Lifestyle
Intermittent Fasting: Health Benefits and Risks
At first, it may seem strange that abstaining from food could lead to healthier living. Since young, many were taught that the key to a healthy life revolves around exercise and nutritional meals. Although that is completely true, the fitness industry has started to get more creative with diets catered towards different goals and intermittent fasting promotes fat loss and even muscle definition! Although it occupies a niche and does it relatively well, this form of dieting has its fair share of risks that are associated with it. Here are the health benefits of intermittent fasting and possible risks to watch out for.
What Is Intermittent Fasting
The word “fasting” is straightforward enough, but “intermittent” can be a little misleading, and if done wrong, can lead to massive health consequences. Rather than an actual diet, Intermittent Fasting moderates the time you eat instead and that throws your body off its regular routine into something that can optimise its metabolism. The traditional fasting method is to abstain from food 16 hours a day, or even fasting a full day twice a week. This can sound extreme, but the logic lies in humans having the capacity to survive off food for a relatively long period of time.
Alternatively there is a strict calorie deficit rule that encourages to only consuming 500-600 calories on two separated days in a week. This is a moderated form of fasting that allows an easier transition for those who are new to this diet. The most common method of fasting is to go by the 16/8 method, which promotes sacrificing breakfast and only opening an eating window between 1pm to 9pm. This is the simplest method by far and does not require calorie counting, leaving a significantly smaller margin for error.
Read: Best Health Clubs and Gyms in Dhaka in 2021
Health Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
Alters Hormones and Genes
On a microscopic level, fasting makes a lot of alterations to the hormone and genetic components to the body, but not in a bad way. Insulin levels for example drop a fair bit which is good for the body to metabolise at a faster rate. Blood levels are also affected when fasting which does trigger natural growth hormones within the body to ensure muscle-building too.
Additionally, fasting doesn’t make any direct alterations to genetic material, but it does strengthen its protection from diseases and extend its longevity. These changes are rather detailed compared to other factors, but it is good to know how extensive the changes are just by conditioning your body.
Read Muscle Building Diet: Best Foods for Muscle Gains, Definition and Fat Reduction
Burn Fat
Naturally, this would be the primary reason why anyone would choose to go on this rigorous journey, but its popularity is warranted. It isn’t any surprise that abstaining from food frequently would equate to fewer calories and that in turn, increases norepinephrine which is a compound used to break fat.
The intervals of intermittent fasting are relatively short compared to other types of fasts and are meant to kickstart the body to burn the fats reserved since no new sources are coming in. This style of dieting is the epitome of bodily conditioning; in order to get the most out of it, being careful with the type of food you eat and enforcing regular exercise is still critical to ensure that your body is burning fat from reserves.
Read What is Protein Powder? Benefits of Taking Protein Supplements
Reduces Risk of Diabetes
When the body is “starved” off its regular eating routine, you will start to lose insulin and that has large implications to building a tolerance for certain diseases. With a reduction of insulin, blood sugar is automatically lowered and this is the primary factor that determines whether type 2 diabetes surfaces or not. There are many foods that also reduce blood sugar and would go wonderfully with intermittent fasting to reduce the risks to almost zero.
Reduces Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Oxidative stress is the cause of chronic diseases that stem from aging. When your systems get older, protein, DNA will start to age and see the damage. It was previously implied that fasting can help strengthen our genes and cell’s lifespan - which does inject a little more vitality into our immunity than many other ways of fasting. By separating yourself from a regular intake of food (especially unhealthy ones), other forms of inflammation will start to reduce, which is the cause for many common illnesses that strike the elderly.
Read: Health Benefits of Chamomile Tea
Good for the Heart
By improving blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers, it’s no surprise that the heart will see benefits from these results. A high intake of sugar and fat can damage your arteries, which is where avoiding food for more than half the day will do wonders to stabilize blood flow and improve circulation. Fasting alone will not lead to complete improvement; cardiovascular activities and static exercises are good ways to reduce these risks better.
Registration deadline for 24th National Art Exhibition extended to May 26
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy has extended the registration deadline for the 24th edition of the National Art Exhibition Biennale.
Those who want to showcase their artworks and crafts at the country's biggest annual art exhibition will have to register by May 26.
This year, the biennale exhibition is set to take place from June 25 to July 31. All the registered artists can submit their artworks within June 17, according to the academy.
Started as a biennale back in 1975, the exhibition has earned recognition from art-lovers around the whole nation as a celebration of modern artworks and crafts by artists from all over the country.
The 23rd edition of the National Art Exhibition was inaugurated on July 1, 2019, and concluded on July 21.
In the 23rd edition, artist Kamruzzaman won the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy prize as the grand award for his painting Global Warming-2.
