10 Reasons To Eat Pineapple

Pineapple is more than a delicious tropical-fruit treat. It offers exciting health benefits that can help improve many people’s quality of life. Read on to find out 10 reasons to eat pineapple...

Researchers are just beginning to study pineapple nutrition, but the outlook so far suggests this common fruit delivers many healthy pluses to the average human body. Jim Dole moved to Hawaii around 1900 to found the pineapple industry that still bears his name today. 

However, pineapples are mostly grown in Hawaii from one of several different types. The most common is the Smooth Cayenne pineapple that is found in most supermarkets, however, there are other kinds that can grow up to twenty pounds. 

Below are several reasons to stock up on fresh or canned pineapple at the supermarket.

1. Pineapple overflows with Vitamin C. 

According to Nutrition Facts.com, one cup of pineapple chunks contains 131 percent of the daily value of Vitamin C, which helps protect the body against viruses and builds strong skin defenses against infection.

Instead of drinking orange juice or grapefruit juice, or restricting yourself to these common rich sources of Vitamin C, you can enjoy the juicy flavor of tropical pineapple to get your daily requirement of this important nutrient.

2. Pineapple is Great for bone health 

Along with calcium, manganese is an element that is essential for maintaining strong bones and healthy connective tissues. A single cup or roughly 165 grams of pineapple contains about 76% of the recommended daily value of manganese. It is important to note that while studies supporting the role of manganese in the reparation and creation of bones are lacking, manganese is still connected to the prevention and relief of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis because of its contribution to overall bone and mineral density. 

Plenty of other tropical fruits are also high in manganese, particularly raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, and bananas. Pair pineapple with any or all of these fruits and you have yourself a delicious fruit salad packed with manganese and other essential vitamins and minerals.

3. Pineapple contributes to the Digestive Process 

According to health.learninginfo.org, the pineapple is being studied by researchers for an important enzyme mixture called “bromelain.” The compounds appear to reduce inflammation and a certain degree of swelling in conditions like sinusitis, sore throat and arthritic flare-ups. In fact, pineapple has been used to treat indigestion and reduce inflammation for centuries in Central and South America. In order to maximize its health benefits on the digestive system, its best to eat pineapple in between meals as a snack. 

Bromelain is also very effective at reducing inflammation from infections and injuries. For this reason, bromelain may even reduce swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain after physical injuries and surgery. Although it has been suggested that bromelain can treat sinusitis, arthritis, and enhance the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs, additional research is still needed to fully support these claims.

4. Pineapple is Filling, but not Too Heavy 

Nutrition Facts.com rates pineapple’s fullness factor at 3.3 (on a 5.0 scale). 

It is naturally sweet and filling, which is the basis for its main negative quality—good taste that comes from the natural sugar it contains. However, those who are looking for a sweet snack can fill up on pineapple and consume relatively few calories compared to high-sugar or high-fat foods such as potato chips and bread. 

Although pineapple is 94 percent carbohydrate content and must be carefully balanced in a low-carb diet, this fruit contains no other negative aspects that should concern those restricted to special diets. The remaining 6 percent consists of 2 percent fats and 4 percent proteins, which are fairly negligible amounts

5. Pineapple is Important for Keeping Your Sight 

You have probably heard that carrots keep your eyes bright and healthy, but research suggests that fruit is even more important for the health of your eyes. Archives of Ophthalmology published a study that found that eating 3 or more servings of fruit a day may lower risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) by as much as 36 percent. ARMD is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults, afflicting over 3 million Americans every year. Adding more pineapple to your diet ensures you are getting the antioxidants needed to slow or halt the development of ARMD. 

6. The Cost is Affordable. 

Unlike expensive imports or seasonal fruits, pineapple is available year-round, generally fresh in the supermarket’s produce section, and almost always in the canned fruit aisle in small or medium-size containers. It can be found in jars, too. 

It is not unusual to find sale prices for this item, but on average, for about a dollar or two, shoppers can enjoy a ready-to-eat treat that can be prepared in seconds by removing the skin of fresh fruit or opening the canned or frozen variety.

7. It is Easy to Serve. 

You can pop open a pull-tab can and pour the rings or chunks into a serving bowl for immediate consumption. Crushed pineapple in the can is ready for cooking purposes and requires no mixing or added preparation. 

Pineapple can be purchased in light or heavy syrup, depending on the buyer’s taste, or it can be found packed in its own juice for a healthier alternative. It also is available in the form of frozen juice or by itself. 

