Foods That Battle The Risk Of Diabetes Amongst Children

The alarming rate at which Type II or lifestyle diabetes amongst kids is fast catching up across the world has become a cause of concern. The Type II diabetes prevalence amongst children is attributed to the worldwide growing trends of sedentary lifestyle and junk foods forming a crucial part of diet.

India has the highest number of adult diabetes cases with over 20 million population affected by it and the case of children is fast catching on with over 70,000 reported with Type I below the age of 15 and 40,000 with Type II below the age of 15 years with an increase of 5 per cent each year. The sedentary lifestyle with regular munching on junk foods has increased the risk of obesity in children, making them more vulnerable to diabetes.  This scenario calls for a greater awareness amongst both the children and their guardians about the future health risks from the disease.

Type II diabetes can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle regime, food habits and regular physical activity.  We attempt to list a few do’s and don’ts that will help your children keep diabetes at bay and lead a healthier lifestyle.

Include Spices

It’s not the food alone but also the spices that can put us to diabetic risk as they also play a crucial role in lowering blood sugar level. They also are excellent antioxidants that prevent tissue damage and inflammation caused due to high blood sugar. Children with diabetes are also found to be at higher risk of blood pressure which could lead to cardiac problems in the long run. The most beneficial spices to go along with in this case are cinnamon and cloves.

Brown Rice Instead of White Rice

Whole grains are more advisable over processed carbohydrates as they are rich in fiber, minerals and vitamins intact in them than processed foods. It is found that replacing the daily serving of white rice with brown rice lowers the risk of diabetes by 16% also brown rice is effective in controlling blood sugar levels.

Vinegar Before Meals

After several researches in the field it was proven that if ordinary vinegar if taken before a meal, it helps control the blood sugar as the blood sugar level substantially reduces and also prevents the risk of diabetes right at its onset.

Dark Chocolates 

Researchers delving into the subject have shown that dark chocolates improve insulin sensitivities and prevent Type II diabetes. Significantly they also reduce bad cholesterol and regulate the blood pressure to normal leading to improved blood functioning.

Since children love chocolates, it would be a good idea to give them this often and get them to stay healthy!

Citrus Fruits 

Children ailing from diabetes are known to have lower levels of Vitamin C in their bodies, which is essential, as they are great antioxidants too. It is low fat, filling, fibrous with ample nutrients in them, required for the body.

All these little efforts will go a long way in checking the risk of diabetes in your children at a tender age and let them live a healthy holistic life.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/foods-battle-risk-diabetes-amongst-children/

Veg Foods That Can Also Increase Your Libido

A sound and a healthy relationship between husband and wife is the foundation for a happy life. Amongst the many facets that form the core of a relationship also includes their intimate relationship with one another is the direct effect of the libido brewing between the two. It is a natural desire to be sexually attractive and expressive towards your partner.

But there could be events that might lead to lower libido for both men and women which affect their sexual life. This should not really get you worked up as there are better alternatives nature has provided us than just medication. We would help you to explore some of the natural vegetarian foods that you will certainly want to make a part of your diet for better vitality.

Some of the foods that you should consider are-

Legumes & Beans

Legumes and Beans are true proteins and help build the body’s muscle system. They are abundant with potassium, fiber and antioxidants which help in increasing the libido and provide energy to the body.

Nuts & Dry Fruits

Nuts in general contain argentine which is important for blood flow especially during arousal. Dry fruits and nuts are also rich in essential fatty acids which is crucial for production of hormones in both men and women. Research’s have proven they are effective against sexual impotency and thereby increases sexual stamina in both men and women.

Avocado

Avocado is rich in Vitamin B6, folic acid and essential fatty acids which increases hormones production in the body, additionally it also contains potassium which regulates the thyroid hormone and increases libido.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is one spice which has since ages been used in cuisines particularly Indian cuisine and traditional medicines to boost libido.

Pepper

Pepper carry an important compound called Capsaicin, which releases endorphins and dilates the blood vessels both of which are required for generating the libido in the body.

Fruits

Fruits like Apples, Bananas, blueberry, watermelon and strawberry are also rich source of antioxidants, Vitamins, potassium, folic acids and other vital nutrients which let the blood flow seamlessly throughout the body and keep the hormones in check.

