How to Wash Fruits and Vegetables: A Comprehensive Guide

Reducing bacteria and residues on fruits and vegetables can be achieved by washing them with water. While produce with more crevices can be swished in a basin of water to remove dirt, most produce can be cleaned with a simple gentle scrape.

A nutritious approach to obtaining important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants is to eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.

Rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables well with water before eating has long been recommended to remove any unwanted residues from their surfaces.

 

Why it’s important to wash fresh produce

Regardless of a global pandemic, making it a habit to properly wash fresh fruits and vegetables is crucial to minimize the intake of potentially harmful residues and germs.

 

Before reaching your kitchen, fresh produce passes through the hands of various people in grocery stores or farmers markets. It’s prudent to assume that not every pair of hands touching the produce has been clean.

 

Given the constant flow of people in these environments, it’s also reasonable to assume that the fresh produce may have been exposed to coughing, sneezing, and breathing.

 

Thoroughly washing fresh fruits and vegetables before consumption can significantly reduce residues left on them during their journey to your kitchen.

 

Cleaning your fruits and vegetables is a straightforward process, though it’s easy to miss a step that could compromise the safety of the produce. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Choose Quality Produce: Start by selecting fresh produce without bruises, mold, or damage. If buying precut items, ensure they’ve been refrigerated or displayed on ice, and check the expiration date.
2. Proper Storage: Keep perishable fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator (unless they’re best at room temperature) at 40°F or below. Always refrigerate precut items.
3. Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before and after handling fresh produce.
4. Preparation Before Peeling: Wash the produce before peeling or shredding to prevent contaminants from transferring from the knife to the fruit or vegetable.
5. Rinsing Process: Hold the produce under cool running tap water, gently rubbing it as you rinse. No need for soap, except for mushrooms. Use a sharp paring knife to cut away damaged areas.
6. For Firm Produce: Use a clean vegetable brush to scrub surfaces of melons and winter squash.
7. Produce with Uneven Surfaces: Soak bumpy produce like cauliflower and broccoli for 1 to 2 minutes in cold water (after removing outer leaves), then rinse again.
8. Drying: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry the produce before using it.

 

Special Attention to Salad Greens

1. Leafy Lettuces: Discard wilted outer leaves, remove the root end, and separate leaves under cold running water.
2. Smaller Greens (Spinach, Arugula): Swirl them in a bowl or sink filled with cold water for about 30 seconds, shake gently, and drain in a colander.
3. Iceberg Lettuce: Remove the core by hitting the stem end on the countertop. Hold under cold running water, pulling leaves apart slightly, and invert to drain.
4. Mesclun: Rinse in a colander or salad spinner basket.

 

Additional Tips for Safely Washing Fruits and Vegetables

When it comes to ensuring the safety and health of your produce, it’s natural to consider going the extra mile in the cleaning process. Here are some important reminders for washing fruit, vegetables, and lettuce:

1. Avoid Soap or Detergents: Refrain from using soap or detergents when washing produce. Stick to simpler methods for effective cleaning.
2. No Need for Special Washes: You don’t have to invest in specialized produce washes. Using cool, clean, running tap water is sufficient for cleaning fruits and vegetables.
3. Wash Before Peeling: Clean all produce before using, even if you plan to peel it. Dirt and bacteria on the unwashed exterior can transfer into the fruit or vegetable when using a knife.

 

The Baking Soda Fruit Wash

A study at the University of Massachusetts Amherst revealed that a combination of baking soda and water was more effective at removing pesticides from apple skins than water alone. While our Test Kitchen found no harm in trying this fruit wash—soaking apples for 2 to 12 minutes in a solution of 1 tsp. baking soda and 2 cups water, then rinsing—we lack the tools to measure remaining pesticides.

Now that you know the right way to wash fruits and vegetables, you can confidently keep all your nutritious produce safe for use in berry desserts, healthy salads, or plant-based meals with just a little meat.

The Magical Black Spotted Banana You Would Actually Throw Away – But Read This First

We eat a lot of bananas. Well, not as much as a monkey does, but well, they’re our distant relatives. A banana is a very healthy source of sugar, potassium, Vitamins A, B and C, dietary fiber, iron and also – protein!

Bananas also play the role of antioxidant food, because they contain dopamine and catechin. But here’s a big secret the pharmacy doesn’t want you to know:

BANANAS ARE A FRUIT THAT COULD BEAT CANCER. And not that only – the black-spotted bananas are actually better than the completely yellow ones.

A study showed that eating 2 black sported bananas per day for a whole month, will boost your metabolism and fight those cancerogenic cells if you have them developed somewhere in your organism. 

 

Here are some of the many benefits.

1. Lowers the blood pressure

The potassium which is as substance present in the bananas has this ability. It actually balances the salt in our organism. A well balanced organism needs balanced sodium and potassium.

 

2. Improves digestion

If you’re struggling with diarrhea, heartburn, as well as constipation, you should definitely eat a banana. Or two. This is because they are “richer fruits” than the rest in ingredients, but also because they’re easy to digest.

 

3. Improves your memory, as well as your mood

You remember in cartoons how on the teacher’s desk there’s always an apple? Well, having a banana would be better, because they’re the best brain food, besides nuts. They supply the body with nutrients that are essential for a proper neurological function of the brain and our body. They help the nervous system and our brain to regular the mood swings, the appetite as well as the cognitive functions, such as the memory and focus.

 

4. Stabilizes diabetes

It is scientifically proven that a good and balanced diet improves the insulin levels, which are high in people who have diabetes. Because bananas are rich in potassium, fiber and Vitamin C, as well as healthy sugars (that still need to be recorded), they are a great food choice for diabetics.

 

5. Bananas protect the heart

Potassium consumption of approximately  4,069 mg per day has been scientifically proven to lower the risk at almost 50% of getting ischemic heart disease.

Instead of a conclusion, I will offer you this citate.

“Japanese researchers have proven that ripe bananas [help] fight cancer. As your banana ripens, its antioxidant levels rise, strengthening your immune system and increasing your white blood cells! In fact, ripe bananas are eight times as effective as their younger green siblings when it comes to elevating the cancer-fighting potential of white blood cells.”

How to Use Baking Soda to Wash Off 96% of All Toxic Pesticides from Your Fruits and Vegetables

 

Nowadays, people are becoming increasingly aware of the health concerns linked to the use of pesticides. 

 

According to the WHO( World Health Organization):

“Pesticides are chemicals used in agriculture to protect crops against insects, fungi, weeds and other pests. In addition to their use in agriculture, pesticides are also used to protect public health in controlling the vectors of tropical diseases, such as mosquitoes. 

But pesticides are also potentially toxic to humans. They may induce adverse health effects including cancer, effects on reproduction, immune or nervous systems. Before they can be authorized for use, pesticides should be tested for all possible health effects and the results should be analyzed by experts to assess any risks to humans.”

 

Researchers have found that baking soda is a versatile product that can offer a myriad of health issues, and among them, it can successfully get rid of up to 96% of pesticides from fruit and vegetables.

