Hibiscus The Slimming Wonder Flower

Hibiscus is native to the African continent and can be used as a slimming aid. It can be used to make one of the most popular fat-burning beverages in our time. It contains no calories; it helps eliminate toxins; it cleanses the body; it suppresses appetite and has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. These are just some of the reasons that it is an effective treatment for weight loss.

Calorie Content

If you replace soda and other high-calorie sugary beverages with hibiscus tea, you’ll boost your chance of shedding pounds. An 8-ounce portion of unsweetened hibiscus tea is calorie-free. In comparison, 8 ounces of regular cola contains 104 calories, and an 8-ounce glass of lemonade provides 99 calories. Lowering your caloric intake by just 500 calories daily helps you shed about 1 pound weekly.

Hibiscus Flower

9 Slimming Herbal Weight Loss Teas

The reason drinking calorie-free, unsweetened hibiscus tea works for weight loss is because it helps fill you up -- without extra calories -- and makes it easier to effectively reduce your overall caloric intake. A review published in 2010 in the “Journal for Nurse Practitioners” reports that herbal teas support weight loss by increasing fluid intake, while decreasing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sodas and juices.

Other Health Advantages

Consuming hibiscus tea daily during weight loss may help lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A review published in 2013 in the journal “Fitoterapia” reports that although more research is needed to determine specific recommendations, consuming hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes. The review showed that the tea may help lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which is the good cholesterol.

Hibiscus tea is brimming with antioxidants.

Hibiscus is high in iron, vitamin C, and other antioxidants that support immunity. It also has antibacterial properties, so it is often used for colds, flu, and cough.

Not only do antioxidants help directly with weight management by increasing metabolism, but they help indirectly with weight loss, as well, by improving our overall health.

Antioxidants fight free radicals, support our immune system, and protect us from chronic disease - and a stronger, healthier body tends to lose weight more easily and quickly.

This herbal tea is a natural diuretic. Refreshing hibiscus tea is great for hydration, but it’s also a reliable diuretic, which means it can rid the body of excess fluid. Hibiscus can also play a role in weight loss. Researchers have found that drinking hibiscus tea inhibits amylase, a pancreatic enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates and sugars. This indicates that in the presence of hibiscus, the body absorbs less of these fattening substances.

In traditional herbal medicine, hibiscus is used to calm the mind, and it also has an affinity for the heart. A clinical trial from the American Heart Association found that after six weeks of drinking hibiscus tea, blood pressure dropped as much as 13 percent. Several other studies have shown that hibiscus may also reduce cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Hibiscus may also treat arthritis pain. An animal study from the University of Bagdad, published in October 2015, demonstrated that hibiscus sabdariffa demonstrated “significant anti-inflammatory activity.”

Further research suggests that hibiscus tea may also have some anti-cancer properties. Hibiscus tea contains protocatechuic acid, and one study found that it may slow the growth of cancerous cells.

As important as water is to our health and wellbeing, retaining extra water can be very frustrating (and even uncomfortable) during the dieting process.

Hibiscus tisane has natural diuretic properties, which means it can help rid the body of excess water (through urination) and prevent temporary bloating.

Hibiscus tisane contains an enzyme inhibitor called 'phaseolamin.' Research shows that phaseolamin can help with weight loss and, at the same time, with maintaining lean body mass by reducing the production of amylase.

Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down complex carbs (sugar and starches), and, by blocking amylase production, phaseolamin reduces carbohydrate absorption in our bodies - which may help with weight loss.

So, if you're working on shedding those extra pounds, hibiscus flower tea may be a good addition to your overall weight management plan, along with a healthy diet, plenty of rest, staying active, and watching your stress level. Plus, you'll enjoy all of its other health benefits, as well!

Also Read: Hibiscus may enhance weight control. Fox News Health

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Advertisement: HIBISCUS TEA. The Tea That Trims! Hibiscus Tea (gumamela) is blended with L-Carnitine, Green Tea leaves extracts, and Green Coffee extracts. This delicious tea helps make you feel fuller, faster! Its diuretic effect also helps get rid of excess water in the body, thus making you feel less bloated. So, if you're working on shedding those extra pounds, hibiscus flower tea may be a good addition to your overall weight management plan, along with a healthy diet, plenty of rest, staying active, and watching your stress level. Plus, you'll enjoy all of its other health benefits, as well!

