In today’s fast-paced world, self-care often takes a back seat. Neglecting foot health can lead to discomfort and stress. So, we bring you the options for a foot spa machine that will rejuvenate and revitalize your feet in the comfort of your home.
What is a foot spa machine?
A foot spa machine is a device designed to provide your feet with the ultimate relaxation experience. By combining heat, bubbles and massage rollers, these machines alleviate stress, improve blood circulation, relieve pain and exfoliate dead skin, leaving your feet soft and refreshed.
Best food spa machine options in India
Turn your home into a spa retreat with these pedicure machines that come with the option of temperature control, massage rollers and more. Our curated list of foot spa machines offer a solution for all your foot care needs. We’ve chosen these products based on their quality, features and customer satisfaction. Let us discover some of the best foot spa machines in India!
iBELL FTM134B Foot Electric Massager Machine
Pamper your feet with the iBELL FTM134B Foot Electric Massager Machine. This high-tech massager comes with temperature control, multiple massage modes and an automatic roller for a revitalizing experience. Its precision engineering offers effective foot care.
B08MF159S2
Conair Waterfall Foot Pedicure Spa with Lights, Bubbles, Massage Rollers
Elevate your foot care routine with the Conair Waterfall Foot Pedicure Spa. This luxurious foot spa boasts the comfort of soothing bubbles and massaging rollers. The added feature of LED lights creates a serene ambiance for your relaxation sessions. Treat your feet to an oasis of calmness and bliss.
B01LQ6KSTE
HoMedics Bubble Mate Foot Spa
Bring the spa home with the HoMedics Bubble Mate Foot Spa. This foot spa machine offers invigorating bubble massage to soothe tired feet and a toe-touch control for easy operation. The removable pedicure center allows you to enjoy a complete foot care experience.
B000TK8RCO
Caresmith Revive Foldable Foot Spa Massager
The Caresmith Revive Foldable Foot Spa Massager is a space-saving and intelligent choice. With its automatic rollers and collapsible design, this foot spa offers convenience and rejuvenation on the go. Unwind with its soothing heat therapy, bubble massage and waterfall feature for the perfect spa-like escape.
B0BBN9KZ2G
Lifelong LLM279 Foot Spa and Massager with Automatic Rollers
Experience pure indulgence with the Lifelong LLM279 Foot Spa and Massager. This feature-rich foot spa comes equipped with automatic rollers, adjustable temperature settings and intelligent bubble massage. Treat your feet to the ultimate pampering session and say hello to rejuvenated, happy feet.
B08GP73ZRQ
How to find the perfect foot spa machine?
To find the ideal foot spa machine for your needs, consider the features that matter most to you. Look for automatic rollers, adjustable temperature settings and additional features like bubble massage and waterfall functions. Read customer reviews to gauge satisfaction levels and assess product durability. Pick a foot spa machine that suits your taste and budget while giving you the ultimate at-home foot care experience!
(Disclaimer: This article was collaboratively written by the editorial team along with a creative AI tool. At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team. But their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)
July is International Self-Care Month, an important reminder to be aware of our well-being. In a fast-paced and demanding world, we often find ourselves overwhelmed and neglecting our well-being. The concept of self-care, which encompasses care for the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of our being, has become increasingly important in maintaining good mental health. It is crucial to recognize the significance of self-care practices in nurturing a healthier and happier life. This blog explores the benefits of embracing self-care and offers practical insights into prioritizing self-care activities in various settings.
The Three Dimensions of Self-Care: Physical, Emotional and Mental
Self-care extends beyond merely pampering ourselves; it entails tending to our physical, emotional, and mental state. Just as we need regular exercise and a balanced diet for our physical body’s well-being, nurturing our emotional and mental health is equally essential. Acknowledging that each area influences the other is crucial to maintaining a harmonious balance within ourselves.
The first dimension is physical self-care, which involves nurturing our bodies through regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and attending to our bodily needs. This dimension ensures that we maintain our physical health and vitality, enabling us to tackle life’s challenges with vigor.
The second dimension is emotional self-care, focusing on understanding, expressing and managing our emotions in a healthy way. This involves self-compassion, stress reduction techniques and building supportive relationships to enhance emotional resilience.
Lastly, mental self-care centers around the mind, engaging in activities that stimulate cognitive growth and mindfulness practices to alleviate mental strain and enhance cognitive clarity.
In our busy lives, carving out time for self-care can be challenging, but it is vital to remember that self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Prioritizing self-care means setting boundaries and recognizing when we need to pause and recharge. Starting a book club, participating in physical or creative activities or simply taking a few moments each day to meditate or engage in deep breathing exercises can significantly impact our mental health. By consciously making self-care a part of our routine, we take control of our well-being.
Self-Care Activities for Groups: Nurturing Together
While self-care often seems like an individual journey, it can also be a powerful experience in a group setting. Engaging in self-care activities with others fosters a sense of belonging, social support and shared growth. Whether it’s playing board games, practicing yoga or participating in group meditation sessions, the camaraderie and encouragement within a group can amplify the benefits of self-care. When individuals come together to support one another, everyone involved can flourish.
Reducing Stress and Cultivating Emotional Well-being
Stress can take a toll on our mental and physical health, making stress management an essential aspect of self-care. Alongside the self-care practices mentioned earlier, reducing stress through mindfulness, relaxation techniques or limiting exposure to social media can be immensely beneficial. Embracing self-care in this way can help us build resilience, improve emotional regulation and create a more positive outlook on life.
The Spiritual Body: Nurturing the Soul
Beyond the physical, emotional and mental aspects, we should also recognize and address our spiritual body. Spiritual self-care practices can vary widely from person to person, but they generally involve connecting with something greater than us, finding meaning and purpose in life and nurturing our inner selves. Whether through meditation, spending time in nature, or engaging in spiritual discussions with like-minded individuals, caring for our spiritual body can be a profound and transformative journey.
As we celebrate International Self-Care Month, let us remind ourselves and others about the significance of self-care practices in achieving and maintaining good mental health and overall well-being. Whether we choose to embark on this journey alone or in the company of others, embracing self-care can lead us to a life filled with greater joy, resilience and fulfillment. So, let us take a step towards a happier and healthier existence by embracing the transformative power of self-care.
