HEALTHY LIVING

See 4 Reasons Men Prefer To Suffer In Silence

Published

8 months ago

April 13, 2024

See Reasons Men Prefer To Suffer In Silence | Fab.ng

Society often sends mixed messages about masculinity. On the one hand, emotions are a fundamental part of the human experience, something everyone shares. Yet, there’s a strange rule book for men when it comes to expressing their feelings. Phrases like “man up” and “don’t cry” become ingrained from a young age, creating a pressure cooker situation. This makes men suffer in silence.

Men are expected to be these emotionless superheroes, bottling things up to avoid being seen as weak. But this bottled-up approach can have serious consequences for men’s mental and emotional well-being.

Here’s a deeper dive into why men might feel pressure to suppress their emotions and suffer in silence:

1. The Myth of Mr. Invincible

Society has constructed a myth of masculinity that revolves around stoicism and emotional detachment. Showing vulnerability or admitting to struggles is seen as a sign of weakness.

This narrative creates a double bind for men. They’re expected to be these invincible protectors and providers, yet they’re expected to do it all without a single crack in the armour.

This emotional repression can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness, as men may feel unable to connect with others on a deeper level.

2. The Lone Wolf blues

Traditionally, men have been expected to be self-sufficient problem-solvers. The “lone wolf” image is often glorified, portraying men who handle everything on their own as the epitome of strength.

Asking for help is seen as a weakness, pushing men further into isolation when they might really need support. This can prevent men from seeking help for mental health issues, which are just as common in men as they are in women.

3. Macho Misconceptions

Our narrow view of masculinity only allows for a limited range of emotions. It’s okay to be aggressive and competitive, but showing compassion or vulnerability? Not so much. This skewed perception not only limits men’s emotional vocabulary but can also lead to feelings of shame or confusion.

Men might experience a range of emotions but feel pressured to suppress anything that doesn’t fit the narrow definition of “manly.” This can be incredibly damaging to their emotional well-being.

4. The Cycle of Silence

The less men talk about their struggles, the more alone they feel. It’s a vicious cycle where men enforce these impossible standards on each other while also suffering under them.

Seeing other men bottle up their emotions reinforces the idea that this is the only acceptable way to behave. This silence makes it difficult for men to seek help or connect with others on a deeper level.

Breaking free from this silence requires a big cultural shift. We need to redefine strength to include the courage to be vulnerable and seek help when you need it. It’s about changing the conversation, one at a time, and creating a space where men feel comfortable opening up without fear.

True strength lies not in silence but in the courage to be honest about your feelings and connect with others. It won’t happen overnight, but acknowledging the problem is the first step. By understanding and challenging these ideas, we can build a healthier society where men are encouraged to express their full range of emotions.

This not only benefits men but strengthens the social fabric as a whole, fostering stronger connections and a more supportive environment for everyone.

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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.

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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.

HEALTHY LIVING

How To Stop Snoring When Sleeping

Published

4 weeks ago

November 23, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

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.

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