Fruit Salads from the Supermarket: The Truth

A salad with different fruits is healthy. It provides you fast vitamins and fibre, has only few calories and no fat. It seems to be the perfect snack for in between, good to go and also healthy. So it’s not surprisingly that many supermarkets offer this fruit cocktail in a plastic cup. But how fresh and healthy are the fruits? Here are the answers:

In the last few years, the fruit cocktail “to go” started to spread everywhere. Nowadays you can buy this healthy snack almost everywhere. No wonder, most people don’t have time to cook a proper lunch or it is difficult not to spoil a fruit basket in a single household. So fruit salad is the solution. It is easy to take to the office and since it is already prepared, ready for consumption. 

Are they healthy?

Only fresh fruits contain vitamins and minerals. Once the fruit is cut, it starts to perish. That’s why it is important that they are kept cold from the time of manufacture to sale. The fresher the product, the healthier it is but it should be consumed for sure within three days. The problem is exactly that point – you don’t know when the cocktail was prepared. And different tests showed that fruit cocktails examined by different health parameters such as total number of bacteria, yeast, fungus and salmonella aren’t fresh anymore. Some are even harmful for your health because of being no longer suitable for consumption. In addition, most fruits don’t contain a lot of vitamins anymore when consumed by the customer. Therefore, it is important to know the difference between fresh and old fruit cocktails. Here is some information so that you are prepared when you want to buy one of these plastic cups the next time. 

 

Which fruits?
 

Since most vitamins are in the shell, fruits like apples or pears shouldn’t be peeled. Acidic fruits like citrus fruits can get stored longer than others. And orange shouldn’t be missed out because of its high vitamin C content. Fruit cocktails usually don’t contain bananas because they turn brown and mushy very quickly.Pineapples with their sweet taste are often used to give the cocktail an exotic kick.But there is no limit. You can find cocktails with bananas, strawberries, pineapples, grapes, melons, figs, oranges, blueberries and so on. Since it is a lot of work to prepare different fruit salads in a sufficient amount for a supermarket, most of the big chains have suppliers who cut and pack the fruits for them which can be a problem regarding to the freshness. 

 

How harmful are the plastic cups?

Using transparent plastic cups is actually not the optimal storage for fruits since the vitamins are sensitive to light. But it is important for marketing reasons to make the content to the buyer visible – especially for products that suggest freshness. But even though there are better methods for storage, the plastic is not harmful for your health, but definitely for the environment. Think about the amount of waste just because of these plastic cups. 

 

How can I tell if a fruit salad is bad?

If the cup contains a lot of water, the fruits stand for some time. Because the older the fruit, the more water. The colour can be also an indicator about the freshness, then the darker the colour the older it is. Also when the fruits stain, you know that they are too old. Furthermore, the fruits should look bright and crispy. And it is important to buy it only from the refrigerator – then cut fruits have nothing to do on a shelf. If the plastic cup is not cold then it doesn’t contain fresh fruits anymore. So hands off! Don’t think now you shouldn’t buy the healthy snack anymore the next time you pass the fruit section in the supermarket. Just take some more time to assess the condition of the fruits to make sure that the fruit salad really provides you the vitamins and minerals which you expect to get. But if you would like to play it safe, prepare your own salad. Then you will get for sure all the health benefits of this fruit cocktail

 

http://www.drgranny.com/category/health-nutrition/.

Reade more >>

Mediterranean Diet: Get Slim with Yummy Food

This diet is nothing else than cooking the way southern Europe does. Countries like Italy and Greece are known for eating healthy food with lots of vegetables, fruits, fish and healthy olive oil. In addition, this food makes you sit down and enjoy the food, an important factor, since most people gain weight because of having a too hectic life and therefore eating unhealthy fast food.The southern countries take time during the meal and eating slowly gives your stomach time to send signals to the brain when you are satisfied. This diet is one of the best rated since it combines healthy eating with conscious use of the meals, which will help you not just to reach the desired weight but also to better health. 

