10 Health Benefits of Scallions Onion

Health Benefits of Scallions Onion not many people knows, since they maybe use this vegetables just for seasoning. Do you what the scallion is? So, scallion is one of the types of onion which commonly formed as the leafy green that indicate the young immature plants which is harvested early before the plant grows bigger. Scallions commonly have the less flavor compared with onions and thus, it will be very beneficial to boost the taste of the dishes that you’re cooking. As you already expect, the scallions are full of benefits for human because they contain a lot of nutrients, which you can find in the following list.

1. Excellent for the health of the eyes – probably one of the biggest benefits of the scallion is this one. This is a type of onion that has a significant amount of Vitamin A in it. This is found to be very essential for the retina to absorb more light and with this, preventing you from developing night blindness and sharpen your vision. Also, the Vitamin A found in the scallions can prevent several eye disorders such as caratacts and ulcers of the cornea. If you are consuming the scallions, your daily Vitamin A requirement will definitely be satisfied.

2. Is able to boost your immune system – the scallion has turned out to be excellent for improving your overall immune system. According to the opinion of many health experts, this particular kind of onion contains a great amount of phytochemicals in it, which are all essential to improving the strength of your immune system, especially the flavonoids such as quercetin and anthocyanin. Actually, according to a study which has been published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, all of these compounds have been proven to prevent cancer too.

3. Provides you with a healthy heart – besides the fact that the scallion is able to protect you from cancer, this is the type of onion that has proven to be beneficial for the health of your heart too. As we have already mentioned, this is a food that is filled with Vitamin A. But not only that, because the scallion is also filled with Vitamin C too. These are the two vitamins which are known for their antioxidant properties. They are proven to be beneficial for the health of your cellular tissue as well as the DNA because they are able to fight against the free radicals. Other than that, the Vitamin C in the scallions is able to reduce the blood pressure, thus reducing your risk of a heart disease.

4. Will improve the strength of your bones – you can provide your bones with the strength they need with something more than the milk and the dairy products, and it is the scallion. It contains a big amount of Vitamin C and Vitamin K, which are all essential for improving the density of the bone. You can find 20 micrograms of Vitamin K and 1.6 milligrams of Vitamin C in only 12 grams of scallion. These two vitamins are quite beneficial in supporting the development and growth of the bones. And because of it, you will be less likely to develop any diseases connected with the bones such as osteoporosis or arthritis.

5. Excellent for the blood vessels – it does not come as a surprise that the scallions are quite beneficial for the health of the blood vessels because this particular kind of onion is excellent for maintaining the health of your heart too. There is a compound in the scallion called allicin, which is excellent for the relief of the stiffness within the blood vessels mostly because it is also able to release nitric oxide. Other than that, the allicin is excellent if you want to prevent any blood clots, which will definitely protect you from cardiovascular issues such as coronary heart disease and prevent any strokes from ever happening.

6. Aid the diabetic people – this is excellent news, especially for people who are already dealing with diabetes, because the scallion has proven to be helpful in dealing with it. According to several health experts, the scallion contains a big amount of sulphur, which is excellent in lowering the blood sugar levels within the body. And not only that, the sulphur which is found in the scallions is excellent for controlling the sensitivity of insulin and increases the level of insulin in the body. This is why there is no doubt that the scallion is great for consumption with people who have already been diagnosed, or simply want to avoid diabetes.

7. Provides you with respiratory health – another health benefit that you can reap from the scallion is excellent respiratory health. According to plenty of health experts, the consumption of scallion as proven to be beneficial in maintaining the health of your overall respiratory system. This is all because the scallion contains antiviral properties, as well as antibacterial properties, which will, without any doubt, treat any infection that may attack your respiratory system, commonly caused by a bacteria or a virus. And, because of this, you will be able to protect yourself from the common cold or the flu.

8. Gives you an excellent digestive health – the callions are proven to be very good in improving the overall function of the digestive system. This type of onion will improve your digestive health it is great for your gut and will protect you from diarrhea. As we have already mentioned it above, the scallions contain antibacterial and antiviral properties, which act good when it is time to kill off the bad bacteria that is the common cause of diarrhea. Other than that, the scallions are also filled with Vitamin C, a compound which will improve the absorption of nutrients and help the overall digestion of the food, which will prevent any watery stools or constipation.

9. Your skin will be healthy too – the scallions will improve the health of your skin all thanks to one particular compound called allicin. This compound which is found in the scallions will provide protection to your skin from the signs of early aging and wrinkles. In addition to that, the allicin will also make your skin glow as well as increase its tone. The Vitamin C which is contained in the scallion is also proven to be very beneficial as its bleaching agents provide your skin with a natural glow. Naturally, the Vitamin C will fight against the damage of the free radicals, thus providing you with a healthy looking skin.

10. Relieve you from inflammation – the absolute best way to treat inflammation is with the help of the scallion. It contains aquercetin, an antioxidant that is filled with anti-inflammatory properties as well as antihistamine properties too. Because of these two compounds you will be less likely to suffer from any kind of inflammation in the body. The sulphur found in the scallions has anti-inflammatory properties too, and the Vitamin C is perfect for creating a defense in the body from the damage that the free radicals can create. This is how you will prevent any hazardous action from ever happening inside of your body.

