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BAJRA—THE WINTER FOOD!

          Bajri_Ki_Roti                                            

As winter has set in full swing from the mid of this month, we end up having sips of coffee and cuddle up in our blankets/sweaters. While the caffeine can give instant high, why not eat foods that can keep you energetic and regulate your body temperature. During winters, we tend to feel hungrier and body engine works better. I remember being given Bajra Roti with ghee and jaggery in winters as it produces heat in the body (Thermogenic effect).

Bajra also called as PEARL MILLET is packed with nutrients and has various health benefits.

It is the perfect satisfying meal and simply delicious. The Staple diet across Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan. It gives you satiating feeling faster and releases energy slowly keeping you full for longer periods.

100gm of Bajra has about approx 370 calories, 4.2gm fat, 11gm of protein, 5mg of sodium, 196mg of potassium and 9gm of dietary fibre.

This millet has low Glycemic Index and is considered good for diabetics. Its insoluble fibre helps in the slow release of carbs into your system, thus, providing energy for a longer period of time and keep blood sugar levels under check. Bajra has high amounts of magnesium in it, due to which it helps control the glucose receptors in the body.

It is good for the heart too. Since it is rich in magnesium, it helps your cardiovascular system by lowering your blood pressure, which in turn helps reduce the chances of heart attack or stroke. Moreover, bajra also contains high amounts of potassium which makes it a good vasodilator.

Bajra is also known for controlling the cholesterol levels. This is because it contains a lot of fibre, which goes a long way in lowering the bad cholesterol in your bloodstream.

This Millet is filled with a ton of fibre. It helps to get regular and better bowel movements as it bulks up the stool and stimulates peristalsis, which moves it to the colon. It also avoids any digestive issues.

Another great benefit of eating bajra is that it detoxifies your body. It is filled with antioxidants which help in getting rid of free radicals from your body. It also contains catechins like quercetin that help keep the kidney and liver functioning properly by excreting the toxins from the body.

Bajra is rich in vitamin B components. Rich in Vitamin B (Niacin, Riboflavin, Thiamine, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folate) that is B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, it also has minerals such as iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc and selenium making it a well-enriched meal by itself. This means that it helps to break down the carbohydrates and fat in your body.

It does not contain any vitamin A, C, D, or B12 in it. It is gluten-free. So good for people with celiac disease

Bajra is good for muscles too. One of the best ways that bajra impacts your muscular system is that it allows your muscles to become leaner and stronger over time. Bajra is not only good for health but also for the skin. It contains zinc which repairs skin and slows down the ageing process.

Bajra can be used in various forms to enjoy this winter. You can try making Bajra roti ( flat Bread), Bajra Khakhra or Bajra Carrot-Onion Uttapam, Bajra Khichdi or Bajra Fritters.

When ground into powder form, mixed with water and boiled makes a perfect porridge. A sustainable meal for the children and elder who are unable to eat.

Roughly grounded Bajra cooked with yoghurt and water for hours on a slow flame tempered with asafoetida (Hing) and fennel is a Rajasthani delicacy called the “Ghaat”. A staple diet to sustain the cold in the desert regions

Powdered Bajra mixed with rice paste fermented with sour curds can be used to make Uttapams or even steamed as Idlis, a healthy south Indian variety.

If you have known the importance of whole grains, then you should make a conscious effort to include Bajra in your diet.

So, forget that Fancy Quinoa and get to basics, add this millet in your diet plan and reap its benefits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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By 1 Comment

Potato juice- The Ancient Elixir

potato juice

For the longest time potatoes have been listed in the high carb fattening food category and all we keep hearing is to avoid potatoes if you want to be healthy. Well, there exists another unexplored side of the story! Potatoes are loaded with essential micronutrients like Vitamin A, C, B, and iron and phosphorous. These starchy tubers have amazing health benefits! For those who believe in the power of nature read on!

From our Desi Aloo Parathas (Wheat Flat Breads) to the world famous fries, Potatoes are loved widely by all cultures across the globe. Apart from being a star in the kitchen space, there are several other uses one is unaware of. Did you know that Potato juice can be used for hair, skin care, tackling joint pains & immunity related issues?