Benefits of this diet

It is a very healthy way to lose weight because of its fresh ingredients. Even though you use high quality olive oil, it is good for your body because it needs those fats to utilize the nutrients from the vegetables. If you are precise, this is actually not a typical diet since you eat normally, but the switch to a healthy one. The dishes are very tasty too, which of course has a positive effect on stamina. Many ingredients can also been eaten raw such as salads or fruits. This gives the body an extra boost of healthy vitamins. In addition to vegetables, fruit salads and lots of fish, you eat lean meat, dairy products and bread. Hence, the diet is very balanced and recommended by many doctors. 

 

Disadvantages of the Mediterranean diet

Even the best diet has somewhere a few drawbacks but there are not many. In this diet, the problem exists only in the fact that many things taste too delicious and therefore it is easy to cross the line. And even though olive oil is healthy, you shouldn’t use too much of it. Also the so-called antipasti contains too much of oil and should be enjoyed in moderation or take a salad with little vinegar and oil instead of this. The same goes for all dishes which contain cream. Take reduced-fat milk products instead of the calorie bomb. 

 

Prospects of success

   Anyone who follows this diet has good prospects to have their weight permanently under control. However, you should consider some important points to reach your dream weight. In the preparation, you should make sure not to use too much oil and cream. It is also important to eat every meal with a serving of fresh fruits, vegetables or a salad so that the body gets enough fibre and vitamins. 

 

The Basic Principle of the Mediterranean diet

    It is very simple, because to determine the ideal amount of food, you can use your palm. For an adult, the amount of protein-food like meat, fish, seafood, dairy products and eggs matches the size of one palm three meals daily. The ratio of vegetables, legumes and most fruits should be twice the protein ration, namely two palms. A meal of the day can be one-third of the protein ratio, a half of the vegetable and fruit ratio and a sixth of high carbohydrates such as potatoes, pasta, rice or cereals. So when you are looking for a diet to reach a healthy weight in the long term, this one is for sure a great choice. Your body still gets all it needs – just on a healthier way than before. But it is not the right one if you want to lose some kilos fast, with the risk to have the yo-yo effect at the end. Experts also agree that a crash diet doesn’t help much because if you want to lose weight in the long term, you must permanently change the diet! 

 

http://www.drgranny.com/health-nutrition/mediterranean-diet-get-slim-with-yummy-food/

Reade more >>

skin care tips

Skin is one of the largest organs of your body. From head to toe, every part of the body is wrapped with this smooth and soft organ. It is one of the main parts where aging signs are noticed so vividly. Therefore, taking care of the skin is an important task. If you would follow a good skin care regime, many of the skin problems will be dissolved. From pimple, acne to sun damage, all skin related problems will be cured. Skin care tips are basic needs of every modern women. Everyday, you face numerous harmful elements on the skin. Such environmental factors damage your skin texture. To keep your youthful glow intact, follow some skin care treatments and nourish your look properly.

Steps for enjoying a fresh and healthy skin

Cleansing

Everyone knows that removing the dirty elements from your skin, you improve your skin quality. It is therefore, must to wash off the skin with the help of a good cleanser when you return back home. You may apply a cleanser at least twice to thrice a day. But those who have acne prone oily skin should avoid excess washing. After clearing the face with a cleanser, you get much energy and a soothing freshness is enjoyed afterwards.

Exfoliating

Once or twice a week, apply a scrub on the skin. It will exfoliate the skin perfectly. Gently massage the facial skin with the scrub. The dead skin cells will be removed in this process. You will get new and fresh skin cells which would offer you a glowing skin indeed.

