Wheatgrass Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  Wheatgrass Health benefits and Nutritional Value.


by Cheryl Munger

I remember the first time I tried Wheat grass. I had it from one of the nearest juice bars in my area. The taste to me was sweet tasting and similar to me like sweet peas. They gave me a shot of wheat grass followed by a shot of orange juice to chase it with. The energy you get is a real boost to your body. I started juicing for a better health overall and started researching all the benefits to certain fruits and vegetables.

I then started reading up on wheat grass benefits and was astounded and amazed at how it is a healer for tumors and much more. It gives so much energy to people that some people cannot drink it after mid- afternoon. It is best taken on an empty stomach. Some people may even vomit after taking a shot depending on everyone we are all different, the cause of the feeling of wanting to vomit after a shot is due to its ability to cleanse our bodies so quickly.

This is called the healing crisis. Wheat grass contains Chlorophyll which is the green pigment in the grass that is absorbed from the suns rays, so when you consume the wheat grass juice you are actually eating or drinking the sun rays that have been transformed into food that gives you an abundant amount of energy. If you are around toxic things like smoke etc.. wheat grass actually helps cleanse the toxins from our body. It was once discovered as helping heal tumors in a persons body. If you want to reap allot of energy and healing benefits, wheat grass is very good for everyone and you will love it and be hooked on it once you have tried it and have read up on all the powerful healing benefits it can give our bodies.

It comes in many forms, fresh grass that you can buy or grow yourself and then juiced. You can buy a juicer specifically for juicing grasses or if you have a juice machine you can wrap the grass in some spinach leaves and run it through a normal juice machine. You can also buy in tablet or powder drink mix form. Whatever form you choose it is a great natural body healer and should really be looked into and researched more if a person is truly interested in wanting to know more. Speaking for myself, I have a sluggish thyroid and a problem losing weight and since I started juicing, I am now losing weight and feeling so much healthier. I have bought many books on juicing and got me a juicer and have truly felt much healthier and happier. I recommend juicing for everyone who wants better overall health and happiness!


More Article about Natural Food Benefits

Olive Leaf Extract Benefits
Chia Seed Health Benefits
Apple Health Benefits
Health benefits of cinnamon
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Olive Leaf Extract Benefits

Olive Leaf

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  the Health benefits of Olive Leaf Extract. Learn About This Truly Unique Medicinal Herb.

The benefits of olive leaf extract have been well known in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries for centuries.

This natural medicinal herb is extracted from the actual leaf of the olive tree, although there are also (lesser) benefits from using olive oil as well as olive oil and leaf extract combinations.

The benefits of olive leaf extract include:

• Protecting the body from viruses, bacteria or retroviruses
• Treating existing viruses including herpes and shingles
• Possible Anti HIV activity
• Improving circulation
• Curing colds, flues and pneumonias
• Aiding as a diuretic and digestive aid
• Prevents intestinal muscle spasms
• Used in ear,urinary, dental and surgical infection prevention and elimination
• Decreases the effects of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by increasing energy and overall well being

Several research studies have recorded and reported on the effectiveness of olive leaf extract in several different clinical trials.

The New York University School of Medicine has completed definitive tests that show that OLE (olive leaf extract) is able to change the pathways of HIV type infections and may even reverse these conditions.

The University of Durban-Westville in South Africa has concluded that one of the benefits of olive leaf extract is that it decreases hypertension especially in cases where the condition is related to salt-sensitivity.

Research has also been done regarding the antioxidant benefits of olive leaf extract and show that it possesses extremely high anti-oxidative qualities (1). Not only does this herb serve to remove free radicals from the system but it also helps to add protective qualities for the heart and circulatory system.

Through eliminating free radicals in the system olive leaf extract also helps reduce the productions of micro-toxins in the body that can eliminate many of the colds, flues and other respiratory issues that are problematic around the world.

Female specific benefits of olive leaf extract extend to eliminating yeast and other vaginal infections as well as helping reduce the symptoms of PMS and migraine headaches.

