Diet to beat common cold

The common cold is caused by some of the infections and viruses. Diet including some of the nutrients plays a major role in preventing common cold. Proper nutrition also maintains proper immunity.

Vitamin C is most important vitamin in preventing cold. It also reduces the duration and alleviates the symptoms of the cold. Vitamin C can act like an anti histamine drug. Vitamin C acts like anti oxidant. Vitamin C rich foods include citrus fruits, tomato, guava, lychee, kiwi, peaches, nectarines, peppers, cabbage and cauliflower.

Zinc reduces common cold symptoms. Zinc inhibits the reproduction of viruses. Some of the food sources of zinc include milk, almonds, yogurt, fruits, oysters, cheese, peas, oat meal and fortified breakfast cereals.

Fluids: The type of fluid you drink is important it is better to avoid concentrated sugar juices etc. But adequate fluids are necessary to which helps in prevention of dehydration and also improves white blood cell function.

Exercise also helps in maintaining immunity and prevents from common cold. 

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are low calorie substances used as sweeteners to replace sugar and other caloric sweeteners. Many kinds of artificial sweeteners are available saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, alitame, neotame, acesulfame-K, sucralose and Stevia.

Saccharin is a synthetic, white crystalline powder; benzoic sulfinide has effectively no food energy and is much sweeter than sucrose. It is 350 times sweeter than sugar, but has an unpleasant bitter aftertaste. It is not easily digested by the body. Trade name is symcal. Used in soft drinks, chewing gums, jams, jellies, sauces, gelatin and salad dressings. Commercially available in three forms as a sodium salt, as a calcium salt and in the acid form.

Cyclamate is the sodium or calcium salt of cyclamic acid. It is 30–50 times sweeter than sugar. Available in three forms cyclamic acid, calcium cyclamate and sodium cyclamate. It is not suitable for diabetes. Used in caramels, chewing gums and hard candies.

Aspartame is the methyl ester of a phenylalanine/aspartic acid dipeptide. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar and 70 percent of all aspartame is used in sodas. It has flavour enhancing properties. When taken in less it is metabolized. Trade name is neutral sweet. Used for carbonated beverages, puddings, frozen fruit, juice, RTE products.

Alitame is similar to Aspartame in that it is made from amino acids, namely L-aspartic acid and D-alanine. It is 2000 times sweeter than sucrose.

Neotame is a white crystalline powder manufactured from two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid. It is 7,000 to 13,000 times sweeter than sugar, so very little of it is needed to sweeten foods.

Acesulfame-K is 200 times sweeter than sugar and the body can't break it down, so it's excreted from the body unchanged. It is freely soluble in water. It is not metabolized in the body. Used for imitation dairy products, pickles, beverages, marinated fish etc.

Sucralose is similar in structure to regular sugar and contains maltodextrin and it is 600 times sweeter than sugar. Your body absorbs very little of this artificial sweetener. No after taste. It can be used in all products.

Stevia is made from rebaudioside A, one of the components of the Stevia rebaudiana. It is 250 times sweeter than sugar. Many people who want to avoid sugar and calories use stevia in the form of a non-nutritive sweetener or as an extract.

Aspartin It provides same number of calories as sugar but the quantity is small, so calories added are less by giving less quantity.

Sugar alcohols:

Manitol: Manitol is converted into fructose. It is not metabolized and provides 2 kcals / Gm. It has laxative effect, when consumed in large quantity. It is less desirable in diabetic patients. Used in hard candies, cough drops chewing gums, jams and jellies.

Sorbitol: It is a common sweetener. In liver it is converted into fructose, it is metabolized independently of insulin. Used in chewing gums, cough drops, jellies, baked products, baking mixes, frozen dairy desserts.

Xylitol: Present in many fruits and vegetables. Metabolized directly in liver or indirectly by fermentation of bacteria in intestine. It is as sweet as sucrose.

Maltitol: Produced by hydrogenation of maltose. Enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch.

Body Signs that Something is Missing for your Health

According to recent studies, a human body sends many signs indicating that there is something missing in the individual’s health. These signs can identify the underlying medical problem that needs immediate attention and thus, in many circumstances, can prevent the declaration of any medical emergency. It is advisable to check ones’ body from head to toe for any tell-tale signs. Some of few such body signs are mentioned below:

Eyebrows: If one notices the loss of hair on the outer corner or they appear to be shortening, then that could be the indication of low thyroid hormone.