Natural Health Care: The Pineapple

The pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a tropical plant with an edible multiple fruit consisting of coalesced berries, also called pineapples, and the most economically significant plant in the Bromeliaceae family

Pineapples are eaten fresh, juiced, cooked and preserved, and their leaves are even used for wallpaper and ceiling insulation.


Historically, the most significant grower of pineapples was Hawaii, but they are now cultivated in large quantities in Brazil, the Philippines, and Costa Rica. That being said, the fruit is actually native to Paraguay and Brazil, and possibly parts of the Caribbean. The exact movement of pineapples and the evolution of pineapples as a popular global fruit are still somewhat unknown. It was first brought to Europe and Spain following Christopher Columbus’s return there in 1493.

Of all the vitamins and minerals in pineapple, vitamin C beats them all with 131 percent of the daily value. Vitamin C has a reputation for suppressing coughs, colds, and flu symptoms for a reason. A natural antioxidant, vitamin C is also needed for synthesizing collagen, which is the main structural protein in the body for healthy blood vessels, organs, skin, and tissue support, heavy metal absorption, and bone strength.

Pineapples provide three-quarters of the manganese needed for one day in a singleserving, letting loose powerful free radical scavenging through the super healthy enzyme superoxide dismutase. What's more, they come with folates, thiamin, biotin, pyridoxine, riboflavin, and minerals like copper and potassium, the latter of which offers what's needed for healthy cell and body fluid maintenance, heart rate regulation, and blood pressure. Vitamin A and beta-carotenes provide additional antioxidants for immune system support and eyesight protection.

An enzyme called bromelain is able to break protein down into simpler substances to provide phytonutrients such as amino acids and peptides needed for digestion. Research indicates that because of the bromelain, wheneating pineapples, it discourages arthritis inflammation, indigestion, clotting, bruising, and harmful bacteria - even cancer and parasites.

Pineapple Health benefits

Immune system support

Pineapple contains half of the daily-recommended value of vitamin C, according to the FDA. Vitamin C is a primary water-soluble antioxidant that fights cell damage, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. This makes vitamin C a helpful fighter against problems such as heart disease and joint pain.

Bone strength

Pineapple may help you keep standing tall and strong. The fruit contains nearly 75 percent of the daily-recommended value of the mineral manganese, which is essential in developing strong bones and connective tissue, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. One 1994 study suggested that manganese, along with other trace minerals, may be helpful in preventing osteoporosis in post-menopausal women.

Eye health

“Pineapples can help reduce the risk of macular degeneration, a disease that affects the eyes as people age, due in part to its high amount of vitamin C and the antioxidants it contains,” Flores said.

Digestion

Like many other fruits and vegetables, pineapple contains dietary fiber, which is essential in keeping you regular and in keeping your intestines healthy, according to the Mayo Clinic. But unlike many other fruits and veggies, pineapple contains significant amounts of bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down protein, possibly helping digestion, according to the American Cancer Society.



Anti-Inflammatory benefits

“Due to a complex mixture of substances that can be extracted from the core of the pineapple, well known as bromelain, pineapples can help reduce severe inflammation ... and can reduce tumor growth,” Flores said. A variety of studies have indicated that bromelain may be helpful in treating osteoarthritis, though more research is needed.

Excessive inflammation is often associated with cancer, and according to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, bromelain and other proteolytic enzymes have been shown to increase the survival rates of animals with various tumors. There is not yet, however, clinical evidence to show that such results will happen in humans.

Blood clot reduction

Flores noted that because of their bromelain levels, pineapples can help reduce excessive coagulation of the blood. This makes pineapple a good snack for frequent fliers and others at risk for blood clots.

