Healthy Foods

Health Benefits of Dates

It is probably impossible to discuss all the health benefits of dates in this article. However, I tried to gather all the information that I can and summarize them.

Dates are fruits that come from date palm. This can be consumed in its fresh form; it can also be dried and processed as an ingredient to different pastries. This fruit is abundant in the Middle East and some parts of Africa. Aside from having a nice taste, dates have also many health benefits.

Here are some of the health benefits of dates:

Rich in fiber

If you’re suffering from constipation, you should definitely eat dates. This fruit is one of the richest sources of fiber you’ll find anywhere in the world. It’s so rich in fiber that it’s sometimes called a “laxative fruit”. It also contains essential amino acids.

Good for the cardiovascular and nervous systems

One of the best but probably lesser known health benefits of dates is the fact that it has a high potassium content. This means that it can keep your heart healthy. Aside from that, it also has a low sodium content which makes it friendly for your arteries. It’s a recommended fruit to eat for people with high blood pressure.

Good for anemia

If you’re trying to battle anemia, you would be glad to know that one of the health benefits of dates is its high iron content. You might not be able to tell this at first because the fruit is so sweet, but it’s a good source of iron and it doesn’t taste bad. Usually, fruits and vegetables which are rich in iron don’t taste so good. For example, the bitter gourd lives up to its name because it’s bitter. Dates are sweet but they can provide just as much iron.

Good for gaining weight

While dates are definitely not known as slimming agents, they’re good for people who want to gain weight. This is because of the high sugar content in the fruit. The sugars are natural, though, so there’s no reason for healthy individuals to worry about their sugar intake when they eat dates as long as they eat the fruit moderately. They’re good fruits to eat if you need an energy boost. Weight gain and energy boosting properties are only some of the greatest health benefits of dates.

Highly nutritious

Aside from fibers and sugars, dates are also rich sources of iron, potassium, Vitamin A1, B1, B2, B3, B5 and Vitamin C. Eating this fruit is like munching on a dessert that’s filled with nutrients. These nutrients can help your body have a stronger immune system.

Can cure abdominal cancer

According to a traditional medicine, dates help cure abdominal cancer. This could be due to a number of reasons, including the acid neutralizing properties of the fruit. Of course, there’s no scientific proof of this claim, yet, although the fruit could provide some form for relief to people with highly acidic stomachs.

You still need to consult your physician first if you’re thinking of using dates as a natural remedy for any abdominal ailment. It has no known side effects, which is good for those who love the taste of dates and would gladly eat it with or without its health benefits. However, you should just watch out for the high sugar content because even naturally occurring sugars could be bad for you if you are diabetic.

Health Benefits of Carrots

Carrots are essential in various recipes not just because of the color that it adds to the dish but also because of the positive health effects that it could bring. If you have been skipping on this vegetable, you might want to change your mind immediately. That is, if you do not want to miss out on all the health benefits of carrots.

Rest assured, whether you prefer to enjoy this vegetable raw or cooked, you would still be able to enjoy the health improvements that it could bring. It has to be noted though that if you truly want to maximize the amount of nutrients that you can get from it, it is best to eat it in its raw state. That is because, heat that is brought about by cooking may destroy some of the vitamins and minerals that it has.

Here are some Health Benefits of Carrots:

Promotes Excellent Eye Health

Do not be misled that eating tons of carrots will reverse any eye problem that you already have. While this is not true, the important thing is that carrots help out in preventing further damage to your sight. This vegetable has high amount of beta-carotene. Once this has been processed by the liver, it then becomes Vitamin A. The main reason why Vitamin A is known for eye health is because it lessens the destruction of cells and prevents various eye ailments like macular degeneration, cataracts and even simpler problems like dryness of eyes.

Promotes a Healthier Heart

One of the most important health benefits of carrots is that it prevents stroke and other cardiovascular problems. This vegetable contains a component called falcarinol which also comes with other phytonutrients. When these are combined, there will be less tendency for inflammation. Aside from that, the red blood cells would not become clumped and end up blocking the blood vessels.

