Sinharaja (11,250 ha), is the jewel of the last remaining virgin rainforest crown in country is located in the wet zone of the country. the primeval Sinharaja covers 8900 hectares of breathtakingly beautiful, continuous forest.
Beautiful Streams, springs, rivers, waterfalls, leopard, monkeys, butterflies and moths, rare trees, valuable shrubs and medicinal herbs are all found within its green canopy. A trek along the sinharaja paths would provide nature entusiast a never to be forgotten experience of sights and sounds and feelings.
Due to its high bio-diversity and ecological importance, it has been declared as a National Heritage Wilderness Area and it is the only natural World Heritage Site (declared by UNESCO) in the country.
Sinharaja is one of the few virgin forests left in the world, The forest has series of mountains and ridges rising abruptly from 90m to 1170m above mean sea level. Situated in Ratnapura, Galle and Matara districts in the interior wet zone of the south west of the island.
This is Sri Lanka's most important rainforest. The forest has tall trees growing in close proximity, but winding paths make it easy to walk along the forest floor. It is inhabited by water monitors, torque macaques, leopards, giant squirrels, purple-faced leaf monkeys and leeches. Bird life includes Ceylon Spurfowl, Ceylon Junglefowl, Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, Layard's Parakeet, Red-faced Malkoha, Green-billed Coucal, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Ceylon Grey Hornbill, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Small Barbet, Black-capped Bulbul, Spotted-winged Thrush, Brown-capped Babbler, Orange-billed Babbler, Ashy-headed Laughing-Thrush, Ceylon Blue Magpie, Ceylon White-headed Starling, Ceylon Hill Munia, Ceylon Hill Myna, Malabar Trogon, Black Bulbul, Indian Scimitar Babbler, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Green Imperial Pigeon, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch and Yellow-browned Bulbul.
Topographically Sri Lanka is divided into three morphological areas Topographically. and Sinharaja Rain Forest belongs to the middle range uplands by elevation range. It range of 270 to 1,060 meters in height
and a slopes range of 100 to 350. The Sinharaja forest is located on the Rakwana mountain range
which lies detached from the main central Mountain ranges of the island.
Most of the plants have a disjunct distribution and high species endemism. Over 60% of countries endemic plant species can be found within the boundaries of Sinharaja. The forest is multi layered which is a characteristic to the rainforest and Mesua – Shorea community and Dipteracarpus community, dominates the vegetation. The forest also sheltered the large varieties of wild orchids, epiphytes and lianas as well.
The highest faunal endemicity of the country is found in the Sinharaja. Out of 12 endemic mammal species of the country 8 are found here. Giant squirrel, dusky-stripped jungle squirrel and endemic purple-faced leaf monkey and torque macaque are frequently seen. Almost 95% of the countries endemic birds (about 19 species) are found here including rare Red-faced Malkoha, Green-billed Caucal, Blue Magpie and Sri Lanka Spur fowl. Diversity among the reptiles and Amphibians are remarkably high. The endemic green pit viper, endemic hump nosed lizard (Lyriocephalus scutatus) and horned lizard (Ceratophora aspera) are common here. Small tributaries and rivers of the forest support the fish such as striped rasbora, walking catfish and endemic comb tail.
Apart from its ecological and biodiversity value its scenic beauty is also invaluable. The largest known tree of the country is found in the Sinharaja, which is an endemic tree. Insect eating Pitcher plant is frequently seen here. This magnificent rainforest is also a home for large number of butterflies. In side the forest is dark even during the day time due to close canopy above and one can here the voice of cicadas and frogs throughout the time. Small streams found within the forest contain crystal-clear cool water and one can clearly see the fish, toads and crabs swimming in it. Another characteristic feature of Sinharaja is the mixed species flock formation of its birds. Number of species in the flock can be go up to about 40 species. If you are lucky enough you can experience the tropical monsoon inside the forest, which will be an unforgettable experience.
Source :http://www.info.lk,http://www.sinharaja.lk
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Green Computing
This article is Intended to be a collection of ways to make your Computer more environmentally friendly.
Modern Computers are power hungry things. There are many things we can do to reduce the amount of power they use. As a General rule laptops use less than Desktops, and LCD (Flat screens) Screens use less than CRT (big fat screens).
Suggestions for your current PC:
* Switch your computer off when you're not using it, Especially over night and if you will be out for the day.
* If your going to be away from it for a short time then turn off the monitor. You can also adjust the power management using the control panel to turn off your hard drive and put your system into standby after a set amount of time.
* For more advanced users remove unnecessary fans and Drives. If you have a spare CD-ROM you use once in a blue moon unplug it. Also if your computer is only used for office work or checking your email unplug excess devices you do not use.
* Install Power management Programs like Local Cooling or Snap CO2 Saver. These programs basically just adjust your Power management settings though so are pointless if you know how to do this.
* Print wisely - Only print what you really need to have a paper copy of and resist the urge to print 'all pages' when you only need what is on one particular page. There is software available that can help with this, or simply use the "print preview" to see which pages you really need and only print those pages.
* Refill Ink-jet cartridges and laser toner; its cheaper and doesn't add to landfill
* Switch off Cable Modems, Routers and Wifi Access Points when not in use / overnight
* Replace your internal hard drive with a low energy solution such as Western Digital's Green Drive
* An exernal hard drive is also useful to backup your content, or to use as simple add-on storage capacity. Like the SimpleTech redrive, look for one that is energy efficient and Energy Star qualified, is made from sustainable materials such as bamboo and aluminum and is conscious about its packaging.