Additionally, studies have shown that it is even more effective than standard bleaching procedures, as it is a highly alkaline product that neutralizes chemicals and pesticides by breaking them down into molecules.

A team of researchers at the University of Massachusetts conducted a study on the effects of baking soda on gala apples. The apples were treated with two of the most common pesticides to the apples, phosmet, which is a known insecticide, and thiabendazole, a fungicide that has been found to penetrate apple peels and were afterward rinsed with three liquids.

The first one was tap water, the second a 1% baking soda/water solution, and the thirst was the most popular bleaching solution, approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

The results showed that the second solution removed the most pesticide residue from apples, even though it took it 12 to 15 minutes to fully eliminate all of them.

 

The lead author Dr. Lili He said:

‘Pesticide residues may remain on agricultural produce, where they contribute to the total dietary intake of pesticides. Concerns about potential hazards of pesticides to food safety and human health have increased, and therefore, it is desirable to reduce these residues.’

 

This powerful, eco-friendly produce wash will cleanse the fruits and vegetables and lower the risk of health issues due to the use of pesticides.

All you have to do is to add a few tablespoons of baking soda to a bowl of water and place the produce in the solution to soak for a few minutes. Rinse with cold water. Moreover, you can even scrub them with a bit of baking soda. Simple, but genuinely beneficial and powerful!

Additionally, despite washing the fruits and vegetables with this solution before use, can also follow the tips below to help you minimize the risk of pesticide exposure:

— Grow your own produce or buy organic and locally grown fruit and vegetables.

— Learn which foods have higher pesticide residue levels

— Use non-toxic strategies to control insects in the garden.

What Fruits And Veggies Looked Like Before Humans Domesticated Them

Our ancestors had the privilege to consume foods that are terrifyingly different that our fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, even the bananas you eat don’t have pretty much in common with the yellow delicacy your great-great-grandmother ate.

It’s so strange to know that watermelons and corn today look and taste different than “their ancestors.”

Farmers have selectively breed fruits and veggies. Yes, we’re talking about genetic engineering. This procedure now gives us produce with less seeds and more flesh. But, it isn’t as bright as it seems.

Selective breeding involves selection and cultivation of crops with “preferred” traits which is supposed to improve the taste of most foods. Watermelons are “made” to produce more flesh and less seeds. Believe it or not, bananas in the past had harder seeds than the fruits you eat today.

People have altered almost every fruit and vegetable, and now we eat something that is different than the foods our Paleolithic ancestors ate. Watch the video below for more highlights on the true story of selective breeding.

 

Pineberry – The Unique Healthy Fruit That Tastes Like Pineapple

As soon as pineberries were introduced to the market, which was not a long time ago, they quickly became an absolute hit!

Pineberries look like unripe strawberries, but they offer amazing health benefits! Pineberries are unique-looking, tasty delights with a characteristic, delicious taste.

Pineberries or Pineberry Strawberry, are also known as Ananaserdbeere in Europe, which is the German term for these fruits. They are similar to strawberries in appearance but to pineapples in taste. They have a white flesh with red seeds all over it and look extremely attractive.

They are in fact the oldest strawberries variety, and their appearance on the market came as a result of the crossing of Chilean white strawberry, Fragaria chiloensis, and North American red strawberry.

The result of this combination was Fragaria ananassa– which was a base material for numerous strawberry varieties.

These fruits usually grow from March to December, but their popular appearance might bring them on the edge of extinction.

Pineberries are rich in nutrients and are powerful antioxidants. This is the nutritive value of a pineberry, ( 2 oz serving):

Energy …………………………………………………………………………….. 577

Calories…………………………………………………………………………….. 138

Alcohol……………………………………………………………………………… 22.7g

Carbohydrates……………………………………………………………………  0g

Fiber…………………………………………………………………………………… 0g

Sugar………………………………………………………………………………….. 0g

Cholesterol………………………………………………………………………… 0g

Sodium………………………………………………………………………………. 0g

Fats……………………………………………………………………………………. 0g

 

Furthermore, these are some of the most important health benefits of this fruit:

Improve the Immune System:

These fruits are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, so they boost the immune system and prevent viruses and the flu.

 

Strengthen Bones and Teeth:

These fruits are also high in vitamin A, which is extremely important for strengthening bones and protection of the teeth.

 

Improve Heart Health:

Pineberries are high in potassium which controls blood pressure, and thus prevents heart failure, stroke, heart attacks, and cardiovascular diseases.

 

Powerful Antioxidants:

These fruits lower the oxidation in the body and prevent various conditions and diseases, such as heart diseases and cancer.

 

Prevent Digestive Problems:

Pineberries help the bowels moving since they are rich in fiber. Fiber also regulates cholesterol levels and prevents heart disease. These fruits provide a feeling of satiety and will keep you full for a long time.

 

Boost your energy levels:

Pineberries are high in carbs, which is not good for your weight, but keep your body energized.

 

Perfect for pregnant women:

These delicious fruits are rich in folate which is vital for the proper development of the fetus and is great for the prevention of birth deformities or defects of the baby.

Pineberries can be grown at home as well, and you can even purchase pineberry plants online and grow them in your garden.

How To Pick The Perfect Watermelon: 5 Key Tips From An Experienced Farmer

Especially in this time of the year, there is nothing more refreshing and delicious than a cold slice of watermelon. Yet, not all watermelons on the market are delicious, and it seems that picking the best one is up to chance.

Yet, apparently, you can actually judge the watermelon by its shell, as there are some useful tips on how to choose the right one. An experienced farmer provided 5 pieces of advice on how to spot the perfect watermelon:

 

Size

Size matters, it is true, but numerous people believe that the bigger the fruit, the better the taste. The reality is that the average-sized watermelons are the best.

 

Gender of the watermelon

The ‘boy’ watermelons, for instance, are more watery, while the ‘girl’ ones are sweeter. In order to recognize them, you should know that the boy watermelons are more elongated and taller, while the opposite ones are stout and more round.

 

Field Spot

All watermelons have such spots, but the color of the spot of the best ones is creamy-yellow or orange-yellow. Try to find one with a gold field spot.

 

Tail

The tail of this fruits shows the ripeness, so in order to get the watermelon with the best taste, always buy the one with a dried one. A green tail means that the fruit has been picked too soon, so its taste will not be the best for you.

 

Webbing

The webbing of a watermelon shows the number of times that bees touched the flower. Hence, the more signs of pollination, the sweeter the taste of the fruit is.

Make sure you remember these 5 perfect tips and you will always pick the perfect watermelon.

I Never Thought To Cut A Watermelon Like This. This Is So Smart (VIDEO)

No one really spends time thinking about how to slice the watermelon, so we simply do it as we were taught to.

We slice it, grab a slice, and another one, and that is pretty much all.

However, apparently, there is a technique which can make it much easier. First of all, think about all the fruit which remains on the rind while slicing the watermelon and the mess it all creates in the kitchen.

Yet, the following video will show you another way to cut the watermelon, and you will thus manage to avoid the mess and get much more fruit of it.

