Issue 118

5109 Kali Era, Sarvajit Year, Asvayuja/Kartika month
2065 Vikramarka Era, Sarvajit Year, Asvayuja/Kartika month
1929 Salivahana Era, Sarvajit Year, Asvayuja/Kartika month
2007 AD, October

Contents

Home

Management
AJIN

TSJ

MS

Vegetarian Links

Disclaimer

Soliciataion

Contact

VPC

More Links

Vedah

Diet and Exercise

Tea
Alcohol Causes Cancer
Chocolate Cravings
Exercise Improves Memory and Well-being
Broccoli
Vegetarian Festival
Your Skin and Sugar

Miscellaneous

Anger and Conflict Trigger Heart Disease
Natural Soap
Stress in America
Phthalates in Air Fresheners
Smoking
Alzheimer's Delayed in Educated
Your Financial Health

Recipes

Vegetarian Chili
Spinach Casserole
Indian Spinach Dish

Diet and Exercise

Tea
Aside from water, tea is the world's most popular drink and at the Fourth International Scientific Symposium on Tea and Human Health, which was held in Washington, US, scientists gave a clear suggestion that by drinking more tea it may help prevent Parkinson’s, Alzheimer's and dementia diseases. There are two main ways in which tea can help in health - by helping damaged cells repair themselves and maintaining the functioning of brain cells.

In a recent study it was discovered that by drinking green tea, brain neurons were more easily able to maintain their health, and in so doing, enhanced their capacity to combat stress. The active ingredients are flavonoids and between 2 and 4 cups are required for effectiveness.
There is still some debate as to whether green tea or black tea is the most effective. It has been concluded, however, that both black and green tea are good for cardiovascular diseases, whereas green tea is specifically beneficial brain related problems.

Alcohol Causes Cancer
Scientists have amassed persuasive evidence that drinking alcohol, any form of alcohol, even in moderate amounts -- can pose a serious threat to your health. Researchers have known for nearly 20 years that drinking alcoholic beverages can cause cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus and liver. This year, the International Agency for Research on Cancer added breast and colon cancer, two of the four major killer cancers, to the list of malignancies known to be fostered by alcohol. According to comprehensive reviews of the scientific evidence, people who average just over one drink a day (100 grams of alcohol in a week's time) increase their chances of developing colon cancer by about 15 percent. Women who have one to two drinks a day increase their breast cancer risk by 13 percent. With four drinks, the risk is 50 percent higher, in a study published last month in the International Journal of Cancer.

According to data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol consumption is the third-biggest cause of preventable death in the U.S., after smoking and obesity. The centers estimate that in 2001, the most recent year for which data is available, drinking caused nearly 93,000 deaths. That includes more than 12,000 cancer deaths, comparable to the 13,674 killed in alcohol-related traffic accidents.

All types of alcohol, such as wine, beer or liquor, add equally to the risk of developing breast cancer in women, American researchers said. Previous studies have shown a link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, but there have been conflicting messages about whether different kinds of alcohol were more dangerous than others. In the new study, researchers found no difference in the risk of developing breast cancer among women who drank wine, beer, or liquor. According to data published in the British Journal of Cancer in 2002, 4 percent of all breast cancers, about 44,000 cases a year, in the United Kingdom are due to alcohol consumption.

Chocolate Cravings
A study links a type of bacteria living in people's digestive system to the desire for chocolate. Everyone has a vast community of microbes in their guts. But people who crave daily chocolate show signs of having different colonies of bacteria than people who are immune to chocolate's allure.

That may be the case for other foods, too. The idea could eventually lead to treating some types of obesity by changing the composition of the trillions of bacteria occupying the intestines and stomach. It appeared in the Journal of Proteome Research. How gut bacteria affect people is a hot field of scientific research. Since bacteria interact with what you eat, it is logical to think that there is a connection between those microbes and food. However, it should be noted that by changing the diet the bacteria can be changed because bacteria are a result of what we eat than vice versa.