8. Kids Love it.

Because it is a finger food and easy to eat, not to mention sweet and accessible, pineapple makes a great school lunch addition or after-school treat. 

Unlike apples and oranges that must be peeled, a pop-open can of pineapple is ready for the kids when they want it. Chunks and rings can be stored in plastic baggies for eating later, as well.

9. Pineapple Recipes abound. 

To promote pineapple health benefits without making it sound like medicine, add it to a variety of foods for new and unusual tastes. 

In addition to serving it alone or as part of a healthy meal, this fruit makes a great addition to recipe specialties such as pork, salads, and many vegetables. For example, use toothpicks to skewer pineapple chunks soaked in brown sugar and its own juice to a holiday ham. 

Or try the fruit cooked with a pork roast. It can be added to apple sauce for a unique taste and texture. Canned pineapple is a great ingredient for a number of delicious foods, such as tofu stir fry . Crushed pineapple is also great for sauces and sundaes, along with special stews. 

10. Dieters love it. 

Because it is inexpensive, easy to find and prepare, tastes good, and is low in calories, people who are trying to maintain or lose weight often fill up on pineapple between meals. 

Eating pineapple while on a diet, especially when paired with interesting items like walnuts, low-cal whipped cream, and rice dishes, can remove the stigma of dieting because it helps to manage food cravings by delivering a sugar punch and a fiber fill-up.

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Cleanse Your Liver for your Health

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The Liver

The liver is a large, meaty organ that sits on the right side of the belly. Weighing about 3 pounds, the liver is reddish-brown in color and feels rubbery to the touch. Normally you can't feel the liver, because it's protected by the rib cage.

The liver has two large sections, called the right and the left lobes. The gallbladder sits under the liver, along with parts of the pancreas and intestines. The liver and these organs work together to digest, absorb, and process food.

The liver's main job is to filter the blood coming from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body. The liver also detoxifies chemicals and metabolizes drugs. As it does so, the liver secretes bile that ends up back in the intestines. The liver also makes proteins important for blood clotting and other functions.

What about the liver

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When your liver is clean, you will be healthier as its main function is to help your body get rid of everything that is “unnecessary”. There are different “recipes” to cleanse it.

All of them include eating some supplements in order to improve the organ’s function, like oils, salts, juices…

What to know about liver cleansing?

Liver cleansing cannot cure diseases or liver complications, but is a god idea for those who either want to lose weight or have damaged this organ in some way. When there is liver damage, you can suffer from improper micturition, bladder obstruction, soft feces or constipation, which is because of an accumulation of unnecessary toxic materials. With liver cleansing, this is removed. this is how cleansing the liver helps in reducing weight. Before doing the treatment, it’s best to speak to your doctor and learn about the things you can or cannot eat.

Junk Foods

The primary causes of obesity or being overweight are overeating and lack of exercise. This causes your body to start storing food after first turning it into fat.

With liver cleansing your metabolism is going to be faster and more functional, so the possibility of you losing weight will be greater.

How to cleanse your liver?

The idea of liver cleansing is to eliminate negative residue. You can repeat the process up to three times a year. For an effective liver cleanse keep the following recipes in mind:

Orange, garlic, and olive oil juice: 

• A fourth cup of olive oil,
• A fourth cup of fresh squeezed orange juice,
• A half tablespoon of grated ginger,
• A half tablespoon of died garlic. 

Blend in the blender and drink before going to bed. Lay on your right side. Repeat this for three nights in a row. 

Grapefruit juice with garlic and ginger: 

• Two grapefruit,
• Four lemons, 
• Two garlic gloves, 
• A slice of ginger root,
• 300 ml of distilled water,
• Two tablespoons of olive oil. 

Squeeze the grapefruit and lemons, grate the ginger, and crush the garlic. Put all of the ingredients in the blender and mix well. Drink before going to bed at night. Do this over the weekend.

Some Super Foods that will help detox your liver

Besides the two recipes mentioned above, you can also detox your liver by reducing the portions you eat; avoid alcohol, red meat, dairy products, and refined products; drink plenty of water; and do moderate exercise.

During the cleanse, we don’t recommend doing a lot of activities or lifting a lot of weight and staying at home as much as possible.

Don’t lay down immediately after you eat the chosen recipe because you may experience dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.

Here is the Super Foods

• - Olive oil: it is useful when used in moderation.

Olive Oils

• - Green tea: it has a lot of antioxidants (catechins), which are useful in helping the liver.

