Apple Cider Vinegar: Keeps us natural & Chemical-free

Apple Cider Vinegar

(Apple cider vinegar has been credited with curing everything from flu to warts)

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made from fermented apple pulp that swarming with good bacteria. Apple cider vinegar is a clear, sour-flavoured liquid have been used as a health elixir. It has numerous uses and benefits. Amino acids, pectin, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, potent antioxidants, B-complex vitamins, bi-flavonoids, acetic acid, enzymes, and minerals like potassium, copper, calcium and magnesium are found in Apple cider vinegar. Together, these essential nutrients work as a powerful detoxifying and purifying agent, which helps in offsetting age-related damage, builds energy, improves immunity, digestion and improves well-being in several ways.

34 Benefits of drinking ACV

1. Drinking ACV in warm water in the morning helps us in flushing toxins out of our system and maintains the alkaline state of your body.
2. ACV also controls many inflammatory diseases, like allergy, diabetes, and arthritis as these diseases have their roots in the acidic pH. ACV moves body’s pH to a slight alkaline state.
3. ACV allows probiotics to flourish in our gut. As it gently nudges our body’s pH towards alkalinity, disease causing pathogens find it difficult to thrive in such an environment.
4. Magnesium and antioxidant rich content of ACV helps in promoting flexible and pain free joints.
5. ACV ignites the digestive fire within us and cures indigestion. Pectin found in apple cider vinegar may also help to soothe intestinal spasms.
6. Drinking of 5 ml of ACV to a glass of water or any fruit juice before meals helps us when we have upset stomach. 
7. Gargling with ACV kills bacteria and plaque that gives rise to bad breath. So, it helps in banishing bad breath.
8. Potassium rich content of ACV helps in thinning of mucous.
9. Acetic acid present in ACV prevents germ growth in coughs and colds. So, gargling with this can also soothe the sore throat.
10. Acetic acid present in ACV also reduces bad cholesterol and triglycerides in arteries. It also increases good cholesterol.

    

    34 Benefits

11. Acetic acid found in ACV improves our body’s absorption of important minerals from the foods we consume.
12. Acetic acid found in ACV suppresses appetite, lowers water retention and increases metabolism. It may also interfere with assimilation of starch which helps to lose weight. 
13. ACV contains the antioxidant beta-carotene, which helps break down and remove unwanted fat from our body.
14. ACV maintains good cholesterol and good triglycerides that resulted in normalizing high blood pressure and improve our overall heart health as well.
15. ACV lower down blood sugar levels. So it is great for diabetes management. According to a study, taking two tablespoons of ACV before bed lowered the glucose levels in the morning by 4% to 6%.
16. ACV enables kidneys to flush out Kidney stones naturally. All we have to do is to dissolve two tablespoons of ACV in a glass of water and drink it twice a day for quick relief.
17. In order to get quick relief from hiccups, we must mix 10 ml of vinegar in a glass of warm water and sip it slowly. 
18. ACV is one of nature’s strongest antibiotics that helps in killing yeast fungus. But people suffering from yeast infections do not add honey to ACV because the fungus can thrive on sweetness, thus reducing its effect.
19. Varicose veins resulted in dull, aching pain and itchy feeling in the legs. But we can get rid of it by massaging ACV to the affected area to earn relief from that itchy sensation because ACV improves blood circulation.
20. Amino acids and potassium found in ACV act as antidote to lactic acids that develops during overwork. (Development of lactic acid is considered to be a common cause of fatigue)
21. We can rinse our hair after our each hair wash with diluted ACV. It gives a wonderful bounce to otherwise limp and listless hair.
22. We can add ACV to our regular shampoo to prevent and control dandruff.
23. We can apply ACV on our face for excellent toning effect, glowing skin, spotless skin, healthy and youthful skin.
24. We can apply mix of ACV and water in equal amounts to minimise pore size, which is a giveaway of skin ageing.
25. Acetic acid present in ACV also works as a wonderful detox that helps in banishing acne and pimples.
26. Diluting ACV in water and wiping it over the rashes with a cotton ball helps in relieving inflammation, reduces irritation and itching and encourages healing.
27. Application of ACV also helps in soothing sun burns. 
28. ACV helps in Pedicure. Acetic acid works as an exfoliating agent. We have to put half a cup of ACV into 10 to 15 litres of water. Dip our feet and hands in this solution. After a while when we scrub, we can notice dead cells coming off. 
29. Apart from the above, the acetic acid content of ACV helps in reinvigorating tired feet as well. We must soak our feet in the above mixture for 15 to 20 minutes to banish odour causing bacteria.
30. We can get relief from leg cramps through ACV. For this, we have to take mixture of 10ml ACV with a teaspoon of honey in water to give our legs that much needed potassium shot and get relief from nighttime leg cramps in the long run.
31. We can apply ACV with a cotton ball in our arm pits to neutralise odour.
32. ACV helps us in getting rid of warts. It also relieve soreness in muscles.
33. To have shining, white and bright smile, we have to mix 5 ml of ACV in a cup of water and gargle with this solution.
34. Apple cider vinegar is very common in home treatment for Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and a natural alternative for those who do not want to use prescribed antibiotics. As it contains potassium, it prevents the UTIs bacterias growth or multiplication.