Benefits Of Olive Leaf Extract - How Does This Unique Herb Work?
Olive leaf contains a series of phytochemicals known as secoiridoids. The most important of these - and the major active ingredient in olive leaf - is Oleuropein ? which in itself is comprised of 95 different compounds.

When Oleuropein is extracted out of olive leaves, along with the other phytochemicals, it works as a very wide spectrum natural antibiotic.

Studies have shown that this active ingredient is responsible for the numerous health benefits of olive leaf extract. It has been determined to be part of the olive tree's powerful disease resistant structure.

Oleuropein is a powerful antioxidant which boosts the immune system, allowing the body to destroy free radicals and harmful viruses, bacteria and other potentially dangerous cells.

The benefits of olive leaf extract to the immune system are well documented - it is very well known as a non ?toxic, potent immunity enhancer.

Although it?s individual medicinal properties are highly beneficial, if combined with a wide range of other powerful anti oxidants and medicinal herbs the results will be far more effective.

So unless you wish to treat a specific condition (short-term), olive leaf extract should be taken as part of a multi nutrient supplement aimed at strengthening all organs and systems in your body (particularly your immune system), while providing anti aging benefits and a host of other ?wellness benefits?.

Benefits Of Olive Leaf Extract - Precautions And Side Effects

This extraordinary herb is very safe to use. There have been not been any reports of adverse reactions or other side effects, except that a few people experience moderate headaches ? this is due to a detoxification effect and is not a counteraction to the herb. Few human studies with olive leaf are available.

No known studies have been conducted on pregnant or nursing mothers. Therefore if you are pregnant or nursing the best recommendation is to not take this or any other herbal extracts without medical advice.

There are no known studies of interactions between olive leaf extract and pharmaceuticals drugs.

The disease resistant benefits of olive leaf extract are strong and so it "should not be taken along with antibiotics, additional amino acids or any other mold or fungus derivatives.

It is not that they will do you harm, rather Olive leaf extract will see those things as invaders and kill them canceling the positive effect of the extract, instead of working on what's important, healing you". (2)

What To Look For In A Multi Ingredient Health Supplement Containing Olive Leaf

There are some olive leaf extracts available that work really well and others that do not!

So the first thing to check for is that the extract is 'Standardized'. Standardization has become the industry standard!

Standardization guarantees the potency and amount of Oleuropein from batch to batch ? which can vary tremendously when herbs are grown and processed.

Many supplement companies avoid using standardized extracts because they are considerably more expensive!

NOTE: Beware of low quality olive leaf extracts listing the active ingredient as ?Calcium Elenolate?. Olive leaf does NOT contain ?Calcium Elenolate? (which is synthesized in a lab).

The supplement company should manufacture its own products and control the manufacturing process through all stages.

Stay away from supplement companies who contract out their manufacturing. This is often where problems begin such as contamination.

To guarantee absolute safety, purity, and potency all raw materials must be sourced from GMP registered and audited facilities. All ingredients must have a Certificate of Analysis (COA) on file confirming their purity and potency.

The supplement company must test all raw materials prior to manufacture for compliance with certificates of analysis and for microbiological contamination. This ensures your safety

To further ensure the highest levels of safety and that ingredient amounts are in accordance with label claims, be sure the manufacturer is GMP compliant at a pharmaceutical level ? this is the highest standard possible for the manufacture of nutritional supplements. Only a handful of supplement companies achieve this standard with their manufacturing!

Prior to releasing each batch of product a further microbiological analysis must be carried out along with a heavy metal analysis.

Be sure the product contains NO ARTIFICIAL:

• Colors
• Flavors
• Preservatives
• Fillers
• Binders

Nor potential allergenic substances - lactose, gluten, wheat, yeast and to a lesser degree corn (as vegetable coating or starch).

The product should come with a 100% unconditional money back guarantee - and no crazy conditions to use it. The manufacturers of elite/premium grade supplements must be prepared to stand by their product. If there's not a no risk, 100% money back guarantee let that raise a big red flag for you!

