The Definitive Answer To 20 Of Your Biggest Health Questions   Does olive oil prevent heart disease?   Short answer: Yes The health benefits of olive oil come from the presence of polyphenols, antioxidants that reduce the risk of heart diseases and cancers. But to get these healthy compounds, consumers should buy good-quality, fresh "extra-virgin" olive oil, which has the highest polyphenol content. Most commercially available olive oils have low levels of polyphenols associated with poor harvesting methods, improper storage, and heavy processing. Do cough syrups work?   Short answer: No In 2006, the nation's chest physicians agreed that the majority of over-the-counter cough medicines don't actually work. These colorful syrups typically contain doses of codeine and dextromethorphan that are too small to be effective. Only cough suppressants that contain older antihistamines seem to relieve coughs. That includes brompheniramine, an active ingredient in Dimetapp. Does sugar cause hyperactivity?   Short answer: No Following a review of 23 studies, a 1996 report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded that sugar "does not affect the behavior or cognitive performance of children." The age-old myth that kids misbehave when they eat large amounts of candy, cookies, and other junk food, could be related to the type of events where these foods are typically served. For example, kids are more wound-up at birthday parties and during Halloween when sweet treats tend to flow freely. Do sugary soft drinks lead to diabetes?   Short answer: Yes The majority of health research is stacked against sugar-sweetened soda. A large 2004 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that women who drank one or more sugary drinks per day increased their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 83% compared to those who consumed less than one of these beverages per month. Do I need sunscreen with more than 30 SPF?   Short answer: No Sunscreens with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 block about 97% of ultraviolet rays, while sunscreens with an SPF of higher than 30 block 97%-98%. It's more important that you choose "broad-spectrum" sunscreen, meaning it protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Sunbathers also need to apply a generous amount of sunscreen in order to get the full benefit of the SPF. Is the MSG in Chinese likely to give you a headache?   Short answer: No A review of 40 years of clinical trials, published in the journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2006, found that all previous research "failed to identify a consistent relationship between the consumption of MSG and the constellation of symptoms that comprise the syndrome," including headaches and asthma attacks. The misconception spawned from several poorly-done small studies in the 1960s that seemed to connect MSG with a variety of maladies that people experienced after eating at Chinese restaurants. Learn more about the MSG myth here » Do nuts make you fat?   Short answer: No As much as 75% of a nut is fat. But eating fat doesn't necessarily make you fat. The bigger factor leading to weight gain is portion-size. Luckily, nuts are loaded with healthy fats that keep you full. They're also a good source of protein and fiber. One study even found that whole almonds have 20% less calories than previously thought because a lot of the fat is excreted from the body. Is walking as effective as running?   Short answer: Yes Studies have shown that how long you exercise — and thus how many calories you burn — is more important than how hard you exercise. Running is a more efficient form of exercise, but not necessarily better for you. A six-year study published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology in April found that walking at a moderate pace and running produced similar health benefits, so long as the same amount of energy was expended. Is drinking fruit juice as good for you as eating fruit?   Short answer: No Calorie for calorie, whole fruit provides more nutritional benefits than drinking the pure juice of that fruit. That's because when you liquefy fruit, stripping away the peel and dumping the pulp, many ingredients like fiber, calcium, vitamin C, and other antioxidants are lost. For comparison, a five-ounce glass of orange juice that contains 69 calories has .3 grams of dietary fiber and 16 milligrams of calcium, whereas an orange with the same number of calories packs 3.1 grams of fiber and 60 milligrams of calcium. Are all wheat breads better for you than white bread?   