Christy's Healthy Living

What perfect treats can you give yourself after a long, hard day at work but a relaxing, refreshing foot soak? Are your feet swollen, tired, or sored?. A foot soak is a simple and inexpensive way to relax and pamper your tired feet.
Foot soaks soothes away all those aches, and inflammation and keep your feet, soft and pampered, while taking away all the stress of the day.
Soaking your feet can soften dry skin and soothe aching and tired feet. Also soaking your feet in shallow warm water helps improve blood flow and circulation and also promotes deep relaxation.
Knowing how to look after your feet will help them stay soft and pain-free.
The following are Health Benefits Of Foot Soaks:

• Foot soaks soothes your muscles and relieves you of aches and pains from standing for hours or walking.

• It helps reduce bacteria from setting into blisters and cuts or under toenails

• if you have thick calluses, softening them in a soak makes it easier to exfoliate

• Foot soaks relieves aches, pains and decrease inflammation

• It heals a variety of foot infections including athletes foot, toenails, fungus, and small wounds

• Foot soaks helps detoxify the body and relieve stress

• It increases blood flow and alleviates pain

• By soaking your feet, you can dilate your blood vessel and promote blood circulation throughout your body.

• foot soaks reduce fatigue and relaxes your whole body.

Going to the spa can actually burn a deep hole in your pocket but hey, who says you can't get the same treatment at home. Pamper those tired feet with these homemade foot soaks recipes:

VINEGAR FOOT SOAK
        INGREDIENTS

•  1 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1 gallon of warm water
• A big Basin

METHOD
Pour 1 cup vinegar into the basin, add enough warm water to the basin and immerse your foot inside the basin. Do this for 20minutes. Dry your feet with a clean towel.

SALTWATER FOOT SOAK

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup Epsom salt
• Warm water
• Big Basin

METHOD
Dissolve the Epsom salt in the warm water and soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Dry with a clean towel.

LISTERINE FOOT SOAKS
INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup Listerine
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1-gallon warm water
• Big Basin

METHOD
Mix 1/2 cup of Listerine with the 1/2 cup of vinegar and the gallon of warm water in a big basin. Soak your feet for 25 minutes. Dry with a clean towel.

HONEY FOOT SOAK
INGREDIENTS

• 1 Cup Honey
• 1-gallon warm water
• Big Basin

METHOD
Mix the honey with the warm water. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse your feet with cool water, dry thoroughly with a clean towel and moisturize.



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If you think Olive oil is only good for cooking and as a salad dressing? please think again. Cultivation of olive oil dates back to about 6,000 yrs back in the Mediterranean. it is used for food and non-food purposes. Olive oil is predominantly used in Mediterranean cuisine and Spain is the largest producer of olive oil with Italy and Greece following suit. There are many types of Olive oil, virgin olive oil, regular olive oil, Extra virgin olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil has been known according to research to contain the highest health benefits amongst all varieties. Olive oil has a high concentration of monosaturated fats which can help to lower bad cholesterol(LDL) level. It is one of the easiest ways to add good fat into your diet. Consuming this healthy oil on a regular basis have been a link to lower risk of Stroke. According to research conducted by the University of  Bordeaux in France found that people that use a large quantity olive oil for cooking and as dressing on salads have a 41% lower risk of Stroke. Olive oil could be an inexpensive and easy way to prevent stroke, especially in old people.

What is Olive oil:
Olive oil is one of the healthiest oil on the planet. It is a liquid fat obtained from the fruit of the olive tree. The olive fruit is pressed to release the oil inside. It contains a high amount of monosaturated Oleic acid, which is widely believed to be the reason for its many health benefits.

Organic olive oil has significant health-related properties that have spanned centuries and cultures in the Mediterranean. Olive oil has always been associated with a heart-healthy diet. Consuming Extra virgin Olive oil have been linked with reduced risk of heart-related diseases. The high concentration of monounsaturated fat in olive oil has been known to protect the heart against heart diseases.

Olive oil has been widely used as dressing on salads as well as for other food uses. It is one of the healthiest components to make your food taste delicious and healthy. it is full of vitamins minerals and antioxidants which is essential for good health. This oil comes directly from the Mediterranean Region and it has become so famous that it has been used all over the continents. It is a favorite among all the health conscious people. Due to its numerous benefits, it has been ranked among the top healthy oil. That's not all olive oil has been widely used in soaps making because of its mild nature which is good for sensitive skin. Olive oil is good for digestive health and may help to prevent gallstone and soothe ulcer.

Types of Olive oil: 

Extra Virgin Olive oil: This is the purest and the healthiest out of all varieties of Olive oil. This is the highest quality of Olive oil not refined and has the best taste. Extra Virgin Olive oil(EOO) is made from the first press of the Olives. it is extracted without any chemical nor excessive use of heat in its production.

Virgin Olive oil: This comes after Extra Virgin Olive oil. It is of inferior quality to Extra Virgin Olive oil but still full of many health benefits and it tastes milder too.

Refined Olive Oil: As the name suggest this Olive Oil has been refined using Acids and heat to extract as much as possible of what is left from the olives after the first press.

Olive pomace oil: This is the lowest quality of Olive oil made from the leftover pulp of the olives the oil is extracted by using chemicals and heat. it is by far the lowest grade of the Olive oil and lacks essential nutrients and antioxidants.

