Chocolates! Is it good or bad for you? - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

We All Love Chocolate but do You Really Know How Great Chocolate is for you?

In ancient Mexico chocolate or ‘Cacao’ was sacred and was associated with fertility and love. It was considered a food for the gods and was used as currency.

Let’s call it Cacao and not Cocoa? Raw cacao is the unprocessed bean used to make cocoa powder. Cocoa powder is processed and some of the natural fats are removed.

The beans from the cacao tree contain powerful antioxidants that are known to help eliminate deadly free radicals from your body. In fact, CACAO has the highest ORAC antioxidant rating per 100g, way in front of ‘Acai’ berries or ‘Goji’ berries (Both are said to have high amount of anti-oxidants).

Raw cacao has shown to be effective in promoting mental wellbeing through the production of endorphins. It also acts as anti-depressant by raising serotonin levels. Cacao is a complete food. In fact, cacao is the NO 1 source for magnesium, used in hundreds of metabolic processes.

Cacao is a rich source of:

·         Iron – which fights back anemia

·         Zinc – Helps with Immune System

·         Vitamin C – Is a Super Medicine

·         Fiber – Cleanses digestive system

·         Cardiovascular cleansing compounds – Reduces the risk of blood clotting

·         Chromium – Balances blood sugar levels

·         Manganese – Formation of haemoglobin 

So what's the problem with our modern day chocolate?

It's the pounds of white refined sugar and pasteurized homogenized milk that's added to it. White sugar is a very harsh carbohydrate that acts as a drug causing your hormone levels to spike. Pasteurized homogenized milk comes from thousands of cows. Some of them sick and most of them treated with antibiotics and growth hormones.

But there is a better way to make your own chocolate at home or pure get homemade chocolates. This is a chocolate that's super-healthy and actually melts pounds causing rapid fat loss. 

4 yoga poses to beat menstrual pain - By Dr. P.T Ezhil Selvan

Periods brings with it fatigue, pain, irritability and not to mention discomfort, not to mention PMS that precedes it. There are several ways to beat the pain associated with periods. But instead of reaching for those painkillers, try a more natural method to beat those period blues. Here are four yoga poses that can help reduce the pain, make you calmer and beat all the other discomfort associated with that time of the month. Not to mention it is a great way to reduce the symptoms of your next period. 

Pose #1:  Bow pose or dhanurasana: This pose is excellent to beat constipation and respiratory ailments. Moreover it helps relieve backache, fatigue, anxiety and most importantly menstrual discomfort. The aasana, distinctly bow like in structure, stretches the entire front of the body and gives that extra stretch to your ankles, thighs, groin, abdomen, chest, throat and the muscles of your buttocks. It also helps improve posture, thereby beating lower back pain and strengthens the back muscles. Another added advantage is that since the pose causes you to put all your weight on your navel, it stimulates the organs of the abdomen. This stimulation helps ease cramps and regulate the flow of blood to and from the uterus – relieving the pain and bloating feeling one normally feels during this time. 

Steps to do this pose:  Lie on your stomach on a yoga mat, keep your feet hip width apart and place your arms by your side. Now bend your knees and stretch out your hand to hold your ankles. Now, breathe in and raise your body from the front, such that your chest is off the ground. At the same time lift your thighs off the ground as well. Try to keep your body and breathing stable. Hold this pose for fifteen to twenty seconds before returning to your original position. Remember to exhale when you release your ankles. This is a relaxing pose, so just enjoy the stretch and do not over do it.

Tip: Do not perform this pose if you have a neck or back injury, are pregnant, have had recent abdominal surgery or have high blood pressure.

Pose # 2: Fish pose  or matsyasana: This pose, just like the dhanurasana, is great to beat fatigue, menstrual pain, anxiety etc. But the best part about this pose is that it gives you that natural glow. It also stretches out the muscles of the back, neck, chest and legs giving you instant relief from muscle aches and pains associated with menstruation. This pose helps stimulate the organs of the stomach and abdomen, fighting indigestion, gas and that feeling of bloating.  

Steps to do this aasana:

Lie flat on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Now straighten your legs, place your arms on either side. Now raise your hips, one side at a time and place your hands under each hip. Bend your elbows and push your upper body off the floor, remember to exhale as you do this. Only raise your chest, and tilt your head backwards. Hold this pose for five counts and inhale as you rest your back back on the floor.

Tip: If you suffer from high blood pressure or have neck/back pain, avoid doing this pose.