Recommended Supplement Containing Olive Leaf

It's called 'Total Balance' from the Xtend-Life company in New Zealand!

There are 7 different versions within the 'Total Balance' range.

Total Balance is best described as a specialty supplement for very health conscious people who want superior nutritional support to protect the health of their DNA, normalize their aging process and avoid all those 21st century influenced (and preventable) degenerative diseases.

This revolutionary 'Multi Nutrient Health' Supplement meets every one of the criteria listed above and a heck of a lot more.

Highly sophisticated supplements such as Total Balance are genuine super supplements and are manufactured using the most advanced technology and delivery systems, along with the most up to date nutritional science.

In additional to olive leaf, the Total Balance Women's Premium formula contains 17 other standardized medicinal herbal extracts.

But Total Balance is far more than just a herbal supplement!

The various Total Balance versions contain between 79 - 99 ingredients....

....which target every organ and system in your body, including your brain, to support overall wellness, slow your aging process, and offer advanced disease prevention.

It contains all nutrient categories.....

• Methylation Agents
• Anti-Glycation Agents
• Adaptogens
• Calorie Restriction Mimetics
• Antioxidants
• Amino Acids
• Enzymes
• Neuronutrients
• Flavanoids
• Carotenoids
• Trace Elements
• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Herbal Extracts
• Co-factors

Benefits of Olive Leaf Extract - Sources:

1. Phytochemistry Vol.31, No.4, 1992. 1173-1178
2. Healthy Christian Living website ? (benefits of) Olive Leaf Extract Benefits of olive leaf extract

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Chia Seed Health Benefits

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about Health Benefits of the Chia Seed.

The chia seed is a very healthy seed and is quickly becoming a very popular health food. 

What makes this seed such a healthy addition to the daily diet?

Could it be true? Could the Chia Seed be healthier than the Flax Seed? With the popularity of Flax Seed Oil and the sales of all Flax products soaring in health food stores across America, the flax market has some new competition. Look out flax; there is a new seed in town!

What makes the Chia Seed the super food that many claim it to be?

• 30% of the chia seed’s oil is Omega 3 oil. 40% of its oil is Omega 6 oil. This provides the nice balance those who take supplemental Essential Fatty Acids are looking for. The chia seed’s substantially dense percentage in alpha-linolenic fatty acid also makes this seed a healthy dietary source of fatty acids.
• You do not need to grind the Chia Seeds to digest it. It is a relatively easy to digest seed, whereas flax seeds are not. Often, one has to grind flax seeds to be able to process them in their digestive system. That is not the case with chia seeds.
• The chia seeds are great for athletes because they are highly hydrophilic. Being hydrophilic means it absorbs large amounts of water. Chia Seeds can absorb over 10 times their weight in water making them a great enhancer in hydrating our bodies. They absorb the water we drink holding it in our system longer.
• Studies show that eating chia seed slows down how fast our bodies convert carbohydrate calories into simple sugars. This leads scientists to believe that the chia seed may have great benefits for diabetics.
• The chia seed gels when becoming wet and this gel, when in our digestive systems, helps prevent some of the food, hence calories that we eat from getting absorbed into our system. This blockage of calorie absorption makes the chia seed a great diet helper. Eating the seeds also helps dieters by making them feel fuller faster so they will be less hungry!
• Chia seeds provide antioxidant activity
• Chia is a great addition to a detoxification program. Chia seeds are high in fiber and in healthy oils making them an excellent addition to many detox programs.
• Mix Chia seeds into yogurt, sprinkle them on cereal in the morning, add to salads, or even add them to your baking. There are many ways to add chia seeds into your daily routine!

Around for centuries, the chia seed in only now starting to gain recognition as the super food that many health gurus have always known it to be. Will this be a short lived health fad or will the chia seed become common place in the household cupboards of the 21st century? 

More Article about Natural Food Benefits

Apple Health Benefits
Health benefits of cinnamon
Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
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Apple Health Benefits

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  the Health benefits of apple.