Short answer: No Not all wheat breads are created equal. Wheat breads that contain all parts of the grain kernel, including the nutrient-rich germ and fiber-dense bran, must be labeled "whole grain" or "whole wheat." Some wheat breads are just white bread with a little bit of caramel coloring to make the bread appear healthier, according to Reader's Digest. Can a hot tub make me sick?   Short answer: Yes Hot tubs — especially ones in spas, hotels, and gyms — are perfect breeding grounds for germs. The water is not hot enough to kill bacteria, but is just the right temperature to make microbes grow even faster. Even though hot tubs are treated with chlorine, the heat causes the disinfectant to break down faster than it would in regular pools. The most common hot tub infection is pseudomonas folliculitis, which causes red, itchy bumps. A more dangerous side-effect of soaking in a dirty Jacuzzi is a form of pneumonia known as Legionnaire's disease. This is what reportedly sickened more than 100 people at the Playboy Mansion back in 2011. Does coffee cause cancer?   Short answer: No Coffee got a bad rap in the 1980s when a study linked drinking coffee to pancreatic cancer. The preliminary report was later debunked. More recently, health studies have swung in favor of the caffeinated beverage. Coffee has been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, liver cancer, and even suicide. Do eggs raise cholesterol levels?   Short answer: No Although egg yolks are a major source of cholesterol — a waxy substance that resembles fat — researchers have learned that saturated fat has more of an impact on cholesterol in your blood than eating foods that contain cholesterol. "Healthy individuals with normal blood cholesterol levels should now feel free to enjoy foods like eggs in their diet every day," the lead researcher from a 25-year University of Arizona study on cholesterol concluded. Can you drink too much water?   Short answer: Yes It is very rare for someone to die from drinking too much water, but it can happen. Overhydrating is most common among elite athletes. Drinking an excess of water, called water intoxication, dilutes the concentration of sodium in the blood leading to a condition known as hyponatremia. The symptoms of hyponatremia can range from nausea and confusion to seizures and even death in severe cases. To avoid this, drink fluids with electrolytes during extreme exercise events. Can yogurt ease digestive problems?   Short answer: Yes Our digestive tract is filled with microorganisms — some good and some bad. Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria, generically called probiotics, that helps maintain a healthy balance. Probiotics can relieve several gastrointestinal problems, including constipation and diarrhea. Certain brands of yogurts, like Activa by Dannon, are marketed exclusively to treat tummy issues. Do whitening toothpastes whiten teeth more than regular  toothpastes?   Short answer: No Whitening toothpastes usually contain peroxides and other strong abrasives that might make your teeth appear whiter by removing stains. Unlike at-home whitening strips and gels that contain bleach, these toothpastes do not actually change the color of your teeth. Is it safe to microwave food in plastic containers? Short answer: Yes But the plastic container should display the words "microwave safe." This means that the Food and Drug Administration has tested the container to make sure no chemicals used to make the plastic leech into foods during microwaving. If chemicals do seep out into food, the amounts are tiny and not dangerous to our health. As a general guideline, plastic grocery bags as well as most plastic tubs that hold margarine, yogurt, cream cheese, and condiments are not microwave safe. Can watching TV ruin your eyesight?   Short answer: No Watching TV will not destroy your rods and cones as the outdated myth suggests. Before the 1950s, TVs emitted radiation that could increase an individual's risk of eye problems after excessive TV viewing. Modern TVs have special shielding that blocks these harmful emissions. Is red wine better for you than white wine?   Short answer: Yes Red wine contains much more resveratrol than white wine, an antioxidant found in the skin of grapes that has been shown to fight off diseases associated with aging. Is bottled water better for you than tap water?   Short answer: No Bottled water is no safer or purer than tap water, although it is substantially more expensive. A recent study by Glasgow University in the U.K. found that bottled water is actually more likely to be contaminated than water from your faucet because it is less well-regulated. Bottled water and tap water typically come from the same sources — natural springs, lakes, and aquifers. While public water supplies are tested for contaminants every day, makers of bottled water are only required to test for specific contaminants every week, month, or year.