Eyelids: Tiny-yellow bumps in the inner corner of the eye can be fatty acid deposits, which is an important sign of high cholesterol level in the individual’s body.

Eyes: Bulging eye can be a sign of overactive hormone. Yellow coloration of eye may indicate liver disease or any problem associated with the gall bladder.

Earlobes: According to the NIH study, a diagonal crease in the earlobe is very significant. It may indicate a blocked circulation throughout the body and may be linked to a possibility of a heart attack.

Hair: Dry and brittle hair can be an indication of a thyroid problem or iron deficiency. Premature graying of hair indicates vitamin B12 deficiency. A sudden hair loss is considered a sign of too much stress.

Bruising: Bruising a lot more than usual could be an early sign of leukemia or reaction to medications.

Varicose veins and spider veins: Usually, these are hereditary. But, if they develop seemingly overnight accompanied with calf swelling or tenderness, then that could indicate an internal blood-clot (deep vein thrombosis), which is a medical emergency. A spider vein on the abdomen can be a sign of liver disease.

Finger nails: Dry and brittle nails can be an indication of a thyroid disease or an iron or vitamin B12 deficiency. Horizontal lines on the nail indicate heart disease or heart failure. Yellow or brown nails could be due to fungal infection or may even indicate a lung disease.

Small, painless lumps on the chest or under arm can be a sign of breast cancer in case of both male and female.

Therefore, it is extremely important for an individual to properly check his/her body on a regular basis for such indicators recognize the subtle changes and consult the doctor.

Besan for Skin

Besan (Gram flour) is very good for the skin it keeps the complexion glowing and healthy. In general flours of pulses have slight alkalizing effect, to convert it in to acidic nature for best cleansing effect it is mixed with yogurt, lemon juice. Besan paste can be used instead of soaps as they have an affinity to attract acids and dust particles blocked in the pores of the skin, as they have affinity to acids in the sweat, released as a result of bacterial action on fats and proteins in the sweat and thus body odor removed.

Besan for skin:

• For glowing skin mix full-cream milk and besan. Apply it on the skin and leave to dry for 20mintutes and then wash with cold water.
• Take one spoon besan mix with turmeric (haldi), honey and olive oil. This is very good for dry skin.
• Apply a mix of besan and lemon juice on knees, neck, underarms and hands regularly, this will help to whiten it.
• For pimple prone skins add curd to gram flour to make a paste and apply it on the face and gently massage it before it dries. Repeat this for once in two days. This also helps to remove blemishes.
• Make a paste with 1 cup curd, egg white from one egg, half lemon and 2 spoons of besan; apply it to hair before head bath. For dry hair, instead of egg white add a spoon of olive oil.
• Apply a paste of besan and fenugreek powder on the unwanted facial hair, peel it after it has dried. This will help remove unwanted facial hair.
• To remove blemishes apply besan with cucumber juice mixed to it. Wash when it dries this will tighten the skin pores.

Foods for Healthy Skin

Foods that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and some of the minerals are good for healthy skin. Diet that is rich in essential fatty acids is also good for healthy skin.

Almonds contain Vitamin which acts as antioxidant. It also contains magnesium; calcium and Vitamin D. Almond oil nourishes the skin and keeps it soft.

Brazil nuts, corn, walnuts, oat meal, sea food, eggs, and cheese contain selenium which acts as antioxidant and is good for healthy skin.

Zinc plays an important role for healthy skin. Beans, dairy products, fortified breakfast cereals are good sources of zinc.

Good hydration is needed for healthy skin. Drinking adequate water is good.

Green tea fight against free radicals and good for healthy skin.

Straw berries, blue berries, ras berries and black berries have good antioxidant property and good for healthy skin.

Soy beans, milk and egg contains proteins which is good for healthy skin.

Sprouted grams provide vitamin C which acts as antioxidant and good for healthy skin.

Essential fatty acids found in nuts, fish oils help to keep skin healthy.

Galvanic treatments

Galvanic facial is the best way to revitalize the skin thus helping the active ingredients of skin products gain deep penetration, which is not attained in manual applications. It also reduces acne by controlling the oil secretion by removing blockage in sebaceous gland thus helping to clean congestion. Galvanic facial helps to improve the normal functions and skin’s blood circulation.