Exercise Improves Memory and Well-being
Physical exercise is the best-proven prescription so far. Memory improved when 72-year-olds started a walking program three days a week, and sophisticated scans showed their brains' activity patterns started resembling those of younger people. Then there's the "use-it-or-lose-it" theory, that people with higher education, more challenging occupations and enriched social lives build more cognitive reserve than couch potatoes. It's never too late to start building up that reserve. Everything from doing crossword puzzles to various computer-based brain-training programs has been touted, but nothing is yet proven to work. For more on exercise and mental health:
http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/EMIHC267/35320/35322/455875.html?d=dmtHMSContent

Regular exercise enhances emotional well-being. Medical studies have shown that people who engage in a steady program of physical activity report a more cheerful mood, higher self-esteem, improved sleep and less stress. People who remain active and physically fit are less likely to develop clinical depression. So it's no surprise that exercise can be useful in the treatment of depression. http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/EMIHC267/35320/35322/455071.html?d=dmtHMSContent

A well-functioning immune system helps to protect the body against bacteria, viruses, toxins and other invaders that can make you sick. Studies show that low to moderate intensity exercise, as long as it is performed regularly, has the ability to protect and even enhance the immune system. A good example of moderate intensity activity would be 20 to 30 minutes of brisk walking most days of the week. Experts still aren't sure whether exercise boosts the immune system directly or works through a link with the brain and nervous system.

Cutting Fat Helps
Those who followed a low-fat diet for eight years cut their chances of ovarian cancer by 40 percent, researchers reported in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. It's arguably the most promising finding of the mammoth Women's Health Initiative dietary study, which enrolled tens of thousands of healthy women ages 50 to 79 to track the role of fat in several leading killers. The American Cancer Society estimates that 22,430 U.S. women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year; 15,280 women will die of it.

Broccoli
Most people know eating broccoli is good for you but it also can help skin cells fend off damage from harmful ultraviolet radiation, U.S. researchers said. The extract derived from newly sprouted broccoli seeds reduced skin redness and damage by more than one-third compared with untreated skin, they said. The extract already has been shown to help skin cells fight UV damage in mice.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting more than 1 million Americans every year, according to the National Cancer Institute. It kills more than 10,000 people each year, representing about 4 percent of all cancer deaths.

Vegetarian Festival
The town of Phuket in southern Thailand annually hosts the world's largest and longest running vegetarian festival, run since 1825. For more than nine days, nearly the entire city goes vegetarian, and thousands of locals and tourists celebrate with parades, food, music, dancing, fireworks and more from morning to night. The festival has strong religious roots in Buddhism and Taoism. http://vegetarian.about.com/od/vegetarianlifestyle/ig/Phuket-Vegetarian-Festival.--0h/Welcome-to-the-FestivaWelcoml-.htm

Your Skin and Sugar
One of the usually unknown reasons for premature skin ageing is the intake of sugar. Naturally, the more sugar that you intake, accordingly, the blood sugar rises. A result of this is often a process which is called glycation. This is a process that occurs when sugar molecules stick to a lipid molecule or protein which causes damage and new molecules are formed as a result. These new molecules are called advanced glycation end products. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), lead to damage in the ligaments, cartilage and skin collagen. The end result of this is that there is a loss of elasticity, which manifests on the skin as skin sag and wrinkles. So, the two main causes of the premature aging of your skin is excess sugar intake and excess exposure to the sun.

In order to protect yourself, it is advised to be cautious about remaining in bright sunshine, and to reduce the amount of sugar you have. For the example, take less sugar in your coffee or tea, and instead of eating sweet snacks take fresh fruit. A final recommendation is to use natural skin care products, and not the products using harsher chemicals.

Miscellaneous

Anger and Conflict Trigger Heart Disease
Frequent conflict at work or at home might increase the risk of developing heart disease, two new studies suggest. In the first report, published Monday in the Archives of Internal Medicine, it was found that people who report lots of hostile, angry exchanges with friends have a greater chance of heart disease later in life. The second study, in The Journal of the American Medical Association, found that job strain after a heart attack is linked to a second heart attack.

A fit of rage can trigger the release of stress hormones that might increase heart rate and lead to a heart attack. Someone with chronic stress might pick up a smoking habit or start eating lots of fast food laden with unhealthful fats. Smoking and a diet filled with fast food or processed foods can increase the risk of developing clogged arteries, which can lead to heart disease.

