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Top 12 health benefits of papaya you should be aware of

Refreshingly sweet in taste, papayas are bright, pear-shaped, exotic fruits that you’ll easily find in the market throughout the year. Enclosing hundreds of black, rounded gelatinous seeds, the soft, edible orange flesh of papayas is actually nutritious, offering numerous health benefits. Here’s why you need to include these ‘fruits of angels’ in your diet.

1# Lowers cholesterol: Papayas are rich in fibre, vitamin C andantioxidants that prevent cholesterol build up in your arteries. Too much cholesterol build-up can block the arteries completely, causing aheart attack. Papaya extracts have also found to reduce lipid and triglycerides in diabetic rats [1]. You may also want to read how to reduce cholesterol levels naturally.

2# Helps weight loss: One medium sized papaya contains just 120 calories. So, if you’re planning to lose weight, don’t forget to add this light fruit to your diet. Besides, it also packed with a considerable amount of dietary fibre that aids weight loss by promoting a feeling of fullness and controlling cravings [2].

3# Boosts your immunity: Your immune system acts as a shield against various infections that can make you really sick. A single papaya can fulfil more than 200% of your daily requirement of Vitamin C, making it great to build a stronger immune system.

4# Good for diabetics: Despite being sweet in nature, papayas are low in sugar content (8.3 gm in one cup of sliced papaya) as well as glycemic index. This property makes papayas excellent fruits for diabetics. The vitamins and phytonutrients present in them prevents development of heart disease in diabetes. Also, people who don’t have diabetes can eat papaya to prevent it from happening. You may also want to read how to prevent diabetes with a fibre-rich healthy diet.

5# Great for your eyes: Papayas are rich in Vitamin A and flavonoids like beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, cyptoxanthin and lutein which keep the mucus membranes in the eyes healthy, preventing them from damage. Vitamin A in them also prevents the development of age-related macular degeneration [2]. The best thing about papayas is that the carotenoids present in them are more bio available than those present in other vitamin A rich foods like tomatoes and carrots [3].

6# Protects against arthritis: Arthritis can be a really debilitating disease and people who have it may find their quality of life reduced significantly. Eating papayas are good for your bones as they have anti-inflammatory properties along with Vitamin C which helps in keeping various forms of arthritis at bay. A study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases showed that people who consumed foods low in Vitamin C were three times more likely to have arthritis than those who didn’t. Also read 9 ways you can fight arthritis with food.

7# Improves digestion: In today’s times, it is near impossible to avoid eating foods that are bad for your digestive system. Often we find ourselves eating junk food or restaurant food prepared in excessive quantities of oil. Eating a papaya daily can make up for such occasional mistakes, as it has a digestive enzyme known as papain along with fibre which helps improve your digestive health.

8# Helps ease menstrual pain: Women who experience menstrual pain should help themselves to several servings of papaya, as an enzyme called papain helps in regulating and easing flow during menstrual periods. Here are some home remedies to relieve menstrual pain.

9# Prevents signs of ageing: All of us would love to stay young forever, but no one in this world has managed to do it. Still, healthy habits like eating a papaya daily will prolong the process and may make you look 5 years younger than you are. Papaya is rich in vitamin C, vitamin E and antioxidants like beta-carotene which helps prevent your skin from free radical damage keeping wrinkles and other signs of ageing at bay. Here’s how you can use papaya to keep your skin beautifully glowing.

10# Promotes hair growth: Apart from keeping the skin healthy, papayas are very effective for maintaining healthy hair. Vitamin A in them is utilised in production of sebum, a compound that is crucial for keeping the hair smooth, shiny and moisturised. External application of papaya extract to the scalp can help you get rid of dandruff. The nutrients present in them help hair loss. They boost hair growth and strengthening. Although there is no scientific evidence, papayas are also thought to prevent hair thinning [3].

11# Prevents cancer: Papaya is a rich source of antioxidants, phytonutrients and flavonoids that prevent your cells from undergoing free radical damage. A study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health’s Department showed the richness of beta carotene in papayas protected against prostate cancer and colon cancer growth [3].

