Amazing Pictures From Iran (51 Pics)

Mazandaran Forest

Soort Spring, Mazandaran

Soort Spring, Mazandaran

Orumieh

Kermanshah

Bandare Gooran, Hormozgan

Lut Desert

Tashte Forest

Tehran mountains

Azarbaijan sharghi

Tehran

Zanjan

Sistan Balouchestan

Zanjan

SaddeLar Lake

Lut Desert

Miansheh Lake

Kordestan

Abtorsh lake, Fars

Gilan

Oroumieh

Abbas Abad

Mount Damavand

Qazvin

Shalmash, Kordestan

Alladaghdar

Kandaragh Chai River

Gilan

Qeshm

Masjed Soleimun

Shilavar River, Gilan

Khuzestan

Kamarposht, Mazandaran

Shiraz

Kish

The historical Greek ship.

Keyran, Qeshm

Khuzestan

Kohgelule Boyerahmad

Qazvin

Neka Forest

Gohar Lake

Abmakh Waterfall

Kaboud Val Waterfall

Rivas Desert

Varsak, Mazandaran

Palangan Village

These Inflammation-Causing Foods Should Be Avoided at All Costs

You’ve heard of inflammation — your body’s natural response to protect you and repair damaged tissue after you’re hurt. And this process is vital, as without it, you’d be more likely to die of an infected wound. Inflammation has saved your life on many occasions without you even knowing it, says Live Science.

Trouble arises, however, when you start dealing with chronic inflammation. This type can persist through your entire life and is linked to ailments like heart disease and diabetes. And if you’re eating the following inflammatory foods, you could be unknowingly starting a war in your body.

1. Dairy 

Sorry, cheese and ice cream lovers, but dairy can cause a variety of issues related to inflammation. As mindbodygreen notes, dairy is one of the most inflammatory foods we eat.

It’s the proteins and sugar in dairy that are really to blame for its bad rap. If you’re lactose intolerant, then consuming this sugar found in milk is sure to give you problems. Even if lactose isn’t your issue, many people respond poorly to casein and whey, two proteins found in dairy products. And we haven’t even mentioned the growth hormones and antibiotics used on cows for milk production, but these can also cause inflammation. 

2. Refined grains 

There’s a reason your doctor has told you to stick with whole grains when possible. Healthline explains white breads, pastas, and rice have all the nutrients and fibrous parts removed. This means refined grains have very little fiber, vitamins, or minerals. And because of that lack of fiber, they’re digested much quicker than their whole-wheat counterparts. This causes rapid blood sugar spikes during mealtime, which ultimately can lead to chronic inflammation and a wealth of diseases, like diabetes. 

3. Diet foods with artificial sweeteners 

Just because it’s approved by the FDA doesn’t necessarily mean you should be eating it. Artificial sweeteners are in all your favorite diet products, but some evidence suggests you might be better off consuming actual sugar. The Arthritis Foundation says if you already have an autoimmune condition, then it may have an impact on your health. Even if you’re just sensitive to artificial sweeteners, eating them may trigger an inflammatory response if your body doesn’t think they belong. 

4. Fried foods 

You know by now that eating anything deep fried isn’t doing your waistline any favors, but it’s also deeply hurting the inside of your body, too. Fried foods contain loads of saturated fat, which the journal Advances in Nutrition notes can lead to an inflammatory response. And Mother Nature Network says frying foods creates a neurotoxin chemical that also causes issues. Do yourself a favor and bake your foods instead of allowing them to hit that hot oil. 

5. Processed meats 

We know bacon is a favorite food for many, and you probably haven’t considered how your daily ham sandwich is affecting your health, but both of these meats are highly inflammatory. In fact, any meat that’s been processed and packaged should be avoided like the plague.

NHS Choices notes researchers believe nitrites, the preservatives in these meats, are what triggers an inflammatory response. And there was even a study performed on 1,000 adults, about half of whom had asthma, to see how a diet rich in processed meats affected their condition. The study found eating these products four times a week worsened symptoms. 

