Infections! what are they? Are there Natural remedies?

Infections! what are they? Are there Natural remedies?

Introduction

The subject before us sounds more scientific, but we will not attempt to go deep scientifically as, we are not scientists, but I shall endeavor to focus on the following during the study:

Outline

1. what is Infection

2. Types of infections

3. How do they get to us 

4. Symptoms of Infection 

Our defence against them -

5. Signs of a weak immune system and what to do 

6. Foods that fights infections 

7. Foods that feed infections

Audio

8. Foods that cause Mucus

9. Simple ways to boost your body's natural defense

10 Foods reduce mucus

11. How to stay strong during this Pandemic by including common Antiviral foods that helps fight infections

13. Healthy Body All the Way

14. Summary

15. Questions and Answers

1. What is infection

In my own definition, infection is said to occur when a foreign living organism invades our body in the form of pathogens, overcomes all our natural defencies and deters our organs from carrying on its regular functions/ activities resulting in disease.

2. Types of Infection

There are four most common types of infections, namely:

Viral infections. (Viruses are very tiny infectious organisms).

Bacterial infections.

 (Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms)

Fungal infections.

and

Parasitic infections.

3. How do they get to us? 

Microorganisms capable of causing disease—or pathogens—usually enter our bodies through the eyes, mouth, nose, or urogenital openings, or through wounds or bites that breach the skin barrier. Organisms can spread, or be transmitted,

4. Most common Symptoms of an Infection are:

Common cold

Flu

Strep throat

UTI

Cellulitis

Stomach flu, diarrhea, cramps, vomiting, etc

Pneumonia

Ear infections

Remember the symptoms of viral and bacterial infection may resemble but antibiotics won't work for viral infections.

5, Our Defence against them

When we are infected through any means, most times we are unaware, why, because cause our defence system are working 247 to defend us. We have three main lines of defence, before symptoms occur in form of either pains, swellings, fever or other means. What are these lines of defence?

Our body's three lines of defense are:,

1. Skin:

The outer barriers like skin,

2, the second being non-specific immune cells like macrophages and dendritic cells, and

3. the third line of defense being the specific immune system made of lymphocytes like B- and T-cells.

6. Signs of weak immune system and what to do.

*Signs of a Suppressed immunity* 

A. Frequent cold, sneezing, flu like symptoms

If you are always battling with cold. Obviously your immune is low

 *What to do -* include more garlic, ginger, Tumeric, onions, greens, eggs, raw foods and citrus fruits. Reduce carbs and sugar. Stay away from transfats, especiall fried foods.

B. You always have tummy issues, like constipation, diarrhea, gas, stomach noise etc,  

 *What to do -* Include probiotics foods, fermented foods like millet, yogurt, African oil bean seed, iru etc to help support gut health. Also avoid too much sugar and sugary drinks including carbonated beverages and highly processed foods, 

 C. Difficulty in wound healing** 

Your skin goes into damage control mode after you get a burn, cut or scrape. Your body works to protect the wound by sending nutrient-rich blood to the injury to help regenerate new skin.

This healing process depends on healthy immune cells. But if your immune system is sluggish, your skin can’t regenerate. Instead, your wounds linger and have a hard time healing.

 *What to do -* include fruits rich in vitamin C and quality protein, soyabeans, moringa leaves, eggs, carrots, vitamins A and E rich foods, peanuts are rich in protein and vitamin E, but must be taken in moderwtion. 

D. *You Have Frequent Infections* 

If you seem to battle frequent infections, your immune system might be sending you red flags. If you are always treating typhoid and malaria, then, that's a strong signal that your immune system is low.

 *What to do -* take garlic regularly, take fresh paw paw leaves tea, include bitter leafs, especially the water of a freshly washed bitterleaf, moringa leaves, reduce sugar. Honey is OK in moderation. Green foods, nuts and legumes. Chicken soups, black peppers and raw fruits in moderation due to sugar.

7 Foods that fights infections naturally 

Honey. Honey is one of the first natural anti-microbial medicines to be used.

Garlic. Garlic is a powerful anti-bacterial that can fight yeast infections, fungus and candida overgrowth. ...

Turmeric. 

Coconut Oil. 

Lemon. 

Pineapple

Ginger.

Onions.

Grapefruit Seed Extract. 

Horseradish.

Vitamin C.

Manuka Honey. 

Cinnamon.

Apple-Cider Vinegar.

8, Top foods that feed disease in our body

If a micro organism enters, our body, it needs food to survive, if you supply its food, it will grow and begin sharing nutrients with you until it takes the upper hand to the point of starving you the host of nutrients leading to death of the person, but if we have this knowldge, the moment you sense an infection is present in your body, you feed it by consuming these foods:

Soda.

Processed foods.

Foods and drinks high in sugar.

Refined carbohydrates.

Alcoholic beverages

Transfats and animal proteins like milk

9. Simple Ways to Boost Your Body's Natural Defenses

Here are simple ways and habits to help boost your body's Natural defence and avoid infections. 

Get enough sleep.

Sleep and immunity are closely tied.

Eat more whole plant foods.

Eat more healthy fats. Like cold pressed coconut oil, olive, peanuts, walnuts and avocadoes oil

Eat more fermented foods, like millet pap, iru yoghurt. 

Limit added sugars.

Engage in moderate exercise.

Stay hydrated. Water therapy is our culture 

Manage your stress levels.

Include vitamin C rich foods like lemon and other citrus

Include sufficient daily protein. Protein is the building block

Include foods with antibacterial and antiviral properties daily, such as honey, garlic ginger, cloves and peppers

10. Foods that cause mucus and Foods that reduce mucus 

Mucus is part of our body's defense. The body produce its mucus naturally, however when mucus is too much due to the consumption of certain foods, microbes take advantage of it. Here are some top foods that encourage excessive mucus:

Red meat

Milk

Cheese

Yogurt

Ice Cream

Butter

Eggs

Bread

Pasta

Cereal

Bananas

Cabbage

Potatoes

Corn and corn products

Soy products

Sweet desserts

Candy

Coffee

Tea

Soda

Alcoholic beverages

So what’s left to eat?