Pose # 3: Camel pose  or ustrasana: Especialy good to treat respiratory ailments,  mild backaches, fatigue and anxiety, the camel pose is perfect to relieve menstrual discomfort. Just like the bow pose this aasana also stretches the front of the body, ankles, thighs, groin, abdomen and chest. It stimulates the abdominal organs, increasing the blood flow to the uterus helping it heal faster. It also relieves back ache and helps your body relax.  

Steps to do this pose:

Kneel on your yoga mat and press your shin onto the floor, such that it is flat against the mat. Now place your hands on either sides of your pelvis, with your fingers pointing downwards. Make sure your palms are resting on the top of your hip bone. This will help support your back when you bend backwards. Next, push your tail bone downwards and forwards while keeping your upper body upright. Inhale and tilt your head back, with your chin pointing to the sky. Gently lean back forming a inward arch in your back. Now place your palms on the soles of your feet for added support. You should feel a stretch right from your chin down to your belly or groin. Hold this pose for fifteen to twenty seconds, exhale and come back to your original position.

Tip: Do not do this pose if you have neck of back pain, high blood pressure or suffer from migraines.

Pose # 4: Noose pose or pasasana: Highly beneficial for menstrual discomfort, sciatica, mild back, shoulder and neck pain, pasasna is also known as the noose pose for the type of twist one is in while doing this pose. The aasana stretches the muscles of the back, ankles and groin. It stimulates the uterus and improves digestion and beats constipation. Moreover it helps relieve lower back pain that so many of us experience during our periods.

Steps to do this pose:

Start by standing tall, with your hands in the namaste position. Keep your feet together with your back straight. Now bend your knees and squat such that your buttocks are resting on your calves. Exhale and stretch your right hand over your left knee such that your forearm passes over your shin. This will cause your back to twist. Take your free hand behind your back and clasp the other hand. Either you could interlock the fingers of both your hands or hold the wrist of either hand. Hold this position for ten to fifteen minutes while breathing gently. To get out of the pose, release one hand and slowly twist out of the position.

Tip: Do not do this pose is you suffer from a knee, back or neck injury.

Some home remedies for your menstrual pain - By Dr. P.T Ezhil Selvan

Menstrual cramps are caused due to the shedding of the inner lining of the uterine wall. This shedding is assisted by a host of hormones, the master being ‘prostaglandins’. Where there is pain there are prostaglandins! This hormone is responsible for pushing the lining of the uterus out during your periods. Apart from all the hormonal action, the poor uterus is devoid of blood, therefore the muscle spasms. In severe cases this condition is called Dysmenorrhea. Here’s some information on endometriosis, a menstruation related disease that affects the ovaries.

Exercise regularly:

It is important that you continue with gentle exercise during your periods. It helps by releasing beta-endorphins, which are internal Opioids — your own ‘human morphine’. It is natural to feel bloated before your periods, if you reduce your salt intake a few days before your periods it will help your kidneys flush out excess water. You could also try using yoga as a tool. Here are 4 yoga poses to beat pain during periods.

Dress comfortably:

Avoid tight clothes, especially around the waist. Tight clothes will only hurt the stomach and further compressing it causes discomfort. So, during your periods wear clothes and shoes that are comfortable. If you are not someone who is used to wearing heels leave them behind, they will only cause more pain to your calves and thighs – two areas that tend to hurt the most during your periods.  

Try some home remedies:

·         Raspberry leaf or jasmine flavored green tea work wonders in calming the body and mind. A warm cup of green tea goes a long way in making you feel much better during those days.

·         Include a glass of milk in your breakfast. Calcium is a good remedy for cramps. If you are not such a ‘milk’ person or are lactose intolerant about 600mg (2-4 tablets) of calcium chewables should do the trick.

·         Indulge in generous helpings of papaya during and before your periods. Papaya contains ‘papain’ an enzyme that helps to regulate and helps to ease the flow during menstruation.

·         Carrots are not only good for your eyes; they also assist in regulating menstruation. A tall glass of carrot juice can go a long way in making you feel much better.

·         Avoid red meat and caffeine. They have properties that exacerbate the pain.

·         Have a hot shower. Concentrate the flow of water on your back and abdomen. A hot water bag also helps to relieve discomfort.

·         Applying lavender oil around your stomach is known to help relieving cramps in just 10 to 15 mins.

·         Just remember to be kind to yourself – relax, read a book, listen to some soft music or chat up with friends. If you feel happy and rejuvenated, your mind will help you fight physical pain.

