Top 10 surprisingly toxic foods

While most people know that cakes and chocolate aren’t great for your health, there are other seemingly healthy foods whose dangerous properties slip under the radar. While it is unlikely moderate amounts of these foods will harm you, in large quantities – or in certain conditions – they may do more damage to your health than you think. Here are some of the most toxic common foods.

Mushrooms

While mushrooms available in most supermarkets should be pretty safe to eat, mushroom fans need to be careful about what species' they are consuming as many varieties can be highly dangerous and even fatal. Around 100 species of mushrooms are said to be dangerous to humans, with symptoms ranging from headaches to seizures or even death. In 2010 a small variety of mushroom called the Little White was blamed for an estimated 400 deaths in China.

Chillies

Chillies are renowned for their heat, which is what makes them so popular. However, it is actually the chemical that causes this spiciness (capsaicin) which can cause toxic effects such as stomach pain, itchy skin and, in extreme cases, death. For most people eating chillies will do little harm, however capsaicin is best eaten sparingly so make sure to take it easy and avoid any chilli eating challenges!

Rapeseed oil

There has been much controversy about this seemingly innocent natural oil, but the general consensus seems to be that it could have many negative implications on our health. Reports state that the rape plant - from which the oil is produced - is extremely toxic, and side effects of consuming its oil could include respiratory problems and blindness.

Rice

It is impossible to dispute that rice has many great health benefits. However, like with most things, it may be best eaten in moderation due to its reportedly unsafe levels of arsenic. One study has suggested that one in five packs of American long-grain rice contain potentially harmful levels of the toxic substance, while others have reported concern for the levels of arsenic in rice milk and baby rice. While there is relatively little risk of the odd bowl of rice causing any long lasting harm, the consumption of high levels of arsenic has been linked to cancer.

Nutmeg

Perhaps one of the most immediately dangerous foods on this list is also one of the most surprising, and that is the common store cupboard spice, nutmeg. Although, like many of the foods on the list, nutmeg does have reported health benefits, it can also be extremely dangerous when taken in large doses. Containing a toxic substance called myristicin, moderate proportions of nutmeg can cause hallucinations, while larger doses can cause convulsions, palpitations, nausea, dehydration and death.

Non-organic apples

Although it is advisable to buy as much organic fruit and veg as you can, in reality this is hard to do on most people's budgets. When making decisions over whether or not to go organic, it is important therefore to note that some foods have a higher concentration of pesticides than others, and apples are one of the fruits that top this list. Because apples are vulnerable to insect infestations and growths, growers are liable to coat the fruit in chemical pesticides and fungicides, some of which will absorb into its flesh. To minimise health risks, try to buy organic apples wherever possible, or at least remove the skin before eating.

Farmed Salmon

We may be constantly urged to eat more oily fish, but research has suggested that consuming farmed salmon may not be the best way to do it. A study found that 13 different toxins - including PCBs, which have been classed as a probable human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - are at much higher levels in farm-raised salmon than in wild salmon. Due to the possible health dangers of consuming these toxins, it is advisable to either reduce your portions of farmed salmon (guidelines are for a half to two portions a month, depending on where the salmon is from) or switch to the wild variety.

Microwave popcorn

Although eating microwave popcorn is not believed to be particularly harmful, it has been found that butter flavoured versions of the snack contain a dangerous chemical (diacetyl) in the flavouring which releases toxic fumes when microwaved. While this has mainly affected factory workers so far - with many developing a lung condition dubbed "popcorn lung" - one consumer is now known to have also developed lung problems due to this toxin.

However, this is clearly a case of moderation being key, with the sufferer admitting to eating microwave popcorn at least twice a day for 10 to 12 years. Unless you are eating your popcorn in similar quantities, it is most likely safe to consume popcorn at home, just be careful to avoid the fumes when opening the bag.

Potatoes

Potatoes may look innocent enough, but did you know they actually come from the same family as poisonous plant the deadly nightshade? Although they are not quite as dangerous as this family member, potatoes do pose certain risks to our health due to them containing toxic compounds known as glycoalkaloids, the most worrying of which is solanine which affects the nervous and digestive systems, causing headaches, weakness, confusion, diarrhoea and vomiting amongst other things.

