Soft drinks: Ingredients and their nutritional value

Although soft drinks are often the culprit for a series of health issues, they are, admittedly, vital vehicles of a balanced diet. After intensive work out, soft drinks are quicker absorbed than water providing to human body hydration and energy, while replenishing all the key vitamins and minerals that the body loses during exercising. Soft drinks typically complement fast food meals or pre-packaged foods, but the can also complement a healthy diet and be real catalysts to health and fitness. Besides, their balanced taste of sweet and acid, matched with their variety of pleasant flavors makes soft drinks appealing to all ages of consumers.

Being well aware of the effect that soft drinks have on consumers and the direct effect of advertising on them, soft drinks corporations and large beverage companies target from elementary school children to elder individuals aiming to meet their tastes and increase their profitability. From their point of view, soft drink corporations have a ‘competitive advantage’ over consumers in terms of being aware of the nutritional significance of soft drinks. Although they often exaggerate in the context of promoting their products and achieve highly profitable operations, still they have a point when they stress the nutritional value of soft drinks.

Without aiming to eliminate the negative effects of the soft drink consumption on our health, we have to be able to recognize any of the following positive effects that are derived from three major areas:

Energy: the formula of soft drinks is made in such a way to deliver a quickly assimilated energy that boosts the body. Soft drinks derive nearly 100 percent of their food energy from the high amount of fructose corn syrup they contain. In fact, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a highly misunderstood sweetener. There is no doubt that as a sweetener it is harmful if over-consumed. Particularly, as one of the main ingredients of soft drinks along with carbonated water and caffeine, high fructose corn syrup can be really harmful to human health. However, HFCS is quickly metabolized, almost as quick as regular sugar and therefore, it doesn’t have any greater impact on human metabolism, feeling of hunger, blood glucose levels or the energy intake than sugar. Besides, soft drinks contain high amounts of carbohydrates and are easily digested, while keeping the body’s energy in high levels. Carbohydrates maximize the body’s performance by fueling the muscles and ensuring their proper functioning.

Hydration: soft drinks replenish the fluids lost through sweating while working out. All those vitamins and nutrients that are lost through sweat cause the body to be dehydrated. However, our body needs these fluids in order to control its temperature and transport oxygen as well as other vital nutrients to its cells. Given that we lose water even without exercising, through breathing and through urine, it becomes evident how important it is to replenish all the fluids we lose after intense exercising. According to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences (IOM), adults should consume 11 to 16 cups of total fluids per day, while the requirements for children range between 9 to 14 cups per day. Soft drinks can replenish these fluids that are vital for the proper functioning of the human body.

Low calorie intake: some soft drinks are formulated to low calorie intake coupled with key vitamins, minerals, proteins and fiber.

Overall, soft drinks are not considered human health’s best friends, but admittedly, they have some nutritional value provided they are consumed moderately and within certain limits. The overconsumption that occurred between 1988 and 2004 when Americans consumed two 12-ounce cans of soda per day was an extreme phenomenon that resulted in obesity becoming a national epidemic in the United States, among other severe health conditions. However, this should not undermine the nutritional significance of soft drinks, which can be exploited with moderate consumption and a balanced diet.

