Category Archives: Diet and Fitness

Diet Tips to Lower Blood Pressure

By Amelia Smith
Comments are off for this post.
22 Apr
2019
Lower Blood Pressure

What you eat has a real effect on your overall health including blood pressure. Your eating pattern will decide your blood pressure levels. If you are dealing with high blood pressure or have hypertension, it is the right time to make healthy dietary changes. If you have been prescribed with blood pressure medicines, then a healthy diet can reduce the number you may need to manage appropriate blood pressure levels. For people with hypertension, following an eating pattern that supports healthy blood pressure may eventually help to avoid Bp tablets.

Benefits of Blood Pressure Friendly Eating Habits

People with high blood pressure are more likely to get heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Hypertension usually goes undiagnosed because people who have this condition typically show no symptoms and persistently high blood pressure can significantly increase the risk of heart attack. Now the question arises how to control blood pressure? The first line of defence against hypertension is to get your blood pressure checked regularly. You can take the help of your health care specialist to know about your condition. The condition can be easily reversed by following healthy lifestyle habits like healthy eating and regular physical activity. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure. Eating a healthy diet is crucial for not only managing blood pressure but also reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke and other potential threats.

Dietary Changes to Lower Blood Pressure

Research suggests that lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in your blood pressure. By following these steps, you can achieve a normal range of blood pressure.

  1. Maintain body weight- One of the most effective ways to reduce elevated blood pressure is to lose extra pounds. Shedding extra kilos doesn’t require major efforts to make a difference. Even losing a few extra pounds can significantly lower your blood pressure.
  2. Check the labels-A diet rich in sodium can contribute to high blood pressure. For individuals with hypertension, the recommended total amount of sodium is 1500 milligrams per day, and it will not take much sodium to reach the recommended levels than taking 3 to 4 teaspoons of salt. It is very difficult to reduce sodium intake with reading food labels while shopping for food items in a grocery shop. Eliminate high sodium foods from your diet by reading labels carefully. Beware of eating high sodium foods such as pizza, bread, rolls, poultry, sandwiches, soup, etc.
  3. Get enough exercise– It doesn’t take much physical workout to make a difference in your overall health. Thirty minutes of moderate to intense workout for five days help you manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attacks. Physical activities like dancing, cycling, and brisk walking can help maintain a healthy body. You can also go with weight lifting to help get rid of extra weight and stay fit.

Also Read: Sauna Lowers Your Blood Pressure

  1. Drink in moderation- Drinking too much alcohol can put you at increased risk of high blood pressure. So drink in moderation and if it is possible to stop drinking for your better well being.
  2. Practice stress management- When you are in stress, your body tends to release stress hormone called cortisol which tends to constrict blood vessels and can lead to temporary spikes high blood pressure. Also, stress gives rise to unhealthy habits like overeating, poor sleep, alcohol abuse and use of illicit drugs that put you at cardiovascular health risk. If you are stressed that reducing stress should be your priority if you are looking for ways to lower your blood pressure.
  3. Reduce the use of dairy products- Use of dairy products like milk, and yogurt has been linked to greater reductions in blood pressure. Reduce fat intake by reducing the use of milk, cheese, and yogurt in your diet and look for ways to include these food items as a nourishing snack. You can try reduced fat yogurt with wholegrain cereals, topped with berries and nut as a healthy recipe.
  4. Feast on nuts and seeds- Nuts and seeds are not only delicious but are nutritious as well. Nuts and seeds contain healthy unsaturated fats, essential vitamins, and minerals that are extremely healthy. A handful of unsalted nuts is linked to lower levels of blood pressure.

5 Diet Tips for Gut Health

By Amelia Smith
Comments are off for this post.
08 Apr
2019
Gut Health

By and large, the fitness and wellness of your body are related to your gut health. Whatever you eat and drink make a direct impact on your gut. There are two ways to improve your gut health; take gastric drugs or medications to improve a metabolic process or take home solutions that comprise the intake of green and healthy diets to healing the gastrointestinal problems.

Few tips to improve Gut Health: 

  1. Emphasize on food products to improve gut health:

The food and beverages products we take can play a vital role in improving gut health. In other words, the health and function of your gut are directly influenced by our food habit, so there is nothing as important as the edible items to take in a day. There are some very important elements or components that are helpful in elevating gut health.

  1. Help to develop good bacteria for a healthy gut environment:

There are numerous microbes that are actually bacteria causing disease or fermentation. Their presence is essential to create new microbiota to change the form of food we eat. These microbes are also responsible for gastrointestinal health, as they determine which bacteria thrive in your gut. The development of good gut bugs is needed to improve gut health. There are certain food products like plant-based foods, vegetables, beans, grain, and mineral water are helpful to create a healthy gut environment.

