Healthy Foods for a Healthy Body !

The following healthy foods have been recommended for a healthy body.

Just want to share with you hoping that you will also have something to share.

BROCCOLI – CANCER

Close-up, the tiny green tips on a broccoli head look like hundreds of cancer cells. Now scientists know this disease-busting veg can play a crucial role in preventing the disease. Last year, a team of researchers at the US National Cancer Institute found just a weekly serving of broccoli was enough to reduce the risk of prostate cancer by 45 per cent. In Britain, prostate cancer kills one man every hour.

MUSHROOM – EAR

Slice a mushroom in half and it resembles the shape of the human ear.And guess what?Adding it to your cooking could actually improve your hearing. That’s because mushrooms are one of the few foods in our diet that contain vitamin D. This particular vitamin is important for healthy bones, even the tiny ones in the ear that transmit sound to the brain.

GINGER – STOMACH

Root ginger, commonly sold in supermarkets, often looks just like the stomach. So it’s interesting that one of its biggest benefits is aiding digestion. The Chinese have been using it for over 2,000 years to calm the stomach and cure nausea, while it is also a popular remedy for motion sickness. But the benefits could go much further.Tests on mice at the University of Minnesota found injecting the chemical that gives ginger its flavour slowed down the growth rate of bowel tumours.

BANANA (SMILE) – DEPRESSION

Cheer yourself up and put a smile on your face by eating a banana. The popular fruit contains a protein called tryptophan. Once it has been digested, tryptophan then gets converted in a chemical neurotransmitter called serotonin. This is one of the most important mood-regulating chemicals in the brain and most anti-depressant drugs work by adjusting levels of serotonin production. Higher levels are associated with better moods.

CHEESE – BONES

A nice ‘holey’ cheese, like Emmenthal, is not just good for your bones, it even resembles their internal structure. And like most cheeses, it is a rich source of calcium, a vital ingredient for strong bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life. Together with another mineral called phosphate, it provides the main strength in bones but also helps to ‘power’ muscles. Getting enough calcium in the diet during childhood is crucial for strong bones. A study at Columbia University in New York showed teens who increased calcium intake from 800mg a day to 1200mg – equal to an extra two slices of cheddar - boosted their bone density by six per cent.

BEANSPROUTS – SPERM

The stir-fry favourite bears an uncanny resemblance to the images we see of ‘swimming’ sperm trying to fertilise an egg. And research from the US suggests they could play an important part in boosting male fertility. A study at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio showed that to make healthy sperm in large quantities, the body needs a good supply of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells against damage by harmful molecules called free radicals. Just half a cup of bean sprouts provides 16 per cent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C for a man. It’s not just dad but baby too who could benefit. Bean sprouts are packed with folate, a vitamin that prevents neural tube defects, where the baby is born with a damaged brain or spine.

GRAPES – LUNGS

OUR lungs are made up of branches of ever-smaller airways that finish up with tiny bunches of tissue called alveoli. These structures, which resemble bunches of grapes, allow oxygen to pass from the lungs to the blood stream. One reason that very premature babies struggle to survive is that these alveoli do not begin to form until week 23 or 24 of pregnancy. A diet high in fresh fruit, such as grapes, has been shown to reduce the risk of lung cancer and emphysema. Grape seeds also contain a chemical called proanthocyanidin, which appears to reduce the severity of asthma triggered by allergy.

TOMATO – HEART

A TOMATO is red and usually has four chambers, just like our heart. Tomatoes are also a great source of lycopene, a plant chemical that reduces the risk of heart disease and several cancers. The Women’s Health Study — an American research programme which tracks the health of 40,000 women — found women with the highest blood levels of lycopene had 30 per cent less heart disease than women who had very little lycopene. Lab experiments have also shown that lycopene helps counter the effect of unhealthy LDL cholesterol. One Canadian study, published in the journal Experimental Biology and Medicine, said there was “convincing evidence’ that lycopene prevented coronary heart disease.

WALNUT – BRAIN

THE gnarled folds of a walnut mimic the appearance of a human brain - and provide a clue to the benefits. Walnuts are the only nuts which contain significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. They may also help head off dementia. An American study found that walnut extract broke down the protein-based plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers at Tufts University in Boston found walnuts reversed some signs of brain ageing in rats.

EATING BY YOUR BLOOD TYPE

Introduced by Peter D'Adamo, the Blood Type Diet is based on the assumption that everyone is an individual. And who are we to argue? Logically, just because we share the same row and column in the BMI chart, it shouldn't define the way our dietary habits are. The Blood Type Diet makes interesting claims that people fare better (which includes weight management) when their diet is tailored to their specific blood type.

