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8 Effective Ways to Boost Your Intelligence

Intelligence isn’t just about IQ scores or academic achievements—it’s a dynamic and evolving skill that can be sharpened over time. By adopting certain habits and challenging your brain in new ways, you can boost your cognitive abilities and become a sharper, more adaptable thinker. Here are eight effective ways to increase your intelligence.

1. Practice Daily Recall

One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to strengthen your memory and learning ability is to recall what you’ve learned each day. Before going to bed, take a few minutes to review the key insights from your conversations, books, or lessons. This habit reinforces neural pathways and helps information stick in your long-term memory.

2. Connect with Diverse Minds

Engaging with people who have different perspectives can broaden your thinking and challenge your biases. Instead of always interacting with like-minded individuals, seek out conversations with people who think differently. This encourages critical thinking, enhances empathy, and helps you see the world from multiple angles.

3. Embrace Silent Time

Spending a few minutes in complete silence every day can work wonders for your brain. Without distractions, your mind can connect ideas, solve problems, and process information more effectively. Silence fosters creativity and deep thinking, making it an essential practice for intellectual growth.

4. Think Backwards

Reverse thinking is a powerful cognitive exercise. Instead of tackling a problem from the beginning, start by imagining the desired outcome and work your way backward. This technique can help you discover solutions more efficiently by allowing you to see patterns and connections you might otherwise miss.

5. Learn and Teach

Teaching is one of the best ways to solidify knowledge. When you explain a concept to someone else, you reinforce your understanding and identify any gaps in your knowledge. If you can simplify a complex idea and make it understandable to others, you truly grasp it.

6. Feed Your Mind Daily

Just like your body needs a balanced diet, your mind thrives on diverse intellectual challenges. Read books, listen to thought-provoking podcasts, solve puzzles, or learn a new skill. Choose content that stretches your brain and keeps it engaged. Your mind craves stimulation—feed it wisely.

7. Strengthen Your Curiosity Muscle

Curiosity fuels intelligence. Make it a habit to question things deeply, not necessarily to find a right or wrong answer but to explore different perspectives. The more curious you are, the sharper and more analytical your thinking becomes. Keep asking “why” and “how,” and you’ll find your intellectual agility improving.

8. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Your brain grows when faced with new challenges. Break your routine by using your non-dominant hand, trying a new route to work, or learning a new skill. Small changes in your daily life can boost adaptability and cognitive flexibility, making you more open to learning and problem-solving.

Final Thoughts

Intelligence is not fixed—it’s something you can cultivate with intentional practice. By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you’ll enhance your cognitive abilities, improve problem-solving skills, and develop a sharper, more adaptable mind. Start today and watch your intelligence grow!

FAQs

1. Can intelligence really be improved?

Yes! Intelligence is not fixed and can be developed through continuous learning, problem-solving, and mental exercises.

2. How long does it take to see improvements in intelligence?

It varies from person to person, but consistent effort over weeks or months will yield noticeable cognitive benefits.

3. Is there an ideal time to practice daily recall?

Before bedtime is effective, as reviewing the day’s learnings helps reinforce memory retention while you sleep.

4. How can I find diverse perspectives to engage with?

Join discussion groups, attend seminars, or engage with content from different cultures and viewpoints.

5. What types of books should I read to boost intelligence?

A mix of fiction, non-fiction, history, philosophy, and scientific literature can challenge your thinking and broaden your knowledge base.

6. Are there any apps that can help improve intelligence?

Yes! Apps like Lumosity, Elevate, and Khan Academy offer brain training exercises and educational content to enhance cognitive function.

7. Does physical exercise help with intelligence?

Yes, regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain, enhancing memory, focus, and overall cognitive performance.

8. How can I train myself to think backwards?

Start by envisioning the final outcome of a problem and then break it down into the steps needed to achieve it.

9. Why is curiosity important for intelligence?

Curiosity drives exploration, learning, and adaptability, helping to develop a sharper and more inquisitive mind.

10. How can I step outside my comfort zone in small ways?

Try using your non-dominant hand, switching up your routine, learning a new skill, or having conversations with people who challenge your beliefs.

