HEALTHY LIVING

How to Maintain A Healthy Hair

Published

1 year ago

August 31, 2023

Are you having issues taking good care of your hair? Do you have hair breakage and can’t seem to maintain a healthy hair? No need to worry because Fab.ng has you covered. Maintaining healthy hair is important for people of all ethnic backgrounds, including Nigerians and Africans.

Tips to help keep your Hair Healthy

1. Moisturize Regularly: African hair tends to be naturally dry. Moisturizing your hair regularly is essential for preventing breakage and keeping it healthy. Use a water-based moisturizer or leave-in conditioner to hydrate your hair and seal in the moisture with natural oils, like coconut oil or shea butter.

2. Protect Your Hair at Night: Sleep with a satin or silk bonnet or use a satin or silk pillowcase. Unlike cotton, which can cause friction and breakage, satin or silk materials help to minimize damage and retain moisture.

3. Deep Condition: Incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine. Deep conditioning helps to nourish and strengthen your hair, improving its overall health. Look for products with ingredients like aloe vera, glycerine, or honey, which provide moisture to the hair shaft. Conditioning helps to replenish the moisture in your hair and make it more manageable. Condition your hair after every wash, or even more often if needed.

4. Avoid Over styling: Limit the use of heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons, as excessive heat can cause damage and breakage. When using heat, apply a heat protectant spray to minimize damage. Opt for protective hairstyles that allow your hair to rest and minimize manipulation.

5. Be Gentle with Detangling: Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Detangle when your hair is wet and saturated with conditioner, as it will be more manageable and less prone to breakage.

6. Wash Your Hair Regularly: Find a shampoo and conditioner that work for your hair type and wash your hair regularly to remove dirt, product buildup, and excess oils. The more often you wash your hair, the more natural oils are removed. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times per week, or less if possible. Be sure to use a sulphate-free shampoo, as sulphates can be drying to the hair.

7. Protect Your Hair from the Sun: The sun’s rays can be damaging to your hair, causing dryness and breakage. You can protect your hair by wearing a hat or using products with UV protection.

8. Eat a Balanced Diet: Good nutrition plays a crucial role in hair health. Make sure to consume a diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Foods like fish, eggs, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to healthy hair. Eating a healthy diet can help to improve the overall health of your hair, skin, and nails. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.

9. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Limit the use of chemical treatments like relaxers and excessive colouring as these can weaken the hair and cause damage and breakage. Avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals, such as sulphates, parabens, and phthalates. These chemicals can strip your hair of its natural oils and proteins, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Instead, opt for natural hair products that are made with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera.

10. Get Regular Trims: Regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy hair. Trimming off split ends prevents further damage and breakage, promoting healthier hair growth. Remember, everyone’s hair is unique, so it’s important to listen to your hair and adapt these tips to suit your specific hair needs. Developing a consistent hair care routine and being gentle with your hair will go a long way in maintaining its health and vibrancy. Trimming your hair regularly will help to remove split ends and damaged hair, which can make your hair look healthier and fuller. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks.

11. Use heat protectant when styling your hair: Heat styling can damage your hair, so it’s important to use a heat protectant before you use any heat tools. Heat protectants help to create a barrier between your hair and the heat, preventing it from being damaged.

12. Manage stress: Stress can take a toll on your hair health. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.

Additional tips that are specific to Nigerian and African Hair Texture

Use a pre-poo treatment: A pre-poo treatment is a conditioning treatment that you apply to your hair before you wash it. Pre-poo treatments can help to protect your hair from the harsh chemicals in shampoo and make it easier to detangle.
Deep condition your hair regularly: Deep conditioning treatments help to restore moisture and nutrients to your hair. Deep condition your hair once a week, or more often if needed.

Use a leave-in conditioner: A leave-in conditioner helps to keep your hair moisturized and protected between washes. Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair after you wash it and style it as usual.
Protect your hair from the sun and heat: The sun and heat can damage your hair, so it’s important to protect it when you’re outdoors. Wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the sun and use a heat protectant when you style your hair with heat tools.
Be patient: It takes time and effort to keep your hair healthy. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep following these tips, and you’ll eventually see a difference.

Use a traditional African hair treatment: There are many traditional African hair treatments that can help to keep your hair healthy. Some popular treatments include shea butter, coconut oil, and black soap.
Get a protective hairstyle: If you live in a hot climate or if you are frequently exposed to the sun, it is important to protect your hair with a protective hairstyle. Some popular protective hairstyles include braids, twists, and cornrows.

Related Topics:hair Healthy Living Lifestyle Tips

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HEALTHY LIVING

5 Health Problems That Can Develop From Crying

Published

1 day ago

November 16, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Health Problems Caused By Crying | fab.ng

Crying acts as a natural way to release emotions and can help relieve stress in difficult moments. However, health problems can arise and they can be caused by crying too often or too intensely.

Health problems caused by crying can arise, especially when linked to extreme emotions like grief, anxiety, or prolonged sadness. For instance, frequent crying may result in headaches, swollen eyes, or even chest discomfort due to increased stress.