Galvanic facial is based on the basic laws of electricity, “like repels, opposites attract”. The skin as it is pulled together like a magnet pushes the product in to the deeper layers. The capacity of your skin absorption is increased by the galvanic ion and this improves the penetration of nutrition products (anti wrinkle lotion) through your skin, it will be completely cleansed as negative ions force all the dirt and debris held within pores to the surface. At the same time the positive ions gives you a fresh look and plump the skin, banishing wrinkles.

Apple Shaped body and Pear shaped body

Both Apple shape body and pear shape body gives an idea about basic body shape. Body shape here refers to distribution of body fat. Apple shaped individuals carry most of their excess body fat around their middle abdomen. And pear shapes body carries most of their excess body fat on their hips and thighs. Women collect fat on their hips giving pear shape. After menopause a hormone estrogen level decreases and women start storing fat around abdomen becoming more apples shaped. While men collect fat around the abdomen. Apple shape people with fat concentrated around the abdomen are more risk at obesity comparatively pear shaped body.

Health benefits of Fenugreek

Fenugreek has been associated with number of health benefits. It is a common herb and used as a condiment for seasoning in Indian homes. This seed when used in cooking imparts a characteristic flavor and tang to food. Fenugreek leaves are well known for their high nutrient content of minerals and vitamins like potassium, calcium, magnesium, selenium, Iron and vitamin C, riboflavin, folate, vitamin B6. These leaves also have high fiber content and also Vitamin C. Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of fiber. It contains mucilaginous fiber and total fiber to the extent of 20% and 50% respectively. This mucilaginous fiber is recognized medically for its anti-inflammatory properties. Fenugreek seeds have many medicinal values. These include in the treatment of digestive problems, diabetes, kidney problems, wounds, cellulites, tuberculosis. A PASTE OF Fenugreek leaves or seeds , applied on face prevents pimples, dryness of skin, blackheads and it also have anti aging factors. The Fenugreek seeds contain “Diosgenin” which is more of a raw material substance used in medical steroids by pharmaceutical industries.

• Fenugreek seeds aids in proper digestion: It maintains good metabolism and prevents constipation. The soluble fiber found in Fenugreek seed extract may help slow digestion and absorption of food. It also helps to treat colon disorders. It also increases appetite.
• Fenugreek seeds are effective in treatment of skin disorders: It relieve skin inflammation. It is also used in the treatment of eczema, gout, boils and burns.
• Fenugreek seeds reduce fever: Fenugreek seeds with lemon and honey help to reduce fever and weakness .In fever it is beneficial to consume tea added with fenugreek seeds that helps to lower the intensity of temperature rising.
• Fenugreek eases menopause symptoms: It is effective in treating the menopause symptoms including anxiety, hot flashes and insomnia this is because of its natural estrogen.
• Fenugreek may help in preventing cancer: It is an effective antioxidant. It also have anti carcinogenic properties some studies have shown that this may be due to presence of Diosgenin.
• Fenugreek also acts as a natural blood purifier and helps to prevent acne. Its also very effective in curing of oily skin.
• Fenugreek can also be used for excessive hair fall. It is believed to enhance hair growth both in men and women. Fenugreek powder mixed with curd helps in controlling your dandruff problem.
• These seeds help in lowering the risks of heart diseases.
• Fenugreek seeds help to increase production of milk in lactating mothers. The seeds contain a chemical known as Diosgenin which acts as similar to estrogen and hence promote milk production during breastfeeding.
• It is also used in the treatment of arthritis and asthma.
• Fenugreek seeds help in management of Diabetes: The powder of seeds in the diet reduces blood sugar and urine sugar with improvement in glucose tolerance and diabetic symptoms in both insulin and non-insulin dependent patients. It also lowers the levels of serum lipids such as cholesterol and triglyceride. Depending upon the severity of diabetes the quantity of fenugreek seeds to be taken varies from 25g to 50g.The Fenugreek seeds powder can be incorporated in food preparations such as vegetable curries, roti and dhal etc. Seeds can also be taken as such after overnight soaking in water.

