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HEALTHY LIVING

Everything You Should Know About Colon Cancer

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Colon cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer deaths among cancers that affect both men and women, with over 50,000 deaths related to the disease each year.

What is colon cancer?

Colorectal or colon cancer refers to the group of cancers that affect the rectum and colon (or large intestine). About one in 20 people will develop colon cancer at some point during their lives, making this one of the most common cancers.

These diseases usually are caused by the growth of polyps – small masses of cells – in the rectum or colon. Though these growths start as benign (noncancerous), they can develop into cancerous tumors over time.

6 Silent Symptoms Of Colon Cancer to Never Ignore »

Colon cancer symptoms and risk factors

Colon cancer usually develops without any symptoms at all, until the disease has progressed to later stages. Even then, the symptoms of colon cancer can be vague and similar to symptoms of common gastrointestinal issues such as hemorrhoids, ulcers, or colitis (inflamed colon).

That said, colon cancer symptoms can include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea or thinner stool)
• Decreased appetite
• Persistent tiredness or fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

If you notice these symptoms, visit your doctor to see if you need a colon evaluation. It’s especially important to be aware of colon cancer symptoms if you know you’re at high risk for the disease.

These factors can increase your risk

  • Alcohol: Heavy alcohol use – more than two drinks per day for men and more than one for women.
  • Diet: Those who eat a lot of red meat and processed meat have higher risk, especially if they eat few vegetables, fruits, and whole grain fibers.
  • Family history: People with an immediate family member who has had colon cancer or polyps are two to three times more likely to develop it themselves.

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  • Inflammatory bowel disease: Patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease should be followed by a gastroenterologist given their increased risk.
  • Obesity: People who are obese are about 30 percent more likely to develop colon cancer than those who aren’t obese.
  • Tobacco: Smokers are at risk for many cancers, including colon cancer.

Avoiding colon cancer

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will reduce your risk for colon cancer. That includes avoiding tobacco, keeping a healthy weight, being physically active, and eating a high fiber diet while avoiding too many red or processed meats.

However the most effective prevention remains undergoing age-appropriate cancer screening!
Other than keeping those healthy habits, here are some recommendations:

  • If you’re 45 or older: Schedule a colonoscopy or talk to your doctor about what screening test is right for you.
  • If you’re younger than 45, but have any risk factors for colon cancer: Talk with your doctor or see a specialist (gastroenterologist) to discuss when you should start screening.

FOOD

5 Health Benefits Of Cooking With Garlic

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5 Health Benefits of Cooking With Garlic | fab.ng

Garlic is more than just a flavour enhancer; it offers numerous health benefits that have been celebrated for centuries. Incorporating garlic into your meals not only enriches the taste but also boosts your overall well-being.

Let’s explore five key health benefits of garlic, emphasising why this simple ingredient deserves a spot in your kitchen.

1. Boosts Heart Health

Garlic is renowned for its heart-protective properties. It helps lower blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels, which are crucial factors in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Allicin, a compound found in garlic, relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Regular consumption of garlic may also prevent artery hardening, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Clearly, one of the primary health benefits of garlic is its contribution to a healthy heart.

2. Strengthens the Immune System

Garlic acts as a powerful immune booster. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties help the body fend off infections. Rich in antioxidants, garlic combats free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to illness.

Cooking with garlic regularly can support your immune system, making it more resilient against common colds and flu. This vital health benefit of garlic makes it a natural defence mechanism.

3. Improves Digestive Health

Garlic promotes healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Its antimicrobial properties can help balance gut flora, reducing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial ones.

Additionally, garlic may reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Including garlic in your diet can improve overall digestive function, emphasising another essential health benefit of garlic.

4. Enhances Bone Health

Surprisingly, garlic may also support strong bones. It contains minerals like calcium, manganese, and selenium, which are vital for bone density and strength.

Some studies suggest that garlic consumption can increase estrogen levels in women, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

This lesser-known health benefit of garlic highlights its role beyond the kitchen, contributing to long-term skeletal health.

5. Supports Detoxification

Garlic aids the body’s natural detoxification process by activating liver enzymes that help eliminate toxins. Its sulfur compounds enhance liver function, enabling the body to flush out heavy metals and harmful substances more efficiently.

Regularly cooking with garlic can provide a natural cleanse, supporting overall vitality. This detoxifying health benefit of garlic underscores its importance for maintaining internal balance.

Incorporating Garlic into Your Diet

Maximise these health benefits by adding garlic to soups, stir-fries, and sauces. Crush or chop it and let it sit for a few minutes before cooking to enhance its beneficial compounds.

Remember, the health benefits of garlic are most potent when it’s used fresh and minimally cooked.

Cooking with garlic not only elevates your culinary creations but also offers significant health advantages. Embrace this versatile ingredient and enjoy the multiple health benefits of garlic with every meal.

