Showing posts with label fruits. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fruits. Show all posts

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Health Benefits of Pineapple-Why you should eat fresh pineapple


A simple Pineapple is one of those fruits that is packed with nutrients, antioxidants and vitamins. Being a member of the bromeliad family, it's extremely rare that bromeliads produce edible fruit. The pineapple is the only available edible bromeliad today and provides natural remedies to many ailments.  



Did you know that it's considered a multiple fruit? One pineapple is actually made up of dozens of

individual flowerlets  that grow together to form the entire fruit. Each scale on a pineapple is evidence of a separate flower.  

How to pick the best pineapple:
1.  You need to know pineapples stop ripening the minute they are picked. There is no special way of storing them will help ripen them further while the color is relatively unimportant in determining ripeness, it's the smell that determines how ripe it is.
2.  When it smells fresh, tropical and sweet, it will be a good fruit. 
3.  When there more scales on the pineapple, the sweeter and juicer the taste.



Health Benefits: This is one of fruits that offer a sweet and exotic flavor, but it may also be one of the most healthful foods available today. Research shows that pineapple is valuable for easing indigestion, arthritis and or sinusitis.  


  • The juice has an anthelmintic effect; it helps get rid of intestinal worms.  
  • Pineapple is high in manganese, a mineral that is critical to development of strong bones and connective tissue. A cup of fresh pineapple will give you nearly 75% of the recommended daily amount.  It is particularly helpful to older adults, whose bones tend to be brittle with age.    
  • Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, is the key to pineapple's value. Proteolytic means "breaks down protein", which is why pineapple is known to be a digestive aid. It helps the body digest proteins more efficiently. 
  • Bromelain is also considered an effective anti-inflammatory.  Regular ingestion of at least one half cup of fresh pineapple daily is purported to relieve painful joints common to osteoarthritis. It also produces mild pain relief.   
  • In Germany, bromelain is approved as a post-injury medication because it is thought to reduce inflammation and swelling.   
  • Orange juice is a popular liquid for those suffering from a cold because it is high in Vitamin C. 
  • Fresh pineapple is not only high in this vitamin, but because of the Bromelain, it has the ability to reduce mucous in the throat. 
  • If you have a cold with a productive cough, add pineapple to your diet. 
  • It is commonly used in Europe as a post-operative measure to cut mucous after certain sinus and throat operations.   
  • Those individuals who eat fresh pineapple daily report fewer sinus problems related to allergies. In and of itself, pineapple has a very low risk for allergies 
  • Pineapple is also known to discourage blood clot development. This makes it a valuable dietary addition for frequent fliers and others who may be at risk for blood clots.   
  • An old folk remedy for morning sickness is fresh pineapple juice. it really works! Fresh juice and some nuts first thing in the morning often make a difference.   
  • It's also good for a healthier mouth. The fresh juice discourages plaque growth.   
So now you have to good tid-bits to help with keeping yourself and loved ones in good health! 
Oh and be on the look out for a special DIY Pinpineapple Mask that works!

How have you found Pineapple to help you?



Wednesday, February 13, 2013

The Top 10 Superfoods for Gorgeous Skin and Hair


The secret to healthier hair and glowing skin? It's not in your makeup case. It's in your diet. Nutritionist Lisa Drayer, MA, RD, author of The Beauty Diet, says these superfoods will give you gorgeous skin and beautiful hair.

Blueberries

This low-profile berry was ranked number one in antioxidant activity by the U.S. Department of Agriculture compared to 40 common fruits and vegetables. The antioxidants in blueberries protect you from premature aging, so add half a cup to your yogurt or whey protein shakes.






 

Wild Salmon

Wild salmon -- not farm-raised -- is one of the best food sources for omega-3 fatty acids, which helps keep your skin supple and moisturized. Salmon also has selenium, a mineral that protects the skin from sun exposure. The vitamin D in salmon keeps your bones and teeth strong and healthy, too. You won't have a problem adding salmon to your diet since there are hundreds of ways to enjoy this beauty superfood. Try it grilled, baked with a salad, in sushi, or just with a side of green vegetables.


Spinach

This leafy green vegetable is rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Spinach is loaded with lutein, which keeps your eyes healthy and sparkling. Spinach is also a good source of vitamins B, C, and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Trade your lettuce for spinach, or saute spinach for a quick, healthy side asparagus.



Oysters

The jury's still out on whether oysters are really aphrodisiacs, but they are a good source of zinc, which aids in skin cell renewal and repair. Zinc also keeps your nails, hair, and eyes healthy. Who needs an aphrodisiac when you look and feel beautiful?



Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the best source of the anti-aging antioxidant lycopene. Surprisingly, lycopene in tomatoes is more easily absorbed by your body when it is cooked or processed, so make sure to stock up on canned tomato sauce, tomato juice, and ketchup with agave or no sugar ketchup.


Walnuts

You don't need to eat cupfuls of walnuts to enjoy their many benefits: smoother skin, healthy hair, brighter eyes, and strong bones. Get your daily dose of nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E by eating a handful by themselves or throwing some in your salad, pasta, or dessert.



Kiwis

This small, brown, fuzzy fruit is loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, which keep skin firm, help prevent wrinkles, and are great for healthy bones and teeth. The antioxidants in kiwis also protect you from cancer and heart disease.



Dark Chocolate

We won't judge you if you keep a secret stash of chocolate in your purse or desk (or both). In fact, we recommend you do -- especially if you're willing to share. Dark chocolate helps skin stay hydrated and protects skin from sun damage, and contrary to popular belief, chocolate does not cause acne. Before you make a mad dash to Godiva or Ghirardelli, however, keep in mind that the best kind of chocolate has a high flavanol content and should be at least 60 percent cacao.


Yogurt

One cup of low-fat yogurt has more calcium than a cup of fat-free milk, which is great for your posture, nails, and teeth. Mix it with fruit or granola for a healthy breakfast or that essential midafternoon snack.



Sweet Potatoes

You should be eating this superfood more often than just at Thanksgiving. Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that fights aging.
Hate them mashed? Try them cut up and roasted with herbs or onions for an easy, awesome side.






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