These Are 5 Benefits Of Shea Butter You Didn’t Know

While Shea butter has gradually become more popular globally, the benefits of it are not completely understood.

Shea butter is an off-white fatty substance obtained from the nuts of the shea tree from West Africa, typically used in cosmetic and natural skin care products but it has other proven benefits that you didn’t know.

Full of all-natural vitamin A, 100 percent pure, unrefined, raw shea butter has a lot of uses. Indeed, because raw shea butter is extremely moisturizing and very hydrating, when applied to the skin, it provides immediate softness and smoothness.

1. Shea butter is great for moisturizing your skin

Shea butter is great for moisturizing your skin  (The Co Report)

Shea butter is a great moisturizer for the face and the body. It locks in the moisture in the skin and keeps it hydrated for long. Shea butter can nourish the skin with its fat content. It can also help to soften the skin on your hands and feet and make it supple. It penetrates the skin easily and is effective for dry skin.

2. It helps in the treatment of acne and blemishes

Shea butter is known for its healing properties, which can be attributed to the presence of several fatty acids. Raw, unrefined shea butter is effective in curing skin rashes, skin peeling after tanning, scars, stretch marks, frost bites, burns, athletes foot, insect bites and stings, and acne.

3. Shea butter helps prevent hair loss

Shea butter helps prevent hair loss  (Endhairloss)

The fatty acids of shea butter condition the scalp and hair while also providing essential nutrients that improve both scalp and hair health. They make hair follicles stronger and reduce hair fall and hair loss. Another important property of shea butter that can prevent hair loss is its anti-inflammatory properties.

4. It is of great help in reducing razor irritation and bumps

Shea butter can help reduce razor irritation and bumps as it soothes the irritated skin. It can also be applied a day prior to shaving to smoothen the skin and hair. This will make the shaving process easier and faster and doesn’t leave any irritated spots behind

5. It is a natural anti-aging method

It is a natural anti-aging method  (WebMD)

Shea butter is considered as one of the best anti-aging agents for the skin. The vitamins A and E found in this butter keep the skin supple, nourished, and radiant. If used regularly, it reduces wrinkles and also prevents premature wrinkles and facial lines. Its anti-aging properties can also be attributed to its ability to increase circulation to the skin and promote cell renewal.

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Paw Paw; The Benefits Of This Fruit Will Shock You!

Popularly known as the fruit of the Angels, pawpaw is a fruit being enjoyed for its sweetness across the world. Its products for medicinal purposes is on the rise. And this is not limited to natural health practitioners alone, doctors as well as nurses encourage its use. And research is steadily showing that its delicious content is less important in comparison to its health benefits.However, all parts of the pawpaw fruit; from its seeds, peels, to its leaves and many more are known and used for our health. With a lot of hidden benefits for skin, health and hair, coupled with its deliciousness, pawpaw now ranks as one of the most beneficial gifts nature has blessed us with.

As a matter of fact, it is reputed to carry the most health benefits of any fruit. Here are some of the health benefits of pawpaw

Pawpaw Lowers CholesterolPawpaw is not only rich in fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants that prevent cholesterol buildup in the arteries, but with pawpaw, building up of the cholesterol in the arteries, is made impossible.

Pawpaw Helps Boosts Immunity

Amazingly, a single papaya gives more than 200% of your daily requirement of Vitamin C, which makes it a great agent for a stronger immune system. It is important to realize that your immune system is your first line of defense against various infections that can make you really sick.

Pawpaw Eases Menstrual Pain

Although this might sound a bit strange, it is true. Women who experience menstrual pain should help themselves to several servings of pawpaw. Why? There is an enzyme in pawpaw called papain. Papain helps in regulating and easing flow during menstrual periods.

Pawpaw Promotes Hair Growth

Apart from keeping the skin healthy, papayas are very effective for maintaining healthy hair. Vitamin A in them is utilized in the production of sebum, a compound that is crucial for keeping the hair smooth, shiny and moisturized.

Anti-inflammatory Effects

The papain and chymopapain enzymes present in papayas reduce inflammation in different parts of the body.