Foods That Reduce Mucus

While it may seem like you can’t eat anything because all of the major food groups have already been wiped out, there are actually some foods left that have the ability to reduce your mucus production.

Here are 21 of them:

Salmon

Tuna

Sardines

Flounder

Pumpkin

Pumpkin seeds

Grapefruit

Pineapple

Watercress

Celery

Pickles

Onion

Garlic

Honey or agar

Ginger

Lemon

Cayenne pepper

Chamomile

Olive oil

Broth

Decaf tea

If you or a love

11. How to stay safe during this pandemic.

We know that safety is of the lord but as Law abiding citizens, we must follow and abide by all safety tips in addition to trusting God to keep us.

Here are some safety tips to help stay free from infection during this pandemic.

Firstly, we must note that there are several other viral infections including Sars, but the latest among the virus is Coronavirus, which is said to be founded in 2019, the reason, it is cod named Covid-19. As a general rule, all viral infections have similar symptoms, such as flu, and Coronavirus is one of them with similar symptoms.

Here are some popular tips you should observe:

Wash your hands frequently;

Avoid/reduce touching your eyes, nose or mouth;

Avoid eating raw meat and unnecessary contact with wild animals;

Thoroughly cook meat and eggs;

Avoid close contact with anyone with flu-like symptoms;

If you develop a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, there are remedies and herbs with antiviral properties you can try at home, but if symptoms persist after three days, or one week, better to seek medical attention

Include herbs that reduces mucus like onions, garlic, Tumeric, ginger in your daily diet, excess mucus will feed a viral infection and make the organism more powerful against the host. We already listed the foods that cause excess mucus production 

Take particular precaution while travelling.

Use nose mask in large crowds

Maintain simple hygiene while at home.

12. Common Antiviral foods

Peppermint

This is known to have powerful antiviral qualities and commonly added to teas, extracts, and tinctures meant to naturally treat viral infections.

Its leaves and essential oils contain active components, including menthol and rosmarinic acid, which have antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity

Basil

Basil has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight several viral infections. A study revealed that basil contains compounds like apigenin and ursolic acid, which is effective on herpes, hepatitis B and enterovirus. 

The main compound of fennel seeds is trans-anethole, which is found to be quiet effective against herpes viruses. The small seeds also boost your immunity and decrease inflammation in the body.

Garlic

Garlic is a superfood and is used for preparing medicines for various health conditions. Studies suggest that garlic can be effective against influenza A and B, HIV, HSV-1, viral pneumonia, and rhinovirus.

Other antiviral foods include:

Cloves

Oregano

Thyme

Ginger

Echaneca

Rosemary

Dandelion 

Lemon balm

Ginseng

Sage

Cumin

Cold pressed coconut

and many other common and uncommon foods.

13. Healthy Body All the way

This is a shot piece on a few of my secrets and how I have remained healthy since 2012,till date without any dose of antibiotics despite that I could not stay one or two months without taking typhoid or malaria drugs. To God be the Glory, all that is history now. Here are some of my daily living habits to beat infections.

1. Water therapy

Water therapy is our culture and for over ten yrs, have been observing it with my entire family. A simple secret to healing and restoring healthy body

2. Regular consumption of raw garlic and honey on empty stomach, it is one of my strongest natural antibiotics against many ailments, including viral infections.

3. Occasional bitters like bitterleaf, bitter cola, coffee, cocoa, pawpaw leafs tea and all bitter foods are part of my regular foods to control sugar, high blood sugar is a feeder of disease

4. More liquids especially in the morning. Teas like cocoa, ginger and tumeric, Cinnamon and blackseeds. Honey is an everyday addition to any chosen tea each morning. These are all anti inflammatory. Occasionally, oats and millet are part of the breakfast with nuts.

5 Manage Stress

Stress affects almost everyone, women, old and young. For me, I have seen the extreme side of stress. Comes with insomnia that persist for several days with not even one hour of sleep. Now I try to avoid/reduce foods that makes my stress level high, like sugar, bread, starchy foods and go for bananas, with cashews, cucumbers helps fight inflammations that comes with extreme stress. So I include it in moderation. If stress is not managed properly, it is the worst enemy of our immune which opens door for infections. So I am mindful of this.

6. Include Green veggies especially

 seasonal veggies like waterleaf, okro, etc in my daily diet especially evening meals, they are healing foods. I try to include antibacterial spices in my daily meal. It helps fight infections, and reduce yeast activity.

7. Fresh Foods daily

This will shock you, but it's true fans, My family members only can testify to this. It is stressfull and appears a bit expensive, but one way to avoid infections and stay healthy all year round is that only me🙄 cooks my meals and that of my family till date, zTrh reduce cooking plenty soups and stocking in fridge as much as possible. Some even cook beans too. it is not surprising we do not visit hospital for several years now. It is our secret. Our ancestors practiced it and lived to ripe old age. It's all to the praise of the Almighty God.

8, Include Raw Foods

Each time we eat cooked foods more digestive enzymes are released to digest these food. One of the hardest job our body does, is digestion. If only we can supply ready foods in liquid raw form. Our immune will be stronger. So I ensure to include at least two raw foods daily. it could be citrus, cucumber, limes, garden egg, avocadoes, coconuts, etc. These are ready foods and fully utilized when consumed and helps preserve these enzymes too. So it's one of my secret. I also try not to overdo it because of thyroid health. Too much raw foods affects thyroid and can lead to goitre.

9. Moderate exercise

Though my work of writing, blogging requires sitting, I am always mindful of this and therefore try standing up and moving or doing something else intermittently. It is one secret to my wellness all the way.

10. Fermented foods

Absence of fermented foods in our regular diet is the reason typhoid goes and keeps coming back with its cousin malaria🙄. I try to include iru, daily, take fermented millet occasionally like twice or once in a week. Sometimes it could be up to three times especially when constipation comes.

