Dragon Fruit: Benefits and Uses (Pitaya)

The health benefits and uses of dragon fruit also known as pitaya. 

1. The dragon fruit or the pitaya is a delicious fruit which comes from large cactus type plants, native to Central America, but are now grown all over the world.

2. There are three main varieties of this fruit:

Pitaya Blanca (Pink Skinned with White Flesh)

Pitaya Roja (Red Skinned with Red Flesh)

Pitaya Amarilla (Yellow Skinned with White Flesh)

Each variety has a slightly different taste. The red flesh variety is said to taste sweeter. 

Many people are worried that these are genetically modified, however they are 100 percent natural, as the red colouring comes from the natural pigment hylocerenin. 

3. These exotic, tasty fruits are excellent for increasing energy levels and mental focus. It is recommended to eat these in the morning to provide the body with energy and get rid of grogginess.

4. The fruit contains phytochemicals which help to improve blood circulation and improve the health of the heart.

5. The seeds within are very healthy and contain a natural oil, which helps to stimulate digestion, and relieve constipation.

6. The fruit contains a strong dose of Vitamin C and flavonoids which destroy cold and flu infections when eaten regularly. 

7. It also contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, Calcium, Iron, Protein, Niacin, Fiber and Phosphorus.

8. The peel of the fruit can also be steeped in hot water to make a cancer fighting tea. This is due to the polyphenols and flavonoids contained within.

9. Dragon Fruit also contains oligosacchardies. These are prebiotics which improve the health of the gut, helping those with obesity, vascular diseases and hypersensitivity.

10. The fiber in the fruit also helps to stabilise blood sugar, and has been proven to reduce the risk of diabetes and associated symptoms

11. The seeds are rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, which also decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

12. Eating a dragon fruit a few times a week can boost the amount of antioxidants you consume. This alongside the phosphorus, helps to keep the skin looking young at the cellular level.

13. Lycopene found within dragon fruit can help in preventing prostate, breast, liver, skin and lung cancer.

How To Eat Pitaya (Dragon Fruit)

The pitaya fruit should be slice in half length ways, and scooped out using a spoon. This can be eaten in fruit salads, blended into smoothies or juices.

You can use a melon baller to scoop out perfect balls of this seeded fruit, for excellent presentation.

The skin around the fruit is also healthy and can be steeped into boiling water to make a herbal tea, with extra health benefits.

The flowers of the pitaya are often cooked and eaten in soups and stir fries in Asia. They can also be dehydrated to make a powder and also used as a tea.

To learn more about exotic fruits and natural remedies, please see our other videos. 

Bottle Gourd Juice: Benefits (Lauki/Calabash)

The health benefits of bottle gourd juice, also known as lauki juice.

1. The bottle gourd is one of the healthiest fruits and is often used in Asian cuisine. Juice from this fruit has some fantastic health benefits for the human body.

2. This is also known as Lauki or calabash. This is a gourd which is grown on a vine, and comes in a variety of different shapes and sizes. 

3. It is known as the “bottle” gourd as it is one of the oldest fruits ever cultivated, as the shells were used as water containers.

4. The juice within the bottle gourd contains some fantastic nutrients including vitamin C, B, A, K, E, Iron, Folate, Manganese and Potassium.

5. It contains around 92 percent water and is an excellent way of keeping the body hydrated.

6. Drinking this often can help to maintain a healthy heart by bringing down bad cholesterol levels.

7. Like many other fruits and vegetables, it helps to stabilise blood glucose levels and can be beneficial for those with diabetes.

8. It is very important that bottle gourd juice is drank quickly after opening the fruit, as the nutrients can decay quickly.

9. The natural sugars within the drink can be used to re-energise the body after a workout. The protein and other nutrients help muscles to grow, and restore the body to full energy levels.

10. The juice has a cooling effect, helping to reduce body heat in the summer. In Ayurvedic medicine, this is used as a remedy to treat nose bleeding, pimples and ulcers.

11. The bottle gourd or calabash is perhaps best known for its ability to aid weight loss. The fruit is packed with fiber which is the number one key to losing weight. 

The extra vitamins and minerals also help the body to flush our fat.

12. Many use a mixture of lime and bottle gourd juice to treat urinary tract infections.

13. Choline has been found within bottle gourd juice. This is a neurotransmitter that boosts brain function, helping to prevent stress, depression and other mental disorders.

