Health and Nutrition tips:

Written by: Sana ul haq

Don’t drink sugar calories:

Sugary Drinks are among the most fattening items you can put into your body. drinks having high sugar are strongly associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and many other health problems

Eat Nuts:

nuts are incredibly nutritious and healthy. They’re loaded with magnesium, vitamin E, fiber, and various other nutrients. Additionally, your body doesn’t absorb 10–15% of the calories in nuts. Some evidence also suggests that this food can boost metabolism.

Eat real food instead junk food:

Processed junk food is incredibly unhealthy. They’re usually low in fiber, protein, and micronutrients but high in unhealthy ingredients like added sugar and processed grains. Thus, they provide mostly empty calories.

Get enough sleep:

Poor sleep can drive insulin resistance, disrupt your appetite hormones, and reduce your physical and mental performance. Poor sleep is one of the strongest individual risk factors for gaining weight and obesity. One study linked insufficient sleep to an 89% and 55% increased risk of obesity in children and adults, respectively..

Drink some water, especially before meals:

Drinking enough water can have many benifits. Surprisingly, it can boost the number of calories you burn. The optimal time to drink it is before meals. 500 ml of water 30 minutes before each meal increased weight loss by 44%.

Eat vegetables and fruits:

Vegetables and fruits are loaded with prebiotic fiber, vitamins, minerals, and many antioxidants, some of which have potent biological effects. people who eat the most vegetables and fruits live longer and have a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other illnesses.

5 healthy habits:

Written by: Sana ul Haq

We have all become workaholics as we're working 24/7. Even when we're outside with friends or family, our brains are constantly 'working'. From wondering how all the pending work is going to get managed, how the next day's routine is going to be like and how to excel - these are just some of the many things on a workaholics mind. Moreover, some jobs are extremely demanding in terms of time. An 8 hour shift can easily stretch to a 10-12 hour shift given the commuting to and from work. The remaining time in our day is spent sleeping, resting, doing household work, spending time with family etc. This can prove to be tiresome as so many tasks need to be achieved in such a short window of time. Hence, we bring to you 5 healthy habits that you can adopt to make your lifestyle better. 

Early to bed, early to rise

Whilst watching tv or scrolling through your phone late at night is truly tempting, it's a habit that can completely disrupt your sleep schedule. Screen time at night should be limited so we can fall asleep timely and hence, rise early too.

Morning exercise

I believe in exercising early in the morning right after Fajr. It sets your mood for the whole day as it refreshes and energizes you. Moreover, it's also a surefire way to determine that you're never late for work as you'll be up and active way before it's time for you to leave.

 

Spending time with the family

Spending time with family allows one to detox, unwind and destress. Talking about your day, watching a movie or going out for dinner are just some of the many ways one can spend time with family after a hectic day at work. Not only does this allow you to spend much needed quality time with them, it also allows you to refresh and reboot yourself for the next hectic day. 

Charity

No one has ever ever gotten poor by giving, rather it comes back to you in this world oe it will in the Hereafter. By helping someone, you play your part in building a better and prosperous society. Not only is this internally fulfilling, you also earn the prayers of many. 

Travelling

Travelling and discovering new places always feeds your soul. Our country is full of beautiful and majestic places especially in the north. Visiting such places exposes one to new things such as new customs, traditions and more. It truly can prove to be a life altering experience and hence, it adds value to life.

How to Create Perfect Cheese Board!

Written by: Syeda Sheeza Ali

The cheese board is so much on trending and everybody is loving it. So, I am going to tell you how you can make beautiful and appealing cheese board because it is more than an art and presentation than to eat it.

Let’s start with CHEESE! There is various type of cheese such as hard, soft, semi-soft, salty, with jalapeno in it and other flavors. It is always good to buy cheese from different places so you can vary its texture, appearance, and taste. It also comes with the choice that in which shape will you present such as in cubes, slices, cubical and soft cheese can be served with bread and a knife to spread it on.

