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Two separate recent Nigerian studies investigated and found Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in disposable menstrual pads. But what are VOCs? Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature — meaning they turn into gas or vapor readily, releasing molecules into the air. VOCs often have noticeable smells — think fresh paint, new carpet, nail polish remover, gasoline. VOCs range from harmless (plant scents) to harmful (industrial solvents), depending on the type and exposure level. What the Research Says In two separate studies conducted by the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), high amounts of VOCs were reported to be found in a number of sanitary pads across Nigeria.  In the first research, “ Risk Assessment of Aromatic Volatile Organic Compounds in Disposable Sanitary Pads Sold in FCT and Selected States in Nigeria ,” 65 pad samples were analysed using static headspace gas chromatography. The report stated tha...

As of 2023, palm oil makes up 39.4% of global vegetable oil production suggesting an increasing rise in the demand for and production of palm oil across the globe. This rise in palm oil demands goes beyond West Africa, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand where it is heavily produced and used. This rise in use isn't without a connection to the numerous health benefits of palm oil (refined or unrefined). What is palm oil? Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil extracted from the fruit of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis). It's actually two different oils in one plant: crude palm oil comes from pressing the fleshy fruit, while palm kernel oil comes from crushing the seed inside. It's naturally reddish-orange in its unrefined state (from high beta-carotene content) and semi-solid at room temperature, which makes it useful in food processing. Is Palm Oil Good or Bad? Refined or unrefined (red) Palm oil roughly contains 50% saturated fat. A major meta-analysis of clinical trials ...

Lycopene is a red carotenoid pigment responsible for the color of tomatoes, watermelon, pink guava, and several other fruits. It is one of the most potent dietary antioxidants and has been extensively studied for its potential role in heart health, skin health, and prostate enlargement and prostate cancer prevention .  Before delving into the specific foods high in lycopene, let's have a look at some of the health benefits of lycopene.  Benefits of Lycopene 1. May Help Protect Against prostate Cancer The strongest evidence exists for prostate cancer. A 2008 study reveal that lycopene inhibits disease progression in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) . The study show that the lycopene supplementation given to patients at 15 mg/d for 6 months decreased prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in men. 2. May Support Heart Health Higher lycopene intake has been associated with lower cardiovascular disease risk and improved vascular function. A 2021 critical review of th...

Amongst the top 5 foods highest in lycopene , tomatoes are among the richest dietary sources of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant responsible for their bright red color. Over the last two decades, researchers have investigated whether lycopene can help prevent prostate cancer and support prostate health in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. The findings are promising!!!  What Is Lycopene? Lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid found mainly in certain foods such as: Tomatoes Tomato paste Tomato sauce Watermelon Pink grapefruit Guava Lycopene acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals that may damage cells and contribute to inflammation, aging, and cancer development. Tomatoes and Prostate Cancer Prevention: What Does Science Say? A 2013 systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology concluded that higher tomato and lycopene intake was associated with ...

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. Palm oil is also one of the many food sources of lycopen...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Eating nitrate-filled foods, engaging in intermittent fasting, getting light therapy, and taking supplements are all natural ways to boost nitric oxide , the miracle molecule. Much more than the aforementioned ways, engaging in some particular exercises can help you boost nitric oxide naturally. To better understand nitric oxide and the exercises that can help us boost this miracle gas naturally, this article we will answer the following questions: What does nitric oxide do for the body    Which exercise increases nitric oxide Nitric Oxide Dump Breathing Exercises What are the benefits of nitric oxide workout? What does nitric oxide do for the body? Nitric oxide is a gas naturally produced by the body. It acts as a signaling molecule, meaning it helps the cells communicate and perform certain functions, especially in the heart, blood vessels, muscles, and brain. Im summary, here are the 7 main benefits of nitric oxide (NO): 1. NO Improves Blood Flow NO helps blood vessels rela...