Four departmental prizes for artwork, sculpture, print illustration and new media were awarded to artists Rafat Ahmed Badhon, Tanvir Mahmud, Ruhul Karim Rumi and Shahid Kazi.
The rest of the three special prizes – Bengal Foundation award, Dipa Haque award and Artist Kazi Anwar Hossain Award – went to artists Uttam Kumar Talukdar, Suman Wahid and Faria Khanum Tuli.
Can I take COVID vaccines from two different brands?
After a year of research and experiment, COVID vaccines turn out to be the savior. Several organizations already get approval from the proper authority. So far, all the approved vaccines are effective. To get full protection, two doses of vaccine are needed in four weeks of interval. There is a common question that may arise, whether the vaccine is effective if you take from two different brands. However, it is still debatable as no effective research has been published on that, but experts have given their opinion on that.
Currently, experts suggest that everyone should get the vaccine from the same brands. To create a more flexible COVID-19 vaccination environment, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) initiated a research named Com-COV to determine the effectiveness of mix and match the two different brands.
Read: Indian COVID variant: Why is it more deadly? How is it affecting the neighboring countries?
But, initially, it is assumed that getting vaccination from two different brands will not get you the greater protection against the diseases. In this context, Dr. Nikhil Bhayani, infectious disease specialist with Texas Health Resources, conveyed, “By using two different vaccines, there is not going to be a greater magnitude of protection against the disease.” Besides, he also recommends not to get the vaccines from two different brands yet. Hence, we should wait until the Com-COV publishes its findings.
Com-COV’s first stage experiment will come out by June or July 2021, though the study will continue for at least a year. The researcher will mix match the vaccines from all the available brands. Hence, we may need to wait a long time to get details on all brands.
Read: Russian Vaccine Sputnik V: Things we should know to fight COVID-19
Vaccines can be mix-matched in exceptional situation
While some experts suggest taking both doses from the same brand, some healthcare professionals suggest that the vaccine can be mix-matched rare cases. For instance, one can take one dose from Moderna and another dose from Pfizer. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this should be considered only in rare cases.
What can be the rare cases?
The exceptional or rare case might occur if a person does not remember the vaccine brand of the first dose, or the documentation does not have the name of the brand. Further, another case can be if the first dose brand is not available anymore or at a certain point in time. However, for now, the vaccine mic match can only be done for Moderna and Pfizer as both of them are similar.
However, a question might arise if a person should wait to get the second dose from the same brand if that brand’s second dose is not available. There is no actual answer to this concern. Therefore we may take the second dose from another brand, or we may wait. But it is evident that only taking the first dose will not protect us from getting COVID. Therefore, we will need to wait for the research result to come out. Besides, it will not be wise to take decisions on our own, but we cannot make the decisions either as the health care experts and government agencies are there to guide us.
Read Covid: How this Indian firm is vaccinating the world
Best Health Clubs and Gyms in Dhaka in 2021
Gym culture is now a new trend for the youth of Dhaka. With this chaotic, very fast, and unplanned urbanization, there is no way to breathe in the air of this city. Furthermore, the open space and playing fields are disappearing. In this situation, a large number of teenagers and young people who spend time at home or on the screen of computers or mobile phones are now going to the gym. They spend a certain amount of time during the day on the gym's treadmill, cross trainer, or a cycling machine. Some of them have become gym-centric entrepreneurs while exercising. On that note, we have listed some top health clubs and gyms in Dhaka in 2021.
The Most Renowned Health Clubs and Gyms in Dhaka in 2021
Muscletech bd Gym
Muscletech has been providing top-class gym service since 2003. They offer multiple facilities such as a gents facility, ladies facility, steam bath facility, locker room facility, and shower facility. It is located in Pallabi, Mirpur, and also has two more branches in Mirpur 10 and Mirpur 1. Mr. Bangladesh William Ficky and Kamrun Nahar are the main trainers. Besides, the gym has a few assistant trainers too.
With more than 12 pieces of gym equipment, Muscletech has an excellent sound system that can boost the users' confidence while training. This gym center can train 110 people or do a gym together. Note that it has a completely separate room for girls. The admission fee to this gym center is Tk. 1000. It provides training on a monthly and yearly basis. It has a different price range, and the monthly fees start from Tk. 400.
Location: Setaras Dream 1/11 (5th floor), Anik Plaza Bhavan, Pallabi, Mirpur, Dhaka-1217.
Read: Barbells vs. Dumbbells: Which is better for Workout, Strength, and Muscle Growth?
Adonize Fitness Center
Adonize is an international quality gym located on Bashundhara City's Level 9 and 10. Men and Women have separate floors, and each floor covers a 14,000 square feet area, which is huge. Adonize offers its service through ten trainers who are certified from the USA and other countries. About 200 people can go to the gym at a time on each floor. The center remains open every day from 6:30 am to 10:00 pm except Friday.
