Sunday 29 November 2015

Uses of Garcinia Kola




Improve Lung Function

Garcinia kola has been used for centuries to treat chest colds in traditional medicine, but research has taken a look and found out why it is effective. A study in the 2008 issue of The Internet Journal of Pulmonary Medicine, performed on mice, reports that garcinia kola improved respiratory function after 28 days of use of a garcinia extract. Written by David A. Ofusori, MSc, from Igbinedion University in Nigeria, the study shows that garcinia kola works by dilating the alveolar ducts and sacs in the lungs by improving the strength of the fibers in the lung tissue. Garcinia kola's beneficial lung properties are attributed to its high antioxidant content.

Relieve Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, characterized by pain, inflammation and limited movement in the joints, according to the National Institutes of Health. Causes of osteoarthritis can include joint injury, obesity and aging. Since many arthritis sufferers prefer natural herbal medicines to other pain relievers and medications, researchers at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria tested the effects of garcinia kola against arthritis symptoms. The results of the study, written by Olayinka O. Adegbehingbe and published in the July 2008 issue of the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, conclude that garcinia kola significantly reduced inflammation and pain and increased joint movement in subjects that had osteoarthritis symptoms. It is believed that garcinia kola works well as a result of its antioxidant properties.

The side effects reported from the garcinia kola use in this study were weight loss, increase in sex drive and extended sleep. If you take garcinia kola and experience diarrhea, hives, irregular heartbeat or other signs of allergic reaction, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

Reduce Eye Pressure

An increase in eye pressure can lead to glaucoma, according to a report from The New York Times Health Guide. Researchers at Lagos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria tested the effectiveness of eye drops that contained 0.5 percent extract of garcinia kola. The results of their study, published in the January 2010 issue of Middle East African Journal of Opthamology, showed that the opthamolic solution that contained the garcinia significantly reduced eye pressure when used twice a day

Garcinia kola or bitter kola is a tree that grows in the rain forests of west Africa. The fruit, seeds, nuts and bark of the plant have been used for centuries in folk medicine to treat ailments from coughs to fever. According to a report from the Center For International Forestry Research, garcinia kola trade is still important to the tribes and villages in Nigeria. As with any herb, never consume garcinia kola without first discussing its use and benefits with your physician, especially if you are currently being treated for other medical conditions or are on any medications.

Saturday 28 November 2015

Best Penis Enlargement Foods




The Best Penis Enlargement Vitamins

In addition to consuming our recommended penis enlargement foods, the following penis enlargement vitamins will have a significant effect on your penis.
  • Vitamin A – Vitamin A is an antibacterial vitamin that will fight against any infections you encounter. And infections of any kind can hurt any penis enlargement gains you have experienced! Vitamin A can be found in the following foods: Carrots, butternut squash, and sweet potatoes. You can also buy Vitamin A soft-gel supplements on Amazon. We recommend this Vitamin A supplement.
  • Vitamin B5 – Vitamin B5 helps improve the recovery speed of your penis post-exercising, which promotes penis enlargement. Vitamin B5 also helps your penis work at peak performance. This penis enlargement vitamin can be found in: Sunflower seeds, bran, liver, and shiitake mushrooms. Vitamin B5 supplements are a simple way to get the penis enlargement results you are looking for as well. We recommend this Vitamin B5 supplement.
  • Vitamin C – Crucial for maintaining sexual function, Vitamin C is a vital penis enlargement vitamin. The following penis enlargement food contain Vitamin C: guava, broccoli, and yellow bell pepper. You can also try this Vitamin C supplement.
  • L-Arginine – L-Arginine is known to help men with erectile dysfunction and is also proven to promote tissue expansion. That being said, L-Arginine is a key penis enlargement vitamin. The following penis enlargement foods contain L-Arginine: Tuna, oats, pine nuts, and beef flank steak. Here is our recommended L-Arginine supplement.


Best Penis Enlargement Foods

Next time you are in the grocery store, make sure to pick up the foods the foods needed to feed your penis. The following penis enlargement foods can all be found quickly (and cheaply) in your nearest supermarket:
  • Onions – Research shows that onions are great for creating healthy blood flow circulation throughout the body to the heart. Furthermore, onion consumption helps prevent blood clotting. But what people seldom realize is that onions help not only blood flow to the heart, but also with blood flow to the penis.
  • Salmon – Like we touched on in the case with onions, foods that generate a healthy blood flow are proven to help you attain a stiffer erections. Eating salmon is no exception. Rich in Omega 3 and other fatty oils, salmon is great for thinning blood, which in turn helps generate a healthier blood flow.
  • Bananas – Good for your heart and for your blood flow, bananas are our #1 recommended food for penis enlargement.

Penis Enlargement Foods – Other Helpful Links

Did you like this complete penis enlargement foods article? Make sure to check out our other popular penis growth pages!
  • The Complete Penis Pumping Guide – Many penis pumps available online and in print sex advertisements are unsafe and ineffective. Use this guide to get the information you need!
  • How To Enlarge My Penis – All men know the size of their penis, but only a small percentage of men are satisfied with their measurements. In fact, many of these unsatisfied men are the men that have above-average sized penises! Take a look at the “How to Enlarge my Penis” tips below and get a bigger dick today!
  • #1 Penis Exercise Guide – Are you unsatisfied with the size of your penis? A recent study showed that over 50% of all men wish that their penis was larger. Use this guide to get the extra girth and length that you desire!
  • Penis Enlargement Foods – Eating properly has many significant health benefits, including significant penis enlargement benefits. The following penis enlargement foods can help you get the extra girth and length size you have been dreaming of. 






Health and Beauty Benefits Of Carrots














Carrots For Hair:  Whether you make your own carrot oil or you purchase a carrot seed essential oil, did you know you can help your hair grow with it? Carrot oil makes you hair strong and shine with health. Application of carrot oil on your scalp would ensure proper growth of hair; apply carrot oil on the ends of hair to take care of split ends. You can also make a hair pack by mixing boiled carrots with an egg and some yoghurt. Apply it on your hair strands and leave it on for an hour. This pack would help you to get softer and smoother hair.