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intelligence, cognitive development, brain training, self-improvement, learning habits, mental exercises, problem-solving, curiosity, memory enhancement, critical thinking

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20 Habits to Level Up Your Life

Life is a series of habits. Whether good or bad, these habits shape who we are and determine the quality of our lives. By consciously adopting positive habits, we can bring about transformative changes. Below, we explore 20 habits that can help you level up your life, backed by actionable advice to get you started.

1. Prioritize Sleep

A good night’s sleep isn’t just restful—it’s regenerative. Studies show that adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep for optimal brain and body function.
Actionable Tip: Set a consistent bedtime and minimize screen time an hour before sleeping to improve your sleep hygiene.

2. Eat Healthy 80/20

The 80/20 rule promotes eating nutritious meals 80% of the time while allowing indulgences 20% of the time. This balanced approach fosters a healthy relationship with food.
Actionable Tip: Plan your meals ahead to ensure your 80% includes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

3. Exercise and Stretch for 30 Minutes

Physical activity boosts energy, enhances mood, and improves overall health. Stretching increases flexibility and reduces injury risks.
Actionable Tip: Start with simple home workouts or a brisk 30-minute walk, gradually incorporating stretches into your routine.

4. Cook at Home

Cooking at home not only saves money but also ensures control over your ingredients and portions.
Actionable Tip: Dedicate Sundays to meal prep or explore easy, quick recipes to simplify weekday cooking.

5. Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen is your first line of defense against harmful UV rays, preventing premature aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Actionable Tip: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily, even on cloudy days.

6. Journal

Journaling clears the mind, improves self-awareness, and serves as a space for gratitude and reflection.
Actionable Tip: Start with a simple prompt like “What made me happy today?” to build the habit.

7. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to appreciating what you have, fostering positivity.
Actionable Tip: Write down three things you’re grateful for every morning or before bed.

8. Meditate and Practice Mindfulness

Meditation reduces stress, improves focus, and enhances emotional well-being.
Actionable Tip: Begin with 5-minute guided meditations available on apps like Calm or Headspace.

9. Limit the News

While staying informed is important, overconsumption of negative news can lead to anxiety.
Actionable Tip: Set a specific time daily for news updates and avoid doomscrolling.

10. Prioritize and Plan Your Day

Planning helps you tackle tasks effectively, reducing stress and boosting productivity.
Actionable Tip: Use a planner or a digital calendar to prioritize your top three tasks for the day.

11. Develop a Morning Routine

A structured morning sets the tone for a productive day.
Actionable Tip: Include habits like stretching, journaling, or drinking water in your morning routine.

12. Develop a Night Routine

A calming night routine signals your body it’s time to wind down.
Actionable Tip: Dim the lights, read a book, or indulge in a skincare ritual before bed.

13. Track Your Finances

Financial awareness is key to long-term stability and stress reduction.
Actionable Tip: Use budgeting apps like Mint to monitor spending and set financial goals.

14. Write Down Your Goals

Writing crystallizes your vision, increasing the likelihood of achievement.
Actionable Tip: Break your goals into actionable steps with specific deadlines.

15. Review and Reflect

Regular reflection ensures you stay aligned with your goals and values.
Actionable Tip: Dedicate 15 minutes weekly to reviewing your progress and identifying areas for improvement.

16. Volunteer Sometimes

Volunteering fosters connection, purpose, and gratitude.
Actionable Tip: Find local opportunities or participate in causes that resonate with you.

17. No Alcohol

Minimizing alcohol consumption improves physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
Actionable Tip: Experiment with non-alcoholic alternatives or set alcohol-free days.

18. Invest in Your Future

Investing isn’t just financial; it’s about growth, learning, and building a better version of yourself.
Actionable Tip: Enroll in courses, set up a savings account, or build a fitness regimen.

19. Learn New Skills

Learning keeps the mind sharp and opens up new opportunities.
Actionable Tip: Start with something you’ve always been curious about—be it cooking, coding, or a new language.

