HEALTHY LIVING

Tattoo Inks Contain Ingredients Linked To Cancer And Organ Damage

Published

2 months ago

March 4, 2024

Tattoo Inks Contain Ingredients Linked To Cancer | fab.ng

A recent study has unveiled a concerning truth about tattoo inks. Many popular tattoo inks contain hidden ingredients linked to serious health problems, including cancer and organ damage. This raises significant concerns for the millions of people who have tattoos or are considering getting one.

While the desire for self-expression through body art is undeniable, the potential long-term health risks associated with certain inks cannot be ignored. Understanding the potential health risks and making informed decisions is crucial for protecting your well-being.

More Details About The Study On Tatoo Inks

Top 15 Tattoo Artist in Dallas

Binghamton University scientists recently revealed a concerning truth about tattoo inks. Many popular inks contain hidden ingredients missing from the label, raising serious health concerns.

The study analyzed 54 inks, finding 45 had unidentified additives or pigments. These unknown substances may harm your health, with some linked to organ damage.

Tattoo ink has two main parts: pigment (color) and carrier (delivery solution). The pigment, like blue pigment or titanium dioxide, provides the color. The carrier solution, on the other hand, delivers the pigment deep into your skin’s middle layer.

The study identified worrying additives like polyethylene glycol, linked to kidney problems, and 2-phenoxyethanol, potentially causing lung, liver, and nervous system issues at high doses. The National Institutes of Health warns of this substance’s possible toxicity.

Between 2003 and 2023, there have been 18 instances of tattoo ink recalls due to contamination with various microorganisms, some of which are known to cause severe infections.

The European Union enacted a ban on two widely used green and blue tattoo inks in 2022. The union cited the presence of potentially harmful chemicals in these products.

Dr. Swierk and his research team emphasized that their goal is not to cause unnecessary fear among people with tattoos but rather to shed light on the composition of commonly used tattoo inks. They hope this information will encourage both manufacturers to revise their production methods and tattoo artists and their clients to advocate for clearer labeling and higher manufacturing standards.

These developments come amidst a growing trend of tattoo popularity around the world today. In America, for example, over 100 million people currently have at least one tattoo, with nearly half of all adults between the ages of 30 and 49 sporting tattoos, according to a Pew Research Center study.

In Conclusion

While the allure of self-expression through tattoos remains strong, the potential health risks revealed by this study cannot be taken lightly. This study highlights the importance of raising awareness about the potential health risks associated with certain tattoo inks.

The future of tattoo inks requires stricter regulations and greater transparency from manufacturers. Until then, you hold the power to make informed decisions about their bodies. Choosing a responsible tattoo artist who prioritizes safety and transparency is crucial.

While further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of these chemicals, individuals must be informed and make informed decisions before getting a tattoo.

Check here for more updates.

Related Topics:Cancer Healthy Living tatoo inks

Up Next

Follow This Guide To Jumpstart A Vehicle

Don't Miss

6 Outfits That Represent Some Of The Tribes In Nigeria

HEALTHY LIVING

Here’s Why Every Worker Deserves A Break

Published

2 days ago

May 12, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Work Leave: Man stressed from work | Fab.ng

Feeling burnt out and overwhelmed at work? Taking work leave or using your sick days might seem counterintuitive, but it’s crucial for your long-term success. When you’re constantly stressed and stretched thin, your mental and physical health suffers. Taking a break allows you to de-stress, recharge, and return to work feeling refreshed and energised.

This renewed sense of well-being translates into improved focus, creativity, and overall job satisfaction, which are all essential for professional success.

Here are several reasons why every worker should take advantage of their work leave entitlements:

1. Restoration of mental health

Imagine pushing yourself through a marathon without ever stopping to rest or refuel. That’s what happens mentally when you constantly work long hours without breaks. The pressure builds, leading to stress and burnout.

Taking time off is like hitting the pause button. It allows you to de-stress by doing things you enjoy, reducing that built-up tension. When you return to work, you’ll feel refreshed and energised, with a clearer mind ready to tackle any challenge. It’s like rebooting your brain for better performance.