However, if you are suffering from the type of pain you have never experienced before, do monitor it closely. You may want to see a doctor to rule out any cause such as Endometriosis, Fibroids, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS/PCOD), Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, Premenstrual Syndrome.

My speech in All India Radio - Gooseberry & Lemon - Nalamai Vazha: Unavum Marunthum (Living healthy: Food as medicine) - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

This Speech was broadcasted on 25th April 2014. Program name: Nalamai Vazha: Unavum Marunthum (Living healthy: Food as medicine) "Uses of food used in our day to day life as medicine". Medicinal uses of Gooseberry & Lemon. 5 minutes program.

My speech in All India Radio - Fenugreek - Nalamai Vazha: Unavum Marunthum (Living healthy: Food as medicine) - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

This Speech was broadcasted on 24th April 2014. Program name: Nalamai Vazha: Unavum Marunthum (Living healthy: Food as medicine) "Uses of food used in our day to day life as medicine". Medicinal uses of Fenugreek. 5 minutes program.

Some important uses of Eucalyptus oil you may not know - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

Eucalyptus oil is very commonly used as remedy for headaches and colds, but did you know it has many more amazing benefits for your body as well? Well, here are the top 7 health benefits of eucalyptus oil you probably didn’t know about.

Dental hygiene: Eucalyptus has a very refreshing smell and is a great addition to toothpastes and mouthwashes. But what makes it the perfect ingredient to keep your teeth safe is the fact that it contains cineole, an antiseptic that kills bacteria that can cause bad breath. A study found that eucalyptus oil was actually perfect for your oral health. It not only killed harmful bacteria but also helped maintain overall hygiene by reducing the amount of plaque buildup, maintained the health of your gums and reduced gum bleeding as well.

Cough and cold: Eucalyptus oil has been used for centuries as an effective remedy for colds and respiratory disorders. It has been used as an addition to steam inhalation to relieve a cold and as an instant remedy for a blocked nose. All this is due to its immensely effective antibacterial qualities that have been known to wipe out even drug resistant bacterium from the respiratory tract. Moreover the vapours of eucalyptus oil acts as a powerful decongestant which when inhaled help in relieving the symptoms of bronchitis and a congested nose.

Antiseptic: Eucalyptus oil contains active ingredients like citronellol, citronellal and 1,8-cineole, that make it a very potent anti-bacterial agent. Commonly used to treat skin infections and added to some surgical plasters eucalyptus oil has been used widely to both inhibit infections and reduce inflammation.

Can treat skin infections skin infections: Known to have strong antibacterial qualities, eucalyptus oil is very useful in treating skin infections. Its most potent compound cineole that can treat almost all kinds of bacterial infections. Eucalyptus oil is very commonly used by various cultures to treat wounds and even fevers.

Insect repellant: The strong aroma of eucalyptus oil makes it a perfect insect repellant. You can either apply it directly on your skin (mix it with some cream) or use it in a vaporizer to keep insects like mosquitoes and flies at bay.

Relieves pain: The oil has a very cooling effect when applied on the skin, making it a very potent analgesic. Apart from that the components of the eucalyptus oil have been known to have a very relaxing effect on the nervous system and muscles and increases blood flow to the area – effectively reducing inflammation. So, the next time you have a headache, migraine or joint pain try applying some eucalyptus oil to the area for some instant relief.

Stimulates the immune system: Eucalyptus oil has been found to have very amazing immune strengthening properties. According to a study published in BMC Immunology found that when administered, eucalyptus oil had the ability to not only strengthen the response of macrophages (the cells that kill infections), but also helps the cells within the body to produce their own innate protective mechanism.

Apart from all the above benefits, eucalyptus oil has also been studied for its inhibitory effect on the progression of diabetes. Although these studies are not many and have not been tried on a human model, there is a future possibility that one day it might become a remedy for diabetes.

My speech in All India Radio - Ginger - Nalamai Vazha: Unavum Marunthum (Living healthy: Food as medicine) - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

This Speech was broadcasted on 21 April 2014. Program name: Nalamai Vazha: Unavum Marunthum (Living healthy: Food as medicine) "Uses of food used in our day to day life as medicine". Medicinal uses of Ginger. 5 minutes program.

Having your eyes healthy - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

You've probably heard that carrots and other orange-colored fruits and vegetables promote eye health and protect vision, and it's true: Beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A that gives these foods their orange hue, helps the retina and other parts of the eye to function smoothly.