Foods for Healthy Skin

• Foods that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and some of the minerals are good for healthy skin. Diet that is rich in essential fatty acids is also good for healthy skin.
• Almonds contain Vitamin which acts as antioxidant. It also contains magnesium; calcium and Vitamin D. Almond oil nourishes the skin and keeps it soft.
• Brazil nuts, corn, walnuts, oat meal, sea food, eggs, and cheese contain selenium which acts as antioxidant and is good for healthy skin.
• Zinc plays an important role for healthy skin. Beans, dairy products, fortified breakfast cereals are good sources of zinc.
• Good hydration is needed for healthy skin. Drinking adequate water is good.
• Green tea fight against free radicals and good for healthy skin.
• Straw berries, blue berries, ras berries and black berries have good antioxidant property and good for healthy skin.
• Soy beans, milk and egg contains proteins which is good for healthy skin.
• Sprouted grams provide vitamin C which acts as antioxidant and good for healthy skin.
• Essential fatty acids found in nuts, fish oils help to keep skin healthy. 

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are low calorie substances used as sweeteners to replace sugar and other caloric sweeteners. Many kinds of artificial sweeteners are available saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, alitame, neotame, acesulfame-K, sucralose and Stevia.

Saccharin is a synthetic, white crystalline powder; benzoic sulfinide has effectively no food energy and is much sweeter than sucrose. It is 350 times sweeter than sugar, but has an unpleasant bitter aftertaste. It is not easily digested by the body. Trade name is symcal. Used in soft drinks, chewing gums, jams, jellies, sauces, gelatin and salad dressings. Commercially available in three forms as a sodium salt, as a calcium salt and in the acid form.

Cyclamate is the sodium or calcium salt of cyclamic acid. It is 30–50 times sweeter than sugar. Available in three forms cyclamic acid, calcium cyclamate and sodium cyclamate. It is not suitable for diabetes. Used in caramels, chewing gums and hard candies.

Aspartame is the methyl ester of a phenylalanine/aspartic acid dipeptide. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar and 70 percent of all aspartame is used in sodas. It has flavour enhancing properties. When taken in less it is metabolized. Trade name is neutral sweet. Used for carbonated beverages, puddings, frozen fruit, juice, RTE products.

Alitame is similar to Aspartame in that it is made from amino acids, namely L-aspartic acid and D-alanine. It is 2000 times sweeter than sucrose.

Neotame is a white crystalline powder manufactured from two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid. It is 7,000 to 13,000 times sweeter than sugar, so very little of it is needed to sweeten foods.

Acesulfame-K is 200 times sweeter than sugar and the body can't break it down, so it's excreted from the body unchanged. It is freely soluble in water. It is not metabolized in the body. Used for imitation dairy products, pickles, beverages, marinated fish etc.

Sucralose is similar in structure to regular sugar and contains maltodextrin and it is 600 times sweeter than sugar. Your body absorbs very little of this artificial sweetener. No after taste. It can be used in all products.

Stevia is made from rebaudioside A, one of the components of the Stevia rebaudiana. It is 250 times sweeter than sugar. Many people who want to avoid sugar and calories use stevia in the form of a non-nutritive sweetener or as an extract.

Aspartin It provides same number of calories as sugar but the quantity is small, so calories added are less by giving less quantity.

Sugar Alcohols:
Manitol: Manitol is converted into fructose. It is not metabolized and provides 2 kcals / Gm. It has laxative effect, when consumed in large quantity. It is less desirable in diabetic patients. Used in hard candies, cough drops chewing gums, jams and jellies.

Sorbitol: It is a common sweetener. In liver it is converted into fructose, it is metabolized independently of insulin. Used in chewing gums, cough drops, jellies, baked products, baking mixes, frozen dairy desserts.

Xylitol: Present in many fruits and vegetables. Metabolized directly in liver or indirectly by fermentation of bacteria in intestine. It is as sweet as sucrose.

Maltitol: Produced by hydrogenation of maltose. Enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch.

Healthy Cooking tips

HEALTHY COOKING TIPS:

• The importance of a healthy diet for longevity and health, so maintaining healthy life starts with healthy cooking, healthy eating etc. The following tips could help for healthy cooking.

LOW FAT COOKING TIPS:

• Use low fat yoghurt or skim milk as thickener for cream based recipes.
• Instead of oil use cooking sprays.
• Select lean meat cuts and trim the fat.
• Instead of frying, boil or bake.
• Instead of mayonnaise on sandwich, use low fat spreads such as sauce or ketchup.
• Use low fat milk instead of whole milk.
• Use non stick cookware while you cook so that you don’t have to use much oil.
• Use fat free chicken broth.
• Cook fish, eggs and chicken in small amount of water. The method of cooking is known as poaching.
• Use low fat cooking methods like steaming, baking, poaching, broiling, grilling or sautéing.
• Use olive oil for medium cooking or for salad dressings.
• To prevent excess oil absorption, remove and drain on kitchen napkins.