Various international-level gym equipment make this gym fun for any fitness enthusiast. Further, you can take a swim, take a steam bath, or shower after the gym. With more than 200 lockers, you can keep your personal items safe and secure. The Adonize also offers Yoga and Aerobics for the girls. They have monthly and yearly service, which starts from Tk. 6,650 per month. However, this price is subject to change depending on various occasions.
Location: Adonize Fitness Center LTD,Bashundhara City, Level 9 & 10,Panthapath, Phone : 8158864-5,Mobile:01731922942 (office).
Read Bodybuilding Vs Powerlifting: Similarities, Differences, Pros, Cons
California Fitness
It was founded in 2000, which has three branches in Baridhara, Uttara, and Bashundhara. However, we will discuss here the main branch Baridhara. California Fitness opens at 6:30 am in the morning and closes at 10 pm at night. The gym has a main trainer and two assistant trainers. However, there is no separate trainer for women.
Here 60 people can exercise together. Besides, the user can take yoga, meditation, and freehand exercises too. They also offer a steam bath, shower, and spa without any additional cost. California Fitness offers monthly, and yearly packages starting from Tk. 3,000 per month and offers a discount for the yearly sign up.
Location: House # 319, Road # 4, (Eastern 1st and 2nd Building), DOHS, Baridhara, Dhaka-1206.
Read: Muscle Building Diet: Best Foods for Muscle Gains, Definition and Fat Reduction
Fitness Plus
Fitness Plus is one of the few best gyms in the Gulshan-Banani area. It was founded in 1999 as Life Plus, and the gym was later renamed Fitness Plus. However, this gym has no branches. It is a modern air-conditioned gymnasium that also has its own generator to provide uninterrupted service to the users even during the load shedding.
The exercise is done in three shifts. The good thing is that the women will get separate trainers. There are facilities for yoga, yoga, aerobics, meditation, freehand exercises. Besides, the users can have the facilities like steam baths, showers, lockers, and first aid. The Fitness Plus charge according to the shifts starts from Tk. 2500 per month.
Location: House # 23, Road # 18, Block # A, Banani, Dhaka-1213.
Read HIIT VS Crossfit: Know the Difference
Inspire Fitness by Sohel Taj
Once an influential politician and Member of Parliament, Sohail Taj opened a new gym in 2020 with the aim to build a healthy Bangladesh. It remains open from 6 am to 11 pm, and it offers a separate hour for the women. With international-level equipment and trainers, it is an elite class gym. Inspire Fitness' membership plan starts from Tk. 4000/week.
Location: 751, Satmasjid Road, 7th Floor, Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1209.
Read Cycling Benefits: How Indoor and Outdoor Cycling Strengthens Your Immune System
South Avenue Gym
South Avenue opened in 2000 for both men and women. This gym can accommodate 25 people at a time. The South Avenue Gymnasium has a gym, health, steam bath, sauna, jacuzzi, locker, shower, and first aid facilities for customers. There is 1 trainer and 3 assistants for men training and 1 separate trainer and 1 assistant for women.
In the gym, body exercises are done with the help of Treadmill, Cross Trainer, Stepper, Bench Press, Leg Press, Set up bench, Abdominal, Olympic Bar, Tiber, Ring Machine, and Dumbbell. They offer monthly and yearly packages. The monthly plan starts from Tk. 5,500 while the yearly package is Tk. 30,000. It has only one branch in Gulshan.
Location: 44, South Avenue, Road # 13, Gulshan # 1, Dhaka-1212.
Read Tips to Help You Reach Your 2021 Fitness Goals
Western Bowling and Fitness
This gym is equipped with modern equipment. Besides, it offers shower facilities, free physician consultation, digital sound system. There are two types of membership in this gym, single membership, and couple membership.
Couple members get some discounts as compared to single members. The monthly fee starts from Tk. 2400. This gym has a variety of equipment, such as - treadmill (motorized), treadmill (manual), cross trainer, bike, belly machine, signup machine, push-up bar, gimbal, two-star, dumbbells, fixed dumbbells. A member can access the gym anytime between 8 am to 10 pm.
Location: Shimanto Square (Rifles Square) 4th Floor, Road # 2, Dhanmondi, Dhaka.
Read: TRX vs. Other Gym Equipments: A Detailed Comparison
Gym Plus
Established in 2009, Gym Plus is a private gym located in Wari, Old Dhaka. 30 people can exercise or take the training together. However, there are separate trainers for women. Everyone usually gets at least 1 hour of exercise.
The operation hour is from 9 am to 7 pm. The facility includes 3 motorized treadmills for running, 4 bikes, two cross-trainers, Gym ball, Two Star, push-up bar, dumbbells, and fixed dumbbells of different weights. To access all these facilities, you will have to pay a non-refundable admission fee of Tk. 2000 and Tk. 1000 per month.
