source

It’s a well-known fact that blueberries are a very rich in antioxidants, nutrients and vitamins. Adding them to your diet is a tasty way to get these important nutrients, as well as provide many other important health benefits. Now, there is new research coming out of Sweden that indicates blueberries can help fight off the negative effects of many intestinal diseases.

According to researchers from the Lund University Faculty of Engineering in Sweden, the fiber from blueberries can help alleviate and protect against intestinal inflammations, such as ulcerative colitis, crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. The benefits are even greater when blueberries are mixed with the beneficial bacteria found in probiotics, such as yogurt.

The researchers on the project tested many types of fiber, such as rye bran and oat bran, as well as testing them all with and without a mixture of beneficial bacteria. Blueberries are rich in polyphenols, which have an antimicrobial effect on your body.

When these polyphenols are combined with the beneficial bacteria found in probiotics, they help reduce inflamation-inducing bacteria in the intestinal tract, while simulatenously increasing the amount of healthy bacteria. This is the effect that is so beneficial for protecting and alleviating from inflammation in the intestinal tract.

The following quote is from Åsa Håkansson, researcher on the team:

“In recent years the research world has been realizing that our health is governed to a great extent by what happens in our large intestine. The probiotics (in our research) proved to have a protective effect on the liver, an organ that is often negatively impacted by intestinal inflammations.”

Camilla Bränning, another researcher on the team, added the following:

“A further explanation for the extremely positive effect of blueberries may be that the blueberry fibre are not degraded to such a high degree in the large intestine. This means that inflammation-inducing substances do not come into contact with the mucous lining of the intestine but are embedded in the fibre instead. Then these substances are transported out of body together with the faeces”

The Bottomline on this Study

Blueberries are healthy for you. We’ve known this for a very long time, but with this new research, if you suffer from an intestinal disorders, there is no better time to add blueberries to your diet than right now. If you’re not a fan of blueberries or are looking for a little diversity, there are many other healthy berries out there that you could easily add to your diet.

Related Articles

• Tips for Growing Your Own Blueberries
• 5 Poisonous Berries You Want to Avoid
• Foods that Speed up Metabolism
• Soy Milk: The Benefits vs. The Dangers
• Do You Know Which Foods are High in Antioxidants?

source

Blueberries are one of the most popular and delicious fruits available. Their unique flavor and the healthy advantages it offers are aplenty which is why these are often used for lip smacking sweet fruit pies and jams. Personally, I love to use the blueberries I grow in yogurt and muffins. These can be eaten fresh and are also low in calories.

Blueberries are related to the huckleberries, the azaleas and the rhododendrons. These shrubs grow at least 7 to 8 feet in height and flourish in those areas that have the specific soil required. Most of the time, they require around 3-4 years to start bearing fruit, however this is not always true. There are many advantages to growing blueberries instead of buying them off the shelf. Not only do they taste fresher, but because they are locally-grown, they are better for the environment. All it needs is proper attention and care.

How To Grow Blueberries

Before growing blueberries at your home, you should consider the composition of the soil and the climate in which you live. Also, you can grow 2 or more varieties for the pollination. I have listed a few steps below that you can follow in growing blueberries.

• You need to contact the local store to know the variety you may need to pick before growing blueberries. Planting the blueberries bushes is quite a similar task to planting most shrubs. The variety of the bush matters, as some are quite drought resistant. This would suit a climate that is on the dry side.
• Once you have decided on the kind of blueberry you wish to grow, you need to select the appropriate location in your garden. The bushes require ample sunlight.
• You also need to check the pH level of the soil. This is because the soil used should be suitable for growing blueberries. The most favorable level for the blueberries is 4.5. The soil mixture should at least have an organic mixture of 5%. You can add leaves and manure to the soil.
• The time of the year also matters when you are growing blueberries. This needs to be planted in the spring or during the fall. This is because the soil tends to be more workable during this period. When you plant blueberry bushes, you also need to keep in mind that they should stand at least 4 feet apart. The lowbush varieties can be planted 1-3 feet apart.
• You also need to keep the depth of the mulch at 4″. This will help to retain the moisture for the weeds of the blueberry bushes and also prevent the growth of weeds.
• Adding the fertilizers is also important for growing blueberries. You can fertilize it in the late winter season or the early spring season. You can try an ammonium sulfate fertilizer at least twice in a year.
• Pruning the blueberry bushes may not be required for the initial few years. You may have to cut the oldest shoots so that it promotes the growth of a new shoot. You have to also remove the stalks that have dried up. Also, sometimes, you may need to take care that the branches are not over laden with fruits. You will need to prune the shoots so that they have the right amount of buds on them. There are certain people who believe in removing the flowers in the first year. This is because; it is firmly believed that this would help in the total development of the plant.

