How To Prevent Allergy ?

Summer has come along with its allergies. Many people get allergies during the summer seasons. Although it is thought that these allergies can only be outside but that’s not true. Many people have inside and outside sensitivities during the hot months. So firstly discuss what these allergies are. Allergies are the abnormal reactions by the immune system. These reactions are caused when certain stimuli enters the body and produce multiple symptoms. These types of reactions can affect anyone but can be treated too.

During summers all types of allergies can occur because this is the time when all types of allergenic factors are over spread outdoors and indoors. People with sensitive skin often get the allergies as a consequence of the epidermis coming in contact with allergens. Some of the common summer allergies are skin allergies, chemical allergies and airborne allergies. But most common allergies during the summer season are skin rashes which occur due to overexposure to sun.

Skin Allergies: Common skin allergies in summers are urticaria, dermatitis and prickly heat. Urticaria is the reaction on the skin due to summer radiation although some other factors are also associated; Prickly heat appears on the sensitive skin due to prolonged perspiration on the epidermis, and dermatitis which also aggravates in summers due to the reaction of sun rays with the chemicals present on the skin like a cream or perfume. Many people have sensitive skin and get rashes, pimples due to summer allergy. There can be many reasons for having skin allergies. The kind of soap you use, cosmetic products, surroundings and climate also. Dust, pollen, smoke or food allergy can also cause skin allergies plus the heat in the summers also provides the necessary environment for allergens to grow.

Pollens: summers other allergy trigger is pollen which are the tiny grains released into the air by trees, grasses and weeds for the purpose of fertilizing other plants. When pollens get into the noses of certain people, they send the immune system into overdrive. The immune system mistakenly sees the pollens as foreign substance and releases antibodies. These antibodies attack the allergens and leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood. These histamines cause the symptoms like runny nose and itchy eyes.

Ways to prevent allergies in summers:

• First and foremost step to avoid summer allergies is to build a healthy immune system as this is the one which can give you the power to fight against the pathogens. Take lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet as they are a good source of vitamins and minerals and helps to boost your immune system.

• Take lemon water as lemon is a very good cleanser and helps to detoxify your body.

• Take fruits rich in vitamin C as vitamin C is very important for a beautiful and healthy skin plus it is a strong antioxidant and helps the body to fight against infections.

• Avoid foods that are very spicy or too fried as they can be chemical irritant to skin.

• Take lots of fluids as this will help the body to cleanse. Plus this will also helps to avoid dehydration.

• Keep your home environment clean.

• Avoid direct exposure to the sun rays. Always apply sunscreen when going out.

• If you have some allergic reaction on skin then apply ice over it, this will give relief from itching and irritation of the skin.

• Keep yourself neat and clean .Take regular bath.

Hypothyroid Patients Diet Plan

Hypothyroidism is characterized by the production of low levels of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck just below the larynx. Hypothyroidism is a very common condition in females and can also lead to the weight gain. The other symptoms of hypothyroidism are constipation, depression, joint or muscle pain, thin brittle hair or finger nails and the person is more sensitive to cold. Foods play a major role in the treatment of the hypothyroidism. So following is the list of some of the food items which should be included or excluded from the diet if you are suffering from hypothyroidism:

• For the proper functioning of the thyroid gland body needs iodine. The hormone T3 and T4 are the main hormones which regulate the functioning of thyroid gland and these hormones require iodine for the proper functioning. So the diets should be sufficient in iodine content. Dietary sources of iodine are sea foods such as seaweed, saltwater fish, clams, shrimp, oyster, salmon and sardines. Some other sources in which somewhat less amount of iodine present are eggs, asparagus, mushrooms, spinach, sesame seeds, banana and parsley. Iodized salt can also be used instead of the plain salt.

• Selenium is also required for the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland. It regulates the synthesis and metabolism of the thyroid gland. Selenium also protects the thyroid gland from chemical, oxidative and social stress. Foods rich in selenium are Brazil nuts, tuna, soybeans, sunflower seeds and mushrooms.

• Studies reveal that hypothyroidism can cause zinc deficiencies. Add foods like oysters, whole grains, sunflower seeds, almonds, walnuts and sardines in the diet.

• There are also evidences which show that iron deficiency can also lead to the decreased thyroid functioning. Sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, lentils, green leafy vegetables, organ meat and nuts are the good examples of iron rich foods.

• Copper is also required in trace amounts to produce TSH and T4. So a poor copper supply can also lead to altered functioning of these hormones. Shitake mushrooms, dark chocolates, nuts, sunflower seeds and beans are a good source of copper.

Along with these always keep in mind the following points if you are suffering from hypothyroidism:

• Avoid fried and fatty foods as they will be high in calories. In hypothyroidism metabolism of the body slows and if you will take more calories than your body will easily absorb it.

