Fitness Korner

Quinoa is the world’s most popular “superfood.” It is loaded with protein, fiber and minerals, but doesn’t contain any gluten. Here are 11 proven health benefits of quinoa. 1. Quinoa is Incredibly Nutritious Quinoa is a grain crop that is grown for its edible seeds. It is pronounced  KEEN-wah . It technically isn’t a cereal grain, but a pseudo-cereal ( 1 ). In other words, it is basically a “seed” which is prepared and eaten similarly to a grain. Quinoa was an important crop for the  Inca Empire  back in the day. They referred to it as the “mother of all grains” and believed it to be sacred. It has been consumed for thousands of years in South America, although it only became trendy and reached “superfood status” a few years ago. These days, you can find Quinoa and products made with it all over the world… especially in health food stores and restaurants that emphasize natural foods. There are  three main types  of quinoa… white, red and b...

(Photo: Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images ) Chocolate might feel sinful, but unsweetened cocoa powder can give you your chocolate fix without the guilt. Made by grinding the solids left over after fatty cocoa liquor is extracted from crushed cocoa beans, unsweetened cocoa powder imparts rich chocolate flavor with virtually no sugar and little fat. It also contains essential nutrients and helps fight chronic disease. Reach for natural cocoa powder over Dutch-processed or alkalized cocoa for optimal health benefits, recommends Colorado State University. Fiber Adding unsweetened cocoa power to your food boosts your fiber intake. A 2-tablespoon serving contains 3.6 grams of fiber -- approximately 14 percent of the recommended daily intake for women or 9 percent for men, according to the Institute of Medicine. In addition to helping you feel full after a meal, fiber fights constipation to keep you regular. It also supports good cardiovascular health, helping to reduce hi...

Oatmeal  and winter go hand in hand. Whenever we jumpstart our mornings with a warm bowl of  oatmeal topped with fresh figs, sesame seeds or chocolate , we feel more energetic and ready to take on the day. But did you know this  breakfast superfood  also boasts beauty benefits? The use of oats in skincare has been documented as far back as 2000 BC, and oatmeal is one of the few natural ingredients to receive recognition from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to clinical dermatologist Dr. Joseph F. Fowler Jr.'s clinical update in Skin & Allergy News . Colloidal oatmeal , a natural product produced from finely ground oat grains that are boiled to produce an extract, is  full of vitamins, minerals and lipids  that add moisture to benefit the condition of one's skin. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Susan Stuart told us, "Oatmeal contains both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and as such is ideal for sensitive skin an...

About Bitter Gourd/Karela Bitter gourd or Karela is also known as the bitter melon, bitter squash and etc has been named as such because of its bitter taste however, it is very healthy and nutritious. It is cultivated in the tropical and subtropical regions (Asia, Africa and etc) of the world and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It was first originated in the Indian subcontinent and started cultivating in the China and other countries of the world during the 14 th  century. It is very effective and simply found vegetable known for its antidiabetic (insulin like) and hypoglycemic properties. It contains more than 32 types of the active constituents (like Gaba, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene and etc) including vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Benefits of Bitter Gourd/Karela Bitter gourds are considered as the great green vegetable having low calorie, loaded with the vitamins like B1, B2, B3, B9, B6, B5, C, E, K, minerals like magnesium, zinc, selenium...