TYPE A: Individuals who fall under the Type A blood group should basically stick to fruits and vegetable. Their blood types is generally thicker than other blood types, and possess a sensitive immune system. These individuals should not consume (or should reduce intake) dairy products, animal fats and meats. They are also at a heightened risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer.

TYPE B: Type B blood groupers should consumer a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, grains, dairy and meat. However, they should try to refrain from chicken, and increase intake of red meat such as duck and beef. Unlike the other blood types, Type B individuals have the best chance of bypassing or overcoming everyday types of diseases, as well as heart disease and cancer.

TYPE AB: For Type AB individuals, intake of a mostly vegetarian diet is recommended. And only on rare occasions should they indulge in some fish, meat (not chicken) and dairy.

TYPE O: Those that fall under the Type O blood type should basically stick to a high protein diet, low carbs, as well as a balanced intake of fruits and vegetables. However, food foes for Type Os include most grain food such as corn and wheat germ. They should also try to avoid dairy products. Type O types are commonly affected with hypothyroidism, high stomach acid (leading to ulcers), and thinner blood with greater resistance to blood clotting.

Something2sgare:

Useful information. No harm in trying. Eat right to stay healthy.

I am of Type B blood group. So now I know chicken is no good for me.

I and Nara used to stop by Skudai to eat our lunch with duck meat almost every Saturdays after office hour on our way back to Segamat many years ago. I was then with JCC in JB.

Beef noodle is also my favourite. Never missed beef rendang and beef curry whenever having meal in a hotel cafe.

Cheese is also my favourite but not butter and milk. Now I may have to drink more milk. I like fruits and vegetables too. Will stick to more balanced diet as suggested.

How about you, my friends?

10 Foods You Don't Have to Buy Organic

These Fruits and Vegetables Don't Hold on to So Many Pesticides, So You Can Save Your Organic Dollars for the Ones That Do.

Asparagus

Asparagus face fewer threats from pests such as insects or disease, so fewer pesticides need to be used.

Choose: Look for firm spears with bright green or purplish compact tips. Plan on a 1/2 pound per person, and for more uniform cooking, select spears of a similar thickness. Store in the refrigerator vegetable crisper and give them a good rinse before using (even if you're going to boil them).

Avocados

Avocados have thick skins that protect the fruit from pesticide build-up.

Choose: Look for avocados that are still somewhat unripe and firm to the squeeze; they'll ripen nicely on your kitchen counter in a couple of days. Store at room temperature. Although you'll be using only the meat of the avocado, it's always a good idea to rinse them before you slice them open.

Bananas

Pesticide residue remains on the banana peel, which isn't eaten.

Choose: There are basically 3 stages to a ripening banana. You'll want to choose them according to how you're going to use them. Chosen green, where the peel is pale yellow and the tips are green, their taste will be somewhat tart. These work best for frying or baking in a pie. Chosen at their next stage of ripeness, where the peel is mostly all yellow, the pulp will still be firm but their starch content will have started to turn to sugar. These also work well in pies and tarts. In the last stage of ripeness, the skins will show signs of brown spots with the peel a deeper yellow color. This is when they're sweetest and work well mashed and added to baked goods like banana bread recipes. Store at room temperature. If they're unripe, you can place them in a brown paper bag to ripen. Give the bananas a quick rinse and dry before you peel them.

Broccoli

Conventional broccoli doesn't retain so many pesticides because the crop faces fewer pest threats, which means less spraying.

Choose: Look for tightly bunched flower buds on the broccoli stalks that are immature. In other words, try not to buy them if their little yellow flowers have opened. Color-wise, the broccoli should be deep green and the stalks should be firm and not rubbery. Before use, wash in a cool water bath and change the water a couple of times in the process. Store in the refrigerator crisper.

Cabbage

Cabbage doesn't hold on to so many pesticides because a ton of spraying isn't required to grow it.

Choose: Look for cabbage heads whose leaves are tight and be sure the head is heavy for its type, and firm. For most cabbage varieties, you'll want to make sure the outer leaves are shiny and crisp. Savoy is the exception to this rule, as it forms a looser head and the leaves grow crinkly naturally. You'll want to avoid any with leaves that show signs of yellowing. Bok choy should have deep green leaves with their stems a crisp-looking white. Discard the outer leaves of a cabbage before using. You can wash and spin most cabbage leaves just like you do salad greens. Store in the refrigerator crisper.

Kiwi Fruit

Kiwi peel provides a barrier from pesticides. Give them a rinse before cutting.

Choose: Here's where your nose plays an important part when choosing fresh fruit. Sniff out kiwis that smell good. They should be plump and yield to a squeeze like that of a ripe pear. Steer clear from those with moist areas on their surface or any skin bruising. If unripe kiwi are all that are available, simply take them home and place them in a paper bag at room temperature with other fruits that need more time, such as bananas or pears. Store in the refrigerator crisper.

