The BMC has revealed that 92% of all the Ice samples across the city tested positive for a dreaded E.coli bacteria just prior to the monsoon. This indicates that an unhealthy quality of water was used to make this ice. If consumed, it can lead to several diseases such as diarrhea, food poisoning, gastroenteritis, vomiting etc. These included samples collected from hotels, bars, ice sellers, juice stalls, ice-gola vendors, fast food outlets etc. and several other places. Hence, it is strictly advised to avoid the consumption of Ice or Ice Golas outside.

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Alligator pear or avocado is a large berry containing a single seed. It contains folic acid and vitamin B6 which are associated with maintaining heart health. They are known to lower blood cholesterol levels. Avocado is extremely good for eyes as it protects from developing cataract and age-related macular degeneration. It helps to prevent stroke as it provides a high level of folate. The oil obtained from avocado is has been proved really good for skin nourishment.

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Black Sesame Seeds a.k.a kala til, are one of the oldest condiments known which are highly valued for their oil. They are widely used across India. They are often blended with sugar, palm sugar or jaggery and made into delicious snack balls. These seeds have several health benefits to offer. They have anti-ageing properties. They are known to stabilize the blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of cancer. The snacks made from these seeds provide a relief to constipation and indigestion.

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Every year several health issues are observed during this festival mostly because of improper diet and lifestyle. Hence, here are some tips to keep this festival a healthy one. Avoid overeating even if you have hunger pangs. Choose your food slowly to avoid indigestion. Have low-calorie items first which will keep you full. Drink abundant water Drink fresh and natural juices with no additives. Opt for low-fat dairy products and lean meats. Walk regularly or exercise Divide your meals into regular intervals.

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Fasting during Ramadan can be beneficial to one’s health but only if it is done in the right manner otherwise it may backfire. The very first thing to keep in mind is that you must only eat food items that are prepared in a healthy manner using fresh ingredients. Some tips for Ramadan diet include: Start your meal with dates, always stay hydrated and avoid thirst, break your fast slowly, your iftar must contain a source of grains, fruits, veggies, proteins etc, avoid salty and sugary foods, divide your meals and do regular exercise.

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Vegetables have low caloric value and high nutritional value including vitamins and minerals. Besides, they have high fiber content and are low in carbs. This makes them perfect for low-carb diets. The best vegetables to include in the low-carb diet are bell peppers, broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, avocados, cauliflower, green beans, lettuce, garlic, kale, cucumbers, brussels sprouts, celery, tomatoes, radish, onions, eggplant, cabbage, and artichokes.

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In India, Cayenne Pepper is widely used as a spice to turn a regular dish into a hot and spicy one. It has several names and is available in fresh, canned, powdered or dried form. Some ancestors claim that it aids well in digestion and weight loss. If it is consumed with lemon juice and warm water in the morning, it helps in detoxification. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It helps prevent cancer and protects the heart.

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Watermelon seeds are a good source of proteins, minerals and fatty acids. They are good sources of antioxidants which are beneficial for blood. These seeds are really good for men. They help in cleansing the kidney system and urinary tracts if they are consumed after boiling in drinking water. Watermelon seeds increase the immune power and prevent blood pressure. It is anti-aging, good source of amino acids and helps to treat edema. However, they need to be cooked before consumption.

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Popcorn is one of the healthiest whole grain snack loaded with important minerals and vitamins. It is a rich source of fiber which aids in weight loss and several health benefits. It contains abundant antioxidants. It is relatively low in calories and energy density is low. Pre-packaged Microwave popcorn may contain unhealthy chemicals and trans fats. The healthiest way to make them is in a cooker or pot. There are various ways to add flavor without affecting the nutritional quality.

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Long ago there used to be something known as the family time where people of the family would sit together, pray to god for food and eat together unlike today where some of our really cannot leave digital screens while eating. People used to consume healthy unprocessed food items like rice, chappatis and other grains which signify why they stayed longer and healthier. Besides, they used to sit on the floor and eat. According to science, bending at least thrice a day is good for health in the long run. Also, there has to be a fixed time of day for every meal.

