Clever House Hints

 

The simplest way to slice a bunch of cherry tomatoes is to sandwich them between two plastic lids and run a long knife through all of them at once!   Via Food52.com   Keep brown sugar soft by storing with a couple of marshmallows   Via Storage and Glee   Install a regular coat rack low down the wall to store shoes safely off the floor   Via Destination Unknown   Use a magnetic strip to store bobby pins on inside of a cupboard.   Via Superwoman   ...Or store them in an empty Tic-Tac dispenser!   Via One Frugal Chick     Use a Post-It note when drilling to catch the dust   Via Lifehacker   Organize jewellery on a corkboard for easy viewing when deciding how to accessorize an outfit   Via  Dee Gater         Fill an old box with skewers to make an all-purpose knife block   Via The Daily What   Hang onions in cut-up tights or old stockings to make them last for months!   Via BuzzFeed   Create a thrifty watering can by puncturing holes in the top of a used milk bottle.   Via A Journey to a Dream   Remove pet hair from furniture and carpets with a squeegee.   Via Bobbenblog Lite   Cover paint trays with aluminium foil to make cleaning up afterwards a breeze.   Via OurHumbleAbowed     Flip a toaster on its side to make grill cheese   Via YesEmails     Water  straight from the tap becomes cloudy when frozen. To make ice cubes crystal clear, allow a kettle of boiled water to cool slightly and use this to fill your ice cube trays.   Via Instructables   Use a large muffin tin to cook stuffed peppers in the oven - it will help keep them upright.   Via Better Recipes     To prevent potatoes budding, add an apple in the bag.   Via My Fridge Food   Add half a teaspoon of baking soda to the water when hard-boiling eggs to make the shells incredibly easy to peel off.   Via Delighted Momma     Use bread tags to label power cords.   Via Apartment Therapy   Use non-stick cooking spray in votive holders to prevent wax from sticking to the sides.   Via Real Simple   WD40 can be used to remove crayon marks from any surface!   Via Real Simple     When hanging a picture frame, put a dab of toothpaste on the frame where you need the nails to be. Then simply press against the wall to leave marks (which can later be wiped) as guides for hammering in.   Via Somewhat Simple   Put a dry towel in with a wet load to reduce the drying time (this really works, I've been doing it for years!)   Via eHow   To tell if eggs are fresh, immerse them in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs will lie on the bottom, while stale eggs will float to the surface.   Via Discount Queens     Sprinkle salt in the spaces between patio slabs and at the bottom of walls to get rid of pesky weeds(but be careful NOT to get salt near plants you want to keep as salt will kill them!)   Via One Good Thing       To clean a wooden chopping board, sprinkle on a handful of Kosher salt and rub with half a lemon. Rinse with clean water and dry to ensure it is clean and germ-free.   Via Off the Wheaten Path     Use ice-cubes to lift out indentations made by furniture on your carpets.   Via North Carolina Charm   Prevent soil from escaping through the holes in the base of flowerpots by lining with large coffee filters   Via This Old House             To stop the annoying sound of a dripping tap, tie a piece of string around the faucet which is long enough to reach down to the sink.   Via Re-Nest   To sharpen scissors, simply cut through sandpaper.   Via U-Create Crafts   A very simple solution to get rid of furniture scratches!   Via Obrienkr18 (Uploaded to Pinterest)   Use rubber bands to help open a jar easily: place one around the jar lid and another around the middle of the glass. The rubber provides friction to prevent your hands from slipping.   Via Martha Stewart   To prevent your eyes watering while chopping onions, wipe the chopping board with white vinegar (which won't affect the taste of the onions)   Via Pinterest Upload       Store bed sheets inside their pillowcases for easy storage and access   Via Storage and Glee   Drop a couple of denture cleaning tablets into the toilet bowl at night to clean off stubborn stains.   Via Stockpiling Moms       Use cupcake cases to cover drinks glasses in the summer and prevent flies from dropping in   Via Modern Day Proverbs Wife     Use binder clips to keep stacked bottles in place in the fridge   Via In This Crazy Life   Another way to clean a chopping board is to cover liberally with Kosher salt and leave overnight. Scrape off with a cloth in the morning to find the salt has absorbed all moisture to leave your board clean and dry.   Via Joseph the Butler   Use egg boxes to store delicate Christmas tree decorations   Via Gifts that say Wow     This has to be the simplest way to open those annoying blister packs!   Via Babble     Use a cut potato to easily remove a broken lightbulb   Via Pinterest upload     Use chalk to remove grease stains from clothes. Simply rub white chalk on the affected area and wash as normal - the chalk will absorb the grease and be washed away in the cycle.   Via Budget101   They look pretty too - a great tip for parties!   Via Daily Pix           Place a wooden spoon over a pan to stop the water from boiling over   Via The Life of a Not So Ordinary Housewife