• Avoid too much sweet and sugars as they will add extra calories and you will put on more weight.

• It is advisable to avoid cruciferous vegetables as they will interfere with the synthesis of thyroid hormone. Vegetables like cabbage, radishes, cauliflower, kale, turnips, mustard greens, Brussels sprout and broccoli are the members of the cruciferous family.

• Avoid refined flours like maida and suji and instead of them add wholegrain cereals as they are complex carbohydrates and gives slow and sustainable energy.

• Add more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.

• Take small and frequent meals as they will help to maintain the metabolism of the body.

Benefits Of Exercise

Benefits of exercise are not a hidden factor. Exercise is beneficial for everyone but the need of exercise increases in the elderly more. The cells of the body start depleting when we age due the oxidative damage. As the person ages different problems also start developing like cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine and psychological. When a person starts exercising then he can get relief from these problems. Exercise releases the hormone endorphin which gives you the feel good factors so boosts the mood and avoid the stress. Exercise improves blood pressure, lipid profile, insulin sensitivity and also improves the quality of life.

As we age the vision can start decreasing, hips and legs can become weaker, posture can be poor and it becomes harder to stand erect. Due to the accumulation of the fat different cardiovascular diseases starts developing. As we age the muscle strength declines by 15 percent per decade after the age of 50 and 30 percent after the age of 70. Although this is much rapid in women than men. So the exercise like strength training is very important for the improvement in the muscle mass. Exercise also increases the stamina and the strength.

With the regular exercise one can improve the quality of the sleep and he can have a sound sleep. Insomnia or the lack of sleep is the very common problem in elderly. Exercise also improves the functioning of the brain and prevents the diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. A regular exercise also maintains the weight. Being overweight can be the one major reason for developing different types of diseases like cardiovascular, diabetes, joint pains and inflammations. Regular exercise also boosts the immunity of the person thus can fight the infections easily.

Following can be the exercises for the elderly:

• Leg extensions: This exercise strengthens the knee muscles and also increases the longevity of the knees.

• Abdominal crunches: This exercise strengthens the back and builds the abdominal muscles.

• Long Walk: Walk can increase the heart rate and can also boost the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

• Swimming: Swimming can be the great exercise for the body shaping as this can be the beneficial exercise for the whole body.

• Cross trainer: This exercise can monitor the heart rate and also optimize the resistance.

• Strength exercises: These exercises strengthen the legs, abs, chest, back and shoulder muscles.

Precautions while exercising:

• Always check with your family doctor before starting the exercise. Start with a light intensity exercise and gradually increase it.

•Start with the warm up exercises as this can avoid the injuries.

•Keep your body well hydrated. Always carry a water bottle with you while going to gym. Take some fluids before the workout and in between the exercise. This will also remove the toxins from the body and keep you free from diseases also.

•Don’t focus on the weight training rather start with the cardio exercises. This will be helpful for the overall health of the body.

Benefits Of Walking

"A sound mind in a sound body" is an ancient adage, and very few can claim that privilege today. Mind and body are very closely related and affect each other for weal or woe. A sunny temperament and a cheerful disposition are the outcome of good health.

The human body is a living organism with vital centers which should function harmoniously together as a unit. Disorder at once sets in whenever that harmony is disturbed. Prevention is better than cure, and so it is the duty of every single individual to keep his body free from any kind of ailment.

The aforesaid paragraphs undoubtedly emphasize on the need for healthy body but in present scenario, one can hardly effort to pay proper attention to the physical needs. The hectic and fast moving life is blamed for this. But even then one cannot in total ignore the physical health.

If not possible to join gym or other exercise classes, one can simply opt for daily morning walk .The earliest hours in the morning would probably give you fresh oxygen and quality time to spend with the greenery and beauty around you that perhaps only writers and poets around you seem to notice.

In other words, to experience health, fitness and deep relaxation, do a morning walk.

What are the Benefits of Morning Walk?

Loose Weight:

One of the most useful benefits of walking is weight loss. It was found that walking 45 minutes each time, the average person can lose 18 pounds in a year with no change in diet. Walking trim your fat as well as tone your muscles.

Muscular Strength:

One can gain muscular strength with walking, but probably not enough for well rounded fitness. It is a low-impact exercise, which puts less strain on bones and tissues.

Cardiovascular Fitness:

Walking at any level or speed, two or three times a week and for at least twenty minutes increases the cardiovascular strength. One can increase the strength of heart and lungs, by increasing the ability not only to exercise longer and harder but also to perform everyday task without tiring.

Osteoporosis:

Calcium and exercise are good supporter in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Walking may help you combat it. The studies show that a walk of just half an hour, four times a week can prevent osteoporosis.