5 Ways to Use up a Bunch of Scallions

1. Top off a Soup: Finely sliced scallions sprinkled over a bowl of soup add bold eye-catching color as well as a zingy brightness to balance out rich stews.

2. Fry Up Some Rice: Stirfried rice, a.k.a. "getting rid of all your leftovers in one fell swoop." Throw your leftover rice, leftover veggies, an egg or two, and yes, your scallions in a hot skillet and cook until crispy. Dinner is done.

3. Add Scallions to Salads: I add scallions to salads whenever I want a bit of onion flavor, but I don't necessarily want the pungency of red or yellow onions. I also like the crunch it adds to grain salads and cold noodle salads.

4. Make Some Scallion Pancakes: Um, yes, please! This staple of Chinese restaurants is dangerously easy to make at home. Plus they make a great pre-dinner nibble.

5. Tuck Them Into Sandwiches: Tunafish salad on the menu for tomorrow's lunch? Perk it up with some scallions. Your mouth will thank you.

Sarva Roga Nivarini - The Neem Tree

In the ancient Indian language Sanskrit, the neem tree is called “Aristha” or “reliever of sicknesses.” In the Vedas (a large body of texts originating in ancient India, which make up the oldest known scriptures of Hinduism), neem is known as “Sarva Roga Nivarini” meaning “One that cures all ailments and ills.”

Neem is referred to as the “Miracle Tree” and because of its tremendous medical properties, the neem tree is also considered to be a “village pharmacy” in India. Extracts of neem leaves, twigs, bark, seeds, and flowers are integral components of many traditional remedies in the Indian medical system of Ayurveda. These remedies date back, by some accounts, nearly 5,000 years.

More than 60 different biologically active neem tree compounds have been identified and used for a wide variety of health and medical applications. Some of these include nimbin, nimbolide, azadirachtin A, nimbidiol, quercetin, and nimbidin.

Additionally, neem leaf extracts enhance the activity of various liver antioxidant enzymes. Amongst these are glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, which are known to help in detoxifying the body.

Below are some of the Anti-Cancer Benefits of Neem

Excitingly, naturally-occurring bioactive compounds obtained from various parts of the neem tree have been shown to induce “apoptosis” or programmed cell death in different types of tumor cells in laboratory conditions. Some of these compounds stimulate the immune system to fight cancer cells better. Neem compounds may also prevent cancer development by generating high levels of antioxidants and carcinogen-detoxifying enzymes.

Overall, neem compounds show impressive anti-cancer potential against many human cancer cell lines and animal models for human cancers. Among these are colon, stomach, pancreas, lung, liver, skin, oral, prostate, and breast cancers.

Anti-Carcinogenic and Anti-Mutagenic Effects of Neem

Over the last two decades, cancer researchers have convincingly shown that cancer formation as a result of exposure to certain specific mutagens and pro-carcinogens can be prevented by neem extracts.

As a result, these extracts and bioactive neem compounds may one day play a key role in the future development of chemo preventive anti-cancer agents.

Neem Stops Cancer Cell Growth and Migration

Researchers in India, Europe, and Japan have shown that bioactive compounds present in neem bark, leaves, and seed oil could be used to treat a wide variety of cancers.

For instance, a recently published study showed that nimbolide – a bioactive neem compound – was able to induce apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells, to the extent that the size and number of cancer cell colonies was reduced by 80%.

Apoptosis or programmed cell death is a genetically driven process that happens naturally all the time in the body. It’s a safe way to get rid of diseased and dying cells without affecting nearby healthy cells and tissues.

Anti-cancer practitioners are also trying to eliminate cancer cells by inducing apoptosis selectively in them, without affecting normal cells. In this regard, neem is an excellent choice as neem extracts as well as purified neem compounds have been shown to cause apoptosis in cancer cells.

Nimbolide also reduced the ability of pancreatic cancer cells to migrate and invade other areas of the body by an astonishing 70%. Migration and invasion – known scientifically as “metastasis” – of cancer cells to other areas of the body is the main reason why pancreatic and other cancers are so lethal.

Pancreatic cancer is the most lethal of all, with 94% of patients dying within the first five years of diagnosis, with no conventional treatment in sight.

One of the most promising aspects of this study was that nimbolide did not harm healthy cells. In other words, using nimbolide to treat pancreatic and perhaps other forms of cancer in the near future may not result in the toxic side effects that chemotherapy and radiation typically do.

Neem Potentiates Anti-Cancer Drugs and Protects Against Their Toxicity

Neem preparations have been shown to potentiate (enhance the effect of) the actions of anti-cancer agents. They also provide protection against the life-threatening side effects of some of these very toxic drugs.

For instance, Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) are well-known anti-cancer drugs with devastating side effects, especially because they also massively kill normal blood cells. Normally, another drug known as granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) is given along with these two anti-cancer drugs to try and minimize their toxic side effects.

