How to - 2/16 - Teronga

Mahbuba Hoque / April 28, 2016

Surprising Health Benefits of The Power Food ….Cabbage!

Many people know cabbage as nothing more than a source of natural gas. But it has so many health benefits offered by all the different varieties of this leafy vegetable. According to so many studies, cabbage may be beneficial in reducing so many types of ailments – ranging from heart disease to diabetes. The cabbage family of vegetables contains more phytochemicals with demonstrable anti-cancer properties than any other vegetable family.

Ancient healers declared it contained moon power because it grew in the moonlight. Modern nutritional science understands its power comes from its high sulfur and vitamin C content. Either way – it’s worth adding this Power-food to your weekly diet.

Healthy Benefits of Cabbage:

1. Ideal for weight loss!

It has only 33 calories in a cup of cooked cabbage, is low in fat and high in fiber. It is definitely a smart carb. Cabbage is a great vegetable to add to your diet because you can eat lots of it in high volume, it’s crunchy, and it’s versatile in many healthy recipes.

2. It is a brain food!

It is full of vitamin K and anthocyanins that help with mental function and concentration. These nutrients also prevent nerve damage, improving your defense against Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. Red cabbage has the highest amount of these power nutrients.

3. High in sulfur, the beautifying mineral.

Cabbage helps dry up oily and acne skin. Internally sulfur is essential for keratin, a protein substance necessary for healthy hair, nails, and skin. Check out this Homemade Cabbage Face Mask.

4. Helps detoxify the body.

The high content of vitamin C and sulphur in cabbage removes toxins (free radicals and uric acid). These are the main causes of arthritis, skin diseases, rheumatism and gout.

5. Has well-known cancer preventative compounds lupeol, sinigrin and sulforaphane.

They stimulate enzyme activity and inhibit the growth of cancer tumors. A Study on women showed a reduction in breast cancer when cruciferous vegetables like cabbage were added to their diet.

6. Helps keep blood pressure from getting high.

The high potassium content helps by opening up blood vessels, easing the flow of blood.

7. Cabbage for headaches

A warm compress made with cabbage leaves can help relieve the pain of a headache. Crush cabbage leaves, place in a cloth, and apply on the forehead. Also, drink raw cabbage juice 1-2 oz. (25-50ml) daily for chronic headaches.

8. Hangovers from heavy drinking were reduced by using cabbage, since Roman times.

9. Anti-inflammatory and Blood Sugar Regulator.

The natural red pigments of red cabbage (betalains) is said to lower blood sugar levels and boost insulin production. Of course it has no white sugars and very few simple sugars. Betalains have powerful anti-inflammatory properties just like beets.

10. cabbage for skin care:

If you want beautiful glowing skin, and an immune system powerful enough to fight off just about anything, don’t forget this highly nutritious but common vegetable.

11.In the treatment of peptic ulcers:

Cabbage has also been shown to be extremely effective in the treatment of peptic ulcers. The anti-ulcer component of cabbage was initially referred to as “vitamin U,” but later identified as the amino acid glutamine, a critical factor in the growth and regeneration of the cells that line the gastrointestinal tract.

Cabbage Caution

Those with thyroid problems should avoid eating large amounts of cabbage. It interfere with the body’s absorption of iodine, needed by the thyroid gland. This applies to all cruciferous vegetables.

Mahbuba Hoque / April 23, 2016

What is Agar Agar? What to choose..Agar or gelatin!

What is agar?

*Agar or agar-agar is a jelly-like substance, obtained from algae.It was discovered in the late 1650 or early 1660 by Mino Tarōzaemon in Japan, where it is called kanten .

*Agar is derived from the polysaccharide agarose, which forms the supporting structure in the cell walls of certain species of algae, and which is released on boiling.

*Agar Agar–also known Japanese gelatin, vegetable gelatin, Chinese isinglass, China glass, and dai choy goh–is a vegan gelling agent derived from seaweed. It has many uses but is used primarily in cooking. Agar agar is odorless, tasteless, and has only 3 calories per gram.

Uses:

Agar has been chiefly used as ingredient in desserts throughout Asia and also as a solid substrate to contain culture media for microbiological work. Agar can be used as a laxative, an appetite suppressant, a vegetarian substitute for gelatin, a thickener for soups, in fruit preserves, ice cream, and other desserts, as a clarifying agent in brewing, and for sizing paper and fabrics.

