7 Reasons Why you should Drink Green Tea

Green tea has been used as a medicine for thousands of years and its origin is in China. Now it is widely used throughout Asia and in other parts of the world because of its multitude of uses ranging from lowering blood pressure to preventing cancer. Green tea has more health benefits than black tea due to way it is processed. Fermentation is one of the steps of black tea processing whereas in the processing of green tea this step is avoided. As a result, green tea retains the antioxidants and poly-phenols.
Benefits of Green Tea

1. Fights against anti-aging and promotes longetivity- This is due to the antioxidants and polyphenols. It also slows down the aging of the cells and in some cases speeds up the recovery of the damaged cells.

2. Helps in weight loss- Green tea has the ability to burn up to 60-70 calories in a day and boosts your metabolism rate naturally.

3. Green Tea prevents tooth decay- Green Tea has an antioxidant called catechin. Research and studies show that this chemical can destroy bacteria that cause dental caries and other dental conditions, and throat infections.

4. Green tea reduces the risk of heart attack- The flavonoids present in protect the heart by relaxing the blood vessels. This enables the blood to flow more easily.

5. Protects the body from harmful ultraviolet rays- The green tea extracts along with your sunscreen could afford you the greatest level of sun protection. The antioxidants have the ability to control the free radicals in the body.

6. Controls the sugar levels in the blood- Green tea regulates glucose levels slowing the rise of blood sugar. This tea also triggers and stimulates insulin production and activates the functioning of pancreas.

7. Green tea is helpful for those suffering from asthma- Theophyline in the tea helps to relax the muscles which support the bronchial tubes. This in turn will reduce the severity of asthma to an extent.

Green tea has many health benefits. It is a good idea to start your day with a cup of green tea with no sweetener. For those who are about sweeteners, try honey instead of sugar. A cup of green tea is refreshing and energizes your body.

I enjoy writing for my website http://everydayyardsale.com/

How to Keep Your Sterling Silver Jewelry Tarnish Free

For many of us who use sterling silver jewelry regularly, keeping the jewels tarnish free will seem like a Herculean task. However, if you can follow a few steps, it can help you prevent the jewelry from tarnishing. Before we delve deep into the subject, you should understand the causes of tarnishing.

Hair lotions and oil, perfumes and sweat can give a dull look to the jewels. You can start off by wiping the jewels once you remove them and before storing them in their cases.

You should make it a habit of putting on body lotion and perfume or hair spray at least 10 minutes before you put on your silver jewelry. Similarly, ensure that you wipe off any moisture with a soft cloth before immediately after you remove them.

Once you wipe your jewelry clean, you should store them in an airtight container such as a zip lock cover, cloth bag or an airtight jewel box. The silver will be less tarnished if you they are exposed to less light and air.

If your silver jewelry is showing signing of tarnish, you have to simply wipe it with a silver cloth, which is a cleaning cloth. Polishing is also available in the major jewelry shops, with which you can polish your jewelry.
With a few preventive measures, you can easily save your sterling jewelry from being tarnished and scratched.

You should also take some time to clean the jewels after wearing them and storing them away from direct light.

I enjoy writing for my website. Please visit: http://everydayyardsale.com/

Virginia Recipes – Summer Desserts

Here are three delicious desserts that both the adults and kids would enjoy eating this summer.  All the three desserts are easy to make and can be made with the ingredients that is usually at home. Virginia Apple Pudding
Ingredients

1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
2. 1 cup milk
3. 1 cup powdered white sugar
4. 1/2 cup softened butter
5. 1/4 tsp salt
6. 1 tsp powdered cinnamon
7. 2 cups peeled and chopped apple

Method
Preheat the oven to 180 degree Celsius.
In a bowl, combine all the ingredients other than apples and cinnamon, into a smooth batter. And pour it into a baking dish.
Microwave the chopped apples and cinnamon till the apples become soft. Maybe for  2 to 5 minutes.
Pour apples into the center of the batter.Bake the mixture in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden.

