Category: Health & Fitness

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Ingest Okra

This Is What Happens To Your Body When You Ingest Okra

Abelmoschus esculentus ,  Okra Hibiscus esculentus or Abelmoschus esculentus, is a vegetable that is widely used acrss the globe. Many people like its ‘slimy’ texture, however it is loaded with many health benefits that will definitely force you considering including it into your daily diet. Originated in Egypt, Okra is been produced since 12th century and consumed in various different manners, like fermented, stewed and even fried. It is typically served with rice, soups and other with vegetable. Various Health Benefits of Okra According to research published in Jilin Medical Journal in 2005, Okra proved to have positive effects on kidney or nephropathy diseases. To perform this study, participants were divided into 2 different groups, one of which was treated with okra and others with traditional medical therapy. For 6 months, no significant improvements were seen in the medical therapy subjects, however, participants with Okra intake experienced a significant reduction in urine protein and uric acid. Another study done on Okra capabilities to cure liver diseases published in Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal proved that Okra can protect against chemically induced liver problems. Okra was found to be having hepaprotective and potent antioxidant properties as compared to silymarin and milk thistle. In the Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences, a study was published that stated that extracts of okra can help protect from diabetes. They took rats with the diabetes disease and found blood reduction in sugar levels as well as normalized lipid profile levels when rats were given okra. Also found in Vitro and Vivo studies that okra is great blood glucose-lowering food and it contains fiber in great quantity. Okra is also good to fight against cancer and proven to have effective action against breast cancers cells, however, this is only proven in preliminary lab studies. Many experts discovered that lectin (just discovered type of protein which is capable to bind to cell membranes) in Okra, really induces cell destructions in breast cancer cells. Research has also shown okra to possess the ability to fight depression. Although some fruits and vegetables have been shown to have various effects on mood, and the ability to elevate one’s mood (flavonoids and quercetin), Okra had not made the list until recently, when researchers from Mazandaran University of Medical Science decided to examine its effect on mood. Their results showed that okra seed extracts acted as a strong agent for elevating mood, in some cases performing just as well as common antidepressants. It seems that okra’s positive mood effects can be attributed to its high total phenol and flavonoid content. Okra like many other vegetables and fruits is also proven to be able to fight against depression. However, Okra is just recently proved to have such abilities against depression. Researchers from Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences planned to examine the effects of okra on mood. The results proved that extracts of okra seeds are a potent agent for mood elevation and in few cases, it works as good as antidepressants. When I come across scientifically validated information that sheds light on the knowledge of our ancestors and ancients, I am never surprised. This is commonly seen with quantum physics, astronomy, health, and spirituality, where our modern-day measurements of ‘truth’ correlate with teachings of our ancient world. It’s good to see science shed light on the healing properties found within nature, as it’s a branch of knowledge we have neglected for many years now. Chemical-based health and our reliance on pharmaceutical-grade medicine have completely taken over, which is perhaps one reason why chronic illness and disease are on the rise. “Let food by thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” Read More: Healthy Protein Alternatives For Grandpa And Grandma Top 7 Superfoods For Healthy Skin And Hair 5 Protein Enriched Food To Improve Mental Health Top 5 Foods For Healthier And Thicker Hair

