“An apple a day keeps the doctor away”?but why? Do you really know what makes an apple so special? Why is it that we never hear an orange or a banana a day keeps the doctor away?
Apples have properties that no other fruits have and its benefits have been proven overtime. You will be able to get the benefits of these properties individually with other fruits, but an apple combines everything and makes it simpler. It has been shown over and over that if it’s not simple, easy and fast, people won’t take care of their health.

1-Apple contains Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps greatly your immune system. A lot of people who lack Vitamin C in their diet have poor healing, bruise easily and have bleeding gums.

2-Prevent Heart Diseases. The reason it can prevent both coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease is because apples are rich in flavonoid. Flavonoids are also known for their antioxidant effects.

3-Low in calories. A regular size apple has between 70-100 calories. Eating an apple when craving for candy or chocolate can make the desire disappear since apple in itself contains sugar, but gives you only ? of the calories.

4-Prevent Cancers. Notice the plural. We all know that cancer comes in several forms and in different places. Apples target multiple cancers such as colon cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer in women.

5-Apples contain phenols, which have a double effect on cholesterol. It reduces bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. They prevent LDL cholesterol from turning into oxidized LDL, a very dangerous form of bad cholesterol which can be deadly.

6-Prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is an infection that seriously damages the structure of your teeth, which is caused primarily because of bacteria. The juice of the apples has properties that can kill up to 80% of bacteria. So there you have it, an apple a day also keeps the dentist away!

7-Protects your brain from brain disease. This is something many people don’t know, and when you consider that your brain makes the person you are, it gives a whole new perspective. Apple has substances called phytonutrients, and these phytonutrients prevents neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinsonism.

8-Healthier Lungs. A research at the University of Nottingham Research shows that people who eat 5 apples or more per week has lower respiratory problems, including asthma.

9-They taste great! And not only that, they also come in many flavors and colors. Not in a mood for a green apple? Why not get a red one, or a macintosh! Their taste can vary greatly, but still give you all the apple benefits. Variety is an important element to maintaining your health.

On average, Americans consume around 20 pounds of apples a year, which comes to around 1 apple a week. Unfortunately, while an apple a week is better than nothing, it is nowhere close to being able to extract all the advantages apples have to offer. Eating apples is part of balanced and healthy diet than will increase your longevity, so why limit yourself to only 1 per week?

Nutritional Information

1. Apple is a rich source of flavonoid and polyphenols both are powerful antioxidant.
2. Study shown that by eating 100g of apple can give an antioxidant effect that equal to taking about 1,500mg of vitamin C.
3. Apple contain a large amount of minerals and vitamins that can strengthen the blood.
4. Apple contain malic acid and tartaric acid, that can help prevent disturbances of the liver and digestion.
5. Apple cider vinegar when used as beverage can help to prevent the formation of kidney stone.
6. The skin of Apple contain pectin that can help remove toxic substances from the system by supplying galacturonic acid. Pectin helps prevent protein matter in the intestine from spoiling.
7. Eating an apple daily can lower cholesterol and reduce skin diseases.

Apples have been recommended for : Obesity, Headache, Arthritis, Bronchial asthma, Inflammation of the bladder, Gonorrhea, Anemia, Tuberculosis, Neuritis, Insomnia, Catarrh, Gallbladder stones, Worms, Halithosis, Pyorrhea

Nutritive Values : Per 100 grams

* Vitamin A : 900 I.U.
* Vitamin B : Thiamine .07 mg.;
* Vitamin C : 5 mg.
* Vitamin G : Amount uncertain
* Calcium : 6 mg.
* Iron : 3 mg.
* Phosphorus : 10 mg.
* Potassium : 130 mg.
* Carbohydrates : 14.9 gm.
* Calories : 58

Watermelon is an amazing fruit, which can work wonders for your skin. It acts as a natural
moisturizer as well as a toner and keeps the skin cool, glowing and fresh.

The best way to beat the heat of summers is to indulge oneself in the consumption of the thirst-quenching watermelon. Not only is it a great fruit in summers, it is also a healthy fruit which helps in providing protection from various diseases due to its high nutritional quality. Along with being sweet and juicy, watermelon is packed with important antioxidants which can help in the prevention of various problems like kidney stones, heart diseases and cancers amongst others.

