Health

10 Home Remedies for Asthma

10. Carom Seeds Carom seeds go by many different names such as bishop’s weed, ajwain or ajowan seeds, and are scientifically known as Trachyspermum copticum. They’re… Elizabeth Lilian - March 29, 2017

Asthma is a chronic, long-term condition that is characterized by shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, whistling and tightness in the chest. Asthmatic symptoms are caused by inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, and those with asthma tend to have more sensitive airways that react to triggers like pollen, dust, mold, animal fur and even emotional issues like stress, which can flare up the airways and cause asthma attacks.

Asthma can be caused by genetics or environmental factors like the weather, exposure to tobacco smoke or chemicals, and health issues like obesity. If asthma is left untreated or undiagnosed, it can be deadly. Asthma can affect people of all ages and while it can’t be cured, it can be effectively controlled.

Here are 10 home remedies for asthma.

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1. Ginger

Ginger has been a popular spice in natural therapies for thousands of years. It’s taken from the rhizome (or root) of the Zingiber officinale, a perennial flowering plant that is native to Asia but grown across the world. Ginger is a member of the Zingiberaceae family, alongside turmeric and cardamom. It’s a common remedy for things like nausea, morning sickness and digestive issues, to reduce pain and inflammation, and much more.

Ginger can be ingested powdered, fresh, dried or as an oil. It’s often used in different cuisines, as it contains a unique flavor and aroma that comes from the natural oils. Ginger is a spice that is high in gingerol, an active phytonutrient that holds many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, and is the compound that is responsible for many of ginger’s healthy effects.

Ginger is a carminative, which means it relieves painful gas and bloating. It is also a common treatment for rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, and studies have found it to have profound effects on pain levels in arthritis sufferers. Ginger may also hold anti-tumor properties, and it’s thought to be an effective treatment for asthma symptoms by reducing inflammation and tightness in the airways that cause asthma symptoms.

To use ginger to relieve asthma, mix one teaspoon of ground or powdered ginger with one cup of water, and drink one tablespoon of the mixture before bed each night. Alternatively, you can make ginger tea by cutting ginger into small pieces and boiling it in water. You can also simply add ginger to your meals to reap the benefits, or eat raw ginger sprinkled with salt.

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2. Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is a fat derived from the black or brown seeds of the mustard plant, a member of the Brassicaceae family. The mustard plant is native to India, and as such, mustard oil has become a popular choice of cooking oil in Indian cuisine. There are two different variations of mustard oil: mustard essential oil, which is extracted by steam distillation, and mustard oil, which is extracted through cold compression. The difference is an important one, because mustard essential oil is not appropriate to use in cooking, whereas mustard oil is.

Mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower high cholesterol and improve blood pressure, heart health and kidney health. Mustard oil is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal, and can promote a healthy digestive tract by fighting off bacterial infections. It also contains glucosinolates, which are thought to hold potential anti-cancer properties, and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3 fatty acid that our body is unable to make.

Mustard oil is often used as a massage oil. It contains high levels of vitamin E, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and protect the skin from harmful free radicals, and when rubbed into the muscles it can relieve pain and joint stiffness. Mustard oil can also be used to treat gum disease by rubbing it into the gums.

Mustard oil is a natural stress reliever. It can be used to increase blood flow and circulation, which can help calm the respiratory passages during an asthma attack. To use it as an effective remedy, heat the oil with a small amount of camphor and massage it gently into the chest and upper back. Apply it as often as required to relieve symptoms of asthma.

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3. Figs

Figs are a sweet-tasting, unique fruit that grows on the Ficus tree. Whether paired with cheese or white wine, they’re one of the most versatile fruits and can be found in many backyards. Figs, also known as anjeer, are native to Asia and Turkey, and one tree will bear hundreds of figs each season. There are many different varieties of fig, and each kind varies dramatically in color.

Figs are low in calories, and packed full of soluble dietary fiber, as well as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and polyphenols like carotene, lutein, and tannins. When consumed fresh, figs are an excellent source of vitamin A, E and K, and B-complex vitamins like niacin, folate and pantothenic acid. Dried figs are also very high in minerals like calcium, copper, iron, zinc, manganese and selenium.

