Winter Fruits That Are Essential and Aid In Weight Loss
Listen To Article [sc_embed_player fileurl=”https://bagdarafarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/apoorva-winterfruits.mp3″] Notwithstanding knee-jerk reactions, weight loss also involves consistency, planning, dedication and of course, a little determination. While it is a fact that fruits are very nutritious, but they constitute a minuscule part of a healthy diet. However, what is not very commonly known to most of us is the fact that not all fruits are equally beneficial since different fruits can have different effects on our health and weight. Studies over the time have shown that certain fruits can help us lose weight faster and in an easier manner. Conversely, some fruits facilitate an increase in weight loss when consumed regularly – Apple – There is no denying the fact that apples are nutrient-dense that impart a wide range of health benefits which includes weight loss. Studies have shown that eating apples, preferably one apple per day, can help shrink the waistline. This is so because apples are richly loaded with fibre, a nutrient that boosts feelings of fullness and thus wards off hunger pangs. Orange – This is nature’s one of the most potent weapons to burn of fat. Delicious and loaded with vitamin C, oranges have a similar effect on our health and weight as apples. They have a high percentage of fibre as well and water content which undoubtedly, facilitates weight loss. Not only do they help in boosting immunity, but also take care of the body’s nutritional needs like potassium, minerals, folate, and fibre. Guavas-This wonder fruit helps to maintain blood sugar levels and is thus excellent for people with diabetes. By being extremely high in fibre, they facilitate extending the time length of satiety thereby preventing us from snacking foods that are more often than not, unhealthy. Guavas also help in enhancing digestion and maintain bowel movements which further healthily helps in weight loss. This fruit is rich in vitamin C, lycopene, and antioxidants, all of which aid cancer prevention and skin inflammation as well. Pears – In addition to being a good source of vitamin C, pears are an excellent source of fibre. A medium-size pear boasts of nearly 24 percent of the recommended intake of daily fibre. Further, this fruit is free of fat, cholesterol, and sodium apart from containing a good amount of potassium. Since pears are made up of approximately 84 percent water, they are instrumental in keeping the stools soft and also flush the digestive system of toxins thus detoxifying the body naturally. Consuming pears also help regulate the bowel movements. Consumption of these healthy fruits immensely helps in enhancing up our immune system during winter. It should be ensured that these fruits are consumed in moderation and also, together with an overall balanced diet. An easy and convenient way to incorporate fruits in our daily diet is by mixing them with yogurt or cereal for breakfast, including them in salads for lunch, or even serve them as a sweet accompaniment for dessert to take care of any sweet tooth cravings. Notwithstanding the above brought out facts, it is well known that fruits must be enjoyed with any meal throughout the day.
Eat Sweets Guilt-Free During Diwali, as Later Detox with Curcumin
Listen To Article [sc_embed_player fileurl=”https://bagdarafarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/diwali-guilt-free.mp3″] As we spring clean our homes before Diwali, similarly our bodies need to be addressed post-Diwali. It is but normal as well as common to be overcome by a feeling of guilt after having overeaten during the festive season. Then one gets bogged down and feels bloated thereafter. It is thus essential to cleanse our bodies by indulging in a detox diet. This shall help the body to recover, in due course of time, from all the poor dietary choices and lack of optimal physical exercise during the festivities. Many Indian spices like turmeric, ginger, and black pepper are known for their antioxidant and immunity building properties. One of these spices, which merits attention is turmeric. Apart from enhancing the flavour of food in a healthy way, turmeric can work wonders in a multifaceted manner. Its effects can be seen and felt right from the digestive tract to the liver. The undermentioned recipes can be resorted to. Apart from using turmeric regularly in cooking, it can be brewed to make a cup of turmeric tea as a ritual in the mornings immediately after leaving bed. After boiling water, put a teaspoon of turmeric powder along with some grated ginger and let simmer for a few minutes. Lemon could be added to taste, and the drink could be then savoured. Take about three-fourths of a glass of milk and put to boil. Add two teaspoons of turmeric powder, some grated ginger, a teaspoon of raw honey, and a clove along with one-fourth teaspoon of cinnamon. Let the milk boil and make sure that it is strained before drinking. Have it every night and the liver shall benefit immensely. To address the issue of inflammation, make a drink by adding the juice of two lemons, five stalks of celery, an apple, four small carrots, a teaspoon of turmeric powders, and a small piece of ginger. This is a perfect drink to wake up to or to keep sipping during having dinner. To shed that extra weight gained during the festive season, turmeric can be potent. Add a teaspoon of turmeric powder and ginger juice each in a cup of water and boil. In it. Make sure you have it on an empty stomach every morning. Few more tips for self-detox after the festive season – Water plays s significant role in flushing out toxins from our body system. It is imperative that we have at least ten glasses of water daily. Having green tea regularly makes one feel energetic as well as light. Consume at least three to four cups of green tea every day. There can be no substitute for physical activity. Just slip into those running shoes and sweat it out during a brisk walk or run. Even cycling is a good option. The first step towards detoxifying is to say an absolute no to all kinds of sugars. A fresh fruit salad or mixed fresh fruits or even salads with curd are good and healthy dietary choices. When we fall asleep, all the cells and tissues get the required level of oxygen which facilitates flushing out toxins from our systems. Celebrate Diwali Guilt Free!