Aids in Detoxification

Carrots have high amount of fiber. That is why, when this is eaten regularly, the fiber works like an automatic means of getting rid of toxins. Carrot also triggers the liver to secrete bile and this is essential in detoxification. People who regularly eat this vegetable would no longer need to exert a lot of effort just to cleanse their system.

Prevents Cancer

Aside from helping out the heart in doing its job well, the falcarinol also plays an integral role when it comes to cancer prevention. This is also referred to as a “pesticide”, but there is no need to fear because of all pesticides, this one is the most beneficial for your health. Aside from ensuring that carrot roots would not be conducive for fungus, this also prevents cancer cells from developing. It is effective in fighting breast, colon and lung cancer.

Nourishes the skin

The real secret in looking young is to enjoy eating carrots. One of the more popular health benefits of carrots is that it nourishes the skin and keeps it blemish-free. All thanks to the high amount of beta-carotene that it has. Aside from rejuvenating the skin, this also prevents fine lines and wrinkles from showing.

Watermelon Health Benefits

Watermelon is an all-time favorite fruit for people of all ages. Its juicy meat is a refreshing snack or dessert. This can also be made into a thirst-quenching juice which can really calm the senses. Though watermelon may be strongly associated with summer months, the good news is that these days, it can already be found in the market all year round. It means that there should be nothing that could stop your from enjoying the watermelon health benefits any time of the year.

Whether you want to devour on several slices of this fruit or enjoy a perfectly blended smoothie, it is best if you know what health benefits each serving could bring you.

Helps in Fighting Diseases

One of the main reasons why there are far too many watermelon health benefits is because it is a fruit that stores a lot of antioxidants. This is essential in ensuring that the body is naturally capable of combating free radicals which are the primary reason for an almost endless list of health problems. All thanks to the antioxidants in watermelon, it is easier to fight cancer and heart diseases.

Strengthens the Immune System

Who says that only citrus fruits can contribute in satisfying the RDA for Vitamin C? Watermelon also has a lot of Vitamin C. In fact, one serving of it can already satisfy for 25% of adult’s RDA for Vitamin C. This vitamin allows the immune system to build a stronger defense, especially against viruses.

Boosts Energy

If you find yourself dosing on several cups of coffee every single day just to keep your senses up, you might want to kick that habit right away. Watermelon may not have caffeine but the B vitamins that it has can work positively on energy levels. The thiamin or Vitamin B1 content of watermelon is the key in utilizing food as a source of energy. This fruit also has Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine which allows the body to break down glycogen more efficiently. Glycogen is the primary source of fuel for the body especially during the hours in between meals. It is the body’s storage house for fuel.

Prevents Rapid Cell Damage

As you go ahead with your day to day activities, some of your cells may become damaged. The key in slowing down the cell deterioration is to pump up your intake of lycopene. A lot of people think that only tomatoes can provide enough lycopene. Interestingly, watermelon has 40% more lycopene compared to tomatoes. This will not only prevent cell damage but will also help the tissues to repair itself. Aside from beautiful, glowing skin, you will also be able to avoid some more serious health problems.

Helps Avoid Heart Diseases

Though there are many factors which lead to having a stroke, the amount of potassium in watermelon can help in prevention of this problem. Potassium allows the heart to have a more regular beat. Hence, it is included among the watermelon health benefits that it also aids in ensuring proper blood circulation. If the heart works fine and blood supply all over the body is sufficient, it is easier to prevent stroke.

Broccoli Health Benefits

Broccoli may not be the most enticing vegetable, which proves the saying that, “You should not judge a book by its cover”. It may not be aesthetically appealing but knowing the broccoli health benefits will have you smitten in no time.

Perfect Diet Food

Dieting and losing weight is not exactly the easiest thing to do but things are bound to get easier if you will feast on broccoli everyday. Broccoli has high amount of fiber so by eating a small portion, you would already feel like you have indulged on your meal. Aside from that, broccoli also has high level of protein. This will help you build leaner and stronger muscles and in effect, you can lose more body fat too. So once you start to lose weight, you do not have to worry that you would easily gain it back.