COOKING TIPS TO RETAIN NUTRIENTS:

• Steam or microwave vegetables instead of boiling them.
• Avoid using copper vessels. It destroys vitamin content.
• Avoid cooking at high temperatures; this may destroy some of the vitamins due to oxidation.
• Wash vegetables before you chop them but not after chopping them.
• Steaming is the good cooking technique; it retains more nutrients than boiling.
• Use boiled vegetable water and dhal water for soups and gravies.
• Instead of soaking vegetables, rinse quickly.
• Boil potatoes and beetroots with the skin.
• Instead of peeling the vegetables scrub them, as many nutrients are found in the skin.
• Try to boil vegetables as whole and then cut it will retain nutrients.
• Store vegetables in a refrigerator to retain vitamin content.
• Add pinch of salt and soak vegetables.
• While cooking do not strain starch water from rice.
• Do not soak fruits for more than 15 minutes in water.

LOW SODIUM COOKING TIPS:

• Limit amount of margarine and butter as they contain lot of salt.
• Use fresh or frozen vegetables, since canned vegetables contain salt.
• Limit intake of cheese as it contain salt, or use salt free cheese.
• Use lemon juice, vinegar or spices to reduce need for salt.
• Limit intake of salty processed meats.
• Reduce use of sauces because they contain salt in high amount.
• Limit intake of pickles as pickles contain lot of salt.
• Don’t add too much of salt to your food.

GENERAL HEALTHY COOKING TIPS:

• Use neat and clean tools for cutting, especially the knife and cutting table.
• Use very small amount of water while cooking.
• Avoid use of food colors as it raises serious health issues.
• Use less soda or baking powder as it irritates intestine.
• Keep the lids closed, especially in case of cooking green vegetables to preserve green color.
• Avoid foods that are typically sprayed with pesticides.
• Always cut as big pieces because they carry more vitamins.

Polio Vaccine

The polio vaccine reduces the infection rate towards polio in the public. There are two types of polio vaccines available, the oral polio vaccine (OPV) and the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV).

Oral polio vaccine (OPV):
Oral polio vaccine (OPV) is a live-attenuated vaccine. OPV is developed from weekend live polio germs. It is administered through oral route as drops in the mouth that are swallowed.

Recommended age of administration:
The usual schedule for infants is a series of six doses it is given at the time of birth, 6 weeks after birth, 10 weeks after birth, 14 weeks after birth, 6months, and 9 months. And first booster dose is given at 18months and second booster at 5years.

Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV):
This vaccine is prepared from dead polio germs. It is administered through intra venal route or intra muscular route. Depending on the person’s age, the shot may be given into the leg or arm. IPV is the polio vaccine recommended in most of the common wealth countries. It can be given at the same time as other vaccines. The inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) is usually given at ages 6 weeks, 10weeks and 14 weeks if opv is not given.

Rabies Vaccine

This vaccine is an inactivated viral vaccine. The vaccine is given in the deltoid muscle as a series of 3-5 shots. A vaccinated person should receive two more doses of rabies vaccine, one dose immediately and one three days later. This is proven very safe to be used in pregnant women.

Rabies vaccine is recommended for:

• It is recommended for veterinarians, animal handlers, certain laboratory workers and persons in high-risk occupational groups.
• Persons who are in frequent contact with rabid bats, raccoons, skunks, cats, dogs, or other species at risk for having rabies.
• International travelers who are likely to come in contact with animals in areas where dog rabies is common. 

Aerobics

Aerobic exercise is one of the best exercise to do as it is a safe and a complete workout as well as a fun sport to do. Doing aerobics regularly can improve one’s heart rate, body condition and state of mind. Aerobics helps relax the tense muscles and a regular aerobics activity can make you feel happier.

The term “aerobics” literally means with oxygen. It implies that the body is using oxygen supplied for low and moderate intensity physical activities that are constant such as biking, jogging, etc. The body’s aerobic system works like an old water pump which need to be started a number of times before we get the desired result. Similarly, aerobic exercise plays the same role in the human body by pumping out deeply accumulated fat from inside the body.

Aerobics is an excellent way for a person to achieve physical fitness. A person performing aerobics has increased heart rate and increased metabolism rate. Increased metabolism rate speeds up sweating and eventually accelerates the fat burning process thereby resulting in the weight loss.