Green Tea

• - Apples: they have a large amount of pectins and chemical components that help your body eliminate toxins from the digestive system.

Apples

• - Avocado: it protects the liver against excess toxins and increases the treatment’s cleansing power.

Avocados

• - Carrots and beets: they have a lot of flavonoids and beta-carotene, which stimulate the liver function.

Carrots and Beets

• - Whole grains: they have vitamin B and improve the metabolization of fats and the liver’s function

Whole Grains

• - Eggplant: this is a digestive tonic that is used to activate the bladder’s functions.

Eggplant

• - Grapes: these give you natural sugars and a lot of antioxidants, which also activate the function of the liver cleanse and the production of bile.

Grapes

• - Escarole and endive: they both have a substance with a bitter flavor that is used to naturally empty the bladder.

Escarole and endive

• - Leafy green vegetables: they are great allies for cleansing your liver due to chlorophyll absorbing the toxins from your blood stream, which protect this highly important organ.

Green Leaves Vegetables

Why is it necessary to cleanse your liver?

Your liver generates more fat and then stores it as excess. It is important to do a liver detoxification diet in order to improve your liver functioning and increase your energy levels. After liver cleansing you will feel a lot better in many ways.

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New Theory for Treating Diabetes

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Diabetes has emerged as a detrimental disease in the modern world. Unhealthy eating habits and stressis seen as major cause for rise in number of Diabetic patients. The disease is not restricted to developed countries alone. WHO projected India as the fastest growing diabetic population till 2025.

Ayurveda’s Theory Of Diabetes

In Ayurveda, any disease is considered due to imbalance of the three doshas- Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Based on the doshas, Diabetes is classified into twenty sub classes i.e. 10 sub classes are related toKapha, 6 classes related to Pitta and 4 classes related to Vata.

In Ayurveda Science, diabetes is termed Madhumeha or Prameha. Twenty types of ‘Prameha’ have been specified in Ayurvedic texts.

• Born out of vitiation of Vata dosha or the air body humor, there are four varieties which are considered incurable.
• Born out of vitiation of the Pitta dosha or the fire body humor. There are six varieties of which are only difficult to cure.
• Born out of vitiation of Kapha dosha or the phlegm body humor. There are ten varieties which are considered to be curable.

Ayurveda way

What do Ancient Ayurvedic Text Say?

In Ayurvedic science, Diabetes was mentioned more than 3000 years ago by Charaka as ‘Prameha’in Charaka Samhita. Diabetes is referred as Prameha or Madhumeha which means frequent urination and presence of sugar in urine. Charaka has classified Prameha as Sadhya (curable), Yapya (paliable) and Asadhya (incurable). According to Sushruta, Diabetes can be broadly classified based on physical appearance as – Saheja Prameha (Lean Diabetes) and Apathyani mittaja (Obese Diabetes). Saheja prameha is related to genetic disorder (Bija dosha) and is similar to Type 1 Diabetes class of modern science. Apathyani mittaja is due to life style disorders and is acquired at later stage of life. This correlates with Type 2 Diabetes of modern world.

Another alternative for Diabetes

Ayurveda’s Cure for Diabetes

Ayurvedic line of treatment is based on individual’s constitution and considering the Prakriti of patient,Dosha predominance. Other factors like hereditary, food habits etc. are also considered to prepare a specific line of treatment. Usually, Type1 Diabetes patients are advised Brimhana medication and diet to increase dhatus in body. Panchakarma is not advised to such patients. Diet is also considered as a kind of medicine in Ayurveda as each food has certain qualities to affect the doshas in certain ways. In Type 2 Diabetes, Purification of body is advised by Panchakarma method depending on predominance ofdoshas. E.g. patients with Kapha dosha are advised Vanmana (emetics) and patients with Pitta doshaare advised Virechana (purgation) Panchakarma treatment.

The various stages of treatment include:

1. Snehana – The toxins are loosened by application of oils internally and externally.
2. Sodhana – purification process which include three steps: Vamana, Virechana and Vasti.
3. Samana
4. Pathya-Apathya
5. Controlled Vyayam (Yoga and Pranayama)
6. External Therapies: Abhyanga, Takra Dhara, Udwathana, Kashaya seka, SSPS Generally Swedana (Sudation) is contra indicated in Prameha. Raktamokshana is advocated in non-healing diabetic ulcers. 

