HEALTHY LIVING

9 Health Benefits Of Activated Charcoal

Published

1 year ago

October 24, 2023

9 Health Benefits Of Activated Charcoal | Fab.ng

A form of carbon that has been processed to make it highly porous and adsorbent is known as “activated charcoal” which is frequently promoted as a natural health treatment. Because of its ability to trap substances on its surface, it can be applied in a variety of ways. Here, we’ll go into great detail about what activated charcoal is and how it might benefit your health.

A variety of carbon-rich materials, such as wood, coconut shells, peat, or sawdust, are used to make activated charcoal. High temperatures (typically between 600 and 900°C) are applied to the carbon source during the activation process while other gases, such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide, are present. This process increases the surface area of the charcoal and produces millions of tiny pores, which is what gives it its high absorbency.

Health Benefits and Uses

1. Overdose and Poisoning: This is most commonly used in emergency rooms to treat overdose and poisoning. Many drugs and toxins can be effectively absorbed by them, preventing them from entering the bloodstream. It can help lessen the severity of poisonings and even save lives when used quickly.

2. Gas and Bloating: It is a digestive aid that is used to treat gas and bloating symptoms. It functions by adsorbing substances that cause gas in the stomach, which could ease discomfort.

Activated Charcoal Provides Healthy Benefits|Fab.ng

3. Hangover Relief: Some people use it as a hangover treatment. Although it may aid in the absorption of alcohol byproducts and the alleviation of unpleasant symptoms like nausea and headaches, it cannot be relied upon as the only treatment for a hangover.

4. Health of the Mouth: It is used in some toothpaste and oral care products for its purported teeth-whitening and stain-removing properties. It’s believed to work by adsorbing surface stains and toxins in the mouth.

5. Skin Health: In skincare, face masks, cleansers, and exfoliants frequently contain activated charcoal. It is beneficial for people with acne-prone skin because it is thought to help draw out impurities, extra oil, and pollutants from the skin.

Activated Charcoal Provides Healthy Benefits|Fab.ng

6. Water Filtration: Due to its capacity to adsorb impurities and contaminants like chlorine, pesticides, and heavy metals, it is a common ingredient in water filters.

8. Reduction of High Cholesterol: According to some studies, it can adsorb cholesterol and stop it from entering the bloodstream, thereby lowering cholesterol levels. The evidence is scant, though, and more study in this area is required.

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9. Antidiarrheal: A common over-the-counter treatment for diarrhoea is activated charcoal. Adsorbing bacteria and toxins in the digestive system could be beneficial. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before using it for this purpose, as it may not be suitable for all types of diarrhoea.

Important Facts About Activated Charcoal

Though activated charcoal has a lot of health benefits, it is important to take into consideration the following:

Only a healthcare professional should be consulted before using activated charcoal as a treatment.
It shouldn’t be consumed right before taking medication because it might affect how well the medication is absorbed.
To take activated charcoal orally, use food-grade charcoal and take it as directed.
When using activated charcoal for skincare, use caution as it can be abrasive and can result in dry skin.
While acute poisonings may benefit from the use of activated charcoal, it is not a substitute for medical care.

Activated Charcoal Provides Healthy Benefits|Fab.ng

In conclusion, activated charcoal is a flexible and adsorbent material with several uses in health and wellness. When considering its use, especially for medicinal ones, it’s crucial to exercise caution and seek advice from a healthcare provider. Activated charcoal can be a valuable tool in emergency medicine and certain health remedies, but it should not be seen as a universal cure-all.

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HEALTHY LIVING

5 Ways To Stay Healthy This Christmas Season

Published

11 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

5 Ways To Stay Healthy This Christmas Season | fab.ng

The Christmas season is full of joy, food, and celebrations, but it can also be a time when health routines fall by the wayside. To stay healthy during the festive period, adopting mindful habits is key.

Here are five actionable strategies to ensure you enjoy the festivities while prioritising your well-being.

1. Make Balanced Food Choices

The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence. While it’s tempting to try everything on the table, opt for a balanced approach. Start meals with proteins and vegetables, which keep you full longer and stabilise your blood sugar.

Enjoy festive treats in moderation, allowing yourself small portions of your favourites without overindulging. By practising mindful eating, you can savour holiday flavours without guilt.

Staying hydrated is equally important. Drink plenty of water to counterbalance rich foods and avoid excessive sugary beverages or cocktails. Alternating alcohol with water is a good way to maintain balance during parties.

2. Prioritise Regular Exercise

Exercise doesn’t have to stop during the Christmas season. Incorporate simple physical activities like morning walks, quick home workouts, or even yoga to maintain your energy levels and reduce stress.

A 10–15 minute walk after meals can aid digestion and manage blood sugar levels. Staying active ensures you feel energised and offsets the effects of holiday indulgences.

3. Manage Holiday Stress

The Christmas season can be hectic, with endless to-do lists and social events. Combat stress by practising mindfulness and setting realistic expectations for your time.

Take breaks when needed, meditate, or engage in activities that help you unwind. Organising your tasks and delegating responsibilities can also alleviate pressure.

4. Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep is crucial for overall health, especially during a busy festive period. Poor sleep can lead to increased cravings and mood swings, making it harder to stick to healthy habits. Aim for 7–8 hours of rest each night.

Create a calming bedtime routine by avoiding screens, dimming lights, and reading a book to relax. Staying consistent with your sleep schedule will keep your energy levels high throughout the Christmas season.

5. Plan Ahead for Healthier Choices

With back-to-back events, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy eating habits. Preparing healthy snacks like nuts, boiled eggs, or fruit ensures you have nutritious options on hand.

Planning meals and snacks ahead of time helps avoid impulsive decisions, keeping your health goals on track even during the busiest days.

Enjoy the Festivities While Staying Healthy

By focusing on mindful eating, staying active, managing stress, sleeping well, and planning ahead, you can enjoy the Christmas season while maintaining your health. Balancing fun with wellness ensures you start the new year feeling your best.

If you found this article helpful, read more here.

FOOD

5 Health Benefits Of Cooking With Garlic

Published

2 weeks ago

December 7, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

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.

HEALTHY LIVING

How To Stay Healthy While Boosting Productivity

Published

3 weeks ago

November 30, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

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.