Interesting...Facts about Japan

1 - Did you know that Japanese children clean their schools every day for a quarter of an hour with teachers, which... led to the emergence of a Japanese generation who is modest and keen on cleanliness.
2 - Did you know that any Japanese citizen who has a dog must carry a bag and special bags to pick up dog droppings.  Hygiene and their eagerness to address cleanliness is part of Japanese ethics.

3 - Did you know that hygiene worker in Japan is called "health engineer" and can command salary of USD 5000 to 8000 per month, and a cleaner is subjected to written and oral tests!
4 - Did you know that Japan does not have any natural resources, and they are exposed to hundreds of earthquakes a year, but do not prevent her from becoming the second largest economy in the world?

5 - Did you know that Hiroshima returned to what it was economically vibrant before the fall of the atomic bomb in just ten years?
6 - Did you know that Japan prevents the use of mobile in trains, restaurants and indoor.

7 - Did you know that in Japan students from the first to sixth primary year must learn ethics in dealing with people.
8 - Did you know that the Japanese even though one of the richest people in the world but they do not have servants. The parents are responsible for the house and children.

9 - Did you know that there is no examination from the first to the third primary level; because the goal of education is to instill concepts and character building, not just examination and indoctrination.
10 - Did you know that if you go to a buffet restaurant in Japan you will notice people only eat as much as they need without any waste.  No wasteful food.

11 - Did you know that the rate of delayed trains in Japan is about 7 seconds per year!! They appreciate the value of time, very punctual to minutes and seconds.
12 -. Did you know that children in schools brush their teeth (sterile) and clean their teeth after a meal at school; They maintain their health from an early age.

13 - Did you know that students take half an hour to finish their meals to ensure right digestion. When asked about this concern, they said: These students are the future of Japan.
 
I NEVER KNEW THIS ABOUT JAPAN ....
 
Have you ever read in the newspaper that a political leader or a prime minister from an Islamic nation has visited Japan ?
Have you ever come across news that the Ayatollah of Iran or the King of Saudi Arabia or even a Saudi Prince has visited Japan ?
Japan is a country keeping Islam at bay. Japan has put strict restrictions on Islam and ALL Muslims.


The reasons are : 

1) Japan is the only nation that does not give citizenship to Muslims.
2) In Japan permanent residency is not given to Muslims.

3) There is a strong ban on the propagation of Islam in Japan .
4) In the University of Japan , Arabic or any Islamic language is not taught.

5) One cannot import a 'Koran' published in the Arabic language.
6) According to data published by the Japanese government, it has given temporary residency to only 2 lakhs, Muslims, who must follow the Japanese Law of the Land. These Muslims should speak Japanese and carry their religiousrituals in their homes.

7) Japan is the only country in the world that has a negligible number of embassies in Islamic countries.
8) Japanese people are not attracted to Islam at all.

9) Muslims residing in Japan are the employees of foreign companies.
10) Even today, visas are not granted to Muslim doctors, engineers or managers sent by foreign companies.

