GOQii

Blog

  • HOME
  • HEALTHY LIVING
  • FITNESS
  • HEALTHY RECIPES
  • USER STORIES
  • KARMA
  • BUY GOQii

Search Results for: supplements

May 24, 2017 By Vaishali Nair 21 Comments

Ageing is not skin deep! Rejuvenate the Natural way!

japanese-green-tea

Age is just not a number! Aging affects the way we look and the way we feel. It affects our bodies in more than many ways as what we anticipate. The good news is that the aging process can be delayed by incorporating the right ingredients in your daily diet. The key is to focus on improving your cellular health and hormonal levels.

Aging does not stop at the surface level. It profoundly depletes the deeper layers, leading to unmistakable signs that no makeup can disguise and only anti-aging supplements, foods and products that work at both the cellular and hormonal levels can repair. Not even cosmetic surgery can correct some of these consequences.

To achieve true anti-aging effects, you must activate cellular mechanisms, plus biochemical and hormonal anti-aging pathways, and restore them to youthful functioning. So it’s important to understand how the combination of certain anti-aging supplements, foods and herbs can promote deep and long-lasting effects.

ageing

Green tea: – Green tea consists of leaves that haven’t been fermented and so contain the highest level of antioxidants. These teas contain polyphenols called catechins. Green tea catechins reduces the level of damaging free radicals. When applied to the skin, tea repairs scar tissue and prevents wrinkles, blemishes and other impurities. When used as a sunblock, tea can actually reduce or completely erase sun damage. It also helps with warts, psoriasis, acne, and rosacea. Tea sachets are beneficial when cold, too, helping to reduce puffiness by virtue of combining a cool compress with tannins. Tannins are a type of astringent that help to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. The caffeine in tea also tightens facial skin for a leaner look.

Turmeric:-Turmeric contains high amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential for protecting the integrity of the skin by preventing free radicals from destroying its texture and elasticity. Research shows that turmeric inhibits a key enzyme (elastase) that reduces the ability of elastin from forming. Elastin, along with collagen, is a protein needed for making the skin smooth and pliable, and also helps it to retain its original position when pinched. In fact, turmeric, in vitro, may inhibit elastase by up to 65%.

Red Grape Juice:- Grapes and grape juice contain alpha hydroxy acids that help to make skin wrinkle free and smooth. Alpha hydroxyl acids in grapes are useful in removing surface scars as well.

Gingko Biloba:-Ginkgo’s antioxidant properties neutralize the free radicals that can damage proteins within the cell, enzymes, or the fragile lipid membranes that surround and protect the cell. The leaves of the ginkgo tree contain flavonoids and turpenoids – types of antioxidants which make it one of the best natural anti-aging supplements.

Hop plant: – Hops are also great if you have mature skin as it helps to balance moisture levels in the skin. Hops inhibit the elastase enzyme that is responsible for causing cross-linking in collagen. When our collagen is cross-linked, it breaks down, and the signs of aging gradually emerge.

Fennel: – It has powerful antiaging properties that will protect both skin and hair from premature aging. Fennel contains super-antioxidants like superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase, all of which are known to have properties effective at protecting the skin from environmental stressors.

Fenugreek:-The seeds are a rich source of vitamin B3 and niacin that helps in recovering the damaged skin cells and promotes the regeneration of new cells and tissues that help in lightening age spots, hyper pigmentation wrinkles, fine lines and crow’s feet that form on the forehead, at corner of eyes and lips.

Aloe Vera: – It functions as an effective natural remedy for pimples and acne and reducing excessive oiliness of skin. Malic acid present in aloe vera gel improves skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles and fine lines- the most evident signs of skin aging. Zinc present in the gel increases the youthfulness of skin by shrinking the pores whereas mucopolysaccharides – long chain sugar molecules present in the gel helps in retaining moisture and improves formation of collagen – the protein that forms the basis of cell structure and maintains skin elasticity.

Banana: – This fruit is loaded with skin benefitting nutrients such as potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C and vitamin E that makes it a complete remedy for all skin problems. It helps in hydrating and moisturizing dry skin, improving collagen production, skin elasticity and suppleness and fighting the damage causing free radicals and oxidative stress to provide a flawless and younger looking skin and adds a healthy glow to it.