Losing weight and staying fit is a journey that requires dedication, commitment, and a well-rounded fitness routine. Losing belly fat can be especially challenging, but incorporating an exercise ball into your fitness routine can make a significant difference. This versatile piece of equipment can add a fun and dynamic element to your workouts while engaging multiple muscle groups and promoting calorie burn. Let’s take a look at five effective ways to use an exercise ball to target and reduce belly fat, helping you achieve a flatter and more toned midsection.
The exercise ball, also known as a stability ball or Swiss ball, is a highly versatile fitness tool that offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking to improve their strength, flexibility, and balance. Resembling a large inflatable sphere, the exercise ball typically ranges in diameter from 55 cm to 85 cm. It is commonly made from durable, anti-burst PVC material, ensuring it can withstand rigorous workouts and maintain its shape under pressure. The ball’s unstable surface challenges various muscle groups, engaging the core and stabilizer muscles, promoting better posture, and reducing the risk of injury.
Traditional crunches can be intensified by using an exercise ball. To perform stability ball crunches, lie on the ball with your lower back and hips supported. Place your hands behind your head and engage your core as you lift your upper body toward the ceiling. Exhale as you crunch and inhale as you lower back down. Repeat for 10-15 reps, gradually increasing the number of sets as your core strength improves.
Stability ball crunches not only target the rectus abdominis (the front abdominal muscles) but also engage the obliques and deep core muscles, making it an excellent exercise for overall core development.
You can do advance level crunches using an exercise ball. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
2. Planks on the Exercise Ball
Planks are exceptional for building core strength and stability. By adding an exercise ball into the mix, you elevate the difficulty and engage additional muscle groups. To perform a plank on the exercise ball, place your forearms on the ball and extend your legs into a plank position. Your body should form a straight line from head to heels. Hold this position for 30 seconds to a minute, focusing on keeping your core tight and stable.
As you progress, try adding movement by rolling the ball slightly forward and backward while maintaining a stable plank position. This added challenge will activate even more muscles in your core, enhancing your overall fat-burning potential.
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3. Exercise Ball Russian Twists
Russian twists are fantastic for targeting the oblique muscles. Incorporating an exercise ball makes this exercise more dynamic and demanding. Sit on the ball with your feet flat on the floor, lean back slightly to engage your core, and hold a weight or medicine ball with both hands in front of your chest. Rotate your torso to the right and then to the left, tapping the weight on the floor beside your hips with each twist.
Perform 12-15 twists on each side for 2-3 sets. This exercise not only aids in burning belly fat but also improves balance and spinal mobility.
4. Exercise Ball Rollouts
Exercise ball rollouts are a challenging yet effective way to target the entire core, including the deep stabilizing muscles. Start in a kneeling position with the exercise ball in front of you. Place your forearms on the ball and engage your core as you roll the ball forward, extending your body into a plank position. Keep your back straight and hips in line with your shoulders.
Roll the ball back towards your knees to complete one rep. Perform 8-10 reps for 2-3 sets. If you find this movement too demanding initially, you can decrease the difficulty by rolling the ball out to a shorter distance.
5. Exercise Ball Leg Raises
Leg raises effectively target the lower abdominal muscles. Adding an exercise ball to this exercise creates an unstable surface, making it more challenging and engaging more muscle fibers. Lie on your back with the ball between your feet, legs straight up toward the ceiling. Place your hands beside you on the floor for stability. Slowly lower your legs towards the ground without touching it and then lift them back up to the starting position.
Complete 10-12 leg raises for 2-3 sets. As your core strength improves, you can experiment with different variations, such as scissor kicks or side-to-side leg raises.
Lose that belly fat in a jiffy with exercise ball workouts! Image courtesy: Adobe stock
These five exercises offer a diverse range of movements that engage various muscle groups, contributing to a stronger, more toned core. Remember, spot reduction is not possible, so combine these exercises with a balanced diet and regular cardiovascular exercises to achieve the best results. Stay consistent, be patient, and enjoy the journey to a healthier and fitter you!
The flavor of kiwifruit is all kiwifruit: sweet tart with hints of citrus, strawberry, pineapple, and melon. Kiwifruit flavor is unique.
Kiwifruit is a great breakfast fruit. Halve the kiwi crosswise and simply scoop it out and eat it chilled and fresh with a small spoon. A peeled kiwi can be served halved or quartered as an edible garnish. (Peel a kiwi with a paring knife.) Add raw kiwi to fresh fruit compotes and salads or serve it with avocado, radicchio, and endive just as you would oranges.
How to choose kiwifruit
Select kiwis that give slightly to your squeeze. The flesh should be soft but not very soft. A very soft kiwi can be mealy and mushy and will lack flavor.
How to store kiwifruit
A ripe kiwi can be kept in the refrigerator for several days. If you choose a kiwi that is close to ripe and refrigerate it immediately, it can keep for many months. When you are ready to use it, set it out at room temperature for a couple of days until it yields to slight pressure and has finished ripening.
About kiwifruit
The kiwifruit is a berry. It grows on a climbing, creeping plant that resembles a vine. The fruit is about 3 inches (7.5 cm) long with a thin, bristly, brownish-fuzzed skin and weighs between 2 and 4 ounces (48-112 grams). The kiwi’s flesh is emerald-green to chartreuse colored: sweet, juicy, and will taste slightly acidic if you bite into the small poppy-like edible black seeds that radiate like a halo from the yellowish core.
This plant originated in China where it was prized. The ruling khans of southern China were called the kiwi yang tao. When the British arrived in China in the early 19th century, they renamed this fruit the “Chinese gooseberry”—even though it is no relation to a gooseberry.
The yang tao gradually made its way around the world. It was introduced into New Zealand in 1906 and became a major commercial crop there in the 1960s. In New Zealand, the yang tao got dubbed the “kiwi”—a nickname for the native flightless bird apteryx which at a distance appears brown and fuzzy.
Today kiwi fruit is a major crop in New Zealand and California. The California crop is available from October through May and the New Zealand crop from June to October.
For centuries, ubtan has been a cherished beauty secret in traditional Indian skin care practices. Ubtan is a natural and time-honored face and body scrub made from a blend of various herbs, spices and natural ingredients. Renowned for its ability to promote a radiant complexion, ubtan is the perfect solution for achieving glowing skin without the use of harsh chemicals. Read on to know the benefits of ubtan and guide you on how to make ubtan at home for a glowing skin.
Benefits of ubtan for skin
Ubtan is a potent mix of natural ingredients that work synergistically to benefit the skin in numerous ways:
1. Exfoliation: Ubtan acts as a gentle exfoliator, sloughing off dead skin cells and impurities, leaving your skin fresh, smooth, and rejuvenated.
