HEALTHY LIVING

4 Benefits Of Cocoa Powder

Published

6 years ago

August 19, 2018

FAB.NG

Cocoa powder is made by crushing cocoa beans and removing the fat or cocoa butter. Today, cocoa is most famous for its role in chocolate production.

However, modern research has revealed that it does indeed contain important compounds that can benefit your health.

Here are 7 health and nutrition benefits of cocoa powder:

Cocoa reduces diabetes risk– Oxidative damage has been linked to several diseases, including cardiovascular disease, but also diabetes. A ground-breaking study confirmed that cocoa reduces insulin resistance. This is significant because this resistance can reduce the risk of diabetes.

It may lower your risk of heart attack and Stroke- In addition to lowering blood pressure, it appears that cocoa has other properties that may reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. Flavanol-rich cocoa improves the level of nitric oxide in your blood, which relaxes and dilates your arteries and blood vessels and improves blood flow. What’s more, cocoa has been found to reduce LDL cholesterol, have a blood thinning effect similar to aspirin, improve blood sugars and reduce inflammation. These properties have been linked to a lower risk of heart attack, heart failure and stroke.

Image result for Cocoa Powder

It may aid weight control in many surprising ways- Somewhat paradoxically, cocoa intake, even in the form of chocolate, may help you control your weight. It’s thought that cocoa may help by regulating the use of energy, reducing appetite and inflammation and increasing fat oxidation and feelings of fullness. Additionally, a weight loss study using low-carbohydrate diets found that a group given 42 grams or about 1.5 ounces of 81% cocoa chocolate per day lost weight faster than the regular diet group.

Cocoa boosts cognition- It would be wonderful to say that consuming cocoa makes you smarter, but this would be an overstatement. Those hardworking flavonoids strike again, leading to an improvement in what researchers call cognitive function. In general terms, think of flavonoids as improving blood flow to the brain, which can improve attention, processing ability and memory.

By Jumoke Oyedeji

Related Topics:4 Benefits Of Cocoa Powder Cocoa Powder

Up Next

5 Healthy Late-Night Snacks

Don't Miss

7 Things You Didn’t Know About Watermelon

HEALTHY LIVING

6 Ways To Stay Informed Without Sacrificing Your Mental Health

Published

6 days ago

June 30, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Staying informed without sacrificing your mental health | Fab.ng

In today’s fast-paced world, staying informed about current events feels like a constant race to keep up. It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, staying informed empowers us to be active citizens, make informed decisions, and feel connected to the world around us.

But on the other hand, the constant barrage of news, especially negative stories, can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. This negativity can be a real drain on our mental health, leading to anxiety, fatigue, and even feelings of helplessness.

The good news is there’s a way to navigate this information overload and find a healthy balance. Here are some tips to help you stay informed about current events without sacrificing your mental well-being:

1. Be a savvy news consumer

Not all news outlets are created equal. Instead of passively consuming whatever pops up on your social media feed, take some time to identify reliable sources known for accurate and balanced reporting. Look for established news organizations with a track record of journalistic integrity.

Steer clear of sensationalized headlines or news that seems to constantly push a specific agenda. Critical thinking is essential – ask yourself “Who is reporting this?” and “What is their perspective?”

2. Set boundaries and avoid the news cycle abyss

It’s easy to get sucked into a constant news cycle, endlessly refreshing apps and websites. Instead, set boundaries for yourself. Schedule specific times to check the news, maybe once in the morning and again in the evening.

This allows you to stay informed without getting overwhelmed by a never-ending stream of information.

3. Focus on solutions and uplifting stories

It’s easy to get bogged down by negativity. Don’t let all the bad news drown out the good. Make a conscious effort to seek out uplifting stories or news that highlights acts of kindness, progress, or human achievement.

Knowing that positive things are happening in the world can help counteract the negativity bias and boost your overall mood.

Look for stories about scientific breakthroughs, community initiatives, or acts of heroism – these can all help restore your faith in humanity.

4. Schedule digital detox breaks

It’s perfectly okay to step away from the news entirely sometimes. Schedule regular digital detox breaks to allow yourself to disconnect and recharge.

Pursue activities that help you relax and de-stress, like spending time in nature, reading a book, meditating, or enjoying a favourite hobby. Giving your mind a break from the constant news bombardment can improve your focus, creativity, and overall well-being.

5. Listen to your body and mind

Pay close attention to how the news you consume makes you feel. If you start feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed after checking the news, take a break and come back to it later.