 

Carrots For Skin: Easy Tips and Applications

• Carrot Pack for oily skin: Boil a carrot in water and blend it in a blender. Add two teaspoons of pure honey. Mix well so that it forms a smooth paste. Leave it on for twenty minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water. This treatment will make your skin glow with health.
• Carrot anti-wrinkle pack: Mix a grated carrot with three spoons of whole milk cream. Use it every week on your face to combat against fine lines and wrinkles.
• Carrot for dry skin: Peel a carrot and place it in a glass jar. Pour coconut oil so that the carrot is covered by the oil. Leave the jar in the sun for about two days. Now strain the oil and use it for moisturizing your skin daily.
• Carrot scrub for exfoliating skin: Add two spoons of sugar to two spoons of grated sugar. Mix thoroughly and use it as a scrub on your face as well as your neck in gentle circular movements. This is one of the cheapest ways you can take to for exfoliating your skin.
• Carrot for blemishes:  Application of carrot juice on blemishes regularly helps to fade them

Beauty Benefits of Carrots

 • Carrots contain carotene, which helps to make your skin look healthy and glowing.
• Carrots contain carotenoids along with other powerful anti-oxidants which help in slowing down the aging process; carrots also help in boosting the production of collagen to keep wrinkles at bay.
• Carotenoids, contained in carrots help in protecting and conditioning the skin.
• Carrots have anti-inflammatory properties and help in revitalizing and toning the skin.

 

Health Benefits of Carrots:

. Carrots help in purifying your blood and improving your eye sight.
• Carrots help in balanced growth of body tissues.
• Carrots are known to lower the level of cholesterol in your body. It also helps in making you less prone to heart ailments.
• Carrots lower the risk of cancers like colon cancer, breast cancer and lung cancer.
• Carrots benefit young and growing girls since it promotes the development of well-toned breasts.
• Carrots protect sun damages and help in healing sunburns

 

 If you are wondering why you should incorporate carrots in your daily life, let me tell you that carrots are known to have several health and beauty benefits. Carrots are extremely rich in nutrients like potassium, calcium and vitamins, while the calorie content is very low. Include carrots in your regular diet and use carrot in your face packs and hair treatments to make the most of this vegetable which is very easily available any time any where.


 

 

9 Health Benefits of Cucumbers



1. Support Heart Health
Cucumbers contain potassium, which is associated with lower blood pressure levels. A proper balance of potassium both inside and outside your cells is crucial for your body to function properly.
As an electrolyte, potassium is a positive charged ion that must maintain a certain concentration (about 30 times higher inside than outside your cells) in order to carry out its functions, which includes interacting with sodium to help control nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and heart function. 

2. Support Your Digestive Health
Cucumbers are rich in two of the most basic elements needed for healthy digestion: water and fiber. If you struggle with acid reflux, you should know that drinking water can help suppress acute symptoms of acid reflux by temporarily raising stomach pH; it's possible that water-rich cucumbers may have a similar effect.
Cucumber skins contain insoluble fiber, which helps add bulk to your stool. This helps food to move through your digestive tract more quickly for healthy elimination.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Cucumbers are very low in calories, yet they make a filling snack (one cup of sliced cucumber contains just 16 calories). The soluble fiber in cucumbers dissolves into a gel-like texture in your gut, helping to slow down your digestion. This helps you to feel full longer and is one reason why fiber-rich foods may help with weight control. 





4. Freshen Your Breath
Placing a cucumber slice on the roof of your mouth may help to rid your mouth of odor-causing bacteria. According to the principles of Ayurveda, eating cucumbers may also help to release excess heat in your stomach, which is said to be a primary cause of bad breath.

5. Fight Inflammation
Cucumbers may help to "cool" the inflammatory response in your body, and animal studies suggest that cucumber extract helps reduce unwanted inflammation, in part by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes (including cyclo-oxygenase 2, or COX-2).

6. Reduce Your Risk of Cancer
Cucumbers contain polyphenols called lignans (pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol), which may help to lower your risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers. They also contain phytonutrients called cucurbitacins, which also have anti-cancer properties. According to the George Mateljan Foundation

 7. Antioxidant Properties
Cucumbers contain numerous antioxidants, including the well-known vitamin C and beta-carotene. They also contain antioxidant flavonoids, such as quercetin, apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol, which provide additional benefits.
For instance, quercetin is an antioxidant that many believe prevents histamine release—making quercetin-rich foods "natural antihistamines." Kaempferol, meanwhile, may help fight cancer and lower your risk of chronic diseases including heart disease.

8. Protect Your Brain
Cucumbers contain an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin that appears to play an important role in brain health. In addition to improving your memory and protecting your nerve cells from age-related decline, fisetin has been found to prevent progressive memory and learning impairments in mice with Alzheimer's disease


9. Manage Stress
Cucumbers contain multiple B vitamins, including vitamin B1, vitamin B5, and vitamin B7 (biotin). B vitamins are known to help ease feelings of anxiety and buffer some of the damaging effects of stress.


Cucumbers belong to the same plant family as squash, pumpkin, and watermelon (the Cucurbitaceae family). Like watermelon, cucumbers are made up of mostly (95 percent) water, which means eating them on a hot summer day can help you stay hydrated.
However, there's reason to eat cucumbers all year long. With vitamin K, B vitamins, copper, potassium, vitamin C, and manganese, cucumbers can help you to avoid nutrient deficiencies that are widespread among those eating a typical American diet.
Plus, cucumbers contain unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases and much, much more.


 





 








 










Friday 20 November 2015

Top 10 Foods that Increase Sperm Count



1.    Pomegranates

Pomegranates are rich in an antioxidant that reduces malondialidehyde which is responsible for damaging the sperms. Consuming pomegranates on a regular basis can help the body in killing free radicals and also in improving the potential of the sperms

2.    Bananas

Bananas contain bromelain which is an enzyme that controls sex hormones. Bananas also contain Vitamin A, B1 and C. These vitamins promote sperm production and also enable the body in improving its stamina

3.    Garlic

Garlic is rich in allicin that helps in improving blood circulation. This in turn promotes blood circulation in the genitals and strengthens the sperms. Garlic also contains Vitamin B6 and selenium which controls the secretion of sex hormones and reduces sperm damage.

4.    Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains an active ingredient known as L-arginine HCL. This helps in increasing the semen volume and it also raises sperm count. Eating dark chocolate can help men in having better orgasms.

5.    Walnuts

Walnut is rich in arginine which helps in raising semen volume and also promotes sperm production. It is also composed of omega-3 fatty acids that promote blood circulation in the penis. Walnuts are rich in antioxidants and they protect the body from several diseases

6.    Fruit Salad

Fruits like strawberries, oranges and cherries contain lots of antioxidants. They prevent sperm damage and also increases sperm count.  Fruits are also rich in folic acid which strengthens the sperms. The antioxidants in the fruits help in killing the free radicals and thus they protect the sperms. Fruits are a rich source of Vitamin C which prevents clumping of the semen. This in turn promotes motility and improves the possibility of fertilization.