Common cold and sinus inflammation

In addition to having lots of vitamin C, pineapple’s bromelain may help reduce mucus in the throat and nose, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. So if your cold has you coughing, try some pineapple chunks. Those with allergies may want to consider incorporating pineapple into their diets more regularly to reduce sinus mucus long term. Livescience

"You can't take good health for granted." - Jack Osbourne

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Watermelon, Nature's Viagra

Watermelons are mostly water — about 92 percent — but this refreshing fruit is soaked with nutrients. Each juicy bite has significant levels of vitamins A, B6 and C, lots of lycopene, antioxidants and amino acids. ... Lycopene has been linked with heart health, bone health and prostate cancer prevention.

Watermelon may be a natural Viagra, says a researcher. That's because the popular summer fruit is richer than experts believed in an amino acid called citrulline, which relaxes and dilates blood vessels much like Viagra and other drugs meant to treat erectile dysfunction (ED)

Watermelon contains high amounts of L-citrulline. This is a nonessential amino acid. Once it’s taken up by your nitric oxide system, it then promotes blood vessel dilation. As a result, your blood pressure decreases. Blood flow also improves.

L-citrulline may help stimulate enzymes called cGMPs. They play a direct role in blood flow. The thought is that more L-citrulline consumption could help improve ED. Unscientific accounts of L-citrulline are numerous on the internet, especially by supplement manufacturers.

"Foods that are high in antioxidants and amino acids allow your body to function optimally," said Angela Lemond, a Plano, Texas-based registered dietitian nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. "Antioxidants help prevent damage, and cancer. Amino acids are the basic building block for protein, and protein is used in virtually every vital function in the body."

Scientists have taken notice of watermelon's high lycopene levels — about 15 to 20 milligrams per 2-cup serving, according to the National Watermelon Promotion Board — some of the highest levels of any type of fresh produce. Lycopene is a phytonutrient, which is a naturally occurring compound in fruits and vegetables that reacts with the human body to trigger healthy reactions. It is also the red pigment that gives watermelons, tomatoes, red grapefruits and guavas their color. 

Lycopene has been linked with heart health, bone health and prostate cancer prevention. It's also a powerful antioxidant thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, according to Victoria Jarzabkowski, a nutritionist with the Fitness Institute of Texas at The University of Texas at Austin.

To really maximize your lycopene intake, let your watermelon fully ripen. The redder your watermelon gets, the higher the concentration of lycopene becomes. Beta-carotene and phenolic antioxidant content also increase as the watermelon ripens. "Beta carotene is an antioxidant found in red-orange fruits and vegetables. It helps with immunity, skin, eye and the prevention of cancer," said Lemond.

A 2011 study in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis that investigated five types of watermelon at four stages of ripening found that unripe watermelon with primarily white flesh has nearly zero beta-carotene. By the time it is fully red, the fruit has become an excellent source of the phytonutrient.  - LIVESCIENCE

In terms of scientific data, a few studies have looked at the role of L-citrulline in ED. One study published in Urology found that 24 men who took supplements over the course of a month noted improvements in mild ED symptoms. Another study looked at the effect of watermelon extract on male rats’ sexual activity and found an increase in activity. More long-term research needs to be conducted to explore the efficacy and overall safety of L-citrulline.

Want the Viagra effect without taking a pill? Try eating a watermelon.

Watermelons contain an ingredient called citrulline that can trigger production  of a compound that helps relax the body's blood vessels, similar to what  happens when a man takes Viagra.

Found in the flesh and rind of watermelons, citrulline reacts with the body's enzymes when consumed in large quantities and is changed into arginine, an amino acid that benefits the heart and the circulatory and immune systems.

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The Amazing Mangosteen

The purple mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), known simply as mangosteen, is a tropical evergreen tree believed to have originated in the Sunda Islands and the Moluccas of Indonesia. It grows mainly in Southeast Asia, southwest India and other tropical areas such as Puerto Rico and Florida, where the tree has been introduced. The tree grows from 6 to 25 m (19.7 to 82.0 ft) tall. The fruit of the mangosteen is sweet and tangy, juicy, somewhat fibrous, with fluid-filled vesicles (like the flesh of citrus fruits), with an inedible, deep reddish-purple colored rind (exocarp) when ripe. In each fruit, the fragrant edible flesh that surrounds each seed is botanically endocarp, i.e., the inner layer of the ovary. Seeds are almond-shaped and sized.