Initially, cut the watermelon in half, and make a tiny incision through the rind and around the center. This will snap the fruit in half, so just flip it to be on the end, and remove the peel.

The white rind can be removed afterward; you should cut off the top and take it off.

Then, cut it into small slices, turn the cutting board 90-degrees, and once more cut it into slices, but this time, in the opposite direction. Now, just place a bigger bowl over it, flip the cutting board and the slices of the delicious watermelon will be all placed in it.

Can it be easier? Just try it out a few times, and you will never cut the watermelon in the old way again!

 

Tomatillo Harvesting Guide - Best Time to Pick Tomatillos

Growers may ponder when to harvest tomatillos for the best flavor since tomatillos are a favorite in many vegetable gardens. Are green tomatoes the same as tomatillos? No, they are not the same. One tomatillo plant produces fruit to an almost absurd degree, which means you can create a lot of salsa verde or green salsa, as well as other delicious dishes with only a few tomatillo plants in your garden. Knowing when to harvest tomatillos ensures you pick the fruit at its most flavorful stage.

Physalis philadelphica and Physalis ixocarpa are the two types of tomatillos – there are many different kinds of both. Where does tomatillo come from? These nightshade family members are endemic to Mexico and Central America and have been central in Mexican cuisine in enchiladas, stews, and tomatillo salsa for hundreds of years.

After investing time during the growing season, it is unsurprising gardeners are eager to understand the intricacies of harvesting tomatillos to ensure their hard work is rewarded with delicious ripe tomatillo fruits. Ripe tomatillos not only look better but taste better. Selecting the correct tomatillo harvest time makes it easy to ensure ripe fruit every single harvest.

Easy Tips for When to Pick Tomatillos

When are tomatillos ready to pick? Known as the husk tomato or ground cherries, these bright green fruits look like a green tomato inside a papery husk.

Tomatillos are an excellent choice for your garden because they yield much fruit from a single plant. Since the plants do not self-pollinate, you need at least two or more tomatillo plants to ensure pollination so they can produce fruit. What to grow with tomatillos or ground cherries includes carrots or peas.

Tomatillo plants generate a lot of yellow blossoms. These flowers eventually convert into spherical, empty husks. The tomatillos begin to form there, ultimately filling in the husks and finally ripening to delicious fruits. Understanding when to pick tomatillos allows you to enjoy your harvest at its ripest.

Patience is required when growing tomatillos, whether growing tomatillos indoors in pots or containers or outside. Also known as Mexican ground cherries or Mexican husk tomatoes, tomatillos take a long time to ripen. If you’re impatient, you could even hand pollinate them.

However, once they begin to fruit, they are prolific producers. Harvest season is approaching as green lantern-like husks form on the plants.

 

How do I Plant Tomatillos in My Garden?

In warmer climates, grow tomatillos from seed right in your garden. If your USDA zone is cooler, start them indoors six weeks before the last frost to avoid the outdoor danger of frost damaging the seeds and preventing germination. When the weather is more favorable, your seeds are ready for transplanting in your garden.

Select your favorite tomatillo variety seeds. The Toma Verde is a popular choice due to its quick maturation and sweet taste.

Choose an area with full sun and well-drained soil and provide even watering, especially as fruits grow. Tomatillos grow in a similar way to tomato plants.

They require tomato cages or strong staking to support the heavy fruit to keep the laden stems from lying on the ground. Be vigilant for pests like aphids and snails, and treat promptly to avoid fruit damage. Mulching around the base of the plants helps conserve soil moisture.

 

How Long Does it Take for Tomatillos to Grow?

The tomatillo plant was first cultivated in the United States in the 1980s. Because of the plant’s newness, many gardeners are unfamiliar with it. If this is your first time growing tomatillos, you may wonder how long does it take for tomatillos to grow.

Before they start producing blooms and fruiting, tomatillos grow tall and have a lot of leaves. Fruit begins to ripen 60 to 80 days after transplantation if you start your tomatillo plant indoors, and it continues to produce until frost.

Picking tomatillos as they ripen allows the plant to continue fruiting, providing a bountiful harvest. When are tomatoes or tomatilos ripe? In 75 to 100 days, the fruits are ready to eat. Once they begin to bear fruit, the plants continue to produce until frost returns.

 

Understanding When to Harvest Tomatillos

Because each variety grows to a distinct tint, the color of the tomatillo fruit isn’t a good indicator of ripeness. The acidity and flavor of the early green fruits are the strongest, and they soften as they age.

The husk is the best sign of when to pluck a tomatillo. Fully ripe tomatillos are firm and turn yellow or purple if your plant is a purple tomatillo variety.

Harvest tomatillos when the fruits are still green since they have the most flavor. For sustained fruiting, it’s critical to understand when to harvest tomatillos. Choose fruits with burst husks and no evidence of disease, mold, or insect damage. Remove and compost any damaged fruits.

From mid-summer until late fall, the best time to harvest tomatillos is in the morning. Keep monitoring the husk on the outside of the tomatillo to determine when it’s time to pick it. The fruit expands to fill the husk, and the plant produces papery shells. Pick tomatillos as soon as the dry skin separates.

Underripe tomatillos have a loose papery husk, and the fruit feels small and hard inside the covering. Harvesting at this stage produces fruit that is not pleasant to eat.

Overripe tomatillos have an extremely dry husk and fruit with larger seeds and less flavor. Ripe tomatillo fruit fills the husk, feels slightly soft to the touch, and tastes the best.

 

How to Harvest Tomatillos with Ease

Once you know when are tomatillos ready to pick, next comes how to harvest tomatillos.

One tomatillo plant produces 60 to 200 fruits in a growing season or a massive two and a half pounds of fruit per plant. Pick tomatillos every 7 to 14 days to keep your plants producing for a higher yield.

 

Tomatillo Harvesting Supplies

• Garden pruner or clean scissors
• Basket or container

 

To harvest tomatillos, twist the fruits gently or cut them off at the vine using a garden pruner or clean scissors. Collect fruits and place gently in a basket or container to avoid bruising. When removing a small portion of the husk, the fruit should be shiny and free of blemishes.

Like their tomato counterparts, ripe tomatillos may fall off the vine when they’re ready. Check around the base of your plants once you’ve determined they’re almost ready to ensure you don’t miss collecting any fallen fruits.

Tomatillos continue to bear fruit into the fall. Tomatillos drop into the garden when they’re ripe and begin to decay. Attempt to pull them from the dirt before the fruit breaks.

As the fruit starts to rot on the ground, you’ll have a mushy mess on your hands during fall cleanup. Furthermore, seedlings emerge in the spring if the seeds stay on the ground during the winter. This is fine to grow plants in your garden again, but if you don’t remove the fruit, they become a persistent nuisance and compete with other crops.

 

Storing and Using Tomatillos after Harvest

You’ll have plenty of tasty fruit to share with family and friends once you’ve learned how to plant tomatillos. To store tomatillos, keep them cold and dry. They keep for approximately a week on the counter and three weeks in the fridge in a paper bag. Keep the husks on the fruit until ready to use to extend the shelf life.