Some of the many Health Benefits of Olive oil

• Help prevent stroke
• Lower cholesterol  level
• Prevent Heart diseases
• Lower the risk of type2 diabetes
• Reduce the risk of Breast Cancer
• Improve mood swing
• Reduce the risk of Alzheimer disease

Olive oil for skin & Hair

• Moisturises the skin: Olive oil has been used for decades as a skin moisturizer. Olive oil penetrates into the skin and provides a long-lasting shield for your skin protecting it against harsh weather.
• Slows the aging process
• Reduces wrinkles
• Promotes hair growth
• Moisturizes the hair
• Protects against dandruff
• Remove Earwax 
• Eye make up Remover
• Prevent diapers rash 
• Substitute for shaving stick

Olive oil for Household uses

• Remove car grease
• Use as Furniture polish
• As shoe polish 
• Use to remove a sticker
• Prevent Hairballs in cats
• Shine your stainless steel
• Use on squeaky doors.

There is no better gift you can give yourself than living a healthy lifestyle, Health they say is Wealth. In this hectic paced world that we live in, it is so easy to neglect your health through so much involvement in other life activities, work, family, social engagements takes lots of our time that the last thing on the list definitely will be health and wellness. At every point in time, it's necessary to pause, access, and take a good and realistic assessment concerning your state of health and make considerable changes where necessary. A healthy lifestyle will affect your life positively both physically and mentally. By taking care of your health, you could live, a long and healthy life.

 The following are easy and practical steps to stay healthy and live longer:



Go for a routine check-up: There is no better and practical way to start living a healthy lifestyle than first getting a full and true assessment of your current state of health. Most people wait until they are in their mid age or going true a serious health crisis before going for a checkup. For some those workout, but for others, it might end up being too late. It is better to have regular checkup so health issues arising could be quickly nipped in the bud. If you notice any anomalies, consult your physician immediately don't wait it out, doing so might end up fatal. Early, detection is crucial in healthcare and routine check-up is key to this.



Drink Enough Water:  Water is life. It is essentially necessary to drink at least 8 cups of water daily. This helps to flush out toxins and free radicals build up in the body. Free radicals cause various ailments and are also linked to cancer cells formation. It is a known fact that 60% of the human body mass is made up of water, and every day we lose a lot of water through perspiration, urine, and bowel movement been properly hydrated is important. Optimal hydration can be attained by consuming enough water. Drinking water helps your body fluid maintain its balance, this is necessary for good digestive health, the creation of saliva and maintaining body temperature. Dehydration has been known to trigger headaches and migraines in some individuals, being properly hydrated will prevent this from occurring. It is an absolute most to replenish your body daily by consuming enough beverage and water. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends that Men should drink at least 13 cups of water daily and Women 9 cups daily.

There are lots of health benefits to drinking adequate water daily:

• flush out toxins
• improve your complexion
• Restore lost energy
• Regulates the body temperature
• Help prevent headaches and migraines
• Prevent and relieve constipation
• Prevent Backaches

Exercise: Exercise is one of the most effective ways of maintaining optimal health. It is also one proven way for keeping fit and in shape. As we age our bodily function starts to decline, so it is essential to stay active or else the aging process will be put in fast mode. Involving yourself in some form of physical activities at least 3 times in a week is good for your health. You don't necessarily have to join a gym(you could if you want to), if you're scared of the gym, the weightlifting and other kinds of stuff or you just simply don't have the time for going to the gym regularly,  there are many easy, and fun workouts that could be so beneficial for the body and time flexible. Walking, jogging, running, dancing, skipping rope, are some easy ways to introduce physical activities into your life and keep fit. Make sure to include cardiovascular workouts in your daily exercise. Aerobics is a great way to work the heart easily.




Healthy Diets: Balanced diets play a crucial role in your overall health. Eating healthy is important in attaining optimal health. Be sure to include all the major food groups in your diets, grains, fruit, vegetables, dairy, and meat. Individuals that eat food that is high in Fiber, Fruits, and Vegetable has been known to be more healthy and have a long lifespan. Introduce at least 30g of Fiber daily into your diets this will help reduce the risk of some diseases like Heart disease. When Eating for a healthier lifestyle, it is important to choose the right grain, fruits, vegetable that goes with your taste bud and one that you can keep eating for a long time. It is very easy to become bored when following a healthy diet, try different grains, fruits, and vegetable combination to keep your meal nutritious and interesting always.



Meditation:  Meditation is an excellent way to relax and relieve stress. Taking out 10 minutes daily to meditate can lead to a calm and peaceful mind and this will have a positive effect on your overall health. The American Heart Association in its report concludes that Meditation is an integral part of a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle. Meditation has the potential of reducing the risk of some heart-related diseases. Including meditation in your daily living will lead to improving sleep quality, less stress, lower blood pressure, alleviate anxiety and depression.

Living a healthy lifestyle is not rock science and might be easier than you think. Making small lifestyle changes here and there will lead to a better quality of life. Eat balanced diets, Drink enough water daily, Be active, and take time to meditate, this small changes if followed diligently will lead to a more healthy lifestyle and optimal health.