2. Brightening: The natural ingredients present in ubtan, such as turmeric, saffron, and gram flour, are rich in antioxidants that can lead to skin whitening and reduce pigmentation.
3. Deep Cleansing: Ubtan penetrates deep into the pores, removing dirt, excess oil, and other pollutants, which helps prevent acne and other skin issues.
4. Moisturizing: Ingredients like milk, yogurt, or honey in ubtan provide deep hydration to the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
5. Anti-Aging: Ubtan can help combat the signs of ageing due to its ability to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity.
6. Toning: The herbal ingredients in ubtan can help tighten and firm the skin, giving it a youthful appearance.
Ubtan is the best natural way to make your skin look fresh and young. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Now, let’s dive into a simple yet effective ubtan recipe that you can make at home.
How to make ubtan at home?
Ingredients:
*2 tablespoons gram flour (besan) *1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder *A pinch of saffron strands (soaked in 1 tablespoon of warm milk) *1 tablespoon raw milk (or yogurt for oily skin) *1 teaspoon honey (optional for added moisturization) *Rosewater (as needed for desired consistency)
Instructions:
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour and turmeric powder. Gram flour acts as a base and helps in cleansing, while turmeric lends its brightening and anti-inflammatory properties.
Step 2: Add the saffron-soaked milk to the mixture. Saffron is known for its complexion-enhancing qualities and imparts a natural glow to the skin.
Step 3: Incorporate raw milk (or yogurt) into the mix. Milk acts as a natural cleanser and moisturizer, leaving your skin feeling nourished.
Step 4: Optionally, add a teaspoon of honey to the mixture. Honey is an excellent humectant, attracting and retaining moisture, making it a valuable addition for dry skin types.
Step 5: Gradually pour rosewater into the mixture while stirring until you achieve a smooth paste-like consistency.
Ubtan is a godsend for skincare. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
1. Before applying ubtan, cleanse your face and neck thoroughly to remove any traces of makeup or dirt.
2. Gently massage the ubtan paste onto your face and neck in circular motions, avoiding the delicate eye area.
3. Let the ubtan sit on your skin for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the natural ingredients to work their magic.
4. Once the ubtan is semi-dry, dampen your hands and gently scrub your face and neck again in circular motions. This step will further exfoliate your skin.
5. Rinse off the ubtan with lukewarm water, followed by a splash of cold water to close the pores.
Use this DIY ubtan for best results! Image Courtesy: Shutterstock
6. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel and apply a lightweight moisturizer to lock in the hydration.
By following the simple DIY recipe mentioned above, you can easily make ubtan at home and unveil the timeless secret to healthy, glowing skin. Embrace the power of nature and pamper your skin with the goodness of ubtan today!
It’s not uncommon and it calls for action, not shame. Depression, anxiety, mania, stress, substances – sometimes we live on the edge. And it comes at a cost. How to survive a depression or anxiety crisis? Let’s talk…
Embrace your suffering and be worthy of it. What you expect from life is irrelevant. It’s what life expects from you that matters.
Beneath your conscious awareness, a dangerous amount of biological and environmental fuel accumulated.
Then came the igniting trigger, and you blew. It was crisis time and you believed there was no way out.
Be prepared
Does that hit home? Maybe you’re up to your neck in it right now. Lord knows I’ve been there a time or ten.
Fact is, we know blowouts can sneak up on us anytime. Yet all too often we aren’t prepared with coping strategies and techniques to pull us through.
We can’t be caught off guard like that.
How to survive a depression or anxiety crisis
“I was totally unprepared for this. And I have no idea what to do. Help…”
Between personal experience and my ER psych days, I’ve gathered a lengthy list of in the moment crisis interventions – some of which I still use to maintain balance.
I’m going to share 17 of them, but first…
If the tips don’t work for you, don’t think twice about reaching out to your mental health provider. If you don’t have one or if you’re having thoughts of harm to self or others dial 988 in the US. For those living elsewhere visit this incredibly helpful directory.
Let’s get busy…
17 Chipur tipurs
When the feeling of crisis strikes…
STOP! Ground yourself and be confident in knowing your world comes to an end only by choice.
Accept what’s happening and the factors driving it – no fighting. And accept that taking hits is a part of being human. It’s okay.
Turn to the intervention plan you either have or will have after reading this.
Stay in the moment. If you start thinking down the road, you’re not going to like what you see.
Connect with your spiritual power source and maintain communication – pray, meditate. In addition to asking for help, listen.
In all things, maintain a spirit of forward motion. Even if it’s inches at a time, you’re on your way.
If you’ve been through it before, here you are again. Obviously, you aren’t going down.
Understand there’s a good chance that what you’re feeling and how you’re behaving are being generated by cognitive distortions. Don’t blindly trust your thoughts.
Allow your reaction and response to evolve. If you force them, things will turn uglier.
Embrace who you are, not what. And what better time to learn the distinction.
Consider the circumstances as the best possible learning and growth opportunity, and make it your business to do just that.
Take what’s happening within the context of your life’s meaning. And if you don’t have one, get after it.
Embrace your suffering and be worthy of it. What you expect from life is irrelevant. It’s what life expects from you that matters.
In addition to your spiritual power source, reach out to a trusted loved one, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health pro.
This may well be a life-defining moment. Step up, and make it happen.
Keep telling yourself there’s no shame in what you’re experiencing.
Never give up on hope. It never quit on you.
Now, you may be thinking that’s way too much to ponder when all hell’s breaking loose. But if you review the list several times – a part of being prepared – you’ll be amazed how much falls into place when the chips are down.
And why not favorite the article or print it? Perhaps it can be part of your plan.
So it begins
Those of us trying to manage mood and anxiety challenges live on the edge. And we pay for it. Explosions are going to happen – that’s just the way it is.
If we accept that, we don’t have to be a helpless and hopeless victim. What we can be is prepared. And so begins surviving a crisis.
Maybe a few more Chipur mood and anxiety info and inspiration articles will come in handy. Take your pick.
Sweet potatoes are super versatile and absolutely delightful!
These little wonders aren’t just mouth-watering; they offer plenty of essential nutrients, making them a fantastic choice for a balanced diet.
Now, here’s where things get interesting.
Sweet potatoes can be a bit puzzling when categorizing them as a fruit or a vegetable.