Would you like more articles or additional tips? Check here.

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HEALTHY LIVING

How To Stay Healthy While Boosting Productivity

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Health and Productivity | fab.ng

Balancing health and productivity is essential for personal well-being and professional success. Integrating healthy habits into your daily routine enhances focus, reduces stress, and increases overall efficiency.

Here’s how you can maintain good health while staying productive:

1. Prioritise Physical Health

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity enhances both physical health and mental clarity. Simple practices like taking short walks during breaks or stretching between tasks improve circulation and energy levels.

Maintain Good Nutrition: Eating balanced meals fuels your body and brain. Choose healthy snacks and stay hydrated throughout the day to maintain consistent energy levels.

Sleep Well: Adequate sleep (7-9 hours) improves memory, focus, and mood, contributing to higher productivity. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to ensure restful sleep.

2. Manage Your Energy, Not Just Time

Identify peak productivity periods in your day. Allocate complex or creative tasks to those high-energy times, and save routine work for low-energy periods. This practice optimises your natural rhythms for maximum efficiency.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Take Short Breaks: Regular breaks prevent burnout and boost concentration. Even a five-minute pause every hour can refresh your mind.

Mindful Practices: Meditation or deep-breathing exercises reduce stress and improve focus. Incorporating these into your daily routine fosters mental clarity and emotional resilience.

4. Create a Healthy Work Environment

Ergonomic Workspace: Arrange your workspace to support good posture and reduce strain. Use ergonomic furniture and ensure proper lighting to prevent fatigue.

Limit Distractions: Reduce noise and digital interruptions to stay focused. Tools like “Do Not Disturb” settings and noise-cancelling headphones can help create a conducive work atmosphere.

5. Foster Mental Health

Set Boundaries: Separate work from personal time. Avoid checking work emails after hours to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Stay Connected: Engage in positive social interactions at work. A supportive environment enhances motivation and reduces feelings of isolation.

6. Optimise Productivity Techniques

Batch Tasks: Group similar activities together to avoid frequent context-switching, which drains mental energy. This method enhances focus and efficiency.

Use To-Do Lists: Organise tasks by priority. Focus on completing high-value activities first to maximise your productivity.

By integrating these health-focused strategies into your daily routine, you can maintain physical well-being, reduce stress, and improve productivity, creating a sustainable path to professional success and personal fulfilment.

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HEALTHY LIVING

How To Stop Snoring When Sleeping

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How To Stop Snoring When Sleeping | fab.ng

Snoring disrupts sleep for both the person snoring and their partner, lowering overall sleep quality. It’s more than a nighttime nuisance—it often signals health concerns like sleep apnea. Learning how to stop snoring is essential for better sleep and improved health.

To stop snoring, start by addressing your sleep position. Sleeping on your back can worsen snoring as gravity pulls the tongue and soft tissues backward, narrowing the airway.

Shift to your side to improve airflow. Another effective method for how to stop snoring is maintaining a healthy weight. Excess fat, especially around the neck, constricts breathing passages.

Lifestyle choices also matter. Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, as they relax throat muscles, making snoring worse.

Staying hydrated is another simple tip for how to stop snoring, as dryness thickens the mucus in the throat. For nasal congestion, saline sprays or humidifiers can keep airways open.

In severe cases, consult a doctor. Conditions like sleep apnea may require treatments such as CPAP machines or surgery.

Committing to these strategies can show you how to stop snoring effectively, transforming your sleep quality and overall well-being.

1. Lifestyle Modifications

  • Weight Management: Excess weight, particularly around the neck, can contribute to snoring. Weight loss can alleviate this issue.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Limiting alcohol and sedatives can relax the throat muscles, increasing the likelihood of snoring. A balanced diet can also help maintain overall health.
  • Smoking Cessation: Smoking irritates the airways, making snoring worse. Quitting smoking can improve respiratory health and reduce snoring.
  • Optimal Sleep Posture: Sleeping on your back can worsen snoring. Side sleeping or using a special pillow designed to keep you in a side position can be beneficial.

2. Over-the-Counter Remedies

  • Nasal Strips: These adhesive strips can help open nasal passages, reducing snoring caused by nasal congestion.
  • Oral Appliances: Mouthguards or dental devices can help keep the airway open during sleep. Consult a dentist for a proper fit.

3. Medical Interventions

If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies are ineffective, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended. They may suggest:

  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A machine that delivers pressurised air to keep the airway open during sleep.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to correct structural issues in the throat or nose.

If you or your partner notices loud, frequent snoring, especially accompanied by symptoms like daytime sleepiness, choking sounds, or gasping for air, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can improve your overall health and quality of life.

By implementing these strategies and seeking professional help when needed, you can enjoy quieter nights and a healthier sleep pattern.

For more reads, visit here.

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