Figs are also an excellent source of potassium, which can help regulate and maintain blood sugar and blood pressure levels in diabetics and hypertensive patients. Figs can be used to treat sexual dysfunction, indigestion and high cholesterol. They’re also an expectorant, which makes them an effective remedy for bronchitis, dry cough and asthma.

Soak 3-4 figs in water overnight and eat them in the morning, making sure to drink the water as well, to help relieve congestion, relieve constipation and drain phlegm that can build up in the respiratory tract. Fig leaves can also be used to make tea that can prevent and lessen the symptoms of asthma and other respiratory conditions.

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4. Garlic

Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum, has been cultivated for thousands of years to treat various health issues from cold and flu symptoms to the bubonic plague. It’s a common ingredient in cuisines across the world, and is a member of the Allium family. There are many different varieties of garlic that can be generally divided into four types: hardneck, softneck, black and Creole. Softneck is the most common variety that can be found in most grocery stores.

Garlic is often used in phytotherapy and holds many different health benefits, from decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease to lowering blood pressure. These health benefits are likely due to the presence of allicin and diallyl sulfides, which are the two main active ingredients in garlic. Allicin is the compound that gives garlic a notable scent when it’s crushed or chopped, and it contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Diallyl sulfides can boost the immune system and circulatory system, lower the levels of “bad” cholesterol, and are also thought to potentially treat and prevent a variety of different cancer cells.

Garlic is a natural antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal and antioxidant, and has been proven to have positive effects on the frequency and severity of common colds and flu. Garlic is a great source of vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin B1, and minerals such as manganese, copper, selenium and phosphorus.

The rich amounts of vitamin C make garlic a perfect remedy to clear congestion and relieve symptoms of asthma. Vitamin C can also reduce the release of histamine, which is a natural chemical made by the body that promotes inflammation. Simply boil two or three cloves of garlic in milk and allow it to cool before drinking it. Use this remedy whenever asthma symptoms flare up, or if you’re suffering from a cold.

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5. Coffee

Coffee is made from the roasted beans of the Coffea plant, which was first discovered in Ethiopia in the 9th Century. From Ethiopia, it spread through Turkey, Egypt, and Africa, before it spread to Italy and its popularity exploded. It’s now one of the most widely consumed beverages across the world, cultivated mainly in America, Asia and Africa.

There are two different types of coffee beans: coffee Arabica and coffee canephora (or coffee robusta), with Arabica being the more popular choice due to its smooth flavor. Coffee beans begin as small red fruit, and they go through a long process before they’re suitable for consumption. First, they’re hand-picked, and the flesh of the fruit is removed by a machine. The seeds are then fermented, washed, dried and sorted, before they get roasted. The roasting process is important, because the degree of roasting dictates the flavor the bean will have.

Coffee is believed to hold many health benefits, such as protection against diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, some types of cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Coffee contains large amounts of antioxidants and other nutrients like riboflavin, pantothenic acid, potassium, manganese, magnesium and niacin, and can even help reduce the risk of depression in women.

Coffee is an effective remedy for asthma due to the presence of caffeine. Caffeine is similar to theophylline, a drug that can be used to dilate the bronchial tubes in the lungs, relieving the symptoms of asthma. Drinking strong, hot coffee will help relax and clear the airways, allowing you to breathe easier. However, ensure you don’t drink more than three cups of black coffee per day, as it can cause jitters, anxiety and sleep problems.

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6. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the blue gum, a tree that is native to Australia and can grow to over 100 meters tall. Over 500 species of eucalyptus trees exist in Australia, and the leaves, bark and oil have been used for their medicinal properties for thousands of years. Indigenous Australians would use the leaves for things like covering wounds to promote healing brewing them in hot water and making tea.

Eucalyptus oil holds many therapeutic properties. It’s anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, deodorant, to name a few. It can be used to treat migraines, fever and malaria, and can be applied to burns, blisters, cuts, skin infections and insect bites. It’s also used as a massage oil to ease muscular pain and soreness, relieve arthritic stiffness, and can even be used as a natural deodorant.