You see, they possess a naturally sweet taste that puts them in a league. That has led to sweet potatoes being classified as both fruits and vegetables in various countries. It’s like they’ve got one foot in each world, keeping us guessing but ultimately enriching our culinary adventures.
But where did they actually belong? You want to know, right?
Let’s settle a delicious debate that has puzzled many of us: Is a sweet potato a fruit or a vegetable?
So, without wasting any further time, let’s dig in!
Is a Sweet Potato a Vegetable or a Fruit?
Fruits and vegetables have been separated for centuries for cultural and historical reasons.
And still, there are some foods people don’t find clarity about.
The case is similar for sweet potatoes.
Because of their sweet taste, many people find it hard to believe that it is a vegetable and consider it some fruit.
Let’s discuss the difference between a fruit and a vegetable and how different foods have been classified botanically.
What Is the Difference Between a Fruit and a Vegetable?
The distinction between fruits and vegetables is primarily based on botanical and culinary classifications.
While fruits and vegetables are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, they have different scientific definitions.
Botanical Definitions
From a botanical point of view, a fruit is the mature ovary of a flowering plant.
When a flower is pollinated—the ovary inside it gets fertilized, leading to the development of seeds within the fruit.
Want to know something interesting?
The primary purpose of fruits is to protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds.
Examples of botanically classified fruits include:
In contrast, vegetables are derived from various parts of plants other than the ovary.
They can include:
Roots (carrots, radishes)
Stems (celery, asparagus)
Leaves (spinach, lettuce)
Flowers (cauliflower, broccoli)
Vegetables serve different functions for plants, such as:
Storing nutrients (in roots)
Conducting water and nutrients (in stems)
Capturing sunlight for photosynthesis (in leaves)
Now, let’s look at the culinary definitions.
Culinary Definitions
The culinary definition of fruits and vegetables is more subjective and varies across cultures.
In the culinary context, fruits are often characterized by their sweet or tart taste and are typically consumed raw or used in desserts, jams, and beverages.
Their natural sugars make them suitable for snacks or as ingredients in sweet dishes.
Some common culinary fruits include:
Apples
Oranges
Peaches
Grapes
Conversely, vegetables are often described as having a savory, less sweet, or bitter taste.
They are flexible and can be consumed raw or cooked in savory dishes, such as stir-fries, salads, soups, stews, and side dishes.
Examples of culinary vegetables include:
Carrots
Broccoli
Lettuce
Spinach
But there is more to it.
Overlapping Categories
There are cases where botanical fruits are often considered vegetables in culinary contexts.
It is because the culinary classification is based on cultural and culinary traditions rather than strict botanical definitions.
Some examples of such fruits that are commonly referred to as vegetables include:
Tomatoes
Cucumbers
Peppers
While they are botanically classified as fruits due to their origin in the ovary, they are typically used in savory dishes and have a less sweet taste.
Therefore, it is crucial to resolve the debate regarding all these foods.
So, let’s start with the sweet potatoes.
Resolving the Sweet Potato Debate!
The sweet potato debate has confused many with contradictory opinions about its classification.
People usually get confused about fruits and vegetables because of the usage of these terms in everyday language. While fruits and vegetables have distinct botanical definitions, their culinary and cultural interpretations often overlap, leading to misconceptions.
It’s essential to recognize that food usage cannot affect how we see and classify them.
Sweet potatoes are commonly used in savory dishes, making them appear more vegetable-like.
Is a sweet potato a fruit or a vegetable? | The culinary classification doesn’t have much importance in classifying a food because different cultures have different sorts of usage of that food | Image via Anastasia Belousova
However, this does not necessarily dictate their botanical classification.
It is because different cultures have different approaches to classifying sweet potatoes.
For instance:
In some cuisines, sweet potatoes are used in desserts.
Thus, aligning them more closely with the fruit category regarding culinary classification.
Botanically speaking, sweet potatoes are classified as vegetables due to their origin from tuberous roots, which are not the result of fertilized flowers.
That aside, let’s learn some health benefits of sweet potatoes.
Are Sweet Potatoes Healthy?
Sweet potatoes are indeed considered a healthy food option due to their numerous nutritional benefits.
Here are some key points to consider when evaluating the healthiness of sweet potatoes:
Nutrient-Rich
Sweet potatoes are packed with essential nutrients.
They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain a healthy weight, and supports heart health.
They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including:
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Potassium
Manganese
Vitamin A is especially abundant in sweet potatoes and plays a vital role in vision, immune function, and cell growth.
Antioxidant Properties
Sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene, which gives them their vibrant orange color.
Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
Antioxidants also have anti-inflammatory properties and may help lower the probability of chronic diseases, such as:
Heart disease
Certain types of cancer
Blood sugar regulation
Despite their naturally sweet taste, sweet potatoes have a relatively low glycemic index (GI). The glycemic index measures how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. The low GI of sweet potatoes means that they have a minimum impact on blood sugar levels compared to high-GI foods.
Additionally, the high fiber content in sweet potatoes helps slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, further aiding in blood sugar control.
Heart Health
The nutritional composition of sweet potatoes supports the heart’s health.
They are low in fat and cholesterol and contain potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure levels.
The fiber in sweet potatoes can also contribute to a healthy cardiovascular system by reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.
Digestive Health
Sweet potatoes are an excellent dietary fiber source for a healthy digestive system.
Fiber adds bulk to the stool and promotes regular bowel movements, preventing constipation.
It also nourishes beneficial gut bacteria and aids in maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall health and immune function.
FAQs
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Why Is There Confusion About Whether Sweet Potatoes Are Fruits or Vegetables?
The confusion arises because sweet potatoes are sometimes called “yams.”
While true yams are a different type of tuberous root vegetable, in the United States, the term “yam” is often used interchangeably with sweet potatoes, causing some confusion about their classification.
Are Sweet Potatoes Classified as Fruits Because They Have Seeds?
Although sweet potatoes produce seeds, they are primarily propagated vegetatively using plant cuttings.
Therefore, the presence of seeds does not determine their classification as a fruit.
Are Sweet Potatoes Suitable for People with Dietary Restrictions?
Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed by individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
However, if you have specific dietary concerns or allergies, consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is always recommended.
That’s all for today!
Now it’s time to move toward the conclusion and summarize the talk here.
Conclusion!
I hope this post has cleared your head about classifying sweet potatoes as a fruit or a vegetable.
Sweet potatoes are vegetables both in botanical and culinary terms.
Still, some cultures use sweet potatoes as desserts; they may classify them as fruit.