Health Benefits:

Agar has no calories, no carbs, no sugar, not fat and is loaded with fiber. It’s free from starch, soy, corn, gluten, yeast, wheat, milk, egg and preservatives.
It absorbs glucose in the stomach, passes through digestive system quickly and inhibits the body from retaining and storing excess fat. Its water absorbing properties also aids in waste elimination. Agar absorbs bile, and by doing so, causes the body to dissolve more cholesterol.

A great substitute to gelatin:

Gelatin is a colorless and odorless substance that is made from the collagen found inside animal bones and skin.Agar is the perfect substitute to traditional gelatin. It’s made from a plant source rather than from an animal one. That makes it suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets, and other diet restrictions.
Agar has no taste, no odor and no color, which makes it pretty convenient to use. It sets more firmly than gelatin, and stays firm even when the temperature heats up.

Agar melts at 85 degrees Celsius and solidifies between 32 and 40 degrees Celsius. Gelatin melts at 35 degrees Celsius and solidifies at low temperatures but the exact gelling would depend upon the concentration and time of standing.
Though agar is a great substitute to gelatin, don’t expect the same results when replacing gelatin with agar in a recipe. First, it doesn’t give the same texture. Gelatin can give a «creamy» texture whereas agar gives a firmer texture. And agar is much more powerful than gelatin : 1 teaspoon agar powder is equivalent to 8 teaspoon gelatin powder.

Substitute for egg whites:

If you have a recipe that calls for egg whites but you are vegan, allergic to eggs, or simply don’t like them, Agar is a suitable replacement. To replace one egg, mix 1 tablespoon Agar powder in 1 tablespoon of water. Use an immersion blender or whisk to vigorously whip the mixture, then put it in the refrigerator to chill. Once the mixture is cool, take it out and whip it a second time. This mixture should perform the same function as egg whites in your baking and won’t even alter the taste or color.

Using Agar Agar in Cooking:

Agar usually comes in three forms: powder, flakes, or a bar. All three work equally well; the real difference is ease of preparation. Powdered Agar is usually the easiest to use, as it can be substituted for gelatin in a 1:1 ratio (1 teaspoon gelatin is equivalent to 1 teaspoon Agar powder). The powder also dissolves easier than flakes or bars.If you’re not sure which type to use, default to the powdered Agar.

How to use Agar

– The most important thing to know is that agar needs to be first dissolved in water (or another liquid like milk, fruit juices, tea, stock…) and then brought to a boil. It will set as the ingredients cool down. You can not add agar flakes or powder as it is in your food.

– You should definitly follow the package directions and the recipe to determine which quantity to use. But here is a basic rule you can adapt : use 1 tablespoon agar flakes to thicken 1 cup of liquid, and 1 teaspoon agar powder to thicken 1 cup of liquid.

Here is the basic «recipe» to use if you can’t boil your liquid directly.

1. Dissolve 1 tbsp agar flakes or 1 tsp agar powder in 4 tbsp hot water

2. Bring water to a boil

3. Simmer for 1 to 5 minutes for powder and 10 to 15 minutes for flakes

4. Mix well with warmed ingredients

5. Let it cool to set agar.

Where can you find agar?

Agar is available in health food stores, in supermarket that carry health food lines, in Asian grocery stores and online.

Sources:

– How to use Agar Agar – wikiHow
– Agar Diet – eHow.com
– Agar Diet – Livestrong.com
– Gelatin and Agar Agar – About.com
– Agar Agar – Wikipedia

Mahbuba Hoque / April 19, 2016

Is coconut milk good enough for your health?

Coconut milk is a liquid derived from mature coconuts and it’s different than coconut water. It is used in many dishes as an alternative to regular milk. Due to its rich and creamy consistency, it can be used as a milk substitute. In Southeast Asia, it is often used as a common food ingredient.

This milk is rich in vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5 and B6 as well as iron, selenium, calcium, iron, magnesium and phosphorus. Thus, this sweet creamy liquid can be a part of a healthy diet and is a great option for those who are allergic to animal milk.

Coconut Milk For Health:

1. Great Source of Magnesium:

Coconut milk is a rich source of magnesium, providing around 89 milligrams per cup. This mineral helps to calm the nerves and maintain normal blood pressure as well as prevent nerve cells from becoming overactive by virtue being stimulated by calcium. It results in the reduction of muscle contraction, thus making you feel more relaxed.

2. Aids in Weight Loss:

Coconut milk is often considered as a fattening agent due to its saturated fats. But it is also rich in fiber, which makes you feel full for a longer time and if taken in moderation, can help to control weight.

