- For Every 10 minutes you are angry, you lose 600 seconds of happiness
- All men make mistakes….only fools repeat!!
- There is a better way of doing it… Find it!
- A wise man is one who forgets the faults of others but always remembers his own
- The world’s largest fires could have been extinguished by pouring a cup of water at the right time
- 90% of tension is created by 10% each of carelessness and laziness
- If you have a rupee and I have another and we exchange, we have one rupee each, if you have a better idea and I have one, and we exchange we have two better ideas each!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Thought-Provoking thoughts
Friday, September 11, 2009
Article about Potatoes Cooking method
Nutritious spud Potatoes are a source of vitamin C, potassium and phosphorus
Potatoes are wholesome if prepared in the right manner
Nearly 8,000 years ago, the domestication of the wild potato, and the breeding of varieties that survived the frost of the high Andes, sustained the ancestors of the future Inca civilisation. The potato was central to the food security and stability of the Incas; they developed techniques of freeze-drying to ensure availability of this staple food when crops failed.
The Spanish Conquistadores introduced the potato to Europe in the 16th Century, but the people were slow to accept it as food because the potato is a nightshade — a poisonous plant. The Irish who fled the Great Potato Famine (1845 – 1847) and immigrated to North America made the potato synonymous with their culture.
To this day, Americans use the term ‘Irish Potato’ to distinguish the tuber from sweet potato.
Food uses: every major cuisine has a few potato dishes that spell comfort food. Boiling, baking, stewing, and frying are the most common methods of preparation.
Potato flour is a common ingredient in baked foods. Potato starch forms the basis of alcohol in vodka and other liquors.
Nutrition: 100 gm of the boiled and peeled tuber contains just 87 Calorie, with 20 gm of carbohydrate, 1.8 gm of protein, 0.1 gm of fat and appreciable amounts of Vitamin C, riboflavin, thiamine, niacin, phosphorus and potassium. Boiled or baked potatoes are a healthful source of energy.
Baking is the best cooking method for preserving nutrition, although even this method reduces fibre and protein content. Boiling peeled potatoes leaches Vitamin C into the surrounding liquid. Boiling unpeeled potatoes is the best compromise for the Indian household.
Frying destroys vitamins and reduces mineral content.
Fried and heavily salted potato foods are partly responsible for the rising epidemic of obesity, diabetes and hypertension.
As long as one minimises the use of salt and fat and sticks to an overall daily calorie limit, eating potatoes is compatible with being on a diet.
Storage: prolonged exposure to light increases the glycoalkaloid content and eventually renders the tuber unfit for consumption. Exposure to light also turns the potato green by spurring the production of chlorophyll.
However, because most of the glycoalkaloids and chlorophyll are present just below the skin, peeling potatoes before cooking is sufficient to ensure food safety.
Article by RAJIV M in the Hindu dated 10/09/2009
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Know your herbs
Herbs can help remedy a range of ailments from cold to rheumatism. They also lend a special flavour and aroma to food
Herbs are leaves of aromatic plants, rich in nutrients and minerals. They are also used for medicinal purposes and sold over-the-counter as remedies for colds, flu, coughs, throat infections, rheumatic ailments and pain.
Adding flavour to food Herbs are the perfect way to add flavour to food. Often used as seasonings, they can reduce reliance on salt. Use them to give subtle or strong accents to soups, sauces, raitas, stews, casseroles, vegetables and cereals.
BASIL
Key nutrients: vitamin A and C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium.
Benefits:
Basil helps treat headaches, dizziness, vertigo, stomach cramps, nausea and constipation. Basil oil is used to treat insect bites and minor cuts.
Did you know?
Basil has wonderful medicinal properties. An infusion of the leaves is a quick home remedy for bronchitis and colds.
BAY LEAF
Key nutrients: calcium, iron, magnesium, vitamin A, B, C and E.
Benefits:
Bay leaves are used to treat migraines, stress and anxiety. They also improve digestion and help detoxify the system.
Did you know?
Bay leaf oil is antibacterial. To repel household pests naturally, spread some crushed leaves in the kitchen cupboards.
Key nutrients: vitamin A, B and C, iron, calcium, zinc
Benefits:
Coriander leaves are diuretic, and help detoxify the system. They also help improve quality of blood, lower cholesterol levels and improve the eyesight.
MINT
Key nutrients: calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin A, C and E.
Benefits
Mint is used as a treatment for indigestion, colic, heartburn and flatulence. It also can stimulate the appetite and cure nausea and headaches. Peppermint tea can help soothe a dry throat.