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Fitness Stomach

Crucial Tips to Getting a Flat Stomach

No one likes a sagging belly. Even pregnant ladies sometimes complain about their sagging bellies only that they do not have an option. Most men want to have that six pack and ladies as well want to feel sexy all the time with their flat bellies. Sagging stomachs are caused by the accumulation of fats in the underlying stomach tissues as well as other organs near the stomach such as the liver. Many people have been struggling to lose this fat to no success. Different techniques, pills, supplements among others have been invented but none seems to be working. This has left many people with no alternative but remain with their ‘big bellies' despite how bad looking they are. This article aims at giving you essential tips on how you should lose your belly fat and have a flat stomach with ease. Essential Tips 1. Eat the right diet Diet is very crucial when it comes to getting a flat stomach. Different eating habits that many people have adopted have exposed them to health hazards such as belly fat accumulation. There are essential tips which you should keep in mind as far as diet is concerned. Ensure you sleep two to three hours from your last meal. This is a simple rule that many people tend to ignore. However, it is quite essential. In many cases, people take their supper and immediately go to sleep. During sleep, the rate of metabolism is slow as compared to the day. Therefore, giving yourself a few hours before sleeping after your meal give the body an allowance to metabolize the consumed food. 2. Stick to a healthy diet Flat tummy requires strictly a special diet. These include; whole grains, fruits, vegetables and other less fatty foods. Avoid junk foods like chips and candy and you will definitely have a flat tummy. Eat lots of lean proteins such as nuts, beans, and lean meat. Also, consume more of whole grains, low-fat dairy products and reduce your sodium intake. Conduct a research on the different type of food that you take which are likely to affect the size of your belly. List them against their replacements and slowly start shifting from bad to good eating habits. 3. Reduce on Quantity Avoid eating too much food on a daily basis. Instead, concentrate on quality rather than quantity. Many people, eat much food with little nutritional value to their body. Ensure that your dish has balanced diet before sitting to eat. Analyze what you eat on a daily basis and as well evaluate and eliminate bad eating habits. The key point is to concentrate on the quality of food rather than its quantity.  Chew slowly and thoroughly to avoid from bloating and getting a lot of gas in your stomach. Also, take some time intervals before bites to ensure that foods easily moves along your digestive system. You can as well take seeds and nuts which easily fills up your stomach reducing the amount of food you take. 4. Reduce on sugary substances You should be very cautious when taking artificial sweeteners. Scientific research shows that different kind of artificial sweeteners triggers hunger tempting you to eat a lot of food. This results in the accumulation of fats in your belly hence altering the size of your stomach. They also reduce your insulin levels in the body. In place, you can decide to be drinking lots of water which will significantly or join mike Geary program fat burning kitchen help you get a flat stomach. Water, for instance, aids the process of metabolism. Drinking a lot of water also fills up your stomach thus reducing the amount of food you consume. 5. Engage in weight training This is a common behavior to men. However, many women have enrolled in weight training programs in different parts of the world. In order to get a flat stomach, enroll weight training exercises that target abdominal muscles like crunches. However, do this under the instructions of a trainer. Many people who have independently engaged in weight training ends up hurting themselves. 6. Reduce on your sodium Intake Bloating can be another hindrance to a flat stomach. Therefore, to avoid bloating, reduce the amount of sodium you consume. In place, increase you water intake. Ensure you read the labels in different types of foods that you consume. This will help you monitor the amount of sodium that you take. In case you doubt, the reading from the labels, let health experts conduct a mineral analysis on the particular food for you. Limiting the amount of sodium also drastically reduces body water retention capacity hence making you lean as well as giving you a flat stomach. These guidelines will definitely give you a flat stomach. Avoid some unclear means provided by ‘experts’ on ways to get a flat stomach to be on the safe side. However, do not disregard essential information on ways to get flat tummies from other articles.

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An Overview of Schizophrenia

An Overview of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia remains one of the most misunderstood mental health disorders in the U.S. Many people assume that schizophrenia refers to a complete inability to accept life. However, schizophrenia actually describes a severe, chronic brain disorder characterized by abnormal thought processes and rationale. Many of the symptoms of schizophrenia are similar to other mental health conditions, which makes accurate diagnoses difficult for mental rehabilitation experts. Prevalence of schizophrenia Schizophrenia affects between 0.5 percent and 1 percent of individuals around the globe. The first episode tends to occur at age 21 for men and age 27 for women, explains the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). About 33 percent of those with schizophrenia attempt suicide and 10 percent will succeed. In a Canadian study, schizophrenia diagnoses resulted in a total cost of $6.85 billion for the U.S. and Canada. Risk factors Across mental health facilities, mental health professionals have yet to determine an exact cause of schizophrenia. However, a family history of schizophrenia, exposure to toxins while in utero, increased immune system response, older age of a person’s father, and exposure to psychotropic substances during adolescence have been thought to be the primary risk factors for developing schizophrenia (Mayo Clinic). Signs and symptoms The signs and symptoms vary from person to person. According to the Mayo Clinic, most signs and symptoms reveal abnormal brain functioning and include the following: 1. Hallucinations : Hallucinations may involve any of the five senses; however, hearing voices is the most common hallucination 2. Delusions:  Delusions are similar to hallucinations. Delusions occur when a person has a false belief about a given event or situation. For example, a person may believe he or she has a role in global politics when it is not true 3. Thought disorders: Thought disorders are unusual, counter-productive ways of thinking 4. Movement disorders:  Movement disorders are characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, which are most commonly noticed in the face. Alternatively, someone with schizophrenia may become catatonic, which means he or she does not move at all 5. Disruptive emotions and behaviors: Emotional states in schizophrenic individuals may mirror the ups and downs of other mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder. 6. Poor cognitive functioning:  Someone with schizophrenia may be incapable of understanding information and making decisions on the basis of the information. Furthermore, working memory and difficulty concentrating are common aspects of poor cognitive functioning Treatment Options Depending on the severity of the episode, treatment for schizophrenia may occur in inpatient mental health facilities. However, outpatient treatment is a vital aspect of treatment after discharge. 1. Antipsychotic medications: Antipsychotic and atypical antipsychotic medications focus on eradicating the symptoms of schizophrenia. Some of these medications may cause serious side effects 2. Psychosocial treatment:  Psychosocial treatment involves teaching a person to readapt to life through physical, speech, and occupational therapy 3. Integrated Treatment : If a person with schizophrenia has a co-occurring mental health disorder, the treatment must include address all other disorders Although schizophrenia can present some of the most difficult symptoms in mental health therapies, the disorder can be effectively managed. However, understanding the symptoms and treatment options of schizophrenia plays a significant role in preventing the disorder from developing further.

