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Sunday, April 12, 2009

Benefits Of Pomegranate

Benefits Of Pomegranate

Pomegranate is a fruit grown mainly in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, India, drier parts of Southeast Asia, Peninsular Malaysia, the East Indies and tropical Africa, along with parts of California and Arizona. However, it has been the native fruit of the region from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran to the Himalayas in northern India. Pomegranate has been associated with a high nutritional value and a large number of health benefits, illustrating the reason why it has been cultivated in the Mediterranean region as well the Caucasus since ancient times. To acquaint you more with this fruit as well as its juice, i have listed the nutritional benefits of their consumption, in the following lines.
Nutritional Value of Pomegranate
Given below is the amount of nutrients in 100 gm of pomegranate
Carbohydrates - 17.17 gm
Sugars - 16.57 gm
Dietary fiber - 0.6 gm   
Fat - 0.3 gm
Protein - 0.95 gm
Thiamin (Vitamin B1) - 0.030 mg
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) - 0.063 mg
Niacin (Vitamin B3) - 0.300 mg
Pentatonic Acid (Vitamin B5) - 0.596 mg
Vitamin B6 - 0.105 mg
Folate (Vitamin B9) - 6 G
Vitamin C - 6.1 mg
Calcium - 3 mg
Iron - 0.30 mg
Magnesium - 3 mg
Phosphorus - 8 mg
Potassium - 259 mg
Zinc - 0.12 mg
Energy - 70 kcal J90 kJ
Health & Nutrition Benefits of Pomegranates/Pomegranate Juice
* Being rich in antioxidants, pomegranate can keep LDL (bad cholesterol) from oxidizing and thus, prevents atherosclerosis.
* Pomegranate has been found to help keep blood platelets from clumping together and forming unnecessary clots.
* Regular consumption of pomegranate juice is said to be beneficial for those suffering from heart diseases.
* Researches have indicated that pomegranate compounds might prevent prostate cancer and even slowdown its growth.
* Pomegranate juice has also been associated with reducing the risk of breast cancer.
* Pomegranate juice is pretty good for those suffering from diarrhea, buoverconsumptionption can lead to constipation.
* It has been seen that pomegranate juice helps prevent heart attacks and even stroke.
* Pomegranate is said to be good for reducing plaque in the arteries and raising levels of HDL (good cholesterol).
* It has been seen that pomegranate juice helps prevent heart attacks and even stroke.
* Studies have shown that maternal consumption of pomegranate juice might protect the neonatal brain from damage after injury.
* Pomegranate is believed to help prevent cartilage deterioration and thus, keep osteoarthritis at bay. 
* Consumption of pomegranate might prevent and even slow down Alzheimer's disease.
* Pomegranate juice is associated with lowering of blood pressure as well as better oral health.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

The loss of skin's elastin and collagen is responsible for causing stretch marks. This loss can occur in two ways. First, hormonal changes caused by such things as prolonged steroid use or Cushing's syndrome can result in stretch marks. Perhaps the most common reason stretch marks form is because the skin is stretched more than normal, leading to a breakdown of tissue fibers. When this breakdown of tissues is present, a stretch mark develops and can be seen in the top layer of the skin.
Often, individuals are surprised to learn that stretch marks are actually a type of scarring. When the skin is overstretched and collagen production is disrupted, a type of scar forms. Initially, stretch marks appear as lines that have a red or purple coloring. After a while, the color changes, ending in a light, faded look.
Rapid growth frequently results in stretch marks. If an individual gains weight rapidly, he or she may develop them. Upon losing weight, the skin is no longer overstretched and the marks may become less obvious. Like all scars, however, they do not disappear completely.
Pregnant women may also develop stretch marks. The rapid increase in weight and girth that a woman undergoes during pregnancy can cause stretch marks to form. Even if a woman size doesn’t increase enough to overstretch her skin, she can develop stretch marks due to the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. But if neither the physical nor hormonal causes are present a woman may survive a pregnancy stretch mark free.
Pregnant women are not alone in the development of stretch marks. Anyone who experiences weight fluctuations may develop them. Teens may develop them as the result of growth spurts and bodybuilders may suffer from them as well. Individuals struggling with obesity are also prone to stretch marks.
Although stretch marks can develop on any part of the body, they are most common in areas that have the most stored fat and are the most likely to stretch. These areas include the abdomen, breasts, and buttocks. They are also common on both the inner and outer thighs, as well as the upper arms and the underarms.
Most people find stretch marks aesthetically unpleasant, especially on their own bodies. However, they do not pose a health risk. They typically have a soft texture and a slightly empty appearance.
Many individuals have tried creams, lotions, and other products intended to prevent stretch marks. Most health care professionals agree that moisturizing lotions and creams cannot hurt, but, unfortunately, are unlikely to help. Some cosmetic treatments, such as microdermabrasion may be helpful in improving their appearance. Tretinoin cream, commonly known as Retin-A, may also be helpful in making them less noticeable.

What Causes Keratitis?

Keratitis refers to inflammations, infections or deterioration of the corneas. It has numerous causes. No matter what the cause, early treatment is essential to preserve sight and prevent permanent or further damage to the corneas.
Viruses cause some forms of keratitis. Some viruses indicated in keratitis are Herpes Simplex 1 and 2, rubella, measles, and mumps. Though very rare, mononucleosis may also cause keratitis.
Certain bacteria may also be responsible for producing keratitis. Exposure to either staphylococcus and streptococcus when left untreated, can cause significant damage to the eyes. If one suspects eye infections, a doctor will usually prescribe drop antibiotics to prevent bacteria from attacking the corneal tissue.
Sometimes, keratitis develops as a reaction to certain antibiotics, or when antibiotics cause harmful fungi to develop. Treatment for fungal infections generally involves oral doses of anti-fungal medications. Fungal infections are common in those with immunosuppressive illnesses, and also those who wear contacts overnight.
Parasitic infections have been noted to occasionally affect the eyes. In these cases, parasites are often passed to the eyes through a lapse in hygiene. A person who does not wash his or her hands after using the bathroom and subsequently rubs the eyes, may pass parasites to the eyes. Contact lens wearers are also more at risk for parasitic infections. In the case of both fungal and parasitic infections, risk can be reduced by removing lenses at night and by carefully cleaning lenses before each use.
Those who suffer from severe allergies or who have chronic dry eye syndrome have an increased risk factor for developing most of the above types of keratitis. Drops to help reduce irritation in eyes for those with allergies, or to help produce tears may lubricate the eye properly and help people avoid keratitis.
Another cause of keratitis is traumatic eye injury, or surgery on the eyes. Symptoms of these and other types of keratitis tend to be extremely painful eyes, and sensitivity to light. For those who believe they have developed keratitis, contacting a doctor immediately is important. Surgery must frequently be performed to removed damaged tissue before it can scar and impact sight.