12# Helps reduce stress: After working hard for the whole day, it is a good idea to come home to a plate a papayas. The wonder fruit is rich in several nutrients like Vitamin C which can keep you free from stress. According to a study conducted in University of Alabama, found that 200 mg of Vitamin C can help regulate the flow of stress hormones in rats.

All of this makes papaya a wholesome fruit that is excellent for your entire body.

Read this article in Hindi

Refreshingly sweet in taste, papayas are bright, pear-shaped, exotic fruits that you’ll easily find in the market throughout the year. Enclosing hundreds of black, rounded gelatinous seeds, the soft, edible orange flesh of papayas is actually nutritious, offering numerous health benefits. Here’s why you need to include these ‘fruits of angels’ in your diet.

1# Lowers cholesterol: Papayas are rich in fibre, vitamin C andantioxidants that prevent cholesterol build up in your arteries. Too much cholesterol build-up can block the arteries completely, causing aheart attack. Papaya extracts have also found to reduce lipid and triglycerides in diabetic rats [1]. You may also want to read how to reduce cholesterol levels naturally.

2# Helps weight loss: One medium sized papaya contains just 120 calories. So, if you’re planning to lose weight, don’t forget to add this light fruit to your diet. Besides, it also packed with a considerable amount of dietary fibre that aids weight loss by promoting a feeling of fullness and controlling cravings [2].

3# Boosts your immunity: Your immune system acts as a shield against various infections that can make you really sick. A single papaya can fulfil more than 200% of your daily requirement of Vitamin C, making it great to build a stronger immune system.

4# Good for diabetics: Despite being sweet in nature, papayas are low in sugar content (8.3 gm in one cup of sliced papaya) as well as glycemic index. This property makes papayas excellent fruits for diabetics. The vitamins and phytonutrients present in them prevents development of heart disease in diabetes. Also, people who don’t have diabetes can eat papaya to prevent it from happening. You may also want to read how to prevent diabetes with a fibre-rich healthy diet.

5# Great for your eyes: Papayas are rich in Vitamin A and flavonoids like beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, cyptoxanthin and lutein which keep the mucus membranes in the eyes healthy, preventing them from damage. Vitamin A in them also prevents the development of age-related macular degeneration [2]. The best thing about papayas is that the carotenoids present in them are more bio available than those present in other vitamin A rich foods like tomatoes and carrots [3].

6# Protects against arthritis: Arthritis can be a really debilitating disease and people who have it may find their quality of life reduced significantly. Eating papayas are good for your bones as they have anti-inflammatory properties along with Vitamin C which helps in keeping various forms of arthritis at bay. A study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases showed that people who consumed foods low in Vitamin C were three times more likely to have arthritis than those who didn’t. Also read 9 ways you can fight arthritis with food.

7# Improves digestion: In today’s times, it is near impossible to avoid eating foods that are bad for your digestive system. Often we find ourselves eating junk food or restaurant food prepared in excessive quantities of oil. Eating a papaya daily can make up for such occasional mistakes, as it has a digestive enzyme known as papain along with fibre which helps improve your digestive health.

8# Helps ease menstrual pain: Women who experience menstrual pain should help themselves to several servings of papaya, as an enzyme called papain helps in regulating and easing flow during menstrual periods. Here are some home remedies to relieve menstrual pain.

9# Prevents signs of ageing: All of us would love to stay young forever, but no one in this world has managed to do it. Still, healthy habits like eating a papaya daily will prolong the process and may make you look 5 years younger than you are. Papaya is rich in vitamin C, vitamin E and antioxidants like beta-carotene which helps prevent your skin from free radical damage keeping wrinkles and other signs of ageing at bay. Here’s how you can use papaya to keep your skin beautifully glowing.

10# Promotes hair growth: Apart from keeping the skin healthy, papayas are very effective for maintaining healthy hair. Vitamin A in them is utilised in production of sebum, a compound that is crucial for keeping the hair smooth, shiny and moisturised. External application of papaya extract to the scalp can help you get rid of dandruff. The nutrients present in them help hair loss. They boost hair growth and strengthening. Although there is no scientific evidence, papayas are also thought to prevent hair thinning [3].