There are various categories of blueberries available, and within each category are many types of blueberries. These categories are as follows:

• Highbush Blueberries: These are the ones that are usually available in the local grocery store.
• Lowbush Blueberries: These are also known as the wild blueberries and generally do not grow beyond 18-inches of height.
• Half-high Blueberries: These can withstand heavy snowfall and are a hybrid combination of the two mentioned above.
• Rabbiteye Blueberries: These can face the full sun and are the tallest of the various kinds of blueberries available.

Growing Blueberries in Containers

Blueberries can be grown in containers as well. Due to their shallow root systems, these are suitable for growing in raised bed gardens or flower pots. Of course, it would be wise to plan ahead and grow your blueberry plant in a large pot. The larger the pot, the better chance you have at your plant bearing fruit for years to come. Once you have followed the steps above, the blueberry bush will require minimal care.

Related Articles

• 7 Healthy & Delicious Berries
• 5 Poisonous Berries You Want to Avoid
• Foods that Speed up Metabolism
• Soy Milk: The Benefits vs. The Dangers
• Do You Know Which Foods are High in Antioxidants?

Article written by: K. Lad

source

Metabolism refers to the organic processes that are carried out in the cells on the living organism and are vital for normal functioning of the body.

Although all of the food that you consume is processed and then metabolized, there are certain foods that enhance the rate of metabolism. Here is some more information about the various foods that speed metabolism.

Weight Loss and Metabolism

Increased metabolism is achieved by eating more, but eating smart. It not only helps to enhance the metabolic processes but also helps to burn the extra fat and enhance overall health condition.

It is a fact that amongst all the food groups, complex carbohydrates and proteins require more energy for their breakdown and absorption.

Foods that speed metabolism are the ones that are high in complex carbohydrates and proteins. Since the breakdown and absorption of complex carbohydrates and proteins takes longer time, the release of the caloric energy is spread out over a longer period of time, which results in less insulin released into the blood stream.

On the other hand sugars and fats, tend to give you a temporary and quick energy high, which is often followed by a low energy period, which results in increased craving for the sugar and fat products.

Foods That Speed Metabolism

source

The foods that increase metabolism include a wide variety of vegetables, fruits and spices. However in addition to the basic ingredients, it is also the cooking method that has an effect on the metabolism. Here is a list of foods that speed metabolism if cooked and consumed in a healthy way:

Spicy Food & Metabolism:

It is a fact that spicy food can actually have an impact on the metabolism. A compound called Capsaicin, which is present in chili peppers, generates a lot of heat, which helps to burn more calories after a meal.

Other spices, which have similar compounds and similar effects, are chilies; black pepper and ginger have similar effects. Several studies have shown that a meal containing a spicy dish can temporarily increase the metabolism rate by about 8%.

Vegetables:

Vegetables are rich in fiber as well as many minerals and vitamins. Hence breakdown and absorption of minerals takes longer and hence requires a larger amount of energy to be spent by the body, thus increasing the metabolic rate.

Some of the vegetables that can be consumed include, broccoli, radish, turnip, tomatoes, spinach, aubergine, cabbage, celery, carrots, chicory, cauliflower, cucumbers, cress, fennel, gourd, leek, lettuce, marrow, radish and peppers.

Fruits:

Fruits are high in fiber, and although they contain sugar, it is the natural form of sugar which is different than the refined or synthetic sugar which we use while cooking. Some of the common fruits, which help to speed the metabolism, include apples, apricots, blackberries, blackcurrant, clementines, damsons, guavas, grapefruit, honeydew melons, cantaloupe, oranges, plums, peaches, raspberries, strawberries and tangerines

Whole Grains:

Whole grains like oats, wheat, barley or even soy products are a great way to speed the metabolism. Whole grains contain a lot of protein and fiber, which makes them difficult to break down and hence increases the amount of energy spent in their breakdown and absorption.

These are some of the foods that can increase your metabolism, however it is also necessary to use the right cooking methods and consume the food at the right time. Cooking with little or no use of oil is very good, and in case where it is impossible to avoid using oil, it is always better to use healthy oils like canola oil or olive oil.

Similarly instead of having three heavy meals, it is always better to eat smaller portions at regular intervals of two to three hours. Increasing the metabolism rate not only requires you to consume foods that increase metabolism, but also maintain an active lifestyle with a rigorous fitness regime.

Related Articles:

• Foods that Build Muscle
• List of Foods High in Fiber
• Soy Milk: The Benefits vs. The Dangers
• How Milk Can Sabotage Your Metabolism & Diet
• 5 Poisonous Berries You Probably Want to Avoid

Berries are small juicy fruits, which can be round or semi-oblong, sweet or sour, with seeds embedded in the flesh or aril. Though most berries are healthy and edible, some are known to be toxic in varying degrees. Some berries which are harmless to animals can be hazardous to humans, causing illness, injury or even death.

