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AFCON 2024: Prioritizing Your Health While Cheering Your Team

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AFCON 2024: Prioritizing Your Health While Cheering Your Team | fab.ng

Football comes with thrills, passion, and excitement—these are the elements that make an exceptional football match. However, the intense emotions and excitement can sometimes mask underlying health concerns, leading to tragic consequences. The recent AFCON 2023 match between South Africa and Nigeria, where five Nigerians lost their lives due to cardiac arrest or hypertension, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritising well-being as a pre-match ritual for every fan.

Although the excitement of sports matches can be thrilling, it is important to recognise that they can also cause physical responses in our bodies. This can include an elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, and higher levels of adrenaline, particularly during high-pressure situations. For individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or uncontrolled hypertension, these changes can be particularly risky.

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Cheering for our favourite teams shouldn’t come at the expense of our health. So, how can we ensure the beautiful game remains just that—beautiful—for our wellbeing?

1. Know your numbers

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your health. Visit your doctor for regular checkups and screenings, particularly if you have a family history of heart disease or high blood pressure. These early assessments can identify potential risks and allow you to take proactive measures. With the match happening on Sunday, you should book a health appointment right away to be on the safe side.

2. Move your body

Regular physical activity strengthens your heart and improves your overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Before a game, it’s helpful to take a short walk or do some light exercise to improve blood flow and reduce stress. During the game, even small movements like stretching or standing up to cheer can make a difference.

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3. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day and the game, especially before and during the match. Dehydration can lead to an increased heart rate and blood pressure. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol. They can contribute to dehydration and raise your blood pressure.

4. Manage stress

The thrill of the game can be exhilarating but also emotionally taxing. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing before and during the match to manage stress and keep your heart rate in check. Avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption, which can exacerbate anxiety and stress.

5. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Avoid heavy, greasy meals close to the match. Opt for light, hydrating snacks like fruits, nuts, or yoghurt. Choose nutritious foods rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, excessive salt, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to heart health concerns.

6. Listen to your body

Don’t ignore warning signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any discomfort. Remember, your well-being is paramount. Avoid sitting continuously for long periods of time. Get up, move around, and stretch periodically. If you take medication for heart conditions, ensure you have it readily available and adhere to your doctor’s instructions.

7. Celebrate responsibly

The excitement can be contagious, but remember to moderate your emotional reactions. Remember to celebrate responsibly. Encourage a calm and supportive atmosphere at viewing parties. Avoid excessive yelling or arguments that could contribute to stress and anxiety.

By prioritising our health, we can ensure that the beautiful game remains just that—a source of joy, unity, and, most importantly, well-being for everyone involved. Remember, cheering for your team starts with taking care of your own heart, the one that beats for the love of the game and for life itself.

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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.

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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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