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Gift of Nature "Amazing Health Benefit of Apricot"

Posted by csdferwEHRTJR Kamis, 16 Januari 2014 0 komentar

Apricot nutrition facts

Sweet, fragrant rich, golden-orange apricot fruits are another summer delicacy of Asian origin. These much-prized fruits were first brought to Europe by Greeks who called them as “golden eggs of the sun." Today, the most important commercially producing countries are Turkey, Iran, Italy, France, Spain, Syria, Greece, and China.

Botanically, the fruit is closely related to peaches and nectarine, sharing with them in the broader Rosaceae family of fruit trees in the genus, Prunus. Scientific name: Prunus armenia.

Apricot is a medium sized deciduous tree growing best in the well-drained mountainous slope soils. During the spring, the plant bears plenty of beautiful pinkish-white flowers, which attract bees. The fruits have almost uniform size, 4-5 cm in diameter, and weigh about 35 g. In structure; the fruit is a drupe, consist of a centrally located single seed surrounded by crunchy, aromatic edible flesh. The seed is enclosed in a hard stony shell, often called a "stone."

Fresh, ripe apricots have a sweet flavor similar to plums. Sun dried organic fruits have concentrated nutrient values than fresh ones, although they are lesser in vitamin-C content. Its seed is also edible and taste like that of almonds. Oil extracted from the seeds has been used in cooking.

Why Apricot is Healthy

Cancer: Apricots are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are proven to protect body from free radicals. Free radicals are produced in body due to pollution, UV rays and smoke. These free radicals interfere with the normal process of cell growth. It brings unusual changes in DNA of the cells. Due to this cancer cells are produced. American society states that food rich in Vitamin C helps to reduce risk of lungs, esophagus larynx. As apricots are rich in antioxidants it is effective to reduce the risk of many cancers.

Heart Health: In research it is found that people eating food rich in Vitamin C have less risk to heart disease. Apricot is good food to reduce to risk of cardiovascular disease. It reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) thus it reduce risk of heart attack and improves heart health.

Anemia: Apricot is a rich source of iron. It plays an important role in the formation of blood. Thus it improves blood flow and thus increases energy flow. If we do not get enough iron in our daily diet then, we are risk to get anemia. So food rich in iron proves beneficial to prevent anemia.

Improve digestion: Apricot is rich source of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber increase metabolism which improves digestion and prevents constipation problems.

Eye vision: Food rich in Vitamin A, C, E and carotenoids reduce risk of eye vision problem. It improves eye vision and also prevents macular degeneration. So apricot has proved to improve eye vision.

Skin: Apricot is rich source of antioxidants thus it improves skin health. Due to high antioxidant content it reduces risk of early ageing. It is also important as Vitamin A are used to acne and other skin problems.

Weight loss: Apricot is rich in dietary fiber and also it is low calorie fruit. So it proves beneficial to lose weight.

Asthma: Apricot is proved beneficial in treating asthma.

Bone: Apricot is rich in calcium which is important in formation and development of bone. So it is beneficial from any bone related problems.

Electrolyte: Apricot contains potassium and sodium which are required to maintain electrolyte level in balance. Electrolyte is important for transportation of ions to every cells of body. Also it maintains fluid level which is important for muscle contraction. So potassium and sodium plays important role in maintaining electrolyte level.

Preparation and Serving method

Wash fresh fruits gently in cold water and pat dry in soft cloth. Ripe ones can be eaten as a whole including skin to get the maximum benefits.

Sliced sections of the fruit can be a great addition to salads.

They are also used jam, marmalade, syrup, and jelly preparation.

Sun dried organic fruits can be used like raisins and currants in sweet/confectionary preparations.

Safety profile

Dried apricots are often treated with sulfites to extend their shelf life by preventing oxidation and bleaching of colors, as in the case of other dried fruits like figs. Sulfite treated bright orange-colored fruits can cause acute bronchospasm in sensitized people who are suffering from asthma episodes. Therefore, sulfite sensitive persons can instead safely use unsulfured dried fruits that have brown color.

Photo Gallery of Apricot:

http://wiki-fitness.com/apricot-health-benefits-nutrition-facts/

http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/apricot.html

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Gift of Nature "Amazing Health Benefit of Strawberrie"

Posted by csdferwEHRTJR Sabtu, 11 Januari 2014 0 komentar

Fragrantly sweet strawberries are the most popular type of berry fruit in the world. Although they have become increasingly available year-round, they are at the peak of their

season from April through July when they are the most delicious and most abundant.

While there are more than 600 varieties of strawberries that differ in flavor, size and texture, one can usually identify a strawberry by its red flesh that has small seedspiercing its surface, and a small, regal, green leafy cap and stem that adorn its crown.

Most commercially grown strawberries come from the genus-species Fragaria ananassa. Cultivation of this particular genus-species has been taking place for nearly 300 years. Much older still, however, are wild strawberries that typically below to the genus-species Fragaria vesca. Wild strawberries are known to have existed for more than 2,000 years. While

typically smaller in size than cultivated strawberries, wild strawberries often feature a

more intense flavor. In the U.S., commercial strawberry production is largely limited to the

coastal and southern inland regions of California and to the East Coast, where Florida

production becomes especially important during the winter months. Fragaria virginiana is a

popular genus-species of strawberry grown in the U.S. along side of the genus-species

Fragaria ananassa.

