Easy Life

How to Calculate How Much Water To Drink Daily

2015-07-28T20:40:00.000-05:00

Various health issues like headaches and weariness can be followed back to not drinking sufficient water throughout the day.

Why does water is important?

Your body is about 60 percent water. Also, fitting hydration helps you produce

spit, keep your joints greased up and flush out waste. Water also helps your body circulate nutrients and helps the digestion of foods.

Drinking the best possible quantity of water daily is fundamental to great health. Losing as little as 1 percent of your body's weight in water can cause weariness and influence your body's capacity to control your temperature and heart rate.

Step 1

It's normal to lose water daily through urination, sweating and tearing. And you're able to replenish some of the water lost naturally during the day through foods and beverages like milk, soup and juices.

Step 2

Caffeinated beverages like coffee, soda and tea are not good sources of water because caffeine is a diuretic, which causes the body to release water rather than retain it.

Step 3Fruits and vegetables also provide the body trace amounts of water.

Step 4

Experts agree there's no one-formula to determine exactly how much water a person needs. In general, men should have about 13 cups of water a day and women should aim to drink 9 cups of water every day. However, if you exercise or perform activities that cause a lot of sweating like gardening, yard-work, spending a day at the beach, etc., you should drink an extra 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 cups of water to compensate for the additional loss of water through perspiration.

Recipe to Try Tonight: Quinoa Pizza Crust

2015-07-24T09:47:00.000-05:00

Want to fit more quinoa into your diet? Start with this recipe for quinoa pizza crus. Try it as written below:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups (12 ounces/360 grams) Basic Quinoa (pages 12–13) or Pilaf‐Style Quinoa (page 14)
1/2 cup (1 ounce/30 grams) finely grated Parmesan cheese
6 large eggs
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 recipe Sweet and Tangy Roasted Tomatoes (page 27) or two pints of grape or cherry tomatoes, tossed with olive oil, salt and pepper to taste and roasted on a foil-lined baking sheet at 425 degrees for 45-60 minutes in the oven
4 ounces/120 grams fresh mozzarella, cut into batons
1/2 cup fresh basil

Directions

1. Adjust an oven rack to the upper third of the oven and preheat it to 450°F/230°C.

2. Heat the oil in a medium ovenproof skillet until simmering. Add the onion and cook, stirring until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute. Add the quinoa and Parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Then, with a rubber spatula, flatten out the quinoa. Reduce the heat to medium and cook about 10 minutes without stirring to allow the quinoa base to crisp.

3. While the quinoa cooks, season the eggs with salt and pepper and whisk them in a large bowl. Pour the eggs over the quinoa and dollop the roasted tomatoes evenly over the eggs. Arrange the cheese in a circular pattern over the eggs.

4. Bake until puffed and set, about 10 minutes. Turn the broiler on and broil until the frittata is puffed and golden and the cheese has begun to char, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. Top with basil.

How to Do a One Day Lemon Cleansing Diet

2015-07-23T20:31:00.002-05:00

This one day lemon purging diet will clear the bowels, intestines, colon, and liver of hurtful poisons, and make you feeling awesome. It can be executed as much as twice every week, as required, and ought to be taken after with a healthy, low-fat diet to keep toxins from building up in your system once again. The lemon purging diet doesn't require any unique gear or products, and can be performed in the repose of your own home for colon purifying, liver purifying, or as a general body purifying.

Things You'll Need

Fresh lemon juice
Honey
White pepper
Spring or distilled water
Herbal laxative tea (optional)

Instructions

merge 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, one tablespoon honey, and a dash of white pepper in one glass room temperature spring or refined water. Blend well.
Drink the lemon purging diet beverage after waking up in the morning. Have one glass of the lemon cleansing each 1-2 hours from there on for the whole day. Eight to twelve glasses can be securely consumed every day.

Drink one glass gentle herbal laxative tea one hour prior to bed to finish the one day lemon purifying diet. This stride is discretionary, however will help get out any excess poisons from the intestines and improve colon purging.
For the following 5-10 days, drink just water, the lemon purifying diet, and orange juice. Eat fresh fruits, veggies, and lean meats. The one day lemon purging diet will clear your body of unsafe poisons, yet if you use a healthy diet plan, you will get in shape and keep your digestive system healthy

How to Make Lemon Extract at Home

2015-07-23T19:01:00.003-05:00

Lemon extract is facilely made at home utilizing only three ingredients: lemon zest, sugar and vodka. The hard part is sitting tight for the flavors to imbue; it takes no less than 2 months for them to completely develop. But homemade lemon extract is worth the wait because the flavors are rich and lively, sans artificial sweeteners or additives. In this recipe, dried lavender adds an eminent floral aroma that prairs well with tart lemon.

Start to Finish: 5 minutes, plus 2 to 3 months infusing time

Ingredients

1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried lavender
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup 80-proof vodka

Method

Step 1: Zest the lemon

Zest a lemon with a microplane grater, removing as much as possible of the bright yellow zest while leaving the bitter pith behind.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Add the lemon zest, dried lavender, sugar and vodka to a glass jar and screw the lid on securely. Shake the jar until the sugar has completely dissolved.

Step 3: Wait For It

Store the jar in a cool, dark place such as a cupboard. Shake the jar once a day, or at least once every couple of days, for 2 to 3 months. Periodically taste the extract until you are satisfied with the flavor. The flavor of the lemon extract will improve with age.

Step 4: Use It

When it is ready to use, strain the extract through a cheesecloth into another jar. Twist the cheesecloth around the lemon zest and lavender to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Alternatively, leave the zest and lavender in the jar to continue infusing, straining off only what you need.

7 Special Healthy Foods to Reduce Stress

2015-07-23T14:00:00.001-05:00

Whether you're running late to work, moving to a new home or struggling to pay the bills, you feel it – that chemical reaction that causes your heart to race and muscles to tense. And when left untreated and poorly managed, stress wreaks havoc on your health. It makes you more susceptible to illnesses like the common cold, raises blood pressure and increases risk of diabetes and depression. You may already know that exercise and meditation are healthy ways to reduce stress, but nutrients in certain healthy foods may also help.

Ohmm With Dark Chocolate

Feeling stressed? Go ahead and eat a little dark chocolate. Resveratrol, an antioxidant found in the chocolate, stimulates the release of serotonin in the brain. This mood-altering chemical has been shown to make you feel relaxed and happy. The nutrients in dark chocolate also improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. While this sweet treat offers a number of health benefits for the stressed, you don't want to over do it. One ounce of dark chocolate a day should be enough to help you cope. Lisa Cimperman, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson, also suggests non-alkalized dark chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cacao to get the most benefits.

Stress-busting Salmon

The omega-3s in salmon are not only good for your heart, but researchers say they may also help you better manage stress. The essential fatty acids found in salmon protect neurons from damage caused by stress, which is especially helpful to those dealing with chronic stress. For good health, aim to eat salmon, or other fatty fish such as tuna or sardines, twice a week. If you're not into fish, Cimperman suggests flaxseed or walnuts to get your omega-3s.

A Banana a Day

Low in calories and readily available, bananas make a good food to add to your stress-reducing diet. Vitamin B6 deficiency decreases serotonin production, according to naturopathic doctors Kathleen A. Head and Gregory S. Kelly. Making bananas a regular part of your diet repertoire keeps vitamin B6 levels and serotonin production up. Bananas are also rich in potassium, which is a nutrient that helps lower blood pressure.

Anti-Anxiety Swiss Chard

Cortisol is the primary hormone responsible for the stress response. It prepares the body for fight-or-flight reactions by flooding it with glucose for immediate energy. Chronic stress reduces magnesium in your body, and low levels increase your susceptibility to stress, compounding the effects, according to some researchers. If your stress is causing you to feel anxious, irritable and agitated, your body may be deficient in magnesium. With 150 milligrams per 1-cup cooked serving, Swiss chard can up your intake of magnesium, help balance cortisol levels and reduce anxiety.

Tea Time

Green and black tea contain the amino acid L-theanine. This amino acid increases dopamine and serotonin production. Like serotonin, dopamine is a feel-good chemical in the brain that promotes pleasure. So, even though a cup of green tea sometimes has more caffeine than a cup of coffee, the L-theanine can counteract the stimulant to promote feelings of joy and relaxation in some people.

Immune-Boosting Red Peppers

Crunchy and sweet, red peppers not only add color to a stir-fry or salad, but also boosts immune health and fights stress. A 1/2-cup serving of red peppers contains 158 milligrams of vitamin C – that’s more than a 6-ounce glass of orange juice. It also has more vitamin C than the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 90 milligrams for men and 75 milligrams for women. According to Dr. Head and Dr. Kelly, upping your intake of vitamin C in amounts greater than the RDA helps lower cortisol levels – they recommend up to 1 gram a day. This is especially important for men who tend to have higher levels of cortisol than women.