Other areas where we can use ACV

Other areas of Use

• Other ways to incorporate it into our diet is to use it in our cooking. 
• It can be a tasty addition to homemade pickles, marinades, and salad dressing.
• We can mix it with something a bit more appetizing i.e. herbal or decaf tea and there is no harm in doing that.
• ACV can be used as an all-natural room freshener.
• ACV will clean our toilets and leave our bathroom smelling like apples.
• ACV can also be used in dishwashers as a substitute for dish detergent.
• ACV may help remove pesticides from vegetables. Soak them in a solution of 90% water to 10% vinegar, then rinse thoroughly.
• We can use a small amount of apple cider vinegar on a cotton pad to remove your make up in a natural way.

When one can take ACV

ACV Time to Have

The best and the easiest way to avail the maximum health benefits of apple cider vinegar is to drink it, after diluting it with water as it is acidic in nature. 

• One must take ACV (diluted in water) with honey to avoid indigestion and acidity at least thirty minutes prior to a heavy meal.
• If anyone consume with warm water and honey before bedtime, ACV may help with sleep issues as well.

Dosage

One can drink it with a straw to protect his/her tooth enamel.

• Common dosages range from 1-2 teaspoons i.e. 5 to 10 ml to 1-2 tablespoons i.e. 15 to 30 ml per day.
• One can increase the amount of ACV as his/her body gets used to it.

Side effects of ACV

• ACV seems to be safe. There are no side effects noted with normal consumption.
• However, some research shows that prolonged use of cider vinegar may deplete iodine from our body. So, taking a break from cider vinegar may also help our body recover.We can take a week or two off after every 3 to 4 months.
• Many doctors recommend that pregnant women not consume any unpasteurized foods so as to reduce the risk of ingesting any bacteria that could potentially harm their child. 
• Taking ACV in pills form can also address our concern about damaging our teeth. 
• It's not advised to drink ACV with milk, since the vinegar will cause the milk to curd.

Green Tea & Weight loss

(The formula of getting skinny with Green Tea)

Obesity is one of the biggest problems challenging the world today. A sedentary lifestyle, combined with the craving for junk food and drinks leads to several obesity-related complications like heart disease, sleeping disorder, diabetes, hypertension, etc. Because of obesity, we develop several types of fat in our body for example subcutaneous fat that lodges under our skin, visceral fat i.e. the belly fat which builds up around the organs. This visceral fat is harmful than the subcutaneous fat  because it helps in inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which are strongly linked to all sorts of serious diseases, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Thanks to Green Tea, it gives relief in this part.

Nutrients found in Green Tea that help in fat loss

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) 

One of the six different catechins found in green tea increases the metabolic rate of our body, in other words it intensifies the levels of fat oxidation and the rate at which our body turns food into calories, which, in turn, aids in weight loss. It helps us in burning about 3-4% and sometimes up to 8% more calories each day. In order to burn fat, it must be broken down first in the fat cell and moved into our bloodstream. EGCG helps inhibit an enzyme that breaks down the hormone norepinephrine and the amount of norepinephrine increases in our body. More norepinephrine leads to more breaking of fats. With breaking down fat releases into the bloodstream and makes it available for us as energy. So no more fat deposits and weight gain. EGCG also increases our body temperature so we may burn more calories.

Caffeine 

Caffeine present in Green Tea along with EGCG may actually have a synergistic effect because caffeine also aids in fat burning, in the same way EGCG do and improves exercise performance. Caffeine burns 9 extra calories for every 100 milligrams of caffeine we drink. Thus, Green tea reduces our body fat and bloating. At the same time, it detoxifies our body and suppress the untimely food cravings. This would make us take in fewer calories, automatically that means without any effort. Because it contains caffeine, green tea is enabled with diuretic properties, so it helps in eliminating excess water and thereby, reduces excess weight. Hence, drinking green tea daily can really help one in his/her weight loss journey. 

Methods one must choose to loose fat

• In order to lose weight, one must choose Matcha green tea which happens to be the richest green tea source of nutrients and antioxidants. Matcha green tea is grown and prepared differently than other green teas and the whole tea leaf is consumed.
• Cream and sugar destroys any weight loss benefits earned by green tea. So, anyone on a fat loose plan must have plain green tea that is not added with sugar, honey and milk or cream.
• Always substitute your morning beverage with green tea rather than coffee. Even if one is with his/her friends and relatives, he/she can save calories by taking green tea instead of coffee.
• Always take iced green tea instead of soda or soft drinks to have a control on calorie consumption.
• In the afternoon, one must choose to have a warm cup of tea to satisfy afternoon craving. 
• Drinking one glass of green tea before dinner fills up part of one’s stomach. This saves extra calories, means more weight loss.
• One must prefer to do exercise as Green tea extracts along with exercise burns 17% more fat in people who are taking green tea extracts than who didn’t get the extracts.
• If someone is doing exercises then he/she must take green tea 1 hour prior to his/her workout session. Though, morning and evening are the best time to drink green tea.
• If one on a serious weight loss routine, the he/she must eat more protein rich foods and on a mission of cutting carbohydrates.
• One should avoid eating overly processed, high-fat or high-sugar foods in the process of fat loss as they may negate the benefits.

Scientific studies on Green Tea

The association between Green Tea consumption and Human Health has long been appreciated. In laboratories around the globe, green tea is sparking tremendous excitement as new health applications keep being discovered. Green Tea has been used for medicinal purposes in China and Japan for thousands of years. Green Tea is seen as a time tested formula for a wide variety of ailments, including different types of cancer, heart disease, and liver disease.