After cheese, let’s come on the second best thing on the platter. Yes! You are right, I am talking about Crackers or bread. Who doesn’t like crunch and you can be creative and pair the salty and crunchy cracker with soft and creamy cheese. There are different types of cracker with different shapes and flavors, you can choose what you think is the best with other ingredients and flavors of cheese.

You can add different nuts such as almonds, salted almonds, roasted almond is always good, pistachios, walnuts, Cashews, Hazelnuts. All of them are very healthy and could be used as snacks, they also look fascinating onboard, and having many options is the beauty of a cheeseboard.

Then you can add dried and fresh fruits on a board such as oranges slices, pineapple slices, strawberries, raspberries, and apple slices because something juicy and flavorful is good with salty cheese and crackers.

If you have bread you need to have jam and honey, you can use different jams such as strawberries, mango, mixed fruits, olives. You can put everything on a board which comes in different shapes and designs. it hardly took 20-25 mins to set up but the taste and joy are worth waiting. 

And that’s it! you have everything on the board and now you can enjoy yourself with your friends and family.

Clothes to wear in winter

Written by: Muhammad Arsam

A lot of challenges are faced as winter approaches especially challenges related to winter clothing. The question asked most frequently related to winter clothing is how one looks fashionable and is covered at the same time in winters. You can overcome the problem by putting some extra layers on your casual clothing. Looking stylish is not a big challenge but it requires a little too effort as compared to the other seasons. By taking into consideration the following solutions you can look fashionable even in winters:

Faux Fur Jacket

Faux fur is the most recommended item to wear in winters to keep yourself warm. These jackets worn most commonly by women, not only keep you warm but also help to look very stylish and fashionable. Basic black fur jacket is a must have but you should also experiment with colors and try different colorful faux jackets with your everyday outfits .If you are not afraid to play bold then you should definitely try a red faux fur jacket. A wide of faux fur jackets is available online and in shops too to choose from.

Blanket Scarves

If you want to make a statement and overcome cold at the same time in the most creative way possible that also doesn’t require much effort, then blanket scarves are your go to option. The blanket scarves are not only modish but super warm at the same time. A common problem faced in winters in the cold we face around our neck and face therefore blanket scarves are worth a shot. Blanket scarves are not only stylish but super warm and comfortable too

                       

The Essential Overcoat

To speak comfy, elegant, posh and slick clothing through your style then overcoat is the only option you need. Overcoats look classy no matter how you style them. They can be worn with jeans and in a business setting too. A wardrobe is incomplete without trendy overcoats. Play with colors, pick an offbeat one for a unique look. When it comes to winter’s, it’s the overcoat which redefines your entire look. It is important to choose an overcoat that fits you to perfection.

                        

Leather Jackets

One cannot survive the style game in winters without the leather jackets. The leather jackets represent a classic style. The thing we like the most about leather jackets is that they are not worn only in winters but whenever you want to throughout the year. Leather jackets are available in a lot of colors so you can add them to your party wear too. 

                          

Bomber Jackets

It’s time to invest in bomber jackets because they are the most popular and stylish clothing item. If you want to get rid of basic winter jackets then you should definitely try bomber jackets. Bomber jackets are trending in men’s fashion too and it is surprising to see the colors available. You cannot miss this fashion item in your closet. Bomber jacket makes a classy and elegant outerwear choice. 

                  

Importance of Diet

Written by: Muhammad Arsam

Proper eating is basic for living healthier. Eating well or healthy does not only include removing food from diet, on contrast it demands variety in diet. No single food or a menu can define healthy eating. Do not complicate healthy eating habits . You can change your eating habits in whatever stage of life you are. It is never too early or too late to modify your eating pattern. You just need to make sure that you are getting balanced diet. 

A balanced diet contains foods from each of the basic food groups including starches; consume 6-11 servings from this food group (bread, rice, pasta, etc.), fruit and vegetables; consume 3-5 servings from this food group, dairy and dairy products ; consume 2-5 serving from this food group (milk, youghurt etc), proteins; consume 2-4 serving from this food group (meat, fish, eggs, nuts, tofu, beans, pulses, etc), fatty and sugars  (should be eaten in minimum quantity) in our daily diet. .