Walking Reduces Back Pain:

Taking a walk regularly is one of the best things, you can do for your back. It promotes muscular development, increases circulation, and speeds up the release of endorphins which provide a natural "high".

Cigarette Smoking:

It has been seen that the people who are active and fit are not so likely to smoke as those people who are sedentary and less fit. Although walking does not actually stop people from smoking, the regular routine of walking can be applied as a positive habit to replace the negative habit of smoking.

Coronary Heart Diseas:

Regular walking increases the levels of good cholesterol in the blood and therefore reduces the risk of a heart attack. Also walking lowers the risk of coronary heart diseases because there is a relation between physical exercise and low incidence of heart failure.

Blood Pressur:

Regular walking is also beneficial in reducing high blood pressure (hypertension) Walk make the heart work more efficient and improves the circulation. Also weight loss reduces the blood pressure. A combination of regular walking with a low fat, high fiber-diet is an excellent form of weight control.

40 Amazing Uses for Aloe Vera!

Today, I bring you forty fabulous uses from this "plant of immortality," as affectionately dubbed by the Egyptians 6,000 years ago.
That's right; the spiky, green gem has a rich history of various cultures and personalities who used the plant's moist middle in a plethora of practical uses. Like Cleopatra who applied the gel to her body as part of her beauty regimen, the ancient Greeks who used it to cure everything from baldness to insomnia to the Native Americans who called aloe vera the "Wand of the Heaven."
It doesn't hurt that aloe vera produces at least six natural antiseptics, which are able to kill mold, bacteria, funguses, and viruses. In fact, the plant is so powerful that researchers and scientists are looking into its potential as an AIDS and cancer-fighter.
From all-around health elixirs to simple beauty aids, learn about the various ways to put your little plant to maximal use after splitting the leaves lengthwise down the middle.
If you decide to take aloe vera orally, seek out commercial, certified organic juice. And as for both topical and oral applications, it's always recommended to consult your doctor beforehand.
I am not a doctor—just a huge, huge fan of amazing, miraculous aloe!

40 Ways To Use Aloe Vera

Topical Aloe Uses
1. Pamper yourself to a soothing body rub. Slice aloe leaves lengthwise and use the inner sides as a biodegradable body scrub in the shower.
2. Treat burns from minor mishaps in the kitchen—from grease splatters or hot utensils.
3. For more major kitchen mishaps like a scald, mix some aloe gel and vitamin E oil into a little jar for a homemade burn healer.
4. Banish black and blue bruises by swapping on the good goo.
5. Soothe and heal sunburns the feel-good way. Aloe contains cooling properties similar to menthol.
6. Take the sting or itch out of insect bites.
7. Reduce tissue damage from frostbite.
8. Alleviate mysterious rashes.
9. Make feet baby soft with an exfoliating foot mask by mixing together a half cup of oatmeal, a half cup of corn meal, four tbsp. of aloe vera gel and a half cup of unscented body lotion.
10. Help heal herpes outbreaks.
11. Fight Athlete's Foot.
12. Swab over blisters for quick relief.
13. Use as an antidote to allergic skin reactions.
14. Replace creams and lotions as a general moisturizer for dry skin. Aloe is fast absorbing!
15. Prevent pesky pimples and treat acne.
16. Soothe Psoriasis.
17. Prevent scarring and stretch marks.
18. Help rid of Rosacea.
19. Shrink warts.
20. Reverse signs of aging skin and wrinkles. Cleopatra did!
21. Help eliminate Eczema.
22. Brighten skin. Aloe can decrease pigmentation and dark spots.
23. Make skin new again with an exfoliating, organic sugar scrub by mixing together two tbsp. of aloe vera, 2 tbsp. of organic brown sugar and 1 tsp. of organic lemon juice.
24. For rougher patches mix together an organic salt skin scrub using two cups of sea salt, one cup of aloe vera, one cup of organic coconut oil and two tbsp. of local, organic honey.
25. Speed up hair growth by massaging aloe into the scalp, letting it sit for 30 minutes, and rinsing.
26. Reduce hair dandruff by mixing aloe vera juice with coconut milk and wheat germ oil. Massage into scalp and rinse.
27. Replace aloe with conditioner for silkier, smoother hair.
28. Remove eye makeup.
29. Treat minor vaginal irritations.
30. Drink aloe vera juice to relieve gastrointestinal disorders like indigestion.
31. Sip it to aid in elimination. Many times, it's recommended for its laxative effects.
32. Take a swig to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome including bloating and discomfort.
33. Take aloe orally to relieve heartburn, arthritis and rheumatism pain.
34. Boil leaves in a pan of water and breathe in the vapor to alleviate asthma.
35. Drink to lower blood sugar levels—especially for diabetics.
36. Strengthen gums and promote strong, healthy teeth by taking orally or use toothpaste with aloe vera ingredients.
37. Drink to help ease congestion, stomach ulcers, colitis, hemorrhoids, urinary tract infections and prostate problems.
38. Take orally to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides for a healthy heart.
39. Sip to minimize inflammation and infection of the eye and ear.
40. Toast to its general detoxifier and health boosting qualities!

