Drink coconut water for glowing skin

Got dull, lifeless skin? While skin texture is mostly hereditary, there is a lot you can do to improve it.

The effect of diet is seriously underestimated in beauty care. While consumption of fruits and fruit juices is said to be good for the skin, it is best to avoid oily and masala rich foods. While orange juice has been voted the best for skin, not many are aware of the benefits of coconut water when it comes to skin care.

The liquid, considered the purest one after water, hydrates the skin, making it look more youthful and supple. Studies say that the antioxidants and cytokinins present in coconut water have an age defying effect on skin. The nutritious value of the drink has always been acknowledged. If you are feeling weak or have stomach problems, drink coconut water for an energy boost.

An advantage it has over fruit juices is that you can easily have a glass a day since it is almost entirely fat free and sugar free. There are also studies which say that coconut water dabbed on skin has a positive effect. However, there are no studies to prove this.

Well, drink coconut water every day and watch your skin glow!

For questions specific to your health conditions, please write down in the comments section and we will answer it as soon as possible. Thanks

6 Habits that give you a paunch

We  list out the things that contribute to your burgeoning waistline.

We tend to overlook on certain habits that affect our life. We list down seven such habits that give you a belly pudge and how you can get rid of the unwanted fat gathering around your increasing waistline...

Skipping meals
When you skip meals, you end up overeating later and the fat inevitably finds a way to your midsection. Make it a point to eat small to medium-sized meals every three to four hours daily. We have to trick our body into having smaller meals every two to three hours to keep our metabolic rate high, not making us feel hungry and binge later.

Binge drinking
When you binge-drink, you are inviting flab to settle down on your mid-section. Alcohol contains lots of calories and you often tend to feel hungry while you are drinking. If you want to go out drinking with friends, make sure you opt for red wine — it helps fight paunch. The consumption of alcohol in moderation is fine during weight maintenance. You can choose to have wine as it is a rich source of antioxidants.

Crazy about crunches
Sit-ups tone the muscles and does not affect the layer of fat covering them. Doing 50 or 100 crunches will not make your jeans fitting loose. Instead of doing 50 crunches a day, it is advisable to jog or brisk walk in the park or on the treadmill for half an hour daily to get rid of the belly pudge. Only doing too much of crunches will not help. A proper combination of a good workout along with diet will help you to lose the fat faster.

Consuming 'lite' products
Remember that opting for sugar-free sweets, yoghurt, low-fat snacks or diet sodas will not help in the long run. These artificial sweeteners trigger your metabolism to increase the storage of fat.

Staying away from bread
Whole-grain breads and cereals allow insulin to rise and gradually reduce the chances of adding fat to your belly. Make it a point of include wild rice, whole wheat bread  and oatmeal in your meal plan once a day. Bread made from whole wheat and other processed grains have usually more fibre and are usually no different from homemade chapattis. It is healthy to have some amount of carbohydrates to help in the digestion process.

Fatty foods: a big no-no
Not all kinds of fats are unhealthy. Monounsaturated fats are good for you. Nutritionists opine that if you consume one-quarter of an avocado either in your sandwich or salad, you will lose the fat around your belly soon. Good fats are essential for your body. For example, you can have nuts, healthy oils like sunflower and olive oil. Avoiding them completely will not benefit your body completely.

For questions specific to your health conditions, please write down in the comments section and we will answer it as soon as possible. Thanks

Healthy habits you can acquire in 60 secs

If you think good health takes time to build, follow healthy habits that you can acquire in less than 60 seconds

From buckling your seat belt and washing your hands, getting healthier may take less time than you think. Both, the positive and negative choices you make every day factor in. Here are eight good habits that will help you achieve optimum health.

Sneeze into your arm 
When you don't have a tissue or a napkin handy to cover your mouth and nose, your best bet is to cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow, or upper arm. The point is to avoid using your hands, which can easily spread germs around. Covering your nose also prevents germ-laden droplets from launching into the air, where they can land on frequently touched surfaces and infect others.