Defense Against Cancer

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If other types of fruits and vegetables only have one to two components which will help in fighting cancer, this vegetable has a lot. That is why, the broccoli health benefits when it comes to preventing cancer should not be underestimated. The glucoraphanin in broccoli is converted to sulforaphane which works like a natural anti-cancer compound. It also has indole-3-carbinol which is not only a potent antioxidant but also and effective anti-carcinogen. Broccoli may not have strong impact when it comes to hindering the progression of existing cancer but this has proven efficiency when it comes to preventing cancer cells from forming.

Prevention of Osteoporosis

One of the major broccoli health benefits is avoidance of osteoporosis because this has remarkable amount of calcium and Vitamin K. Calcium is the primary building block of bones. It prevents brittleness and maintains proper bone density. Problem is, without Vitamin K, calcium would not be properly absorbed either. That is why, broccoli is ahead of all other types of food when it comes to hindering osteoporosis from striking. It provides the perfect tandem of Calcium and Vitamin K.

Lowering Frequency of Allergy Attack

A lot of people do not realize that one of the broccoli health benefits is its ability to prevent allergic reactions. Broccoli has the component called kaempferol which prevents allergies from being triggered. Since asthma is also a form of allergy, this vegetable will also benefit those who are suffering from this ailment.

Reduces Arthritis Pain

Instead of shoving in too many Ibuprofens in your mouth if arthritis begins to strike again, it is better to just increase your daily intake of broccoli. The isothiocyanates is a phytonutrient that negates inflammation. When inflammation is not so bad then it also means that pain would not be so horrible either.

Detoxification

Aside from the fact that broccoli has high amount of fiber, it also contains glucoraphanin, gluconasturtiin and glucobrassicin. These three are essential for the body to be naturally capable of cleansing itself. With the presence of these phytonutrients, elimination of toxins would occur more regularly. Hence, it is easier to prevent build up of toxins which could eventually trigger a myriad of health problems.

Health Benefits of Apples

Have you heard about the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”? If you have, then you better start believing it. With all the health benefits of apples, you surely would not have to visit your doctor for a very very long time.

Weight Loss

Dieticians have proven that people who snack on apples are able to lose weight much faster than those who skip this fruit. Apple has high level of fiber, especially if it is eaten along with the skin. Fiber plus its water weight can easily make you feel full. This is the perfect snack for those who want to lose weight because it prevents them from eating unhealthy food in between meals.

Alternative to Caffeine

Coffee is not the only solution to keep yourself awake and active during the day. Apples have the same effect as caffeine and it also heightens the ability to concentrate. It is actually a better option because it allows the body to release energy gradually, making you more alert for a longer period of time. Best of all, this does not have the same harmful effects of drinking too much coffee.

Removes Teeth Stains

For smokers and people who are fond of colored beverages, munching on apples would be the easiest way to remove teeth stains. The enzymes in apples react to the stains on teeth surface. If the apple is eaten with the skin, this will also rub and remove the teeth stains. This is far better than any other toothpaste and mouthwash because it would not strip off the enamel of the teeth.

Prevents Colon Cancer

The high amount of fiber plus the pectin in apples contribute in preventing colon cancer. This does not only eliminate toxins but also protects lining so that cancer cells would not start to form.

Hinders Development and Progression of Lung Cancer

Smokers and those who have a family history of lung cancer should eat more apples. One of the health benefits of apples is that it strengthens the respiratory system. The flavonoids in this fruit such as quercetin and naringin work against lung cancer.

Regulates Cholesterol Level

Fluctuating cholesterol level is caused by different factors. However, one of the primary reasons why cholesterol may rise is because there are too many LDL in the body. Studies have shown that eating apples will reduce LDL by at least 16 percent. Aside from that, it will also add more good cholesterol in the body. So, maintaining ideal cholesterol level would no longer be such a difficult task.

Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease is caused by gradual degeneration of the brain cells and weakening of the neurons. Eating at least 1-2 apples per day will prevent the destruction of cells. Hence, even if you grow older the neurotransmitters of your brain would still be in good condition.