The Much Loved “Golden Paste”
Known as the Queen of Spices for centuries, is now emerging as a breakout star according to food trends today. This bright golden coloured spice, is one thing people are clamoring about to add a dash or pinch to our recipes. World over experts are whipping up concoctions, with this magical spice as a hero. Surely with its abundant anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and many other medicinal properties, it’s taken the herbal world by storm. The turmeric paste popularly known as the “GOLDEN PASTE” is a versatile recipe and can be used generously in many ways. HOW TO MAKE THE GOLDEN PASTE? Turmeric : 1/2 Cup Water : 1 Cup Water Ground Black Pepper : 1 ½ Teaspoons (for better absorption) Coconut oil/Olive Oil : 70 Ml (adding fat also increases its absorption) How to whip it up? Add turmeric to water Heat it gently, keep stirring it. Do it till you get a thick paste. It will take 6-10 min to get this done. In the end add oil of your choice. Keep it in a jar and refrigerate it. Consume it within 1 to 2 weeks. How Can We Use It? With Milk: The famous golden milk is one of the most loved ways to make turmeric a part of your diet. Just add a teaspoon in your glass of milk and enjoy, the oh so healthy! Golden milk. With smoothies: Add a dash of health to your delicious tasting smoothies, by adding a spoonful in them. You will love the colour and the earthy flavor. I was initially hesitant but now that I have tried it, it’s a regular feature in the smoothies I whip. With Curries: Curries are not only a regular feature of our cuisine, but the world has caught the curry fever. Turmeric popularly known as the curry spice is hence loved in the form of golden paste. It not only adds vibrant hues to the food, or makes it aromatic but also adds a dash of health to the pot of delicious curry. With Honey: Golden paste with honey is an instant immunity booster and is great for our overall health. All you have to do is take one teaspoon of golden paste mix with half teaspoon of honey and voila! Your teaspoon of health is ready. With Salads :With the world turning health conscious, we just love our greens, but give it a flavorful twist by adding half teaspoon of golden paste to your crunchy bowl of salad and it will elevate its health quotient many more notches. With Rice: Love eating rice, I certainly do. Make it healthy, vibrant and yummy with dash of golden paste. The kids too won’t say no and you can have it without guilt pangs. These are just few ways to have it; you can give it your own twist and style it the way you want. Stay happy and stay healthy. Click Here For Details: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28466459
Honey Turmeric Chicken
This savory, sweet and sticky dish is a great way to incorporate turmeric in your food. The delectable golden color makes the dish tempting and pretty on the platter. The aromatic and earthy flavor the golden herb lends to the dishes gives depth and adds a dash of health to them. Turmeric love has reached a new level, and its admirers are devising new and exciting ways to make it a part of your meals. Coined as the most potent herb, turmeric has been a part of our culture since its existence. Loaded with the goodness of curcumin, turmeric has been researched to be potent anti-inflammatory and a strong anti-oxidant; these are just a few drops from the ocean of its therapeutic goodness. There is more than one reason to be thoroughly impressed, with this magical herb and to incorporate it in your daily meals. Having ruled our kitchen cabinet for many years, granny’s pot of simmering curries got their rustic flavor and golden glow from this powerful herb. This humble, gorgeous, vibrant spice continues to splash health in our life, with its unpretentious presence. So, if you care for your health than sauté, stir fry, toss, scramble with a sprinkle of this golden magic and take your health one level up. Ingredients: Chicken Wings: 4 to 5 Garlic: 2 Cloves Minced Honey: 1 ½ Tbsp Soya Sauce: 1Tbsp Turmeric powder: ¾ Tbsp Red Chilli: A Pinch Salt: To Taste Oil: 1 Tbsp How to prepare? Add garlic, honey, soya sauce, turmeric powder, red chill, salt to the chicken and mix well. Heat the skillet on medium heat, add the oil. Put the chicken on the hot skillet. Cook on both the sides until they turn golden brown, crunchy and crispy. Let the chicken skin get glazed and browned. Dish out and serve immediately. Savor the flavor of this delicately flavored dish, for it makes a scrumptious snack and leaves your guests asking for more. Click here for more details: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27286671