Power-Up With Beans

The B vitamins are known to help extract energy from the food you eat, but they also play a major role in stress management. Niacin promotes sleep, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and thiamin regulate cortisol in stressful situations, and folate is necessary for the regeneration of neurons. Beans are not only a good source of B vitamins, but are also high in fiber, protein and iron. A 1/2-cup serving of any bean, including black beans, kidney beans or chickpeas, can help you get the Bs you need to work out the stress. Incorporate beans into soups, salads or whole-grain side dishes for added texture and flavor.

Psychology Today: Dopamine
Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin C
MedlinePlus: B Vitamins
Lisa Cimperman MS, RDN, LD, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Spokesperson, Cleveland, Ohio
The Bean Institute: Nutritional Value of Dry Beans
Psychoneuroendocrinology: Daytime Trajectories of Cortisol: Demographic and Socioeconomic Differences -- Findings from the National Study of Daily Experiences

5 Summer Foods That Are Guaranteed to Blow Your Diet

2015-07-23T13:40:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love picnics and barbecues cocktails at the pool, baseball games, and lots of fried chicken, ribs, potato salad, ice cream, hot dogs, and beer ? Thing is, if you don't practice safe food preparation you'll lose the balance of your diet. So you need to know about some shocking calorie traps that can blow your diet.

Salad Toppers

Salads can be the ideal summer supper: light, invigorating plat of veggies and protein. But high-calorie toppers can push a salad from lean to fattening in a rush. Fried chicken strips, bacon, cheddar, velvety dressings, and bread garnishes are among the worst wrongdoers. Rather, top your greens with grilled chicken, strips of lean meat, or eggs, then pile on the veggies and sprinkle with a light dressing.

Refreshing Frozen Treats

A glass of frozen treats can have 380 calories and 22 grams of fat. Make it a chocolate treat mixture milkshake blend, and the calories take off to 720, with 28 grams of fat! You don't have to quit frozen treats, simply go on the giant bits or high fat toppings. Search for frozen pastries like sherbet, fudge bars, organic fruit bars, or different treats under 150 calories for every serving or fruit desserts like strawberry shortcake.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Hot dogs and sausage are summer treats for a large number of us, however you may spare them for ball games. It's not just about fat or calories - all things considered, you can pick low-fat variants. Most hot dogs, bratwurst, and different sausages are high in sodium. Typical nutrition scores include:

Hot dog: 280 calories, 15 g fat, 1,250 mg of sodium
Kielbasa (6-oz): 330 calories, 24 g fat, 1,590 mg sodium

High-Fat Meats on the Barbecue

The awful news: barbecue can subversion your waistline. A 20 ounce T-bone steak can tip the scales at 1,540 calories and 124 g fat. A normal cheeseburger has 750 calories and 45 grams of fat. Shouldn't something be said about pork or hamburger ribs? They originate from the fattiest piece of the animal. The good news: You can run lean with cuts like pork tenderloin, skinless chicken breast, and lean ground meat.

Frighteningly Fattening Fair Food

Fairs and promenades serve up a lot of pan fried diet disasters debacles. From fried cheesecake (around 500 calories), fried macaroni and cheddar (approximately 610 calories) to gigantic turkey legs (around 1,136 calories and 54 grams of fat), most eat-while-you-walk foods are a calorie over-burden. Skirt the fried foods and rather pick cotton candy, caramel apples, or a simple flame broiled meat - or impart your treat to a friend

Super Indian Brussels Curry With Coconut

2015-07-23T11:42:00.003-05:00

This simple pan fry formula is ideal for any individual who is short on time yet huge on nutrition. Sweet coconut and simple spices transform shedded Brussels spourts into an intriguing vegetarian side dish that is both delightful and healthy.

Kerala, the coconut capital of India. Because of the wealth of coconuts in their state, the inhabitants of Kerala use coconut oil, fresh shredded coconut and coconut milk in their cooking. The outcome is delectable cooking, as well as nourishments loaded with healthful, great fats.

This is stir-fry type. It's called thoran, a vegetable stir-fry with a sprinkling of fresh shredded coconut. You can make thoran out of fresh green beans, shredded carrot, shredded cabbage or cooked beets. It's a super brisk and simple approach to cook vegetables.

Ingredients
1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 dried red chile, optional
1/8 teaspoon ground turmeric, optional
3 tablespoons fresh or frozen shredded coconut
Salt to taste

Method
1. Cut off the tough ends of the Brussels sprouts, and then cut each one in half lengthwise. Lay the piece cut-side down, and slice it thinly lengthwise. Repeat for all the Brussels sprouts. (You can also use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts to save time.)
2. Heat the oil in a wok or skillet. Add the cumin seeds and red chile. Let them sizzle on medium heat for about 20 seconds or until the cumin is fragrant.
3. Add the sliced Brussels sprouts and the turmeric. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally until the Brussels sprouts are just about to wilt.
4. Sprinkle the shredded coconut on top of the Brussels sprouts. Add salt to taste. Stir well and remove from heat.

Moroccan Cauliflower Steaks with Caramelized Onion Couscous

2015-07-23T10:35:00.000-05:00

When I went to Morocco, I fell in a split infatuated with the colorful and lifelike country. It appeared like the Jemaa el fna, the focal square in Marrakech, never dozed. In the nights the square woke up with fortune tellers, snake charmers, and dance specialists. Just behind the square were the souks – a labyrinth of boulevards loaded with shops offering all that you could wish for from beautiful coated tagines to scarves to sweets. I went to the spice and olive shops almost everyday, joyfully testing and buying citrus marinated olives, saffron, and spices.

I regularly reproduce my Moroccan experience with my family by cooking vegetables with Moroccan spices and serving them with couscous. Couscous is a staple in Morocco, and immediate couscous can be made in only a few minutes. If you don’t have couscous on hand for this recipe, use rice or quinoa instead.

My decision of vegetable for this dish is cauliflower cut into "steaks." The thick, fleshy cauliflower slats are heated until golden with cumin, coriander and cinnamon. A sharp blade will help you cut the cauliflower effortlessly. If you don't want to slice the cauliflower into steaks, Just cut it up into florets and toss with the spices and oil before baking.

I adore the rich, nutty tahini yogurt sauce that runs with this dish. I frequently make additional and keep in te fridge in the cooler to use as serving of mixed greens dressing, plunge for vegetable crudités, sandwich spread, and even pasta sauce. Tahini is a rich, velvety sesame glue popular in Middle Eastern and North African cooking. Search for it in the ethnic food segment of your supermarket or at Middle Eastern markets. If you are veggie lover, forget the yogurt in this recipe and use almond margarine or extra tahini.

This recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy way to spice up your weeknight. Feel free to top add some toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch, garnish with pomegranate seeds for a beautiful pop of color, or throw in some golden raisins for sweetness.

Moroccan Cauliflower “Steaks” with Caramelized Onion Couscous

Serves 2

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Steaks

1 small head of cauliflower
1 tablespoon Olive oil
3/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons finely shredded parsley or mint
Salt
Cracked black pepper

For the Couscous

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1/2 a large onion, sliced into half moons
2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
1 cup couscous

For the Lemon Tahini Sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons full fat Greek yogurt
4 tablespoons water
Salt

Method

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

1. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cauliflower. Using a sharp knife, slice the stem so that the cauliflower can sit flat. Cut the cauliflower in half from the top down to the core. Make another cut about 1 inch away from the cut side so that you get a 1 inch thick slice of cauliflower. Do the same thing with the other cauliflower half. Save the remaining cauliflower for another recipe.

2. Place the two cauliflower steaks on a non-stick baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the coriander, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the cauliflower steaks. Using your fingers, spread the oil and spices on both sides of the cauliflower.

3. Bake in the oven, flipping the cauliflower once midway through the cooking, until both sides are golden brown, about 20 minutes.

4. While the cauliflower is baking, work on the couscous. In a small saucepan, heat the oil or butter and add the onion slices. Cook on medium-low heat until the onion slices are golden. Then add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds.

5. Pour 1 cup water and salt over the onions and bring to a boil. Add the couscous, stir, and turn off heat. Cover the pot. Let it sit for 8 minutes or till all the water has been absorbed. Gently fluff couscous with a fork. Stir in chopped parsley or mint on top.

6. To make the yogurt tahini sauce, whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl till well combined.

7. To serve, spoon the couscous onto two plates. Place one cauliflower steak on each plate. Serve the yogurt tahini sauce on the side.

Enjoy!

Three-Minute Chilled Avocado Buttermilk Soup

2015-07-23T08:42:00.001-05:00

Chilled Avocado Soup

when buying avocados, pick those that are firm to the touch with unbroken skin. Give it a chance to reipen a couple of days at room temperature. You'll know it's ready to use when it feels delicate.

