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Archive for March, 2016

Why you must include Zapota in your daily diet?

March 22nd, 2016

The next time you go to the fruit shop, do not forget to bring home a bunch of zapotas. Commonly known as chikoo in most parts of the world, Manilkara Zapota is a sweet fruit mainly grown in Central America, southern Mexico, south Asian countries and the Caribbean region. This juicy, soft calorie loaded fruit deserves to be in your fruit basket. The other names for chikoo are sapodilla, sapota, mudapple and so on. It is a seasonal fruit found twice every year.

Chikoo consists of a brown coloured skin on the outside and a light brown soft and juicy pulp. Each fruit consists of six or less hard, black seeds. The flavour of the fruit is somewhat malty and very sweet. Zapota must be eaten only when it is ripe and soft as the unripe fruit contains saponin, which can dry out your mouth. An average fruit measures about 4-8 cm. 100gm of the fruit consists of 83kcal of energy. The fruit is rich in carbohydrates and is a great energy fruit. Zapota is now eaten throughout the world, and it can be found in fruit baskets UK also.

The fruit zapota has many health benefits and hence preferred by people all over. Here are some nutritive values of the fruit –

  • As the fruit has sufficient fibre content, it aids in the process of digestion. Zapota is rich in dietary fibre content. If you have indigestion or constipation, you now know which fruit to eat.
  • It also contains minerals such as copper, potassium, iron, folate, pantothenic acid and niacin. These help the metabolic body activities.
  • There are several vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin B complex, vitamin C and vitamin E in Zapota. These nourish your skin and hair. It is also beneficial for your lungs and heart. The antioxidants also boost your immunity.
  • Zapota protects the inner lining of the mucous membrane of your colon.
  • The tannins found in zapota have anti inflammatory properties reducing gastritis, enteritis, reflux esophagitis and other gastric disorders.
  • Chikoo is good in treating cough and congestion.
  • The diuretic nature of chikoo helps you rid body’s waste products through frequent urination. It thus avoids water retention. If you want to get rid of kidney and bladder stones, then eat the crushed zapota seeds.
  • Zapota is very good for lactating mothers as it has all the essential nutrients. It is also good during pregnancy to overcome nausea and dizziness.
  • The calcium, iron and phosphorous in zapota can strengthen your bone.
  • As it is an easily digestible food, it can be eaten by children as well as adults.
  • Its haemostatic property helps in preventing blood loss in piles cases.
  • Eating zapota during diarrhoea can be useful as it has purgative properties.
  • Zapota is a good detoxifying fruit, and it can lend a helping hand in weight loss regimes.
  • Due to its high latex content, zapota can cure tooth cavities.

Although the fruit has so many health benefits, eating it in limits is important as the fruit contains high amount of carbohydrates. One zapota a day can be very nutritive and healthy too.

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Double Your Love For Chocolates

March 21st, 2016

Chocolates are undoubtedly one of the most loved foods in the world. Earlier, there was a misconception that eating chocolates can increase the fat content in our body. It is also said to promote obesity, high blood pressure, diseases associated with arteries and diabetics. Prior to the discovery of chocolate benefits, physicians also warned their patients to avoid having chocolates for these reasons. However, the recent discoveries of chocolate benefits make you go “wow”. Here under, we present you the lesser known advantages of having chocolates.

Exercise recovery:

After a strenuous workout, there are good chances that your muscles can be depleted. When you supplement you diet with chocolates before work out, you can recover rapidly in your post work out sessions. Within 15 minutes of chocolate intake, you can increase the levels of plasma glucose significantly. So, what are you still waiting for? Send chocolates by post to your body building friend!

Promotes anti-tumor effects:

Recent studies have concluded that regular consumption of chocolates can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in our body. However, the anti cancer mechanism in this context is yet to be discovered.

Effects on neurons:

Cocoa intake can enhance the blood flow to the cerebral region of the brain. It is suggested that the conditions like stroke and dementia can be treated by cocoa. It can also enhance the cognitive performance. Including chocolate in our diet can help us to reduce the chances of heart stroke.

Good for obese people:

Much to the surprise of all the people, it is found in an experiment that chocolates help us to lose weight! DNA analysis of liver and mesenteric fat tissue cells relieve that chocolates can decrease the fat content.

Relieves stress:

Chocolates promote alertness and relive stress in our body. In a study it was found that prolonged consumption of chocolate has lowered the stresses parameters among adults. The ingredients present in chocolate promote the production of serotonin, which has a reputation as calming neurotransmitter. So, when you are having a busy day, order a chocolate UK to make your day better.