Pokeweed Berries

source

A pokeweed, also known as pokeberry or inkberry, is a perennial plant native to the North America.

Pokeweed berries grow in bunches and become purple when they fully ripen. If crushed with bare hands, the hands turn purple. These berries contain traces of phytolaccatoxin and phytolaccigenin which are toxic for mammals.

Consumption of pokeweed berries may lead to headaches, diarrhea and severe abdominal pain. If consumed in large quantities, these berries can lead to complications such as quickening of heartbeats and a feeling of giddiness or seizures, eventually leading to coma or death.

Actaea Pachypoda

source

Actaea pachypoda, a perennial plant from the Ranunculaceae family, is native to the eastern regions of North America.

This herbaceous plant can grow up to 50 cm, and sports white flowers in a dense cluster. The actaea pachypoda berries, known as ‘doll’s eyes’ are 1 cm in diameter. The entire actaea pachypoda plant, including the berries, are considered to be extremely poisonous to human beings.

The cardiogenic toxins in these berries have a sedative effect on the cardiac muscle tissues. Therefore consuming these berries can lead to cardiac arrest, and eventually death of a person.

Yew Berries

source

Yew is an evergreen shrub, sporting soft bright green needle-like leaves, resembling a ‘Christmas tree’.

Yew berries are usually red in color. They look like capsules, and have a hard green stone in their center. Although the aril, the fleshy part, is not poisonous, the green seeds within are highly poisonous and bitter in taste.

Eating yew berries can lead to severe abdominal pain, vomiting, breathlessness, nausea and dizziness. If consumed by children, it may affect their heart rate. Call the poison control center immediately, if you consumed Yew Berries.

Holly Berries

source

Holly berries are one of the 600 species of flowering plants from the Aquifoliaceae family of flora.

The bright red colored berries, hard in nature, are mildly toxic. Consuming these berries can lead to severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and make the person feel drowsy. While Holly berries are not the most poisonous berry, you should still be cautious and aware of them.

Though they are poisonous for human beings, various species of birds and wild animals feed on them.

Ivy Berries

source

Ivy berries, also known as Hedera, are a species of evergreen creepers from Araliaceae family, native to some parts of Europe, Africa, Asia and Atlantic Islands.

These creepers can climb to a height of 25 – 30 feet on trees as well as rocky surfaces. Ivy berries are small and black in color, ripening in late winter season. Although various species of birds feed on these, they are considered to be highly toxic for humans.

Ivy berries contain a polyyne, known as falcarinol, which can cause allergic reactions on consumption.

Other Relatively Non-Toxic Berries

Other than these there are some berries which are relatively non-toxic, but can lead to complications if consumed in large quantities. Mistletoe berries found in parts of the United States and Europe, can lead to problems like stomach upset, if consumed in large quantities.

These mouth watering fruits can sometimes tend to be very costly for the health, so if there is even the slightest doubt about them, they are better avoided. Its not a wise idea to risk the lives of yourself or your loved ones, just for the sake of being tempted by these colorful, but poisonous berries.

Related Articles:

• List of Different Kinds of Berries
• Moringa Oleifera: The Tree Of Life
• List of Foods That Speed Metabolism
• Soy Milk: The Benefits vs. The Dangers
• Do You Know Which Foods are High in Antioxidants?

This article was written by Abhijit Naik and syndicated from Buzzle.com.

Lemon is an inexpensive, easily available citrus fruit, popular for its culinary and medicinal uses. It is used to prepare a variety of food recipes such as lemon cakes, lemon chicken and beverages like lemonade and lemon-flavored drinks.

It is also used for garnishing. Lemon juice consists of about 5% citric acid that gives a tart taste to lemon. Lemon is a rich source of vitamin C.

It also contains vitamins like vitamin B, riboflavin and beneficial minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium as well as proteins and carbohydrates.

Lemon is generally consumed in the form of lemon juice or lemon water. Lemon water makes a healthy drink, when taken in the morning. Daily consumption of lemon water provides a number of health benefits.

9 Health Benefits of Lemon Water

Lemon water is rich in several essential nutrients. It is known to have antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-aging, anti-fatigue and anti-inflammatory properties. It boosts immune system, improves digestion and maintains overall health.

It can be used to treat various health conditions and prevent infections. Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests that you begin your day with refreshing lemon water.

1. Lemon water is the best source of vitamin C and antioxidants. It removes harmful, free radicals from the body and improves immune system. Lemon water also acts as a blood purifier.

2. Lemon water is used to prevent and treat different infections as well as to control allergies. Due to its antiseptic properties, it is effective in healing wounds. Lemon water is helpful in relieving symptoms of sore throat, tonsillitis or asthma.