Who wants to be slaving over a hot stove when summer is happening in all its glory outside? Not me! So I keep my summer meals light and cold and make recipes that don’t require a lot of cooking.

This chilled avocado soup is one of my summer staples. (takes only 3 minutes to make), it's simple (just 2 steps), it's filling and it's pantry-friendly, utilizing fixings that you presumably have on hand. This soup is deliciously rich from the avocado, and tart from the lemon and buttermilk. A decent bunch of basil leaves make the soup summary and refreshing. Utilize a good quality vegetable stock, it will have all the difference to your soup.

Chilled Avocado Buttermilk Soup

Serves 1 to 2

Things You'll Need

1 ripe avocado
1 clove of garlic, peeled
3/4 tablespoon lemon juice
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 cup vegetable stock
10 large basil leaves
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Method

Cut the avocado lengthwise, going all around the pit so that you have two avocado halves. Tug the halves gently and pull them apart. Take the avocado half that has the pit, and cut the skin side again in half lengthwise, going around the pit. Separate it into two pieces. Now you will have a quarter of the avocado with the pit. Using a spoon, gently scoop out and discard the pit.
Using the spoon, scoop out all the avocado flesh into a blender jar. Discard the avocado skins. Add all other ingredients to the blender and blend into a very smooth soup. If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable stock and blend again.
Chill the avocado soup in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving.

5 Super Easy Sangrias Recipes To Make This Summer

2015-07-22T21:25:00.000-05:00

Sangria is a refreshing wine-based cocktail you can relish year-round. This beverage is regularly prepared early in a massive clump so the fruit can assimilate a portion of the liquor flavor and thusly give flavor to the cocktail. The loger the sangria sits in the fridge before serving, the more tasty it becomes.

1.Pineapple Kiwi Sangria

Things You'll Need

1 750-milliliter bottle of white wine

1/4 cup white rum

1 cup pineapple juice

1 1/2 cups pineapple (fresh or canned)

1/2 cup kiwi, peeled and sliced

2 tablespoons agave nectar

Method

Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir well. Cover the mouth of the pitcher with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Serve with ice, and make sure some of the fruit gets into each glass.

2.Pomegranate Citrus Sangria

Things You'll Need

1 750-milliliter bottle of white wine

1/4 cup white rum

1 cup pineapple juice

1 1/2 cups pineapple (fresh or canned)

1/2 cup kiwi, peeled and sliced

2 tablespoons agave nectar

Method

3.White Wine Sangria with Apple

Things You'll Need

1 bottle (750 ml) Chardonnay

1 litre ginger ale (or less, if you like it stronger)

1 apple, cored & sliced

1 lime, seeded & sliced

Method

Place limes in a pitcher, then apples. Poor about two cups of wine over the fruit. Refrigerate and let sit for at least an hour. Add ginger ale until the pitcher is half full, then top with more wine. Serve chilled with ice.

Iced Tea Sangria

Things You'll Need

4 cups fresh brewed iced tea (I used passionfruit jasmine)
2 cups white wine (you can also use red)
honey or simple syrup (to taste; my friends liked it very sweet so I used between 1/2 to 1 cup of simple syrup)
2 cups chopped fresh fruit (I used strawberries, nectarines and mangoes)

Note: If you use honey, heat it in the microwave for a few seconds so that it dissolves in the sangria easier. To make your own simple syrup, boil 1 cup water with 1 cup granulated white sugar until sugar is dissolved. then let syrup cool a little before adding in to tea/wine mixture.

Method

Combine tea, wine and honey (or simple syrup) until honey is dissolved and sangria reaches desired sweetness. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Before serving, add in fresh fruit. Serve chilled, over ice.

White Sangria Sparkler

Things You'll Need

1 (750 mL) bottle white wine

2 peaches, sliced

2 kiwis, peeled and thinly sliced

1 cup raspberries

3 tablespoons sugar, or more, to taste

1 (750 mL) bottle sparkling white wine

8 sprigs mint

Method

In a large pitcher, whisk together white wine, peaches, kiwis, raspberries and sugar.
Let chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Serve over ice with sparkling white wine, garnished with mint, if desired.

How to Make The Ultimate Virgin Pina Colada

2015-07-17T12:34:00.001-05:00

Few things please the palate during hot summer months like a tangy, sweetly tropical pina colada. But for those who aren't of age or just don't want the alcohol, a virgin pina colada is the ideal alternative. Grab your sunblock and a towel -- and enjoy one of these refreshingly fruity alcohol-free cocktails by the pool.

Things You'll Need

1 cup of coconut cream
1 cup of ice
2 tablespoons of sugar
1-1/4 cups of pineapple juice

Step 1

Add coconut cream, ice, sugar and pineapple juice to your blender.

Step 2

Blend the ingredients together on high until they're smooth and free of ice chunks

Step 3

Check the consistency. If it's too thin, add more ice; if it's too icy, add more pineapple juice.

Step 4

Step 5
Pour your virgin pina colada into the pineapple and garnish with a pineapple slice, maraschino cherry or orange slice for the ultimate summer drink.

Enjoy!

Gluten and Dairy Free Plum Pudding

2015-07-17T11:17:00.000-05:00

Recipe courtesy of Bhavana

Gluten and Dairy Free Plum Pudding

This is healthier alternative for the classic plum pudding. It contains lots of mixed dry fruits and plums. You can make this well ahead of Christmas and store in the fridge.

Ingredients

1 ¼ cup of sifted gluten free flour
¼ cup almond meal
3-4 plums, deseeded and chopped(preserved plums in juice)
2 eggs
1 cup of mixed dry fruits (Sultanas, dates, raisins, currants, cherries etc)
1/4 cup of rice bran oil
1/4 cup of coconut sugar
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 cup rice or soy milk
½ tsp cinnamon powder
¼ tsp nutmeg powder
1 orange
1 small carrot, grated

Directions

The important thing to note is that all ingredients for the pudding need to be at room temperature.

Extract the zest and juice from the orange.
Use the juice to soak the dry fruits for 2-3 hours.(or you may use a microwave to warm up the juice and dry fruit mix and use it after 30 minutes)
Mix the dry ingredients (flour, spices and baking soda) by passing them through a sieve/sifter couple of times.
Dissolve the coconut sugar in milk.
Add oil, zest and eggs to the milk and beat with a mixer/whisk
Add the dry ingredients to the mix.
Add the mixed dry fruits, grated carrots and plums to the mix.
Mix all the ingredients.
Oil a plum pudding dish or a round shaped dish.
Pour the pudding mix in the dish.
Cover the dish with its lid or an aluminum foil, closing all the ends tightly.
In a large container, add water and bring it to boil
Place the pudding dish over a trivet. Allow it to steam by covering the lid of the container. Their needs to be some space for the steam to escape from the top or the side of the container
Ensure that enough water is available in the container so that ¼ of the container is filled with water at all times.
Allow to steam over medium heat for around 3 ½ hours or until toothpick comes out clean from the center of the pudding
Allow the pudding to cool outside the container for 1 hour.
Once the pudding is at room temperature, remove the aluminum foil and let the pudding come out of the dish by inverting it over a plate.
Serve with warm custard or refrigerate in a tight container. Once you refrigerate the pudding, you will be able to cut fine slices out of it..

Taste delicious served with Vanilla Custard

Eeasy Steps to Make Dilisious Mason Jar Salads

2015-07-16T20:03:00.000-05:00

Packing a to-go salad in a mason jar seems like a great idea — it's an easy way to transport a vibrant, veggie-heavy meal without worries of dressing leaking into your bag — but if improperly assembled, it may end up underdressed, soggy, or less than fresh. Don't let that happen to you! Instead, They will stay crisp and appealing for days after preparation if you apply the simple principles illustrated here.

Things You'll Need

You'll need quart-sized mason jars, salad dressing and your favorite salad ingredients. This specific salad is comprised of a homemade pumpkin vinaigrette, dried cranberries, corn, grilled chicken sausage and salad mix. To really save yourself time, prepare multiple mason jar salads at once.

Dressing

Spoon the dressing into the mason jars.

Marinate-able Ingredients

Add ingredients that can marinate in the dressing and still taste great. Dried ingredients, pickled vegetables and root vegetables (such as carrots, radishes and sweet potatoes) work well for the bottom layer.

Wet Ingredients

Fill the middle layer(s) of your salad with wet ingredients such as diced tomatoes, cucumbers, corn or anything else that would cause the greens to go soggy.

Dry Ingredients

Layer the dry ingredients, like beans, carrots, and meats, above the wet vegetables. This creates a buffer between the wet ingredients and the greens.

Greens and Toppings

Finally, stuff the remainder of the jar with the salad greens and salad toppings (such as edible flowers, cheese, croutons and nuts). Close the lid and refrigerate your salad. The airtight seal ensures fresh salad all week long.

Shake and Serve

When you are ready to eat the salad, simply invert the jar and give it a good shake. Once the ingredients have been mixed, pour the salad onto a plate and enjoy.