Eucalyptus oil provides a cooling, refreshing effect that can stimulate the mood and relieve mental exhaustion. It also has expectorant properties, which makes it an effective remedy for asthma, colds, influenza, throat infections and sinusitis. It can soothe inflammation, dispel mucus, and clear congestion.

Simply mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil in with your preferred body lotion and apply it to the chest and upper back for relief from asthma and other congestion issues. You can also add a few drops to boiling water and breathe in the fragrant steam. Alternatively, you can apply it to a paper towel and keep that by your head while you sleep, so you can breathe in the aroma throughout the night.

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7. Honey

Honey starts out as flower nectar, and begins to be turned into honey once it is gathered by honeybees. When the nectar is collected and stored in the honeybee’s stomach or ‘crop’, it mixes with enzymes that start to break down the complex sugars that nectar is composed of. Once the honeybees return to the hive, they regurgitate the nectar and spread it through the honeycombs, fanning it with their wings in order to help it dry faster, turning it into a thick syrup. Once the right texture has been reached, the bees seal off the honeycomb with a plug of wax, storing it until it’s eaten.

Honey has been used for thousands of years in many cultures and therapies, like Ayurveda. It can be used as a natural sweetener, and contains high levels of fructose and glucose. It’s high in carbohydrates, and contains no sodium cholesterol or fat. With essential vitamins and minerals like niacin, thiamine, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, calcium, manganese, potassium and iron, honey is an extremely healthy addition to any diet and lifestyle.

Honey is full of antioxidants. Generally, the darker the honey, the higher the levels of antioxidants. Honey also contains antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial qualities, which is why it’s often applied to wounds and open sores. It provides a protective barrier and keeps open wounds sterile while promoting faster healing. Honey can also help maintain blood sugar levels, promote clear skin, and has even been thought to hold potential anti-cancer properties.

Consuming honey can help boost the immune system and break up phlegm and mucus that collects in the bronchial tubes and lungs, exacerbating symptoms of asthma. It also soothes a sore throat and reduces coughing, wheezing and tightness in the chest. Mix one teaspoon of honey into a glass of hot water and drink it slowly a few times each day. You can also simply dip a teaspoon into honey and eat it at least three times a day.

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8. Onions

Onions have been around for centuries and are even believed to have been a staple in the diets of prehistoric man, as they grew wildly in many different regions throughout the world. In Egypt, onions were considered a symbol of eternity and used as an object of worship, and they were featured heavily in ancient Indian Vedic texts for their purported medicinal properties. Onions belong to the Allium family alongside garlic, and are used frequently in many different cuisines.

Onions are low in fats and calories, and high in soluble fiber. They’re rich in vitamins, minerals and flavonoids, such as vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and ward off colds, chromium, a mineral that can help control blood sugar levels, and quercetin, a flavonoid that contains anti-carcinogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Onions also contain beneficial sulfur compounds, pantothenic acid, folates, thiamin, manganese, biotin and potassium.

Onion consumption is thought to help prevent ulcers by inhibiting the growth of the microorganism that causes ulcers, Heliobacter pylori. They promote a healthy cardiovascular system, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as relieve symptoms of bladder infections and support a healthy prostate. Onions also promote a healthy digestive system, and encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut.

The anti-inflammatory compounds found in onion make them an effective remedy for asthma. The presence of quercetin is believed to help decrease the frequency and severity of asthmatic symptoms, and the sulfur compounds can help decrease inflammation in the lungs. Eat raw onion to clear airways, or cook them to make them more palatable.

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9. Lemons

Lemons are a wonderfully versatile citrus fruit that have been used for thousands of years in medicine, cooking and even household cleaning. They were initially created by cross-breeding a lime and a citron, and were thought to have first been cultivated in India or China. These days, the entire lemon fruit can be used for various purposes. Lemon juice is frequently used in different health tonics, leaves from the lemon tree can be made into tea or used in cooking, and the pulp and peel can be used in many different recipes to give an unmistakable taste and aroma.