  Many people believe that to loss weight is not only a hard job but also a very painful one. To move those unshakable pounds, you should go hungry constantly. Many are reluctant to try and set a weight loss goal since they cannot stand the prospect of going hungry and the disappointments that it brings.

For many individuals it's simply preferable to be overweight, than to endure food cravings and who can blame them.
if the only realistic way to loss weight, or achieve your ideal weight goal is to go hungry all the time, not very many individuals would be at their optimal weight and by far most of us would be to a great degree overweight!

Our body is a unique device. It is truly astonishing. Its natural rhythm and internal workings notify us when we are hungry. It has a self protection mechanism, that lets you know when you need to stock up on fuel. Hunger is the one signal that the  body use in notifying you that you NEED to eat in order for you to maintain a healthy level of energy and have the reserves necessary for healing, repair and maintenance of your cells. Serious hunger pangs, are a strong self-preservation signal from the body that it is in dire need of food supply immediately to restore its balance. This signals should never be ignored!.

Starving yourself just doesn't work. It conflicts with nature, to believe that you can starve yourself and get in shape. Obviously there are exemptions when individuals just don't take in enough food to sustain themselves, however we all know the impacts of this kind of diets.

So, we know that starvation is not the answer, and you really do not want to spend all day in the gym trying to loss weight. So how do we lose weight then? Well the good news is you do not have to go hungry to lose weight. Nor do you need excessive amounts of exercise. The truth is, eating regular nutritional meals and allowing your body to fill itself to satisfaction, is the key to reaching and maintaining a healthy body and keeping in shape. By not allowing yourself go hungry you will in fact avoid overeating – which is the one essential and most important thing that usually happens when you break a starvation diet.

• Eat Small Meals: One method is to eat five or six, small and healthy meals divided up throughout your day. Instead of eating three large meals at breakfast, lunch and dinner, divide the same quantity of food into 6 small meals instead, and have a healthy snacks in between. Endeavor to abstain from having the last dinner near sleep time,anything up to 2 hours before bed is good.

• Do not hesitate when you feel hungry.Eat as soon as you can. If you wait for a long period of time before you eat, your body will go into panic mode, thinking that you don't have enough resources to replenish it and this might lead to overeating later. Therefore, eating frequent yet smaller meals, will help keep your body satisfied and you will be less likely to over-indulge.

• Do not skip a meal in the hope that it will help burn off some extra calories. The general believe that skipping a meal  will save you from some calories or fat intake is really false, the opposite tends to happen. In addition, if you go for a long period without a meal you are much more likely to over-indulge when you get fed-up and can't take the starvation any more.

• Are you aware that by skipping meals you are actually slowing down your body metabolism? This is because when your body thinks there is a food shortage , it not only stores extra fat but it also slows down the amount of fat it burns. The body's natural survival instinct is triggered, and you end up putting  on extra weight and burning fewer calories and fat. As your body burns fat to convert into energy, you will soon find out that you become more lethargic and tired. Starving yourself just doesn't work!

• Apart from eating smaller, frequent meals, teach yourself to eat slower. Place your knife and fork down between every bite and chew for a few seconds longer than normal. When you eat at a fast pace, you tend to eat more before you have the time to recognize the" i am full "signal your body is sending to your brain. When you eat at a slower pace you tend to recognize these signals from your body ,and train yourself to identify them at an earlier stage.

• Add an additional 15minutes to your day daily, it might sound like a lot, but all you have to do is split it up throughout the day. Leave for work with an extra 5 minutes to spare and walk to a bus stop further away from your house or park the car 5 minutes further away than you normally do and walk. During lunch break, take a 5 minute stroll or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk to the local shop instead of driving. It is very easy to complete 15, 30 or even an hour's exercise everyday if you split it up like this. And remember starvation is not the answer, it just doesn't work.

There you have it, easy and healthy way to loss weight without starvation. if you like this article please share.

The secret to a  healthy and great looking skin might just be in your pantry. Forget all those chemical filled facial treatment,these 5 homemade mask will leave your face feeling fresh, smooth and beautiful without breaking the bank.

5 Homemade Facial Mask For Glowing Skin

• Banana Facial Mask: Having a beautiful and smooth face is more easier than you think. Mash up a Banana and splash it on your face for a beautiful glow.

      What you need:

• Small bowl

• Metal spoon for mashing

        Ingredients:
       1 ripe Banana

Method:
Break Banana into small pieces inside the mixing bowl. Mash thoroughly with the metal spoon.Apply the mixture on your face and leave it for 10 to 15minutes.
Rinse your face with warm water and pat dry with clean towel.

• Avocado Hydrating Mask: when your skin is all stressed out from being out all day, mash up Avocado and yogurt for a smooth stress free skin.

      What you need:

• Mixing bowl

• Spoon 

       Ingredients:

• 1/2 ripe Avocado
• 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon organic honey 

Method:
Mash the Avocado until its lump free, add the yogurt and honey and mix everything thoroughly together. Apply the mixture on your face and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water and pat dry.


Brown Sugar Facial Scrub:   Mix equal part Brown Sugar and coconut together and voila, you've got a great facial mask to keep your skin glowing always.

What you need

• Mixing bowl
• Spoon

Ingredients:
1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
1 teaspoon coconut oil

Method:
Add the coconut oil to the brown sugar and mix all together. Apply mixture to face and rub gently in circular motion. Leave it on for 10 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.