11# Prevents cancer: Papaya is a rich source of antioxidants, phytonutrients and flavonoids that prevent your cells from undergoing free radical damage. A study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health’s Department showed the richness of beta carotene in papayas protected against prostate cancer and colon cancer growth [3].

12# Helps reduce stress: After working hard for the whole day, it is a good idea to come home to a plate a papayas. The wonder fruit is rich in several nutrients like Vitamin C which can keep you free from stress. According to a study conducted in University of Alabama, found that 200 mg of Vitamin C can help regulate the flow of stress hormones in rats.

All of this makes papaya a wholesome fruit that is excellent for your entire body.

Papaya Leaf Tea Benefits

Papaya leaf tea may have potent antioxidant capabilities.

The papaya plant – also called pawpaw in Australia and known scientifically as Carica papaya – is most widely known for its delicious orange fruit. Native to Southern Mexico and the Carribean, papaya now grows throughout most tropical and subtropical countries in the world. Papaya leaf tea may have a number of health benefits including potent antioxidant properties when taken regularly.

Papaya Leaf and Cancer

Papaya leaf tea has been used in tropical regions to treat a number of ailments and recent scientific data suggests that papaya leaf may be useful in fighting cancer. According to research published in the ''Journal of Ethnopharmacology'' in February of 2010, papaya leaf tea showed promise in treating a variety of human cancers in vitro including cervical, breast, lung and pancreatic cancers. Scientists posit that the anticancer effects of papaya leaf tea may be due to the stimulation of immune cells that kill cancer cells. University of Florida researcher Dr. Nam Dang, one of the team members responsible for the study, elaborated on the university's website that papaya leaf tea demonstrated no toxicity on human cells, potentially making it a safe, natural treatment for many forms of cancer.

Natural Ulcer Remedy

Papaya leaf tea may also be a benefit for gastric ulcers, according to research published in "The West Indian Medical Journal" in September 2008. Researchers found that papaya leaf tea prevented gastric ulcers in rats subjected to alcohol compared to the control group. Further, the rats pre-treated with papaya leaf showed less oxidative stress in their blood, suggesting that papaya leaf tea had a strong systemic antioxidant effect. Researchers attributed the reduction in ulcer formation and oxidative stress – at least in part – to an increase in glutathione peroxidase activity – an important antioxidant function that prevents free radical-damage in the body.

Other Antioxidant Effects

Other research suggests that papaya leaf may reduce hydrogen peroxide – a marker for oxidative damage. Research published in the ''Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine'' in June 2012 showed that while papaya leaf tea did not demonstrate as many antioxidant properties as ascorbic acid, scientists still concluded that it may have potential pharmacological and nutritional benefits in preventing or reducing free radical-damage. More research is needed to determine papaya leaf tea's antioxidant properties in human subjects.

Quick Tips

Always work with your doctor or other qualified health-care professional before self-treating with herbs. This is particularly true if you have cancer or another serious health issue. Papaya leaf tea may be a suitable safe and natural adjunct treatment for cancer and other diseases in which the immune system needs support and in the prevention of free-radical damage.

The papaya plant – also called pawpaw in Australia and known scientifically as Carica papaya – is most widely known for its delicious orange fruit. Native to Southern Mexico and the Carribean, papaya now grows throughout most tropical and subtropical countries in the world. Papaya leaf tea may have a number of health benefits including potent antioxidant properties when taken regularly.

Papaya Leaf and Cancer

Papaya leaf tea has been used in tropical regions to treat a number of ailments and recent scientific data suggests that papaya leaf may be useful in fighting cancer. According to research published in the ''Journal of Ethnopharmacology'' in February of 2010, papaya leaf tea showed promise in treating a variety of human cancers in vitro including cervical, breast, lung and pancreatic cancers. Scientists posit that the anticancer effects of papaya leaf tea may be due to the stimulation of immune cells that kill cancer cells. University of Florida researcher Dr. Nam Dang, one of the team members responsible for the study, elaborated on the university's website that papaya leaf tea demonstrated no toxicity on human cells, potentially making it a safe, natural treatment for many forms of cancer.