But remember, culinary usage doesn’t decide the classification of food.
So, we need to go with the more accurate botanical classification, according to which sweet potato is considered a vegetable.
So, from now on, don’t let the fruit and vegetable confusion stop you from enjoying the goodness of sweet potatoes—add them to your meal and enjoy their unique flavor and health benefits.
Are you tired of waking up to lackluster skin? We understand the struggle of wanting that lit-from-within glow. That’s why we’re here to solve the mystery behind achieving radiant skin. With our selection of night creams for glowing skin, you can take your beauty sleep to the next level and wake up with a rejuvenated complexion.
Check out the best night creams for glowing skin
Choosing the right night cream is crucial for achieving a glowing complexion. The abundance of choices can leave you utterly confused about “which night cream is the best”. We bring you our top picks for night creams in India to step up your night skin care routine.
1. Dot & Key Night Reset Retinol + Ceramide Night Cream
Dot & Key’s Night Reset Retinol + Ceramide Night Cream is a powerhouse formula that combines the benefits of retinol and ceramides. This potent blend works overnight to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and boost collagen production. Wake up to plump, glowing skin with this dermatologist-approved night cream.
B085R9NNHQ
2. Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Cream
Olay’s Regenerist Retinol 24 Cream is a highly effective night cream enriched with retinol and vitamin B3. It penetrates deep into the skin, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Experience visibly smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin with this luxurious night cream.
B08698TW6X
3. Cetaphil Brightening Night Comfort Cream – 50 g
Cetaphil’s Brightening Night Comfort Cream is specifically formulated to nourish and brighten the skin while you sleep. Packed with potent ingredients like niacinamide and sea daffodil extract, this cream helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone, leaving you with a radiant complexion.
B08L95888H
4. Minimalist 2% Retinoid Anti Ageing Night Cream For Wrinkles & Fine Lines With Retinol Derivative For Sensitive Skin, 30ml
Minimalist’s 2% Retinoid Anti-Ageing Night Cream is a gentle yet effective formula designed to combat signs of ageing. With its retinol derivative, it stimulates collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin texture. Say hello to smooth, youthful-looking skin with this night cream.
B08F8W91F8
5. Forest Essentials Kumkumadi Night Cream
Forest Essentials’ Kumkumadi Night Cream is a luxurious blend of rare Ayurvedic ingredients that work harmoniously to rejuvenate the skin. This face cream leaves your skin hydrated and nourished. With consistent use, it can help to make your skin look younger and radiant.
B06Y698HSX
Best Value for Money: Among these glowing night creams, the best value for money is the Cetaphil Brightening Night Comfort Cream. Besides its effective results, its affordable price is also a point of attraction.
Best Overall Product: When it comes to the best overall product for glowing skin, the Dot & Key Night Reset Retinol + Ceramide Night Cream takes the crown. Its powerful combination of retinol and ceramides works wonders on the skin, addressing multiple concerns and delivering impressive results. Experience the transformative power of this night cream and awaken to a glowing complexion.
How to find the perfect night cream for glowing skin?
Choosing the perfect night cream can be overwhelming, but fear not! Keep in mind the reason you want to invest in a night cream. Some people choose it for anti-ageing benefits, while some choose it for skin brightening and general skin health. Check the ingredients, benefits and reviews of products before you make the final purchase. Don’t forget that skincare is very personal, and what may suit one person may not suit another. It can be a hit and try process to find a night cream that suits your skin type and need.
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Even the slimmest of us are not blessed with the flattest of the tummies! One of the best ways to get rid of the stubborn belly bulge is to exercise and eat a healthy diet. Exercise isn’t always about going to the gym. You can even sit on your chair and do these exercises. All you need is your chair and some willpower! Scroll down to find easy yet effective chair exercises for belly fat.
Before we know the exercise, we should know the causes of belly fat and work out ways to fix these issues for good. A sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep and a poor diet are some of the many reasons that lead to fat accumulation around the tummy. Not only does it increase your risk of obesity but it also puts you at risk of acute or chronic diseases. The best way to get rid of belly fat is to live a healthy lifestyle.
Chair exercises to burn belly fat
Whether you are a couch potato or have a desk job, you can do some simple yet effective chair exercises that can help you get rid of stubborn belly fat.
1. Sitting crunches
You can never go wrong with the classic crunches. We are just giving it a twist. Try these sitting crunches that might help you in your journey of getting rid of the bulging belly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing sitting crunches properly:
1. Sit on the edge of the chair with your hands on the back of your head while interlocking your fingers. Lean back with your back straight. 2. Now, lift your chest towards your knees, contracting your abdominal muscles. 3. Exhale as you crunch forward and inhale as you return to the starting position. 4. Keep your core engaged throughout the exercise. 5. Do 15 repetitions and 3 sets of this exercise.
Sitting crunches on the floor as well as chair can help you burn belly fat. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
2. Knee raise
Knee raises are one of the easiest yet most effective exercises you can do to burn excess belly fat. Here’s how you can do it properly:
1. Keep your feet flat on the floor as you sit upright. 2. Place your hands on each side of the chair. 3. Life one knee towards your chest, keeping your foot flexed and your back straight. 4. Hold it for a moment, keeping your foot flexed and your back straight. 5. Keep your core engaged. Now, lower the foot back down to the starting position. 6. Alternate legs and repeat the movement for at least 15 repetitions. Do 3 sets of this exercise.
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3. Side bends
Melt the belly fat away with this exercise that works on the love handles. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Sit upright on a chair with your feet planted on the floor. 2. Place your hands on either side of your head, with your elbows pointing out to the sides. 3. Now, bend towards your right, keeping your torso aligned and your left hip grounded on the chair. 4. You should feel the stretch on the left side of your body as you lower toward the right. 5. Hold it for a while and repeat on the other side. That completes one repetition. 6. Do at least 15 repetitions to reap the benefits.
4. Scissors
From your outer glutes to side bulge to abdominal fat, do this exercise that can work wonders for you and help you get rid of belly fat.
1. Sit on the edge of the chair with your back straight and hands on either side of the chair. 2. Extend your legs straight in front of you, hovering them slightly above the floor. 3. Lift your right leg upward as high as you can while simultaneously lowering your left leg toward the floor. 4. Keep your legs straight and cross them over each other again. Keep your core engaged while you do this. 5. Do at least 20 repetitions of this exercise and you can increase the count gradually.