Interestingly, pretreatment with neem leaf preparation (NLP) has been found to protect blood cells in laboratory mice treated with Cisplatin and 5-FU. This means NLP could potentially be a safer and cheaper substitute than granulocyte colony stimulating factor. GCSF is not only expensive, but is also known to promote angiogenesis and tumor development on its own!

Neem Enhances the Actions of Detoxifying Enzymes

Extracts of neem leaves have been shown to enhance the actions of so-called “phase-II hepatic enzymes” such as Glutathione S-transferases and DT-diaphorase. Both these enzymes are known to be involved in detoxification of chemical carcinogens.

Few Other Benefits of Neem Tree

According to Ayurveda, the neem tree offers numerous health benefits. Let’s take a look at the specific uses and health benefits offered by various parts of the neem tree.

Neem Leaves

Neem leaves are reputed to possess antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-malarial properties – which is why their extracts are used to treat skin infections, acne, boils, burns, and many other skin problems. Some traditional uses for neem leaves include:

Skin cleanser – Neem stops the growth of the acne-causing bacteria P. acnes, along with suppressing P. acnes-induced inflammation.

Wound healer – a paste of neem leaves is applied on wounds, skin eruptions, and insect bites. When combined with turmeric, this paste is also used to treat skin itching, eczema, ring worm, and other mild skin diseases.

Hair conditioner – Neem leaf extracts and paste are used to condition the hair and scalp and are believed to strengthen hair and promote hair growth.

Anti-dandruff agent – water in which neem leaves have been boiled is applied to hair after regular shampooing to rid the scalp of dandruff.

Eye cleansing and soothing – extract of neem leaves in water is used to wash the eyes and is said to offer relief from irritation, tiredness, and redness.

Immune booster – consuming extracts of neem leaves and bark (again, made by boiling in water) are believed to increase overall immunity. These extracts also reputedly lower blood sugar levels and heal ulcers.

Neem Flowers

Unlike the rest of the neem tree which is bitter, the white and delicate neem flowers possess a sweet, almost jasmine-like scent. They are used fresh, dried, or in a powdered form as food and as garnish in some Indian cooking traditions.

Neem flowers are used medicinally to treat anorexia, nausea, and intestinal worms. They are also used in aromatherapy because of their calming effect.

Neem Twigs

Before toothbrushes became common, people in India would traditionally chew away at neem twigs in the morning. In Indian villages, many people still do this.

This habit helps to fight germs, maintain alkaline levels in saliva, keep bacteria away, heal swollen gums, and leads to whiter teeth. Finally, the twig also shreds into bristle-like threads that help to remove and prevent plaque.

Neem Oil

Neem oil – extracted from fruits and seeds of the neem tree – is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids. This makes it an ideal ingredient in cosmetics and beauty products such as soaps, hair oil, hand wash, and soap.

Amazing Benefits of Fennel Seeds for Skin, Hair, and Health

Fennel seeds are considered quite useful for relieving various ailments, ranging from congestion and stomach gas to asthma and diabetes. The seeds contain powerful phytonutrients and antioxidants, the most potent of them being anethole, which makes them highly nutritious and powerful. 

Below are few benefits of fennel seeds?

1. Improve Digestive Health

The seeds are often used to treat an array of digestive ailments, including heartburn, intestinal gas (and infant gas), bloating, and even colic in infants. The seeds have antispasmodic and carminative effects, which can help treat other serious digestive ailments like irritable bowel syndrome (1).

Though there is less information, some sources suggest that fennel seeds might also help treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), diarrhea, constipation, and ulcerative colitis.

2. Treat Asthma and Other Respiratory Ailments

The phytonutrients in fennel seeds help clear sinuses – and this can relieve asthma symptoms. And their expectorant properties heal other respiratory ailments like bronchitis, cough, and congestion.

However, some studies suggest that fennel seeds might cause asthmatic symptoms. We recommend you talk to your doctor in this regard.

3. Combat Bad Breath

Chewing fennel seeds can freshen your breath. They have anise (or licorice) flavor. Simply munching on 5 to 10 fennel seeds freshens your breath. The seeds increase the production of saliva – thereby washing out the bacteria. The essential oil has antibacterial properties that help fight the germs that cause bad breath.

4. Help Fight Diabetes

A 2008 study found that fennel essential oil might lower blood sugar levels in diabetics. Fennel seeds are also a good source of vitamin C, the high intake of which was also found to lower blood sugar levels. Beta-carotene, another antioxidant in fennel seeds, has also been linked to reduced cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Also, since fennel seeds are low in glycemic index, they can be a good addition to a diabetes diet.

5. Increase Breast Growth

We have already seen that fennel can mimic the properties of human estrogen, which is why it can promote breast growth. However, due to limited information, we suggest you talk to your doctor before using fennel seeds for this purpose.

6. Help Lower Cholesterol Levels

The fiber in fennel seeds prevents the reabsorption of cholesterol. It achieves this by binding the bile salts, which consequently prevents heart-related ailments.

7. Cure Edema

Edema is the swelling of tissues in the body due to excess of fluid. Though there are no concrete studies, anecdotal evidence supports the efficacy of fennel seeds in curing edema. Anethole, one important compound in fennel seeds, can control blood pressure and flush out the excess water from the body. In addition, the seeds also improve kidney function, ultimately helping in flushing out toxins.