Natural Ulcer Remedy

Papaya leaf tea may also be a benefit for gastric ulcers, according to research published in "The West Indian Medical Journal" in September 2008. Researchers found that papaya leaf tea prevented gastric ulcers in rats subjected to alcohol compared to the control group. Further, the rats pre-treated with papaya leaf showed less oxidative stress in their blood, suggesting that papaya leaf tea had a strong systemic antioxidant effect. Researchers attributed the reduction in ulcer formation and oxidative stress – at least in part – to an increase in glutathione peroxidase activity – an important antioxidant function that prevents free radical-damage in the body.

Other Antioxidant Effects

Other research suggests that papaya leaf may reduce hydrogen peroxide – a marker for oxidative damage. Research published in the ''Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine'' in June 2012 showed that while papaya leaf tea did not demonstrate as many antioxidant properties as ascorbic acid, scientists still concluded that it may have potential pharmacological and nutritional benefits in preventing or reducing free radical-damage. More research is needed to determine papaya leaf tea's antioxidant properties in human subjects.

Quick Tips

Always work with your doctor or other qualified health-care professional before self-treating with herbs. This is particularly true if you have cancer or another serious health issue. Papaya leaf tea may be a suitable safe and natural adjunct treatment for cancer and other diseases in which the immune system needs support and in the prevention of free-radical damage.

10 Beauty Uses of Coconut Water for Beautiful Skin and Hair

Drinking coconut water can give you a number of beauty benefits for skin and hair. You can also make use of coconut water in beauty face and hair masks to get beautiful and healthy skin. Here are discussed ten tips to take advantage of this pure and natural water.

Who doesn’t know the benefits of coconut oil for beauty purposes! Also get familiar with the amazing uses of coconut water on skin and hair. You drink coconut water just thinking of it as a cool summer drink that nature offer. But, you are going to love it even more once you are well aware of its beauty benefits too! Go ahead and read on for the ten most useful benefits of coconut water.

Coconut water for a young and fresh skin

Drinking coconut water sure helps your skin to look younger and fresh by getting it rid of the harmful toxins. However, just splash some of that water on your face and bring your dull face to life almost instantly. Imagine what regularly applying it on the face would do!

Prevent dry skin with Coconut water

Many of you tend to suffer from dry skin condition time and again irrespective of summer or winter (although winter can be harsh on most!). Try applying cotton balls dipped in coconut water regularly and see the change. It’s the most natural moisturizer nature has to offer. After all, coconut water is the purest liquid on earth after water, isn’t it? Your skin will feel soft and smooth once again and you will stay away from dry skin forever!

Natural skin cleanser and toner

Cleaning the face with coconut water helps get rid of the dirt and impurities that get accumulated every time you go out of the house. It can work as your make up remover as well (You do not need to spend on buying those fancy make up removal products from the market anymore, voila!) Put in a few drops of lemon juice in it and it will help brighten up your skin and hydrate it beautifully too.

Fights skin infections

Some of you might have faced skin infections especially during the monsoons or in a humid climate. Instead of running to the nearest medical store, first try applying coconut water on the skin or another great idea would be to mix it in your bathing water for a few days daily. The anti-fungal and anti-viral properties of coconut water helps in the healing process to a great extent.

Drink coconut water to enjoy age defying properties

Who wants to look older than their actual age or for that matter why not aim to have a skin of a 25 year old when you actually are 40 years old! Wow, wouldn’t that be something to strive for! And no, you do not need to buy and try 10 different types of the so called ‘anti-ageing’ cosmetic products available in the market. These are not only heavy on your pocket, but in the long run those chemicals do no good to your skin. It’s simple – just drink coconut water (tastes yummy too!) regularly and wash your face with it as well.

Useful in removing sun tan

Haven’t yet found a natural remedy for removing that tan you get at the beach every time you go? Well, a simple home remedy is here to your rescue. Cost and time effective both at the same time. Just mix up coconut water and fuller’s earth, and apply to the sun tan area. It will vanish in no time with routine application. This is one of the best uses of coconut water for skin care.