Frozen Lime Pie
For this frozen treat you can use regular limes.  It’s a great dessert choice when you are entertaining because you can make it a few days ahead.
Ingredients

1. 2 tsp grated lime rind
2. 1/4 cup melted butter
3. 4 large eggs, separated
4. 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
5. 1 can condense milk
6. 1/8 tsp salt
7. 1/2 cup coarsely crushed graham cracker crumbs
8. 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
9. 1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut

Method
Combine crumbs, coconut, and butter in a food processor until blended. Press mixture evenly in bottom and up sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
Bake at 350° for 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
Beat egg yolks at high speed  for 8 minutes or until pale. Add condensed milk, grated lime rand and 1/2 cup lime juice.
Beat egg whites at high speed until stiff peaks are formed.Now fold into egg yolk mixture.
Pour into prepared crust.
Sprinkle with 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs. Freeze 8 hours or until firm. Garnish with lime rind.

Waialua Chocolate Tart with Sable Crust

The crust is made with butter, powdered sugar, egg white, flour and cocoa.  Therefore adds an extra level of flavor and texture.
Ingredients

1. 10 tablespoon butter, softened
2. 2/3 cup powdered sugar
3. 1 large egg white
4. 2 cups flour
5. 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
6. 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
7. 16 ounces bittersweet or sweet dark chocolate, chopped and divided
8. 2 extra-large eggs
9. 1 cup sugar
10. Fresh berries

Preparation
Combine butter, powdered sugar and egg white in a medium bowl, stirring until well blended. Mix in flour and cocoa powder, stirring until a soft dough forms. Press dough into a 10-inch tart pan. Cover and chill for one hour.
Line crust with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 180 degree Celsius for 35 minutes. Remove parchment and weights. Allow the crust to cool.
Heat 1 1/4 cups cream in a heavy saucepan over medium heat until very hot. Remove from heat and add 12 ounces chocolate. Stirring well to make a smooth batter. Stir in the eggs and sugar, whisking until blended. Strain to remove lumps.
Fill crust with chocolate mixture. Bake at 150 degree Celsius for 1 hour 15 minutes. Cool completely.
Combine the remaining 1/4 cup cream and remaining 4 ounces chocolate in a microwaveable glass measuring cup. Microwave on high at 30-second intervals stirring occasionally, until mixture is smooth. Spread over top of cooled tart. Let stand 30 minutes or until set.

For more such delightful recipes visit my website:http://everydayyardsale.com/

Top 10 Foods Highest in Fiber

Intake of foods rich in fiber has a plethora of health benefits. This includes preventing constipation, hemorrhoids, decreasing blood cholesterol levels and it is the safest way to loss weight. Eating food rich in fiber also prevents obesity. The International Food Information Council Foundation 2012 Food & Health Survey was conducted by Mathew Greenwald & Associates of Washington, D.C. According to this survey, nearly all Americans report that they are trying to improve at least one aspect of their eating habits, and nearly nine in ten (87%) have tried to eat more fruits and vegetables.

http://www.foodinsight.org/Resources/Detail.aspx?topic=2012_IFIC_Foundation_Food_Health_Survey_Media_Resources

Women should get about 25 grams a day and men at least 35 to 40, but the average person gets just 15 grams a day. Eating fiber-rich whole foods -- not foods that tout "added fiber" -- is the best way to increase your fiber intake, says Carolyn Brown, R.D., a nutritionist at Food-trainers, in New York City.

Here we have listed top 10 foods high in fiber and that should be included in your diet at least once in a week.

1. Nuts- Almonds, hazelnuts, pecans and pistachios are high in fiber. Almonds provide 12.2g per 100 gram serving. This followed by pistachios, hazelnuts, and finally pecans.

2. Sun-dried Tomatoes - These are rich in iron and potassium. 100 grams of sun-dried tomatoes provides 12.3g (49% DV) of fiber.