Depending on the variety you planted, ripe tomatillos are green, purple, or yellow when peeled. When tomatillos are still green, they are ripe. As they turn yellow, the acidic flavor they’re famed for fades. Purple tomatillos have a sweeter taste.

Remove the rest of the paper husks from your tomatillos before eating them. They should peel away easily. Because the husks make the fruit sticky, give it a good rinsing in warm water before eating to remove any residue.

Use chopped fresh tomatillos in guacamole or salsa. Roasted or sautéed tomatillos are great in sauces and salsas. Tomatillos are somewhat more acidic and citrusy than tomatoes but easily substitute them in any cuisine with tomatoes in the recipe.

Tomatillos are often blended into a delicious sauce to pour over enchiladas. They’re delicious in salads or as part of tasty green salsa.

When to pick tomatillos has troubled gardeners for years. As color is a poor indicator, studying the husk and understanding when to harvest tomatillos for best results is critical.

Unlike tomatoes, tomatillos can’t be placed in a sunny spot to ripen after harvesting as they won’t mature further after removal from the plant. When to pick tomatillos needs to be more precisely timed than tomatoes, but it is possible with a little knowledge.

Whatever your USDA zone, give these delicious fruits a try. They are heavy producers generating lots of fruit per plant, making them a great choice to get more crops for the space they use in your garden. The fruits store well and are easy to use in green salsa or be canned to enjoy in the off-season.

If you enjoyed this article on when to harvest tomatillos, share these helpful tips on how to harvest tomatillos with your family and friends on Pinterest and Facebook.

 

source: tipsbulletin

This Fruit Will Fight Insomnia and Boost Brain Function in Minutes

After learning the health benefits of this amazing fruit called quenepa, you will definitely want it to be in your kitchen.

It is popularly known as Spanish lime, and it is extremely effective in treating insomnia and boosting the function of the brain.

It originates from the north of South America, but it also grown in the Caribbean and Central America. It has a delicate, jelly- like flesh, soft, leathery texture, and a hard shell, and people usually combine it with some chilly, lime, and a pinch of salt, as it has a sweet and sour taste.

According to experts, it is a combination of lime and lychee.

Actually, it s popularity in the United States is due to its similarity to limes, but it yellow or orange. It is colorful fruit with a pulp which encloses the seeds.

 

This miraculous fruit is high in numerous nutrients, such as:

• Minerals;
• Amino acids;
• Vitamin C;
• Protein;
• Vitamins B1, B3, B6 and B12;
• Iron;
• Thiamine;
• Unsaturated fatty acids (oleic and linoleic);
• Riboflavin;
• Fiber;
• Tryptophan;
• Niacin;
• Tannins;
• Calcium;

Due to its high amounts of fiber, this fruit is effective in preventing high cholesterol levels and chronic constipation.

Additionally, it is rich in vitamin A, which prevents the formation of urinary tract stones, and strengthens the immune system. It is rich in phosphorus, which balances the hormones, helps digestion, heals asthma issues, and lowers blood pressure.

It is also high in minerals such as calcium, which strengthens the teeth and bones, and numerous antioxidants which prevent free radical damage and cancer.

Experts claim that quenepa contains a phenolic compound which strengthens the immune system and prevents heart diseases.

This is only a small part of its innumerate medicinal uses, so many people believe it to be one of the healthiest fruits on the planet.

 

Quenepa also:

• Eliminates parasites;
• Prevents bronchitis and the flu;
• Strengthens the immune system and prevents bacterial buildup in the body;
• Treats and prevents kidney problems;
• Stimulates red blood cell production, preventing anemia;
• Improves the reproductive system’s function;
• Soothes gum infections;
• Prevents and treats urinary and lung infections;
• Reduces high cholesterol and triglyceride levels;
• treats skin issues;
• Treats constipation;

 

Also, in the case of diarrhea, mix a few roasted quenepa seeds with honey and you will quickly solve the problem.

 

Due to the high content of important nutrients, this fruit is extremely beneficial for the overall health. Therefore, do not wait and incorporate it into your regular diet as soon as possible!

20 Fruits for Radiant Skin

 

Having radiant, glowing skin is often a reflection of overall health and wellness. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by incorporating nutrient-rich fruits into your diet. Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and hydration, all of which contribute to healthy skin. Here are 20 fruits that can help you achieve a radiant complexion.

 

1. Avocado

Avocados are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which help to keep skin moisturized and supple. They also contain vitamins E and C, which protect the skin from oxidative damage and support collagen production.

 

2. Papaya

Papayas are a great source of vitamin C, which helps in the production of collagen, a protein that gives skin its elasticity. They also contain papain, an enzyme that helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores.

 

3. Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. They also contain vitamins A and C, which support skin health.

 

4. Strawberries

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis. They also contain alpha hydroxy acids, which help to exfoliate the skin and reduce signs of aging.

 

5. Pineapple

Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the skin. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which aids in collagen production and skin repair.

 

6. Kiwi

Kiwis are loaded with vitamin C, which helps to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They also contain vitamin E, which protects the skin from oxidative damage.

 

7. Pomegranate

Pomegranates are known for their high antioxidant content, which helps to fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. They also contain ellagic acid, which can help to protect against UV-induced skin damage.

 

8. Mango

Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which help to maintain healthy skin. Vitamin A helps to repair damaged skin cells, while vitamin C aids in collagen production and skin regeneration.

 

9. Orange

Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is crucial for collagen synthesis. The antioxidants in oranges also help to protect the skin from sun damage and pollution.

 

10. Watermelon

Watermelons are incredibly hydrating, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin. They also contain lycopene, an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from UV damage.

 

11. Banana

Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps to keep the skin hydrated. They also contain vitamins A, B, and E, which help to repair and protect the skin.

 

12. Apple

Apples contain vitamins A and C, which are essential for skin health. They also have malic acid, which helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and promote a brighter complexion.

 

13. Lemon

Lemons are high in vitamin C, which helps to brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. The citric acid in lemons also helps to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells.

 

14. Grapes

Grapes are rich in antioxidants, particularly resveratrol, which helps to protect the skin from damage and reduce inflammation. They also contain vitamins C and K, which support skin health.

 

15. Peach

Peaches are packed with vitamins A and C, which help to maintain healthy skin. They also contain antioxidants that help to fight free radicals and reduce signs of aging.

 

16. Cherries

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage. They also contain vitamins A and C, which support skin health and repair.

 

17. Coconut

Coconuts are incredibly hydrating, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin. They also contain healthy fats and antioxidants that help to nourish and protect the skin.

 

18. Guava

Guavas are a great source of vitamin C, which helps to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity. They also contain antioxidants that protect the skin from damage.

 

19. Raspberries

Raspberries are rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage. They also contain vitamin C, which aids in collagen production and skin repair.

 

20. Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit is high in antioxidants, which help to fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. It also contains vitamins C and B, which support skin health and hydration.

Incorporating these fruits into your diet can provide your skin with the essential nutrients it needs to stay healthy and radiant. Enjoy them fresh, in smoothies, or as part of a balanced meal to reap the full benefits for your skin.