What studies revealed?

• A 2013 review of many studies found green tea helped in preventing a range of heart-related issues, from high blood pressure to congestive heart failure.
• In one Swiss study, MRIs revealed that people who drank green tea had greater activity in the working-memory area of their brains.
• A research conducted by the American Botanical Council has found that the more green tea an elderly person drank in a day, the less likely he or she was to be depressed. 
  
• Less Studies found that Green tea can effectively help in fighting Breast cancer, Prostate cancer and Colorectal cancer, Skin cancer, Lung cancer, Esophageal cancer and Bladder cancer.
• Some studies have shown drinking 2 to 3 cups per day of green tea, when consumed without milk and sugar helps to maintain healthy circulatory system.
• Clinical studies suggest that green tea extract may boost metabolism and help burn fat. One study showed that those who consumed green tea and caffeine lost an average of 1.5 kg during a 12-week period, while sticking to their regular diet. 
• Preliminary studies suggest that drinking green tea can help prevent dental cavities.
• Research suggests that green tea may help arthritis by reducing inflammation and slowing the breakdown of cartilage.
• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, according to a reasearch has approved a specific green tea extract ointment as a prescription drug for treating genital warts.
• According to a study, Liver problems have been reported in a small number of people who took concentrated green tea extracts. 
• Two Japanese studies revealed that those who drink several cups of green tea daily avoid premature cardiovascular death, which may help them live longer than subjects who consume less green tea.
• A clinical trial in human volunteers has also revealed that a green tea preparation helps improve immunity and prevents cold and flu symptoms.
• The anti-hypertensive effect, antibacterial effect, antiviral effect and neuroprotective effect of green tea are also reported.
• A Japanese study recently reported that taking a single dose of green tea catechin extract equivalent to drinking five cups of green tea a day improved the plasma antioxidant capacity of healthy adults.
• The largest population-based study to date of the effects of green tea on life span is the Ohsaki study of more than 40,000 Japanese adults followed for up to 11 years revealed that drinking more green tea protected against death from all causes and against death from cardiovascular disease, particularly from stroke.
• Studies found that green tea supplements may be better than drinking green tea because the consumption of this traditionally prepared hot beverage has been linked with an increased risk of esophageal cancer. 
• A review of 11 studies did find that drinking a cup of green or black tea daily could help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels

Though many studies have been carried on worldwide on green tea and its extracts, definite conclusions cannot be reached yet. Further studies still needed to know whether green tea is helpful for most of the purposes it is used.

Green Tea : Its recommended dose, Excess Consumption & Supplementation

(Green tea, being world's most widely consumed beverage, is a delicious source of antioxidants and other phytonutrients)

Regular consumption of green tea has a net positive effect on our overall health. Now-a-days we can see various health foods, beverages, dietary supplements, and cosmetics are manufactured with green tea extracts in them. The primary difference between drinking green tea and taking it in pill form is dosage. In supplement form, the dosage is typically much higher than drinking green tea.

Recommended Dose

Green tea is always safe, When it is consumed in recommended dose.

• Two to three cups of green tea per day that contains a total of 240 to 320 mg polyphenols is recommended for adults.
• In case of extract and supplement option, 100 to 750 mg per day of standardized green tea extract is recommended for adults.
• One should not take Green tea extract in an empty stomach. Therefore, extracts must  be taken with meals.
• Always take Green Tea Extract supplements according to the physician or that prescribed on the bottle.

Adverse Effects

I always told in my every article, everything is best in moderation and Green Tea is no exception. We know that Green tea provides us several benefits but If we have it more than required, it has some negative effects on our health. Two to Three cups of Green tea is recommended per day. More than that may find you in adverse conditions. Read them below.

• Drinking more than 5 cups of green tea can increase the amount of calcium that is flushed out in the urine.
• Green tea seems to reduce the absorption of iron from food. Drinking very high doses of green tea is likely unsafe.
• In case of pregnancy or breast-feeding, green tea more than 2 cups per day is likely unsafe.
• Breast-feeding women should not take green tea as the caffeine in it can get passed into the breast milk and affect the baby.
• Don't drink green tea if you have a bleeding disorder. Drinking green tea may make anemia worse.
• Drinking green tea more than three cups leads to insomnia, nausea, diarrhea, restlessness etc.
• If someone is going through any medication, then he/she must consult his doctor/physician as Green tea sometimes have adverse effects on human body when it is interfere with any medication.
• Green tea does not go well with dietary carbohydrate as it inhibits some uptake.

Supplements

Beneficial effects of green tea are seen when it is consumed as a beverage as well as in supplemental form. It is also sold in liquid extracts, capsules, and tablets and is sometimes used in topical products (intended to be applied to the skin). If one want to go for supplements look for a standardized version. Always take caffeine-free products whether it is drink or supplements. The majority of Green Tea Extract supplements contains appetite suppressants. Always check the label to see how many milligrams of catechins a single pill contains at the time of choosing a green tea extract.

• Medical Practitioners used green tea as a stimulant, a diuretic (to help rid the body of excess fluid), and an astringent (to control bleeding and help heal wounds).
• Green tea also used in treating gas, regulating body temperature and promoting digestion.
• Green tea goes well with fish Oil capsules as it increases bio-availability and helps in reducing beta-amyloid pigmentation buildup in the brain.
• Green tea goes well with Vitamin C, CoQ10 and CoQ9, because when they combine they act as a powerful antioxidant.
• Green tea with Caffeine and Ephedrine increases fat burning potential.