2. Regaining physical health

Our bodies weren’t designed to be chained to a desk all day. Staring at a screen and hunching over a keyboard for hours on end can wreak havoc on your physical health. Your back, neck, and shoulders become strained from holding the same position, while repetitive tasks can lead to muscle fatigue and injuries.

Leave is your chance to break free from this cycle. Use your time off to get your body moving! Whether it’s hitting the gym for a workout, going for a hike in nature, or simply taking a long walk outside, any form of physical activity helps counteract the toll work takes on your body. Think of it as preventive maintenance. By giving your body a chance to rest and recuperate, you’ll not only feel better physically now, but you’ll also be preventing future aches, pains, and even more serious health problems down the road. Taking leave isn’t just about feeling good today; it’s an investment in your long-term physical well-being.

3. Increased productivity

Forget the myth that working longer hours automatically means getting more done. In fact, the opposite can be true. Taking regular breaks, like vacations and other types of leave, can actually boost your productivity when you’re back at work. Here’s why:

Recharged focus and energy: Imagine staring at a computer screen all day, every day. It’s draining! Taking time off lets you recharge your mental batteries. When you return, you’ll have a sharper focus and more energy, allowing you to tackle tasks more efficiently.
Less stress, better decisions: Feeling constantly stressed and overwhelmed can cloud your judgement. Taking a break helps you de-stress, which leads to clearer thinking and better decision-making. You’ll be able to approach problems with a fresh perspective and come up with creative solutions.
Increased motivation and morale: Feeling burned out can make even the simplest tasks feel like a chore. Taking leave allows you to disconnect from work and come back feeling refreshed and motivated. This renewed enthusiasm translates into a more positive attitude and a willingness to go the extra mile.

So, taking breaks isn’t a sign of laziness; it’s a smart strategy for boosting your productivity in the long run.

4. Enhanced creativity

Stepping away from the daily grind can actually spark your creativity! Here’s how:

New experiences, fresh ideas: Imagine yourself stuck in the same room all day. Not exactly inspiring, right? Taking time off exposes you to new things, whether it’s visiting a museum, trying a new hobby, or simply exploring a different part of town. These new experiences can spark fresh ideas and different perspectives that you can bring back to your job.
Break free from routine and solve problems creatively: Sometimes, being stuck in the same routine can make it hard to see things from a new angle. A break from work allows you to come back with a clear head and a fresh approach to problems. The innovative solutions you come up with when you’re not bogged down by the daily grind might surprise you.
Boost your imagination and fuel innovation: Feeling burned out can stifle your creativity. Taking leave gives your mind a chance to relax and recharge. This can lead to a boost in your imagination, making it easier to come up with creative solutions and innovative ideas that can benefit your work.

5. Improved job satisfaction

Happier employees mean a better work environment. People who take vacations and other forms of leave tend to be more satisfied with their jobs overall. Why?

Knowing your employer encourages you to take time off shows they care about your well-being. This can make you feel valued as an employee, which boosts morale.

Taking breaks helps you de-stress and recharge. When you come back to work feeling refreshed and happy, it creates a more positive work environment for everyone.

Feeling constantly burned out can make you want to leave your job. Taking leave helps prevent burnout, which can lead to lower employee turnover and a more stable team.

In short, encouraging employees to take leave creates a happier, healthier, and more productive work environment for everyone involved. It’s a win-win situation.

6. Quality time with loved ones

Feeling constantly pulled between work and personal life? Time off work is your secret weapon. The daily demands of a job can leave you feeling drained and stretched thin. This often translates into neglecting the important relationships in your life, which can take a toll on your overall well-being.

Taking time off, whether it’s a vacation, sick day, or personal day, allows you to hit the pause button on work and reconnect with the people who matter most. Imagine spending quality time with family and friends, free from the stress of work deadlines and overflowing inboxes.

These moments of connection help strengthen your personal bonds, creating a strong support system that can boost your happiness and resilience in all areas of life. After all, a fulfilling personal life isn’t just a perk; it’s a key ingredient for success and overall satisfaction.

So, don’t feel guilty about taking leave! Embrace it as an opportunity to recharge, reconnect, and remind yourself of what truly matters.

