Make sure to stock your kitchen with a few of these cooking ingredients to get on the path to a better diet.
(George Rudy / Shutterstock.com)
As the saying goes, you are what you eat. Cooking with the right ingredients can have many major health benefits, and the proof is in the pudding: researchers found that eating healthy foods prevents everything from heart disease and stroke to diabetes and cancer. It goes to show that cooking with the right ingredients not only adds more flavor but also has huge advantages for feeling great. In fact, some medical schools are even teaching cooking as a part of their curriculum to promote health and better eating habits. So make sure to stock your kitchen with a few of these cooking ingredients to get on the path to a better diet.
1. Garlic
For a long time, Ancient Chinese and Indian cultures already figured out the health benefits of garlic for things like aiding digestion and even for treating leprosy. Modern medicine now proves the advantages of consuming this pungent herb. Garlic promotes health in all kinds of ways, from lowering cholesterol to preventing and treating the common cold. Studies have also linked the bulbous plant to reduce the risk for different types of cancers. So who cares if you have smelly breath when you feel that great?
(Marian Weyo / Shutterstock.com)
2. Turmeric
Many Asian foods use this orange spice to flavor foods and color cosmetics, but also for its medicinal purposes. Turmeric contains curcumin, a chemical that improves metabolism, eases arthritis, and aids degenerative eye conditions. Because of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties, the spice can even ease chronic conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, cardiovascular disease, cancer, allergies, arthritis, diabetes, obesity, depression, and fatigue. Better stock up!
(SOMMAI / Shutterstock.com)
3. Onion
If you’re going to be cooking with turmeric, you might as well throw in some onions, too. A 2006 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology revealed that combining onion with turmeric reduces the size of precancerous cells in the intestines, thus lowering the risk of colon cancer. Onions have a few more bonus benefits like lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of diabetes. While they may make your breath smell, they actually can strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay. So actually, an onion a day keeps the doctor away!
(Evgeniya369 / Shutterstock.com)
4. Mint
The family of plants known as the mentha, or mint, refers to a species about 20 plants that includes peppermint, spearmint, pennyroyal, and apple mint. Throw some mint in your salad or tea to reduce allergies, prevent catching a cold, or ease a sore throat. Research shows that if you suffer from stomach aches or heartburn, mint could help to relieve an upset tummy, reduce acid reflux, prevent stomach ulcers, and treat irritable bowel syndrome. It also naturally freshens your breath!
(Subbotina Anna / Shutterstock.com)
5. Ginger
It seems that the cultures of Asia were on to something when they started incorporating ginger into so many of their dishes thousands of years ago. The anticancer properties of ginger are well-documented, and the spicy root has been shown to prevent colon, ovarian, gastric, and liver cancer. Because ginger relieves pain, consuming it before exercise can help reduce muscle soreness. If that wasn’t enough, ginger also helps ease nausea, promote heart health, and soothe a cold or flu.
(pilipphoto / Shutterstock.com)
6. Parsley
Parsley is far more than just a garnish. According to doctors, this versatile leafy herb contains a chemical compound called apigenin that fights against breast cancer. If you get UTIs often, consuming parsley can also help relieve urinary tract infections. On top of that, the plant prevents kidney stones, gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, constipation, diabetes, cough, asthma, and high blood pressure. A few sprigs go a long way.
Give peas a chance—as well as pistachios, fava beans, and pumpkin seed paste. These are just some of the ingredients being used to replace one of the world’s most popular fruits.
On the one hand, they are deliciously creamy, versatile and gloriously Instagrammable. On the other, they have an enormous carbon footprint for a fruit, require up to 320 litres of water each to grow and “are in such global demand they are becoming unaffordable for people indigenous to the areas they are grown in”, according to Thomasina Miers, the co-founder of the Mexican restaurant chain Wahaca.
For some time, the chef has struggled to balance the devastating environmental impact of avocado production with her customers’ appetite for guacamole. Now, she thinks she has found the answer: a vibrant, green guacamole-inspired dip, made from fava beans, green chilli, lime and coriander.
The dip – called Wahacamole – debuted in October 2021, but Wahaca is not the first restaurant to remove or reduce its reliance on avocado. In Toronto, the Mexican chef Aldo Camarena recently suggested a guacamole alternative made with courgette and pumpkin seed paste. In 2020, the chef Santiago Lastra included a guacamole-style dip made from pistachios and fermented gooseberries on the menu at Kol, his Mexican restaurant in London. In 2018, the Irish restaurateur JP McMahon called avocados the “blood diamonds of Mexico”; he has developed a guacamole alternative made using jerusalem artichokes.
This trend is not confined to the restaurant industry. In October 2021, the TikTok star Calum Harris (AKA @madebyblitz) garnered 371,000 likes on his recipe for “guacamole” made with frozen peas, while, on Instagram, the hashtag #noavocado has 3,220 posts and counting.
“A few years ago, I was quite well known for my use of avocados in my cooking – so much so that I dedicated a whole Instagram account (@avodaily) to my love for them,” says the vegan cookery writer Bettina Campolucci Bordi. She decided to cut back when she moved to the UK, having previously lived in Spain, where she could source avocados locally. “My favourite recipe to date uses British peas instead. I blanche the peas before crushing them and mixing them with plant-based sour cream, salt and pepper, a little grated garlic and a spritz of lemon juice.”
Wahaca’s decision to offer an alternative to guacamole is perhaps the clearest indication to date that “parts of the food industry are beginning to wake up to the enormity of the issues we face as a result of intensive farming”, says Tim Lang, a professor of food policy at City, University of London. Avocados have become a “global commodity crop”, he says, the perfect example of what happens when “an exotic food becomes normalised with no thinking through of the consequences”. Problems including deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and water shortages mean that “the communities growing them do not have enough water for washing and hygiene”, adds Lang.
But avocados are challenging to replace – as are their derivatives, avocado oil and avocado butter, which are important in gluten-free and vegan baking. Plus, for many fans of the fruit, a dip made from beans, nuts, seeds or vegetables is no more a replacement for guacamole than smashed broad beans on toast (as suggested by Tom Hunt’s recipe for not-avocado on toast) is an alternative to smashed avocado. Perhaps anticipating this complaint, Wahaca has said that “a traditional, freshly made guacamole” will remain on its menu, for which all of its avocados are “sourced at the most sustainable levels possible”.
Miers, who worked with the British pulse grower Hodmedod’s to create Wahacamole, says: “The fact that we can grow [fava beans in the UK] using regenerative farming methods that fix both nitrogen and carbon into our soil is an added boon.” While guacamole swaps may not exactly replicate the taste of avocado, the feedback has been good at Wahaca. “We’ve been giving people Wahacamole to try for free when they come in to dine with us – and on the whole they seem genuinely interested in giving it a go. Most are enjoying it and many are ordering more,” says Miers.
Lastra says: “We were looking not to recreate, but to produce a similar sensorial experience. What does an avocado mean in terms of sight, texture, aroma and flavour? And how do we paint that with the tools we have?” His blend of pistachios, pine oil, cucumber juice and fermented gooseberries may not fool an avocado connoisseur, but Lastra tells me most people “can’t actually tell the difference … they really enjoy it”. It has all the creaminess, tang and colour of traditional guacamole, he says – and it doesn’t look bad on Instagram, either.
Dental hygiene is an important thing that must be focused on while grooming yourself (Representative Image: Shutterstock)
Bad breath or ‘halitosis’ can make a bad impression, but do not worry, there are certain foods to avoid and tips to keep bad breath at bay
Dental hygiene is an important thing that must be focused on while grooming yourself. Bad breath can be the reason why people avoid you or make a conversation with you. Bad breath or ‘halitosis’ can make a bad impression, but do not worry, there are certain foods to avoid and tips to keep bad breath at bay.
Foods to Avoid:
Garlic and onions are on the top of the list which promotes bad breath. These foods include sulfur compounds that linger in the mouth and are also absorbed in the bloodstream when one exhales.
Coffee and alcohol help oral bacterial growth. They also have a drying effect which reduces saliva growth and allows foul-smelling bacteria to grow and linger in the mouth. Dairy products also promote and trigger bad breath.
Orange juice, soda, and meat are also foods that trigger bad breath. It is essential to rinse your mouth after consuming these food items to avoid bad breath. Certain health conditions can also result in bad breath. Blocked sinus passage and post-nasal drip also result in bad breath.Advertisement
Tips to fight Halitosis:
Foods like raw vegetables and fruits including apples, pears, carrots, and celery produce saliva which cleans the odour-producing bacteria. These foods are rich in fibre and act as natural toothbrushes when consumed.
Probiotic yoghurt contains good bacteria and can help combat bacteria that cause bad breath. Herbs like parsley contain polyphenols and natural chemicals which work as bad breath remedies.
Cherries remove the smell of methyl mercaptan which is a bad breath-causing gas that naturally occurs in food. Green tea contains catechins which is a natural antioxidant that can help in fighting bad breath-causing bacteria.
Consuming water or odour fluid helps flush the bits of food bacteria from the mouth. Drinking water also promotes the production of saliva which is a constant cleansing agent. It helps stinky substances to dissolve.
Food in Gujarat varies across regions, and cuisines. Here is what you should not miss out.
