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A Complete Guide To The Benefits Of Oil Pulling

oil pullingImmunity has always been a cornerstone of a healthy and disease-free body. One ancient Ayurvedic practice that plays a significant role in enhancing immunity and promoting overall health is oil pulling.

What Is Oil Pulling? 

Oil pulling, known as Kalava in Ayurveda, is an age-old practice that has been used for centuries to improve oral health and boost immunity. This method is believed to help prevent more than thirty systemic diseases when practiced regularly.

The oral cavity harbors billions of microorganisms, some of which contribute to the development of systemic diseases. Oil pulling involves swishing edible oil around the mouth continuously for 20 minutes, similar to using a mouthwash. According to Ayurveda, the tongue is connected to every organ in the body. Swishing oil in the mouth for an extended period draws out impurities before they can recirculate and spread throughout the body.

How To Do It? 

Oil pulling is simple, has no side effects, and requires just one ingredient. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Take 1 tbsp of coconut oil.
  2. Swish it around in your mouth, between teeth, over gums, tongue, towards the cheeks for 20 minutes.
  3. Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth well with water.

Caution: Oil may thicken and clog your drain, so it’s best to spit it into a dustbin. Also, children should avoid this practice as they may accidentally swallow the oil.

If you find it difficult to swish oil for the full 20 minutes initially, start with 5 minutes and gradually build up to 15–20 minutes. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has proven anti-inflammatory properties and can kill harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The best time to practice oil pulling is early morning before drinking water, as the body detoxifies during sleep, and the tongue gets coated with a white film full of toxins and microbes.

Benefits Of Oil Pulling On Oral Health 

Oil pulling is highly beneficial for oral hygiene as it reduces the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth. It is particularly helpful for conditions such as:

  • Bad breath
  • Bleeding gums
  • Plaque
  • Cavities
  • Oral candidiasis
  • Gingivitis
  • Tooth pain
  • Dry mouth, sore throat and chapped lips
  • Whitening teeth, pinker lips and healthier gums

Benefits For The Skin

Oil pulling not only benefits your oral health but also positively impacts your skin by exercising your facial muscles and encouraging blood flow to your face. This practice can:

  • Reduce wrinkles, fine lines, dry face and other signs of aging
  • Improve skin elasticity
  • Reduce double chin
  • Define your jawline 

Additional Benefits

Beyond oral and skin health, oil pulling offers several other advantages, including:

  • Improving gut health, metabolism, digestion, and immunity
  • Detoxifying the mouth and body
  • Enhancing energy levels and sleep quality
  • Balancing hormones
  • Reducing acne, eczema, psoriasis and other skin problems
  • Alleviating headaches and migraine
  • Providing relief from stiff joints and allergies

We hope you try this ancient Ayurvedic method of detoxifying your mouth and body. Do share your experience with us. For more articles on health and wellness, check out Healthy Reads.

To get these tips directly from your GOQii Coach, subscribe to Personalised Health Coaching here.

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8 Surprising Health Benefits of Black Rice

‘Rice’ is a staple in many Asian cultures. As people become more health-conscious and super foods gain popularity, the conversations around different rice varieties has also grown, especially among health enthusiast

White rice has taken a backseat as more people are turning to alternatives like red, brown, quinoa, and black rice. Yes, you read that right—black rice!

Black Rice, also known as ‘Forbidden Rice,’ is a highly nutritious variety that has been cultivated in India for centuries. It’s mainly grown in the North East (known as Chak Hao) and the southern regions (called Kavuni in Tamil) of India.

Simply put, when choosing rice, the darker the color, the more nutrients it contains. By that measure, Black Rice is the gold standard among rice varieties.

Let’s explore some of the surprising health benefits of this remarkable rice.