It’s important to note that Papaya is classified as a harmful substance for pregnant women. Because there is a high concentration of latex in raw pawpaw which can cause uterine contractions and might lead to abortions.

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5 Everyday Foods That Are Healthier When Eaten Raw

When making healthy meals, most of us don’t think about whether or not cooking our food affects its nutrition. Although, some foods can be more nutritious when cooked, there are other foods that are healthier when consumed raw.

This is because heating can destroy certain nutrients. As such, Jumia Food identifies some of the foods that are healthier when eaten raw.Onions 
Onions has sulphur compounds, along with cancer-fighting antioxidants. Thus, eating it raw can help shield you against lung and prostate cancer. So, do not shy away from popping a slice in your mouth when cooking.Red Pepper 
Red pepper contains a large amount of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to repair, regenerate tissues and protect against heart disease. When you cook it, the level of vitamin C will significantly decline. So, if you want to get the best out of red pepper, do not cook it!

Garlic 
Quite a number of people hate eating raw garlic because of the smell. However, cooking it reduces the antioxidant allicin, which helps fight heart disease and cancer. Garlic does contain other nutrients that remain intact after cooking, but to maximize its benefits, it’s best to enjoy garlic raw.

Spinach 
Spinach is high in vitamin C and cooking it gets rid of a large amount of nutrient. However, cooking spinach also breaks down oxalic acid which can assist with your body’s absorption of calcium, iron, and magnesium; so it is advisable to alternate when eating it.

Nuts 
We all prefer the taste of roasted nuts, but the cooking process takes away some of its nutritional value. Know that roasting increases the calories and fat content of nuts while diminishing magnesium and iron.

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Checkout The Side Effects Of Zobo Drink

It reduces the number of oestrogen in your body

This is only the issue for women who have the issue with the menstrual cycle. When you drink hibiscus on a regular basis, it can slow down the process of oestrogen production.

So, if you already have problems with this in your life, then consider staying away from karkade for a while. Besides, you should also remember that women taking birth control pills should stay away from the tea too, because of its specific properties.

Thus, if you have such problem, then opt for some other tea instead of this one and eliminate it from your daily diet at all.

It affects the blood pressure

People suffering from low blood pressure should also stay away from drinking this tea. It is very helpful in case you have hypertension syndrome, as it can easily bring the blood pressure on significant levels. But in case you have low blood pressure, then karkade is not an option for you.

It will make it even lower, and as a result of working together with pills you are taking to prevent this health issues, you can feel even worse. Therefore, watch out and make sure you know this before you consider having sour tea on a daily basis.

It might cause hallucinogenic signs

You might feel light-headed after drinking the zobo drink. The thing is that all the properties combined in it can lead to intoxication. So, if you work as a driver or drive a lot, then having hibiscus tea is not the best idea. Some people even reported getting hallucinogenic signs after drinking it on a regular basis. So, be careful as it can cause serious troubles.

It prevents pregnancy

Some women reported that this kind of drink hadn’t let them get pregnant. It is scientifically proven, but since we know that it can be harmful to your oestrogen levels, it can apparently prevent women getting pregnant.

So, if you are willing to conceive a child, then eliminate karkade from your daily ration. It can not only prevent the pregnancy but (who knows?) might even affect the fetus if you do get pregnant.

It might make you less productive

Given how this tea works in your body, it makes your body slow down a little. And as a result, you do less work in the same amount of time you used too. So, hibiscus tea is great if you need to give your body some rest. But in case you want to stay productive, then you should probably substitute it with some other drink.

It stimulates the menstrual flow

Health benefits of zobo drink

• It helps cure hypertension syndrome.
• It is packed with Vitamin C.
• It prevents early ageing.
• It helps your liver function properly.
• It has a number of antibacterial properties.
• It helps to reduce body temperature (so it can be helpful during hot seasons).
• It helps lessen the pain during the menstrual period.
• It can reduce body weight.
• Finally, it can even treat depression in early stages.

However, it is important to remember that even though it can be helpful in various ways, there are certain disadvantages of karkade one should know about and be careful with.