Retards platelet activation:

The affects of cocoa on platelets is similar to that of aspirin. The ingredients in chocolate inhibit clot formation. Apart from decreasing platelet aggregation, it also lowers adhesion. Chocolates with higher concentration of procyanidin are capable of lowering the leukotrienes levels and boost the production of prostacyclin in our body.

Effect on blood vessels:

Various studies suggest that chocolates can increase the endothelial NO and serum NO levels. The presence of the anti-oxidants is stated as the key reason behind this.

Control blood pressure:

In a recent study, it is concluded that regular consumption of cocoa can lower the blood pressure. Dark chocolate is capable of reducing the systolic blood pressure. The mechanism behind these antihypertensive effects of chocolate is yet to be discovered.  It is believed that chocolate can promote the bioavailability of nitric oxide.

Much to the reader’s surprises, the chocolates on the other hand can also result in potential health risks. The presence of theo-bromine in chocolates can cause heart burn. This same compound is also said to relax the oesophageal sphincter muscle. Such kind of an action can result in leakage of stomach acidic contents into oesophagus. A few children are also found allergic to chocolates.

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Top Reasons Why You Can’t Say A ‘No’ To Cakes

March 21st, 2016

Cakes have always been a part of our celebrations since ages. If you are someone, who eats cakes a lot, you are actually doing a great job. Here under we present you the reasons why you should include more cakes into your diet. After reading this, you can’t stop yourself from ordering a cake delivery!

Be popular:

Cakes can make you become popular! Wondering how? Cakes help you to build stronger relationships and make friends easily. It is scientifically proven that cakes induce the feeling of togetherness among the cake eaters. Cakes can help you to recognize yourself and lets the world to recognize you.

Lose weight:

Chocolate cakes help you to lose weight. It makes you feel full and kills your desire for other foods. In this context, you should know the right ways of eating the cake. Having it for breakfast is an ideal way of consuming it. It also helps you to spend more time in your workout sessions.

Anti-oxidation:

Certain cakes also promote anti oxidation in our body. The oxidation process is capable of causing enough damage to the vital body organs. Cakes provide enough flavanols to our body which promote anti-oxidation. In this process, nitric oxide is released which relaxes the arteries. It prevents clogging of arteries and promotes blood flow.

Energy:

The major ingredients of cakes are flour and sweeteners, which are rich sources of carbohydrates. It provides us enough energy to carry out our regular activities. It helps in functioning of brain, muscles and nervous system. Cakes also contain smaller quantities of fat, which are also good energy sources. Getting cakes delivered regularly is a good sign of healthy food habits.

Body building:

The milk and eggs used in baking of cakes are good sources of proteins. Higher protein intake ensures growth in muscle mass. We can obtain calcium through the milk, which can strengthen our Skelton system and teeth. Apart from these nutrients, cakes are also capable of producing strengthening our immune system and making us resistant to diseases.

Improved digestion:

As already stated cakes which are made out of fruits are good sources of fiber. Apples, berries, pine apples and strawberries are extensively used in baking fruit cakes. Lack of fiber rich food promotes constipation. Fiber also reduces the risk of heart diseases.

Eggless cakes:

Eggs are definitely the popular ingredients in baking cakes. If you are someone who doesn’t have cakes just because you hate eggs, it’s time for you to change your stand on cakes. The evolution of eggless cakes has increased the fan base of cakes like never before. Today, we can find numerous cake recipes and newer ones are coming up every day. We can customize the cakes to meet our own needs. There is every chance that you can find cake which best fits your taste.

Cakes have always been a part of our lifestyle. Be it a marriage, birthday or any other moment where you have to celebrate, you can’t miss out the cakes. Always be in search of the ways where you can include the cakes in your food.

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Six Fruits You Must Be Eating To Get Glowing Skin

March 18th, 2016

Fruits are the most nutritious and nourishing food that you can eat. They are available in all colours, shapes and sizes, and hence, you can pick the ones that please you. Fruits are also hassle free, in the sense; they can be eaten raw if not cooked. If you are too lazy to make juices, salads or cakes using fruits, you can just pick up a fruit from thefruit baskets and start nibbling. Fruits have various good effects over your body including the fact that they can enhance your beauty. They help you in attaining rejuvenated and improved skin texture. You can also notice improvement in skin complexion and appearance of an undeniable glow. The best part is that you can have all these without any side effects unlike all the chemicals filled beauty products available in the market.