7.    Water

Drinking lots of water can help the body in increasing sperm count. It also helps in improving the functioning of the sperms.
Are you concerned about low sperm count? Are you experiencing lowered libido? If you are looking for a natural remedy that can improve the possibility of fertilization then you can follow some of the aforementioned solutions. The foods and fruits mentioned in this review can help your body in raising its sperm count and they can also improve the functioning of the sperms. These foods are also capable of improving fertility.

8.    Egg

Eggs help in promoting fertility and raising the sperm count. Eggs contain vitamin E which prevents tissue degeneration of the testicles. Eggs are also rich in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and protect the cells.

9.    Spinach

Spinach is rich in folic acid that raises sperm count. Folic acid is also responsible for strengthening the sperms as well as increasing their motility.

10.    Beef

Beef contains zinc which protects the sperms from the influence of free radicals. Zinc also prevents the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. Thus it also promotes libido.
 




Risk factors OF Low sperm count

number of risk factors are linked to low sperm count and other problems that can cause low sperm count. They include:
  • Smoking tobacco
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Using certain illicit drugs
  • Being overweight
  • Having certain past or present infections
  • Being exposed to toxins
  • Overheating the testicles
  • Having experienced trauma to the testicles
  • Being born with a fertility disorder or having a blood relative with a fertility disorder
  • Having certain medical conditions, including tumors and chronic illnesses
  • Undergoing cancer treatments, such as radiation
  • Taking certain medications
  • Having a prior vasectomy or major abdominal or pelvic surgery
  • Having a history of undescended testicles.

    Complications

    Infertility caused by low sperm count can be stressful for both you and your partner. Complications can include:
  • Surgery or other treatments for an underlying cause of low sperm count
  • Expensive and involved assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilization
  • Stress related to the inability to have a child.

Low sperm count



Causes

The production of sperm is a complex process and requires normal functioning of the testicles (testes) as well as the hypothalamus and pituitary glands — organs in your brain that produce hormones that trigger sperm production. Once sperm are produced in the testicles, delicate tubes transport them until they mix with semen and are ejaculated out of the penis. Problems with any of these systems can affect sperm production.
Also, there can be problems of abnormal sperm shape (morphology), movement (motility) or function.
However, often the cause of low sperm count isn't identified.

Medical causes

Low sperm count can be caused by a number of health issues and medical treatments. Some of these include:
  • Varicocele. A varicocele (VAR-ih-koe-seel) is a swelling of the veins that drain the testicle. It's the most common reversible cause of male infertility. Although the exact reason that varicoceles cause infertility is unknown, it might be related to abnormal testicular temperature regulation. Varicoceles result in reduced quality of the sperm.
  • Infection. Some infections can interfere with sperm production or sperm health or can cause scarring that blocks the passage of sperm. These include inflammation of the epididymis (epididymitis) or testicles (orchitis) and some sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea or HIV. Although some infections can result in permanent testicular damage, most often sperm can still be retrieved.
  • Ejaculation problems. Retrograde ejaculation occurs when semen enters the bladder during orgasm instead of emerging out of the tip of the penis. Various health conditions can cause retrograde or lack of ejaculation, including diabetes, spinal injuries, and surgery of the bladder, prostate or urethra.
    Certain medications also might result in ejaculatory problems, such as blood pressure medications known as alpha blockers. Some ejaculatory problems can be reversed, while others are permanent. In most cases of permanent ejaculation problems, sperm can still be retrieved directly from the testicles.
  • Antibodies that attack sperm. Anti-sperm antibodies are immune system cells that mistakenly identify sperm as harmful invaders and attempt to destroy them.
  • Tumors. Cancers and nonmalignant tumors can affect the male reproductive organs directly, through the glands that release hormones related to reproduction, such as the pituitary gland, or through unknown causes. Surgery, radiation or chemotherapy to treat tumors can also affect male fertility.
  • Undescended testicles. During fetal development one or both testicles sometimes fail to descend from the abdomen into the sac that normally contains the testicles (scrotum). Decreased fertility is more likely in men with this condition.
  • Hormone imbalances. The hypothalamus, pituitary and testicles produce hormones that are necessary to create sperm. Alterations in these hormones, as well as from other systems such as the thyroid and adrenal gland, may impair sperm production.
  • Defects of tubules that transport sperm. Many different tubes carry sperm. They can be blocked due to various causes, including inadvertent injury from surgery, prior infections, trauma or abnormal development, such as with cystic fibrosis or similar inherited conditions.
    Blockage can occur at any level, including within the testicle, in the tubes that drain the testicle, in the epididymis, in the vas deferens, near the ejaculatory ducts or in the urethra.
  • Chromosome defects. Inherited disorders such as Klinefelter's syndrome — in which a male is born with two X chromosomes and one Y chromosome instead of one X and one Y — cause abnormal development of the male reproductive organs. Other genetic syndromes associated with infertility include cystic fibrosis, Kallmann's syndrome and Kartagener's syndrome.
  • Celiac disease. A digestive disorder caused by sensitivity to gluten, celiac disease can cause male infertility. Fertility may improve after adopting a gluten-free diet.
  • Certain medications. Testosterone replacement therapy, long-term anabolic steroid use, cancer medications (chemotherapy), certain antifungal and antibiotic medications, some ulcer medications and other medications can impair sperm production and decrease male fertility.
  • Prior surgeries. Certain surgeries might prevent you from having sperm in your ejaculate, including vasectomy, inguinal hernia repairs, scrotal or testicular surgeries, prostate surgeries, and large abdominal surgeries performed for testicular and rectal cancers, among others. In most cases, surgery can be performed to either reverse these blockages or to retrieve sperm directly from the epididymis and testicles.

Environmental causes

Sperm production or function can be affected by overexposure to certain environmental elements, including:
  • Industrial chemicals. Extended exposure to benzenes, toluene, xylene, herbicides, pesticides, organic solvents, painting materials and lead might contribute to low sperm counts.
  • Heavy metal exposure. Exposure to lead or other heavy metals also can cause infertility.
  • Radiation or X-rays. Exposure to radiation can reduce sperm production. It can take several years for sperm production to return to normal. With high doses of radiation, sperm production can be permanently reduced.
  • Overheating the testicles. Elevated temperatures impair sperm production and function. Although studies are limited and are inconclusive, frequent use of saunas or hot tubs might temporarily impair sperm count.
    Sitting for long periods, wearing tight clothing or working on a laptop computer for long stretches of time also might increase the temperature in your scrotum and slightly reduce sperm production.

