Foods that Reduce Inflammation in the Body

Ginger, turmeric, green tea and papaya are among the foods that can help to reduce the inflammation in the body and control diseases. These foods can control inflammation without causing any side effects.  

When bacteria or virus invade the body, the reaction of white blood cells causes inflammation. White blood cells release certain chemicals to protect the body. Some of the symptoms of inflammation are fever, fatigue, headache and loss of appetite. But at times inflammation can disturb the body balance resulting in diseases. 

Breathing problems could be due to a heart condition. Inflammation of the bronchioles can cause asthma and bronchitis. Kidney problem could cause inflammation of the kidney. Diarrhea could be due the inflammation of the large intestine. 

Several drugs are available to reduce inflammation. But they can cause side effects. Certain foods can help to reduce inflammation naturally. Most of these foods are rich in vitamins and nutrients. They can help to boost the immune system.

Papaya

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Papaya for Inflammation

Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which can help to reduce inflammation. 

Ripe papaya fruit can be applied directly to the burns and wounds. It will hasten the recovery. It can treat chronic skin diseases and infected wounds.

Papaya can help to treat acne, warts, pimple and corns.

Anti-inflammatory properties of papaya can help to reduce the severity of asthma, bronchitis and arthritis. It contains a combination of anti-oxidants which can help to get rid of inflammation

Turmeric for Inflammation

Turmeric contains curcumin as its active ingredient. It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties.

It is a very good remedy for cuts and burns

It reduces the inflammation due to skin diseases like psoriasis

It helps to reduce the pain due to arthritis

Turmeric can help to protect the liver from the bad effects of alcohol and certain other diseases.

Turmeric is a very good remedy for irritable bowel syndrome and can flush out gallbladder stones. 

It can also reduce the symptoms in case of asthma and bronchitis. 

Add ½ tsp of turmeric to warm milk and drink it before going to bed every day.  Turmeric is also available in the form of pills and capsules.

Green Tea for Inflammation

Green tea contains a potent compound called EGCG which can help to reduce inflammation. This compound can help to reduce the incidence of degenerative diseases.

It helps skin care with its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties.

It helps to lower the risk of cancer by blocking the production of cancer cells

Green tea with cardamom can help to relieve the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis

Green tea with ginger is an excellent remedy for indigestion. It can also reduce the symptoms of nausea

Green Tea and Lemon

Add a few drops of lemon to green tea. It can help to clean up the digestive system and improve the liver function

Ginger for Inflammation 
                                                                                                                                Ginger is an excellent anti-inflammatory spice. It has a pungent taste. It can help to control motion sickness, vomiting and nausea. It can control the inflammation and pain due to arthritis. Ginger can also control the recurrence of migraine. It reduces the phlegm and help to relieve the breathing problems due to asthma and bronchitis.

Ginger Tea

Cut ginger into small slices and add some water and boil it in a pan. Strain the liquid and drink it when it cools down. This is one of the best methods to make use of the health benefits of ginger.

These are some of the foods that can help to reduce inflammation in the body.

What are Good Fruits to Eat?

What are Good Fruits to Eat


It can be said that most of the fruits available are good to eat and promote health. Eating fruits daily helps to improve digestion and promote weight loss. Fruits help to reduce blood cholesterol levels and chances of heart attack. Some of the fruits provide instant energy. Certain fruits have anti-oxidant properties, reduce skin wrinkles and are good for skincare. Apple, banana and papaya are among the best fruits to eat.

Fruits
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Apple


Apple is rich in dietary fiber and helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels. It contains beta carotenes and vitamin C. Vitamin C is a very good anti-oxidant and has anti-aging properties. It helps to reduce skin wrinkles and under the eye dark circles. As apple is rich in potassium, it helps to reduce arthritis and rheumatism pain. Apple helps to reduce the chances of Alzheimer’s disease.


Apple skin contains phenol (anti-oxidant) which protects your skin from the UV rays of the sun. It is one of the healthiest foods available and helps to reduce the chances of developing asthma. It reduces skin inflammation and is a good cure for acne. Apple can keep Alzheimer’s at bay as it can fight the effects of aging on the brain. It also provides a certain amount of protection against Parkinson’s disease. As it is rich in natural fiber it can prevent diarrhea and constipation. It can also mitigate the effects of irritable bowel syndrome.

Banana

Banana is sweet and tasty. It is a high energy food, which is cheap. It contains far more vitamins and nutrients than any other fruit. It is rich in carbohydrates, vitamin A and iron. It is also rich in potassium. Banana can provide instant energy. Sports persons eat the fruit for instant energy boost. Banana promotes digestion. It is an excellent remedy for constipation, diarrhea and dysentery. Banana contains an enzyme which helps to reduce hypertension. It also contains a substance that can help your mind to relax.  It can be said that banana is a mood lifter. The potassium content of banana helps to boost brain power and the ability to concentrate. For persons who are trying to give up smoking banana can help to reduce the nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It can reduce the acidity levels in the stomach and prevent ulcers. Fully ripe banana can provide remedy for heartburn.

Papaya

Papaya has abundance of natural fibers and helps lower blood cholesterol levels reducing the chances of a heart attack. It is an anti-oxidant and has anti-aging properties.


Papaya promotes digestion and prevents constipation. It has a digestive enzyme called papain which promotes digestion and weight loss.


It has anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce pain due to arthritis and osteoporosis.


Papaya is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A. It helps to boost the immune system. It is especially good for people suffering from colds, cough and flu.


It helps to clean up the stomach, intestines and acts as a stomach tonic.


Papaya juice is a very good remedy for dengue and helps to reduce fever and the ill effects of dengue.