A typical Gujarati thali Shutterstock
Gujarati cuisine is predominantly influenced by the state’s geography, history, and culture. The food varies across regions, and cuisines. A typical meal in most Gujarati households comprises rotli (a flat bread), dal or kadhi, shaak (a dry or gravy-based vegetable preparation), kathol (a preparation made from pulses or whole beans), farsaan (a snack item), and rice. Most Gujarati dishes are an unusual combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavours. And of course, everything is held together by an array of condiments and rounded off with a mishthaan (sweet dish). If you find yourself always on the lookout for hyperlocal food, follow this culinary trail through Gujarat:
Ahmedabad
A small snack shop in Manek Chowk Shutterstock
The largest city of Gujarat and the former capital of the state, Ahmedabad is a gastronome’s delight. This is where the supremely popular Gujarati Thali was served for the first time—way back in 1900 at the Chandravilas restaurant, which still continues to delight food lovers.
Where to go and what to eat Apart from the many ritzy, upmarket restaurants and cafés around the city, the streets are also a treasure trove. Manek Chowk is a must-visit. A vegetable market by day, the square transforms into a bustling, street food market by night. Surrounded by the many heritage pols, the stalls serve a variety of food. Sandwiches, Gujarati delicacies, south Indian, chaat, kulfi…don’t miss the Pav Bhaji and the Chocolate Sandwich/Pizza. At Law Garden, located in the newer part of the city, the Khau Galli provides welcome relief after some dedicated shopping. Try the Chaat, Pani Puri, Dosas, Uttapams, Idlis, Dhokla, Pav Bhaji, Dabeli, Kulfi, ice cream, and Indianised versions of Chinese and Italian snacks. Head to Bhatiyar Gali for a variety of non-vegetarian food.
Rajkot
The famous Bajra Bhakri Shutterstock
In the heartland of Kathiawad, you’ll find food that’s much spicier than what you find across Gujarat. The food here and in nearby Bhavnagar, Jamnagar, Surendranagar, Porbandar, Junagadh, Botad, Morbi, and Gir-Somnath, has strong Rajasthani influences.
Where to go and what to eat Don’t miss the Kathiawadi Thali, which is much spicier than the Gujarati variant and takes into consideration the climate and the availability of fresh produce. Staples include Talela Marcha (fried green chillies), Rotla, and a couple of vegetables—Sev Tamata nu Shaak, Papad nu Shaak, Lasania Bataka, or Ringan nu Olo, and, of course, Chaas. Delicacies like Rasawala Dhokla, Bajra Bhakri, Methi Thepla, Kathiawadi Akha Adad, Kathiawadi Stuffed Onion, and the Dhokli nu Shaak must not be miss. If you have time, head to Jamnagar to enjoy the Ghooto, a mixed vegetable and lentil curry best enjoyed with crumbled rotla. In Bhavnagar, don’t forget to stock up on the Ganthiya, the dry snack.
Bhuj
The local favourite, Shrikhand Shutterstock
The people of dry and arid Kutch believe in “simple living and high thinking”. Their food follows this line, and is simple and satisfying. The nutritious meals must always be washed down with a glass of chaas!
What to eat Kutchi cuisine uses minimal oil and favours the leelo masallo. The meals are simple, and include Kadhi, Khichdi, and Bajra no Rotlo with a smattering of hardy vegetables such as Guvar nu Shaak. Dairy products are abundantly used as people in the arid region have a large population of livestock. Shrikhand is often the favoured dessert. Kutch offers some special items that are best served here: Dabeli, a Kutchi cousin of Mumbai’s Vada Pav; the Kutchi Pakwan, a deep-fried dry snack made out of maida and ajwain that resonates the Sindhi Dal Pakwan; and the Gulab Pak, a delicate barfi made from rose petals, milk, and sugar, and garnished with chopped and toasted almonds, cashew nuts, and pistachios. When in Bhuj, one must also make sure to visit the legendary Khavda Sweet and Farsan, which is famous for its pure sweets, dairy products, namkins and dryfruits.
Vadodra
Bhakarwadi, a traditional Gujarati snack Shutterstock
The multicultural ethos of Baroda has its roots in the vision of Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the Maharaja of Baroda State from 1875 to 1939. The cultural capital of the state is known for its love of food.
Where to go and what to eat Vadodara has plentiful Gujarati restaurants offering their versions of the thali, but there are plenty of options for those who love their street food. In the heart of the city, Sursagar, is a street food hub in the evening. Stalls offering chaat, samosas, sandwiches, and golas pick up pace as night falls. In Mangal Bazaar, the moong dal kachoris at Pyarelal ki Kachori, and the ice cream at Samrat—a store that’s been around since the 1950s—are great.
At Ratri Bazaar, a food market located in the busy area of Karelibaug, over 40 eateries and stalls sell anything you may be in the mood to eat. From Khichu and momos to dosas and chaat, everything’s available at this eat street from 5pm to 1am.
Any trip to Vadodara is incomplete without relishing the delectable Duliram na peda at Pendawala Duliram Ratanlal Sharma located on Raopura Main Road. Another eatery that you must visit is Jagdish Farshan, which was established in 1938. Located on Ajwa Road, the shop is known for its bhakarwadi, lilo chevdo, suko chevda, sweets and namkins.
You can’t leave Vadodara without savouring the Sev Usal. The spicy and tangy pea curry tastes best topped with chutneys, chopped onions, and scooped up with white buns. Don’t forget to try the Lilo Chevdo.
Surat
Undhiyu is a Gujarati mixed vegetable dish Shutterstock
The commercial nerve centre of South Gujarat is as renowned for its love of food as it is for its diamond and textile industries. Food experiments have also resulted in dishes that are now part and parcel of Gujarati fare.
Where to go and what to eat You can’t come to Surat and not relish Undhiyu, the elaborate mixed vegetable dish that’s a winter staple. The recipe derives its name from the word “undhu”, which means upside down—the dish was traditionally cooked upside down in earthen pots (matlu) fired from above. This Surti classic is made with winter vegetables. Apart from the many restaurants, head to Piplod for street food. The numerous stalls and joints offer traditional Gujarati snacks along with localised Italian, Chinese, and Mexican options. Be it Pav Bhaji, Dhokla, or Sev Khamni, there’s something for everyone at this eat street. Don’t miss the Surat staple, the Locho—a word that translates into “a mess” in Gujarati. Made from chick pea flour, the dollops of batter are seasoned with groundnut oil and served with butter, sev, coriander, and onion rings. Round off your meal with the Surati Ghari, which is made with “puri” dough and studded with a delicious filling of mawa, sugar, and gram flour.
Love food but calorie count haunts you? Try out these healthy snack options that are not only good for your health but will also add value to your meals.
Edited by: India TV Lifestyle Desk
Image Source : FREEPIK Representative image
Counting calories and planning your diet accordingly can be a task for many, especially foodies. If you’re someone who loves to munch snacks but are conscious about calorie intake, here are some healthy snack choices that are not only good for your health but will also add value to your meals. Added bonus is they are super easy to make!
Oatmeal
One of the nutritious options which can be a good snacking option is oatmeal. Oats are packed with soluble fibre, which will help in increasing the number of good bacteria in the digestive tract, along with other health benefits. Instead of the sugar-rich flavoured oats use whole rolled oats to make oatmeal. Also, preparing oatmeal with milk instead of water will give some extra dose of protein and calcium, thus enhancing immunity.
Popcorn
For those who would like to eat something salty and crunchy, we would suggest they binge on popcorn. It’s a high-fibre snack that will keep you full until the next meal. Leave off the butter and salt, and replace them with heart-healthy fats like olive oil or fresh herbs. In fact, three cups of air-popped popcorn contain less than 100 calories and roughly 4 grams of fibre, which will help you to feel full.
Nuts
Nuts like walnuts and almonds contain natural melatonin, protein, and magnesium, a modest handful of nuts will satiate appetite and induce sleepiness.
Roasted Grams
Roasted Grams are a crunchy nutrient-dense, low-calorie snack that’s high in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, which makes them a healthier alternative to salty snacks like potato chips.
Steamed Dhokla
A snack that is perfect to fuel up on after a long day, the steaming of dhokla withholds the extra use of oil and is very light and easy to digest. Curd that is used in this recipe enhances the goodness that comes with fermented food like breaking down fat effortlessly alongside maintaining healthy gut flora.
Spinach Idlis
Twist regular idli recipe by adding spinach to your fermented idli batter. Spinach is a superfood that includes a lot of rich fibres, iron, proteins, minerals, magnesium, and on the other hand, idli is another meal that is nourishing with less calorie. Spinach is rich in its water content which will aid in keeping your child hydrated throughout. Other benefits like aiding to keep immunity high and keeping gastric problems at bay, spinach is a go-to option that must be incorporated in your snack time.
Give Berries a chance
When you want to stay away from sugar or oil, colourful berries such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries can be your go-to option. Berries are called negative calorie foods because of their low glycaemic index and their protein content. It also contains antioxidants, which protects us from various cancers.
The anti-aging industry is filled with supplements, creams, and products touted for their ability to ward off wrinkles, boost the collagen production of your skin, improve elasticity and keep you looking youthful.