 

 8 SPICES that can turn ordinary water into a healing drink

A glass of water is probably the most pleasant surprise for our body, considering the large amount of fluids it needs, as well as the fact that lately, people have become accustomed to consuming all kinds of drinks, less clean water. A glass of plain water can become much stronger when we add a few ingredients that have therapeutic properties. We propose some recipes for healthy, healing drinks that improve digestion and cleanse the body of toxins. You can use cold or warm water, depending on the season. 

1. Water with cinnamon and cardamom Add a small piece of cardamom and cardamom to a glass of water and leave it until it turns into a strongly flavored drink. Ginger water is an excellent winter remedy for fighting viruses, improving digestion and regulating blood sugar levels (glycemia). Regular consumption of ginger water works wonders in terms of metabolism and burning body fat. You can add a few apples, which protect the heart and eyes. 

2. Ginger water For centuries, people have used ginger to treat various digestive problems: nausea, stomach cramps, bloating and indigestion. Ginger increases blood circulation and has anti-inflammatory and antivirals properties strong. Add a few slices of ginger root in a glass of hot water. I drink the liquid, consume the slices of ginger. And this drink can be served in the morning, with a little lemon, or in the evening, after a stressful day.

3. Water with which one can be an excellent mouth water. To whom they have very strong antiseptic property. The water with which it also helps to treat indigestion and to eliminate parasites. Add 3-5s to whom it is a glass of hot water. It is left until they release their flavors.

4. Mentexper water in nutrition I advise us to always have green, fresh peppermint. This can be grown in the garden or in pots, in winter. Mint is a reliable cure for Dustomac pain. Mint water stimulates the salivary glands to better digest food, and in addition they refresh the breath and energizes the body. Peppermint also kills bacteria and viruses, important and important butter in the cold season.

5. Water with rosemary with rosemary is not only delicious, but also an excellent drink to stimulate immunity and blood circulation and reduce inflammation. Add a few rosemary twigs in a carafe of the goat and leave for a few hours. You can add a few slices of cucumber and lemon. Rosemary also showed cholesterol reduction effects.

6. Water with lavender and lemon with lavender and lemon is the perfect evening cocktail, after a long, tiring and stressful day. Put 1/2 cup of lavender and 1 sliced ​​lemon in a carafe of water and keep it in the refrigerator for a few hours. 

7. Lemon water Lemon juice is one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C, an extremely important antioxidant for strengthening immunity and neutralizing free radicals. Lemon water detoxifies, energizes and alkalizes the body, and stimulates the digestion of food. Heat 1 glass of water and squeeze the juice from ½ lemon. Drink this liquid every morning. 

8. Cucumber water Add a few slices of cucumber to a glass of water to obtain a vitaminizing, deeply hydrating and detoxifying water. Cucumbers contain much purer water than drinking water, which hydrates the body to the maximum. Eat cucumber slices, as they contain a lot of fiber and antioxidants.

 9 JUICES WITH HEALING POWERS

Vegetables consumed fresh, in the form of juices, are excellent for maintaining or restoring your health. Find out which are the most nutritious vegetable juices and what you can treat with them!

1. Black radish juice gets rid of your cough

A sweet and comforting remedy, black radish juice is ideal for bronchitis, coughs, viruses or flu, thanks to its high vitamin C and calcium content. How to use it: Grate a radish, leave it for three hours, and finally squeeze it to obtain the juice. It is enough to take six teaspoons of black radish juice a day to soothe your cough and get rid of a cold or flu. Extra tip: Children should take three teaspoons of juice a day.

2. Celery juice, a natural depurative

To eliminate toxins from the body, celery juice is exactly what you need. It stimulates sweating, bile drainage and eliminates intestinal gases. How to use it: Every day, drink three glasses of celery juice. Extra tip: For maximum effectiveness, the celery juice cure should be kept for 15-20 days.

3. Cucumber juice dissolves kidney stones

Refreshing, cucumber juice is a good diuretic and gives results in kidney diseases, such as kidney stones. How to use it: Mix 200 ml of cucumber juice with 200 ml of carrot and black radish juice, plus a little honey. Extra tip: The mixture of cucumber, carrot and beetroot juice is equally good.