Yogurt Facial Mask: Splashing plain yogurt on your face will not only cleanse your skin, but it will rejuvenate it in no time.

What you need:

• Mixing bowl
• spoon

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon plain yogurt
1 tablespoon cooked oat
1 teaspoon honey

Method:
Mash all together to form a fine paste. Apply the mixture on your face and let it stand for 15minutes.
Wash off with lukewarm water



Egg Facial Mask: Pamper  yourself a little with this egg, lemon and honey facial mask mixture.

What you need:

• Mixing bowl
• Spoon

Ingredients:
1 egg( egg white only)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey

Method: 
In a clean bowl, crack the egg and remove the yolk( use only the egg white). Add the lemon juice and honey and whisk together. Apply on face and let it sit for 10minutes. Rinse off with warm water.


Pamper yourself with any of this simple and inexpensive homemade facial mask for glowing skin.

What perfect treats can you give yourself after a long, hard day at work but a relaxing, refreshing foot soak? Are your feet swollen, tired, or sored?. A foot soak is a simple and inexpensive way to relax and pamper your tired feet.
Foot soaks soothes away all those aches, and inflammation and keep your feet, soft and pampered, while taking away all the stress of the day.
Soaking your feet can soften dry skin and soothe aching and tired feet. Also soaking your feet in shallow warm water helps improve blood flow and circulation and also promotes deep relaxation.
Knowing how to look after your feet will help them stay soft and pain-free.

The following are Health Benefits Of Foot Soaks:

• Foot soaks soothes your muscles and relieves you of aches and pains from standing for hours or walking.

• It helps reduce bacteria from setting into blisters and cuts or under toenails

• if you have thick calluses, softening them in a soak makes it easier to exfoliate

• Foot soaks relieves aches, pains and decrease inflammation

• It heals a variety of foot infections including athletes foot, toenails, fungus, and small wounds

• Foot soaks helps detoxify the body and relieve stress

• It increases blood flow and alleviates pain

• By soaking your feet, you can dilate your blood vessel and promote blood circulation throughout your body.

• foot soaks reduce fatigue and relaxes your whole body.

Going to the spa can actually burn a deep hole in your pocket but hey, who says you can't get the same treatment at home. Pamper those tired feet with these homemade foot soaks recipes:



                                                        VINEGAR FOOT SOAK
        INGREDIENTS

•  1 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1 gallon of warm water
• A big Basin 

   METHOD
Pour 1 cup vinegar into the basin, add enough warm water to the basin and immerse your foot inside the basin. Do this for 20minutes. Dry your feet with a clean towel.




                                                SALTWATER FOOT SOAK

       
       INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup Epsom salt
• Warm water
• Big Basin

    METHOD
   Dissolve the Epsom salt in the warm water and soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Dry with a clean towel.



                                                  LISTERINE FOOT SOAKS

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup Listerine
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1-gallon warm water
• Big Basin

METHOD
Mix 1/2 cup of Listerine with the 1/2 cup of vinegar and the gallon of warm water in a big basin. Soak your feet for 25 minutes. Dry with a clean towel.

                                                  HONEY FOOT SOAK



INGREDIENTS

• 1 Cup Honey
• 1-gallon warm water
• Big Basin

METHOD
Mix the honey with the warm water. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse your feet with cool water, dry thoroughly with a clean towel and moisturize.

Are you tired of been embarrassed and  humiliated in public by your breath, is it affecting your social and personal life?. Are you always afraid of speaking in public for fear of people noticing your stinking breath?.
what can be more appalling than you talking and people suffering in silence, because they don't know how to tell you that your breath stinks or just don't want to embarrass you.
if you are seriously trying to get rid of this offensive mouth odour called Bad Breath, this is a must read article for you.To get rid of of Bad Breath, you really need to know what causes it, can certain food you eat trigger this embarrassing condition,or is there an under laying health condition causing it and most importantly ways of getting rid of it.
WHAT IS BAD BREATH: Bad Breath medically known as HALITOSIS, is a health condition that affects 25% of the global population. Bad Breath is an unpleasant odour of the mouth caused by bacteria. This is not to be confused with garlic breath, a temporary unpleasant mouth odour caused by eating garlic or onions or any similar foods,or when you just wake up in the morning mouth smell. It is actually a common problem that affects people of all ages.The main culprit of bad breath is poor oral hygiene, though some health conditions can also cause it. Both old and young at certain point in their life will be affected by bad breath. Bad Breath though a common problem can actually cause psychological distress in people affected. The good news is its not a a death sentence, it can be reversed.


WHAT CAUSES BAD BREATH

 Poor Oral Hygiene:  Bad Breath occurs when food particles that is left in your mouth are broken down by bacteria, producing sulfur compounds which result in the stinky smell. When you don't brush and floss regularly, bacteria breeds on the food particles left in your mouth and the sulfur compounds released make your mouth smells awful. The main culprit of Bad Breath is poor oral hygiene. This is what you get if you have an on going big issue with your brush and toothpaste, there's no two ways about it , the end result is stinky mouth odor.

Smoking: Cigarettes is another culprit of bad breath. The Toxic Chemical in tobacco introduced into the mouth by smoking causes awful odour and encourage the growth of unpleasant smelling bacteria, that in turn results in bad breath.