Almonds:- Almonds are loaded with nutrients such as vitamin E, iron, zinc, folic acid and oleic acid that function as powerful antioxidants which prevent the degeneration of collagen fibers of skin and delay the aging process by treating wrinkles and fine lines.

Avocados:-It acts as a nourishing moisturizer for excessive dry skin that also helps in repairing damaged cells and promotes the regeneration of new cells. The antioxidants and amino acids present in this exotic fruit flushes out toxins from skin and prevents premature skin aging.

Pineapple Juice: – Pineapple juice is also effective for preventing premature aging. Being loaded with antioxidants such as potassium and vitamin C, pineapple juice helps in neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals and oxidative stress of cells thus preventing premature aging of skin. It also helps in improving skin tone and correcting uneven skin tone, dark patches, age spots and hyper pigmentation.

March 22, 2017 By Trishala Chopra 32 Comments

All you need to know about whey protein!

560183-milk

The more people are getting concerned about their health, more brands of whey proteins are being introduced in the market.

Being a consumer, you have the right to know about what is going inside your body. You might have heard a lot about whey protein, but are you aware about what exactly it is?

Everybody who talks about whey protein have mixed reactions. When I tell my players about whey protein, I get a list of questions!

Why do I need whey protein?

What is the other option for whey protein?

Is taking supplement good for health?

Will whey protein affect my kidney?

I am okay with all these questions because there are many healthcare sites having mixed opinions about whey protein.

Let’s not be judgemental about anything.

It’s not even correct to call ‘whey protein’ as a supplement because it does occur in natural food sources as well!

This blog will help you clear your doubts about whey protein!

What is whey and where do we get it from?

  • Whey is derived from animal milk.
  • Milk protein is divided into 2- Whey (20% of the protein in milk) and casein (80% of the protein in milk)
  • Whey protein is said to be a complete source of protein as it contains all essential amino acids (These amino acids are not produced by the human body so it must be supplemented through diet) which are required by the human body.
  • Whey protein is water soluble while casein protein is insoluble in water.

What are the natural food sources in which whey protein is present?

  • Ricotta cheese
  • Milk
  • Yogurt

There are different supplements available in the market which has different brand names and components in it. Let’s understand what are those types of whey proteins listed on the supplements?

1.  Whey protein concentrate

  • Whey protein concentrate is also labelled as WPC.
  • WPC label is only given to those supplements which has 90% or less than 90% of protein by weight.

How to read the label of the protein supplement to understand if it is WPC or something else?

  • Check the protein % on the label. If it is less than 90% then it is WPC.
  • The ingredients which are listed on the top of the label are in more quantities as compared to the ones which are mentioned at the bottom of the nutritional label.
  • For example, if a supplement box has 40% WPC84 written on it, this means that the supplement has 84% of the WPC and rest all the ingredients is a combination of lactose, milk derivatives, minerals and fats.

Advantages of choosing WPC: –

  • It is cheaper as compared to the other types of whey protein and fits in the budgets of fitness freaks.

Disadvantages of choosing WPC: –

  • It has low bioavailability.
  • Supplements with WPC contains lactose or milk derivatives in it which cannot be used by lactose intolerant people.

2. Whey protein isolate

  • Whey protein isolate is also labelled as WPI.
  • It is the purest form of protein which eliminates all the lactose and fats present.
  • WPI label is only given to those supplements which has 90% or more than 90% of protein by weight.

Advantages of choosing WPI: –

  • Its high-end techniques are used to eliminate the lactose and fats which makes WPI the purest form of protein.
  • As there is no lactose in it, lactose intolerant people can choose this supplement.

Disadvantages of choosing WPI: –

  • It is expensive.
  • As it has no carbohydrates and fats, the taste often becomes an issue for the people.

3.  Whey protein hydrolysate or blends

  • They are the blend of WPC and WPI which mostly commonly available in the market.
  • The cost for these blends are neutral. It depends on the ratio of WPC and WPI.

