We all know staying hydrated is important for our overall health, flushing toxins, keeping our skin glowing, and aiding digestion. But the drinks and beverages we quench our thirst with can make a big difference.

Some beverages might seem refreshing and healthy, but they can pack a hidden punch of sugar, artificial ingredients, or unhealthy fats that can wreak havoc on our bodies.

Let’s dive into some of the drinks to avoid, so you can make informed choices and keep your body running at its best!

Sugary drinks might be advertised as a quick energy boost, but truthfully, they can do more harm than good. Sure, they provide some glucose, which is the body’s fuel source, but the amount of sugar they pack can be overwhelming.

Consuming too much sugar over time is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes later in life. So, to keep your body healthy and avoid potential health problems, it’s best to limit sugary drinks and opt for healthier alternatives.

While some drinks might boast vibrant colours that seem refreshing, be cautious of beverages with shades that appear overly artificial or don’t seem to match natural ingredients. These bright hues often come from added colours or dyes. While these dyes might seem like a harmless way to enhance a drink’s appearance, they often contain chemicals.

Consuming large amounts of these chemicals over time has been linked to potential health risks, including damage to the body’s organs. So, to make informed choices and prioritise your health, it’s best to steer clear of drinks with unnaturally coloured hues.

Instead, opt for beverages that get their colour naturally from fruits, vegetables, or spices. These not only look appealing but are also likely to be packed with beneficial nutrients.

Carbonated drinks are full of bubbles, or carbon dioxide gas. When you drink them, some of that gas gets trapped in your stomach. This gas can cause bloating, burping, and feeling generally uncomfortable.

Your body naturally produces some gas during digestion, but fizzy drinks add a whole lot more. This extra gas can build up in your stomach and intestines, leading to discomfort.

The carbon dioxide gas in fizzy drinks creates pressure inside your stomach. This pressure can cause you to feel bloated and full, even if you haven’t eaten much.

While you might enjoy an occasional drink, it’s important to be mindful of how much alcohol you consume. While small amounts of alcohol likely won’t cause immediate harm, consistently exceeding recommended limits can take a toll on your liver over time.

The liver is a hardworking organ responsible for filtering toxins and waste products from your blood. When you drink too much alcohol, it puts extra strain on your liver, similar to how overloading a car engine with fuel can lead to performance issues and breakdowns.

By being mindful of your alcohol consumption and staying within recommended guidelines, you can help keep your liver healthy and functioning optimally for years to come. Remember, moderation is key.

Love that refreshing taste of Zobo? You’re not alone! This Nigerian favourite, also known as Sorrel tea or Zoborodo in Hausa, is a delicious and affordable drink. But beyond its taste, does Zobo drink offer any health benefits? Let’s explore what this drink can do for you!

Made from dried Hibiscus sabdariffa leaves (also called Roselle), Zobo is a “sour tea” that packs a surprising punch. We’ll dive into the health benefits (and any potential downsides) of this popular Nigerian beverage soon.

Zobo is a popular drink in Nigeria for a couple of reasons. First, it’s readily available because it’s made from hibiscus leaves. But more importantly, zobo is packed with essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, iron, and vitamin C. This makes it a healthy and refreshing drink.

Another reason why zobo is popular, especially during Ramadan, is because it’s low in calories. Muslims often prefer low-calorie beverages during this holy month.

Finally, zobo is also easy to make at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2–5 cups of dried hibiscus leaves
• 2 tablespoons of ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger
• ½ cup of honey
• Water
• Pineapple (optional)
• Slices of fruits like orange, lemon, lime, or watermelon (optional)
• Ice cubes

• First, wash the dried hibiscus leaves with clean water to remove any dust or debris.
• Next, add enough water to a pot. There’s no exact amount mentioned, but you want enough to cover the leaves comfortably.
• Put the pot on the stove over medium heat and bring the water to a boil. This will cook the hibiscus leaves and release their flavour.
• Once it boils, take the pot off the heat and let the mixture cool down completely. You can speed this up by placing the pot in a cold water bath.
• Once it’s cool, it’s time to strain the mixture. Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the leaves and any small particles, leaving behind just the flavorful zobo juice.
• Now it’s time to add some flavour. Add honey to the strained juice. Honey is a great option, especially if you’re looking to cut back on sugar. You can also add slices of orange, lemon, some grated ginger for a kick, and a sprinkle of cinnamon powder for extra warmth. Give it all a good stir to combine the flavours.
• Put the pot back on the stove over medium heat again and bring the mixture back to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes. This will allow all the flavours to meld together.
• Finally, take the pot off the heat and let the mixture cool down completely again.
• Once cool, your zobo is ready to enjoy! Add some ice cubes to a glass and pour in the delicious zobo drink.