Did you know?
Mint oil is used in throat lozenges and ointments for headaches.
Mint is also used to flavour mouthwash and toothpaste.
DILL
Key nutrients: calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, C and E
Benefits:
Dill is used to treat colic, flatulence and indigestion. It is an effective appetite stimulant and helps stimulate milk in nursing mothers.
PARSLEY
Key nutrients: vitamin C, chlorophyll, calcium, sodium, and magnesium, iron.
Benefits:
Parsley improves digestion, blood quality and lowers blood pressure. It is also a treatment for anemia.
OREGANO
Key nutrients: calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, manganese vitamin A and C.
Benefits:
Oregano has powerful antioxidant and anticancer properties. It aids digestion, helps to get rid of intestinal parasites, treats nausea and diarrhea.
(Article from The Hindu, dated 10/09/2009)
Mind: The Library of Universe
Knowledge is inherent in man. No Knowledge comes from outside. It is all inside. What we say a man “knows”, should in strict psychological language, be what he “discovers “or “unveils”
What a man “learns” is really what he “discovers” by taking the cover off his own soul, which is a mine of infinite knowledge……Swami Vivekananda
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Exercise and diet key to preventing cancer
We tell women and girls in schools to take five portions of fresh fruits and vegetables
CHENNAI: On September 1, the American Institute for Cancer Research, Washington D.C., U.S., released the results of their review of research into lifestyle and breast cancer. They said women can reduce their risk by maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, drinking less alcohol and breastfeeding their children. The massive project by AICR/World Cancer Research Fund project looked at the evidence from over 950 studies. “This study represents the clearest picture we have ever had on how lifestyle affects a woman’s risk of breast cancer,” Martin Wiseman, Medical and Scientific Adviser for AICR and WCRF, says in a statement.
While the study relates itself to the incidence of breast cancer among US women, oncologists are eager to agree that a healthy diet, reducing alcohol and tobacco use, getting some exercise and bring overweight are key factors in the Indian population as well. For indeed our burden is high.
Radhika Santhanakrishnan, founder, Penn Nalam, a breast and cervical care centre in the city, says “In Chennai alone, the incidence of breast cancer is about 30.4 persons per lakh population and the incidence of cervical cancer is 18.9 persons per lakh population as per Madras Metropolitan Tumour Registry.”
Selvi Radhakrishna, consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon at Penn Nalam, who recently launched the Chennai Breast Centre, says alcohol consumption is the only factor not all that relevant in India.
But post-menopausal obesity, unhealthy eating habits, and tobacco usage are certainly causes for concern. At the Centre, she says, women who come in for a mammography test get their weight and height checked. If the computed Body Mass Index is over 25, the women are cautioned to lose weight. Exercise and diet have to be the watchwords.
When speaking to women on awareness about cancer, she says she uses the “Five a Day” campaign started by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver in the United Kingdom. “We tell the women and girls in schools to take five portions of fresh fruits and vegetables. High fibre food is recommended.”
Anti-cancer foods are typically antioxidants and phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables. It is believed that crucifers (cabbage family), asparagus, bananas, carrots, celery, corn-on-the-cob, dates, figs, garlic, fruits, onions, soya beans, sweet potatoes and tomatoes contain anti-cancer ingredients have anti-cancer properties.
Neerja Malik, who started Sahaayika Trust to help women face cancer, calls herself a cancer conqueror. As part of the activities of the trust, she talks to young adolescent girls about avoiding oily, fatty foods; taking adequate micronutrients – vitamins, minerals, citrus fruits. Green tea is a great anti-oxidant.
She also addresses the crucial ‘stress’ angle. “Tension and stress, which seem to be a part and parcel of our lives today, can cause a lot of toxins. So I tell the young girls to focus on a stress-free life. A positive approach helps a lot.”
Dr. Radhakrishna recommends that every woman over the year of 40 years go for an annual check up to rule out not only breast, but also cervical cancer. “If they have a family history or are symptomatic, they can come in earlier.”
Self screening among women is important, as it helps locate the cancer in the breast at a very early stage. The diagnostic procedure is to get a mammography done. Tests are available that could indicate a woman’s susceptibility for breast cancer.