8. Boost Fertility

This might be true with fennel tea. Given its estrogenic properties, it might promote fertility and even induce labor in pregnant women.

However, there is lack of concrete research. We advise you to consult your doctor before using fennel for this purpose.

9. Regulate Blood Pressure Levels

One reason fennel seeds work wonders on blood pressure levels is their potassium levels. This mineral counteracts the ill effects of sodium and regulates the fluid amount in the bloodstream.

The seeds are also rich in calcium, another mineral imperative for optimum blood pressure. It helps keep the blood vessels toned – and even helps maintain heart rate. And the fiber in fennel seeds has also shown to regulate blood pressure levels.

Fennel seeds also contain nitrites (in fact, the highest amongst other seeds), compounds known to lower blood pressure levels. They are also rich in magnesium, which, as per some studies, can cut the risk of high blood pressure in women.

10. Aid Hernia Treatment

Some sources mention the use of fennel seeds by traditional Chinese medicine for treating hernia (3). However, we need more research to confirm if they can be used in mainstream hernia treatment.

11. Enhance Liver Health

In one 2011 study, fennel seeds inhibited liver cancer cells and increased the activity of certain antioxidant cells in the liver. Fennel seeds are rich in selenium, which improves the function of the liver enzymes and detoxifies some harmful compounds in the body.

Some sources suggest that fennel seeds might even help relieve urinary tract infection – but we need more research on this.

12. Can Promote Weight Loss

Being rich in fiber, fennel seeds can aid weight loss and keep hunger pangs at bay. The seeds also are said to decrease fat storage as they improve nutrient absorption.

Also, fennel seeds have diuretic properties. They increase urine output and flush out the excess fluid from the body (we already saw this). This also might contribute to weight loss. But there is something to be kept in mind – most often, the weight loss induced by fennel could be a direct consequence of water loss, and not fat loss.

13. Ease Morning Sickness

Fennel seeds can be used to calm the stomach and offer quick relief from morning sickness. Chewing fennel seeds or having fennel tea can help achieve this.

Fennel seeds also prevent stomach gas and encourage the expulsion of gas. This can help treat nausea, especially if it is caused due to digestive issues like flatulence or intestinal gas.

14. Improve Menstrual Symptoms

Preliminary studies have confirmed that fennel is safe and effective for easing menopause symptoms. Other studies have also confirmed the effectiveness of fennel in treating postmenopausal symptoms .

Interestingly, the phytoestrogenic properties of fennel seeds can also help treat menstrual symptoms like cramps and hot flashes.

15. Enhance Sleep Quality

Some sources suggest that the magnesium in fennel seeds can improve the quality and duration of sleep. The mineral also treats sleep disorders like insomnia.

16. Treat Candida

The antioxidants in fennel seeds can help treat candida. The seeds also possess antibacterial and antifungal properties – and can hence be effective against E.coli and Candida albicans, both of which cause candida.

In fact, fermented fennel seeds are far more powerful than the unfermented ones – when it comes to offering antifungal benefits. Taking a tablespoon of fennel seeds along with breakfast can help ease the symptoms. You can crush them and add to your breakfast. You can also consume fennel tea by steeping the seeds in hot water and taking the infused tea in the morning.

17. Tone and Improve Skin Appearance

We already spoke about the antimicrobial properties of fennel seeds – which also make them a wonderful remedy for skin problems.

For toning your skin, you can take a handful of fennel seeds and add them to boiling water. Allowed it to cool down. Then, add a few drops of fennel essential oil to the mixture. Filter it. Dab it on your face with the help of cotton balls as many times as you can throughout the day. Your skin will feel toned and thoroughly refreshed.

You can also use fennel seed steam facial for enhanced skin texture. Add a tablespoon of fennel seeds to one liter of boiling water. Lean over it and cover your head and neck with a towel for 5 minutes. Do this twice a week to clean the pores and make your skin glow.

You can also use a face mask, which is quite easy to prepare. Prepare a fennel seed infusion by adding a tablespoon of fennel seeds to half a cup of boiling water. Wait for 30 minutes and add a tablespoon each of oatmeal and honey to it. Make a smooth paste and apply it to your face. Leave it on for 20 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water.

18. Improve Hair Health

The antioxidants and other antimicrobial properties in fennel seeds help treat a host of hair ailments. Some of these include dandruff, scalp itchiness, hair breakage, and hair fall. There are two ways you can use fennel seeds for boosting hair health.

One is fennel seed tea. You can pound three tablespoons of fennel seeds. Alternately, you may choose to invest in readymade fennel seed powder. Boil two cups of water and add it to the powdered seeds. Keep the solution aside for about 15 minutes. Use it as the last rinse after you have shampooed and conditioned your hair. This will boost hair health and prevent hair breakage and hair fall.