Watermelons are rich in potassium which helps in controlling blood pressure thereby ensuring the health of one’s heart. Moreover, it also helps in preventing strokes along with reducing the risk of kidney stones and age related bone loss. Watermelons are a good source of Vitamin C and vitamin A which help in neutralizing free radicals thereby reducing the risk of heart disease, asthma and colon cancer along with helping in alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This sweet and juicy fruit is also rich in carotenoids like lycopene, beta-carotene and others. These carotenoids have antioxidant properties which reduce risk of prostate and oral cancer along with providing protection against cardiovascular disorders.

Watermelons are a good way of increasing one’s energy levels as they are rich in B vitamins which are necessary for energy production. Since this fruit has a higher water content and lower calorie content than other fruits, it has the ability to deliver more nutrients per calorie which makes it an excellent health product. In addition, the seeds of watermelon are excellent sources of protein. It is also rich in micro and macro nutrients like magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus and zinc.

According to a research, eating 3 or more servings of this sweet and healthy fruit can help in lowering the risk of age-related muscular degeneration which is the primary cause of vision loss in older adults. In addition, this nutritious fruit helps in preventing erectile dysfunction and helps in improving insulin sensitivity. Looking at so many health benefits of this delicious tasting sweet and cool fruit, one can find no reason to stay away from it.

The Smartest Pick for Losing Weight

Packed with vitamins and minerals the watermelon is labeled as one of the healthiest fruit. Low in calories and fat free, watermelon is prescribed as an ideal diet food.

The battle of the bulge could be won with the sweet and juicy melons that can be served as a lip smacking dessert or a snack without adding to the bulge. Hence the watermelon diet is the perfect choice of an ideal weight loss program.

Fight Fatigue and Keep Your Metabolism in High Gear with Water Melons

On a typical summer day watermelons are extremely refreshing as they have very high water content, 92% water and 8% sugar.

Rich in electrolytes (sodium and potassium) this wonder fruit amazingly nourishes your body. It not only replaces the electrolytes lost through sweat but also hydrates your cells and maintains the water balance in the cells. Metabolism is boosted as the functionality of the cells is increased, ultimately energizing your body.

The 4 great fatigue fighters - Potassium, Vitamin C, lycopene and iron found in watermelon drives away any feeling of fatigue you may experience.

Are You Stressed Out? Relax And Chill Out With Water Melon Juice Or Cubes

Watermelon is a ‘sensational’ stress buster says a research. Watermelon is high in vitamin B6- and is used by the body to produce brain chemicals, which may relieve stress, anxiety and panic attacks. It naturally relaxes the blood vessels without any drug side effects.

Add Spice To Your Marital Life With Water Melons:

The popular summer fruit may be a natural Viagra say research scientists. The luscious summer fruit is rich in an amino acid called citrulline. Citrulline relaxes and dilates blood vessels very much like Viagra and other drugs that are used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).

The Jackfruit tree though native to these countries, has found its way to the tropics of the Caribbean and the Americas over the years. Jackfruit is therefore popular in countries such as Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados.

And although many who eat jackfruit love it for its delicious taste, quite a few are unaware of the health benefits of jackfruit. Jackfruit contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, potassium, iron, sodium, zinc and niacin among many other nutrients. Jackfruit also benefits one’s health as it has a low caloric content: 100 grams of jackfruit only contains 94 calories.

Jackfruit is a rich source of potassium with 303 milligram found in 100 grams of jackfruit. Studies show that food rich in potassium helps to lower blood pressure. Therefore, jackfruit has the health benefit of providing relief for anyone who suffers from high blood pressure.

Another benefit of eating jackfruit is that it is a good source of Vitamin C. The human body does not make Vitamin C naturally so we must eat food that contains Vitamin C to reap its health benefits. The health benefits of Vitamin C are that it is an antioxidant that protects the body against free radicals, Vitamin C holds the cells in our bodies together, and Vitamin C strengthens our immune systems and keeps our gums healthy.

Jackfruit contains phytonutrients: lignans, isoflavones and saponins which have health benefits that are wide ranging. These phytonutrients have anti-cancer, antihypertensive, anti-ulcer and anti-ageing properties. The phytonutrients found in jackfruit, therefore, can prevent cancer cells from forming in the body, can lower blood pressure, can fight against stomach ulcers and can slow down the degeneration of cells that make the skin look young and vital.