4. Potato juice treats ulcers

Drinked raw, potato juice heals the mucous membranes of the digestive system, especially the stomach mucosa, thanks to the minerals it contains (copper, calcium, magnesium), but also an enzyme from plant cells. How to use it: For a more bearable taste, drink this juice mixed with carrot juice. For gastroduodenal ulcers, drink half a glass of juice four to five times a day for a month. Extra tip: For diabetics, a ten-day course of this juice is recommended.

5. Bell pepper juice strengthens hair

Due to its silicon content, bell pepper juice strengthens nails and hair roots. You can also try it when you have cramps or when you feel bloated. How to use it: Half an hour before main meals, drink a glass of bell pepper juice, taking small sips. Extra tip: The juice is more effective if you combine it like this: one part bell pepper juice, two parts spinach juice and two parts carrot juice.

6. Onion juice fights atherosclerosis

One of the most common diseases, atherosclerosis, manifested by thickening of the artery walls, can be fought with the help of onion juice. How to use it: In the juice obtained from one kilogram of red onion, add 300 grams of honey. Keep the juice in the refrigerator and take 50 ml of it a day, for three to four months. Extra tip: A glass of onion juice a day, diluted with a little water, celery or carrot juice, banishes asthenia.

7. Tomato juice, good for the heart

This juice has the property of reducing blood viscosity, therefore reducing the risk of vascular diseases, such as ischemic heart disease or heart failure. How to use it: Follow a one-month regimen, in which you drink 200 ml of tomato juice three times a day. Extra tip: Drink the juice immediately after preparation.

8. Beetroot juice lowers blood pressure

The high natural nitrate content of beetroot juice dilates blood vessels and is helpful if you have high blood pressure. How to use it: Drink a glass of juice a day, in three doses. Extra tip: Drink the juice combined with other juices, such as carrot juice.

9. Asparagus juice, a good diuretic

The asparagus juice cure is effective in case of kidney disorders. It has a diuretic action thanks to a substance called asparagine. How to use it: Drink a glass a day, mixed with a little carrot juice. Extra tip: In combination with celery juice, it banishes fatigue.

 

Home Remedies for the Common Cold

Nothing is more annoying and weakening to your body than the onset of the common cold. It can begin with a sore throat, congestion and overall feeling of discomfort. You may suffer from a higher than normal temperature, headache and loss of appetite. The intensity of suffering also depends upon your health and the weather. Mom’s homemade chicken soup has been used for generations to successfully alleviate the symptoms of a cold, but there are other home remedies that are also effective. Some include:

• Vitamin C – Taking Vitamin C on a regular basis will help to prevent the common cold. If you already have a cold, take large doses of this vitamin to lessen the symptoms and shorten the time you’re ill.

• Watch your diet – Drink plenty of liquids – especially fruit and vegetable juices. Avoid foods with starches, cheese, meat and eggs, but eat lots of vegetables, fruits, seeds and nuts.

• Ginger Tea – Hot tea made from ginger root, leaves and a bit of sugar added to hot water is an excellent remedy for a cold. It soothes the throat and helps to reduce fever.

• Lemon – Loaded with Vitamin C, lemon juice helps the immune system to resist all illnesses and decreases the toxicity of the common cold. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into a glass of warm water (and a spoonful of honey) to realize the best results.

• Garlic – Contains oil and beneficial antiseptic qualities that help with respiratory problems and also flushes toxins from the body. Make a soup by boiling about four cloves of garlic in a cup of water – or use garlic oil and ingest it two or three times per day.

• Apple cider vinegar – An effective remedy for a stuffy nose associated with the common cold. Prepare a solution of equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. When the solution begins to boil, lean over the pan and inhale the fumes.

Environmental factors such as dust or pollen in the air and drastic changes in temperature have a lot to do with the likelihood that you’ll catch the common cold. How healthy you are can also be a determining factor in how susceptible you are to catch a cold. You can also be more at risk if you’re tired, depressed or suffer from depression or sleep deprivation.  Keep healthy habits such as a balanced diet, plenty of sunshine and rest and relaxation and you’ll be much more successful in keeping the common cold at bay.