But eating your way to good eyesight isn't only about beta-carotene. Several other vitamins and minerals are essential for healthy eyes. Make these foods a staple of your diet to keep your peepers in tip-top shape. Studies have shown that nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E may help ward off age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Regularly eating these foods can help lead to good eye health.

Leafy greens

They're packed with lutein and zeaxanthin—antioxidants that, studies show, lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts.

Eggs

The yolk is a prime source of lutein and zeaxanthin—plus zinc, which also helps reduce your macular degeneration risk.

Citrus and berries

These fruits are powerhouses of vitamin C, which has been shown to reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts.

Almonds

They're filled with vitamin E, which slows macular degeneration, research shows. One handful (an ounce) provides about half of your daily dose of E.

Fatty fish

Tuna, salmon, mackerel, anchovies and trout are rich in DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid that is a primary structural component of the human brain, cerebral cortex, skin, sperm, testicles and retina), a fatty acid found in your retina—low levels of which have been linked to dry eye syndrome.

Health Benefits of Eating Sprouts - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

Sprouts are one of the most nutritious and inexpensive locally-grown food. Sprouts are foods that are at the transitional stage between a seed and a plant. On sprouting, legumes, seeds and grains become superfoods. They become an extremely rich source of protein, fibre and vitamin B. Here are a few health benefits of eating sprouts. 

Sprouting enhances vitamin content
On sprouting, the vitamin content in some seeds, grains and beans increases by up to 20 times the original value. Mostly vitamins like A, B-complex, C and E get enhanced after sprouting.

Good source of enzymes
Sprouts contains 100 times more enzymes than uncooked fruits and vegetables. These enzymes are special types of proteins that have a catalyst like effect that aids in your body’s smooth functioning.

Good source of proteins

Sprouts are also a good source of proteins, especially for vegetarians who do not eat other protein rich foods like chicken and meat. Sprouts contain up to 35 per cent of protein. They provide your body with all its necessary protein intake without the extra fat, cholesterol and calories that come with other proteins sources.

Easy to digest

Because of its high enzyme content, sprouts are easy to digest. They also help people with bloating and digestive problems.

Aids in weight loss
As sprouts are high in nutrients and low in calories, they make up for your nutrient requirements. On the other hand they are also high in fibre and can keep you satiated for longer. All these things aid weight loss, thereby making sprouts an amazing weight loss food. 

Spirulina for allergy/asthma! - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

If you suffer from seasonal or perennial allergies, you're not alone. Millions of people are allergic to pollen, ragweed, dust, mold, pet dander, and a myriad other environmental contaminants.

Unfortunately, many people who have allergic rhinitis treat it with prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that often do more harm than good. Antihistamines (Cetrizine, Levo cetirizine, Chlorpheniramine, Ebastine, Pheniramine, Fexofenadine, etc.) are designed to suppress your immune system, which leads to decreased resistance to disease and dependence on the drug. Certain asthma drugs have been linked to serious side effects as well.

This is where natural methods such as the use of spirulina come in. According to one study, patients treated with spirulina reported relief of symptoms commonly associated with allergic rhinitis, such as nasal discharge and congestion, sneezing and itching, when given spirulina.

Why You Should Be Drinking Lemon Water in the Morning - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

Support Immune Function

Citrus fruits like lemon are high in vitamin C, which helps play an important role in immune function. Lemons also contain substances with antimicrobial properties that keep cold and flu viruses away. Ascorbic acid (found in lemon juice) also helps iron absorption which plays a role in immune function. 

Alkalize the Body

Though lemons seem acidic, they are one of the most alkalizing foods for the body. The citric and ascorbic acid found in lemons helps reduce your body's acidity when it is metabolized. 

Helps with Digestion

The pectin fiber found in lemons helps fight hunger cravings and keep you full longer. The fiber also aids in digestion to help flush out unwanted materials. 

Natural, Gentle Diuretic

Lemon juice helps flush out unwanted materials through an increased rate of urination in the body. This in turn, helps boost your kidney's detoxifying function. 

Energizer

Lemon water helps to feel hydrates and oxygenates the body leaving you revitalized and refreshed! 

Speed Up Metabolism

Adding the lemon helps to detoxify the liver and metabolizes fat, so this can speed up metabolism by 33 percent.

Can Limes be used with the Same Benefits as Lemons?

Lemons and limes have similar nutrition profiles, but lemons ultimately win out. BUT, if you're getting bored with lemon water, try lime water for a change