Watermelon- Summer's Delight

Watermelon is the typical fruit to quench the parching throat on a hot summer afternoon.The juice of watermelon  protects the skin from the sun. It also clears and cleanses the skin keeping it healthy and glowing.Watermelons are know to have originated in Africa,tracing it’s origins to the Kalahari deserts. It is noteworthy to mention here,that many centuries ago,watermelons were placed in tombs of the Egyptian kings to nourish them after life.(reference-woman’s magazine). Hence from Egypt, water melons spread along the Mediterranean sea by way of trade .It is a common summer crop and is widely cultivated throughout the world today.There are a variety of water melons produced each year.It consists of 93 per cent water.One or two servings of water melon a day is recommended as it is a multi vitamin fruit and contains Vitamin A B6 and C and also potassium and Iron.A variety of  recipes  can be prepared with this succulent fruit .Many love to indulge in the delightful deserts  made with this luscious fruit. During summer when it is  the peak time for tourism in many countries  chefs around the world display their gastronomic skills, displaying carved fruits and vegetables to the amazement of their guests and  visitors.Also others with a flair for art  come out with innovative  ideas and carve beautiful creations out of watermelons.This giant fruit   takes a prominent place  in my kitchen during Summer..

For easy cleaning –Place an old  sheet of newspaper on the kitchen counter  when you cut water melon.This is an easy way to discard the residue.

More on water melons- Farmers In Japan Creates Square-Shaped Watermelons

What Is Acidity?

Though some may not have a deep understanding about it, they probably may know someone  who  experience it. Most likely you must have  heard of acidity. What is acidity - those who have not experienced it  may wonder . Acidity  takes place when there is an  excess secretion of  gastric acid in your body, leaving you with  a burning sensation in your throat or a bitter and sour  taste in your mouth.This is a condition that affects the digestive system. However, this  is an uncomplicated problem that could go out of control when you ignore it. There are many causes for the acidity levels to elevate in your body. Stress could be defined as one of the main cause to aggravate the situation. However, high intake of fatty and spicy food,refined and fibres foods, overeating and eating hurriedly ,could further lift the acidity levels in your body .It is also known that excessive intake of caffeine  helps to build up  the acid in the body. Other causes that intentify the acid level may be due to pregnancy,aging,anxiety and obesity .During my pregnancies, I experienced heartburn. And I was advised to eat and drink a lot of cooling food. Eating banana,watermelon and cucumber gives instant  relief . On the other hand, altering   erratic meal times and bad eating habits help prevent acid reflux.  In any case, consult your doctor  if symptoms persists.

Here are some home remedies to ease the acidity.

Chew a few basil leaves.Repeat every hour till the acidity subsides

A common remedy is to drink coconut water.Drink this 3-4 times a day.

Have plenty of milk and milk products.A cold glass of  milk or a cup of ice-cream could be taken for instant relief.

Fresh mint juice prevents  acid reflux.Water controls the acidity.Drink water with a teaspoon of honey every morning.

Drink herbal tea.

Take lots of cumin seed and ginger- boiled in water.

Eat meals in small quantity and do not gulp the food .

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