5 Foods To Eat For A Clear Skin

Content Source : https://www.adityabirlacapital.com/healthinsurance/active-together/2016/12/20/5-foods-for-clear-glowing-skin/

You are what you eat,” this saying is not just applicable to our body’s health; our skin’s health also depends on what we eat. We’re sure you remember your grandma telling you to stay away from oily food when you were suffering from severe acne in your teenage years, or even your mother telling you to take that blood purifier for clearer skin; they were not wrong.

Here Are Various Foods That Help Boost Our Skin’s Health.

1. Dates

High in anti-oxidants and Vitamin A, dates help make our skin glow in a natural and healthy way. Dates also contain Vitamin C which helps in improving skin elasticity which helps battle the problem of sagging skin. Apart from this, they also have anti-aging properties. So if you want to keep those wrinkles and fine lines at bay for as long as possible, start incorporating dates into your diet.

Dates For Skin - Activ Living

2. Almonds

Almonds are a rich source of Vitamin E. Eating a few almonds every day will help you keep your skin soft and supple. Almonds are natural moisturisers too. If you suffer from dry skin, try applying almond paste as a hydrating face pack. You can also massage your skin with almond oil and keep it overnight for moisturised, glowing skin.

Almonds For Skin - Activ Living

3. Green Tea

You may have heard about the benefits of green tea for weight loss and good health, but did you know that this type of tea is also packed with some beauty benefits too? Being rich in antioxidants, green tea helps to prevent ageing and keeps our skin young and glowing. It flushes out toxins from our body and hence cures acne making skin clear and flawless.

Green Tea - Activ Living

Apart from drinking, we can also apply green tea on our skin as a face pack. If you are suffering from under eye dark circles and puffiness, place cold, used green tea bags on your eyelids for 10-15 minutes. Do this every day and you’re sure to see great results.

ABHI GDN Banner - Approved-01

4. Banana

Easily available throughout the year, this fruit is loaded with nutrients that are essential for your skin. Bananas contain plenty of anti-oxidants and manganese, preventing premature ageing and thus keeps your skin youthful. It also keeps your skin moisturised and prevents dryness.

Banana For Skin - Activ Living

One can even use mashed banana as a face pack, to moisturise your skin. And yes, it can be used by people with oily and acne-prone skin too, as bananas are helpful in treating acne.
If an apple a day keeps a doctor way, “a banana a day keeps skin problems at bay.”

5. Raisins

This tiny, easily available, low-cost dried fruit is filled with a lot of skin benefits. Eating a few raisins every day can give you youthful, glowing, clear and healthy skin. Raisins contain antioxidants that rejuvenate the skin and prevent damage and sagging. Raisins purify the blood and therefore also keep acne and pimples away.

Raisins For Skin - Activ Living

These are just some of the various foods which are helpful in getting healthier skin. Apart from all these, drinking 8-10 glasses of water every day is essential for healthy skin. Water flushes out impurities and keeps the skin clean and hydrated. Our blogs on nutrition and health will give you more such tips for healthy living so don’t forget to check that out +19.

Crazy French Fries good for anytime snacking

Content Source : https://crazybakery.in/buy-now/blog/crazy-french-fries-good-for-anytime-snacking/

The French fries may be the finest way to eat potatoes out of all the options. Nothing beats those crunchy fried edges and the deep-fryer fragrance, or the way each individual fry achieves the exact combination of salt and fat. You can never stop at just one, no matter how unhealthy they are. Crazy Bakery, the best bakery in Gorakhpur freshen up your mind with this write up on the all-time favourite snacks.

Is it French Fries or French fry?
Despite the fact that French fries are currently comprised entirely of potatoes, the phrase originally referred to a cooking process rather than a dish. French fries were once known as “French fried potatoes,” referring to potatoes that had been “French fried.” To deep-fry, a meal is to “French fry” it.

Why are they so favourite?
Fries can be dressed up with fancy toppings or swallowed straight from a nasty fast food paper bag. French fries are incredibly addicting and are ideal for practically any occasion: as a side dish at a barbecue, a lunchtime snack, or a late-night wine session.

Those perfectly cooked potatoes aren’t only a staple of American cuisine; they’re enjoyed all across the globe. The British eat thick-cut chips with salt and malt vinegar, the Canadians consume brown gravy-drenched fries, and the Belgians eat mayonnaise-dipped fries.

Whatever condiment you prefer, you’ve probably never given much thought to or learned about one of the world’s most popular cuisines.

Vending Machines for French Fries?
Vending machines may distribute a variety of bizarre items, including a hot dish of crispy French fries, all over the world. Mr. French Fry was the first of its kind, and it premiered in Australia in 1982. In less than a minute, it could prepare and serve French fries. But don’t worry; you can still manually dispense French fries into your mouth.

Favourite amongst Children
French fries are classified as a “vegetable” in the same way that pizza sauce is classified as a “fruit.” Fried potatoes, on the other hand, are the most often ingested vegetable by children aged 2 to 4, according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. Although Happy Meals have become healthier, a serving of fries does not provide a child with the same amount of nutrients as a side salad or other option.

They are healthy!
Though you may consider fries to be one of the worst things you can eat, they do have some nutritional benefits. They have all of the vitamins that potatoes have, including vitamin B6, vitamin C, magnesium, and iron, because they are manufactured from potatoes (a vegetable).

Why restaurant fries are crispier?
Why are a restaurant and fast-food French fries so much superior to homemade French fries? One of several possible explanations is that restaurants fried their potatoes multiple times. Restaurants will let the fries cool after the first deep fry before frying them again, sometimes twice. These additional frying results in a fatter, crispier final product.

Conclusion:
Potatoes aren’t all made equal. Some have a higher starch content than others. A starchy potato is the best choice for a fry since it prevents the potato from becoming bitter. Some potato cultivars are the most popular, and they are virtually always used to make the tastiest French fries. Crazy snacks ensure to choose the best potatoes for their French fries.

Along with the French fries, Crazy bakery, the best bakery in Gorakhpur also offers you cashew butter bakery cookies. Crazy Bakery Gorakhpur provides many Bakery products in Gorakhpur. Their Flavoured bar cakes with the latest cake flavours and the best cookies are the most delicious ones that you have ever tasted!

3 Best Fruits for a Diabetes-Friendly Diet

When you’re looking for a diabetes-friendly treat that can help keep your blood sugar within a healthy range, look no farther than the produce drawer of your refrigerator or the fruit basket on your kitchen table.

Believe it or not, the notion that fruit is not safe when you need to watch your A1C is a popular diabetes myth that has been debunked again and again. Indeed, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), many types of fruit are loaded with good-for-you vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber — a powerful nutrient that can help regulate blood sugar levels and decrease your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Fiber — which can also be found in some of the best vegetables for diabetes, and in whole grains — can further benefit your health by promoting feelings of fullness and curbing cravings and overeating, research shows. Healthy weight maintenance can increase your insulin sensitivity and help in your diabetes management.

So, how do you pick the best fruits for diabetes? While some forms of fruit, like juice, can be bad for diabetes, whole fruits like berries, citrus, apricots, and yes, even apples — can be good for your A1C and overall health, fighting inflammation, normalizing your blood pressure, and more.   

But as with any food in your diabetes diet, you have to be smart about counting carbohydrates and tracking what you eat. Portion size is key.

Consume fruit in its whole, natural form, and avoid syrups or any processed fruits with added sugar, which have the tendency to spike your blood sugar. Stick to the produce aisle and the freezer section of your grocery store. If you’re using the glycemic index (GI) or glycemic load — measures of how foods affect your blood sugar levels — to make dietary decisions, most whole fruits are a good choice because they tend to lie low on these rankings.

When you have diabetes, these steps will help you keep your blood sugar within a healthy range, thereby lowering your risk of certain diabetes complications, including neuropathy (nerve damage), kidney disease, eyesight issues like glaucoma, cataracts, or diabetic retinopathy, and life-threatening illnesses like heart disease and stroke.

The next time you have a hankering for something sweet, consider reaching for one of the following naturally sweet and juicy treats, courtesy of Mother Nature — you can whip it into  diabetes friendly smoothie or keep it simple and throw it into your bag to munch on while you’re on the go.