* Use a Google alternative, such as Smallest Google, saving energy, time, and bandwidth.
Suggestions for buying a new PC:
* Buy a Laptop! Laptops use less power than a desktop.
* Buy a computer according to your needs. If your only using it for simple tasks don't buy the most powerful available.
* Choose the latest Intel or VIA processors over AMD as they use less power. VIA is the best for the environment although not as powerful.
* If you are going to build your own PC pick the parts carefully. Instead of getting two 1gb chips, buy one 2gb one. Build the computer to your needs don't install unnecessary parts if you will never use them. Also consider certified 80 plus energy efficient power supplies 80 PLUS Program
* If you are concerned about hazards chemicals used in pc components consult Greenpeace's Green Electronics Ranking or The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment.
* Choose Corded Keyboard and Mouse over wireless.
* As a general rule ink-jet printers use much less energy than laser ones however the inks in inkjet printers spoil clean paper recycling processes.
Source :http://green.wikia.com
Modern Computers are power hungry things. There are many things we can do to reduce the amount of power they use. As a General rule laptops use less than Desktops, and LCD (Flat screens) Screens use less than CRT (big fat screens).
Suggestions for your current PC:
* Switch your computer off when you're not using it, Especially over night and if you will be out for the day.
* If your going to be away from it for a short time then turn off the monitor. You can also adjust the power management using the control panel to turn off your hard drive and put your system into standby after a set amount of time.
* For more advanced users remove unnecessary fans and Drives. If you have a spare CD-ROM you use once in a blue moon unplug it. Also if your computer is only used for office work or checking your email unplug excess devices you do not use.
* Install Power management Programs like Local Cooling or Snap CO2 Saver. These programs basically just adjust your Power management settings though so are pointless if you know how to do this.
* Print wisely - Only print what you really need to have a paper copy of and resist the urge to print 'all pages' when you only need what is on one particular page. There is software available that can help with this, or simply use the "print preview" to see which pages you really need and only print those pages.
* Refill Ink-jet cartridges and laser toner; its cheaper and doesn't add to landfill
* Switch off Cable Modems, Routers and Wifi Access Points when not in use / overnight
* Replace your internal hard drive with a low energy solution such as Western Digital's Green Drive
* An exernal hard drive is also useful to backup your content, or to use as simple add-on storage capacity. Like the SimpleTech redrive, look for one that is energy efficient and Energy Star qualified, is made from sustainable materials such as bamboo and aluminum and is conscious about its packaging.
* Use a Google alternative, such as Smallest Google, saving energy, time, and bandwidth.
Suggestions for buying a new PC:
* Buy a Laptop! Laptops use less power than a desktop.
* Buy a computer according to your needs. If your only using it for simple tasks don't buy the most powerful available.
* Choose the latest Intel or VIA processors over AMD as they use less power. VIA is the best for the environment although not as powerful.
* If you are going to build your own PC pick the parts carefully. Instead of getting two 1gb chips, buy one 2gb one. Build the computer to your needs don't install unnecessary parts if you will never use them. Also consider certified 80 plus energy efficient power supplies 80 PLUS Program
* If you are concerned about hazards chemicals used in pc components consult Greenpeace's Green Electronics Ranking or The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment.
* Choose Corded Keyboard and Mouse over wireless.
* As a general rule ink-jet printers use much less energy than laser ones however the inks in inkjet printers spoil clean paper recycling processes.
Source :http://green.wikia.com
Vegetarian Diet
Hundreds of millions of people are vegetarian (eg. Hindus for religious reasons); more health professionals are discouraging the consumption of animal fats and red meats, that have been shown to increase the chance of obesity, cancer and other diseases; and the environmentalists who know that much of the limited resources, on Planet Earth, are wasted by converting them to meat.
* It takes 2,500 gallons of water, 12 pounds of grain, 35 pounds of topsoil and the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline to produce one pound of feedlot beef.
* 70% of US grain production is fed to live stock.
* 5 million acres of rain forest are felled every year in South and Central America alone to create cattle pasture.
* Roughly 20% of all currently threatened and endangered species in the US are harmed by livestock grazing
* Animal agriculture is a chief contributor to water pollution. America's farm animals produce 10 times the waste produced by the human population.
* There are sound reasons for health, ethically, and ecologically to be vegetarian. There is nothing strange about being vegetarian.
Definition
Vegetarian, the belief in and practice of eating exclusively vegetable foods and abstaining from any form of animal food.
To what extent this definition applies, in reality varies, what it refers to is a strict vegetarian or a vegan. Lacto-vegetarians include milk and other dairy products in their diet. Lacto-ovovegetarians eat milk, dairy products and eggs. Those who eat fish are not vegetarian.
A vegan, excludes animal flesh (meat, poultry, fish and seafood), animal products (eggs, dairy and honey), and the wearing and use of animal products (eg. leather, silk, wool, lanolin, gelatin). The vegan diet consists totally of vegetables, vegetable oils, and seeds.
vegan 've-gen also 've-jen or -,jan\ n [by contr. fr. vegetarian] (1944) : a strict vegetarian who consumes no animal food or dairy products; also : one who abstains from using animal products (as leather) _ veganism 've-ge-,ni-zem, 'va-ge-, 've-je-\ n .
Partial vegetarians exclude some groups of animal foods but not others. A diet that excludes red meat but includes fish is often adopted for health not moral reasons.