How to Choose, Prepare and Drink a Right Cup of Green Tea

(Green Tea has become extremely popular in recent years because of its goodness)

Green Tea has myriad health benefits. But in order to get those benefits we must Choose, Prepare and Drink the green tea carefully.

Choosing the right kind of Green tea

When we are in a super market and choose a green tea brand, it is always confusing as the supermarket flooded with several brands. I have kept some points in my mind whenever I purchase green tea. Here I am sharing these points.

• At first look for the antioxidant content. It varies from brand to band. I am using lipton green tea and its good in the antioxidant part.
• Always choose loose tea leaves instead of tea bag as loose leaves found to be the most potent source of antioxidants.
• Check the ingredients that sugar must not be added, otherwise it will end up with extra calories.
• Always buy recent manufacturing date package of green tea as green tea looses its potency after six months of packing.
• Always keep in mind to choose the first harvest green tea as the highest quality tea leaves are picked in between the month of March and April every year.
• There are decaf, citrus, ginger, fruit and other flavored teas, each with unique flavors and benefits. Always choose a flavour that you love. It helps you in making a habit.
• Choose the ones that use all-natural, organic ingredients and are preservative-free. Thus, you can avoid contamination with pesticides and chemicals. 

Preparing a cup of Green tea?

Making of green tea must be according to the need. If one wants to loose his/her extra pounds or does not want to gain extra calories then he/she must not add sugar or honey. Nevertheless, those want extra calorie or non-diabetic persons can add this. Mind the time of brewing in order to light taste or strong taste. Just follow these steps.

• Boiling water is bad for catechins. So let the water rest for about five minutes in a container after boiling. Then, pour the water over the tea leaves or tea bag and brew for 2 to 3 minutes.
• In case of tea bags, dip the tea bag in warm water and let it brew for 2 to 3 minutes. If one like a stronger flavour, he/she can let it brew for a little longer.
• In case of loose tea leaves, add the leaves in the container containing the warm water. Let it steep for 2 to 3 minutes and then pour the tea in cups through a strainer/sieve.
• One can add a teaspoon of lemon juice. Lemon is not to just for additional flavour. As I told already, it helps in retaining as much as 80 percent of catechins.
• One can also add a touch of honey. Honey will add a host of its medicinal properties, like prevent cancer and heart disease, reducing cough and throat irritation, reducing gastrointestinal disorders, etc

Good habits of taking Green Tea?

We generally take tea in the middle of something i.e. in a short break of heavy work loads. Due to this, we never pay attention to some areas which can maximize the benefits of green tea. In order to reap maximum benefits, always keep these things in mind before having green tea.

• Be active, brew green tea from the loose tea leaves instead of tea bag which is used by most of us for convenience. This allows the release of more antioxidants into a cup.
• Always take green tea in hot water but not too hot as hot water increases green tea’s antioxidant potential by as much as 10 folds.
• Don't add green tea to boiling water. It's bad for catechins, those healthy chemicals, in the tea.
• Add lemon to green tea as Vitamin C makes the catechins easier to absorb. 
• It is always advised to enjoy a cup of Green tea in water only without adding milk or sugar. Adding milk to green tea reduces its antioxidant value and makes it harder to absorb catechins. 

Health Benefits of Green Tea

(Originated in Asia, Green Tea has now admired by people all over the world)

Green tea is a healthier substitute to other beverages like  black tea, oolong tea and coffee because of its lower caffeine content. Except this there are much more in the category of benefit of green tea. They are :

Benefits

1. Brewed and unsweetened Green Tea being 99.5% water is a great way to stay hydrated.
2. Green tea contains 2% to 4% caffeine and this presence of caffeine in green tea is enough to keep one active throughout the day without making his/her feel jittery (a common adverse effect of overdose of caffeine) 
3. Green tea contains an amino acid, named L-theanine, known for crossing blood and brain barrier to improve brain function. It also helps in boosting memory.
   
4. The bioactive compounds found in green tea protects the dopamine producing neurons in human brain thus reducing the risk of Alzheimer, dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
5. Caffeine found in green tea also improves physical performance by mobilizing the fatty acids present in fat tissues. So it increases fat burning, especially around the abdominal area.
6. Green tea contains catechins which can lower blood pressure and catechins can help protect against the damage a high-fat diet can cause.
7. Antioxidants like flavonoids present in Green Tea can provide us a protective effect to fight against cancerous cells as oxidation process plays a vital role in development of cancer cells. 
8. Green tea is known to aid healthy cells in all stages of growth. Green tea also has been shown to improve blood flow. 
9. As green tea contains polyphenols and catechins, it protect our heart and arteries, and staves off heart disease and helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
10. Green tea can help prevent and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis as it protects the cartilage by blocking the production of the enzyme, chemokine.
11. Green tea improves insulin sensitivity in humans and reduces the blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Thus it provides long term protection against Type II diabetes. 
12. Green tea contains theophylline, which claims to relax the muscles that give support to the bronchial tubes, so it helps in reducing the severity of asthma. 
13. Sipping green tea helps us slow down and relax because of a natural chemical called L-theanine found in green tea which provides a calming effect.
14. Green tea may help in reducing inflammation associated with Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis, the two types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
15. Green tea also seems to protect the liver from the damaging effects of toxic substances such as alcohol. So it helps in detoxifying our body. 
16. Chemicals in green tea may help treat genital warts, dermatological conditions and prevent symptoms of cold & flu and boost immunity.
17. Green tea contains high fluoride which helps in keeping our bones strong and slowing its breakdown, so helps in maintaining bone health.
18. Green tea inhibits the growth of bacteria and viruses that cause dental diseases like cavities & inflammation in the gums. It also helps in slowing down the growth of bacteria that leads to bad breath. 
19. Green tea inhibits the growth of DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), that hinders hair growth and causes hair fall. Thus it stimulates hair growth.
20. Cream or lotion with Green tea extracts protect us against sun damage by acting on the free radicals. The polyphenols present in green tea slow down the process of aging