  1. Importance of probiotics and prebiotics:

There are two important compounds called Probiotics and Prebiotics; probiotics are beneficial for a healthy gut and prebiotics are food for these bacteria. Prebiotics refer to the foods needed to fertilize the existing gut bacteria and promote the development of microbes. Whatever we eat can directly influence the volume of both the compounds. By eating the right food products, you can increase the volume of probiotics and prebiotics. Fermented food and some food supplements promote probiotics. Similarly, prebiotics is found in certain food products, fruits, green vegetables, and whole grains.

  1. Take fiber- and vitamin-rich food products to improve gut health:

Research studies have found that we need about 40 grams of fiber a day to maintain a healthy gut. It is required to supply good bacteria. You have to take a balanced diet comprising a protein, vitamins, fatty acids and fiber to improve immune capacity and combat inflammation. A balanced diet is also necessary to reduce the intake of gastric drugs and other medication to suppress gastric reflux.

Also Read: Should You Ditch Diet Sodas

Important 5 Diet Tips for Healthy Gut:

People suffering from gastric reflux and gut problem are advised to follow some easy diet tips in order to improve gut health and increase metabolism. These tips include:

  • Fiber is one of the most important elements needed to improve gut health. For that, you should eat sufficient amount of seasonal fruit, vegetables, nuts, oats, pulses, and wholegrain. Such food items have plenty of fibers and do promote the development of healthy bacteria to improve gastrointestinal
  • Eat probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, soybean, buttermilk, cheese, coconut, apple cider vinegar, miso, etc. These food items encourage microbes to grow in order to improve gut health.
  • Avoid the heavy intake of antibiotics and hard gastric drugs that could kill good bacteria.
  • Try to stay away from the oily, fried, packaged and processed foods. Such products promote bad bacteria and suppress good bacteria so that you suffer from gastrointestinal problems more often.
  • Drink sufficient amount of water and nutritional beverages that can gradually improve gut health. Don’t let dehydration overpower your immune system and weaken your gut.

Foods that Help Lower Blood Sugar

By Max Jones
No Comments
24 Sep
2018
Foods that lower blood sugar

Can controlling diabetes and its associated health complications are as simple as making the right food choices? The answer is YES!

Certain foods are packed with essential nutrients that help to maintain blood sugar, protect you against diabetes-related heart complications, and even save your eyesight from the effects of this metabolic disorder. Check the food list below that can give you an extra edge against diabetes as well as related complications.

Importance of diet in Diabetes management

While medications like glycomet SR 500 mg or other anti-diabetic drugs, adequate sleep, and stress management can all play a significant role in diabetes treatment, experts say that diet is one of the most important factors to keep in mind while managing blood sugar level. It is believed that specific food choices can have a direct effect on your blood sugar levels. Diabetes occurs when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal. Foods containing carbohydrates like rice, cereals, pasta, milk, fruits, bread, and desserts can cause a rise in blood sugar. If you have diabetes then your eating plan should focus on the amount and the type of carbohydrates you include in your plate throughout the day. Look at some best foods for lowering blood sugars. Remember, they should never be used in place of diabetes medication, but rather alongside.

Food choices to lower blood sugar

  • Whole fruits- According to research studies, people who consume whole fruits, especially blueberries apples, and grapes have significantly reduced the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Researchers also reported that drinking fruit juice can increase the risk of diabetes.
  • Legumes- legumes such as kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, and cannelloni beans can be a great addition to your salad, soups or a variety of dishes. This low-calorie, high fiber, and high protein food help to reduce the risk of diabetes and associated health complication including heart disease.
  • Plain yogurt- Yogurt, especially non-Greek or plain yogurt is an excellent source of protein, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Greek yogurt is packed with nutrients that help to lower blood sugar levels as well as satiate appetite very quickly. The high-quality source can serve as an excellent source of protein in place of fatty meats or processed food items.
  • Almonds- They provide more protein than other types of nuts as well as more fiber and overall nutrition. Almonds are the excellent choice for lowering blood sugar levels. The small nuts are also packed with magnesium and potassium that help control blood glucose and blood pressure levels. They also offer a little iron, calcium, and zinc too. One ounce of almonds is equal to 22 nuts, and this could be a perfect serving size as snacks throughout the day. You can also add almonds to your salads, oatmeal, and even stir-fries.
  • Wild fish- Wild fish contains iron, vitamin B, lean protein, healthy fats along with minerals like potassium and magnesium. A fish can be a great choice to lower blood sugar levels because of the overall nutritional benefits. While purchasing, go for lean options like tilapia, salmon, tuna, halibut and avoid those are fried in oil and roasted with breadcrumbs. It is also very important to choose wild fish over a farmed one to avoid pollutants and pesticides. You can have fish in your lunch or dinner. If you like it to serve on your breakfast table, then it will be a great option to include in your omelettes or serve over greens.
  • Garlic- Garlic can do more than just adding a flavor to your favorite dish. Enriched with sulphur, garlic can be a great addition to a variety of dishes to help lower blood sugar. Furthermore, it is also helpful in lowering blood pressure and LDL cholesterol in people with diabetes.