6. Alcohol 

Sorry — we know you’ve heard that your glass of red wine at dinner is helping your heart, but this may not really be the case. While an alcoholic beverage here and there isn’t such a big deal, going out drinking on a consistent basis can cause a serious inflammatory response and increase your risk of developing disease. An article from the World Journal of Gastroenterology explains chronic alcohol consumption impairs how well your gut and livers works, thus leading to inflammation and organ damage.   

7. Sugar-laden desserts 

You probably know this by now, but your sweet tooth may be increasing your risk of developing heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and even arthritis. Healthline notes the types of sugar you’re most likely eating too much of are table sugar, known as sucrose, and high-fructose corn syrup.

One study found those who consumed soft drinks sweetened with sucrose were producing higher levels of uric acid in their body, which drives inflammation. And another study suggests sugar intake has a strong connection with the development of breast cancer due to its inflammatory properties. 

8. Movie theater popcorn 

That small bag of movie theater popcorn may seem innocent, but it’s actually full of saturated and trans fats that can cause a huge inflammatory response. The New York Times notes most theaters pop their corn in hydrogenated coconut oil, and that “butter” you can add on top is just more partially-hydrogenated oil.

When you hear the word “hydrogenated” beware that this means there are trans fats lurking in your food. And trans fats are a disaster for your body, as they cause a significant amount of systematic inflammation.  

9. Artificial coloring 

You probably didn’t know artificial food dyes can make you sick, but it’s certainly something to keep in mind. As one study says, artificial dyes are made from petroleum, and they’re cheaper and last longer than dyes made naturally. The problem here is these dyes can bind with body proteins and create inflammation. This can then lead to the development of autoimmune disorders or even behavioral problems. 

10. Vegetable oil 

Omega-3 fatty acids have been making waves in the health world for their benefits. On the other side of the coin, omega-6s are a major cause of inflammation. Shape notes vegetable oils like soy, sunflower, corn, cottonseed, and safflower are all rich sources of omega-6 fatty acids. If you’re not eating enough omega-3-rich foods like fish, flaxseeds, or walnuts to offset your omega-6 consumption, you could have some serious inflammatory problems. Opt for extra virgin olive oil when you can. 

11. Seasoning mixes 

Your spice cabinet seems innocent, but Shape says your seasonings can actually trigger an inflammatory response. So, what’s the deal with your spices? Many of the mixes are incredibly high in sodium (we’re looking at you, taco seasoning). And a high sodium to potassium ratio in your diet can trigger inflammation and put your heart at risk. Aim to use fresh or dried herbs without the salt overdose whenever possible. 

12. Seitan 

Vegans and vegetarians everywhere have probably told you about the wonders of seitan. While it can mimic the taste and texture of meat, it’s also made entirely from gluten. Many people can eat gluten-heavy foods without noticing any ill effects. But for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, seitan can cause a serious inflammatory response, Care2 explains. You might be better off going with tofu if you’re looking for a meat substitute. 

13. Peanuts 

We’re hoping by now you know not to be deceived by the name of the peanut, as it’s not a nut at all. It’s a legume rich in protein that make it a healthful snacking option for many to reach for. While those with an allergy certainly can’t eat peanuts, there’s another issue that can cause inflammation — naturally occurring fungi found on the legume. Dr. Becky Campbell tells mindbodygreen that in her experience, exposure to this mold has contributed to higher levels of inflammation. 

14. Steak 

Research continually shows different data concerning the health effects of eating red meat. While we know too much of anything is never good, the Independent explains a new study suggests eating unprocessed red meat in large quantities increases the risk of developing an inflammatory bowel condition. The evidence wasn’t conclusive, as those used in the sample also tended to smoke more, eat little fiber, and exercise less. But even so, you’ll want to at least eat grass-fed beef over grain-fed to make sure you’re not causing an inflammatory response in your digestive system. 

Here’s what you can do to reduce inflammation 

Aside from avoiding these foods, you can make lifestyle changes to see some anti-inflammatory benefits. Nutritionist Kellyann Petrucci tells mindbodygreen you should stay away from antibiotics, antacids, and certain over-the-counter pain relievers. These can be disruptive to your gut, which can trigger inflammation through your whole body.