Apple
Apples have a rounded shape with a depression at the top where the stem is attached. Some apples are almost perfectly round, while others are more rounded at the top and narrower at the bottom. In addition, some have knobby lobes at the calyx end (bottom) of the fruit. Apple fruits are firm and the skin is shiny and smooth. The color of the skin can be red, green, yellow, or a combination of those colors. The flesh is white or ivory.

Health Benefits of Apple
 
Bone Protection
French researchers found that a flavanoid called phloridzin that is found only in apples may protect post-menopausal women from osteoporosis and may also increase bone density. Boron, another ingredient in apples, also strengthens bones.

Asthma Help
One recent study shows that children with asthma who drank apple juice on a daily basis suffered from less wheezing than children who drank apple juice only once per month. Another study showed that children born to women who eat a lot of apples during pregnancy have lower rates of asthma than children whose mothers ate few apples.

Alzheimer's Prevention
A study on mice at Cornell University found that the quercetin in apples may protect brain cells from the kind of free radical damage that may lead to Alzheimer's disease.

Lower Cholesterol
The pectin in apples lowers LDL ("bad") cholesterol. People who eat two apples per day may lower their cholesterol by as much as 16 percent.

Lung Cancer Prevention
According to a study of 10,000 people, those who ate the most apples had a 50 percent lower risk of developing lung cancer. Researchers believe this is due to the high levels of the flavonoids quercetin and naringin in apples.

Breast Cancer Prevention
A Cornell University study found that rats who ate one apple per day reduced their risk of breast cancer by 17 percent. Rats fed three apples per day reduced their risk by 39 percent and those fed six apples per day reduced their risk by 44 percent.

Colon Cancer Prevention
One study found that rats fed an extract from apple skins had a 43 percent lower risk of colon cancer. Other research shows that the pectin in apples reduces the risk of colon cancer and helps maintain a healthy digestive tract.

Liver Cancer Prevention
Research found that rats fed an extract from apple skins had a 57 percent lower risk of liver cancer.

Diabetes Management
The pectin in apples supplies galacturonic acid to the body which lowers the body's need for insulin and may help in the management of diabetes.

Weight Loss
A Brazilian study found that women who ate three apples or pears per day lost more weight while dieting than women who did not eat fruit while dieting.

More Article about Natural Food Benefits

Health benefits of cinnamon
Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Benefits of Coconut Water 

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Health benefits of cinnamon

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  the Health benefits of cinnamon.

Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.

Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.

In some studies, cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.

In a study published by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland, cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.

In a study at Copenhagen University, patients given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning before breakfast had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month.

When added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.

Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

10. It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice - Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar - Benefits of Coconut Water

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Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  the Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice.

The aloe vera plant is amazing, having many healing properties to it. The leaves of the plant are where you will find the yellow-colored liquid that can work wonders. You may already know that aloe vera gel can be very beneficial to the skin, helping with sunburn, insect bites, rashes, cuts, and the like. The reason is because aloe vera is an anti-fungal as well as an anti-bacterial. It also helps with the regeneration of cells. So the application of aloe vera gel to the skin can greatly benefit common skin ailments and help in the healing process.

But maybe you didn’t know that aloe vera comes in other forms, which also have their own set of benefits. Let’s take aloe vera juice. Here is a short list of what this very healthy juice can do for you.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA JUICE

   1. Aids in the elimination of constipation.
   2. Aids in digestion and helps with stomachaches and heartburn.
   3. Helps to regulate blood sugars.
   4. Detoxifies the body and colon.
   5. Helps with weight loss by increasing metabolic rate to burn more calories.
   6. Improves circulation.
   7. Aids in healing damage to internal tissues.
   8. Regulates blood pressure.
   9. Strengthens immune system.
  10. Retards the growth of cancerous tumors.
  11. Helps to reduce inflammation.

Side Effects of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice

It is recommended that you drink no more than two to four ounces a day of aloe vera juice. That is the required amount for maintaining health and is all you need. If you take more, you can experience side effects, such as liver dysfunction, nausea and allergic reactions. But if you adhere to the recommended amount per day, you will see the wonderful benefits of this amazing plant.