Top Meatless Protein Powerhouses

By Max Jones
No Comments
20 Sep
2018
meatless protein

Protein is one of the powerful nutrients that our body requires to function. This key nutrient ensures a good development of muscles and building of the body’s stamina. When we think about the sources of protein, meat products come to our minds at the very first instance. Such products are known to supply a high amount of protein but what about those who don’t take non-vegetarian food products. They can turn towards some meatless items. Research studies have found that some vegetarian food items are there to cater the need of protein and you can make them a part of your regular diet.

Let’s see some of those meatless food products that contain a high amount of protein.

Peanuts:

Peanuts can be differentiated from other nuts because of the high content of protein. It’s one-ounce of serving supplies about 8 grams of protein. Peanuts are also abundant in other vitamins including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, choline, pantothenic acid, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E. In addition, there are various minerals available in peanuts that include magnesium, zinc, manganese, selenium, iron, copper, phosphorous, and potassium. So, you can eat food products made from peanuts to ensure you get the maximum amount of protein, minerals, and vitamins to take care of your body organs.

Soy Milk:

Soy milk is a fine natural source of protein that your body requires. Experts find it a perfect liquid that supplies both protein and calcium needed to make a healthy body. Soy milk is a non-dairy and meatless product that you can freely take with some added sugar. It is a healthy beverage choice fortified with vitamin D and calcium to become a good substitute for cow’s milk. Since soy milk is lactose-free, both children and adults can take it regularly to improve the metabolism.

Lentils:

Lentils are a natural source of nutritious components including minerals, protein, and fiber. Just half cup of green lentils provides about 12 grams of protein. There are a variety of lentils that you can take in a little amount to fulfill the requirement of protein, fiber, folate and manganese in your body. They are easy to prepare and one can access them at an affordable price.

Quinoa:

Quinoa seeds are super grain for supplying various nutrients including protein and iron. It is also a potential source of amino acids. About 8 grams of protein is provided by a cup of cooked quinoa. Also, it contains about twice as much fiber as most of the other natural grains. People suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes can take quinoa regularly to control such health conditions. It has everything to become a perfect replacement for protein-rich meat products.

Pumpkin Seeds:

Just a quarter cup of pumpkin seeds can supply up to eight grams of protein. In addition, it contains other nutrients including fats, iron, and omega-3 to improve the immunity of your body. You can take pumpkin seeds with different green vegetables or make its salad or even mix with oatmeal to make a healthy diet.

Oats and Oatmeal

Oats give you a delicious option to add protein to your diet. Only a cup of oatmeal can provide about 6 grams of protein. Some other nutritious elements of this super food include zinc, phosphorus, iron, folate, and magnesium. The high-quality protein present in oatmeal makes is a fine non-vegetarian food choice.

Nuts:

Nuts and seeds are a great source of protein as well as fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, B vitamins, and other useful minerals. They have a lot of antioxidants to improve metabolism and their plant components can make your body healthy and strong. You can take a variety of nuts at breakfast and lunch to ensure a good supply of protein to your body. Therefore, you need not take meat products to fulfill the requirement of protein.

5 Do-Anywhere Exercises That Can Really Help

By Max Jones
No Comments
08 Sep
2018
Do Anywhere Exercises

People who don’t believe in themselves generally look for the excuses. Some common excuses like – I’m living in a small room, working in night shift, do not have the proper equipment, or have no time for jogging – we probably hear from people who want to avoid the physical workout. Continue Reading

Signs of Potassium Deficiency

By Amelia Smith
No Comments
07 Jun
2017
Signs of Potassium Deficiency

The deficiency of potassium in the body can negatively affect muscles and nerves if left untreated. It can be cured by making simple lifestyle changes, in serious cases, the medical attention is required. Knowing the signs and symptoms of the condition can help you treat it earlier before it gets severe. Continue Reading

Best & Most Nutritious Foods in the World

By Amelia Smith
No Comments
12 Apr
2017
Best & Most Nutritious Foods in the World

Are you on the hunt for nutritious foods? Ever wondered about the best nutritious foods in the world that help to nourish your body? Now there is no need to look for them as we have compiled them in one place.