Diabetes Diet Tips for The Carb Avoider

1

Berries for a Refreshing Treat and Disease-Fighting Antioxidants

berries-for-a-diabetic-diet

Jovo Jovanovic/Stocksy

Whether you love blueberries, strawberries, or any other type of berry, you have the go-ahead to indulge. According to the ADA, berries are a diabetes superfood because they’re packed with antioxidants and fiber. One cup of fresh blueberries has 84 calories and 21 grams (g) of carbohydrates, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). If you can resist the urge to just pop them into your mouth, try berries in a parfait, alternating layers of fruit with plain nonfat yogurt — it makes a great dessert or breakfast for diabetes.

2

Tart Cherries Help Fight Inflammation

cherries-best-fruit-for-a-diabetic-diet

Jovo Jovanovic/Stocksy

One cup of cherries has 52 calories and 12.5 g of carbs, per the USDA, and they may be especially good at fighting inflammation. Tart cherries are also packed with antioxidants, which may help fight heart disease, cancer, and other diseases, notes a review published in March 2018 in Nutrients. These fruits can be purchased fresh, canned, frozen, or dried. But since many canned and dried fruits contain added sugar, which can spike your blood sugar, be sure to check the labels.

3

Sweet, Juicy Peaches for Metabolism-Boosting Potassium

peaches-best-fruit-for-a-diabetic-diet

Jeff Wasserman/Stocksy

Fragrant, juicy peaches are a warm-weather treat and can also be included in your diabetes-friendly diet. One medium peach contains 59 calories and 14 g of carbohydrates, according to the USDA. It also has 10 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C, which covers 11 percent of your daily value (DV) for that nutrient, and 285 mg of potassium (6 percent of the DV). The fruit is delicious on its own or tossed into iced tea for a fruity twist. When you want an easy diabetes-friendly snack, whip up a quick smoothie by pureeing peach slices with low-fat buttermilk, crushed ice, and a touch of cinnamon or ginger.

Content Source : https://www.everydayhealth.com/type-2-diabetes/best-fruits-for-diabetes/

Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Content Source : https://neighborfoodblog.com/creamiest-mac-and-cheese-recipe/

After years of searching, I finally found the best creamy mac and cheese recipe around. Super cheddary, rich, and easily made on the stove top in under 30 minutes; This is going to be making many more appearances on our family table.

Note: This recipe was updated in 2021 with new photos, tips, and a recipe that’s EVEN MORE CREAMY. However, if you made and loved the original, we’ve still included it as well!

If you’ve got a pulse, I assume you love creamy mac and cheese. The question of ‘Why we love it’ is a real nature vs nurture debate.

The Nature side says that all people are born with an instinctual drive to consume melted cheese, the highest form being (of course) Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese.

While the Nurture side would argue that this love addiction is likely inherited from our parents pushing boxed mac and cheese on us like street peddlers from the time that we could hold a fork. To their credit, we loved every bite.

Experimenting with Homemade Mac and Cheese

For me, boxed mac was the gateway drug that led to years of experimentation. Steps on my journey included:

  • Adding different real cheeses to boxed mac (which I still recommend).
  • Toying with the ratio of milk, butter, cream, and salt in my own early recipes.
  • And while my fellow teens were having a “goth” phase, I was having a “Velveeta” phase.

I’m glad those days are history, because now that we’re grown-ups, we don’t ever have to settle for anything less than the Creamiest Mac and Cheese ever again.

Make Creamy Mac and Cheese Like a Pro

Wooden spoon scooping out creamy mac and cheese from a glass bowl.

Your loved ones shouldn’t have to settle for less either. At least from you. Because this BBQ/Potluck season, you’re NOT going to be that guy who brings a crock-pot full of easy mac to the gathering.

I’ve done the homework for you on this one; learning about different types of cheese, the construction of the perfect bechamel, and what type of noodle to use. After much debate, I finally decided to try a recipe from the ladies behind Homeroom restaurant, an Oakland, CA eatery devoted entirely to macaroni and cheese.

Banana Leaves

Content Source : https://www.tamilnadutourism.com/traditions/banana-leaves.php

Traditional way of Eating:

Banana leaves play a vital role in Indian tradition. Whatever functions or gathering it may be, food is served in the wide banana leaves. Especially people of South India use Banana leaves in a higher ratio than the north. There are surplus benefits in eating on the banana leaf.

Traditional way of Eating

From time immemorial people of South, use banana leaf to serve and pack food. As plantain tree is grown largely at south, people find it very comfortable and beneficial to use banana leaves. Coming to the banana tree, it is the only tree in the world which is edible and useful from tip to root. Every part of the tree is used for one or the other purpose.

The leaves are used for serving food, flowers are edible and Tamilians make curry out it, fruits are very tasty, unripen fruits are also used for cooking, stem is a great remedy for kidney stones, the bark is used to tie flowers and make garlands, and the roots give birth to a sapling before they become fruitless.

This is the reason why every marriages in South India is adorned with a pair of plantain tree at the threshold of the function hall. Like this plantain tree everyone should lead their life usefully and be helpful to others till their last breath. Most of the houses in Tamilnadu and Kerala have banana trees in their backyard.

Benefits of eating on banana leaf:

The first and foremost reason why banana leaf is used for serving food is because of its wide size and the partition that runs at centre which gives enough space to place variety of foods in a single leaf without mixing with each other. As Indian lunches are diverse and have many courses, only banana leaf can accommodate all courses and it is water proof too, which is very helpful for eating liquid dishes like Sambar, Rasam, curd, and Payasam.

  • Tender leaves are flexible and can be folded in any angle.
  • These leaves are non-sticky and so it is used for lining steamer trays
  • One of the major benefits of this leaf is that they are bio degradable and it won’t be a problem to discard them. Even burning these leaves is not harmful to the atmosphere.
  • Tamilians consider it to be an act of respect to serve the guests in banana leaf.
  • Eating hot food in this leaf is very healthy and hygienic. While the hot food is served on the leaf, rich nutrients from the leaf is emitted, which infuses with the food and eventually we intake it as we eat the food.
  • These leaves are rich in polyphenols such as epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, which is found in green tea.
  • Polyphenols are natural antioxidants found in many plant based foods. So eating on a plantain tree increases the EGCG level in our body and slows down the process of aging.
  • Top of all, the aroma that arises from the leaf when the hot food is laid on it is incredible. Even the ones don’t feel hungry would, find their mouthwatering when the food is served on the plantain leaf.
  • Even in USA a journal “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,” is conducting an extensive research on how polyphenols affect human cells, the oxidative process and its impact on disease prevention.

Interesting Facts:

There are many rules and hidden meaning in placing the banana leaf. The proper position to lay the leaf is, the edge of the leaf should be to the left side of the consumer and the wide part should be to the right side (if it is a half leaf). In the case of full single leaf ( Thalai valai ilai), which is served to very important and respectable person in the family, the leaf should be laid in the way that the lines in the leaf goes from right to left.

There is a hidden meaning in way of folding the leaf after eating. If the consumer folds the leaf towards him, it means he is satisfied with the food and the respect he has received and he promises that he will attend more functions like this in future. But if he folds the other way (opposite to him) it denotes he is not satisfied with the hospitality he has received and he is not willing to come back again.

So mostly in happy functions like marriages, temple festivals, child naming ceremony and etc, people used to fold the leaves towards themselves, stating that they will come back to merry functions like this in future. In the case of death anniversary or other sorrowful gathering they will fold the leaves in the opposite way, denoting that they feel sad and don’t want to attend sad functions like this in future.

Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai – The Most Awaited Festival of Mumbaikars

Content Source: https://www.holidify.com/pages/ganesh-chaturthi-mumbai-festival-in-india-2831.html

Mumbai is the city that never sleeps. It is the city of dreams for many. And it is an equally amazing place to celebrate some of the most popular Indian festivities. To talk about festivals, Mumbaikars wait throughout the year for the grand Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in and around the city. The locals and people from all over the country visit Mumbai during this time, to be a part and get a glimpse of the magnificent festivities. So, here’s our take on Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2020

The festival is celebrated on the fourth day after the new moon of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. This year, Ganesh Chaturthi will begin on  August 22 2020, and will extend over eleven days, with the last day falling on the auspicious day of Anant Chaturdashi.