The scholars say that the properties of hibiscus work in such a way that they stimulate the menstrual cycle. Therefore, if some women have troubles having their period timely, then zobo drink is what they need to fix the problem. However, in other cases, they should stay away from it, as it can prevent the pregnancy and stimulate it at the wrong time. So, be careful with it too.

For some reason, the scholars did no explore the side effects of zobo drink too much. This is all we could find for you. However, these facts may be enough.

Now, as you realise what to expect, you might change your attitude to zobo drink and either drink it more frequently or cut it out of your daily ration it is absolutely up to you! But bear all these factors in mind when considering zobo drink on a daily basis. That’s all for today. Watch the video from the article to learn more about this drink and stay healthy!

Source: Naija.ng

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Ovarian Cancer: 10 Warning Signs Of ‘The Silent Killer’ Women Should Never, Ever Ignore

Each year, more than 20,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

As the fifth most common cancer among women, ovarian cancer is commonly nicknamed the “silent killer” among women over the age of 55.

Though by no means linked uniquely to postmenopausal women, ovarian cancer is highly aggressive, and, according to doctors, incredibly difficult to detect. Mother Erin Barret only happened to discover she had ovarian cancer because she was pregnant.

We are well-versed in the cancer symptoms that absolutely cannot be ignored (as we hope you are, too) — but when looking at gynecological cancers, many of these universal cancer symptoms may sound quite general and vague.

Nevertheless, we’ll learn more about the 10 most common symptoms that women may experience, in an exclusive look below.

These symptoms can occur during both the earliest and more advanced stages of detection, and can range from intense abdominal and pelvic pains, to irregular menstrual cycles and even excessive hair growth.

Scroll down to go through the list, and please make sure to consult your doctor if you are experiencing severe forms of any of the following symptoms.

Please let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

1. Frequent Back Pain

There can be many causes for back pain. But if you know for certain that you are not suffering from any physical ailments and discomforts — like ligament strain, osteoporosis, arthritis, or skeletal irregularities — then it’s best to get checked out by your doctor.

Although it’s a symptom that’s common in women who don’t have ovarian cancer, back pain can be cause for concern, according to MedlinePlus.

Look out for back pain that worsens over time for unknown reasons.

2. Pain In Lower Abdomen Or Pelvic Region

If you are experiencing pain in the lower abdominal region, or if you feel a heaviness in your pelvic region on a daily basis, you should check with your doctor to understand the causes of these symptoms.

One commenter on health website eMedicineHealth says: “I suddenly felt bloating in my abdomen and felt like something moving around. My mistook it for gas and treated me for gastritis. I developed a sharp pain near my diaphragm.”

She then visited a gynecologist, who, after conducting an ultrasound, detected ovarian cancer.

3. Very Abnormal Menstrual Cycles

Statistically, more women over the age of 55 are diagnosed with ovarian cancer. However, you don’t need to be post-menopausal in order to develop ovarian cancer.

According to Healthline, gynecological cancers can occur in younger women, too — even in those who haven’t had their first periods yet.

If you are experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding, or a drastic change in your menstrual cycle, it’s best to let your doctor know so that further tests can be done.

4. Excessive Fatigue

Along with breathlessness, nausea, and an increased loss of appetite, extreme fatigue is one of the symptoms that a patient at a progressed stage of ovarian cancer may see.

More than 80% of women do experience at least one symptom of ovarian cancer a few months before getting diagnosed, according to Medical News Today.

That’s why it’s so important to study your own body. Don’t wait for more than three months after experiencing an odd symptom to get checked out, like 17% of women do.

5. If You Feel Full Easily

“Early satiety,” or feeling full too quickly when you eat, is one of the four most noticeable and common symptoms of ovarian cancer, according to Healthline.

It could be easy to mistake this symptom as a digestive order — but unlike illnesses caused by the digestive track, ovarian cancer will see a worsening of symptoms, says Medical News Today.

6. Painful Sex

Pain during intercourse may be another strong indicator that you are in an earlier stage of ovarian cancer, according to Medical News Today.

This is linked to pain and pressure in the pelvic region, and the need to urinate more urgently and frequently.