Lemons are full of beneficial citric acid, which acts as an alkalizing agent that can help lower the levels of acidity in the human body. Lemons can be used to treat constipation, indigestion, kidney stones, high blood pressure, dental problems, fever, burns and rheumatism. Lemons are full of flavonoids that hold antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties, such as limonene, a component that is thought to contain potential prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

Lemons contain many active ingredients that give them a wide array of health benefits. They are an extremely rich source of vitamin C, with one lemon providing over 60 percent of the daily recommended intake. Inhaling the scent of lemons can increase the release of a neurotransmitter called norepinephrine, which can improve mood and emotions, and can also improve mental focus and alertness.

The high levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants make lemons a powerful combatant against asthma, as well as other respiratory disorders. Simply combining the juice of half a lemon with a glass full of warm water and drinking that first thing in the morning can help reduce symptoms of asthma and give the immune system a much-needed boost.

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10. Carom Seeds

Carom seeds go by many different names such as bishop’s weed, ajwain or ajowan seeds, and are scientifically known as Trachyspermum copticum. They’re a member of the Umbelliferae family alongside parsley, fennel and dill, and are commonly powdered and used as a spice in Indian cuisine. The seeds are often chewed for medicinal purposes like an upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

Carom seeds contain protein, dietary fiber and carbohydrates, as well as essential minerals like calcium, thiamine, riboflavin, phosphorus, niacin and iron. They also contain limonene, and a phenol called thymol, which has antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic qualities. Carom seed oil can be used to treat arthritis pain, earaches, toothaches, and menstrual cramps.

Carom seeds also act as a bronchodilator, which can help relieve symptoms of asthma. The seeds can be boiled and used as a vaporizer by inhaling the steam, or you can simply drink the water once it’s cooled. You can also wrap a handful of carom seeds in a piece of cotton cloth and microwave it until it’s comfortably warm, then place on your chest to bring relief from tightness and wheezing.

Even though asthma is not curable, it can be easily handled by taking preventative measures. Be sure to identify anything that may trigger asthma attacks, like cigarette smoke, animal fur, pollen or dust, and avoid these as much as possible. Take any medication that has been prescribed to you by a doctor, and pay attention to any potential symptoms of an asthma attack, treating the symptoms as soon as they appear. Acting quickly is the best chance to reduce the risk of a severe asthma attack.

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Fitness

10 Home Remedies for Obesity

Obesity has fast become one of the modern world’s biggest killers, alongside diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. It’s a condition that occurs when too much body… Elizabeth Lilian - March 21, 2017

Obesity has fast become one of the modern world’s biggest killers, alongside diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. It’s a condition that occurs when too much body fat accumulates on a person, and it can grow to be life-threatening. When the amount of food and drink consumed is more than the amount we expend through energy used in activity, it forms fat deposits on the body that can be hard to shift.

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Obesity can happen to anyone, and it’s mostly caused by poor choices like frequently eating foods too high in calories and fats, excessive drinking, lack of proper sleep, leading a sedentary lifestyle with little to no physical activity. It can also be caused by genetics, and health problems like depression and hormonal imbalances. Obesity can lead to poor health and risk of chronic diseases like insulin resistance, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, gout, gallbladder disease, cataracts, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis and chronic pain.

Treating obesity can be daunting, but the benefits are significant. Losing weight slowly, consistently and in a healthy way can lead to success in reaching a target weight goal. Lifestyle changes like a new dietary pattern and exercise routine can help keep the weight off. There are many things you can do from home to support your weight loss journey.

Here are 10 home remedies for obesity.

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1. Lemon Juice

Including lemons and lemon juice in the diet holds a wide array of potential health benefits. Lemons can not only relieve symptoms of colds and flu, soothe a sore throat and treat inflammation, fever, burns, respiratory disorders and high blood pressure, it can also cleanse the stomach, promote a healthy immune system and purify the blood.

Lemon water and juice is an effective tool for weight control due to the large amounts of vitamins, minerals and other nourishing elements it contains, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, folate, riboflavin, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc and more. These elements can support inner health while weight loss is being achieved, and can ensure you don’t begin to lack essential nutrients in the meantime.

Lemon juice can aid weight loss because it contains pectin, a soluble dietary fiber that can be found in various fruits and vegetables and blocks fat absorption in the body. Pectin also keeps you feeling fuller for longer, meaning you won’t be as tempted to snack on unhealthy foods. Lemons contain polyphenols and flavonoids that may help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, which is the “bad” cholesterol that collects on the walls of blood vessels, where it forms blockages that can potentially cause heart attacks.