These foods should be avoided or limited when you decide to eat healthy; highly processed foods, refined grains, added sugar and salt, canned food, fast food, junk food, red meat and processed meat, alcohol and trans fats. Our body is more susceptible to diseases, infections, fatigue, and poor daily performance, when you don't consume proper nutrients by. Healthy eating is important for people of all ages especially children and adolescents. 

Following a healthy diet has many health benefits such as building strong bones, preventing diseases, improving immunity, improving brain functioning and boosting mood. Eating well contributes to healthier skin and hair as well. Eating well leads to sound sleep and helps in better concentration. Proper diet also relieves anxiety and depression. This all adds up to a healthier and happier lifestyle. Healthy eating should be an enjoyable social experience. When people eat well, they have proper growth, development, maintenance and develop a good relationship with food and other social skills are also enhanced. There is no denial about the importance of healthy food in our lives. 

Healthy eating helps to prevent malnutrition (underweight and overweight) and reduces risk of the non-communicable diseases ( Diabetes, Cancer, Cardiovascular diseases, Chronic respiratory diseases). Following a healthy diet has many health benefits such as building strong bones, preventing diseases, improving immunity, improving brain functioning and boosting mood. Eating well contributes to healthier skin and hair as well. Eating well leads to sound sleep and helps in better concentration. 

Proper diet also relieves anxiety and depression. This all adds up to a healthier and happier lifestyle. Healthy eating should be an enjoyable social experience. When people eat well, they have proper growth, development, maintenance and develop a good relationship with food and other social skills are also enhanced. There is no denial about the importance of healthy food in our lives. Balanced diet with physical activity leads to a healthier and better quality lifestyle

Your favourite cheat meals:

Written by: Sana ul Haq

When on a diet, it is very important to eat healthy and avoid fried, sugary and unhealthy food. Going to fast food chains or satisfying your sweet tooth is out of the question on a daily but it is important to have a few cheat meals here and there. However, it must be kept in mind that whilst the cheat meals do satify your cravings, they aren't too unhealthy. 

Nihari and pai breakfast

When I am on a cheat day, I start my day with a wonderful nihari and pai breakfast from Bani Market. This breakfast gives me lots of vitamins and proteins. 

Refreshment Centre Snacks

Rawalpindi Refreshment Centre is a wonderful place to have a snack in the evening. I like their fruit chart and samosa chat.

Shinwari at G-10

I suggest Shinwari to everyone. One should have it alreast once if you haven't tried it before. Although very heavy in proteins and fats, it gives you the energy you need for a workaholic lifestyle. However, make sure to have it only on a cheat day as having regularly can make you gain weight. 

Hungry Bunny's

Well, I make the most out of my cheat day. The evening has to end with a snack at Hungry Bunny's. Their pizza and crispy burger has no match. Forget Mcdonald's or KFC or Hardee's. Just take time out and visit Hungry Bunny's.

Chai at Quetta Cafe

Well well well. The day is closing already but would it be perfect without chai?Quetta cafes are now everywhere. Previously I'd have to go to Food Street to have some Quetta chai and green tea but now it's on every street. Their tea, qahwa and paratha is the best in town. Although a cold drink does well with Hungry Bunny's, I like to skip the drink and have mint tea or milk tea at Quetta's afterwards.

5 Travel Essentials

 

Written by: Ayishm Zia

Travelling is fun! It brings peace in life. It helps us connect to people from different cultures. More so, travelling is a very rewarding experience. However, you have to pack some essentials before you step out of your home.

Here is a list of five essentials you must have when you are traveling:

Camera

Ofcourse, when you are out, you are making memories every second of the trip. The memories you are making of course are saved in your heart forever but you also want to capture those places, people, cultures, food and memories in your camera. This allows you to look back even fifty years from now when may be these memories are fading away and you want to refresh those. So invest in a good camera!

Flip flops

I know everyone invests in buying a good pair of jogger before travel, but with that you must also buy good flip flops. You can wear flip-flops on the go plus they are super comfortable. Do you need anything else?