Dehydration:  if you are dehydrated, their is shortage in saliva production in your mouth. which allows bacteria to grow and breeds in such condition. Saliva helps clean the mouth,which helps reduce and eliminate bad breathe. Bacterias that lives in the mouth multiplies when your mouth drys out. Drink a lot of water to get rid of dehydration and stimulate saliva flow.

Coffee:  Coffee in all its deliciousness and health benefits can actually cause bad breath.  The Caffeine in Coffee slows down the production of saliva in the mouth which causes dry moth and leads to more bacteria   breeding which causes Bad Breath. The Good news is you don't have to give up drinking Coffee for the rest of your life,you can drink water before, during and after drinking Coffee to combat the Coffee smell.You can also stop adding sugar and milk to your coffee,this two helps in breeding bacteria in your mouth.

Dental Problem:  Do you just hate going to the dentist?. Most people have real phobia for dentist this can lead to a whole lot of serious dental issues like gum infections, gingivitis,tooth decay and all this can make you have Bad Breath. its recommended to visit your dentist once in a year.



HOW TO GET RID OF BAD BREATH

Good Oral Hygiene:  Brush and floss your teeth regularly to avoid build up of plague on your teeth, which leads to bacteria breeding and eventually Bad Breath. Fall in love  afresh with your toothbrush and toothpaste.Rinse your mouth out with a good mouth wash, this also helps prevent Bad Breath.
Swish your mouth with plain water after every meal,this helps get rid of food particles that might be left in your mouth. Bacteria live on your tongue, scrape your tongue always. 80% of the bacteria that causes Bad Breath actually lives on your tongue. Gently brush your tongue anytime you are brushing your teeth, to get rid of the coating that form on the tongue, which can breed bacteria.

Stop Smoking:   Smoking is really bad for your health, apart from the fact that it causes Bad Breath. Smoking can cause cancer and other serious health issues. it can damage your gums, discolored your teeth and give you stinky breath. Stop smoking its dangerous to your health.

Avoid Dehydration:     Drink plenty water daily to stimulate saliva flow in your mouth. Drinking at least 8 cups of water daily will help prevent dry mouth which can lead to Bad Breath. If you find it difficult drinking plain water, you can add juice of a lemon to it, this will make it more easier to drink.

Eat An Apple A Day:  An Apple a day keeps the doctor away and also helps prevent Bad Breath. Apples helps stimulate saliva flow in the mouth, which in turn cleans the mouth and make it difficult for bacteria to thrive.

Dental Visit:  Visit your dentist at least twice in a year for general oral examination and professional teeth cleaning. This will help get rid of any potential teeth problems that may eventually leads to Bad Breath.

Chew Spices and Cloves: Cloves is a natural breath freshener. it also contain antibacterial properties that can help get rid of unpleasant mouth odour. Make a clove tea by boiling a teaspoon of cloves in a cup of water, allow to cool down completely. Use it as mouth wash twice daily. You also can just chew a few pieces of cloves in your mouth to get rid of Bad Breath.

                                          

                                          HOME REMEDIES FOR BAD BREATH




                                                                SALT


           INGREDIENTS

•  1 teaspoon salt
•  1 cup of warm water               

           METHOD
Mix  1 teaspoon of salt with the warm water. Mix thoroughly and swish your mouth with the solution.Do this once daily and after a while every other day.




                                                          GREEN TEA




         INGREDIENTS

•  1 Green tea bag
• 1 cup hot water
• Honey

           METHOD
Steep the tea bag in th hot water for 5 mins and remove it. Add honey to taste. Drink up. You should drink at least 3 cups of green  tea daily.




                                                           CLOVES



          INGREDIENTS

• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup hot water

           METHOD
Add 1 teaspoon of cloves into the hot water, stir very well and allow to cool down. Drrink the tea or use it as mouthwash. You can do this once daily or simply chew few pieces of cloves for instant fresh breath.




                                                           LEMON JUICE


          INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1 cup warm water

           METHOD
Stir in the Lemon juice inside the warm  water, mix properly. Swish your mouth with the Lemon water solution. Do this at least once every other day.




                                                                        CINNAMON

           INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 tablespoon Cinnamon powder
• 2 tablespoon honey
• 1 Lemon
• 1 cup of hot water

 

             METHOD
Add Cinnamon powder, honey and Lemon juice to the hot water. Stir to mix thoroughly. Rinse your mouth with the solution. This great combo of Cinnamon, Lemon and Honey helps get rid of harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Onions is one of the most used vegetables in the kitchen. it is not only delicious but full of many health benefits. Onions is part of the Allium family which includes garlic, chives, scallions, leeks. Onions are flavorful cooking items with plenty varieties to choose from.The most common varieties are, yellow onions, white onions, red onions, sweet onions, green onions and shallots. This kitchen item is a bundle of healthy stuffs, never mind the tears it brings to your eyes. Onions are high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Onions are good source of vitamin C, vitamin A B6,sodium,potassium,sulphuric compound, flavonoids, and phytochemicals.
Whether raw,sauteed,baked, steamed or boiled, onions is not only delicious but full of many superb health benefits that your body needs.