Seeds

Seeds like Pumpkin, flax and chia seeds are rich in zinc, lycopene and essential fatty acids which regulate the blood flow in the body, regulate the hormone production in the body thereby keeping the libido in check.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/veg-foods-can-also-increase-libido/

What has Kendall Jenner’s amazing figure got to do with green tea?

Kendall Jenner, the successful American model is much in news nowadays due to her hot looks and perfectly toned body. She is one of the celebrities to achieve fame and success at a young age of 20 years.

Revealing her diet secrets at Fashion Week, she said a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, and devoid of junk food keeps her high on energy. But her amazing figure can be attributed to her green tea addiction.

She starts her day with a cup of green tea and consumes 12 cups in a day that helps her to stay in shape.

However, the health benefits of green tea are not limited to weight loss. She is the one who vouches for it. And she has a reason to do so.

Let’s have a look at what a cup of green tea offers to you:

• Boosts metabolism – Green tea, due to the presence of catechins , interferes with absorption of lipids in the intestine and thus prevents accumulation of fat in the body. These benefits are added by including High amounts of protein, and less fat and sugar in your diet.

• Lowers cholesterol – Green tea helps in lowering the level of all types of cholesterol thus reducing the risk of heart disease. 

• Prevents cancer – Research studies have concluded the role of green tea in lowering the risk as well as slowing down the growth of ovarian, breast, prostate and endometrial cancers.

• Detoxification – Green tea is rich in antioxidants like catechins that lower the amount of free radicals in the body thus preventing cell damage. Free radicals are a group of atoms having at least one unpaired electron which makes them unstable and highly reactive. They accelerate cell damage and increase the incidence of cancer, heart disease and age-related diseases.

• Improves brain function – Green tea contains caffeine, although less than that of coffee , together with amino acid L-theanine which helps in improving brain function including mood, reaction time and memory. It also protects the brain from neurodegenerative disorders like dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

• Lowers the risk of dental infection – The antioxidants in green tea also inhibit bacterial growth thus lowering the risk of dental infection, caries and bad breath.

• Controls blood sugar – Some research studies have proven the effects of green tea in lowering blood sugar levels in Type II diabetics and also preventing the incidence of diabetes in high risk individuals.

Besides green tea, diet pills and supplements are another option available for those trying to shed extra pounds. Although these diet supplements are advertised as magical solution to lose weight but maximum are not backed by any clinical research. In addition, they carry the risk of harmful effects like increased heart rate, high blood pressure, diarrhoea, anxiety, sleeplessness, and kidney and liver damage.

On the other hand, green tea is a safe, natural and reliable choice to stay in shape and lead a happy, healthy life.

Ideally, you can take 3-5 cups of green tea daily with a maximum of 10, and opt for fresh leaves rather than tea bags.

So, just replace your cup of normal tea with green tea and give a complex to your friends with a perfectly toned body.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/kendall-jenners-amazing-figure-got-green-tea/

Bring In The Festivals With Organic Sarees

It’s the time of the year when everyone around is in a festive mood and the preparations are on in a full swing. Whether its shopping for the festival, your home or yourself you want to ensure you buy the best and something that adds value.

Why not go in for the organic weaves this festive season and ring in your festivities in style with the exquisite traditional rich silk organic sarees a value for every penny you spend on them. The organic silk weaves are meticulously done by trained artisans from across the country using organic silk fabrics and their traditional knowledge to create a master-piece.

Organic clothing is quite popular with all age- groups because of the benefits they have on our health and well being in the long run apart from also contributing to protecting the environment. This has encouraged organic farming which has largely benefitted the marginal farmers and improved their livelihood. Organic farming has its contribution towards preserving the non-renewable resources like water which is required in relatively less quantity compared to conventional methods of cultivating cotton. It also allows the nutrients in the soil to remain intact which makes the crop stronger and gives a better produce.

The organic clothing are certified by the organic regulatory authorities which ensures you have purchased an ethically produced piece of clothing devoid of use of chemical pesticides, GMO seeds, conventional fertilizers and other that affect the environment, plants and animals in the long run. The certified products also ensure there has been no use of child labour or any harm to the animals in the process, safeguarding the ecosystem.