11) In the majority of companies it is stated in their regulations that no Muslims should apply for a job.  
12) The Japanese government is of the opinion that Muslims are fundamentalist and even in the era of globalization they are not willing to change their Muslim laws.

13) Muslims cannot even think about renting a house in Japan  .
14) If anyone comes to know that his neighbour is a Muslim then the whole neighbourhood stays alert.

15) No one can start an Islamic cell or Arabic 'Madrasa' in Japan .      
(There is no Sharia law in Japan ) 
16) If a Japanese woman marries a Muslim then she is considered an outcast forever.
17) According to Mr. Kumiko Yagi, Professor of Arab/Islamic Studies at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies , "There is a mind frame in Japan that Islam is a very narrow minded religion and one should stay away from it."


VERY SMART PEOPLE
The Japanese might have lost the war, but look what they have done for their own Country. There are no bombs going off in crowded business-centers. Or "Honor Killings". If one is doing the wrong thing towards the community, he commits himself to finish his life. That is "Honor Killing"!   

Chilli

Health benefits of chili

§  Chili contains an impressive list of plant derived chemical compounds that are known to have disease preventing and health promoting properties.

§  Chilies contain health benefiting an alkaloid compound in them, capsaicin, which gives strong spicy pungent character. Early laboratory studies on experimental mammals suggest that capsaicin has anti-bacterial, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic and anti-diabetic properties. It also found to reduceLDL cholesterol levels in obese individuals.

§  Fresh chili peppers, red and green, are rich source of vitamin-C. 100 g fresh chilies provide about143.7 µg or about 240% of RDA. Vitamin C is a potent water-soluble antioxidant. It is required for the collagen synthesis in the body. Collagen is the main structural protein in the body required for maintaining the integrity of blood vessels, skin, organs, and bones. Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body protect from scurvy; develop resistance against infectious agents (boosts immunity) and scavenge harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals from the body.

§  They are also good in other antioxidants like vitamin A, and flavonoids like ß-carotene, α-carotene, lutein, zea-xanthin, and cryptoxanthin. These antioxidant substances in capsicum help to protect the body from injurious effects of free radicals generated during stress, diseases conditions.

§  Chilies contain a good amount of minerals like potassium, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase.

§  Chilies are also good in B-complex group of vitamins such as niacin, pyridoxine (vitamin B-6), riboflavin and thiamin (vitamin B-1). These vitamins are essential in the sense that body requires them from external sources to replenish.

Chili peppers have amazingly high levels of vitamins and minerals. Just 100 g provides (in % of recommended daily allowance):

240% of vitamin-C (Ascorbic acid), 
39% of vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), 
32% of vitamin A, 
13% of iron,
14% of copper, 
7% of potassium,  
but no cholesterol. 

Food for those who wants to loose weight without exercise and reducing food intake

Food for those who wants to  loose weight without exercise and reducing food intake.


Pistachios

If you’re looking to trim down your belly, then pistachios, together with almonds, are one of the best nuts you can snack on. They are lower in calories and fat than most other nuts, while remaining high in protein, fibre and other essential vitamins and minerals.

Peppermint

Peppermint is known for its potent healing and calming digestive properties, so if you’re looking to slim down your stomach, it makes sense to start including it in your diet. The easiest way to do this is to drink it in tea form, so pick up a box from your local supermarket (organic if possible) and try drinking three cups a day. Great for clearing the skin, too!

 

Oats
Oats are filling, which makes it hard to believe that they can help you lose weight. But eating a portion in the morning for breakfast as part of a low-calorie diet is a great way to provide your body with slow-release, natural energy throughout the day, which keeps you feeling fuller for longer and can even lower your cholesterol.

Kelp
Kelp or seaweed is prized for its high levels of iodine which helps to create the thyroid hormones in your body. These regulate your metabolic rate – the rate in which your body burns fat. It also contains several minerals which have been found to assist the breakdown of belly fat and relieve water retention. Source it out in Japanese supermarkets or pick up from health food stores in a supplement form.