3. Sunflower seeds - You can add these seeds in your salads or you can snack on them. They are a great source of vitamin E, iron, vitamin B1 (thiamin), B6, protein, magnesium, manganese, selenium, potassium, and copper. Sunflower seeds provide 10.6g of fiber per 100 gram serving.

4. Beans - Beans such as white, French, Navy and kidney are great source of fiber. Navy beans are followed by white beans, yellow beans, French beans, and finally kidney beans which provide 38.7g of fiber per cup.

5. Flax Seeds and Sesame Seeds - These seeds are great source of healthy dietary fiber. Cooking oil is produced from these seeds are considered to keep your heart healthy. Flax seeds provide 27.3g of fiber per 100 gram serving. Toasted sesame seeds provide 14g per 100 gram serving.

6. Roasted Soybeans - They make a great snack. Studies say that dry roasted soybeans provide 17.7g of fiber per 100 gram serving.

7. Cocoa Powder - It is a good source of iron and potassium. A spoon full of cocoa powder provides 33.2g of fiber. Dark baking chocolate will provide 16.6g per 100g serving.

8. Bran - Bran of corn, wheat, rice and oat are high in fiber and is one of the richest sources of vitamin B6 and magnesium. Corn bran provides the most dietary fiber of any food with 85.6g per 100 gram serving. While Rice and Wheat bran provide 25g of fiber per cup. Oat bran provides around 14.5g per cup.

9. Herbs, Spices and Peppers - Peppers, herbs and spices are power houses of vitamins and minerals. Make it a habit of adding spices, herbs and paprika to your daily diet. 

10. Fruits such as apples, Avocado, Bananas and Berries are the highest fiber fruits. Try to include at least one of the fruits in your daily diet. Instead of a sugary dessert try to have an apple or a banana.

 I enjoy writing for my website: http://everydayyardsale.com

How to Have Glowing Skin

Some people are blessed with naturally glowing skin. However, for most of us, we have to make the best of our skin. To have a glowing skin we have to make a few sacrifices and work a bit harder than those who have been blessed with glowing skin.
Drink plenty of water – This is the first and foremost thing that you need to do. At least eight to 10 glasses of water daily will not only remove the toxins but also replenish the lost water content.
Have proper sleep- If you do not have your beauty sleep, your eyes are bound to have black circles. This will give a dull look to your face.
Wash your face with gentle soap- Use the soap that suits your skin type. Rinse off the soap lather with plenty of water. Softly pat dry your face with a soft towel. Ensure to wash the make up before going to bed at night.
Consume plenty of fruits- Eat fruits that are rich in vitamin C such as oranges, papaya, sweet potatoes, guava, broccoli and grapes. The vitamin C produces collagen which strengthens the capillaries and make the skin glow.
Use Homemade scrubs – Homemade scrubs made from fruits and vegetables are more reliable because they contain no harmful chemicals. Exfoliating your skin once a week using homemade scrubs is a good idea to remove dead and dull skin. Apply honey on your face and neck. It is an anti-tanning agent. Leave it for about 15 minutes. Then wash your face and neck with cold water to get smooth, glowing skin.
Use only gentle cleansers- Use a non-soap product to wash your face. Use ones that suit your skin type and stick to that brand.
Sunscreen is necessary – Protect your skin using SPF 30. Use it daily. Apply it 30 minutes before going out.
Glowing Skin Diet
To get a glowing skin, you must have diet that is natural and nutritious. Your diet must be rich in minerals and vitamins. Try including these nutrients in your daily diet.

• Vitamin C – lemons, cabbage, parsley, guavas, oranges etc. will give a fantastic glow to your dull skin.
• Vitamin E – Seeds of safflower, sunflower, almonds and cod oil.
• Vitamin A – carrots, spinach and leafy greens, oranges, tomatoes, apricots.

Avoid using makeup on your face, as this can harm your skin in the long run. Be as natural as possible.