Health, lifestyle and other causes

Other causes of low sperm count include:
  • Drug use. Anabolic steroids taken to stimulate muscle strength and growth can cause the testicles to shrink and sperm production to decrease. Use of cocaine or marijuana might reduce the number and quality of your sperm as well.
  • Alcohol use. Drinking alcohol can lower testosterone levels and cause decreased sperm production.
  • Occupation. Certain occupations might be linked with a risk of infertility, including welding or those associated with prolonged sitting, such as truck driving. However, the data to support these associations is inconsistent.
  • Tobacco smoking. Men who smoke might have a lower sperm count than do those who don't smoke.
  • Emotional stress. Severe or prolonged emotional stress, including stress about fertility, might interfere with hormones needed to produce sperm.
  • Weight. Obesity can impair fertility in several ways, including directly impacting sperm and by causing hormone changes that reduce male fertility.
  • Sperm testing issues. Lower than normal sperm counts can result from testing a sperm sample that was taken too soon after your last ejaculation; was taken too soon after an illness or stressful event; or didn't contain all of the semen you ejaculated because some was spilled during collection. For this reason, results are generally based on several samples taken over a period of time.

Monday 16 November 2015

The Top 10 Avocado Skin Benefits





While using avocado directly on the face is a popular natural beauty treatment, many people have found that just eating avocado regularly can do wonders for their complexion.
Avocados are rich in healthy fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants that can improve your skin from the inside. Here are four of the best avocado benefits for your skin and even more reasons to eat one of nature’s healthiest foods

1. Vitamin C 

Many people are surprised to find out that avocado contains good amounts of vitamin C for healthy skin. We should ideally have many . Antioxidants For Healthy Skin: Butter fruit contains antioxidants that help in protecting your skin from damage. It improves your skin’s complexion and density. Medical and skincare experts especially recommend the consumption of avocado juice to those struggling with dull, lack luster skin. It is also a great natural remedy to relieve dry skin. sources of vitamin C in our diet every day as it is water soluble and cannot be stored in your body.
As well as having strong antioxidant properties, vitamin C is needed for the creation of elastin and collagen, which bind your skin cells together and maintain their firmness and structure.

2. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is another skin antioxidant, but since it is fat soluble it is used by the body in a different way. Vitamin E assists in preventing free radical damage from oxidizing fats in your skin cells that lead to aging skin.
Research studies have also demonstrated that vitamin E can reduce the effects of UVA and UVB radiation from sun exposure on skin.
Vitamin E is much better for you and your skin when it’s obtained from natural sources like avocados.
Here’s 15 other types of foods that are good sources of this important fat soluble vitamin

4. Moisturizing Monounsaturated Fatty Acids

One of the main avocado skin benefits comes from their high oleic acid content. This monounsaturated fatty acid maintains moisture in the epidermal layer of your skin, helping to make it soft and hydrated. An omega-9 fat, oleic acid is also involved in regenerating damaged skin cells and reducing facial redness and irritation.
Omega-9 fatty acids are one of the building blocks of healthy skin and avocados, and even more so avocado oil, are a great source of it. So along with all of the other health benefits of avocado, improving your skin is another good reason to have more of them in your diet.

5. Hydrates And Lightens The Skin Tone:

The fruit effectively hydrates dry skin and reduces fine lines on the skin. It also offers instant radiance to the skin. This fruit is used in various cosmetic products, such as moisturizers and cleansers. It also controls the itchiness caused by dry skin to a great extent

6. Best Sunscreen:

Replace your regular sunscreen lotions with this fruit. It helps in protecting your skin from the UVA and UVB harmful rays of the sun. It is also a remedy for removing sun burns and eczema from the skin. It protects the skin from future damage

7.Reduces And Prevents Wrinkles:

This fruit protects the skin from toxins that cause premature ageing on the skin. It also helps in reducing the age spots on the skin, when applied directly on the skin.

8. Clears Skin:

They also remove dead skin cells effectively from the skin. It deeply penetrates into the skin to restore the nutrients. It also helps in increasing the blood circulation in the skin, which is essential for the skin. The glutamine amino acid present in avocados cleanses your skin and offers it enough protection against harsh environmental factors

9. Nourishes Skin:

Avocado oil is easily absorbable and, thus, penetrates deep into your skin, leaving it well-cleansed, nourished and baby-soft. This helps accelerate the new cell generation and also helps promote the circulation in the body and the skin.
Initially, it was the Egyptians who used this fruit to regulate the hair growth and prevent hair loss. We can get rich vitamins and minerals through the use of the raw fruit or avocado oil. The oil gets easily absorbed in the hair, so it is  best suited for dry hair. This fruit makes the hair shiny and beautiful. It works effectively when it is used as a hair mask. It not only nourishes but also strengthens the hair. The hair benefits of butter fruit include the following:

10. Antioxidants For Healthy Skin:

Butter fruit contains antioxidants that help in protecting your skin from damage. It improves your skin’s complexion and density. Medical and skincare experts especially recommend the consumption of avocado juice to those struggling with dull, lack luster skin. It is also a great natural remedy to relieve dry skin.







10 Health Benefits of Ginger


using Ginger

Ginger has an extremely robust flavor which makes consuming it a little bit tricky. It might be too strong to ingest on its own, but as I mentioned, it mixes incredibly well into tea or juice, it can also be a great ingredient in a recipe.    

1.Promotes Healthy Blood Pressure

Thai medical practitioners have traditionally used herbs such as ginger to support healthy blood pressure. Extracts from ginger and other herbs used in Thai therapeutic recipes were evaluated for their effectiveness against hypertension. The ginger extract was the most effective. 

2. Supports Stable Blood Sugar

Ginger has repeatedly demonstrated powerful blood sugar balancing effects. It acts on insulin release and sensitivity, and supports the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. [8] In one study, insulin levels noticeably lowered with ginger supplementation. [9] In addition to its effectiveness as a blood sugar stabilizer, ginger has also demonstrated powerful protective effects against diabetic kidney, eye and liver complications.
 

3. Migraine Relief

In a clinical trial, 100 patients received ginger powder or a drug given to migraine sufferers. The results showed the ginger powder helped reduce migraine related discomfort… without side effects.