7. Personal development

Level up your life, not just your work! Taking time off work isn’t just about relaxation; it’s a chance to invest in yourself. You can use your leave to explore personal growth activities like:

Learning a new skill: Always wanted to master photography or brush up on a foreign language? Leave gives you the dedicated time to finally take that online course or enrol in a local workshop.
Pursuing a hobby: Do you have a passion project you’ve been neglecting? Time off allows you to delve deeper into your hobbies, whether it’s writing, painting, playing music, or anything that brings you joy.
Travelling and exploring: Sometimes a change of scenery is all you need to spark new ideas and gain a fresh perspective. Travelling exposes you to different cultures, broadens your horizons, and can even inspire creative solutions for work-related problems.

These activities not only contribute to your personal fulfilment and overall happiness, but they can also surprisingly benefit your professional life. The new skills you learn, the knowledge you gain, and the creative spark you ignite can all translate into valuable assets that can enhance your work performance.

When companies understand that taking time off is important and encourage their employees to use their vacation days, it creates a better work environment for everyone.

Employees who are well-rested and have time for personal matters are healthier, happier, and more productive. This means the company benefits too, because they have a stronger and more satisfied workforce.

If you enjoyed this article, read more here.

HEALTHY LIVING

Here’s How To Manage Anxiety Naturally

Published

3 days ago

May 11, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Reduce Anxiety Naturally: Here's How | Fab.ng

Ever feel that fluttering feeling in your stomach before a big interview or when you’re waiting on important news? That’s actually anxiety! But don’t worry; it’s not always a bad thing, and there are ways to reduce anxiety naturally.

This kind of anxiety is actually our body’s way of helping us out. A little racing heart, tenseness, or nervousness can all be signs of good anxiety. It’s our body’s natural reaction to get us ready and focused on what’s to come.

What Is Anxiety?

Have you ever gotten butterflies in your stomach before a big interview? That’s anxiety! It’s normal to feel some anxiety in situations like that. Our bodies are actually trying to help us by getting us alert and focused. This is called “good anxiety.” It helps us stay sharp and prepared.

However, anxiety can become a problem when it’s too strong or doesn’t go away. This is called an anxiety disorder. People with anxiety disorders experience uncontrollable worry that can interfere with their daily lives.

The good news is that there are ways to manage anxiety! There are natural methods for reducing anxiety attacks, and you can also learn more about anxiety from reliable sources like Fab.ng.

Here are some signs of anxiety:

Panic attacks: These sudden surges of intense fear can be very frightening.
Physical symptoms: You might experience shortness of breath, restlessness, trembling, or even problems with sleep or digestion (diarrhoea).
Intrusive thoughts: Anxiety can lead to paranoia or obsessive worries.

When anxiety gets out of control, it can feel paralysing and hold you back from living your life to the fullest. However, there’s hope. The more you manage your anxiety, the better equipped you’ll be to take charge of your emotional, social, and physical well-being.

Now that we know what anxiety is, let’s explore some simple and natural strategies to help you reduce anxiety attacks. Keep reading to learn more.

Top Medications for Anxiety | U.S. News

9 Ways To Reduce Anxiety Naturally

Telling someone with anxiety to “calm down” simply doesn’t work. The good news is that there are effective ways to manage anxiety, and many of them focus on healthy lifestyle changes. Let’s explore some recommended strategies to help you reduce anxiety attacks naturally:

1. First up, exercise

Getting your body moving is a fantastic natural way to reduce anxiety. You don’t need to jump straight into intense workouts. Start small and find activities you enjoy.

Walking is a great option; it’s a low-impact way to clear your head and get some fresh air. Plus, it’s something most people can easily fit into their routine.

Maybe you prefer hiking, cycling, jogging, or even dancing! These activities all have a common benefit: they release endorphins. Often called “happy hormones,” endorphins improve your mood and leave you feeling good.

Exercise also helps boost your concentration and motivation, which can be especially helpful if you struggle with certain anxiety disorders. So lace up your shoes, put on your favourite music, and get moving! It’s a simple step towards feeling better and managing your anxiety.

12 Natural Ways To Reduce Anxiety

2. Next up, sleep

Experts say getting enough quality sleep is crucial for both your physical and emotional well-being. When you don’t sleep well, it can actually worsen feelings of anxiety and stress. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to help keep your anxiety in check.