No matter what painful sex may indicate, it’s best to alert your doctor to the symptom as fast as you can.

7. Nausea And Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting, like all the other symptoms listed in this guide, can indicate a variety of problems.

It frequently goes hand-in-hand with other symptoms, like constipation, diarrhea, and bloating, according to WebMD.

According to gynecologist Jeffrey L. Stern, M.D., advanced cases of ovarian cancer can often result in the blockage of the intestines, causing severe nausea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

8. Bloating Belly

Bloating is one of the most noted warning signs of ovarian cancer, along with general abdominal pain.

Famously, cancer patient Wendie Webb had a bloated stomach so large that it looked like she was pregnant. In the end, doctors removed her 13-pound tumor and eventually declared her cancer-free.

If bloating persists for days, or even weeks, consult your doctor. Don’t risk confusing it as a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome!

9. Dark And Coarse Hair Growth

Some women have reportedly experienced excessive hair growth as a symptom.

While not typically topping the list of cancer symptoms, it is definitely something that is cause for concern.

However, according to Women’s Health, some women experience the exact opposite — hair loss.

10. Frequent Constipation

The abdominal region and the digestive track are the regions most affect by the cancer, especially in its earliest stages.

In addition to general pain in the stomach area, other related symptoms may include digestive issues, loss of appetite, and increased gas, according to MedlinePlus.

Are you going to be checking your body for irregularities from now on?

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‘I Sold My Kidney For N15m In Malaysia Because Of Poverty – Nigerian Man

A young adventurous Nigerian man from Irua, in Edo State, has narrated how he was driven by poverty to sell his kidney for the sum of N15million in Malaysia.

The man, identified simply as Abu, said he had travelled to Kuala Lumpur in 2008 in search of greener pastures, when he ran into some Malaysians, who told him he could make good money by parting with one of his kidneys.

 

NewTelegraph newspaper spoke with one of Abu’s associates, one Sam Otarumene, who said Abu was then introduced to some medical agents in Malaysia who briefed him about the “business” and allayed his fears that he could die.

• “He was told he could survive on one kidney, and was also assured that he had nothing to lose. Within a few days, some tests were conducted on him, and his organs were certified healthy,” Otarumene said.

Upon completion of the test, he was allegedly told he would be paid in Malaysian Ninggit, which when converted to Naira amounted to N20million. But the agents insisted on receiving 25 per cent of the sum, part of which covered his post-surgery recovery expenses.

An agreement was said to have been duly signed by himself, the agent and the family of the benefitting patient before the operation. He said that was a major requirement before the hospital accepted to perform the surgery.

He was checked into an unnamed hospital on a Friday in the February of 2009 and after preliminary medical procedure, sedated and his kidney harvested. Abu, allegedly received the money and after recovering from the surgery, returned to Nigeria.

Upon his return in 2010, he informed some of his friends about the “business,” and invested his money into private business.

“He first erected a storey building in Irua, and has since then been working with some politicians,” the associate mentioned earlier said.

Attempts to speak with him were rebuffed by Otanumene, who said the action was a guarded secret, because Abu only revealed it to a few of his associates, adding that he even showed them the scar left behind by the surgery.

He, however, showed NewTelegraph correspondent a video recording purportedly showing Abu spraying cash when a local musician described as Emperor Wadada, celebrated his 25 years on stage last year.

Clad in white attire, the fair-complexioned Abu danced excitedly before the musicians, spraying money as his accolades resonated from the local amplifiers. He said Abu is married with children and living happily by following his dietary instructions.

Otanumene said that contrary to reports of organ theft, many Nigerians enter into deals to sell off their kidney for a fee, adding that only in few cases were those organs actually sold without the consent of their owners.

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You’ll Never Look At A Banana The Same Way After Reading This

This is interesting. After reading this, you’ll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars – sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world’s leading athletes.