But as they say, you are what you eat, so when it comes to fighting the clock, what we put into our bodies can be even more important than the products that we shell out money to help us in this department. Experts note that there are a variety of anti-aging foods that you can eat that can work wonders in helping to fight off skin-damaging free radicals, repair collagen in the body, and reduce inflammation. From omega-3 rich salmon and flaxseeds to vitamin C-packed citrus fruits, here are 30 of the best anti-aging foods to make sure you are incorporating them into your diet.
Best Anti-Aging Foods
1. Blueberries
“Considered a superfood, these berries are one of the healthiest foods you can eat with numerous health benefits,” says Bansari Acharya, a metro-Detroit-based registered dietitian and nutritionist with FoodLove.com. They have powerful antioxidant properties in them that help fight off free radicals, which may lead to slowing down aging. Blueberries, says Acharya, are so versatile that you can enjoy them in smoothies, salads, or even on their own.
2. Green tea:
Green tea contains numerous beneficial compounds in it such as antioxidants and phytochemicals that may decrease inflammation in the body. “Accelerated aging is usually caused by increased inflammation and the compounds in green tea may fight off with free radicals that can cause damage to cells,” Acharya explains. Green tea can be consumed traditionally or even more popularly through matcha powder.
3. Spinach:
Leafy greens, like spinach, are filled with tons of vitamins that act as antioxidants. These anti-aging foods also filled with loads of fiber that are great to keep your heart and digestive system healthy. Acharya notes that you can add spinach to salads, smoothies, and even soups.
4. Dark chocolate:
Dessert lovers rejoice! Dark chocolate, says Acharya, “may increase the blood flow and circulation in the skin, which may increase the moisture in the skin.” This, she says, can reduce the formation and appearance of wrinkles. This food is also high on antioxidants and may also aid in reducing inflammation levels in the body. Dark chocolate can be enjoyed by itself or with nuts such as dark chocolate almonds.
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5. Avocados:
Avocados are packed with healthful fats that may be beneficial to skin health. Jenn LaVardera is a registered dietitian and expert nutritionist for Naturipe. Research has shown people who eat diets higher in monounsaturated fats; the type of fat found in avocados, have a lower risk of severe facial skin aging. “Avocados also pack the compounds lutein and zeaxanthin, pigments that can help maintain eye health and reduce risk of macular degeneration due to age,” explains LaVardera. You can add avocados to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies, or enjoy a breakfast of smashed avocado toast.
6. Flaxseeds:
Hydration is key to helping to ward off wrinkles and keep your skin looking supple and youthful. One study found that participants who supplemented with flaxseed oil experienced a 39% increase in skin hydration after a period of 12 weeks. An improvement in skin roughness and smoothness was also observed from eating this anti-aging food.
7. Salmon:
Another omega-3 rich food is salmon. The type of omega-3 fat found here, called DHA (i.e., docosahexaenoic acid) is of particular importance to protecting the brain, heart, and eyes from aging. And bonus: “Studies show that people who include DHA in their diets also have lower risks for the main causes of vision loss as we age, including macular degeneration,” says Elizabeth Somer, a registered dietitian, author of Age-Proof Your Body, and medical advisory board member at Persona Nutrition.
8. Legumes:
Whether they are lentils, chickpeas, split peas, or black, kidney, navy, or pinto beans, legumes are packed with nutrients that support mental health, such as folate, calcium, copper, magnesium, iron, and zinc. The folate in beans protects against a memory-destroying compound called homocysteine. The antioxidant phytonutrients in legumes, such as saponins and phytosterols, may help protect against wrinkles and, per Somer, can also help lower cancer and heart disease risk. Try legumes in chili, bean burritos, or split pea soup.
9. Mushrooms:
Mushrooms are high in Vitamin D, which is important in the formation and maintenance of normal bones and plays an integral part in supporting our immune system. “Next time you make a meatloaf or meatballs chop up some mushrooms to add some extra nutrition to your meal,” suggests Nikkel.
10. Lemons:
Do you start off your morning with a glass of warm lemon water? You’re onto something! These citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C, which is crucial in skin health. One study found that women who consumed more Vitamin C had a lower likelihood of a wrinkled appearance and skin dryness, making it one of the best anti-aging foods.
11. Watercress:
Not familiar with watercress? You’ll find it in the fresh produce aisle. This leafy green has, in recent years, joined the ranks of the superfood world. It’s filled with healthy nutrients like calcium, potassium, and magnesium and carotenoids like beta-carotene, which may help to ward off free radicals.
12. Scallops:
“Scallops are rich in selenium an essential mineral that acts as an antioxidant helping to protect our cells from damage,” explains Nikkel. She notes that this shellfish is one of the quickest protein sources you can cook. “Pan sear them over high heat for about 2 minutes per side.”
13. Olive oil:
This delicious oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, which Nikkel says can help to improve the health of our hearts. “Utilize olive as a salad dressing mixed with balsamic dressing or drizzle it over vegetables and roast them in the oven for additional heart-healthy benefits,” she suggests. You can also apply it topically for some extra moisturizing. Olive has been linked to possibly helping to ward off skin cancer.
14. Pineapple:
This tropical fruit has a hidden anti-aging trick up its sleeve. “It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, which is necessary to manufacture collagen – a protein which supports skin structure,” explains registered dietitian Susan Bowerman. Enjoy it by itself, toss some cubes in a stir-fry, or put together a tropical fruit salad.
15. Turmeric:
This spice contains compounds, which act as natural antioxidants. “Oxidant damage can negatively affect the appearance of the skin but can also influence the body’s ability to produce energy,” says Bowerman. Turmeric is also used to lower inflammation and may be able to help treat various dermatological skin conditions as well, thus making it an anti-aging food.
16. Coconut:
“Coconut is not only highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it also helps support the natural chemical balance of the skin to help to prevent wrinkles and it functions as a protective anti-oxidant,” says Orit Markowitz, a New York City board-certified dermatologist. He adds that it’s also great for hydrating both skin and hair and also helps against de-hydration when taken by mouth, as it contains loads of electrolytes. “Coconut also helps promote healthy-looking hair and it can help control dandruff,” he explains. And coconut oil can make an excellent moisturizer when applied topically.
17. Pumpkin:
The vibrant orange color of this squash indicates that it’s loaded with beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. This gets converted to Vitamin A in the liver, which helps prevent wrinkles and keep your skin youthful and moisturized. “This is the perfect food if you are experiencing dry skin,” says Markowitz. Pumpkin is also loaded with Vitamin C, another antioxidant that protects collagen and boosts our immune systems.
18. Carrots:
Carrots are not only good for your eyes but are also amazing for smooth skin. Carotenoids, found in carrots, are your protection from everyday pollutants and can help to ward off wrinkles. ”The beta carotene in carrots is a skin-friendly nutrient that gets converted to vitamin A inside the body and can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays,” explains Markowitz.
(iStock)
19. Kale:
“Dark leafy greens, like kale, are high in antioxidants and other nutrients like vitamin C that boost your body’s collagen production, improving the texture, appearance, and firmness of your skin, explains Chrissy Arsenault, a registered dietitian in Indianapolis. “I think kale is delicious in a salad or smoothie, but my absolute favorite way to prepare it is making kale chips,” she explains. “Just drizzle fresh kale with olive oil and dust it with a pinch of salt, then put it in the oven for 15 minutes at 350°F. They’ll come out crunchy and delicious!”
20. Oranges:
Another Vitamin C powerhouse! “Oranges and other citrus fruits are high in carotenoids, compounds that protect your skin from UV light to keep it firm and prevent wrinkles,” Arsenault explains. Oranges are also excellent self-contained snacks that are easy to throw in your bag and take on the go without a mess.
21. Yellow Squash:
There is a wealth of anti-aging food power in yellow squash, including vitamin A and B vitamins like B6, riboflavin, and folate. “These vitamins are critical to maintaining your body’s metabolism and can help mitigate the slowing of the metabolism as you age,” Arsenault explains. Try roasting some squash in the oven, eating pasta with spaghetti squash instead of noodles, or making some butternut squash soup.
22. Eggs:
Eggs, especially the yolk are a rich source of choline, a nutrient, which can help to support our brain and memory function as we age. They also contain biotin, which promotes hair and scalp health. Nikkel says that hard-boiled eggs are a low-calorie and nutritious snack.
23. Bell Peppers:
Bell peppers are a great source of antioxidants such as carotenoids, which aid in anti-aging by reducing skin damage caused by the sun, illness, and smoking and alcohol consumption. “Different ways you can enjoy bell peppers is by chopping them up in a salad, sautéing them in a veggie omelet, or chicken fajita pasta with bell peppers,” explains Sandy Younan Brikho, a registered dietitian nutritionist with The Dish On Nutrition.
24. Manuka Honey:
Manuka honey, says Brikho, reduces inflammation, which aids in anti-aging by reducing inflammatory cytokine formation. “Some of my favorite ways to enjoy manuka honey is adding 1-2 teaspoons to your iced coffee with vanilla and nonfat milk or almond milk, having a peanut butter and honey sandwich, or adding manuka honey on top of pancakes,” she explains. Because of its hydrating properties, this type of honey is also found in a lot of anti-aging skincare lines.
25. Broccoli:
These green stalks, and their leaves, are a great source of vitamin C, which helps with anti-aging by playing a role in connective tissue healing and collagen. “Some fun ways to add broccoli in your diet is by making a chicken and broccoli stir fry, cheesy garlic broccoli as a side, or by adding it to a soup,” Brikho suggests.