A lousy marriage might literally make you sick. Marital strife and other bad personal relationships can raise your risk for heart disease, researchers reported in Archives of Internal Medicine.

Another recent study also looked at quality of relationships but had different results published online in July in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine. There was no association between marital woes in general and risks for heart disease or early death. But it did find, over a 10-year follow-up, that women who keep silent during marital arguments had an increased risk of dying compared with wives who expressed their feelings during fights. What appeared to matter more for men was just being married; married men were less likely to die during the follow-up than single men.

Natural Soap
Many people have very little idea on what is contained in popular soaps sold in almost every supermarket and corner shop. Many of the brand name products contain artificial additives and chemicals that have often been tested on animals as well as contain beef fat. Additionally, several companies also use non-renewable resources in order to mass produce their soaps, leading to the exclusion of glycerin in the end result. Products without glycerin have less of an innate moisturising effect. Consumers need to look for safe, yet effective products from natural, sustainable and renewable sources. An example of such natural soaps is soapnut -Sapindous (Ritha -Hindi; Kumkudu - Telugu). The extract of soapnut fruits is a good soap, which has been in use in India.

Stress in America
A national survey on the state of stress in America by the American Psychological Association (APA) finds that money and work are the biggest stressors for almost three-quarters (73% and 74% respectively) of Americans. That's up from 59% for both last year. Overall, housing costs worry 51% of the 1,848 adults polled last month by Harris Interactive for the APA. Housing is a "very significant or somewhat significant" source of stress for 61% of residents in the West and 55% of those in the East, compared with 47% in the Midwest and 43% in the South. About one-third (32%) of those responding to the online survey report regularly experiencing extreme levels of stress.

Phthalates in Air Fresheners
The Natural Resources Defence Council study used 14 different air fresheners taken from shop shelves, and upon research discovered that 12 of them contain a substance called phthalates. Pronounced 'thal-ates', it is a chemical found in a whole range of household products such as nail polish, children's toys and cosmetics. The chemical has the effect of dissolving fragrances and is used as a sealant, adhesive and plastic softener. Although the American government does not require any form of labeling on a product that contains phthalates, the European Union and 14 further countries have banned the use of this chemical in cosmetics and children's toys. Some states in America are expected to follow suit. Alternative ways of eliminating bad odor are leaving fresh ground coffee beans on a counter, grinding up lemon and leaving it in the bottom of the dust bin and leaving baking soda on the floor of the rubbish bin.

A study found using household cleaning sprays and air fresheners as little as once a week raised the risk of asthma. Heavy use of such products has already been linked with occupational asthma, but the latest work suggests occasional use in the home also poses a threat. The Spanish study of more than 3,500 is published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

Smoking
A study released recently credits New York's 2003 Clean Indoor Air Act with an 8 percent drop in heart attacks statewide because of reduced exposure to second-hand smoke. The report, issued by the state Health Department, found that hospitals admitted 3,813 fewer patients for heart attacks in 2004 than would be expected in New York without the indoor smoking ban. Studies elsewhere have reached similar conclusions. In one case, the rate of admissions for heart attacks returned to normal after the ban was lifted.

Alzheimer's Delayed in Educated
Having more years of formal education delays the memory loss linked to Alzheimer's disease, but once the condition begins to take hold, better-educated people decline more rapidly, researchers said. Their study, published in the journal Neurology, tracked memory loss in a group of elderly people from New York City's Bronx borough before they were diagnosed with Alzheimer's or another form of old-age dementia.

Every year of education delayed the accelerated memory decline that precedes dementia by about 2-1/2 months, according to the researchers at Yeshiva University's Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. But once this memory loss began, the rate of decline unfolded 4 percent more quickly for each additional year of education, the researchers said. Someone with 16 years of schooling might experience memory decline 50 percent more quickly than another person with just four years education, based on the findings. While better-educated people may be diagnosed with Alzheimer's later than people with less education, it appears they have suffered brain damage but their "cognitive reserve" was able to hide and delay the effects, the researchers said. Other studies have detected quicker memory loss among more highly educated people after diagnosis of Alzheimer's.