Grand Idol of Lord Ganesh, Ganesh Chaturthi Maharashtra
Devotees line up to pray before the idol (Source)

Celebrated in the honour of the beloved Lord Ganesha, Ganesh Chaturthi is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is one of the most important festivals for the Hindus. It mainly involves the worshipping of an idol of Lord Ganesha in a temple or pandal, and at the end of the festival, the idol is immersed in water, in a process known as visarjan.

Though it’s a Hindu festival which is celebrated all over the country, certain areas and regions are more pompous in terms of celebrations. The most extravagant and elaborate ceremonies take place in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.

Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai, Maharashtra

Though the Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai is celebrated with much grandeur in many parts of the country, nothing, however, comes close to the enthusiasm and the grand scale of events that takes place in Mumbai. The festival was initially introduced by the Maratha ruler Shivaji Raje in his days; however, it was the freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak who provided the impetus to make this into a public event.

The motive behind this was gathered people of all faiths to unite against the British rule. Serving its purpose, it went on to become one of Mumbai’s grandest festivals celebrated by everyone regardless of their faiths.

Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai
Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai (Source)

The local communities take much pride in organising the event and have healthy competition to outdo one another every year. Numerous communities organise their events across Mumbai on both small and large scales with more than 1, 50,000 Ganesh Visarjan happening each year. But some events surpass even the large scale and have become an institution where every year crores of devotees flock to see the idols.

There are five famous Ganesh Mandals that witness more than a million devotees each day, growing more every year. Thus Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai witnesses the grandest celebration of the elephant deity as compared to any other state or region in India.

Five must-visit places (Pandals) that make the most of Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai

Lalbaugcha Raja, Ganesh Chaturthi Mumbai
Lalbaugcha Raja (Source)

1. Lalbaugcha Raja (Lalbaug – Central Mumbai) Undoubtedly the most popular Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai, if the sheer size of the statue doesn’t astonish you, look at the constant line of devotees that is formed to see the idol up close. Apart from its grandeur, it is also the most revered Ganesh Mandal in Mumbai.

2. Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja (Central Mumbai)
Located near Lalbaugcha Raja, one of the oldest mandals in Mumbai, it lost its popularity to Lalbaughcha Raja in the 1990s however it still manages to pull a respectable number of crowds because of its elaborate themes of replicas of famous places in Mumbai.

3. Khetwadi Ganraj (Grigaim – South Mumbai)
Of all the famous statues, this one is considered to be the most magnificent often decked with gold and diamonds. It’s been credited of hosting the tallest Ganesh idol in the history of Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai. 

4. GSB Seva Ganesh Mandal (King’s Circle – Central Mumbai)
Famous for the eco-friendly statue made with clay and more than 60 kilograms of gold. The stunning the statue glittering in the festive lights is quite a sight. It is touted to be the richest Ganesh Chaturthi organisers in the city and every year; they showcase Ganesha in the most extravagant manner.

5. Andhericha Raja (Andheri)
This mandal doesn’t have a towering statue like the others; however, it is popularly reputed of fulfilling wishes of the devotees. It attracts a lot of spectators for their unique themes and carnival-like installations.  This more than 50 years old pandal is famous for its celebrity guests. So, in case you wish to get a glimpse of your favourite stars, visit this place to meet and greet them.  

Ganesh Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai 2015
Towering Ganesh Idols in Mumbai (Source)

The events are a grand affair in Mumbai, and the streets in and around are jam-packed at any time of the day; even nights are busy with people either lining up to be the first ones to see the idols once the gates open in the morning. If you’re in Mumbai around this time, irrespective of where you are heading to, you’ll run into the celebrations at almost every street of Mumbai.

If not out of religious reasons, visit Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja at least once to see how the entire city comes together to participate in this grand public event of celebrating the stay of Lord Ganesha – rightly believed to be the destroyer of evil and restorer of goodwill.

Rituals of Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations in Mumbai

Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai: Procession and celebrations
Devotees welcome the Lord with the resonating sound of the drum beats (Source)
  • The beginning of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival is marked with bringing home a clay modelled idol of Lord Ganesha or to the elaborately decorated community pandals or tents. With soaring chants and traditional drum beats, the deity arrives at the place which would be his abode for the next 11 days.
  • Once the idols are installed in the pandals, a definitive ritual of pranasthapana is done to invoke life into the idols. This is done with some ritualistic chanting of mantras.
  • An offering of a variety of sweets, flowers, rice, etc. are made to the deity.
  • Modak – a sweet which is believed to be a favourite of the Lord, is a popular sweet that can be found everywhere during this festival.
  • The days to be followed are marked with regular morning and evening ceremonies and special events of singing religious songs, traditional dances and chanting prayers.
  • For the eleven days of the festival, the idols are offered with different kinds of sweets, flowers, coconut and fruits. Special group dance, prayers and music performances take place throughout these eleven days.

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations Across India and the Globe

The full moon shines bright, indicating the start of another lunar month of the Hindu calendar. Bhadrapada, the sixth month starting in the end of August, brings with it the exciting and lively Ganesh Chaturthi festival. This is a time of devotion and celebration dedicated to Lord Ganesh, one of the most beloved gods in the Hindu pantheon.

Also known as Ganpati or Vinayaka Chaturthi, the festival starts on the fourth day of the lunar month and is celebrated with gusto over 11 days, ending in a truly magnificent event across most parts of the country and the globe.

How is Ganpati or Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated?

Though the festivities follow a similar basic belief and structure, there is an amazing variety in the celebrations. One common theme is the offering of prayers to idols of Lord Ganpati, with these idols then being immersed in water to honor the Hindu belief that physical bodies turn back into energy in the cosmic cycle of life and death.

Prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles

The festival is observed throughout the country in many religious sects, each on a different scale and with its own method. In a country as wide and vivid as India, it’s not really surprising to find everything from a solemn prayer to a truly massive procession filled with music and dancing, accompanying statues varying in size from a few centimeters to over a hundred feet and the chant ‘Ganpati Bappa Moriya’ echoing throughout!

Let’s look at the way people celebrate the festival in major cities:

Celebrations in Mumbai

Mumbai is known as the financial and film capital of India, though if you’ve ever had the opportunity of watching the Ganesh Visarjan in the city, your mind is probably thinking ‘religious capital’ too. While this is definitely debatable, the grand scale of the Ganpati celebrations cannot be argued. The city known for its energy and vibrancy can challenge mass celebrations around the world, with an estimate of over 1,50,000 idols being immersed every year, and people out in such huge numbers it actually makes the other days seem quite calm!

Maharashtra, Goa and Southern cities have some of the largest Ganpati processions

This day unites Mumbaikars and immigrants alike, with the latest trend being a very pleasant focus on keeping it eco-friendly. If you are anywhere near Mumbai or you want to witness one of largest celebrations in the world, make sure you don’t miss this one, especially at the Siddhavinayak Temple, Khetwadi Ganraj Mandal with the 40-foot tall idol, the G.S.B. Seva Mandal, adorned with kilos of real gold, or you could chance the crowds at the most famous one, the Lalbaugcha Raja near Parel.

Festivities in Delhi

Delhi isn’t just the political capital of India, it’s also more-or-less the cultural capital. People from every corner of the country and the world have made this cosmopolitan city their home. Though it wasn’t traditionally observed in most of North India the way it is in Maharashtra, Goa and Southern states, Ganesh Chaturthi is now quite popular in this city and celebrated on quite a large scale.

Bring Lord Ganesh into your home this Ganesh Chaturthi

Perhaps the largest gatherings are to be found at the Sree Vinayak Temple in Sarojini Nagar, though Pandals and Ganesh Mandirs are spread all over the capital. Some communities even gather donations to build their own mandals just for this event. Many houses have idols on display and organize neighborhood prayer ceremonies. The visarjan usually takes place in the Yamuna River, with the trend of using eco-friendly clay or coir idols catching on fast.

Celebrations across the Globe

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated by Indians as well as people from other cultures who enjoy the delightful processions and festivities, so in case you’re not in India, don’t think you’re going to miss out on the joyful rituals. Contact the nearest Hindu Mandir in your city and they’ll be able to tell you the ‘how and where’ of the local festivities. Get the community together, make some sumptuous Indian sweets and have a gala time!