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail
Article taken from The Hindu News Paper
CHENNAI: On September 1, the American Institute for Cancer Research, Washington D.C., U.S., released the results of their review of research into lifestyle and breast cancer. They said women can reduce their risk by maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, drinking less alcohol and breastfeeding their children. The massive project by AICR/World Cancer Research Fund project looked at the evidence from over 950 studies. “This study represents the clearest picture we have ever had on how lifestyle affects a woman’s risk of breast cancer,” Martin Wiseman, Medical and Scientific Adviser for AICR and WCRF, says in a statement.
While the study relates itself to the incidence of breast cancer among US women, oncologists are eager to agree that a healthy diet, reducing alcohol and tobacco use, getting some exercise and bring overweight are key factors in the Indian population as well. For indeed our burden is high.
Radhika Santhanakrishnan, founder, Penn Nalam, a breast and cervical care centre in the city, says “In Chennai alone, the incidence of breast cancer is about 30.4 persons per lakh population and the incidence of cervical cancer is 18.9 persons per lakh population as per Madras Metropolitan Tumour Registry.”
Selvi Radhakrishna, consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon at Penn Nalam, who recently launched the Chennai Breast Centre, says alcohol consumption is the only factor not all that relevant in India.
But post-menopausal obesity, unhealthy eating habits, and tobacco usage are certainly causes for concern. At the Centre, she says, women who come in for a mammography test get their weight and height checked. If the computed Body Mass Index is over 25, the women are cautioned to lose weight. Exercise and diet have to be the watchwords.
When speaking to women on awareness about cancer, she says she uses the “Five a Day” campaign started by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver in the United Kingdom. “We tell the women and girls in schools to take five portions of fresh fruits and vegetables. High fibre food is recommended.”
Anti-cancer foods are typically antioxidants and phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables. It is believed that crucifers (cabbage family), asparagus, bananas, carrots, celery, corn-on-the-cob, dates, figs, garlic, fruits, onions, soya beans, sweet potatoes and tomatoes contain anti-cancer ingredients have anti-cancer properties.
Neerja Malik, who started Sahaayika Trust to help women face cancer, calls herself a cancer conqueror. As part of the activities of the trust, she talks to young adolescent girls about avoiding oily, fatty foods; taking adequate micronutrients – vitamins, minerals, citrus fruits. Green tea is a great anti-oxidant.
She also addresses the crucial ‘stress’ angle. “Tension and stress, which seem to be a part and parcel of our lives today, can cause a lot of toxins. So I tell the young girls to focus on a stress-free life. A positive approach helps a lot.”
Dr. Radhakrishna recommends that every woman over the year of 40 years go for an annual check up to rule out not only breast, but also cervical cancer. “If they have a family history or are symptomatic, they can come in earlier.”
Self screening among women is important, as it helps locate the cancer in the breast at a very early stage. The diagnostic procedure is to get a mammography done. Tests are available that could indicate a woman’s susceptibility for breast cancer.
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail
Article taken from The Hindu News Paper
Friday, September 4, 2009
The Joy of Orderly Living
• Get Up Early: This is the beginning of orderly living. Go to bed by 10:00 p.m and to raise at 5 am
• Exercises/Yoga and Meditation: Practice to do Exercises/Meditation and Yoga for everyday 15 to 30 minutes. No age bar. Everybody has to practice this. This keeps body and mind fit and gives mental strength
• Good Eating Habits: Practice to eat more nature foods, such as fruits, vegetables, salads, sprouts and drink more water and liquids. Stop taking Junk foods. Maintain timely eating
• Punctuality: Be punctual in all activities and never be late for any work
• Keep you living place Orderly: This has a strong impact on your mind and anchors you to be more systematic. Not only that, others at home and office slowly imitate you and imbibe orderliness
• Memory Technique: Recall the entire day activities in chronological order for 5 minutes at bed time. This not only increase the natural memory, but also imparts your time consciousness
• Time for your Family: Spend time with your family at least 30 minutes daily and 3 hours weekly in good stead
Life is precious. It is worth living and it is worth living meaningfully
• Exercises/Yoga and Meditation: Practice to do Exercises/Meditation and Yoga for everyday 15 to 30 minutes. No age bar. Everybody has to practice this. This keeps body and mind fit and gives mental strength
• Good Eating Habits: Practice to eat more nature foods, such as fruits, vegetables, salads, sprouts and drink more water and liquids. Stop taking Junk foods. Maintain timely eating
• Punctuality: Be punctual in all activities and never be late for any work
• Keep you living place Orderly: This has a strong impact on your mind and anchors you to be more systematic. Not only that, others at home and office slowly imitate you and imbibe orderliness
• Memory Technique: Recall the entire day activities in chronological order for 5 minutes at bed time. This not only increase the natural memory, but also imparts your time consciousness
• Time for your Family: Spend time with your family at least 30 minutes daily and 3 hours weekly in good stead
Life is precious. It is worth living and it is worth living meaningfully
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Tips to Manage Anger
When emotions run high and thoughts run amok, even a calm person may become a victim of anger. It is a proved fact that the emotional life of an individual frequently influences one’s health and also the personality.