Lemons also contain citrate, a compound that naturally inhibits toxins and prevents them from building up in the body. This can aid weight loss by eliminating further toxins and cleansing the insides. Mix the juice of half a lemon (or a whole lemon if your tastebuds can handle it) with a big glass of warm water and drink first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, following it up with a healthy breakfast.

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2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is likely to be the most popular choice of vinegar used for several different purposes including medicinal, culinary and even household cleaning. It’s an excellent source of probiotics and other nourishing compounds, and including it in a weight loss plan can have great benefits.

Apple cider vinegar is believed to help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, decreasing risk of diabetes and cardiovascular problems. One study found that after drinking apple cider vinegar daily for 12 weeks, subjects were found to have significantly lower waist circumferences, body weight, BMI and visceral fat areas.

Apple cider vinegar contains pectin, that fat-blocking dietary fiber also found in lemon juice. It’s also full of calcium, potassium, iron, sodium and malic acid, which is produced by the body as it converts carbohydrates to energy. Malic acid is believed to increase energy levels, muscle performance and mental focus, even reducing fatigue after exercise.

To take apple cider vinegar for weight loss, there are many different ways to go about it. The simplest way is to mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water or other liquid and drink it before each meal, or when you find you’re craving sugary snacks and unhealthy food. You can also add it to smoothies and protein shakes.

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3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is often referred to as a ‘wonder plant’, and is popular in many cultures for food, cosmetics, herbal supplements and medicinal purposes. Ancient Egyptians called it ‘the plant of immortality’, and it’s been used therapeutically throughout Egypt, China, India, Greece, Mexico and Japan for centuries.

Aloe vera has antioxidant and antibacterial properties which makes it effective in treating skin problems like Inflammation including redness, cuts, burns and stings. It contains healing properties that can increase collagen production and promote wound healing, and is purported to protect the skin against UV rays. It can also be used to relieve mouth ulcers and promote good dental health, as it reduces the build-up of plaque on the teeth and gums by killing the bacterium Streptococcus mutans, which produces plaque.

Aloe vera contains huge amounts of nutritional value, with the gel alone containing 75 active compounds like vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids. Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B12, and folic acid have the ability to neutralize free radicals, which can lessen the damage caused by toxins in the body. Calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc are also found in aloe vera, and are essential for proper metabolic function.

Aloe vera acts as a natural laxative, as it speeds up digestion and cures constipation. To use aloe vera for weight loss, mix aloe vera gel with a liquid like fruit juice, lemon juice, honey or water, and drink first thing in the morning, 15 minutes before each meal and before workouts. Alternatively, you can take aloe vera supplements, but it’s best when consumed fresh.

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4. Green Tea

Green tea has been around for thousands of years, and is native to China and India. It’s made from the unoxidized leaves of the Camellia sinensis bush and is one of the least processed types of tea which means it still contains a wide array of polyphenols and antioxidants. Traditional Indian and Chinese medicine commonly used green tea to treat wounds, control bleeding, support healthy digestion, improve heart health, regulate body temperature and even improve mental health.

Green tea has risen in popularity thanks to its many health benefits, and it’s believed to be the healthiest beverage available. Full of antioxidants and polyphenols that act as antioxidants, the components of green tea can inhibit the formation of damage-causing free radicals that can bring on premature aging and various other diseases. Green tea also contains an antioxidant called Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) which is believed to provide potential health benefits like cancer prevention and aid in weight loss.

A study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information concluded that EGCG found in green tea had a positive effect on losing weight and maintaining weight loss. EGCG is thought to increase metabolic rates in the body and improve the ability to burn fat, particularly around the abdomen. Green tea contains other healthy components like vitamin C, vitamin B2, vitamin E, folic acid and chlorophyll.

To use green tea against obesity, drink three to four cups per day. It’s a great substitute for other beverages like coffee, tea and sodas because it contains a small amount of caffeine and can give you a quick yet subtle boost of energy.