26. Papaya:
This tropical fruit naturally contains the enzymes papain, and chymopapain. “These enzymes help to support digestion which in return supports gut health,” adds Nikkel. She says to try making a tropical fruit salad full of papaya, pineapple, and mango for a healthy source of nutrients throughout the week.
(iStock)
27. Sweet potatoes:
Sweet potatoes contain an antioxidant called beta-carotene, which helps with anti-aging. And this anti-oxidant converts to vitamin A, which has been shown to improve facial wrinkles and skin elasticity. “Some delicious ways to add sweet potatoes into your diet are by making a loaded baked sweet potato, oven-roasted sweet potatoes as a side, or sweet potato brownies, if you are craving dessert,” says Brikho.
28. Walnuts:
These tasty nuts are a plant-based source of omega 3 fatty acids, which help to support our cognitive function as we age. “Walnuts can be enjoyed as part of a tasty trail mix, mixed into salads for a satisfying crunch or sprinkled on top of oatmeal,” says Nikkel.
29. Strawberries:
These delicious red berries are full of antioxidants – nutrients that can help to reduce and combat the damage done to our body’s cells by free radicals. And free radicals explains Nikkel, are naturally occurring by-products that occur as a result of our daily lives. Add this anti-aging food to your savory breakfasts of oatmeal, waffles, or pancakes for an antioxidant-rich meal.
A street vendor mixed fruits in chai. This experiment has left many people in a digust.
A vendor mixed fruits in chai – Instagram screengrab by @foodieincarnate
A cup of chai can either make your day or break it. If your chai is just the way you like it, it’s all you need to relax and unwind. But even if one ingredient is missing or is a little too much, then that cup of chai can also ruin your day. Since we all love chai, we have our own ways and recipes to make a delicious cuppa. However, in all these recipes, I think we all can agree that any weird experiment with chai is just not acceptable. However, that does not stop certain people from experimenting. Till now, you might have seen a cup of chai that was full of herbs or topped with ice cream; but a recent chai experiment has caught the attention of many. This time, a street vendor was seen making fruit chai. Yes, you heard us. As bizarre as this might sound, ‘fruit chai’ does exist and is being sold on the streets of Surat.
In a video uploaded by food blogger @foodieincarnate, we can see a vendor first making the base of chai. Then he goes on to add some pieces of banana, chikoo and grated apple in it. Once the chai is boiled, he strains it and serves it. Take a look at the video here:
Ever since this video was uploaded, it has garnered 870k views, 60.5K likes and thousands of comments. Many people were left in disgust with this creation. One person wrote, “Kya ho gya logo ko kuch bhi bana rahe hai had hai yaar (What is wrong with people, they keep making any nonsense?)” Another person wrote, “It’s really unhealthy. Avoid such thing in life.”
Some user even added, “Please don’t try this at home. It’s dangerous for health.” Another user wrote, “Like seriously, this food modernisation is leading us to big problems, and disease. These unmatched food natures and food combinations will seriously cause big problems.”
Many even added sarcastic comments; a user wrote, “You can also add vanilla, butterscotch and chocolate flavours.”
What do you think about this ‘fruit chai’? Would you ever try it out? Let us know in the comments below!
Summer is here, and the most important fact that one should start doing is keeping themselves hydrated. Extreme heat and make you feel dry and dizzy, so it’s very important to consume water and also food items that add water to your body and keeps you refreshed. Fruits like watermelon, cucumber are considered to be to summer favourites. It’s good for your body and it adds a lot of benefits to your skin as well. If you eat such fruits on a regular basis, it will keep you hydrated, healthy and will give you a very clear and glowing skin. Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, famous cosmetology, recently shared about the fruits that you must eat during summers.
In her post, she says, “Summer is here, which means hot, uncomfortable weather is too. Cool down your body and skin by snacking on cooling foods like watermelon, cucumber, celery, yogurt, and cauliflower.”
1. Watermelon: Made up of 92 per cent water, it’s an excellent hydrating fruit! It is also packed with lycopene, antioxidants, Vitamins A, B6, and C, potassium, and amino acids.
2. Cucumber: A summer must-have! It eliminates toxins from the body and keeps you hydrated.
3. Celery: This vegetable is 95 per cent water, which makes it a good option to keep necessary fluid levels up.
4. Yogurt: Yogurt is made for summer eating—whether it’s ice-cream or frozen yogurt. It’s cooling, nutritious, light, and the perfect snack.
5. Cauliflower: Part of the cruciferous veggies family, it is rich in vitamin C and several minerals and micro-nutrients.
Medically Reviewed by Debra Jaliman, MD on August 27, 2021
Food and Acne
Food alone doesn’t cause acne — or prevent it. Your genes, lifestyle, and what you eat all play a role in the condition. But some foods may make it worse, while others help your skin stay healthy. Scientists need to do more research to know how specific foods really affect the condition. But they have looked at a few possible triggers so far.
Milk
The more milk you drink, the more likely you are to have acne — especially if it’s skim milk. Scientists are still trying to figure out why, but it could be the hormones that cows make when they are pregnant, which wind up in their milk. People who have higher levels of those hormones in their blood tend to have more acne.
Sugar and Some Carbs
You’re more likely to have acne if your diet is full of foods and drinks like soda, white bread, white rice, and cake. The sugar and carbohydrates in these foods tend to get into your blood really quickly. That means they are high on the glycemic index, a measure of how foods affect blood sugar. When your body makes more insulin to bring down blood sugar, it affects other hormones that can boost oil production in your skin.
Chocolate
A few small studies show that people who eat more chocolate are more likely to get pimples. But it’s not clear why. The key ingredient, cocoa, doesn’t seem to be the reason. In one study, people who ate chocolate with 10 times more cocoa were no more likely to get pimples than those who ate the regular kind. Dark chocolate, with less sugar and milk, may be a better choice if you’re trying to control your acne.
High-Fiber Foods
People who eat a lot of fiber may see their acne improve. But doctors don’t know the exact reason. They do know that high-fiber diets can help control blood sugar, which is better for keeping acne away. Oatmeal, beans, apples, and carrots are easy ways to add a bit of fiber to your diet.
Salmon
This fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids. They lower inflammation in your body, and that may help keep acne away. They also help lower the amount of a protein your body makes, called IGF-1, that is linked to acne.
Nuts
People with acne often have low levels of antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium, which almonds, peanuts, and Brazil nuts have a lot of. These nutrients protect cells from damage and infections. There’s no clear proof that antioxidants will clear up acne, but they are good for your body in other ways. So there’s no harm in adding them to your diet. Just don’t overdo it: about 24 almonds or three or four Brazil nuts is all you need.
Oysters
They’ve got lots of zinc, a nutrient that’s important for your skin. Among other things, it may help kill bacteria that cause certain kinds of acne. It also appears to help the body stop making chemicals that can cause inflammation — something else that’s linked to acne. Too much zinc can cause health problems, though. Adults shouldn’t get more than 40 milligrams a day.
Seaweed
Whether you eat it in a sushi roll, in a salad, or on its own as a salty snack, it’s a great source of iodine, which your thyroid gland needs to work properly. But too much iodine at once can make you break out. Most adults need 150 micrograms a day, though pregnant and breastfeeding women need more. If you eat a balanced diet, it’s hard to get too much. Along with seaweed, you can get iodine from foods like fish, dairy products, and iodized salt.
What About Oily Food?
It’s a common myth, but eating greasy foods won’t cause acne or make it worse. If you spend a lot of time cooking it, though, you may notice more trouble with your skin. That’s because the oil from a deep fryer or other source can stick to and clog your hair follicles.
When to See a Doctor
It’s often easy to manage your acne at home, but some cases are more serious. If you don’t see a difference with careful skin care, changes in diet, and over-the-counter treatments, you should talk with your doctor. They may refer you to a dermatologist. Early treatment can help your confidence and prevent scarring.
This year, the World Water Day observance is focused on groundwater.
World Water Day in held on the 22nd March every year. The day celebrates water and raises awareness about it.
Water plays a major role in our lives. It’s important to drink an ample amount of water daily in order to sustain our lives. Especially, during the summer months when people can suffer from dehydration. Across the world, water and water-related problems are a great concern for societies, governments and scientists alike. To address these problems and bring them to the forefront, World Water Day is observed as a part of the programmes initiated by the United Nations.
World Water Day in 2022 Theme
This year World Water Day is focussing on groundwater, ways to conserve it and problems related to it. The theme is “Groundwater – Making The Invisible Visible”. The website states, “Groundwater is invisible, but its impact is visible everywhere. Out of sight, under our feet, groundwater is a hidden treasure that enriches our lives. In the driest parts of the world, it may be the only water people have.”
It is important to stay hydrated, especially in the summers.
Significance
World Water Day is an annual United Nations Observance. It started in 1993 as a way to celebrate water and raise awareness of billions of people who are currently living without access to safe water. According to the website, “A core focus of World Water Day is to inspire action towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030.”
Health benefits of drinkingwater
Drinking water helps to flush out toxins. This helps to keep the metabolic system healthy and functional.