3. Stronger Immune System:

Coconut milk contains lauric acid, antimicrobial lipids and capric acid which possess antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. This lauric acid on entering the human body gets converted into a compound called monolaurin which is believed to fight the viruses and bacteria that cause herpes, influenza and even HIV.

4. Treatment of Arthritis:

Selenium found in coconut milk is an antioxidant, which relieves arthritis symptoms by controlling free radicals and decreasing the risk of joint inflammation.

5. Strong Bones:

Although coconut milk does not contain as much calcium as regular milk (38 mg per cup), it is a rich source of phosphorus. It provides around (how much) milligrams of phosphorus per cup which contributes to strong bones.

6.For hair growth:

Coconut milk is the answer of every hair problem you are facing. It contains vitamin E and fats which are very beneficial for hair and also promote hair growth. Coconut milk has been known to particularly help people who are facing hair problems.

7. Anti-ageing Benefits:

Consumption or application of coconut milk improves skin elasticity due to its copper and vitamin C content. These nutrients slow down the ageing process of your skin and body by maintaining flexibility and elasticity of the skin and blood vessels. Thus, it prevents wrinkles, sagging skin and age spots.

8. Treatment of Skin Ailments:

Due to its moisturizing properties, coconut milk can soothe the symptoms of psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema. The natural fatty acids in this milk can help treat dry and irritated skin and remove harmful bacteria from your skin.

First, let’s take a quick look at how to extract coconut milk:

Fortunately, making coconut milk at home is simple and very inexpensive. From my calculations, homemade coconut milk costs less than $1 per batch, and it can be used in smoothies, recipes, or just to drink by itself. It can also be flavored with natural vanilla, strawberries, or cocoa powder.

The Players:

*1 cup dried coconut chips
*2 cups filtered water

The How-To

1. Heat water on the stove until it’s hot, but not boiling.

2. Put coconut chips in blender (I recommend and use this one.) Pour hot water over the chips.

3. Blend on high for 2 minutes, or until you get a creamy, thick homemade coconut milk.

4. Line a strainer or colander with cheesecloth. Pour the coconut milk through the lined strainer into a bowl. This will remove any larger remaining coconut meat. When you’re done pouring the coconut milk through the strainer, ball up the cheesecloth and give it a good squeeze to press the remaining liquid through. You can use your residual coconut caught in the cheesecloth in a recipe that calls for coconut, or you can toss it.

5. Transfer your homemade coconut milk from the bowl into a mason jar or other container. Use the homemade coconut milk immediately, or keep in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Mahbuba Hoque / April 18, 2016

10 little things which all cute loving couples do everyday !

Have you ever wondered what happens after all of those fairy tales marriages? What do Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Rapunzel, and all other beauties and their charming princes do to make the happily-ever-after work out?

Well, it doesn’t take a genius to guess, right? If you are in a healthy relationship, or are happily married, you won’t need to draw inspirations from Disney characters. You have your own fairy tale, written only by you two. There are little little things they do everyday..

1. They communicate.

Communicating is a form of bonding. Having a real conversation at least once a day is enough to wipe away any form of misunderstanding. If you are bothered about something or have an objection to something your partner is doing, talk.

Tell that to your companion, strike up a conversation. Please do not nag or complain, only seeing the faults in them. Appreciate the positives, rather than the negatives. Keeping your partner in the loop of your daily activities is another form of communication. In this way, you are not missing out on each other’s day-to-day affairs.

2. They grow common interest.

Sharing some common interests (not all) with your partner is a sign of healthy relationship. Happy couples tend to enjoy each other’s company no matter what they are doing.

You may not be fond of his obsession with NFL(National Football League), or he may not enjoy watching Desperate Housewives with you, but there are certain things that you two can do together.

Let’s take cooking as an example. You guys can cook up meals you always found challenging. Or, start gardening. Take baby steps, and you two can grow a beautiful garden together.

3. They spend time together.

With a fast paced life, it is hard to find spare time for personal entertainment. Why don’t you take at least half an hour from your busy schedule, and utilize it?

On the weekends do something different. For instance, go to a drive-in movie. Even if you are not interested in the movie, you can always sit back with popcorn and drinks, and enjoy each other’s company under the sky.

4. They cuddle huddle.

Going to bed at the same time doesn’t always mean having sex. You can simply lie down with your partner under the blanket and cuddle huddle. Do you know that there has been research that shows how smelling your partner while cuddling has a positive effect on your relationship?