Importantly, be mindful of the types of news that trigger these negative emotions and try to limit your exposure to those sources. If you find yourself constantly dwelling on upsetting stories, consider taking a break from the news altogether for a few days.

6. Discuss news with friends and family

Talking about current events with trusted friends or family members can provide different perspectives and reduce feelings of isolation.

Sharing your thoughts and feelings about the news can also help you process information more effectively, making it less overwhelming. Discussing complex issues with others can lead to a better understanding of the world and your place in it.

By following these tips, you can transform your news consumption habits from a burden into a tool for empowerment. Remember, it’s all about finding a balance. You can stay informed about the world without sacrificing your mental health.

For more articles like this, check here.

HEALTHY LIVING

8 Ways To Escape Being Pressured By Other People’s Wedding

Published

7 days ago

June 29, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Wedding Pressure: How To Escape Being Pressured | Fab.ng

Weddings are everywhere lately! It seems like every time you scroll through social media, there’s another wedding announcement, from celebrities to all your friends. While seeing people happy and in love is a wonderful thing, it can also be overwhelming. If you’re single or haven’t found your partner yet, this constant barrage of wedding posts can pressure you and even make you feel lonely.

Seeing all these weddings on social media got you down? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

Here are 8 tips to help you stay calm in the face of wedding pressure:

1. Embrace your own journey

Social media feeds might be flooded with wedding announcements, but it’s important to remember that everyone’s life unfolds at its own pace. Don’t get bogged down comparing your journey to others’. There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline for love and marriage.

Instead of fixating on where others are, focus on your own growth and aspirations. This is a perfect time to delve into your passions, chase your career goals, and invest in personal development.

By pouring energy into becoming the best version of yourself, you’ll build confidence and inner peace, regardless of your relationship status.

2. Manage your social media surf

Social media can be a double-edged sword during wedding season. While it keeps us connected, the constant barrage of wedding posts can make you feel lonely or like you’re falling behind.

Consider taking breaks from the platforms that trigger these negative emotions. Unfollow accounts that primarily share wedding content and curate your feed to include more diverse and uplifting content.

Use your online time to engage in activities that inspire and enrich your life rather than fueling comparison.

3. Shift your perspective

Instead of viewing weddings as benchmarks of success or milestones you need to reach “on time,” try to see them as celebrations of unique journeys and choices. Each couple’s decision to marry is deeply personal, influenced by their own circumstances and dreams.

Recognize that your path to happiness is shaped by your own values, experiences, and desires. Celebrate the love and commitment of others while affirming your own journey towards fulfillment, whatever form it may take.

4. Prioritize self-care

Self-care is crucial, especially when faced with external pressures. Take time to nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy and a sense of accomplishment, whether it’s pursuing a creative hobby, learning a new skill, or exploring a long-held passion.

Investing in yourself not only enhances your sense of self-worth but also strengthens your resilience in handling societal expectations and pressures.

5. Connect with your tribe

Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and family who value and respect your journey. Meaningful connections can provide emotional support and a fresh perspective during times of heightened pressure.

Engage in open and honest conversations with loved ones about your feelings and experiences. Share your aspirations and challenges, knowing that genuine relationships offer comfort, encouragement, and a sense of belonging beyond romantic milestones.

6. Set boundaries for your well-being

It’s okay to establish boundaries around conversations and activities that trigger stress or anxiety. If wedding-related discussions become overwhelming, politely redirect the conversation to topics that are more comfortable for you. Take breaks from social gatherings or events that exacerbate feelings of comparison or inadequacy.

By prioritizing your emotional well-being and setting clear boundaries, you empower yourself to navigate social pressures with confidence and grace.

7. Celebrate love in all its forms

Regardless of your relationship status, celebrate love in ways that resonate with your values and preferences. Attend weddings with genuine joy and appreciation for the couple’s happiness.

Embrace the diversity of love stories and relationship dynamics, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of celebration.

Whether single, in a relationship, or navigating complexities in between, affirm your path to happiness and fulfillment while honoring the love and commitment of others.

8. Broaden your definition of fulfillment

Love and fulfillment come in many forms. While weddings celebrate romantic partnerships, they are just one aspect of a fulfilling life. Focus on cultivating a well-rounded perspective that includes career achievements, personal growth, strong friendships, and engaging hobbies.

By broadening your definition of fulfillment, you can find contentment and joy in various aspects of life, irrespective of the societal wedding pressure.

Remember, these tips can help you navigate the wedding season with a sense of peace and perspective. Your worth and happiness are not defined by your relationship status. Stay true to yourself, celebrate others’ joy, and trust that your own journey is unfolding exactly as it should.