5 Infused Water Recipes to Improve Your Health

2015-07-16T14:03:00.001-05:00

Drinking plenty of water can help prevent bothersome dehydration symptoms such as headaches and fatigue, improve muscle function during exercise and prevent undesirable hunger pangs and overeating. But what if you don't particularly like guzzling plain water? Or wish to get more nutritional bang from your drinks, minus the excess sugar and calories in many sports drinks and juices? Enter waters infused with fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs. The following simple recipes can add tantalizing zest to your hydration habits and reduce the effects of common health problems.

Mouth-Watering Muscle RecoveryResearch has shown that drinking watermelon juice just before exercise reduces athletes' heart rate and guards against muscle soreness the next day. (See References 1) For an ultra-hydrating pre-workout drink, swap out sugary sports drinks with water infused with fresh watermelon and mint. Simply add 1/2-cup of seedless, cubed watermelon and 1 tablespoon of fresh, chopped mint to a 20-ounce bottle, then fill it with water. Let it chill overnight for maximum flavor.

Citrus and Mint Bloating ReliefEveryone experiences bloating on occasion. This refreshing infusion of fruits and vegetables with natural diuretic, or fluid-flushing, properties may be just what the doctor ordered. To manage mild bloating caused by overeating, salty foods or PMS, add 2 sliced lemons, 10 fresh mint leaves, 1/2 of a cucumber, sliced, and two teaspoons of chopped or pureed ginger root to three quarts of water. Let the mixture stand in a covered pitcher overnight, then serve it hot or chilled (over ice).

Health-is-Sweet Immune BoosterNo matter what the season, keeping your immune system strong is important. For a flavorful way to boost your immunity from illness or heal faster from inflammatory infections, like sinusitis or the common cold, add 1 cup of cubed pineapple, 1 cup of chopped strawberries and 2 peeled oranges to 3 quarts of water. The pineapple provides valuable amounts of bromelain, a chemical with anti-inflammatory effects. Strawberries and oranges are chock-full of vitamin C, a superhero-strong antioxidant. Chill for at least two hours before drinking.

No-More-Nausea Citrus and GingerThere's a reason your parents gave you ginger ale when you had the flu. Ginger provides a safe, natural remedy for nausea from morning sickness, car sickness and other ailments. For homemade sugar-free ale, place 6 cups of water in a medium-size saucepan on your stovetop. Add the juice from two lemons and a washed, peeled ginger root. Heat the mixture on high heat until it boils. Cover and lower the heat, allowing it to simmer for 10 to fifteen minutes. Drink it hot, chilled or poured over ice for an anti-nausea tea. For sweetness, replace one lemon with an orange or add a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.

Raspberries-Sage RelaxationKnown for its comforting relaxation effects, sage infusions are like a spa experience in a cup. For a sweet, fruity road to calmness, add 1/4 cup crushed raspberries, 1/4 cup crushed pineapple and 2 fresh sage leaves to 16 ounces of water. The carbohydrates in the berries allow your brain to produce calming, feel-good brain chemical serotonin. Allow it to refrigerate for at least two hours. If you're in a hurry, freeze it for 10 minutes, or until cold. Stir your drink well then sip it mindfully, if possible -- slowly and without distraction -- for added perks.

5 Special Breathing Exercise for Weight Loss

2015-07-16T13:39:00.000-05:00

Weight loss is the new rage throughout the world. Eat less, gym more; health food, dieting, aerobics, yoga, dance, pilates and what not just to cut down those extra kilos? Why guys? Why do you have to do so much when some breathing techniques can help you slim down? Unbelievable, isn’t it? It was unbelievable for me too when I had read the article. But then I thought there’s no harm in trying so why not give it a try? And trust me girls, it works. Unlike gymming and hard core workouts that give you muscle cramps and body pains, these breathing exercises are easy ad painless.

When it comes to losing weight and boosting our metabolism, we tend to focus on fad diets and supplements rather than thinking about our breath. Surprisingly, the breath plays a major role in fat loss and metabolism.

Breathing exercises are gaining a lot of popularity nowadays as they are really effective in the abdominal area. These exercises are known as pranayama, usually associated with yoga. They help you gain health and longevity; they also improve digestion by strengthening abdominal muscles. It is an art and needs to be practiced with care.

Taking 15 minutes a day to just breathe a little deeper could help aid in weight loss.

Fat is made up of oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. When oxygen makes its way to the fat molecules, it breaks them down into carbon dioxide and water. The blood filters out the carbon dioxide and gives it to the lungs to be exhaled. Oxygen also thins the blood, which lowers your blood pressure and speeds up metabolism. That’s a pretty cool perk for something the body does on its own.

Add some conscious breathing to your daily routine with one of these five methods.

Method 1: Deep Breathing For Relaxation

Exhale all the air from your lungs.

Inhale slowly through the nose for six counts.

Hold at the top of your inhale for six counts.

Exhale slowly for six counts.

Check your posture. Are you slouching with your exhale? If you’re slouching, readjust your position to ensure a straight spine and repeat steps 2 through 5.

Do this 10 times each evening or when you start to feel stressed or overwhelmed. You can do the exercise lying down, sitting up or standing.

Method 2: Deep Breathing For Energy

Exhale all the air from your lungs.

Inhale slowly through the nose for six counts. When you feel like your lungs are completely filled, take one more sip of air.

Hold your breath for eight counts. Work toward eventually holding it for 12 counts.

Exhale through the mouth for eight counts. Do not release all the air at once. Try pursing your lips to release air more slowly. When you feel like you have no more air in your lungs, exhale one breath more.

Hold your breath again for 8 counts, keeping your ribcage and abdomen tight and contracted. If you can’t hold your breath for eight counts without feeling overwhelmed, hold your breath for less time and try to work toward eight counts.

Repeat these steps 10 times in the morning and anytime during the day for a burst of energy. You can do this exercise sitting or standing.

Method 3: Alternate Nostril Breathing for Cleansing

Sit up straight and place your left hand comfortably on your left knee.

Place the tip of your right index finger and middle finger on the space between your eyebrows. Place your right thumb on your right nostril. Position your right ring finger near your left nostril.

Press your thumb down on your right nostril and exhale through the left nostril until there’s no more air in your lungs. Breathe in deeply through your left nostril.

Release the pressure on your right nostril, press down with your ring finger on your left nostril, and exhale through your right nostril until there’s no more air in your lungs.

Release the pressure on your left nostril, and breathe in through your right nostril.

Repeat steps 3 through 5.

Remain in a comfortable seat position and repeat this sequence five to seven times.

Method 4: The Breath of Fire For Metabolism

Sit up very straight and place your fists on your core center. This will encourage you to keep your core contracted.

Exhale all the air from your lungs.

nhale slowly through the nose for six counts.

Purse your lips and make short, powerful exhalations. Do not inhale in between exhalations. The force of the exhalations will naturally bring air back into your lungs. Exhale 50 to 100 times, gradually increasing the number of exhales.

On the last exhale, force all of the air from your lungs and hold for one count.

Relax and breathe normally.

Do this sitting on your knees or in a comfortable seated position.

Method 5: Vacuum Breathing For Toning the Core

Place your knees and hands on the ground.

Exhale all the air from your lungs while sucking your belly in.

Hold your breath and expand your lungs without an inhaling. Try to pull your stomach to your spine.

Hold this position for 10 seconds.

Release your breath slowly and repeat.

Do this for five minutes each day.

How to Make a Guinness Beer Milkshake

2015-07-15T23:34:00.000-05:00

A milkshake made with Guinness beer is a sweet, creamy, boozy treat. The natural chocolate and coffee flavors in a Guinness Stout pair nicely with vanilla ice cream. Add a whipped Irish cream topping and some whiskey hot fudge and you've got yourself an Irish-inspired dessert that's perfect for St. Patrick's day -- or any day you need a rich, indulgent pick-me-up. This recipe makes two small milkshakes.

Guinness Milkshake

Things You'll Need

4 cups vanilla ice cream (or more if you prefer thicker shakes)

1 bottle Guinness Stout

Blender

Step 1Combine the ice cream and beer in a blender.

Step 2

Blend the ingredients until well-combined. Taste the shake to make sure it's to your desired consistency. You can add more ice cream if you prefer a thicker shake or more beer if you want a stronger Guinness flavor.

Step 3Pour the shake into glasses. Serve and enjoy.

Whipped Irish Cream Topping

Things You'll Need

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 shot (1.5 ounces) Irish cream

Electric whisk or hand whisk

Step 1Pour the heavy cream into a bowl. For a little bit of sweetness, add the Irish cream. Whisk until the mixture forms stiff peaks.

Step 2Spoon the whipped cream atop the finished shakes.