If you are vegetarian or want to become one, start off by giving up one kind of animal food, the one that offends you most. Once you are used to supplementing this food with another of vegetable origin, tackle the next. Progressively reaching the level of vegetarianisim you desire, slowly over a period of time. This progressive vegetarian is one who changes their eating habits / lifestyle at a positive rate, by doing so you allow your body to adjust to the eating of new types of foods or foods that may have given you troubles before (beans). It also gives you time to learn more about nutrition and increase your pool of knowledge on the subject. Thus it is not a fad diet that you will give up the next day but a progressive change towards a healthy lifestyle.
History
Vegetarianism is an ancient custom. It has long existed among certain Hindu and Buddhist sects that consider all animal life sacred, and it was advocated zealously by numerous philosophers and writers of ancient Greece and Rome. In the Roman Catholic church, it has been practised monastically by Trappists since 1666, and among Protestants more recently by Seventh-Day Adventists. As an active Western movement, it originated in 1809 near Manchester, England, among members of the Bible Christian Church. In 1847 the Vegetarian Society, a nonreligious organization, was founded. The movement spread to continental Europe and the U.S. (1850), and in 1908 the International Vegetarian Union was founded. Today the union holds congresses every two years in different countries.
Vegetarian Arguments
Although vegetarianism originated as a religious or ethical practice, it has also gained acceptance among many for aesthetic, nutritional, and economic reasons. Humanitarian vegetarians refuse meat because they believe that the killing of animals is unnecessary or cruel, or that such a practice can conceivably lead to a disregard for human life; the trades that the slaughter of animals supports, such as butchering, are considered degrading. People who adhere to vegetarianism for health reasons believe that meat is harmful to the human body and that a purely vegetable diet is more nutritious. [Infopedia, 1996]
Evolution
Some people believe that humans were originaly vegetarian through the evolutionary process. It is not in the scope of this book to get into a complex discussion of evolution, but here are a few background notes covering the subject
Primates evolved from ancestral mammals more than 60 million years ago, during the Palaeocene Era. The first known primates resembled small rodents or tree shrew. Like tree shrews, they probably had huge appetites and foraged at night for insects, seeds, buds and eggs on the forest floor.
The Hominids probably emerged between 10 million and 5 million years ago, during the late Miocene. There appear to have been many varieties of early hominids, but many had three features in common:
1. Bipedalism
2. Omnivorous feeding patterns
3. Further brain expansion and elaboration.
Monkeys have long canines and rather rectangular jaws. Human teeth are smaller and more uniform in length, and the jaw is bow-shaped. The jaws and teeth became less specialized during the evolution of forms leading to humans. Beginning with the earliest primates, there was a shift from eating insects, then fruit and leaves, and on to a mixed diet.
The Protein Myth
It is incredible how often a vegetarian is asked "...so where do you get your protein from?" Why is this such a major concern to the majority of lay people and health professionals? When one considers all the healthy benefits of a meat-free diet it is sad to see people responding with this irrelevant concept. It would be like asking meat eaters where do you get your carbohydrates from? Duh!
The question of protein intake has been raised so often with vegetarians that it has become a depressingly boring subject. There is no protein problem, studies consistently show that vegetarians and vegans have a satisfactory protein intake. An extensive study of several thousand vegetarian foodstuffs reveal that the following are good sources of protein:
Pumpkin and squash seed kernels, roasted
Soy Flour
Tofu raw, firm, prepared w/calcium sulphate
Almonds, blanched
Oats
Lentils cooked
Rice brown, long grain, raw
Chickpeas cooked
Plant sources of protein alone can provide adequate amounts of essential and nonessential amino acids assuming that dietary protein sources from plants are reasonably varied and that caloric intake is sufficient to meet energy needs. Whole grains, legumes, vegetables, seeds, and nuts all contain essential and nonessential amino acids. Conscious combining of these foods within a given, as the complementary protein dictum suggests, is unnecessary.
Additionally, soya protein has been shown to be nutritionally equivalent in protein value to proteins of animal origin and, thus, can serve as the sole source of protein intake if desired.
Although most vegetarian diets meet or exceed the Recommended Dietary Allowances for protein, they often provide less protein than nonvegetarian diets. This lower protein intake may be associated with better calcium retention in vegetarians and improved kidney function in individuals with prior kidney damage. Further, lower protein intakes may result in a lower fat intake with its inherent advantages, because foods high in protein are frequently also high in fat.
So, how has this myth of deficiency arisen? Early research (circa 1914) into protein consisted of experiments on rats. These animals were found not to grow as quickly when fed plant protein as when given animal protein. Hence the idea arose that plant protein was second class, and animal protein superior. There are a few reasons as to why this happens. The weaning rat grows at as much faster rate than the human infant and thus requires a much more concentrated source of nutrients, including protein. Human breast milk, for example, contains about 7 per cent of caloric content as protein, while rat milk contains 20 per cent protein. If rats were fed solely human milk, they would not thrive. Using this logic one could argue that human breast milk is an inferior protein source. Obviously this is not true to humans. Humans are not rats, and results of dietary studies on rat can therefore not be equated to humans.
The second 'protein myth' arose from an unexpected quarter, a book written in the late 1960s which exposed the terrible wastes inherent in a meat-centered diet. Diet for a Small Planet sold over 3 million copies, and popularized the idea of 'protein complementarity'. Written with best intentions, its effect was to make plant sources of protein again seem second class, unless carefully combined with each other, and to make the whole subject of protein nutrition seem vastly complex and fraught with danger.