Amazing Health Benefits of Guava Leaves for Skin, Hair and Health

Guava is a super tropical fruit because of its numerous health-promoting qualities. Along with the fruit, the bark and leaves of guava trees also provide numerous health benefits. Guava has a high content of vitamins C and A. In fact, one guava fruit contains 4 times more vitamin C than an average-size orange and 10 times more vitamin A than a lemon. It also contains vitamins B2, E and K, fiber, calcium, copper, folate, iron, manganese, phosphorus and potassium. With all the nutrition that it provides, guava hardly contains any fats. Moreover, it is one of the least chemically treated and sprayed fruits. What most people do not know is that the fruit is not the only part of the plant that is good for you.

Guava leaves are amazing for your skin, hair and health in general. In this article we are going to show you the top 17 amazing health benefits provided by guava leaves:

1. It is especially recommended for men who deal with fertility problems.
2. Guava leaves offer an amazing aid against hair loss. Boil some guava leaves and let the cool at room temperature. Gently massage your scalp to stop any further hair loss.
3. This tea provides strong antimicrobial properties which make it effective in the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery.
4. Treat bronchitis and coughs with guava leaf tea.
5. Guava leaf tea stops carbohydrates from turning into sugar and thus suppresses appetite. This will also help you keep fit.
6. Guava leaf tea is also great for upset stomach and provides a great help in cases of food poisoning.
7. Diabetics should drink guava leaf tea regularly as it reduces blood sugar level and does not stimulate insulin secretion.
8. Guava leaf tea also decreases bad LDL cholesterol without affecting good HDL cholesterol levels.
9. Chew guava leaves to relieve toothache, inflamed gums and sores in the oral cavity.
10. Boil 9 guava leaves in 5 cups of water until the amount you have in your pot reduces by half. This is great in the treatment of dengue.
11. Guava leaf tea has shown to be effective in treating enlarged prostate and cancer.
12. Apply crushed guava leaves onto affected areas to relieve itching caused by allergies.
13. The same applies to insect bites.
14. Guava leaves are high in vitamin C, which makes them your best ally in the fight against acne and pimples.
15. Apply crushed guava leaves onto minor cuts like abrasion or scrapes to prevent infections. Prepare guava leaf tea to relieve an outer ear infection. Drop some guava tea cooled at room temperature onto the affected area.
16. Crush a few guava leaves and stir in a tiny amount of water. Use this instead of your regular face scrub to remove blackheads naturally.
17. The same combination does miracles when it comes to preventing premature skin aging.

Lemon vs. Lime, Only One Is Better For Your Health

What do you prefer, lemon or a lime? They are almost alike, right? Of course, they do differ in size, color, and flavor, but many people in the world consider them the same. Lemons and limes obviously belong to the same family of fruits and they both are citrus fruits. They are almost similar when it comes to their nutritional benefits, but, still, they have differences as well. If you don’t have any lemons at home, you can just limes instead.

 

The Differences

Do you know the scientific name for lemons? Scientifically, lemons are called Citrus Limon, and while limes are known as Citrus aurantifolia. You can easily make a difference between these two citrus fruits. While lemons are yellow in both flesh and skin, and the limes have the green colon on their skin and flesh. And, when it comes to size, the lemons are larger. They are usually two or three inches in diameter. And the limes are generally only one to two inches in diameter.

Now let’s say words about their taste and shape. When it comes to taste, lemons are quite sour, while limes can be sweet sometimes, but they can also be biter as well. And, about their shape, lemons are oval, while limes are round. But, you can also find limes that are also oval in shape. They both are loaded with Vitamin C, because they are citrus fruits. But, here comes the good part – lemons have a slight edge as they almost have two times more Vitamin C than the other. Lemon has 53 milligrams and lime has only 29 milligrams for every 100 grams of lemon and lime respectively. Also, lemons have more potassium and folate than limes. But, limes contain more Vitamin A than lemons.

 

The Similarities

Well, to be honest, there is nothing more different in lemons and limes, especially when it comes to the nutrients they offer. They both are excellent sources of many healthy nutrients, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, folate, potassium and they are loaded with antioxidants. These two citrus fruits have Flavonoids that can prevent you from having cancer. They also contain limonoides that are known to be healthy and extremely useful when it comes to fighting carcinogens. So, this is why lemons and limes are considered to be extremely beneficial and useful in removing cells that may cause cancer. These two citrus fruits can also alkalize your entire body, so they are extra helpful in removing the toxic wastes from your body. We all know that if you have to much acid in your body, this can lead to cellular damage. Medical experts also say that too much toxic waste in your body can cause inflammation, which is also harmful and it is discovered to be one of the causes of serious illnesses, including heart disease and diabetes type 2.

So, what’s the bottom line? They both are amazing, healthy and delicious fruits. Lemons have a little bit of advantage over limes in some areas, but there is no doubt that they both are amazing and extremely beneficial for your health. If you enjoyed this post, make sure you share it with your friends and family. Thank you.

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Eat Cherries For Falling Asleep Faster. They Are A Great Late-Night Snack

 

If you’re looking for a delicious late-night snack that can also help you drift off into dreamland, consider adding tart cherries to your evening routine. These little red gems not only taste delightful but also offer potential sleep benefits. In this article we will give you a couple of more reasons to consume cherries more often.

 

Brain

Cherries can improve your concentration, as well as optimize your brain function.

 

Skin & Eyes

Cherries contain multiple times more vitamin A than strawberries and blueberries which settles on them an amazing choice for those dealing with skin and vision issues.

Antioxidants prevent from premature-maturing, lower blood cholesterol and improve digestion.

 

Insomnia

A bunch of fruits can explain anything. Melatonin decreases body temperature and makes you sleepy. The ideal prep for a decent night’s rest, huh? Quit taking dozing pills, and eat fruits before sleep time.

 

Depression

The natural sugars that are contained in the cherries can improve your mood and boost your energy. Therefore, the next time you feel moody or depressed, eat a handful of cherries, instead of having some chocolate or soda.

Just make sure that the cherries you buy are from a trusted source, and they’re organic. You don’t need anything that is coming packed with pesticides and chemicals. Also it is a good idea to grow your own cherries, and it doesn’t require a lot of effort. Plus, the cherry blossoms are magnificent!

12 Health Benefits of Lime and Lemon That You Probably Haven’t Heard Of Yet

 

Lime and lemon add refreshing zest to almost any drink which cleanse and enhance immune properties of your already healthy glass of juice.

Lime: The lime is a small citrus fruit, like a small orange, with skin and flesh that are green in color.

It is round with a diameter of about one to two inches. Most limes are sourish and have an acidic taste, but when consumed is really alkaline.

Lemon: The lemon is a small, oval-shaped fruit which is approximately two to three inches in diameter. Its outer peel is bright yellow in color and contains essential oil that is mainly limonene. Like the lime, lemon has a sourish and acidic taste, but when consumed has an alkaline effect in the stomach.

 

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF LIME AND LEMON

The nutritional benefits of limes do not differ very much from those of lemons. They are both excellent sources of vitamin C, B6, potassium, folate, flavonoids and the outstanding phytochemical, limonene.