The body odor of your partner has certain chemical keys that instigate comfort or a sense of security in you. Therefore, cuddling is a special response to a healthy relationship.

5. They hug and peck.

For some, this may sound like a silly thing to do everyday (I know few couples who don’t hug and kiss each other. Only God knows why.), but this “silly” matter is actually a powerful medicine to keep you two happy.

Before heading out to work, and after coming back home, commit to squeezy, beary hugs and kisses. Make this a ritual; you two won’t be able to let go of it, trust me! Happy couples usually stamp kisses and cling on their partners whenever they feel like. I guess that’s why they are happy, right?

6. They signify I “heart” you everyday.

Expressing “I Love You” all the time may seem monotonous to you, but that’s not true. I call these the “magic words.” Uttering the magic words twice a day is sufficient, especially before going to work, and before hitting the sack. You and your partner know how much you care and love each other. Regardless, verbalize the words because “it’s only words, and words are all I have, to take your heart away.” — Boyzone

7. They have a sense of humor.

Cracking jokes every now and then has a positive impact on a relationship.We can’t imagine our life surrounded by serious people. we need humor. And so do you! Happy couples know the right time to be witty. And laughing even at the lamest jokes on earth can increase the level of love between the two of you. Understanding sense of humor, how to perk them up on a down day…there’s nothing sweeter, right?

8. They switch off their ringers.

Most of your time is spent at work. The other time is spent doing miscellaneous works, including eating and sleeping. So whatever leftover time you have, utilize it for each other. Stop browsing the internet, socializing in all respects, and simply hit the power button. Switch off your phones, and be connected with your partner face to face. You’ll love it!

9. Share the shower.

When your relationship advances, you eventually begin taking showers together. You scrub each other’s backs and sometimes even shampoo and condition each other’s hair. Those brave foot-massaging gals might even scrub the guy’s feet with a body scrub.

10. They plan their futures together.

Planning your futures can take two forms. One, you sit down with calendars, calculators, and note pads. Two, you have a deep and meaningful conversations on future plans for your lives together. For example, happy couples have a custom of planning everything together, regardless of how trivial the matter is.

You two are a team, so work like a team. Make everything happen together, whether it is related to the children, your sex life, your career, or your plans for buying a house. Planning makes your bond stronger and enriches your journey together.

Happy couples never have the same character. And they have a good understanding of their differences. It doesn’t take a lot of effort; small gestures are enough to make you two live happily ever after!

Mahbuba Hoque / April 17, 2016

The most essential make-up tips that every girl should know.

There are certain tricks that can help you cut down the time spent on your beauty routine to a minimum — and pull off the best look with the minimal amount of effort.
Here are 9 of the most essential make-up tips absolutely every girl should know.

1. Apply liquid eyeliner over the pencil version

If you have trouble drawing a straight line with liquid eyeliner, first use a pencil to make the outline. The liquid liner will sit just as well on the skin, and it’s also makes things a lot easier when it comes to correcting any mistakes you make.

2. Give your lashes greater volume with a touch of powder.

This simple trick will boost the volume of any mascara. Use a brush to put some powder on your lashes, and only then apply the mascara. This will make your eyelashes look much fuller.

3. Use mascara if you don’t have eyeliner

Thanks to the similar ingredients and consistency, mascara can be used as eyeliner. You just need a thin make-up brush.

4. How to draw the perfect cat’s eyes:

5. Brush your lips after brushing your teeth.

Gently rub your lips with a dry toothbrush. It will help to scrub the dead skin off and make your lips smoother. It will also boost blood flow to your lips, causing them to swell. As a result, they will become softer, fuller and more sensual.

6. Revive your mascara with hot water

Add several drops of boiled water in to your mascara, close it, and shake it.

7. Whiten your teeth with tooth-powder

Use tooth-powder for your teeth several times a week. It’s a cheap, but effective product thanks to the calcium carbonate it contains. But remember to be careful, and make sure you consult your dentist before using it, as tooth-powder can damage the enamel of your teeth if used incorrectly.

8. Use facial sponges for scrubbing your face

When cleansing your face with any kind of make-up remover, use special cosmetic sponges. Konjac sponges or algae sponges are the best choice here, as they easily exfoliate the skin and clean the pores.

9. Try applying your mascara vertically

Applying mascara to both the upper and lower eyelids is an oft-neglected practice, but here’s an interesting tip: hold the brush vertically. This is a very simple, but probably one of the best tricks you can use. Touch your lashes with the tip of the brush for a more natural finish.