There are various ways on how you can enjoy the health benefits of apples. Some prefer to eat it as a snack while others include it in their salad and other dishes. Another great option is to concoct a smoothie which will resolve both hunger and thirst.

Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera may seem like a plain and dreary plant but it is surprising to know that the boring façade is merely a disguise for its incredible potency. This plant may have originated from the northern part of Africa but its popularity has definitely reached all corners of the world.

Are you wondering why everyone is going crazy over aloe vera? Learn more about the health benefits of aloe vera and you will surely find yourself fumbling to get your hands on this.

Soft and Smooth Skin

It is not surprising that many beauty products these days like shampoo, conditioner, lotion and even make-up use aloe vera as the main ingredient. The extracts of the leaves act as a humectants that hydrates the skin. Aloe vera is the key in nourishing the cells by allowing water to bind with the skin cells so that dryness and fine lines may be avoided.

Quick and Effective Remedy for Skin Ailments

Even some more serious skin problems can be solved by aloe vera. The anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties of the aloe vera extract are an excellent tonic for athlete’s foot, infections and other types of skin irritation. More importantly, this has anti-inflammatory components which help in curing wounds and scrapes. Topical use of the aloe vera extract is also recommended for scars because it gently smoothens the skin.

Lowering Free Radicals

There is no way that you can completely eliminate free radicals in your body. Sadly, these can result to a myriad of diseases, from hypertension to cancer. The good news is that drinking aloe vera juice can help you in lowering the level of free radicals because of the high amount of antioxidant that it contains. It also promotes cell regeneration which will enable you to avoid health risks.

Healthy Digestive System

The health benefits of aloe vera for the digestive system are the reason why a lot of people are going crazy over the aloe juice. If you find yourself often troubled by constipation, this will help you in regulating digestive functions so you would be relieved from the discomfort. Aside from that, its anti-bacterial properties can quickly cure stomach problems too. It also works like wonder when it comes to flushing out toxins inside the body for better detoxification.

Good source of Vitamins and Minerals

The aloe vera juice is a wonder drink because of all the nutrients that it has. Moderate and regular intake of the juice will reload the essential amino acids that are needed by the body. Among the minerals which can be obtained from the juice include iron, calcium, zinc, potassium, sodium and copper. It also has whopping amount of vitamins like, Niacin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12, Vitamin A and Vitamin E.

There are various ways on how to enjoy the wonderful health benefits of aloe vera. Some simply cut the sebaceous leaves and apply the gel directly on the skin. Others extract the liquid from the leaves to create juice. There are also commercially-produced drinks, topical ointment and beauty products which primarily use aloe vera as an ingredient. The important thing to remember when using this wonder plant as a remedy is to make sure that proper directions are followed, especially if it is taken orally.

Health Benefits of Spinach

Have you seen how Popeye the Sailorman became stronger the moment he finishes his spinach? Okay, maybe your biceps would not grow insanely big right away and your strength would not automatically intensify but it does not change the fact that there are far too many health benefits of spinach.

Popeye is actually a metaphor of what spinach can do to your health. Because of all the vitamins and minerals that it contains, it surely contributes in enhancing your overall health.

Muscle Development

Proteins are essential when it comes to building stronger and leaner muscles. Some people easily assume that high amount of protein can only be obtained from meat. That is not true! Spinach contains high level of protein too. In fact, one cup of spinach is equivalent to 5 grams of protein.

Stronger Bones

Yes, calcium is crucial when it comes to keeping your bones in tip-top condition. However, even if you ingest high amount of calcium everyday, if there is not enough Vitamin K, then you would not be able to absorb calcium either. It will simply be flushed out of your body. Eating spinach increases the amount of Vitamin K in your body. Hence, your bones will not become brittle even as you grow older.

Maintains Good Eye Health

As you use your eyes every single day, the cells become damaged one by one too. This results to having various eye ailments in the future such as cataract and macular degeneration. To avoid such problems, you have to ensure that you are getting enough carotenoids. Good thing is that spinach is rich in carotenoids too.