5. Elbow crunch
A variation of the classic crunch, this exercise is a slight upgrade. Not just on your belly, it also works on the sides.
Elbow crunches but on a chair can also help get rid of belly fat. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Sit on a chair with your feet flat on the floor and back straight. 2. Place your hands lightly behind your back, with your elbows pointing out to the side. 3. Lean back slightly, maintaining an upright position while keeping your back straight. 4. Exhale and contract your abdominal muscles to curl your torso forward, bringing your elbows to your knees. 5. Focus on your abs to initiate the movement rather than pulling on your neck or head. 6. Hold the crunch position for a moment. Inhale and slowly lower your torso back down to the starting position. 7. Do 15 repetitions, in the beginning, and increase gradually.
While these exercises can help you burn belly fat, it is best to check with your healthcare provider and a fitness coach before making any changes in your routine.
Would you bare your soul to a robot or bond with a chatbot? How ‘bout trusting a machine learning diagnosis? Artificial intelligence and mental health: fantastic things are happening. Here’s the latest…
…a Vanderbilt University Medical Center study revealed that machine learning predicted whether a person will take their life with 80% accuracy.
The Age of Artificial Intelligence is upon us. And if it’s managed responsibly it can be marvelous.
There are an abundance of artificial intelligence applications up and running, and emotional and mental health is on the list.
Here’s the latest…
Background
“AI In Mental Health: Opportunities And Challenges In Developing Intelligent Digital Therapies,” written by Bernard Marr, appeared on Forbes recently.
Mr. Marr is a world-renowned business and tech futurist and influencer, as well as a best-selling author.
We’re going to rely upon his hard work and knowledge to get us where we need to go.
Let’s roll…
Definitions
Before we get to the goods, we need to handle some key definitions…
Artificial intelligence
A field of science concerned with building computers and machines that can reason, learn, and act in a way that would normally require the intelligence of humans or that involves data whose scale exceeds what humans can analyze.
Algorithm
A well-defined, in sequence computational technique that accepts a value or a collection of values as input and produces the output(s) needed to solve a problem.
Machine learning
A branch of artificial intelligence and computer science that focuses on the use of data and algorithms to imitate the way humans learn, gradually improving its accuracy.
Chatbot
A computer program that simulates human conversation to solve problems and answer questions. Modern chatbots use technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Artificial intelligence and mental health: Applications
I’m guessing you’ve been exposed to the artificial intelligence (AI) hype. Have you ever wondered if AI could somehow come to your emotional and mental rescue? Maybe you’ve had visions of healing similar to our featured image.
With Mr. Marr’s help, let’s see if we can get you some answers…
Artificial intelligence therapists
Chatbots are on the rise and they’re offering advice, symptom coping assistance, and a communication conduit during treatment.
And catch this, they can pick up on keywords during a conversation that can trigger a referral and direct contact with a human emotional and mental health (EMH) professional.
Marr offers Woebot as an example of a therapeutic chatbot. It gets to know the user’s personality and adapts to it. And it can even talk the user through quite a few therapies and exercises frequently used to manage a variety of conditions.
Marr goes on to mention the chatbot, Tess. It offers free 24/7 on demand emotional support and can be used to help with anxiety and panic attacks in the moment.
Wearables
Wearables up the AI treatment ante. They don’t wait around for action on the users part. Since they’re worn, and their sensors are constantly interpreting body signals, they give an immediate heads up if something merits a look-see.
Marr uses Biobeat as an example. Sleeping patterns, physical activity, variations in heart rate and rhythm – they’re all tracked and used to assess the user’s mood and cognitive state.
The data is compared with aggregated and anonymized data from other users to provide warnings when intervention may be necessary.
Diagnosing and predicting outcomes
AI, specifically machine learning, can be used to analyze a user’s medical and behavioral data, voice recordings collected from phone calls to intervention services, and more to flag warning signs of problems before they progress to an acute stage.
For instance, Marr mentions a review of studies conducted by IBM and the University of California. The review found that where AI was used to parse various data sources, machine learning could predict and classify mental health problems – including suicidal thoughts, depression, and schizophrenia – with “high accuracy.”
“Come on, Bill, it all sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?”
Taking things to the extreme, a Vanderbilt University Medical Center study revealed that machine learning predicted whether a person will take their life with 80% accuracy.
And research is currently being conducted at the Alan Turing Institute that’s examining ways of using large-scale datasets from individuals who have not shown symptoms of EMH issues to predict who is likely to develop them during their lifetimes.
And if that isn’t enough, AI has been used to predict cases where patients are more likely to respond to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), therefore being less likely to require meds.
Improving patient outcomes
If you’ve wrestled with an EMH disorder, nobody has to tell you that sticking to a treatment regimen can be challenging.
AI can be used to predict when the user is likely to slip into non-compliance and either issue reminders or alert their healthcare providers to enable manual interventions.
Personalized treatments
Research is underway involving leveraging AI to create personalized treatments for a number of mental health conditions. It’s been used to monitor symptoms and reactions to treatment to provide insights that can be used to adjust individual treatment plans.
And how ‘bout this? A University of California, Davis study focused on creating personalized treatment plans for children suffering from schizophrenia based on computer vision analysis of brain images.
Artificial intelligence and mental health: Challenges
Let’s wrap things up by talking about work that needs to be done.
Okay, you may be saying to yourself, “Come on, Bill, it all sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?” Well, not really “catches,” but there are challenges that are being addressed.
Marr talks about AI bias. He’s referring to inaccuracies or imbalances in the datasets used to train algorithms that could perpetuate unreliable predictions or social prejudice.
For instance, when it’s known that EMH issues are more likely to go undiagnosed among ethnic groups with poorer access to healthcare, algorithms that rely on this data may also be less accurate at diagnosing those issues.
And then there’s the fact that diagnosing EMH issues often requires more subjective judgment on the part of clinicians compared to diagnosing physical conditions.
Are you on board?
Quick note before we say goodbye. Lots in the works regarding AI and psychotropic medications – recommendations, prescribing, and development.
Well, that’ll do it. Man, I broke a sweat writing this one – so much information, so much learning. And a big thank you to Bernard Marr, by the way.
How do you feel about it?
The Age of Artificial Intelligence has begun. And emotional and mental health is along for the ride. The big question is, are you on board?
Olives are a good choice for the small garden in regions where summers are long, hot, and dry. Olives are attractive for their billowing habit, gray-green foliage, and gnarled branching patterns.