Whiskey Hot Fudge

Things You'll Need

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 shot (1.5 ounces) Irish whiskey

Small saucepan

Step 1In a small saucepan, combine the ingredients over low heat. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ingredients are well-combined.

Step 2Using a small spoon or a pastry bag, drizzle the chocolate sauce on the inside of the jar before adding the shake or on top of the finished shake. The sauce adds a nice, rich bittersweet contrast to the sweetness of the shake.

Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Buttermilk recipe

2015-07-15T22:47:00.000-05:00

Today I’m sticking with a classic, Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Buttercream Frosting. These are a classic done right. What do I love about these cupcakes? They are loaded with an abundance of lemon flavor (if we are going to call them lemon cupcakes, they better taste like lemon, right? Not just a hint here and there), they have a soft texture and the frosting on top is to die for! These are summers dream cupcakes right here.

Don’t wait for a reason to celebrate to make these, just make them because it’s summer! That’s a celebration alone, right? I always think the weekend counts as a reason to celebrate with cupcakes too.

Things You'll Need

1/2 Cup Butter (softened)
1 Cup Sugar
1 1/2 Tablespoon Lemon Zest
4 Egg Whites (room temperature)
3/4 Cup Cake Flour
3/4 Cup All-Purpose Flour
1/4 Teaspoon Salt
2 Teaspoons Baking Soda
1/2 Cup Buttermilk
1 1/2 Tablespoon Lemon Juice

For Frosting:

1/2 Cup Butter
4 Cup Powdered Sugar
4 Tablespoon Lemonade Concentrate (defrosted)
2 Tablespoons Buttermilk
Lemon Zest for Garnish

Directions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 12-cavity cupcake tin with baking cups.

Step 2

In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together butter and sugar. Add lemon zest. Add egg whites one at a time beating after each addition.

Step 3

In a separate bowl combine flour, salt and baking soda.

Step 4

Combine buttermilk and lemon juice in a small bowl.

Step 5

Add alternately flour and buttermilk mixtures to the butter and sugar, scraping down the sides of the bowl, until fully combined.

Step 6

Fill cupcake tins ¾ full. Bake 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cupcake comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.

Step 7

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat all frosting ingredients until smooth and creamy. Frost cupcakes. Garnish with lemon zest. Serve and enjoy!

Tip

Use chewy candies like starburst to make edible citrus-shaped cupcake toppers.

What To Do When Your Noise Bleeds

2015-07-15T19:25:00.001-05:00

Childeren and adults are prone to getting nose bleeds. The sight of blood may make people panic, but it's not really serious as it seems. The blood is due to the location of the nose on the face, and the large amount of blood vessels that can pop up or break due to differents reason that i will mension bellow.

There are two kinds of nosebleeds. An anterior nosebleed occurs when the blood vessels in the front of the nose break and bleed. A posterior nosebleed occurs in the back or the deepest part of the nose. In that case, blood flows down the back of the throat. Posterior nosebleeds can be dangerous.

What causes nosebleeds?

Most commonly, trauma to the nose triggers a nosebleed. Trauma to the outside of the nose, such as a blow to the face, or trauma inside the nose, such as nose picking or repeated irritation from a cold, can cause a nosebleed.

Less commonly, an underlying disease process, such as an inability of theblood to clot, may contribute to the bleeding. Inability of the blood to clot is most often due to blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin(Coumadin) or aspirin. Liver disease can also interfere with blood clotting. Abnormal blood vessels or cancers in the nose are rare causes of nosebleeds. High blood pressure may contribute to bleeding but is almost never the only reason for a nosebleed.

Other common causes of nosebleeds include:

object stuck in the nose

chemical irritants

allergic reaction

injury to the nose

repeated sneezing

nose picking

cold air

upper respiratory infection

large doses of aspirin

Other causes of nosebleeds include high blood pressure, a bleeding disorder, blood clotting disorder, and cancer.

Most nosebleeds do not require medical attention. However, you should seek medical attention if your nosebleed lasts longer than 20 minutes or occurs after an injury. This may be a sign of a posterior nosebleed.

Injuries that might cause a nosebleed include a fall, a car accident, or a punch in the face. Nosebleeds that occur after an injury may indicate a broken nose, skull fracture, or internal bleeding.

Diagnosing a Nosebleed

If you seek medical attention for a nosebleed, your doctor will conduct a physical examination to determine a cause. He or she will check your nose for signs of a foreign object. Your doctor will also ask questions about your medical history and current medications.

Alert your doctor to other symptoms you may have, as well as any recent injuries. There is no single test to determine the cause of a nosebleed. However, your doctor might use diagnostic tests to find the cause of nosebleeds. These tests include:

a complete blood count: a blood test to check for blood disorders

nasal endoscopy: examination of the nose

partial thromboplastin time: a blood test that checks how long it takes your blood to clot

CT scan of the nose: imaging test that takes cross-sectional pictures of the nose

X-ray of the face and nose: imaging test that uses radiation to produce pictures of the nose

How to Treat a Nosebleed

Most people who develop nose bleeding can handle the problem without the need of a physician if they follow the step-by-step first aid recommendations below:

Pinch all the soft parts of the nose together between the thumb and index finger.

Press firmly toward the face - compressing the pinched parts of the nose against the bones of the face.

Lean forward slightly with the head tilted forward. Leaning back or tilting the head back allows the blood to run back into the sinuses and throat and can cause gagging or inhaling the blood.

Hold the nose for at least five minutes. Repeat as necessary until the nose has stopped bleeding.

Sit quietly, keeping the head higher than the level of the heart. Do not lay flat or put your head between your legs.

Apply ice (wrapped in a towel) to nose and cheeks.

How do you prevent the nose from bleeding again?

Go home and rest with head elevated at 30 to 45 degrees.

Do not blow your nose or put anything into it. If you have to sneeze, open your mouth so that the air will escape out the mouth and not through the nose.

Do not strain during bowel movements. Use a stool softener (for example, docusate [Colace]).

Do not strain or bend down to lift anything heavy.

Try to keep your head higher than the level of your heart.

Do not smoke.

Stay a cool diet of soft, cool foods and beverages. No hot liquids for at least 24 hours.

Do not take any medications that will thin the blood for example, aspirin,ibuprofen, clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix) or warfarin (Coumadin). Do not stop taking any medications without first contacting your doctor.

Your doctor may recommend some form of lubricating ointment for the inside of the nose.

If re-bleeding occurs, try to clear the nose of clots by sniffing in forcefully. A temporary remedy such as a nasal decongestant spray, for example, Afrin or Neo-Synephrine may be helpful. These types of sprays constrict blood vessels. (NOTE: If used for many days at a time, these can cause addiction so they are recommended for short-term use only. Do not use if the patient has high blood pressure.)

Repeat the steps above on how to stop the common nosebleed. If bleeding persists, call the doctor and/or go to the nearest emergency department.

Most nosebleeds can be stopped at home.Consult a doctor for a nosebleed if bleeding cannot be stopped, there is a large amount of blood lost, or you feel weak or faint.

Tips on Buying Lingerie for Your Lady

2015-07-15T13:18:00.001-05:00

things that keeps a relationship exciting is when the couple give each other sweet little surprises every now and then. For example, if a guy sends his woman of bouquet of flowers unexpectedly and even when there's no special occasion to celebrate, the woman would naturally feel flattered and special.

things that keeps a relationship continuing is when the couple give each other a sweet little surprise from time to time. Case in point, if a man sends his lady of bouquet of flowers unexpectedly and even when there's no unique event to celebrate, the lady would normally feel flattered, special.and happy

Men frequently see lingerie as a kind of gift-wrapping, something that ought to be satisfying to the eye yet that is basically pointless. This is the primary issue with many of you guys and is often your downfall, as ladies in fat need lingerie, not only for wearing, as well as to provide support and a canvas for their outerwear.

To keep the fascination alive between you and your wife or girlfriend, one of the things you can buy her a lovely piece of lingerie. However, buying one can be something that can be hard to do, especially that it's considered as 'no-man's land.' But if you truly need to get her something she wouldn't anticipate from you, escape from your comfort zone and get her clothing.

Find out what brands she goes for

This would be easy if you've had cozy minutes together. Take a look of the brand or brands that she love to wears and make a mental note of them. If she utilizes one brand, this just implies that she inclines toward just that brand and that's it. This is more than an insight of what brand you'll get her.

Know what type she wears

Another key to getting the right underwear is to get what type she generally wears. It is okay to say that she is the more adventurous type and goes for things like thongs and G-strings? Or is she more of the type that's more conservativet and wears only the regular lingerie? This again ought to give you a piece of information of the accurate kind of lingerie to give her. how ever, regardless of the fact that your lady is not the sort that wears the sexier sorts of clothing, you can in any case give her sexy stuff if your objective is to make her look sexier during your intimate moments.