In subsequent editions of the book, this mistake was corrected. But still the myth lives on, no doubt due in part to the zealous promotional efforts of the meat industry. [Cox, P., The Realeat Encyclopedia of Vegetarian Living]
The truth of the vegetarian diet is that if the proper amino acids are eaten daily or over a few days there is no need to fear that vegetable protein is inferior. Protein is protein and amino acids are amino acids whether they come from a cow or a soy bean.
Guidelines for formulating nutritionally balanced vegetarian and vegan diets
A wide variety of foods should be chosen from the following groups.
1. Milk. 1 pint (children) 1 pint (adults) or other dairy products (cheese or yoghurt). Strict vegetarians can use dairy substitutes such as soy milk or tofu.
2. Proteins. 2 - 3 portions daily of any of the following: pulses and beans - in casseroles, stews and soup; nuts - in salads, rissoles and roasts; T.V.P., tofu and other soy products - in casseroles, stir fry and curries.
3. Cereals. 3 - 5 portions daily of any of the following: bread, breakfast cereals, rice, pasta, flour, crackers, or other cereals such as millet, bulghar wheat, wheat grain and buckwheat.
4. Fruit. 2 - 3 portions daily of: fruits, fresh, dried or juice. This should include 1 serving of citrus fruit or juice daily.
5. Vegetables. 2 - 5 portions daily, lightly cooked or raw, of a variety that include both dark green leafy and root vegetables.
6. Fats. Margarine and oils should be consumed as required. In contrast to most of the population the diets of vegetarians and vegans are naturally low in fat. It is therefore unnecessary to restrict the amounts of fats and oils used in cooking or to recommend the use of low fat spreads. Furthermore, some vegetarians may need to increase their consumption of fats and oils in order to meet their energy requirements.
Nutritional deficiencies can occur, particularly when an individual decides to become vegetarian and simply stops eating meat or animal products, without considering what can be eaten instead.
Source : http://www.diet-and-health.net
* It takes 2,500 gallons of water, 12 pounds of grain, 35 pounds of topsoil and the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline to produce one pound of feedlot beef.
* 70% of US grain production is fed to live stock.
* 5 million acres of rain forest are felled every year in South and Central America alone to create cattle pasture.
* Roughly 20% of all currently threatened and endangered species in the US are harmed by livestock grazing
* Animal agriculture is a chief contributor to water pollution. America's farm animals produce 10 times the waste produced by the human population.
* There are sound reasons for health, ethically, and ecologically to be vegetarian. There is nothing strange about being vegetarian.
Definition
Vegetarian, the belief in and practice of eating exclusively vegetable foods and abstaining from any form of animal food.
To what extent this definition applies, in reality varies, what it refers to is a strict vegetarian or a vegan. Lacto-vegetarians include milk and other dairy products in their diet. Lacto-ovovegetarians eat milk, dairy products and eggs. Those who eat fish are not vegetarian.
A vegan, excludes animal flesh (meat, poultry, fish and seafood), animal products (eggs, dairy and honey), and the wearing and use of animal products (eg. leather, silk, wool, lanolin, gelatin). The vegan diet consists totally of vegetables, vegetable oils, and seeds.
vegan 've-gen also 've-jen or -,jan\ n [by contr. fr. vegetarian] (1944) : a strict vegetarian who consumes no animal food or dairy products; also : one who abstains from using animal products (as leather) _ veganism 've-ge-,ni-zem, 'va-ge-, 've-je-\ n .
Partial vegetarians exclude some groups of animal foods but not others. A diet that excludes red meat but includes fish is often adopted for health not moral reasons.
If you are vegetarian or want to become one, start off by giving up one kind of animal food, the one that offends you most. Once you are used to supplementing this food with another of vegetable origin, tackle the next. Progressively reaching the level of vegetarianisim you desire, slowly over a period of time. This progressive vegetarian is one who changes their eating habits / lifestyle at a positive rate, by doing so you allow your body to adjust to the eating of new types of foods or foods that may have given you troubles before (beans). It also gives you time to learn more about nutrition and increase your pool of knowledge on the subject. Thus it is not a fad diet that you will give up the next day but a progressive change towards a healthy lifestyle.
History
Vegetarianism is an ancient custom. It has long existed among certain Hindu and Buddhist sects that consider all animal life sacred, and it was advocated zealously by numerous philosophers and writers of ancient Greece and Rome. In the Roman Catholic church, it has been practised monastically by Trappists since 1666, and among Protestants more recently by Seventh-Day Adventists. As an active Western movement, it originated in 1809 near Manchester, England, among members of the Bible Christian Church. In 1847 the Vegetarian Society, a nonreligious organization, was founded. The movement spread to continental Europe and the U.S. (1850), and in 1908 the International Vegetarian Union was founded. Today the union holds congresses every two years in different countries.
Vegetarian Arguments
Although vegetarianism originated as a religious or ethical practice, it has also gained acceptance among many for aesthetic, nutritional, and economic reasons. Humanitarian vegetarians refuse meat because they believe that the killing of animals is unnecessary or cruel, or that such a practice can conceivably lead to a disregard for human life; the trades that the slaughter of animals supports, such as butchering, are considered degrading. People who adhere to vegetarianism for health reasons believe that meat is harmful to the human body and that a purely vegetable diet is more nutritious. [Infopedia, 1996]
Evolution
Some people believe that humans were originaly vegetarian through the evolutionary process. It is not in the scope of this book to get into a complex discussion of evolution, but here are a few background notes covering the subject
Primates evolved from ancestral mammals more than 60 million years ago, during the Palaeocene Era. The first known primates resembled small rodents or tree shrew. Like tree shrews, they probably had huge appetites and foraged at night for insects, seeds, buds and eggs on the forest floor.