1. Supports heart health

Heart disease is a major health concern in Nigeria. The good news is that zobo, being a low-calorie drink, can help protect your heart.

It packs a punch of special plant chemicals called flavonoids. These flavonoids act like tiny warriors, fighting inflammation and lowering blood pressure, both of which can contribute to heart problems.

On top of that, zobo is rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps keep your cells healthy and functioning properly.

2. May aid in weight management

Zobo contains more than just delicious flavour. It also boasts other plant chemicals like anthocyanins and phenolics. These may help prevent fat buildup in your body and even boost your weight loss efforts.

Additionally, zobo contains hibiscus acid, an organic acid that can help lower blood sugar levels. This can be particularly beneficial for people managing type 2 diabetes.

3. Boosts hydration

Zobo isn’t just a tasty beverage, it’s also a hydration powerhouse. It has a good amount of water, along with carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamin C.

This unique combination makes zobo a perfect drink to stay refreshed, especially during hot weather or fasting periods when staying hydrated is crucial.

4. Potential benefits for women’s health (especially menstrual regulation)

Zobo can interact with oestrogen, a hormone that plays a key role in women’s reproductive health.

For women struggling with irregular periods, zobo may be helpful. It may influence estrogen levels to encourage a more regular menstrual flow. This effect is sometimes referred to as emmenagogue.

Zobo and your health: Frequently Asked Questions

Can people with kidney problems drink Zobo?

Zobo may actually help kidney function by assisting in the removal of waste products like citrate, tartrate, sodium, uric acid, and phosphate through urine.

However, it’s important to talk to your doctor first. They can advise you on whether Zobo is safe for your specific situation and kidneys.

Is it okay to drink Zobo every day?

While Zobo offers many benefits, healthcare professionals recommend against consuming excessive amounts. It’s always best to enjoy Zobo in moderation.

Can breastfeeding mothers drink Zobo?

There haven’t been many studies on the effects of Zobo on pregnant or breastfeeding women. Some animal studies suggest potential downsides. Because of this lack of clear information, breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before drinking zobo.

Does Zobo help with ovulation or fertility?

Zobo may help regulate irregular periods (oligomenorrhea). However, according to Public Health Nigeria, there’s no scientific evidence that zobo directly boosts fertility or ovulation in women. On the other hand, some studies suggest zobo may have negative effects on male fertility.

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Bitter leaf juice goes beyond bitterness. It is a common ingredient in African cooking, but did you know it also has potential health benefits? This leafy green, called Vernonia amygdalina by scientists, is packed with nutrients like protein, fibre, minerals, and vitamins.

The plant is easy to find and grows readily in many parts of Nigeria. However, the name says it all: the bitter leaf is known for its intense bitterness. Many people avoid it for this reason, especially when it comes to drinking the juice.

While it may not be the tastiest experience, proponents believe that bitter leaf juice offers significant health advantages. Let’s explore some of the reasons why you might consider incorporating the juice into your routine.

Making bitter leaf juice in 10 minutes

Here’s a quick and easy way to make the juice at home:

Ingredients:

• Fresh bitter leaves
• A glass of water (adjust the amount based on how much juice you want)
• Ice cubes (optional, for a chilled drink)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Leaves: Wash the fresh, bitter leaves thoroughly. Cut them into smaller pieces for easier juicing.
2. Extract the Juice: Squeeze the bitter leaves firmly to extract the juice. You can use your hands or a mortar and pestle for this step. Aim to get a “reasonable amount” of juice, depending on your preference.
3. Mix and Strain: Pour the extracted juice into a glass and mix it with water. The amount of water will determine the strength of your juice. Remove the squeezed leaves from the liquid.
4. Final Touches: Strain the remaining liquid to remove any bits of leaf.
5. Serve: Enjoy your bitter leaf juice right away! If you prefer it cold, add a few ice cubes.

Tips:

• Wear gloves while handling bitter leaves to avoid irritation on your skin.
• Start with a small amount of bitter leaf juice and gradually increase it as you get used to the taste.
• You can adjust the water ratio to personalise the bitterness level of your juice.

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