But energy isn’t the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

DEPRESSION
According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS:
Forget the pills – eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

ANEMIA
High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

BLOOD PRESSURE:
This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

BRAIN POWER
200 students at a Twickenham school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

CONSTIPATION
High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

HANGOVERS
One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

HEARTBURN
Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

MORNING SICKNESS
Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

MOSQUITO BITES:
Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

NERVES
Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system…

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort foodlike chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

ULCERS
The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chroniclercases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Many other cultures see bananas as a ‘cooling’ fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has FOUR TIMES the protein, TWICE the carbohydrate, THREE TIMES the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals.. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, ‘A BANANA a day keeps the doctor away!’

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10 Interesting (Some Deadly) Facts You Didn’t Know About Sugar

There aren’t many people who can say they don’t like sugar and even though, we all know that too much of it can be a bad thing, who can resist the occasional sugary treat? Sugar, as we know it today, was first called, sweet-salt, and it was a luxury. But now, sugar is considered a necessity and the world produces over 150 million tones of it a year. Here are ten facts about sugar that you probably didn’t know, and not all of them are bad news!

1. Crystallized sugar has been around a long time

People have been crystallizing sugar from sugar cane for at least 2000 years, but the joys of the sweet stuff didn’t come to western shires for some time. When Alexander the Great’s army found sugar in India, they were amazed at how honey could be produced without bees.

2. The sugar from cane and beet is identical

It was a German chemist, Andreas Marggraf, who discovered that the sugar obtained from sugar beet is identical to that obtained from sugar cane. It was this discovery that lead on to the production of sugar in more northern climes.

3. Sugar can be used as rocket fuel

Sugar is the main component of the fuel used in rockets by amateur rocket enthusiasts. If you burn sucrose with some corn syrup and saltpetre, you get sugar propellant, which is used to power small rockets.

4. Sugar hides in many foods

Sugar is added to many different types of food, including savory items. You know you have to cut back on candy, soda and cakes, to reduce your sugar intake, but it is also present in ketchup, processed foods and even bread.

5. Artificial sweeteners were found by accident

Sucralose, now sold in the shops as Splenda, was discovered by scientists trying to create a new insecticide. Apparently, a research assistant who misunderstood his instructions to test the new compound thought he had been told to taste it. He discovered that it tasted sweet.

6. Sugar doesn’t rot your teeth

Tooth decay isn’t caused by sugar, it’s caused by the bacteria that feed off the sugar. These bacteria will actually feed off any carbohydrate, so starchy foods that can get stuck to your teeth can be just as damaging.

7. The sugar pill medicine

Children are sometimes prescribed a sugar pill marketed under the name of ‘Obecalp’, for minor complaints. When a doctor prescribes ‘Obecalp’, a pharmacist knows exactly what to do. Just read the name backwards!

8. You can be genetically addicted to sugar

Having a sweet tooth is not always just an excuse to eat too much candy. Scientists have found that some individuals have genetic variations that affect their production of a hunger hormone called ghrelin, which makes them want to eat more sugar.

9. Too much sugar can affect your memory

Eating sugar can accelerate the aging process of cells and of particular concern is the effect that this has on brain cells. In a study, scientists found that excess consumption of sugar can result in a loss of memory and a reduction in overall mental agility.

10. Sugary drinks are thought to cause around 200,000 deaths a year

A study carried out in 2013 estimated that approximately almost 200,000 deaths, worldwide, can be attributed to people drinking high sugar drinks and soda. Did you know, for example, that a single can of regular cola contains the equivalent of more, than twelve sugar cubes? When it comes to sugar, moderation is the key.

Do you know some other interesting facts about sugar?

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The Amazing Benefits Activated Charcoal Has For Your Body And Health

Recently a certain substance has been popping up in all sorts of health and beauty practices, from toothpaste to face masks. It’s called activated charcoal and it’s got a whole lot of good uses.

You might’ve wondered why people are rubbing the leftover coals from their braai on their face, but this is activated charcoal, not just regular charcoal. It’s created when you burn a source of carbon (like wood), which takes out the oxygen and produces this material will millions of tiny pores. Because of all of these pores the material is super adsorbent (which means it binds to things, similar to absorbent) and it’s able to adsorb and remove elements such as poison or bacteria. This is why it’s gained a rep for being great for detoxing your body. Here are a few ways you can use activated charcoal, in powder or pill form, to improve your health:

It helps with itchy bites

Mix a bit of activated charcoal with some coconut oil and apply it to any mosquito bites, bug bites or stings you might have. It can ease the super annoying itchy feeling, making you scratch less and letting them heal faster.