The Hominids probably emerged between 10 million and 5 million years ago, during the late Miocene. There appear to have been many varieties of early hominids, but many had three features in common:
1. Bipedalism
2. Omnivorous feeding patterns
3. Further brain expansion and elaboration.
Monkeys have long canines and rather rectangular jaws. Human teeth are smaller and more uniform in length, and the jaw is bow-shaped. The jaws and teeth became less specialized during the evolution of forms leading to humans. Beginning with the earliest primates, there was a shift from eating insects, then fruit and leaves, and on to a mixed diet.
The Protein Myth
It is incredible how often a vegetarian is asked "...so where do you get your protein from?" Why is this such a major concern to the majority of lay people and health professionals? When one considers all the healthy benefits of a meat-free diet it is sad to see people responding with this irrelevant concept. It would be like asking meat eaters where do you get your carbohydrates from? Duh!
The question of protein intake has been raised so often with vegetarians that it has become a depressingly boring subject. There is no protein problem, studies consistently show that vegetarians and vegans have a satisfactory protein intake. An extensive study of several thousand vegetarian foodstuffs reveal that the following are good sources of protein:
Pumpkin and squash seed kernels, roasted
Soy Flour
Tofu raw, firm, prepared w/calcium sulphate
Almonds, blanched
Oats
Lentils cooked
Rice brown, long grain, raw
Chickpeas cooked
Plant sources of protein alone can provide adequate amounts of essential and nonessential amino acids assuming that dietary protein sources from plants are reasonably varied and that caloric intake is sufficient to meet energy needs. Whole grains, legumes, vegetables, seeds, and nuts all contain essential and nonessential amino acids. Conscious combining of these foods within a given, as the complementary protein dictum suggests, is unnecessary.
Additionally, soya protein has been shown to be nutritionally equivalent in protein value to proteins of animal origin and, thus, can serve as the sole source of protein intake if desired.
Although most vegetarian diets meet or exceed the Recommended Dietary Allowances for protein, they often provide less protein than nonvegetarian diets. This lower protein intake may be associated with better calcium retention in vegetarians and improved kidney function in individuals with prior kidney damage. Further, lower protein intakes may result in a lower fat intake with its inherent advantages, because foods high in protein are frequently also high in fat.
So, how has this myth of deficiency arisen? Early research (circa 1914) into protein consisted of experiments on rats. These animals were found not to grow as quickly when fed plant protein as when given animal protein. Hence the idea arose that plant protein was second class, and animal protein superior. There are a few reasons as to why this happens. The weaning rat grows at as much faster rate than the human infant and thus requires a much more concentrated source of nutrients, including protein. Human breast milk, for example, contains about 7 per cent of caloric content as protein, while rat milk contains 20 per cent protein. If rats were fed solely human milk, they would not thrive. Using this logic one could argue that human breast milk is an inferior protein source. Obviously this is not true to humans. Humans are not rats, and results of dietary studies on rat can therefore not be equated to humans.
The second 'protein myth' arose from an unexpected quarter, a book written in the late 1960s which exposed the terrible wastes inherent in a meat-centered diet. Diet for a Small Planet sold over 3 million copies, and popularized the idea of 'protein complementarity'. Written with best intentions, its effect was to make plant sources of protein again seem second class, unless carefully combined with each other, and to make the whole subject of protein nutrition seem vastly complex and fraught with danger.
In subsequent editions of the book, this mistake was corrected. But still the myth lives on, no doubt due in part to the zealous promotional efforts of the meat industry. [Cox, P., The Realeat Encyclopedia of Vegetarian Living]
The truth of the vegetarian diet is that if the proper amino acids are eaten daily or over a few days there is no need to fear that vegetable protein is inferior. Protein is protein and amino acids are amino acids whether they come from a cow or a soy bean.
Guidelines for formulating nutritionally balanced vegetarian and vegan diets
A wide variety of foods should be chosen from the following groups.
1. Milk. 1 pint (children) 1 pint (adults) or other dairy products (cheese or yoghurt). Strict vegetarians can use dairy substitutes such as soy milk or tofu.
2. Proteins. 2 - 3 portions daily of any of the following: pulses and beans - in casseroles, stews and soup; nuts - in salads, rissoles and roasts; T.V.P., tofu and other soy products - in casseroles, stir fry and curries.
3. Cereals. 3 - 5 portions daily of any of the following: bread, breakfast cereals, rice, pasta, flour, crackers, or other cereals such as millet, bulghar wheat, wheat grain and buckwheat.
4. Fruit. 2 - 3 portions daily of: fruits, fresh, dried or juice. This should include 1 serving of citrus fruit or juice daily.
5. Vegetables. 2 - 5 portions daily, lightly cooked or raw, of a variety that include both dark green leafy and root vegetables.
6. Fats. Margarine and oils should be consumed as required. In contrast to most of the population the diets of vegetarians and vegans are naturally low in fat. It is therefore unnecessary to restrict the amounts of fats and oils used in cooking or to recommend the use of low fat spreads. Furthermore, some vegetarians may need to increase their consumption of fats and oils in order to meet their energy requirements.