Limonene have anti-cancer effects and help increase the level of enzymes that detoxify carcinogens.

 

HEALTH BENEFITS OF LIME AND LEMON

Limes and lemons contain outstanding phytochemicals that are high in antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. They are potent detoxifiers with anti-biotic effect that is protective against bacterial poisoning.

Asthma:  Take a tablespoon of lemon juice at least one hour before each meal to relieve asthma.

Burning soles/feet:  Rub a sliced lemon over the burning sole/foot/heel to relieve from pain and for toxin elimination through the pores of the feet.

Cholera:  The potent anti-viral properties in lime/lemon can kill cholera bacilli within a very short period of time. Drink one part juice and one part water regularly, especially during an epidemic.

Cold:  The anti-viral properties in lime/lemon fight infections and halt the progress of a cold. Take the juice of two lemons in half a liter of hot water and add raw honey to taste. Sip it slowly before bedtime.

Constipation:  Drink a glass of warm water every morning with some lime/lemon juice with raw honey. Stir in a pinch of cinnamon powder. This will help your body to detoxify and relieve constipation.

Digestion:  Lime/lemon juice have amazing digestive qualities that are very similar to our digestive enzymes. Thus it is effectively helps with digestion and relieve bloating and belching.

Feet, tired:  After a long day on your feet, soak your feet in very warm water containing lime/lemon juice to enjoy the cooling, astringent feeling. This will also help promote deep sleep due to the relaxing action on the foot nerves.

Gums, swollen:  Drink a glass of diluted fresh lime juice with a pinch of sea salt to relieve the pain of swollen gums. Use the albedo (the white matter under the peel) from the squeezed lime and rub on the gums.

Heartburn:  Add two teaspoon of concentrated lime/lemon juice into a glass of warm water and drink to relieve heartburn.

Inflammatory disorders:  Even though lime/lemon juice are sour and taste acidic, it is actually very alkalinizing in the body and is highly effective in the treatment of inflammatory disorders like rheumatism, arthritis, sciatica, etc. It also prevents the deposit of uric acid in the tissues, thus reducing the risks of gout.

Skin, dry:  Rub the peel of a lemon on dry or scaly skin to restore softness and add moisture to the skin.

Sore throat:  Mix one part lemon juice with one part water. Gargle frequently and feel its soothing effect on the throat. You may also add in a pinch of sea salt for added effect.

 

CONSUMPTION TIPS

The highest content of limonene is found in the white spongy inner parts of the lemon. When juicing a lemon, put in the whole fruit together with the peel, to get the most nutrition out of it (be sure to wash and brush the dirt off the skin before doing so.)

Make it a habit to put in cut limes/lemons (together with peel) into your drinking water or juices, to enjoy all its medicinal properties. With lemon juice in your drink, the absorbability of the other nutrients in your drink is increased up to five times!

 

Tip: Juice a glass of either lime or lemon juice and make ice cubes out of it. When you have a drink, pop a few lime/lemon cubes into your drink for a refreshing taste while enjoying its immense health benefits.

When buying lemons, look at the stem end of the lemon. There should be about four or five little lines radiating out of the stem. The greater the number of these lines, the higher the mineral content of the lemon.

11 Reasons Why We Should Eat Pineapple Daily. Number 4 Is Most Important

A sweet tropical fruit, pineapples have been enjoyed for centuries for both their unusual flavor and what seems to be their miraculous energy-giving properties.

 

Health and medicinal benefits of Pineapple

Include their ability to improve respiratory health, cure coughs and colds, improve digestion, help you lose weight, strengthen bones, improve oral health, boost eye health, reduce inflammation, prevent cancer, increase heart health, fight off infections and parasites, improve the immune system, and improve circulation.

Pineapple has a few leaves on top and a hard shell with thorns and spikes. Many people love pineapple juice. It is particularly popular and used in various cocktails including pina colada.

Despite being uniquely tasty, pineapple provides many health benefits and can improve your overall health.

It is packed with important nutrients including vitamins B6 and C, beta-carotene, folate, manganese, magnesium copper, and calcium. Check out the best 11 health benefits of pineapples.

1. Treat arthritis

Pineapples have potent anti-inflammatory properties and can treat arthritis and reduce joint pain. They are packed with bromelain, an enzyme that is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

Many people reported that pineapple juice helped them reduce the symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

 

2. Boosts the immune system

A single serving of pineapple has more than 130% of the daily requirement of Vitamin-C for human beings, making it one of the richest and most delicious sources of ascorbic acid.  Vitamin C is mainly associated with reducing illness and boosting the immune system by stimulating the activity of white blood cells and acting as an antioxidant to defend against the harmful effects of free radicals. Pineapple can also fight free radicals which can contribute to various chronic diseases such as cancer.

 

3. Accelerate the healing process

Vitamin C has the ability to boost the production of collagen in the body and improve the health of your skin, muscles, blood vessels, bones, and tissues.

Due to its high content of vitamin C, pineapple can accelerate the healing of injuries and wounds and treat many infections and diseases.

 

4. Prevents cancer

Pineapples contain antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin A, bromelain, beta-carotene, and flavonoids which can treat various types of cancer. In addition to the antioxidant potential of vitamin C in the battle against cancer, pineapples are also rich in various other antioxidants, including vitamin A, beta carotene, bromelain, various flavonoid compounds, and high levels of manganese, which is an important co-factor of superoxide dismutase, an extremely potent free radical scavenger that has been associated with a number of different cancers.

Pineapple is also packed with manganese, which can fight free radicals and treat oral, throat, and breast cancer.

 

5. Improve your digestion

Pineapples are rich in fiber which can boost your digestion and prevent numerous digestive problems, including constipation and diarrhea.

Fiber keeps your blood pressure in check and controls the passage of food through the digestive tract. The soluble and insoluble fiber found in this fruit can bulk up your stool and treat atherosclerosis and IBS. Fiber can also regulate your cholesterol levels.

 

6. Treat coughs and colds

Vitamin C has the ability to prevent infections and colds. Combined with bromelain, it can provide even better results.

This powerful combination will thin out the mucus in the airways and sinus cavities, which in turn promotes quick elimination and treats coughs and colds.

 

7. Improve the health of your bones

Pineapples are an excellent source of manganese, a mineral which is essential for your bones. One pineapple has up to 70% of the RDA of manganese. This is more than enough to maintain your bones strong.

 

8. Improve your oral health

Due to their astringent properties, pineapples can relieve the inflammation in the gums and reinforce them. This will keep your teeth healthy.  Along with the antioxidant compounds that protect against oral cancer, pineapples also have astringent properties, which strengthen gums and make sure that your teeth do not become loose. Astringent agents help to tighten up tissues and tone the body so things like tooth loss, hair loss, and muscle weakness or skin loosening do not occur.

This fruit can also prevent bone and teeth loss and strengthen your gums. Pineapple is often recommended as a natural remedy against gum recession and loose teeth.