11 Daily Protein

I love bread😜 yes you heard me, it is acidic and inflammatory. But I find a way to add my own fortification. Though my bread is usually fortified bread, but bs, blackseed and honey, boiled egg, but I take just a bit or slice these days because of my blood sugar, Cinnamon and honey and other yeast fighting foods usually accompany my bread during breakfast. Even if you give me any other food in the morning. I will still ask for hot water and tea in the morning, who else does this?  To be continued

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11 SECRETS OF PEOPLE WHO NEVER GET SICK

It’s tempting to dismiss it as luck: Some people might catch a slight cold or suffer an occasional ache or pain now and then, but they never seem to suffer from flus, fevers and illnesses that send the rest of us diving under the covers for days or going for admission.

Despite centuries of scientific advances, doctors still can’t tell us definitively how to stay well. So why not look for healthy living solutions from the people for whom the common cold is, well, uncommon?
Here, 10 surprising habits of those people who never get sick—and how you can adapt them to your own soon-to be healthier life.

1. THEY STRESS LESS. Researchers at Duke University found that stress damages the immune system and the heart. Other studies suggest that it increases your chances of contracting bacterial infections, such as tuberculosis. There’s also evidence that learning relaxation techniques early on is crucial: A 2009 Stress in America Survey by Harris Interactive on behalf of the American Psychological Association found that stress is a top health concern for kids between ninth and 12th grades, and suggested that stress could do serious long-term damage if those children don’t learn to manage it. Of course, exercise is one of the best ways to chill out. A University of Southern California study found that when participants took a vigorous walk around a track, they reduced tension in their bodies by 20 percent. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is also crucial, as is laughing: It releases endorphins in the body that act as natural stress busters. Plus, a good guffaw gives your heart muscle a workout.

2. THEY INCLUDE ENOUGH DAILY VITAMIN B FOODS IN THEIR DIET. Such as Brewers yeast, and millet. Without enough of these vitamins, the body isn’t able to metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins; the Bs are also essential for healthy hair, skin, nerves, blood cells, hormone-producing glands and a thriving immune system. B vitamins help manufacture antibodies and white blood cells that make up the immune response. And in times of stress, the Bs can be depleted, which compromises your immunity. Sprinkle a tablespoon of brewer’s yeast over popcorn or cereal, mix it into soups or sauces (the taste goes especially well with split pea soup or any dish made with tomato sauce) or bake into quick breads and cookies.

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Reasons to Always have Dark Palm Kernel oil at Home

Introduction.

Palm kernel oil is one oil to have at home always. Though it  may not look attractive but it can save a life threatening situations like convulsions, stroke and other complications arising from other factors or inflammations.

Here are some Reasons why you Should have this oil always at home

Palm kernel oil is rich in antioxidants. Many people have
discovered that the active substance may have the ability
to reverse blockage of the carotid artery and platelet
aggregation thereby reducing the risk of life treating
diseases.

Palm kernel oil which is extracted from palm fruit and have a strong black color with a strong taste. It is mostly used in the eastern region of Nigeria. Palm kernel oil have a lot of benefits and can be used for different purposes.
It is used to manage convulsion in children and can be used to reduce the effect of epilepsy attack .

For Constipation: 

Palm kernel oil is also used to soften the anus of a person who find it difficult in toileting. i.e experiencing pain during passing out stool. I have personally found it beneficial in this regard. Just a little on the fontanel releases the stool for me.
Black oil is used in children during delivery. It is traditionally believed to help avoid body odour when they grow up and make the skin of the baby
shinning.

For Cough: 

Palm kernel oil is used to soften the throat during the
first stage of cough.
It can also help manage stroke and retard tumor progression.
Arteriosclerosis and other heart disease problems. This is thus one of the health benefits of palm kernel oil as it is rich in unsaturated fatty acid. Tocotrienols present in palm oil may also inhibit certain
types of cancer.

For Cholestérol Réduction: 

Palm kernel oil increases ‘good’
cholesterol as compared to other saturated oils such as red palm oil. Thus the health benefits of palm kernel oil also include promoting health of people with cardiovascular issue.  Even when massaged on hands and feet, it still brings reduction and relief to cholesterol.  I personally noticed that if a wound or certain infection such as athletes foot  is taking to long to heal, sometimes, it may be due to much bad cholesterol which may reduce blood circulation to the area and using black kernel oil is beneficial also in such cases.

For Massage during recovery from stroke

Always use it cautiously or mixed with Afrian Shea Butter for massage in case of stroke and other inflammations,  You can rub it around your belly button to relieve you of constipation and several other benefits

For Nerve Pain,

 You can also mix it with shea butter for massage around the affected area.

For Feet, Hands and Joint Massage 

If I suspect poor blood circulation or general sluggishness around me, I put few drops in my hands and massage both hands and feet and can Feel the heat as a result of the lauric acid content in the oil as it travels around the entire body, lowering cholesterol and getting things working again generally.

In Summary:

There are times when you feel you don't need the oil even around you like during diarrhoea, if you use or rub the oil, it may get worse because of the way it works.  So use it only when needed and you realise its an oil to always have at home, best during emergency and confusing situation 🤔.   It works.

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12 Health Benefits of Fresh Tomatoes

Introduction:  

You A low calorie seasonal fruit that older adults can enjoy freely but moderately because of its numerous health benefits.

An interesting aspect of tomato history is the classic debate: Is the Tomato a Fruit or Vegetable? . By definition, a fruit is the edible plant structure of a mature ovary of a flowering plant, usually eaten raw; some are sweet like apples, but the ones that are not sweet such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, etc. are commonly called vegetables. 

Botanists claim that a fruit is any fleshy material that covers a seed or seeds where as a horticulturists point of view would pose that the tomato is a vegetable plant. Until the late 1800’s the tomato was classified as a fruit to avoid taxation, but this was changed after a Supreme Court ruling that the tomato is a vegetable and should be taxed accordingly.
When it is all said and done, the history of the tomato has classified as a poisonous beautiful plant, a tax-avoiding fruit, and a taxable vegetable. Nonetheless, the tomato is one of the most popular vegetable in Nigeria  and enjoyed by millions all over the world.

Here are 12 reasons to include fresh tomatoes in your list:

1. Tomatoes are good for your skin. Tomatoes contain a high level of lycopene, which is a
substance that is used in some of the more pricy facial cleansers that are available for purchase over-the-counter.