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5. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a member of the Capsicum family, originating in Central and South America. It’s a common component of medicinal therapies in Native American culture, and has been for thousands of years. They’re often ground down into powder to make seasoning that features frequently in certain cuisines like Indian, Mexican and Asian.

Cayenne pepper is often used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic therapies to relieve pain, treat circulatory problems, and treat congestion. It’s also used to soothe heartburn, tremors, gout, paralysis, fever, flatulence, sore throat, nausea and hemorrhoids. Cayenne pepper contains anti-irritant, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also extremely high in an active component called capsaicin, which gives cayenne pepper the spice and heat. Capsaicin gives cayenne pepper analgesic properties, making it effective as a topical pain treatment.

Cayenne pepper is also an appetite suppressant, which makes it a beneficial aid for weight loss. Curbing the appetite can lead to a smaller intake of calories, taking the edge off any cravings that can occur. Cayenne pepper can also boost metabolism and help regulate weight. A study conducted in 2014 showed that when cayenne pepper was consumed, the capsaicin component increased a feeling of fullness, and decreased the desire to eat after meals.

Cayenne pepper is an ingredient in the Master Cleanse diet, one of the most popular detox cleanses. While the Master Cleanse isn’t a particularly healthy way to lose weight as it consists only of liquids for a period of at least 10 days, using cayenne pepper can aid weight loss if done correctly in conjunction with a healthy diet. Add half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to lemon water and enjoy each morning. If you aren’t used to spiciness, start with a smaller amount and slowly increase it each day.

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6. Curry Leaves

Curry leaves come from the curry tree, botanically known as Murraya koenigii. It’s a sub-tropical tree native to India and is a member of the Rutaceae family, alongside citrus and sandalwood. Curry leaves aren’t the same as curry powder and are used differently in cooking, instead just being used to give a mild, passive flavor rather than heat and spice. They’re a popular ingredient in foods like curries, soups, stews and chutney.

Curry leaves are used in Ayurvedic medicine and other natural therapies to control blood sugar levels and diabetes, reduce the risk of heart disease and lower inflammation. Curry leaves contain various nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, nicotinic acid, calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, copper and much more. They’re also believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and anti-diabetic properties.

Curry leaves can reduce the amounts of bad cholesterol and lower blood sugar levels, reduce the negative side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and protect the body against pathogens and other bacterium and fungi. Further research has shown that curry leaves contain tannins and alkaloids that can provide protection and promote a healthy liver. This can aid weight loss by ensuring the digestive and detoxification systems are working to their full capacity.

To use curry leaves for weight loss, you can include them in your meals and eat them with the dish, or simply eat them by themselves. Alternatively, you can brew them in boiling water and make a tea, or grind them into powder and add them to smoothies and meals.

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7. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are usually thought of as a vegetable, but they are actually a fruit native to Central America. It belongs to the nightshade family, botanically known as Solanum Lycopersicum, with vegetables like potato and eggplant. Tomatoes were first discovered by the Aztecs, and there are hundreds of different varieties. The most common kinds include heirloom, cherry, and Roma tomatoes, but they all hold many health benefits.

Tomatoes are very low in fat and calories, and have no cholesterol. They’re full of antioxidants like lycopene, a phytonutrient that can provide protection against free radicals and oxidation, and zeaxanthin, another phytonutrient that helps protect the eyes from macular degeneration and other age-related eye diseases. Tomatoes also contain high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and are a good source of B-complex vitamins like riboflavin, thiamine and niacin, as well as vital minerals like calcium and iron.

Tomatoes are a good source of fiber, which is essential in maintaining a healthy digestive system, and they’re also said to support a healthy cardiovascular system by lowering cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and protecting the blood vessels, decreasing the risk of blood clots. Tomatoes can also boost energy levels and curb the appetite, and help detoxify the body.

Tomatoes are easy to include in the diet. They’re delicious, and there are so many different varieties to try. They can be juiced, but it’s best to eat the skin and seeds as well so you don’t miss out on any nutrients. Allergic reactions to tomatoes are extremely rare, but can manifest as a skin rash, eczema, hives, coughing, sneezing, itching and swelling.