Here are some tips to develop good sleep habits and improve your sleep quality:

Power down before bed: Turn off all electronics, especially phones and TVs, at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted from these devices can interfere with your sleep cycle.
Create a calming sleep environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. This will help your body relax and prepare for sleep.
Develop a sleep routine: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

How to Calm Anxiety at Night: 14 Tips for Sleeping Better With Anxiety

3. Eat a balanced diet

The old saying “you are what you eat” holds for anxiety too. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can be a great natural way to manage anxiety symptoms.

Focus on magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in enzyme function and nerve health. Upping your magnesium intake can be a natural remedy for anxiety. Load up on foods like almonds, whole-wheat grains, quinoa, spinach, cashews, black beans, and even dark chocolate, all of which are rich in magnesium.
Choose whole foods: Instead of processed foods that are loaded with artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, opt for natural whole foods that come in a variety of colours. Aim to include plenty of protein, fruits, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables in your diet. These wholesome foods are naturally packed with antioxidants, which can be beneficial for your overall well-being.
Hydration is key: Don’t forget to stay hydrated! Water and natural homemade juices are essential for your health.
Pay attention to your body: Notice how your body reacts to certain foods. If you find that specific foods trigger your anxiety, try to limit them or avoid them altogether. This can be a simple but effective way to manage your anxiety naturally.

National Nutrition Month: 6 popular trends explained | Home Page Blog | Oakland Blog

4. Eliminate caffeine

Look, we all love that morning cup of coffee, but if you struggle with anxiety, it might be time to re-think your caffeine habits. While a moderate amount of coffee probably won’t cause problems for most people, caffeine can worsen anxiety symptoms, especially for those with chronic anxiety disorders.

Here’s why: Caffeine blocks adenosine, a chemical that makes you feel tired. Instead, it triggers the release of adrenaline, which keeps you alert. This surge of adrenaline can lead to jitters and increased nervousness, which can exacerbate anxiety.

We know that breaking up with your morning coffee can be tough. To avoid caffeine withdrawal headaches, try slowly cutting back on the amount you consume each day. Gradually reduce your intake until you reach a point where you can eliminate it altogether. This can be a significant step towards managing your anxiety naturally.

5. Say no to smoking and alcohol

Smoking and alcohol might seem to offer temporary relief from anxiety, but they actually make things worse in the long run. Smoking can worsen anxiety symptoms and irritate the lungs. Alcohol can also trigger anxiety and lead to dependence, which can create a whole new set of problems.

Research shows that both smoking and alcohol can worsen chronic stress and anxiety, especially for those with underlying mental health conditions.

Quitting smoking and alcohol is a smart decision for your overall health and can be a significant step towards managing your anxiety naturally.

6. Chamomile tea for relaxation

Since you’re cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, you might be looking for healthy alternatives to help you relax. Here’s a great option: chamomile tea!

This tea contains a compound called Matricaria recutita, which has natural calming properties. Chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and even improve your sleep quality.

5 Ways Chamomile Tea Benefits Your Health

7. Breathe or rest to reduce anxiety

Anxiety attacks can be really frightening. Your heart races, and it feels like you can’t catch your breath. Here’s a simple trick to calm yourself down: deep breathing exercises.

When you take slow, deep breaths, you signal your body to relax. It’s hard to feel anxious and relaxed at the same time. There are many breathing exercises out there, but here’s a basic one to try:

Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
Hold your breath for a count of four.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four. Repeat this process as many times as you need to feel yourself calming down.

8. Meditation for inner peace

Meditation is an age-old practice that’s been shown to be very effective in reducing chronic stress and anxiety. There are many meditation apps available that can guide you through exercises to help lower your stress levels and regulate your breathing during an anxiety attack.

Meditation helps you gain control over your body and mind, giving you the tools you need to manage your anxiety naturally.

How to Reduce Anxiety and Get Back to Being Your Best Self | The Art of Living

9. Aromatherapy to reduce anxiety

Aromatherapy is another great approach to managing anxiety naturally. It’s an ancient practice that uses essential oils and plant extracts to promote overall well-being. Anxiety attacks can strike at any time, including at night, making it difficult to sleep.