Your Financial Health
According to Bankrate.com, the 10 biggest money drains are the things that you can easily do without. Take a look:
1.) Coffee: The average price of coffee is $1.38 (or more depending on the coffee vendor), reports the National Coffee Association. So, if you buy a “cup of joe” every morning for a year that could add up to at least $360 a year. That’s money that could be contributed to your retirement fund or savings account.
2.) Cigarettes: The average price for a pack of cigarettes in the United States is $4.54. A pack day can cost you about $1,660 a year.
3.) Alcohol: Drink prices vary based on where your watering hole of choice is. However, the average cost of one beer is $5 including tip. Bankrate reports that if you buy two beers a day, it can add up to $3,650 a year. It only gets more expensive if you buy a round of drinks for your friends.
4.) Bottled Water: A liter of bottled water will cost you $1.50. Buying one bottle of water a day will cost you around about $540 a year. This purchase will cost you and the environment in the long run.
5.) Manicures: Nothing is more relaxing than a languorous manicure. But, these types of “treats” are not economically feasible if you have them done frequently. For example, if you get a $20 weekly manicure, you could cost rob your savings of $1,068 a year. Doing your own manicure will only cost you about $5 — the price of a bottle of nail polish.
6.) Car washes: The average cost for basic auto detailing is about $58. Not bad, if it’s done sporadically. But, if you have your car detailed every two months it will cost you $348 a year.
7.) Buying Your Lunch Everyday: It’s hard to get out of the door with all of your belongings, and a sack lunch. But, if you have to buy your lunch everyday, you could be doing serious damage to your savings. For instance, buying your lunch daily will cost you about $9 or $2,350 a year. In short, it pays to spend time to make your lunch.
8.) Vending Machine Snacks — The average vending machine snack is about $1. Buying a pack a day will cost you $260 per year.
9.) Interest Charges on Credit Card Bills — The median credit card debt for most Americans is $6,600. Rate tables on Bankrate.com indicate that fixed interest rates on a standard average is 13.44 percent. If you make the minimum payment each month it will take you 21 years — yes, that’s years — to pay off the debt.
10.)Unused Memberships: A gym membership, that goes unused, is probably $40 a month; which can add up to $480 a year. Either use the membership or cut your losses.
If you're diligent and cut back on the extras, such as expensive coffee everyday, you'll be able to contribute more money to your savings account than you expected.

Recipes

Vegetarian Chili
INGREDIENTS: 4 15 ounce cans kidney beans, well drained; 2 cups vegetarian ground beef substitute; 1 cup corn; 2 15 ounce cans tomato sauce; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/3 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp cumin; 2 cups cornmeal; 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 2 cups soy milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 tbsp maple syrup
PREPARATION: Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the beans, beef substitute, corn, tomato sauce and spices and spread in the bottom of a large baking pan. In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour and baking powder. Slowly whisk in the soy milk, oil and maple syrup, stirring just until combined. Pour this cornbread batter over the chili mixture and spread in the dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
http://vegetarian.about.com/od/maindishentreerecipes/r/chilicornbread.htm?nl=1

Spinach Casserole
INGREDIENTS: 2 boxes frozen spinach, thawed and drained; 2 1/2 cups cottage cheese; 1/3 cup margarine; 3 eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper
PREPARATION: Lightly grease your crock pot or slow cooker. Mix together all ingredients and spoon into crock-pot. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours.

Indian Spinach Dish

INGREDIENTS: 2 tbsp olive oil + 2 tbsp; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, diced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated or minced; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1/2 cup sour cream; 3 large bunches of spinach; 8 ounces ricotta cheese; dash salt, to taste.
PREPARATION: In a large saucepan over medium heat, sautee the garlic and onion in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for a minute or two. Add the ginger, cumin, coriander and turmeric, stirring, and allow the spices to cook for another minute. Reduce the heat to medium low and add the sour cream, stirring to combine, then the spinach. You may need to add the spinach a little bit at a time, waiting for it to cook down before adding more. Allow the spinach to cook until done, about ten minutes. In a separate skillet, fry the ricotta in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until lightly browned. Add the cheese to the spinach mixture. Cover and cook on medium low for 5 to 7 more minutes. Add a dash of salt and serve hot.

Health and Nutrition

Issue 118