Overview

Xanthones were first discovered and isolated in 1855 by a German scientists performing research on dysentery. Xanthones were named after the Greek word for yellow, xanthos. Xanthones are actually a yellow pigment with the highest concentrations occurring in the mangosteen fruit. Research performed by Brunswick Laboratories in Massachusetts revealed that consumption of xanthone rich substances, such as mangosteen juice, can offer beneficial antioxidant properties.

Cancer Prevention

Research has shown that consumption of xanthones can offer protection against various forms of cancer. A study performed at the Gifu International Institute of Biotechnology in Japan revealed that the xanthones contained within the mangosteen fruit inhibited growth and proliferation against human leukemia cells. Additional investigation by researchers at Khon Kaen University in Thailand revealed that xanthones offered significant inhibition of growth and proliferation of malignant cells associated with cholangiocarcinoma. Cholangiocarcinoma is a malignant tumor in one of the ducts that carries bile from the liver to the small intestine.

Cardiac Protection

Research also suggests that consumption of xanthone rich products may offer protection for the heart muscle. A study performed by the Department of Pharmacology at Central South University in China reveals that treatment with xanthones offered prevention against the damage that could be obtained from a myocardial infarction or heart attack. When compared to an untreated group of subjects, the subjects treated with xanthones exhibited significantly improved cardiac function and markedly decreased amount of cardiac damage post myocardial infarction.

Inflammation

Consumption of xanthone rich products can also reduce inflammation, particularly in obese individuals. A study performed at the Department of Nutrition at Mahidol University in Thailand revealed that the consumption of xanthones successfully inhibited inflammation. Another study published in the "Indian Journal of Pharmacology" revealed that xanthones exhibited anti-inflammatory properties by both oral and intravenous administration in laboratory animals.

Nutrients called Xanthones are most prevalent in the mangosteen fruit – tropical, delicious fruit found in Southeastern Asian countries

They exist in traces, in amounts so minimal throughout nature as to escape notice. The mangosteen fruit has this vital ingredient concentrated in the pericarp, the outer rind of the fruit that is not commonly consumed. Naturally, xanthones were not noticed for a long time.

Xanthones are phytonutrients. Apart from the very rich nutritional value, the phytonutrients are antioxidants.

The action of antioxidants helps rid the free radicals in the body and thus prevent any unwanted attacks or metabolic breakdowns. Of the 40 or so xanthones present in the pericarp of the fruit, the ones that beneficial to us are the alpha-mangosteen and the gamma-mangosteen.

XANTHONE’S ROLE IN OUR BODY

The human cells come under attack from the free radicals leaving them open to cell damage. The free radicals attack the lipids and the membranes by oxidation. The only way, this is prevented, is when you have an antioxidant nearby to help you out.

These Xanthones strengthen the cell walls, help fight against loose radicals and prevent infections from taking place. This process in turn enhances the immune system of the body and aids the metabolic activity.

Xanthones may also help people maintain flexible joints and keep lungs healthy. The same anti-inflammatory benefits also contribute to reducing the problems associated with allergies.

Xanthones have been found in some scientific studies to prevent the development of cancer cells. On the flip side of that benefit, it is not suggested to be taken if taking cancer medications. Though mangosteen has many positive benefits, it needs to be viewed as a preventive herb or extract and not a miracle cure.

EASIEST WAY TO IMPLEMENT MORE XANTHONES IN YOUR EVERYDAY DIET

The traditional method of consuming this fruit is by eating it straight.

However, the advantage of drinking the juice may have additional health benefits. The vast majority of  Xanthones are found in the rind of the mangosteen, which is part of the juice content. There are many who prefer the juice since this eliminates a lot of unnecessary peeling and handling that gets the hands and the clothes messy.