4. Brain Health

Ginger contains compounds that have demonstrated protective effects for the brain. One of them, known as 6-Shogaol, inhibited the release and expression of redness-causing chemicals known to cause damage to neurons in both in vitro and in vivo models.  The other, 10-gingerol, when sourced from fresh ginger, similarly impacted production of nitric oxide and other chemicals that lead to redness and swelling in the brain. 

5.Protection from UV Rays

Research data has shown ginger possesses UV absorbing capabilities that protect against DNA damage related to UVB (ultraviolet-B) light. Extracts from ginger stimulated antioxidant production, suggesting protective effects against potentially damaging UV light

6. Digestive Tract Protection

Ginger has also been historically used for flatulence, constipation, bloating, and other digestive complaints. In addition to these gastro-protective effects, researchers have found ginger to be effective for stress related ulcers

7.Helps Calm Nausea and Vomiting

Clinical studies have proven ginger’s effectiveness at calming nausea and vomiting. [1] Research has also confirmed its potential against chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). The majority of studies found a positive effect against this side effect of aggressive therapies. [2] Ginger may be a powerful option for those suffering from toxic medical procedures like these.

8. Helps with Muscle Aches and Discomfort

A recent 2013 study has evaluated ginger for use in relieving muscle discomfort in female athletes. Over the course of this 6-week trial, participants taking ginger reported a significant decrease in muscle soreness as compared to the placebo

9. May Benefit Cardiovascular Function

One of the active compounds in ginger, 6-gingerol, has been isolated, tested and determined an active factor in regulating blood pressure and supporting cardiovascular health. Based on the results, researchers are exploring the potentials of ginger as a remedy for cardiovascular problems.

10.May Benefit Osteoarthritis

A recent in vitro study tested ginger against drugs used for osteoarthritis — the ginger extract was demonstrated to be as effective.  Another study involving 43 osteoarthritis patients found ginger to be as effective and more safe than the NSAIDs
 

Saturday 7 November 2015

The Health Benefits of Bananas


Banana fruit nutrition facts

Enjoy banana fruit; nature's own energy-rich food that comes with a safety envelope! Fresh, creamy, and delicious dessert bananas are one of the cheapest and readily available fruits year around.
Botanically, it belongs to the family of Musaceae. Commercially, it is one of the widely cultivated crops in the tropical and subtropical zones. Scientific name: Musa acuminata colla.  
Banana is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows from the underground rhizome. It flourishes well under tropical, moisture-rich, humid, low-lying farmlands.
Banana has unique growth characteristics. In fact, the whole plant is a false stem (pseudostem). This pseudostem is consisting of broad leaves, together with their long petioles, overlapping each other in a disc-like fashion. The whole plant may reach upto 2 to 6 meters tall from the ground surface depending upon the cultivar types. At maturity, the rhizome gives rise to a flower (inflorescence) which is carried up along true core stem (smooth un-branched stem) which pass through the centre of pseudostem. The flower finally emerges out at the top in-between leaf clusters. The inflorescence subsequently develops to a huge hanging bunch, consisting of 3 to 20 hands (tiers), with each hand carrying at least 5-10 fingers (fruits).
 

Health benefits of banana fruit

  • Banana is one of the high calorie, tropical fruits. 100 grams of fruit carry 90 calories. Besides, it contains good amount of health benefiting anti-oxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
  • Banana fruit is composed of soft, easily digestible flesh made up of simple sugars like fructose and sucrose that upon consumption instantly replenishes energy and revitalizes the body. Thus, for these qualities, bananas are being used by athletes to get instant energy and as supplement food in the treatment plan for underweight children.
  • The fruit holds a good amount of soluble dietary fiber (7% of DRA per 100 g) that helps normal bowel movements; thereby reducing constipation problems.
  • It contains health promoting flavonoid poly-phenolic antioxidants such as lutein, zea-xanthin, ß and a-carotenes, albeit, in small amounts. These compounds help act as protective scavengers against oxygen-derived free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) that play a role in aging and various disease processes.
  • Banana is good source of vitamin-B6 (pyridoxine); provides about 28% of daily-recommended allowance. Pyridoxine is an important B-complex vitamin that has beneficial role for the treatment of neuritis, and anemia. Further, it helps decrease homocystine (one of the triggering factor in coronary artery disease (CHD) and stroke
    • episodes) levels within the human body.
    • The fruit is also a moderate source of vitamin-C (about 8.7 mg per 100g). Consumption of foods rich in vitamin-C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful oxygen-free radicals.
    • Fresh bananas provide adequate levels of minerals like copper, magnesium, and manganese. Magnesium is essential for bone strengthening and has a cardiac-protective role as well. Manganese is utilized as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Copper is required in the production of red blood cells.
    • Fresh banana is a very rich source of potassium. 100 g fruit provides 358 mg potassium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure, countering bad effects of sodium.
                        so enjoy your bananas stay fit stay strong and stay healthy

Friday 6 November 2015

Best Home Remedies For Diabetes 1

Guava:

Guava contains Vitamin C and fiber in it, with is more important for the people suffering from diabetes. Standard blood glucose level can be maintained eating guava everyday by peeling the skin off. Excess intake of guava is not suggested.

Mango leaves:

Soaking few mango leaves that are delicate and tender in water for a whole night and consuming it in the morning with empty stomach helps you stay away from diabetes. Powdering these leaves by drying them and taking half a teaspoon twice a day also controls diabetes.

Cinnamon:

Four teaspoons of cinnamon powder should be mixed with water and should be boiled in a low flame. Consuming this extract as a routine helps you maintain the blood glucose levels. Pinch of cinnamon with warm water also helps in curing diabetes.

Aloevera:

Mixing gel that is extracted from aloe vera, bay leaf and turmeric powder in equal ratios and consuming the obtained solution daily before your meal helps you control the blood sugar level which in turn kepps you free from diabetes.

Water:

Water helps in mobilizing the sugar contents that are present in the body which controls cause of diabetes and also helps in maintaining glucose levels. Consuming 2.5 litres of water daily shows best results in people suffering from diabetes.