20. Connect with Nature More

Nature is a powerful antidote to stress, boosting mood and fostering mindfulness.
Actionable Tip: Schedule regular walks in the park or a weekend hike to stay grounded.

Final Thoughts

Building these habits won’t happen overnight—it’s a journey of small, consistent steps. Choose one or two habits to focus on each month, and over time, watch your life transform. Remember, self-improvement is not about perfection but progress. Start today, and embrace the life you deserve.

FAQs About Building Positive Habits to Level Up Your Life

1. How long does it take to build a habit?

It varies for everyone, but research suggests it can take anywhere from 21 to 66 days to form a habit. Consistency is key to making it stick.

2. Should I try to implement all 20 habits at once?

No, it’s better to start small. Focus on 1-2 habits at a time and gradually add more as they become part of your routine.

3. What if I miss a day? Does it ruin the habit-building process?

Not at all! Missing a day is normal. The important thing is to get back on track the next day without being hard on yourself.

4. How can I stay motivated to maintain these habits?

Set clear goals, track your progress, and celebrate small wins. Having an accountability partner or joining a community can also help.

5. Are these habits suitable for busy schedules?

Yes, most of these habits can be tailored to fit into busy lifestyles. For example, even 5 minutes of journaling or stretching can make a difference.

6. How do I choose which habits to start with?

Identify areas of your life that need improvement or align with your goals. Start with habits that feel the most achievable and impactful for you.

7. Can I modify these habits to suit my lifestyle?

Absolutely. The list is flexible—feel free to adapt the habits to better fit your needs and preferences.

8. How do I overcome procrastination when starting new habits?

Break the habit into small, manageable steps. Pair it with an existing routine, and remind yourself of the benefits it will bring.

9. Are these habits backed by science?

Yes, most of these habits are supported by research in psychology, health, and wellness, emphasizing their positive impact on overall well-being.

10. How do I track my progress with these habits?

You can use habit-tracking apps, journals, or simple checklists to monitor your consistency and celebrate milestones.

Tags: self-improvement, habits to improve life, productivity hacks, personal growth, mindfulness practices, daily routines, health and wellness, positive habits, life hacks, lifestyle changes

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Reusing Cooking Oil: A Balancing Act of Taste, Cost, and Health

Deep-fried food, a staple in many cuisines, often involves reusing cooking oil. While this practice is common, especially in hawker centres, a recent investigation by CNA Insider raises concerns about its potential health impacts. This blog post delves into the key findings, exploring the dilemma faced by both hawkers and consumers in navigating the trade-offs between taste, cost, and health.

Widespread Reuse and Lack of Guidelines: The investigation revealed that all surveyed hawkers reuse their cooking oil, with over half reusing it five or more times. This widespread practice stems from the absence of official health guidelines on oil change frequency.

Health Risks Associated with Reused Oil: Laboratory tests demonstrated that reusing oil, even for just 2-3 times, leads to the formation of oxidized fats and aldehydes, both detrimental to health. Oxidized fats increase heart health risks, while aldehydes are known carcinogens, increasing the risk of cancer.

Impact of Reuse Frequency: Worryingly, the concentration of these harmful compounds, particularly aldehydes, almost doubles in oil reused more than five times compared to oil reused 2-3 times.

Visible Indicators of Oil Degradation: Consumers can be vigilant about the oil used in their food. The smoke point, the temperature at which oil starts to smoke and release harmful compounds, decreases with each reuse. A sustained release of smoke from the oil indicates a high level of degradation. Additionally, oil darkens in colour with repeated use, serving as a visual cue for potential harm.

The Hawker’s Dilemma: While acknowledging the health risks, many hawkers find it challenging to change their practices. Frequent oil changes translate into increased costs, especially with rising oil prices, and impact operational efficiency, potentially leading to customer dissatisfaction.

Home Cooking Offers More Control: Home cooks, however, can reuse oil more safely due to smaller batch sizes. Experts recommend several practices for safer reuse:

  • Frying at lower temperatures (around 175-190°C) to minimize the formation of harmful compounds.
  • Filtering oil after each use to remove food particles that contribute to degradation and taste transfer.
  • Storing used oil in a cool, dark place to prevent further oxidation.
  • Avoiding cross-contamination by using separate oil for frying different types of food, particularly pungent meats.