Aloe vera is also available in supplements, such as tablets and capsules. This is a very quick and easy way to get the beneficial effects of aloe vera into your system. If you lead a busy lifestyle and do not have the time to drink aloe vera juice, taking the recommended dose in tablet or capsule form will probably work out very well for you. Your local health food store will most likely carry aloe vera in its different forms.

The health benefits of aloe vera are many, and this amazing plant can help you not just on the outside by aiding your skin, but on the inside as well. Be certain to keep some aloe vera gel always on hand for skin ailments, especially if you have children. And aloe vera juice or supplements are a great way to help your body internally. You may even want to do some research online or purchase a book or two about aloe vera to learn more about this miracle plant. The personnel at your local health food store probably also have a wealth of information on the aloe vera plant.

Aloe vera is truly amazing. Introduce the wonderful benefits of this plant into your life and you will see what it can do for you.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar - Benefits of Green Tea - Benefits of Figs

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Benefits of Coconut Water

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  the Benefits of Coconut Water.  

Coconut water has been used for re-hydration and as a health and beauty aide in tropical regions around the world for centuries.

Coconut water is low in fat and calories, has no cholesterol, and has a natural balance of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium- making it a healthy electrolyte drink. It has even been used intravenously to stabilize electrolytes.

Many people know of the healing benefits of coconut oil. Coconut water now joins the pantry’s medicine cabinet. Coconuts are anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-microbial. The lauric acid in coconuts is also used to heal digestive tract disorders such as Leaky Gut Syndrome.

According to ayurvedic belief, coconut is carminative: meaning that it helps to prevent intestinal gas, aids in removing toxins and increases the digestive tract’s ability to absorb nutrients. Coconut balances acid levels and flushes toxins out. Ayurveda considers coconut a natural stress-buster.

The calming, cooling benefits of coconut water relieves burning sensations and hot flashes and “restores emotional stability in menopausal women”. This property of coconut water also makes it an excellent choice for liver problems, hepatitis or inflammation.

Since it regulates the functioning of the intestine, the coconut water propitiates to the user a smoother and pretty skin.

Beyond ingested, the coconut water can also be used directly on the face, for skin hydration.
Around the world women have used coconut products on their hair and skin as well as consuming it. It is a common ingredient in beauty products.

For your health, Coconut Water is:

• Low in Carbohydrates
• Low in Fat 99% Fat Free
• Low in natural occurring sugar
• Keeps the body cool and at the proper temperature
• Contains organic compounds possessing growth promoting properties
• Cures malnourishment
• Effective in the treatment of kidney and urethral stones
• Natural drink for feeding infants suffering from intestinal disturbances
• Excellent oral re-hydration medium, an all natural isotonic for all ages
• Re-hydrate naturally, free of added sugars or chemicals
• Lower arterial pressure
• Relieve spasms and stomach pain
• Ease burns
• Natural diuretic
• Presence of saline and albumen makes it an excellent drink in cholera cases
• Maintains the human body’s natural fluid levels
• Can be injected intravenously in emergency cases
• Found as a blood plasma substitute because it is sterile, does not produce heat, and does not destroy red blood cells and is readily accepted by the body
• Helps in carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells
• Excellent all natural water to drink while Relaxing, Meditating, Driving, Eating, Running, Aerobics, Working, Skiing, Mountain Biking, Exercising, Body Building, Surfing, Fishing, Snow Boarding, Working Out, Surfing, Physical Activities, or Exertion of any kind
• Eliminate swelling in hands and feet
• Normalize the intestinal function and raise metabolism
• Heal damage induced by antibiotics and toxins in the digestive tract
• Boost poor circulation

It is truly a life giving fluid. Our special harvesting and processing procedures allow us to package and pasteurize our natural Coconut Waters that are biologically pure, with no need for adding any preservatives. Exquisitely tasting and full of all the natural fluids, vitamins, nutrients, sugars, minerals and salts demanded and needed by everyone of all age groups. Coconut Water has no Cholesterol, is fat free and is naturally low in Calories!