Prevents acne, blemishes, wrinkles

Simply dabbing some coconut water on the scars left behind by acne/pimples before you go to bed helps lighten them up faster than you can imagine. It has similar effects on dark spots/blemishes. Wrinkles can also be reduced to a certain extent by regular application of coconut water.

Kiwifruit: Health Benefits, Nutritional Breakdown

The kiwifruit, native to northern China, was first brought to and cultivated in New Zealand at the turn of the 20th century and was then known as the Chinese Gooseberry.

When the time came to export the fruit, to avoid the high duties charged on berries, the name was changed to the kiwifruit, or kiwi because of the fruit's shared characteristics with New Zealand's national symbol, the kiwi bird, which is also small, brown and fuzzy.2

Kiwis are a nutrient dense food, meaning they are high in nutrients and low in calories. The possible health benefits of consuming kiwis include maintaining healthy skin tone and texture, reducing blood pressure and preventing heart disease and stroke.

This MNT Knowledge Center feature is part of a collection of articles on the health benefits of popular foods.

Possible health benefits of consuming kiwifruit

Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease,diabetes, cancer and other conditions. Many studies have shown that increased consumption of plant foods like kiwis decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality.

A Kiwifruit is rich in vitamin C

Beautiful Skin: Collagen, the skins support system, is reliant on vitamin C as an essential nutrient that works in our bodies as an antioxidant to help prevent damage caused by the sun, pollution and smoke, smooth wrinkles and improve overall skin texture.1

Better Sleep: According to a study on the effects of kiwifruit consumption on sleep quality in adults with sleep problems, it was found that kiwi consumption may improve sleep onset, duration, and efficiency in adults with self-reported sleep disturbances.

Heart Health: The fiber and potassium in kiwis support heart health. An increase in potassium intake along with a decrease in sodium intake is the most important dietary change that a person can make to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease, according to Mark Houston, MD, MS, an associate clinical professor of medicine at Vanderbilt Medical School and director of the Hypertension Institute at St Thomas Hospital in Tennessee.3

In one study, those who consumed 4069 mg of potassium per day had a 49% lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease compared with those who consumed less potassium (about 1000 mg per day).3

High potassium intakes are also associated with a reduced risk of stroke, protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones.3

Lowering Blood Pressure: Because of their high potassium content, kiwis can help negate the effects of sodium in the body. It is possible that a low potassium intake is just as big of a risk factor in developing high blood pressureas a high sodium intake.

According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, fewer than 2% of US adults meet the daily 4700 mg recommendation for potassium.3

Also of note, a high potassium intake is associated with a 20% decreased risk of dying from all causes.3

Constipation Prevention: Numerous studies have reported that the kiwi may have a mild laxative effect and could be used as a dietary supplement especially for elderly individuals experiencing constipation. Regular consumption of kiwifruit was shown to promote bulkier, softer and more frequent stool production.

10 amazing ways eating oranges can make you healthy

Available in the market all round the year, oranges are the most common citrus fruits consumed in India. They are not only popular for their raww pulpy slices, juicy nature, and tangy and sweet flavour but also for their goodness of vitamin C. Also called the golden apple, oranges offer numerous benefits covering health as well as beauty aspects. Here are the top 10 health benefits you can derive by eating oranges.

#1 Boosts immunity

Oranges is an excellent source of vitamin C. A single medium-sized orange can fulfil about 72% of your daily requirement for vitamin C. Since vitamin C plays a crucial role as an antioxidant by protecting your body against the damage caused by free radicals generated in the body. It therefore reduces inflammation in immune related conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Although debatable, researchers suggest that vitamin C also plays an important role in strengthening immune responses of the body, protecting against recurring cold and cough or any other common infections. Here are 11 ways to include oranges in your diet.

#2 Helps prevent ageing of skin

There’s a reason why oranges are popularly used in the beauty industry. Several beauty products including face packs, masks and creams that are available contain orange extract as a key ingredient. That’s because vitamin C present in oranges also helps prevent skin damage, by eliminating free radicals. Vitamin C, being involved in synthesis of collagen, an important component to maintain skin’s overall appearance and texture, prevents premature aging and wrinkling of the skin. Apart from vitamin C, oranges are packed with vitamin A that help keep the skin membranes healthy. Here are 8 fruit packs you can make at home for beautiful skin.