10 Health Benefits of Strawberries

1. Helps burn stored fat

The red coloring contains anthocyanins, which stimulate the burning of stored fat. When a

group of animals was fed a high-fat diet along with anthocyanins, they gained 24 percent

less weight than the animals eating the high-fat diet without added anthocyanins. (The

Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry)

2. Boost short term memory

The anthocyanins boost short term memory by 100 percent in eight weeks. (The Journal of

Agricultural and Food Chemistry)

3. Low in Calories – High in Fiber

One cup contains only 54 calories.

4. Ease Inflammation

Strawberries lower blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a signal of inflammation in the

body. In a study, women who ate 16 or more strawberries per week were 14 percent less likely

to have elevated levels of CRP. (Harvard School of Public Health.)

5. Lower cardiovascular disease

Flavonoids — which are responsible for the colour and flavour of strawberries — lower the

risk for heart disease.

6. Promote bone health

Strawberries contain potassium, vitamin K and magnesium which are important for bone health.

7. Prevent oesophageal cancer

Studies show freeze-dried strawberry powder may help prevent human oesophageal cancer.

8. Anti-aging properties

Strawberries are filled with biotin, which helps build strong hair and nails. They also

contain the antioxidant ellagic acid, which protects the elastic fibers in our skin to

prevent sagging.

9. Good for weight loss

The compound nitrate found promotes blood flow and oxygen in our body, which is great for

weight loss.

10. Promote eye health

Eating three or more servings of fruit like strawberries may lower the risk of macular

degeneration, a condition resulting in vision loss.

Strawberries, fresh 1.00 cup (144.00 grams) Calories: 46.08 GI: low

Nutrient% Daily Value

vitamin C 112.8%

manganese 28%

fiber 11.5%

folate 8.6%

iodine 8.6%

copper 7.7%

potassium 6.2%

biotin 5.2%

phosphorus 4.9%

magnesium 4.6%

vitamin B6 4.1%

tryptophan 3.8%

omega-3 fats 3.7%

Tips for Preparing and Cooking

Tips for Preparing Strawberries

Since they are very perishable, strawberries should not be washed until right before eating

or using in a recipe. Do not remove their caps and stems until after you have gently washed

the berries under cold running water and patted them dry. This will prevent them from

absorbing excess water, which can degrade strawberries' texture and flavor. To remove the

stems, caps and white hull, simply pinch these off with your fingers or use a paring knife.

Despite their perishable nature, strawberries do appear to hold up well for a day or two in

fruit salad if properly stored and chilled. This is good news for those of us who are

pressed for time but love fresh fruit salad. And who doesn't since it's a perfect addition

to any meal and makes a great snack or dessert?

Healthiest Way of Preparing Strawberries

Strawberries retain their maximum amount of nutrients and their maximum taste when they are

enjoyed fresh and not prepared in a cooked recipe. That is because their nutrients—including

vitamins, antioxidants, and enzymes—are unable to withstand the temperature (350°F/175°C)

used in baking.

How to Enjoy

A Few Quick Serving Ideas

Add sliced strawberries to mixed green salad.

Layer sliced strawberries, whole blueberries and plain yogurt in a wine glass to make a

parfait dessert.

Blend strawberries with a little bit of orange juice and use as a refreshing coulis

sauce.

Add strawberries to breakfast shakes to give them a more vibrant taste and texture.

Source:
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-super-health-benefits-of-strawberries.html
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=32#descr

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Gift of Nature "Amazing Health Benefits Of Pomegranate"

Posted by csdferwEHRTJR Jumat, 10 Januari 2014 0 komentar

Pomegranate is a thick skinned super seedy fruit, with a brilliant red hue which is now touted as a wonder fruit by scientific researchers. The name pomegranate derives from the French word “pomegranate” or seeded apple. They are believed to have originated in Iran and brought to Egypt in 1600

BC, where it was not only revered as an important food source but was also widely used for its medicinal value. It was held in high esteem even during those times, as is evident by their depiction in Egyptian paintings and tombs. Inspired by the abundance of jewel toned seeds within the bright red rind, pomegranate is considered to be a symbol of fertility and prosperity in some cultures.

Drinking pomegranate juice benefits our health and skin in a myriad of ways. It is one of the few fruits whose juice is as beneficial as the fruit itself. This is because the peel contains the maximum amount of antioxidants which are released in abundance when the fruit is squeezed while juicing. It is currently ranked alongside blue berries and green tea for its nutritional benefits.

Some people might find it a bit cumbersome to deal with the little seeds, which is why, extracting its juice is the best way to utilize the benefits of pomegranate juice. Drinking it,allows for a quick and easy assimilation of all the nutrients found in the bloodstream by the body. In comparison to other fruits, pomegranates contain the maximum amount of anti-oxidants. It contains approximately 3 times more antioxidants than green tea and oranges.