It can give you clear skin

The reason activated charcoal is used so often in face masks is because of its adsorbing abilities. When applied to your skin it will draw out any dirt and bacteria and bind to it, so when you wash the activated charcoal off the dirt and bacteria goes with it.

It can help with bloating

Some foods taste delicious but the 3-months-pregnant look you get immediately afterwards is pretty off-putting. You could take away that feeling  of being bloated by taking activated charcoal pills with your meal. The charcoal will bind to the byproducts of food like beans that lead to gas and bloating in your digestive tract and alleviate this discomfort.

It could help with your hangover

Disclaimer: there is no scientific proof for the idea that taking activated charcoal can eliminate your hangovers, however a quick Google search shows loads of people swear by this DIY cure. Maybe it’s yet to be proven or maybe it’s just a powerful placebo effect but it’s worth a shot. Take two pills before your big night out and test it yourself. There’s no harm done if it doesn’t work (well, except for your raging hangover).

It keeps your fridge from smelling bad

Activated charcoal adsorbs all organic molecules, including the ones that smell bad. Place two spoonfuls of the stuff in an open container in your fridge. You’ll find your fridge will smell fresh for way longer so feel free to stock up on those foods that are good for you but stink like kimchi.

It’s generally great for detoxing

Taking activated charcoal pills daily could lead to a long list of health benefits for you. It’s ability to attach itself to toxins means it will remove toxins and detox you as it makes its way through your system. Note that taking too much can lead to constipation so don’t overdo it; two pills a day should do the trick.

…But don’t use it on your teeth

You’ve probably seen videos of people brushing their teeth with black paste and showing off how super white they are afterwards. Charcoal toothpaste has actually been proven to wear down your enamel, something you will never grow back. It definitely makes your teeth whiter but the cost is so not worth it. Read more about how this whitening trend is destroying your teeth.

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Health Benefits Of Oily Fish

Oily fish is rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and potentially lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Both white and oily fish are good sources of lean protein. White fish contains fatty acids, but only in the liver, and in smaller quantities.

Cardiovascular disease

Consuming oily fish can help protect against cardiovascular disease, according to the AHA. A study published by the American Physiological Society suggests that fatty fish oils can also protect the heart during times of mental stress.

Rheumatoid arthritis

A study published in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases journal linked an average daily intake of at least .21 grams (or 210 milligrams) a day of omega-3 with a 52 per cent lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Other research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids might protect against the future development of RA.

Dementia

Among people who abuse alcohol, fish oil may offer protection from dementia. Brain cells that were exposed to a mix of fish oil and alcohol had 95 percent less neuroinflammation and neuronal death compared with brain cells that were only exposed to alcohol.

Mouth and skin cancers

Oily fish consumption may protect against early- and late-stage oral and skin cancers. Omega-3 fatty acid has been found to target and selectively inhibit the growth of malignant and pre-malignant cells at doses that do not affect the normal cells.

Sensory, cognitive, and motor development

Consuming oily fish during the last months of pregnancy can have positive effects on a child’s sensory, cognitive, and motor development, research suggests. The same study did not find that breast-feeding offered the same benefits.

Asthma

The children of women who regularly consumed salmon during pregnancy may be less likely to show signs of asthma at the age of 2.5.

Protecting vision and memory

DHA can protect against vision loss. Scientists have identified a link between oily fish consumption and a lower risk of vision loss in older people. A study published in PLOS One indicates that eating oily fish may improve working memory.

Breast and prostate cancer

One meta-analysis of nearly 900,000 women has linked a higher consumption of oily fish with a lower risk of breast cancer. However, another team found that men with high quantities of omega-3 oil in their blood had a higher risk of prostate cancer.

Many people take fish oil supplements for health reasons. Learn more about fish oils and their benefits here.

Although eating oily fish promotes many aspects of good health, overconsumption may not be beneficial. A recent study found a risk of premature death in people with both high and low levels of HDL, raising the question of whether more HDL is always better.

