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How to Spot Fake or Adulterated Palm Oil in Nigerian Markets

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A recent Punch newspaper investigation reveals a growing public health concern: adulterated palm oil is now widespread in major Nigerian markets . Traders in cities like Lagos have been mixing genuine palm oil with water, industrial dyes and harmful chemicals to increase profit margins. According to the report, these chemicals—including Sudan and azo dyes, which are banned as food colourants in many countries—pose serious health risks , including organ damage and increased cancer risk. The practice has been observed openly in markets such as Otto Market and Mile 12, where sellers admit that dye-treated oil is common and often sold as “premium” palm oil. Experts warn that consumers must exercise caution and learn how to tell real palm oil from adulterated products.  Why This Matters Palm oil is a staple in Nigerian cooking—from ofada stew to efo riro —and is expected to have a rich, reddish-orange colour and distinct aroma. However, the addition of industrial dyes and chemicals t...

Hard Stool Stuck at the Anus? Quick Home Remedies Fast Constipation Relief

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Medical Disclaimer : The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of a doctor or other licensed health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read here. Constipation is uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes painful—especially when dry, hard stool becomes stuck at the anus. This condition, often called rectal fecal impaction, can make bowel movements difficult and even frightening. The good news is that there are safe, effective home remedies and over-the-counter treatments that can provide fast relief . This comprehensive guide explains how to relieve constipation quickly, soften hard stool, and safely pass stool without excessive straining. What Causes Hard, Dr...

How to Get Nigeria Tax Identification Number Online for Free

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Nigeria is tightening regulations: soon, individual bank transactions may be limited if you don’t have a TIN. Getting your TIN now ensures you maintain full access to financial services, avoid penalties, and stay tax-compliant. What Is a TIN? A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a 10-digit code issued via the Joint Tax Board (JTB). It uniquely identifies you for tax purposes — similar to how your BVN works in banking. Why You Should Apply With a TIN, you can : Open certain bank accounts Apply for government jobs, tenders, or contracts Facilitate visa applications Claim tax refunds Prove your tax compliance Avoid heavy tax deductions Prevent penalties tied to non-registration How to Freely Register for Your TIN Online In Minutes Here is a step by step instructions of how to register and get your TIN online in Nigeria for free: Step 1: Visit the Official Portal Go to the JTB TIN portal Step 2: Choose Your Registration Type Individual: For salaried workers, freelancers, etc. Click on the ...

Stomach ulcer cure: science-back treatments for peptic ulcer

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Treating stomach (peptic) ulcers has been the most common theme around the medical world. This sounds as though there can't be a total healing from this condition. With the advancement made in medical research over the decade, it has been scientifically ascertained that healing of stomach ulcer is possible. This guide will take a look at: What a stomach ulcer is The possible causes of a stomach ulcer, and Science-back healing treatment for a peptic ulcer What's a stomach ulcer? A stomach ulcer (also called a gastric or peptic ulcer ) is a sore or open wound that forms on the inner lining of the stomach.  To simplify this, one can imagine the stomach as a cooking pot lined with a special protective coating so the acid inside doesn’t burn the wall of the stomach. So, a stomach ulcer is like a small wound or sore in that mucus-like lining. When this mucus-like coating gets damaged or broken, acid gets to the wall of the stomach and starts irritating the spot. So what's the cau...

How to make Sauerkraut at home and its health benefits

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What's so special about sauerkraut that has prompted the need to know how sauerkraut is made? Well, let's examine some of its health benefits to determine whether the hype around this food is justified. Health Benefits of Sauerkraut 1. Rich in probiotics (good bacteria) Sauerkraut contains lactic acid bacteria that help balance gut microbes. A study in Food Microbiology (2007) found freshly homemade fermented sauerkraut can contain around 10⁷ to 10⁹ CFU (colony forming units) per gram of lactic acid bacteria (mainly Lactobacillus) . That means a tablespoon (15 g) could have 100 million to several billion probiotics. A 2019 study published in Frontiers in Microbiology also showed that foods very high in probiotics like sauerkraut can improve gut health and digestion . 2. Improves digestion Probiotics in sauerkraut help reduce bloating, constipation, and improve nutrient absorption. A pilot study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology (2014) found probiotics from sauerkr...

7 plant-based foods with better protein than eggs for vegans

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Do you know a single average-size egg offers about 6 grams of protei n? but many plant and animal alternatives provide significantly more protein per 100 grams—and sometimes, a more robust nutrient profile, too. Since eggs have around 12 grams of protein per 100 grams (two large eggs are equal to about 100 grams), they seem like the go-to-guy for protein. However, eggs are typically avoided by vegans and vegetarians alike due to some environmental and health concerns. To source for proteins outside eggs, here’s a detailed breakdown of plant-based foods that contain more protein than eggs including other health benefits, in no particular order: 1. Soybeans  Cooked soybeans contain 16.6g protein per 100g servings. It also contains all 9 essential amino acids. With soybeans rich in isoflavones , it supports heart health and hormonal balance. Also high in fiber, calcium, and iron, soybeans can be boiled, used in stew, stir-fries, or make soy milk or soybean paste. 2. Tempeh  Tempe...

How to beat hunger during intermittent fasting

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Practicing time-restricted eating (TRE) or intermittent fasting for the first time can really be challenging. One of its challenges is having food cravings during fasting hours, which, at times, could make you feel weak, hungry, and dizzy.  In this guide we discuss some proven ways to help curb hunger and food cravings during intermittent fasting 1. Always stay hydrated Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Sometimes hunger is just dehydration in disguise, so staying hydrated can help trick your stomach ghrelin (ghrelin is a hormone that regulates hunger and fullness) to reduce cravings.  To enhance taste: You can also add one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in water and drink the mixture. Add a slice of lemon or cucumber (no sugar). 2. Drink herbal tea, black coffee or cocoa Sipping on herbal tea, apple cider vinegar, or black coffee (without sugar or cream) can help suppress appetite and provide a temporary energy boost. These are natural appetite suppressants...