                                          Ganesh Temple in Thailand

In the UK there are plenty of venues like the Slough Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple in Hounslow, Darji Mitra Mandal in London and many more. In the USA, there are a lot of Indian communities like the Sunnyvale Hindu Temple and the Shiva Vishnu Temple in Livermore. If you’re in Australia, you could check out the Pennel Reserve Hall in Braybook or the Chinmaya Mission for details. No matter where you are in the world, there’s bound to be a community of Indians which will be celebrating this festival.

Make Ganpati Special for your Loved Ones

If you want to celebrate the Ganpati festival, bring in an idol of Lord Ganesh and offer prayers to him. He is believed to be the remover of obstacles and bringer of prosperity in the Hindu culture, with prayers and sweets offered to him on major auspicious occasions and festivals like Diwali too.

 Ethnic gifts and idols of the lord are popular choices for gifts

It’s also a great time to start new ventures, upgrade your home and delight your family with gifts. Traditional and ethnic clothing are always top favorites, as are coir idols and home decor accessories celebrating everyone’s beloved god.

Content source : https://peachmode.com/blogs/peachmode/ganesh-chaturthi-celebrations-across-india-and-the-globe

Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa – The celebration of good beginnings

Content Source: https://tripraja.com/tour-blogs/ganesh-chaturthi-goa-festival-celebration

Ganesh Chaturthi, the biggest Hindu festival of Goa, is a ten-day celebration to honor Lord Ganesha (the elephant-headed deity). This festival was celebrated within the family until Lokmanya Tilak decided that it should be a grand public celebration to put aside the caste system and bridge religious gaps. People from all religions come together to enjoy the festivities.

The birth of Lord Ganesha

Legend has it that Parvati, the mother of Lord Ganesha, created him from the dirt of her body before she went for a bath. She then made him stand guard outside the door and told him not to let anyone enter. Shiva had just returned from his meditation and demanded to enter his home. Ganesha refused to let him near the door. After a brief combat, Shiva severed Ganesha’s head. When Parvati saw her dead son she was furious. Shiva promised her that her son will live again. He returned to the forest and killed the first thing he saw. It was an elephant. He then removed the head of the elephant and placed it on Parvati’s son’s shoulder. He breathed life into the boy and revived him.

The significance of Ganesh Chaturthi

  Ganesh Chaturthi is the celebration of the birth of Lord Ganesha. The festival is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and Ganeshotsav. According to the Hindu calendar, it is celebrated on the fourth day of the bright half of Bhadrapad (corresponds with the months of August/ September according to the Gregorian calendar). Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa predates the Kadamba era. During the time of the Inquisition when the Portuguese were ruling, they had banned all Hindu festivals. The Goan Hindus celebrated the festival anyway in the privacy of their homes. The God is always depicted with a plate of modaks by his feet, a lotus in his hand, and his mode of transport, a rat, by his side.

The celebration of Ganesh Festival in Goa

Ganesh Chaturthi is the biggest festival of Goa, and it is celebrated lavishly. Families travel across the country and sometimes the globe to be together at this time of year. The preparations for this festival begin months in advance. The festival begins at home with the purchase and ceremonial installation of a clay murti (statue). Families decorate a room by putting a matoli (a wooden canopy) adorned with flowers, seasonal vegetables and fruits before God is brought home and placed on an altar. The room is brightly lit with fairy lights adding to the cheerful hues of the decorations. Domestic celebrations end with the immersion of the idol after 1½, 5, 7, 9 or 11 days. The height of the idol ranges from ¾ inch right up to 70 feet (for large community celebrations). The ladies of the house prepare modaks (a sweet resembling a dumpling but stuffed with a mixture of coconut and jaggery (molasses)), nevri (also made with coconut), barfi, besan (gram flour) ladoos, and a few traditional savoury dishes. Family and friends gather around to enjoy a meal together that is served on banana leaves (not all houses serve meals like this).

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebration Goa Children Celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi People residing in cities go to their ancestral homes to celebrate this wonderful festival with their relatives and friends. They do pujas and sing artis (devotional hymns) together accompanied with Gumot (percussions made from clay with the monitor lizard skin on both sides. This was changed after the monitor lizard was declared as an endangered species. Rexene has become a substitute for the skin of the monitor lizard.) and taal (cymbals).  Some family members get together and make a rangoli (decorative patterns made from coloured dry rice, flour, or flower petals) at the entrance of the house or in the courtyard. Hindu families invite their friends to join in their family celebrations. Children and adults enjoy an array of fireworks.

Rituals conducted during the festival

  There are four main rituals during this festival. Pranapratishhtha – infusing the deity into the murti or clay idol. Shhodashopachara – 16 forms of paying tribute to Lord Ganesha. Uttarpuja – puja after which the idol could be shifted after its infusion. This is an emotional puja. Ganapati Visarjan – the immersion of the idol in a water body (river, sea, lake, well, or pond).

What to see during Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa

  Goa Rangoli on Ganesh Chaturthi If you walk around the main cities of Goa you will see huge idols placed in significant areas. This is known as Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav. You can also buy lucky tickets and take a chance on a lucky draw where you can win anything from a washing machine to a car. Various competitions for best decorated Ganesh, rangoli competition, and fancy dress competitions are also held during this time. The main highlight is sound and light show depicting the Gods of Hinduism.

Celebration in other parts on India

Ganesh Chaturthi, India Ganesh Chaturthi Celebration in Mumbai After Goa, our neighboring state of Maharashtra is where the Ganesh festival is celebrated in its grand form. Apart from the traditional celebrations and decorations, witnessing Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav in the capital city of Mumbai is a special experience. There are pandaals (shamianas) placed all over this beautiful city. Families get together to worship and participate in Artis. The huge idol in Lalbaug famously known as Lalbagcha Raja is breathtaking and the communities get together to worship this deity. Shreemath Dagduseth Halwai Temple in Pune is dedicated to Lord Ganesh and it is a place of pilgrim. Thousands of worshipers flock there to pay homage to their deity so does Shree Siddivinayak Temple in Mumbai and Dodda Ganapathi Temple in Bangalore, Karnataka. This festival is also celebrated with across Western India in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, and the South Indian states of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu.

Ganesh Visarjan – Immersion of the idol

Ganeshji Immersion, Goa Ganeshji Immersion, Goa This day signifies the end of a beautiful celebration. Family and friends gather together to bid Lord Ganesh an emotional adieu. Aartis are performed just before the immersion. One can see large processions making their way to the beach or river front to immerse the statue. The deity is placed in a pickup truck, speakers blast hymns (nowadays it’s EDM (Electronic Dance Music) and people dance around the vehicle, bursting crackers as they move along. It’s definitely worth experiencing this at least once. The devotion and dedication is admirable. After the immersion prasad and fruits are distributed among the people who are present.

When is Ganesh Chaturthi 2018?

Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the 13th of September.

Some Facts related to Lord Ganesh

  • He is known as God of wisdom and remover of all obstacles.
  • Each and every Hindu rituals begins with Lord Ganesha’s name.
  • He is younger brother to Lord Kartikeya and husband of Ridhhi and Siddhi
  • His favourite food is Modak (sweet made of wheat, jaggery and coconut, flower is red Jaswandi or Hibiscus, carrier is Mouse, grass is Durva (3 headed grass).
  • His few other names are Vinayak, Gajanan, Ganapati, Gajamukh etc.
  • His other holy days are Sankashta Chaturthi, Angarak Chaturthi and Vinayak Chaturthi.
  • Famous Epic Mahabharata is written by Lord Ganesha.

9 Health Benefits Of Almonds That You Should Know

Content Source : https://pharmeasy.in/blog/surprising-health-benefits-of-almonds/

Almonds, also popularly known as Badam are a treasure trove of nutrients. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, dietetic fibre, and monounsaturated fat, which improves the health of the heart. In fact, this list can go on and on.

Almonds (Prunus dulcis) or Badam, a very famous, nutritious nut is actually an edible seed. It is widely grown in California.

Almonds are whitish in colour, covered by a thin brown skin and lastly enclosed in a hard shell. They are oval in shape and have a sweet, nutty smell. Almonds are rich in calories as well as nutrients.