2. Tomatoes help prevent several types of cancer. A number of studies have been conducted that indicate that the high levels of lycopene in tomatoes works to reduce your chances of developing prostate, colorectal and stomach
cancers.
Lycopene is a natural antioxidant that works effectively to slow the growth of cancerous cells. Cooked tomatoes produce even more lycopene,

3. Tomatoes help maintain strong bones. Tomatoes contain a considerable amount of calcium and
Vitamin K. Both of these nutrients are essential in strengthening and performing minor repairs on the bones as well as the bone tissue. 

4. Tomatoes help repair damage caused by smoking. However, tomatoes can reduce the amount of
damaged done to your body by smoking cigarettes especially the lungs.
Tomatoes contain coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid that work to protect the body from carcinogens that are produced from cigarette smoke.

5. Tomatoes provide essential antioxidants. Tomatoes contain a great deal of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. This is primarily because these vitamins and beta-carotene work as antioxidants helps  to neutralize harmful free radicals in the blood. Free radicals in the blood stream are dangerous because it may lead to cell damage.
It is important to note, the redder the tomato you eat, the more beta-carotene it contains. In addition, you also want to keep in mind that cooking destroys the Vitamin C, so for vitamin C benefits, the tomatoes are either taken raw or lightly stewed.


6. Tomatoes are good for your heart. Because of the Vitamin B and potassium in tomatoes, they are
effective in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. Therefore, by including tomatoes in your regular
balanced diet you can effectively prevent heart attacks, strokes as well as many other heart related problems that may threaten your life.

7. Tomatoes are good for your hair. The Vitamin A in tomatoes works perfectly to keep your hair
shiny and strong. In addition, it also does wonders for your
eyes, skin, bones and teeth. 

8. Tomatoes are good for your kidneys. Adding tomatoes without seeds to your diet has been proven
in some studies to reduce the risk of kidney stones. 

9. Tomatoes are good for your eyes. The Vitamin A found in tomatoes is fantastic for improving
your vision. In addition, eating tomatoes is one of the best
foods to eat to prevent the development of night blindness. 

10. Tomatoes are good for diabetics. Tomatoes are packed full of the valuable mineral known as chromium. It works effectively to help diabetics keep their
blood sugar levels under better control.

11. Lung Friendly: Research Shows Tomatoes and Tomatoe-Based Foods May Lower Risk of Lung Damage Caused by Environmental pollution.

12: Low Calorie – Fresh tomatoes is among calorie foods for individual on a cholesterol lowering diet.

NOTE:
A unique point about tomatoes worthy of note is that cooking does not destroy the lycopene content and strength of tomatoes, but rather strengthens it. Tomatoes could be eaten as a raw vegetable or cooked.
As for processed tomatoes, the problem is always with the can. ie container and other chemicals added to preserve it. I therefore suggested that health concious people stay away from canned tomatoes,as for me I have since removed it from my list, and the result is undeniable.  Moderation remains our rule.  I have noticed thar consuming too much tomatoes 🍅 affects my sleep and it is not best at night, it is more of a brain food.

Photo credit: ogbete Market

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Ten Health Benefits of Red Palm Oil

Introduction 

oil is one of the most common oils in our Nigerian market and other African countries.  It is affordable too.  Today, health conscious persons talk of olive oils, coconut oil, and other essential oils.  Years back, we knew no other oil but red palm oil.  If you had an injury, the oil was heated and used on the injury until it is healed, and really, it never disappoints.  If you took poisonous substance, our only hope was to drink red palm oil, if you  took an overdose of drug or whatever, red oil will help out. Children rarely suffered anaemia, skin rashes, You rarely see the elderly folks with eye glasses as common today.  Weakness, insomnia and many other ailments that plague us today were rare. 

We did all that rightly in ignorance, but today, scientific research on red palm oil is proving that red palm oil was one secret, one strong pillar behind our wellness far back then. 

 Here are  9 more scientific proofs that red palm oil is among the healthiest oil today.

1. Longer shelf life of our Food

Red palm oil is rich in natural phytonutrients that are important for health. These phytonutrients (ie : tocotrienols and carotenes) are also powerful antioxidants that help maintain the stability of the oil during cooking process and may extend the shelf life of food prepared with red palm oil.

2.  Benefits Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension is one of the major risk factors of cardiovascular diseases and strokes. In a human clinical trial, patients supplemented with palm tocotrienol complex for two months resulted in significant reduction in aortic systolic blood pressure.

3.  Reduces Arterial Stiffness

Decreased arterial compliance or increased arterial stiffness is a predictor of cardiovascular events in both normal and diseased human subjects. A randomized controlled clinical trial demonstrated that oral supplementation of Tocomin SupraBio for two months reduced arterial stiffness in healthy adults.

In a prospective, cross-sectional, population-based study involving a randomly selected population sample of 392 men and women aged 45-65 (The BRUNECK study), the relationship between atherosclerosis (carotid and femoral artery) risk and plasma alpha- and beta-carotene level (mixed carotenoids) was evaluated.9 This study provided evidence that atherosclerosis risk was inversely related to plasma alpha- and beta-carotene levels, indicating a protective role of high levels of carotenes against atherogenesis.

4.  Benefits the Skin 

Vitamin E, synthetic or natural, is widely used in the cosmetic/personal care industry. The main reason for the use of vitamin E was for its antioxidant properties in the protection of skin against the onslaught of free radicals or oxidative stress caused by chemical insult and UV rays in our daily atmosphere. Most of the vitamin E used in cosmetic is mainly of the tocopherol form (synthetic and natural forms).

Fueled by the many recent scientific publications on the benefits of tocotrienols in cosmetic application and women's health, the use of tocotrienols has been gaining tremendous attention in the oral and topical cosmetic and personal care industry. Exciting science and research are being conducted on tocotrienol for its superior protection of skin and skin aging compared to tocopherol as well as the skins first line of defense against free radicals.