Everyone should drink this fine all natural coconut water EVERY DAY, it is a Natural isotonic beverage for all ages.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar - Benefits of Green Tea  - Benefits of Figs

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Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  the Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar. 

For centuries people have been using natural apple cider vinegar as both a food and a medicine for themselves and for their pets.

Since 400BC, Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, and others, have used vinegar and vinegar mixed with honey, as an energizing tonic and a healing elixir.

More recently, the health benefits of apple cider vinegar have been promoted by many well-known authors such as Dr Jarvis, Paul C. Bragg and Patricia Bragg.
D.C. Jarvis, a Vermont country doctor, noted that apple cider vinegar was a respected home remedy used by many Vermonters to successfully treat a number of common ailments and nagging aches and pains.

He was so impressed that he went on to write a book on his observations and experimentations with home remedies, especially apple cider vinegar, and its beneficial effects on both people and farm animals.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

First let me say that apple cider vinegar is a completely natural product, resulting from the fermentation of apple juice to hard apple cider followed by a second fermentation to apple cider vinegar.

This natural product retains all the nutritional goodness of the apples from which it was made plus it is fortified with the extra acids and enzymes produced during the two fermentation steps.

It's the sum of all these ingredients that give apple cider vinegar its amazing health benefits.

A compilation of many time honored home remedies used for a wide range of health problems is included in the natural healing Home Remedies section.

Apple cider vinegar benefits include many external uses as well. It can be used to sooth sunburns and insect bites, to make your hair shine, and to treat dandruff just to mention a few. Click on the Hair Care or Home Remedies section for more details on these and many more uses.

Apple cider vinegar fits in well with today's trend towards eating natural healthy whole foods, and away from the overconsumption of highly processed convenience foods, which are depleted of much of their original nutrients.

Beware – Not all apple cider vinegars are created equal!

Many commercial apple cider vinegars have been pasteurized, filtered, refined or distilled in order to make the product look good, and thereby more appealing to the general public.
Unfortunately this extra processing destroys much of the healthy goodness and thus many of the apple cider benefits that were in the product in the first place.

The best type of apple cider vinegar to use is one made from cold pressed, organically grown whole apples, in which no chemicals or preservatives have been added, which contains the "mother of vinegar", and is not pasteurized. The "mother of vinegar" is a natural gelatinous substance formed during the last fermentation step.

This type of wholesome apple cider vinegar can be readily found in most health food stores and can be conveniently purchased online.

Alternatively, you can brew your own nutritious apple cider vinegar at home. It's surprisingly easy to do and the whole family can be involved.

Weight Loss

Another major apple cider vinegar benefit is weight loss. Although no one is sure how it works, it has helped many people lose weight. Click on the Weight Loss section to find out what the experts recommend as far as how much to take and how often, and the latest theories on why it works.

Animals love apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar benefits for our pets, from cats and dogs to pigeons and parrots to cows and horses, are numerous. It can be used as a daily health tonic, to deter insects such as mosquitoes, fleas and tics, to relieve skin conditions, and even to take away the smell of skunk. For details on these and many more uses, check out the Pet Care section.

Cooking with apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an amazingly versatile cooking ingredient. It adds a tangy taste to many drinks and deepens the flavors of numerous foods. Its important to note that vinegar is a major ingredient in most condiments. Mayonnaise and tomato ketchup account for more than 10% of the vinegar production in America.

Other uses!

Besides the apple cider vinegar benefits for health, its use for weight loss, pet care, and cooking, it can also double up as a non-toxic household cleaner, deodorizer, and disinfectant.

Benefits of Green Tea 

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Benefits of Green Tea - The Miracle of Green Tea

The Lebanese Recipes Kitchen (The home of delicious Lebanese Recipes and Middle Eastern food recipes) invites you to read about  the Benefits of Green Tea.

Ancient Chinese Proverb "Better to be deprived of food for three days, than tea for one."