  1. Rich in Antioxidants: Black rice is a grain which is super rich and loaded with Antioxidants. The Anthocyanin content found in black rice is way more than most grains and this is what makes this grain stand out in comparison to other superfoods like quinoa, red rice, etc. Studies have shown that the Anthocyanin antioxidants in grains help the body to protect against heart diseases, cancer and many more.
  2. Rich in Fibre: Black rice is loaded with fibre and minerals. A typical bowl of 100gms of black rice serving has over 4.9 grams of fibre. This is double the amount of fibre available in brown rice. So, if you are looking to include some rich fibre in your diet then it is better to start consuming Black Rice than any other varieties of rice.
  1. Has anti-inflammatory properties: Black rice is a natural healing food. Research has shown Black rice to reduce inflammatory compounds in your body and increase the anti-inflammatory compounds. This increase in the anti-inflammatory compounds help in reducing inflammation in various diseases like cancer, arthritis and allergies.
  1. A natural detoxifying agent for your body: Black rice is a rich and natural detoxifying agent. Studies have shown that the phytonutrients in black rice help detoxify your body and remove harmful toxins from your liver. So, next time you throw a party, have a detox week by consuming Black rice.
  1. A gluten-free grain: Black rice, like other varieties of rice, is naturally gluten-free. So, if you are allergic to gluten and have the Celiac disease (Gluten insensitivity), then you should consider having black rice in your daily diet plan.
  1. Helps fight diabetes: Black Rice bran contains fibre, which in turn helps glucose to be absorbed by your body over a longer period of time. Research has proven that eating whole grains like Black Rice helps your body lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and also keeps your weight in check in addition to boosting your energy levels. So, if you are diabetic then you should consider substituting Black Rice to white rice in your daily diet as it way better and helps fight diabetes.
  1. Aids in weight loss: Black Rice is a whole grain and super rich in fibers. This combination helps your body reduce signals of hunger thus helping in preventing overeating. In addition, researchers have found out that whole grains like Black Rice help prevent insulin resistance in your body which leads to and is related to the risk of becoming overweight/obese. If you are someone who is looking to reduce your weight, consider including Black Rice in your weight loss regime.
  1. Promotes heart health: A healing food like Black Rice has been shown to reduce the atherosclerotic plaque formation in the arteries which is the main reason for a heart attack and stroke. In addition to this Black Rice also helps to reduce the 2 common factors in heart disease, namely LDL, triacylglycerol and total cholesterol. Consider including Black Rice to promote a healthy heart and keep heart-related ailments at bay.

Hope you like this article, do let me know your views and any other health benefits I may have missed in the comments section below. For more insights on nutrition and wellness, speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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A Fusion of Taste & Health: Exotic Salads for you to try.

रोजाना एक कटोरी सलाद खाने के स्वास्थ्य लाभ

This Independence day let’s get healthy and try out some of these power packed nutrient salads. Why are salads important and what are its health benefits is nicely described in this blog https://goqii.com/blog/health-benefits-of-eating-a-bowl-of-salad-daily/.

Salad or veggies is the most important part of the meal platter. You cannot afford to skip if you want to get your daily dose of micronutrients. But, it is so boring and monotonous to cut slices of cucumber, tomato and onion and have it daily. There are various veggies available which you can twist and turn and make your salad interesting and colourful and tasty too. Wondering how? Keep reading.

Here I am listing some tasty salads with amazing dressings

  1. CRUNCHY MUNCHY SALAD
Crunchy Munchy Salad

Crunchy Munchy Salad

Ingredients:

Wheat/Oat Flakes – ½ bowl

Baby Corn – 5-6 in no

Bell Peppers (3 coloured) – ½ bowl

Lettuce – 2 leaves

Pomegranate – ¼ bowl

Seasoning

Lime juice – 2-3 tap

Salt – according to taste

Chaat Masala – According to taste

Method

Roast the oats a bit. Then mix all ingredients with the seasoning. Toss well and serve.

  1. DETOX SALAD
Detox Salad

Detox Salad

Ingredients:

Broccoli – ½ bowl florets

Carrot – ½ bowl juliennes

Bell Pepper – ¼ bowl juliennes (red, yellow, green)

Baby Corn – 4-5 in no diced finely

Cherry tomatoes – ¼ bowl or regular tomatoes

Red Cabbage- ½ bowl finely chopped

Zucchini (yellow) – ¼ bowl sliced

Alfa Alfa sprouts – 2 Tbsp (for garnishing)

Seasoning:

Vinegar – 2 tsp

Red Chilli Flakes – 1 tsp

Salt – according to taste

Flax seeds – coarsely pounded 2 tsp

Walnuts – coarsely pounded 3-4 in nos

Method:

Toss all ingredients with seasoning in a bowl.

Refrigerate for ½ an hour & serve.

  1. SPROUTED METHI SALAD
sprouted-methi-seed-salad-recipe.1024x1024

Sprouted Methi Salad

Ingredients:

Sprouted Methi Seeds – ½ cup

Pomegranate – ¼ cup

Cucumber – 1 in number diced

Carrot – 1 in number diced

Capsicum – ½ each diced (3 coloured)

Tomato – 1 in number chopped

Spring Onion – 1 stalk finely chopped

Seasoning:

Chaat Masala – ¼ tsp

Lemon Juice – ½ lemon

Salt – according to taste

Method:

Add all ingredients in a salad bowl. Add seasoning to the same. Toss well. And Serve.