Mango

Sweet mango flesh is protected by its thick skin from pesticides. Still, you'll want to rinse under water before cutting open.

Choose: Depending on the variety of melon, look for those that are bright in color such as red, yellow, or orange. It should have a distinctive "fruity" smell. If there's no ripe-fruit aroma, steer clear. Mangoes should be slightly firm but yield to your touch somewhat -- the softer the mango, usually the sweeter it is. If the mango is too soft, there's a good chance that it will be rotten inside. Store in the refrigerator crisper.

Onions

Onions don't see as many pest threats, which means less pesticide spraying.

Choose: Look for onions that are firm, have a distinctive "oniony" smell that's not overpowering, and show no visible signs of damage or soft spots. Store in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator.

Papaya

Pesticide residue stays on papaya skin, but be sure to give them a wash before slicing open.

Choose: Papaya colors usually range between yellow and green. Look for those that are slightly soft and show no signs of bruising or appear shriveled. If they're not fully ripened, you can toss them in the brown bag along with your unripened kiwi fruit, peaches, and pears. Once they're ripened, store in the refrigerator crisper.

Pineapples

You won't be eating the tough pineapple skin, which protects the fruit from pesticide residue. As with all your produce, you should rinse the pineapple before cutting.

Choose: Although tempting, this is one fruit that you won't want to choose if it has a strong, sweet smell. This usually means that the pineapple is overripe and has even begun to ferment. Like all other fruits, avoid any that have soft spots, and in the case of pineapples, damage to the rind. Store in the refrigerator crisper.

Something2Share:

I reckon these are favourite fruits and vegies for most of us if not all and we eat them very often if not everyday. With the information given, why spend more buying the organic ones?

PETAI, THE STINK BEANS

Petai contains three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose. Combined with fiber, petai gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proved that just two servings of petai provide enough energy for a strenuous 90 - minute workout. No wonder petai is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way petai can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression:
According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND among people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating petai. This is because petai contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS(premenstrual syndrome):
Forget the pills - eat petai. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood..

Anaemia:
High in iron, petai can stimulate the production of haemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anaemia.

Blood Pressure:
This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the petai industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power :
200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating petai at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium - packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert. Understand that bananas contain lot of potassium too so eat more banana. Just look at those monkeys, they are really active, alert, smart and cunny too!!

Constipation:
High in fiber, including petai in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers:
One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a petai milkshake, sweetened with honey. The petai calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re - hydrates your system.

Heartburn:
Petai has a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating petai for soothing relief.

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

Mosquito bites :
Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of the petai skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves:
Petai is high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system..

Overweight:
Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high - pressure jobs.. The report concluded that, to avoid panic - induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers:
Petai is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over - chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over - acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control :
Many other cultures see petai as a 'cooling' fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Holland , for example, pregnant women eat petai to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) :
Petai can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer, tryptophan.

Smoking:
Petai can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress:
Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high - potassium petai snack.

Strokes:
According to research in 'The New England Journal of Medicine, ' eating petai as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%'.

Warts:
Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of petai and place it on the wart. Carefully hold the petai in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, as you can see, petai really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So may be its time to change that well - known phrase so that we say, 'A Petai a day keeps the doctor away'.

Something2Share:

I like to eat petai beans, whether raw, or the "sampal petai", although it gives a pungent smell during urination. It contains certain amino acids that give a strong smell to one's urine, an effect that can be noticed up to two days after consumption. Once you acquire the taste, you begin to like it. That's why petai is so popular in Malaysia, Indonesia, southern Thailand, Burma and even northeastern India.

It seems that petai is also good for diabetes patients.

Driving Tips

Open the car doors and wind down the car windows before driving.
Bukalah pintu mobil dan turunkan kaca jendelanya sebelum Anda mengemudi.
開車前請先開窗和門

All car users beware: According to research done by a University of California, USA, the car dashboard, sofa, and air freshener will emit Benzene, a cancer causing toxin.
Semua pengguna mobil harus hati-hati : Menurut penelitian yang dilakukan oleh Universitas California, USA, dasbord mobil, sofa, dan penyegar atau pengharum akan mengeluarkan bensin, racun penyebab penyakit kanker.
開車的民眾要注意，根據美國加州大學的研究發現，汽車的儀表板、沙發、內裝和芳香劑，會揮發致癌物質「苯」。