The research on tocotrienols in the protection of skin has been fairly new, i.e., less than 15 years. More research is currently being conducted either by companies or universities to understand and evaluate the efficacy of tocotrienols in skin protection and skin nourishment. Scientists believe tocotrienols play a major and important role in the protection of the skin, especially in the prevention of oxidative stress and skin anti-aging and wound-healing.

5.  Supports Liver Health

A recent human clinical study completed at The Ohio State Universtiy Medical Center also reported that end-stage liver patients (those waiting for liver transplantation) supplemented with Tocomin SupraBio resulted in statistically significant protective effects. Another group of researcher in Malaysia also reported that taking 200 mg of Tocomin SupraBio twice a day was significantly effective in addressing fatty liver. This study was presented at the Liver Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (ASSLD) in Boston in 2010.

 6. Rich Source of Vitamin A

Research has shown consumption of red palm oil significantly enhanced vitamin A levels in humans, and it is beneficial in preventing vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A deficiency may lead to blindness, skin disease and weakened immune function.

The human body is able to convert provitamin-A carotenoids (alpha- and beta-carotene) when there is a deficiency, hence it is safer to supplement with carotenes than consuming vitamin A (retinoids) directly. Excessive consumption of retinoids may lead to toxicity with symptoms ranging from mild, such as headache, nausea and dry, itchy skin to severe, such as liver damage.

 7. Natural Food Color

Palm fruit carotenoids are widely used in the fat- and dairy-processing industry to standardize the color of margarine, butter and ghee. They are also widely used as a natural colorant in confectionery and convenience foods; and to replace synthetic colorants in the beverage industry. The trend, especially in Europe, the United States and Japan, is moving toward replacing synthetic with natural colorants.

8.  Potent Antioxidant

Carotenoids are potent antioxidants. Professor Lester Packer of the University California Berkeley showed alpha-carotene is a more potent antioxidant than beta-carotene .

Numerous scientific studies have shown how tocotrienols and carotenoids work in supporting important health conditions, especially in supporting brain and heart health, liver health as well as skin nutrition. However, in all these research, a common and important thread for positive effects has been the naturally-attained full spectrum tocotrienols or carotenoids complex. There have been negative studies for both vitamin E (ie : alpha-tocopherol) and beta-carotene in the past, due to the fact that those studies only used a single form (isomer) of the nutrient. The market is moving towards taking what nature produces as a wholesome complex of ingredients, naturally found in our diet as opposed to a single ingredient formulation. Therefore, it is important to use 

 9. Supports Brain Health

Research shows tocotrienols are beneficial to consumers who want to maintain healthy brain (neuroprotection), blood lipid levels, arterial compliance (by reducing arterial stiffness), liver health, skin nutrition and immune protection. K

The deep orange red color of red palm oil is contributed by natural pigments called carotenoids. There are more than 600 different carotenoids known to exist in nature. Carotenoids have long been used as natural food colorants in food and drinks, as well as cosmetics. Red palm oil is a natural plant source of carotenes in terms of retinol (vitamin A) equivalents, providing 7,000 retinol equivalents (RE) per 100 grams. This is about 17 times as much beta-carotene as carrots, in terms of retinol equivalents. Some carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and alpha-carotene, act as precursor of vitamin A. Lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin are carotenoids that do

10.   Supports Heart Health

Numerous scientific studies have shown how tocotrienols and carotenoids work in supporting important health conditions, especially in supporting brain and heart health, liver health as well as skin nutrition. However, in all these research, a common and important thread for positive effects has been the naturally-attained full spectrum tocotrienols or carotenoids complex. There have been negative studies for both vitamin E (ie : alpha-tocopherol) and beta-carotene in the past, due to the fact that those studies only used a single form (isomer) of the nutrient. The market is moving.

 Bottom line is that red palm oil comes naturally with nutrients that work together for best absorption unlike synthetic vitamin E packaged as a supplement. 

In summary, if you are aiming to loose weight, it is better to reduce your intake of red palm oil as you will add more weight faster with red palm oil.  If you suffer blood pressure already, better take it cautiously too.  Quality red oil is rarely come by.  So many adulteration out there.  Good red palm oil delivers all the health benefits and even more.  Watch your source, rural dwellers are best agents if you can access them.  Some companies are also doing a good job in processing quality red palm oil.

Source: www.naturalproductsinsider.com

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12 SURPRISING HEALTH BENEFITS OF GOING BAREFOOT YOU PROBABLY DID NOT KNOW

Walking barefoot, also known as “earthing” is nolonger a kooky counter-culture, primitive life or poverty. Scientific research has shown that there are a number of remarkable health advantages that go with it.

Earthing means walking barefoot on soil, grass or sand (meaning any natural surface) How and when, wearing of shoes became so fashionable that we tend to wear it wherever we go or is a subject of its own discussions, the fact however remains that we were born with the right shoes.  If you are in doubt, have you ever wondered why mother nature put those hard flesh under your feet.  They are actually meant carry you around.  That is not to say that wearing of shoes is in any way wrong.  The essence is to remind us of the need for moderation.  According, to Livescience.com,  Humans started wearing shoes about 40,000 years ago.

Going barefoot has numerous health benefits,  Here are 12 Proven Health Benefits of going barefoot

1. We need to bond with the earth electron: This is our origin. Early studies are showing that the health benefits come from the relationship between our bodies and the electrons in the earth. The planet has its own natural charge, and we seem to do better when we are in direct contact with it.
2. Improves Sleep and reduces pain: A review published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health looked at a number of studies that highlight how drawing electrons from the earth improves health. In one, chronic pain patients using grounded carbon fiber mattresses slept better and experienced less pain.
3. Reduce Stress and Boost Immunity: Another study found that earthing changed the electrical activity in the brain, as measured by electroencephalograms. Still other research found that grounding benefited skin conductivity, moderate heart rate variability, improved glucose regulation, reduced stress and boosted immunity.
4. Walking barefoot increases the Surface charge of red blood cells: One Study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that walking barefoot increases the surface charge of red blood cells, As a result, the cells avoid clumping, which decreases blood viscosity. High viscosity is a significant factor in heart disease, which is why so many people take blood thinning aspirin each day to improve their heart health.
5. Help regulate both the endocrine and nervous systems. Another study also confirmed this as well.