The other way is using a fennel seed-vinegar solution. You can use apple cider vinegar and glycerin along with fennel seeds to prepare a solution to treat an itchy and dry scalp. Boil a cup of water. Pour it over a spoon of crushed fennel seeds placed in a small bowl. Wait for 30 minutes. Add a spoon of vegetable glycerin and apple cider vinegar. Filter the solution with a cheesecloth. Massage it into your scalp and hair and leave it on for some time. Rinse it off. The best part is that this tonic can be stored in a glass container for weeks.

Top 10 Health Benefits of Chia Seeds and 3 Ways to Use Chia Seeds in the Daily Diet

Chia seeds are among the healthiest foods on the planet. They are loaded with nutrients that can have important benefits for your body and brain. Here are top 10 health benefits of Chia seeds which are supported by human studies.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Chia seeds are rich in polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids. Chia seeds' lipid profile is composed of 60 percent omega-3s, making them one of the richest plant-based sources of these fatty acids -- specifically, of alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA. The omega-3s in Chia seeds can help reduce inflammation, enhance cognitive performance and reduce high cholesterol.

Antioxidants

Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals, aging and cancer. The high antioxidant profile also helps them have a long shelf life. They last almost two years without refrigeration.

Minerals

Two tablespoons of chia seeds contain 18 percent of the DRI for calcium, 35 percent for phosphorus, 24 percent for magnesium and about 50 percent for manganese. These nutrients help you prevent hypertension and maintain a healthy weight, and are important for energy metabolism and a part of DNA synthesis.

Gluten-Free

Chia seeds contain no gluten or grains. Therefore, all of the nutritional benefits of chia seeds can be obtained on a gluten-free diet.

Egg Replacer

The outer layer of chia seeds swells when mixed with liquids to form a gel. This can used in place of eggs to lower cholesterol and increase the nutrient content of foods and baked goods. To make the egg replacement, mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let sit for 15 minutes.

Fiber

Fiber is associated with reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol and regulating bowel function. Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, with a whopping 10 grams in only 2 tablespoons. That is one-third of the daily recommended intake of fiber per day.

Can Be Digested Whole

Unlike flaxseeds, which are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and minerals, chia seeds do not need to be ground in order to obtain their nutrient or egg- replacement benefits.

Satiety

Satiety is the feeling of being full and satisfied, which helps lower food cravings between meals. The combination of protein, fiber and the gelling action of chia seeds when mixed with liquids all contribute to their satiating effects.

Dyslipidemia

A study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" showed that chia seeds as a dietary fat source can lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels while increasing HDL or "good" cholesterol. The study also found that when substituting chia seeds for other fat sources, such as corn oil, the ALA was able to prevent high triglyceride levels and reduce central obesity.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Chia seeds can play an important role in regulating insulin levels. They can reduce insulin resistance and decrease abnormally high levels of insulin in the blood.

3 Ways to Use Chia Seeds in the Daily Diet

Use them as a topping

Add some crunch to yogurt or oatmeal by sprinkling on chia seeds. Note: Once they sit in liquid for a while, they form little gelatinous balls. If you don't like that texture, sprinkle them on just before eating. Just 1 tablespoon of chia seeds gives you 5 grams of fiber and 3 grams of protein, as well as magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, and omega-3s, and has just 60 calories. The black and white seeds are equally good for you, so pick up whichever one you prefer (or whichever one your supermarket or health food store carries).

Mix them into muffins and more

If you're making pancakes, waffles, muffins, or homemade granola, toss in some nutritious chia seeds. They have a neutral flavor, so they work in almost anything. Toss a handful into these hearty flapjacks, or swap them for the poppy seeds in the streusel in these tasty muffins. You could also use chia seeds in place of some of the flax seeds in homemade granola bars. Wherever you put them, they bring a happy bit of crunch.

Bake them into bread

We love this bread recipe, which combines chia with sunflower, caraway, sesame, and poppy seeds. Not only do you get the crunch (and nutrition) from all those seeds, you also get a delicious loaf perfect for morning toast or lunchtime sandwiches—and its gluten free. Try it slathered with your favorite nut butter (or regular butter) and low-sugar jam, with smashed avocado on top, or as an open-face melt with smoked turkey, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut piled on.

11 Health Benefits of Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are super-rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, and abundant in lignans that offer powerful antioxidant effects, flaxseeds can be considered one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. These shiny and nutty seeds that come from the flax plant have an earthy aroma and possess various benefits. Below are the 11 Health Benefits of Flaxseeds:

What Can Flaxseeds Do For You?

Two of the most important nutrients in flaxseeds are omega-3s and lignans. One tablespoon of ground flaxseeds contains 1.8 grams of omega-3s. And they contain 75 to 800 times more lignans than other plant foods. Also, flaxseeds contain fiber, both soluble and insoluble. While the omega-3s fight inflammation and boost heart health, the lignans help prevent ailments like cancer. And the fiber improves digestive health.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Flaxseeds?

1. Flaxseeds Help Fight Cancer

Several studies on postmenopausal women showed that supplementing diets with flaxseeds can cut the risk of breast cancer. The seeds can also reduce tumor growth in patients with breast cancer. The omega-3 fatty acids in the seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the risk of several forms of cancer.

• Lignans were also found to reduce the growth of cancerous tumors.
• Research also shows how flaxseeds can help prevent prostate cancer.