It boosts the immune system and improves oral health. It cleanses the mouth and prevents tooth decay. Water also constitutes a major part of the saliva and mucus in the body.
Water improves skin and hair health. Dehydration can lead to premature ageing of the skin and hair problems. Proper water intake can enhance hair growth and volume.
Water also regulates body temperature in the form of sweat. Sweating helps to cool down the body.
Have you ever felt like eating a piece of chocolate cake or a bag of chips after a stressful day at work? If so, you’re not alone. Studies show that stressful events activate systems associated with metabolism, cognition and reward.
What does this mean for your waistline? It means that the candy bar you are reaching for after a stressful event (or a series of stressful events) may be driven by a combination of physiological and psychological factors.
How does stress affect your appetite?
Studies show that women with high chronic stress levels tend to engage in emotional eating. In addition to psychological responses to stress, there may also be physiological responses. During a stressful event, the body releases cortisol, a hormone that helps the body protect itself. However, if cortisol levels are elevated for a prolonged period of time, such as during repeated and constant stressors, this can lead to increased food consumption, fat storage and weight gain.
Does timing matter?
According to a study from the Johns Hopkins Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, timing may play a role in appetite and gut hormone responses to meal and stress challenges. (A challenge is used in research studies to see how people react to different foods or stress factors.) This study showed that the “afternoon/evening may be a high-risk period for overeating, particularly when paired with stress exposure, and for those with binge eating.” This means that your commute home or evening meal may be a time period when you have a greater likelihood to eat more than you should.
To help curb this increased chance, pay attention to snacking habits after a long day of work to help prevent weight gain. Try preparing snacks in advance to control portion size or even using a food journal to track what you eat, how much of it and when.
How can you manage stress eating?
1. Practice mindful eating. Know that your craving may be a result of a stressful event, and then ask yourself, are you truly hungry? Wait a few minutes before eating.
2. Find healthier options. If you still feel the need for a snack, consider a lower-calorie, lower-fat option than what you may have previously chosen. Here are some healthy snacks I enjoy:
Something sweet: Cut up an apple and spread some nut butter on it. The combination of carbohydrates, protein and healthy fat should help curb your appetite and satisfy your need for a sweet.
Something savory: Consider adding hummus to deviled eggs for a lower-calorie, high-protein snack option.
3. Watch portion size. Instead of taking the whole box with you, put a snack-size amount on a plate. Check the package to see what one serving size is, and try to stick to that.
It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor or a dietitian when you make changes to your diet.
He is appearing as a special guest on the show with popular chefs Kunal Kapur and Ranveer Brar.
Celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor talks about how he entered the field of cooking on ‘The Kapil Sharma Show’. He is appearing as a special guest on the show with popular chefs Kunal Kapur and Ranveer Brar.
During a conversation on the show with the host Kapil Sharma, Ranveer says: “Fact of the matter is that we watched him (Sanjeev Kapoor) growing up but we don’t know who he watched.”
To this, Sanjeev Kapoor replies: “When I entered this field, at that time, nobody from my family had ever been to restaurants. I didn’t even know what the word chef meant or how it was pronounced. In the house where I used to live, we used to order dosa, samosa, jalebi from Punjab Sweet House. The Sardarji who would cook there would make us dosas and we did not know what or who a ‘chef’ is.”
Kunal also recalls how his grandmother would taunt him that if he did not study well, he would become a ‘halwai’. And this became a reality as he is now a well-known chef.
‘The Kapil Sharma Show‘ airs on Sony Entertainment Television.
Have you ever heard of the phrase, ‘A clean home is a happy home?’ Well this phrase especially applies to the heart of the home, better known as the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones maintaining a clean kitchen is the single most important part of your preparation process. Good kitchen hygiene ensures that people can enjoy your delicious food while remaining happy, healthy, and worry-free — which is the key to keeping your customers coming back for more.
Ready to learn how to keep your kitchen clean while cooking delicious meals for your home-based restaurant? You’ve come to the right place! Here are 9 simple hacks to keep your kitchen squeaky clean as you prepare meals for your microenterprise home kitchen operation.
Step #1: Wash Hands Frequently
This step goes without saying, but it’s so important that it can’t be skipped over! The most fundamental way to keep your kitchen AND your food clean is by washing your hands frequently while you cook. Before you begin prepping your ingredients, wash your hands for 30 seconds according to the guidelines provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Keep your hands clean throughout your cooking process by washing your hands after touching raw ingredients. Also wash your hands after any activity that requires you to touch other items including smoking, eating, drinking, touching trash, or touching body parts including your face. Germs linger everywhere even in unexpected places, so washing before and after you touch items throughout your home ensures that you keep your kitchen clean as you prepare tasty meals for your customers.
Pro Tip: We know it’s hard to stop scrolling, but you can keep your hands extra clean by minimizing phone use while cooking. Phones hold more gems than almost any other item we use in our day to day lives.
Step #2: Create a clean cooking space
There’s nothing like the feeling of creating a tasty meal in a clean kitchen! It gives you the physical AND the mental space to get creative with your meals, plus it ensures that everything your food touches is squeaky clean and germ-free. Before you begin cooking wash any dirty dishes, clear away any clutter, and wipe down your countertops and sink thoroughly. You can use sanitary wipes or bleach diluted in water to disinfect any surfaces — both options work just fine!
Pro Tip: To keep your kitchen clean while cooking, have your go-to cleaning products and sanitary supplies close by so that you can tidy up as you go. Make sure to reset your space by cleaning up any sticky spills after prepping each ingredient to prevent any cross-contaminations or spreading of germs.
Step #3: Sanitize Your Cooking Utensils
Your cooking utensils are some of the most important tools you’ll use in the kitchen, which makes it all the more important for them to be sanitized before they touch any food you’ll be preparing. Before you get to cooking, sanitize your cooking utensils by washing any dishes, pots, and pans and detachable pieces such as blades or handles in hot soapy water. Rinse them in clean water to remove any excess soap or residue, then place your items in a container and submerge them in a sanitizing solution. You can create your own solution by mixing 1 tablespoon unscented chlorine bleach in 1 gallon of warm (not hot) water. Remove your utensils from the solution and let them dry fully before using them to cook. Also, no double-dipping! Do not reuse the same utensils while cooking unless you thoroughly clean them first — especially if you are the designated taste tester.
Pro Tip: Use a different cutting board for the different categories of food you work with so that you never cross-contaminate. This is not only important for sanitation, but it is important to prevent cross-contamination that can cause your customers to become sick or have allergic reactions. We recommend purchasing a pack of color-coded cutting boards to ensure that you never cut up your meat and vegetables on the same board.
Step #4: Use Best Practices for Washing & Storing Ingredients
Now that your cooking area and utensils are clean, it’s time to make sure the ingredients you’ll be cooking with are clean too. Fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables should be washed under cold running tap water. DO NOT use soap or detergent to wash your produce — cold water works just fine to safely remove dirt. Once your produce is clean, cut any damaged or bruised areas and refrain from using them since bacteria can thrive in these areas of fresh produce. Wash and chop your produce, then immediately place it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and safe to eat.
After all the hard work you’ve done to clean your kitchen, you wouldn’t want it all to go to waste by spreading even more germs in the process, right? According to the USDA, it is not recommended to wash raw poultry and meat because bacteria can easily spread to other foods utensils and surfaces. The best way to keep your meat bacteria-free is to simply cook it at a minimum internal temperature of 145 °F. This is also the best way to maintain the highest kitchen sanitation standards by preventing the spread of food-borne bacteria from splashing over different surfaces where you typically prepare meals.
Step #5: Keep Your Prep & Cooking Space Dry at All Times
Damp areas in your kitchen are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to spread, so do not let wet items sit around for too long. Wipe up any spills or messes made while you’re cooking as soon as they happen. Instead of using sponges and towels so frequently, consider using disposable paper towels or wipes.
Also remember to disinfect your hand towels and sponges weekly. You can throw your kitchen towels into the washing machine with your laundry. To clean your sponges, saturate them in water and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, then dry thoroughly. Or you can soak your sponges in bleach or vinegar to disinfect them before rinsing them out.
Step #6: Handle the disposal of waste and garbage properly
Cooking can easily become a messy task that leads to the accumulation of tons of trash — especially when you’re cooking for a large number of people. Don’t let your garbage pile up on you while you cook! Keep separate disposal methods handy for the different types of garbage you’ll create: one for cans or bottles such as a recycling bin, and one for scraps of food such as a compost bowl. This will help you skip multiple steps during your post-cleanup routine and it will lower the risk of any potential cross-contamination of bacteria.
Step #7: Be aware of recommended cooking times for all ingredients
When cooking for customers of your home kitchen, adhering to all recommended cooking times for ingredients, especially raw foods, is essential to kitchen sanitation. Cooking times aren’t only important because they ensure that your meals are fully cooked and ready to eat, they’re also important because they ensure that the ingredients have been cooked long enough to kill any bacteria or germs.
Thaw foods by using the refrigerator, microwave, oven, or by placing sealed packages in cold running water. Do not thaw food on your kitchen counter under any circumstances. The outer layers of the food will warm before the inside thaws, and bacteria will grow and spread in these conditions.
If you can’t serve your food immediately once it is hot and fresh out of the oven, put it in the fridge or freezer as soon as it’s cooled or within 2 hours of preparation.
