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Pomegranate has quickly become one of the most talked about health foods in the past year. Many readers wrote to us and asked about the health benefits of pomegranate juice. Not only is it popular among the health conscious crowd, we are surprised to see that pomegranate fruits are becoming widely used as hot trendy home decor in more and more home decorating television programs!

Preliminary evidence suggests that drinking concentrated pomegranate juice may reduce cholesterol. Israeli researchers, published a small clinical study in June 2004 in Clinical Nutrition, suggested that drinking a glass of pomegranate juice a day for one year reduced blood pressure (particularly systolic pressure) and slowed down LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) oxidation.

Pomegranate fruits contain polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins – all are beneficial antioxidants. Interestingly, pomegranate juice contains high levels of antioxidants – higher than most other fruit juices, red wine or green tea.

Pomegranate is a powerhouse of health! It’s loaded with antioxidant phytoestrogens, polyphenols, essential amino acids, and a host of other beneficial ingredients. All these things are important to maintaining a healthy body and mind. Take Pomegranate

* To keep you healthy and beautiful,
* To support and maintain healthy, normal heart function,
* To ease you through the “change of life” – menopause.

Pomegranate juice represents another of the foods recently touted for its health benefits. In some clinical studies, pomegranate juice has been shown to be of significant benefit, especially in the prevention of heart disease. To start, a glass of pomegranate juice contains about 40% of the US Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of Vitamin C. It also has Vitamin A, E and folic acid in good quantities.

Further, pomegranate juice has excellent antioxidant properties. It has about three times more antioxidants ounce for ounce than does red wine or green tea. Many people also enjoy its rich taste, making it a welcome beverage.

Pomegranate juice has been shown to work well as a blood thinner. Some research has shown it may be an excellent agent for promoting blood flow to the heart. It also has been shown to reduce plaque in the arteries, and to raise “good” levels of cholesterol while helping lower “bad” cholesterol.

This preliminary research suggests that pomegranate juice may be helpful in preventing heart disease, heart attacks and stroke. Most physicians are quick to point out pomegranate juice should be just one aspect of a healthy diet and exercise program. Pomegranate juice alone would probably not cure or completely prevent heart disease.

Some research has also evaluated the antioxidant nature of pomegranate juice and its usefulness in fighting certain forms of cancer. Pomegranate juice has been tentatively shown to reduce incidence of breast and skin cancer. It has also been tested and shown to slow the growth of prostate cancer in mice.

Another interesting study has evaluated pomegranate juice and osteoarthritis. Pomegranate juice tends to act as an inhibitor on enzymes responsible for damaging cartilage. These studies applied extract of pomegranate directly onto damaged cartilage. More research would have to examine a cause and effect relationship between oral ingestion of pomegranate juice and reduction in cartilage deterioration.

However, early studies on pomegranate juice suggest it is surely healthy to drink. The fruit can be quite fun to eat as well. There are numerous pomegranate juice products available, many quite highly priced because of the health craze surrounding pomegranate juice. It is likely if continued studies show promising health benefits, more manufacturers of pomegranate juice will emerge and help ease prices through competition.

whatsoever, here are some of the remedies and uses that some people hope pomegranate can help with.

1. It may help reduce the risk of having a heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Studies show that pomegranate juice daily may help support the normal blood flow to the heart. Because of its antioxidant properties, pomegranate keeps bad cholesterol from forming, and thus, may help keep the arteries clear of clots.

2. It may help support the body’s normal defense in the prevention of certain cancers. Since pomegranates has very high levels of antioxidant called “flavenoids” that is thought to be effective in counteracting various cancer-causing radicals, more and more experts recommend this fruit as a possible part of a healthy diet. Because of flavenoids, many people are consuming pomegranate because it is believed to help support their good health.

3. It may help reduce the risks for illnesses such as atherosclerosis, osteoarthritis, and diabetes. Because of the properties of pomegranate, conditions that are known to cause the thickening and hardening of arterial walls and damage in cartilage and joints are hoped to be helped by this fruit. Studies are needed of course to get test results. No claims are made as to what the pomegranate may or may not help.

4. It is a rich source of various vitamins. Pomegranate is a good, natural source of vitamins A, C and E as well as folic acid.

5. It is rumored to help reduce the possibility of having premature babies. Pomegranate juice and extract is thought by some people to help expectant mothers avoid having low birth weight babies.

6. Some users claim it is beneficial for relieving minor illnesses such as core throat.

7. Other users believe it might reduce the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease among older people.

8. It is prized in some countries for the belief that it might help in achieving and maintaining a clear skin with youthful glow, and it is believed to help soothe skin inflammation.