You should also, of course, get your body moving regularly, sleep for at least seven hours a night, and get plenty of sunlight for much-needed vitamin D.

Truly Dreadful Things Cancer Does to Your Body

Cancer is one of the most common health conditions in the United States — and one of the deadliest. There are over 200 types, each with different signs, symptoms, and treatment options.

Sometimes, cancer treatments cause devastating side effects. But cancer itself starts damaging you from the inside out long before you realize it. Here’s what’s really going on.

Your DNA mutates 

Deep inside your cells, your DNA contains vital genetic information that tells those cells how to behave. Sometimes, certain conditions can get in the way and make you sick as a result.

Cancer begins in your genes, especially affecting the way your cells grow and divide. This process depends on specific instructions in your DNA left there specifically for your cells to follow. When this process is disrupted, cancer develops.

You start making more cells than you need 

Normally, your body only makes new cells when it needs them. Once cancer causes genetic changes, your cells continuously grow and divide without stopping. Cancer can also prevent old cells from dying off as they usually do.

Your body doesn’t know what to do with these extra, abnormal cells. Sometimes they accumulate in specific tissues, forming harmful masses called tumors.

Sometimes, these extra cells become tumors 

Tumors are abnormal growths of tissue that can accumulate throughout the body. Whether a tumor has the ability to spread cancer to other parts of the body or not, they often need to be removed to prevent other health complications.

Just because someone has a tumor doesn’t mean they have cancer. However, doctors often use tumors to test and diagnose cancerous tissue.

Tumors can affect other parts of your body 

Not all tumors are cancerous, but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Even non-cancerous tumors can cause blockages and prevent blood from reaching certain parts of your body.

Cancerous tumors, however, grow quickly and have only one goal: to “invade” other parts of your body. This is often how cancer spreads, and why some people end up with cancer in parts of their bodies different from where it started.

Your immune system might malfunction 

Some types of cancer affect your immunity, significantly decreasing the number of red blood cells created in your bone marrow.

Your immune system is one of your body’s most important defenses against infections and disease. When cancer affects this function, you’re much more susceptible to other illnesses and their side effects.

You might start losing weight without trying 

Losing more than 10 pounds for unexplainable reasons is often an early sign of multiple types of cancer.

This might happen because you lose your appetite and don’t eat as much as you normally would. Depending on the type of cancer, abnormal cell growth in certain tissues, such as those in the stomach, can prevent your body from getting the proper nutrition it needs.

Untreated, cancer can shut down your vital organs 

When people learn the side effects of cancer treatment, they sometimes wonder if these treatments are worse than cancer itself.

In truth, untreated cancers invade your body’s organs, which eventually causes them to shut down. This makes it impossible for your body to function in a way that allows you to survive unassisted. Organ failure, especially involving multiple organs, is usually fatal.

You Should Never Believe These Myths You’ve Heard About Heart Disease

You probably already know that smoking and avoiding exercise are bad for your heart. Unfortunately, there’s a lot more to heart disease than these two risks. Even healthy people have heart attacks — and most people don’t even know they have high blood pressure or cholesterol. Here are a few key myths about heart disease you need to be aware of.

Myth No. 1: High blood pressure is a harmless side effect of aging 

It’s normal for your blood pressure to rise as you get older — but that doesn’t mean it’s OK to ignore it. According to the National Institute on Aging, regardless of how old you are, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or hypertension, still comes with devastating health risks. Heart disease is only one of them. Your kidneys could fail, you could damage your eyes, and you could even have a stroke. 

Myth No. 2: It’s easy to tell if you have high blood pressure 

Healthline warns that high blood pressure often presents without symptoms. Many people live with hypertension for years without knowing they have it, doing significant damage to their bodies over time. This is why you should always check in with your doctor annually, even if you don’t feel sick. Early intervention, if necessary, can protect your heart and reduce your heart disease risk. 

Myth No. 3: A small heart attack is ‘no big deal’ 

The Telegraph warns that patients who suffer mild heart attacks might be at a higher risk of dying. Regardless of size, a heart attack can still cause major damage to your heart muscle, especially if doctors don’t treat it as aggressively as a major heart attack. A heart attack means something is preventing enough blood from getting to your heart, and that’s something you need to take seriously. 