Certain essential oils can help you relax, improve your mood, and get a better night’s rest. Lavender, bergamot, ylang-ylang, clary sage, and grapefruit are all known for their calming properties.

When anxiety disrupts your sleep, try diffusing these oils, adding a few drops to your bath, or inhaling them directly. You might be surprised at how effective they can be.

Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage - Este Spa | Este Spa & Hammam

BUSINESS

Employment Will Teach You These 10 Lessons

Published

1 week ago

May 5, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Employment Will Teach You These Lessons | Fab.ng

Employment, or working for a living, can be a double-edged sword.

Sure, employment is a great way to achieve financial security and independence. It allows you to pay your bills, afford the things you need and want, and build a nest egg for the future. But let’s be honest, it also comes with challenges you might not expect when you’re first starting out.

Let’s explore these employment lessons below:

1. Startup costs can be a hurdle

You start a job to earn money, but you also need money upfront for things like professional work clothes, reliable transportation to get to and from work, and maybe even some basic office supplies. It can feel ironic that you invest your own money just to be able to make more money at your new job.

2. The Monday blues can hit hard

If you’re not passionate about your job and employment, Mondays can feel especially dreadful. It’s tough to be motivated and energised to tackle a long week of tasks you don’t enjoy, even if the work itself is relatively easy. This can affect your overall mood and productivity.

3. Making ends meet can be a constant juggling act

You work diligently every day, putting in your hours and effort. But depending on your employment salary, your paycheck might only come once a month.

This can make it challenging to budget effectively and ensure you have enough money to cover all your expenses throughout the entire month. It might require some creativity and financial planning to stretch your paycheck as far as possible.

4. Payday loans can become a trap

If you’re not careful with your money management and overspend throughout the month, you might find yourself broke before your next paycheck arrives. It can be tempting to resort to payday loans or credit cards to cover your essential expenses until payday.

However, these options often come with high interest rates and fees, which can trap you in a cycle of debt and make it even harder to manage your finances in the long run.

5. Your well-being is paramount

When you’re desperate for a job and trying to get your foot in the door, you might downplay the importance of work-life balance and readily agree to work under pressure on your resume. But a job that constantly stresses you out and takes a toll on your mental health might not be worth it in the long run.

There are some things money can’t buy, like peace of mind, good health, and strong relationships. It’s important to get employment that offers a healthy work-life balance and doesn’t come at the expense of your well-being.

6. The side hustle can be a lifesaver

When your income from your main job isn’t enough to cover your bills and your desired lifestyle, you might find yourself brainstorming ways to make more money on the side.

This could involve starting a freelance business, taking on a part-time gig, or exploring other avenues to supplement your income.

The extra income can help you achieve your financial goals faster, reduce financial stress, and give you more breathing room in your budget.

7. Health truly is wealth

One unexpected illness or injury can wipe out your savings quickly. Medical bills and medications can be very expensive, and even basic health insurance might not cover everything. This makes staying healthy even more important.

Taking preventative measures like eating healthy, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can help you avoid costly health problems down the road.

8. Relaxation is key to avoiding burnout

If you don’t take breaks and prioritise relaxation, you might get sick, which can be a financial burden due to missed workdays and medical bills.

It’s important to schedule time for vacations, hobbies, and activities that help you de-stress and recharge. A well-rested and relaxed employee is a more productive and resilient employee in the long run.

9. Sometimes privacy is necessary

Depending on your social circle and financial situation, you might try to hide the fact that you have a job, especially if people around you constantly ask for money.

You might avoid them to escape the pressure to lend them money or give financial handouts. This can be a way to protect your financial security and avoid feeling taken advantage of.

10. Appreciation for your parents grows

Seeing how quickly money comes and goes can make you appreciate your parents more. You realise it wasn’t easy for them to provide for you when you were younger.

They likely had to make sacrifices and manage their finances carefully to make ends meet. This newfound understanding can bring you closer to your parents and give you greater respect for their hard work.

Even though having employment has its challenges, it doesn’t mean being unemployed is better. Life can be tough, but you can learn to develop strong financial habits, find a job that aligns with your values, and prioritise your well-being to navigate the complexities of working life.

For more articles like this, visit here.