Wet wipes

Wet wipes are extremely important. You will find a ton of gross things while travelling and hence, you’ll need to clean them before use. You will have to wipe your own self after a walk or maybe clean something in your car or jeep. So this one is a go product!

Micro- towel

We always forget this! Micro towels are extremely light weight and perfect for travelling. Above all, they dry quickly and so, its best for travelling. Hence, do not forget to put one in your bag pack. 

Portable chargers 

Nothing will make you angrier but when you are running out of battery and you cannot find a charging spot or a socket! UGH. Thus having your own power source can make your life a whole lot easier. 

Enjoy your trip and travel safe.

 

 

Chocolate Facts!

Written by: Syeda Sheeza Ali

What if I tell you that there is not only bad news about chocolate, there are actually benefits of eating chocolate but not the chocolate we eat that contains milk, cream, and lots of sugar its DARK CHOCOLATE. I know that dark chocolate is underrated but it isn't that bad as we imagine it to be. We just need to find the right kind of chocolate. Now it is the time that dark chocolate gets the chance to defend itself.

• We always hear that chocolate cause cavity but in dark chocolate, there is enough amount of cacao which is the main ingredient in chocolate and is actually helpful in fighting tooth decay.
• Everybody says that chocolate causes acne but according to many scientists there is no such connection between food and acne. It happens because of genetics and hygiene.
• It is said that chocolate contains a high amount of caffeine but this is not true, a bar of chocolate contains less than half the caffeine that you can easily find in cola or a cup of coffee. Research also shows that less than 200 mg of caffeine is not harmful to the body. If you take chocolate in small quantities it can help you to calm yourself. Chocolate makes you concentrate better and also, helps you to improve your memory by increasing the theta wave in the brain.
•  You must have heard that chocolate is full of carbohydrates well, dark chocolate is not sugar-free but surely has less amount of sugar than milk chocolates. It has a natural sweetness that is lower than most fruit juices and we have to appreciate the fact that there is no added sugar. As long as you're not eating too much dark chocolate for dessert it won't harm you.
• Diets that contain antioxidants, are good for your body such as your immune system. It also helps in recovering from cancer and you’ll surely be happy to hear that dark chocolate are full of anti-oxidant.
• Lower blood pressure and dark chocolate are directly linked with each other and it is difficult to say the same thing about the white chocolate

So, you have to watch what you're eating dark chocolate can fulfill the craving for chocolate and it is healthy for your body too.

 

Three Awesome DIY projects that you can do in Lockdown.

Written by: Syeda Sheeza Ali

Hanging Gardens:

Who doesn't want to see greenery around you and think how much it would be beautiful if you have a hanging garden? This is a new trend where you can use any product like old long boots, newsletter bag, hanging bottles, and hanging pots to put your favorite green plants, flowers, or even herbs. It looks very unique and absolutely beautiful.  

Yarn-Wrapped Painted Jars:

In this quartine, you can always be looking for something fun home project so you can get your mind off from all this depressing news. Everybody have ordinary jars in their houses, you can make those ordinary jars into something beautiful and creative. This is a very cheap and easy project and anybody can do this. You only need Glass Jar, Yarn or String, Scissors, Candles. Once you have all these materials you just have to wrap the string around the jar using glue and place a candle inside a jar and Here you go, your homemade yarn wrapped jars are ready.

Cup with a message on it:

This is a very amazing idea if you want to gift your best friend or to anyone. You can write any message on that cup, any favorite line or nickname, you can write a date on the cup and give it to your friend who is getting married or got a promotion just to save that day. For this, you can take any teacup and permanent marker, write anything that you want, or draw. Bake that cup for 30 minutes on 350F to make it permanent and it is ready.

 

5 Must Watch Movies

Written by: Muhammad Arsam

Feeling a little bored during this pandemic? where we all are staying home and avoiding socializing and you are not sure where to consume this much time? It surely doesn’t mean that you’re destined for boredom. Grab some popcorns and watch a movie, you can't consume your time in more fun way other than this. Watch movies for the entertainment and to escape the reality or ‘create a new reality’ of your own. Following is the list of five movies everyone should watch once in their lifetime.