Myth No. 4: If you have heart disease, you can’t be physically active 

You don’t have to stay on the couch just because you have a bad heart. Healthline recommends as little as 30 minutes of exercise several times a week to maintain overall heart health. Just speak with your doctor before you start a new fitness routine. Working out with heart disease isn’t always dangerous, but a professional can tell you how much, and which exercises, are safe for you specifically. 

Myth No. 5: You have to go on a low-fat diet to protect your heart 

Don’t waste your time following a low-fat diet for heart health. Evidence emerging over the past few years suggests avoiding saturated fat — or fat altogether — doesn’t help your heart. Experts believe refined carbohydrates, which mostly occur in heavily processed foods, contribute to heart disease much more than saturated fat does. That’s right — it’s added sugar you need to worry about, not fat. 

Myth No. 6: You can eat whatever you want if you’re on medication 

According to Mayo Clinic, there are several ways doctors can treat heart disease. The particular treatments they choose depends on your specific condition, and how well you respond to certain types of treatment. If diet and exercise aren’t enough to improve symptoms, your doctor might prescribe medications in addition to healthy lifestyle habits. Taking medications, however, doesn’t mean you can eat poorly. All treatments need to work together to keep you healthy. 

Myth No. 7: As long as you’re on diabetes medication, the disease won’t affect your heart 

This sort of works the same way. Even if you’re on medication to control your diabetes, that doesn’t mean you’re no longer at risk for heart problems. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, living with diabetes comes with many risk factors for heart disease. Controlling other lifestyle factors, like managing your weight, are also important. Medication alone usually isn’t enough to totally prevent disease. 

Myth No. 8: Heart failure happens only when your heart stops 

There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the difference between a heart attack, cardiac arrest, and heart failure. Medical News Today says a doctor will diagnose heart failure once the heart can no longer pump blood throughout your body properly. That doesn’t mean your heart is necessarily going to stop. When your heart stops, it’s known as cardiac arrest. There are millions of people in the U.S. currently living with heart failure today. 

Myth No. 9: Eating a few key foods will protect your heart 

There’s always a new study in the news about another “superfood” that will prevent heart disease. Unfortunately, protecting your heart isn’t as simple as eating more of one specific food. According to Harvard Health, your diet as a whole matters more than adding a few magic foods to your daily menu. A variety of foods, all with different health benefits, will keep your heart healthy over time. 

Myth No. 10: Certain heart surgeries can ‘cure’ your heart disease 

Bypass surgery is a common procedure performed on patients with a certain type of heart disease. The Heart and Stroke Foundation says this surgery improves blood flow to the heart, and doctors do it to improve symptoms like chest pain. It does not cure heart disease. Only lifestyle changes and medication can significantly improve your quality of life while living with this condition. 

Myth No. 11: If there’s a history of heart disease in your family, you’re doomed 

If you have a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure, it might seem like there isn’t anything you can do to avoid the same conditions. However, genetics only increase your risk — they’re not a guarantee you’ll have heart problems. Practicing healthy habits that are good for your heart can still make a huge difference. The American Heart Association suggests maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle as you age. 

Myth No. 12: Only men get heart disease 

Women don’t have any advantage over men when it comes to heart disease risk. In fact, many women experience more problems following heart attacks and heart surgeries than men do. According to Harvard Health, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. — for both men and women, almost equally. Doctors may need to treat it differently depending on your gender, but risk doesn’t change. 

Myth No. 13: Quitting smoking after decades won’t reduce disease risk 

Thankfully, this is far from the truth. Regardless of the bad habit, it’s never too early — or too late — to make positive changes in your life. The National Heart, Blood, and Lung Institute says that no matter how long you’ve been a smoker, or how much you smoke daily, quitting will improve your health. Over time, quitting can increase your risk for multiple diseases, including heart disease. 

Myth No. 14: Taking supplements lowers your heart disease risk 

Do you take vitamin C to keep your heart healthy? There isn’t any research to prove that works (though there are other benefits — so you don’t have to stop). According to Mayo Clinic, there’s a lot more to preventing heart disease than taking a multivitamin. Supplements won’t make you healthier or decrease your disease risk if you don’t also take care of yourself in other ways, like eating healthy and exercising. 