Studies indicate that some patients who are consulting physicians because of physical symptoms have no bodily diseases or ailments, but they are due to emotional factors. It is important to observe that physicians have to study the patient as a whole.
The effect of emotions on bodily changes is apparent in many gastrointestinal disorders, in the form of nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, indigestion abdominal discomfort and diarrhea and ultimately leading to peptic ulcer.
Emotions also affect central nervous system causing anger and stress, which can disrupt lives as much as an earthquake.
Anger can harm an individual’s physical and social health, since it is a manifestation of selfish, unfulfilled desires. Anger is described as a violent outburst of emotion, stemming from the frustration of the individual. Anger can be defined as danger. Hence it should be avoided, under any circumstances.
At the time of angry, the hormones are secreted in excessive quantities, leading to increase in the heart rate and rise in blood pressure and also the blood vessels are contracted and increase in the incidence of premature heart diseases. An angry person frequently loses his memory, knowledge necessary or logical thinking and proper human behavior. Angry starts with minor irritation and it can grow into an obsession, that disease the mind.
When the power of discrimination is lost, the individual falls to a level of almost zero stage. Anger is also known as temporary madness. Of course, all of us are victims of anger at one time or other. Anger gives rise to injustice, persecution, jealousy, cruelty, physical and verbal abuse or rash behavior.
Anger management tips: Self discipline and self-management plays a key role in controlling the anger.
1. Take a deep breath before confronting. It helps you to be in control of the situation.
2. One should be aware of oneself when one is getting angry and this awareness alone can remove all traces of anger. Art of relaxation is to be developed.
3. One should learn to adapt to any situations so that taming anger out of stress is possible.
4. Take a walk till you feel at peace with yourself and then return.
5. Scream into your pillow.
6. Grab a joke book and laugh your heart out, because laughter is the best medicine, especially for anger.
7. Write down whatever makes you angry and don’t stop till you are drained out of anger.
8. Count 50 numbers and the anger will be out of your mind.
Studies indicate that some patients who are consulting physicians because of physical symptoms have no bodily diseases or ailments, but they are due to emotional factors. It is important to observe that physicians have to study the patient as a whole.
The effect of emotions on bodily changes is apparent in many gastrointestinal disorders, in the form of nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, indigestion abdominal discomfort and diarrhea and ultimately leading to peptic ulcer.
Emotions also affect central nervous system causing anger and stress, which can disrupt lives as much as an earthquake.
Anger can harm an individual’s physical and social health, since it is a manifestation of selfish, unfulfilled desires. Anger is described as a violent outburst of emotion, stemming from the frustration of the individual. Anger can be defined as danger. Hence it should be avoided, under any circumstances.
At the time of angry, the hormones are secreted in excessive quantities, leading to increase in the heart rate and rise in blood pressure and also the blood vessels are contracted and increase in the incidence of premature heart diseases. An angry person frequently loses his memory, knowledge necessary or logical thinking and proper human behavior. Angry starts with minor irritation and it can grow into an obsession, that disease the mind.
When the power of discrimination is lost, the individual falls to a level of almost zero stage. Anger is also known as temporary madness. Of course, all of us are victims of anger at one time or other. Anger gives rise to injustice, persecution, jealousy, cruelty, physical and verbal abuse or rash behavior.
Anger management tips: Self discipline and self-management plays a key role in controlling the anger.
1. Take a deep breath before confronting. It helps you to be in control of the situation.
2. One should be aware of oneself when one is getting angry and this awareness alone can remove all traces of anger. Art of relaxation is to be developed.
3. One should learn to adapt to any situations so that taming anger out of stress is possible.
4. Take a walk till you feel at peace with yourself and then return.
5. Scream into your pillow.
6. Grab a joke book and laugh your heart out, because laughter is the best medicine, especially for anger.
7. Write down whatever makes you angry and don’t stop till you are drained out of anger.
8. Count 50 numbers and the anger will be out of your mind.
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