Spice and herbs Ayurvedic ways

Case Studies on Ayurvedic Treatment For Diabetes:

1. Case Study conducted at Institute for Post Graduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar, Gujarat This research work was planned to evaluate the extra effects ofAyurvedic Ahara and Vihara in the management of Madhumeha and to project them socially. For this study, 30 diagnosed patients (Group A – Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle + Varadi Kwatha & Group B – Varadi Kwatha) of Madhumeha (DM type 2) from the Outdoor Patient Department of Basic Principles, Institute for Post Graduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar, Gujarat were registered on the basis of signs and symptoms of Madhumeha as per Ayurvedic classics and modern medicine. In group A, 4 (66.67%) patients showed moderate improvement, 1 (16.67%) patient showed mild improvement, and 1 (16.67%) patient showed no improvement. In group B, 17 (70.83%) patients showed moderate improvement, 6 (25%) patients showed mild improvement, and 1 (4.17%) patient showed no improvement. According to the effect of therapy, Varadi Kwatha with Ayurvedic Ahara and Vihara (group A) has proved to be a better remedy than only Varadi Kwatha (group B) by relieving most of the cardinal symptoms as well as improving the biochemical parameters.

2. Case Study Conducted at Govt. Ayurveda College, Nanded (Maharashtra). This study was prospective, single blind, uncontrolled clinical trial, where a total of 30 patients with the complaints of polyuria, intense thirst, burning sensation in soles of feet and palms of hands (Hastapadataladaha) and blood sugar level (P.P.) were selected for investigation and treatment from the OPD and IPD of Govt. Ayurveda College, Nanded (Maharashtra). In present study, Vanga Bhasma was prepared strictly by following Rasashastriya procedure and finished product was examined on Ayurvedic as well as modern parameters. This Vanga bhasma was administered to 30 diagnosed patients of D.M. and results response of the treatment of the vanga bhasma was highly encouraging, within 21 days the relief was observed in polyuria, joint pains were reduced to 86.66%. Blood sugar and shithilangta reduced (80%), Hastapadataladaha (85%),Kshudhavriddhi (83.33%), Constipation (33.3%), Bhrama (62.5%), Pindikodveshtan (76.92%) andBahuswedapravritti (72.22%). Hence it is clear that the Vangabhasma is an ideal drug for the treatment of Madhumeha (Diabetes Mellitus). Besides the treatment, the patients of Madhumeha must follow the regime of pathya and apathya (compatible and incompatible).

3. Case Study Conducted at Govt.Akhandanand Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Ahmedabad This comparative study was planned to assess and compare the efficiency of Vamana and Virechana in controlling the raised blood sugar levels in patients with DM. Known cases of Type‑2 DM attending the OPD and IPD of the Govt. Akhandanand Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Ahmedabad, in the age group of 25-60 years having none of the long‑term complication of DM were primarily considered for the study. Only those patients were selected who had never taken insulin to control his/her blood sugar. Of these, only those patients were finally selected who were found fit for Vamana or Virechana and those with fasting blood sugar level in the range of 126-250 mg/dl or postprandial blood sugar level in the range of 200-350 mg/dl or both. Results of this study showed that both Vamana and Virechana cause marked reduction in fasting blood sugar (FBS) and postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) levels. Results conclude that Vamana by reducing Kaphaand Meda helps to minimize insulin resistance, whereas Virechana by lowering down the hepatic glucose production helps to control blood sugar.

4. Case Study Conducted at Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Group, Kalayanthani, Thodupuzha(Kerala) This study evaluates the efficacy of Classical and Traditional Ayurvedic line of treatment in above different Diabetes types in Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Group, Kalayanthani, Thodupuzha(Kerala). These studies evaluate the efficiency of classical line of treatment ,not only controlling blood sugar & urine sugar levels in diabetes mellitus, but also to control all the complications of prameha. 30 diagnosed cases of diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) were selected. 70 percentage were males & 30 percentage were female, aged between 40 – 60 yrs. All patients were given, snehana for 5-10 days. These medicines used were– Arjuna Thaila, Arjuna ghritha & Arjuna Sarshapa. The dose varies from 25 to 50 milliliters every day at bed time. Virechana with Samana aushadas likekashayas for two weeks powders and liquids were also given of better results. The results showed that 21 out of 30 patients showed excellent response after shodhana itself, complaints decreased and the FBS & PPBS attained normal levels. This treatment was continued for 3 years till the blood sugar and urine sugar came down to normal levels, after which the treatment was completely stopped. No complaints were observed from the patients for one year.