Jackfruit root has been found to help those suffering from asthma. Boiling the root of the jackfruit and extracting its high nutritional content has been found to control asthma. Jackfruit also benefits the body in that jackfruit root can also be used to treat skin problems. The extract of jackfruit root is also believed to be able to help cure diarrhea and fever.

If you want to take advantage of the many health benefits of the jackfruit, improving your overall health, happiness and well being you can find jackfruit in many Asian and Caribbean food stores or supermarkets.

The jackfruit is:

* Low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium
* High in Vitamin C and Manganese

The nutritional value of jackfruit makes it ideal for:

* Maintaining optimum health
* Weight gain
It's OK to include some jackfruit in your diet if you're interested in:

* Weight loss

Nutritional Value of Jackfruit

Given below is the amount of nutrients in 100 gm of jackfruit:


* Sodium - 3 mg
* Total Carbohydrates - 24 g
* Dietary Fiber - 2 g
* Protein - 1 g
* Vitamin A - 297 IU
* Vitamin C - 6.7 mg
* Thiamin - 0.03 mg
* Riboflavin - 0.11 mg
* Niacin - 0.4 mg
* Vitamin B6 - 0.108 mg
* Folate - 14 mcg
* Calcium - 34 mg
* Iron - 0.6 mg
* Magnesium - 37 mg
* Phosphorus - 36 mg
* Potassium - 303 mg
* Sodium - 3 mg
* Zinc - 0.42 mg
* Copper - 0.187 mg
* Manganese - 0.197 mg
* Selenium - 0.6 mcg
* Total Fat - 0.3 mg
* Saturated Fat - 0.063 mg
* Monounsaturated Fat - 0.044 mg
* Polyunsaturated Fat - 0.086 mg
* Calories - 94

Health & Nutrition Benefits of Eating Jackfruit:

* Being rich in potassium, jackfruit helps in the lowering of the blood pressure.
* The extract of Jackfruit root is believed to help cure fever as well as diarrhea.
* Jackfruit contains phytonutrients, with health benefits ranging from anti-cancer to antihypertensive.
* Jackfruit root has been found to be beneficial for those suffering from asthma.
* The root of jackfruit is said to be good for the treatment of a number of skin problems.
* Jackfruit has been found to have anti-ageing, antioxidant and anti-ulcer properties.

STRAWBERRIES AND HEALTH

We all know strawberries are delicious, but they are also nutritious, and ideally should be a part of everyone's daily diet. You'll enjoy some health advantages by eating strawberries regularly, and the best part is strawberries are one of the most delicious fruits.

Strawberries contain a range of nutrients, with vitamin C heading the group. They also contain significant levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants, which fight free radicals. These antioxidant properties are believed to be linked to what makes the strawberry bright red.

So what are these weird free radicals? Free radicals are elements that can damage cells, and they are thought to contribute to the formation of many kinds of cancer.

In addition to vitamin C, strawberries also provide an excellent source of vitamin K and manganese, as well as folic acid, potassium, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, copper, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Strawberries are among the most versatile of fresh fruits. Unfortunately, they are quite perishable as well. So purchase fresh strawberries only a few days before they are to be eaten. When strawberries are in season locally this is rarely a problem. But at other times of the year, it may be necessary to make due with frozen strawberries, which lose much if not all of their nutrition.

At the produce section choose strawberries that are plump firm and free of mold and have a deep red color. Unlike other fruits, strawberries do not continue to ripen after they are picked, so be sure to choose the ripest, reddest strawberries, as they will provide the best taste and the highest nutrient density. Many people find that medium sized strawberries are sweeter and more flavorful than larger ones. When buying pre-packaged strawberries, be sure that the berries have not been packed too tightly, as this could cause them to be crushed or otherwise damaged.

Handle strawberries properly and store them well after they have been purchased. Like all fruit, strawberries should be washed thoroughly prior to eating or storage. Any strawberries that show signs of mold should be discarded at once, as they will contaminate the remaining strawberries. The strawberries should be placed in a bowl, covered with plastic wrap, and kept in the refrigerator. Fresh strawberries will keep in the fridge for a few days.

Researchers have found that strawberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related declines in brain function.