Chilli
Adding chilli to your food is a great way to boost your metabolism, which helps you to burn fat faster. A single chilli pepper also contains a full day’s supply of beta carotene (which is great for maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails) and twice your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C – an essential antioxidant that helps to battle toxins and foreign bodies in the blood stream.

Cucumber

Believe it or not, cucumbers are actually a member of the melon family, and therefore have very similar slimming properties. It is a natural diuretic, which means consuming it eases water retention and bloating in the body. Why not make a slimming watercress, bean, mint and cucumber salad for a powerful tummy flattening lunch?

 

Berries

Tiny but mighty, berries are stuffed full of antioxidants and fibre – just one cup of raspberries contains a whopping 6g. Plus, they’re low in calories too. Add a handful into a healthy smoothy or sprinkle over your breakfast cereal.

 

Lemongrass

A key ingredient in many south east Asian dishes, lemongrass is thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the digestive system, as well as improving blood circulation. It is also thought to aid the body in dealing with excessive fats in the body.

 

Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds contain a bountiful supply of dietary fibre, which could fill you up for longer and keep sweet cravings at bay, while easing digestion at the same time. They are packed full of antioxidant vitamin E, too, which is essential for skin health, as well as protein and complex carbs.

 

Fennel

This liquorice-flavoured root vegetable is packed with vitamin C, potassium, and manganese and has long been used as a remedy for digestive problems. Thanks in part to its high dietary fibre content, it promotes healthy digestion, reducing swelling in the body, flushing out toxins and excess fluids. Fennel tea can also help to stave off hunger pangs, so pick up a box from your local health food shop and get slurping.

Watercress  

Watercress is jammed full of nutrients, including vitamin B1, B2, B6, C and E, as well as minerals manganese, carotene and potassium. This makes watercress a powerful cleansing agent, improving the digestion and nourishing the skin, while its diuretic properties help to flush out toxins and excess fluids. Watercress is also a fabulous source of iodine, which helps to boost your metabolism, so it makes sense to include it in your diet if you’re striving to achieve a flat stomach.

Natural Yoghurt
Pro-biotic, live natural yoghurt can help to relieve bloating and discomfort in the stomach, because it contains live bacteria that aid digestion. Opt for a low fat option to cut down on saturated animal fats, too.

Salmon

Salmon, much like mackerel, is a good source of lean protein, and a rich source of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Grill or steam with a bit of lemon and serve with asparagus for a powerful belly-flattening meal.

 

Black Pepper
A simple way to prevent bloating and discomfort after eating? Add a bit of freshly ground pepper to your meal. It’s a natural digestive aid, and helps to relieve bloating at the same time.

Pears

The high pectin (natural fruit sugars) content contained within pears makes the juicy fruit a strong diuretic and good at fending off unwanted water retention. They are high in fibre, too, which encourages a feeling of fullness and healthy digestion.

 

Dandelion

Similarly, if you are looking to lose water weight caused by retention, try drinking dandelion root tea, or a herbal tea that contains dandelion as an ingredient. It is a natural diuretic, and will help your kidneys to flush out excess fluids and sodium. Consider adding a few squeezes of…

 

Yarrow

Yarrow might be a common weed to some, but taken in tea or tablet form, it’s a powerful diuretic and has anti-inflammatory properties, great for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

Leeks
High in potassium and vitamin C, eating leeks is a quick and easy way to relief excess weight around the stomach caused by water retention.

 

Horse Chestnut
Horse chestnut seeds, leaves, bark and flowers have been used for centuries to treat numerous conditions and diseases, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. Drink in tea form to reap the belly flattening rewards.

 

Liquorice
It’s better for your flat stomach drunk in tea form than eaten as sugary confectionary, but the digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits of liquorice are not to be sniffed at.

 

Lentils

Eating a couple of portions of lentils a week could help you to flatten your tummy, because they’re a cost-effective way to pack in a lot of different stomach-strengthening nutrients at once, including fibre, complex carbohydrates and proteins.