Advantage of choosing whey protein hydrolysate or blends: –

  • Neutral cost. Neither too expensive nor too cheap.

Disadvantage of choosing whey protein hydrolysate or blends: –

  • WPC: WPI ratios can be misleading so as explained above, which ingredient comes first is more in the supplement as compared to the one which comes at the bottom. 

How does whey protein work in the body?

  • Whey protein is a complete source of protein having all essential amino acids including leucine. Leucine is a very important amino acid when it comes to muscle building and toning of the body. Thus, whey becomes the most popular source of protein!
  • Bioavailability (Ability of animal to utilize that protein in the body) of whey is very high as compared to other protein sources!

Let’s have a look: –

Protein sources

Bioavailability
WPI 159
WPC 104
Whole egg 100
Milk 91
Cheese 84
Fish 82
Chicken 79
Soya 74
Casein 71
Yogurt 68
Egg white 88
Oatmeal 58
  • The above table shows that whey protein has the highest bioavailability, which becomes the most favourite protein of all times!

How much whey protein you need every day?

  • A healthy adult requires 0.8-1g per kg body weight protein in a day depending on the physical activity. If you are into intense working out like athletes and sports person, the protein intake can go up to 1.5 g to 2g/per kg of body weight in a day.
  • For example, an average man with sedentary lifestyle whose weight is 60kgs requires 0.8 g per kg body weight per day.

So, it is calculated as,

Weight x requirement of protein as per physical activity= Ideal protein intake per day.

As per the above example,

60 x 0.8= 48g per day.

  • Protein can be obtained from natural sources as well. If the person can get the ideal protein intake through natural foods, then he might not require a supplement for the same.
  • But if the person is a vegetarian, he might need to add up a supplement because vegetarian sources have low bioavailability as compared to non-vegetarian sources.
  • Fitting his/her ideal protein requirement, 1-2 scoops per day can be taken to complete the requirement.
  • If a person does heavy workout, he might need to alter his intake of whey protein depending upon the meal pattern he follows.

     “Keep a check on your protein intake, overdoing anything won’t help!”

What are the benefits of whey protein?

  • There is a myth that whey protein leads to weight gain but that is not true. On the contrary, whey protein helps in weight loss (It has fat loss enhancing property).
  • It helps in muscle building.
  • It helps in faster recovery post workout.
  • It promotes growth of lean tissue mass.
  • It improves muscle protein synthesis.
  • It boosts immune function.
  • It helps in controlling sugar cravings.
  • It has high bioavailability as explained above.

What are the side effects of whey protein?

  • Like a coin, everything has 2 sides. With benefits, whey protein also has some side effects.
  • Bloating, upset stomach, increased bowel movements are some side effects of whey protein.
  • You need to check yourself for allergies before starting off with whey protein.
  • Check your total protein requirement before including whey protein in your list!

 

PS: – Whey protein is soluble in water so if in case it doesn’t dissolve in water, that protein supplement is not a right choice then! Read the label before choosing any supplement for you.

January 29, 2017 By Dr Manali Rao Leave a Comment

Pregnancy and Depression

562668-depression-in-preg

 

The most wonderful time in a woman’s life is during her pregnancy. It’s a miraculous time when a little prince or princess is growing within us and for the first time in our life we are unconditionally in love with this little unknown being. We cherish every pain that we go through during these 9months. It’s as if all your happiness, your desires revolve around the yet to be born baby.

 

It’s a magical time. Or so everyone says. But, is it so for every pregnant woman out there?? Everyone expects the expectant mother to always be happy all the time. Pregnant woman is also told how she is not supposed to be crying or throwing tantrums or thinking negative. Well, believe me, this is easier said than done. Yes, the mother is happy, nobody could possibly be as happy as her. She is the one carrying the baby for 9 Months in her womb remember! And, yes she’s happy that she has made the entire family happy by this great news.

But,most forget that to-be-mothers are also human!!! So what’s wrong if she’s a little anxious! What’s wrong if she doesn’t feel elated every single moment of the day! What’s wrong if she weeps for some silly reason! What’s wrong if she gets upset or fusses over little things! Just because she is pregnant, it doesn’t mean she’s not a normal human any more right??!!!