Also, many prefer the juice since eliminates a lot of unnecessary peeling and handling, which gets the hands and the clothes messy.

www.benefitsofmangosteen.com

Mangosteen History and Interesting Facts

Highly valued for its juicy, delicate texture and slightly astringent flavor, the mangosteen has been cultivated in Java, Sumatra, Indochina and the southern Philippines from antiquity. It’s a common dooryard tree in Indonesia, and in Myanmar (Burma), it’s called men-gu.

Seedlings take eight to 15 years to bear fruit, and the trees usually produce good crops only in alternate years. The number of petals on the bottom of a mangosteen indicates how many sections it contains inside.

The mangosteen is said to have made its introduction into the Western Hemisphere when it was first grown in English greenhouses in 1855. The mangosteen then went on to became established in several of the West Indian Islands (most notably Jamaica) and later on the mainland in Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras and Panama.

In the 1800s, Queen Victoria is said to have offered knighthood to anyone who brought her fresh mangosteens from Asia.

Long illegal in the U.S. due to the belief that they harbored the Asian fruit fly, mangosteens are no longer contraband. The ban was lifted in October 2007.

15 Health Benefits of Mangosteen That Make It a Superfruit

First Vita Plus Fruits and Veggies with Mangosteen is best for those feeling tires and stressed. Gives the extra energy boost and stamina. Also recommended for those who are prone to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and the common cough and cold. A sachet a dayis all you need to keep you feeling recharged and rejuvenated.

Soursop: Immune & Energy Boosting, Pain Relieving, Antioxidant, Anti Stress Super Fruit and more

Soursop is the fruit of Annona muricata, a broadleaf, flowering, evergreen tree native to tropical climates.  It’s flavor is described as a combination of strawberry and pineapple, with sour citrus flavour notes contrasting with an underlying creamy flavor reminiscent of coconut or banana. Recently, there have been many posts and articles circulating online that claim that Soursop is a potential treatment for cancer- and while there is not enough evidence to support this claim- Health Fitness Revolution has done some research on the fruit to bring you the proven Soursop health benefits:

Soursop Fruit

Good for the Liver:  Soursop juice works great for liver disorders. It reduces the inflammation of the urethra and thus, can lower symptoms like painful urination.
Boosts the Immune System:  In recent studies on chemotherapy cycles in patients, it was noted that the immune system of the cancer patients who consumed Soursop tea was not affected or weakened, as compared to other cancer patients.  Also, the Vitamin C in soursop is an antioxidant vitamin that helps strengthen the immune system and helps prevent infections like urinary tract infection, cough and cold.
It is a Natural Pain Reliever:  associated with arthritis, joint and back problems, and rheumatism – Soursop has been traditionally used for providing relief from pain associated with the aforementioned conditions.
Boosts Energy Levels: Soursop contains thiamine, a compound which improves energy levels.
Aids in Digestion: Soursop health benefits include aiding digestive health, as the fibrous flesh of soursop helps improve digestive health.
Prevents Leg Cramps: Potassium present in this fruit is known to be effective in preventing leg cramps.
Maintains Bone Health: Soursop contains copper, which promotes the absorption of calcium, a nutrient that is essential for good bone health.
Helps Heal Many Skin Ailments: The sap of Soursop’s leaves, or the flesh, can be applied topically to get rid of eczema, skin rash and swelling. Topical application promotes fast healing of wounds and prevents infections.
Prevents Anemia: Soursop is rich in iron, is useful to the prevention of anemia.
Relief from Migraine: The riboflavin present in soursop helps curb migraine headaches.



www.healthfitnessrevolution.com

As an alternative cancer treatment, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center lists cancer treatment as one of the "purported uses" of soursop.