Visit:http://everydayyardsale.com/

Looking Out for Summer Jobs, Teens?

 

 Summer jobs are the ways in which to keep yourself occupied and at the same time earn some morning doing what interests you most. However, one thing a teen have to keep in mind is that he/she should opt for a summer job that fits the current skill sets. With summer just a couple of months away this is the right time for the teens to start looking out for summer jobs. Here are a few summer job ideas.

Hospitality Industry - If you are living in resort towns and there are vacation rental apartments, you can seek out opportunities for housekeeping and front office jobs at local hotels. There will be fast food restaurants which require additional help for waiting and cleaning the tables, scoop ice-cream and so on.

Amusement Park Jobs - Water parks and amusement parks hire teenagers as ride monitors, ticket collectors and life guards. If you can play musical instruments, sing and dance, these parks will be more than willing to hire you for the light entertainment.

Camp Counselor - If you are an outdoor person and have natural leadership qualities, you can apply for the post of camp counselor in your local camp office. Apart from getting paid to spend your time outdoors, you are also picking up skills such as leadership, communication and conflict resolution. These skills are something that is required in your future life.

Retail Sales - If you are interested in sales and marketing, you can look out for jobs in grocery stores, super markets. Depending on the type of work you can make up to $15 per hour.

Life Guard - If you are over 15 years and are a strong swimmer, life guarding is a challenging position that would be in demand during the summer months. However, this job requires a high level of maturity and professionalism.

Landscaping and gardening- If you are interested in gardening and planning to make it a career in the future, you can enroll for a landscaping job with a local landscaping business. You can mow the lawns and tend the plants and get paid as well.

Tutoring - Those who wish to become teachers can take up tutoring. Those who are proficient with computers can even give lessons to adults. There is great demand for math and language tutors. You can take up assignments to teach students of grades lower than yours.

Baby Sitting- If you have affinity towards babies and children and know how to handle them, then this is the right kind of summer job.

The bottom line is getting a perfect summer job of your liking and interest is going to take a lot of planning. You should examine the various opportunities that are available around you choose accordingly.
Visit: http://everydayyardsale.com/

How to Choose your Vacation Rental

Are you planning to take a couple of week off this summer with your family and children on vacation? If you are not interested in staying any of the commercial hotels or motels, then you have two options. One is house swapping or looking out for vacation rentals. If you are planning for a trip with children it is always advisable to take a vacation rental in your place of visit. The reasons are many - it will be more convenient, pocket friendly and comfortable.

A vacation rental is like a home away from home and gives you the flexibility of being able to cook your own food and at the same time enjoy holidays. Many of the vacation rentals are close to the restaurants and shopping areas. Here we look at how to choose your vacation rentals.

The Questions to Keep in Mind
Once you have decided your vacation dates and place, it is time to look out for a good vacation rental apartment.

Choose the location of your vacation rental apartment carefully- Take time to search for the location of the rentals using tools such as Google Earth. This will give you an idea of the proximity of the shopping areas, local doctor's clinic, pharmacy and other things.

Size of the rentals - Before zeroing in on the rentals, you need to know the size of the apartment. Keep your requirements in mind and do not get carried away with savings that you become blinded to your needs.

Keep the amenities in mind -While on a vacation you will be spending most of your waking time outside the house. Ensure that your vacation spot offers the amenities such as markets, restaurants and laundry. Do not forget the doctor's office. These are some of the basic amenities you will need during your vacation. Keep these things in mind while planning your vacation rental accordingly.

Other things to keep in mind are the deposit that is required to be paid, the refund policy if there is a cancellation. Whether the deposit is to be paid by cash or credit card? What is included in the rental fee? For instance, the utility bills, cleaning and laundry. How often is the apartment cleaned? Also get the details of the appliances that are included.

Whether you plan to book through travel firms or through one of the portals, you need to take time out to research on the various vacation rental policies before settling for one.
Visit:http://everydayyardsale.com/