Nutrition Facts of Pomegranate

Pomegranates are often appreciated because they are filled with more antioxidants like punicalagin than other superfoods like acai berry juice or green tea.

Pomegranates are also high in vitamin C, with 100 ml containing 16 percent of a person’s daily requirement.

It also contains high amounts of vitamin K that helps to support bone health and vitamin B5 that helps the body metabolize, protein, carbohydrates and fats.

Pomegranates are filled with manganese which helps to form bone structures during the metabolic process and potassium that helps to maintain cellular functions and balance fluid levels.

The fruit is also high in phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, zinc and iron. There is very little fat in a pomegranate and it does not contain cholesterol.

The fruit only has 130-150 calories, with around 105 calories being derived from the seeds.

These seeds are high in calories because they contain unsaturated oils, sugar and carbohydrates but there is a great deal of fiber and some protein in these seeds as well.

Benefits of Pomegranate

1. Beauty Benefits

Regenerate Cells. Pomegranate protects the epidermis and dermis by encouraging skin cell regeneration, aiding in the repair of tissues, healing wounds and encouraging circulation to skin that is healing.

Protect from the Sun. Consuming pomegranate provides the skin with compounds that help to protect against free radical damage which can cause sun damage, cancer and sunburn. The oil of a pomegranate contains the antioxidant ellagic acid that can help to inhibit skin tumors to protect the body from skin cancer.

Slow Aging. Pomegranates can help to prevent hyperpigmentation, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles that are often caused by sun damage.

Produce Youthful Skin. Because pomegranates help to soften the skin and produce additional elastin and collagen it can make your skin look more firm, smooth and youthful.

Help with Dry Skin. Pomegranates are often added to skin care products because they have a molecular structure that can penetrate deep layers of most skin types to provide additional moisture.

Use for Oily or Combination Skin. Oily or combination skin types that are acne prone can use pomegranate to sooth these outbreaks and minimize burns or scarring that can occur during breakouts.

2. Health Benefits

Eliminate Free Radicals. The high levels of antioxidants like hydrolysable tannins or polyphenols in pomegranates help to minimize the effects of free radicals and remove free radicals from the body.

Protect Cardiovascular Health. Pomegranate juice can act as a blood thinner and helps to remove plaque from the arteries that will help to minimize the risk of atherosclerosis. Consuming pomegranate juice can help lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol to improve heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Fight Cancer. The antioxidants in pomegranates are effective in clearing away some types of cancer, including breast, prostate and skin cancers.

Improve Bone Quality. The enzyme inhibitors in pomegranate juice can help to prevent damage to the cartilage. It can also help to control cartilage degeneration to prevent osteoarthritis.

Boost Digestive Condition. Pomegranate juice helps to secrete enzymes with anti-bacterial properties that aid digestion and help to fight off hemorrhoids, nausea, dysentery, intestinal parasites, piles and diarrhea. You can also use pomegranate juice as a laxative to treat constipation.

Increase Appetite. Children that do not have a strong appetite can drink a glass of pomegranate juice to get an appetite stimulant.

Cure Anemia. The high amounts of iron in pomegranates will raise hemoglobin levels in your blood to help correct anemia.

Reduce Inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranates stems from its high vitamin C content that will help to manage asthma, sore throat, cough and wheezing.

Promote Blood Circulation. Pomegranates are often used to help relieve blood clots and can help to create a more youthful appearance.

Help Lose Weight. People are finding that pomegranates have a natural property that provides you with additional energy and cleanse the body, making it easier to lose weight.

3. More Benefits for Men

Decrease Risk of Impotency. Those that have a risk of prostate cancer, impotency or atherosclerosis can consume the pomegranate juice to reduce these risk. The high antioxidants will help to manage arteriosclerosis that can lead to impotency and increase your risk of prostate cancer.

Treat Prostate Cancer. Consuming pomegranates has been found to reduce prostate specific antigen in clinical trials. Research is ongoing to see if pomegranates can be used to treat people that already have localized prostate cancer. During these trials the juice was found to inhibit the growth of the cancer cells and lower its risk of metastasizing. The high phytochemicals in the juice seem to have a distinct effect on delaying and stabilizing the growth of PSA in men.

4. More Benefits for Women

Aid in Pregnancy. Pomegranate juice is high in niacin, folic acid, potassium, calcium, vitamin C, iron and fiber that help to maintain a pregnant woman’s health and encourage cell growth. Consuming pomegranate wine instead of alcoholic beverages helps to curb the craving for these hazardous materials while preventing the damage that often comes with consuming alcohol while pregnant. Consuming pomegranate juice during pregnancy has also been fund to reduce cramps and sleep difficulties that often appear during pregnancy. It has also been found to increase blood flow to the baby which reduce she risk of brain damage.

Inhibit Breast Cancer. Studies have found that the ellagitannins in pomegranate juice will prevent estrogen responsive breast cancer cells from growing. This phytochemical inhibits aromatase that is used to create estrogen, increasing your risk of breast cancer.

Photo Gallery of Pomegranate:

http://www.med-health.net/Benefits-Of-Pomegranate.html
http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/best-benefits-of-pomegranate-juice-for-skin-hair-and-health/

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