Clear Skin

Whether you are troubled by acne or other more serious skin ailments like psoriasis or eczema, eating a lot of spinach would help you out in improving your skin health. The combination of Vitamins A, C, E and K will make it easier for skin cells to repair damage. Because of that, the epidermis or the outermost layer of the skin will become smoother and clearer. Even the scars would eventually fade.

Great for Losing Weight

Yes, losing weight is not exactly the easiest thing to do. The main reason why a lot of people quit their diet program even before they start to lose the first pound is because they could not bare the starvation. If you want to lose weight without enduring hunger, binging on spinach is a smart technique to do. This has surprising level of fiber. Hence, eating it would make you feel full. Best of all, you do not have to worry about fat or calories.

Alleviates Arthritis Pain

It is widely known that one of the health benefits of spinach is how it soothes the pain that arthritis could bring. If you have arthritis, then you are familiar with the recurring pain that is brought by inflammation. The neoxanthin and violaxanthin that this has will hinder inflammation. Apart from that, this also has low amount of sodium so you do not have to worry that arthritis may only become more severe.

Health Benefits of Celery

Celery is a popular snack especially for people who are trying to lose weight. It is actually being labeled not just as “no calorie food” but also as “negative-calorie food”. But do you know that the health benefits of celery do not end there yet? Aside from helping people lose weight, there are far too many other benefits that this can do for your health.

Detoxification

One mistake that other people commit when trying to detoxify is to drink dietary supplements which claim to aid in flushing out toxins. Yes, these may help but if there are natural ways of cleansing, there is no need to go for artificial options. Snacking on celery is the easiest way to obtain enough fiber which will aid in digestion. When there is less toxins inside the body, it would be easier for you to avoid a whole lot of health concerns too.

Appetite Suppressant

Another reason why celery is a popular choice for people who are dieting is because it has the ability to suppress appetite. It will help you out in controlling your urge to binge during meals or even indulge on sweets and high-carb food.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory

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This is recommended not just for people who are suffering from arthritis but also to those who workout or undergo strenuous physical activities like athletes. Inflammation is a part of the body’s natural healing process. Problem is, this could also lead to so much pain and discomfort. To prevent inflammation and the ache that comes with it, eating celery on a daily basis will help a lot.

Keeps Bladder and Kidneys Healthy

For people who are prone to having kidney and bladder problems, celery juice is the best preventive measure. Drinking at least 1-2 glasses of celery juice has been proven to be potent in preventing kidney stones from forming again.

Relaxant

More traditional medicine in countries like Japan and China use celery for aromatherapy. This is known to have calming and soothing effect which could free the mind from anxiety and stress. For Ayurveda, this is being used not just to calm down the mind but also to relax tensed muscles.

Diuretic

Even during the medieval times, it has been known that one of the health benefits of celery is its diuretic properties. For pregnant women and those who need to flush out excessive amount of fluid in their body, eating this is a regulated and safe option. Eating celery will increase the frequency of urinating. So, it is perfect for people who have edema. Those who are suffering from bacterial infection will also benefit from eating lots of celery.

Regulates Blood Pressure

It is impressive that in the list of health benefits of celery, it is also included that this can prevent rising blood pressure. The main component that is responsible for this effect is the pthalides. It allows the muscles close to the arteries to relax. Because of that, there is better blood circulation which prevents rising blood pressure. The vessels will be properly dilated too.

Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

For a time, coconut has even been tagged as a “wonder fruit” because of the many good things it can give to the body. You might have heard some of these before, and you might have raised your eyebrows because you don’t believe it possible. However, the benefits listed below have been proven, and they’re very good reasons to keep a bottle of coconut oil in your kitchen cabinet.

To name a few, here are some of the health benefits of coconut oil:

Aids in weight loss

One of the most known health benefits of coconut oil is the fact that it can aid in weight loss. According to studies, coconut oil has unique fats called medium-chain triglycerides which are burned by the body differently. You may use coconut oil in place of your usual cooking oil, or mix in coconut oil to salads as vinaigrette.