For more reads, visit here.

HEALTHY LIVING

7 Incredible Natural Antibiotics That Fight Infections

Published

7 days ago

June 29, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Natural antibiotics to fight infections | Fab.ng

Modern medicine relies heavily on natural antibiotics, those powerful drugs that fight bacterial infections. They’ve been a game-changer, helping countless people get better. But here’s the thing – overuse of these synthetic antibiotics can lead to problems. One big issue is antibiotic resistance.

Basically, the bacteria figure out how to resist the drugs, making them less effective. There can also be unpleasant side effects from strong antibiotics.

Luckily, nature has its own arsenal of weapons against infection! For centuries, people have turned to plants and other natural substances for healing. These “natural antibiotics” can be a great alternative or even a helpful companion to synthetic drugs. They can fight infections while also promoting overall health and well-being, making you feel better in more ways than one.

Let’s take a look at some of these natural antibiotics that combat infections below:

7 natural antibiotics that combat infections

1. Garlic

Garlic: Natural antibiotics to fight infections | Fab.ng

Don’t let the smell fool you! Garlic contains a compound called allicin, a champion germ fighter effective against bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. Studies have shown that allicin can help inactivate harmful enzymes produced by bacteria, essentially disarming them and preventing them from causing damage.

Eat raw garlic for the most benefit. Crush or chop a clove and let it sit for a few minutes to activate the allicin. If raw garlic isn’t your style, consider garlic oil for topical application on skin infections or as a convenient supplement.

2. Honey

Honey: Natural antibiotics to fight infections | Fab.ng

This delicious treat isn’t just for breakfast. Honey has natural antibacterial and healing properties thanks to compounds like hydrogen peroxide and methylglyoxal. Honey’s low moisture content creates a hostile environment for bacteria, preventing them from growing and spreading.

Additionally, research suggests that methylglyoxal may have anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in the healing process.

Apply honey directly to wounds for faster healing. Honey’s natural antibacterial properties can help keep the wound clean and free from infection. You can also enjoy a spoonful of raw honey daily to give your immune system a boost and help fight off minor infections.

3. Echinacea

This popular herb is a natural immune system booster. Echinacea helps your body produce more white blood cells, which are like soldiers fighting off infection. It also improves communication between your immune cells for a more effective overall response.

Studies on the effectiveness of Echinacea are mixed. But some research suggests it may be helpful in reducing the duration and severity of colds and upper respiratory infections.

Brew a cup of tea using dried Echinacea roots or leaves. Enjoy the earthy flavour and feel your immune system getting stronger. Echinacea is also available in capsule or tincture form for a more concentrated dose.

4. Goldenseal

This North American plant packs a punch with berberine, a powerful compound that disrupts bacteria’s cell membranes. Essentially, it takes them down from the inside out. Goldenseal is particularly helpful for respiratory, digestive, and urinary tract infections.

However, Goldenseal can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone. Consult your doctor before using Goldenseal, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Goldenseal is most commonly sold in capsules or tinctures. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor before use. You can also brew a tea using dried Goldenseal roots, but this method is generally less potent.

5. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is a champion germ fighter because of its high concentration of carvacrol and thymol, compounds with strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Oregano oil is especially effective against respiratory and digestive infections.

Oregano oil is very strong, so be careful! Always dilute it with a carrier oil like olive oil before applying it topically to your skin. For internal use, look for encapsulated oregano oil or diluted drops. It’s important to start with a low dose and increase gradually as tolerated.

6. Ginger

Ginger: Natural antibiotics to fight infections | Fab.ng

Ginger isn’t just for upset stomachs! It also boasts impressive anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help fight off bacterial and viral infections, particularly in your respiratory and digestive systems. Ginger’s warming properties can also help ease congestion associated with respiratory infections.

Steep fresh or dried ginger root in hot water for a soothing ginger tea. You can also add raw ginger to your meals or smoothies for a flavorful and health-boosting kick.

7. Turmeric

Turmeric: Natural antibiotics to fight infections | Fab.ng

This vibrant yellow spice isn’t just for adding color to curries. Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Turmeric helps fight a range of bacteria and viruses and also supports overall immune health.

Make a delicious and soothing drink called “golden milk” with turmeric, milk, and honey. You can also take curcumin supplements for concentrated benefits.

Importantly…

While natural antibiotics can be effective, it’s important to use them wisely and consult with a healthcare professional before using them, especially for serious infections or if you are taking other medications.

For more articles on health, check here.