Cooking With Turmeric – Sip in the Yellow Magic for Healthy You
The queen of spices, since the ayurvedic time, has influenced our health in more than one way. Having come a long way, in today’s time one can confidently say that turmeric is one herb that is trending. With its goodness of unlimited therapeutic properties known to the world, it has earned a fan following around the globe. So now we know that our grand ma’s insistence to dab yellow magic on burns, scrapes, to smear it on the face for glow, or tame cold, was not so old-fashioned after all, in fact, they were much ahead of time. This versatile and vibrant ingredient in our kitchen cabinet can sometimes be a remedy for a number of ailments. It can relieve your stomach, calm the frayed nerves, comfort the painful joints, soothe your skin, combat cancer, diabetes, arthritis; the list of what it does to elevate our holistic health is endless. No wonder it has earned gold star as an anti-inflammatory food. There are endless and delicious ways this, delightfully warm, aromatically earthy spice, can add so much flavour and depth to both savoury and sweet dishes. Our dishes get their unique flavour and distinct colour from this all-rounder super herb, Turmeric. Elevate Your Senses and Reboot Your Body with Turmeric Broth Ingredients: Carrots: 2 medium sized, Diced Onion: 1 Large, Diced Garlic Cloves: 2 Crushed Ginger: 1 inch, Diced Parsley: 1 bunch Radish: 1 peeled Freshly Ground Pepper: 1 Tsp Turmeric Powder: 2 Tsp Salt: To Taste Water: 4 cups Instructions: Put all the veggies including ginger and garlic in a pan, add water and cover. Bring it to boil over medium heat. Simmer it for 40 minutes. Add turmeric and stir well. Strain the liquid to remove the vegetable and to obtain a glossy clear liquid. Add pepper and salt. Serve piping hot. The delicately flavoured soup is sure to lift your spirit; it will work as a great detox and give you that extra boost of required energy. Everything boils down to the spice of life, the magical herb turmeric. Make sure to make it an integral part of your meals and live a healthy life.
Pickle It Up!
Listen To Article [sc_embed_player fileurl=”https://bagdarafarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PTT-20190508-WA0002.mp3″] At our service as a custodian of our health, packed with the magical powers of curcumin, Turmeric has surely been around for many thousand years. Its journey started as a medicinal herb and was one of the potent herbs of Ayurveda which could single-handedly combat a number ailments. It reached our kitchens to become the most revered spice, spiking up curries and giving them a distinct flavour and colour. The long journey that this great spice took up continues to add a dash of health to our lives, and amongst all the prodigious, gorgeous hues and tantalising flavours in our kitchen shelf, turmeric is sure a winner. The unpretentious turmeric, known for its golden colour, bold flavour and many therapeutic qualities, boasts of health benefits that most modern day medicines cannot think of. Turmeric is beyond a curry spice; it’s the super spice of life. So it’s not surprising to find a pinch of turmeric in lattes, our kid’s favourite Mac and Cheese and breakfast muffins, to name a few influenced by this mighty spice. How much we Indians love our pickles? Well, it’s difficult to express the love for turmeric and pickles in words, so we came up with a unique turmeric pickle. “KACHI HALDI KA ACHAR”, A loved pickle in India especially during the winter months, when the fresh turmeric is easily available in the market. An easy peasy recipe made with the readily available ingredients and can be stored easily for a month in the refrigerator. INGREDIENTS: Raw turmeric: 175 gms Ginger: 75 gms Green Chillies : 3 Fennel Seeds: 1 Tbsp Mustard Seeds: ½ Tbsp(Crushed) Salt: To taste Cooking Oil: ½Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice: ½ Cup HOW TO PREPARE? Wash and wipe the ginger and turmeric. Peel ginger and turmeric and slice into medium size pieces. Add salt, mustard, fennel and oil in ginger, turmeric and green chillies Put it in a container. Add lemon juice the next day and let the container sit in the sun for a day. The pickle will be ready to eat in 2 days and ready to refrigerate in 3 days. The delicious, scrumptious and healthy homemade pickle is ready.