A purchase of organic sarees ensures that your skin is able to relax without any skin rashes or allergies which can later escalate to major respiratory problems or skin sensitivities. The organic silk weaves come in bright and rich colors perfect attire for any festivities, a perfect casual wear, work-wear or just an evening get together. You can comfortably flaunt your silk weave no matter what the occasion.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/bring-festivals-organic-sarees/

Make your workout worth it – Just one organic food is enough

Having a healthy body and mind is the basic requisite of a man or a woman and those who realize this the most prefer to gym religiously. But there is always another side of a coin and most gym-goers seem to undermine that.

This kind of fitness routine demands an expenditure of both physical and mental energy on your part and your diet regime should be in sync with it. Many ignore not because they want to compromise their health but because they are poorly-informed. Here is how.

What you eat before a workout prepares your body for the stress during exercise and the meal after that is responsible for muscle building and body repair.

Getting the right dose of carbohydrates prior to work out and protein meal post workout is essential. Most gym-enthusiasts just gobble too much of protein.

But have you ever given a thought to the risks loaded with the protein supplements? Ever wondered they are damaging your kidneys? Are there any alternatives to these supplements? There are many, and for most you don’t even need to jump from shop to shop.

Organic Banana Wafers

Banana is a rich source of potassium, fibre and carbohydrates.  Organic banana wafers in addition to being full of these nutrients has an advantage of remaining edible for a longer period of time. It makes your diet all the more healthy and devoid of all artificial chemicals, pesticides and fertilisers used in the cultivation of non-organic bananas. Go for a baked variety rather than fried ones to get your daily dose of carbohydrates pre-workout.

Oats

Oats is a cereal that is loaded with the goodness of dietary fibre and is commonly eaten as porridge or in baked products. It gives you a sense of satiety, reduces hunger and helps to control inordinate cravings seen in people working out in a gym.

Wholegrain Bread

Wholegrain bread maintains all the protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals the wheat kernel naturally provides. The health benefits  include a decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and colorectal cancer.

A recent study conducted in U.S. men and women found that for every 28 grams of whole grains consumed per day, there is an associated 5% reduction in total mortality and a 9% reduction in mortality from cardiovascular disease. Whole grains are also linked to slim waistlines and better long-term weight management.

Organic Cashew Nuts

Cashews are a source of proteins and essential minerals   like copper,  calcium, magnesium, iron,  phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.  They also contain vitamins such as vitamin C, B1 , B2 B3 B6, folate , E and vitamin K. They have a healthy heart, strong nerve and muscle action and good bone and oral health to their asset.

Organic Walnut Giri

Walnuts apart from bearing resemblance to the surface structure of the brain and aiding in one’s intelligence are also known to improve body stamina. They possess significant amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals making them a better choice over supplements to aid in weight management.

Instant Rose Petal Milk Shake

This comes as an added boon to your regular glass of milk. Rose petal is rich in vitamins and helps in cleansing toxins from the body, thus strengthening the body’s resistance against diseases. It provides relief from acidity and refreshes and rejuvenates your body.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/make-workout-worth-just-one-organic-food-enough/

Give your husband an organic treat this Karwa Chauth

Karwa Chauth, the festival most near to a woman’s heart is celebrated with full vigour across Northern India. Food items, vibrant clothes, beauty products and puja thalis constitute the significant part of this day. Starting with Sargi comprising of vermicelli cooked with milk, matthis, paranthas, fruits and sweets are the usual items on the menu. Nowadays, couples also indulge in restaurant treats to celebrate this bond of love.

As it is said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, every lady tries to prepare the best recipe to express her love and gratitude for her husband. Sabzi, poori, parantha, rice and halwa/kheer constitute the main meal of the day. But all these food items are loaded with high calories if prepared in a traditional way.

We provide you with alternatives to make your meal tasty and also ensure health.

Sabzi

Instead of going for high caloric foodstuff like potato, paneer etc. opt for beans like rajma, chole and dal makhani. Apart from being a rich source of proteins they also give you an advantage of consuming lesser calories. You gain strong immunity, low cholesterol and better control over blood pressure by consuming these beans.

On the top of it, choosing an organic variety of these pulses will save you from harmful effects of pesticides, synthetic fertilisers and contaminants associated with the non-organic variety. Cooking with organic spices and condiments will add more flavour, taste and energy to whatever you make.