 

9. Improve your eye health

Pineapples are rich in beta-carotene that can prevent many vision problems including macular degeneration. You should consume this fruit more often to boost your eyesight and improve your eye health.

 

10. Regulate your blood pressure

Pineapples are an excellent source of minerals, including potassium which can regulate your blood pressure and maintain your cardiovascular health.

Potassium is a powerful vasodilator which can relieve the stress in the blood vessels and improve your blood flow. In this way, pineapple prevents blood clots and accumulation of plaque in the arteries.

 

11. Boost your blood circulation

Despite supplying your body with potassium, pineapple has the ability to boost your copper levels. This mineral is important for various enzymatic reactions in your body.

It plays an important role in the production of red blood cells, which lead to increased oxygenation in the cells and improved organ function.

Many studies claim that pineapple can improve your cognitive abilities and treat neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Even though this fruit provides many health benefits, make sure to consume it in moderation. Bromelain is a meat tenderizer which can make your lips, gums, and tongue more sensitive.

Amazing Health Benefits Of Avocado Seeds

You've been discarding avocado seeds without realizing that they control thyroid issues!

Many people love avocados as their favorite fruit, but many do not benefit from their nutritional qualities because the best part of an avocado is unquestionably the avocado seed.

Compared to most other fruits and some vegetables, these seeds have the highest levels of antioxidants. In particular, avocado seeds contain up to 70% of all the antioxidants found in avocados.

Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monosaturated fats that promote coronary heart health, and their seeds are a bountiful source of amino acids that help ward off heart attacks and strokes.

Additionally, avocado seeds reduce swellings in the gastrointestinal tract, relieve inflammation, and lower LDL cholesterol levels.

 

How to Eat Avocado Seed

It might be a wonder to some people, but avocado seeds are surely edible. With the nutrients gained in it, along with the anti-cancer advantages, it is time you stop throwing the seed to the trash. After removing the seed from the fruit, put it in some plastic bag. Next, you can safely break it using a hammer. Once broken, add it to your preferred smoothie, just like you would with other smoothies foods, like chia seeds. You can also mix it in a blender after breaking it with a hammer.

 

Eating these seeds frequently will also strengthen the body immune system. Avocados are affluent in flavonol which limits common flu and colds. The high ranges of catechins and procyanidins, which are potent anti-inflammatories, treat swellings, soothe joint discomfort, and also reduce stiffness.

 

Most important health benefits, of avocado seeds:

1. Relax the muscle mass if applied topically
2. Support the formation of collagen
3. Regulate thyroid disorder
4. Treating diarrhea
5. Treat fatigue
6. Cure blemishes
7. Prevent epilepsy

The avocado seeds will make stronger your regular health in several ways. Even even though you would possibly assume that their loss is impossible. This is how you can put together them to appreciate all their beneficial qualities!

17 Amazing Benefits Of Dates For Skin, Hair And Health

 

Dates are not only a delicious and versatile fruit, but they also pack a powerful nutritional punch, providing numerous benefits for your skin, hair, and overall health. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, dates have been enjoyed for centuries for their natural goodness. In this article, we will explore 17 amazing benefits of dates that can help you achieve a radiant complexion, luscious hair, and improved well-being.

 

Dates Health Benefits

1. Cholesterol and fat:
Dates are free from any cholesterol content and do not contain fat in excess amounts. You can easily avoid food that makes you obese and start having dates.

2. Proteins:
Proteins are required by the body in a readily assimilated manner and they are the main building blocks for muscles. They are very essential for regular functioning of the body and hence getting them from a protein rich source such as dates is a very fine idea.

3. Vitamins:
Dates are also rich in various forms of Vitamins associated with its consumption. Vitamins such as B1, B2, B3 and B5 are very common with others such as A1 and C making the effort of obtaining Vitamins even easier.

4. Energy:
This is one of the top benefits of eating dates. Energy is very important in our busy schedules these days. Hence carrying dates for a quick bite is a very good option as the natural sugars in it boost the energy in the body instantly and gives you immediate results. It avoids the need for you to have a snack or a low calorie energy meal.

5. Potassium and Sodium:
Dates are rich in potassium and have very less sodium which is a good combination for a healthy nervous system. The potassium intake has the capability to solve the risk of a stroke in the body and it also helps in reducing cholesterol.

6. Iron:
Iron is an important element for the human body but often people fail to consumer the adequate amounts due to the difference in the ingredients in their meals. Dates are rich sources for iron which can be very helpful for iron deficiency. The fluorine content in dates also helps from tooth decaying.

7. Constipation:
People suffering from constipation have dates soaked in the water for better results. Having this helps in some serious issues with constipation to quite an extent.

8. Weight gain and intoxication:
Dates are good supplements for weight gain and should be consumed by the under nourished or people who want to lose weight. The way of consuming dates might differ though. They are also used for detoxifying the body after over consumption of alcohol.

9. Sexual advantage:
Dates are known to increase one’s sexual stamina for which they have been used even as aphrodisiacs since ages. It is consumed with goat milk in which it is soaked overnight.

10. Abdominal cancer cure:
Dates have no side effects and can be blindly consumed in your daily diet easily. Dates help in curing abdominal cancer and are also known to improve eyesight and night blindness.With the above health benefits, one must make it a habit to include dates in their daily diet.

 

Dates Skin Benefits

Besides being one of the sweetest fruits in the world, dates are loaded with vitamins A, B1, B2, protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium. These contribute to the overall health, including the health of the skin. Thus, the benefit of dates for your skin are the following ways:

11. Improves Skin Elasticity:
Dates are a good source of vitamin C and vitamin P. These help enhance the skin’s elasticity. These also enrich the subcutaneous tissues, thus making your skin tender and smooth. Hence, proper intake of dates can combat various skin problems, as well as strengthen the elasticity of your skin.

12. Anti-ageing Benefits:
Free radicals damage your skin cells, causing premature ageing of skin. Vitamin C present in dates helps resist oxidation. It also prevents the accumulation of melanin inside your body, thus decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. Red dates have been considered as an herbal elixir of life. They are renowned for enriching and replenishing blood, thus providing you with a youthful looking skin.

13. Treatment of Skin Problems:
Vitamin B contained in dates is beneficial for your skin. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to several skin problems. Being a natural source of vitamin B, dates can help remove skin problems like stretch marks.

14. Benefits of Dates Oil:
The oil extracted from dates is loaded with the nutritional value of dates. They also contain anti-microbial properties which make it a perfect massage oil to treat skin problems. In fact, it is a popular age-old remedy for regenerating and rejuvenating ageing skin, cuts and scars.

Dates Hair Benefits
The health of your hair depends upon your overall health. Hair follicles require adequate supply of nutrients for optimal growth and maintenance. Being packed with these nutrients, dates offer the following benefits to your hair:

15. Strengthens the Hair Follicles:
Dates are excellent for your hair. Consuming 2 to 3 dates every day will strengthen your hair follicles and make your hair strands stronger and healthier.