Potato Juice for Skin Care: Skin related issues such as skin darkening, scars, spots, blemishes, hard skin and tan reduction can be tackled with Potato juice. It removes excess oil, acne, clears pores and makes the skin look radiant. With skin bleaching properties that help to clear blemishes and correct uneven skin tone, Potato juice reduces appearances of fine lines, tightened skin and reduces wrinkles. So much from a simple juice!

How to USE: Potato juice can easily be combined with a range of skin-benefiting ingredients like Cucumber juice, Fuller’s Earth (Multani Mitti), Gram Flour (Besan), Aloe Vera and even Olive oil.

A scrub can be made by combining Gram flour (Besan)/ Wheat Bran/ Ground Oats with equal quantities of Lemon juice and Potato juice. Mix well and gently rub it on the affected area.

Potato juice can also be mixed with curd/ honey/ lemon juice/orange juice to be used as a face pack. It will help tighten the skin and give a clearer, brighter glow.

Potato Juice for Haircare: Potato juice overall improves hair health and treats conditions like dandruff, dryness, redness, flaking and itching of the scalp. It can help improve hair texture by making it softer, delaying early grey hair and helps hair fall conditions too It helps in persisting eczema or reduces oozing of the sebum from scalp pores.

How to USE: Take the juice of 2 raw potatoes and add 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 egg yolk. If you want to avoid egg you can add 2 tsp of Aloe Vera gel. If you find honey sticky- you can use 1 tsp of virgin coconut or olive oil instead. Apply this mixture to the roots and shampoo as usual, after one hour. You will notice good results after applying this every once or twice in a week.

Eye care: Potato juice comes to the rescue of people facing under eye issues. It helps reduce under eye circles speedily and effectively. It helps the eyes to relax and reduces strain after a long day at work. Since the skin under the eyes is very thin, it tends to wrinkle very fast. Regular application of potato juice on the affected area can lead to positive results.

How to USE: Soak eye size cotton pads in cold potato juice and apply on eyes for 20 minutes. Remove and gently wash eyes. You can use a moisturizer if your skin feels dry.

Immune system: Potatoes contain a significant amount of vitamin C -the nutrient that fights colds and infection and helps to strengthen the immune system. Drinking a glass of potato juice regularly wards off diseases and helps improve one’s immunity. It also increases circulation in the human system, thereby improving overall health.

Joint related issues: Potato juice has wonderful anti-inflammatory properties that help to relieve all most all kinds of pain related to swelling, inflammation, or redness. It helps in neutralising and flushing out Uric acid which is the major cause of joint relates issues. Applying compressed potatoes to the joints directly or wrapping a sliced potato to the joint with the help of fabric bandages is helpful in eliminating the soreness and pain. This makes potato juice one of the best natural treatments for gout and pain associated with arthritis.

How to USE: To extract maximum benefit drink raw potato juice, 1 glass in the morning and 1 glass in the night.

GI tract benefits: Potato juice works as an excellent antibacterial probiotic drink.  It helps reduce acidity, heartburn, constipation, bloating and flatulence. Potatoes contain a significant amount of fibre, with unique antibacterial molecules which help in treating constipation and cleansing our digestive system. Drinking 1 glass of potato juice every day can help in preventing and treating many gastric and digestion related issues.

Heart-healthy ingredient: Potatoes contain essential nutrients like fibre and vitamins A, B-complex and Vitamin C fibre. These nutrients help lower the cholesterol levels in the body. Potato juice can help prevent strokes by reducing deposition of fats in arteries as it contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Simple ways to prepare & use potato juice:

  1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and clean out any sprouts and green spots.
  2. Peel the potatoes and grate them. Or you can also chop the potato and grind them in a mixer.
  3. Put the grated potatoes on a linen cloth/ sieve and squeeze out the juice.
  4. Since potatoes are 80% water one can get around 1/2 cup juice from 2 medium sized potatoes. Which is safe to be consumed.
  5. Drink the juice immediately or you could let it cool in the refrigerator for a while and then drink it.

Side effects: All good things if taken in the wrong way or quantity can cause harm:

  1. If you have any health-related issue and are advised to stay low on potassium then check with your doctor before consuming potato juice as it has high potassium levels.
  2. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and diabetic patients should consult their physician before drinking potato juice as it is high in sugar content.
  3. Also, this juice can cause an upset stomach, or cause diarrhoea and vomiting if consumed in excess.

 

 

By 8 Comments

Nail matters!