Location: Wari Super Center, 28/1, Ranking Street, Wari, Dhaka-1203.
Read What is Protein Powder? Benefits of Taking Protein Supplements
Barbells vs. Dumbbells: Which is better for Workout, Strength, and Muscle Growth?
Venturing into weight lifting can be a daunting task when first starting out. Machines, plates, bars and dumbbells all thrown together can be intimidating as navigating through all possible exercises with each item and picking the best ones for your workout plan is no easy feat. Out of all the tools available, dumbbells and barbells are two most prevalent pieces of equipment for muscle building and it can be tricky to decide which is better. Here, we answer the question “Are barbells better than dumbbells?”
The Role They Play
Before diving into the comparison, it is important to note that both barbells and dumbbells are primarily designed for strength building and overall muscle growth. The act of executing repetitions with weights is to put the targeted muscle group in a state of hypertrophy when under stress. That’s right; in order to allow muscles to grow, they must be deliberately damaged in order to recover with higher density and strength.
Therefore, regardless of which one does it better, both of these styles of weightlifting were ultimately designed for the same goal. Barbells have a lot less flexibility in terms of exercise varieties as compared to dumbbells but excel in compound exercises that are made to tackle multiple major muscle groups. Dumbbells on the other hand, have more flexibility but have a far lower limit in terms of actual weight. Both tools will have various exercises that are unique to them that cannot be overlapped, but there are enough exercises that do overlap that have subjected the two types of weight into this debate, to begin with.
Read Muscle Building Diet: Best Foods for Muscle Gains, Definition and Fat Reduction
Compound Exercises For Both Barbells and Dumbbells
Shoulder Press
Otherwise known as military press, the two do not differ greatly when it comes to executing this exercise, but as the weights increase, balance starts resulting in safety concerns if unprepared. Unlike barbells, dumbbells force the user to ensure complete symmetry between both arms when raised overhead.
Barbells do require the same, but it is easier to execute this as both arms will be parallel with each other and keeping the bar straight becomes the only concern from a technical perspective. Dumbbells' flexibility shines in this exercise as users can choose to place the weights right next to the ears if necessary to ensure that the side deltoids also get activated, while this would be impossible for dumbbells (as you’d hit your head on the bar).
Read TRX vs. Other Gym Equipments: A Detailed Comparison
Bench/Incline Press
When it comes to the chest, both also don’t differ significantly, but the weight limits on your dumbbell racks will slowly become a concern the longer you’ve been training. The exercise commonly demands an incredible amount of weight compared to shoulder press and incline rows, which does naturally increase the risks of muscle tears and even dislocations if the weights are not placed down properly after a set. The bench press is equally viable on both dumbbells and barbells, but barbells tend to be favoured among competitive lifters due to the amount of weight that can be added on, while dumbbells are preset and commonly only go up to 50kg at your local gym. As a beginner and even intermediate weight lifter, both options are viable, but barbells will start to have a higher priority when your strength is too much for dumbbells.
Rows
Using an inclined bench, many have resorted to the dumbbell option of rows by tucking their knees into the far corner of the seat and resting the chest on the backrest. Although it may look a little odd to beginners and non-weightlifters - many have adopted this as an alternative to barbell rows. The back is a massive muscle group and dumbbells are not commonly used for compound back exercises as compared to barbells.
Isolated, single-arm rows while leaning forward yes, but not compound. One of the reasons for this is because of the weight limit like with the bench press; arguably, doing rows with dumbbells can open avenues for more injury if not done correctly on the bench. Barbells have safety racks below and allow for a wider range of motion due to not having any obstruction like the seat would have. Overall, barbells win in this exercise for safety, higher weight, and cleaner form.
Read What is Protein Powder? Benefits of Taking Protein Supplements
Fairness Creams: Dangerous Side effects of Skin Whitening Beauty Products
You always tend to use whitening creams for the natural attraction to beauty. Before going to any party, rely on the fairness creams of the market to make yourself presentable. But these types of creams are very harmful to your skin, even if they make you feel whiter temporarily. You often see tempting offers in various advertisements. None of this is long-lasting. Dermatologists have been coming up with this warning for a long time. There is a lot of demand in Bangladesh, especially for Korean beauty products. Keep in mind, Korean products don’t necessarily mean good. Let's find out what harms using this type of cream results.
Harmful aspects of using whitening cream
Reddish rash
Another name for it is rosacea, which causes red rashes on your face and makes the blood vessels inside the skin visible. If your skin is light and you regularly use creams on that, you will face this problem.
Loss of skin color
This is one of the dangerous effects of using cream. As a result, not only your skin but your whole body will gradually become pale. In the final stage, it leads to skin cancer.