Pick the right size

One of the biggest missteps you can make when buying her underwear is getting her someth that is too loose or too tight. Just like the first tip, you can know her size by simply looking at any of her underwear pieces to verify you get the right size for her.
So get her sizes before you do anything else and make sure you write them down, and get your lady lovely bits of lingerie and keep the fascination alive.

VA-VA-VA VOOM

Women tend to buy practical day-to-day lingerie for themselves, so selecting something a little more glamorous will no doubt score you top marks. Ultimo’s elegant ‘Black Label’ collection is the Rolls Royce of lingerie and features lashings of eyelash lace, soft Italian satin, rich colours and intricate detailing, ticking all the right boxes. Although, please note: whilst sexy lingerie is favoured by a lot of women out there, be sure to strike a balance between glamour and comfort, as most women prefer pretty and feminine to overtly sexy.

Think Like A Women

The style of underwear that your lady will love will likewise depend on what she loves and dislikes about her own body. If she loathes her stomach, choose a hot yet concealing corsett or basque. If she’s proud of her ample bosom, go for an enhancing and uplifting plunge bra. If she likes her bottom, go for a slinky thong. This also extends to her character; for the more outgoing lady, push the boat out with bold patterns and colours, perhaps even a suspender belt. Whilst for the more reserved females out there, a simple style such as a balcony bra and short in classic black lace will always be a hit. Don’t forget to take her needs into consideration!

Be aware that the better ones are usually pricier

Lingerie can at sometime be compared with jewelry in that the pricier it is, the better. Obviously, you would prefer not to get the woman in your life something shoddy. Unquestionably, modest doesn't generally mean low quality. But when it comes to lingerie, the expensive ones are typically made of fabrics that are uncomfortable to use as well as trigger certain body issues. It's not consistently that you'll be purchasing her clothing, so be sure you get the truly high-quality ones despite their high costs.

Your lady is all you got so get her nice pieces of lingerie and keep the attraction alive (you can check FashionPlus for the latest in lingerie fashion).

Shaan Berg is a blogger about lifestyle and fashion trends. She is currently working as a freelance stylistand writer, contributing her insights about the beauty and fashion industry. She recommends you check out Fashion Plus TV for the latest in bikini fashion.

9 Ways to Use Essential Oils to Improve Family Health

2015-07-13T14:08:00.000-05:00

Essential oils have grown in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Therapeutic-grade oils do more than smell great – they can play a part in healing and promoting health and well-being. Read on to discover 9 ways you could help to boost your home's health and mood.

Editor's note: Prior to usage, please consult with your health care practitioner regarding oils that you or your family will be ingesting or applying topically. Read all ingredients to ensure no one in your family is allergic, and try a patch test before administering full doses to the skin.

Aid Tummy Aches and Headaches

Peppermint oil is cooling and may help to relieve pain and soothe digestion. Since this therapeutic-grade oil is powerful and may cause skin irritation, it should be mixed with a carrier oil. Common carrier oils include sweet almond, apricot kernel oil, grapeseed, jojoba, avocado, coconut or olive.

Mix 1 teaspoon of peppermint oil with a carrier oil and apply 1 to 2 drops directly to the area in pain. When using for headaches, gently massage into the temples and sinuses, avoiding the eyes. For stomachaches, apply 1 to 2 drops on belly and smooth into skin.

Clean Water Bottles

Lemon oil can act as an antiviral and antiseptic – and it's known to taste great. Add 1 to 2 drops of oil to your family's water bottles and the funk may be significantly decreased. This is a particularly good trick for kids' school water bottles. The taste and power of those few drops will last a few bottle fillings. Grapefruit oil also works well.

Use as an Antiseptic

Purification is a home medicine cabinet staple for essential oil users – it is applied topically to cuts and "owies." It can help with small injuries like skinned knees and paper cuts, as well as on bigger injuries like deep cuts. The oil is a blend made up of citronella, lemongrass, rosemary, melaleuca, lavandin and myrtle and is considered to have antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and sanitizing properties.

Help Soothe a Fever

Peppermint oil can help cool a fever. Stir 1 to 2 drops into warm water and sip, or mix a few drops with a carrier oil and apply to feet. Considered to be clarifying and stimulating, the smell is also soothing.

Aid in Sleeplessness, Bad Dreams and Anxiety

A good night's sleep is important for everyone. Unfortunately, many people have bouts of less-than-perfect sleep. Oils that are known to help promote sweet dreams are lavender and Peace & Calming, which is an oil blend of tangerine, ylang ylang, orange, patchouli and blue tansy. For nervousness and anxiety, try Valor, a blend of spruce, rosewood, blue tansy and frankincense. Rub 1 to 2 drops on chest or pillow, or use an oil diffuser.

Help Protect from Colds and Flu

During the winter months when colds are easily passed around, take extra immunity-strengthening measures. A regular application of Thieves oil blend may give your family the extra edge. A blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata and rosemary cineol, Thieves is considered antiviral and antibacterial, and can help protect the body from the onset of colds or flu. Simply apply 1 to 2 drops to the bottom of feet.

Help Heal Burns, Bruises, Cuts and Bug Bites

Lavender oil is often used to soothe skin issues, from sunburns to bee stings. Applied directly to the affected area, it may bring some quick relief while helping heal wounds faster. Panaway is also a notable pain reducer.

Soothe Respiratory Issues and Seasonal Allergies

Try RC and eucalyptus to soothe respiratory issues, including seasonal allergies. RC is a blend of eucalyptus, myrtle, peppermint, tsuga, cypress, pine, marjoram and lavender. To breathe with ease, massage onto the chest, place a few drops on the pillow at night or place in a room diffuser.

Relieve Tension

Taking a bath is a great way to unwind. Add 1 to 2 drops of your favorite soothing oil and let the aromatherapeutic qualities take hold. This can also be a great way to calm wound-up kids at bedtime – just add 2 to 3 drops of lavender or Peace & Calming right in the tub.

6 Healthy Foods That Boost Immunity

2015-07-13T13:12:00.000-05:00

A super food contains a mixture of malady battling nutrients, is promptly accessible, sparing and delightful without the requirement for salty flavoring or added fat, says Pittsburgh sports dietitian and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics representative Heather Mangieri. Immunity-boosting super foods give the nutrients your body needs to fend off infections and disease, as well as help your body battle againstimmune-related illnesses, for example, arthritis. They can even help keep certain sorts of cancer, as indicated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. We all need to do all that we can to protect ourselves from getting ill, particularly when chilly and influenza season moves around. Here are eight super foods you can consolidate into your eating diet that will give your immune system a boost.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes make the ideal super food. As one of the best food wellsprings of vitamin A – meeting 561 percent of the every day value in one potato – the sweet potato has some serious immune-boosting powers. forces. Vitamin A backings immune health by keeping your natural barrier to germs healthy and strong – your skin and mucous membranes in your digestive tract and lungs. Get the nutritional benefits for good health in one whole sweet potato and enjoy it baked, mashed or cubed and sautéed with onions for a tasty hash.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a thick and creamy brewed snack food stacked with friendly bacteria known as probiotics. These microorganisms enhances your body's capacity to fight off infection, lessen inflammation and decrease the growth of harmful bacteria in your gut.. The benefits aren't limiting to simply Greek yogurt, however are found in any yogurt with "live and active societies" written on the label. Including one 4-ounce to 6-ounce serving of Greek yogurt a day not just fills your gut with microorganisms that improves immunity, additionally helps you meet your daily calcium, vitamin D, potassium and protein needs.

Green Tea

Rich in the intense antioxidants polyphenols, green tea may bring down the danger for various diverse sorts of cancer, including lung, colon, stomach and pancreatic. As indicated by an audit article distributed in "Chinese Medicine," the polyphenols in green tea might likewise help fight off Helicobacter pylori – the microscopic organisms that causes stomach ulcers. While green tea offers various of immune-promoting benefits, it is a wellspring of caffeine and drinking too much may affect iron bioavailability. One to two cups of green tea a day gets you the benefits without the ill effects.

Garlic

As a super food, garlic not just adds flavor to your most loved dishes without the requirement for fat or salt, additionally the bioactive synthetic called allicin. This chemical is accepted to have antibacterial activity that may help you fight off contaminations caused by Salmonella, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Getting more garlic in your diet may additionally help you fight off the common cold, despite the fact that the National Institute of Health says more research is fundamental before recommendations can be made. For immune health, one clove of raw, crushed garlic a day should do it.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in various of health-promoting nutrients including B vitamins, selenium, potassium and vitamin D. However, its a component called beta-glucan in mushrooms that helps reinforce immune system and may also protect against cancer, as well as slow tumor growth. Shiitake, oyster and split gill mushrooms are the best sources of beta-glucan. Consume 1 ounce, cooked or raw, a day to improve your nutrient intake.