#3 Protects the eyes

Vitamin A in oranges helps keep mucus membranes in the eyes healthy. Available in the form of carotenoid compounds like lutein, beta carotene and zeaxanthin, vitamin A is protective against age-related macular degeneration, a vision-related condition that causes blindness. Besides, it also plays an important role in allowing your eyes to absorb the light. You may also read tomatoes- natural remedy for good vision.

#4 Help prevents heart disease

This is yet another health benefit of oranges which is attributed to its vitamin C level. Free radicals generated during various reactions taking place in the cells can trigger oxidation of cholesterol, causing the oxidised molecules to aggregate and stick to the walls of the arteries. This leads to build up of plaques that eventually block the arteries, causing heart attack, coronary artery disease or even stroke. Vitamin C in oranges takes care of these free radicals and neutralises them, thus playing a role in preventing heart disease. Besides they also contain flavonoids like hesperidin that lowers cholesterol level and prevents the arteries from getting blocked.

#5 Helps brain development

Folate/folic acid or vitamin B9 present in oranges promote brain development and keep the vital organ in mint condition. In fact, these nutrients also make orange a healthy fruit for pregnant woman as it prevents the baby from having neurological disorders later. Oranges also contain phytonutrients called polyphenols that play a role in development of learning and memory functions of the brain.

#6 Helps prevent cancer

Oranges contain a compound called D – limonene that has been shown to play an important role in preventing various types of cancer like lung cancer, breast cancer, skin cancer, etc. Additionally, the antioxidants and Vitamin C help promote the body’s immunity which helps in fighting cancer cells. Oranges are highly fibrous fruits, which contributes to its cancer-protecting effect. A study revealed that about 10 to 15 per cent of colon cancer cases are caused by mutations in the DNA. These mutations can prevented by consuming vitamin C rich sources like oranges. Here are some other health benefits of vitamin C you should know

#7 Prevents constipation

Oranges are a very good source of soluble and insoluble fibre, which helps keep your stomach and intestines healthy by preventing problems like irritable bowel syndrome. The fibre content in them adds bulk to the digested food and reduces transit time of feces, preventing constipation and straining.

#8 Improves sperm quality

Death is inevitable, but our legacy may live on through our offspring. The antioxidants and Vitamin C present in most fruits, including oranges improves the quality and motility of your sperm thus keeping you fertile. Another vitamin called folic acid also is an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy sperms that you can obtain from oranges. It also protects the sperm from genetic damage, which might lead to birth defects.

#9 Great for diabetics

The rich fibre content of oranges has the ability to keep a track of sugar levels in the body, preventing diabetes. It is also a good option for those who are diabetic. Also worth mentioning is that good oranges have a sweet taste, and since diabetics aren’t allowed to eat sweets or other sugary foods, they can eat oranges to tingle their taste buds.

#10 Prevents hair loss

Orange has high Vitamin C content which is required for producing collagen which, in turn, is responsible for keeping the tissues in your hair together. Nobody likes bald patches on their head, and eating oranges can ensure that you do not have to part with your lovely hair as you grow older.

Healthy eating tip: When you cut an orange, make sure you do it in a way that the inner peel doesn’t come off since it is very nutritious and has higher amounts of hesperidin than the flesh itself. You may also want to know the top 10 health benefits of orange peel.

Available in the market all round the year, oranges are the most common citrus fruits consumed in India. They are not only popular for their raww pulpy slices, juicy nature, and tangy and sweet flavour but also for their goodness of vitamin C. Also called the golden apple, oranges offer numerous benefits covering health as well as beauty aspects. Here are the top 10 health benefits you can derive by eating oranges.

#1 Boosts immunity

Oranges is an excellent source of vitamin C. A single medium-sized orange can fulfil about 72% of your daily requirement for vitamin C. Since vitamin C plays a crucial role as an antioxidant by protecting your body against the damage caused by free radicals generated in the body. It therefore reduces inflammation in immune related conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Although debatable, researchers suggest that vitamin C also plays an important role in strengthening immune responses of the body, protecting against recurring cold and cough or any other common infections. Here are 11 ways to include oranges in your diet.