Poisoning from potatoes occurs very rarely but fans of the popular vegetable should take measures to protect themselves by avoiding potatoes with sprouts - which tend to have a higher concentration of glycoalkaloids - and those which have turned green. Although the green colour of the potatoes is harmless in itself, it does indicate that the potatoes have been exposed to light, which can also encourage solanine levels to rise over the safe level for consumption.

Peanuts

Not only are peanuts one of the most common food allergens, but the popular bar snack may also be dangerous to those who don't suffer from allergies. Peanuts are particularly best avoided by those with kidney or gallbladder problems as they contain oxalates which can crystallise and cause kidney and gallbladder stones.

However, even for the rest of us peanuts can be toxic due to their susceptibility to mould and the frequently occurring presence of aflatoxin - a highly toxic carcinogen - that is produced by a fungus called Aspergillus flavus invading the nuts. If you simply can't resist snacking on peanuts, try to purchase ones produced in arid areas - such as New Mexico -where the soil is dry and the risk of aflatoxins is lower.( Courtesy of realbuzz.com)

Foods high in antioxidant content

A recently published study out of Portugal found that green tea and hibiscus-based beverages worked the hardest for their consumer, as they had the highest levels of antioxidants out of 19 commercially available drinks.

More than blackberry and raspberry-based products, the combination of green tea and hibiscus proved to be the most antioxidant-rich.

Meanwhile, a study out of Norway catalogued the antioxidant content of more than 3,100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements in 2010.

Here are some of the most antioxidant-rich foods from the database: (Courtesy Of AFP Relax News )

Beverages

Coffee
Espresso
Pomegranate juice
Red wine

Breakfast cereals, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds
Buckwheat
Chestnuts  with pellicle, or the skin of the nut
Pecans with pellicle
Sunflower seeds
Walnuts with pellicle

Berries, fruits and vegetables
Baobab, an African fruit
Amla (Indian gooseberry)
Bilberries (dried)
Dog rose (dried, fresh)
Dried plums, prunes, apricots, apples
Artichoke
Blueberry jam
Curly kale
Okra

Spices
Cloves
Allspice
Mint leaves
Oregano
Thyme
Cinnamon

7 Foods That Makes You Happy

Different kinds of foods serve different kinds of purposes. Of all the different purposes that food serves, the most consistent one is that it can make you feel happy. To know what foods you must eat if you wish to chase away the blues, then you need to continue reading.

1. Dark Chocolate

We are sure you are not surprised to read ‘Dark Chocolate’ here! Dark chocolate improves the blood-flow to the brain, and it provides an instant boost in concentration and mood. Generally, chocolate is thought to be only an aphrodisiac but that is clearly not the case. Therefore, it is advisable to keep dark chocolate handy and take a big bite the moment you feel low.

2. Honey

Honey is extremely healthy and way better than sugar. If you are suffering from depression then you must include honey in your regular diet as it contains kaempferol and quercetin which help treat depression. Both these also help reduce any inflammation in the brain. Also, the good sweet taste of honey helps lift bad mood at once!

3. Eggs

‘Sunday ho ya Monday, roz khao ande!’ You must have heard this jingle time and again. Eggs are exceptionally healthy and, therefore, are a must in everyone’s diet. Eggs contain sufficient amounts of vitamin B, iodine, zinc, proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. Eggs will not only ensure your mood stays upbeat, but they will also ensure your stomach stays happy by being full!

4. Yogurt

This calcium rich snack is sure to guarantee a better, happier mood. Yogurt contains probiotics, friendly bacteria that are known to ease depression. Also, yogurt is healthy and will not add to your calorie count. So, the next time you feel down and out indulge in a cup of yogurt instead of ice cream!

5. Green Tea

Green tea is a very healthy drink and extremely popular among the young generation. If you feel stressed, then it is in your best interest to brew yourself a cup of tea. The green tea leaves contain L-theanine, which is an antioxidant that is known to have a relaxing effect on your senses. Also, green tea will leave you with a fresher breath and help prevent tooth decay. So have a cup of green tea and treat yourself to some great mood and healthy teeth!