  1. WALDORF SALAD
waldorf-salad-horiz-b-1500

Waldorf Salad

Ingredients

10-12 cup Walnuts halves
2 tsp Flax Seeds
½ cup low-fat Yogurt
1 stick finely chopped Parsley
1 stick finely chopped Celery
1 teaspoon honey
2 leaves of Ice berg Lettuce chopped
2 large crisp Apples
Freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup Golden Raisins
½ Lemon, juiced
Method

Cut apple into chunks. Add all ingredients in a salad bowl. Toss all the ingredients. Refrigerate for 30-45 mins and serve.

  1. BEAN SALAD WITH PROBIOTIC DRESSING
Bean Salad with Pro-biotic dressing

Bean Salad with Pro-biotic dressing

Ingredients

Bean Sprouts – 1 cup

Fresh Pomegranate – ¼ cup kernels

Cucumber – 1 in number (diced)

3 coloured Bell Pepper – ½ each (diced)

Tomatoes – 1 in number (diced)

Dressing:

Curd – ½ cup

Honey – 1 tsp

Olive Oil – ½ tsp

Flax Seeds – 2 tsp (coarsely crushed)

Chaat Masala – ½ tsp

Salt – if required

Method:

For dressing: Whip all ingredients together with a fork. Add other ingredients in a bowl. Add the dressing and toss well. Refrigerate & serve on a bed of lettuce.

 

  1. TANGY TROPICANA

 

Tangy Tropicana

Tangy Tropicana

Ingredients:

Pineapple – 3 fresh slices (diced)

Cherry Tomatoes- 6-8 in numbers

Red, Yellow & Green Bell Peppers – ½ each cut into juliennes

Lettuce – 2 leaves chopped

Walnuts – 2 in no chopped

Seasoning:

Lime juice – ½ lemon

Honey – ½ tsp

Ginger – grated a small piece

Salt – As per taste

Black Pepper Powder – As per taste

Method:

Soak grated ginger, lemon juice & honey together

Add all veggies & walnuts in a salad bowl

Add the dressing prepared, salt & pepper

Toss well

Serve chilled

What are you waiting for? Get healthy-dress up your meal platter with the above colourful veggie mixes!

We hope these exotic salads inspire you to add a healthy and colorful twist to your meals this Independence Day! If you try any of these recipes, share your experience in the comments below. For more nutritious recipes and tips, check out Healthy Reads or speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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8 Incredible Health Benefits Of Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) 

benefits of surya namaskarSurya Namaskar literally means Salutations to the Sun. It is a combination of 12 yoga asanas, where the body, mind, and soul are brought into complete synchrony. They are done in sets, some do 12, some 15, while some 30, depending on their endurance. Scientifically too, there are multiple benefits of Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar). Let’s explore them in detail!

The Benefits of Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar)

  1. Stretching and flexibility: The 12 asanas which are part of the Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) ensure that every part of the body is exercised. The flexibility that comes with it needs to be experienced to be believed. This is extremely beneficial for the bones, joints, and ligaments of the entire body and spine.
  2. Improves internal organ functioning: The various stretches increase blood flow to the organs and improve their functioning. The result is a better functioning digestive system and kidneys, which help in better absorption of nutrients from food and thorough elimination of metabolic waste. Detox happens naturally, with the release of trapped gasses and improved enzyme secretion.
  3. Weight loss: One of the best-proven ways to lose weight is to do Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) on a daily basis. It is a perfect workout involving the complete body and is great for losing weight around the belly. It also is proven to improve the thyroid gland functioning, which plays a significant role in metabolism.
  4. Bone health: Traditionally, it is done during the early morning hours, at sunrise, which ensures the body gets the required amount of Vitamin D. This is essential for good bone health.
  5. Stress buster: Stress release happens in multiple ways. Deep focused breathing is one of them. While performing the asanas, control over breathing is very essential and so, stress control is ensured. Various muscles and bones get tense with stress, and thorough stretching helps relieve the stress buildup. The mind is also calm during the workout, and so stress relief is further enhanced.
  6. Relief from insomnia: People who are not able to sleep should perform Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) on a regular basis. Both stress relief and the perfect workout ensure good sleep.
  7. Helpful in menstrual cycles: Women who have cramps during their menstrual cycles have shown very good improvement with the inclusion of this exercise. It is also shown to benefit people with irregular menstruation thanks to the improved blood circulation. Pregnant women performing Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) are more likely to have a normal delivery.
  8. Glowing Skin: With the release of toxins and stress, glowing skin is a natural affair!

We hope these 8 benefits of Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) urge you to make it a part of your daily routine. For more on how yoga can help you lead a healthy and fulfilling life, check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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