Most of fruits are very good for health. But only the health benefits of banana, apple and papaya are discussed here.

Indigestion and Heartburn Remedies

Indigestion and heartburn are quite common and affect many people. The reason for heartburn is the increased acid production combined with increased pressure within the stomach. It can cause severe uneasiness and pain. It is also chronic and needs treatment. There are several natural indigestion and heartburn remedies

Dietary Changes

Some basic changes in your diet and lifestyle are essential to cure heartburn. You should consume smaller quantities of food at intervals. You should also eat slowly. Patients of heartburn should avoid tomatoes, citrus fruits, fatty and spicy foods. Also avoid onion, garlic, chocolate, peppermint and aspirin. You should also reduce the intake of alcohol and carbonated drinks. The changes in diet and lifestyle will help to cure the disease.

Antacids

Antacids help to neutralize the effects of stomach acid and provide relief. Antacids are available in the form of liquid as well as tablets

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Natural Remedies for Indigestion and Heartburn

Papaya

 Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps to digest food easily and prevent heartburn. Papaya has to be taken before meals. Pregnant women and people with latex allergy should not take papaya. 

Banana

Banana is a natural antacid. It forms a coating on the stomach which helps to reduce irritation and pain. But only ripe bananas are recommended. Unripe bananas have a high acid content and also starches that have not been converted to sugar. It is difficult to digest an unripe banana.

Ginger

Ginger aids digestion and is also a very good remedy for heartburn. Add a few slices of ginger to water and boil it. Strain the liquid after 15 minutes. Drink it several times at intervals till you get rid of the symptoms. Ginger candy is also very useful. Chew a small piece of ginger candy. If the symptoms persist chew one more.

Licorice Root

Licorice root is a very good remedy for heartburn. It can reduce the inflammation and protect the stomach. But licorice root should not be taken for long periods as it increases blood pressure.

Turmeric

Turmeric can improve digestion and also prevent heartburn. Add half tsp of turmeric to milk and drink it before meals.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera will provide a protective coating on the esophagus and stomach lining. Drink a glass of aloe vera juice before you have food. It can also be mixed with a non-acidic fruits like apple or grapes if you don’t like the taste. Keep drinking the juice till you get rid of all the symptoms.

Vinegar

Even though vinegar is an acid, it helps to neutralize the stomach acid. As vinegar is likely to damage teeth, it should be followed by a glass of water.

Almond Oil

Almond oil can neutralize stomach acids. Drop 2-3 drops of almond oil on your tongue and follow it with a glass of water.

Baking Soda

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) can provide immediate relief. But it can raise blood pressure, if used frequently.

These are some of the indigestion and heartburn remedies.  

How to Boost Your Energy and Overcome Fatigue

Eating the right foods, exercise and relaxation techniques will help you to overcome fatigue and boost your energy.  

Many of us feel stressed out and find it difficult go through day to day chores.  Your productivity and efficiency will suffer if you are mentally and physically unable to discharge your duties. Here are some tips to boost your energy to tackle day to day problems.

Waking up in the Morning

Set your clock 15 minutes before the time you want to wake up. Take those 15 minutes to mentally prepare yourself to get up and face the tasks of the day ahead. Keep your blinds half open. The first rays of sun entering your bedroom will help you to wake up.

High Energy Breakfast

Breakfast is extremely important to boost energy. Good breakfast will help to boost your metabolism.  You should choose foods that will give you sustained energy. Here is a list of foods recommended for breakfast.

Yogurt is rich in proteins, calcium, vitamin B12, phosphorous and iodine. It is easily digestible and increases your appetite

Egg is ideal for breakfast. It is rich in proteins, vitamins and amino acids. It is an energy booster especially if you eat it raw.

Fish contains proteins and omega 3 fatty acids. Salmon and tuna are excellent energy boosters. They contain creatine which helps to boost your energy right through the day.

Nuts for Energy

Nuts are rich in proteins and fatty acids. They have high fiber content and will curb hunger pangs. Peanuts, almond or walnut are recommended for breakfast.

Bread for Energy

No breakfast is complete without bread. Wholegrain bread is recommended. It is nutritious and helps to boost your energy right through the day.

Fruits that give energy

Papaya, apple, orange, peaches and lemons contain vitamin C and minerals. They help to boost your stamina and energy right through the day.

Commuting to Work

Travelling for long distances is tiresome and leaves you exhausted. It is better to live close to your place of work. If travelling is unavoidable you can meditate or play mental games when you are commuting to work in the train, bus or car. It will help to retain your energy.

Take time to get organized

Don’t keep your desk cluttered. Keep it clean and organized. Untidiness may cause mental fatigue. Organize your tasks early in the morning and keep clean up your desk before you wind up for the day.  

Coffee Breaks

Coffee is an excellent stimulant. A coffee break mid morning and mid evening will help you to relax both physically and mentally. But too much of coffee is not recommended.

Energy Lunch

Combination of fiber and protein will help to boost energy levels. Papaya and mango salad will help to boost your energy.  Don’t be tied to your desk always. Go out and have lunch away from your desk in the office cafeteria or elsewhere. If possible take a short walk after lunch.

Stretching Exercise

If you are working in an office you can do a few stretching exercises sitting at your desk. Upper cervical spine stretch is highly beneficial.

Working hours

Try to finish your work on time. Working overtime may take a toll on your health.  

Journey back home

Try to be as relaxed as possible on your way home. You can listen to your favorite music when you are travelling.  

Before going to Bed

Go to bed early. Try to avoid watching TV or sitting in front of the computers for long.  Take a hot bath 30 minutes before going to bed. This will help you to get to sleep fast.