Is any other food or drink reported to have as many health benefits as green tea? The Chinese have known about the medicinal benefits of green tea since ancient times, using it to treat everything from headaches to depression. In her book Green Tea: The Natural Secret for a Healthier Life, Nadine Taylor states that green tea has been used as a medicine in China for at least 4,000 years.

Today, scientific research in both Asia and the west is providing hard evidence for the health benefits long associated with drinking green tea. For example, in 1994 the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of an epidemiological study indicating that drinking green tea reduced the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by nearly sixty percent. University of Purdue researchers recently concluded that a compound in green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells. There is also research indicating that drinking green tea lowers total cholesterol levels, as well as improving the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol.

To sum up, here are just a few medical conditions in which drinking green tea is reputed to be helpful:

•  cancer
•  rheumatoid arthritis
•  high cholesterol levels
•  cariovascular disease
•  infection
•  impaired immune function

What makes green tea so special?

The secret of green tea lies in the fact it is rich in catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: besides inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. It has also been effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and inhibiting the abnormal formation of blood clots. The latter takes on added importance when you consider that thrombosis (the formation of abnormal blood clots) is the leading cause of heart attacks and stroke.

Links are being made between the effects of drinking green tea and the "French Paradox." For years, researchers were puzzled by the fact that, despite consuming a diet rich in fat, the French have a lower incidence of heart disease than Americans. The answer was found to lie in red wine, which contains resveratrol, a polyphenol that limits the negative effects of smoking and a fatty diet. In a 1997 study, researchers from the University of Kansas determined that EGCG is twice as powerful as resveratrol, which may explain why the rate of heart disease among Japanese men is quite low, even though approximately seventy-five percent are smokers.

Why don't other Chinese teas have similar health-giving properties? Green, oolong, and black teas all come from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. What sets green tea apart is the way it is processed. Green tea leaves are steamed, which prevents the EGCG compound from being oxidized. By contrast, black and oolong tea leaves are made from fermented leaves, which results in the EGCG being converted into other compounds that are not nearly as effective in preventing and fighting various diseases.

Other Benefits

New evidence is emerging that green tea can even help dieters. In November, 1999, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published the results of a study at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. Researchers found that men who were given a combination of caffeine and green tea extract burned more calories than those given only caffeine or a placebo.

Green tea can even help prevent tooth decay! Just as its bacteria-destroying abilities can help prevent food poisoning, it can also kill the bacteria that causes dental plaque. Meanwhile, skin preparations containing green tea - from deodorants to creams - are starting to appear on the market.

Harmful Effects?

To date, the only negative side effect reported from drinking green tea is insomnia due to the fact that it contains caffeine. However, green tea contains less caffeine than coffee: there are approximately thirty to sixty mg. of caffeine in six - eight ounces of tea, compared to over one-hundred mg. in eight ounces of coffee.

How much grean tea should you drink?

There are as many answers to this question as there are researchers investigating the natural properties of green tea. For example, Herbs for Health magazine cites a Japanese report stating that men who drank ten cups of green tea per day stayed cancer-free for three years longer than men who drank less than three cups a day (there are approximately 240 - 320 mg of polyphenols in three cups of green tea). Meanwhile, a study by Cleveland's Western Reserve University concluded that drinking four or more cups of green tea per day could help prevent rheumatoid arthritis, or reduce symptoms in individuals already suffering from the disease.  And Japanese scientists at the Saitama Cancer Research Institute discovered that there were fewer recurrances of breast cancer, and the disease spread less quickly, in women with a history of drinking five cups or more of green tea daily.

It gets more confusing.  A University of California study on the cancer-preventative qualities of green tea concluded that you could probably attain the desired level of polyphenols by drinking merely two cups per day.  On the other hand, a company selling a green tea capsule formula insists that ten cups per day are necessary to reap the maximum benefits.

How can you make sense of these conflicting claims? Given all the evidence, it is probably safe to plan on drinking four to five cups of green tea per daily. If you're a real devotee, by all means drink more; but whether or not you'll derive added health benefits remains to be determined by further research. 