Sunlight:

Sunlight produces Vitamin D which helps in the production of insulin helping in maintaining the blood glucose levels. Enjoy exposing to sunlight for few minutes early in the morning which helps in gaining Vitamin D and keeps you healthy.                                            

Onion

Onion is a very powerful and effective home remedy for diabetes mellitus. It contains quercetin and sulfur compounds. On the one hand, sulfur compounds are strong anti-microbial compounds. On the other hand, quercetin is a strong flavanoid that reduces every kind of inflammation. These two ingredients in onion make it an effective home remedy against type 2 diabetes.
The insulin production is triggered in the pancreas by sulfur compounds and quercetin reduces inflammation in the intestines. Reduced inflammation helps the blood in using insulin for the purpose of glucose breakdown. This process decreases the un-necessary accumulation of glucose in the blood. Hence, onion juice forms one of the best home remedies for diabetes mellitus. However, people suffering from type 1 diabetes should not use this home remedy.
- See more at: http://www.searchhomeremedy.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/#sthash.ZGjOnQyr.dpuf

Onion

Onion is a very powerful and effective home remedy for diabetes mellitus. It contains quercetin and sulfur compounds. On the one hand, sulfur compounds are strong anti-microbial compounds. On the other hand, quercetin is a strong flavanoid that reduces every kind of inflammation. These two ingredients in onion make it an effective home remedy against type 2 diabetes.
The insulin production is triggered in the pancreas by sulfur compounds and quercetin reduces inflammation in the intestines. Reduced inflammation helps the blood in using insulin for the purpose of glucose breakdown. This process decreases the un-necessary accumulation of glucose in the blood. Hence, onion juice forms one of the best home remedies for diabetes mellitus. However, people suffering from type 1 diabetes should not use this home remedy.
- See more at: http://www.searchhomeremedy.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/#sthash.ZGjOnQyr.dpuf

Onion

Onion is a very powerful and effective home remedy for diabetes mellitus. It contains quercetin and sulfur compounds. On the one hand, sulfur compounds are strong anti-microbial compounds. On the other hand, quercetin is a strong flavanoid that reduces every kind of inflammation. These two ingredients in onion make it an effective home remedy against type 2 diabetes.
The insulin production is triggered in the pancreas by sulfur compounds and quercetin reduces inflammation in the intestines. Reduced inflammation helps the blood in using insulin for the purpose of glucose breakdown. This process decreases the un-necessary accumulation of glucose in the blood. Hence, onion juice forms one of the best home remedies for diabetes mellitus. However, people suffering from type 1 diabetes should not use this home remedy.
- See more at: http://www.searchhomeremedy.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/#sthash.ZGjOnQyr.dpuf
 

Onion

Onion is a very powerful and effective home remedy for diabetes mellitus. It contains quercetin and sulfur compounds. On the one hand, sulfur compounds are strong anti-microbial compounds. On the other hand, quercetin is a strong flavanoid that reduces every kind of inflammation. These two ingredients in onion make it an effective home remedy against type 2 diabetes.
The insulin production is triggered in the pancreas by sulfur compounds and quercetin reduces inflammation in the intestines. Reduced inflammation helps the blood in using insulin for the purpose of glucose breakdown. This process decreases the un-necessary accumulation of glucose in the blood. Hence, onion juice forms one of the best home remedies for diabetes mellitus. However, people suffering from type 1 diabetes should not use this home remedy.
- See more at: http://www.searchhomeremedy.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/#sthash.ZGjOnQyr.dpuf

Garlic

Garlic is yet another powerful home remedy for the people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Garlic contains such ingredients that boost the immune system of the body. It is for this reason that garlic helps ease the problems faced by suffering from diabetes. The blood sugar level comes under control, since garlic contains allicin. Allicin is a sulfur compound that helps the pancreas in producing insulin. Additionally, it also maintains the insulin level by restricting it to the desired amount. This helps in the breakdown of blood glucose. Hence, the blood sugar level stays under control.
- See more at: http://www.searchhomeremedy.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/#sthash.6QkgTf3O.dpuf
 

Garlic

Garlic is yet another powerful home remedy for the people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Garlic contains such ingredients that boost the immune system of the body. It is for this reason that garlic helps ease the problems faced by suffering from diabetes. The blood sugar level comes under control, since garlic contains allicin. Allicin is a sulfur compound that helps the pancreas in producing insulin. Additionally, it also maintains the insulin level by restricting it to the desired amount. This helps in the breakdown of blood glucose. Hence, the blood sugar level stays under control.
- See more at: http://www.searchhomeremedy.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/#sthash.6QkgTf3O.dpuf

Onion

Onion is a very powerful and effective home remedy for diabetes mellitus. It contains quercetin and sulfur compounds. On the one hand, sulfur compounds are strong anti-microbial compounds. On the other hand, quercetin is a strong flavanoid that reduces every kind of inflammation. These two ingredients in onion make it an effective home remedy against type 2 diabetes.
The insulin production is triggered in the pancreas by sulfur compounds and quercetin reduces inflammation in the intestines. Reduced inflammation helps the blood in using insulin for the purpose of glucose breakdown. This process decreases the un-necessary accumulation of glucose in the blood. Hence, onion juice forms one of the best home remedies for diabetes mellitus. However, people suffering from type 1 diabetes should not use this home remedy.
- See more at: http://www.searchhomeremedy.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/#sthash.ZGjOnQyr.dpuf
                                                                            

Thursday 5 November 2015

What causes type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes—the most common form of diabetes—is caused by a combination of factors, including insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s muscle, fat, and liver cells do not use insulin effectively. Type 2 diabetes develops when the body can no longer produce enough insulin to compensate for the impaired ability to use insulin. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes may develop gradually and can be subtle; some people with type 2 diabetes remain undiagnosed for years.
Type 2 diabetes develops most often in middle-aged and older people who are also overweight or obese. The disease, once rare in youth, is becoming more common in overweight and obese children and adolescents. Scientists think genetic susceptibility and environmental factors are the most likely triggers of type 2 diabetes.