#2 Helps prevent ageing of skin

There’s a reason why oranges are popularly used in the beauty industry. Several beauty products including face packs, masks and creams that are available contain orange extract as a key ingredient. That’s because vitamin C present in oranges also helps prevent skin damage, by eliminating free radicals. Vitamin C, being involved in synthesis of collagen, an important component to maintain skin’s overall appearance and texture, prevents premature aging and wrinkling of the skin. Apart from vitamin C, oranges are packed with vitamin A that help keep the skin membranes healthy. Here are 8 fruit packs you can make at home for beautiful skin.

#3 Protects the eyes

Vitamin A in oranges helps keep mucus membranes in the eyes healthy. Available in the form of carotenoid compounds like lutein, beta carotene and zeaxanthin, vitamin A is protective against age-related macular degeneration, a vision-related condition that causes blindness. Besides, it also plays an important role in allowing your eyes to absorb the light. You may also read tomatoes- natural remedy for good vision.

#4 Help prevents heart disease

This is yet another health benefit of oranges which is attributed to its vitamin C level. Free radicals generated during various reactions taking place in the cells can trigger oxidation of cholesterol, causing the oxidised molecules to aggregate and stick to the walls of the arteries. This leads to build up of plaques that eventually block the arteries, causing heart attack, coronary artery disease or even stroke. Vitamin C in oranges takes care of these free radicals and neutralises them, thus playing a role in preventing heart disease. Besides they also contain flavonoids like hesperidin that lowers cholesterol level and prevents the arteries from getting blocked.

#5 Helps brain development

Folate/folic acid or vitamin B9 present in oranges promote brain development and keep the vital organ in mint condition. In fact, these nutrients also make orange a healthy fruit for pregnant woman as it prevents the baby from having neurological disorders later. Oranges also contain phytonutrients called polyphenols that play a role in development of learning and memory functions of the brain.

#6 Helps prevent cancer

Oranges contain a compound called D – limonene that has been shown to play an important role in preventing various types of cancer like lung cancer, breast cancer, skin cancer, etc. Additionally, the antioxidants and Vitamin C help promote the body’s immunity which helps in fighting cancer cells. Oranges are highly fibrous fruits, which contributes to its cancer-protecting effect. A study revealed that about 10 to 15 per cent of colon cancer cases are caused by mutations in the DNA. These mutations can prevented by consuming vitamin C rich sources like oranges. Here are some other health benefits of vitamin C you should know

#7 Prevents constipation

Oranges are a very good source of soluble and insoluble fibre, which helps keep your stomach and intestines healthy by preventing problems like irritable bowel syndrome. The fibre content in them adds bulk to the digested food and reduces transit time of feces, preventing constipation and straining.

#8 Improves sperm quality

Death is inevitable, but our legacy may live on through our offspring. The antioxidants and Vitamin C present in most fruits, including oranges improves the quality and motility of your sperm thus keeping you fertile. Another vitamin called folic acid also is an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy sperms that you can obtain from oranges. It also protects the sperm from genetic damage, which might lead to birth defects.

#9 Great for diabetics

The rich fibre content of oranges has the ability to keep a track of sugar levels in the body, preventing diabetes. It is also a good option for those who are diabetic. Also worth mentioning is that good oranges have a sweet taste, and since diabetics aren’t allowed to eat sweets or other sugary foods, they can eat oranges to tingle their taste buds.

#10 Prevents hair loss

Orange has high Vitamin C content which is required for producing collagen which, in turn, is responsible for keeping the tissues in your hair together. Nobody likes bald patches on their head, and eating oranges can ensure that you do not have to part with your lovely hair as you grow older.

Healthy eating tip: When you cut an orange, make sure you do it in a way that the inner peel doesn’t come off since it is very nutritious and has higher amounts of hesperidin than the flesh itself. You may also want to know the top 10 health benefits of orange peel.