Olives are easy to care for. They require little water once established, little pruning and have few serious pests or diseases.
All olives must be cured before they can be eaten. That said olives can be harvested from unripe (green) to ripe (black).
Olive trees surrounded by mustard plants in bloom
The olive is an evergreen plant that can grow as a shrub, hedge, or tree. Olive trees can grow as tall as 30 feet. Olives bear small pitted fruits that can be cured for table consumption or pressed for oil. Some olives are grown for ornamental use, often as shrubs or hedges–the olive’s narrow gray-green leaves offset the dark green of most gardens and the olive’s branching is noted for its billowing form.
Olives grow best where summers are long, hot, and humidity is low. They are easy to grow and care for.
There are dozens of olive varieties, the fruit varying slightly in size, shape, and flavor.
Olives are too bitter to eat raw. They are either cured for table serving or pressed for cooking oil.
The difference between green olives and black olives is simple. Black olives are harvested ripe. Green olives are harvested unripe. Both have a tangy, salty flavor after being cured.
Olives at harvest time
Here is your complete olive growing guide.
The best climate for growing olive trees
Olives grow best in full sun in regions with Mediterranean-type climates, long, hot, dry summers with some winter cold. Long summers are necessary to ripen olives, at least six months of frost-free weather is best. Olives, depending upon variety, require 200 to 500 hours of freezing weather to set sufficient blossoms for a full harvest. Olives are damaged by temperatures below 12°F; the fruit can not withstand temperatures below 28°F.
Olives grow best where summers are long, hot, and humidity is low.
USDA Zones 9 and 10 have optimal growing conditions for olives.
Olives need some winter chill to produce flowers; mid-winter temperatures between 40° and 50°F are ideal; that said an olive tree can withstand freezing temperatures but will be killed at temperatures below 12°F.
Young olive trees
Where to plant an olive tree
Olives grow well in a wide range of soils, from sandy to loam to clay. The soil must be well drained. Olives are generally shallow-rooted plants.
Grow olives in full sun.
Plant olives in well-drained soil; sandy loam is best, but olives will adapt to most soils. Olives grow best when the soil pH is in the range of 5.5 to 8.5.
Grow olives away from prevailing breezes or winds. Avoid planting olives in a low spot that collects cold air or frost.
Avoid planting olives where fallen fruit will stain walkways or patios.
Choosing the right olive tree
Most olives are cultivated varieties, so seeds from these cultivars will revert to the original variety. That means hardwood cuttings are the preferred method of propagation. Use 2-year-old hardwood shoots taken in winter or semi-ripe cuttings taken in spring or summer. Cuttings usually require four years to begin fruiting.
Some olives are best for oil, others for fruit—pickling, and preserving. Choose a variety suited to your needs.
Contact the nearby Cooperative Extension Service for varieties that will grow well in your area.
Spacing olive trees
Olives can grow 15 to 30 feet tall and wide; they can be trained and pruned to a smaller size.
Space standard olives about 20 feet apart.
Olive tree pollination
Olives are self-fruitful. Climate and the tendency of olives–like other fruits–to bear more heavily every other year are the likely reasons for a small crop.
Most olives are self-fruitful; however, they are more likely to flower and set fruit if pollinated by another olive growing nearby.
Planting an olive tree
Plant olive trees in spring or fall; avoid planting olives during hot, dry summer weather.
Prepare a planting site in full sun that is sheltered from a prevailing breeze or wind.
Work well-rotted compost or manure into the soil.
Dig a hole half again as deep and twice as wide as the tree’s roots. Add a cupful of all-purpose fertilizer to the bottom of the hole.
Put a tree stake (or support wires for a fan) in place before planting. Drive the stake into the ground to the side of the hole to at least 2 feet deep.
Set the plant in the hole so that the soil mark from the nursery pot on the stem is at the surface level or an inch or two deeper than the surrounding soil. (If you are planting a balled-and-burlapped tree, remove all twine and burlap from the planting hole.) Spread the roots out in all directions.
Re-fill the hole with half native soil and half aged compost or commercial organic planting mix; firm in the soil so that there are no air pockets among the roots. Water in the soil and create a modest soil basin around the trunk to hold water at watering time.
Secure the tree to the stake with tree ties.
After planting, water each tree thoroughly and fertilize it with a high-phosphorus liquid starter fertilizer.
Container growing an olive tree
Olives can be grown in containers.
Choose a large pot or tub at least 18 inches wide and deep that is well-drained.
Plant trees in a commercial organic potting mix.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not wet.
Feed olives growing in containers with an all-purpose fertilizer that is slightly higher in potassium.
Repot the tree after two years into a container that is 24 inches wide and deep.
Olive tree care, feeding, and watering
Olive trees need regular water until roots are well established. Mature trees will tolerate periods without much water, but they will benefit from regular water when buds and blooms are developing.
Young olives will become established more quickly if they receive regular water. Mature olives generally are drought tolerant, but water during flowering and fruit formation will enhance the harvest.
Olives are best fed with an annual application of garden compost or well-rotted manure around their trunks. Avoid nitrogen-rich amendments which boost green growth, not fruit growth.
Fertilize olive trees annually with a few cups of nitrogen such as blood meal or cottonseed meal. Avoid over-fertilizing an olive tree or too many fruits will set.
Training olive trees
Olive trees are best trained to an open center. Here’s how:
At planting, starting with a whip, cut off the central leader with an angled cut just above a bud at about 5 feet high. If the seedling has lateral branches, remove any laterals lower than 18 inches; prune back remaining laterals by half.
During the first summer, cut back main laterals to about 8 inches from the start of this year’s growth; cut to buds that face outward; cut back new shoots or lateral to about 6 inches; leave the central leader untouched.
The second spring after planting, cut back the central leader to about one-third of last year’s growth.
In the following springs: cut back the central leader by two-thirds of the last year’s growth until it reaches the maximum desired height. Cut out any dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Remove old, unproductive growth to clear congestion at the center of the tree. Tip prune the central leader to about 1 inch of the previous year’s growth.
Pruning time in an olive orchard
Pruning and thinning olive trees
Olives that are regularly pruned will perform the best. Prune out the sucker and lower branches to encourage a vase-shaped, open-centered tree. Three to five main scaffold branches work best. Olives produce fruit on 1-year-old branches so clip out stem tips to encourage the number of fruiting laterals. Keep olives pruned to a manageable harvest height.
Prune established trees for shape and to keep them from growing too large; remove spindly branches.