In addition to causing cancer, Benzene also poisons your bones, causes anemia, and reduces white blood cells. Prolonged exposure will cause Leukemia, thus increasing the risk of cancer. It may also cause miscarriage.
Disamping penyebab penyakit kanker, bensin juga meracuni tulang Anda, menyebabkan kurang darah atau anemia dan mengurangi sel-sel darah putih. Penyerapan yang lebih lama akan mengakibatkan penyakit leukimia, dan akhirnya meningkatkan resiko penyakit kanker. Dan juga dapat mengakibatkan keguguran.
苯類化合物是很強的致癌物質，也是很強的骨髓毒性物質，它會造成一般人的貧血或者是白血球稀少，長期暴露的話，得到白血病，就是血癌的風險大為增加，有些孕婦還會因此流產。

Acceptable Benzene level indoors is 50 mg per sq. ft. A car parked indoors with the windows closed will contain 400-800 mg of Benzene. If parked outdoors under the sun at a temperature above 60 degrees F for an hour or so, the Benzene level will go up to 2000-4000 mg, about 40 times above the acceptable level. The people inside the car will inevitably inhale an excess amount of Benzene.
Ambang batas bensin yang dapat diterima didalam ruangan adalah 50 mg per sq.ft. Sebuah mobil diparkir di dalam ruangan dengan pintu tertutup akan mengandung 400-800 mg bensin.Jika diparkir diluar ruangan dibawah sinar matahari diatas temperatur 60 derajat Farenheit selama lebih kurang 1 jam maka bensin akan meningkat hingga 2000-4000 mg , atau 40 kali dari ambang batas yang dapat diterima. Orang dalam mobil pasti menghirup banyak kelebihan bensin.
和室內每立方公尺苯的正常標準值50微克相比，室溫下的密閉汽車裡含有400到800微克的苯，如果在太陽下曝曬1小時，溫度超過攝氏60度，苯含量更高達2千到4千微克，是正常標準的40倍以上，開車族不能倖免吸入過量的苯。

It is recommended that if you have parked your car under the sun for more or less an hour, you should open the car windows and doors to have sufficient time allowing the toxic air to come out before you get into the car. Benzene is a toxin that affects the kidney and liver very badly. It is very difficult for the body to expel it.
Disarankan jika Anda telah memarkirkan mobil Anda dibawah sinar matahari selama lebih kurang 1 jam , bukalah kaca jendela dan pintu mobil selama beberapa waktu agar udara yang mengandung racun terbuang sebelum Anda masuk ke dalam mobil. Bensin adalah racun yang mengakibatkan ginjal dan liver teracuni. Sangat sulit tubuh kita untuk membuang racun tersebut.
林口長庚毒物科主任林杰樑：你的愛車停在太陽底下超過１個鐘頭，甚至不需要１個鐘頭的時候，你要去開車的時候，你要切記，一定要把窗戶搖開把門打開，讓這些有毒氣體揮散掉以後，你才能夠開車。」醫師指出，「苯」屬於肝腎代謝的有毒化學物質，人體很難自然排出。

You are hereby cautiously reminded to open your car windows and doors as well before driving.

Anda dengan ini diingatkan agar berhati-hati supaya membuka pintu mobil dan turunkan kaca jendelanya sebelum Anda mengemudi.
只能提醒民眾在開車前請先開窗。

Prostate Check & 7 Prostate Symptoms Which You Should Watch For

The vast majority of men will develop prostate problems of some description as they get older, with the first signs of trouble appearing for a few men at about the age of 50, or possibly slightly earlier. By the age of 60 about half of all men will be experiencing prostate symptoms and this figure will have increased to about ninety percent by the age of 80.

For most men prostate symptoms will be fairly mild and, because most of us begin to develop a range of medical problems at this point in our lives, it is not uncommon for men to simply ignore prostate symptoms as nothing more than a normal part ageing. As many prostate problems are not serious, and the symptoms can often be very mild, this is not necessarily a problem and you can live with many prostate problems quite happily and without them doing you any real harm.

However, not all prostate problems are harmless and if your particular prostate problem happens to be prostate cancer and you ignore it then it could quite easily start to spread and eventually kill you. Indeed, ignoring prostate symptoms is the main reason why prostate cancer represents the second highest cause of cancer death in the United States.

There are many different symptoms which might point to a developing prostate problem and one difficulty we have in recognizing the cause of these symptoms is that they are often symptoms which could arise for many different reasons. However, if symptoms are not being caused by prostate problems then they will often to be short lived (stemming from a bacterial infection for example) and will disappear in a matter of days without the need for treatment. However, where symptoms stay with you, or appear on a regular basis, then there it is likely that they are being caused by a problem with the prostate gland.