14. The soluble and insoluble fibre found within helps to cure constipation and trapped wind.

15. The juice can be made by blending the fruit of the gourd and then sieving to remove the pulp.  Be sure to add a little mint and black pepper to improve the bitter taste.

16. The juice can be mixed with a little sesame oil and massaged into the scalp. This has helped many people to treat insomnia and have a better night’s sleep.

17. Did you know the shells of bottle gourds are sometimes used to make utensils, containers and musical instruments?

Rosehip Seed Oil: Benefits and Uses

The health benefits of rosehip seed oil, and how to use this for your skin.

1. There are beauty products available to improve and tighten the skin, however many celebrities use rosehip seed oil.

2. Rosehip Seed Oil a completely natural oil which was used by the ancient Egyptians, the Mayans and Native Americans for its healing properties.

3. Unlike many other oils, this is none greasy and doesn’t feel as heavy when applied to the skin. This makes it soak into the skin faster and easier.

4. It is excellent for those with sensitive skin, and is well known for its anti-aging properties. When applied regularly the skin retains youth, and elasticity.

5. Many in the beauty industry have claimed that this is as powerful as botox. 

6. The Vitamin A, C and lycopene within the oil, helps to repair the skins surface from blemishes, pimples, dermatitis, age spots and sun damage. 

7. Those who have scars from acne, can use this wonderful oil to heal the skin, and even out red areas.

8. This in turn slows down the appearance of aging, making wrinkles much less likely to occur.

9. The Vitamin A also works with the essential fatty acids in the oil to create an even skin tone, reducing pigmentation.

10. Those who suffer with eczema have found that rose hip oil works wonders in hydrating the skin and easing the condition.

11. It can also be used on the scalp to rapidly heal dry scalp, dandruff and itchiness.

12. These seeds are usually grown and harvested in Chile from a specific type of rose bush. They are then cold pressed to extract the oil, which preserves their antioxidants and essential fatty acids.

13. Some people believe that this smells like rose flowers, however it has more of a woody aroma as it is made from the hips of the plant.

14. Research has also shown that rose hips can ease rheumatoid arthritis pain and improve mobility by 25 percent.

How To Use Rosehip Seed Oil

To use this on the scalp to treat dryness and irritation, simply add a few drops to your favourite shampoo, massage into the scalp and let sit for 2 hours before rinsing.

As a massage oil for arthritis and muscle pain, mix a few drops with some carrier oil and massage the skin using circular motions.

To treat skin conditions, use a mild soap to clean the skin and then use a cotton pad to rub as much rosehip seed oil as needed onto the affected areas such as the face, neck, arms and legs. 

Thank you very much for listening, a like is always appreciated and remember to subscribe for more healthy videos. I wish you great health, wealth and happiness.

Green Coffee: Benefits (Weight Loss)

The health benefits of green coffee beans.

1. Losing weight can be very difficult for those who aren’t very active or struggle with exercise. 

Green Coffee Beans have become one of the most popular products in recent years as they are fantastic for weight loss

2. These are unroasted coffee beans which contain a high amount of Chlorogenic Acid.

This is one of several polyphenols within the bean which acts as a natural fat burner and weight loss aid.

3. Green Coffee is much higher in this wonderful antioxidant compound than regular roasted coffee, making them much more effective.

4. The best way to take this is in capsule or tablet form. You can buy green coffee extract and take this on a daily basis. This will cause weight loss in 1-2 weeks.

5. Studies have shown that the healthy compounds within green coffee beans are easily absorbed by the body.  

6. The caffeine present also increases alertness and energy levels, as it causes the body to release hormones. However too much can make you restless and anxious, keeping you awake at night. This is the same as regular roasted coffee.

7. The nutrients within the bean cause the body to burn glucose and body fat for energy, whilst reducing inflammation. This may also help to prevent the onset of diabetes.

8. Studies have shown that this green coffee bean extract lowers blood sugar levels and makes you less likely to crave high energy snacks and junk food, which helps the weight loss process.

9. Evidence also suggests that the extract can lower blood pressure, and get rid of cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in the blood. 

10. You should not take green coffee beans if you have heart problems such as heart arrhythmia as the caffeine can cause further problems.