Carrying out aerobics has become the most happening workout trend among the both the youth as well as the aged. In this fast paced work, aerobics is just the right actions. A few moments of continuous aerobic workout leads to various health benefits. Aerobics involves using large muscle groups for a repetitively for a sustained amount of time. One of the plus points of aerobics is that it can be enjoyed even with the extended period of time. The most common types of aerobics include aerobic dance, bicycling, fitness walking and running, stair climbing and swimming. Dancing and continuous sports activity like running can improve circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

The benefits of aerobics include:

• It strengthens the body including the weight bearing bones and the cardiovascular muscles.
• It helps in losing the body weight and in toning up the body muscles.
• It is very easy and widely enjoyed form of physical exercise and can be enjoyed by people of all age groups. However, it is not recommended for very small children pregnant women. And elder people should perform it for a short duration.
• It increases blood circulation and lowers blood glucose and blood sugar levels.
• It increases oxygen supply to heart, lungs and blood vessels and thereby, results in the smooth functioning of the body.
• Aerobic workout is a great stress buster and acts as an effective remedy for depression, anxiety and tension. It helps to a great extent in the rejuvenation of the mind.
• It also boosts up the body immune system.

However, following precautions should be followed before and after the aerobics for getting the maximum benefits:

• Warm-up exercises should be performed at least 10-15 minutes before commencing the aerobics.
• Always wear perfect fitting clothes while doing aerobics. This is because loose clothes may restrict the free movements of the arms and legs.
• Bring in the necessary variations in the steps and make them personalized according to your body needs and requirements.
• Always cool down after performing the exercise. Stretching exercise should be done for 10 minutes after performing the workouts.
• Drink water (though not ice cold) few minutes after the workouts.

Sleep Disturbances

Here are some ways to improve your everyday sleep:

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco
• Use cognitive behavior therapy
• Create a sleep-conductive environment
• Dont nap during the day
• Exercise regularly
• Have a bedtime schedule
• Keep bed a place for sleep
• Use relaxation: massage, warm bath
• Drink warm tea or hot milk Wish you good luck

BCG Vaccine

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine is administered against tuberculosis disease. This vaccine is prepared from attenuated (weakened), avirulent live bovine tuberculosis bacillus, Mycobacterium bovis. This vaccine stimulates the body’s immune system against the tuberculosis disease. This vaccine is always given on the left shoulder and it is given only once in a lifetime. In very few cases, an MT test done - in case the MT is negative re-vaccination with BCG is mandatory.


Recommended age of administration: This vaccine should be given soon after the child is born.

Head Lice

• Prepare a mixture of two egg yolk and 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar and equal part of lemon juice mix it and apply on the scalp. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes and wash it with warm water this helps to remove head lice. 
• Prepare a mixture of two egg yolk and 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar and equal part of lemon juice mix it and apply on the scalp. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes and wash it with warm water this helps to remove head lice. 
• Take 1-2 tablespoon lemon juice and garlic paste each and mix them. Apply this mixture over the scalp and allow it to dry for 25-30 minutes. Wash your hair in cold water. This will get relief from head lice and dandruff. 
• Vinegar is also useful in removing head lice. Take 3-4 tablespoon of vinegar, add 2 tablespoon of lemon juice and garlic paste. Mix it well and apply it on the scalp. Allow it to dry for 2 hours and wash it off. Do this 3-4 times a month. This will get relief from head lice. 
• Apply olive oil on your hair and cover it with a plastic bag. Keep it overnight, later with the help of lice comb take out all the head lice. Repeat this after every 10 days. It is very easy and effective way to get rid of head lice. 
• Almond is another useful home remedy for head lice. Soak 10-12 almonds in water and make its paste. Add 3-4 tablespoon of lemon juice in it. Apply this mixture over your scalp, and allow it to dry for 1-2 hours. Wash hair with cold water.

Fruit Shrikhand

Ingredients

• Thick curd – 1 kg
• Banana (diced) – 100 gms
• Sugar – 250 gms
• Oranges (deseeded and threaded) – 100 gms
• Apple (diced) – 100 gms
• Mango (diced) – 100 gms
• Grapes (diced) – 100 gms

Method

• Dissolve saffron in 2 tsp lukewarm milk and keep aside.
• Hang the curd in a muslin cloth till the whey is drained.
• Add sugar and strain through a strainer by kneading and mixing with the help of a spoon or hands
• Gently mix all the diced fruits.
• Chill for 2-3 hours.
• Serve chilled.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth is always related to knowledge, our grandparents often says that when wisdom tooth comes it means that now the person has become wise. This is how it is related to wisdom and knowledge. No such studies and facts are present to prove this saying, apart from the fact that everyone knows this story. Wisdom tooth usually comes till the age of 17 years. Its eruption is the most painful phase of teething in one’s life. If jaw size is big and enough space is present to erupt then it is not painful otherwise it results in swelling and even need small surgery.