Almonds Nutritional Value

Almonds contain carbohydrates (22%), proteins (21%) and fats (50%). Almonds are rich in B vitamins riboflavin and niacin, vitamin E and minerals like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc. They also contain dietary fibre, monounsaturated fat (oleic acid), polyunsaturated fat (linoleic acid) and many phytosterols.

9 Health Benefits of Eating Almonds Are:

  • Energy Booster:

Almonds are rich in magnesium and Vitamin E and also contain a good amount (21%) of proteins. This helps in maintaining our energy levels throughout the day and keeping us active. Almonds are a very good choice for quick snacks.

  •  Improves Memory:

Almonds are known as ‘Food for the Brain’. Vitamin E content in almonds makes us alert and improves memory retention.

As per research, soaking almonds overnight and having them in the morning, on an empty stomach increases Vitamin E and improves memory.[1]

  • Good for our Heart & People with Diabetes:

Magnesium in almonds lowers blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Thus, almonds help in the management of diabetes and reduce the risk of heart diseases.

Almonds also lower LDL cholesterol levels and prevent oxidation, thus protecting our heart.

Almonds help to lower blood sugar also due to their magnesium content, this mineral is involved in hundreds of bodily processes including glucose control. Additionally, the mix of nutrients like proteins, fibre and healthy fats ensure that diabetic patients don’t face sudden sugar spikes when they eat a handful of almonds. For people with diabetes, the health benefits of almonds as a snack may be a part of your glucose management routine. 

  • Reduces the Risk of Cancer & Alzheimer’s Disease:

Almonds are rich in antioxidants. Vitamin E present in almonds is also an antioxidant and protects our cells from oxidative damage, largely reducing the risk of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

  • Anti-ageing Effects:

The rich antioxidant content of almonds protects us from the varied effects of ageing and age-related diseases.[5]

Massaging our face with almond oil fights early signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. Regular usage keeps our skin looking youthful.

  • Anti-inflammation

The antioxidant effect of almonds helps to reduce oxidative stress and cell damage. This results in not only slower ageing and a lower risk of cancer but also helps to curtail inflammation in the body. Inflammation occurs when the body reacts to damage and infection and results in aches, pains, swelling apart from other issues. The anti-inflammation benefits of almonds have been seen to reduce oxidative markers in clinical studies (when almonds were consumed regularly over a period of time).

  • Treatment of Anaemia:

Anaemia is a dangerous condition in which the red blood cells in our body, carry very less oxygen to the brain. This results due to a deficiency of haemoglobin. Almonds contain iron, copper, and vitamins. So they help in boosting the haemoglobin levels in our body and are useful in the active treatment of Anaemia.

  • Reduces Hunger & Promotes Weight Loss:

Almonds are rich in fibre and proteins. So, consumption of almonds makes us feel full for longer periods, thus reducing our hunger and calorie intake.

Almonds thus lead to a reduction in weight.

  • Improves Digestion:

Consumption of almonds increases the beneficial bacteria in our gut, thus promoting gut health and improving digestion.

  • Promotes Bone Health:

High levels of calcium in almonds, keep our musculoskeletal system healthy and prevents the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Other uses of Almonds:

  • Skincare: Almond oil is an excellent moisturizer. It keeps our skin glowing, acne-free and wrinkle-free when used on our body on a regular basis.
  • Haircare: Almond is known to reduce hair fall. Regular massage with almond oil in our hair prevents early greying.
  • Prevents stretch marks: Regular application of almond oil to the affected area, effectively reduces stretch marks.
  • Make-up Remover: Almond oil is a natural make-up remover.
  • Eye-Care: Almond oil reduces dark circles and puffiness under the eyes.

Best Way to Eat almonds:

To ensure maximum health benefits, soak almonds overnight (around 8 hours) and have them empty stomach in the morning, preferably with the brown skin intact.

The Ideal Dose of Almonds:

There is no such ideal dose but eating a handful (around 15-25) almonds per day could be beneficial to our body, as a part of a balanced diet.

Different Forms in Which Almonds are Available:

  • Whole almonds
  • Sliced almonds
  • Blanched almonds
  • Almond oil
  • Almond milk
  • Almond butter
  • Almond flour

Juices: The Best and Worst for Your Health

Content Source : https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-juice-wars

1/13

Who doesn’t enjoy a tall, cool glass of juice? The color is vibrant, the taste sweet, and it’s good for you, too. Not so fast, say some dietitians. Although the best kinds of juice give you some nutrients, the worst are hardly better than liquid candy. You just need to know the difference.

Best Choice: Vegetable Juice

Best Choice: Vegetable Juice

2/13

Drinking your veggies is convenient and good for you. The lycopene in tomato juice may help lower the risk of prostate cancer. Beet juice may help curb blood pressure. Pulpy vegetable juice has some fiber (but not as much as raw vegetables); and fiber cuts hunger. You also get far less sugar and fewer calories than in the typical fruit juice. Check the sodium, though, or choose a low-salt version.

Worst Choice: Juice 'Cocktails'

Worst Choice: Juice ‘Cocktails’

3/13

Be on alert for the terms juice cocktail, juice-flavored beverage, and juice drink. Most of these products have only small amounts of real juice. Their main ingredients are usually water, small amounts of juice, and some type of sweetener, such as high-fructose corn syrup. Nutritionally, these drinks are similar to most soft drinks: rich in sugar and calories, but low in nutrients. Water is a better choice.

The 100% Fruit Juice Dilemma

The 100% Fruit Juice Dilemma

4/13

What about pure fruit juice with no added sweeteners? It’s true that 100% fruit juice is a good source of nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. The problem is that too much juice can be an extra source of sugar and calories. Juice also doesn’t contain the same fiber and phytonutrients that raw fruits have. That’s why many experts recommend sticking to one juice serving per day.

Good Choice: Pomegranate Juice

Good Choice: Pomegranate Juice

5/13

If you’re only going to drink one glass of juice each day, you want to make it a good one. So get to know which juices offer the biggest nutritional payoff per sip. Pomegranate juice tops the list. It’s high in sugar and calories, but gives you a lot of good-for-you nutrients called antioxidants. In fact, pomegranate juice’s antioxidant power is greater than red wine or green tea.

Good Choice: Cranberry Juice

Good Choice: Cranberry Juice

6/13

Cranberry juice is packed with vitamin C, which your immune system needs. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice may also help prevent the buildup of bacteria that cause urinary tract infections.

Good Choice: Acai Berry Juice

Good Choice: Acai Berry Juice

7/13

Acai juice is made from a berry found in South America. Acai pulp appears to have a higher concentration of antioxidants than cranberries, blackberries, strawberries, or blueberries.

Good Choice: Red Grape Juice

Good Choice: Red Grape Juice

8/13

You’ve probably heard that red wine, in moderation, can be good for the heart. The same is true of red grape juice. Red grape juice has flavonoids and resveratrol. The key is that red wine and juice are made with the entire grape: seeds, skin, and all. But you’re not getting the fiber that you would from the fruit itself.

Good Choice: Prune Juice

Good Choice: Prune Juice

9/13

People have long used prune juice to relieve constipation. It works because it’s a good source of fiber and contains a natural laxative called sorbitol. But the benefits of prune juice don’t stop there. The juice is also packed with antioxidants, iron, and potassium.

What About Orange Juice?

What About Orange Juice?

10/13

The good news is orange juice is loaded with vitamin C. Some brands are fortified with calcium and vitamin D, which are good for your bones. Unsweetened orange juice has fewer calories than some berry juices or grape juice. The trade-off is that it also has fewer antioxidants than darker juices like grape, blueberry, and pomegranate.

Kids and Juice

Kids and Juice

11/13

Most children love juice, but don’t give them too much. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 4 to 6 ounces of 100% fruit juice per day for kids younger than 6, and 8-12 ounces for ages 7 to 18.

Water It Down

Water It Down

12/13

If you or your kids crave more than a single cup of juice per day, water it down. By mixing water or sparkling water with juice, you slash the calories in every serving. Instead of drinking one glass of pure juice, you can enjoy 2 or 3 cups of the water-juice mixture throughout the day.

Go for Whole Fruit

Go for Whole Fruit

13/13

Dietitians say a great alternative to drinking a lot of fruit juice is to eat the whole fruit. You’ll get all the nutrients that are in the fruit’s flesh and pulp, and the fiber will help you feel full and tame your hunger.