11. The antioxidants within coffee beans also have anti-aging properties and may help the skin to look healthier, also preventing early wrinkles.

12. It is also not recommended to consume green coffee bean extract whilst pregnant, or for those who suffer with anxiety.

13. To learn more about natural remedies and healthy foods, please see our other videos. 

Octopus Stew Portuguese Style Recipe

Octopus Stew Portuguese Style Recipe

Finally, here it is, my Mother's Octopus recipe. I remember so well when my Mother was making it back home and showing me step by step how to make it. She made it in many different ways but this one was the one I liked best. Why? because this recipe makes the octopus softer and moister, for me this way made it easier to eat. Afterall I was very young and could not stand to look at the thing, so it was hidden in the stew with the sauce and the potatoes. 

For me, I never found a better recipe for this octopus. I just love to soak up the sauce with some fresh bread and enjoy the full flavor of the ocean has to offer. It just brings back memories of Portugal, sitting by the seaside and enjoying this dish. 

Now, it is here for you to enjoy the awesome Mediterranian 5-stars restaurant quality dish,  with only a few easy steps. 

I hope you enjoy this and please comment on how yours turned out.  

*************************************************************************************************************

Recipe;

3 lbs – Octopus fresh or frozen. ( 1 1/2  Kilos).

1 lbs. – Potato peeled

4  Tbsp. – Olive oil

1  Med. – Onion diced

3  Tbsp -  Tomato paste

4  Cloves – Garlic minced  

1 Sm. -  Cinnamon stick

1 Tsp. – Dry thyme  

1 Tbsp. – Dry parsley

1  Tsp. – Hot pepper flakes

1/2 Tsp. – Pepper grounded

1 Cup – White wine/beer or 1 cup water with 2 to 3

               Tbsp. of white vinegar.

Salt – As needed

Hot  sauce – As needed 

For more information, please see video below.



*************************************************************************************************************

Start with fresh or frozen  Octopus. If you use frozen then let it thaw in the fridge for at least 12 hours or until it is soft in the middle. 

I know it is not the most attractive thing you ever saw but trust me it will be an awesome dish. 

Remember to cut the pieces more on the large side because during the cooking process it will shrink.

As for the tips, you can use them or toss them, it is up to you. 

Toss out the head with the googly eyes, the brain in the lower bonnet and the clawed mouth. I know some cooks like using all the parts intact but I think it will look better with it removed. 

After all, you can not eat it.  Don't even try. 

When you let this dish cook for an hour, the octopus becomes tender and not rubbery. Also in the cooking time frame, it slowly marinates to bring out its full flavor. 

To finish this dish, I like to add potatoes. Not only does the potatoes suck up all the flavor but it releases some starches that enhance the dish. 

This method makes it a number one seafood dish. 

When the sauce drips slowly off the spoon, then you will know it is ready. 

It is important to remember that as the sauce reduces it could burn, so keep stirring often.  

*************************************************************************************************************

Octopus Stew Portuguese Style Recipe 

Video

If You Like This Recipe, Then You Will Love These Below.

 By Cookingaround. 

Mussels Portuguese Style Recipe

Video

Buttered Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Video

Eating Oysters With My Girlfriend

Video

Please share with your Friends and Family, below.

Pumpkin Juice: Benefits and Uses

The health benefits and uses of pumpkin juice, and how to make this yourself at home.

1. Pumpkins are large orange gourds which are often used to make Jack O’lanterns at Halloween. 

Many people do not realise that these large fruits have some excellent health benefits and are used as natural medicine.

2. Pumpkin Juice is excellent for those who have trouble sleeping at night or suffer with insomnia. It contains tryptophan which regulates brain hormones and helps the mind and body to relax.

3. Drinking this tasty juice regularly helps in protecting eyesight, as the carotenoids within are fantastic for vision and eye disorders.

4. These carotenoids also improve your skin complexion, preventing pimples and even lowering the risk of cancer

5. This juice is also a natural remedy for morning sickness in pregnant women, and provides the body with a host of healthy nutrients. It is loaded with vitamins A, C, E and B, also containing minerals such as potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, sodium and zinc.

6. The vitamin C supports the immune system, protecting the body from invaders and diseases.

7. The effect of the tryptophan also calms those who suffer with anxiety, and also regulates the mood. This has been used to ease depression and cause relaxation.