The health benefits of strawberry include the following:

* Eye Care: The primary reasons for almost all the problems of eyes are free radicals and deficiency of certain nutrients. With the growing age and lack of these protective nutrients, the harmful oxidants or free radicals cast heavy damage on our eyes, such as drying up of eyes, degeneration of optical nerves, Macular degeneration, vision defects and make them prone to infections too. The anti oxidants such as vitamin-C, Flavonoids, Phenolic Phytochemicals and Elagic Acid, present in strawberries can help avoid this situation to a great extent. One more factor is ocular pressure, i.e. the pressure of the eyes. Any disturbance in it is also harmful for the eyes. Here too, strawberries are helpful as they contain potassium, which help maintain right pressure.
* Arthritis and Gout: The degeneration of muscles and tissues, drying up of the fluid which help mobility of the joints and accumulation of toxic substances and acids (such as uric acid) in the body are some of the ill effects of free radicals present in our body, which are primarily responsible for Arthritis and Gout. Strawberries, with their team of anti oxidants and detoxifiers, can effectively help push away such health hazards forever. It is a famous saying in India that a serving of any fruit a day will remove the rust from the joints. It is very true for strawberries.
* Cancer: Vitamin-C, Folate and Anthocyanin, Quercetin and Kaempferol (few of the many Flavonoids in strawberries which possess excellent anti oxidant and anti carcinogenic properties) together form an excellent team to fight cancer and tumor. A daily intake of strawberries is seen to have remarkably brought down the growth of cancerous cells.
* Brain Function: It is a very common observation that old people tend to lose their memory and control over their activities, limbs etc. This is because of aging of their brain and the nervous system. Actually, the free radicals, the agents very much responsible for aging, have a very adverse effect on these systems. Due to them, the brain tissues start degenerating and the nerves get weaker. Strawberries can help you out. The vitamin-C and the phytochemicals in them neutralize the effect of these oxidants and also rejuvenate the system. One more thing, strawberries are rich in iodine too, which is very helpful for proper functioning of the brain and nervous system.
* High Blood Pressure: Strawberries are very good in potassium and magnesium content, both of which are very effective in lowering high blood pressure caused by sodium.
* Heart Diseases: High fiber, Folate, no fats and high anti oxidants such as vitamin-C and those phytochemicals (Flavonoids) together form an ideal cardiac health pack, as they effectively reduce cholesterol. Some of the members of the vitamin-B family present in strawberries also strengthen the cardiac muscles and help better functioning of the heart.
* Other Benefits: Folate is known to protect from birth-defects. Vitamin-C effectively prevents from infections and cold. The phytonutrients also have anti inflammatory properties. Wait! I forgot to tell you about the best benefit. The strawberry preserve tastes just awesome.

Tips to Control Smoking

We do bad things although we know we should not. Nobody knows why? Actually it is not our folly. It falls under the category of things which are beyond our control.

We all know the remedies to lose weight and to quit smoking like good eating habits, exercise .Yet we cannot help ourselves although we desire it. If we talk about the chain smokers, there are many who control themselves but cannot completely quit the habit.

The reason is bad temptations. They do every possible thing to keep themselves away from smoking but there is something which acts like a magnetic force and held them back like two opposites constantly attracting each other.
Let us try to find out the answer:

Can we name out some people who are truly happy and serious about their work? Unfortunately the figure is very less. We live in an aura made of our own where we do not feel need to deal with the major issues. It consists of special things which contribute a lot to distract us. We often forget about our ambitions which once we had nurtured in childhood like becoming a doctor, an artist.

This forgetting results in unhappy, unsuccessful and frustrated individuals. They boil their inner self without knowing their problem and what advertisers do? They take benefits of these fears and fulfill their interests by selling us deceptive happiness.

But what about our true needs?

We are either afraid to fulfill them or we disassociate ourselves from it to such an extent that we never think of them again.

One easy way which we opt to escape the problems is we make bad habits our companion as incase of smokers. If they have some family quarrel then they will take up smoking not because of the nicotine temptation but due to their incapability of resolving the problem.

When we come face to face with our problems we feel they want us to pay them attention. The surprising fact is if we really want to give attention to them then only we will feel the need of smoking because we know our ‘void'. We can solve our problem by taking following easy steps:

Try to listen to your inner voice.