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rowing machine

5 Rowing Machine Workout Tips Every Fitness Person should know

A rowing machine is also referred to as an indoor rower. Rowing machines are capable of providing an intense workout to all the main muscle groups in the body. It is a great cardiovascular exercise and provides strength and shape to the body. Working out on rowing machines is quite similar to rowing a boat with the help of an oar. However, you must use low-impact and smooth rowing patterns in order to prevent injuries while rowing machine workouts. Workout is fun but if not done properly can cause injuries and pain in the body. 5 Rowing Machine Workout Tips Every Fitness Person should know Here we have listed some rowing machine workout tips that you must know. 1. Slow Down your Rowing Machine Strokes It is always observed that rowing machine is not used properly by most of the people. People usually tend to apply a greater force for pulling it too far as a result of which their strokes are very short and they try to move back and forth very fast. However, it is always advisable to make longer and slower strokes in order to achieve better precision and make the most out of your workout. Remember the slower the rowing strokes the better they are. 2. Focus more on Legs than from your Arms People usually hold a perception that rowing machine workouts are more about arm strength rather than the legs but this is not true. Rowing machine workouts are a leg- dominant exercise. We often try hard to pull the machine back with all our arm strength but when we have to come forward on the slide the very first movement must be made with our legs in order to apply all the power of the glutes. It can be even compared with a squat run where you have to use more of the movement of your legs and arms instead of your arm strength. 3. Check your Posture Posture is one of the main elements of rowing and sitting at a right posture during your rowing machine workouts can make the real difference. Therefore, you must keep in mind the following points in order to get the right posture. You must sit in a bolt upright position because you will have to make use of your back for strength during the workout. Do not lean too back or forth because this will result in loss of some power. You should aim for tall yet slight back sitting posture which will help you maximize your power during the workout and make most of it. 4. Concentrate on your Pulling Techniques Pulling techniques are the core to your rowing workouts. You might observe a number of pulling techniques used by people around you in the gym but there are several pulling techniques that will make your rowing workout sessions more effective. Whenever you pull the handle back with body, the stroke must finish just below your pecs and not somewhere near your sternum. Some people might go quite high up as it provides them better split on the screen but this is not a good technique and can result in injury. So, it important to get the right technique to avoid injuries while working out. 5. Make Proper Workout Plans Most of the people treat rowing workouts as their warm-up exercise and spend a shorter time on the rowing machine which means they try to complete it as fast as possible. However, if you need quick and better results then you must plan your rowing machine workouts properly. A regular workout of 20 minutes on the rowing machine will give you fair results. You will be able to note the difference and this will also improve your workout techniques. Make a proper workout plan like assigning the workout time, targeting for predetermined speed and distance to be covered within the desired time. This will definitely show quick results. Conclusion  Working out on rowing machines is quite productive and known for giving quick results if carried out regularly in a proper manner. So, the above-listed rowing machine workout tips will surely help you get quick results and benefits from your workouts. Every fitness person should know these tips. Read More: 7 Ways To Kick Off Your Fitness Routine Get Up And Workout! Things To Consider What Are Popular Mind And Body Exercises Available At A Gym?