Itching
Frequent cream use consumes oil produced naturally in your skin. Subsequently, the skin becomes dry. And itching excessively grows in this dry skin. One cream is enough to permanently damage your sensitive skin through itching.
Acne disease
"Remove your acne scars" After seeing this word on the cream, you may be buying it. But such creams contain toxic chemicals. These will not remove the dark spots of your acne with daily use. Rather, you use any medicine to treat acne next time, it will reduce its effectiveness.
Read Aloe Vera: The magical herb with multifarious benefits
Sunburn
Excessive use of whitening cream makes your skin thinner. And thin skin is relatively more vulnerable to the sun's ultraviolet rays. The effects may extend from wrinkles on the face at a very young age to skin cancer.
Decreasing immunity of the skin
The use of cream on the face doesn’t just create a different layer on the skin. Rather, it also destroys the normal ability of your skin's immune cells. Thus, your skin gets defenseless against bacteria and fungi.
Kidney and neurological complications
Most of the fairness creams you get in the market contain high levels of mercury. And this mercury is responsible for damaging your kidneys as well as various neurological problems.
Boycotting Israeli Products: Is It Practically Possible?
The long-running conflict between Israel and Palestine took an even more violent turn recently as the two states practically went into a state of war with each other. With the recent escalation of conflict, the global response has been somewhat mixed. Most of the western countries including the European leaders are supporting Israel’s right to self-defense. Muslim countries and the coalition of OIC have been vocal about the atrocities carried out by Israel in the occupied lands of Gaza where Palestinian residents have been forcefully removed from their homes. In addition to that, there have been massive airstrikes carried out by Israel that have killed civilians in the hundreds to which Hamas also retaliated with airstrikes. As most of the developed countries turn a blind eye to the plight of the Palestinian people, there has been a global call to boycott Israeli products as a form of protest.
What is the impact of boycotting Israeli products?
Since its foundation in 1948 after the end of the British mandate and proclamation of the Jewish state, Israel set itself on a prolific development course. The initial years weren’t easy as it had to combat economic recession combined with refugee intake from Europe. However, the state took a keen interest in technological advancement as well as exporting locally produced goods and brands.
Their advancement in the tech field including computer hardware, software as well as spyware made them a key exporter of these goods in western countries like the USA, UK, Hong Kong, and China. With a huge volume of export of local as well as international brand products sourced in Israel, the net exports hold almost 29% of the GDP of Israel. Boycotting Israeli products lands a huge blow to the percentage share as well as the economy of Israel.
Read Palestinian minister: Cease-fire in Gaza is `not enough’
What are the Israeli products and brands?
Before we get into the details of products and brands you need to understand that some of these brands are not directly owned or operated by the state of Israel; neither are they owned by an Israeli corporation or owner. Rather they source the products or use Israeli Logistics to produce the commodities and sell them worldwide.
Though technically not an Israeli product, they do help the Israeli cause and contribute to the overall economic development of Israel. Procter and Gamble, the notable mother brand of products like Gillette, Pampers, Olay, and Oral-B have considerable ties with Israel. Pampers, one of their successful diaper range is sourced exclusively from Avgol, an Israeli company with factories in the occupied West Bank area. Intel also has plants in Tel-Aviv which manufactures a share of their global chipset supply.
Notable construction brands like Caterpillar supplies armored tanks to Israel which is an essential element of their field military strength. The retail and consumer sub-brand of Caterpillar, CAT also sources and holds a considerable investment in the state of Israel. Hewlett-Packard, commonly known as HP was one of the first western companies to establish a business hub in Israel back in 1994. To this day, HP holds a significant foreign investment in Israel and has been a key player in the tech revolution of the state.
Other notable brands like SodaStream, Puma, McDonald's, Motorola, and Volvo also share economic ties with Israel as well as sourcing their product through factories in the occupied area.
The technological advancements of Israel saw them take a strong position in the internet business scene as well. Popular websites like deviant art and website building tools like Wix are all based in Israel. One of the biggest freelancing platforms of the world Fiverr is also owned and operated from Israel with its headquarter in Tel-Aviv.
These are just a few notable international products that are used on a global scale in almost all the countries of the world. However, there are tens and thousands of Israeli products that are relatively less known but are an important contributing factor to the economy of Israel. You can check for the barcode of a product and if it starts with 729, it is designated to be a product from Israel.
Read Israel approves unilateral cease-fire in Gaza offensive
Why is it challenging to boycott Israeli products?
The state of Israel has always pioneered innovation and development of critical and crucial products across a range of sectors. As we have mentioned before, the advancement of Israel in the field of technology has been immense. From crucial car navigation system like Waze to optical heart rate monitor that enables smartwatches to monitor heart rate, all of these technologies were developed in Israel.