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Hibiscus Tea (Zobo) Health Benefits

Hibiscus flower tea, popularly called ‘Zobo’ in Nigeria is common among the Hausas i.e in Northern Nigeria. However, due to the nutrition and immense health benefits, it is now known and consumed by the various tribes. Hibiscus flower tea is not only popular in Nigeria. Other countries where hibiscus tea is consumed and popular are: Mexico, Central America, Egypt, The Middle East, Thailand, China and some other African Countries. It appears as a bright red colour and is naturally tart. Apart from its attractive red colour and unique taste. Hibiscus flower tea is among the few teas that are naturally caffeine free.
Its Nutrients includes:
Vitamin C: It is loaded with vitamin C and a variety of organic acids which include, tartaric, citric and maleic acids. It also has the active flavonoids cyaniding and delphindin which give the tea its red colour. Every 100g of Hibiscus contains approximately 49 calories, 0.1g of fat, 12.3g of carbohydrates, 14mg of iron and 1.7mg of calcium. It is also rich in beta carotene, about 300mg per cup.
About 100 grams of Hibiscus fruit contains 49 calories, 12.3 of carbohydrates with 2.3 occurring as dietry fibre 1.9 of protein, l4mg of vitamin C, 300 mg of beta-carotene 57mg of phosphorus 2.9mg of iron and 1.7mg of calcium. Since about 2g of fruit is used per cup of tea, you can expect an 8 oz serving of unsweetened hibiscus tea to contain a negligible amount of calories, less than 1g of carbohydrates approximate) 0.3mg of vitamin C and 6mg of vitamin C and 6mg of beta-carotene.

It is rich in bioflavonoids such as proanthocyanidins, also found in grape seed extract. These lower cholesterol, improve circulation and protect cells from free radical damage.
Health Benefits Includes:

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Health Benefits of Sugarcane

About Sugarcane

Sugarcane belongs to the grass family (Poaceae), It is a most beneficial crop which is found in India in sufficient amount everywhere. It is available at very cheap price for everyone so anyone can be part of its beneficial aspects. It is common in northern Nigeria and mostly hawked by the Hausas of Northern Nigeria in various cities. Sugarcane can be chewed using the teeth or drink its juice which is found by crushing the peeled sugarcane in the machine. Generally its juice with lemon, mint, ginger could make an interesting drink.
Sugar has been repeatedly demonized by some health experts as if it were the monolithic cause of insulin resistance and obesity. There’s always something wrong with generalizations such as this as it is an unfair act to lynch the good with the bad. Not all sugars are evil, the same way that not all saturated fats are bad.
If we were never never meant to eat sweet foods then our tongue should have been devoid of taste receptors for sweetness. Sugar consumption (depending on the type and amount consumed) isn’t the only dietary factor to consider in determining the cause of diseases such as diabetes. A diet high in fat can cause hyperglycemia. In addition to fat, dairy has also been implicated in the development of diabetes.

IT’S THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY THAT MATTER

The real problem is ingesting large amounts of the wrong kind of sugar. The average American consumes a whopping 22 teaspoons of sugar a day in the form of refined sugar. This wouldn’t be a scary amount if regular table sugar can make people slim and smart. Unfortunately it does just the opposite.
The best source of whole sugar will always be fresh fruit. Fruits are rich in water, which dilutes the sugar. They are also high in fiber, which slows down the release of fructose in the bloodstream. Fresh fruit is also loaded with nutrients that are essential to health and healing.

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Surprising Health Benefits of Crying

10 Surprising Health benefits of tearful Cry

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The youth cry

“No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader. No surprise in the writer, no surprise in the reader.”  says – Robert Frost

BRIEF HISTORICAL VIEW – BIBLE PERSPECTIVE

Tearful cry is simply crying that is accompanied with tears.  If you ask me,to state the relationship or difference between crying and tears, I would say they are cousins. While Crying is an expression of emotion, tears is the bodily manifestation of an inward emotional activity.  Crying is as old as the planet.
There are so many mention of tears in the bible and I am sure in other  religions Islam and the rest cannot be left out.  The Shortest verse in the bible is on this subject . John 11:35 “Jesus Wept”
One of the first bible reference for tears is in the book of Genesis when Abraham wept over the death of Sarah.  Hannah wept before the Lord in her barren state.  Esau wept over his father Isaac, asking for a blessing.  King David writes prolifically in the Psalms of his tears before the Lord.
The bible provides accounts of tears of grief (as above, also David weeping over the death of Absalom, others shed  tears of repentance, sin and sorrow.  The city of Nineveh wept for their sins, Peter after the rooster crowed for the third time.  Prophet Jeremiah was called the weeping prophet.
A little away from bible. Crying and tears should not be restrained and suppressed.  It is actually healthful to cry, crying is not a show of weakness, fear or deficiency.  In mine opinion, it is courageous bold step.

OTHER WRITERS
Culturally, some are of the opinion that  crying should be reserved for the feminine gender.   I strongly disagree, because this will robb the men of the numerous health benefits of real emotional crying from the heart.  Not Nollywood,  or movie crying.
Charles Spurgeon  in his  exposition on Psalm 5 vs 2 in the Treasury of David stated that “Crying has a voice, a soul moving eloquence coming from our heart, It reaches God’s heart”

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My Latest Calming Lotion for a Good's Night Sleep

Getting a cream or lotion that helps calm you down after the usual activity during the day can be difficult at times.  We will continue to explore ways and means of staying healthy naturally.  One important factor to maintaining good health is sleep.  If your sleep circle is under attack, wait no longer, your health is definitely under attack, probably unknown to you.  

It is not wise to begin to seek over-the-counter medications to help you relax and sleep because they all come with side effects either now or later.

After going through the health benefits of rose oil, have actually tried it on my face with coconut oil, but did not go well then for reasons unknown.  But after much search for a natural Calming solution to help me relax and wake up not feeling acidic but refreshed,  about five drops  of this essential oil in 45 mls cold pressed coconut has done the job 

Ingredients:

A bottle of good quality rose essential oil
A 90ml bottle of cold pressed coconut oil

Share your coconut oil into two bottles to confirm it on your self first.  Add about five drops of the rose oil as you can see in the photo.