Meditation is great and will surely help.

Do not smoke while you are consuming alcohol. It may be that you drink because you want to feel relaxed. If you smoke, the relaxation brought on by alcohol will be slow, and so you get to drink excessively. It is against the law to not drive when you had a drink. There is a very acceptable reason for that so obey! If you have already tried these tips to control alcohol intake and even some other but still cannot get over your drinking problems, then you need serious help. Join reformative groups, or ask the services of a counsellor, or consult a physician.

One should go for a walk by himself listening to his inner self.
We must check ourselves where we are avoiding our problems and what we instantly need. Method of figuring out is different for everyone's but we should try to work on it and not to give it.

When you’ve reached the target day, throw away all your cigarettes and cigarette paraphernalia. Once you do, you will experience withdrawal symptoms- cravings, irritability, unrest, etc. Take note that this is your body healing itself. It is now time for the 3rd phase of these tips to control smoking. You have to stay away from smoking forever. You can do this by engaging in distractions. Exercise, treat yourself as a celebration, drink water, and avoid alcohol and other caffeine-containing substances. Hold other things so you do not miss the feel of the cigarette in your hands.

Frequent non-smoking places, bask in your family and friends’ support, maintain good grooming especially brushing teeth, and try appreciating more the things around you. If you succeed, not only would it be goodbye smoking but also hello to a new and better you!

First-Aid Tips

Cuts and Scrapes

Small cuts and scrapes usually don't demand a visit to the emergency room of your local hospital, but proper care is
necessary to keep infections or other complications from occurring.

When dealing with minor wounds, keep the following guidelines in
mind:

1. Stop the bleeding by applying pressure using a gauze pad or clean cloth. If the bleeding persists after several
minutes of applying pressure, get immediate medical attention.

2. Keep the wound clean by washing the area with mild soap and water and removing any dirt. Dry the area
gently with a clean cloth, and cover the wound with a protective bandage. Change the bandage at least once a
day. If the wound becomes tender to the touch and red or oozes fluid, see your doctor.

3. If your cut is more serious and the bleeding does not stop on its own or the cut is large, deep, or rough on the
edges, try to stop the bleeding by applying pressure directly to the injury using a sterilized gauze pad or clean
cloth. Maintain pressure on the wound until the bleeding stops. Then consult your physician. A tetanus booster
may be required if you haven't had one for a while.


Severe Bleeding

To stop serious bleeding, follow these steps:

1. Lay the affected person down. If possible, the person's head should be slightly lower than the trunk of his or her body or the legs should be elevated. This position increases blood flow to the brain. Elevate the site of bleeding, if possible to reduce the blood flow.

2. Do not attempt to clean the wound.

3. Apply steady, firm pressure directly to the wound using a sterile bandage, a clean cloth, or your hand. Maintain
pressure until the bleeding stops, then wrap the wound with a tight dressing and secure it with adhesive tape. Most bleeding can be controlled this way. Call for emergency help immediately.

4. If the bleeding continues and seeps through the bandage, add more absorbent material. Do not remove the first
bandage.

5. If the bleeding does not stop, apply pressure to the major artery that delivers blood to the area of the injury (see Major Arterial Pressure Points).

6. When the bleeding has stopped, immobilize the injured portion of the body. You can use another part of the body, such as a leg or torso, to immobilize the area. Leave the bandages in place and take the person for
immediate medical attention or call for emergency help.

Nosebleed

A nosebleed is sudden bleeding from one or both nostrils, and may result from a variety of events: a punch in the nose, breathing dry air, allergies, or for no apparent reason. To stop the flow of blood from a common nosebleed, use these steps:

1. Sit or stand upright to slow the flow of blood in the veins of the nose. Do not tip your head back.

2. Pinch your nose with your thumb and forefinger for 10 minutes without relieving pressure. Breathe through your mouth during this time.

3. If the bleeding continues despite these efforts, consult your doctor.


Shock

A variety of symptoms appear in a person experiencing shock:

1. The skin may appear pale or gray, and is cool and clammy to the touch.

2. The heartbeat is weak and rapid, and breathing is slow and shallow. The blood pressure is reduced.

3. The eyes lack shine and seem to stare. Sometimes the pupils are dilated.

4. The person may be conscious or unconscious. If conscious, the person may faint or be very weak or confused.
On the other hand, shock sometimes causes a person to become overly excited and anxious.

