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5 Foods That You’re Probably Eating Wrong

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You eat because you want to nourish the body and be healthy. Here in Singapore where life is hectic, you need all the nourishment you can get from foods to cope up. But the question is: are you eating it right? You might think that you are eating everything right but the truth is, the way you prepare and handle specific foods can destroy the health benefits they offer.

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You have to be aware of the foods that you probably eat wrong so you do not waste the nutrients. Here are some foods that you eat wrong and how you can make the most out of it:

  1. Nuts: When you are hungry, it is easy to grab raw nuts and eat it right away. You think that you get all the nutrients because they are raw. That is where you are wrong. Nuts contain phytic acid and lectins that can prevent nutrients from being digested and absorbed properly. The best way is to soak them first. Pecans, peanuts and walnuts should be soaked for 12 hours, macadamias and almonds for 7 hours and cashews for 4 to 6 hours. After soaking, do not forget to dry it either in a dehydrator or oven.

 

  1. Bananas: Actually banana is your go-to fruit. They are popular that you will see it in almost all households here in Singapore. It is time that you learn eating it solo is not the right way to consume it. Eating them plain is not helpful. Bananas have high sugar content so to help it metabolize faster, always pair it with fat like butter or almond.

 

  1. Strawberries: Nothing is more satisfying than eating a handful or bowl of fresh strawberries. Some people cut it first before consuming. That is not right. Cutting the strawberries will decrease its vitamin C contents. Vitamin C is sensitive to oxygen and light. The next time you eat it, make sure to eat it in whole.

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  1. Coffee: Your energy quick fix is coffee because of its caffeine. If you drink coffee right after you wake up, you are drinking it all wrong. You see, when you wake up your body produces the highest cortisol levels. Mixing caffeine with cortisol can actually intensify your tolerance making it less effective. Drink coffee few hours after waking up.

 

  1. Onions: You do not consider raw onions but it is time to change that. Raw onions actually have oils and minerals that can ease the breaking down of fat deposits as well as speeding the metabolism.

From these, you should now think twice before peeling a fruit or boiling a vegetable.

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Stress Savers: 6 Hobbies That Helps You Relax

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No one can escape occasional feelings of stress, but there’s definitely something that we can do to lessen that nagging feeling of anxiety. Apart from sleeping, eating well and doing other self-care habits, we can practice a number of hobbies to help us reduce stress – and these extend beyond stereotypical activities like meditation and yoga.

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1. Photography

Most people see photography as an expensive hobby as it includes purchasing gadgets and travelling to tourist destinations. While these are necessary for a professional shoot, you can actually do well without it when it comes to taking photos as a hobby. You can use your phone’s camera and anything, including your meal, your best friend or any random thing that you can use as your subject. Photography is all about being immersed in the moment and looking at things from different perspectives. If it goes well, you can turn it into a rewarding profession.

2. Journaling

Several studies show that keeping a journal reduces stress, as well as symptoms of depression and anxiety. Writing down your thoughts helps you clear your mind and emotions, and reflect on your feelings in a healthy manner. Journaling provides a creative way for you to privately express your emotions and ideas.

3. Reading

Even just five minutes of reading is already enough to reduce stress. Reading helps in easing muscle tension, as well as reducing the heart rate, making it a healthy hobby to turn to when you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed.

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4. Knitting

It’s time to forget the stereotype that knitting is only for our grandmas. According to researchers, the repetitive movement done in knitting actually helps people get into the moment the way meditation does. It also enhances the release of serotonin, a feel-good neurotransmitter that helps you feel positive and calm.

5. Colouring

Adult colouring books have been the rage recently, and for a good reason. Several studies showed art therapy as a great way to reduce stress and ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. Using a colouring book results to having a relaxing mind-set, since it allows the brain to switch off your thoughts and focus on what you’re doing in the moment.

6. Gardening

If you’re fond of flowers, or plants in general, then this activity is the perfect hobby for you. Gardening will require some knowledge about the right kinds of plants to grow in your region, as well as how to care for them. Fortunately, these information can be acquired from your local nursery or online. Gardening will help you in more ways than one. You’ll be around nature, be able to breathe fresh air and enjoy the fruits of your hobby.

Apart from these hobbies, you can also take part in any sport you like or make new friends. After all, what’s important is you concentrate on doing the things that lowers your stress levels and makes you happy.

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