After bathing and drying up with towel
Use this oil.  Works best towards bed time.  Massage all over your body and go to bed.   You can also use it any time of the day.

Benefits of this Lotion

You will feel cool and calm
No sign of depression
No pains and inflammations
No itching  (Me thinking the aroma of rose protects too)
No keeping awake, so long you ate well during the day and had moderate exercise, even if you could not move around. It improves blood circulation which supplements the exercise.

If you suffer pains, tooth ache, depression.  Then you may try this oil.  It has put an end temporarily to my search for an antiwrinkle, Calming and  anti aging, non toxic body lotion that helps my body heal while I sleep.

Summary

It is worth trying so you can share your own experience.  Better do it yourself, because. we are already exposed to too many toxins in the environment.  It will definitely contribute to reducing toxic load in your body,  whatever touches your skin finds its way eventually to your bloodstream.  Prevention is better than cure.  It is no longer news that toxic overload is responsible for many degenerating diseases ailing us today.
 

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Nine Essential Oils For Pain Relief

When pain strikes whether it is headache, backache, arthritis, rheumatism or whichever, the first thought to our mind is usually over the counter drugs, though they may provide  some relief, but if used consistently overtime, their effectiveness begins to decline and of course, they do leave us with side effects later in life. 

One way to continue to enjoy their effectiveness is to reduce the frequency of their usage and good enough, nature gave us even better alternatives in the form of essential oils, used also in aromatherapy.

Essential oils not only reduce pains, but also have other health benefits with virtually no side effect if used moderately and in adequate proportions.  The analgesics, sedative and anti inflammatory properties in essential oils are very useful for alleviating pains and other inflammatory symptoms.

Here are 9 Essential Oils that alleviates Pains:

1.  Peppermint Oil

This essential oil has antispasmodic compounds which helps relieve stomach pains and painful spasm.  Applying it diluted on area of pains helps in relaxing the muscle in the lower back pain, due to fibromyalgia, relieves headache, stomach and other body stress.

2.  Ginger Oil

This oil is good for autoimmune conditions, including rheumatism arthritis, multiple selerosis and lupus, reduces headache and stomachache.

3.  Rosemary Oil

This essential oil alleviates Pains like headaches and migraines.  Topical application reduces muscle spasm and joint pains, rheumatism and other pains.

4.  Eucalyptus Oil

This possesses a warming and soothing effect, calming affected areas such as sore muscles, joint pains, throat and chest congestions.  Good for inflammatory conditions.  Best diluted in coconut oil or other carrier oils but for insect bites you can use the undiluted pure oil for better effect.

5.  Chamomile Oil

This is effective for abdominal pains, back pains and PMS in women.  The deep blue German chamomile appears more effective than the Roman version.  Both are however great in treating headaches, muscle pains and neuralgia.

Chamomile has a carminative and sedative effect that helps to relieve bloating, gas formation and pains associated with  the abdomen.  You can inhale it from the bottle, rub on your palms, apply or put a drop or two in a warm water and drink to get result.

6. Lavenda Oil

This is one of the best natural oil for nerve pain, migraines,  and headaches.  Produces a mild sedative effect that is beneficial for tension and stress which causes headache and migraines.

Contains both anti inflammatory and analgesics properties.  Exceptionally useful in reducing pains.  Unlike some essential oils, does not cause irritation and adaptable  for beginners.

7.  Marjoram Oil

Used for treating headaches and flu.  Good for muscle spasm.  Dilute in olive oil or coconut oil to relieve pains from muscles.   Toothaches and gum sufferers will benefit from this oil.  Good for diarrhea pain.  About 2 drops in warm water may offer relief.  Possesses mild sedative effect needed for pain relief.

8.  Clove Oil

This oil is good for instantaneous relief of toothaches and gums .  Good for sore throat too.  You can reduce pain at the joint by massaging the affected area with clove oil diluted in jojoba oil or coconut oil.  Clove can calm down pain from insect bites by rubbing the venom area with the oil.

9.  Cayenne Oil

Good for reducing pains from shingles.  Contains anti inflammatory and analgesic properties.  Helps with  general pains management.  Hot and spicy.  Should be diluted in a carrier oil for external application.

Mix 1 or 2 drops of Cayenne Oil in carrier oils like coconut or olive oils and massage inflamed joints to reduce pains.  Also relieves pains from arthritis, rheumatism and neuralgia.

Essential oils are highly concentrated and are best diluted with carrier oils.  It is better to get a guide or do some study before using essential oils.  Applying some directly may cause irritation and other skin issues.  However if used properly, they provide positive effect to most diseases that ail us today including high blood pressure.

Ref: www.authorityhealthmag.com

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Take this Mixture before bed to reduce blood pressure and fat

If you have been struggling to reduce your body weight, it is a good thing to work to  stay on the healthy side of your  weight because excess body weight most times comes with other health risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and a host of others.

This is my latest secret in maintaining my body weight and at the same time warding off many other ailments that knocks as we age.

The secret is in just two mix.  Long over looked before now.  Cinnamon and honey mix is a wonder combo that wards off many ailments including malaria, tooth ache, heart problems, cold, pains, weakness, diabetes, insomnia, excess body weight, high blood pressure,  yeast infection, you just name it.

It is important however to state that all cinnamons are not the same, one is toxic more than the other.  One is lighted while the other is deeper brown.  I prefer the lighter one,. Supposing, it is the Ceylon brand, the other brand is the acacia cinnamon.

Some food regulatory bodies  advises that cassia cinnamon contains high levels of coumarin and should not, therefore, be eaten.

Cassia Cinnamon is a lot cheaper than the real or Ceylon variety. Most cinnamon sold in the supermarket is the Chinese or Cassia variety.

Ceylon Cinnamon

This is also called real, sweet or good cinnamon. It is produced in Sri Lanka from the plant called Cinnamomum Zeylanicum.