The Legends of Turmeric
Turmeric also is known as the “INDIAN SAFFRON” has been n integral part of our lives since 4000bc. In Sanskrit; it is referred to as haridra, meaning, one that adorns the body of the omnipotent, all-powerful Hindu deity, Hari, Lord Vishnu. Turmeric is referred to by 55 synonyms in the Vedic texts, each denoting its auspicious quality, like. RANJANI, denoting, the radiant yellow colour. MANGAL PRADA, known for bringing luck. KRIMIGHNI, for killing worms, as a potent anti-microbial. PAVITRA, as holy. BHADRA, denotes auspicious. HRIDAYAVILASINI, described as, giving delight to heart or charming. SHOBHNA, brilliant, as the brilliant colour, and qualities. The above names are just a few drops from the ocean of goodness, this arguably, the most powerful herb on this planet has. In Ramayana, turmeric is listed amongst eight ingredients, to be mixed in water to perform the arghya ritual. Arghya ritual comprises of washing the feet, of venerable guests like the rishis, learned Brahmins and devatas. Numerous Vedic and Puranic texts refer to turmeric, as Sri Surya’s, the herb of the sun god. Four types of turmeric are mentioned in the ancient Ayurvedic texts (BHAVAPRAKASHA NIGHANDU) compiled in the 14th century. HARIDRA – TURMERIC VANA HARIDRA – WILD TURMERIC KARPOORA HARIDRA – CAMPHOR TURMERIC DARU HARIDRA – TREE TURMERIC Turmeric is regarded as extremely auspicious in Hindu culture and is used as a holy entity in many Indian rituals and prayers. This magical spice, enjoys a special significance, in Vedic astrology and is thus said to posses multitudinous astrological powers. Spiritually, turmeric is used to balance the energies of the body, while medicinally it is well known, as an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antiseptic, digestive, anti-oxidant and diuretic agent. Turmeric is associated with the goddess of fertility Uma. Therefore the deep association, with fertility and prosperity, it is used during the Haldi ceremony at Hindu weddings. The application of turmeric, not only enhances the glow, it signifies the ritual purification, of the new couple and serves as a blessing of fortune and prosperity, Its calming effect is also intended to dispel any nervousness. Popularly referred to as, Bandara, in Maharashtra, turmeric is the main offering, to the popular god, Khanoba. It takes place specifically during the Bandara festival, where families pray for marital bliss and prosperity. Goddess Durga’s face is known to emit the radiant turmeric glow, establishing her divine status. Turmeric is associated with Lord Krishna, who is depicted as wearing yellow. Certain Ganesha idols are made entirely of turmeric. Turmeric water, as an offering to goddess Kali, is an important ritual. To appease the planet Jupiter in your birth chart, turmeric root is tied on the neck or wrist on Thursdays, a turmeric tika applied on the forehead lends calmness to the mind. In Vedas, turmeric is also referred to as VAYOSTHAPAN, which means it arrests ageing and it creates more OJUS (vitality) in your system. Thus this potent herb has remained a central cosmetic since ancient times. The dexterous spice, made its journey into the west, through the Mediterranean region. In the middle ages, in Europe, it was known as the Indian saffron and the salt of the Orient, while in earlier biblical times it was used as a perfume as well as spice. This super spice of life, turmeric’s medicinal value was systemized in CHARAKA SAMHITA or compendium of caraka, Sanskrit text on Ayurveda. Today turmeric is classified as one of the top 20 herbs, that revive our health, speaks volumes about its abundant timeless benefits. With the world recognizing the benefits of its heavenly goodness, it will soon be the only natural weapon to combat the deadliest of diseases naturally and continue to add laurels to its already illustrious history.