2. Aid Diabetes Treatment

Studies showed that flaxseed supplementation lowered fasting blood sugar levels by 20 percent. More importantly, the seeds contain mucilage, which is a gel-forming fiber that can slow digestion and the resultant release of glucose into the blood.

Preliminary studies have also shown that flaxseeds can delay the onset of diabetes. They contain a compound called SDG, which cuts the risk of type 1 diabetes and delays the onset of type.

3. Flaxseeds Protect the Heart

The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds have been found to cut the risk of coronary heart disease. They also help improve the functioning of the arteries. Another Costa Rican study showed that individuals consuming more of ALA (the type of omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds) have a lower risk of heart attack.

4. Fight Inflammation

Two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds contain over 140% of the daily value of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to fight inflammation. The ALA in the seeds were found to decrease pro-inflammatory compounds in the body.

The omega-3s in flaxseeds can also help treat inflammatory arthritis.

5. Can Aid Weight Loss

Given that flaxseeds are rich in fiber, they can aid weight management. And the omega-3s in the seeds, the healthy fats, can suppress appetite and improve satiety – and this also can help in weight loss.

The lignans in flaxseeds can improve cell function, and this might aid fat burning. The lignans also boost metabolism, and this also aids weight loss. Ground flaxseeds work best for weight loss.

Studies also showed that flaxseeds could increase fat excretion, thereby decreasing the amount of fat content in the body. This can promote weight loss in its own way.

6. Enhance Digestive Health

The soluble fiber in flaxseeds aids digestion. Ground flaxseeds work better as eating them whole can simply make them pass through your system without getting digested.

The most common use of flaxseeds involves their laxative properties. This basically means the seeds can make you poop. They can help treat constipation too, but ensure you drink enough water after consuming them.

The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds can also reduce inflammation and protect the lining of the GI tract. And in people with healthy digestive systems, the seeds promote the beneficial gut flora.

7. Treats Menstrual Symptoms

As per studies, consuming flaxseeds can regularize ovulation. Women who regularly ate flaxseeds were found to ovulate during every menstrual cycle. Adding flaxseeds to your diet can also reduce menstrual cramps.

Another important piece of research tells us how flaxseeds can ease hot flashes.

8. Flaxseeds Are Gluten-Free

Flaxseeds work as a great replacement for all those gluten-containing grains in your diet. In case you are gluten-intolerant, most grains could be hard to digest. And this is where flaxseeds come to the rescue. They can be a good choice for anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

9. Beneficial During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Flaxseeds are a rich source of fiber and omega-3s and a good source of protein – and a pregnant woman requires all these nutrients. Fiber helps treat constipation that often occurs during pregnancy. And the protein and omega-3s are critical for the child’s health.

10. Make Your Skin Glow

The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds greatly contribute to skin health and appearance. They keep your skin hydrated and make it smooth. They prevent the everyday irritants and pollutants from entering your skin pores. They also prevent water loss from the skin. Improving the skin’s moisture levels can also help reduce wrinkles.

Keeping your skin moisturized prevents it from drying out – and this makes it glow. Dry skin can also cause other skin ailments like psoriasis and eczema – all of which can be prevented by flaxseeds.

You can either rub plain flaxseed oil gently into your skin or consume them on a daily basis. The anti-inflammatory properties of flaxseeds can also treat skin inflammation. And given the seeds contain powerful antioxidants, they can also help prevent skin cancer.

You might also want to use a flaxseed facial. Simply mix two tablespoons of raw honey, a teaspoon of fresh lime juice, and a tablespoon of flaxseed oil. Apply the mixture directly to your face. Leave it on for 15 minutes and wash with normal water. Do it in the mornings, every day.

11. Flaxseeds Strengthen Hair

Brittle hair is often attributed to a lack of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. Being rich in these fatty acids, flaxseeds can help strengthen your hair and combat hair fall. They can also help prevent a condition called cicatricial alopecia, which is a permanent hair loss condition caused by inflammation.

You can prepare a hair gel using flaxseeds. Simply put two cups of water on boil. As the water begins to boil, add four tablespoons of flaxseeds to it. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Now, turn off the heat and strain the infusion. Apply the resultant gel to your scalp every morning and then wash as usual after 20 minutes.

How to Eat Flaxseeds

1. The best way to consume flaxseeds is in their sprouted form. Soaking them and then sprouting them removes phytic acid and also enhances mineral absorption. You can simply soak the seeds for 10 minutes in warm water or for two hours in cold water.
2. Flaxseeds are best consumed ground. This is because our bodies cannot receive the nutrients if they are taken in the whole form.
3. Ensure you take the seeds with plenty of water.
4. You can add the seeds to your morning cereal or breakfast smoothie. You can also add them to salads.
5. Also, ensure you don’t heat flaxseed oil as its composition might change, rendering it not as beneficial. But surprisingly, the nutrients in whole flaxseeds are heat-stable. Hence, you can roast flaxseeds and still enjoy the benefits. The nutrients won’t be destroyed.
6. You can add flaxseeds to your Paleo diet as well. The seeds are technically Paleo because they are seeds and not
7. The best time to eat flaxseeds is early in the morning, along with your breakfast.