Prune out dead, damaged, or diseased wood; thin congested wood so that sunlight and air can get to the center of the tree.
Thin fruit by removing excess fruit individually. Thin until there are about three or four fruits per foot of twig. The fruit size or remaining fruit will be increased by thinning. Thin fruits as soon as possible after the fruit set.
Olive tree pruning basics
Olive trees fruit along one-year-old wood usually at the periphery of the tree canopy. Prune each year to encourage wood that will fruit. Thin out broken, diseased, and unproductive wood. Head back drooping wood and prune out water sprouts. Olives are best trained on trunks 3 to 4 feet tall with 3 to 4 scaffold or main lateral branches trained or pruned to different directions beginning at about 4 feet from the ground. (Multi-trunked olives are often used ornamentally but can be kept to a manageable height for harvesting. Don’t allow multi-trunked trees to grow too dense in the center.)
Train and prune olives to an open center allowing sunlight to reach deep into the crown of the tree. Remove basal sprouts; pull them away don’t cut them to make sure they do not regrow. Rub off buds near the ground level that may become suckers. Olives that go unpruned will become densely twigged and crowded.
When to prune an olive tree
Prune olive trees in early spring before buds and flowers set. Olive trees can be thinned at any time of the year without damaging the tree. However, if you prune in late spring or summer after flowering, the harvest is likely to be decreased. You can prune in winter if the weather is frost-free and dry. Prune in dry weather to allow cuts to heal before frost or rain. Regularly pruned olives will require less pruning and thinning than trees that have been neglected. In regions with severe droughts, pruning in summer will reduce the number of leaves competing for water and may enhance the harvest.
Thinning olive trees
Olives fruit from the leaf axial along one-year-old wood or stems, not at the end of stems. Three to four fruits per foot are sufficient for a good crop. Thin away extra fruit to increase the size and oil content of the fruit on the tree. Thinning will also hasten the harvest and allow for a good harvest the next year. Olives are best thinned in late spring or early summer several weeks after the initial fruit set. Hand thinning is the most effective way to thin.
Olive fruit after thinning
Training new olive trees
Train new trees to have a clear trunk 3 to 4 feet tall. Prune away side branches below where you want the main scaffold to branch; the main scaffold should begin at 4 to 5 feet from the ground. Select 3 or 4 well-spaced laterals or branches to form the main scaffold. Train these young branches in the desired direction away from each other.
When to begin training a new tree
There are two schools of thought on this. Some begin training new trees immediately, selecting a leader to become a trunk and then encouraging select laterals to form a scaffold. Others allow olive trees to grow for 3 or 4 years almost as a shrub before beginning to prune and train. This strategy allows the tree to gain strength and even begin to bear fruit before the main trunk and scaffold branches are selected.
Renovating mature olive trees
An overgrown and unattended olive should be pruned to regain the tree’s form and open its crown to sunlight. Prune to establish a clear trunk 3 to 4 feet tall. Prune out broken, dead, diseased, and unproductive wood first. Prune to establish a crown with 3 to 5 main branches. Once the main scaffold is established, thin out new shoots to open the tree to sunlight and continue to prune away suckers and water sprouts on a yearly schedule. An olive tree will recover from heavy pruning. Pruning will stimulate and encourage the growth of new fruiting wood.
Propagating olives
Olives can be propagated by hardwood or softwood cuttings. Start softwood cuttings in the fall.
Olives cultivars are often grafted onto a rootstock.
Olive tree pests, diseases, and problems
Olives have few pest and disease problems apart from birds that eat ripe fruit. Keeping trees healthy and pruned will reduce the risk of disease and insects.
Olive knot disease is a bacterial disease that appears as swellings or galls; cut out the gall in summer to prevent the disease from spreading; remove two inches or more in diameter around the gall.
Peacock spot fungal disease occurs in years with above-average rainfall; the infection appears on leaf blades and can lead to premature fruit drop. Apply copper fungicide in the fall before winter rains begin to control peacock spot.
Scale is an insect with an elliptical shell that sucks sap from leaves and stems. Smother scale with horticultural oil or crush the insects.
Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that will cause leaves to discolor and curl; it can spread to other parts of the tree and can cause tree death in a few years. Remove diseased leaves and place them in the trash.
Rake up and destroy any leaves of fruits that show signs of disease.
Fall and winter olive tree care
Place a thick layer of composted manure around trees in the fall; winter rains will carry nutrients deep into the soil.
Protect olives from freezing weather by covering plants with burlap or blankets.
Sackcloth bag full of fresh olives
Harvesting and storing olives
Olives come to harvest in late autumn and winter about six months after flowering. Olives can be harvested green, unripe, or black and ripe. Olives can not be eaten directly from the tree; they contain a bitter alkaloid. Fresh olives can be crushed to make oil. Olives for table consumption must be cured before they can be eaten. Black olives can be cured by brining: ripe black olives are soaked in a salt solution for at least 3 weeks or in water that is changed daily for 7 to 10 days. The olives are then heated in boiling water, drained, and cooled; this process is repeated three times after which vinegar and salt (and other spices) are added to pickle the fruit. Green or near-ripe olives are cured by soaking in a series of lye solutions; they are then washed with clean water and transferred to a mild salt solution.
Olives bear fruit four to five years after planting.
Olive trees are alternate bearing: under normal conditions, they produce heavy crops one year and light one the next.
Olives can be harvested either green (unripe) or black (ripe). For table fruit, harvest when the fruit is still green, just before the fruit turns the color of yellow straw, or when ripe and black. For oil, harvest when the fruit has turned black on the outside, but the flesh is still green/yellow.
Pick by hand to avoid bruising when picking olives that will be picked for table use. Olives that will be used for oil can be knocked from the tree; hit the tree branches with a pole and then gather the fallen olives.
Olives can be pickled green. Olives can be brined or canned for storage.
All olives must be cured before they can be eaten. Table olives are cured with water, oil, brine, salt, or lye to dissipate their bitterness and to preserve them.
Olive varieties to grow
‘Ascolano’: large fruit with a small pit; good oil content but less than ‘Mission’ and ‘Manzanillo’; tender fruit; good for processing.
‘Manzanillo’: larger fruit than ‘Mission’; fruit ripens earlier; average oil content.
‘Mission’: medium-size fruit, blue-black when ripe; average oil content; greater cold resistance than other varieties
‘Sevillano’: the largest fruit with the least oil; the flesh has a woody texture.