Common symptoms include:

1. Difficulty beginning urination and the need to strain in order to start urination.

2. A loss of strength in the flow of urine.

3. A flow of urine which tends to stop and start.

4. A feeling that you need to urinate even after you’ve just been to the bathroom.

5. A need to visit the bathroom urgently and problems in 'waiting'.

6. The need to visit the bathroom more frequently and, in particular, to get up to visit the bathroom during the night.

7. A tendency to dribble urine for a while after you have finished in the bathroom.

These symptoms indicate that prostate problems may be developing and although, in most cases, such problems will not be serious but this is not always the case.

Accordingly, as soon as these symptoms appear, you should consult your doctor (an Urologist)who will be able to tell you exactly what the problem is and how to treat it. More importantly, if the problem does turn out to be prostate cancer, he can recommend treatment while the problem is in its early stages and can be relatively easily treated and, hopefully, eliminated altogether.

OKRA - GOOD FOR DIABETIC (TREATMENT SUGAR LEVEL)

Got this write up forwarded to me by a friend. Please read and pass on to your friends and relatives who are diabetic. I believe it’s worth trying. Make it your favourite drink.
Last month in one of TV program I learned of a treatment of Sugar Level (Diabetes). Since I am diabetic, I tried it and it was very useful and my Sugar Level is in control now. In fact I have already reduced my medicine.

Take two pieces of Lady’s Finger (Okra) or known as Bhindi in South Asia and remove/cut both ends of each piece. Also put a small cut in the middle and put these two pieces in glass of water. Cover the glass and keep it at room temperature during night. Early morning, before breakfast simply remove two pieces of Lady’s Finger (Okra) from the glass and drink that water.

Keep doing it on daily basis. Within two weeks, you will see remarkable results in reduction of your SUGAR.

My sister has got rid of her diabetes. She was on Insulin for a few years, but after taking the Lady’s Finger (Okra) every morning for a few months, she has stopped Insulin but continues to take the Lady’s Finger (Okra) every day. But she chops the Lady’s Finger (Okra) into fine pieces in the night, adds the water and drinks it all up the next morning.

Please try it as it will not do you any harm even if it does not do much good to you, but you have to keep taking it for a few months before you can see results, as most cases might be chronic.

Something2share:

After reading it, I searched the internet to check on more information relating to the claim of Lady’s Finger (Okra) for treatment of sugar level. It is called bendi in Bahasa Malaysia. I wish to share the relevant information that I have found in various websites:

Okra is good for preventing diabetes. Okra is good in normalizing the blood sugar and cholesterol level. A person started eating 6 pieces Lady’s Finger (Okra) and within 2 months, his blood sugar has dropped from 135 to 98.

The mucilage and superior fiber found in Okra helps to stabilize blood sugar by curbing the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract. In India, okra has been used successfully in experimental blood plasma replacements. - Sylvia W. Zook, PhD. (Nutritionist)

Many natural foods also help with blood sugar control in Type 2 diabetes. These include sage, buckwheat, Okra, peas, brewer's yeast, fenugreek seeds, and broccoli and other greens. These foods help because they are high in fiber. Certain herbs also reportedly help, including hawthorn, nettle, ginger, ginseng, and garlic. – Milos pesic

BENEFITS OF EATING LADY'S FINGER (OKRA)

A person, suffering from constipation for the past 20 years and recently from acid reflux, started eating 6 pieces of “Lady’s Finger” or Okra within the last 2 months. Since then, he has not taken any other medication. Now, his blood sugar has dropped from 135 to 98 and his cholesterol and acid reflux are also under control.

According to Ms. Sylvia Zook PhD (Nutritionist) of University of Illinois, Okra has several benefits:

1) The superior fiber found in Okra helps to stabilize blood sugar by curbing the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract.

2) Okra's mucilage binds cholesterol and bile acid carrying toxins dumped into it by the filtering liver.

3) Okra helps lubricate the large intestines due to its bulk laxative qualities. The Okra fiber absorbs water and ensures bulk in stools. This helps prevent and improve constipation. Unlike harsh wheat bran, which can irritate or injure the intestinal tract, Okra's mucilage soothes, and Okra facilitates elimination more comfortably by its slippery characteristic. Okra binds excess cholesterol and toxins (in bile acids). These, if not evacuated, will cause numerous health problems. Okra also assures easy passage out of waste from the body. Okra is completely non-toxic, non-habit forming, has no adverse side effects, is full of nutrients, and is economically within reach of most unlike the OTC drugs.

4) Okra fiber is excellent for feeding the good bacteria (probiotics). This contributes to the health of the intestinal tract. These are similar to the ones proliferate by the yoghurt in the small intestine and helps biosynthesis of Vitamin B complex.

5) Okra is good for summer heat treatment. Okra is a supreme vegetable for those feeling weak, exhausted, and suffering from depression.