Moisturizing

After you have washed the face, consider a good moisturizer. Dab it on the face twice or thrice a day. You should apply a moisturizer before sleep and it must suit your skin type. Those who are of oily skin type can consider water based moisturizer. It will absorb into the skin and make it smooth and soft.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is wonderful in protecting the skin from the heat of the sun. When you go out in the sun, your skin is exposed to the harmful UV rays. You have fantastic option to save it from this damage. Apply sunscreen lotion everyday. Keep it always in your purse and use on your skin many times in a day. Remember to buy SPF 15 formula at leas while buying a sunscreen lotion.

Water therapy

Drink around 8 to 9 glasses of water daily. It hydrates the whole body and adds glow and glamour to the skin.

Adequate sleep

Regular sleep gives the skin healthy texture. At least 7 to 8 hours of sleep is necessary for all. In addition, don't take alcohol or cigarette if you want to enjoy a healthy skin.

Skin care home remedies
There are several acne home care remedies available for you. You may try apple zinger facial mask. Choose a medium sized apple and grate it properly. Add at least 5 tablespoon of honey to it. Mix this properly on your face. Wait for 10 minutes and wash the face using cold water. It will effectively cure acne.

Take ½ cup cornmeal, 2 tablespoons of baking soda, ¼ cup milk, 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 5 drops tea-tree oil. Mix all of them in a container and use on the skin. Keep for 10 minutes and wash the face. It will work as a good exfoliater for the skin.

Tomato rejuvenates your skin wonderfully. Rub a tomato slice onto the skin and add glow and brightness.

 

http://beautytipsonblog.blogspot.com/

Reade more >>

Super Simple Skin Care Recipes

     Nourish your complexion to keep skin problems at a bay. These super simple skin care recipes provide you with a set of treatments you can include into your beauty regime. Stop spending a fortune on rare ingredients and learn how to prepare facials that work with cheap and vitamin-rich elements.  Spa facials cost a fortune and can't grant you with daily nourishment. However, if you're not afraid of trying your hand at a few super simple skin care recipes, you'll be able to load your skin cells with vitamins and minerals on a daily basis. Organic skin care is no longer inaccessible. Raid the grocery store for basic ingredients like fresh herbs, fruits, vegetable oils and seeds. Use these elements to mix a soothing and healing face pack. Read through the following homemade facial recipes that can guarantee the natural glow and flawless condition of your complexion

 

 Grapefruit and Oat Flour Facial for Oily Skin

Use this simple recipe to get rid of greasy spots and acne. In a bowl mix ½ tbs of oat flour with 1 tbs of organic grapefruit juice. Apply the mixture on your clean face and leave the face pack on for at least 15-20 minutes. Finish up cleansing your complexion by rinsing off the facial with cold water.

Mango and Almond Oil Facial

Prevent the formation of various skin problems with this soothing and nutritive facial recipe. Grab a bowl and mix 1 tbs of almond oil with 1 tbs of honey and 2 tbs of mango pulps. The fine paste can be applied on your complexion. Leave 10-15 minutes for the treatment to exercise its magical effect. Finally rinse off the face pack with tepid water.

Strawberry and Cucumber Facial

Use this super simple skin mask recipe to cleanse your pores from dirt and oil excess. Use a blender to mix 3-4 strawberries with ½ cucumber, 1 tbs of honey and 1 tbs of yogurt. Apply the mixture on your face, leaving out the sensitive spots around the eyes. Leave the treatment on for 10-15 minutes, then use a damp cloth to wipe it off.

Grapefruit Lotion

Grapefruit is extremely rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Therefore, you can use it as the best ingredient to cleanse your pores from impurities. First, freeze a few slices of grapefruit in your fridge. Then use the frozen segments to rub them into your face and neck. Do this ritual for at least 5-7 minutes, then leave the treatment on for 10 minutes. Wash off the lotion with tepid water and apply a moisturizer for a soft and silky complexion. 

Date and Orange Facial

Rejuvenate your complexion with this vitamin-rich facial. In a blender mix 10 dates with ½ orange and create a fine paste. Cleanse your skin with tepid water and apply the treatment on your face, leaving out the delicate area around the eyes. Start massaging the mask into your pores and then leave it on for 8-10 minutes. Rinse the facial off with cold water and enjoy the smooth texture of your skin.

