blood and promotes bone health. Deficiency of vitamin K in the body can result in excessive blood loss and other health concerns such as weak bones.

Culinary usage:  

Plums are widely used in food items attributing to their sweet and tart flavor with a pleasant aroma. They can be relished fresh and can also be added to puddings, jams and jellies. Plum juice is used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages. Prune juice concentrate works deliciously well as a filling for candies and confectionary products and as a binding agent for cereal bars. Plum chutney or dip is famous in Indian cuisine and is served along with stuffed Indian bread. It is also relished as a condiment along with the meat delicacies. 

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Health Benefits of Spinach

 Benefits of Spinach

Spinach

Health benefits of spinach include good eyesight, blood pressure, strengthens muscles, prevention of age-related macula degeneration (AMD), cataract, atherosclerosis and heart attack, neurological benefits, bone mineralization, anti-ulcerative, anti-cancerous property, skin protection, foetus development, protein rich for infant’s proper growth etc. Spinach is a green vegetable that is cheap and affordable by all. It is a rich source of minerals, vitamins, pigments and phytonutrients. All these together make spinach very beneficial to a number of vital processes especially for our eyes, nervous system, cardiovascular disorders, skin, bones, anti-cancerous, foetus and infants. Keeping in view the vast range of benefits from the vegetable, it is advisable to consume spinach regularly.  

Nutritional value of spinach

The various health benefits of spinach are due to presence of minerals, vitamins, pigments and phytonutrient and minerals like minerals like potassium, manganese, zinc, magnesium, iron and calcium. Spinach is a green vegetable which is wide in distribution. It can be grown as a back yard crop or bought from market at affordable rates. It is a source of vitamins like folate, niacin, vitamin A, B6, C and traces of rest of the vitamins. Other important elements, including thiamine and riboflavin, that are used in various reactions in our body are also found in spinach. Spinach is rich in pigments like beta carotene, lutein and xanthene and chlorophyllin etc. The best part is that it has low fat content and less amount of fatty content. Spinach offers a wide range of benefits to most of our physiological processes, whether taken raw or cooked.

  Health benefits of spinach

Spinach has many important roles to play in maintaining a healthy body and various health benefits of spinach include:

Good Eyesight: 

Spinach is a rich source of beta carotene, lutein and xanthene, all of which are beneficial for eyesight. Beta carotene is supplied to the eyes by cooked spinach. It can prevent one from vitamin A deficiency disease, itching eyes, eye ulcers and dry eyes.  

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD):

AMD or Retinitis pigmentosa is responsible for causing blindness. It is due to the degeneration of lutein and xanthene which form central part of the retina. According to research conducted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, consumption of spinach can result in regaining of the two pigments and preventing AMD effectively.  

Maintains blood Pressure: 

Spinach has high content of potassium and low content of sodium. This composition of minerals is very beneficial for high blood pressure patients as potassium lowers and sodium raises the blood pressure. Folate present in spinach contributes in reducing hypertension and relaxes blood vessels, maintaining proper blood flow.  

Strengthens muscles: 

A component of spinach, factor C0-Q10 which is an anti-oxidant, plays important role in strengthening muscles especially heart muscle which continuously pumps blood to all parts of the body. As per the Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, C0-Q10 can be used to prevent and treat many cardiovascular diseases like hyperlipidemia, heart failure, hypertension and coronary heart diseases.

 Reduced risk of cataract: 

 Lutein and zeaxanthin present in spinach act as strong antioxidants thus preventing the eyes from harsh effects of UV rays that lead to cataract.

 Prevents atherosclerosis and strokes: 

Atherosclerosis is caused due to hardening of arteries. A pigment named lutein found in spinach has been shown to reduce the occurrence atherosclerosis, heart attack as well as stroke. This is due to the fact that spinach proteins tend to reduce the cholesterol and other fat deposits in the blood vessels.  

Neurological benefits: 

Several components of spinach like potassium, folate, and various antioxidants are known to provide neurological benefits. According to Neurology, folate which reduces due to occurrence of Alzheimer's disease can be revived by spinach.  

Bone mineralization: 

Spinach is a good source of Viatmin K, which functions in retaining calcium in the bone matrix thereby leading to bone mineralization. Apart from this, other minerals like manganese, copper, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus also help in building up of strong bones. This in turn can prevent an individual from osteoporosis of bones.  

Anti-ulcerative: 

 It has been found that spinach and some other vegetables have the ability to protect the mucous membrane of stomach thereby decreasing the occurrence of gastric ulcers.  

Anti-cancer properties:

 Spinach made up of various important constituents has been found to be promising in various kinds of cancer. These include bladder, prostate, liver and lung cancer. Different constituents in spinach like folate, tocopherol, chlorophyllin act via different mechanisms to treat and protect patients suffering from cancer.  

Skin protection: 

Different phytonutrients and pigments have been shown to protect the skin from harmful rays of sun including the UV rays. These not only protect but also repair the damaged genes to some extent thereby preventing skin cancer in long run.  

Foetus development: 

Folate found in spinach is needed by the growing foetus for proper development of new nervous system. Defects like cleft palate or spina bifida may occur due to deficiency of folate. Vitamin A offered by spinach is advised to be consumed in more quantities by the mother. Vitamin A is required in lung development of foetus as well as during breast feeding.  

Protein source for infant’s growth: 

‘Popeye’, the sailor man is known for his obsession for spinach. The cartoon was deliberately shown to eat spinach and get strong. Infants are advised to be fed with spinach which is a rich in protein, vitamins minerals and phytonutrients. These will result in proportionate development in there growing stages.

Source Link: www.organicfacts.net