7 Amazing Benefits of Coconut Water

Coconut water is an antioxidant-rich substance that helps remove toxins from the body. It can aid in maintaining proper blood flow and sugar levels. Since it works to keep your body healthy, you’ll also see this reflected in your physical appearance. Coconut water can also improve the health of your skin and hair. Add this healthful beverage to your diet to reap these awesome benefits.

1. Aid Digestion

Coconut water can improve your digestion. If you have a healthy digestion, your body can eliminate waste and release toxins efficiently. Your digestive system supports your overall well-being because it helps break down the nutrients you get from the foods you eat. Anything that supports your digestive system is always good, and coconut water does that effectively.

2. Weight Loss

Obesity is one of the leading health issues in America. People are trying hard to lose weight. Coconut oil can help your weight loss endeavours. Since it acts as a diuretic, it is very effective in helping you lose weight. Coconut water also hydrates the body well. If you’re properly hydrated, your body will store less fat. It can help you lose excess water weight, which is very helpful if you are trying to shed a few pounds.

3. Balance Glucose

Coconut water has nutritional properties that help your body manage your blood sugar levels, which makes it great for diabetic patients. It has high fibers content, and it is an alkaline pH food, which makes it great for coping up with the acid-producing factors in the body.

Poor blood circulation is one of the effects of diabetes. Coconut water can improve blood circulation by widening blood vessels. This gives the patient relief from these problems. Abdominal weight gain is another effect of diabetes. It is filled with essential salts, minerals and other nutrients. It also has no cholesterol. Coconut water is rich in omega-3s and antioxidants. All of these nutrients help maintain blood sugar levels and body weight.

4. Stimulate Hair Growth

Poor blood circulation is one of the leading causes for hair loss. Since coconut water can improve your blood circulation, it can also remedy problems with thinning hair. With the proper blood flow, your hair follicles will be stronger and the density of your hair will increase.

Coconut water also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that will protect your scalp from dandruff and lice, both of which hinder hair growth. If you massage your hair with coconut water every day, you can tame rough and unruly hair. It also has hydrating properties; serving as a natural conditioner it will make your hair smooth, shiny and extra-soft.

5. Anti-Aging

Drink coconut water on a regular basis to keep your skin fresh, glowing and healthy. Coconut water is rich in zinc, iodine, selenium, manganese, sulphur and boron. These elements protect your body from cell damage caused by toxins. This will keep your body and skin looking young and vibrant. Coconut water also has cytokinins, which are phytohormones that can protect your body from aging and cancer.

6. Blemish Buster

If you have acne problems, coconut water can easily become your best friend. It can help eliminate acne and blemishes, dark spots and wrinkles. Mix coconut water with 25 grams of turmeric paste, wash your face with this mixture to eliminate stubborn acne.

7. Skin Hydration

Dehydration is very common during the summer due to the heat. Your skin can easily get dry or rough. Since coconut water is an excellent hydrating agent, use it as a simple face rinse to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Last Updated: Nov 17, 2010 | By Jean Bardot

Health Advantages of Coconut Water — Coconut water offers numerous health benefits.Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Coconut water is the liquid found inside unripe coconuts that eventually forms the familiar white pulp as the fruit matures. Natives have consumed coconut water for centuries, knowing it is helpful for building a strong immune system. In addition, coconut water may be useful for hydrating the body due to high levels of electrolytes. Coconut waters provides a variety of medicinal uses and is an inexpensive, natural way to supplement your diet.

Coconut water is often used to re-hydrate the body during and after exercise, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The coconut water takes the place of sugary electrolyte drinks, supplying high levels of potassium, magnesium, sodium, calcium and phosphorus. In addition, it is low in sugar, fats and cholesterol. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has received the first patent for the UN to produce a sports drink with coconut water.

Coconut water is sterile and can be used to eliminate parasites and worms in the intestines, says Bruce Fife in "Coconut Water for Health and Healing." Mixing a glass of coconut water with a teaspoonful of olive oil for three days will help kill off parasites and allow them to pass from the system. Consult your health practitioner before doing this to make sure your problem is parasites and not some other condition that may mimic the symptoms.