Health benefits of Onions:

• Prevent Cancer:  Quercetin in Onions prevent cancer cells from growing. it helps prevent cancer forming by getting rid of free radicals in the body which form cancer cells.Red Onions have the highest concentration of quercetin. Eating onions regularly may reduce your risk of stomach cancer. Studies have shown that a diet high in onions may reduce your risk of prostrate cancer by 50%. Eating between one to seven servings of Onions per week has been associated with lower risk of colorectal and ovarian cancer. Also diet that has many servings of Onions per day may help reduce the risk of oral and esophageal cancer.
• Promote Healthy Heart: Consuming onions regularly help in lowering your blood pressure thereby reducing the risk of heart attack. Quercetin in Onions help prevent plague build up in the arteries, which cut down the risk of stroke and heart attack. Onions also helps prevents the formation of blood clots, this allows blood circulate smoothly and reduce the risk of heart diseases.Onions helps lower the production of bad cholesterol thereby keeping your heart healthy.
• Boost Immunity: Onions contains loads of phytochemicals and vitamin C, which help boost your immunity level. A strong immunity level is able to ward off cold,flu and diseases naturally. Quercetin in Onions helps break down mucus in your chest ,relieving you of congestion.Onions have the ability to ward off and relieve symptoms of common flu.it helps in reducing inflammation and heal infections.
• Regulate Blood Sugar:The sulphur in Onions helps regulate blood sugar, this is good news for people that have diabetes. 
• Bone Density: Studies have shown that consuming onions regularly help improve bone density. Women who eat onions regularly have 20% lower risk of developing hip fracture, so load up on Onions Sisters!!!.
• Improve Oral Health: Chewing onions regularly help strengthen your teeth and ward off tooth decay causing bacteria. if you want to kill germs in your mouth and improve your oral health, chewing a piece of onions for 3minutes can potentially help in achieving that.
• Soothe Bee Bites: Have you been stung by a bee?,apply Onion juice to the affected area for quick and immediate relief.
• Boost Sex Drive: Do you know Onions helps promote healthy sex drive?, if you are trying to improve things in the bedroom, consuming more Onion might do the magic. one tablespoon of onion juice mix properly with a spoonful of ginger juice, taken 3 times daily might just do the trick.
• Promote Digestive Health: Onions is a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for good digestion. if you have poor digestion problem, consuming more Onions can help with this

Benefits Of Onion For Hair

• Strengthen Hair follicles:Onions contains Antioxidants, which protects your body against free radicals.The presence of free radicals in the body, may destroy the hair follicles leading to loss of hair. Onion juice contain anti bacteria properties, which help get rid of scalp infection and strengthen your hair follicles.
• Promote Hair Regrowth: The Sulphur in Onions help provide your hair with beneficial nourishment. it can also help promote hair regrowth, it helps restore lost nutrients to your scalp.Onions increase blood circulation, which in turn help promote hair growth and minimize hair thinning and breakage.
• Prevents Graying: The many antioxidants in Onions help prevent premature graying, leaving your hair silky and shinning.
• Get rid of Dandruff: The rich anti bacteria properties in Onions help get rid of dandruff and hair lice and also help fight other scalp infections like inflamed, dry, or itchy scalp.

 Onion Juice Recipe For Hair:

• 1 Whole onion

• peel and cut into small piece

• put in a blender and add small amount of water

• Blend until very smooth

• Filter the juice using a cheesecloth or a muslin cloth

• Squeeze out all the juice

• Apply juice to scalp or hair root

• Leave for 15mins and wash your hair with your normal shampoo 

Note: To be sure you don't react to Onion juice, do a patch test before applying it to your scalp.
Apply a small amount of Onion juice to your inner elbow or back of your ear, wait a few minutes if irritation develops, it is not advisable to apply this juice to your scalp.

Benefits of Onions For Skin:

Make Your Skin Glow: Do you desire a healthy and glowing skin?, increase your consumption of onions, its that simple. Vitamins A,C and E in onions protects your skin from skin infections and premature aging, caused by the presence of free radicals in the body. Onions can rejuvenate dull complexion and get rid of skin pigmentation. Quercetin in Onions keeps your skin wrinkle free, and sulphur in Onion makes your skin soft and tender.
Anti- Acne: Are you always bombard with Acne?,worry no more, the anti- bacteria and anti- inflammatory properties in Onions protects your skin from Acne causing bacteria, leaving your skin smooth. Onions can also be used in treating pimples.
Mix one tablespoon of Onion juice with one tablespoon of Olive oil,apply on your face. Leave on for 20mins and wash off with Lukewarm water.
Note: To be sure you don't react to onion juice do a patch test first, details above.

Soft Lips: if you have dry and dark lips ,Onions can help turn this around. Take one teaspoon of Onion juice, add some Vitamin E oil, mix together and apply on your lips at night. This will help remove all dead skin cells from your lips.


To enjoy all the health benefits of Onions, include it in your daily meal plan. If you like this post please share.

What the heck is all the noise about Green Smoothies?. Apart from the obvious facts that it's a refreshing and nourishing beverage, it's filled with so much health benefits you can even begin to imagine. If you've not given Green Smoothies a place in your diet you better do so now and do it fast no kidding. Smoothies are great ways to include more fruits or vegetables in your diets, but Green Smoothies takes it to a different level by the inclusion of dark leafy greens which are high in vitamins.