Turmeric Tea for Two to Beat Cancer
Beat cancer in the most natural ways with this easiest yet exceptionally effective recipe of Turmeric Tea. Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes Ingredients 1 1⁄2 teaspoons turmeric powder 1⁄2 teaspoon Ceylon or regular cinnamon 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped OR 1⁄4 tsp. ground ginger 1⁄8 teaspoon ground cloves 2 pinches of ground cardamom 1 teaspoon raw cold pressed coconut oil 1 1⁄2 cups fresh coconut or almond milk OR purified water (water makes it less creamy) Dash of freshly ground black pepper Raw honey OR coconut nectarto taste Cinnamon stick to garnish (optional) How to Make Turmeric Tea Blend all ingredients in a blender on high speed. Pour into a small pot and heat on low temperature until nearly simmering, approximately three minutes. Remove from heat and serve immediately in a Cup. Garnish with a cinnamon stick (if you like cinnamon). For an Iced Turmeric Tea Latté, allow to cool and pour into a glass filled with ice cubes. Sprinkle some cinnamon to garnish. Defeat cancer!
Turmeric Egg Curry For Two – An Epicurean Delight
Enjoy the goodness of the healing properties of turmeric blended with delicious Turmeric Egg Curry. Ingredients of Turmeric Egg Curry 4 eggs, hard-boiled and peeled 2 medium bunches (250 grams each) fresh spinach, blanched and pureed 2 teaspoons oil 2 teaspoons ginger paste 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder 4 teaspoons garlic paste 4 medium onions, ground 3 medium tomatoes, puréed 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder salt to taste How to make Egg Curry Heat the oil in a non-stick pan; add the ginger paste and garlic paste and sauté for half a minute. Add the ground onions and sauté till golden brown Add the tomato puree and sauté till the oil separates. Add the spinach purée and cook for five to ten minutes, or till the raw flavor disappears Add the chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder and salt. Mix well and sauté for two to three minutes Halve the eggs vertically and add to the gravy. Mix gently and simmer for two minutes Serve hot So, here you have delicious Turmeric Egg Curry ready in just few minutes. Use Fresh Turmeric from Bagdara Farms to enjoy the benefits of fresh organic turmeric.
Health Benefits of a Raw Food Diet
Listen To Article [sc_embed_player fileurl=”https://bagdarafarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/raw-food-benefits.mp3″] As more and more people are turning to more organic lifestyles and trying to improve their health through adopting better eating habits, there are also many people going one step further and enjoying the health benefits of a raw food diet. In this article I am going to firstly look at; why so many people are choosing raw foods over cooked, what the benefits are, and give you tips on how to start eating a mainly raw food diet. In my experience people who are “raw foodists” mainly eat 75% raw foods and their reason for doing so are, when foods are raw they are in their most natural state and how nature designed them, thus meaning they are biocompatible with our bodies and are easier for us to digest. This is because when we cook food this creates new compounds in foods which our bodies can?t always process, therefore adding to our toxic load and making it harder for our immune system to work efficiently. Our immune systems are affected because when foods that are cooked enter our bodies it leads to our white blood cells becoming more active which means that the food is seen as an invader in the body. Benefits of a Raw Food Diet Furthermore raw foods maintain their enzymes and because enzymes are our life force and our bodies need them in order to absorb vitamins and minerals. When food is heated over a certain temperature the enzymes die and it becomes harder for our bodies to assimilate the nutrition from foods. A major benefit for many is the fact that raw foods replenish our enzymes store and help us to remain healthy and slow down the aging process whereas cooked foods speed up the aging process as they deplete our bodies of enzymes. However many people are put off eating a raw food diet as they imagine they’ll just be eating salads all day long and what they do not realise is that in fact they can have a whole variety of grains, nuts, seeds, and a vast array of delicious products. It is always wise to start with a few simple steps and slowly increase your raw food intake for example start by adding salads to all your meals, even if you are eating pizza having salad with it will help your digestion. Breakfast is a great place to start, by having a raw food smoothie, with fresh fruit, nut milk and adding in chia seeds and spirulina this gets your day off to an excellent start.