Honey

Honey has been utilized for medicinal purposes since antiquated times. Honey's high sugar substance, acidity and array of phytochemicals are accepted to be the parts that help battle off bacteria, sucj as E. coli and Staph aureus. It is additionally utilized topically to repair wounds, and when ingested, may help repair gastric ulcers and lessen aggravation. You require 1 to 5 tablespoons of raw (unpasteurized) honey a day to get the medicinal benefits. Use it in place of other sweeteners in baked goods, hot cereal and tea to get your daily fix for health. (Children under one year old and those with weak immune systems should not consume raw honey.)

5 Special Foods That Fight Hunger

2015-07-04T18:16:00.000-05:00

There are a multitude of foods that have the power to tame your hunger and decrease your appetite. When combined with healthy amounts of exercise, eating these foods can help you to more easily lose your excess and unwanted weight.

If you want to feel full all day on less food, focus on eating these appetite reducing foods:

1. Water - Increases satiety

While not technically a food, water is one of the easiest ways to satisfy your hunger. That’s right, I said hunger not thirst. Often we mistake feeling dehydrated for hunger. Being dehydrated can increase the hormonal signals that ghrelin sends out, so your body falsely thinks you need food.

Whenever you feel hungry, try drinking a large glass of water before you eat. Wait for ten minutes and if you still feel hungry then have something to eat. This will not only rule out false hunger, but will also fill your belly so there is less room to overindulge in food.

Water also helps to distract you from eating out of pure boredom. It gives you something healthy to consume as often as you like. Be sure to drink the recommended eight glasses of water each and every day. You’ll be surprised at how much drinking water can eliminate your hunger pangs.

2. Lemon or Lime Water - Increases satiety

A simple step to reducing your hunger is to add fresh lemon or lime juice to your water. Not only does in taste great, but research now suggests that consuming the juice of one lemon or lime can help suppress your appetite so that you feel fuller for longer and eat less than you otherwise would.

Lemon and limes contain a naturally occurring soluble fiber called pectin. Pectin not only lowers blood glucose levels, it also binds with bile acids to lower cholesterol and inhibit fat absorption. By slowing down the digestion of sugars, the pectin found in lemons will also keep you feeling fuller for longer.

In a study conducted at the Brooke Army Medical Center in Texas and published in the “Journal of the American College of Nutrition.” Tiwary found that recruits who drank orange juice with pectin as part of their meals felt full for four hours, compared to recruits who felt full for one hour eating ice cream with their meals.

If you are looking for a quick and easy way to reduce your appetite then drink lots and lots of lemon water. Simply add the juice from one fresh lemon or lime into a litre of water. This makes a refreshing drink that you can turn to whenever you feel hungry or thirsty!

3. Cinnamon – Balances blood sugar levels

If you are looking for a quick and easy way to manage your hunger, why not spice up your life with a little cinnamon. The brown bark from a cinnamon tree helps reduce your appetite by stabilizing your blood sugar levels.

Excess insulin production will make you overweight and hungry. Cinnamon stabilizes insulin levels while reducing insulin resistance. It does this in three ways; one by activating enzymes that stimulate insulin receptors. Two, it enhances the effects of insulin-signalling pathways in your skeletal muscle tissue. Lastly cinnamon slows down the absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine, which helps you feel fuller for longer.

Sprinkle ½ a teaspoon of cinnamon as a spice on food or if you are game you can eat it raw. You may wish to sprinkle it on your fruit, add it to your morning smoothie, sprinkle it in your lemon tea or add it to your quinoa porridge or applesauce.

4. Green Super-foods - Keeps your Body Nourished

Green foods are fantastic for your body, but green super-foods are even better. Think of them as green foods on steroids. Green foods provide your body with an abundant array of vital nutrients. They have the highest concentrations of easily digestible vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that protect and heal your body. When your body has everything it needs to function efficiently it will stop sending you constant messages that it needs more - more nutrients, more sustenance and ultimately more food.

Fresh is always best, so make sure you add a variety of fresh leafy greens to your daily diet.

5. Chia seeds – Increases satiety and stabilizes blood sugar levels

Chia seeds are a grain that is native to Central and South America. In ancient times they were cherished by the Aztecs, who ate them to increase stamina and promote general well-being.

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iron and calcium, chia seeds are great for decreasing hunger because they act like a sponge to absorb sugars and stabilize blood sugar levels. These tiny seeds can hold up to twenty times their weight in water, so when they’re mixed with liquid they plump up in your belly keeping you feeling fuller for longer.

Chia seeds are so easy to eat. For weight loss purposes try:

Eating some Chia seeds right before a meal to “fill up” and not eat as much as you would have otherwise.
Mixing chia seeds into foods so the food fills you up faster and makes you eat less.
Adding chia seeds to your smoothie.
Mixing chia seeds with a little almond or rice milk and letting it set into a chia pudding. Fill up on the pudding instead of eating unhealthy snacks.

8 Reasons You Feel tired and You Have No Energy

2015-07-04T17:20:00.000-05:00

You'd be simply unable to find somebody who doesn't hit nap or experience the mid afternoon droop from time to time, but if you always feel like you're dragging it may be time to check your habits. If you don't have a related health condition and are sufficiently getting shuteye every night, you may be at fault for the consistent fatigue.

Here are 8 energy-zapping habits that you can change today

1.You're eating too much sugar

While the candy box is delinquent, refined carbohydrates like white bread and rice, chips, and oat are a noteworthy wellspring of sugar, as well. This sort of simple sugar is digested rapidly by our body, leading to a dip in blood sugar levels that leaves you feeling exhausted. Make certain to replace refined carbs with full grain mixtures for a constant energy boost

2.You aren't exercising enough

It may appear unexpected that exerting energy will actually raise it, yet adding a workout to your every day routine will give you a short-term energy boost. Besides, regular exercise improves sleep quality, which will eventually leave you feeling more well rested.

3.You're skipping breakfast

"Skipping breakfast can definitely contribute to low energy in the morning," says Johannah Sakimura"It's important to give your body good fuel to begin the day after an expanded time of fasting." Without this fuel, your body is running on void – leaving you famished by lunchtime and more likely to make unhealthy choices that will cause that midafternoon dip in blood sugar. "Try to combine healthy carbohydrates, like fruit, veggies, and whole grains, with a protein source, such as eggs, nuts, or dairy. The carbs give you an initial boost, and the protein helps sustain you until your next meal," says Sakimura.

4.You're sitting to much

Not just is sitting for long time harmful to your health (just one hour of sitting effects your heart!), yet it’s a major energy zapper as well. Standing up and moving for even a couple of minutes aides get your blood circling through your body and expands the oxygen in your blood, at last sending more oxygen to your brain which increases alertness. If you work a desk job, try this move more plan to keep your blood pumping.

5.You're drinking to much caffeine

Whether its a can or soda or constant refills of your espresso mug, many of the drinks we go after when we feel tired are stuffed with caffeine – a stimulant that will give you a speedy shake, but can also leave you slamming soon after if you ingest too much. In addition, in case you're drinking caffeinated drinks into the evening, they may begin to have an impact on your rest quality. In case you're an coffee drinker, switch to water late-morning and replace soda with seltzer for a bubbly afternoon pick-me-up without the crash.

6.You're dehydrated

We all know the important of drinking enough water – and even gentle lack of hydration can have adverse effects on your vitality level, mood, and concentration. Go for no less than one glass of water for every hour while sitting at your work area, and make certain to fill your bottle up even more in case you're doing strenuous movement or are outside in high temperature.

7.You have poor posture

while enabling participants to more easily come up with positive thoughts. So sit up straight! Set reminders on your phone or calendar throughout the day to remind yourself to check in with your posture and straighten up.

8.You're not snacking smart

If you’re running to the vending machine for a quick afternoon snack, your selection – most likely high in simple carbs and sugar – will take your energy levels in the wrong direction. Instead choose a snack that has a combo of protein and complex carbs for an energy boost that will last throughout the afternoon. Think trail mix, veggies and hummus, or peanut butter on whole wheat toast.

5 Tips for a Super-Healthy Smoothie

2015-07-04T13:43:00.000-05:00

Smoothies are a simple and yummy way to combine more produce and other healthful fixings into your diet,and they offer a huge measure of benefits that popular juices don't. By mixing whole fruits and vegetables rather than extracting the juice, you get the full measurements of heart-healthy fiber, and you squander less of your pricey produce. at the time you pick your ingredients deliberately, smoothies can convey an adjusted mix of protein, fat, and carbs, making them a suitable substitute for meals. Juices, then again, juices are basically carbohydrate, and if they're fundamentally fruit-based, they can be a concentrated source of sugar.

That said, smoothies aren't generally a healthy decision. store-bought
smoothies can contain more than 15 teaspoons of sugar from syrups and juices, and homemade smoothies can trip you up, as well. It's difficult to escape when you're dumping a tad bit of this and a tad bit of that into a pitcher-sized blender (I fall into this trap myself). Regardless of the fact that you're being mindful to utilize just nutritious, entire nourishment fixings, the calories can be intemperate. To make an all around adjusted drink that won't measure you down, consider these proposals.