16. Combats Hair Loss:
Vitamin B contained in dates is beneficial for your hair. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to weak and brittle hair. Anaemia is also one of the causes of hair loss, especially among women. Dates contain iron which can effectively cure anaemia caused during menstruation and delivery. Thus, eating dates is a natural way of treating hair loss problems. In case of excessivehair fall, dry dates can nourish your hair roots, thus making your hair stronger. This is one of the most popular benefits of dry dates.

17. Dates Oil for Healthy Hair:

Being packed with nutrients, dates oil is excellent for your hair as it strengthens the hair follicles and helps combat hair problems.

 

How to Select and Store?

Selection:

• Dates are generally sold whole and packaged in narrow boxes or pressed into blocks.
• While buying fresh dates, look for plump, moist and unbruised fruits that are soft with glossy skins.
• Fresh dates can be slightly wrinkled but they should not feel hard and should not have crystallized sugar on their skins.
• Fresh and dried dates have a similar appearance except that dried dates are a little wrinkly.
• They should not look emaciated and should be plump and glossy with an even colour.

Storage:

• Fresh dates should be kept in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
• Dried dates, having a longer shelf life, can be stored in the same manner for up to 1 year.
• Freezing the dates extends their lifespan when kept in an airtight plastic bag or container.

 

Tips for Usage (Cooking/Eating)

Due to their sweet and chewy texture, dates can be consumed directly without any additions. Before proceeding to consume dates or use them in cooking, make sure you wash them thoroughly. Moreover, you should buy and eat only those dates which have been properly packed and processed. Dates are, indeed, one of the quickest and easiest fruits that can be eaten. Given below are a few tips to enjoy these delicious fruits.

 

1. Good Snacks & Also Flavour Enhancers:

Dried dates can be eaten directly as snacks. They can also be soaked in liquids like tea or various types of alcohol to boost their flavour and moisture.

 

2. Tips to Remove the Seed from Flesh:

To remove the seed from a fresh date, push it out with your fingers by slitting it open lengthways. Remove and push the flesh closed again. Its flesh can be removed by pulling off the stem and then pinching at one end to push the flesh out.

 

3. Perfect for Stuffing:

Dates can be stuffed with fillings like almonds, walnuts, candied orange and cream cheese. Dates are perfect for stuffing. They can be stuffed with almonds or pecans and rolled in powdered sugar. Place them on greased wax paper in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They can be served with tea or coffee.

 

4. Perfect Ingredient for Fruit Salads:

They can be chopped and added to fruit salads as well as a range of sweet and savoury dishes.

• Stir together shallot and lime juice in a small bowl and allow it to stand for 5 minutes.
• Whisk in olive oil, sugar and salt.
• Cut and peel the white pith from grapefruit with a sharp knife and cut the sections free from membranes.
• Toss some dates with mustard greens in a large bowl.
• Toss the mustard greens with dressing and salt to taste.
• This salad can be topped with grapefruit sections and garnished with pomegranate seeds.

 

5. Used to Prepare ‘Jallab’:

Dates are also used to prepare juice. This is combined with grape molasses and rose water to prepare the syrup called “Jallab” which is popular in the Middle East.

 

6. As Chocolate Dips:

Chocolate covered dates are a perfect dessert choice.

• Dip your dates in chocolates and place them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• You can stuff these dates with a nut of your choice.
• Melt some chocolate in a microwave safe bowl for about 3 minutes, stirring while cooking.
• With the help of a skewer, dip each date in chocolate
• Allow the excess chocolate to fall by carefully rotating the skewer.
• These dipped dates can be placed in the parchment and sprinkled with coconut flakes.
• Refrigerate them for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.

 

7. Used in Preparation of Sandwich:

You can prepare a delicious sandwich by combining dates with peanut butter and bananas.

• Lightly toast whole wheat pita bread and cut each in halves.
• Open the pita pockets
• Spread 2 tablespoons peanut butter on one side of the inside of each pita pocket.
• Sprinkle some chopped dates over peanut butter and drizzle with honey.
• Divide banana slices among pita pockets and close the sandwiches, pressing slightly.

 

8. For Candies & Decorating Buns:

In the Middle East, dates are made into a paste which is eaten with fruits, or turned into candies or even used for decorating buns.

With so many options of having dates, we are absolutely sure that you will include this healthy fruit in your diet.

Principle	Nutrient Value	Percentage of RDA
Energy	277 Kcal	14%
Carbohydrates	74.97 g	58%
Protein	1.81g	3%
Total Fat	0.15 g	<1%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Dietary Fiber	6.7 g	18%
Vitamins
Folates	15 µg	4%
Niacin	1.610 mg	10%
Pantothenic acid	0.805 mg	16%
Pyridoxine	0.249 mg	19%
Riboflavin	0.060 mg	4.5%
Thiamin	0.050 mg	4%
Vitamin A	149 IU	5%
Vitamin C	0 mg	0%
Vitamin K	2.7 µg	2%
Electrolytes
Sodium	1 mg	0%
Potassium	696 mg	16%
Minerals
Calcium	64 mg	6.5%
Copper	0.362 mg	40%
Iron	0.90 mg	11%
Magnesium	54 mg	13%
Manganese	0.296 mg	13%
Phosphorus	62 mg	9%
Zinc	0.44 mg	4%
Phyto-nutrients
Carotene-ß	89 µg	–
Crypto-xanthin-ß	0 µg	–
Lutein-zeaxanthin	23 µg	–

 

You Should Know What Banana Color Is Best For Your Health

 

Bananas are a favorite of almost everyone in the world. It makes sense given their tremendous utility in addition to their fantastic taste.

This fruit is favored by many people who are on diets because it not only provides nutrition but also curbs hunger and reduces calorie intake.

Bananas are a favorite of almost everyone in the world. It makes sense given their tremendous utility in addition to their fantastic taste. This fruit is favored by many people who are on diets because it not only provides nutrition but also curbs hunger and reduces calorie intake.

 

Yet, not everyone knows that banana color matters. As it turns out, each shade of banana is responsible for various beneficial effects on your body.

 

That is why we decided to carry out the research and find out what is the most beneficial shade. We have come up with pretty interesting and hopefully, useful information, which we want to share with you straight away! We hope you enjoy!

 

1. Brown banana

We are more than sure that once you see that fully brown and squishy banana, the first thought is to throw that rotten fruit out. Yet, you shouldn’t rush, since these brown and soft bananas are full of nutrients needed for your bone and muscle health. What is more, they are responsible for lowering your stress level and cheering you up.

 

2. Yellow banana

Yellow bananas are probably the most common ones to consume, and it’s no wonder why. Yellow bananas are extremely nutritious, and they are rich in antioxidant elements, which is why they are so beneficial.

 

3. Green banana

Green bananas are perfect for people who suffer from diabetes, since they are low in sugar. Apart from that, consumption of green bananas plays a great role in preventing heart disease, as well.

 

4. Spotted banana

Spotted bananas are great for boosting your immune system. But that is not all you should know about spotted bananas. As it turns out, they are rich in antioxidants and are said to be helpful against tumors.

There are not too many shades to consider, but at least now you know what shades suit your purpose better! Keep healthy and eat bananas!