Aromatherapy Massage oil

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils distilled from plants to promote a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle. Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to heal, alleviate pain and regulate mood. Aromatherapy massage uses these essential oils, but they can also be used in hydrotherapy baths, facials and body treatments. Aromatherapy massage uses essential oils derived from plants to achieve therapeutic benefits. In aromatherapy massage, essential oils are usually mixed with a carrier oil like sweet almond, apricot kernel, or grapeseed oil. A relaxing aromatherapy massage, for instance, might have lavender or bergamot, while a massage for sore muscles might include peppermint and eucalyptus. Essential oils are a volatile, highly concentrated plant extracts, derived from leaves, bark, seeds resins and flowers.
Aromatherapy massage is the alternative therapeutic technique, which combines the natural therapeutic properties of the essential oils and the healing power of massage therapy. Aromatherapy massage is performed on nude clients; however the therapist will leave the room so that you can undress in privacy. Aromatherapy massage not only has powerful physical, emotional and mental effects but it is also described as a great relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The benefits of aromatherapy massage affect a wide range of health conditions of nervous, circulatory, lymphatic, immune and muscular systems. Aromatherapy massage is a pleasant method for mental clarity, relaxation, stress and headaches alleviation.
It can cure insomnia, depression, back, neck, arthritis problems, skin disorders; digestive, respiratory conditions and can embellish circulation and immune system. Essential Oils are the potent aromatic volatile liquids with organic compounds, which contain natural healing properties and extracted from various plants. Each pure essential oil has a unique scent, different properties and may be used for cure of specific conditions. They are absorbed through skin into the bloodstream and distributed to whole body, promoting physical and psychological wellbeing. Massage is essential for the human body. It is not only a powerful therapy for recovery from tension, fatigue or injury, it is also a powerful therapeutic tool to nurture and heal the body. It is preventative therapy, valuable in keeping people healthy.

How soft drinks contribute to obesity

Obesity is, admittedly, an intricate issue that may depend on numerous factors. Genetics, eating habits, lifestyle and exercise are some of the most commonly referred causes of obesity. Although there is no single cause for obesity, researchers have correlated the increased consumption of sugary beverages with the rise of obesity in the United States, considering the soft drink consumption as one of the top contributors to the obesity problem.

In 2005, ‘Liquid Candy’, a report produced by the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), suggested that soft drinks are the leading source of calories in the diet of Americans. Soft drinks have a high concentration of added sugars, and particularly, fructose corn syrup in each can. However, as fructose is known for not affecting appetite, people who regularly consume fructose-sweetened drinks do not feel satiated and thus overconsumption is encouraged. Besides, companies produce nearly 52 gallons of soda pop per year, enough to fill up every man, woman or child.

Another study conducted by a Harvard School of Public Health indicated that the increased consumption of soft drinks by women from less than one per week to more than one per day resulted in gaining eighteen pounds on average per year. On the contrary, women who cut back on soft drink consumption and reduced it to no more than one per day gained only six pounds on average per year. Besides obesity, overconsumption of soft drinks was also associated to severe health conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

The increased consumption of soft drinks per day may add up to fifteen pounds to an average body weight in a year. Besides, added sugars are not only high on calories, but they also impede the natural ability of body to process calories. High intake of added sugars displaces the nutritional value of a healthy diet and is correlated to lower intake of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. As a result, overconsumption of soft drinks is implicated for high triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

According to the American Heart Association, the recommended consumption of added sugars should account up to 10 percent of total daily consumption in order to avoid metabolic abnormalities, unfavorable health conditions and deficit in essential nutrients. However, the average American consumes 130 calories and eight teaspoons of sugar per day by drinking one 12-ounce can of soft drink. Besides, American children consume one-third of their daily calories from soft drinks and may account even for 43 percent of their total daily consumption.

Beyond any doubt, the empty calories of soft drinks contribute to obesity. This has become more evident in the late 1990s when consumption of soft drinks reached its peak, an impressive 56.1 gallons per American yearly (!). According to scientific evidence, obesity is directly related to soft drink consumption. In return, excess weight leads to severe health conditions such as heart diBeyond any doubt, the empty calories of soft drinks contribute to obesity. This has become more evident in the late 1990s when consumption of soft drinks reached its peak, an impressive 56.1 gallons per American yearly (!). According to scientific evidence, obesity is directly related to soft drink consumption. In return, excess weight leads to severe health conditions such as heart diseases, strokes and cancer. No wonder then why obesity is the second cause of death in the United States, after cancer.

Soft drinks: The effect of soda on our teeth and bones

Very few people drink soda because they believe it is good for them. In majority, people love soda because it is tasteful, quenches thirst and comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. However, there is an increasing concern in the scientific world in regards to the harmful effects of soda on human health. And this is because, in numerous experimental studies, intake of soda was associated with condensed bone mass, reduced calcium levels in the blood, and increased fracture risk. Besides, soda consumption is a key factor in the occurrence and prevalence of dental caries. SO, even if people do not realize the harm they do by consuming soda on a daily basis, still the harm is done.