How-to-Whiten-Legs-Fast-2

1

Every second person is eagerly waiting for rains so that we get relief from this scorching heat. But, as we welcome monsoon, it brings along with it hub of infections too. Monsoons play a perfect breeding ground for all vector- borne, viruses, fungus and parasites.

Humidity in air and excessive sweating tends to favor fungus to grow and multiply at a rapid rate. Fungus needs moisture and warmth, and monsoon provides it a conducive atmosphere to thrive and multiply.

Types of fungal infection:

  1. Tinea Cruris / Ringworm
  2. Candidiasis
  3. Fungal Infection of Nails (Onychomycosis)
  4. Tinea Alba (Pityriasis Alba)
  5. Tinea Versicolor (Pityriasis Versicolor)
  6. Pityriiasis Rosea

Out of the above list, fungal infection of nails aka Onychomycosisis the most neglected one.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails that causes discoloration, thickening, and separation from the nail bed with/without foul smell. Onychomycosis occurs in 10% of the general population, 20% of persons older than 60 years. It is caused by a variety of organisms, but most cases are caused by dermatophytes. The risk of onychomycosis is 1.9 to 2.8 times higher in persons with diabetes compared with the general population. Onychomycosis affects toenails more often than fingernails because of their slower growth, reduced blood supply, and frequent confinement in dark, moist environments (eg- shoes).

2

Treatment:

  • Antifungals medicines are widely used for the treatment of onychomycosis. Treatment of Onychomycosis is widely believed to be only a cosmetic problem, but it can be uncomfortable and can lead to cellulitis (bacterial infection involving the inner layers of the skin) in older adults and foot ulcers in patients with diabetes. Eradication of the infection is a key to improving appearance and avoiding these complications, but it is not easily accomplished because nails are made of keratin, which is nonvascular and impermeable to many agents. Because of poor drug delivery to nails, results of treatment may not be apparent for a year.
  • Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant, possessing fungicidal and anti-bacterial properties that make it popular in treating toenail fungus. 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil + 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil. Apply this mixture with the help of the cotton ball to the affected nail 2 times daily or add 4-5 drops of tea tree oil in enough water to soak your feet for 15-20 minutes.
  • Rub Coconut oil onto the area and let it absorb and dry naturally.  Repeat 2-3 times daily. Wear gloves or wash your hands between applications (if you have more than one affected nail.
  • Topical Mentholated ointment (Vicks Vaporub) is also used to treat onychomycosis. Apply it regularly to the affected nail at night.

3

But all said and done, Prevention is better than cure!

The best way to avoid fungal infections is to maintain a high level of hygiene.

  1. Always keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed. Cut them straight and file down the thickened areas. Also make sure that they are dry and clean. After having bath, dry the toenails and even the area between the toes.
  2. Avoid putting your hands or feet in water constantly.
  3. Watch out for your manicures and pedicures. If the manicure or pedicure is done in a wrong way or with using contaminated instruments then you are at risk for developing onychomycosis.
  4. Too much nail polish and or wearing artificial nails tends to trap moisture, which will allow the fungi to thrive.
  5. Do not tear the skin around the nails or trim it. The slightest injury or cut allows the fungi to enter the nail.
  6. Wear clean dry cotton socks, which will absorb the moisture and keep your feet dry. It is a good habit to remove your shoes occasionally especially after exercising.

7) Always wash your legs with soap and water after coming from out especially during the rainy season where we tend to step into dirty puddles.

Happy Feet = Happy Monsoon…..Enjoy!

By 4 Comments

Healthy version of Green Coffee

 

GREEN-COFFEE

After Water, the most preferred drink is either tea or coffee for most of us. Many usually begin their day with a cup of a bed tea or coffee. And, some even complaint of dullness or a headache without that first cup of tea or coffee.

A cup of black coffee provides almost no nutritional value. Some even prefer it with loaded Sugar. Coffee provides caffeine, a stimulant that boosts metabolism and gets people energetic But, Caffeine consumed in larger amount has many side effects such as dehydration, increase body stress levels, ,upsets stomach, hampering digestion and increases anxiety levels for the body.

Is there a healthier version of Coffee just as we have Green Tea? Yes there is Green Coffee

Before that let’s understand some basics of Coffee

  • There are three types of Normal coffee beans varieties:
  • Coffee Arabica.
  • Coffee Robusta
  • And the blended types.
  • How to differentiate from normal Coffee from Organic Green Coffee Beans?