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Haze: What You Need to Know

Anyone who’s stepped outside the past few days can tell you, “the Haze” is back. We’ve got all you need to know about what is happening and how to protect you and your family.

According to the Straits Time article "Air Quality May Turn 'Unheathly' as Haze Returns," the National Environmental Agency reports 120 hot spots detected in Sumatra, Indonesia (this week) with visible smoke plumes from some of the areas. “[The NEA] added that the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), which indicates the air quality, is expected to be in the high end of the moderate range of 51 to 100, and may even enter the low end of the unhealthy range.” Feng Zengkun, 21 August 2014.

Even if you have no understanding of PSI readings, you only have to look outside to know this is not good.

What is going on?

Logging and burning of forests to clear land for cultivation is a practice as old as farming. Deforestation in Indonesia began to take off in the 1970s as they saw a dramatic economic benefit in developing industries and they haven’t looked back. Since that time, deforestation of Indonesia has steadily increased.

Open Burning in Sumatera, Indonesia

Known as “slash and burn,” this agricultural technique is cheap, effective, quick and disastrous for the environment. While slash and burn clearance is illegal, many blame corruption and bribery between the Indonesian government and large corporations who operate there for this persistent problem. The fires and consequent haze only seem to be increasing in both frequency and intensity.

The fires can be particularly bad during the dry season and when winds blow from the South-West.

What is being done about it?

In September 2014, Indonesia’s parliament ratified the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (which had been signed in 2002!). Under the agreement, companies are liable to pay hefty fines if they are found causing unhealthy levels of haze. For example, for each day of unhealthy haze, a company can be fined 80,000 USD. The maximum penalty is capped at 1.6 million USD.

A heavy fine has been introduce to stop open burning

However as with any multi-national agreement, implementing and enforcing the fines can be difficult and complicated. Indonesia ratified the agreement with the express understanding there sovereignty would remain unchallenged. Therefore, it is difficult for Malaysia (or any other ASEAN nation) to step in and “police” the affairs of corporations and the Indonesian government. Because Malaysia such a large economic powerhouse in the region, some companies may be responsive to pressure from Malaysia to curb haze pollution especially if the corporations also operate in Malaysia. In order for to investigate, it must have cooperation from the Indonesia government. As the issue of haze only worsens, hopefully the two nations will see the mutual benefits of increased cooperation.

Couple in Muar wearing mask during wedding

Malaysia has also been working closely with the Indonesian government to try to control and monitor the haze. Additionally, Singapore has recognized the need to move beyond “monitoring” and has been working with farmers to help them develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Even the guest have to wear mask

Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency “has deployed three aircraft to do cloud seedings and six helicopters for water bombing in Riau. Cloud seeding in Riau has also been carried out since June 22 and more than 100,000kg of chemicals have been used to induce rain” (Feng Zengkun, The Straits Times).

Cloud seeding, a controversial practice with both critiques and supporters, only adds another layer of complexity to the haze issue. While it does provide a short term fix for the haze, as all governments continue to seek ways to combat, control and contain, environmental problems, cloud seeding practices are likely (hopefully) going to be monitored and adjusted carefully.

Cloud seeding to make rain

What can I do?

• Don’t panic but be smart. Limit your time outdoors.
• Keep windows shut and if you have an air purifier, keep it on and check to make sure your filters are new and working properly.
• If you don’t have an air purifier, keep the air con on. It can help filter some dust (though not as well as an air purifier). And, if you are particularly worried about long term air pollution and environmental hazards, you may be opposed to keeping it running.
• Do not exercise outdoors.
• Haze can be particularly irritating for elderly, children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.
• Drink more water. Water is the best way to rid your body of toxins.
• Build up your immunity with foods rich in vitamins and minerals.
• If you cannot avoid long term exposure outdoors, wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth.
• Educate yourself. These issues can’t be left to corporations and governments alone to tackle. The more informed you are, the better you can contribute to creating a healthier planet.

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How Diabetes Affects Your Sex Life?

It is estimated that 75% of men and 35% of women with diabetes experience some sexual problems due to diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) to the nerves that stimulate normal sexual response.

Almost as soon as men get diagnosed with diabetes, they begin hearing dire warnings about their high risk of erectile dysfunction (ED)- the inability to achieve or maintain a satisfactory erection for sexual intercourse. Diabetes may, indeed, impair erection but ED is by no means inevitable. 

There are two causes of erection impairment in diabetic men: cardiovascular complications (atherosclerosis) and nerve damage (neuropathy). 