Even if a person seems normal after an injury, take precautions and treat the person for shock by following these steps:

1. Get the person to lie down on his or her back and elevate the feet higher than the person's head. Keep the
person from moving unnecessarily.

2. Keep the person warm and comfortable. Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket. Do not
give the person anything to drink.

3. If the person is vomiting or bleeding from the mouth, place the person on his or her side to prevent choking.

4. Treat any injuries appropriately (bleeding, broken bones, etc.).

5. Summon emergency medical assistance immediately.


Burns

Burns can be caused by fire, the sun, chemicals, heated objects or fluids, and electricity. They can be minor problems or life-threatening emergencies. Distinguishing a minor burn from a more serious burn involves determining the degree of damage to the tissues of the body. If you are not sure how serious the burn is,
seek emergency medical help.

First-degree burns are those in which only the outer layer of skin is burned. The skin is usually red and some swelling and pain may occur. Unless the burn involves large portions of the body, it can be treated at home.

Second-degree burns are those in which the first layer of skin has been burned through and the second layer of skin is also burned. In these burns, the skin reddens intensely and blisters develop. Severe pain and swelling also occur. If a second-degree burn is no larger than 2 or 3 inches in diameter, it can be treated at home. If the burn covers a larger area, seek medical attention. You may need a tetanus booster.

Third-degree burns are the most serious and involve all layers of skin. Fat, nerves, muscles, and even bones may be affected. Areas may be charred black or appear a dry white. If nerve damage is substantial, there may be no pain at all. These burns should receive emergency medical attention.

Follow these steps when treating minor burns at home:

1.If the skin is not broken, run cool water over the burn for several minutes.

2.Cover the burn with a sterile bandage or clean cloth.

3.Take aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve any swelling or pain.

Seek emergency treatment immediately for major burns. Until an emergency unit arrives, follow these steps:

1. Remove the person from the source of the burn (fire, electrical current, etc.).

2. If the person is not breathing, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation immediately (see Mouth-to-Mouth
Resuscitation).

3. Remove all smoldering clothing to stop further burning.

4. If the person is breathing sufficiently, cover the burned area with a cool, moist, sterile bandage or clean cloth. Do not place any creams, ointments or ice on the burned area or break blisters.

Eye Injuries

Impaled Objects

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE OBJECT. Stabilize the impaled object by placing bulky dressings on each side of the object and then securing the dressings together, or by placing a paper cup over the object and then securing to the face.


Foreign Bodies

Foreign bodies such as dirt, sand, wood or metal chips may cause tearing. Tearing may rid the eye of the foreign body. If the object remains in the eye, have the victim blink several times. If the object still remains in the eye, gently flush the eye with water.


FIRST AID MEASURES FOR SHARPS, BITES AND SCRATCHES


Avoid injury from blood borne viruses

Adopt the following principles to prevent injury from blood borne viruses

• Treat all blood as potentially dangerous
• Remember anyone can be infected with HIV, Hepatitis B and C virus and anyone can be involved in an accident
• Wear gloves where contact with blood/body fluids is expected
• Wash hands before and after using gloves
• Take sharps box and injection to the patient
• Dispose of the needle and syringe immediately after use into the sharps box with the needle pointing downwards
• Ensure you know which patients are known “biters and scratchers” and treat them with caution
• Cover all body fluid spillages with “Virkon” granules and leave for 10 minutes. Brush up and dispose of into clinical waste bag/bin
• If you are at risk of exposure to blood and/or body fluids consider Hepatitis B immunisation


If you are injured by a used/dirty sharp or bite, immediately:

• encourage the area to bleed
• wash the area with soap and water
• apply a waterproof dressing
• splashes should be washed from eyes and mouth with water
• report the incident to the manager in charge of the department and complete an Adverse Incident Report Form
• as soon as possible arrange to attend Occupational Health for advice or attend Accident and Emergency
• If an injury has occurred from a known HIV, Hepatitis B or C patient, go immediately to Accident and Emergency and inform Occupational Health and Infection Control.

Healthy Pregnancy Tips

Gillian McKeith's Healthy Pregnancy Tips

Pregnancy is a very exciting time but it also sees your body going through some major changes. Now you are eating for two you need to pay extra attention to your diet if you want to stay healthy and give your baby the best start in life.