6) Okra is used for healing ulcers and to keep joints limber. It helps to neutralize acids, being very alkaline, and provides a temporary protective coating for the digestive tract.

7) Okra treats lung inflammation, sore throat, and irritable bowel.

8) In India, Okra has been used successfully in experimental blood plasma replacements. To retain most of Okra's nutrients and self-digesting enzymes, it should be cooked as little as possible, e.g. with low heat or lightly steamed. Some eat it raw.

Other benefits reported:

Okra is an ideal vegetable for weight loss and is storehouse of health benefits provided it is cooked over low flame to retain its properties. This also to ensure that the invaluable mucilage contained in it is not lost to high heat.

For adding bounce your hair, boil horizontally sliced Okra till the brew become maximally slimy. Cool it and add a few droops of lemon and use this as the last rinse and see your hair spring back to youthfulness and jump.

Okra is an excellent laxative treats irritable bowels, heals ulcers and sooths the gastrointestinal track.

Protein and oil contained in the seeds of Okra serves as the source of first-rate vegetable protein. It is enriched with amino acids on the likes of tryptophan, cystine and other sulfur amino acids.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This anti-inflammatory activity may curtail the development of asthma symptoms. A large preliminary study has shown that young children with asthma experience significantly less wheezing if they eat a diet high in fruits rich in vitamin C. 1/2 cup of cooked Okra contains over 13 mg of vitamin C.

Diets high in insoluble fiber, such as those containing Okra, are associated with protection against heart disease in both men and women.

The insoluble fiber found in Okra helps to keep the intestinal tract healthy, decreasing the risk of some forms of cancer, especially colon-rectal cancer.

Eating plenty of flavonoid and vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables such as Okra helps to support the structure of capillaries.

1/2 cup of cooked Okra contains 460 IU of vitamin A. Some studies have reported that eating more foods rich in beta-carotene or vitamin A was associated with a lower risk of cataracts.

A study (JAMA July 23, 2003) showed that consuming a "dietary portfolio" of vegetarian foods lowered cholesterol nearly as well as the prescription drug lovastatin (Mevacor). The diet was rich in soluble fiber from oats, barley, psyllium, eggplant and Okra. It used soy substitutes instead of meat and milk and included almonds and cholesterol-lowering margarine every day.

A controlled trial showed that eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables containing folic acid, beta-carotene, and vitamin C effectively lowered homocysteine levels. Healthy people were assigned to either a diet containing a pound of fruits and vegetables per day, or to a diet containing 3 1/2 ounces (99g) of fruits and vegetables per day. After four weeks, those eating the higher amount of fruits and vegetables had an 11 percent lower homocysteine level compared to those eating the lower amount of fruits and vegetables. Okra is a storehouse of vitamins (A, B6 & C) and folic acid.

Something2share:

If you like to eat Lady’s Finger (Okra), and if you have constipation problem, then give it a try. Eating 6 pieces of Lady’s Finger (Okra) everyday for 2 months is certainly good for you.

I prefer to steam the fresh young pods of Lady’s Finger (Okra). I also like to put them in boiling water for few minutes and then take them out and cool them on a plate before eating. Taste good (being soft and tender) by adding a little olive oil and soy sauce.

There are many ways of cooking Lady’s Finger (Okra), such as fried with dried shrimp or ikan bilis with belacan (Malaysian shrimp paste) and added some red chilies. My wife likes to prepare yong tau foo (酿豆腐) with Lady’s Finger (Okra) as well, besides using bean curd (tau foo), bitter gourd, brinjal (eggplant) and chilies. When she cooks curry fish head or tom yam fish head, she always adds more Lady’s Finger (Okra) because her children including me, her hubby, like eating Lady’s Finger (Okra).

If you are like my old friend, Tan Jing Ming, loves woking (i.e. cooking)in the kitchen besides walking and talking, then go search the net for many Okra Recipes. Enjoy your delicious dishes and stay healthy.

BREATHING THERAPY (HEADACHE & TIREDNESS) 呼吸治療法（頭痛及疲倦）TERAPI DENGAN PERNAFASAN (KEPALA SAKIT & KELELAHAN)

Our noses have left and right nostrils. Are these nostrils having the same function for inhaling (breathe in) and exhaling (breathe out)?
我們有左邊、右邊鼻孔，吸氣、吐氣時有沒有一樣？
Kita meiliki hidung berlubang disebelah kiri dan disebelah kanan, apakah fungsinya sama untuk menghirup dan membuang nafas?