Diabetes accelerates arterial clogging, which reduces erection-producing blood flow into the penis. And neuropathy damages the nerves involved in erection.

Despite the sexual problems you may be experiencing, keep communicating with your partner about your concerns or meet with a relationship counselor to learn how to communicate more effectively and resolve any issues that may be standing in the way of enjoying a healthy sexual relationship.

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11 Surprising Health Benefits of Sleep

Sleep makes you feel better, but its importance goes way beyond just boosting your mood or banishing under-eye circles. Adequate sleep is a key part of a healthy lifestyle, and can benefit your heart, weight, mind, and more.

Go ahead, Get Some Sleep!

"Sleep used to be kind of ignored, like parking our car in a garage and picking it up in the morning," says David Rapoport, MD, director of the NYU Sleep Disorders Program.

Why we need to have adequate sleep?

Not anymore. Here are some health benefits researchers have discovered about a good night’s sleep.

Improve Your Memory

Your mind is surprisingly busy while you snooze. During sleep you can strengthen memories or "practice" skills learned while you were awake (it’s a process called consolidation).

"If you are trying to learn something, whether it’s physical or mental, you learn it to a certain point with practice," says Dr. Rapoport, who is an associate professor at NYU Langone Medical Center. "But something happens while you sleep that makes you learn it better."

Baby learning in their sleeps

In other words if you’re trying to learn something new—whether it’s Spanish or a new tennis swing—you’ll perform better after sleeping.

Live longer?

Too much or too little sleep is associated with a shorter lifespan—although it’s not clear if it’s a cause or effect. (Illnesses may affect sleep patterns too.)

In a 2010 study of women ages 50 to 79, more deaths occurred in women who got less than five hours or more than six and a half hours of sleep per night.

Sleep also affects quality of life.

"Many things that we take for granted are affected by sleep," says Raymonde Jean, MD, director of sleep medicine and associate director of critical care at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York City. "If you sleep better, you can certainly live better. It’s pretty clear."

Curb inflammation

Inflammation is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, and premature aging. Research indicates that people who get less sleep—six or fewer hours a night—have higher blood levels of inflammatory proteins than those who get more.

When you are sick, you need a good rest

A 2010 study found that C-reactive protein, which is associated with heart attack risk, was higher in people who got six or fewer hours of sleep a night.

People who have sleep apnea or insomnia can have an improvement in blood pressure and inflammation with treatment of the sleep disorders, Dr. Rapoport says.

Spur Creativity

Get a good night’s sleep before getting out the easel and paintbrushes or the pen and paper.

In addition to consolidating memories, or making them stronger, your brain appears to reorganize and restructure them, which may result in more creativity as well.

Cant find an idea?

Researchers at Harvard University and Boston College found that people seem to strengthen the emotional components of a memory during sleep, which may help spur the creative process.

Improve Your Grades

Children between the ages of 10 and 16 who have sleep disordered breathing, which includes snoring, sleep apnea, and other types of interrupted breathing during sleep, are more likely to have problems with attention and learning, according to a 2010 study in the journal Sleep. This could lead to "significant functional impairment at school," the study authors wrote.

In another study, college students who didn’t get enough sleep had worse grades than those who did.

"If you’re trying to meet a deadline, you’re willing to sacrifice sleep," Dr. Rapoport says, "but it’s severe and reoccurring sleep deprivation that clearly impairs learning."

Have a Healthy Weight

If you are thinking about going on a diet, you might want to plan an earlier bedtime too.

Researchers at the University of Chicago found that dieters who were well rested lost more fat—56% of their weight loss—than those who were sleep deprived, who lost more muscle mass. (They shed similar amounts of total weight regardless of sleep.)

Want to Loose Weight? Sleep Well!

Dieters in the study also felt more hungry when they got less sleep.

"Sleep and metabolism are controlled by the same sectors of the brain," Dr. Rapoport says. "When you are sleepy, certain hormones go up in your blood, and those same hormones drive appetite."

Lower Stress and Depression

When it comes to our health stress and sleep are nearly one and the same—and both can affect cardiovascular health.

"Sleep can definitely reduce levels of stress, and with that people can have better control of their blood pressure," Dr. Jean says. "It’s also believed that sleep effects cholesterol levels, which plays a significant role in heart disease."

Relax, get some sleep

"A lack of sleep can contribute to depression," Dr. Jean says. "A good night’s sleep can really help a moody person decrease their anxiety. You get more emotional stability with good sleep."

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