Female First spoke to top nutritionist Gillian McKeith to get some top healthy pregnancy tips....

"It's very important to eat healthy in the early stages of pregnancy because your baby is growing rapidly at this time," says Gillian, "You want to make sure you are eating a wide variety of food to ensure your are getting all the nutrients you and your baby need."

Morning Sickness

"Obviously what you eat depends on how sick you feel.Don't worry too much if you don't feel like you can eat because the baby will take everything it needs from you regardless. So it's you that is going to suffer not the baby."

"The whole reason you get morning sickness is because your body is not adapting to the high levels of hormones. Peppermint and chamomile teas are great for settling the stomach but nettle tea will also help the liver and raise iron levels. Rye crackers and oat cakes are also good for morning sickness."


"Do not eat lots of ginger despite what they say. Ginger is widely used for it's anti-nausea affects so it's great if you are car sick or anything like that but it can be dangerous in early pregnancy," warns Gillian.

"Ginger is helpful if it's candied in a little sweet or grated onto salad every now and then. But ginger capsules should not be taken during pregnancy because they can bring about a miscarriage. You would have to take quite a lot for this to happen but some people don't realise and take too much. Like I said it's fine to have a little bit grated into tea every other day but not all the time because it can cause too much movement in the body."

Super Smoothies and Juices

"You want to eat fresh fruit and vegetable daily because these are the best sources of vitamins and antioxidants," advises Gillian.

"If you really can't manage to eat but you can drink ok then fresh pressed juices are great. Smoothies are very easy to make and are a great way of getting vitamins into the body easily and quickly. "

Protein for Healthy Growth

"You also want to eat lots of protein while you're pregnant so try and eat things like tofu, beans and lots of plant based foods which are great for protein and are alternatives to animal products.

"Also chicken and turkey are great too, as is fish but don't overdo it on the tuna because of the high mercury content."

"You can also eat pumpkin seeds and hemp seeds to get protein."

Calcium and Magnesium

"You also need to eat lots of green leafy vegetable because you need calcium and magnesium in the body. Chickpeas are also a great source of calcium and so are dried figs and almonds."

"Avocado sushi is a fab way to get goodness into yourself. Get a sheet of nori and mash up some avocado and vegetables and wrap it up. It's a great alternative to a sandwich."

Essential Iron

"The biggest thing in pregnancy is that your need for iron increases because you blood volume is growing so much."

"Most people think that means they need to eat loads of red meat but that's not strictly true. A lot of red meats are full of rubbish and saturated fat anyway."

"Things like millet, chickpeas, lentils, chicken, raisins and prune juice are also high in iron. A great way to raise your iron levels is drinking nettle tea. It's a great choice for vegetarians and vegans."

"You also want to increase your absorption of iron too so you need to eat things that are high in vitamin C so things like blueberries, raspberries and strawberries- any fruit contains vitamin C."

Folic Acid

"You also need to make sure you have enough folic acid. It's not just about popping pills either. Asparagus, peas, brown rice, brussel sprouts and broccoli are great natural sources of folic acid."

Avoid White Bread

"You also want to stay away from white bread, white pasta and white sugar because they are empty nutrification. So you want to eat things like brown rice, pot barley and Quinoa instead. If you do like pasta then swap over to things like buckwheat noodles as an alternative."

"I'm not saying don't eat bread. Just try to avoid white bread. Darker coloured German style breads are great such as rye bread."

Snacking is Good- at last!

"The key is to eat regularly and keep drinking lots of fluids. You want to be having 6 meals a day- breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, dinner, snack"

"You need to make sure you've got snacks with you when you're out and about to get rid of any hunger pangs. Things like oat cakes and nut butter or rye bread with some hummous. You can even make a lettuce sandwich as an alternative to bread. Just stuff leaves with all different things and it can be delicious."

Don't Be Scared of Getting Fat

"You can't worry about gaining weight. You will gain weight because you're pregnant but you will gain it in the right places if you eat the right things. If you have a widespread diet then you just can't go wrong."

If you want more top tips from Gillian McKeith then check out her fab new book "Food Bible: The Complete A to Z Guide to a Healthy Life" which is a step by step guide on what to eat at every stage in your life.