Poori/Parantha

Why are you disturbing the workout regime of your hubby? These food items are packed with saturated fats and toxins present in cooking oil, making you prone to heart disease and cancer.  Higher consumption of fried foods is associated with increased amount of visceral fat in your body, thus hampering your daily workout.

Better go for Tandoori Chapatis prepared from organic wheat flour. That’s a double treat with all the essential nutrients of wheat like vitamin B, vitamin E, iron, zinc and potassium minus, of course, pesticides and synthetic fertilisers.

Rice

Instead of the traditional jeera rice, try making a veggie pulao this season. You can use carrot, capsicum, beans, beetroot or any vegetable of your choice. Being loaded with the goodness of vegetables like vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, dietary fibre and potassium, it’s also easy to cook in a pressure cooker. But remember to purchase the organic variety of rice which is free from toxic and carcinogenic effects of Arsenic found in non-organic cultivate.

All the more, you can use organic cashews to garnish your serving, add flavour and texture to it. This pulao can be served with plain yoghurt or fruit raita. Yoghurt boosts your digestion by promoting the growth of healthy bacteria in the intestines. Adding fruit charges it with vitamins, minerals and fibre.

Halwa/Kheer

No meal is complete without a dessert. You have been using refined sugar till now to prepare them but this carries the risk of diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood.

You can, instead, try making a laddu or halwa using jaggery? Organic jaggery tastes different!

So do not hesitate in using the natural sweeteners like jaggery, dates or raw honey in your recipes. They are far better than sugar in taste and destitute of its harmful effects. They will provide you with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium and potassium without compromising on taste.

So, give your husband an organic and healthy treat this Karwa Chauth, and celebrate the bond of love in its true essence.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/give-husband-organic-treat-karwa-chauth/

5 Natural products that work but you didn’t know!

Our grannies kitchen used to be the hub of a health store, full of spices and natural ingredients to take care of human health. Today also you will find these spices in every kitchen, but then why don’t they reap the same health benefits they did ages ago?

The simple answer to this is adulteration, be it on the part of manufacturers or retailers. And we are so ignorant that we buy them from here and there blindly without paying heed to the health risks they carry.

To combat this, farmers have come up with organic food and spices that are devoid of all chemical fertilizers, chemical pesticides and preservatives.

Here are the 5 ingredients that must be a part of every kitchen to ensure complete health:

Organic Holy Basil

Do you realise what benefits you gain from “The Tulsi” plant in your home?

Basil plants are not meant to be just worshiped day and night but have the potential to save you and your family from many infections.

The health benefits of holy basil include oral care, relief from respiratory disorders, as well as treatment of fever, asthma, lung disorders, heart diseases and stress.

But every time you catch a cold or an infection you pop up a pill and forget this most potent antibiotic in your house.

Given the health benefits of these natural products, now you know where to look for relief every time you sneeze or grumble with joint pain.

Organic Turmeric

Turmeric ranks highest in flu-fighting potency.  Curcuminoids, the active ingredients in turmeric have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties making it helpful in joint inflammation, maintaining cardiovascular health, fighting cancer and protecting the digestive system.

It goes without saying that using turmeric packs for wounds and as a pain killer is much superior to the modern antiseptics and painkillers.

Even the weight loss supplements have turmeric as their active ingredient.

Organic Cinnamon

Cinnamon can be an effective tool in managing Type 2 Diabetes, cholesterol levels, respiratory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, systemic inflammation and PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). It helps to combat menstrual colic and heavy menstrual bleeding in females.

Cinnamon has a naturally sweet taste, devoid of sugar and can be added to plain yoghurt as a dessert for daily consumption.

Organic Garlic

The role of garlic in Diabetes, Hypertension, eye care, earaches, worm infestation, cold, digestive problems and cancer has been well documented by various research studies.

Yes, it has a strong odour which makes many people refrain from using garlic. But just look at the health benefits you receive from its ingestion.

Organic Ginger

Although, in Asian culture, ginger is directly used by chopping it up or using its powder in traditional dishes and  drinks like tea but it is known to be one of the oldest remedies in herbal and aromatic traditional treatments, especially in China, India, and the Middle East.