Moreover, health problems caused by crying can include shortness of breath or heart palpitations, especially if crying episodes are intense. Individuals who cry excessively might also experience exacerbation of mental health conditions like depression.

Understanding these health problems caused by crying is crucial, as it helps people take the necessary steps to manage their emotional health effectively.

1. Headaches and Migraines

One of the most common physical effects of crying is a headache. The act of crying can cause muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalp, leading to headaches or even migraines.

When you cry, your body releases a surge of stress hormones like cortisol, which can cause blood vessels in the brain to expand and trigger pain.

Frequent crying, especially if it’s intense, can worsen this pain, leaving you feeling drained and exhausted afterwards. For people already prone to migraines, crying can act as a trigger, making these episodes more frequent.

2. Puffy and Swollen Eyes

Crying often leads to swollen, red, and puffy eyes. This happens because tears contain salt, which can irritate the sensitive tissues around the eyes.

Additionally, the increased blood flow to the area during intense crying can cause fluid to accumulate, leading to puffiness.

If someone cries frequently, this can become more than just a temporary cosmetic issue—it can cause persistent irritation and swelling, particularly if they rub their eyes often during crying episodes.

3. Difficulty Breathing and Hyperventilation

During an intense crying spell, some people might experience shortness of breath or even hyperventilation. This occurs because crying affects your breathing pattern, causing rapid, shallow breaths.

When you hyperventilate, you expel too much carbon dioxide, which can lead to dizziness, light-headedness, or even fainting. For those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma, crying episodes can exacerbate symptoms, making it harder to catch their breath.

4. Chest Pain and Heart Palpitations

Strong emotions, especially those tied to crying, can put a significant strain on your cardiovascular system. Crying intensely can lead to chest tightness and palpitations because it activates the body’s stress response.

The surge of adrenaline and other stress hormones can make your heart rate increase, which can feel like a racing heart or chest discomfort.

While occasional crying-induced chest pain may not be harmful, if it occurs frequently, it could indicate deeper emotional or cardiovascular issues that may require medical attention.

5. Exacerbation of Mental Health Conditions

While crying can sometimes be a healthy emotional release, crying excessively might indicate deeper mental health concerns like anxiety or depression.

Chronic crying can worsen feelings of hopelessness or sadness, creating a cycle that affects mental well-being. According to research, while some people may feel relief after crying, others may not, especially if they are already struggling with depression.

This emotional toll can manifest physically, causing fatigue, body aches, and a weakened immune system due to prolonged stress.

Coping Strategies for Managing Excessive Crying

If you find yourself crying frequently, there are ways to manage it. Mindful breathing techniques, physical exercise, and speaking to a mental health professional can help reduce the frequency of emotional outbursts.

It’s also essential to recognize that crying may be a sign of underlying health conditions, particularly if it begins to interfere with your daily life.

While crying is a normal and often healthy emotional release, understanding its physical and emotional effects can help you manage your well-being more effectively. If crying episodes become overwhelming, consider seeking support from healthcare professionals.

Visit here for more health articles.

HEALTHY LIVING

12 Daily Habits That Cause Mouth Odour Even After Brushing

Published

2 weeks ago

November 2, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Habits That Cause Mouth Odour Even After Brushing | fab.ng

Bad breath can be frustrating, especially if it lingers even after brushing. Certain habits that cause mouth odour even after brushing are often overlooked but can significantly impact oral health.

For example, skipping flossing allows food particles and bacteria to build up between teeth, leading to unpleasant odours.

Additionally, dehydration causes a dry mouth, reducing saliva production, which typically helps wash away odour-causing bacteria.

Consuming strong-smelling foods like garlic and onions can also lead to mouth odour, even after brushing, as these scents linger and are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Smoking or using tobacco is another major contributor, coating the mouth with lingering smells that brushing alone can’t remove.

Regularly addressing these habits that cause mouth odour even after brushing can improve breath freshness and overall oral health.

Proper hydration, a full oral hygiene routine, and avoiding certain foods can make all the difference.

Poor Oral Hygiene:

1. Neglecting Tongue Cleaning: The tongue harbours bacteria, which can cause significant bad breath. Using a tongue scraper daily can effectively remove these bacteria and freshen your breath.

2. Skipping Flossing: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. These trapped particles can lead to bacterial growth and bad breath.

3. Relying Solely on Mouthwash: While mouthwash can temporarily mask bad breath, it doesn’t address the underlying issue. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential for removing plaque and bacteria.

4. Dehydration: Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth fresh. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help maintain adequate saliva production.

Underlying Health Conditions:

5. Dry Mouth: Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can lead to bad breath as saliva helps to wash away bacteria. Certain medications, medical conditions, and habits like mouth breathing can contribute to dry mouth.

6. Gum Disease: Gum disease, characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, can cause persistent bad breath. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene are crucial for preventing gum disease.

7. Sinus Infections: Sinus infections can lead to postnasal drip, which can cause bad breath. Treatment of underlying sinus infections is essential for improving breath odour.

8. Gastrointestinal Issues: Certain digestive disorders, such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome, can cause bad breath. Treating these underlying conditions can help alleviate bad breath.