Actually it’s not the same and we can feel the difference. Accordingly, the right side represents the sun and the left side represents the moon.
其實不一樣，可以感覺不一樣；右邊等於是太陽的意思，左邊等於是月亮.
Sebenarnya fungsinya tidak sama dan dapat kita rasakan bedanya; sebelah kanan mewakili matahari (mengeluarkan panas) dan sebelah kiri mewakili bulan ( mengeluarkan dingin).

When having headache, try to close your right nostril and use your left nostril to do breathing for about 5 min. The headache will be gone.
平常頭痛時可以用手把右邊鼻孔關起來，只用左邊鼻孔吸氣、吐氣，約五分鐘，頭痛就好了。
Jika sakit kepala, cobalah menutup lubang hidung sebelah kanan dan bernafaslah melalui hidung sebelah kiri dan lakukan kira-kira 5 menit, sakit kepala akan sembuh.

If you feel too tired, do it the opposite way. Close your left nostril and breathe through your right nostril. After a while, you will feel refresh again.
如果疲倦、累了，相反的關起左邊的鼻孔，只用右邊吸氣、吐氣，不用多久，馬上精神好起了。
Jika Anda merasa lelah, lakukan bolak-balik. Tutup lubang hidung sebelah kiri dan bernafaslah melalui hidung sebelah kanan. Tak lama kemudian, Anda akan merasakan segar kembali.

Because the right side belongs to heat, so it gets hot easily. The left side gets cold easily.
因為右邊屬於火氣，比較會熱，左邊比較會涼。
Sebab lubang hidung sebelah kanan mengeluarkan panas, sehingga gampang sekali panas, Lubang hidung sebelah kiri mengeluarkan dingin..

Women breathe mainly with their left nostril, so they get calm down easily.
女生大部分吸氣、吐氣在左邊，所以心比較會涼快。
Perempuan bernafas lebih dengan hidung sebelah kiri, sehingga hatinya gampang sekali dingin.

Men breathe mostly with their right nostril, so they get angry easily.
男生大部分吸氣、吐氣在右邊，所以他們比較會生氣。
Laki-laki bernafas lebih dengan hidung sebelah kanan, sehingga gampang sekali marah.

When we wake up, do we notice which nostril breathes faster? Is it the left side or the right side?
我們起床時，可以注意哪邊吸氣、吐氣比較快？左邊或右邊？
Apakah Anda ada memperhatikan pada saat bangun, lubang hidung sebelah mana yang bernafas lebih cepat ? Sebelah kiri atau kanan ?

If the left nostril breathes faster, you will feel very tired. Close your left nostril and use your right nostril for breathing and you will get refresh quickly.
如果左邊比較快，覺得提不起精神，可以關起左邊鼻孔，用右邊呼吸，很快的精神會好起來。
Jika lubang hidung sebelah kiri bernafas lebih cepat, Anda akan merasa sangat lelah. Tutuplah lubang hidung sebelah kiri dan gunakan lubang hidung sebelah kanan untuk bernafas, Anda akan merasa segar kembali dengan cepat.

You can teach your kids about it. The effect of breathing therapy is much better for adults.
這也可以教給小孩，大人用更好。如果你有警覺心的話，速度更快。
Cara tersebut boleh diajarkan kepada anak-anak, tetapi efeknya akan lebih baik diterapkan kepada orang dewasa.

I used to have painful headache. When consulted a doctor, he told me jokingly," You will be all right if you get married!" The doctor did not bullshit me as he had his theory and supported with testimony.
以前我曾經頭痛，痛得非常厲害，去看醫生，醫生說 "你去結婚就好了!" 醫生說得沒錯，他有理論根據。
Saya biasanya merasakan sakit kepala, dan rasanya nyeri. Kemudian saya berobat ke dokter dan beliau mengatakan ,”Anda akan sembuh jika berumah tangga!” Dokter itu tidak bicara omong kosong. Apa yang dia sampaikan didukung dengan teori dan kesaksian.

During that time, I used to have headache every night and I was not able to study. I took medicine but I was not cured.
當時每天晚上都頭痛，沒有辦法看書，有吃藥，也不是辦法。
Pada saat itu, setiap malam saya merasakan sakit kepala dan tidak dapat belajar. Saya makan obat, tetapi tidak dapat sembuh..

One night as I sat down to medidate, I closed my right nostril and breathed with my left nostril. In less than a week, it seemed that my headache problem had left me! I continued doing it for about a month and since then there was no recurrence of headache in me.
有一天晚上靜坐，關起右鼻孔呼吸，這樣子做，不到一個禮拜，頭痛好了！持續做了一個月，從那天晚上到現在，一次也沒有頭痛過。
Pada suatu malam. saya duduk bersemedi dan menutup lubang hidung sebelah kanan dan bernafas dengan lubang hidung sebelah kiri. Dalam kurang dari satu minggu, sakit kepala saya sembuh. Saya teruskan melakukannya selama 1 bulan, sejak malam itu sampai sekarang , sakit kepala saya tidak kambuh lagi.