Give your eyes a break 
Many office goers and students spend several hours a day staring at computer screens, where a combination of glare, slumped posture and poor lighting can trigger a strain the eye and headaches. To protect your eyes from the daily screen time, build in frequent rest stops. Eye specialists recommend the "20-20-20 rule": For every 20 minutes you spend at the computer, glance away from the screen for at least 20 seconds by looking at an object located 20 feet away. Giving your eyes a breather allows them to focus on something else. It is also a good idea to stand up, put your hands in the air, and take a long stretch to promote blood flow in the body.

Apply sunscreen all year round 
Applying sunscreen on a regular basis can protect skin not only from a tan, but also from the visible signs of aging, and can reduce the risk of skin cancer. So rain or sunshine, make sunscreen part of your daily morning routine.

Drink lots of water 
Drinking eight glasses of water a day is a must, but we suggest avoid keeping count. Your body is composed of 60 per cent water. The functions of these bodily fluids include digestion, absorption, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature. Adequate hydration also keeps things flowing along your gastrointestinal tract and prevents constipation. When you don't get enough fluid, the colon pulls water from stools to maintain hydration — and the result is constipation.

Microwave the kitchen sponge 
The toilet seat may seem like the most germ-infested item in the home, but studies have shown that the kitchen sponge supersedes the list. A kitchen sponge's frequent use to clean dal or sabzi spills, as well as, its moist and porous texture, make it a breeding ground for foodborne bacteria, and mildew. To stop the spread of germs, make sure it is wet, then leave it in the microwave for 45 seconds every evening.

Count up to 20 when angry 
If you are seething with anger, count up to 20 and take a slow, deep breath between each number. This simple technique can reduce your temper and cool your nerves. Counting distracts your mind, which gives you some time to distance your emotions from the situation that is ticking you off. If you are still angry, keep on counting and deep breathing until you feel calmer, and more in control. Taking slow, deep breaths helps to switch the nervous system from a sympathetic system response, to making you feel more relaxed.

Brush your tongue 
Preventing tooth decay and gum disease requires daily brushing. However, cleaning your tongue is an important step to keep your mouth clean. Research shows that a periodontal disease is not only a threat to your oral health but its effects go well beyond the mouth. The back of the tongue is also a popular site for bacteria and germs that can give you bad breath. After you've brushed your teeth, brush the surface of your tongue from back to front. Doing this once a day removes plaque-causing bacteria and food particles trapped in the tongue, and freshens your breath.

For questions specific to your health conditions, please write down in the comments section and we will answer it as soon as possible. Thanks

Treating hair loss : Causes and Remedies

What causes hair damage and hair loss?

The causes are many. Chemicals used during straightening treatments, perming, highlighting, bleaching and colouring are some of the major culprits when it comes to damaging hair. Chemicals in some hair gels, shampoos or hair conditioners can also cause hair damage. Not to forget, malnutrition, fever, some drugs used in cancer medication, stress, pregnancy and childbirth are some of the common causes of hair damage and hair fall.

Tips for treating hair loss

1. Avoid using chemicals unnecessarily for styling hair
2. Clips and bands to tie the hair should not be too tight.
3. Cut the tip of the hair to remove split ends.
4. Use a shampoo formulated for dry or damaged hair.
5. Shampoo only on alternate days.
6. Do not use very hot water to wash hair.
7. Avoid hair driers.
8. Avoid brushing or styling hair till it has dried completely.
9. Use a deep conditioner with protein base once a week.
10. Eat healthy food with plenty of vegetables and fruits.
11. Exercise regularly to de-stress.

If all this does not work, it's time to consult a dermatologist

6 foods for a healthy liver

One of the most vital organs of your body, the liver is responsible for most metabolic functions. Here are foods to include in your diet to keep your liver functioning normally.

Avocados: Avocados produce a type of antioxidant called glutathione, which is needed for our livers to filter out harmful materials.