Step #8: Keep Your Meal Packaging Sanitary
Since your customers will be picking up their tasty meals to go, you want to make sure their food stays clean and germ-free from beginning to end! Before you pack their meals in your preferred packaging, thoroughly sanitize and dry them. Similar to your cooking utensils, you can sanitize your meal packaging by washing them in hot soapy water. Rinse them in clean water to remove any excess soap or residue, then let them dry fully before packing your meal orders. For the safest meal packaging options for your to-go orders use new, disposable packaging such as biodegradable and compostable food packaging items to minimize single use plastic or styrofoam waste and stay eco-friendly.
Step #9: Have a Cleaning calendar for overall kitchen maintenance
Prepping your kitchen to cook will always require some additional time, but you can make this process a bit easier for yourself by creating a regular routine for cleaning different parts of your kitchen.
A cleaning schedule is essential for your home-based restaurant because it ensures all food preparation areas are kept clean and sanitized at all times. It also creates a simple and easy reference for everything that needs to be done to keep each area of the kitchen clean.
To create a cleaning schedule, walk through your kitchen and make a list of all the items that need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Include everything from pots, pans, and equipment to walls, floors, and doorknobs. Once you have everything listed, take notes on how it is cleaned, how often it needs to be cleaned, and what materials are needed to clean it. Break this list down into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks and add this schedule to your phone so you can always make sure that your kitchen is nice and clean before preparing meals for your customers.
Proper sanitary practices have always been important but amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s become even more essential for the food industry to gain the trust of their customers by taking the utmost care to create the safest and healthiest experience possible. Follow these simple kitchen cleaning steps to keep your cooking space squeaky clean so your customers can enjoy your tasty food without the fear of catching germs!
Every year, the United States throws away nearly 40 percent of its food. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, that adds up to more than $160 billion wasted per year.
There’s nothing worse than being forced to toss (previously) perfectly good produce, dairy, or meat just because it was stored in an improper way. Here’s exactly how to organize foods inside your fridge so they’ll live their longest and best-tasting life—your wallet and the world as we know it will thank you, too. Once you read these storage tips, be sure to read our comprehensive guide to how long you can store every type of food next.
Leftovers
Store all leftovers in leak-proof, clear containers or wraps. Airtight containers help your food stay as fresh as possible.
Follow the ‘first in, first out’ rule: Always eat the oldest foods first.
Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking. And there’s no need to wait for piping-hot foods to cool down before storing them―modern refrigerators can handle the heat.
“Throw away all perishable foods that have been left in room temperature for more than two hours (one hour if the temperature is over 90°F, such as at an outdoor picnic during summer),” says the USDA on its website.
Divide leftovers into small, flat containers so that they cool faster. Some bacteria spores survive the cooking process and may germinate if the food is at room temperature long enough.
Check that your fridge is set at 40°F or below. And don’t just rely on the pre-programmed settings—rather, enlist help from a refrigerator thermometer.
Don’t refrigerate leftover soup broth, tuna fish, cranberry sauce, or other foods in cans. Once a can is opened, residual metal on the rim can leach into food and leave a metallic taste.
The USDA recommends using refrigerated leftovers within three to five days or freezing them for up to four months.
Meat, Fish, and Poultry
You want these in the coldest spot in your fridge, often but not always at the bottom, ideally stored in their own drawer. If your fridge allows you to adjust the temperature of the meat drawer, set it to 29° F.
Keep all fresh meat, fish, and poultry in its store wrapping, as re-wrapping increases the risk of exposing the food to harmful bacteria. If the item didn’t come in a Styrofoam tray, slide a plate underneath it to catch any drippings.
Dairy
When you buy something new, like a fresh gallon of milk, rotate the older items to the front so that they can be used before the expiration date.
Leave cottage cheese, yogurt, eggs, sour cream, milk, and cream in the containers they came in. However, if you transfer milk to a pitcher or sour cream to a serving bowl, don’t return them to the original containers. Instead, tightly cover the pitcher or bowl with plastic wrap.
Store hard cheeses in the store wrapping until you use them, then wrap them in wax paper, foil, or loose plastic.
Plastic milk bottles make more sense than cardboard cartons, since bacteria can grow near the cardboard spout and enter a glass of milk every time you pour. Nevertheless, as long as you use the milk within its shelf life, it should be safe to drink.
Whatever you do, don’t store your milk in the door—it’s the warmest spot in the fridge. The door should be used for nonperishable drinks and condiments only.
Fruits and Vegetables
Keep fruits and vegetables separate and store like with like: Apples with apples, carrots with carrots, bananas with bananas. Fruits and vegetables give off different gases that can cause others to deteriorate.
Leave refrigerated produce unwashed in its original packaging or wrapped loosely in a plastic bag. (There are exceptions, such as mushrooms and herbs.)
If your greens seem sandy or dirty—think lettuce from the farmers’ market—rinse and dry them well, then wrap them in a paper towel before placing in a plastic bag. Otherwise, avoid washing your produce before refrigerating it. The dampness can make it mold and rot more quickly.
Fruits and vegetables stored at room temperature should be removed from any packaging and left loose.
Store cut fruits and vegetables in the fridge in perforated or unsealed plastic bags to maintain a moist environment yet still allow air to circulate.
Keep citrus at room temperature. However, once your lemons, limes, or oranges are past peak ripeness, storing them in the fridge will help them last longer (same goes for tomatoes and avocados). If your citrus starts to turn, you can slice the fruit up and freeze it: frozen citrus is great as ice cubes for drinks.
Onions, potatoes, and shallots should be stored in a cool dark place to keep them fresh, like a basket in a cupboard or a cellar. Avoid storing these products in plastic bags as this encourages spoilage. Once cut, onions should be stored in a resealable bag in the fridge where they will last for around a week, or stored in a container and kept in the freezer.
If you won’t be eating them immediately, buy bananas when they’re still slightly green and store them away from other fruits in the fruit bowl (they release high amounts of ethylene gas, which as mentioned can cause other fruits to go off more quickly). Consider using a banana tree to keep them separated and minimize bruising.
Keep apples in an uncovered fruit bowl on the countertop and make sure to store them out of direct sunlight.
A combination of live bacteria and/or yeasts, which is beneficial for your body and lives in it is called probiotics. Speaking in general, bacteria are constantly seen in a negative light which can cause illness. However, probiotics are made up of good bacteria which keep the body healthy. (Images courtesy: iStock)
How do probiotics work?
The role of probiotics is to maintain the body’s health as it keeps it neutral. The good bacterias present in probiotic makes you feel better by restoring the balance in your body. It also supports the immune system while helping you digest food easily. All it requires to maintain this balance in the body is to eat a diet rich in nutrition.
Probiotics in food
There are several foods that are rich in probiotics and are recommended to consume daily for a well-balanced body. Some of them are so common that you might have been eating them unknowingly. Some of the common foods that have probiotics in them are – yoghurt, buttermilk, sourdough bread, kombucha, tempeh, cottage cheese, fermented pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi and miso soup.
Benefits of probiotics
It has been said earlier that probiotics stimulate the growth of good bacterias, thus it helps in improving the digestive system and immune system, which further helps in keeping various diseases at bay. Here are some of the common benefits of having probiotics daily.
Good for gut and helps in weight management
While gut bacteria play an important role in boosting metabolism, which is involved in everything from digestion to energy production and storage and even appetite regulation. As the microbes help in breaking down food, it is a good reason to include probiotics in the diet so that a healthy weight can be maintained.
Good for skin health
It isn’t just the gut, but probiotics work like magic on skin health. You can literally apply a few foods on the skin or just consume them to get the benefit of skin health. For example, a pack made of turmeric and yoghurt is suggested for clear skin. This is because the microbes present in yoghurt boosts the good bacteria present on the skin.
You may have always wondered the magic behind your grandmother’s healthy and glowing skin. Well, as they say, old is gold, especially when it comes to taking care of your skin and hair, purane nuskhe from our grandmothers were the best and the most effective. Whether it is to cure suntan, acne, dry skin or oily skin, she had the perfect solutions to all your beauty problems using natural homemade face packs. Let’s go back to them as healthier alternatives to our beauty regime.
1. Coriander leaves and turmeric powder face pack for blackheads
A face pack of coriander leaves and turmeric powder makes a great solution for excessive blackheads on your face especially on the nose. The pack helps in shrinking large pores. Coriander acts as a caustic to clean dirt, blocking the pores of your skin. Turmeric helps in pulling out excess oil in your skin pores.
How to make?
Blend coriander leaves with two teaspoons of turmeric powder to make a fine paste. Apply this paste on your face and keep it overnight. Wash it off the next morning with cold water. Follow this routine at least twice a week to get rid of blackheads easily.
2. Curd and gram flour face pack for dry skin
The curd and besan face pack makes for an amazing way to nourish dry skin and remove dead cells. Besan acts as a cleansing agent for the skin and curd has a moisturizing effect.
How to make?
All you need to do is to mix two tablespoons of besan, one tablespoon of curd, one teaspoon of honey and a dash of turmeric to make a smooth paste. Apply evenly on your face and leave it for about five minutes and wash it off with cold water. Try repeating this regime regularly. Curd is a natural moisturizer, honey cleanses your skin and turmeric works as an antiseptic that maintains the pH levels of your skin. All these ingredients put together will heal your dry skin naturally.