6. Coconut

This may come as a shocker, but coconut when eaten in its raw form will leave you with a better mood. Coconuts contain triglycerides which are special fats that aid in improving moods and in general they promote the health of your brain. However, do remember that coconut milk is actually rather unhealthy. It would be in your happiest interest to stick with raw coconut.

7. Spinach

Popeye swears by spinach and so should you! Spinach like most leafy green vegetables, is amazing for your health and is also a home remedy for different ailments Spinach is rich in iron, which adds to your happiness quotient.( Courtesy of HILONEE FURIA of mensxp.com

Looking Good In Every Photo

1. Favor the left side of your face. A US study conducted by Wake Forest University has revealed that the left side of the face is more attractive than the right, apparently due to the fact that this side of the face shows more emotion. To capture the perfect profile picture, look or angle your face slightly to the right to reveal your ‘best’ side. This can also help to give the illusion of a slimmer face for those with rounder faces

2. Choose your makeup carefully. For the perfect photo-ready appearance, make sure you avoid light reflective or mineral foundations containing high amounts of titanium dioxide (a reflective pigment). Although these foundations are great for an everyday luminous look, the flash of a camera can quickly transform your dewy complexion to a ghostly white one as the white light reflects back from the camera. Once you have applied a suitable foundation, finish your look with some face powder to help eliminate shine.

3. Accentuate your best features. To look your sparkling best in photos, make sure you emphasize your favorite features to make them stand out in your snapshot. Love your eyes? Try playing them up with some eyeliner or false lashes. Think you've got great lips? Perk them up with some bright lipstick. Also, make the most of your best body features with an outfit that complements your shape and coloring.

4. Look away from the lens. Nobody wants glaring red or half-shut eyes ruining an otherwise great photo, so make sure you avoid this by focusing your eyes just slightly above or below the lens, or look at the face of the photographer. Looking directly at the lens causes light to flash off the retina, leading to the red eye effect. Looking slightly away from the camera will also reduce the risk of those mid-blink shots.

5. Avoid “red eye” shots. As “red eye” in photographs is caused by light reflecting off the back of the eye, those with large pupils are more likely to suffer from this pesky problem. If averting your gaze from the camera is not doing the trick, another tip for alleviating the red eye effect is to make sure photos are taken in well lit environment or to look at a bright light just prior to the photograph being taken to make your pupils smaller. You and your friends won't end up looking like a cast of vampires.

6. Banish the double chin. There’s nothing worse than spotting a picture of yourself sporting a double chin where you previously only had one, yet sadly this happens to the best of us. To avoid the appearance of a double chin in photos, make sure that the camera is just above or at your eye level. Also, try tilting your head up and jutting your jaw out slightly–you may want to practice this one first in the mirror to stay looking natural.

7. Avoid direct light. It may not always be possible to control the lighting for your photos and, unless you happen to be a professional model, you most likely won’t have someone on hand to make sure it’s just right. Direct light from above can cast shadows on your face and accentuate the appearance of under-eye shadows. Opt for areas with softer lighting or head to the shade if outdoors.

8. Pose like a pro. If you’re posing for a full body shot, try the classic celeb pose of turning your body three quarters of the way towards the camera, with one shoulder closer to the camera and one foot in front of the other. This will make you body appear slimmer than if you were facing the camera face on. Try keeping your back straight with your shoulders back and your stomach in (just try not to suck it in too much, you won’t be fooling anyone!).

9. Master the perfect smile. Many of us focus on our mouths when smiling; however, in the words of supermodel Tyra Banks, it’s all about the “smeyes” (smiling with your eyes). Rather than forcing a grin, think about something that makes you happy for a more natural smile. (Of course being with a loved one in the photo can make that smile come more naturally.) You may also want to perfect your personal smile to work with your features. For instance, a beaming smile works great for those with good teeth, while a more relaxed half smile will make small eyes appear

10. Practice your pose. If you’re really keen to capture the perfect photo, the best thing you can do is practice beforehand. Experiment with different face and body angles, smiles and facial expressions (even outfits!) to find what works for you, either in front of the mirror or with your own camera. (Just do it in the privacy of your own room; cam-whoring in public is so unappealing.) Once you have discovered which looks you like best, you are ready to unleash them at every photo opportunity, making sure you look perfect each time(Courtesy of realbuzz.com)