Nutritional deficiencies can occur, particularly when an individual decides to become vegetarian and simply stops eating meat or animal products, without considering what can be eaten instead.
Source : http://www.diet-and-health.net
Anti Aging Tips
If you feel that every time you look in the mirror and see sunken cheeks and drooping skin, it is the high time to take stock of the situation of you want to look younger and appear beautiful from aging. Aging is a natural process that cannot be stopped, yet, one can make sure the one takes proper care of skin so that one has beautiful and flawless skin.
Scientifically, in the aging process, human body is unable to produce requisite proteins that are essential in keeping the skin firm and free from wrinkles and other senile spots. However, as the body ages, it becomes weak and undergoes various changes. One such visible change that manifests itself is growing old. However, if one cannot stop old age, one can make attempts that will help you in aging gracefully.
In order to look graceful and young, it is important that you take proper care of your body. One should remember that early steps will help in strengthening the body and revitalizing the skin. An early care of the body will help you in preparing a foundation for your later years where you appear an enchantingly evergreen beauty. In case if you are looking for some anti-aging secrets and beauty tips, start with healthy diet. A good and balanced diet will provide you all essential nutrients that are essential in developing fit body and glowing skin. The vitamins such as A, C and D will nourish your skin and make it more supple.
Along with a balanced diet, it is essential part to detoxify your body that helps you in gaining porcelain like clear skin which reflects inner beauty and purity. In this regard, water and fresh fruits will help you in detoxifying your body by cleansing the toxic levels. Apart from this, try and stay away from harmful preservatives and processed food. Make sure that you do not smoke or take alcohol as it increases the CO levels in the body. If you are a fitness freak, noting can beat that as it helps in reducing the stress levels. This will help you keeping your body and mind healthy that will indeed reflect on the skin! If you have been using much cosmetics and age defying ointments, make sure to keep yourself away from heavy make up. You can use herbal alternatives that are much better and safe in comparison to beauty products.
These tips are easy to follow and safe than cosmetic surgery and botox injections that is unnatural and costly way of enhancing beauty. Therefore, if you are looking for anti aging tips that make you an ageless beauty, try some natural way to fight wrinkles and sagging skin. So, next time you look for anti aging secrets, follow these tips and transform yourself into a timeless beauty!
Source : http://www.herantiagingsecrets.com/
Scientifically, in the aging process, human body is unable to produce requisite proteins that are essential in keeping the skin firm and free from wrinkles and other senile spots. However, as the body ages, it becomes weak and undergoes various changes. One such visible change that manifests itself is growing old. However, if one cannot stop old age, one can make attempts that will help you in aging gracefully.
In order to look graceful and young, it is important that you take proper care of your body. One should remember that early steps will help in strengthening the body and revitalizing the skin. An early care of the body will help you in preparing a foundation for your later years where you appear an enchantingly evergreen beauty. In case if you are looking for some anti-aging secrets and beauty tips, start with healthy diet. A good and balanced diet will provide you all essential nutrients that are essential in developing fit body and glowing skin. The vitamins such as A, C and D will nourish your skin and make it more supple.
Along with a balanced diet, it is essential part to detoxify your body that helps you in gaining porcelain like clear skin which reflects inner beauty and purity. In this regard, water and fresh fruits will help you in detoxifying your body by cleansing the toxic levels. Apart from this, try and stay away from harmful preservatives and processed food. Make sure that you do not smoke or take alcohol as it increases the CO levels in the body. If you are a fitness freak, noting can beat that as it helps in reducing the stress levels. This will help you keeping your body and mind healthy that will indeed reflect on the skin! If you have been using much cosmetics and age defying ointments, make sure to keep yourself away from heavy make up. You can use herbal alternatives that are much better and safe in comparison to beauty products.
These tips are easy to follow and safe than cosmetic surgery and botox injections that is unnatural and costly way of enhancing beauty. Therefore, if you are looking for anti aging tips that make you an ageless beauty, try some natural way to fight wrinkles and sagging skin. So, next time you look for anti aging secrets, follow these tips and transform yourself into a timeless beauty!
Source : http://www.herantiagingsecrets.com/
Kandy Asala Perahara
Kandy Asala Perahara
Kandy Asala Perahara is Sri Lankas Biggest and most colorfull Festival watched by millions of people every year.
The procession of the sacred Tooth Relic conducted annually during the month of July (Asala) constitutes the grandest festive ritual of the Dalada Maligava. Thousands of local and foreign visitors of all walks of life, irrespective of their religious pursuits, gather to the hill capital, Kandy, to rejoice in a festive mood on the days of this event. Generally, the Devale processions in a mini scale are held for 5 days, followed by the `Kumbal' and `Randoli' processions each held for five days ending up on the Full moon day. The day following the last Randoli , the Water Cutting ceremony and the day procession are held bringing the festival to an end.
The month of Asala (July), during which period this annual pageant is usually held, had been considered a month of celebrations and festivity, both among Indians and Sri Lankans. Even from the lifetime of the Buddha in the 6th century BC, the Asala festival was held to commemorate the Buddha's Conception, his Renunciation and the First Sermon. Asala is also considered to be the beginning of the raining season (Vassana), when the monks commence their Retreat. Also, this month is considered to be the period when ritual performances to the protective divinities are held. (eg.,Pattini puja) as recorded in the text `Pattini-Halla'., Being considered a `chaste' month, the period is held sacred for the availability of water, hence prosperity.