9. The antioxidants are thought to help support the immune system.

10. It may help support healthy blood flow because of its iron properties. Pomegranate supports the blood by supplying it with iron, thus may help prevent anemia symptoms that include exhaustion, dizziness, weakness, and hear loss.

11. Aside from having lots of anti-oxidants, pomegranate also might have some anti-viral properties.

12. Pomegranate juice and extract is thought by some women to help in overcoming the feeling of general malaise during menopause.

While no medical claims can be made for pomegranate, the juice is growing in popularity every day as more and more people try it and benefit from it.

Watermelon is rich in carotenoids. Some of the carotenoids in watermelon include lycopene, phytofluene, phytoene, beta-carotene, lutein, and neurosporene. Lycopene makes up the majority of the carotenoids in watermelon. The carotenoid content varies depending on the variety of the watermelon. Depending on the variety, carotenoid content in red fleshed watermelon varies from 37 – 121 mg/kg fresh weight, where as lycopene varies from 35 – 112 mg/kg fresh weight.

Carotenoids have antioxidant activity, free-radical scavenging property. Several researches have reported an association between dietary lycopene consumption and lower incidence in diseases such as prostate and oral cancers. Lycopene may also help reduce risks of cardiovascular disease.

Watermelon seeds are excellent sources of protein (both essential and non-essential amino acids) and oil. Watermelon seed is about 35% protein, 50% oil, and 5% dietary fiber. Watermelon seed is also rich in micro- and macro-nutrients such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorous, zinc etc.

Besides, the red flesh, in the Arab world, salted and roasted watermelon seeds are also consumed as a snack.

In fact, most melons are rich in potassium, a nutrient that may help control blood pressure, regulate heart beat, and possibly prevent strokes. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines state that a potassium-rich diet helps keep salt from raising blood pressure and may also reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and possibly age-related bone loss. The guidelines encourage adults to consume 4,700 milligrams per day (while keeping sodium to less than 2,300 milligrams per day, which is one teaspoon of salt).

Melons are also abundant in vitamin C, one arm of the now-famous disease-fighting antioxidant trio. Another arm that’s well represented is beta-carotene.

Researchers believe that beta-carotene and vitamin C are capable of preventing heart disease, cancer, and other chronic conditions. No matter which way you cut them, when it comes to nutrition, melons are number one.

Watermelon is a valuable source of lycopene, one of the carotenoids that have actually been studied in humans. Research indicates that lycopene is helpful in reducing the risk of prostate, breast, and endometrial cancers, as well as lung and colon cancer.

Whether you choose watermelons for their health benefits or simply for their good flavor, they can be an excellent snack, summer dish — or gardening project.

1. Good blood and body builder, it is also a quick source of energy.
2. Grape juice is easily assimilated and called the “nectar of the gods”. It is indicated in cases of constipation, gout, rheumatism, skin and liver disorders.
3. This alkaline fruit (also called “the queen of fruits”) helps greatly to decrease the acidity of the uric acid and lends itself further in aiding the elimination of the acid from the system, thus benefiting the kidneys greatly.
4. Studies shown that grape juice, red wines and raisin tea showed strong antiviral activity against poliovirus, herpes simplex virus.
5. Helps reduce platelet clumping and harmful blood clots.

There are a few thousand kinds of grapes with very different chemical composition.

Grapes are 65-85% water, 10-33% sugar (glucose and fructose), phlobaphene, gallic acid, silicic acid, quercetine, anin, glucosides – mono delphinidin and delphinidin, fruit acids, like apple acid, salicilic acid, phosphoric acid, lemon acid, amber acid, formic acid and a little bit of oxalic acid, pectins, tannic substances, salts of potassium, magnesium, calcium, manganese, cobalt, iron and vitamins B1, B2,?6, ?12, ?, ?, ?, ??, K, folic acid and enzimes.

Grape skin has tannic substances and essential oils.

Grape seeds have tannic substances, phlobaphene,
lecithin, vanilla and fatty oil.

Grape leaves have sugar, quercetine, carotene, inosite, tannic substances, betain, tartaric acid, apple acid, ascorbic acid, protocatechine acid, potassium, sodium, iron and silicon.

Grapes have been used for treating metabolism disorders, liver, kidney and lung disorders and cardiovascular problems. Grapes improve metabolism and have diuretic, anti inflammation, light laxative and inducing perspiration effect.