Its health benefits include its ability to boost bone health, strengthen the immune system, increase appetite, prevent various types of cancer, improve respiratory conditions, aid digestion, reduce joint inflammation, reduce excess gas, enhance sexual activity, and relieve pains related to menstrual disorders, nausea, and flu.

Today, ginger has crept in the list of safe foods in FDA (Food and Drug Administration). That is quite a feat!

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/5-natural-products-work-didnt-know/

5 Office food problems and how to avoid them

A couple of health scenarios that may seem relevant to you:

1. “Why do I feel short of breath after ascending the office on the second floor?”
2. “Why do I suffer from regular headaches on returning from the office?”

These certainly are disturbing and what is more so is that you haven’t been able to find out their answers.

Probably, you are either uninformed about them or not able to diagnose the root cause. You may not agree but the main culprit for these problems is your diet plan at the office. You are diligent with your daily workout, but on reaching the office you tend to get fascinated by the foodstuff served there. Mostly ordered from outside.

You feel that you can burn out the calories consumed therein the next day by running more miles or by hitting a gym, but you are mistaken.  The daily workout doesn’t give you the credit to munch upon any foodstuff. A successful drill goes hand-in-hand with your diet plan.

We tell you about the 5 office snacks that are robbing you of health and how to replace them with a more nutritious alternative:

Fried Snacks

Apart from being loaded with high calories, it places you at a high risk of cancer due to the toxins present in cooking oil. Sitting the whole day at your office desk and enjoying those ‘samosas’ gives you a big belly, bloating of the abdomen and high risk of heart disease. Still, you gobble them down with relish.

Are you not concerned about your health? If yes, then go for a healthy snack. Carry an apple or a bowl of salad to munch on whenever you feel hungry. You get all the essential nutrients without gaining weight or bloated abdomen. If getting apples everyday is a problem, apple walnut chutney can come handy.

Beverages

Your daily cup of tea and coffee may keep you awake and mentally alert for long hours but there is also a dark side to it. High amounts of caffeine in these beverages places you at high risk of anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, diabetes and weak bones.

A better alternative is to sip 2-3 cups of green tea without sugar that will help in natural detoxification, boost your metabolism and memory and keep a check on your cholesterol and glucose levels.

Cookies

Fat, sugar, flour and eggs are the basic constituents of all cookies. The fat is usually saturated fat like butter or trans-fat like vegetable oil, both not favourable for your heart. Sugar used is mainly the artificial sweetener and the flour is obtained from processed wheat devoid of all nutrition and bleached with harmful chemicals.

Choose to have a bowl of whole grain cereals like musli. It is a mixture of corn flakes, wheat flakes and oats, and is an excellent source of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals and fibre.

Pizza

That cheese dropping from pizza crust may be lip-licking but increases your cholesterol levels. And your poor heart pays the brunt of it.

Why not replace it with healthy vegetable sandwiches prepared from whole wheat bread? It gives you the goodness of both whole grain and veggies, satisfies your hunger and keeps your heart healthy.

Cheese Burger

Another culprit that robs you of a healthy heart due to high amounts of cheese in it. All your weight management also goes waste.

A bowl of sprouts or steamed corn will give you the necessary fill free from trans- fat, carcinogens and other toxins. All the more, they are easy to prepare and carry to the workplace.

Choosing your office food wisely leads you to a happy, healthy life. And more productive hours!

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/5-office-food-problems-avoid/

5 Celebrity Secrets to Wonderful Hair-Care

Ever wondered what is common between Deepika Padukone, Aishwarya Rai, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Shilpa Shetty? Apart from being Bollywood divas, they all share a common asset and that is their long, lustrous hair.

Yes, they all are gifted with natural, beautiful long hair but how do they maintain them?

Revealing their beauty secrets, they attribute it to a healthy lifestyle  comprising of drinking 10- 12 glasses of water daily, indulging in fruits and veggies, regular oil massage and use of herbal, chemical-free products for their hair.

‘Ah! If only I could get that long and beautiful hair, I could have shared the ramp with my favourite diva’, that is an oft-repeated wish.

There is no need to get discouraged as Nature has provided the best products that you can include in your regimen towards having hair as of these Bollywood divas.

