GOQii

Blog

By Leave a Comment

6 Foods That Help Reduce Acid Reflux

Ever felt that burning sensation in your chest after a big meal or when you eat after a long gap? That feeling is known as acid reflux. Acid reflux is a condition where the acid content of the stomach flows up to the esophagus and pushes the food out from the mouth.

This is often called a heartburn but has nothing to do with the heart.

One of the major reasons for this condition is a weak lower esophageal sphincter – which acts like a valve to prevent the food in the stomach from going back to the food pipe.

Besides this, other factors contributing are excessive caffeine intakes, erratic meal patterns, eating in large portions, excessive junk food, sleeping immediately after meals and obesity, etc.

Modifying our diet is the easiest way to reduce acid reflux. Try these simple and easily available foods from your kitchen to get some relief.

1. Fruits 

Alkaline food will help to reduce the backflow of acid and fruits are the best example. Fruits like bananas, watermelon, pomegranate and cantaloupe help to neutralize the acid content and numb the effects of reflux. Banana is a natural antacid. The high fiber content of fruits helps to improve the digestion and ward off indigestion.

2. Herbal tea

Herbal tea with ginger, licorice, mint and Tulsi [Holy Basil] helps to curb acidity. Ginger has anti inflammatory properties and along with Mint leaves, stimulates the digestive system to produce more bile for better digestion. Ginger has the capability to destroy the acidity triggering pylori bacteria. Licorice is said to increase the mucus lining on the esophagus and thus have a calm effect on the stomach. Tulsi leaves are a natural cure for acidity and burning sensation in the stomach.

3. Curd & Buttermilk

Curd is a probiotic which help in digestion and has a soothing effect on the stomach. It keeps discomfort at bay. Being a good source of protein it helps digest the food and boost the immune system.

Cold buttermilk is a good antidote for acidity. The good bacteria in buttermilk helps in digesting the food well and prevents bloating and gas formation which eventually leads to acid reflux. Adding a pinch of jeera powder and pepper makes it more beneficial.

4. Coconut Water

One of the lesser known reasons for acid reflux is less intake of water. Sipping on coconut water is a great way to stay hydrated. Coconut water is rich in potassium which regulates the pH balance crucial for acid reflux. Having coconut water daily helps to reduce bloating drastically.

5. Aloe Vera

The antibacterial compounds of Aloe Vera fight the bad bacteria in the digestive system which cause bloating and belching. The bad bacteria present not only weaken the digestive system but also reduces the digestion ability of the body. Aloe Vera juice and gels work very well on acid reflux condition. Aloe Vera soft gel and powder can also be tried.

6. Lemon Water

Although lemons are acidic in nature, they have an alkaline effect on the stomach and help in neutralizing the acid and thus reduce acid reflux. For better results, replace the sugar with rock salt in the lemon water and feel instant relief. Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, which help fight infection and boost immunity.

Was this article helpful? Do you have your own home remedy? Want to know more? Drop us your thoughts and queries in the comments below!

#BeTheForce 

By Leave a Comment

Healthy Summer Salads to Keep You Cool

Healthy Summer Salads to Keep You Cool

The scorching sun is shining brighter than ever! The resulting heat wave can have an impact on our health and appetite. During summers, it is important to watch what we eat. To balance the heat, we have listed a few scrumptious summer salads to help you stay cool!

Watermelon Feta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 big bowl of Watermelon cubes
  • ½ cup crumbled Feta Cheese or Paneer.
  • 1 medium bowl Cucumber cubes
  • Handful of Mint leaves
  • 1 tsp Honey and Olive oil
  • A pinch of rock salt
  • 1 tsp Lemon juice

Method:

  • For the dressing combine Honey, Lemon juice, Olive oil and rock salt
  • In a large bowl, take the Watermelon and Cucumber cubes
  • Add the finely chopped Mint leaves to it along with the dressing
  • Garnish with Feta Cheese or Paneer
  • Serve chilled

Healthy Benefits: High water content of Watermelons makes it an ideal fruit during summer. Feta Cheese is comparatively low on calories and is loaded with calcium.