Discover 17 Hidden Benefits of Papaya Seeds

Benefits of papaya already known around the world as one of the best fruit with a lot of nutrition’s. Not so many people likes papaya, well not so many know papaya anyway. But behind its unpopularity, papaya secretly carries some of the most amazing health benefits for our body. Besides the fruits, the seeds of papaya also brought so much health benefits for our food. When majority of people just put papaya seed aside or even throw it away, papaya seeds are actually edible and even small portion of papaya seed will bring health benefit for your body. Except for its strong flavor, which some may not fancy, papaya seed is amazingly beneficial for our body. Many people do not know health benefits of papaya seeds, some of them just throughout this seed as unusual item.

The good thing about papaya is that you can find it almost anywhere, and it is unbelievably affordable. Since papaya is an easy-to-find fruits, people tend to underestimate the health benefit of papaya and papaya seeds. But after reading this article, you will change your mind about papaya and papaya seeds. Below are the 17 Surprising Health Benefits of Papaya Seeds.

Rich of Enzymes

Papaya seeds are rich with high levels of proteolytic enzymes that can help in getting rid of parasites residing in our body. The same strong enzyme can be found in papain also. Both of the enzyme’s source work the same way, both of them breaks down protein in our body and it may also break down parasites and their eggs.

Better Digestion System

As papaya seeds have abundant of digestive enzymes, it will help your diet also. Consuming papaya and its seeds will help your body to process food with ease. Not only that, papaya seeds will helps in normalizing the acidic environment in our intestinal tract, preventing worms and other forms of parasites from residing in our intestinal tract. That means a healthier and stronger digestion system.

Cure Liver Disease

Papaya and papaya seeds bring health benefit for our internal organs, including our liver. The critical nutrients that papaya seeds contain, help to heal cirrhosis in our liver. Consume papaya seeds regularly, to get the most out of it. You can blend the papaya seeds or you can just mix it with your daily yogurt in breakfast or supper, any way you like it.

Keeps the Bacteria Away

Even a small portion of papaya seed will help in preventing bacteria from multiplying and residing in our body. The bad bacteria that we do not want in our body such as e.coli can be easily killed by consuming papaya seeds. And to your surprise, papaya seeds is also good when you have food poisoning as it will help to keep the bacteria away and helps in detoxification.

Fertility

Various study and decade-long research has shown that consuming papaya with the right dose of intake can greatly increase sperm production for a man. It works similarly for women also, where eating papaya seed can help to maintain woman’s fertility of the eggs. In Asia, especially in the southern parts, it is common to use to consume papaya seed whenever one desires to be fertile.

Prevent Kidney Disease

As papaya seeds are healthy for our internal organs, professors from the University of Karachi has concluded that papaya seeds and its fruit can cure kidney disease and minimize the possibility of renal failure and work effectively for kidney poisoning case. Imagine some small seeds can cure such a complex health disorder.

Minimize the Risk of Cancer

The milky sap that papaya seeds produce are great to prevent cancer cells from growing due to the substance that it contains, acetogenin. There have been many studies shown that papaya seeds and papaya leaves are effective in battling cancer and preventing cancer from happening. Most people in Japan drink papaya leaf tea for prolonged period, and they add a little bit of papaya seeds on top of it to maintain a healthy body.

Remedy for Your Acne

Remember the acnes problem when your hormone are not stable? Well, that can be cured by consuming papaya seeds. If you are familiar with having acne, try to take papaya leaves and papaya seeds, blend them together and add some water. Apply the lotion to the acne-infected area, and leave it dry for few minutes. After 10 minutes, do not forget to wash off the residual of the lotion to make sure your acne are well-treated.

Minimize Menstrual Pain

Consuming papaya seeds is believed to ease the menstrual pain for women. It would be better if you mix it with papaya leave, add little honey to make it taste better. Let it chill for a while before drinking it. Because cold beverages are the best, especially the healthy ones.

Cure Dengue

Dengue are one of the most unpredictable and dangerous disease that are spread in most areas in Asia. Papaya seeds and papaya leaves can help to cure dengue as it will increase the level of your blood. It is best used to be consumed when dengue fever attacks.

Detox

Consuming papaya and papaya seeds will help in our body detox. Even just small amount or small portion of it, it will effectively help our body to detox and makes our body free from any kind of toxic that plagues our body.

Skin Problems

Papaya seeds will help your skin to be wrinkle-free and prevent aging. The nutrients inside papaya seeds can help your body and your skin to rejuvenate better as some of the nutrients from your body will not be easily regenerated by your own body as it gets older. By adding external sources like papaya seed, it will help in regenerating the old and dead skin cells hence maintain the beauty of your skin.

Increase Appetite for Food

Consuming papaya seeds daily will help to build your appetite as well. Papaya increase your vigor and vitality to your body.

Prevent Aging

Papaya seeds are rich with various amino acids such as glycine, leucine, etc that are good for your skin. It will help to minimize the effect of aging and in the long run it will help to prevent your skin from aging. This is great especially for those who really care about cosmetics, because the best cosmetics are from the Mother Nature.