Shikakai Hair Cleanser

Shikakai has long been known for its hair care benefits. It is especially suitable for dry scalp as it keeps the scalp’s natural oils intact. Shikakai makes the hair softer, add lustre to them, removes dandruff and also provides relief to dry, itchy scalp.

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

Are you worn out by trying different products in the market to control dandruff? Then this one’s for you. Apple Cider Vinegar is basically a by-product of apple fermentation and is loaded with all the beneficial nutrients of apple in much higher amounts.

Its anti-microbial properties make it a suitable fit for dry and inflammatory conditions of the scalp like dandruff. It also adds shine to your hair and makes them less prone to tangling.

Drumstick and Lavender Hair Conditioner

Drumstick is commonly known as Moringa or “The Miracle Tree” is loaded with all vitamins and minerals essential for hair growth. It moisturises the scalp, delivers all essential nutrients like zinc, silica, vitamin A and B to hair follicles, cures split ends and maintains hair strength.

Lavender has a soft, sweet fragrance that helps to treat dandruff, improve blood circulation of the scalp, moisturise and nourish the hair and prevent hair fall. It also aids in reducing stress and anxiety, the potential causes of hair loss.

The combination of the two will be an “Icing on the cake” for your hair.

Neem Herbal Jojoba Hair Conditioner

Neem has a high level of antioxidants and stimulates the growth of hair follicle. It nourishes and conditions the scalp and hair. Its moisturising properties restore smooth, silky texture to rough and dry hair, thus making them shiny, healthy and more manageable.

Azadirachtin, an insecticidal agent in neem helps to keep head lice at bay. All the more, it cures and prevents eczema and other inflammatory conditions of the scalp.

Jojoba controls hair loss by helping the follicles grow new hair. The vitamins and minerals present in it nourish the skin and improve the overall health of the scalp.

This jojoba provides the right amount of moisture to your scalp, making hair more manageable and tangle free.  It is naturally rich in minerals like zinc and selenium, thus contributing to its effectiveness in controlling dandruff.

Do you still need any more evidence to use herbal and chemical free products for your hair?

Products derived from the Mother Nature have stood the test of time as most safe products to get healthy, beautiful, lustrous hair.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/5-celebrity-secrets-wonderful-hair-care/

What Makes Organic Fabrics Eco- Friendly?

The latest trends in the fashion industry are all about sustainable clothing and their demand growing substantially in the global market. Organic clothing besides environment friendly can also be stylish and are most sought after choice for people now-a-days in clothing.

The global awareness about health and hygiene are on the rise as there are number of cases of people experiencing health infections and problems like allergies, rashes, chemical sensitivities, respiratory disorders among others. The increasing cases of health risks for both adults and children have been growing at an alarming rate which makes them vulnerable to fight these health problems and thereby a growing demand for alternate options like organic food, clothing and furnishing has been on the rise.

There are several convincing reasons to make a switch over to Organic or Green lifestyle and bring about a healthier lifestyle change-

• Organic fibers do not require use of any pesticides or chemicals to grow, they are naturally disease- resistant, keeping the environment safe from chemical hazards and helping the soil retain its fertility for longer.
• Organic fibers biodegrade naturally over time whereas conventionally made fibers when they degrade they leave out large amount of toxins.
• Organic fibers protect against allergies being safe for the skin and the fabrics are breathable and soft on the skin. They also allow the fabric to retain moisture.
• Organic fibers have been a revolution to protect the environment by conserving water, the chemicals that are usually found in the cultivation of conventional fabrics do not reach the groundwater or contaminate the natural resources which eventually are consumed by humans and animals.
• Organic farming has been instrumental in not only generating employment opportunities for the farmers who cultivate organic goods but has been a healthy development for their family as well who work in the fields.
• Genetically Modified seeds are not a part of organic cultivation.

The market for ethical organic clothing is on the rise across USA, Europe, Oceania and other potential markets which are gradually on a rise as people are becoming more aware of their health and trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/makes-organic-fabrics-eco-friendly/

Sikkim: India’s First Organic State Has Some Invaluable Lessons In Store For Us

Little steps in the right direction can go a long way in bringing about a revolutionary change as was evident in the case of India’s first 100% organic state. Sikkim, the landlocked Himalayan state has braved odds to fulfill the vision of its previous Chief Minister Pawan Chamling who wanted the state to be India’s first organic state.