Raises good cholesterol

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Have you ever heard of HDL and LDL? There are two types of cholesterol in our body. There’s the good kind, and there’s the bad kind. HDL is the good kind, and one of the health benefits of coconut oil is that it helps to raise the levels of good cholesterol which means that regular intake of coconut oil makes your heart healthier. If you use other cooking oils, your bad cholesterol levels could get higher instead of your good cholesterol levels, so choose what you consume wisely.

Strengthens your immune system

Are you sickly, lately? There’s good news because one of the more popular health benefits of coconut oil is its ability to boost your immune system. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, and antimicrobial lipids. In other words, it has properties which can help ward off harmful bacteria and viral infections from your body. You won’t have to worry about the common cold or even influenza if you have regular coconut oil intake.

Aids in mineral absorption

A lot of things can affect the way your body absorbs minerals, and a lack of minerals can mean weakening of the bones aside from other organs of your body. One of the most popular health benefits of coconut oil is the fact that it can aid in mineral absorption. This means that you’ll be much healthier with the help of coconut oil intake. Don’t miss out on nutrients just because you didn’t choose the right oil for cooking.

Helps control blood sugar levels

Are you a diabetic? If you are, then you can enjoy one of the best health benefits of this natural oil. Coconut oil can help with the healthy secretion of insulin. Most diabetics are unable to live normally because their blood sugar levels are simply out of control. With regular intake of coconut oil, blood sugar levels can be managed easier.

Good for the skin and hair

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer for the skin and hair. Products containing coconut oil have been marketed to keep one’s skin and hair healthier. In fact, women in Asia have always prided themselves for having long lustrous hair because they apply coconut oil to condition their scalps before sleeping. It’s a cheap and healthier alternative to chemical hair treatments.

Precaution

Although there are many benefits that we can derive from Coconut oil, it is also important to use it in moderation. It can be a better alternative to hydrogenated vegetable oil, but it still has unsaturated fat content that can affect our health.

Chia Seeds Health Benefits

Chia seeds are listed as one of the world’s best power foods. It’s a pity, though, that very few know what these seeds are. Chia is actually a plant which belongs to the mint family and it’s easily available in Mexico. The seeds can be eaten raw or ground and mixed in with several food products. What’s very interesting, though, are the many chia seeds health benefits.

Helps you lose weight

Have you ever wondered how celebrities just seem to lose weight without spending too much time in the gym? Rumors have it that most of them have already included chia seeds in their diets. One of the best chia seeds health benefits is that it helps you lose weight. These seeds are very nutritious and when you eat them regularly, you can feel full for hours. Best of all, chia seeds are practically tasteless, so you can mix in spices or fruits with them and they’ll taste delicious.

Stabilize sugar levels

Diabetics and dieters alike suffer from instability in their sugar levels. Thankfully, one of the most popular chia seeds health benefits is that it can help stabilize one’s blood sugar levels. This means that food products with chia seeds naturally make for great desserts. You might also want to try a muesli bar with these seeds to help you through a workout session.

Helps with your digestion

People eat a lot of processed food products, and it is this processing that makes regular bowel movements a lot harder to attain. One of the best chia seeds health benefits which anyone would be able to appreciate is its ability to aid with your digestion. You don’t have to worry about not being able to move your bowels again because you lack natural insoluble fibers. Chia seeds can give this to you.

Good for the heart

Another chia seeds health benefits its being friendly to the heart because of its Omega 3 content. These fatty acids are good for the heart and could significantly lower your cholesterol. If you fear that you have too much bad fat in your diet, it might be time to balance this off with the good fats present in chia seeds.

Defy aging

Chia seeds are also known to have antioxidants. Oxidants in the body caused by stress and bad eating habits can cause the body to age prematurely. Since chia seeds are filled with anti-oxidants, it has the opposite effect. People who include chia seeds in their diets don’t just look years younger than they really are, but years younger and more vibrant than they did before they started eating chia seeds.

Cut off food cravings

Chia seeds are also filled with protein and other nutrients. Did you know that food cravings are caused by malnutrition? This can easily happen when you don’t healthy, balanced meals. Because chia seeds can pack up a punch, it can help you curb your food cravings. This is also why it’s such an effective power food for those who are trying to lose weight, and those who are trying to live a healthier lifestyle.