9 Superfoods You Should Be Eating
Listen To Article [sc_embed_player fileurl=”https://bagdarafarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/9-Superfoods.mp3″] Superfoods are foods that contain a high level of various vitamins, minerals and other components that are beneficial for one’s health. These foods have a great nutritional value and protect us from various diseases. Keep reading in order to find out what are the Superfoods You Should Be Eating. List of Superfoods You Should Be Eating Acai This fruit belongs to family of berries and we are all aware of the amazing health benefits of various members of berry family. Acai originate in South American rain forests. It is widely believed that acai berries aid in weight loss and anti-aging process. They are rich in antioxidants in the form of anthocyanins that prevent cancer and protect our heart. Moreover, acai berries are one of rare fruits that contain oleic acid which is a heart-healthy fat usually found in olives. It has more antioxidant level that other commonly eaten berries like cranberries or strawberries. Acai berry is used for the treatment of ulcers, diarrhea and many other infections. Goji berries Goji berries are native to Asia, more precisely Himalayan Mountains, Mongolia and China. Now, they are eaten worldwide due to numerous health benefits. Goji berries contain a high level of Vitamin C, protect our heart health, aid in weight loss, and according to some studies they prevent cancer. Gogi berries are consumed by people on daily basis as it is proved to be a cure for many common problems such as it improves eyesight, hair discoloration, enhances mood, has anti-aging properties, etc. Cacoa powder Yes, this is correct. According to the recent studies, cacoa powder can be safely included into group of super foods. Cocoa powder contains flavonoids which lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation to the brain and heart. One tablespoon of cocoa powder has less than 15 calories and almost no fat. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder showed antioxidant activity in studies that was equivalent or even higher to the antioxidant activity of acai berries, cranberries, blueberries etc. The study that discovered the amazing benefits of cocoa powder was conducted by Hershey Company and findings were published in Chemistry Central Journal. Seaweed Seaweed contains Omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for our overall health. It is also rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, iodine, iron, potassium, and zinc. Some health benefits of seaweed include: improved memory, good eyesight, strong teeth and bones, healthy thyroid function, improved immune system, reduced risk of allergies and infections, lower blood pressure etc. Moreover, seaweed is beneficial for the skin and regular consumption can give us that healthy glow we always want, and it improves the quality of our hair. Mangosteens You have, probably associated this fruit with mangoes, but they aren’t related. The kind of this fruit contains compounds called xanthones which have anti-inflammatory properties and reduce the risk of getting cancer. Mangosteen is a juicy, delicious fruit which is rich in fiber and has no cholesterol. Kefir Kefir is an ancient drink that originated in Russia and is most widely used in Eastern and Southeastern Europe e.g. Balkans region. It is similar to yogurt and slightly sour. Kefir is also more powerful probiotic than yogurt; it has powerful antibacterial properties that protect us from various infections, improves our bone health and lowers the risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, kefir has cancer-fighting characteristics too, improves our digestion, and eases symptoms of allergies and asthma. Another great benefit of kefir is the fact it is well tolerated even by people who are lactose intolerant. Avocado Avocada is originated from Mexico. They are an excellent source of healthy raw fat. Avocado also contains fiber, potassium, Vitamins E and B, and folic acid. Moreover, avocados have the ability to enable one’s body to more efficiently absorb fat-soluble nutrients like alpha and beta-carotene etc. Kale Kale contains antioxidants and fiber. It is, also, one of the best sources of Vitamin A which promotes healthy eyesight and strengthens immune system. One-cup serving of kale has the same amount of Vitamin C as an orange. It is rich in minerals such as potassium, calcium and zinc. Kale is a vegetable and can be consumed on regular basis as it lowers the risk of cancer, high cholesterol and has anti-inflammatory properties. Kiwi Kiwis are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants that flush away toxins from our body and protect us from various diseases and infections. Additionally, kiwis have more nutrients that some other fruits and according to a study whose findings were published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition consumption of kiwi promotes sleep due to the fact it also contains serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that helps induce and maintains sleep. Click here for more details : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29146363