Green Tea : An Overview

(The Most Healthiest Beverage Available on Earth) 

Green Tea is a type of tea originated in China. It is differ from black and oolong tea in its oxidation and withering process. It plays a vital role in maintaining our overall health. It is prepared by steaming and pan-frying the leaves of “Camellia sinensis” plant and then drying them and in most cases just drying them. Green tea is always made from unfermented leaves, because of this, they hold on tons of nutrients that can be lost with other tea-treatment methods. During this process, Green Tea is able to maintain important molecules called polyphenols, which seem to be responsible for many of the benefits of green tea. In fact, the antioxidant effects of polyphenols seem to be greater than vitamin C. But the polyphenols in green tea also give it a somewhat bitter flavour. Polyphenols contained in teas are classified as catechins. Green tea contains six primary catechin compounds. They are Catechin, Gallaogatechin, Epicatechin, Epigallocatechin, Epicatechin gallate, and Epigallocatechin gallate (also known as EGCG which helps in fighting several harmful diseases). Green tea is loaded with natural antioxidant flavonoids which helps in reducing the formation of free radicals in our body, hence protects us against the cellular and molecular damage. L-theanine, an amino acid known for its calming effects on the nervous system found in green tea. Green tea also contains alkaloids including caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. They provide it's stimulant effects. Little green tea leaves have been also using to make powders, extracts and medicine. Therefore, green tea is considered not only as a beverage, but also as a healing agent. But it is more famous because it is a calorie-free beverage and one of the best hydrating fluids, next to water.

Garcinia Cambogia : An Age Old Formula of Weight Loss

Garcinia Cambogia

Garcinia Fruit

Garcinia Cambogia is a mini pumpkin shaped tropical fruit also known as the tamarind. It is found largely in parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Polynesia. It is commonly used to add sour flavours to the dishes. Traditionally, garcinia cambogia is used to heal ulcers, promote digestion and even relieve arthritis pain. It is conventionally touted as a magic weight loss pill. The skin of the fruit Garcinia Cambogia contains Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA) which has a great role in supporting fat loss. HCA restricts our appetite and generally inhibits conversion of carbohydrates into fats. It can also burn off our saved fat.

Benefits of Garcinia Cambogia

• It alters our body’s internal systems that are responsible for creating new fat cells. Consequently, it prevents all further and additional excess fat and calories of the body.
• It allows us to stay away from over eating.
  
• It improves the serotonin levels of our body.
• It enhances our metabolic process.
• It manages cortizol hormone which is the major cause of stress, so improves our mood.
• It helps us to get rid of wrinkles and hydrate our skin.
• It can also reduce lesion formation in some types of cancer and increase muscle stamina and red-blood-cell count.
• It can lower the LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, a kind of blood fat, which is a marker of heart health. 
• It could also help to lower bad cholesterol levels and improve the performance of our immune system.

How does Garcinia Cambogia works in our body?

Garcinia Cambogia does its best in reducing fat accumulations on three critical zones of our body: waist, thighs and butt.

• It inhibits carbohydrates and sugars being turned into fat rather than being used right away to create energy.
  
  
• It inhibits cytrate lyase enzyme in our body which is known to be an important catalyst in the metabolic process of converting excess carbohydrates into fat.
• By increasing serotonin level in our brain, improves our mood, helps us to reduce our food carvings and helps us in getting sound sleep.
• Garcinia interferes with the mechanism in our body that converts unused carbohydrates in to triglycerides, hence improve our heart health.
• Many research studies on Garcinia Cambogia have showed a reduction of 5-8 percent of body fat in 8-week period.

When one can take Garcinia Cambogia?

It’s recommended by doctors to have garcinia cambogia at least half an hour before meals to trigger the appetite lowering and fat burning effect of HCA.

• 500 to 1000mg capsules
• 50-60% HCA
• 3 times a day
• 30-60 minutes before meals
• taken with one glass of water

Who cann’t take Garcinia Cambogia?

One should not take Garcinia if she is pregnant, breast feeding and people having medications for health conditions, like asthma, diabetes and heart disorders.

Can I take green tea extract and Garcinia cambogia together?
when it comes to the matter of weight loss, Green Tea Extract and Garcinia Cambogia have complementary benefits. The two supplements can also work together to allow one to lose weight or his/her unwanted fats faster than taking just one supplement alone.