There is only a limited amount of nutritious foods you can eat in a single day. In order to increase nutrients, it is wise to prepare and spend your calorie budget smartly. One of the best ways to do that is to just consume the foods that carry the greatest amount and variety of nutrients.

Eat Smart

Making changes in your diet is the easiest thing you can do to manage your health. The food you eat on a daily basis should benefit your health in many ways from protecting against you from harmful bacteria to cancer-causing agents.

You should also avoid overweight, causing foods or low on energy foods. The most nutrient-dense foods are here. Let’s shed some light on the foods that are found to be the best nutritious foods:

Best & Most Nutritious Foods in the World

  1. Salmon

Salmon or other fatty types of fish contain the greatest amount of Omega-3s. Omega-3 fatty acids are extremely important for the optimal function of our body. They are linked to improved well-being and a lower risk of several chronic diseases. Studies prove that the people who eat big and fatty fish daily have a lower risk of heart disease, depression, dementia and a plethora of common diseases.

Salmon, the fatty fish is loaded with protein, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial fatty acids.

  1. Kale

Amongst all healthy leafy greens, kale is known as the king. It is loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and various bio-active compounds. Kale is one of the most nutrient dense vegetables that you can eat with large amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other cancer-fighting compounds.

  1. Seaweed

Seaweed is even more nutritious than vegetables from the land. It is particularly high in minerals like Magnesium, Calcium, Iron, and Manganese. It is also loaded with various bio-active compounds like phycocyanins and carotenoids. The vegetables from the sea are most highly nutritious, but very rarely consumed in Western parts of the world. Seaweed is particularly high in iodine, which is essential for optimal thyroid function.

  1. Garlic

Garlic is an amazing ingredient. It is high in vitamins C, B1 and B6, Copper, Calcium, Potassium, Manganese, and Selenium. It also contains various cancer-fighting properties. Studies state that the people who eat a lot of garlic have a lower risk of several common cancers. Garlic is both tasty and extremely healthy. It is highly nutritious and its bio-active compounds have best known for disease-fighting properties.

Also Read: Best Tips to Eliminate Digital Eyestrain

  1. Shellfish

Out of all the wonderful, nutritious organisms found in the sea, shellfish is the most nutritious of all. Commonly consumed types of shellfish include oysters, clams, and various others. Unfortunately, people rarely consume them, shellfish are among the most nutritious foods in existence. Shellfish are among the most nutritious food found in the sea. They are very high in nutrients like Vitamin B12 and Zinc.

  1. Potatoes

A single large potato contains lots of Iron, Copper, Potassium, Magnesium, and Manganese, with plenty of vitamin C and most of the B vitamins. Potatoes are really one of the world’s most perfect foods. Potatoes contain a little bit of almost every nutrient that we need in our balanced diet.

  1. Animal Liver

Humans have been eating animals for millions of years. Out of all the organs, the liver is by far known as the most nutritious. The liver is a remarkable organ with hundreds of functions related to metabolism. Eating liver once per week is the best way to ensure that you get optimal amounts of these important nutrients.

  1. Sardines

Sardines are small, oily fish, which includes skin, bones, organs, brains, and everything. Organs are the best nutritious parts of an animal body; in fact, it is not wrong to say that the whole sardines are incredibly nutritious. They contain a little bit of almost every nutrient that our body needs.

  1. Blueberries

When we talk about the nutritional value of fruits, blueberries are in a league of their own. They are loaded with powerful antioxidant substances, like anthocyanins and various phytochemicals. Blueberries are very nutritious compared to other most fruits and are loaded with powerful antioxidants.

  1. Egg Yolks

Egg yolks are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and various powerful nutrients. They are high in Lutein and Zeaxanthin, antioxidants that protect your eyes and reduce the risk of eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration. Eggs are also loaded with choline, a brain nutrient that nearly 90% of people are not getting enough of.

Also Read: Sex on the skin, helping in acne reduction

Eating a balanced diet is a key to good health. The right food choice and healthy lifestyle habits can keep you in great shape and encourage longevity. It is said that the best place to start a healthy life is with a healthy diet. Since it is believed we are what we eat, it is important to eat a balanced diet full of essential vitamins and nutrients. These delicious and the best nutritious foods will also accompany your weight loss journey.