 

 

Read Body Language Like A Pro

The phrase 'more than meets the eye' can mean so much when it comes to body language. "Up to 80 per cent of what we communicate is non-verbal," says Joe Navarro, author of What Every Body is Saying and former FBI agent turned non-verbal communication expert. Whether someone is feeling sad, confident, happy or even lying through their teeth, all of these can be deciphered just by paying attention to one's body communication. Watch out—you could also be letting on more than you think you are with a simple gesture as well!
The thing is we all speak without saying a single word. To find out exactly what those words are, you need to know what signs to look out for. Being able to read and understand body language can be an advantage to you, especially in tricky situations like a job interview, a first date or even when confronting someone.
Need a hand at learning how to read body language? Here, some common body language telltales that can help you assess certain situations.

How to spot a liar

Friend or colleague talking behind your back but denying it? Or is that real estate agent telling you the whole truth about the property you're interested in buying? Her words may say something, but her body language can tell you the truth that you are seeking.
• It's all in the face. To pick up on someone telling a lie, do what poker players do. The telltale signs? In one's face, says poker champion Annie Duke. "Poker players are good at hiding non-verbal cues. But I always watch them very closely. And if I see them blinking fast, licking their lips or flashing a quick grimace before they smile, chances are they're bluffing," says Duke.
• It goes downhill. Not the lie but the body language—head pointed toward the floor and shoulders slouched. These are all good indications that the person you're confronting isn't exactly telling you the truth, says Patti Wood, body language expert and author of Success Signals: Understanding Body Language. "When you're honest and feeling good about what you're saying, your body language is typically up and forward. If not, your body language will typically go down because you're trying to control or keep in the information."
• A shoulder shrug. Did you catch that shoulder shrug? Says communication expert and author of You Say More Than You Think: Use the New Body Language to Get What You Want Janine Driver, the shoulder shrug is a sign of uncertainty. It also is a sign that even the person you're talking to doesn't quite believe what is coming out from her mouth. Be fast though says Driver; the shrug is a very subtle movement but can tell a lot.

Does he like me?

So the first date (or second or third) is going well but not too sure exactly how your date feels about you? Keep a lookout for these body language cues.
• The lick gives it all away. Think about it: At the end of the day, we all have some form of animal instinct. A dog licks his lips before dinner, a lion does the same when getting ready to pounce on a prey. So if you catch your date doing that—and you're not on a dinner date—chances are he's into you, says Tonya Reiman, author of The Power of the Body Language. "We lick our lips in anticipation when we see something we desire." In this case, we're willing to bet that he's anticipating you.
• A slight touch here and there. Not a difficult one to decipher but if your date is touching you from behind when crossing the road or pushing your hair out of your eyes, it is a good sign that things are going well, says Tracey Cox, author of Superflirt. "This is a sign that he wants to touch you and get close but needs an excuse to do it," she says. Tip: Want to show him that you feel the same way? Says Kevin Hogan, author of Irresistible Attraction: Secrets of Personal Magnetism, the body language cue is a "direct way for him to say, 'If you smile, I know you like me back.'

• Count the distance. So you just met a guy at a bar. Did you know you can tell instantly whether he is into you…or not? Simple—just count the distance between the two of you. If he's not feeling you romantically, he'll most definitely stay far away. Just what distance are we talking about? Says Greg Hartley, author of I Can Read You like A Book: How to Spot the Messages and Emotions People are Really Sending with their Body Language, "If he remains four feet and more away from you, it is a clear signal that his heart's not in it." Here's another tip from Hartley: If his shoulder is pointing in the direction of your face as the two of you talk, he's subconsciously trying to turn you off.

Job interview telltale clues

Was that smirk on your interviewer's face a sign of contempt…or did he find your joke funny? Want to know if the job is yours? Check out these body language cues to help you shed light on the situation.
• Head tilt. Is your interviewer looking at you with her head tilted just a little to one side or the other? Good news, says Driver, as this is a clear sign that she is interested in whatever you have to say. Also, pay attention to the palms of the person interviewing you, she says. "Palms slightly up and outward equals open and friendly while palm-down gestures equal dominant and possibly aggressive."