How to Brew a Cup of Green Tea

Producing the perfect cup of green tea is a tricky process. If not handled properly, those same polyphenols that provide health benefits can ruin the flavor, making the tea taste "gassy." It's particularly important not to overbrew. While it's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions for each variety of green tea, here are some general instructions:

• Use one tea bag, or 2 - 4 grams of tea,* per cup.
• Fill a kettle with cold water and bring to a boil.
• After unplugging the kettle, allow it to stand for up to 3 minutes.
• Pour the heated water over the tea bag or tea, and allow it to steep for up to 3 minutes. If using a tea bag, remove the bag.
• Allow the tea to cool for three more minutes.

*One to two teaspoons, depending on the variety of green tea you are brewing.

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Benefits of Figs

Members of the Mulberry family, figs (Ficus Carica) first originated in Northern Asia Minor. Probably one of the earliest fruits that man has ever known, figs are small and luscious fruits, with a chewy texture and a very sweet smell. Believed to be the favorite fruit of Cleopatra, they occupy a very important place in many cultures around the world. Romans were the avid lovers of the fruit and considered it as a gift from the fertility God ‘Bacchus’. Consumed both fresh and dried, figs are available in dramatic shades of colors, like purple, green and brown. Read on to know more about figs, including its nutritional value and various health benefits associated with eating the fruit.

Nutritional Value of Fresh Figs
Given below is the amount of nutrients present in 100g of fresh figs.

• Carbohydrates - 19 g
• Sugars - 16 g
• Dietary Fiber - 3 g
• Fat - 0.3 g
• Protein - 0.8 g
• Vitamin B6 -110 mg
• Energy - 70 kcal / 310 kJ

Nutritional Value of Dried Figs
Given below is the amount of nutrients present in 100g of dried figs.

• Carbohydrates - 64 g
• Sugars - 48 g
• Dietary Fiber -10 g
• Fat - 1 g
• Protein - 3 g
• Energy - 250 kcal / 1040 kJ

Health & Nutritional Benefits of Eating Figs

• The rich potassium content of figs helps to maintain the blood pressure of the body.
• Figs are rich in dietary fiber, which makes them very effective for weight management program.
• Even leaves of the fig plant have healing properties. Eating fig leaves helps diabetic patients reduce the amount of insulin intake.
• Consuming figs helps to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Calcium and potassium present in figs prevent bone thinning and help to promote bone density.
• Tryptophan, present in figs, induces good sleep and helps get rid of sleeping disorders like insomnia.
• Eating figs relieves fatigue and boosts memory power.
• Drinking fig juice helps to soothe irritated bronchial passages.
• Consumption of figs with milk cures illness like anemia.
• Due to their laxative effect, figs are helpful for treating chronic constipation.
• Daily consumption of soaked figs (2-3) is an effective remedy for curing hemorrhoids or piles.
• The soluble fiber, called pectin, in figs helps in reducing blood cholesterol.
• When applied on skin, baked figs can cure inflammations like abscesses and boils.
• Due to their high water content, mashed figs act as a very good skin cleanser and help in preventing and curing acnes and pimples.
• Figs are rich in calcium and are excellent calcium alternatives for people who are allergic to dairy products.
• Consuming figs also helps in aiding digestion and taming various stomach and bowel-related problems.
• The juice obtained from green figs is effective for softening and treating corns.
• Figs promote the overall well-being of an individual and are excellent aphrodisiacs.

More readings About Fig

• THE FIG: A FRUIT WHOSE PERFECTION HAS ONLY RECENTLY BEEN REVEALED: God Swears by the Fig and the Olive (Qur'an, 95:1)

• FOODS MENTIONED IN THE QUR'AN BY GOD

Dr. Oliver Alabaster, Director of the Institute for Disease Prevention at the George Washington University Medical Centre, refers to figs in these terms:

… [H]ere is an opportunity to add a really healthy, high fiber food to your diet. Choosing figs and other high fiber foods more frequently means that you'll naturally choose potentially harmful foods less frequently-and this is great for your lifelong health.119