Several records have been left behind by dignitaries and other visitors to the island, such as Robert Knox, John Davy, etc., on the description of the perahara. These accounts provide much evidence as to the constitution and organization of the present day perahara. Yet many features seem to have been added and some changed to suit the time and the available resources and conditions.
The earliest record maintained on the Kandy annual pageant was by Robert Knox, an Englishman who lived in the court of Kandy for many years as a prisoner during the time of Rajasimha II ( 1636-1684 ). According to Knox, the Kandy perahara was conducted purely to honour the Devale divinities, Alutnuvara (Uppalavanna),Kataragama and Pattini. The Natha Devale, however, though the oldest shrine in Kandy, was not mentioned by Knox. During the time of King Kirti Sri Rajasimha, the Natha Devale too is mentioned in the processions of the four Devales. The most important feature that occurred at this time was the addition of the Tooth Relic procession to the processions of the four Devales. It is said that the king himself placed the Relic casket in the `Ransivige' fixed on to the back of the tusker. The Mahavamsa further records that the procession held by king Kirti Sri Rajasimha with all splendor assumed the form of a national festival.
Source : http://www.info.lk
Kandy Asala Perahara is Sri Lankas Biggest and most colorfull Festival watched by millions of people every year.
The procession of the sacred Tooth Relic conducted annually during the month of July (Asala) constitutes the grandest festive ritual of the Dalada Maligava. Thousands of local and foreign visitors of all walks of life, irrespective of their religious pursuits, gather to the hill capital, Kandy, to rejoice in a festive mood on the days of this event. Generally, the Devale processions in a mini scale are held for 5 days, followed by the `Kumbal' and `Randoli' processions each held for five days ending up on the Full moon day. The day following the last Randoli , the Water Cutting ceremony and the day procession are held bringing the festival to an end.
The month of Asala (July), during which period this annual pageant is usually held, had been considered a month of celebrations and festivity, both among Indians and Sri Lankans. Even from the lifetime of the Buddha in the 6th century BC, the Asala festival was held to commemorate the Buddha's Conception, his Renunciation and the First Sermon. Asala is also considered to be the beginning of the raining season (Vassana), when the monks commence their Retreat. Also, this month is considered to be the period when ritual performances to the protective divinities are held. (eg.,Pattini puja) as recorded in the text `Pattini-Halla'., Being considered a `chaste' month, the period is held sacred for the availability of water, hence prosperity.
Several records have been left behind by dignitaries and other visitors to the island, such as Robert Knox, John Davy, etc., on the description of the perahara. These accounts provide much evidence as to the constitution and organization of the present day perahara. Yet many features seem to have been added and some changed to suit the time and the available resources and conditions.
The earliest record maintained on the Kandy annual pageant was by Robert Knox, an Englishman who lived in the court of Kandy for many years as a prisoner during the time of Rajasimha II ( 1636-1684 ). According to Knox, the Kandy perahara was conducted purely to honour the Devale divinities, Alutnuvara (Uppalavanna),Kataragama and Pattini. The Natha Devale, however, though the oldest shrine in Kandy, was not mentioned by Knox. During the time of King Kirti Sri Rajasimha, the Natha Devale too is mentioned in the processions of the four Devales. The most important feature that occurred at this time was the addition of the Tooth Relic procession to the processions of the four Devales. It is said that the king himself placed the Relic casket in the `Ransivige' fixed on to the back of the tusker. The Mahavamsa further records that the procession held by king Kirti Sri Rajasimha with all splendor assumed the form of a national festival.
Source : http://www.info.lk
Amber Alert GPS 2G
You can never be too careful these days, considering just how our world has degenerated in a rather alarming manner with all sorts of crimes and evil deeds being reported on the news round the clock. Gone are the days of innocence, where one can sleep in peace without locking the front door of the house. Not to mention the criminal atrocities associated with children by devilish adults, making parenting a more stressful job than it already is. Amber Alert aims to alleviate some of the parents’ fears by introducing their Amber Alert GPS 2G child tracking device which is capable of keeping tabs on the little ones all the time, giving their parents a sense of control and much needed peace of mind.
The Amber Alert GPS 2G allows parents to limit their children’s boundaries by coming up with a pre-designated safe zone regardless of where they are. In addition, the device will help create a “bread crumbing” trail of the children’s route using a series of alerts. Not only that, it goes the extra mile by alerting the parent that the child has reached their designation safe and sound, while voice monitoring and the ability to monitor the vehicle’s speed surely go a long way in making this a “must buy” device for new parents who are anxious to keep tabs all the time and do not want to let one moment of carelessness result in a disaster. As for the kids themselves, they can also access an emergency button to alert the parent whenever they are in need of help.
Source : http://www.coolest-gadgets.com
Smart Phones Tips
Why Buy a Smartphone?
As a busy person, you know the importance of staying a step ahead of your clients and your family. You probably know the feeling of being tied to your desk or home so as not to miss that important email or phone call and to maintain convenient access to essential data—proposals, schedules, contact information, business news or the stock market. However, thousands have newfound freedom using PDA-style smartphones designed for business (and fun). Today’s smartphone traces its roots back to the personal digital assistant or PDA. Originally used as businessperson’s right hand to track important client information, project statuses, and task lists, smartphones have evolved into an everyman’s (and woman’s) tool.
Smartphones are much more than just cell phones; they provide instant access to the web. Whether you’re researching news to predict the stock market or looking for the perfect golf course on the weekend, you’ll find it on the net.