Also, high levels of HDL can be harmful for people who are undergoing dialysis, because it can increase levels of inflammation.

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6 Everyday Habits That Are Risky To Your Health

Habits are like glue. When it gets stuck, it either becomes indelible or takes forever to remove. This is why it’s not advisable to allow a habit overwhelm you because it requires painstaking efforts to abandon. If you, however, continue with these habits, it will affect your health and general wellbeing over time. Thus, we identify habits that are putting your health at risk.

Sitting all day

Since jobs are now performed mostly with computers in the 21st century, it is possible that you will sit in front of it for hours without taking breaks. This is not good because the longer you sit, the more you are susceptible to heart diseases. Therefore, the import of breaks can’t be overemphasised.

Smoking

This is not new. A large number of people are smoking today disregarding the instruction that smokers are liable to die young. The health hazards associated with all kinds of smoking are unlimited. Even electronic cigars have not be certified safe.

Eating junk food

The food eaten today are not a balanced diet, no thanks to tight schedules. Consequently, we turn to processed or packaged foods that unhealthy. Generally, eating junk food can hurt our health. Take time out to cook.

Not wearing sunscreen

Not wearing sunscreen whenever it is sunny raises your chances of having melanoma, an eye disease. It is easy to overlook this but the consequences are dire. Your eyes need protection from sun rays.

Downing too alcohol

Too much of everything is bad. Alcohol is the gold many cannot resist. At classy hotels and bars, you find people downing alcohol like water. There is nothing wrong with taking alcohol for some people. It is advisable though you drink moderately if you cannot do without it.

Not getting enough sleep

Sleep can help boost creativity. But few persons are getting enough sleep. They are too busy. And at other times when they have the opportunity to sleep, they are distracted by their smartphones. If you cannot sleep the recommended 7 or 8 hours, try to sleep soundly even if you are sleeping for several hours.

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7 Unbelievable Things That Happen To Your Body When You Stop Taking Soft Drinks

A lot of us are addicted to taking soft drinks so much so that we cannot go a day without taking a bottle or two.

Deciding to give soft drinks up is important giving the long term effects and risks of becoming obese or developing type 2 diabetes.

It could be you decided to give them up because you want to shed weight or as a result of the various negative effects of the ingredients.

Whatever your reason for giving up soft drinks are, staying away from them can help to improve your overall health.

You Shed Off Bad Weight
Some people take to drinking diet soda to lose weight but quitting soft drinks all together is the one thing that will do the trick.

A recent study conducted for 9 years discovered that older adults who drank diet soda did not stop adding belly fat.

Some other studies also found out that taking diet fluids tends to increase the percentage probability of becoming obese in 10 years by about 65%, just as another study published in Diabetes Care found a link between drinking diet soft drinks daily and an increase in obesity, high blood-pressure and high triglycerides which can lead to heart disease and diabetes.

Risk Of Diabetes Is Reduced
Hormones can help to explain why some of us gain weight when they switch from alcohol to soft drinks and why others lose weight.

According to a study published in the journal, Diabetes Care, drinking two-thirds of a diet soda before eating food can condition the pancreas to release more of the insulin hormone which helps the body to store fat.

A pancreas that is stressed from insulin production to control the level of glucose in the blood may cause you to have diabetes.

Strong Bones
Giving up soft drinks can help you to build stronger bones which in turn will help to reduce the chance of having broken bones.

Their contents tend to lower bone mineral density in the hips. A study published in the British medical journal found that a daily intake of soft drinks increases the chances of hip fracture by 14% in women that are past the menopause stage.

Headaches Stop
The chances of having headaches as a result of withdrawal from soft drinks is high but there is the benefit of having a sharper focus as time goes on.

A review in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that the artificial sweetener aspartame used in soft drinks, contain chemicals that alter nerve signals and brain chemicals which may cause anxiety, insomnia and headaches.

The repeated headaches Stop as time goes by.

Your Taste buds Become More Sensitive
The truth is when you stay off the plenty sugar that comes from soft drinks, you most likely will find food more enjoyable and appealing.