Lifestyle Factors:

9. Diet: Consuming strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, and spicy foods can contribute to temporary bad breath. Additionally, a diet high in sugar can feed bacteria, leading to increased bad breath.

10. Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking and tobacco use can significantly worsen bad breath. These habits can irritate the mouth and throat, leading to dry mouth and increased bacterial growth.

11. Certain Medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect, contributing to bad breath. Consult with your doctor to discuss potential alternatives or strategies to manage dry mouth.

12. Stress and Anxiety: Stress and anxiety can lead to increased saliva production, which can sometimes cause bad breath. Practising relaxation techniques and stress management strategies can help alleviate this issue.

To maintain fresh breath, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene, stay hydrated, and address any underlying health conditions. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial for identifying and treating potential causes of bad breath.

Here are some additional tips for maintaining fresh breath:

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can dehydrate the mouth and contribute to bad breath.
Limit sugary drinks: Sugary drinks can feed bacteria, leading to increased bad breath.
Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production and help to wash away food particles and bacteria.
Use a mouthwash with antibacterial properties: A mouthwash with antibacterial properties can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Consider using a dental rinse: A dental rinse can help remove plaque and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.

If you are concerned about bad breath, it is important to see your dentist or doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Get more health tips here.

HEALTHY LIVING

Do Bras Really Keep Breasts From Sagging? Check This Out!

Published

3 weeks ago

October 26, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Do Bras Keep Breasts From Sagging? | fab.ng

One common insecurity many women face is having saggy breasts. This often leads to the question: Do bras keep breasts from sagging? Many turn to bras, especially tight or constricting ones, in hopes that they can prevent or reverse sagging. This has sparked widespread curiosity about whether bras can truly offer such support.

Over the years, different speculations have emerged about the effectiveness of bras in keeping breasts firm. People frequently ask, do bras keep breasts from sagging, and if so, to what extent? Some believe bras can prevent sagging, while others argue that they have little impact.

In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind these claims and provide a clear understanding of the role bras may or may not play in preventing saggy breasts.

Why do breasts sag?

Breast sagging, also known as breast ptosis, is influenced by a variety of factors. These include genetics, age, breast size, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and even the constant pull of gravity over time. Each of these elements plays a role in how the breasts change shape and firmness.

Breasts are composed of dense glandular tissue and Cooper’s ligaments, which are connective tissues that help attach the breasts to the chest wall. The firmness and shape of the breasts largely depend on the strength and elasticity of these ligaments.

As women age, the body undergoes natural changes, one of which involves glandular tissue gradually being replaced by fat. This shift, combined with the stretching of the suspensory ligaments, can lead to sagging over time.

This brings up the popular question again: Do bras keep breasts from sagging? Some believe that wearing a bra offers support that could counteract these changes, but the science is not definitive.

Since internal tissue changes are the primary cause of sagging, it’s essential to recognize the limits of what bras can achieve in maintaining long-term breast firmness. While bras offer external support, they cannot prevent the natural changes that occur within the breast tissue over time.

Understanding the natural anatomy and the external factors that contribute to sagging helps clarify whether or not bras can effectively prevent this condition. So, do bras keep breasts from sagging? We’ll explore this question further in light of what really happens inside the breast tissue.

Does wearing bras keep breasts from sagging?

Wearing a bra actively helps prevent long-term sagging, particularly for women with C-cup sizes and above. The additional support that bras provide can reduce strain on the breast tissues, which may help in maintaining a firmer appearance over time.

Going braless consistently, however, can eventually lead to sagging due to the stretching of Cooper’s ligaments. These ligaments, which hold up the breasts, can be influenced by regular bra usage, making bras an important factor in supporting breast tissue.

Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, who heads a research group on breast health, pointed out that bras may aid in maintaining the breast’s shape by lifting it, rather than causing it to sag. Her research suggests that ‘bras keep breasts from sagging’ is a valid statement, especially when considering the benefits of added support.

Much like how restrictive clothing such as corsets or certain types of shoes can alter the body’s anatomy, bras can influence the long-term appearance of the breasts by providing necessary support.

Additionally, evidence from populations where women have never worn bras shows that their breasts often sag and elongate. This observation suggests that insufficient support for the breast’s skin tissues can lead to stretching. Further, it reinforces the idea behind the ‘Do bras keep breasts from sagging’ question.

Other Benefits of Wearing Bras

For women who lead active lifestyles, such as walking, hiking, or working out, wearing a compression-fit sports bra plays a crucial role in maintaining good posture and preventing back strain. Without this essential support, the repetitive motion and impact can negatively affect the spine and muscles.

Wearing a bra also provides relief from physical discomfort for women with larger breasts, who often experience neck and back stiffness due to the added weight. A well-fitted, supportive bra can alleviate this strain. Also, it can offer better comfort throughout the day.

Additionally, supportive bras are important for maintaining breast health. However, bras must fit properly; overly tight bras can cause circulation issues and even lead to cardiovascular problems if worn regularly.

While bras provide many benefits, it’s important to remember that, over time, nature will take its course, and breasts will naturally sag regardless of their shape or size.

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