Green Smoothies are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which your body needs to function properly. They are nutrients rich and delicious beverage made from whole fruits and vegetables.
The American Cancer Society recommends we eat 5-9 daily servings of fruits and vegetables to prevent cancer and other preventable diseases. An average serving of Green Smoothies contains 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables.

Consuming Green Smoothies regularly is one of the fastest and easier ways to eat more leafy greens. Green Smoothies are much more healthy than fruit or vegetable juice. When you extract juice, you get only the vitamins and minerals but not the fiber, Green Smoothies are made with whole fruits and vegetables, given you not only the vitamins and minerals but also the fibers which your body needs to attain and maintain optimal health.

Regularly consuming Green Smoothies help form good green eating habits. Most people end up craving more Greens after a few weeks of drinking Green Smoothies. Drinking Green Smoothies daily can help improve your overall well being.

The Health Benefits of Green Smoothies cannot be overemphasized:

• Natural Weight Loss: Consuming Green Smoothies help you lose weight naturally. They are low in calories but very filling. By replacing a meal per day with a Green Smoothies, you are lowering your calorie intake and increasing your fruit, veggies and fiber intake. Green smoothies contain a high amount of water and fibers, it will make you feel full easily, thereby helping you fight hunger and cravings while losing weight.
• Digestion: The abundance of fibers in Green Smoothies helps the digestive system function properly. it helps to deal with issues like constipation and other related digestive health problems.
• Lowers High Blood Pressure: Consuming more fruits and vegetables daily have been associated with regulated blood pressure. Taking Green Smoothies regularly helps in maintaining your blood pressure level.
• Increased Energy: Green Smoothies provides you with vitamin B and Magnesium, which helps boost energy metabolism.
• Boost Immune System: Green vegetables are loaded with lots of phytonutrients which helps strengthen the immune system warding off illness.
• Healthy Bones: Leafy Greens are high in calcium and vitamin K, which promotes healthy and strong bones.
• Healthy Heart Health: The high amount of Vitamin A and C in Green Smoothies can help to significantly lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of stroke and Heart attack.
• Glowing Skin: Green Smoothies decrease the risk of aging and hydrate your skin.
• Easy to Consume: Taking the daily required servings of fruits and vegetables might not be that easy. Green Smoothies is an easier way to include more green leafy vegetables in your daily meals, without even noticing it.
• Healthy Colon and Gut: Fiber is one of the essential element or good colon health. Green Smoothies contain whole fruits and vegetables, ensuring you get all the necessary fiber your body needs.

What is there not to like about Green Smoothies, they are fantastically delicious, highly nutritious and above all very easy to make. if you've not included this in your diet, do so quickly.

Fruits and Vegetables are important components of a healthy and balanced diets, especially for children. It Aids growth, prevent obesity, boost immunity level and Aids better digestion, but most kids are just not a big fan.Most Parents are stressed out, and highly frustrated trying to force their kids to eat more greens. So how can parents win this war between children vs fruits and vegetables?

• Take the Lead: Children look up to their parents for everything. They see them as their role model, and  god. if you lead by example, and eat more fruits and veggies yourself, it will be easier for them to emulate this. Avoid junk foods during meal times, pile your plates with veggies and fruits and your kids will be on their way to consuming more greens in no time.
• Take them Shopping: Trips to the Markets and grocery stores is a great and fun way to introduce children to different types of healthy foods.Let them help in choosing different types of grains, veggies,spices, fruits and herbs.This will encourage them, to want to eat out of it when its done.
• Let them be involved in cooking: Allow children help in prepping, and cooking the meals( with Adult supervision). They are more likely to be interested in meals that they help cook themselves.
• Make Smoothies: Smoothies are delicious and nutritious drinks, consisting of different blends of fruits ,vegetables or combination of fruits and vegetables. This is an easier way, to get kids to consume more fruits and vegetables.  Blend different kinds of fruits and vegetables to make a nutritious drink that is pack full of healthy and nutritious fibers.
• Make a Popsicle: Children love Popsicle, this is one frozen dessert that children just adore. This could be a way to get them, to consume more greens. Wipe up a healthy combo of different fruits and vegetables, to make a delicious and nutritious Popsicle that children cannot resist.

Above all be consistent, if you try and fail, try  again. Consistency is the way, to get kids more interested in eating more fruits and vegetables.

Dancing has been defined as the rhythmical movement of one's body to a particular music. Dancing is not only a recreational activities, but it has a wide range of physical and mental qualities, that can uplift your health. Dancing is a fun way for the young and old to get fit and stay in shape. Dancing is the most enjoyable way to be physically active and keep fit at the same time.Not only is dancing fun but it has lots of positive health benefits.