3. Multani mitti with lemon juice face pack for pimple scars
Multani mitti is known for its healing properties against acne and blemishes. Rich in magnesium chloride, it helps in reducing acne scars and keeps the skin clean. Turmeric is an antiseptic to maintain the pH levels of your skin and the acidic content in lemon extracts the dirt and keeps the skin germ free.
How to make?
Mix together two teaspoons of multani mitti (fuller’s earth) with a dash of turmeric powder and half a teaspoon of sandalwood powder. Make a smooth paste with lemon juice (add milk depending upon the skin type). Apply this face pack on your face and keep it until it dries off. Wash with cold water.
4. Saffron face pack for improving skin tone
Saffron is known for many healing properties. It is a rich source of iron, potassium, calcium, selenium, zinc and copper and vitamins including vitamin A, folic acid, niacin and Vitamin C. Saffron helps improving your skin tone and clears dull skin. It helps remove dark circles and fine lines. The face pack below with saffron will help increase circulation of blood bringing a perfect glow.
How to make?
To make a brilliant saffron face pack take about three to four strands of saffron and soak them in two teaspoons of water overnight (the color of the water turns golden yellowish). Now add one teaspoon of milk, dash of sugar and a few drops of coconut oil to the saffron infused water. Immerse a piece of bread in this mixture and apply this mixture on your face with this piece of bread. Keep this pack for about fifteen minutes before washing it off with cold water. Pat dry your face and repeat this at least two to three times a week to get the best result.
5. Fenugreek (methi) face pack to cool the skin
Fenugreek or methi is known for its cooling properties and to cure inflammation and discomfort caused by pimples. The antiseptic and antibiotic properties of methi seeds heal skin infections too keeping your skin hydrated and clean.
How to make?
There are two way to make a simple methi seed face pack- one is to boil a few methi seeds in one cup of water and when the seeds start to get softer, allow the water to cool down. Use this water all over the face by patting it with a cotton ball and leave it on for one to two hours. It will immediately give you a cooling effect and help redness on your face.
The other way is to soak two to three teaspoons of methi seeds overnight and grind them into a paste. Rub the paste on your face and allow it to dry before washing it off. You can store this face pack in the refrigerator for about a week.
6. Aloe vera face pack to remove sun tan and black spots
Aloe vera has always been known to be used in cosmetics and beauty concoctions since the times of Pharaohs in ancient Egypt. It was used as a treatment for various skin conditions and many internal disorders. The leaves have amazing compounds like mannans, lectins and polysaccharides among others. It is best used for removing sun tan and dark spots caused by the sun.
How to make?
Squeeze the aloe vera gel out of the leaves into a bowl. Add a few drops of lemon in the gel. Use your fingers to mix both the ingredients and apply it on your face. Keep it for around 20 minutes before washing it off with cold water. Do not apply any moisturizer post the application of this face mask as aloe vera itself is a great moisturizer.
7. Lemon and honey face pack or oily skin
Lemon is an excellent source for cleaning the skin, eliminating dead skin cells and reducing oil secretion. Honey has various antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help reduce oil secretion further avoiding pimples and acne from coming back.
How to make?
Mix lemon juice extracts and honey together in a bowl. Apply this mixture on your face and let it dry for about 15-20 minutes before washing it off. This will relieve you from excessive oily skin and make the skin supple and moisturized.
We absolutely love these face packs. Do let us know which one tops your list and if you would like to share any secrets from your grandmother’s treasure.
Following a healthy and well-balanced diet is good for you physically, and it’s also beneficial for your brain health. Certain foods contain nutrients that help keep the brain healthy, including healthy fats, fiber, protein, vitamins, and antioxidants. These nutrients may enhance memory and concentration and even offer protective effects against brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Read on to reap the brain-boosting benefits of these 25 nutrient-dense foods. (Plus, 33 healthy foods that are more nutritious than you realized.)
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Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries contain antioxidant properties that boost your health and even your brain health. “Large studies show some promise for berries and brain health, particularly in slowing cognitive decline,” says Ginger Hultin, RD, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “A huge study found that women who ate more blueberries and strawberries saw an association with slower cognitive decline. Berries are high in flavonoids, especially anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that can cross the blood-brain barrier and possibly positively affect areas of the brain associated with learning and memory function. The reason for these positive results may be due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the berries. The portion size used in the study was just half a cup of berries, and eating them daily appears to yield the best results.” Discover how berries at breakfast could help you lose weight.
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Dark chocolate
Great news for dark chocolate lovers: Research suggests it has brain-boosting powers, including enhanced cognitive function, reduced risk of dementia, and improved performance on memory activities. For example, a 2018 review in the journal Nutrients found that more than 50 mg epicatechin/day, a flavanol found in cocoa, tea, berries, and other fruits, yields cognitive benefits—especially in tasks involving memory, executive function, and processing speed in older adults (>50 years old) who took epicatechin for a duration of 28 days or longer. Find out exactly what happens to your body when you eat chocolate.
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Walnuts
Many nuts are helpful for brain health, but walnuts are the only tree nut that are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that’s converted to the omega-3s DHA and EPA within the body. The nuts have been linked to improved cognitive performance in adults. In a 2015 study, published in TheJournal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, researchers found adults between the ages of 20 and 59 years old, who consumed higher amounts of walnuts, showed better cognitive test scores. (Keep in mind the study was funded in part by the California Walnut Council.) Here are 7 more foods loaded with omega-3 fatty acids.
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Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli contain the compound sulforaphane, a substance that a 2017 study in the Journal of Cerebrovascular Disease & Stroke suggests could protect the brain. Broccoli also offers vitamin K, important for healthy brain function. In fact, an older study assessed the dietary intake of patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease and found that they got considerably less vitamin K from their diet than people without the disease. (Watch out for the worst foods for your brain that you should be avoiding.)ADVERTISEMENTADVERTISEMENT
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Concord grapes
Although these grapes are available for just a short time each year, you can also get their benefits through 100 percent grape juice made with Concord grapes. And the grapes can help aging adults with brain issues. In a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, for instance, older adults with age-related cognitive decline regularly drinking Concord grape juice saw a positive impact on memory function and also had increased blood flow to areas of the brain linked with memory. (Some of the study authors were employed by Welch Foods, Inc., which manufactures grape juice.) Grapes are just one of the anti-inflammatory foods that help reduce pain, so arthritis suffers will want to take note.
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Oily fish
The brain needs plenty of omega-3 fats to stay healthy. And oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, trout, herring, sardines, and tuna offer the omega-3s EPA and DHA. Keeping the brain fueled with DHA and EPA is important since the brain is the body’s fattiest organ. DHA especially may be particularly important for brain health in older people who are not cognitively impaired, suggests a 2017 study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. And deficits in these omega-3s have been associated with neurodegenerative disorders, although more research is needed. This handy chart will help you choose fish with the highest omega-3 content.
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Eggs
You may have heard that the cholesterol in eggs is a concern, but it’s now thought you can safely eat an egg a day. In a 2017 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Finnish researchers found that eating eggs may boost brain power, and much of the benefit may be due to choline, which is an essential nutrient important for metabolization. The researchers monitored the diets of about 2,500 men without dementia for about 22 years. Not only were regular egg eaters less likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, but it was linked to better performance on cognitive tests. Enjoy eggs on hummus toast, a breakfast Panini, or one of these 55 delicious egg recipes. Here’s more information on egg nutrition too.
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Pumpkin seeds
Seeds can be great for the brain, and pumpkin seeds may be especially helpful. These little delights offer ALA omega-3s. They also contain magnesium, which is believed to play a role in mood and brain function, as well as zinc, important for healthy brain function. A quarter cup of pumpkin seeds provides you with 15 percent of the daily value for zinc. Pumpkin seeds are just one of the 6 super seeds you should be eating.
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Sage
It’s an old wives’ tale, but sage really may help sharpen the mind. According to preliminary research in the journal Advances in Nutrition, extracts or essential oils of the herb may help memory as well as mood, attention, and executive function. Sage is one of the healthy herbs that can boost your brain and also, take a look at these 10 healing herbs and spices.
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Milk
This dairy drink provides choline, a nutrient important for brain health. Pregnant women really need to focus on choline because it plays a role in the early brain development of infants. In addition, a handful of observational studies have connected cognitive performance in adults with higher choline intake and plasma concentration. And some researchers believe that some natural component in milk that may help protect against insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
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Turmeric
Turmeric has a seemingly endless list of health benefits—including helping to relieve digestive issues such as heartburn and gas. Much of the research done on turmeric has focused on curcumin, a substance in turmeric. In terms of brain health, a 2016 study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that a group of older adults receiving a curcumin supplement did not have the cognitive decline experienced by a group that didn’t take the supplement. Turmeric is thought to be an anti-inflammatory powerhouse; here’s exactly how much turmeric you need to take to reduce inflammation.
Talk about a healthy ingredient with very few calories—as long as you stick to the unsweetened variety. “Pure cocoa powder contains brain-boosting compounds, including a large number of antioxidant molecules, mainly flavonoids,” says Hultin. “The main one is epicatechin. These compounds do make it into the brain and have been linked in some studies to positive outcomes in learning and memory areas. Epicatechin is a special antioxidant and appears to improve cognition in studies. Aside from antioxidant capacity, another way cocoa could help our health is through improved cardiovascular health—better blood flow to the brain for more oxygen and nutrients.” Eating cocoa can actually help prevent and treat diabetes.