Most women end up feeling guilty for being sad or upset during pregnancy! Why so?? Well, thanks to the expectations of everyone around them. They get a sense of fear towards their unborn child. They become increasingly unsure of their parenting abilities.Nobody is a perfect parent. We all learn through mistakes. Why do people forget that? Fear of the unknown is obvious. But, the unknown isn’t always bad right??

These thoughts precisely has led me to write this blog on Pregnancy and depression.

Depression during pregnancy also known as antepartum depression, and depression after delivery known as postpartum depression is a mood disorder just like clinical depression. All women experience depression and anxiety at some point of their pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through many changes be it physical/mental/emotional. Hormonal changes occur during pregnancy and all these lead to mood swings which are perfectly normal during pregnancy. So when do we actually worry and differentiate between the normal pregnancy symptoms or symptoms of actual depression.

Here are few symptoms to look out for:

  1. Feeling sad and anxious all the time
  2. Loss of interest in activities
  3. Not pursuing hobbies anymore
  4. Sleeping too little or too much
  5. Feeling of hopelessness or worthlessness or guilt
  6. Thoughts of death or suicidal tendencies
  7. Inability to concentrate
  8. Withdrawal from family and friends
  9. Crying spells
  10. Recurring nightmares

Risk factors:

  • Troubled family life
  • Lack of emotional support from the family especially spouse
  • Past history of clinicaldepression
  • Family history of clinicaldepression
  • Any persisting or past psychiatric illness
  • Miscarriage in the past
  • Conception post infertility treatment
  • Any medical condition Or past illness

Apart from antepartum depression a woman can also go through Postpartum depression (PPD).
Many new moms experience the “postpartum baby blues” after childbirth, which commonly include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, difficulty in sleeping, difficulty bonding with your baby, fear that you are not a good mother and even thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. Baby blues typically begin within the first two to three days after delivery, and may last for up to two weeks. It can affect both parents.

How does one overcome depression??

  1. Family’s support, understanding, love and care can work wonders especially the attention of your spouse. Everyone should understand that a woman goes through so many changes duringpregnancyand that the symptoms vary from one person to another. Some women may have a hassle free pregnancy, while others may not and understanding this is most important. Nobody will fake any ailment. So if a woman says she has some trouble, be it a simple backache or a headache or excessive nausea vomiting, trust her that she does.
  2. Indulgein hobbies: Indulge in activities that make you happy. If you are inclined to sketching, singing or any other hobby try pursuing these hobbies during your pregnancy and that can keep you calm and happy.
  3. Do not hesitate to seek help. Many families still think seeking help means either you are weak or something is wrong with you. And most conclude you have either gone crazy or have lost your senses, it is certainly not so. Any person may experiencedepression. That does not make the woman crazy. It’s just a phase of life. Like every other problem women have to fight it and overcome the same.
  4. Eathealthy. Nutritious diet is most important along with folic acid/iron/calcium supplements duringpregnancy.
  5. Sightseeing – going out and getting some fresh air with your spouse even if its just for walks can always cheer you up.
  6. Rest -Yes it is very important to be active to ensure normal delivery and lesser complications. But at the same time getting ample amount of rest is equally important.

Management:

Instead of jumping to drugs as the first line of treatment we must try CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) accompanied by support of the family, healthy diet, meditation and making sure the mother incorporates hobbies in her everyday routine.

Don’t ever think twice to seek help. Ignore the stigma that the society has shown towards depression during pregnancy. It’s no one’s fault. It can happen to anyone. What’s important is to recognize the symptoms, remain strong, face it and overcome the same.

 

December 8, 2016 By Farzana Chauhan 1 Comment

Health Benefits of the Wonder Spice Cinnamon

Cinnamon sticks and powder on wooden table. Selective focus

Cinnamon, an aromatic spice, is obtained from the inner bark of a tropical evergreen tree belonging to the laurel family. This hot and sweet spice does not only add a special flavour to different cuisines but also helps in combating health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, stomach flu, cold, cough and tooth decay among others.