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8. Cabbage

Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable and a member of the Brassicaceae family, along with broccoli, cauliflower and kale. There are hundreds of different types of cabbages grown in purple or green varieties, and it’s been used as far back as 4000 BC. In ancient Rome, cabbage was considered a luxury item and was used for many medicinal purposes like treatment for gout and headaches.

Cabbage holds many different health benefits, like cardiovascular protection and a decrease in risk of diabetes. It holds rich levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and glucosinolates, which are sulfuric phytonutrients that have been linked to lowering the risk of some cancers. Polyphenols such as benzoic acid, caffeic acid and gallic acid among others have also been shown to contribute to the antioxidant effects of cabbage.

Red cabbage contains anthocyanins, which are well-known anti-inflammatory components that provide a deep red color, and is also very high in vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Cabbage contains other vitamins and minerals like manganese, potassium, folate, copper, calcium and iron, as well as lots of protein and fiber.

Cabbage is very low in calories, which makes it an ideal addition to a healthy diet and weight control. Raw and/or boiled cabbage is a good staple for daily meal plans, and it can also be fermented and made into sauerkraut, which is another great superfood to aid in weight loss. Sauerkraut contains a huge amount of prebiotics and probiotics, which are necessary for a healthy, balanced digestive system and immune system. Eat raw sauerkraut as often as you’d like in order to gain nutritional benefits.

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9. Fennel

Fennel is a crunchy, slightly sweet vegetable that has been grown throughout Europe and the Mediterranean and used for thousands of years, dating all the way back to ancient Rome. It belongs to the Umbelliferae family and is a close relative of coriander, dill, carrots and parsley, with a texture that is similar to celery.

Fennel contains very little calories and fat, no cholesterol, and excellent levels of vitamin C as well as minerals like potassium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, folate, calcium, magnesium and iron. Fennel can contribute to healthy bones, lower blood pressure, and a healthy heart. The vitamin C, vitamin A and beta-carotene found in fennel are also powerful antioxidants that can provide protection against free radicals that cause damage to cells.

Fennel is a great source of dietary fiber, which can help increase satisfaction after meals and minimize the temptation to overeat. It contains selenium, a mineral that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and plays an important role in metabolism by controlling the effects of the thyroid. Selenium can also bind with various heavy metal toxins, which can further protect cells against their negative effects.

Fennel can be used for weight management in many ways. Fennel seeds can be infused with water and sipped throughout the day, or drunk 15 minutes before mealtimes. Simply brew the seeds in boiling water and steep overnight. Fennel can be eaten raw or cooked, and the bulbs, stalks and leaves are all edible. They can be added to salad, used in soups, or roasted and served alongside lean meat and other vegetables.

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10. Honey and Cinnamon

Honey is the sweet, golden substance that is produced by the honeybee. Floral nectar is taken from flowers by bees, and is stored in an extra stomach known as a ‘crop’ where it mixes with enzymes and other chemicals that change the composition of the liquid. It’s then taken back to the beehive where it’s regurgitated into the honeycomb, and then fanned by the wings of thousands of bees in order to evaporate the extra water from the honey. Honey contains iron, calcium, phosphate, potassium and magnesium. Due it the wide array of nutrients and minerals, honey has benefits for skin and hair and healing remedies as well.

Cinnamon is a hugely popular spice that’s made from the bark taken from Cinnamomum, trees that are native to Southeast Asia, South America and the Caribbean. It’s been used throughout history dating as far back as 2000 BC, when it was considered valuable and rare. It was commonly used to treat issues like coughing and sore throat. Cinnamon is full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, and research has linked it to a potential decrease in risk of heart disease.

Honey and cinnamon have become common treatments for weight loss in recent times due to the many benefits they contain. Honey is able to improve metabolism, while cinnamon can improve insulin function, which can aid weight loss. Cinnamon can also delay the movement of food through the intestine, which can help you feel fuller for longer.

Incorporate honey and cinnamon into your diet by adding a teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon of cinnamon to warm water to make a cup of healthy tea. You can also spread honey on some pieces of rye toast and sprinkle cinnamon across the top for a healthy breakfast. Cinnamon can also be sprinkled through coffee and oatmeal, and honey can be used as a natural sweetener instead of sugar or artificial sweeteners.