Advantages of Health Insurance Policies

Both, refined and whole grains are important sources of carbohydrates, which supply energy to the body in the form of glucose to the red blood cells, brain and the central nervous system. Whole grains are cereal grains like wheat, corn, rice, oats, barley, rye, etc. They consist of the entire grain seed of the plant the bran, the germ and the endosperm. Refined flour contains only the endosperm. It is made from crushing the grain, whereby the fibre-rich outer layer (bran) and the nutrient-packed germ are removed. The refining process removes nearly 25 per cent of the grain's protein, along with at least seventeen key nutrients. Even if these nutrients are added back, it would not give the same benefits as whole grains, which provide more protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. As compared with refined flour, our body takes more effort to digest whole grains. The longer the digestion process, lesser the insulin created, thus making one feel full for a longer duration. This is exactly why people who are keen on losing weight are advised to eat whole grains. Whole grains come with several health benefits. Its consumption is known to significantly lower the incidence of heart diseases, cancer, type II diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, regular consumption of whole grains can also help in reducing hypertension Other benefits as suggested by recent research include reduced risk of asthma, inflammatory diseases, colorectal cancer, healthier carotid arteries and blood pressure levels, less gum disease and tooth loss. It is generally recommended that an adult should eat at least half his grains as whole grains - at least 3-5 servings every day.

Considered to be one of the most essential minerals for the human body, iron is an integral component of any healthy diet. Iron forms a part of the compound haeme, which is necessary for carrying oxygen to cells and carbon dioxide away from cells. Iron is needed for the formation of haemoglobin. As a component of haeme, iron also acts towards the structural capabilities of a protein called myoglobin that is used to store and transport oxygen from muscle cells. It also contributes to the production of energy along with acting as an anti-oxidant. Via an enzyme called ribonucleotide reductase, iron also works towards the optimal growth, reproduction and immunity of all cells in the body. Deficiency in the level of iron in the body can have disastrous effects. Individuals with insufficient iron in their bodies are known to suffer from fatigue, palpitations, brittle nails and impaired mental development (in children). Sufficient quantities of iron should be consumed based on the age of individuals. Children should have between 7 and 10 mg/day while adults should attempt to consume between 8 and 15 mg/day of iron. However, individuals engaging in highly strenuous activities may need a higher intake to compensate for the greater need for energy. Foods rich in iron include spinach, lentils, lima beans, beef liver, organic chicken, avocado and potato with the skin, among others. A healthy intake of iron is crucial to proper mental and development of individuals. Some studies have also shown that iron helps in clotting of blood and aids in battling anaemia and haemophilia. In addition, iron promotes healthy hair growth. However, iron consumption must be carefully regulated, for excessive consumption is known to cause Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and liver cancer.

Sugar is the second most traded commodity in the world for one simple reason there is an insatiable demand for it. We use salt and sugar to cook food and make drinks every day of our lives. Often we do not even think twice before adding that extra spoon of salt or sugar to make the meal just a little tastier or the drink a little more enticing. However, we fail to realise the adverse long term effects such unnecessary use of these commodities can have on our well being. Choosing food which is low in sodium content, substituting salt with herbs and spices while cooking and consuming less processed food all go a long way to reducing the intake of salt. Sugar ingestion can be mitigated by eating less junk food and drinks, having whole grain breakfast cereals that are not coated with honey or sugar and gradually using less sugar in coffee and tea. Drinking more water every day is a great way to significantly marginalise sugar consumption. Many of us fail to realise the impact both salt and sugar have on our health because they are fundamental ingredients in almost all food and drink, and are often added in small quantities. However, what we do not consider is the cumulative amount of salt and sugar we consume on a monthly or yearly basis. Reducing salt and sugar consumption aids in living a balanced life by reducing the risk of illnesses and diseases.

How many times have you had a doctor telling you to DRINK MORE WATER? Well, it will do you a world of good to listen to him/ her. Despite being such a basic element of our lives, we often fail to realize the numerous benefits that can be gained simply by drinking more water everyday.

Water is known to reduce the risk of heart disease by over 40 per cent. Just think, four out of every ten cases of heart attacks could have potentially been avoided if the individuals had drunk 8 or more glasses of water everyday.

Water is also vital to weight loss, since it acts as the ideal substitute for drinks and juices that are high in calories. (Water is devoid of sugar, carbohydrates and fat, and is therefore an ideal drink.)

Water hydrates the body. Drinking 8 or more glasses a day reduces headaches and dehydration which in turn induces fatigue and dizziness. In fact, studies have shown that water is also the best cure for a hangover, as it tackles the underlying cause of the hangover - dehydration.

Drinking lots of water also has the added merits of providing healthier skin, providing energy for the body, quenching thirst, helping with digestive problems, de-toxifying the body and reducing the risk of cancer.

The habit of drinking water should be imbibed as soon as possible. Carry a bottle with you at all times. Set yourself a target of drinking one glass at the start of every hour to ensure that sufficient water is taken in. All excess water is removed from the body. As such, water poses no real threat to your physical well being. So, drink lots of water, it might just save your life.