4 Simple Steps for Growing Your Own Organic Food
Listen To Article [sc_embed_player fileurl=”https://bagdarafarms.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/organic-gatden.mp3″] Reasons There are a lot of good reasons to grow your organic food. In fact, there is a lot of increasingly disturbing evidence that presents equally good reasons not to buy non-organic supermarket produce. For example, one recent study of pesticide exposure in children in a major U.S. metropolitan area found that traces of garden chemicals were found in 99 per cent of the 110 children who were tested. Further, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, 90% of fungicides, 60% of herbicides and 30% of insecticides are considered carcinogenic. On a happier note, growing your organic food is not only healthier, but it can save you a lot of money. Produce departments are taking full advantage of an educated public’s desire for organic food, a fact reflected in the vast difference in price. In addition to reducing your grocery bill, by transforming your lawn into a garden, you’ll also save money on your water bill. Trees and shrubs require anywhere from two and a half to four times less water than maintaining a lawn. Simple Tricks to Start Off As the person in charge of the production of your herbs, fruits and vegetables, you can replace chemical pesticides with natural alternatives. One such option is a little cayenne pepper or horseradish mixed with garlic paste added to a gallon of water. It’s essential to test the strength on a leaf or two because if it’s too loud, it can burn the plant. However, it’s remarkably effective as a pest repellent. You’ll also be able to decide what kind of soil you want to use to grow your food. Different plants thrive in different types of land. For example, some, such as flowers and seasonal vegetables prefer peat-free soil, while blueberries require lime-free compost. Fruit trees benefit most from a soil based mix that releases nutrients slowly due to their long lives. Making your Organic Soil A rich organic soil minus any chemicals are one of the primary requirements of organic farming. Compost can make an enriched organic soil. One can use different types of substances like fallen leaves, grass clippings, old fruits and vegetable shavings. Be careful not to add fat, oil, grease, faeces or dry wood chips. Correct Space Choosing the best garden space is very important. A sunny spot with good drainage is ideal. Vegetables grow best when they get 6-8 hours of sun and a little shade during the afternoon. Space should also have the ease of watering the plants. Choosing the Right Plants for Organic Farming It is of utmost importance to select the correct types of plants that will thrive well in ecological conditions so that they can adjust well in those micro conditions. Buy seedlings that have been grown without the use of any chemical pesticides and fertilizers. For the cold weather, one can choose peas, spinach, carrots, radishes and lettuce while for warm weather plants like tomatoes, basil, zucchini and green peas can be grown. Mulching No matter what kind of soil composition you choose, mulching is an essential factor in preparing it for planting. Mulching is the process of enriching the soil. Two benefits of mulching are weed reduction and water conservation. Organic mulches are commonly made from decomposing plant materials. Many people set up a worm farm to provide natural compost for mulching. Worms are also able to detoxify soil of due to their ability to break down substances, including heavy metals like cadmium and lead. Experts recommend not using live green materials rather than those already in an advanced state of decomposition because they can leach needed nitrogen from the soil. Proper mulching requires the soil to be covered with up to three inches of material to achieve the maximum benefits. However, the mulch should not cover the plant’s base, but only the root zones. Watering of Plants One of the best time to water plants is in the mornings, for the simple reason that it is less windy, so most of the water is absorbed, and it does not get evaporated. Watering the plants in the evenings make them more prone to various diseases. Make sure one waters the roots and not the greens. Plants should not be overflooded. A drip type of watering is ideal so that the water is soaked in slowly. The water should be near the air temperature to avoid shocking the tender plants. Protection Without Pesticides A garden with diversity ensures that pests are limited by limiting the amount of a single type of plant available for attack. Natural predators like frogs, toads, lizards etc. can be fostered in the garden. Some insects like ladybugs are also beneficial in preventing attack by harmful insects. Horticultural oils, garlic and hot pepper sprays in small amounts can also be used to discourage the pests. Eating right out of the garden is ideal for good health and high spirits. The best way is to have your organic garden. Happy gardening!