Here are six fruits that you need to consume daily to have supple and glowing skin-

Papaya – This one is the most popular among beauty related fruits. Daily intake of papaya can rejuvenate your skin and give it a light glow. Papaya is rich in antioxidants and papain, an enzyme that can remove skin impurities and dead skin cells.

Apple – A prominent fruit in all the fruit gift baskets, apples are rich in nutrients. The high amount of antioxidants in the fruit will prevent tissue and cell damage, in turn delaying aging. It also keeps wrinkles and fine lines at bay. Apple keeps your skin hydrated and cleans your digestive system making you look younger and rearing to go.

Oranges – These are very rich in vitamin C, which plays an important role in improving your skin texture. The vitamin C is natural bleach, which helps in removing marks, acne scars and blemishes. Oranges also slow down the process of aging and keeps your skin glowing and clear naturally. Lemons, which are also similar to the oranges, have the same properties, and can be used if oranges are not available.

Banana – It is a wholesome fruit rich in vitamin A, B and E. Banana has anti aging factors and can make your skin look several years younger. Bananas also contain fibre, minerals, potassium and magnesium. Hence, it can improve your blood circulation and your immunity.

Pomegranate – It is an elixir for good skin. This fruit has anti aging properties and regular consumption will renew damaged cells. Pomegranate also purifies your blood, thus giving your skin a natural glow and softness. Drink a glass of pomegranate juice everyday to get very good results.

Grapes – They may look tiny, but they can do wonders to a dull and damaged skin. The various antioxidants present in grapes will help you get rid of acne and skin ageing signs. They also help in purifying the blood and giving you radiant skin.

Apart from these six fruits there are some other fruits, which can help you attain the soft and glowing skin you have always wished to have. Consume more of sweet limes, strawberries, mangoes, kiwis and guavas. Just two servings of these fruits daily can make your dull skin youthful and glowing.

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Five Unusual Fruits to Try This Year

March 18th, 2016

While buying your fruits, you must sometimes feel that they are getting repetitive. Eating the same fruits daily can be boring. Apple, banana, grapes and mangoes, watermelons during seasons; your fruit basket will consist of only these fruits. Fruits are a very essential component of your diet as they provide you with the necessary nutrients like no other food. Hence, you must include at least two fruits in your daily food.

If you are bored eating the same old fruits and want a change, there are numerous seasonal and exotic fruits that you have not tried yet. Go on and try the following fruits –

  • Cashew nut – You have eaten the nut, but taste the fruit. This tropical fruit is mostly grown in warm climates. The red fruit tastes bitter and tangy.
  • Sees of heaven – Also known as the Guinea pepper, this African fruit is mostly known for its seeds, which are used as a spice. The fruits grow in clusters and are sweetish and tangy to taste. The pulp is soft and juicy. The fruit is grown in tropical countries.
  • Dragon fruit – Also known as Pitaya, this exotic fruit is mainly grown in Asia, America, Australia and its native, Mexico. Dragon fruits are of two types, the sour ones and the sweet ones. You can pick your choice. They have a delicious smell and taste mostly like kiwi fruits.
  • Star fruit – Carambola is from Philippines and is also grown in Asia and America. The fruit has five ridges and when cut horizontally it appears like a star, hence the name star fruit. It is rich in vitamin C. it tastes juicy, crunchy and sweet.
  • Rambutan – The exotic fruit looks like a dragon fruit from outside and a lychee from inside. Found in the South East Asia. The oval shaped fruit is red outside and white on the inside. It tastes sweet with a dash of sourness.
  • Cherimoya – Commonly known as the custard apple, this fruit is found in South America, parts of Asia and Africa. The fruit has a green skin with a soft, edible inside. There are numerous seeds inside and separating them can be a great task. Custard apple is very sweet and soft to taste.
  • Canistel – A native of Mexico, this fruit is widely used in Asian countries. The fruit resembles a boiled egg in its texture. It is sweet in taste.
  • Chocolate pudding fruit – Native to Central and South America, it is also called as black Sapote. The fruit resembles a chocolate pudding, and hence the name. It is mostly used to make deserts. In parts of America, it is fermented to produce liquor.
  • Jackfruit – This large fruit is common in most of Asian countries. The fruit varies in its size from 10 pounds to 80 pounds. The skin is thick and contains blunt spikes. The flesh is yellow, juicy and extremely sweet.

Next time you visit the supermarket; don’t forget to bring home these unusual and rare fruits. Who knows, one of them might end up being your favourite. You can get these fruits from any part of the world, thanks to online shops. Fruit basket delivery in UK and any other country is a hassle free task.

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