Scientific evidence has shown that excessive consumption of soda is responsible for a variety of severe health problems. In effect, the high amounts of soda contained in soft drinks can increase the risk of muscle dysfunctions, bone softening, bone demineralization and tooth problems. Excessive soda consumption may also lead to hypokalaemia, in which the blood potassium levels decline to such an extent that cause an adverse effect on vital muscle functions. According to a clinical study published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, people who consume two or more liters of soda per day are more likely to exhibit one of the above severe health conditions.

One of the most commonly known adverse effects of soda on human body is its contribution to tooth problems. The overconsumption of soda may lead to tooth decay because of the high concentration levels of fructose, sucrose, and glucose on the teeth. Besides, the acid contained in soda can weaken the teeth, dissolve them and eat away at the protective enamel just twenty minutes after consumption. As soda is highly carbonated and contains high amounts of added preservatives, the risk of cavities and teeth erosion is increased. In the United States, the consumption of soda has caused the levels of tooth decay to increase accordingly.

Scientists also claim that high amount of phosphoric acid contained in soda interferes with the body’s ability to keep calcium intake, thus leading calcium out of bones. Inevitably, bone density is severely affected and bones are greatly weakened. In particular, scientists suggest that because soda's pH is close to 1.5 and a person's normal pH is between 7.2 and 7.4, it would take 32 glasses of water at a pH of 9 to neutralize one 12-ounce can of soda's acid level after the soda is consumed. Yet, as people do not normally drink 32 glasses of water
per day, soda stays in the body and the phosphoric acid contained in it pushed calcium out of bones in order to normalize the body’s pH again.

According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health, girls of 9th- and 10th-grade who consumed soda instead of water or any other healthy drink were five times more susceptible to have fractures. Moreover, girls that were physically active were more likely to break their bones than the girls who did not consume soda.

Overall, soda has many negative effects on human body and health. Although numerous campaigns have been organized and consumer organizations have been working towards the protection of consumers from their bombardment by large beverage companies, soda is being consumed to a great extent in the United States. To such an extent, that, pretty soon, there will be no adult without a bone fracture and no child without eroded teeth.

What Are the “Real” Facts about Stainless Steel Cookware?

Over the years, many people have shied away from using stainless steel cookware for a variety of reasons, especially since non-stick has become popular. Some believe non-stick is easier to clean; others believe that non-stick is healthier because you don’t need to add as much oil to cook foods. Still others believe they can’t afford quality stainless steel cookware. This article is intended to dispel some of the myths about stainless steel cookware.

Myth 1: Stainless can be Difficult to Clean and Maintain

With the proper care and maintenance, your stainless steel cookware will truly last a lifetime. Not only will your stainless cookware cook terrific meals for your family, but it can look as good 20 or 30 years from now as it did when you purchased it.

Although advertised as dishwasher safe, many experts believe that you can better keep your cookware looking like new by hand washing your cookware in hot, soapy water and drying it thoroughly with a soft cloth before storing. If you prefer to use the dishwasher, it is recommended that you remove the cookware after the wash cycle to avoid any spotting.

When using your stainless steel cookware, remember the following basic principles. If you do, your cookware will last a long time and still look like new.

* Never use high heat when cooking with your waterless stainless steel cookware. You can start the cooking process on medium-high to heat the pan, but then turn it down to medium or low.
* Proper Maintenance—clean properly after each use.
* Hot Pans – Always allow the cookware to cool slowly before immersing it in cold water.