Myth No. 15: You can’t get heart disease if you’re physically active 

No matter how healthy you are, there’s no way to completely prevent heart disease. Diet and exercise are just a few of many risk factors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s not just drinking, smoking, or diseases like obesity or diabetes. Your genes, and even your race and ethnicity, may also increase your risk. It’s a combination of factors that make you more likely to develop heart disease — and many different habits that can help prevent it.

Pakistan summons US ambassador over Trump tweet, registers protest

Pakistan is accused by Afghanistan and India of harbouring terrorists ranged against the two countries.

The Pakistan Foreign Office summoned US Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale on Monday night and lodged its protest against US President Donald Trump`s tweet wherein he accused Pakistan of "lies and deceit", the media reported.

The US Embassy confirmed that Ambassador Hale was summoned by the Foreign Office at 9 p.m., The Express Tribune reported citing Express News.

Informed sources said Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua sought an explanation from the ambassador over the US President`s tweet.

Earlier, Trump tweeted that the US `foolishly` gave aid to Pakistan over the course of 15 years but Islamabad remained deceitful by providing safe havens to `terrorists` from Afghanistan.

"The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies and deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!," Trump said in his tweet.

In May 2016, Pakistan had summoned the US ambassador to express its reservations over a drone strike inside its territory that reportedly killed Afghan Taliban chief Mullah Akhtar Mansoor.

Trump`s announcement follows an increasingly tense back-and-forth between Washington and Islamabad after the US President unveiled his administration`s National Security Strategy.

He had then reminded Pakistan about its obligation towards helping the US because it got "massive payments" from Washington every year.

"We have made it clear to Pakistan that while we desire continued partnership, we must see decisive action against terrorist groups operating on their territory," Trump had said. "They have to help."

Pakistan is also accused by Afghanistan and India of harbouring terrorists ranged against the two countries.

Islamabad routinely denies such charges.

In a first, Saudi, UAE introduce VAT in tax-free Gulf

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates introduced value-added tax from today, a first for the Gulf which has long prided itself on its tax-free, cradle-to-grave welfare system.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates introduced value-added tax from today, a first for the Gulf which has long prided itself on its tax-free, cradle-to-grave welfare system.

Saudi Arabia compounded the New Year blow for motorists with an unannounced hike of up to 127 per cent in petrol prices with immediate effect from midnight.

They are the latest in series of measures introduced by Gulf oil producers over the past two years to boost revenues and cut spending as a persistent slump in world prices has led to ballooning budget deficits.

The five percent sales tax applies to most goods and services and analysts project that the two governments could raise as much as USD 21 billion in 2018, equivalent to 2.0 percent of GDP.

But it marks a major change for two super-rich countries where the mall is king. Dubai has long held an annual shopping festival to draw bargain hunters from around the world to its glitzy retail palaces.

Saudi Arabia has deposited billions of dollars in special accounts to help needy citizens face the resulting rise in retail prices.

The other four Gulf states -- Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar -- are also committed to introducing VAT but have decided to delay the move until early in 2019.

The hike in fuel duty in Saudi Arabia was the second in two years.

But it still leaves petrol prices as some of the lowest in the world.

High-grade petrol rose 127 per cent from 24 cents a litre (USD 1.09 a gallon) to 54 (USD 2.46), while low-grade petrol rose 83 per cent from 20 cents a litre (91 cents a gallon) to 36.5 (USD 1.66).

Duty on diesel and kerosene remained unchanged.

Saudi Arabia has introduced a raft of measures to raise revenue and cut spending as it bids to balance its books.

Last month, it slashed the government subsidy on electricity supply, leading to a sharp rise in bills.

Riyadh posted budget deficits totalling $260 billion over the past four fiscal years and does not expect to balance its books before 2023.

To finance its mounting public debt, the kingdom has withdrawn around $250 billion from its reserves over the past four years, reducing them to $490 billion.

It has also borrowed around USD 100 billion from the international and domestic markets.