Why diabetics need protein in their diet

Content Source : https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health-specials/why-diabetics-protein-diet-8067603/

Do proteins have a role in diets for diabetes? Expectedly, when we talk about diabetes and meal planning, we mostly focus on carbohydrates (carbs). Diabetes is also called sugar in common parlance. The connection between sugar and diabetes is strong and embedded in our minds. Not just people with diabetes, every health conscious person talks about reducing carbs in the diet. In all this craziness, we often miss the importance of proteins.

There are three “macro” nutrients in our diet — carbohydrate, protein and fats. Proteins are the building blocks of our body and are vital for growth, muscle and bone development. They are also important constituents of hormones and many enzymes at the cellular level and are important to build immunity. About half of the proteins in our body are in our muscles. Proteins are also broken down by the body into glucose and used for energy, a process known as gluconeogenesis.

India is a carb-loving country. In general, our protein intakes are sub-optimal. According to The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the daily recommended intake of protein for an adult is 0.8 to 1 gm per kg body weight. This means, for a 70 kg average Indian, about 56-70 gm protein should be consumed daily. Most Indians are way below this figure, often not even reaching 50 gm a day. This has an impact on our muscle mass. Studies have shown that Indians at all ages have low muscle mass (“sarcopenia”) as compared to populations with better protein intakes.

There are several prevalent myths around protein consumption like ‘patients with diabetes should not consume much protein’, ‘protein-rich diets may harm your kidney’, ‘protein is difficult to digest’, ‘leads to weight gain’ and is ‘only for body builders’. Some of these myths come from the Western world where protein intakes are much higher than Indians. Excess protein intake can be a concern in some of these countries, whereas for Indians, it’s a struggle to meet normal protein requirements.

More

How does protein intake impact diabetes?

1. When you eat carbohydrates in combination with protein (or fat), it can take longer for your body to convert the carbs into glucose, leading to lower post-meal blood sugar levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
2. Although 1 gm of protein provides four calories, the same as carbs, it reduces the calorie intake by providing satiety, which also helps in blood sugar control.
3. A low protein diet leads to muscle loss which increases the risk of falls and fractures in elderly diabetics. Such individuals could in any case be more prone to a fall because of nerve, muscle and eye involvement due to long-standing diabetes.
4. Low muscle mass is a contributor to insulin resistance. So, it’s not just adipose tissue but a lack of muscle mass that also contributes to insulin resistance and its long list of consequences.
5. Recent data suggests that low muscle mass — and low protein intakes by inference — promote the development of fatty liver disease, which can lead to liver cirrhosis and even cancer.

How should we be addressing the protein issue if we have diabetes?

We should aim at getting 15-20 per cent of our calories through proteins on a daily basis, and ensuring a bare minimum of 0.8 gm/kg body weight protein. This should ideally be greater than 1 gm/kg for people with diabetes, unless they have kidney involvement. Even for those with kidney complications, an intake of 0.8 gm- 1 gm/kg is recommended!

Our requirement also depends on our exercise level, so a higher intake 1-1.5 g/kg is recommended for some. Athletes often have to consume much higher amounts.

Try to get protein in every meal for maximum benefit. Having one high protein meal with other meals being devoid of proteins is not the best health management method.

All proteins are not the same. Their quality also matters. Animal source proteins are generally superior to plant proteins, although there is a lot of attempt to enhance the latter in recent times. Amino acids are the units that make up protein. Some of these cannot be made in the human body and are required to be taken through the diet. These are called essential amino acids.

The best sources of proteins are dairy products like milk, curd, paneer as well as eggs, meat, fish and poultry because they have all the essential amino acids.

Vegetable sources of proteins include lentils, beans, and nuts. Soya bean is an exceptional source. If you are vegetarian, consume dairy and dals. If you like the taste, add soya bean. If you are vegan, please have a nutritionist calculate your protein intake and ensure you don’t fall short! A combination of cereals, millets and pulses provides most of the amino acids, which complement each other to provide better quality proteins.

A variety of proteins always helps. One good principle is that every time you have a meal, search for the protein in the plate. Make sure there is protein in every major meal that you consume.

Weight Loss Diet: 5 Natural Fat Burner Drinks to Help You Drop Those Extra Kilos

Content source : https://www.india.com/lifestyle/weight-loss-diet-5-natural-fat-burner-drinks-to-help-you-drop-those-extra-kilos-5544957/

Do you no longer fit into your favourite pair of jeans? Most of us have gained weight as a result of the work-from-home culture. Because we are all guilty of putting off our weight loss goals, now is the time to get started and lose those extra kilos. Of course, the drinks alone will not make the extra kilos disappear; you must also exercise to achieve the desired effect. You can now lose those extra pounds by drinking some natural drinks. You’re probably aware of the fat-melting properties of lemon-infused water, but there are other drinks that can help you lose weight. Of course, the drinks alone will not make the extra kilos disappear; you must also exercise to achieve the desired effect. So, here are 5 natural fat burners that will help you can include in your weight loss diet.

Jeera Water: Jeera is an essential ingredient in all Indian curries. And jeera water is a low-calorie drink that aids digestion and helps in the loss of belly fat. It works wonders in terms of suppressing hunger and hastening the weight loss process. 

Green tea: Green tea has grown in popularity over the last few decades. The drink contains antioxidants (catechins), which are known to increase metabolism. To get the most out of the drink, avoid adding sugar. 

Ajwain or carom drink: Ajwain or carom seeds are known to naturally boost metabolism, aids in digestion and absorption of food. 2 tsp dry roasted Ajwain seeds soaked in a cup of water overnight. Mix the water thoroughly and have it the next morning.

Fennel drink: Fennel seeds have long been used to treat indigestion and bloating. Fennel has diuretic properties that aid in detoxification that ultimately leads to weight loss. Add a teaspoon of fennel seeds in water overnight. The next day, strain the water and drink it.

Water: Increasing your water intake is one of the most simple and direct ways to improve your overall health. Drinking more water may help you lose weight by keeping you full between meals and increasing the number of calories you burn.

Food to NOT Eat With Dahi: 5 Worst Food Combinations to Have With Curd

Content Source : https://www.india.com/lifestyle/food-to-not-eat-with-dahi-5-worst-food-combinations-to-have-with-curd-5546883/

Don’t we all love a fresh bowl of curd with some chopped fruits in it? Curd is one of the most loved and relished milk products consumed in Indian households. It is often eaten with parathas, consumed as raita or in the form of sweet lassi or chaas. Curd is known to soothe the stomach; the bacteria in the curd help digestion. Curd is loaded with vitamins and minerals, and it helps in increasing your immunity. It is prepared by fermentation milk with a bacterial culture called Lactobacillus delbrueckii. The bacterial fermentation produces lactic acid, which gives the curd a thick texture.

Curd is loaded with health benefits. It is rich in phosphorous and calcium, vitamin B-2, vitamin B-12, magnesium, and potassium. The probiotic in curd helps the proper functioning of the digestive system. Nutrition present in curd can sometimes also damage our body when we club dahi with the wrong food combinations. These foods can come in the healthy category but can cause more harm than good. 

List of Food Items You Should Never Eat Dahi With

  • Fish

Food to NOT Eat With Dahi: 5 Worst Food Combinations to Have With Curd

Avoid eating fish with dahi

Avoid consuming curd with fish as both food items are loaded with proteins. According to reports, you should not club animal protein with veg protein as it becomes difficult for humans to digest it. It can lead to stomach-related issues. 

  • Mango

Food to NOT Eat With Dahi: 5 Worst Food Combinations to Have With Curd

Do not club curd with mango

Pairing mango with curd creates a cold and heat situation in the body which can lead to skin issues and produce toxins in the whole body. It can create an imbalance in the digestive system.

  • Onion

5 Worst Food Combinations to Have With Curd

Onion should not be clubbed with curd

People often consume curd and onions in the form of Raita. It would be best if you stopped this habit immediately as curd is cold in nature, while onions are known for producing heat in the body. This combination can cause rashes, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin allergies.

  • Milk

5 Worst Food Combinations to Have With Curd

Do not consume milk with dahi

Milk and curd come from the same family, i.e. animal-sourced protein and thus they should not be consumed together. It can cause diarrhoea, acidity, bloating, and gas.