Let us have a detailed look at the benefits of Cinnamon.

Type 2 Diabetes: It has been proved time and again that cinnamon helps in controlling blood sugar levels and is thus beneficial for Type 2 diabetes patients. Researchers state that cinnamon bark contains potassium, manganese, chromium, copper, calcium, iron iodine, phosphorus, vitamins A, Bi, B2, C and zinc that help in preventing and curing diabetes.

As per a study published in the Journal of Diabetic Medicine, the blood sugar levels of the participants who had cinnamon supplements showed greater improvement as compared to those who had the standard diabetes medicine.

Stomach Flu: Stomach infection can give you sleepless nights. While pain killers may give instant relief however doctors advice against these as they may cause adverse side effects. Cinnamon, known for its strong anti-bacterial properties, is an effective way to cure this condition. The strong anti-bacterial properties of this wonder spice helps in destroying the Salmonella, Campylobacter and Escherichia coli bacteria that cause stomach flu. Cinnamon also works faster as compared to other natural herbs.

Cancer: Cinnamon is also known to prevent cancer. Researchers claim that cinnamon extracts limit the growth of various kinds of cancer including melanoma cancer, colorectal cancer, cervical cancer and lymphoma cancer. It is said that this super spice interferes with a protein that aids the tumors in establishing blood supply which is imperative for their growth.

Weight Loss: Regular consumption of cinnamon helps in thinning your blood and improving blood circulation. Proper circulation of blood in the body boosts your metabolism and thus helps you lose weight. However, studies show that coumarin, the ingredient that mainly helps in thinning the blood is found in large amount in cassia cinnamon and regular and high dose of this particular ingredient is not good for your liver.

Cold and Flu: One of the most common problems, especially during the changing season, cold and flu may also be prevented with the consumption of this aromatic spice. It is the anti-bacterial and warming properties of cinnamon that help in fighting against this ailment.

Besides these, cinnamon also helps in curing arthritis, heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, Parkinson’s disease and boosts concentration power.

How to Have Cinnamon?

It is best to boil a few cinnamon sticks in water for some time and add some honey to it. You may even add ginger to it to make it more effective. Various brands sell cinnamon tea however it is better not to go for these as they have artificial flavourings and very little anti-bacterial properties.

It is also recommended to go for Ceylon cinnamon and not Cassia cinnamon which is readily available at the retail stores. This is because cassia cinnamon contains high levels of coumarin which may damage the liver.

 

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 20
  • 21
  • 22
  • 23
  • 24
  • 25
  • Next Page »

Search

Recent Posts

  • Goodbye Sugar, Hello Health: A Real-Food Approach to Managing Diabetes
  • ADHD and Sleep Disturbances: Solutions That Can Help, Regardless of Racy Ideas
  • Nature’s Secret Prescription: How the Outdoors Can Help ADHD Minds Thrive
  • Start Living, Stop Dieting
  • What Is Circadian Rhythm and Why It Affects Your Sleep