1.Limit added sweeteners

I suggest utilizing whole fruit as the only sweetener in smoothies if at all possible. Unlike added sweeteners like maple syrup and honey, which supply just sugar, fruit gives fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other useful phytonutrients alongside natural sweetness.Try utilizing around a cup of fresh or frozen fruit as the base of your smoothie. Incorporate bananas, mango, pineapple, or orange slices for a sweeter profile, yet stay far from fruit juice, which is more packed in sugar and calories than whole fruit. To keep added sugar under control, you'll likewise need to pick plain, unsweetened yogurt and milks (some non-dairy milks like almond and coconut contain added sweeteners). When you're done mixing, taste the final product. If — and only if — its still not sufficiently sweet for your liking, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of your favored sweetener (or, add 1 to 2 dates in place of sweeten).

2.Add some veggies to the mix

For an additional shot of vitamins and minerals, start to blend a vegetable into your drink. My go-to is a modest bunch of baby spinach leaves, yet you can likewise mix in carrots, beets, or canned pureed pumpkin. Celery and cucumbers are likewise smoothie-friendly, yet they aren't as nutrient-dense as deeply colored varieties. I like to consolidate leafy greens with berries, since the purple and blue hues mask the green color best.

3.Puree in protein

Including no less than one protein-rich ingredient makes your smoothie additionally filling and substantial, which is particularly imperative you're depending on it to remain in as a complete breakfast. Great choices include plain low-fat yogurt, skim or 1% milk, soy milk, and silken tofu. Remember that some non-dairy milks, including almond and coconut, give minimal protein.

4.Watch the extras

you can boost your drink's nutritious profile by including nuts and nut butters, avocado, chia or flax seeds, cocoa powder or cacao nibs, wheat germ, oats, and other healthful ingredients, yet you'll likewise be raising the calorie amount. For instance, every tablespoon of nut butter tacks on another 100 calories, and you could easily add 2 to 3 times that amount in case you're scooping freehand from the jug. With high-cal fixings, you may need to get out the measuring spoons to verify you're not running over the edge with bits. Which brings us to tip #5

5.Do a rough calorie count

I recommend doing some brisk math to verify you're not tasting a larger number of calories than you think, especially in case you're watching your weight. If you’re drinking a smoothie as your breakfast meal, 400 calories is a reasonable limit (men and dynamic ladies can be more liberal). For a snack-sized smoothie, stick to around 200 calories.

One final tip: If you end up making more smoothie than you expected, empty the leftover mixture into ice pop molds. Your breakfast turns into a fruity frozen dessert to enjoy later in the week!

5 Detoxifying Smoothies That Taste Like Girl Scout Cookies

2015-07-04T09:59:00.002-05:00

Do you hold up all year to submit your Girl Scout cookie order? You're not the only one. In any case, I bet we're not the first to tell that you that the infamous treat so beloved by your taste buds is not really friendly to your waistline. Suppose it is possible that you could catch the majority of that cookie you crave in a nutrient-packed smoothie? Our companions at Green Blender did only that. Utilizing our most loved Girl Scout treats presently, they made these delicious smoothie recipes.

Tagalongs Smoothie

Creamy peanut butter and avocado add a rich composition and flavor to this smoothie, making it taste wanton while pressing in the healthy fats and protein. Carob powder functions as an antioxidant and has been indicated to enhance digestion and lower cholesterol. This is one dessert you can feel good about enjoying in!

Ingredients:

Blend 1 banana, ¼ avocado, 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tbsp carob powder, 1 cup almond milk, and 1 cup ice. Note: If your smoothie is too thick, add an extra ½ cup of water to thin it out.

Thin Mint Smoothie

Reviving and sweet, who doesn't love a combo of chocolate and mint? In this recipe, antioxidant-rich cacao and spinach give you a nutrition boost, while mint enhances digestion – the combo makes for a wanton green smoothie that supports your vitality. Add in a banana for a healthy dose of potassium to keep you hydrated and energized and you've got a complete breakfast.

Ingredients:

Blend 1 ½ oz baby spinach, 1 banana, 1 chopped apple, 3-5 stemmed fresh mint sprigs, 1 tbsp cacao powder, 1 cup water, and 1 cup ice in a blender for 1-3 minutes. Add 1 tsp cacao nibs and blend an additional 10-30 seconds. This will leave some of the nibs intact, which gives the smoothie a slight crunch.

Ginger Lemonades

This lemonade-inspired smoothie will make you sparkle from the back to front. Carrots and apples are stuffed with skin-boosting vitamins An and C, while lemon and soothe your digestive system. Adding pumpkin seeds ups the protein substance while including a dosage of magnesium, which underpins a healthy immune system and can lower danger of heart attack and diabetes.

Ingredients:

Blend 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 chopped apple, the juice of ½ lemon, ½ inch peeled ginger, 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds, 1 cup water, and 1 cup ice.

Rah-Rah Raisin

Raisins and oats are loaded with soluble fiber which fills you up and aids in digestion, while oranges add immunity-boosting vitamin C. A handful of carrot tops add a green hue and heart-healthy chlorophyll and magnesium.

Ingredients:

Blend 1 oz carrot tops, 1 chopped pear, 1 peeled orange, ¼ cup gluten free oats, 1 tbsp raisins, ½ tsp cinnamon, 1 cup water, and 1 cup ice.

Caramel Delights (Samoas)

The Girl Scouts were on to something with this recipe. They began off with caramel and coconut, and this recipe adds in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Alongside hearth-healthy cantioxidants, cashews give a rich, caramel-like flavor that when combined with sweet coconut makes a flavor reminiscent of the Girl Scout favorite. Pineapples, greens, and pears add a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins A, B, C, potassium, and pectin.

Ingredients:

Blend 1 ½ oz broccoleaf, 1 chopped pear, 4 oz pineapple, ¼ cup cashews, 1 tsp lucuma powder (or pitted dates), 1 tbsp shredded coconut, 1 cup water, and 1 cup ice.

Easy Life

How to Calculate How Much Water To Drink Daily

Recipe to Try Tonight: Quinoa Pizza Crust

How to Do a One Day Lemon Cleansing Diet

Things You'll Need

Instructions

How to Make Lemon Extract at Home

7 Special Healthy Foods to Reduce Stress

Ohmm With Dark Chocolate

A Banana a Day

Anti-Anxiety Swiss Chard

Tea Time

Immune-Boosting Red Peppers

Power-Up With Beans

5 Summer Foods That Are Guaranteed to Blow Your Diet

Salad Toppers

Refreshing Frozen Treats

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

High-Fat Meats on the Barbecue

Frighteningly Fattening Fair Food

Super Indian Brussels Curry With Coconut

Moroccan Cauliflower Steaks with Caramelized Onion Couscous

For the Cauliflower Steaks

Three-Minute Chilled Avocado Buttermilk Soup

Chilled Avocado Soup

Things You'll Need

5 Super Easy Sangrias Recipes To Make This Summer

1.Pineapple Kiwi Sangria

Things You'll Need

Method

2.Pomegranate Citrus Sangria

Things You'll Need

Method

3.White Wine Sangria with Apple

Things You'll Need

Method

Iced Tea Sangria

Things You'll Need

Method

White Sangria Sparkler

Things You'll Need

Method

How to Make The Ultimate Virgin Pina Colada

Things You'll Need

Gluten and Dairy Free Plum Pudding

Gluten and Dairy Free Plum Pudding

Eeasy Steps to Make Dilisious Mason Jar Salads

5 Infused Water Recipes to Improve Your Health

5 Special Breathing Exercise for Weight Loss

Method 1: Deep Breathing For Relaxation

Method 2: Deep Breathing For Energy

Method 3: Alternate Nostril Breathing for Cleansing

Method 4: The Breath of Fire For Metabolism

Method 5: Vacuum Breathing For Toning the Core

How to Make a Guinness Beer Milkshake

Things You'll Need

Things You'll Need

Things You'll Need

Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Buttermilk recipe

Things You'll Need

What To Do When Your Noise Bleeds

What causes nosebleeds?

Other common causes of nosebleeds include:

Diagnosing a Nosebleed

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); How to Treat a Nosebleed

How do you prevent the nose from bleeding again?

Tips on Buying Lingerie for Your Lady

Find out what brands she goes for

Know what type she wears

Pick the right size

VA-VA-VA VOOM

Think Like A Women

Be aware that the better ones are usually pricier

9 Ways to Use Essential Oils to Improve Family Health

Aid Tummy Aches and Headaches

Clean Water Bottles

Use as an Antiseptic

Help Soothe a Fever

Aid in Sleeplessness, Bad Dreams and Anxiety

Help Protect from Colds and Flu

How to Treat a Nosebleed