Ingredient Impact on Oil Degradation: Interestingly, the type of food fried also influences oil degradation. Frying meat, especially chicken, degrades oil faster than vegetables. This is due to the addition of fats, batter, and spices, which contribute to the formation of harmful compounds. It is advisable to discard oil used for frying meat after a single use, while oil used for vegetables can be reused a few times with proper care.

Striking a Balance: Reusing cooking oil is a complex issue with no easy solutions. While eliminating the practice entirely may be impractical, a combination of increased awareness, potential guidelines for hawkers, technological advancements, and consumer vigilance can help mitigate the health risks associated with reused cooking oil. Ultimately, finding a balance between taste, cost, and health is crucial for both hawkers and consumers.

Check the full CNA insider video here.

FAQs

  1. Why is reusing cooking oil harmful to health?
    Reusing cooking oil leads to the formation of harmful compounds like oxidized fats and aldehydes, which increase the risk of heart disease and cancer.
  2. How many times is it safe to reuse cooking oil?
    Experts recommend reusing oil no more than 2-3 times, as repeated heating significantly increases harmful compound levels.
  3. What are the visible signs of degraded cooking oil?
    Degraded oil darkens in color, has a lower smoke point, and may emit a burnt smell or continuous smoke.
  4. Can reused cooking oil be safe for home cooking?
    Yes, if handled properly by filtering after each use, storing in a cool, dark place, and avoiding cross-contamination.
  5. Does the type of food affect oil reuse?
    Yes, frying meat, especially chicken, degrades oil faster due to added fats and batter compared to frying vegetables.
  6. What temperature is safe for frying to minimize oil degradation?
    Frying at lower temperatures, around 175-190°C, minimizes the formation of harmful compounds.
  7. Can oil be reused after frying pungent foods like fish?
    It’s best to avoid reusing oil after frying pungent foods, as flavors can transfer and affect the taste of subsequent dishes.
  8. Is it safe to mix fresh oil with reused oil?
    Mixing fresh oil with reused oil can reduce degradation to some extent, but it’s not a long-term solution to ensure safety.
  9. How can consumers identify reused oil at hawker centers?
    Look for food cooked in overly dark oil or oil that produces sustained smoke, which are signs of excessive reuse.
  10. What are the best oils for frying and reuse?
    Oils with high smoke points, like canola or peanut oil, are better suited for frying and reuse due to their stability.
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How to Choose The Best Cookware For Your Kitchen

Cooking is an art, but the tools you use can make all the difference—not just in flavor but in your health. With so many cookware options available, it can be overwhelming to decide what’s best for your family. This blog post is dedicated to best and worst cookware available in the market and to help you make informed decisions.

First thing first The Best Cookware Choices

✅ Ceramic Cookware
Why It’s Great?
Ceramic cookware is non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals often found in non-stick coatings. It can handle high temperatures, making it perfect for sautéing, baking, and frying.

Health Benefits:
Since ceramic is inert, it doesn’t leach any substances into your food, ensuring the flavors remain pure and the nutrients intact.
Bonus:
It’s aesthetically pleasing and comes in vibrant colors to brighten up your kitchen.

✅ Stainless Steel Cookware
Why It’s Great:
Stainless steel is durable, resistant to rust, and can last a lifetime if cared for properly. It’s a healthy and reliable option that withstands high temperatures.

Health Benefits:
Stainless steel doesn’t react with acidic foods, preserving the natural taste of your meals. It also retains nutrients better than non-stick alternatives.

Tip:
Opt for high-quality stainless steel (look for 18/10 grade) to avoid low-grade metals that might leach small amounts of nickel or chromium over time.

✅ Cast Iron Cookware
Why It’s Great:
Cast iron is a kitchen classic. It’s incredibly durable and retains heat well, making it ideal for slow-cooked dishes, grilling, and baking.

Health Benefits:
Cooking with cast iron can increase your iron intake, which is beneficial for those with iron deficiencies. Plus, it’s free from synthetic coatings.
Pro Tip:
Season your cast iron regularly to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust.