"When the plant was put through scientific tests, studies found that several parts had potentially potent anti-cancer properties. This was particularly shown to be the case when used as an adjunct treatment. Research showed that the leaves have active ingredients that possess anti-cancer properties that kill lung, prostate, colon, breast, and pancreatic cancer cells. Its seeds display properties that perform the same task that chemotherapy treatment would, killing breast, oral and lung cancer cells. And its fruit component has anti-prostate cancer potential." excerpt from The Conversation: Natural cancer remedies: sorting fact from fiction
ALSO READ:

9 Surprising Benefits of Soursop

Soursop: The Vitamin C Superfruit that May Help Fight Cancer


Video: How Immunotheraphy Works

First Vita Plus Guyabano (Sousop) variant is best for those fighting cancer because it naturally strengthens the healthy cells and fights the harmful cells. A natural health drink combined with premium leaves of Moringa, Corchorus, Capsicum, Amaranthus and Ipomoea Batatas and is packed to meet your daily requirements of vitamins, minerals, micronutrients, anti-oxidants, and immunity enhancing phytochemicals. Guaranteed to provide the extra energy boost, protection from stress, and maintenance of wellness, wholeness and well-being. 

Natural Health Care Ipomoea Batatas

The sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is a dicotyledonous plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. Its large, starchy, sweet-tasting, tuberous roots are a root vegetable. The young leaves and shoots are sometimes eaten as greens. The sweet potato is only distantly related to the potato (Solanum tuberosum) and does not belong to the nightshade family, Solanaceae, but both families belong to the same taxonomic order, the Solanales. _ Wikipedia

Its roots are enriched with complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber,beta carotene, protein, niacin, ribofalvin, Vitamin C and Vitamin B6. Despite being known as sweet potato, it is beneficial to those who have diabetes as it helps stabilize the blood sugar levels.

Ipomoea Batatas
Sweet Potato Leaves

Health Benefits Of Sweet Potatoes

Let’s explore a bit more about the health benefits of sweet potatoes.

Immune System: Being very rich in beta carotene, which is a major antioxidant, along with vitamin-C and B-complex vitamins, iron and phosphorus, sweet potatoes are excellent immune system boosters that can defend your body from a wide variety of conditions and afflictions.

Inflammation: Like the common potato, sweet potatoes also have anti-inflammatory properties, although they do not belong to the same family as common potato. This is primarily due to the presence of beta-carotene, vitamin-C and magnesium. It is equally effective in curing internal and external inflammation.

Asthma: Sweet potatoes are effective for curing congestion of the nose, bronchi and lungs, thereby giving relief from asthma. Its typical aroma helps in this property.

Bronchitis: The concentration of vitamin-C, iron and other nutrients help to cure bronchitis. Sweet potatoes are believed to be capable of warming up the body, possibly due to the sweetness and other nutrients that impact body temperature. This property is also beneficial for people suffering from bronchitis, along with its powerful effect on congestion.

Arthritis: Beta-carotene, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin-B complex make sweet potatoes a hugely important food source for managing arthritis. The water where sweet potatoes are boiled can also be applied externally on joints to ease the associated pain of arthritis.

Digestion: The fiber content of sweet potatoes is higher than that of common potatoes and they taste good too! When these two factors are combined with other minerals like magnesium, which is present in sweet potatoes, it makes an excellent facilitator for digestion. Sweet potatoes are easy to digest as well, since they mainly contain starch. They are soothing for the stomach and intestines, so you will avoid any difficulties of passing or digesting them.

Cancer: Beta-carotene, the champion antioxidant and anticarcinogenic substance, is the pigment responsible for the color of the peel of the sweet potatoes. The beta carotene and vitamin-C contained in sweet potatoes are very beneficial for curing various types of cancer, mainly those of the colon, intestines, prostrate, kidneys and other internal organs.

Stomach Ulcers: Sweet potatoes have a soothing effect on the stomach and the intestines.  B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, beta carotene, potassium and calcium are all very effective in curing stomach ulcers. Moreover, the roughage in sweet potatoes prevents constipation and the resultant acid formation, thereby reducing the chance of ulcers. The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of sweet potatoes also reduce the pain and inflammation of the ulcers.

Diabetes: Contrary to popular belief, sweet potatoes are beneficial for diabetics. Amazingly, they are very effective in regulating blood sugar levels by helping the proper secretion and function of insulin. Of course, that does not mean that diabetics should eat them indiscriminately. The idea is that sweet potatoes can replace rice or carbohydrate intake as a healthier option.