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Kale
Kale has been in the spotlight for years, and it even has its own day: National Kale Day is the first Wednesday in October. Kale is packed with plenty of nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, and the mineral manganese. And green leafy veggies like kale may help your brain: In a 2017 study in Neurology, people eating leafy vegetables daily experienced the cognitive function of people about 11 years younger, compared to people eating little to no leafy green veggies. Here are 4 creative kale recipes to try right now.ADVERTISEMENTADVERTISEMENT
Beets contain high levels of dietary nitrates, which your body converts to nitric oxide—and that relaxes blood vessels in the body and increases blood flow to the brain. In a 2016 study in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, older adults, with a mean age of 65.4 years, who exercised and drank beetroot juice for six weeks, experienced brain benefits. Their brain networks had a similar appearance to those of younger adults. Note that more study is needed since other research on beetroot juice and the brain is mixed. Discover why beets are a superfood vegetable you should really stop avoiding.
By The Penny Hoarder — How many times have we fallen for this?
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Olive oil
A Mediterranean-style diet is often hailed for its health benefits, including helping to protect brain health. Olive oil is made from olives, which offer health-helping polyphenols. A 2016 study in the journal Current Medicinal Chemistry suggests these polyphenols may lower risk for certain neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. Use olive oil in anything from a bean salad recipe to baked chicken to a vegetarian grain bowl. Want more healthy meals for your dinner rotation? Here’s how to introduce health-boosting Mediterranean foods into your diet without even trying.
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Bone broth
The hype about bone broth has grown over the past few years and much of it is warranted. To make bone broth, you take—you guessed it, bones (such as chicken bones), bake them at a low temperature in the oven until they brown, then simmer, often along with veggies like onions and herbs and seasonings. The main draw of bone broth is its high protein content, and the brain requires protein to optimally function. Add bone broth to homemade soup, or use it to sauté vegetables.
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Beans
Beans offer fiber and protein, which help keep you satiated for longer to provide sustained energy. Beans also contain ALA Omega-3s to support brain growth and function; go for navy and kidney beans for a bigger ALA fix. Beans also provide carbohydrates, which are converted to glucose to fuel the brain—the organ’s preferred source of energy. Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, provide magnesium, which helps keep the brain functioning optimally. Don’t miss: The 5 health benefits of beans—plus 5 surprising risks.
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Tea
Tea is often credited with aiding weight loss and helping prevent cancer, but many scientists believe the drink is just as beneficial for the brain. Many teas contain caffeine, an instant energy booster, but tea also delivers the more calming amino acid L-theanine, which can help relax you without causing drowsiness. And drinking tea, particularly green tea, could help reduce your risk of cognitive disorders, according to a large 2017 study in the journal Oncotarget. Plus, check out these 8 benefits of tea you never knew.
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Beef
Iron is vital for good health; without it, your red blood cells could not carry oxygen to from the lungs to the body’s tissues. Beef contains the most easily absorbed type of iron, heme iron. If you don’t eat meat, the best iron-offering foods for vegetarians include eggs, beans, iron-fortified cereal, and whole grains. Just be sure to pair any plant-based sources with a food high in vitamin C, such as citrus to boost absorption. Iron deficiency often goes undiagnosed, though fatigue is a common sign.
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Yerba mate
In South America, yerba mate is just as common as coffee is in the U.S. The beverage mate is brewed from the leaves of yerba mate. This hot drink is believed to have a stimulant effect, which may help enhance short-term brainpower. According to yerba mate manufacturer Guayaki, yerba mate contains 24 vitamins and minerals, 15 amino acids, and an abundance of polyphenols. Besides caffeine, yerba mate provides two compounds, theobromine and theophylline, which work together to provide unique, mild stimulant effects. Enjoy a cup of yerba mate in place of your morning coffee.
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Oats
For a brain-boosting breakfast, you can’t go wrong with whole-grain oats. The brain relies on glucose for fuel, and healthy carbs like oats are a great source. Oats have an advantage over other carbohydrates in that they’re low on the glycemic index—meaning oats won’t jack up your blood sugar as quickly as some other foods. In fact, in part thanks to their fiber content, whole-grain oats are broken down slowly by the body. Your brain will reap the benefits for hours. Oats also contain B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. Best of all, oats really are a convenience food; try these 10 doctor-recommended oatmeal ideas.
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Lentils
Make lentils a staple in your soups and salads, and your brain will thank you for it. Lentils are packed with folate, a B vitamin shown to help boost cognitive performance. The vitamin can also play a role in decreasing levels of the amino acid homocysteine. This is important because too-high levels may impair brain functioning as you age. Finally, a favorite go-to for vegetarians, lentils are one of the 9 complete protein foods that aren’t meat.
Since ancient times, India has had a rich long-standing culture of festivals and celebrations. Maha Shivratri is truly one of them. On this day, devotees celebrate in honour of Lord Shiva, chant the mantra ‘Om Namah Shivay’, and follow a special fast.
There are various mythological folklores explaining why this Hindu festival is so auspicious. Some believe that it was on this day Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati making it so special; some think that this day is a celebration of the event of Lord Shiva saving the world during Samudra Manthan, a mythological episode of churning of the ocean of milk; whereas others say that it was on this day when Lord Shiva manifested himself in the form of a Shiv Lingam for the first time ever, making this day holy.
Thus, this day is celebrated throughout India in a unique manner. It is the day to honour Lord Shiva and express the gratitude whole heartedly. It is believed that if a devotee observes a fast and worship Lord Shiva on this day with sincerity, pure devotion and love, he/she would be blessed with immense happiness and prosperity.
Besides that, fasting helps the body detoxify and that aids in meditations. Especially in this fast paced world, such a conscious effort helps individuals in the long run.
As the name suggests, Maha Shiv Ratri or The Great Night of Shiva, devotees worship the Shiva Lingam throughout the night by offering bael (wood apple) leaves, milk, curd, honey, rose water, etc., whilst chanting the mantra, Om Namaha Shivaya.
On this day, many observe a very strict fast where they only consume a diet specially formulated for the occasion; truly, maha shivratri vrat food is quite specific. Different people consume different foods during this vrat depending on their culture or the region that they live in. Some abstain themselves from water, some avoid salt or replace it with Sendha namak (rock salt), while most others observe a fast where they avoid onion, garlic, rice, pulses or wheat. During this time, Sabudana recipes like Sabudana Khichdi and sabudana vada, or Vrat recipes without salt, and vrat recipes with potatoes,or recipes made using Singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour) are mostly in demand.
But we think, any celebration or festivities are incomplete without sweets. So instead of the usual vrat recipes, we have brought to you some mouth-watering, sweet, maha shivratri vrat food ideas to make this occasion even more special. So, now, you don’t have to keep thinking of what to eat during maha shivratri vrat or fasting or upvaas. Check out the list we curated specially for you.
Sabudana Laddu
Sabudana or sago is really almost irreplaceable for an upvas. So one of the sabudana recipes that we suggest is the Sabudana laddu. Roasted sabudana or sago pearls crushed into a fine powder and mixed with desiccated coconut along with some flavourful ingredients and made into laddu, will surely put you in awe. A quick bite sized laddu always impresses everyone, doesn’t it? So, you must try this sabudana recipe for fast. Watch the step by step process of how to make it by simply clicking on the link below.
Nariyal Aur Sabudane Ki Kheer
The next sweet sensation is filled with the goodness of coconut (nariyal). It is a unique and tastier version of usual sabudana kheer. This recipe with sabudana wins million hearts in a jiffy. Tender coconut, coconut milk and soaked sago along with jaggery (Gur) make it a kheer which no one can resist. It is a very simple recipe, so you can make it quickly and use the rest of the time to sip on it. Sounds like a plan, doesn’t it? Garnish it with nuts of your choice and serve it chilled or warm, whichever way, it tastes delicious. Click on the link below to watch the recipe and try it out on this Maha Shivratri.
Mango sago pudding
Next one is a combination of sago and our favourite ingredient, mango! Although mangoes aren’t in season, you can still incorporate ripe mango pulp from the tin and make this tasty mango sago pudding. Soaked sago, mango pulp, with the flavour of cardamom make it an out-of-this-world pudding. To make it look and taste even nicer, dress it with desiccated coconut on the top. Serve it chilled and impress all the family members. It is surely a unique recipe, check out how to make it by clicking on the link below.
The easiest and filling option to have on a vrat day is this badam doodh. So, how can we forget a glass full of warm badam doodh (milk)? Surely, it isn’t a new recipe but drinking milk keeps the tummy calm. Plus if it is so rich with nuts, you cannot say no to it. Start off your day with this and you’ll have more energy for the rest of your day. Here is a quick and easy recipe especially for you.
Last but not the least, the show stopper after a busy day is – Kesar Lassi. A pinch of saffron and the flavour of cardamom mixed with yogurt will calm you down from the hustle and you can call it a day. Learn how to make a creamy, cold Kesar Lassi to sip on this Maha Shivratri. Click on the link below now.