Hung Curd Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Hung Curd
  • 1 cup Chickpeas
  • ½ cup each of Tomato, Cucumber, Onions and Bell Pepper.
  • Juice of a Lemon
  • Handful of Coriander and Mint leaves.

Method:

  • For the dressing, mix the Hung Curd, Lemon Juice, Rock Salt and Pepper
  • In a bowl, take Chickpeas, add finely chopped Tomatoes, Cucumber, Onions and Bell Pepper
  • Add the Hung Curd dressing and garnish with Coriander and Mint leaves

Healthy Benefits: Curd is an excellent probiotic. It helps in keeping stomach ailments away during summers. Chickpeas provide the much needed proteins and the veggies add a dash of freshness.

Mint Paneer Salad

Ingredients:

  • 200 gm Paneer
  • 1 cup thick Curd
  • Chopped Cucumber, Tomatoes and Onions
  • 1 cup Lettuce leaves and Salad leaves
  • Lemon juice and Lemon rind
  • 1 cup Bread Croutons [non fried-tossed on non-stick pan]
  • Handful Mint leaves
  • Salt and Pepper
  • Tandoori masala [store bought]

Method:

  • For the dressing, whisk half of the curd with mint leaves
  • Add Lemon juice and Lemon rind to it along with Salt and Pepper
  • Marinate the Paneer cubes in thick curd along with Tandoori masala
  • Shallow fry on a non stick pan till golden brown
  • In a large serving bowl, add roughly chopped Lettuce and Salad leaves
  • Add chopped Tomatoes, Onions and Cucumber followed by the Mint dressing and mix to coat well
  • Adjust the seasoning if required. Add the Bread Croutons and Paneer cubes.

Healthy Benefits: This is a perfect summer pot meal to cool you down. It has a good amount of fiber and proteins. The mint leaves aid digestion and take care of skin allergies during this harsh weather.

Hope you enjoy these summer salads! To make them more interesting, try adding these refreshing, low calorie summer drinks to your meal. If you’re looking for more healthy recipes, tune in to the Simple Healthy Cooking class by Arooshi Garg on GOQii Play. Download the app now!

By 1 Comment

Dance Your Way To Good Health on International Dance Day!

Dancing

We are all well aware that April 29 is celebrated as International Dance Day. Did you know that it is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Jean George Noverre – the creator of Modern Ballet?

If you’re wondering whether International Dance Day is just another addition to the various days that are being celebrated worldwide, then you’re in for a surprise. Dance and good health are closely knitted. You can, in fact, reap a surplus of health benefits from dancing.

From celebrations to harvest rituals, dance has always been an integral part of the human culture. In India, the legacy of dance dates back to 5000 years. The Hindu mythology speaks volumes of Lord Shiva as Natraja – the Lord of the Dance. The Divine Raslila by Lord Krishna, Radha Rani and the Gopis in Vrindavan or Lord Ganesha’s dance to express joy.

Not just in India, but in any part of the world, dancing has always been a source of delight and ecstasy. It‘s a way to express joys, sorrows and communicate emotions or a story with grace.

As it is International Dance Day, let’s take a look at various dance forms and how they can keep you healthy!

Ballet

This graceful dance originated during the Italian Renaissance in the 15th Century. The dance moves slowly at first and then picks up the pace to classical music with dramatic interpretation. Perhaps the main features of this dance are standing on the toes and the arms held out in an extended curve. As a result, these dancers have significant strength in their hamstrings, glutes, calves and feet. The turnout of the leg at the hip socket joint is another key element in Ballet which helps develop strong gluteal muscles. Ballet ensures posture alignment and joint flexibility. Ballet trainees are taught to engage their core to achieve alignment, balance and prevent injuries.

Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is a classical solo Temple Dance from Southern India. The dance has impressive gesture and excellent footwork. It is based on Hindu religious themes. This dance form tones the arms, legs and the core. It also increases stamina, flexibility and balance. The steps and eye movements increase concentration and coordination skills. Rolling of the eyes is a good exercise for the eye muscles. It’s a great way to have a healthy heart and stay fit.

Belly Dance

The mesmerizing belly dance of the mysterious Middle East is an impressive and expressive dance form! It has admirers and followers all around the world. This dance originated in Egypt and has complex movements of the Torso. Dancing gracefully and fluidly is possible only when you have a strong core. Contrary to its name, Belly Dance also employs the larger and smaller muscles of the abdomen, pelvis, spine, neck, glutes and the upper arm.

Zumba

Zumba is the latest fitness craze which has swept youngsters as well as the elderly off their feet! It was accidentally invented when Albert “Beto” Perez, an aerobics instructor forgot to carry his tape and played the available Latin music and infused this dance with aerobics and Eureka! Zumba was born! It provides a great workout for the entire body, engaging each and every muscle group. It‘s a high-intensity cardio exercise which keeps metabolism high. Besides this, Zumba also increases endurance.

Salsa

Salsa is a dance and musical style with deep Caribbean and African roots. Although it was popular in Latin America, it has gained popularity in Europe and Asia too! Salsa is a partner dance which features a series of hip movement, twirls and other dance moves. This dance virtually engages all the major muscle groups. The glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps, calves and core area are exercised aggressively in order to perform the various step sequences.

Bollywood Dance

If I had to pin down the exact number of dance forms which comprise the Bollywood Dance, it would be as difficult as gauging how many shades of blue makes the sky.

Initially, Bollywood Dance was inspired by classical and folk dances of the various states in India. Over the years, Bollywood Dance has evolved. Now there are professional choreographers who have introduced Disco, Hip-Hop, Freestyle Dancing, Belly Dancing and so on.

Bollywood Dancing is a great aerobic exercise which engages the whole body. It is a fun way to tone up the body as most of the dance movements help strengthen the core and calves. And last but not the least, it’s a great stress buster.

How Does Dancing Help Your Health?

  • It is a great activity for those with cardiovascular disease as it helps increase lung capacity
  • Dance aids in boosting memory and preventing dementia as you grow older
  • It improves flexibility and helps in maintaining body balance and coordination
  • Dancing solo, with a partner or in a group is said to reduce stress. Symptoms of depression are much lower with people who sway to the rhythm
  • It is a popular way to stay fit and active. Most fitness clubs have already included dance in their fitness regime
  • It also improves one’s confidence and self-esteem

Although dance can be performed by anyone, keep a few things in mind:

  • Visit your Doctor if you have any medical conditions or obesity
  • Warm up and stretch before dancing
  • If you are a beginner, don’t push yourself too hard
  • Keep yourself well hydrated
  • Rest in between sessions

Whether you’re a busy person, multi-tasking or a senior citizen, age is just a number when you dance to the music you like! If you want to start dancing for health, tune in to some of our coaches on GOQii Play and find a good mix of Zumba, Strong by Zumba, Aerobics and Belly Dancing! Download the app to get started: www.goqii.com/app

Do you know of any other dance form that provides a multitude of health benefits? Share them with us in the comments below!

#BeTheForce

By 2 Comments

The Power of the Indian Gooseberry

Indian Gooseberry Benefits

In a fast-paced world that rapidly drains us of energy, it is extremely important to be in the best of shape! In that pursuit, we are constantly searching for an elixir that will give us good health with least efforts.

What if we told you that you can have more energy, focus and overall good health? What if that magic elixir exists? Moreso, what if it is a fruit that you already know?

If you haven’t guessed it already, we are talking about the Indian Gooseberry or as it is popularly known – “Amla”. Since ancient times, it is used to cure various ailments, even if it is something as simple as aiding digestion to something as complex as fighting diabetes and heart disease.

The Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis or phyllanthus emblica) derives its name from the Sanskrit word “Amalaki”. This tree is a native of India and the neighboring South East Asian countries. The fruit is sour in taste but leaves a sweet aftertaste.

Let’s take a look at how it impacts health!

  • Boost Immunity: The Indian Gooseberry is a powerhouse of Vitamin C and A. It greatly increases white blood cells in our body and is an excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic .It is like a powerful soldier that shields our body against various foreign toxins.
  • Fights Cancer: It has the potential to restrict the growth of cancer cells by keeping harmful free radicals at bay. The Indian Gooseberry also counter-attacks the side effects of anti-cancer drugs, radiation and chemotherapy.
  • Keeps Diabetes in Check: It helps regulate blood sugar levels in many ways. The chromium present in it is responsible for the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin and the polyphenol keeps the oxidative stress low, thus making the body more responsive to insulin.
  • Good for the Heart: The cardioprotective properties of the Indian Gooseberry due to the presence of Vitamin A and C, the chromium and iron help reduce cholesterol, increase HDL (Good cholesterol) and reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) and strengthen the heart muscles.
  • Protects the Eyes: Regular use of the Indian Gooseberry can protect our eyes from cataract and short-sightedness. The impressive carotene content in it can keep night blindness away.
  • Promotes a Healthy Liver: It is diuretic in nature, which means that it increases the volume and frequency of urine and fosters regular bowel movement. It also helps in eliminating toxic metals and the ill effects of excessive medication. Thus, it protects the liver. It also provides relief in the case of urinary tract infection.
  • Fountain of Youth: The Indian Gooseberry supports longevity, helps smoothen wrinkles, fortifies the skin, prevents hair loss and greying and provides lustrous hair. Besides beauty, it is also a brain tonic which promotes clarity of thought and boosts memory.

The Not So Good Part of the Indian Gooseberry! 

Since it is high in ascorbic acid, taking excessive quantities at night may erode the enamel in the teeth just like any other citrus fruit. Since it reduces diabetes, sugar levels may drop, so keep your doctor informed about it. He may change your medication. Being diuretic, excess amla consumption may cause constipation to a few.

How to Eat the Indian Gooseberry

  • The best way to have it would be raw. You can add rock salt and pepper to kill the sourness
  • Powder and tablets are a convenient way to have it, but to be taken under medical supervision
  • Indian Gooseberry juice either freshly made at home or store bought are great options
  • Chawanprash: a healthy way to include it. 1-2 tsp can be taken daily
  • Amla Murabba: Since it has a good amount of sugar, which acts as a preservative, you can wash off the excess sugar syrup just before eating
  • Eat it as a chutney, pickle or you can even opt for Amla Candies

To put it all in a nutshell, taken in any form, it is a simple yet effective way to good health. It is worth its weight in gold and this information shouldn’t be ignored but passed on to the next generation!

Want to know more about the Indian Gooseberry? Let us know in the comments below!

#BeTheForce

“GOQii And I Are Inseparable For Life!” – Madela Bharathi

There’s a myth that you can’t be fit and healthy if you’re a homemaker. Some say that it is difficult to look after your own health as you’re so focused on those you want to take care of. But if you have the determination, dedication and drive, nothing can stop you! Well, once you’re already […]

Aspire! Achieve! Inspire! Harit Panchal User Journey

Being healthy is not a race, it is a marathon. As we all know, running a marathon is no easy task. If you’re not prepared or willing to learn, it can get extremely difficult. More often than not, when you want to push your game to the next level, you will need help. Harit Panchal […]

Good Health & Good Karma! How Rajneesh Sharma won the India Steps Challenge!

What if you had a chance to win Rs. 5 lakh? How far would you go? What if the odds weren’t completely in your favor? Would you still keep going? When the GOQii India Steps Challenge presented our players with an opportunity to earn rewards for walking, many individuals stepped up to the challenge. But, […]