Grapes help with nervous exhaustion, hypertension, high blood pressure, bronchitis and gout. Eating grapes strengthens your body when you need to recover from anemia, gastritis with high acidity, metabolism disorder, chronic insomnia and constipation.

It is recommended to include grapes in your diet in the first stage of tuberculosis.

Drinking grape juice daily for a long time helps to lower high blood pressure.

There many grape home remedies in folk medicine.

Extract of grape leaves (boil 1 part of grape leaves with 10 parts of water for 15 min, let it cool and filter it ) is used for gargling your throat if you have angina and for washing your body if you have skin disorders.

You should eat raisins, if you cough, have an angina, ulcers in your mouth, bladder disorders and hemorrhoids.

Warnings:

-Grapes and grape juice are not recommended for obesity, stomach ulcers, diabetes, colitis, diarrhea and dysentery.

-You will get an upset stomach if you eat grapes with milk, cucumbers, melon, fish, beer, mineral water and fatty meals.

-If you have a cavity in a tooth, eating grapes or drinking grape juice will intensify your tooth destruction. Rinse your mouth every time you eat grapes.

1. Banana is an energy booster.
2. Banana contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that is known to make you feel happy and improve your mood.
3. Banana is a rich source of iron, thus it is helpful in cases of anemia.
4. Banana is good a good source of potassium. If you are taking diuretics take 2 bananas a day to prevent the depletion of potassium in the body.
5. The skin of the banana is said to help remove warts(cover the warts with the inner skin of banana).
6. Banana is good for people who have high blood pressure because it is low in salt.

A banana is the most unique of all fruit because unlike any fruit it does not come from trees at all but from large plants that are giant herbs and are related to lily and orchid family.

In order to have a healthy lifestyle, you have to meet your daily requirement of five fruits and vegetables. Bananas are a perfect part of your diet
and they are the most popular fruit in America. Bananas are available all year and they are a great source of instant energy whether you are watching your diet or just trying to eat healthy. Like other fruits and vegetables, bananas contain no fat, sodium or cholesterol. It is a known fact that a low fat, balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruit may reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Bananas are rich in vitamin B6 and they are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium. Lack of B6 in a diet can cause weakness, irritability and insomnia. The potassium found in bananas helps to regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke. Potassium is also essential for helping muscles to contract properly during exercise and reduces cramping up. A medium-sized banana provides 400 mg of potassium -11% of daily value- and contains 110 calories and 4 grams of fiber. Bananas also contain plenty of carbohydrates which are the body’s main source of energy. They are also easy to digest.

Because of their great taste, they can also serve as a substitute for sweets and satisfy sugar cravings.

Researche also shows that serotonin and norepinephrine in bananas may naturally help sufferers overcome depression. They are the good mood food.

Convenience and nutritional value of bananas make them a good post-exercise snack. During long exercises your body loses vitamins and minerals and a banana replaces these nutrients as well as giving you the energy you need.

Bananas are good for babies, too. They are in fact often the first solid food given to infants. Bananas are easy to digest because they have no fat and very few babies are allergic to bananas. They are also one of children’s favorite snack because of their taste and they meet the energy needs of the growing children.

Green tipped bananas should be selected for cooking or ripening, yellow ones should be selected for eating and brown-specked ones should be selected for baking breads, muffins and cookies. As the bananas ripen, they will taste sweeter because the starch in the fruit will turn to sugar. You can toss bananas to your cereals, salads, yogurt, salsa, smoothie or shakes.

You should store your bananas over the counter at room temperature until they reach the ripeness you want, then you can store them in the refrigerator. The peel of the fruit will darken in the refrigerator but the banana inside will remain firm and delicious. To ripen a banana faster, it should be put in a brown paper bag with an apple or tomato overnight.

Bananas consist mainly of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fiber, which makes them ideal for an immediate and slightly prolonged source of energy

Reducing Depression
Bananas contain tryptophan, an aminoacid that can be converted to serotonin, leading to improved mood

Anemia
Bananas are relatively high in iron, which helps the body’s hemoglobin function

Constipation and Diarrhea
Due to their content in fiber, they help restore a normal bowel function. In addition, diarrhea usually depletes your body of important electrolytes (of which the most important is potassium, contained in high amounts in bananas). They also contain pectin, a soluble fiber (hydrocolloid) that can help normalize movement through the digestive tract.

Eyesight Protection
Research published in the Archives of Ophthalmology has proven that adults consuming at least 3 servings of fruit per day have a reduced risk (by 36%) of developing age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the primary cause of vision loss in older adults, compared to persons who consume less than 1.5 servings of fruit daily.