• Are you boring your interviewer? If he or she is rubbing the back of their head or neck? "This may suggest that someone is bored with the conversation," says Driver. How to keep your interviewer's engage? Here's a tip from Navarro: Hold your chin high. Use your hands for emphasis, use open gestures but when you do bring your hands together, make sure your fingertips are pushing against one another. It not only says you are confident but that you want their attention as well.
• Similar gestures. Crossed your legs and your interviewer does the same? That's a positive sign too says Ross Buck, PhD, a professor of communication sciences and psychology at the University of Connecticut. She calls it synchrony, which happens when two people who are interacting mirror body language cues. "Synchrony is a signal that both people are on the same page. When you see someone copying your body language, or you notice that you are copying his, it is a clue that you are probably sharing a similar mind-set at the time." So if you see this happening when you are discussing expectations and salaries, well chances are your interviewer agrees with whatever you are saying!
By SC Chua for Yahoo! Southeast Asia

The Dangers of Sodas and Diet Drinks

Sodas and colas are incredibly popular across the world. These beverages account for more than a quarter of all drinks consumed in the United States. More than 15 billion gallons were sold in 2000. That works out to at least one 12-ounce can per day for every man, woman and child.

Sodas are full of empty calories and will contribute to obesity, tooth decay, weakened bones and caffeine dependence. Studies have shown strong links between children who drink sodas and childhood obesity. No one can deny the ties to soda and tooth decay, and it isn't just the high levels of sugar that cause it. The acids in sodas begin to etch away the tooth enamel within 20 minutes. These acids also upset the gastrointestinal system and cause many stomach disorders, as well as disturb the acid/base balance in the body, making an acid climate in which disease flourishes.

Sodas are a huge contributor to caffeine dependence, and it often starts with young children. And diet colas are often packed with a lot more caffeine than their regular counterparts. With the popularity of stimulant drinks such as Red Bull, that contain extra amounts of caffeine, there is a reported rise in aggressive behavior and violence among youths that consume these drinks.

Besides acids and caffeine, sodas contain phosphorus, an ingredient shown to weaken bones by promoting the loss of calcium. Phosphorus contributes to bone breakage during childhood, and osteoporosis later in life.

Another danger is aspartame added to diet sodas as a sugar substitute. There are over 92 different health related side effects associated with aspartame consumption, including brain tumors, birth defects, diabetes, emotional disorders and epilepsy/seizures. Plus, when aspartame is kept in warm areas or stored for long periods of time, it changes to methanol, an alcohol that converts to formaldehyde and formic acid, both of which are carcinogens.

There really are no good reasons to drink sodas. Juices, herbal teas and water are much better substitutes.


Source:http://readbud.com/Articles/Nutrition/The-Dangers-of-Sodas-and-Diet-Drinks

Empowering Women through Scholarship Education

Scholarships hold immense importance in the entire educational system today that help empower our women achieve their goals in life. It is in these scholarships that help women in completing their education and contributing to the society and increasing the literacy in the world. Scholarships for woman are meant to help the women who will be unable to achieve their own status in an intelligent society whether you come from the poorest family to the most elite in the society from all age groups. Over the past several years many steps are actually taken to overcome the particular gender inequality but it nonetheless exists in men dominated areas. Women are generally struggling to enjoy their space inside society as they come with an imbalance with the inexpensive and professional tasks, scholarships for women will help you here. There are many sources which will help women to take the effort towards education and becoming their degrees.

Several scholarship programs that help women from low income families get higher education for free. Most of these programs are funded by private organizations however; there are some federal education grants that you could apply for. Some programs for scholarships tend to be planned by the public and private institutions especially to prevent the competitions and also struggle. The group of the applicant is actually kept at concern and there is sure chance for the success within the relative field.

Although selecting the scholarship program you need to be careful and validate to apply for the one that is meant for specific groups including for graduate women, for under graduated pupils and so on. While implementing you must include the form of scholarship you intend to get. These particular increases the chances of staying awarded the scholarship for the particular women since you are a female and likewise if you belong to a new minority, the chance cheers.