Genetic Susceptibility

Genes play a significant part in susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. Having certain genes or combinations of genes may increase or decrease a person’s risk for developing the disease. The role of genes is suggested by the high rate of type 2 diabetes in families and identical twins and wide variations in diabetes prevalence by ethnicity. Type 2 diabetes occurs more frequently in African Americans, Alaska Natives, American Indians, Hispanics/Latinos, and some Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islander Americans than it does in non-Hispanic whites.
Recent studies have combined genetic data from large numbers of people, accelerating the pace of gene discovery. Though scientists have now identified many gene variants that increase susceptibility to type 2 diabetes, the majority have yet to be discovered. The known genes appear to affect insulin production rather than insulin resistance. Researchers are working to  identify additional gene variants and to learn how they interact with one another and with environmental factors to cause diabetes 
Studies have shown that variants of the TCF7L2 gene increase susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. For people who inherit two copies of the variants, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes is about 80 percent higher than for those who do not carry the gene variant.1 However, even in those with the variant, diet and physical activity leading to weight loss help delay diabetes, according to the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), a major clinical trial involving people at high risk.
Genes can also increase the risk of diabetes by increasing a person’s tendency to become overweight or obese. One theory, known as the “thrifty gene” hypothesis, suggests certain genes increase the efficiency of metabolism to extract energy from food and store the energy for later use. This survival trait was advantageous for populations whose food supplies were scarcer unpredictable and could help keep people alive during famine. In modern times, however, when high-calorie foods are plentiful, such a trait can promote obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Obesity and Physical Inactivity

Physical inactivity and obesity are strongly associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. People who are genetically susceptible to type 2 diabetes are more vulnerable when these risk factors are present.
An imbalance between caloric intake and physical activity can lead to obesity, which causes insulin resistance and is common in people with type 2 diabetes. Central obesity, in which a person has excess abdominal fat, is a major risk factor not only for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes but also for heart and blood vessel disease, also called cardiovascular disease (CVD). This excess “belly fat” produces hormones and other substances that can cause harmful, chronic effects in the body such as damage to blood vessels.
The DPP and other studies show that millions of people can lower their risk for type 2 diabetes by making lifestyle changes and losing weight. The DPP proved that people with prediabetes—at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes—could sharply lower their risk by losing weight through regular physical activity and a diet low in fat and calories. In 2009, a follow-up study of DPP participants—the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study (DPPOS)—showed that the benefits of weight loss lasted for at least 10 years after the original study began.2

What causes type 1 diabetes?

type 1 diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin due to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. In type 1 diabetes—an autoimmune disease—the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells. Normally, the immune system protects the body from infection by identifying and destroying bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful foreign substances. But in autoimmune diseases, the immune system attacks the body’s own cells. In type 1 diabetes, beta cell destruction may take place over several years, but symptoms of the disease usually develop over a short period of time.
Type 1 diabetes typically occurs in children and young adults, though it can appear at any age. In the past, type 1 diabetes was called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) may be a slowly developing kind of type 1 diabetes. Diagnosis usually occurs after age 30. In LADA, as in type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system destroys the beta cells. At the time of diagnosis, people with LADA may still produce their own insulin, but eventually most will need insulin shots or an insulin pump to control blood glucose levels.

Genetic Susceptibility

Heredity plays an important part in determining who is likely to develop type 1 diabetes. Genes are passed down from biological parent to child. Genes carry instructions for making proteins that are needed for the body’s cells to function. Many genes, as well as interactions among genes, are thought to influence susceptibility to and protection from type 1 diabetes. The key genes may vary in different population groups. Variations in genes that affect more than 1 percent of a population group are called gene variants. Certain gene variants that carry instructions for making proteins called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) on white blood cells are linked to the risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The proteins produced by HLA genes help determine whether the immune system recognizes a cell as part of the body or as foreign material. Some combinations of HLA gene variants predict that a person will be at higher risk for type 1 diabetes, while other combinations are protective or have no effect on risk.
While HLA genes are the major risk genes for type 1 diabetes, many additional risk genes or gene regions have been found. Not only can these genes help identify people at risk for type 1 diabetes, but they also provide important clues to help scientists better understand how the disease develops and identify potential targets for therapy and prevention.
Genetic testing can show what types of HLA genes a person carries and can reveal other genes linked to diabetes. However, most genetic testing is done in a research setting and is not yet available to individuals. Scientists are studying how the results of genetic testing can be used to improve type 1 diabetes prevention or treatment.

Autoimmune Destruction of Beta Cells

In type 1 diabetes, white blood cells called T cells attack and destroy beta cells. The process begins well before diabetes symptoms appear and continues after diagnosis. Often, type 1 diabetes is not diagnosed until most beta cells have already een destroyed. At this point, a person needs daily insulin treatment to survive. Finding ways to modify or stop this autoimmune process and preserve beta cell function is a major focus of current scientific research. Recent research suggests insulin itself may be a key trigger of the immune attack on beta cells. The immune systems of people who are susceptible to developing type 1 diabetes respond to insulin as if it were a foreign substance, or antigen. To combat antigens, the body makes proteins called antibodies. Antibodies to insulin and other proteins produced by beta cells are found in people with type 1 diabetes. Researchers test for these antibodies to help identify people at increased risk of developing the disease. Testing the types and levels of antibodies in the blood can help determine whether a person has type 1 diabetes, LADA, or another type of diabetes.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors, such as foods, viruses, and toxins, may play a role in the development of type 1 diabetes, but the exact nature of their role has not been determined. Some theories suggest that environmental factors trigger the autoimmune destruction of beta cells in people with a genetic susceptibility to diabetes. Other theories suggest that environmental factors play an ongoing role in diabetes, even after diagnosis.                                                 
Viruses and infections. A virus cannot cause diabetes on its own, but people are sometimes diagnosed with type 1 diabetes during or after a viral infection, suggesting a link between the two. Also, the onset of type 1 diabetes occurs more frequently during the winter when viral infections are more common. Viruses possibly associated with type 1 diabetes include coxsackievirus B, cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, rubella, and mumps. Scientists have described several ways these viruses may damage or destroy beta cells or possibly trigger an autoimmune response in susceptible people. For example, anti-islet antibodies have been found in patients with congenital rubella syndrome, and cytomegalovirus has been associated with significant beta cell damage and acute pancreatitis––inflammation of the pancreas. Scientists are trying to identify a virus that can cause type 1 diabetes so that a vaccine might be developed to prevent the disease.
   Infant feeding practices. Some studies have suggested that dietary factors may raise or lower the risk of developing type 1 diabetes. For example, breastfed infants and infants receiving vitamin D supplements may have a reduced risk of developing type 1 diabetes, while early exposure to cow’s milk and cereal proteins may increase risk. More research is needed to clarify how infant nutrition affects the risk for type 1 diabetes.                                                                          

Monday 2 November 2015

Causes of Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a complex group of diseases with a variety of causes. People with diabetes have high blood glucose, also called high blood sugar or hyperglycemia.
Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism—the way the body uses digested food for energy. The digestive tract breaks down carbohydrates—sugars and starches found in many foods—into glucose, a form of sugar that enters the bloodstream. With the help of the hormone insulin, cells throughout the body absorb glucose and use it for energy. Diabetes develops when the body doesn’t make enough insulin or is not able to use insulin effectively, or both.
Insulin is made in the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach. The pancreas contains clusters of cells called islets. Beta cells within the islets make insulin and release it into the blood.