 

Reade more >>

EXCESS BODY FAT

The intelligent alternative to liposuction with no needles!

i-lipo is the latest in laser lipolysis, offering you a way to achieve inch loss and body contouring with no pain, no needles and no down time. i-lipo has just won “Best Slimming treatment” award at “Les Victoires de la beauté” and recently granted clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

How does it work?
The i-lipo uses a low level of visible laser light to stimulate the body’s natural processes that empty the stored fat contents inside fat cells.

The laser light gently absorbs into the individual fat cells in the treatment area, temporary opening pores in the cell wall through which the cell contents can escape. This does not affect the neighboring structures such as skin, blood vessels, and peripheral nerves. The contents of the fat cells are released into the interstitial space, where they are collected by the lymphatic system, and transported to the areas of the body where they can be metabolized into energy during exercise. This metabolism of the contents permanently removes them from the body, leaving smaller fat cells and giving you inch loss. Light exercise post treatment can accelerate the breakdown and removal of fat from the area. The i-lipo course can be performed on calfs, knees, thigh, buttocks, stomach, arms and even small areas such as double chin. The i-lipo system is currently the only system that has 4 treatment pads and is able to treat 2 small areas at once or give you a quicker treatment time. You will be in the clinic for approximately 30-45 minutes

By positioning the laser pads on the target area fat can be broken down and removed specifically from that area. This is a big advantage over diet and exercise which can reduce overall body fat but not shape individual areas.

Reade more >>

One Minute Skin Care Tips

Among so many tasks that must be accomplished, it often feels tempting to leave seemingly less important tasks for later or to eliminate them all together. But looking our best doesn't necessarily have to take a lot of time and the tips presented below are the perfect reflection of this idea. With the beauty industry getting an impressive growth regardless of general market conditions, the idea that we need a multitude of products and complex, time-consuming steps to look our best has begun to be well ingrained into our minds. However, having good results can take less than it might seem. A few one minute solutions can have a significant impact on the way we look and some of the following tips are a great place to start.

Pick multi-taskers
Having a complex skin care routine that involves multiple steps can greatly undermine your determination to follow through on it. That's why choosing a good multi-tasking product can prove to be such an effective strategy in helping you take care of your skin quicker, better and easier. 

The easier it is to make routines more efficient, the more you will be likely 

to follow them through every single time.

 

Substitute products

It can be easy to rationalize skipping a vital beauty care step if you don't have the product necessary at hand. However, as eco-friendly, frugal beauty queens have proved over and over, using beauty products you already have or quickly improvising a recipe for the purpose deliver similar or even superior results. Sugar and olive oil as face scrub, baby oil as makeup remover or vaseline as a moisturizer are a few examples that can be implemented quickly at any given time.

Wait a little

While it's tempting to rush through your normal routine, sometimes it's better to wait a while to make sure you're getting good results. This is the case when applying moisturizer in thick layers. To ensure proper absorption, it is best to wait for 10 minutes before applying a layer of makeup.

 

                                                                                                          

Try numbing gels

Not all beauty tasks are pleasant and relaxing or even kind to your skin. For the tasks where pain is a necessary evil, numbing gels available over the counter can be a true lifesaver. Apply these gels according to directions and make sure to wait at least 20 seconds for it to get absorbed.

Focus where it matters

Like in any area, sometimes the Pareto principle is true for beauty as well. One such example refers to having perfectly groomed eyebrows. This step can make your eyes look bigger without the use of white eyeliners, they create a polished imagine instantly and even eliminate the need for heavily structured makeup styles allowing your skin to breathe better.

 

http://www.skin-care.becomegorgeous.com/perfect_skin/one_minute_skin_care_tips-5637.html 

Reade more >>