In some cases wisdom tooth comes on its appropriate place, but in some case it erupts in different angulations as shown in figure.

Mesial Impaction:- Impaction is the word given to condition when sufficient space is not available for the eruption of tooth as shown in figure .Wisdom tooth is hitting second molar and even causing gum infection in surrounding area.
In this case small surgery is required in which dentist has to give incision to extract wisdom tooth. After surgery sutures are placed to promote proper healing.

Distal Impaction: - In this case when tooth is placed distally, extraction has to be done very carefully. Little negligence can prove to make task difficult.

Vertical Impaction: - In this, tooth is placed vertically and space is not available for its eruption. During the extraction of vertically placed wisdom tooth dentist has to remove even bone.

Horizontal Impaction: - Extraction of horizontal impaction tooth is quite difficult as second molar lies close to wisdom tooth. Sometimes during extraction , second molar gets affected unintentionally.

Some precautionary measures after wisdom tooth extraction are as follows:-

• Do not remove the cotton swab for at least half an hour.
• Do not smoke after extraction for at least 3 days.
• Do not miss any of the medication prescribed by the Doctor.
• Do not use straw to sip drinks.
• Do not spit frequently; try to swallow for at least 1 day.
• Do not stretch your cheeks or prick finger in lesion.
• Do not use vigorous brushing till the sutures are removed.
• Take fluid diet for at least 2 days.
• Do warm saline rinses twice daily for 3 days.
• Keep mouth clean, use mouthwash so that plaque does not deposit on teeth.

Tips to Prevent flu/cold

As said “prevention is better than cure”, harmful microbes are everywhere, a strong immune system fights against these microbes. People who have weak immunity are prone to flu and cold attacks more frequently. Strengthening the immune system can prevent sneezing and coughing. Here are few tips to stay healthy, free from flu and cold.

Eat healthy: A well balanced diet is necessary to boost the immune system. Choose food wisely. Intake of high carbohydrates gives more chances for microbes to invade the linings of digestive tracts. Consume plenty of organic protein and animal fats.

Vitamin C supplements: Vitamin C is one of the best foods to prevent cold. Include a cup of vitamin C rich fruits or homemade juices from citrus fruits. Avoid processed juices as they contain high sugar content and synthetic vitamin C.

Hygienic lifestyle: Follow a hygienic lifestyle. Sanitize hand before cooking and eating; cover your nose when sneezing or coughing. Avoid roadside foods, drinks etc. Keep your house and surroundings clean.

Avoid antibiotics: Take an antibiotic only if your condition is worse. Frequent use of antibiotics will kill the useful bacteria that line the digestive tract. The best remedy for cold or flu attack is good rest. Adopt natural remedies like honey and lime drink, turmeric and pepper in milk, etc. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.

Quit smoking: Smoking destroys immune system, which increases the frequency of cold attacks.

Tips to relive common cold/flu:

• Eat chicken soup/tomato soup: Soup is found to relieve nasal discomfort and congestion.
• Herbal remedy: Adopt natural remedies like honey and lime drink, turmeric and pepper in milk, etc to soothe the throat. Apply eucalyptus oil to relieve nasal congestion and headaches.
• Keep hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and moist.
• Add yogurt: Regular intake of yogurt strengthens the immune system.

High frequency treatments

The high frequency treatment for face is done for people who have dry, lined or dehydrated skins. This current creates warmth to body tissues and stimulates the nerve endings, which results in increased blood circulation, healthy metabolism, healthy cell function and faster skin healing. This treatment is divided into two parts, the direct method (using electrodes directly on to the skin) or the indirect method (Viennese massage) a kind of superficial massage.

• The direct method is also called as sparking, which creates mild antiseptic and has a drying effect on the skin. This results in the blemish free skin.
• The indirect method best for people with dry skin as it produces a warming effect on the skin and stimulates the sebaceous and soporiferous glands.