It is light brown in color and thin and soft in appearance. The sticks are filled like a cigar with several folded layers. The amount of coumarin content is only 0.0004% against 5 % found in Cinnamomum Cassia.  Some times it is better to use the stick as it is easier to differentiate it.  Looking at the differences in the photo.

Ingredients:

1.  Half bottle of organic honey
2.  Two small bottle cinnamon powder

( I prefer the bright coloured Cinnamon.  Mix together in a bowl with the honey.  Keep mixing until you get a smooth paste.   Then store in any highly closed container of your choice and lick half teaspoon before bed each night and you we will experience the following after about two weeks:

A gradual drop in weight
Increased energy level
Better insulin response to blood sugar
Better sleep at night
Improved blood pressure
Better resistance to cold and infections
Reduce inflammations and several other benefits

You can also use cinnamon powder as a spice to bring out the natural taste of your meals without the processed and salted taste enhancers found in supermarkets.  The benefits of organic honey to health is long documented in history.

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15 Foods That Benefits The Heart

No other organ of the body is as wonderful as the heart. It begins beating before birth and continues without interruption for ” three score years and ten and even longer in many cases. It cannot rest for longer than a fraction of a second at any one time, for if it were to rest for an unbroken period of even three minutes the individual concerned would lose his or her mental powers; a little and the person would die.
Cardiovascular diseases are becoming an increasing health concern these days due to various reasonslike unhealthy eating habits, work and personal life related-stress, sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercises. Heart problems also get coupled with high cholesterol levels and blood pressure too. Only exercising isn’t sufficient to maintain a healthy heart. One needs to eat the right foods.  Here’s a list of some of the  foods that are good for your heart:
1. leafy vegetables:
Green leafy vegetable like spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, fenugreek, radish leaves, lettuce, etc. are healthy and are known to reduce the risk of heart diseases and cancer as well. That’s because they are extremely low in fat, calories and high in dietary fibre. They also contain folic acid, magnesium, calcium, potassium, etc. These minerals are beneficial for the optimum functioning of the heart. Studies have shown that one daily serving of green leafy vegetables can lower the risk of heart diseases by 11 per cent.Click here to read: Here is the transcript of the chat with a heart specialist
2. Oat:
Oats are one the most healthiest options available for breakfast. Not only do they make you feel full and energetic, they are great for your heart too. Oats contain beta glucan, which is a soluble fibre that helps bring down cholesterol levels especially LDL (bad cholesterol) in the body. Have oatmeal for breakfast or have oatmeal bread or cookies to absorb their benefits.
3. Whole grains:
Whole grains whether its wheat, barley, millet, pulses and even beans for that matter are good for the heart because they provide natural fibre and vitamins. They contains vitamin E, iron, magnesium and a host of anti-oxidants. Regular consumption of whole grains reduces blood pressure too.
4. Soy protein:
Soy is essentially soyabean curd. They are also available in the form of soya chunks and soya powder easily in the market today. Soy is an excellent healthy substitute for red meats which are high in fat, increase the bad cholesterol and saturated fats which are very bad for the heart. You may also like: Best and worst foods for diabetes
5 Olive Oil
Olive oil is one of the most healthiest oils available, whose consumption is actually good for the heart. Having olive oil as a regular part of your diet, helps in lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) in the body. Also, olive oil contains monounsaturated fats that are good for the heart and are packed with anti-oxidants. Extra virgin olive oil contains polyphenols and gives even greater health benefits. Drizzle some olive oil in your salad as a dressing instead of that unhealthy mayonnaise and high-calories dressings, or better still substitute it for your normal cooking oil and see the difference. Organic peanut oil Is also rich in vitamin E and holds similar profile with olive oil.
6. Tomatoes:
Tomatoes is a good source of vitamins and acts as a blood purifier. Regular consumption of tomatoes is known to reduce the risk of heart diseases. Vitamin K present in tomatoes helps to prevent occurrences of hemorrhages. Eat tomatoes in the raw form in salads or sandwiches, cooked form in gravies or simply good old ketchup.
7. Apples:
An apple a day, will surely keep the doctor away because they contain guercetin, a photochemical containing ant-inflammatory properties. It also helps in prevention of blood clots. Eat apples for breakfast with your cereal or eat them as a snack when you’re hungry instead to pigging out on deep-fried chips.
8. Almonds:
Almonds when eaten in moderation is known to lower cholesterol levels in the body and heart diseases. They also contain vitamin B17, E and minerals like magnesium, iron, zinc and are a good source of monounsaturated fats.
9. Red wine:
Red wine when drunk in moderation can be very good for the heart because they contain a powerful antioxidant called resversterol. Also, red wine contains flavonoids. Have red wine in moderation instead of guzzling other hard alcohol drinks that are high in sugars.
10. Orange
Another source of pectin, this citrus fruit is also packed with a flavonoid that lowers blood pressure and reduces artery inflammation. Citrus also contains hesperidin, a plant chemical that improves blood flow to the heart, and vitamin C, a potent protector against stroke.
11.Grapefruit
Like oranges, grapefruit contains a lot of vitamin C which, according to research, can help protect against stroke and helps reduce cholesterol.
12. Avocado
This fruit is loaded with monounsaturated fats, also known as “good fats” that can help minimize blood cholesterol and blood clots. But they are also high in calories (240 per average-sized avocado), so go easy.
13. Avocado oil
Pressed from the fruit, avocado oil has been touted as a more heart-healthy cooking oil because of its ability to modify fatty acids in tissues around the heart. A 2005 National Institute of Cardiology study showed the oil could decrease hardening of the arteries, which often leads to heart disease.
14. Sardines
These spiny little creatures are also loaded with omega-3s in the form of fish oil, which increase “good” cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of sudden heart attacks in people who have experienced previous attacks, according to the Mayo Clinic. Stick to fresh ones to avoid the canned variety’s high salt content.
In most cases you cannot get it fresh, the canned ones are still okay but you must pour out the oil uses in preserving It.
15 Walnuts
This nut is chock-full of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, Vitamin E, and folate, all of which promote healthy hearts. It’s also high in polyunsaturated fats. Eat them unsalted, of course. (Walnuts are also one of the healthiest foods for diabetics.

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