Normal Coffee beans are light to dark in color as it depends upon region, temperature and roasting conditions. See Image given below-

img1

Arabica coffee beans differ from Robusta coffee beans at many levels.  See the following image –

img2

Un-roasted bean color: In its un-roasted form, Arabica will be a darker shade of green, where Robusta tends to be more straw colored.

Arabica beans tend to have a sweeter, softer taste, with tones of sugar, fruit, and berries. Their acidity is higher, with that winey taste that characterizes coffee with excess while Robusta beans yield a harsher, bitter tasting cup often described as grain-like, oatmeal and woody. lint acidity.

  • Advantages of Green Coffee-

The  Green Coffee that we get is derived from dried green coffee beans (Coffee Robusta) and has an active ingredient called Chlorogenic acid. (CGA).Latest research has confirmed that organic green coffee contains high concentrations of antioxidants in the range of 200 to 550mg per cup (6oz) – a level far exceeding that of green tea. But, although both green coffee and green tea contain high levels of antioxidants, green coffee tends to contain higher levels of the simple phenolicsand tea contains larger levels of catechin.

  • Other Variety of green coffee-
  1. Organic Coffee:This Organic Coffee is grown on fertile volcanic soil, without pesticides and grown domestically without chemical fertilizers.
  2. Organic Gourmet Coffee-Organic Gourmet Coffee is premium quality coffee (predominantly some of the best varieties of Coffee Arabica) that is grown organically. Based on content of caffeine it can be divided into two types, namely caffeinated and decaffeinated. From the point of view of health, the decaffeinated one will be the best but, you may have to compromise with the taste and flavor slightly.
  1. Decaffeinated coffee– In this method of decaffeination the beans are steamed for about 30 minutes in order to open their pores. Once the coffee beans are receptive to a solvent, they are repeatedly rinsed with either methylene chloride or ethyl acetate for about 10 hours to remove the caffeine, which reduces harmful effect of caffeine.

How To Select And Store Organic Coffee?

1) If you bought whole beans, try to grind them just before you want to brew it to get the best flavor and aroma out of them. Buy only the fresh beans and if possible roast them at home.

2) Always buy “100% Organic Coffee”/ Decaffeinated beans. Do not compromise with   “Contains Organic” type of coffee.

  • Benefit Of Green Coffee are many
  1. Rich in anti-oxidants: Green Coffee beans are rich in antioxidants, which reduce the damaging effects of free radicals in our body and take care of our overall health. A number of studies have confirmed that raw and unprocessed green coffee beans possess 100% pure Chlorogenic Acid (CGA), which is basically an ester of caffeic acid having strong antioxidant properties. It can put a check on the levels of glucose in our bloodstream and prevent our skin cells from getting dented.
  2. Good for skin, hair, reduces effect of free radical: Chlorogenic Acid present in green coffee beans can reduce the effects of free radicals in our body up to 10 times than regular green tea. As the beans are not roasted, there are some other anti-oxidative agents from the polyphenol family, ferulicacid, etc., which decelerate the ageing procedure and give us youthful skin, hair, prevent hair fall.
  3. Boost metabolic rate – The Chlorogenic Acid present ingreen coffee beans is also known as a metabolism booster. It increases the Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) of our body to a great extent, which minimizes excessive release of glucose from the liver into the blood. Due to the lack of glucose, our body starts burning the stored fat cells in order to fulfill its glucose requirement. Thus, pure green coffee beans raise our fat burning capability and eventually help us shed off excess weight.
  4. Normal Recommendation – 2 cups Of Green Coffee in a day. You can have it either in hot form-(add pinch of Cinnamon Powder ) or Cold form-(by adding  Ice + Mint )
  • Please Note – Many a times Green Coffee is a bean. There is also Green Coffee Bean Extract supplement with GarciniaCambogia but, it has many side effect because of high toxicity levels present in Such supplements are hazardous for the body. Try Avoid Using Them. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends not to use such products and be cautious when it comes to such supplements. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using green coffeesupplement. It interferes with many medicines.

Let’s Grab a Cup Of Green Coffee now and kick start you’re day with a healthy version of coffee.

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 places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the […]