Healthy Bones
Bananas are an exceptionally rich source of fructooligosaccharide, a compound that nourishes probiotic (friendly) bacteria in the colon. These beneficial bacteria produce enzymes that increase our digestive ability and protect us from unhealthy bacteria infections. Thanks to fructooligosaccharides, probiotic bacteria can increase both in number and functionality, increasing our body’s ability to absorb calcium.
In addition, green bananas contain indigestible short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that are very nutrient to the cells that make up the mucosa of the stomach. These cells, when healthy, absorb calcium much more efficiently

Healthy Kidney
About 190,000 cases of kidney cancer are diagnosed each year.
Research published in the International Journal of Cancer has shown that daily consumption of whole fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, is highly protective to kidney health. The results show that, over a long timeframe (13.4 years), women eating more than 2.5 servings of fruits and vegetable per day cut their risk of kidney cancer by 40%. Among the fruits, bananas were especially protective. Women eating bananas four to six times a week halved their risk of developing the disease compared to those who did not eat this fruit. The conclusion of the study is that frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, cabbage and root vegetables, may reduce risk of kidney cancer. This is because bananas and many root vegetables contain especially high amounts of antioxidant phenolic compounds, while cabbage is rich in sulfur, necessary for effective detoxification of potential carcinogens.

Blood Pressure
Bananas are extremely high in potassium (about 4673mg), yet very low in sodium (1mg), thus having a perfect ratio for preventing high blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Heartburn
Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness
Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood-sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Smoking
Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. They contain vitamins B6 and B12 they contain, as well as potassium and magnesium: these substances help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Ulcers
This is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicle cases. It also helps reduce acidity and reduces irritation. Bananas stimulate the cells on the internal stomach lining to produce a thicker mucus (which protects against acid). Additionally, bananas contain protease inhibitors that help eliminate bacteria in the stomach that have been pinpointed as a primary cause of ulcers.

Nerves
Bananas are high in B vitamins that have been shows to improve nerve function

Mosquito Bites
Many people report that rubbing the inside of a banana peel on a mosquito bite is very effective in reducing itching and swelling

Stress Relief
Bananas are high in potassium, which helps normalize the hearthbeat and regulate the body’s water balance. During periods of high stress, our body’s potassium levels tend to be rapidly depleted: eating bananas is a healthy way to rebalance them without using drugs

Stroke Risk
According to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can reduce the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%

1. Apple is a rich source of flavonoid and polyphenols both are powerful antioxidant.
2. Study shown that by eating 100g of apple can give an antioxidant effect that equal to taking about 1,500mg of vitamin C.
3. Apple contain a large amount of minerals and vitamins that can strengthen the blood.
4. Apple contain malic acid and tartaric acid, that can help prevent disturbances of the liver and digestion.
5. Apple cider vinegar when used as beverage can help to prevent the formation of kidney stone.
6. The skin of Apple contain pectin that can help remove toxic substances from the system by supplying galacturonic acid. Pectin helps prevent protein matter in the intestine from spoiling.
7. Eating an apple daily can lower cholesterol and reduce skin diseases.

Apples have been recommended for : Obesity, Headache, Arthritis, Bronchial asthma, Inflammation of the bladder, Gonorrhea, Anemia, Tuberculosis, Neuritis, Insomnia, Catarrh, Gallbladder stones, Worms, Halithosis, Pyorrhea

Antioxidants
This line of research has led to the discovery of the benefits of antioxidants. Our cells can be harmed by free radicals-unavoidable substances in our bodies formed through natural living processes—but antioxidant compounds can reduce the damage and lessen the likelihood that disease will ensue. Fruits and vegetables as a whole contain a wide range of helpful antioxidants. Hence the advice to eat at least five servings a day of fruits and vegetables is so sound. Apples are not the only health-imparting food in that group, but they make a vital contribution. Wisdom based on up-to-date science says to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables—and include at least one apple within your daily intake.

Aging
We deteriorate with age. Our motor skills degenerate. We have trouble remembering things. Antioxidants to the rescue!