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Adding cabbage in your regular diet twice a week can help you lose weight as half cup boiled cabbage can give you 20 calories. Cruciferous veggies like cabbage are rich sources of vitamin c, fibers, and manganese. Studies have shown that consuming cabbage helps to prevent the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity. Moreover, it promotes healthy complexion, better immunity, vigour, and digestion.

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Food which is produced using natural substances while farming called organic. Organic foods do not contain artificial chemicals. Antibiotics, hormones or GMOs. Organic crops have higher nutritional value and organic dairy products have a higher content of Omega-3s. The level of toxins from the regular foods is generally below safety limits but organic foods can still help you reduce it. However, you must know that organic food which is processes can have lower nutritional value and high in fats, calories, and sugar. Organic junk food is still a junk food.

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Omega-3s are highly beneficial and naturally found in some seafood, then seeds and nuts. A new research has shown that incorporating omega-3s and mineral supplements into the diets of the children can help reduce their aggressive and antisocial behaviour. The research claims that its consumption makes children more impulsive and emotional. Go ahead and add omega-3s into your kid’s diet.

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In the 40s, women often wonder why they suddenly gain weight even if their lifestyle remains the same. This is because they experience hormonal changes every decade and their needs also change. Hormonal imbalances cause bloating, belly fat gain, water retention, nutritional deficiencies and much more. What one needs is ‘bioavailable’ calcium i.e. proper calcium intake which is digested and transported to properly to the right places. Milk is not bioavailable to the extent we think it is. Hence, increase the intake of calcium.

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Coconut water is a good source of Vitamin C, fiber, and other vital minerals. It contains powerful antioxidant properties which protect the cells from damaging free radicals. It helps to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar count. It is a good source of magnesium which increases the insulin insensitivity. It lowers blood pressure and has the potential to reduce the blood clotting in arteries. It should directly be consumed from coconuts. Avoid brands with additives.

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The significant health benefits of consuming dates have made it the best ingredient for developing muscles. Dates are considered to be one of the sweet and versatile food which help regulate the digestive process in the body. A recent medical survey also claimed that they useful in preventing cancer. Dates can be consumed raw or mixing its paste with milk, yogurt, or bread to make it more delicious. There are numerous other health benefits of consuming them, but also, there are several side effects of over-eating them

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An interestingly new research has found out that by playing serious video games, kids show an increase in their consumption of vegetables and fruits which are ideally healthy for a good lifestyle. The study observed an increase in vegetable intake at dinner specific to meal for those who were involved in action games and others increased their fruit intake. Thus, allowing your kids to play video games can be made healthy. However, too much exposure to games is dangerous for kids life.

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Everyone who is aware of dietary fads would know superfoods which are highly nutritional, deliver an abundant quantity of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins and which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. While everyone normally associates superfoods with exotic things like broccoli, kale, berries etc. the everyday items such as ghee, rice, and sugar (yes, that’s right) are equally beneficial. In addition, foods like banana, coconut, kokum, jackfruit and many other foods can be termed superfoods.

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There are some foods we eat regularly which are harmful to the body. Cherries, Plums, and Apricots contain poisonous substances from the cyanide family. Green-spotted potatoes contain solanine which is poisonous and does not wash off even after cooking them. Red Beans are also poisonous and should be cooked for at least 10 minutes to get rid of the poisonous part. Consumption of Nutmeg in large quantities can lead to nausea. Consuming dry fruits in abundant quantity can harm your digestive system. Reference ​   ​   ..

A polyunsaturated oil, Grapeseed oil is chemically extracted from grape seeds after making wine. It is said that if this oil is consumed in large quantity, it can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients. It lacks in Vitamins C and K, Potassium and copper when compared to eating raw grapes. Grapeseed oil should not be the primary source of fat in your diet. There is less scientific evidence that supports that the oil is healthy. However, it is safe for consumption given its nutritional profile.

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