In 2003, the conventional methods of farming using chemical fertilizers posed a serious threat to both the environment and health of the people of the state. Taking the cue from the situation, which could be a potential danger for people later, then Chief Minister Pawan Chamling announced his vision to make the state an organic state free from use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and GMO crops.

This change was an all encompassing one which also aimed at bringing about a mindset change amongst people as they were the ones who were to take ahead the reins of the movement. The government made stringent laws to enforce that the movement is carried forward without its progress being stalled at any stage. It provided organic seeds and organic manure to the farmers apart from knowledge of how to use them. It provided advanced training to its farmers to carry forward the mission.

In this long drawn out process, Sikkim faced some insurmountable challenges which fell on its knees before their spirit. The state initially cut subsidies on pesticides and gradually banned their use all together.  The farmers fought against plant diseases with pesticides made from locally available plant materials which helped them fight against Rhizome rot disease which played havoc for the state’s cash crop ginger. This use of organic pesticides also helped them revive the traditional Mandarin oranges grown in the state which faced a challenge to survive.

During this time Sikkim also witnessed mushrooming of seed processing units, bio- fertilizer production units, soil testing labs, automated green- houses, cold- storages and food processing units too which helped them set an infrastructure in place.

Sikkim is also marketing its organic produce through organic retail stores which it plans to set up in all state after its pilot launch in Delhi where it markets organic pulses, ginger, cardamom, turmeric and few fruits. The demand for the organic food products from Sikkim is on the rise and has helped the farmers also earn an extra 20% to their share.

Sikkim Organic Mission carried forward the baton of change for other states in the country to follow. Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are working towards becoming organic and bringing about an organic change in the lifestyle of the people. Sikkim has been the front runner in showing the way for organic and sustainable living as the living of future.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/sikkim-indias-first-organic-state-invaluable-lessons-store-us/

Foods That Should Be the Core of Your Diet During Pregnancy

A whole new phase of your life also brings in a whole new range of challenges for you where you have to consciously take into account all that you eat, forming a very crucial part of this phase. A rich and healthy diet is extremely vital during pregnancy.

The importance of a good diet during pregnancy has been an important component as per a number of studies done on the matter. It found that women with poor diets before pregnancy are more likely to give birth prematurely than women who have healthy diets.

Following are some of the foods that are essential for both mother and her baby during pregnancy.

1. Milk & Dairy Products

Milk and other dairy products are an essential component of the diet for a pregnant woman. It takes care of Calcium, phosphorous, protein and Vitamin B-12 needs of the body. These nutrients are essential for the baby’s development of teeth, bones, muscles and heart.

2. Nuts

A range of essential nuts like almonds, raisins, walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, pistachios among a combination of others. They supply a variety of nutrients like Vitamin E and minerals like copper, magnesium, selenium, zinc, calcium, potassium and manganese which are essential for a baby’s development and the pregnant woman.

3. Lentils and Beans

A range of lentils and beans like black beans, kidney beans, soy beans are essentials of the diet since they are rich in proteins and fibers and are a good source of calcium, iron, zinc and folate.

4. Poultry, Fish & Lean meats

Pregnant women require more iron than other women. Poultry, fish, eggs and lamp are some of the best sources of iron. Eggs are rich in proteins, omega-3 which is important for the baby’s development of retina, memory functions and brains. Fish contains proteins, omega-3, Vitamin-D and minerals.

5. Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and fibers and provide major nutrients like Vitamin A,B,C& K, potassium folic acid, beta carotene and zinc. The vegetables to be included should be green leafy vegetables, carrots, capsicum, beetroot, and Indian gooseberry among others.

6. Whole Grains

They make up for a balanced diet among pregnant women. They are highly fibrous, provide vital nutrients like Vitamin B & E, carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

7. Water

The importance of water can never be neglected as it is a base for healthy toxin- free body. It aids digestion, blood circulations and becomes a carrier of transporting essential minerals and vitamins to the blood cells which reach the baby through the placenta.

Eating a healthy diet in moderation will help the pregnant woman maintain a balance in diet and keep her active and the baby healthy.

Reference:- http://organicinsights.in/foods-core-diet-pregnancy/