Studies at various research institutions around the world, particularly the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging based at Tufts University in Boston, Mass., have linked the consumption of diets high in antioxidants with reduction in aging-related mental and physical degeneration. Oxidative stress (high incidence of free radicals) has been associated with such diseases as diabetic polyneuropathy (nerve damage in diabetics) and cardiomyopathy (heart muscle damage), according to an article in the May 2002 issue of Journal of Neural Transmission. Researchers at the James A. Haley Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Tampa, Fla., reporting in the July 15, 2002 issue of Journal of Neuroscience, noted that diets containing selected high-antioxidant foods actually reversed declines in particular physiological functions associated with aging-related mental deterioration. The Tufts scientists in collaboration with colleagues from Colorado and Pennsylvania, publishing in Brain Research in the June 2, 2000 issue, documented evidence that “age-related deficits in motor learning and memory can be reversed with nutritional interventions.” They pointed out the relevance of these findings to rehabilitative strategies for victims of strokes.

The foods that have been touted the most for these positive factors are blueberries, strawberries and spinach. Apples are ranked as “intermediate” in this respect. British analysis from King’s College in London, published in the February 2002 issue of Free Radical Research, listed various antioxidant components within the phenolic families of compounds found in fruits and vegetables. Darker foods like blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are rich in anthocyanins, which “demonstrated the highest antioxidant activities.” Scientists at the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition in Los Angeles, Calif., included most apples in this category, stating in the November 2001 Journal of Nutrition that “red-purple foods contain anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants found in red apples, grapes, berries and wine.” Apples also have flavonoid antioxidants, including catechins and quercetin, to add to their beneficial potency. The Tampa study showed that apples “significantly downregulated” an age-related inflammatory response in the brain that is thought to contribute to deterioration in mental processes.

As the level of understanding of the human brain and neurological system advances, a tendency grows to hype “miracle foods” as quick fixes for whatever ails us. A more moderate position is simply to recommend greater consumption of all fruits and vegetables on a consistent basis, including plenty of apples. They can all contribute something worthwhile. Apples and some other fruits and vegetables appear to be brain food. Apples can be savored simply because they are so delicious, but you may also achieve a side benefit—making your brain work better!

Wrinkles
An article published by Australian researchers in the February 2001 issue of Journal of the American College of Nutrition was titled “Skin wrinkling: can food make a difference?” The answer was a conditional yes. Elderly populations were monitored in Australia, Greece and Sweden as part of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences “Food Habits in Later Life” study. Dietary intakes were recorded, and the subjects’ skin wrinkles were measured “using a cutaneous microtopographic method.” The findings were that “a high intake of vegetables, legumes and olive oil appeared to be protective against cutaneous actinic [sun-caused] skin damage.” Meat and butter and other dairy products appeared to have adverse effects. An Anglo-Celtic group of subjects consumed more apples, prunes and tea than other ethnic subjects did, and those foods apparently contributed to favorable results. As usual, the scientists qualified their findings as less than definitive, since it was only one research project. Their official conclusion: “This study illustrates that skin wrinkling in a sun-exposed site in older people of various ethnic backgrounds may be influenced by the types of foods consumed.” Eating apples and vegetables is certainly cheaper than a bill for cosmetic surgery!

Hair Growth
Japanese researchers extracted a particular chemical compound from apples named procyanidin B-2 and studied its effect on hair epithelial cells in lab animals. Their conclusion, published in the January 2002 issue of British Journal of Dermatology, was that the compound promotes hair growth. The topic of whether or not it could do so on portions of the human male cranium that formerly boasted hair but currently do not was not addressed.

Cholera
Cholera, a scourge in the U.S. during pioneer days, has not been a problem here for more than a century. But outbreaks still occur elsewhere around the world. It’s good to know apples can help. Japanese researchers, reporting in Microbiology and Immunology this year, administered a polyphenol compound extracted from immature apples to laboratory animal subjects and found it inhibited the effects of the cholera toxin in a dose-dependent manner—the more of the extract the animals ingested, the greater the control against symptoms. Apples appear to be good medicine—or, to use a more modern terminology, “effective nutriceuticals” (substances in plant foods that have protective and therapeutic values).

COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) leaves its victims gasping for breath. Dutch scientists studied whether the flavonoid class of food compounds, including catechins, could improve symptoms in COPD patients. Tea and apples were the primary sources of the flavonoids. Results showed a positive association with improved lung function, including lowered incidence of coughing and breathlessness. The researchers stated in the July 1, 2001 issue of American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, “Solid fruit, but not tea, intake was beneficially associated with COPD. Our results suggest a beneficial effect of a high intake of catechins and solid fruits against COPD.” That is, eating apples may very well help.

Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is a risk associated with the smoking of tobacco. French researchers, writing in the October 1996 issue of Carcinogenesis and the June 18, 1998 issue of Mutation Research, described their investigations into the inhibitory effects of dietary phenolics on the development of carcinogenic substances in the bladder. Their conclusion was that “overall, our study strongly suggests that smokers ingesting dietary phenolics, probably flavonoids, are partially protected against the harmful effects by tobacco carcinogens within their bladder mucosal cells.” The foods cited as “important sources of dietary flavonoids which are probably responsible for the anti-mutagenicity associated with foods and beverages” were apples, onions, lettuce and red wine.

Lung Cancer
Scientists at the University of Hawaii’s Cancer Research Center of Hawaii in Honolulu investigated possible relationships between flavonoid intake and lung cancer risk. They wrote in Journal of the National Cancer Institute in its January 19, 2000 issue that “we found statistically significant inverse associations between lung cancer risk and the main food sources of the flavonoids quercetin (onions and apples) and naringin (white grapefruit).” They concluded that “if replicated, particularly in prospective studies, these findings would suggest that foods rich in certain flavonoids may protect against certain forms of lung cancer.” That is, quercetin may have a protective effect against lung cancer, and apples are among the richest foods in the beneficial quercetin.

Prostate
Belgian researchers from Antwerp, writing in European Urology in 1999, noted that the low-fat, high-fiber diets typical in Asia are associated with lower incidences of prostate cancer and prostate enlargement in comparison with rates in the U.S. and Europe. Phytoestrogens (estrogenic compounds in plants) have been proposed as the preventive agents. Flavonoids are among one class of phytoestrogens, and, the authors stated, “apples, onions and tea-leaves are excellent sources of flavonoids.” Many plant compounds also help by inhibiting particular enzymes that are “crucial to cellular proliferation,” which is a mechanism present in cancer.

Stroke
The U.S. Department of Agriculture scientists based at Tufts University noted in the September 15, 1999 Journal of Neuroscience that phytochemicals (chemicals found in plants) that are present in antioxidant-rich foods have for some time been known to have beneficial effects in relation to cancer and the cardiovascular system. Finnish researchers, writing in the May 2000 issue of European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, discussed a 28-year study of intake of the flavonoid quercetin by more than 9,000 Finnish men and women, about 9% of whom experienced cardiovascular disease during that period. Apples were the major source of quercetin for the study population. The researchers’ conclusion was that “the results suggest that the intake of apples is related to a decreased risk of thrombotic stroke.”

Heart Disease
Some of the same Finnish researchers conducted another long-term study on the association of dietary consumption of flavonoids and subsequent heart attack mortality. The primary sources of flavonoids were apples and onions. The scientists concluded, according to their report in the February 24, 1996 issue of British Medical Journal, that “the results suggest that people with very low intakes of flavonoids have higher risks of coronary disease.” So eat apples for your heart’s sake.

Dutch epidemiologists have made similar studies among their own populations, including a long-term monitoring of elderly residents in the city of Zutphen that began in 1985. Over the years a total of 11% of the men in the study died of ischemic heart disease. The key substance being studied was catechins, part of the flavonoid family, which were ingested mainly from apples, black tea and chocolate. The findings, reported in the August 2001 issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, were that “catechin intake was inversely associated with ischemic heart disease.” The conclusion: “Catechins, whether from tea or other sources, may reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease mortality.” Eat apples, and wash them down with tea—sounds like a winning combination.

The Dutch researchers also did a study in 1998 to develop information on catechin intake by a representative population from very young to very old. Tea was the main source of catechins across all age groups, and apples and pears ran second for adults and the elderly. Smokers had lower catechin consumption than non-smokers, as did persons with lower socioeconomic status compared with those of higher socioeconomic status. The researchers noted in the February 2001 issue of European Journal of Clinical Nutrition that “catechins are quantitatively important bioactive components of the daily diet, which should be taken into account when studying the relation between diet and chronic diseases.” And apples are rich in catechins.

Postmenopausal women would do well to eat plenty of apples, according to a Dutch-and-American study of nearly 35,000 Iowa residents from 1986 to 1998. A little over 2% of the subjects died from coronary heart disease during that period. An inverse association of catechin intake with risk of that disease was determined. The scientists wrote in the November 2001 Epidemiology that “of the major catechin sources, apples and wine were inversely associated with coronary heart disease death.”

Cholesterol
Numerous studies over the past quarter century have shown that a diet rich in apples can help lower blood cholesterol. Pectin, a soluble fiber found in apples at a rate of .78 grams per 100 grams of edible fruit, is thought to play a significant role in that relationship. Other fruits and vegetables also contain pectin, but apples are a handy and excellent means toward cholesterol reduction.