Not just these, global social hubs like Facebook or popular search engines like Google and Bing all use components made in Israel to optimize their network and service. The proprietary company Mellanox has been a key supplier of these components.
Other innovations like the mobile camera to portable disk drives, all of these technological milestones trace back their origin to Israel. From a western point of view, with such deep-rooted ties to everyday life, it is almost impossible to boycott Israeli products.
Read Want to help Palestinians? Now there is a way
How can you boycott products from Bangladesh?
Contrary to popular belief, some of the products that you might see making rounds on social media don’t share any ties with Israel and as a result, you have no reason to boycott them. Bangladesh is also the only country to not share any form of economic or diplomatic ties with Israel so our government doesn’t act as a benefactor in any way.
Though not directly available, some of the international brand products that we mentioned above are still available in the country with the products of P&G being the most widely available one. You can find an alternative to these products either sourced locally or from brands that don’t share any ties with Israel if you want to contribute to the cause.
Read Address Palestinian issue: Bangladesh to UN Security Council
Bottom Line
The conflict of Israel and Palestine is long-standing and one that has caused a heavy toll on life and humanitarian crisis. Where the most form of protest is limited to condemnation of the atrocities alone, many have called for the boycott of the products to show solidarity with the people of Palestine and their cause. That is about as much that can be done from a civilian point of view unless the ongoing crisis is resolved once and for all.
Macher Jhol in Melbourne: Transcending borders through food!
The quintessential Bengali 'Macher Jhol’ or fish curry has now reached the table of Masterchef Australia. All thanks to 38-year-old Bangladeshi expat Kishwar Chowdhury who has made it to the celebrated show this season.
A mother of two, Chowdhury is pursuing her dream of becoming a cookbook author aiming to showcase recipes handed down by her mother Laila Chowdhury (recent one being the macher jhol or fish curry).
The homemaker made her way to MasterChef Australia Season 13 with her sardines in green mango broth, served with black lentils, beetroot and blood orange bhorta.
Read: Kishwar wins Australians hearts with her Bangladeshi recipe on Masterchef
Later, she cooked several drool-worthy Bengali cuisines on the show -- from Chingri Bhorta (mashed prawns) to the humble Maach Bhaja (fish fry).
She aims to put Bangladeshi cuisine on the global culinary map with her passion for cooking, bringing international recognition to homegrown flavours but with a twist.
“If I don’t do that this food recipe and flavor will fade with me, I really want to pass them to my children,” she said in an earlier interview.
“This is testament to the fact that simple food, you have nowhere to hide with it, can be the best and most triumphant in the world," one of the judges said about Kishwar’s dishes in the competition.
Read: Different forms of Vitamin D: Benefits, sources of Vitamin D1 vs D2 vs D3
MasterChef Australia is an Australian competitive cooking show based on the original British MasterChef.
Initial rounds consist of a large number of hopeful contestants from across Australia individually "auditioning" by presenting a food dish before the three judges in order to gain one of 50 semi-final places.
The semi-finalists then compete in several challenges that test their food knowledge and preparation skills.
The contestants will then be whittled down through a number of individual and team-based cooking challenges and weekly elimination rounds until a winning MasterChef is crowned.
Read Most creative ways to eat more fruits for the non-fruit eaters
The contestants of MasterChef Australia, play for a prize that includes chef training from leading professional chefs, the chance to have their own cookbook published, and $ 250,000 in cash.
Health benefits of Chamomile Tea
Tea has always been treasured by society for its versatility, health benefits, and taste. Whether it’s consumed leisurely when catching up with a friend or consumed daily for its detox properties, there’s always a type of tea that resonates with a large population of the world. Chamomile, in particular, has stepped up to become one of the most prominent types of tea for dietary purposes and for good reason. Chamomile tastes great and is packed with so many benefits that traditions have used this as a medicinal supplement for generations. Here are some of the health benefits of Chamomile tea.
What is Chamomile Tea?
As its name suggests, Chamomile tea comes from the Chamomile herb that has been one of the best representatives of herbal medication. Its species is derived primarily from the Golden Marguerite, or yellow chamomile. Chamomile contains Chamazulene, a compound that is known for anti-inflammation, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties (basically the components for a stronger immunity system). Unlike black or red teas, Chamomile is on the lighter side and is traditionally consumed as a refreshing beverage that compliments meals or snacks. More importantly, Chamomile has arguably the most health benefits out of any teas and is worth trying to improve your immunity system.
Read Pink Chai: Kashmiri Tea Health Benefits, Recipe
It Prevents Insomnia
Many of the stronger teas in the market contain caffeine which can serve as a milder alternative to coffee when in need of an energy fix, but Chamomile tea does the opposite and is an organic solution that can give sleeping pills a run for its money. The tea soothes the body’s nervous system and can lead to better sleep. This can also double down as a relaxing agent which is perfect for high-intensity situations. This Tea is great when you are in need of relaxation after a long day.