Myth 2: Cooking with Non-Stick Cookware is Healthier

Stainless Steel cookware is tough; it is not prone to chipping, rusting or even staining if cared for properly. It contains primarily iron, chromium, and nickel—none of which have an adverse affect on your health. Iron, in fact, is beneficial and a required mineral in our diets. Chromium is also beneficial in small quantities, and cooking in stainless steel stays within these limits. Nickel can be harmful if ingested in large quantities, but only trace amounts enter into the food. Only those who are allergic to nickel should avoid using stainless steel altogether. Unlike with Teflon cookware, you do not have to worry about the particles of the pan coming loose over time and entering your food. In fact, stainless steel is one of the most hygienic surfaces for the preparation of your food, meaning that it is not likely to harbor bacteria and germs

Stainless steel cookware and waterless stainless cookware in particular, is noted for its flavor preservation. Quality stainless steel cookware will have at least 5 layers. These layers allow for even heat flow and durability. Aluminum conducts heat well in the inner layers, but would not be desirable on the outside because of its corrosive properties. Stainless is used on the top and bottom layers to protect not only the food, but the cookware itself.

Waterless cookware uses a steam-control process that promotes healthy cooking because it uses very little water and minimal, if any, fats. The encapsulated bottoms of this cookware lie flat on the burner and allow for even heat distribution. With waterless cooking, low or medium heat is all that is required—never use high heat. Because you can use minimal water with this cookware, 98% of the vitamins and minerals are retained in your foods rather than the 58% retention rate of normal cooking methods. A vitamin-rich diet is a key factor in preventing age-related diseases.

Myth 3: Stainless Steel Cookware is Expensive

Stainless steel cookware sets can be quite expensive, possibly costing over $2000 per set. Many of these sets are sold at state fairs or home shows, requiring a sales staff to promote the product which, in turn, drives up the price. However, there are many quality stainless steel cookware sets that you can purchase for between $200 and $300. These sets have all the great features of the expensive sets: durability, a waterless option, multi-ply for even heat distribution, lifetime warranties, etc.

Purchasing cookware can be a major investment! Therefore, before making that decision, spend some time researching your options. Weight the pros and cons of each and then make an informed decision. If you decide that you would like to try out stainless cookware, check out The Gourmet’s Cookware site. In addition to our stainless steel cookware sets, we also offer stainless steel stockpots, skillets, flatware, cutlery, and other gourmet accessories—all at affordable prices. To help our customers make the transition from conventional to waterless cookware, we also provide additional information about waterless cooking, as well as tasty, nutritional recipes that can easily be adapted to waterless cookware.

Micro Wave Oven Cooking And Its Impact

Any and every place that has electricity knows what Micro wave oven cooking is. Such is the popularity of this technology that was first developed in the 40s. It is really noteworthy how something that once stood at high as a door and was more expensive than a car, should become an indispensable cooking tool today.

For ages man has found ingenious ways to cook. Yet the impact of this cooking tool is completely different. It has impacted our health, lifestyle, and our culture. From Tahiti to Thailand, people enjoy the benefits of this modern invention that has emerged as the ultimate household ‘helper’. Cook, bake, heat, re-heat and what not - it is simple, fits on the kitchen table, is affordable and most importantly does speedy work. Therefore it is only fair that microwave oven cooking rules the kitchen. Yet a word of caution, it does not come without side effects.

The Wide Presence
The instrument is fundamentally designed to use a high voltage power source. A cavity magnetron converts electricity into waves and a cooking unit. When the supply is switched on, the waves are directed on the food to be cooked or heated by a wave director. Over the years it has evolved to include many added features. Today, a 10-year old uses it for popcorn while the grand mom uses it for her Sunday baking. Microwave oven cooking is really easy. Almost every household in the US and Canada owns a set today, thanks to the aggressive Japanese manufacturers. As much as we understand the scope of the instrument we must also acknowledge its side effects. With such a huge number of people using it, it is bound to create a cultural impact. Some experts also see it as a phenomenon coinciding with the altered eating habits of developed countries. Like in the US a culture of obesity, sedentary lifestyle, food disorders and packaged food is often related to microwave oven cooking.


What we must understand here is that microwave oven cooking is now a part of our lifestyle. Therefore we must know its potential dangers. And not see it only as a quick fix solution.

What is interesting to note is that there are parts of the world and economies where people still do not use this cooking tool. They strangely seem to have lesser problems with their food. Japan, India, parts of Europe and other economies where the microwave oven cooking is still not so popular live a healthier life.