How handy? Food scientists at the University of California at Davis studied the composition of apple juice, including phenols, anthocyanins and flavonols. They found that apple juice inhibits the oxidation of the harmful form of cholesterol (LDL, or low-density lipoprotein). That is, you can drink your apples, whether as cider or clarified apple juice, and help protect your circulatory system. The scientists wrote in Life Sciences in 1999, “Although the specific components in the apple juices and extracts that contributed to antioxidant activity have yet to be identified, this study found that both fresh apple and commercial apple juices inhibited copper-catalyzed LDL oxidation. The in-vitro antioxidant activity of apples supports the inclusion of this fruit and its juice in a healthy human diet.” So drink up!

Cholesterol
And keep at it! Dutch scientists studied the bioavailability of quercetin—that is, how well the human body absorbs it and retains it. If it goes right through your system without getting into your crucial cells, you could ingest all the apples you want and not derive the full benefit. The news out of this study is good. As the researchers reported in the November 24, 1997 issue of FEBS Letters, peak levels of quercetin from apples were found 2 1/2 hours after ingestion. The half-life for apples was 23 hours. In other words, after that period the level was still at half the peak. The researchers wrote, “Because of the long half-lives of elimination, repeated consumption of quercetin-containing foods will cause accumulation of quercetin in blood.”

n India, Ayurvedic physicians prescribe apple cider vinegar in combination with the herb Gotu Kola to help in the revitalizing of the skin. Indians have been known to consume apple cider vinegar in combination with honey to improve digestion.

It contributes greatly to the breaking down of food in the body and also prevents harmful bacteria from multiplying. Even respiratory infections can be kept at bay, sore throats improve, and nasal discharges decrease.

The benefits of apple cider vinegar have been proclaimed by the ancient Egyptians and have been traditionally used by them to treat ailments of all kinds. In fact they believed apple cider acted as a tonic improving the circulation and flow of blood.

Apples are allowed to ferment and this fermented fruit acid, which is loaded with pectin and minerals like potassium, chlorine, magnesium, sodium and calcium, seems to be a panacea. In addition it contains vitamins and beta-carotene. In fact experiments have proved that it contains carbolic acids, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols and acetates also.

It is no wonder than that the health benefits of apple cider vinegar are infinite. Pectin in the apples is a fiber, which attaches itself to cholesterol globules, and when combined with the herb centella aids in getting rid of bad cholesterol and helps in regulating blood pressure. This fruit acid is often used by some as a final hair-rinse.
A look at how the minerals contribute to the overall health of a person is very fascinating. The potassium present in apple cider vinegar is vital because it helps to remove the excess water and also the toxic waste. The excess of sodium is also drawn out and it helps to regulate blood pressure.

Calcium, which is important for the bones and for combating osteoporosis, is an important constituent of apple cider vinegar. The beta carotene actually is supposed to help people to retain their youth longer as it counters effectively the damage made by free radicals..

The virtues of apple cider vinegar seem to extend itself beyond normal peripheries. Every constituent seems to play an important role. The malic acid and acetic acid present help to combat fungal and bacterial infections and relieves painful joints. The malic acid dissolves the deposits of uric acid, which form around the joints, and slowly pushes the acid deposits out of the body. It seems to even have some effect on viruses.

The amino acids present in apple cider vinegar act as an antibiotic and an antiseptic. It has been known to drastically reduce the toxicity in the body. This is because the acetic acid is able to form acetate compounds, which are not so toxic. This property makes it very useful while treating insect bites and skin allergies.

Arthritis has plagued people for centuries and apple cider combined with centella actually relieves pain due to arthritis. By Strengthening arteries and assisting in healing of wounds, improving skin lesions and reducing the effects of varicose veins, apple cider vinegar has been elevated to the status of a total health benefit product. It reduces stress and tension and revitalizes the body. The health benefits of apple cider vinegar just cannot be ignored.

Apple cider vinegar speeds up metabolism especially when taken regularly before meals and if used in conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise program it can be a powerful aid in keeping your weight under control.. Apple cider vinegar has less salt, less sugar and less fat, helps in digestion and helps in the metabolism of food. If the metabolic activity increases, then more food is used to get energy and less of it is stored as fat. So if you want to lose weight, use apple cider vinegar.

1. Mangoes contain phenols, this phenolic compound have powerful antioxidant and anticancer abilities.
2. Mango is high in iron, pregnant women and people with anemia are advised to eat this fruit regularly.
3. Mango is effective in relieving clogged pores of the skin.
4. It is also valuable to combat acidity and poor digestion.
5. Mango is high in antioxidant and low in carbohydrates.
6. Mango is a rich source of vitamin A(beta-carotene), E and Selenium which help to protect against heart disease and other ailments.