• Great workout:Dancing can be an amazing cardiovascular workout that could be done anywhere without going to the gym or worrying about lifting any equipment. Workouts is good and necessary to keep fit and in shape and most times we give different excuses why we don't exercise. Dancing is an easy alternative to heavy weight lighting at the gym. You keep fit while enjoying yourself. Dancing is  good for your heart, and also makes you stronger. Dancing is a great workout that provides both aerobic and anaerobic movements which the body needs to achieve optimal health. Dancing is a great workout for your whole body, helps strengthen your heart, tone your muscles and increase stamina and coordination.
• Weight Loss: if you are looking to loss weight in a fun way, dancing is the way to go.Losing weight is always a difficult process and could be mentally draining,lots of diets to follow religiously, which make sticking to it difficult and most people give up half way, but dancing could be a fun and enjoyable exercise, easy to do and stick to and in the process you begin to burn calories and loss weight gradually in a fun way.
• Form of Relaxation: Dancing helps your body and mind relax and unwind and take away all stress, anxiety and frustrations of the day.Dancing can provide physical and mental relaxation that you need.Dancing provides an enjoyable escape from your normal daily routine activities. it helps relaxes and relieves you of stress.
• Boost Memory:Dancing may help boost your memory and prevent you from developing dementia.Regular dancing has been known to reduce the risk of developing dementia by 76%.As you age Hippocampus the part of the brain that controls memory naturally shrinks, which results in memory loss. Dancing can help prevent you from developing dementia as you grow older.
• Eliminate Depression: Dancing can be a great way to get rid of depression.Dance therapy has been used for ages to improve individuals mental and physical state.Dancing is a fantastic way to improve your mood,it will also uplift your spirit and lift your mood.Dancing has been known to provide emotional release from pent up and repressed feelings which can lead to depression.Dancing not only provide daily healthy physical activities but also keeps the mind sharp and helps ward off  depression.

Papaya is known to be deliciously sweet and mostly enjoyed all year round.Papaya is not only sweet but have a wide variety of health benefits. its packed with various vitamins and antioxidants which helps the body fight diseases and stay strong and healthy.This fruit is filled with health benefits and consuming it will help your overall health.
Papaya is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Flavonoids,Carotene,Folates,Potassium and Magnesium.it is also a very good source of fiber. The following are health benefits of eating Papaya :

• Helps Diabetics:Although Papaya is a sweet fruit, it is actually low in sugar content and this makes it a perfect fruit for people suffering from diabetes. Consuming Papaya on a regular basis can help maintain the blood sugar level, and the cholesterol level because of its rich fiber contents, thereby keeping diabetes in check.
• Aids Digestion: Papaya is known to helps the digestive system because of the presence of  papain enzymes in Papaya, which helps breakdown proteins and improve digestive health.
• Prevent Cancer and Heart Diseases:Papaya is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and phytonutrients, which helps prevents the occurrence of free radicals, which destroys the cells and cause Cancer and other Heart related diseases.
• Boost immunity: Do you know papaya fruit has more Vitamin C than orange?. Papaya helps boost your immune system which acts as a shield against various infections and diseases that can make you sick.Build a stronger immune system by consuming papaya regularly.
• Helps with Arthritis:People suffering from Arthritis and osteoporosis,should consume Papaya regularly. Papaya has anti-inflammatory effects because of the presence of papain and high Vitamin C contents in it , which helps in reducing pain and inflammation associated with Arthritis.
• Helps with menstrual pain: Are you always suffering from excruciating menstrual pains and cramps?. Stop suffering in silence and consume more Papaya to ease your pain. The papain enzyme in Papaya helps women that suffers from menstrual pains and cramps every month, and also helps regulate the flow.
• Helps with weight loss: If you are planning to loss weight, do not forget to include Papaya in your menu. Papaya is packed with high dietary fiber, which helps in  weight loss by controlling cravings and creating a feeling of fullness.

So you've just finish having this fantastic,sumptuous full meal and all you just want to do is lay down to watch your favorite movies, or go for a smoke, take a bath or actually head straight to bed for a nap?,these are really bad for your health.Food are important to our overall health,but so also are the things we do after eating.There are several things you should never do right after eating, in order to achieve optimal health.

Taking a Bath: Do not take a bath or shower immediately after eating,this can lead to digestive problems.Bathing increases the blood flow to the body, hand and legs,instead of helping with digestion.
Digestion requires a good amount of blood flow towards the stomach,but bathing diverts the blood flow away from the stomach to other parts of the body instead. If you must take a bath at all, wait at least 30-45 minutes after a meal before doing that.
Eating Fruits: Fruits are healthy, nutritious and necessary for optimal health,but eating it at the right time is the key.Eating fruits right after a meal might end up doing you more harm than good.its best to eat fruits first before a meal,because they take little time to digest and when you eat them right after a meal they get stuck with all the other food and not getting to the intestine on time, can make it rot in the gut, causing heartburn, indigestion.
Sleeping: Do not lay down or go for a nap after eating this is a bad idea, except of course if you're in the mood for a party with indigestion, heartburn, or burning throat.Laying down after a meal causes acid reflux symptoms that causes chest discomfort,heartburn and burning throat.Remember to eat at least two hours before bedtime, in order to avoid digestion issues.Eating close to bedtime especially foods high in fat, will result in bloating.Sleeping right after meal can increase the risk of stroke, so try and avoid that.
Smoking: Smoking is really bad for the health no matter how you look at it.Smoking increase the chance of lung cancer and other related health issues.Smoking one cigarettes after eating, is actually like smoking ten cigarettes,and that is like increasing the risk of lung cancer and other related health issues ten times.This is detrimental to your overall health.
Drinking Tea: Drinking tea right after a meal should be avoided. The acidity in the tea can make it difficult to digest food. Tannin acids in tea harden protein, and make them harder to digest, and keep your body from properly absorbing iron.if you need to drink tea after your meal, wait at least one hour after eating before doing so.