1) The Godfather

This is one of the highest rated movie of all time. most movie maniacs describe this as a 'perfection" of a movie with its amazing cast ,the story ,the  dialogues ,everything in this movie is pitch perfect ,you won't see a more perfect movie than this one . The movie is beautifully written and perfectly acted upon. In the movie, Don Vito Corleone, who is the head of a mafia family give the responsibility of running the family to his son Michael Corleone. family of such power and status have foes all around ,this story revolves around how his son keep his family intact by also addressing the mafia businesses which are dirty one. Definitely a great drama film.

2) The Forest Gump

This film is "like a box of chocolates . . . you never know what you're gonna get". Forrest, a man with IQ as low as 75, who lacks intelligence and sees the world far simpler and clearer than the rest of the society. Tom Hanks played the role of forest gump ,landing an Oscar winning performance. This story revolves around forest who seems to care more about the world ,his simplicity is what makes him stand out. he has a life full of adventures and turns just so he could get back with his childhood sweetheart .

3) Joker

The movie “Joker” is a masterpiece in every way. some critics describe it as 'extremely dark' but this truly is a masterpiece in reality. It is a dark ,pshycological thriller that takes you on the street of Gotham where there is a person named Arthur Fleck. he is a grown up man who lives with his mother and he hardly makes end meet .He have several mental disorders including depression, hallucination. He works as a street clown and want to become a stand-up-comedian. Soon he realizes how the system is messed up and people like him have no value in this society but soon after he appears on a reality show and kills the host person, he realizes how one man can be a catalyst for change in the society. This movie depicts the fact that criminal psycology needs to be studied and mental disorders are real.

4) Mad Max: Fury Road

Mad Max: Fury Road is an entertainment movie which is full of action. so if you are an action movies fan you surely will love this one. this movie is full of mouth watering action and with little blend of comedy ,this movie really stands out from the rest in its genre. There are some amazing cinematic scenes which surely will be remembered for a long time The movie is set in the near future with no cities or societies left ,Everything has been destroyed and resources are in scarce. Everyone is dying of thirst and the water is gravely distributed. It surely is a treat to eyes and ears.

5) The pursuit of Happyness

This movie is based upon a true story of an American who is struggling to make ends meet. It is directed by Gabriele Muccino. It is about Christopher Gardner, who is a single parent ,his wife leaves him and he is now left to struggle with his 5 years old young son. He loses his life’s earnings .He tries to make a living out of selling bone xray machines which he invested in. He had to spend one night in a public toilet just because he didn't have any place to crash. Eventually he gets an internship in a brokerage firm where he puts all his determination to land a job and turn around his fortunes. The movie is filled with hope and determination to achieve one’s dream which makes it worth watching.

How to overcome challenges in life?

Written by: Ayishm Zia

I am no expert to tell anyone how to overcome challenges in life, but here are some of the things everyone must know. Every one of us is going through one challenge or another, whether they say it or not.

Firstly, I will not tell you to be strong. This is probably the last thing you want to hear right now and that is for sure. What I will tell you is to feel your feelings. There is nothing wrong with it. Do not suppress your feelings at all, you know why? Because it does more harm than good. Bottling everything inside your heart will break you apart and even prevent you to propel yourself out of the situation.

The second thing I want to tell you is that you are not alone. Everyone on this spherical planet is going through something and thus you should reach out to the people and talk about it. I vividly remember one of my mentors told me that there is nothing wrong in asking for help. More so, you will realize that people are ready to rescue you too. You just need to ask for help, spread your arms and tell them you need help.

Another thing that might help you get less anxious about a current hardship is by being there for others. Let’s get a little honest here! There are very less people who are good listeners. When you help others, even by listening to their hardships, you are being there for them. There is nothing more satisfying than this. You will understand that what you are currently going through was not even a serious issue after listening to others. Even if it is, these people will stick by you too. Always keep your spirits high. Try to find even the tiniest amount of positivity in your life. I am sure there’s got to be something you are grateful for.