This is because the artificial sweeteners tend to overwhelm your taste buds with sweetness so much so that normal food flavours appear bland.

As a matter of fact, the artificial flavour Aspartame is 200 times sweeter than table sugar. More so, brain scans have shown that soft drinks alter sweet receptors in the brain and prolongs sugar cravings instead of satisfying them.

You Tend To Have A Better Attitude Towards Food
People that take a lot of soft drinks have poor food choices and will rather take pastries such as doughnut or meat pie to accompany the drink.

Soft drinks usually accompanies unhealthy foods. However, there are times those poor food choices are built up habits as a result of you conditioning your mind to have a soft drink with a doughnut, chips, fries or any other sweet high calories food.

Taking soft drinks out of the equation can help to break the bad food habit.

It Takes Longer For You To Get Drunk
It’s a fact you probably didn’t know that soft drinks especially the ones that are supposed to help you diet helps you get drunk faster.

An Australian study published in the American Journal of Medicine found out that Mixing diet soft drinks with alcohol encourages your stomach to empty out quickly than normal which can result in a sharp increase in the concentration of alcohol in your blood.

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10 Drinks And Foods That You Didn’t Know Make You Look Older Than Your Age

You’ve read all about the things that you can eat that are good for your complexion and can help ward off the signs ageing, but what about the things that have an adverse effect and can actually make you look older? Here are ten foods and drinks that you should avoid, or cut down on, because these are the ones that can make you look older than you really are.

1. Coffee

Your need for frequent caffeine boosts to get you through the day could be changing the way you look. For a start, too much coffee will stain your teeth and that will instantly make you look older. Caffeine will also dehydrate you, especially, if you drink too much coffee, so your skin will lose its youthful look.

2. Alcohol

Alcohol is another drink that will dehydrate your body. Too much of the vino and you will get puffy eyes and look tired. Red wine can also stain the teeth too, and that will add some years onto your appearance as well.

3. Salt

Sprinkling too much salt on your meals won’t help either. Excess salt can cause high blood pressure, which is not that good for your heart, slat will also affect the collagen in your skin making it weaker, and that can lead to wrinkles.

Goat Meat Pepper Soup

4. Very spicy foods

Very spicy foods are also included in the list of foods that age you. Hot and spicy food is great for boosting the metabolism, but it can play havoc with your skin. Too much chilli and jalapeños, and the blood vessels in your skin can become dilated, which will make your skin lose its youthful appearance. Don’t worry too much though, the occasional curry won’t do any harm!

5. Sugar

You can put the candy away as well! Too much sugar in your diet will cause an insulin overload and that too will affect the blood vessels and cause acceleration of the ageing process.

6. Soda

Soda is another drink that won’t be kind to your skin and teeth. Most sodas contain high levels of acids that will eat away at the enamel on your teeth and they also contain high levels of sodium, which will age the skin.

7. Processed meat

Processed meats, such as sausages and hot dogs, are also included in our list of foods that age you, as they contain high levels of sulphites, which are used as a preservative. Sulphites found in processed meats can cause skin irritation and inflammation, which will make you look older.

Baked pot grilled steak | Angie’s Pantry

8. Red meat

In a recent study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic’s Wellness Institute, research suggested that eating too much red meat can bring on wrinkles. In fact, they found that if you eat red meat more than once a week, a compound called creatine, which is found in meat, can cause hardening of the blood vessel walls, which can bring in wrinkles in the skin.

Photo Credit: Mr Wallpapers

9. Trans-fats

Products that are loaded with trans-fats are also foods that age you. Trans-fats, which are found in margarine and in fast foods, can cause the arteries to clog, which can not only bring on the early signs of ageing, but also lead to numerous health problems. Stick to monounsaturated fats like those found in olive oil, avocado and coconut oil.

Reduce your carbohydrates: Avoid bread

10. Simple carbohydrates

Eating simple carbs like the ones that you find in white bread and pasta, can also age you. Foods like this have a high glycemic index, which can inflame the skin and break down collagen. Eat more whole grain foods, they are better for you, all round.

 

Stay happy!

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