3. Lemon water plays an important role in maintaining digestive health. It boosts metabolism and improves functioning of the digestive system and prevents various digestive problems like constipation, indigestion, nausea, heartburn and parasites. It also helps dissolve gallstones.

4. Lemon water is effective in body cleansing and detoxification. It maintains good health by eliminating harmful toxins from the body.

5. Another important benefit of lemon water is that it strengthens the liver functioning and stimulates it to produce more enzymes essential for different body processes. A well-functioning liver is the key to a healthy body.

6. Since lemon water has a diuretic effect, it is beneficial for people with urinary tract infections. Lemon water is helpful in treating arthritis and rheumatism.

7. Daily consumption of warm lemon water is an effective remedy to get rid of belly fat.

8. Lemon water is one of the most effective regimens for skin care and hair care. Daily consumption can make a huge difference in the appearance of your skin. It rejuvenates the skin and gives a clear, radiant and glowing complexion. Lemon juice is one of the best home remedies for acne control. It can also be used to treat various skin diseases like eczema. Application of lemon juice on the skin is effective in preventing sunburn. If you apply lemon water to your hair for a few minutes and then rinse with water, it will make your hair clean and shining.

9. Lemon juice, if externally applied on the nostrils, can help stop nosebleeds and control bleeding gums, when massaged onto the gums. Lemon juice combined with glycerin is effective to heal chapped lips.

Start your day in a healthy way with energizing lemon water. Nutrient-rich lemon water rejuvenates your body and improves overall fitness and stamina.

Article written by: Reshma Jirage

Related Articles:

• Foods That Speed Metabolism
• Moringa Oleifera: The Tree Of Life
• Soy Milk: The Benefits vs. The Dangers
• 5 Poisonous Berries You Probably Want to Avoid
• Do You Know Which Foods are High in Antioxidants?

If you are interested in your health and overall wellness, you really need to know not only what antioxidants are and how they work, but, even more importantly, which foods have the highest antioxidant content in order to know how to eat better and smarter.

Knowing what antioxidants are and why they are important in the diet with regards to overall health and wellness, plus also knowing what foods are high in antioxidants can help everyone eat better and smarter. There are actually a wide range of different types of foods, many which are common items in the daily diet, that are high in antioxidants and provide a great number of health benefits for your body.

There is a misconception that the very highest amount of antioxidants is found in tea and, in particular, in green tea. While green tea is very high in antioxidants, there is one food item that actually has a higher content. Believe it or not, dark chocolate is the winner of the high antioxidant food category.

It important to understand that this refers only to dark chocolate, and does not include milk chocolates or white chocolates. Dark chocolate is produced from the cocoa bean and is in the purest and least diluted form, which is why dark chocolate is so rich and distinct in flavor. Although high in antioxidants, eating large quantities of dark chocolate isn’t healthy either – just a small amount in the diet is beneficial.

Dark chocolate contains flavonols, which are a type of flavinoid. Further breaking down the types of antioxidants in dark chocolate you will find procyanidins, epicatechins and catechins, this last one being the same antioxidant found in green tea.

Berries have long been recognized as a healthy addition to the diet, but now researchers and nutritionists know why. Berries, particularly strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and kiwi fruit, provide a large amount of antioxidants to the diet, plus they also add fiber, vitamins and great taste. Consider eating berries on your cereal or as a dessert rather than cake or pie. Berries also make an easy to carry snack for kids and are simple to have at your desk for between meal cravings.

Many vegetables are also high antioxidant food types and generally they include the green leafy vegetables. Some good examples of high antioxidant content vegetables include green and red cabbage, kale, spinach, broccoli and cauliflower.

All of these vegetables are in the cruciferous group of vegetables along with bok choy, and Brussels sprouts. Eating these vegetables on a daily basis, or even adding one or two servings per week in addition to your regular diet, will help increase the amount of antioxidants available for your body to use.

Whenever planning to add more high antioxidant foods to your diet, be sure to do so reasonably and slowly, not all at once. In addition don’t only eat foods that are high antioxidant foods, you also need to consume complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, brown rice and cereals; proteins such as lean meats and fish, as well as other vegetables and fruits. Keep in mind that eating in balance helps your body with vitamins and minerals that are also necessary in the production of antioxidants as well as in overall health.

About the Author:

Terry Roberts is a professional translator and linguist with a wide range of hobbies. His website, Healthful Living Today, gives great advice for everyone.

Article syndicated from Buzzle.com

Related Articles:

• Foods That Help Build Muscle
• Soy Milk: The Benefits vs. The Dangers
• The Pro’s & Con’s of Drinking Colloidal Silver
• St. John’s Wort & Depression: New Research Supports Its Use
• Study: Increased Calcium Improves Children’s Bone Health