1. As Garcinia Cambogia stops our body from increasing the fat deposits, so it flushes out any carbohydrates that are not immediately burned for energy. Green Tea Extract simultaneously increases our metabolism so that more fat is burned. Thus, with this combination, one can burn his/her stored fat deposits quickly. As a result one can find an increasing tendency in the amount of weight loss day by day.
2. Green Tea Extract inhibits a certain type of enzyme that normally converts a hormone called norepinephrine into another substance. Norepinephrine is responsible for breaking down fat cells. Higher levels of norepinephrine means, our body will actually constantly break down fat at a faster rate than normal. Since Garcinia Cambogia is preventing new fat from depositing, one will start to shed weight quickly with just simple exercises.

Can I take green coffee bean extract and Garcinia cambogia together?

We already know, Garcinia Cambogia helps in promoting weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing serotonin production and Green Coffee Bean Extract encourages our body to use more fat as an energy source. Both supplements help us in boosting our metabolism. Furthermore, they are both very safe to use. That is why, there will be absolutely no problem in using both of them together.

Dr. Eleanor Hanslow conducted a study on the effectiveness of using Garcinia Cambogia and Green Coffee Bean Extract together. The study involved 230 patients who all took both supplements. The results of the study showed that 190 out of 230 of the patients were able to lose an average of four to five pounds per week. But more research is needed in this area.

Green Coffee Beans : A Recent Phenomena Happens to Aid in Weight Loss

Green Coffee Beans

Green Coffee Beans

Green coffee beans are those beans which have not been roasted. These unroasted coffee beans are a rich source of a compound known as chlorogenic acid and Caffeine. Chlorogenic acid is believed to have antioxidant properties. But when they are roasted the amount of chlorogenic acid present in them is reduced in a great amount. This is the reason why we loose our extra weights with the help of consumption of unroasted beans. It is said that drinking coffee will not have the same weight loss results as these unroasted beans do though roasted beans are rich in caffeine. Apart from loosing weight and fighting with obesity, green coffee beans give us benefits in controlling diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's disease, and also bacterial infections.

How we get benefit from the green coffee beans?

• If we consume green coffee beans or its extracts in any form, we can reduce the amount of body fat as well as the fat composition present in the liver. 
  
• The chlorogenic acid found in a green coffee bean can safely help in controlling high blood pressure.
• Chlorogenic acid found in green coffee beans may prevent the growth of at least 4 types of cancer cells. So, green coffee beans may have cancer preventing properties as well. 
• Antioxidants found in green coffee beans help us in reducing the harmful effects of cell damaging free radicals in the body.

Adverse effects of Caffeine on our body

Green coffee bean contains a good amount of caffeine and Caffeine has its own share of mild to severe adverse effects upon our body. We can found some common caffeine adverse effects on our body with the excess consumption of Caffeine. For example:

• It creates trouble in sleeping and left us in a state of anxiety.
• It may upset our stomach, increase in the rate of heartbeat and feel restlessness.
• It can make us frequently urinated.

Can I take green coffee bean extract and Garcinia cambogia together?

We already know, Garcinia Cambogia helps in promoting weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing serotonin production and Green Coffee Bean Extract encourages our body to use more fat as an energy source. Both supplements help us in boosting our metabolism. Furthermore, they are both very safe to use. That is why, there will be absolutely no problem in using both of them together.

Dr. Eleanor Hanslow conducted a study on the effectiveness of using Garcinia Cambogia and Green Coffee Bean Extract together. The study involved 230 patients who all took both supplements. The results of the study showed that 190 out of 230 of the patients were able to lose an average of four to five pounds per week. But more research is needed in this area.

Aloe Vera : A Herbal Medicine & Powerhouse of Nutrition

(Aloe Vera has been used as a herbal medicine since 5000 years by different cultures in the World)

Overview

Since Ancient times, Aloe Vera has been used for a variety of purposes. Two substances are extracted from the Aloe Vera plant for human use. One is the clear gel and another is the yellow latex. The clear Aloe gel is a jelly-like substance, found in the inner part of the aloe plant leaf. The yellow latex comes from just under the Aloe plant's skin. Both of them are used in health products.

Nutritional elements in Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is considered to be the most biologically active of the 420 species of the genus Aloe. Aloe Vera contains over 200 active components including Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids, Enzymes, monosaccharides & Polysaccharides, Plant Steroids, Saponins, Lignin, Anthraquinones Salicylic acid and Fatty Acids. 

Sugars : Aloe Vera contains sugars like monosaccharides (glucose and fructose) and polysaccharides.

Vitamins : Aloe Vera contains vitamins like A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, folic acid and choline. 

Minerals : Some of the minerals found in Aloe Vera are calcium, magnesium, zinc, chromium, selenium, sodium, iron, potassium, copper, manganese. 

Amino acids : There are at least 18 amino acids found in aloe Vera with all 9 essential amino acids. 

Fatty acids : Aloe Vera also includes quite an impressive range of fatty acids like linoleic, linolenic, myristic, caprylic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic that provides anti inflammatory results.

Enzymes : Aloe Vera contains 8 enzymes. They are aliiase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase and peroxidase.

Hormones : Aloe Vera contains hormones like auxins and gibberellins which help with healing wounds.

Laxatives : Aloe Vera contains 12 Anthraquinones or compounds known as laxatives. They works as Antiseptic, Antibacterial, Disinfectant, Antibiotic, Anti-microbial, Germicidal, Anti-fungal & Anti-viral. 

Uses of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is available in various forms like capsules, gel and juice for consumption. They are used for a wide range of remedies. It has always a cooling effect and bitter in taste. Aloe Vera is also used as an ingredient in creams and lotions that made for topical use or external application. 