Helps Lower Blood Sugar
Part of the appeal of a detox is to reduce unnecessary weight and clutter in the bloodstream, which Chamomile tea does wonderfully. Although it is not an elixir for diabetes, it is a reliable supplement to diabetic medication to curb the spike of blood sugar within the body. This tea functions as a long-term preventive measure rather than medication for an existing condition.
Read Matcha Green Tea Health Benefits
Increases Bone Density
Many usually correlate bone health with calcium, but Chamomile has much to offer in this department too. Once again, Chamomile serves to reduce the risks of bone fragility. Interestingly, this especially applies to post-menopausal women who are susceptible to a reduction of bone density due to alterations in estrogen levels.
Reduces Inflammation
The immune system is where herbal medicine has been known to make its mark, and camomile is one of the best at treating it. The tea reduces inflammation primarily pertaining to hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal pains, and autoimmune disorders. Inflammation can cover a myriad of systems such as digestive, skeletal, and muscular, but the tea’s role extends throughout these systems.
Read Coronavirus Tips: Immunity Booster Herbal Teas to Prevent Infection
Reduces Risk Of Cancer
There are various types of cancer preventers in the food and drinks market, but chamomile has been documented to reduce the production of cancer cells directly in recent studies. Although a 2012 study showed that marigold tea is a more potent solution for this, chamomile still contains properties that can reduce the risks significantly. The compound that supports this claim is apigenin, which has been linked to fighting breast, skin, prostate, and digestive-related cancer.
Treats Colds
Possibly the most common practice to demonstrate Camomile’s medicinal properties is with a cold. One of the most common illnesses, the tea’s antioxidant properties are effective in clearing nasal congestion, soothe sore throats and reduce runny noses. In addition, mixing the tea with some honey speeds up the recovery as it reduces throat inflammation that leads to coughing and reduces the excess of phlegm discharge.
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Reduces Muscle Spasms
If your muscles are on a fritz, Camomille can reduce its effects easily. The tea contains over 30 flavonoids, compounds that are primarily responsible for the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties. Rather than in the form of tea, the herb can be infused with essential oils and applied to the skin to relax sore muscles that have been acting up. This can also help with cramps, caused by the uterus outputting prostaglandins, a hormone-based substance that causes inflammation.
Treats Skin Conditions
In addition to having anti-inflammatory properties, Chamomile tea possesses antibacterial features that help reduce the surfacing of acne. It is considered one of the best among all teas for this benefit due to the sheer amount of antioxidants it contains. Once again, if drunk, chamomile works best with honey for users to get the best effect, but applying directly on the skin via compressed chamomile or grounded leaves are effective ways too. Naturally, as a cure for bad skin, the tea also helps boost skin help which allows improved moisture and whitening.
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Reduces Dark Circles Under the Eyes
This is a rather unusual application of Chamomile tea as it technically requires the tea to be made, but it is the used teabag that sees the most value. According to India’s leading beauty expert Suparna Trikha, refrigerating the tea bags after use and leaving them on the eyes for some time can gradually reduce the darkness under them. Due to its antioxidant qualities, the tea helps to reduce puffiness around the eyes and properly moisturises them like it would when making contact with the skin.
Eliminates Dandruff
Lastly, Chamomile tea also plays a vital role in removing dandruff altogether. There is much about hair care that is interchangeable with skincare. The scalp is a skin surface that largely determines the condition of your hair and a poorly maintained scalp can lead to dandruff. Therefore Chamomile’s antibacterial properties can help reduce oil clutter much like how it functions when treating acne.
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Top Mango Varieties in Bangladesh
Although jackfruit is the national fruit of Bangladesh, mango, the queen of fruits, is several times ahead in terms of production, trade, and consumer demand. According to the Department of Horticultural Research, ten countries produce 21 varieties of mangoes on a commercial basis. Among the 21 varieties, half of these are improved varieties of mango. However, there are hundreds of varieties of mangoes that grow in Bangladesh, and over 270 varieties grow in Rajshahi alone. The mango season lasts for a total of 5 months, from May to September, but most mangoes are available from June to July. Here we have listed the most renowned mango varieties in Bangladesh.
The Best Mango Varieties in Bangladesh
The mango season in Bangladesh can be divided into three parts, early varieties, mid-season varieties, and Nabi varieties. Early varieties of mangoes ripen from the second week of May to mid-June, and among these notable varieties are, Gopalbhog, Govindobhog, Brindabani, Gulabkhash, Ranipchanda, Himsagar, Kshirshapat, and BARI-1. Starting from mid-June, the mid-season mangoes start to ripen, Langra, Haribhanga, Lakkhanbhog, Khudikhirsha, BARI-2, Bombay, Surjopuri, etc. are among them. Nabi variety ripens from July to the first week of September. They are Fazli, Amrapali, Mohanbhog, Ashwina, Gaurmati, BARI-3, BARI-4, etc.