8. Drinking this also strengthens the blood vessels and helps in clearing our arterial plaque. The potassium treats high blood pressure and boosts blood circulation, making heart problems less likely.

9. Live enzymes within the drink break down food and waste in the digestive system. This boosts kidney and liver performance, and gets rid of toxins which may be causing illnesses and inflammation.

10. Vitamin A found in pumpkins and other live foods is essential during pregnancy for excellent health, and nursing mothers.

11. You can also use this juice on the skin to treat burns and inflammation. The antioxidants make this a fantastic healing agent. 

12. Pumpkins are also used to make pie and soup, however raw pumpkin juice is much healthier as it contains live enzymes which are destroyed in the cooking process.

13. Making fresh juice from pumpkins at home is the healthiest way to reap these wonderful benefits. 

To Make This You Will Need

1 Freshly Harvested Pumpkin

Blender/Juicer

Method:

Peel the outer skin of the pumpkin and discard. Slice the pumpkin into quarters. Remove the seeds and save for later use. Place the pumpkin pulp in a blender or juicer and process. Run the mixture through a sieve to remove the fibres and serve in a glass of ice.

You can also add fresh carrots or apples to improve the flavour and add extra health benefits if you wish.

Be sure to choose a fresh pumpkin, with a firmly attached green stem. 

Drink this once or twice a day to enjoy these wonderful benefits. It’s best to drink this a few hours before sleep if you are using this to treat insomnia.

The seeds of the pumpkin are also very healthy, please see our other video on these to learn more.

Oatmeal Everyday (Benefits)

The health benefits of eating oatmeal every day, and a simple recipe to use at home. 

1. Oats are one of the healthiest grains on the planet, which have been grown and eaten for over 2000 years.

2. In order to stay strong in battle, roman gladiators ate oatmeal for breakfast to keep them fit and healthy. 

3. Eating oatmeal in the morning, provides your body with some fantastic health benefits due to the high amount of nutrients within the oats.

4. Oats contain wonderful amounts of   manganese, molybdenum, phosphorus, copper, biotin, magnesium, fiber, folate, chromium, zinc, vitamin b1 and b5.

5. Eating this in the morning is the best way to start the day, as it provides the body with energy and nutrition, yet the calories are very low and help you to lose weight. 

6. This is very filling and takes time to digest. This helps you to stay full and makes you less likely crave unhealthy foods and snacks throughout the day.

7. Oatmeal plays an excellent role in managing blood sugar levels. The protein and fibre work together to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, and also keep your mood stable throughout the day. 

8. The soluble fibre within this also lowers bad cholesterol and helps to you maintain a healthy heart.  If you suffer with clogged arteries, be sure to add some fresh fruit to your oatmeal. The beta-glucan works together with vitamin c to rapidly heal the arteries

9. Studies have shown that eating a diet rich in oats and whole grains lowers the risk of breast 

cancer by 52 percent.

10. Oats contain powerful phytonutrients which help to boost the immune system and promote healing of damaged tissue. 

11. Those who suffer with celiac disease may eat oatmeal as it is gluten free.

How to make oatmeal for breakfast also known as porridge.

You Will Need.

200 Grams Rolled Oats

240ml of Water 

½ Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract.

Handful of Raspberries

Method

Bring the water to the boil, add the oats and then reduce the heat. Allow this to simmer until the liquid is absorbed and add the vanilla extract and raspberries. Mix until desired thickness and serve.

Eat this every day to rapidly improve your diet and stabilise your blood sugar levels. You can replace the water with dairy milk, or almond milk if you wish. 

Be sure to try different fruit combinations, especially fruits high in vitamin c.

I also recommend adding a teaspoon of Amla Powder to this. This creates a super breakfast for those with heart problems.

12. This healthy breakfast will also keep your bowel movements regular, without the need for unhealthy laxatives.

13. Oats can also be added to desserts as an alternative to flour. These are very popular in vegan and vegetarian groups.

14. Remember that breakfast is one of the most important meals. It is important not to start your day with unhealthy sugar. If you require sweetener, use some natural Manuka honey, packed with antioxidants. 

15. To learn more about the healthiest foods on the planet, please see our other videos.