This is my own experience. I used to tell others who also suffer headache to try this method as it was effective for me. It also works for those who have tried as well. This is a natural therapy, unlike taking medicines for a long time may have side effect. So, why don't you try it out?
這是我自己親身經驗過，每一次我告訴別人，你們頭痛的話，試試看，因為我的身體有效果，很多人試過也有效果。這是一種自然的處理，不像吃藥會有副作用，為什麼不用呢？
Ini adalah yang saya alami sendiri. Saya beritahukan kepada orang lain, jika sakit kepala, boleh mencoba cara tersebut, sebab sangat efektif buat saya. Banyak orang pun telah mencoba dan berhasil. Ini adalah terapi alami, tidak seperti memakan obat dalam jangka panjang akan ada efek sampingnya. Jadi kenapa Anda tidak mencobanya ?

Practice the correct ways of breathing (breathe in and breathe out) and your body will be in a very relaxing condition.
經常清楚的吸氣、吐氣，身體會覺非常輕鬆。
Selalulah mecoba terapi perrnafasan ini, tubuh Anda akan merasa sangat tenang sekali (rileks).

Something2share:

The Indonesian version was translated by Efendi Doloksaribu, my ex-colleague in Sawit Mas Group. We feel that we should also share this important information of Breathing Therapy to some of our Indonesian friends who do not read English and Chinese.

The English version has been edited for better understanding.

When I joined the local Gym Club in Segamat about a week ago after my return from Indonesia for retirement, I was taught by instructors, Sam and Peter Tan, to do the Qigong breathing, i.e. to breathe in air into the stomach (abdomen) through the nose until it expands out like a balloon. Then hold the breath in for a moment, and then breathe out the air slowly through the nose and not through the mouth. I was told to repeat this breathing exercise for 10 times or practice it for about 5 minutes. While doing it, I was reminded to relax my face and my mind but concentrate on my breathing. I find that with more air breathe in (i.e. more oxygen supply), it helps to increase my energy and reduce tension.

‘CHALE CHALO’ or BRISK WALKING

Hard working Executives like you, often ignore your own health under the pretext of time.

Are you doing justice to your company, your work, yourself, your family?

Heart Disease is one of the most common diseases afflicting today's executives. Caused by Excessive stress, Smoking, High calorie diet, Sedentary lifestyle, this disease is the no 1 killer of today's executives.

Only you can do something about it ! After all, it’s your life, it’s your family!

You can start with a simple step. TODAY.

Take a brisk walk for 20 minutes per day, Everyday.
IN SHORT, WE CALL IT ‘CHALE CHALO’

For over 40 years now, studies have shown walking to be the best form of exercise that people of all ages can do.

• WALKING AND CHOLESTROL – Regular walking can increase the levels of good cholesterol.

• WALKING AND SMOKING – Regular walking is a positive habit to replace smoking with.

• WALKING AND BLOOD PRESSURE - Regular walking makes the heart work more efficiently and improves blood circulation. Blood vessels become more elastic and the amount of oxygen delivered to the tissues increases.

• WALKING AND FITNESS - Regular brisk walking improves muscle tone, makes your heart stronger and gives you that bite of fitness. Do it regularly for 20 minutes every day and enjoy that feeling of fitness from within.

• WALKING AND STRESS – Walking is one easy way to deal with tension, anxiety and stress. Studies show that people who exercise regularly can cope better with stresses of life. Researchers in USA found a 14% average drop in anxiety levels in regular brisk walkers. Walking recharges our batteries after tension and stress have drained them of power and energy.

WALKING IS SIMPLEST, CHEAPEST & EASIEST.

IT’S EFFECTIVE & SAFE - Reduces Stress, Strengthens the heart, Strengthens the muscles, Improves blood circulation, Helps quit smoking, Massages the legs, Reduces cholesterol.

IT STRENGTHENS YOUR HEART & YOUR HEALTH BY WALKING 20 MINUTES BRISKLY EVERY DAY. BUILD IT IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE.

Yes. You will start ‘Chale Chalo’ from today onwards!

What about your friends?

Pass on this message to your loved ones and let them know how much you love them as you wish them to STAY HEALTHY.

Something2Share:

Although brisk walking is a gentle, low-impact exercise, but it takes initiative and commitment to do it regularly for at least 20 minutes every day. If you are able to stick with it for 6 months, then you have made brisk walking a habit. It’s well worth your effort for the potential health benefits.

GOOD TO SHARE - HEALTHY FOOD