  • Oily Foods

5 Worst Food Combinations to Have With Curd

oily food

Don’t we all love Ghee wala Parantha with Makan along with dahi on the side? Well, you must give up this habit as oily foods when paired with curd slow down your digestion and make you feel lazy throughout the day.

13 Indian Independence Day Recipes That Will Make You Feel Patriotic

Content Source : https://www.archanaskitchen.com/13-indian-independence-day-recipes-that-will-make-you-feel-patriotic

Come 15th August of the year 2018, we will be celebrating 72 years of Independence, since the first time in 1947. Our sense of patriotism, tends to be awakened during this national festivals if not otherwise. There’s a sense of pride when you look back at our rich culture and heritage, that includes the regional festivals we follow, to our food and culture, rituals and routines, to the attire we wear.  

Our country literally is the living example of “Unity in Diversity”. Amongst all the parameters that hold us together as Indians, by far the most common one I’d say is food. 

Here are a few recipes, inspired by the colours of the Indian tricolour- each colour with its significance of making it to the national flag. 

While the the saffron color indicates the country’s strength and courage, white represents peace and truth, it is also the colour band that holds the blue dharama chakra. Green indicated fertility, growth and auspiciousness of our motherland. Likewise here are a few colourful recipes you can make to celebrate this Independence day to bring out the true Indian in you. 

6 Great Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan in 2022

Content Source: https://www.sloshout.com/blog/6-great-ideas-to-celebrate-raksha-bandhan-in-2022/

One of the sweetest festivals in India, Raksha Bandhan, celebrates the eternal and holy bonding between a brother and a sister. Celebrated in the month of Shravana, this festival is observed in different ways in different parts of India irrespective of background, ethnicity or caste. Although the rituals related to the festival vary across regions, the theme and the underlying idea remain the same. On this day, the sister prays to God for the well-being of her brother and ties a holy thread or rakhi on his wrist for divine protection, and the brother vows to protect her from every adverse situation whatever the circumstances. This mutual love and respect for each other between brothers and sisters reflect the true spirit of India that hails love and spirituality above all.  

 Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan | Rakhi gift ideas 2022

Apart from the prayers and the rituals, this traditional festival is celebrated in various interesting ways. Sisters cook food for their brothers, while brothers buy gifts for their sisters. Parents of little kids help in the preparations. And grown-ups travel from far-off places to celebrate this day with their siblings. In this article, we have discussed 6 great ideas to celebrate Raksha Bandhan in 2022. These ideas are sure to make the day fun and interesting for the little ones as well as the grown-ups. 

Ideas to celebrate Raksha Bandhan  

1. Make customized rakhi for your sweet brother

 Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan | Rakhi gift ideas 2022

This one is for the sisters. Make customized rakhi for your naughty and always-fighting brother. You know his likes and dislikes. Try to create a theme based on something that he likes very much. If he likes sweets, you can prepare a rakhi that looks like a rasgulla or a gulaab jamun. Sounds crazy? Then you might try something else. Select a design based on the cartoon character he likes. Attaching a replica of Spiderman, Superman or any character from the Marvel comic series on the holy thread could be a fun idea. Or you can simply write your own name on a piece of cardboard, cut it to shape and prepare a simple rakhi by attaching a thread with it. Trust us, your brother would love this for sure. You can also deliver a message through your rakhi. Make a small folded greeting card with thick colorful paper, and write what your heart says for your brother. Then make a hole on it and put the thread through that hole. And your greeting card rakhi is ready. Isn’t that interesting?

2. Decorate your home

 Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan | Rakhi gift ideas 2022

Not possible for the little ones, but teenagers and grown-ups can certainly decorate their home and make it ready for the occasion. Parents can help the toddlers do it as well. Bring home some flowers and decorative items, some fairy lights and other wall-hanging artifacts. You can make wind chimes with bits and pieces or metal scraps lying here and there at home. You can also bring home some indoor plants which can freshen up the environment of the entire household. What better way to celebrate something auspicious than bringing home a plant, something that sustains life?  

3. Prepare sweets at home

 Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan | Rakhi gift ideas 2022

Your local halwai might be great for preparing delicious desserts and sweetmeats, but making a sweet at home for your own brother has a different feeling. Make laddoos and dry sweets like peda so that you can surprise him by gifting them in a box. He can also take them with him if he stays in a hostel for studies or in a different city for a job. Every time he would open the box, it would remind him of you. Besides, home-cooked food is always better on hygienic grounds. Parents can do it themselves if the children are small. Children don’t understand the importance of these sweet little things, but they start missing such small gestures as they grow old. Make this Raksha Bandhan festival a part of his memories forever. 

4. Where is the gift?

 Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan | Rakhi gift ideas 2022

You guessed it right. This one is for the brothers. Buy your sister a gift that she would like to keep with her forever. Don’t just spend some money and buy her something expensive to raise some eyebrows and get some appreciation. Buy her something that is really special to her. Buy her something that would remind her of you when you are not there. Think about the things she likes. Plan things in advance. Book it online if it needs a pre-order. But your Raksha Bandhan gift should reflect your love for your sister. Price is not important here. Don’t think about what your friends are doing. Your gift should show that you really care for your sister and understand her feelings. That’s the most important thing. 

5. Go to a movie

 Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan | Rakhi gift ideas 2022

Although nothing new about this idea, post-Covid and after a pause of almost 3 years, it is something you should definitely plan. There are many interesting Bollywood releases this year on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. So, plan a movie outing with your siblings as well as your parents.

6. Plan a short trip

 Ideas To Celebrate Raksha Bandhan | Rakhi gift ideas 2022

It would be a great idea to set out on a family outing on the day of the Raksha Bandhan. Select a location within 50-60 km from home. Book a villa or farmhouse or book rooms in a beautiful resort near to your home. If you are in Delhi NCR, you would find a lot of amazing party venues in the Gurgaon, Aravalli, or Manesar areas. Complete all the festival rituals by early morning, and set out on your journey around 11 am so that you can reach the venue before lunch. Enjoy the rest of your day and evening and return late at night or stay over and return early the next morning. It would be an outing worth remembering. And if you want any assistance regarding venue booking, you can log on to www.sloshout.com. Sloshout is India’s number one online venue-booking website that allows you to choose the best venues in any location based on your specific requirements and book them online without any hassle. The venues listed on the website of Sloshout have verified businesses and each one of them is allotted a rating based on genuine customer reviews.  

5 Expert Tips To Keep Your Kitchen Sanitized, Clean And Germ-Free

Content Source : https://food.ndtv.com/health/5-expert-tips-to-keep-your-kitchen-sanitized-clean-and-germ-free-2288516

Food safety ultimately boils down to the source of food – the kitchen; where food is prepared, processed and packaged. What can we do to make sure that our kitchen adheres to the best standards of hygiene?

Food safety has brought the lens to where food is processed – in the kitchen.

Health is the first and foremost priority this year. The norm is always to ensure proper cleanliness of the surfaces around. Simple practices such as washing hands, maintaining distance and wearing mask are being implemented stringently to avoid health being compromised. The risk of contamination and spreading germs even further is very real. Food safety, in particular, has also come under the lens, as people are attempting to follow the best sanitation practices for what they eat. Food safety ultimately boils down to the source of food – the kitchen; where food is prepared, processed and packaged. What can we do to make sure that our kitchen adheres to the best standards of hygiene?

Here Are 5 Tips To Keep Your Kitchen Sanitized, Clean & Germ-Free:

1. Gas Stove

The gas stove is one area which can become a breeding ground for infections over time. Experts suggest cleaning the stove after every meal with a mix of soap or detergent and water. This simple practice is a good way to maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen and the food that is being cooked.

2. Kitchen Counters and Slabs

Kitchen counters and slabs is where vegetables, fruits and other ingredients are kept before being washed. It is important that the kitchen slabs should be spick and span in order to prevent contamination of produce with germs at the preparation stage of recipes. The chopping board, too, is one surface which is integral to cooking, and must be cleaned regularly. Use a mixture of salt and lemon water for best results.

jskfnnloSalt and lemon water is recommended for cleaning kitchen slabs. 