If beta cells don’t produce enough insulin, or the body doesn’t respond to the insulin that is present, glucose builds up in the blood instead of being absorbed by cells in the body, leading to prediabetes or diabetes. Prediabetes is a condition in which blood glucose levels or A1C levels—which reflect average blood glucose levels—are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. In diabetes, the body’s cells are starved of energy despite high blood glucose levels.
Over time, high blood glucose damages nerves and blood vessels, leading to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, dental disease, and amputations. Other complications of diabetes may include increased susceptibility to other diseases, loss of mobility with aging, depression, and pregnancy problems. No one is certain what starts the processes that cause diabetes, but scientists believe genes and environmental factors interact to cause diabetes in most cases.




The two main types of diabetes are type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. A third type, gestational diabetes, develops only during pregnancy. Other types of diabetes are caused by defects in specific genes, diseases of the pancreas, certain drugs or chemicals, infections, and other conditions. Some people show signs of both type  1 and type 2 diabetes.

Sunday 1 November 2015

10 Proven Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

  

1.The Lauric Acid in Coconut Oil Can Kill Bacteria, Viruses and Fungi, Helping to Stave Off Infections When coconut oil is enzymatically digested, it also forms a monoglyceride called monolaurin  

Both lauric acid and monolaurin can kill harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses and fungi
For example, these substances have been shown to kill the bacteria Staphylococcus Aureus (a very dangerous pathogen) and the yeast Candida Albicans, a common source of yeast infections in humansThe fatty acids and breakdown products in coconut oil can kill harmful pathogens, potentially helping to prevent infections.                                                                                                                                                            

2. Coconut Oil Can Kill Your Hunger, Making You Eat Less     Without Even Trying     

One interesting feature of coconut oil is that it can reduce your hunger.                                                                       
This may be related to the way the fatty acids in it are metabolized, because ketone bodies can have an appetite reducing effect
In one study, varying amounts of medium and long chain triglycerides were fed to 6 healthy men.
The men eating the most MCTs ate 256 fewer calories per day, on average
Another study in 14 healthy men discovered that those who ate the most MCTs at breakfast ate significantly fewer calories at lunch
These studies were small and only done for a short period of time. If this effect were to persist over the long term, it could have a dramatic influence on body weight over a period of several years.
 The fatty acids in coconut oil can significantly reduce appetite, which may positively affect body weight over the long term.

3. The Fatty Acids in Coconut Oil Are Turned into Ketones, Which Can Reduce Seizures


A so-called ketogenic (very low carb, very high fat) diet is currrently being studied to treat various disorders.
The best known therapeutic application of this diet is treating drug-resistant epilepsy in children
This diet involves eating very little carbohydrates and large amounts of fat, leading to greatly increased concentrations of ketone bodies in the blood.
For some reason, this diet can dramatically reduce the rate of seizures in epileptic children, even those who haven’t had success with multiple different types of drugs.
Because the MCTs in coconut oil get shipped to the liver and turned into ketone bodies, they are often used in epileptic patients to induce ketosis while allowing for a bit more carbs in the diet
The MCTs in coconut oil can increase blood concentration of ketone bodies, which can help reduce seizures in epileptic children.

4. Coconut Oil Can Improve Blood Cholesterol Levels and May Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease

Coconut oil is loaded with saturated fats, which actually do not harm the blood lipid profile like previously thought.
Saturated fats raise HDL (the good) cholesterol and change the LDL cholesterol to a benign subtyp 
In one study in 40 women, coconut oil reduced Total and LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL compared to soybean oil
There are also rat studies showing that coconut oil reduces triglycerides, total and LDL cholesterol, increases HDL and improves blood coagulation factors and antioxidant status 

This improvement in cardiovascular risk factors should theoretically lead to a reduced risk of heart disease over the long term. Studies in both humans and rats show that coconut oil improves important risk factors like Total, LDL and HDL cholesterol, which may translate to a reduced risk of heart disease.

5. Coconut Oil Can Protect Hair Against Damage, Moisturize Skin and Function as Sunscreem

Coconut oil can serve various purposes that have nothing to do with eating it.
Many people are using it for cosmetic purposes and to improve the health and appearance of their skin and hair.
Studies on individuals with dry skin show that coconut oil can improve the moisture and lipid content of the skin
Coconut oil can also be very protective against hair damage and one study shows effectiveness as sunscreen, blocking about 20% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays
Another application is using it like mouthwash in a process called oil pulling which can kill some of the harmful bacteria in the mouth, improve dental health and reduce bad breath

Coconut oil can be applied topically as well, studies showing it to be effective as a skin moisturizer and protecting against hair damage. It can also be used as a mild form of sunscreen and as mouthwash.

6. The Fatty Acids in Coconut Oil Can Boost Brain Function in Alzheimer’s Patients

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia worldwide and occurs primarily in elderly individuals.
In Alzheimer’ patients, there appears to be a reduced ability to use glucose for energy in certain parts of the brain.
Ketone bodies can supply energy for the brain and researchers have speculated that ketones can provide an alternative energy source for these malfunctioning cells and reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s
In one 2006 study, consumption of medium chain triglycerides led to immediate improvement in brain function in patients with milder forms of Alzheimer’s
Other studies support these findings and medium chain triglycerides are being intensively studied as potential therapeutic agents in Alzheimer’s diseas
 Studies show that the fatty acids in coconut oil can increase blood levels of ketone bodies, supplying energy for the brain cells of Alzheimer’s patients and relieving symptoms.

7. Coconut Oil Can Help You Lose Fat, Especially The Dangerous Fat in Your Abdominal Cavity

Given that coconut oil can reduce appetite and increase fat burning, it makes sense that it can also help you lose weight.
Coconut oil appears to be especially effective in reducing abdominal fat, which lodges in the abdominal cavity and around organs.
This is the most dangerous fat of all and is highly associated with many Western diseases.
Waist circumference is easily measured and is a great marker for the amount of fat in the abdominal cavity.
A study in 40 women with abdominal obesity, supplementing with 30 mL (1 ounce) of coconut oil per day lead to a significant reduction in both BMI and waist circumference in a period of 12 weeks