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Follow These 5 Yoga Poses to Reduce Stubborn Belly Fat

The 'spare tire' area of the body is the most dreaded place for unsightly fat. That section around and near our waistline and extending downward...yep...that stubborn belly fat that those suffering for it would love to remove. Many have tried special diets, exercise routines and expensive equipment to help them rid that extra baggage. But, have you tied Yoga? Why has worried About The Belly Fat Region? This is one of the most noticeable areas, thus making many quite self-conscious. While your mental health may be affected by this feeling, your physical health could be at risk also. Fat in this region of the body has been linked to certain cancers, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance; all of which can be life-threatening.  Read also: Bed Time Yoga to Sleep Well As we get older, this is even worse, as we slow down physically and so does our metabolism often increase this area of fat. So, to maintain a healthy lifestyle, one should learn to use the following exercises and follow them while maintaining a nutritious diet. One without the other simply won't work. Specific Postures The following are some poses that are great for reducing that pesky belly fat. You should try to hold each pose for 15-30 seconds, and try to repeat it about 5 times with 15 seconds rest in between Wind Easing Posture (Pavanamukthasana) This one tone and firms the abdomen and relieves the lower back. Lie flat on your back with your legs stretched and arms at your side. Stretch your feet out with heels touching While exhaling, bend the knees and bring them toward your chest Press tightly toward your abdomen, applying pressure to the abdominal region As you breathe deep, hold this pose for approximately 60 – 90 seconds Exhale and release your knees while bringing your hands down to your sides with palms facing downward. Cobra Posture (Bhujang Asana) A word of caution should be you suffer from ulcers, back injuries, hernias or may be pregnant this pose should not be done by these individuals. While lying on your stomach with your legs outstretched and palms under your shoulders, touch your toes and chin to the floor. Keeping your legs flat on the floor, inhale slowly and begin raising your chest while bending backward as much as possible. As you exhale, slowly lower yourself back to the original position. Pontoon Posture (Naukasana) Wonderful pose for tightening the stomach muscles and strengthening the legs and back. With your back flat and legs together stretched out and arms at your side (palms down), inhale slowly and begin raising your legs, keeping straight. Stretch your foot and toes pointing straight and raise your legs as high as possible. Once you have reached this point, with arms straight, reach to your toes to create a 45-degree angle with your body. Hold the pose and normally breathe for 15 seconds. Release and inhale. Bow Posture (Dhanurasana) Strengthen your core with this pose. Full potential can be reached by rocking back and forth. While lying on your stomach with your arms at your side, outstretch your legs Bend your legs at the knees and reach backward with your arms to grasps the ankles and hold. While inhaling, lift the head and begin bending backward while trying to lift your head a high as you possibly can. Hold the pose for 15-30 seconds, breathing normally. Exhale and come back to the original position. Board (Kumbhakasana) Caution should be taken if you have high blood pressure or and spinal injury. Start by crouching with hand and knees directly underneath the shoulders and hips. With the toes tucked under, begin to step back with your feet extending your legs. The entire body should be in a straight line from head to toe. Be sure to keep your hand flat with fingers spread apart. Hold for 15-30 seconds or as long as possible. Then exhale and drop back to your knees. It's best for your body to complete these in the morning. Your best results will be to repeat the poses daily, 3-5 times, three days per week then take a day off. Kathy Mitchell was born and raised in the USA. She has done MA in English literature. She loves to publish her article on different health websites. In her spare time, she likes to do research on health information. She is an inspirational writer who strongly believes in the power of self-motivation. Also, she is contributing to consumer health digest since 2011, which is a leading health news platform. Connect with her on Facebook and Twitter and Google+. Read More: 7 Ways To Kick Off Your Fitness Routine Get Up And Workout! Things To Consider What Are Popular Mind And Body Exercises Available At A Gym? Go Trampolining To Have Fun And Maintain Your Fitness