Garlic: Loaded with sulfur, a mineral that helps rid the body of toxins, garlic is known to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and bacteria-related illnesses.

Turmeric: Using turmeric (haldi) as a spice in your food can not only enhance the colour but also help your liver. It is said to help your system digest fats and acts as a natural detox for your liver.

Grapefruit: Rich in vitamin C and containing antioxidant properties, having this fruit or as a juice can help flush out carcinogens and toxins.

Spinach: Leafy veggies, especially spinach and lettuce help in neutralising chemicals and aid protective mechanism for the liver.

Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are full of vitamin C that can help your body remove out all the toxic materials and aid the digestion process.

10 first-time experiences for newlyweds

Transition to married life is filled with many milestone "firsts," which strengthen the relationship with a spouse.

The Huffington Post has compiled a list of things that happen for the first time after a marriage:

The first ever fight between a couple is a lot more different and is a lot more charged, the Huffington Post reported.

Secondly, getting together with friends after the wedding is a little strange as some of them may feel that their married-by-30-clock is ticking, or become bitter that the newlyweds have "the perfect life."

Another first that a newlywed has is their first major purchase together.

The in-laws' problem is another first for the newlyweds as a husband is used to his family's flaws: He's learned how to tune out Mom's criticisms, Dad's elitisms, his sister's jealousy. And he just wants his wife to let their comments roll off their back too.

The first time a couple is asked when they are having a baby also makes the list.

It is also a must-do for many newlyweds to host a dinner party.

Another first is when a husband is approached by the first "flirty girl."

Then comes the part when the couple establish their first tradition together while honouring established rituals that were passed down from both of your families.

The married holiday together is one more first.

And lastly, the time you get scared of losing your loving spouse.

6 daily habits we need to quickly change

Six seemingly healthy daily rituals that you need to change

The commercials sold you to the hand sanitiser and the bottled water. But are they really good for you? Experts argue not. Turns out several of the habits we have cultivated over the years, from being wary of germs to brushing teeth after every meal are not only unnecessary but could actually rob us of good health in the long term. Read on to find out how.

Brushing after meals
Obsessed with your pearly whites, you have taken to brushing your teeth after every meal. But your mommy told you only to brush your teeth twice a day — before breakfast and before bedtime. Turns out she was right.

Dental experts say that rushing to the bathroom immediately after a meal is not good for your teeth. The breakdown of food in the mouth leaves an acidic residue which weakens the enamel the protective layer on the teeth. Brushing the teeth when the enamel is weak, can strip the enamel permanently, causing tooth sensitivity.

Instead: It's a good idea to wait for at least an hour after the meal before reaching out for the toothbrush. If you must dislodge food particles that remain after eating, rinse your mouth with water.

Using the hand sanitiser 
Do you have a habit of reaching out for the hand sanitiser each time you touch the handle on the train, especially after the last person to hold it was a noticeably sweaty commuter? You might be doing yourself more harm than good.

While hand sanitisers are a convenient method of cleaning hands and getting rid of germs, it's important to use them properly. According to a research conducted by University of California Davis, US, most hand sanitisers contain a chemical called triclosan which gets absorbed easily by the skin. As it enters the blood stream, it disrupts cell communication necessary for muscle coordination. Long term use can leave the skin dry and cause problems such as infertility, early puberty and poor heart function.

Instead: When possible, use the time-tested method of washing your hands with soap and water.

Ditching weights for cardio 
Nothing is as good as a run or swim in the morning. Especially if compared to lifting weights at the gym. While this could work if your aim is just to stay fit, if you plan on losing weight, you need to stop being exclusive with the cardio.

The body gets accustomed to the same type of exercise and stops burning calories. Celebrity trainer Satyajit Chaurasia says including some weight training along with cardio is the fastest way to lose weight and gain muscle mass alongside. "Alternating between cardio and strength training keeps the heart rate up while also giving the whole body a workout. It keeps the body in shock and doesn't let it get used to a particular type of routine, where burning calories becomes stagnant."