Many smartphones allow you to sync with your desktop computer. This means you can store, view, and work on documents directly on your handheld. You can also receive and respond to emails as they arrive in your inbox on your home computer with real-time push email.
Smartphones can also serve as multimedia devices, so your entertainment goes with you. They can store and display pictures and videos of friends and family and even entire feature-length movies. Most smartphones take pictures and capture video, but the most common multimedia function is the ability to play MP3s—sit back, relax, and enjoy your favorite tunes while traveling or during breaks.
Another perk of using a smartphone is the fairly recent development of third-party applications (or apps). These apps range from those geared toward hardworking business tasks to entertaining games and everything in between. With thousands of apps available to download in a range of prices, there’s sure to be something that will appeal.
In this site, you'll find articles on cell phones, comprehensive reviews and a side-by-side comparison that will help you make an informed decision on which smartphone is right for you. At TopTenREVIEWS, we do the research so you don’t have to.™
What to Look for in a Smartphone for Business
In the past, business people were easily identifiable—they carried large briefcases, binder planners and perhaps a brick cell phone. The scene has changed and so has the way we conduct life and business. A smartphone stores important data and documents, offers a calendar planner, provides instant access to the internet and email and keeps you in touch with clients, coworkers, friends and family – anytime and anywhere.
Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate business smartphones.
* Productivity/ Lifestyle Tools—Smartphones act as life management devices and include organizing features like calendars and task lists. Most sync with home computers allowing for document viewing and editing. They also include practical tools like calculators, map applications and GPS. Some have the ability to support third-party or browser-based programs that can perform a variety of specific functions. Third-party apps are becoming a key component of a smartphone, allowing the user to customize their phones to support their lifestyles.
* Voice/Text Features—The foundation of business is communication, and a smartphone’s first function is as a cellular phone. Smartphones for business should include all typical cell phone features including speakerphone, three-way calling, voice dialing, call waiting, etc.
* Internet Features—Most smartphones can access the internet and display full webpages. Top ranked phones will connect via Wi-Fi and 3G for faster browsing speeds.
* Multimedia Features—The best business cell phones have at least a 2 megapixel camera with zoom features and the ability to play and record audio and video.
* Technical Specifications—The most practical smartphones are compact, include good input and display options, and enough battery life to last through a full day’s work, and beyond
Source :http://cell-phones.toptenreviews.com
As a busy person, you know the importance of staying a step ahead of your clients and your family. You probably know the feeling of being tied to your desk or home so as not to miss that important email or phone call and to maintain convenient access to essential data—proposals, schedules, contact information, business news or the stock market. However, thousands have newfound freedom using PDA-style smartphones designed for business (and fun). Today’s smartphone traces its roots back to the personal digital assistant or PDA. Originally used as businessperson’s right hand to track important client information, project statuses, and task lists, smartphones have evolved into an everyman’s (and woman’s) tool.
Smartphones are much more than just cell phones; they provide instant access to the web. Whether you’re researching news to predict the stock market or looking for the perfect golf course on the weekend, you’ll find it on the net.
Many smartphones allow you to sync with your desktop computer. This means you can store, view, and work on documents directly on your handheld. You can also receive and respond to emails as they arrive in your inbox on your home computer with real-time push email.
Smartphones can also serve as multimedia devices, so your entertainment goes with you. They can store and display pictures and videos of friends and family and even entire feature-length movies. Most smartphones take pictures and capture video, but the most common multimedia function is the ability to play MP3s—sit back, relax, and enjoy your favorite tunes while traveling or during breaks.
Another perk of using a smartphone is the fairly recent development of third-party applications (or apps). These apps range from those geared toward hardworking business tasks to entertaining games and everything in between. With thousands of apps available to download in a range of prices, there’s sure to be something that will appeal.
In this site, you'll find articles on cell phones, comprehensive reviews and a side-by-side comparison that will help you make an informed decision on which smartphone is right for you. At TopTenREVIEWS, we do the research so you don’t have to.™
What to Look for in a Smartphone for Business
In the past, business people were easily identifiable—they carried large briefcases, binder planners and perhaps a brick cell phone. The scene has changed and so has the way we conduct life and business. A smartphone stores important data and documents, offers a calendar planner, provides instant access to the internet and email and keeps you in touch with clients, coworkers, friends and family – anytime and anywhere.
Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate business smartphones.
* Productivity/ Lifestyle Tools—Smartphones act as life management devices and include organizing features like calendars and task lists. Most sync with home computers allowing for document viewing and editing. They also include practical tools like calculators, map applications and GPS. Some have the ability to support third-party or browser-based programs that can perform a variety of specific functions. Third-party apps are becoming a key component of a smartphone, allowing the user to customize their phones to support their lifestyles.
* Voice/Text Features—The foundation of business is communication, and a smartphone’s first function is as a cellular phone. Smartphones for business should include all typical cell phone features including speakerphone, three-way calling, voice dialing, call waiting, etc.
* Internet Features—Most smartphones can access the internet and display full webpages. Top ranked phones will connect via Wi-Fi and 3G for faster browsing speeds.
* Multimedia Features—The best business cell phones have at least a 2 megapixel camera with zoom features and the ability to play and record audio and video.
* Technical Specifications—The most practical smartphones are compact, include good input and display options, and enough battery life to last through a full day’s work, and beyond
Source :http://cell-phones.toptenreviews.com
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