3. Vegetables and Fruits

When it comes to food safety, not just the surrounding areas but the food itself should be of the highest quality. To combat the risk of contamination in food, it is advisable to take the necessary precautions by cleaning your vegetables properly before they are consumed. Home remedies may not prove effective in this case, which is why experts highly recommend Marico’s Veggie Clean. This 100% naturally derived fruits & vegetables cleanser helps remove 99.9% germs, pesticides & waxes without the use of chlorine, alcohol and chemicals.

Nutritionist Nmami Agarwal explains, “In the current scenario, we often opt for healthier eating habits, use of superfoods and addition of more greens to our diet but take the most fundamental step of cleaning our produce rather lightly. I believe in using a product that is scientifically proven and certified by Indian labs and international bodies. Veggie Clean from Marico is a specialized fruits & vegetables cleanser which is made with 100% naturally derived ingredients and is proven to remove 99.9% germs, pesticides and waxes from the surface.”

Marico’s Veggie Clean is 100% safe to use & is certified by Indian & International experts. It’s also great on the consumer’s pocket giving you 40 washes in just Rs 99. Click here to buy the product.

4. Utensils & Storage

An important facet of food safety is the utensils and containers it is stored in. Lentils and flours often get infested with pests over time which may lead to diseases and infections. Thus, it is absolutely essential to ensure that utensils and containers are washed after every use with a soap or detergent-based solution. Also, they must be completely dry before putting ingredients in them in order to reduce chances of spoilage.

dtsumdjoUtensils must be thoroughly washed after every use. 

5. Equipment

Blenders, mixers, refrigerators, microwaves, ovens, grills, toasters and more – whatever equipment is used in the kitchen must be spotlessly clean as a thumb rule. The microwave specially can often become messy and dirty, and must be cleaned often with a cleaning solution. Experts suggest using a vinegar and water based cleaner for the same. Simply heat up the bowl in the microwave for a few minutes and use a sponge to get rid of the stains quickly.

The idea is to keep the kitchen neat and clean at all times. Once kitchen tools and raw materials adhere to the highest sanitation standards, you will be rest assured of a germ-free, healthy kitchen always.

Delectable Food Items You Can Enjoy If It’s Still Raining In Your City

Content Source : https://www.easemytrip.com/blog/food-items-to-enjoy-during-rains

After scorching heat, monsoon brings a breath of fresh air by bringing the aromatic fragrance, cheerful moods, and of course fried food cravings.  During monsoon, the dullest looks become vibrant with shining greenery around and the scent that fills up your senses. To enjoy this season in an unforgettable way, we bring to you the list of food items that one should have during this rainy season.

Aloo Pakora

To perfectly enjoy the rain shower, nothing can be better than the crispy aloo delights. The hotly served pakoras along with the green chutney are the perfect way to have a good time.

Bhutta

 When the sky is dark and windy, the well-cooked bhutta is a must to try. The smoke from the coal with a hint of lemon and red chili on the bright yellow corn is something that will turn your mood up even if you are stuck up in jam during monsoon.

Cutting Chai

When the weather goes wild and the aromas invoke your senses, then the felling of life should be enjoyed with one masala cutting chai. Prepare it yourself or enjoy it at the local chaiwala and your life is sorted.

Dim Sum

Steamed dim sum is the perfect element to enjoy a rainy day with your friends and family. This mouthwatering is best enjoyed along with the red chili paste and some mayonnaise.

Filter Coffee

The traditional mixing of the coffee in the tumbler is a treat to watch and drink on a cloudy evening. The coffee offers a delicious and calming effect on your stressful day.

Ice Cream

If you are crazy and believe in all the madness, then cold in the cold should be your thing.  Choco chip, butterscotch, fruity, or a waffle ice cream is the perfect solution to cheer you up during the monsoon.

Jalebi

Stunning orange circulars with hot sugary crisp is an ultimate choice that one can make for an amazing rainy day breakfast. Do enjoy it with a cold creamy rabri.

Onion Bhajiya

First rainfall and our very own and desi onions fried are ready to make our day special. Onion bhajiya is one of the most popular rain foods and is perfect eaten with a masala chai.

Puri and Bhaji

The perfect combination of fried bread and smashed aloo sabzi is what can make your rainy day enjoyable. The delectable food is very easy to make and hard to resist.

Vada Pav

Go and try your favorite vada pav this monsoon season so as to get the real feel of rains. This special dish from the land of Mumbai is what can give you the best taste in this monsoon season. Have you tried it yet? If not, then go book your flights to Mumbai and experience its delectable taste.

Biryani

A treasure of a Non-veg platter, Biryani is something you can never go wrong with. Hot biryani and cold raita on a rainy day is a pleasure that is incomparable.

Samosa

 This popular snack is one thing that strikes us in the first place when the rain s falling. Have it with ketchup or stuff it in a pav, the choice is yours to enjoy this lip-smacking food delicacy.

Maggi

Even the name brings out a smile on everyone’s faces, be it any person of any age. The steaming hot masala noodle is exactly what everyone needs to have a fun-filled monsoon. Add some veggies or not, make it soupy or not, there is no one even close to competition.

Foods For Bone Strength: Load Up On These 7 Everyday Foods That May Help To Get Stronger Bones

Content Source: https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/foods-for-bone-strength-load-up-on-these-7-everyday-foods-that-may-help-to-get-stronger-bones-2580353

As you get older, your bone health deteriorates; however, a balanced diet may help you avoid problems such as osteoporosis and other bone-related or muscle-and-joint disorders.

Have you ever experienced a sharp pain in your bones, lower back or maybe a change in posture? Well, if you experience these things quite often, then there are chances that your bones are weak. Many people, especially the elderly, go through chronic pain in their bones and joints for various causes. As you get older, your bone health deteriorates; however, a balanced diet may help you avoid problems such as osteoporosis and other bone-related or muscle-and-joint disorders. Although there are treatments and medicines available to ease the pain, the number one advice that we get is to increase calcium intake for stronger bones. However, just calcium might not be enough for bones to increase its density. Even though it’s a crucial nutrient, there are many other nutrient-rich foods that can aid in bone health.


Dr. Anju Sood, a nutritionist, says that “Bone development occurs only until the age of 35, beyond which time bones begin to deteriorate. It is therefore critical to maintain a healthy lifestyle and eat nutritious foods. Protein, calcium, and vitamin D are the three most critical elements for a strong bone structure.”

So, keeping her advice in mind, today, we bring you certain foods that can aid in bone health.

Foods For Strong Bones: Here Are 7 Foods For Bone Health

1. Banana

Bananas, in addition to aiding digestion, are a good source of magnesium. The vitamin is essential for the formation of bone and tooth structure. You can indulge in one banana per day to gain strength in bones. As a result, a banana a day keeps the weak bones at bay.

h85d4um

2. Spinach

The calcium-rich green leafy vegetable can aid in bone and tooth formation. A cup of boiled spinach can supply over 25% of the body’s daily calcium requirements. Vitamin A and iron are also abundant in these fibre-rich leaves.

mucfp78

3. Nuts

Nuts include calcium, but they also contain magnesium and phosphorus, both of which are important for bone health. Magnesium aids in the absorption and retention of calcium in the bones. Moreover, according to the National Institutes of Health, your bones and teeth contain around 85% of the phosphorus in your body, making it an essential element to consume.

9v70cnag

4. Dairy

Dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and cheese are frequently mentioned in discussions about bone health because they’re high in calcium, which is the most important vitamin for bone strength and structure. According to dietary assessments from the US Department of Agriculture, a cup of fat-free milk and a cup of plain yoghurt are great calcium sources that you can indulge in.

5. Orange

While many people enjoy this fruit, freshly squeezed orange juice offers the body calcium and Vitamin D, which helps strengthen bones. It is also said that orange juice can also help to prevent osteoporosis if consumed regularly.

7qr3voc

6. Papaya

This tropical fruit is high in calcium. In a serving of 100 gms, this fruit contains containing 20 mg of calcium. You can easily find this fruit anywhere in the market and make it a part of your daily diet.

55jlnpio

7. Fish

We all strive to consume as much fish as possible to get enough omega 3 fatty acids. But did you know fatty fish like salmon and tuna can also aid in bone strength? You can easily grill, fry, sautee, or bake fish and cook it in a variety of recipes.

So add these foods to your daily diet and increase bone strength.