About Aloe-Vera

Beauty expert Shahnaz Husain reveals more about this versatile plant

Aloe vera has been used for more than 3000 years. It is commonly found in many gardens and homes. Its Sanskrit name is Ghikanwar or Ghritkumari. Aloe vera has been known for its healing properties since ancient times. It was used to heal cuts and wounds as it helps formation of scar tissue. It is a powerful natural moisturiser and seals off loss of moisture.

It also softens dead skin cells and helps their removal, leaving the skin smoother and brighter. In fact, it helps the normal functions of the skin by improving its capacity to retain moisture. Aloe vera has anti-oxidant properties too and boosts the skin's cell renewal process. In other words, it helps to delay the visible signs of ageing.

In cosmetic products, the stabilised aloe vera gel or juice is used. It is added to skin care products and lotions, like cleanser, moisturisers, skin serums and so on. However, if the aloe vera plant is growing at home, one can also apply the gel or juice directly on the skin. The gel obtained from the plant itself is the leaf pulp, found in the inner portion of the leaves. The aloe juice is found just beneath the outer skin of the leaves. However, while using it directly on the skin at home, one should wash the plant well and observe total hygiene. The aloe vera gel or juice may be applied on the face and then washed off with plain water after 20 minutes. It helps to soften and moisturise the skin.

In fact, used regularly, it helps to restore the skin's youthful properties. Applying aloe vera is useful during winter and summer. In winter, it helps to relieve dryness and maintain the soft texture of the skin. In summer, it soothes the skin, especially after sun-exposure. It also moisturises the skin, without making the skin oily. Aloe vera can also be added to face masks. Take one tablespoon besan, one teaspoon each of orange peel powder and curd and one tablespoon aloe vera gel. Mix together and apply on the skin, washing it off after 30 minutes. It is a powerful moisturiser and therefore helps in dry skin conditions. It helps to moisturise the skin and seal off the loss of moisture. It softens the skin and helps to remove dead skin cells. It also soothes the skin in cases of sun damage or sun burn. If used regularly, it helps to preserve the skin's youthful properties and delays ageing signs.

The aloe vera (an ornamental plant) can be used for lowering blood glucose and blood lipid level in diabetic and cardiac patients, says a study report prepared by the scientists of Banaras Hindu University (BHU).
The plant is already extensively used in toiletry and cosmetic industry.

It may be mentioned here that a team of BHU scientists including Neeraj Kumar, head, department of rasa shashtra; R Tripathi and B Mishra of department of pharmaceutics, IT-BHU, has come up with a report that sheds light on the potential of aloe vera in diabetic treatment, besides lowering blood lipid levels to bolster cardiac activities.

"The oral administration of aloe vera can be effective in reducing blood glucose in diabetic patients and also in lowering blood lipid levels in hyperlipidaemia patients," said Neeraj Kumar while talking to TOI on Friday.

The utility of aloe vera's hypogycemic activity has been proved in both insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) rats.

"Histological examinations have also shown that aloe vera gel reduces the average size of adipocytes and lowers triglyceride levels in liver and plasma," he added.

Referring to earlier studies that suggest that oral administration of 500 mg per kg weight, twice daily, aloe vera gel significantly reduces the blood glucose level in alloxanized mice, Kumar said that in another study, patients with hyperlipidaemia (higher blood lipid levels), total serum cholesterol levels, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein (LDL) were found to be decreased up to 15%, 30% and 18% respectively after 12 weeks of treatment with aloe vera gel.

As per reports of the rasa shastra department, the aloe vera plant which can grow in extremely dry (arid) conditions and is widely found in Africa and India is widely used in herbal medicines.

While the anti-inflammatory and healing ability of aloe vera has been studied extensively, its other versatile pharmacological activities like hypoglycemic and gastroprotective properties have attracted more attention recently.

Aloe Vera:

It is an ornamental plant known as ghratakumari in Sanskrit and gheekvar in Hindi. It grows in extremely dry (arid) climate and is widely distributed in Africa, India an other arid areas. The plant forms symbiotic relationship with Arbuscular mycoorhiza which helps this plant to access nutrients from the soil. The gel of aloe vera has pharmacological properties like wound healing, frost-bite healing, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, hypoglycemic and gastroprotective abilities.

It supports digestive system to absorb the nutrients and eliminates all harmful toxins from the body. Aloe vera juice is consumed to get relief from various digestive problems including heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome. Some other uses of aloe vera include treatment of skin allergies, acne, fungal infection etc.