Instead: If you are an outdoors person and don't like to join a gym, Chaurasia suggest that you find a bench and a pair of dumbbells. "For beginners, these will be enough to work your upper body," he says.

Changing your cosmetics 
The luxe cosmetic brand just announced a new product and you have already bought the new bottle of cream, ditching it for the tube you just bought last month. While pumping money into a new skin-care product is bad for your wallet, it also does great harm to your skin.

Dermatologist Dr Derek  says, "The human skin has a pH (potential Hydrogen) level of 5.5. Cosmetic makers differ from each other on the pH value of their products. When people, who have sensitive skin, experiment with products of varied pH values, it may result in red, patchy or inflamed skin. For instance, most soaps have a pH value higher than 5.5 and are alkaline (harsh for the skin)."

Changing cosmetics once every few weeks can damage your skin leaving it ridden with rash, pimples or acne. And no, reaching for another product won't help.

Instead: Derek recommends going only for trusted brands, and always reading the pH value mentioned at the back of the product.

Wearing flip flops
You are afraid that heels will kill your knees and ankles, and think flats are the way to go, especially in Mumbai where the weather permits it. Right? You couldn't be more wrong.

Podiatrist and mobility consultant Gabriel says flip flops are not good as they do not provide any arch or structural support to the feet. "While walking, the toes have to constantly grip the slippers to control and balance them from slipping out. This alters the natural foot lift-off and landing and could lead to problems such as plantar fasciitis — inflammation of the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot," he says.

Instead: It is a good idea to wear flip flops at home, but ditch them when stepping out.

Drinking only bottled water 
Bottled water is processed water and has been stripped off minerals. In tropical climates such as Mumbai, it serves the purpose of hydration. But in the long run, it can leave your body lacking in essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, silica and sulphate. These minerals perform various functions in the body such as energy production and cell and muscle repair.

Instead: Fill your glass with water purified by a filtration system or carry a bottle from home.

How much water should you drink every day?

It's important to drink water according to your lifestyle rather than follow the 8-glass water rule, say nutritionists.

Water is your body's principal chemical component and a natural detoxifier but not many are aware about how much water should we ideally drink everyday. Moreover, the popular 8 by 8 rule which says that one should drink eight glasses, each consisting of eight ounce of water, may not suit every individual. Says nutritionist Peter, "While the general belief is to drink eight to 10 glasses of water, it is advisable to drink 12 to 15 glasses of fluids which includes water, tea, buttermilk, soup, etc. This would amount to an intake of around 2.5 litres of fluids everyday."

Drink according to lifestyle
According to nutritionist expert Patrick, one's lifestyle plays an important role in deciding the amount of water that one should consume. "If you have a sedentary lifestyle and work in an air-conditioned environment where there is no scope for water loss via sweat, drinking more than 2 to 2.5 litres of water is not advisable. It will end up accumulating in your kidney and cause edema," says Krishnan. For moderate workers like salespersons, who are required to do physical activity, it is important to drink around three litres of water.

Water consumption during summers
Also, it is necessary to change water consumption habits with the change in seasons. For instance, it is important to keep oneself hydrated during summers. "If you do not suffer from diabetes or blood pressure, you can have electrolyte or glucose water or drink lemon juice. It is not only refreshing but also increases your energy levels," says Patrick. Moreover, it is important to drink maximum amount in the morning. Peter says, "After waking up, it is important to drink around two to four glasses of water within the early part of the day. You could also add some amount of lemon, honey and cinnamon in it."

Your water guide
- Drink around two to four glasses of water (roughly amounting to 800 ml) after waking up
- If you work in an airconditioned environment and follow a sedentary lifestyle, do not drink more than 2 to 2.5 litres of water per day
- For moderate workers, for instance salespersons, it is important to drink around three litres of water
- During summers, keep yourself hydrated by drinking water at regular intervals. If you don't suffer from diabetes or blood pressure, having electrolyte or glucose water is also advisable