Stay Updated

Archives

  • May 2025 (2)
  • April 2025 (21)
  • March 2025 (26)
  • February 2025 (23)
  • January 2025 (26)
  • December 2024 (27)
  • November 2024 (26)
  • October 2024 (27)
  • September 2024 (25)
  • August 2024 (31)
  • July 2024 (22)
  • June 2024 (28)
  • May 2024 (31)
  • April 2024 (27)
  • March 2024 (29)
  • February 2024 (27)
  • January 2024 (27)
  • December 2023 (18)
  • November 2023 (19)
  • October 2023 (26)
  • September 2023 (25)
  • August 2023 (24)
  • July 2023 (25)
  • June 2023 (26)
  • May 2023 (29)
  • April 2023 (25)
  • March 2023 (26)
  • February 2023 (21)
  • January 2023 (17)
  • December 2022 (12)
  • November 2022 (16)
  • October 2022 (17)
  • September 2022 (14)
  • August 2022 (13)
  • July 2022 (19)
  • June 2022 (11)
  • May 2022 (10)
  • April 2022 (6)
  • March 2022 (6)
  • February 2022 (13)
  • January 2022 (13)
  • December 2021 (7)
  • November 2021 (3)
  • October 2021 (6)
  • September 2021 (3)
  • August 2021 (8)
  • July 2021 (7)
  • June 2021 (15)
  • May 2021 (16)
  • April 2021 (10)
  • March 2021 (7)
  • February 2021 (4)
  • January 2021 (4)
  • December 2020 (3)
  • November 2020 (4)
  • October 2020 (10)
  • September 2020 (3)
  • August 2020 (3)
  • July 2020 (2)
  • June 2020 (4)
  • May 2020 (10)
  • April 2020 (12)
  • March 2020 (10)
  • February 2020 (4)
  • January 2020 (4)
  • December 2019 (3)
  • November 2019 (7)
  • October 2019 (5)
  • September 2019 (4)
  • August 2019 (9)
  • July 2019 (9)
  • June 2019 (11)
  • May 2019 (4)
  • April 2019 (9)
  • March 2019 (8)
  • February 2019 (9)
  • January 2019 (8)
  • December 2018 (9)
  • November 2018 (3)
  • October 2018 (3)
  • September 2018 (5)
  • August 2018 (10)
  • July 2018 (6)
  • June 2018 (13)
  • May 2018 (8)
  • April 2018 (18)
  • March 2018 (9)
  • February 2018 (8)
  • January 2018 (15)
  • December 2017 (12)
  • November 2017 (19)
  • October 2017 (13)
  • September 2017 (15)
  • August 2017 (4)
  • July 2017 (8)
  • June 2017 (7)
  • May 2017 (6)
  • April 2017 (8)
  • March 2017 (6)
  • February 2017 (7)
  • January 2017 (10)
  • December 2016 (10)
  • November 2016 (7)
  • October 2016 (7)
  • September 2016 (7)
  • August 2016 (11)
  • July 2016 (9)
  • June 2016 (9)
  • May 2016 (12)
  • April 2016 (17)
  • March 2016 (17)
  • February 2016 (8)
  • January 2016 (6)
  • December 2015 (2)
  • November 2015 (9)
  • October 2015 (7)
  • September 2015 (9)
  • August 2015 (11)
  • July 2015 (9)
  • June 2015 (12)
  • May 2015 (9)
  • April 2015 (13)
  • March 2015 (8)
  • February 2015 (5)
  • January 2015 (12)
  • December 2014 (14)
  • November 2014 (11)
  • October 2014 (6)
  • September 2014 (13)
  • August 2014 (12)
  • July 2014 (6)
  • June 2014 (2)
  • May 2014 (7)
  • April 2014 (5)
Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

As we observe World Cancer Day under the powerful theme ‘United by Unique’ (2025-2027)**, we are reminded that every individual’s journey with cancer is distinct, yet united by shared resilience, hope, and the collective fight against this disease. This theme … [Read More...]

Mayur Sutar Health Transformation

Mayur Sutar’s Journey to a Healthier Life

At 26, Mayur Sutar was deeply entrenched in the corporate whirlwind. His days were a blur of quick, unsatisfying meals, fitful sleep, and relentless deadlines. This vicious cycle was draining him, fueling a constant state of fatigue and frustration. Health had become a forgotten chapter in the book of his life. In every story, however, […]

Dhiren Matani - Healthy lifestyle

Transforming Health and Life: Dhiren Matani’s Inspirational Journey to Wellness

In the face of persistent health challenges, Dhiren Matani, (43), an entrepreneur from Mumbai, embarked on a journey of resilience and transformation. Battling weight issues and a heart condition for some years, he refused to succumb to the daunting odds. Through sheer determination, he took control of his health at the right time by adopting […]

What’s Your Excuse?

In a world filled with excuses, Shubham’s story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to one’s dreams. His journey is a reminder that circumstances may create hurdles, but they can never define the limits of one’s potential. In the bustling suburbs of Mumbai, amidst the challenges of […]

  • HOME
  • HEALTHY LIVING
  • FITNESS
  • HEALTHY RECIPES
  • USER STORIES
  • KARMA
  • BUY GOQii

Copyright ©2016 GOQii