Water Balance: The fiber or roughage present in sweet potatoes helps the body retain water. This maintains water balance in the body, keeping your hydrated and your cells functioning efficiently.

Also read: Medicinal Uses of Ipomoea Batatas

Natural Health Care Amaranthus Spinosus

Amaranthus spinosus, commonly known as the spiny amaranth, spiny pigweed, prickly amaranth or thorny amaranth, is a plant is native to the tropical Americas, but is present on most continents as an introduced species and sometimes a noxious weed. - Wikipedia

It is a good expectorant and an effective LBM (Loose Bowel Movement)stopper. This natural astringent is also recommended for those suffering from indigestion, skin diseases, urinary tract infection and menorrhagia (prolonged menstrual period, abnormal blood clotting or hormonal imbalance).

Amaranth leaves are back in food buzz. Once savored by the ancient Aztecs, Mayans and Incas in their staple diet, this gorgeous greens is witnessing a food renaissance recently. Packed with antioxidants, protein, vitamins, calcium, carbohydrates, iron and minerals, health benefits of amaranth leaves are numerous.

What are the health benefits of amaranth leaves?

Provides energy: Highly packed with carbohydrates, proteins, vitamin K, folate, riboflavin, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, amaranth leaves boost energy in the body.

Prevents electrolyte imbalance: Amaranth leaves are terrific source of manganese, iron, copper, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus necessary for maintaining proper mineral balance in the body.

Excellent gluten-free diet: Vegetarians with gluten-intolerance or those suffering from celiac diseases can meet daily recommended dose of protein from amaranth greens. Compared to other plant sources namely wheat, rye, rice and oats, Amaranth contains 30% more protein with complete set of amino acids.

Improves digestion: High dietary fiber content (3 times that of wheat) in the greens improve digestive health and reduces constipation. It is easily digestible and good for both young ones and elders.

Aids in weight management: Protein in the leaves help to reduce insulin levels in the blood and also release a hormone that lessen hunger pranks and prevent "binging catastrophe".

Reduces bad cholesterol: One of the key benefits of amaranth leaves is cholesterol-lowering ability. Being fibrous, this leafy vegetable is effective in reducing LDL levels in the blood and promotes weight loss. Presence of tocotrienols (a type of vitamin E) also aids in cholesterol-lowering activity.

Good for anemic patients: Iron-rich (5 times that of wheat) red amaranth leaves promote coagulation and increase hemoglobin content and red blood cell counts.

Decreases risk of cardiovascular disease: Amaranth leaves are an excellent dietary source of phytosterols that lowers blood pressure and prevents heart ailments including stroke. 

Fight-off cancer: Presence of lysine (an essential amino acid) along with vitamin E, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium and vitamin C helps to fight against free radicals responsible for aging and formation of malignant cells. 

Ayurvedic treatments: Juice extracted from fresh amaranth leaves are prescribed for treating diarrhea, and hemorrhage conditions.

Stop hair loss and graying: Besides regular consumption, applying juice from the leaves prevent brittle hair falling. This wonderful cosmetic benefit of amaranth leaves also retards the onset of premature graying.

Prevents calcium-deficiency ailments: Calcium present in amaranth leaves reduce risk of osteoporosis and other calcium deficiencies because it has twice the calcium as milk. Indeed good news for lactose-intolerants!

Improves eyesight: Vitamin C found in the leaves contribute to towards healthy vision.

First Vita Plus Natural Health Drink with Pineapple is an antioxidant-rich drink that is a storehouse of several unique health promoting compounds, minerals and vitamins that are essential for optimum health. Great for digestion because of its high fiber and water content.

Sit back, relax, and watch the wonder of Power Slim Tea to soothe your aching body, while burning away unnecessary fats. Is a delicious, quenching picker-upper that helps you slim down the easy way. Perfect for people on the go!

Please leave comments or questions regarding this article. I am willing to answer all of your inquiries.