Internal uses of Aloe Vera

• Aloe gel may be taken orally for conditions including weight loss, diabetes, hepatitis, inflammatory bowel diseases, osteoarthritis, stomach ulcers, asthma, radiation-related skin sores, fever, itching, inflammation and as a general tonic. 
• Aloe latex contains strong laxative compounds which has been taken orally for constipation. It is also used for seizures, asthma, colds, bleeding, lack of a menstrual period, swelling of the colon, depression, diabetes, eye conditions that cause blindness, multiple sclerosis, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, joint inflammation, osteoarthritis, and vision problems. 
• Fresh aloe leaves are taken by mouth for cancer.
• Aloe extract is used for high cholesterol.

External uses of Aloe Vera

• Aloe gel is used topically i.e. applied to the skin as a remedy for skin conditions such as genital herpes, scaly and itchy skin, burns, sunburns, dry skin, wounds, frostbite, psoriasis, cold sores, acne, diaper rash, bedsores, scabies, dandruff, inflammation in the mouth, burning mouth, radiation-induced skin damage, dental plaque, gum disease, hemorrhoids and pain after surgery to remove internal hemorrhoids.
• Aloe extract is applied to the skin as an insect repellent. Aloe leaf juice is applied to the skin for anal fissures. A chemical in aloe called acemannan is applied to the skin for dry sockets in the mouth and canker sores.

Intake suggestions

One can take Aloe Vera in supplement or gel form. Some forms of Aloe Vera are safe than others, but it can not be used for a very longtime. One must take Aloe Vera along with Vitamin C and Vitamin E in order to increase the bio-availability of these two antioxidants. Aloe gel has been used safely in a dose of 15 ml daily for up to six weeks. 

• An adult male/female can take 100 to 200 mg of aloe or 50 mg of aloe extract for constipation in the evening. If one want go for capsule form, then he/he can start 500 mg at a dose of one capsule daily. Subsequently the dose can be increased to three capsules daily.
• 147 mg of aloe gel twice daily for 8 weeks reduces body weight and fat mass in overweight or obese people with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
• In case of digestive ailments, use Aloe Vera for a short period of time for it’s course in treatment i.e. 1 to 2 weeks and then stop and wait at least a month before starting again. 
• For diabetes, 1 tablespoon of the gel has been used daily. 

Topical use suggestions

• One can apply a 50% aloe gel after washing the face for acne in the morning and evening. 
• Applying a cream containing 0.5% aloe extract for 4 weeks reduce the skin plaques.
• Applying aloe gel twice daily for up to 6 months along with other treatments can reduce burning and improve movement of the mouth.

Safety and Precautions with Aloe Vera

Topical Aloe Vera is likely safe in use when applied to the skin appropriately as a medicine or as a cosmetic. Aloe is Possibly safe when taken by mouth appropriately that must be short-term. However it has some limitations.

• Long-term use can lead to loss of electrolytes, especially potassium. 
• Long-term use of large amounts of aloe latex might cause diarrhea, kidney problems, blood in the urine, low potassium, muscle weakness, weight loss, and heart disturbances. 
• Taking aloe latex 1 gram daily for several days can be fatal.  
• There is a report that aloe was associated with miscarriage. It could also be a risk for birth defects. So, do not take Aloe Vera internally if any woman is pregnant or breast-feeding or in menstruation.
• If anyone have hemorrhoids or degeneration of the liver and gall bladder, he/she must avoid Aloe Vera consumption. 
• Aloe might affect blood sugar levels and could interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking Aloe Vera internally at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery. 
• Supplementation of Aloe Vera in normal usage has been shown to cause liver problems in some people, that may be because of a genetic susceptibility. If this symptom found with anybody then he/she can stop the supplement in order to reverse the condition.

Aloe Vera: Confers a Plethora of Health Benefits

Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera Plant

Research work carried out worldwide over the years found that toxic colon is the cause of a wide range of illness. A regular daily dose in limited amount of Aloe Vera juice may not only found that the effects are gradual gentle and with no irritant or harmful side effects, but also blood circulation will be improved due to aloe Vera’s ability to detoxify. As a natural healer, it can sooth and heal any internal ulcers or lesions (a region in an organ or tissue which has suffered damage through injury or disease, such as a wound, ulcer or tumour). The list of benefits and effects for this miraculous plant are many. Here is a list of the Top 10 Benefits and Medicinal Uses for Aloe Vera. They are:

• Role of Aloe Vera in the digestive system : Aloe Vera soothes and cleanses the digestive tract and helps in improving digestion. It regulates the peristaltic (involuntary movements of the longitudinal and circular muscles, primarily in the digestive tract but occasionally in other hollow tubes of the body, that occur in progressive wavelike contractions) movements of intestines & promotes digestion. Aloe has been a great remedy for people with problems such as irritable bowel syndrome as well as acid reflux. Aloe also helps to decrease the amount of unfriendly bacteria in our gut and maintaining a healthy intestinal flora balance. Aloe is also a vermifuge, which means it helps to rid the body of intestinal worms. Aloe contains three plant sterols named HCL cholesterol (which lowers fats in our blood), campesterol, and B-sitosterol which are helpful in reducing symptoms of acid indigestion and allergies.
• Aloe Vera helps in relieving Constipation : Aloe Vera is a well-known adaptogen and best part is as an adaptogen, it helps with either constipation or diarrhea. Aloe Vera also contains aloin that is responsible for its purgative (strongly laxative in effect) action so it is known to relieve constipation. The liver & spleen (an abdominal organ involved in the production and removal of blood cells and a part of the immune system) function are also stimulated by the use of Aloe Vera.
• Aloe Vera helps to Reduce Inflammation : Another substances named B-sisterole found in Aloe Vera can help in slowing down inflammation. This can help with painful joints due to stiffness and help improve joint flexibility. 
• Aloe Vera has a great role in treating infections : Some active ingredients like sulphur, lupeol, salicylic acid, cinnamic acid, urea nitrogen and phenol found in Aloe Vera are substances that prevent the growth of disease-causing microorganisms and act as a team to provide antimicrobial activity. Thus, aloe vera eliminates many internal and external infections. It also helps to treat fungal and viral infections.
• Aloe Vera helps in boosting our Immune System : The Polysaccharides found in Aloe Vera stimulate macrophages, which are the white blood cells of our immune system that fight against viruses. Aloe is also an immune enhancer because of its high level of anti-oxidants, which helps in combating the unstable compounds known as free-radicals, (Free radicals may be formed through natural human physiological processes as well as from the environment) contributing to the aging process. Aloe Vera is also act as an antipyretic which is used to reduce or prevent fever. 
• Aloe Vera Helps in Detoxifying our body : Aloe Vera is a gelatinous (having a jelly-like consistency) plant food, and as a gelatinous plant food, it moves through our intestinal tract with absorbing toxins along the way and get eliminated through the colon. This will help in proper eliminating of waste and helps to detoxify our body.
• Aloe Vera helps to Alkalize our Body : We must consume 80% alkaline forming foods and 20% acidic foods in order to remain healthy, because disease cannot manifest in an alkaline environment. In this way, Aloe vera is an alkaline forming food. It alkalizes the body and helps to balance overly acidic dietary habits. 
• Aloe Vera acts as a stress buster : Adaptogen found in Aloe Vera is something that boosts our body’s natural ability to adapt to external changes and resist illness. Adaptogen balances our systems, stimulates the defense and adaptive mechanisms of our body. This allows us an increased ability to cope with stress (physical, emotional and environmental stress i.e. pollution). 
• Aloe Vera helps in Cardiovascular Health : When Aloe Vera extract injected into the blood, it greatly multiplies the oxygen transportation and diffusion capabilities of the red blood cells. By regulating blood pressure, improving circulation and oxidation of the blood, lowering cholesterol, and making blood less sticky and thick, Aloe Vera juice may be able to help lower the risk of heart disease. 
• Aloe Vera helps in loosing Weight : Proper digestion and detoxification helps in promoting weight loss. When we have proper digestion we naturally eliminate more efficiently toxins through defecation and urination. This lightens our toxic load on our body and also gives us more energy. 

Other works of Aloe Vera in our body?

We read from the above paragraph that the useful parts of Aloe Vera are the gel and latex. Aloe gel might cause changes in the skin and might help diseases like psoriasis. Aloe gel seems to be able to speed wound healing by improving blood circulation through the area and preventing cell death around a wound. Aloe gel has also properties that are harmful to certain types of bacteria and fungi. Whereas Aloe latex contains chemicals that work as a laxative.

Aloe Vera is equally good when used externally

• Aloe Vera is known as vulnerary i.e. it helps in healing wounds and is good for applying topically to burns, abrasions, psoriasis and even to bug bites. 
• Aloe also acts as an analgesic, acting to help relieve pain of wounds. 
• Rubbing of aloe Vera juice on sun burnt skin gives immediate soothing effect. 
• Aloe Vera also acts as an antipruritic i.e. a substance that relieves or prevents itching. 
• As an astringent, Aloe Vera typically used to reduce bleeding from minor abrasions. 
• Due to Aloe Vera’s high water content, it is a great way to hydrate, moisturize and rejuvenate our skin.
• Aloe increases the elasticity of the skin making it more flexible through collagen and elastin repair. 
• Aloe is also an emollient, helping to soften and soothe the skin. 
• Aloe helps supply oxygen to the skin cells, increasing the strength and synthesis of skin tissue and induces improved blood flow to the skin through capillary dilation.

What studies revealed?

• According to a study published in the year 2000 issue of the British Medical Journal, beta sitosterol found in Aloe Vera helps in lowering cholesterol in humans. 
• Some Preliminary studies show benefit with Aloe Vera in controlling weight, but the mechanisms do not seem as potent as other anti-obesity supplements. 
• Studies also revealed that Aloe Vera has been implicated in multiple cases of liver problems (which are not too common, although resurgent) and has a lower toxicity threshold than other herbal supplements.
• Some research suggests that applying aloe gel on each side of the inner lining of the cheeks three times daily for 3 months improves burning, the ability to open the mouth, and cheek flexibility in people with a mouth condition called oral submucous fibrosis. 
• Research shows that using a mouthwash containing aloe gel three times daily for 12 weeks or applying a gel containing aloe gel twice daily for 8 weeks can reduce pain associated with itchy rashes in the mouth.
• Several animal and human studies in type 2 diabetics have actually found promising results from consuming Aloe Vera extract. However, the quality of these studies was fairly poor, so it is definitely premature to recommend Aloe Vera for this purpose.