Gopalbhog
Among all the early varieties, Gopalbhog comes first in the market. Cultivated in Rajshahi, Natore, and Chapainawabganj, Gopalbhog mango is medium in size; ripe mango is yellowish-green in color, the peel is not completely yellow when ripe, kernels are thin, no scales, and sweet.
Gopalbhog is medium tall and mostly round, with a medium chest in the middle, the shoulder is high, the average length is 6.8 cm, the weight of the fruit is 208.0 to 500 grams, 2 to 4 mangoes and mango weighs 1 kg. In the initial season, the price for Gopalbhog mango is Tk. 120- Tk. 140 per Kg. However, upon the availability of other varieties, it may be reduced to less than Tk. 100 per Kg.
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Himsagar
After Gopalbhog, Himsagar mangoes start ripening from the first week of June and are available in the market throughout the month of June. A full-sized Himsagar is shaped in the round on the chest and concave or slightly oblong from the sinuses, and the apex is round. The color of ripe Himsagar mango is light green and remains green even after ripening. The skin is smooth and thin. This variety of mango has no lips.
It is a very fragrant mango with excellent taste. Besides, the shell is soft and fibrous, and orange. Ripe mangoes can be kept indoors for up to eight days after collection. The average weight of the fruit is 219 grams, and the length is up to 6.89 cm. This variety is widely cultivated in Damurhuda Upazila of Chuadanga district, Sadar Upazila of Meherpur district, Sadar, Debhata, Kalaroa, and Tala Upazilas of Satkhira district. Usually, Himsagar is priced at Tk. 80 to Tk. 120 per Kg.
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Langra
There are no people in Bangladesh who do not like Langra mango. It looks a bit round and smooth. Its nose can be seen at the bottom, and its skin is very thin. It comes on the market in mid-June. Weighing 200-600 grams each mango, Langra is known as the king of mangoes. It is extraordinary in color with this shell, incomparably sweet taste and smell.
The kernels are thin and non-fibrous. Langra mango is grown in almost all the districts of Bangladesh. However, it is found more in Chapai, Rajshahi, Naogaon, and Natore areas. Depending on the production and season, the average price for Langra mango is Tk. 70- Tk. 100 per Kg.
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Harivanga
The only fibreless mango in Bangladesh is Haribhanga Mango from Rangpur. It is thick on top and thinner at the bottom. Its kernel is round, small, and a little long. Besides, it has a shapely body and a fleshy appearance. It is a fibreless mango. A piece of Harivanga weighs more than other mangoes. Usually, an average of three mangoes weighs one Kg.
Sometimes each mango weighs 500-600 grams. However, the good thing about this variety is that the ripe mangoes remain intact for a long time. The skin can be seen wrinkled but stays good inside. This mango can be eaten raw or ripe, which is sold at Tk. 40 to Tk. 60 per Kg.
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Fazli
Fazli is one of the popular mangoes in Bangladesh. It is large in size and weighs 400 to 1000 grams. Fazli is long in shape and somewhat flat. When ripe, the skin changes color from green to slightly yellow. The shell is yellow, unpretentious, very juicy and fragrant, delicious and sweet. It has a thin peel.
In our country, the Chapainawabganj district is at the forefront of Fazli mango production. However, high-quality Fazli mangoes are widely cultivated in Bagha and Charghat areas. Chapai's Fazli is large in size. Although the Bagha's Fazli is smaller in size and it is incomparable in taste. Typically, Fazli mango costs around Tk. 60 to Tk.100 per Kg in the regular season.
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Amrapali
Amrapali is a Nabi variety of mango. It is considered a hybrid variety as it was produced from two other varieties of mangoes. It was a hybrid production from Lakhnow's Dushehiri and Neelam mangoes. The fruit is elongated, and the lower part is very curved.
The skin color of Amrapali is green and slightly yellow when ripe. The skin is smooth and thin. The color of the peel is orange, very juicy, delicious, and fragrant, and does not have any fiber. The price for Amrapali stays between Tk. 70 to Tk. 90. per Kg.
Bottom Line
Ripe mangoes are already available in the market. Everyone likes delicious and sweet juicy mangoes. However, buyers get confused in the market after observing so many varieties. Therefore, if you have the right idea about which mangoes are available in which season, it would be easier for you to understand the type of mango you are buying. Besides, you can have an idea of prices too. Mangoes as fruit are very disciplined. When the mango is supposed to ripen, it is not available except a week before or after it.
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