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Bed Time Yoga to Sleep Well

Sleep is one of the most precious activities and also the most awaited part of the day, especially if your life moves like the hands of the clock. Yoga lovers will often find themselves practicing a few poses by just moving their legs while they are reading a book before switching off the bed side lamp. The ingrained mindset that yoga relaxes the body is so filled in us, that our body automatically starts working to overcome blockages in the body. Bedtime yoga can make life simpler and leave you fresh and more charged up for the next day.     Read More: Follow These 5 Yoga Poses to Reduce Stubborn Belly Fat When you combine two relaxing activities together, yoga and sleeping, the results are only going to be a relaxed mood and an effortlessly smooth day. Bid farewell to backache, sleeplessness and negative thoughts with these poses: Bend Knee Spinal Twists  A great way to ease out any discomfort in the spine, legs and back, this stretching exercise, where you hug and bend your right knee to the left side and vice-a-versa, is a great way to kick start your bedtime yoga routine. All you have to do is stay on each side for 5 to 7 breaths and repeat 2-3 times depending on what your body is telling you and feel the benefit enfold soon enough. Happy baby pose  A hip opener, the pose creates space for back and works on the sacroiliac joints as well, a common cause of discomfort in most of the people in sedentary jobs. Bend both your knees and flex the foot to face the ceiling. Bring it closer to the chest and hold each big toe with the relative hand and stay in the pose for 5 to 7 breaths. Child’s pose A semi inverted pose, it relieves the practitioner of any form of back pain apart from bringing blood flow to the face and removing stress and anxiety. The pose works invariably in any routine, at any time to remove unwanted stress. Knee Hugs  An extremely relaxing pose, it is also known as wind releasing pose as it removes any extra gas in the body, which might become a hindrance in a good night’s sleep. Also, it presses the entire back making it easier for the practitioner to remove any form of discomfort from the back region. Hamstring stretch  A simple pose, it works on the entire lower body and also removes tension and fatigue from the back. Simply extend one leg to the ceiling and bring it closer to the chest. Grab the back leg with both hands or if advanced practitioner, you can hold the big toe with relative hand, keep the other legs straight or bend as your body allows. Stay here for a few breaths and change to another side. Corpse pose  This pose can be practiced at the end of the routine when the practitioner is deciding to call it a day. A relaxing pose, you can even meditate during this pose and gently dose of to sleeping. It is a great way to recharge your body and make it a routine to practice Savasana before sleeping, great benefits enfold when you practice this pose. The practice of these poses leads to long-term respite from many issues faced by the modern man. Manmohan is a yoga enthusiast, free spirit, traveler and freelance writer from Rishikesh. He run yoga teacher training school in India, Nepal, Thailand and various other countries, where yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and spirituality is taught under the expert guidance of traditional and authentic yoga instructors. Read More:  The Importance Of Sport To Recommendations For Winter Crucial Tips To Getting A Flat Stomach 5 Common Weightlifting Mistakes Women Should Avoid Go Trampolining To Have Fun And Maintain Your Fitness

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Lose weight: What Is The Best Way To Lose Weight?

Most Americans struggle with their weight sooner or later in their lives. It can begin in kids at an extremely youthful age. It can begin at an extremely traumatic time in our lives like losing a friend or family member or being in a mishap. It can likewise begin by simply picking up 3-5 pounds each year and all of a sudden we understand that we are 20 pounds overweight. We begin to abhor ourselves for letting ourselves put on weight. We get discouraged which just exacerbates the situation on the grounds that we have a tendency to eat more nourishment when we are discouraged. We settle on a choice to get in shape however did you realize that around 75% of Americans who attempt to get thinner fall flat? Out of the 25% of the general population who are effective, 90% of those individuals put on the weight back. This is not intended to debilitate you but rather offer you some assistance with realizing that to be successful, we need to know a couple of things about getting thinner. Read More: 6 Imbalances In Body Hampering Weight Loss Efforts Get in shape How Do We Do It? Our bodies have a wide range of parts that need to run together easily for us to be solid. In the case of something turns out badly, we, in the end, begin to the outcomes. For instance, if our digestive framework doesn't separate our sustenance enough so we can utilize it, we begin to feel exhausted, lightheaded and have no vitality. We need to settle our digestive framework so we can feel better. We need to dispose of whatever is terrible in our digestive framework and set well done back in. Read More: 5 Common Weightlifting Mistakes Women Should Avoid So what does this need to do with getting in shape? Regularly when we neglect to shed pounds, it is one of several reasons. It may be as straightforward as having a longing for frozen yogurt thus we pig out a whole half gallon of it. It could likewise happen when we lose motivation and inspiration. Shockingly this can originate from one issue: glucose. Presently before you call me insane and say just diabetic individuals need to stress over their glucose, simply listen to me. When anybody eats carbs (sugar) of any sort, our glucose rises to give us brief support of vitality, yet what goes up must come down. The more carbs we eat the higher our glucose takes off. The higher our glucose takes off the lower it plunges later. At the point when our glucose descends, it triggers desires and absence of motivation. So to entirety this up, we have to figure out how to keep this from happening. This does not mean we ought to cut crabs, it is very less demanding than that. Read More: If You’ve Reached A Weight Loss Plateau, Fix Your Sleep How To Lose Your Weight With Venus Factor Tips To Lose Weight Naturally

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