* Mango, being high in calories and carbohydrates, is good for those who are trying to gain weight.
* The phenolic compound found in mangoes has been found to have powerful antioxidant and anticancer properties.
* Being high in iron, mango is said to be very good for pregnant women as well as for people suffering from anemia.
* Mango is believed to be effective in relieving clogged pores of the skin.
* The vitamin A (beta-carotene), vitamin E and selenium present in mangoes provide protection against heart disease.
* Mangoes have been found to be quite helpful in treating acidity and poor digestion.
* It is being said that the Vitamin E present in mango helps hormonal system function more efficiently and thus, boosts sex life.
* The anti-inflammatory properties of mango might help alleviate asthma symptoms.

Other Benefits
Mango has been found to be beneficial for people suffering from the following ailments

* Bacterial Infections
* Constipation
* Diarrhea
* Dysentery
* Eye Disorders
* Hair Loss
* Heat Stroke
* Leucorrhea
* Liver Disorders
* Menstrual Disorders
* Morning Sickness
* Piles
* Prickly Heat
* Scurvy
* Sinusitis
* Spleen Enlargement
* Vaginitis

Pineapple Strengthens Bones
One of the benefits of pineapple is that it helps to build healthy bones. Pineapples are rich in manganese, a trace mineral that is needed for your body to build bone and connective tissues. Just one cup of pineapple provides 73% of the daily recommended amount of manganese. The benefits of pineapple can effect the growth of bones in young people and the strengthening of bones in older people.

Pineapple is Good for Colds and Coughs
While many people often take extra vitamin C or drink extra orange juice when they have a cold, few consider eating pineapple. The benefits of pineapple when you have a cold or cough are the same as the benefits of orange juice, but there is an additional benefit of pineapple. Bromelain, which is found in pineapples, has been found to help suppress coughs and loosen mucus.

One of the most important enzymes in pineapples is bromelain and it is bromelain that holds the key to many of the pineapple’s health benefits. Fresh pineapple is full of these sulphur-containing, protein-digesting compounds so, what can they do for you?

Bromelain and pineapples

Bromelain has been found to be a useful anti-inflammatory, effective in reducing swelling and assisting in the treatment of conditions such as acute sinusitis, sore throat, arthritis and gout. For increased effectiveness, pineapple should be eaten between meals without other food. This is because of another of bromelaid’s properties, that as an aid to digestion. If eaten with other food, bromelaid’s health benefits will be taken up in helping to digest the other food.

Pineapple is high in anti-oxidants

A very good source of vitamin C, pineapple offers your body an excellent protection against free-radicals, substances that attack healthy cells. A build up of free-radicals can lead to atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease, an increase in asthma attacks and an increased risk of developing certain cancers, such as colon cancer. Free-radicals have also been shown to accentuate the problems associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Vitamin C, your body’s most important water-soluble anti-oxidant has proven itself invaluable in fighting against and aiding treatment for these conditions.

Vitamin C is, of course, also an excellent cold and flu fighter due to its importance to the proper functioning of the immune system.

Manganese

Pineapple is also an excellent source of manganese, a mineral essential in some of the enzymes necessary in the body for energy production. It also has very good amounts of thiamine (vitamin B1) which is also important in these energy producing enzymes.

Macular degeneration

Pineapple and other fruit has been shown to be important in maintaining good eye health, helping to protect against age-related eye problems. Three serves of fruit a day, in particular those high in anti-oxidants, has been shown to lower your risk of developing this potentially debilitating condition.

Pineapple stems

There are even some beneficial molecules hidden in the stems of pineapples, Australian research has found. These molecules have been seen to act as a defence against certain types of cancer. The types of cancer benefited by these molecules are ovarian, breast, lung, colon and skin cancer.

Selecting and storing your pineapple

Pineapples should feel heavy for their size, otherwise they could end up dry and tasteless. They should look, feel and smell clean and have no bad or mouldy marks on the outer surface. As pineapple stops ripening when picked, choose carefully and don’t select one that looks immature.

Pineapples can be stored at room temperature however they spoil easily and should be watched carefully. To keep it longer than a day or two, wrap in a plastic bag and store in the fridge for up to five days.

If you’ve cut your pineapple, store unused pieces in the fridge in an airtight container and use as soon as possible. They can be frozen however this will change the flavour so be careful.