Rich of Nutrients

Papaya as a fruit contains whole lot of nutrients that are used by our body to regenerate healthy and young cells and it will help our body in rejuvenating. Papaya seed, especially contains almost 80% of the nutrients that our body consume. Hence, it goes without saying that consuming papaya seed is one of the best yet simple treatment that we can do to help our body stay healthy and young.

Stronger Bones

Papaya seeds are like any other fruit seeds are rich of protein and calcium. Taking regular intake of papaya seeds will bring health benefit for our body such as stronger bones and stronger muscles at the same time. This is due to the fact that our body needs to consume protein and calcium to grow bones and muscles, and those protein and calcium can be derived from consuming papaya and papaya seeds.

Cure Eye-Disorder

Papaya seeds surprisingly can cure disease related to our eyes as well. Papaya seeds and papaya leaves help in regenerating the cells and providing nutrients needed by our eyes to stay healthy and to recover from any eye-related diseases such as cataracts.

How to Eat Papaya Seeds

You can eat papaya seeds by treating them as a supplement and eating them whole, or you could grind the seeds up and use them when you would usually use pepper since the two tastes are fairly similar.

Eating as a Raw Supplement

Choose a small papaya. Smaller papayas tend to have seeds with a milder taste, while the seeds of a large papaya tend to be more bitter.

As you grow accustomed to the taste of papaya seeds, you can begin getting larger fruits instead of searching out small ones all the time. Starting with small papayas can help you get used to the flavor, though.

Chew directly on a few seeds

Papaya seeds can be eaten whole, but for the first week or so, only chew on one or two papaya seeds a day. If you eat too many at once, you could end up overwhelming your taste buds and digestive system.

• The bitter, pepper-like taste of papaya seeds can be overwhelming at first, and if you rush yourself too quickly and eat too many at once, you might become discouraged from eating any more.
• Additionally, while papaya seeds are safe to eat, consuming anything in large quantities when your stomach is not accustomed to it can cause digestive upset. Starting slowly is the best way to avoid or minimize this upset.

Work your way up to a larger amount.

Over the second week, gradually work up to 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml), then to 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml), and finally to a full 1 tsp (5 ml) daily.

Make things even easier on your digestive system by taking the papaya seeds with a meal heavy in protein. Doing so will make it easier to get the maximum amount of benefits from the proteolytic enzymes in the seeds, thereby improving your digestive health.

Try eating the seeds with honey

Try eating the seeds with honey. If the stronger, bitter taste of papaya seed proves too strong for you, you could try taking whole papaya seeds with 1 tsp (5 ml) of honey to lessen the effect.

When taking papaya seeds with honey, you should still chew the seeds a few times before swallowing them.

Additionally, the combination of honey and papaya seeds is thought to be an effective treatment against parasites, so taking your papaya seeds with honey has possible health benefits, as well.

Using as a Replacement for Pepper

Crush the seeds.

Use a mortar and pestle to crush up to 1 tsp (5 ml) of papaya seeds at a time, grinding them into a fine or coarse powder.

Alternatively, you could add the clean, dry seeds directly to your pepper grinder instead of using a mortar and pestle, if desired.

For best results, opt for freshly crushed papaya seeds instead of seeds that were crushed some time ago.

Use crushed papaya seed whenever you would use crushed peppercorn

Crushed papaya seeds work well as a substitute for black pepper and can be used in equal proportions.

Note that the taste of papaya seeds is not exactly like pepper. Some have compared it to a blend between pepper and mustard, but when used in small quantities, the difference is not usually enough to negatively affect the food you use it on as a pepper substitute.

Try seasoning meat with papaya seeds.

Try seasoning meat with papaya seeds. One great way to use peppery papaya seeds is to season steak, chicken, or pork with the crushed seeds before you cook the meat.

For instance, you could crush 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) of papaya seeds and use them to season a single serving size steak. Rub the crushed seeds on the steak and let it sit for an hour before pan-frying in a little olive oil.

The papain in papaya seeds acts as a meat tenderizer. The flavor itself adds flavor to the meat, and it can also help you digest the steak after it gets into your stomach.

Make a papaya seed salad dressing

Make a papaya seed salad dressing. Another popular way to use papaya seeds is to mix them into a vinaigrette dressing, similar to the manner in which you might prepare a pepper vinaigrette.

For one version of papaya seed dressing, use 1 Tbsp (15 ml) papaya seeds, 1/4 cup (60 ml) papaya fruit, 1/4 cup (60 ml) red onion, 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh cilantro, 1 clove garlic, 5 tsp (25 ml) ginger, 2 Tbsp (30 ml) apple cider vinegar, the juice of 1 lime, 1 tsp (5 ml) honey, 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil, 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) sea salt, and a pinch of chili pepper flakes if desired.

Blend all of the ingredients, minus the oil, in a blender until they form a liquid.

Slowly pour the olive oil into the blender or food processor as it runs to blend it in thoroughly.

This recipe produces 1 cup (250 ml) of papaya seed dressing. You can store it sealed and chilled for up to one week.