Now lets see Cookware to Avoid

❌ Copper Cookware
Why It’s Risky:
While copper looks stunning and heats quickly, it can leave a metallic taste in food and cause discoloration. Over time, copper can leach into your meals, which may pose health risks.

Alternative:
If you love copper’s quick heating properties, opt for copper-lined cookware with a stainless steel interior.

❌ Aluminum Cookware
Why It’s Risky:
Aluminum cookware is lightweight and affordable but can release metal into food, especially when cooking acidic or salty dishes. Long-term exposure to aluminum has been linked to neurological issues.

Alternative:
Choose anodized aluminum, which is treated to create a non-reactive surface, making it safer for cooking.

❌ Teflon (Non-Stick) Cookware
Why It’s Risky:
Teflon-coated cookware is convenient, but when heated above 500°F (260°C), it can release harmful chemicals into the air and your food. These fumes have been linked to health issues and respiratory problems.

Alternative:
Consider ceramic non-stick or stainless steel for a safer non-stick experience without the health hazards.

By making small but informed choices, you can protect your health while elevating your culinary game. Choose Health Over Convenience. Invest in quality cookware that lasts longer and promotes better health. Avoid non-stick coatings and reactive metals that can leach harmful substances into your food.

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How to Set Perfect Curd in the Chilly Winters

Setting curd in winter can be a challenge, especially in the colder regions of India where temperatures drop significantly. But fear not! With a few tips and tricks, you can enjoy homemade curd that’s creamy, thick, and perfect for your meals, even during the chilliest months.

Why Is It Difficult to Set Curd in Winter?

Curd requires a warm environment for fermentation. The bacteria in the starter culture thrive at temperatures between 30°C to 40°C. In winters, the ambient temperature often falls below this range, slowing down or halting the fermentation process.

Tips to Set Curd Successfully in Winter

1. Choose the Right Container

Use a ceramic, clay, glass, or stainless steel container as these retain heat better than plastic.

Pre-warm the container by rinsing it with hot water before adding the milk and starter.

2. Heat the Milk Properly

Heat the milk until it starts to simmer (do not boil). This ensures the milk is warm enough for fermentation.

Let the milk cool down to a lukewarm temperature (about 35°C-40°C) before adding the starter. A simple test: it should feel warm but not hot when you touch it.

3. Use a Good Starter

Always use fresh and active curd as a starter. Older or less active curd may not yield good results.

Add about 1-2 teaspoons of starter to 500 ml of milk. Whisk it well to mix evenly.

4. Keep It Warm

Maintaining a warm environment is the key to setting curd in winter. Here are a few tricks:

Wrap It Up: Cover the container with a thick towel or woolen cloth to retain warmth.

Use a Casserole: Place the curd container inside an insulated casserole to keep it warm for longer.

Oven Method: Preheat your oven for 5 minutes at the lowest temperature, turn it off, and place the container inside.

Hot Water Bath: Place the curd container in a larger bowl filled with warm water (not boiling) to create a warm environment.

5. Add a Warm Touch

If the milk is slightly colder than needed, add a pinch of sugar to the starter to activate the fermentation process.

You can also add a green chili stalk or a dried red chili to the milk. This traditional Indian trick boosts fermentation due to the bacteria present on the chili surface.

6. Time It Right

In winter, curd takes longer to set compared to summer. Leave the container undisturbed for 8-10 hours, preferably overnight. Check after this period, and if needed, give it a bit more time.

How to Store the Set Curd

Once the curd is set, refrigerate it immediately to stop further fermentation and prevent sourness. Always use a clean spoon to scoop out curd to maintain its freshness.

Nothing beats the satisfaction of enjoying creamy, homemade curd, even in the chilliest Indian winters. From pairing it with parathas to turning it into raita or adding it to curries, curd is a staple in Indian cuisine and an essential part of a healthy diet.

So, next time the temperature drops, don’t let the cold stop you from enjoying your homemade curd. Use these tips and relish the joy of perfectly set curd, no matter how cold it gets!

Try these tricks and let us know how they worked for you!