 

Pineapple
Much like its tropical cousin, pineapple boasts a digestive enzyme that helps to ease bloating, settle your stomach, and even relieve heartburn. It’s high in natural fruit sugars, or fructose, which could stave off sweet cravings.

 Quinoa

Did you know that, when she wants to get into shape for a shoot fast, Kate Moss eats quinoa instead of cereal for breakfast? That’s because it’s what is known as a complete grain, combining protein, fibre, B vitamins and complex carbohydrates all in one. Eating grains like quinoa will help to boost your metabolism, and burn belly fat faster, as will…

Avocado

There is a reason why guacamole exists beyond it being darn tasty! Avocado is often paired with spicy food because it soothes the digestive system after it is irritated by the heat. Avocado also contains potassium, which helps to regulate fluid balance, as well as magnesium, which prevents constipation.

Peanuts

Peanuts get a bad rep in the diet world, but eating a small handful as a snack in between meals could stop you from overeating, and give you the protein you need to carve a lean, flat stomach. Peanuts are rich in omega 3 fatty acids and fibre, as well as skin-conditioning vitamin E.

Brown Rice

If you’re looking to flatten and tone your belly, you should aim to eat a complex carbohydrate that is rich in muscle-strengthening protein and vitamins, like brown rice. It’s better than white rice, because it contains a rich supply of energizing B vitamins, which could help you burn calories faster.

Ginger

Ever wondered why your sushi comes with a side of ginger? The spicy root has been used for centuries as a digestive aid, because it possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea and antioxidant properties. It also contains an enzyme called zingibain, which helps digest proteins.

Cinnamon
A sprinkling of cinnamon could be all that’s standing in the way of you and those washboard abs. The sweet spice helps to regulate soaring blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production. There is some evidence to suggest that cinnamon extract also makes fat cells more responsive to insulin, which means they’re much less likely to hold on to excess energy, and far more likely to burn existing fat stores instead.

 Ref
http://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/features/health-fitness/2011/03/top-20-belly-flattening-foods

How to test a AA Battery

 

Yangon Panorama

10 Foods That Boost Memory

from http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/10-foods-that-boost-memory.html

 

1. Blueberries
Blueberries have been shown in numerous studies to do wonderful things for memory and the brain in general. Old rats that were fed blueberries scored the same as young rats on memory tests. Blueberries contain anthocyanin, a known memory-boosting phytochemical. They also contain many other phytochemicals that may contribute to healthy brain function.

2. Apples
Apples contain high levels of quercetin, an antioxidant that has been shown in recent studies to protect against Alzheimer's disease. Although it is also present in the flesh, the most quercetin is found in the skin. Red apples also contain anthocyanin in their skins.

3.Spinach
One study found that feeding rats spinach prevented and even reversed memory loss. This may be due in part to its high folic acid content, a nutrient that is believed to be protective against Alzheimer's disease and age-related memory loss. Just a half-cup of cooked spinach provides two-thirds your daily requirement of folic acid.

4.Onions
Red onions contain anthocyanin and quercetin. Yellow and white onions also contain good levels of quercetin. In India, where onions are an important staple, onions have been used as a folk remedy to boost memory for centuries.

5.Broccoli
Broccoli contains quercetin. It's also a good source of folic acid.

6. Red Beets
Beets are a good source of anthocyanin and folic acid.

7. Grapes Red, purple, and black grapes all contain quercetin and anthocyanin. Red wine also contains good levels of these phytochemicals, but overindulging in red wine may negate the benefits so keeping consumption to one glass per day may be wise.

8. Cherries
Another red food that is a good source of anthocyanin.

9. Eggplant
Eggplant is a great source of anthocyanin. It also contains nasunin, an antioxidant that protects the lipids in brain cell membranes.

10. Rosemary
Researchers have found that the carnosic acid in rosemary is neuroprotective and may play a role in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative brain disorders. One study even found that just the scent of rosemary improved the memories of office workers.