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Our African Champagne (The Wonders of Zobo)

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Pre-Amble:
Roselle(Hibiscus) has been used in folk medicine as a diuretic and mild laxative, as well as in treating cancer and cardiac and nerve diseases. Although information is limited, the potential for hibiscus use in treating hypertension and cancer, as well as for its lipid-lowering and renal effects, are being investigated.
It is high in calcium, niacin, riboflavin, vitamin C and iron. The beverage has no caffeine. In East Africa, “Sudan tea” is consumed as medicine to cure coughs. In Guatamala, roselle is believed to cure hangovers. In Senegal, a roselle extract is said to lower blood pressure. In India, Africa and Central America, infusions made from roselle calyces or seeds are prescribed as a diuretic, to stimulate bile production and to treat fever.
Now, What’s New?
Zobo drink has been described as a local drink that helps in lowering blood pressure as it contains an enzyme inhibitor which blocks the production of Amylase. Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down complex sugars and starches. Drinking a cup of hisbicus tea or zobo after meals is said to reduce the absorption of dietary carbohydrates and assist in weight loss.
It is rich in Vitamin C and makes a wonderful herbal remedy to fight off colds and infections.
In addition, hibiscus tea helps to prevent kidney stones, according to a study reported in the May 2008 issue of The Journal of Ethnopharmacology. The study showed that hibiscus tea improved the kidney’s ability to filter out the waste product — uric acid and oxalic acid, both of which can form kidney stones if they accumulate to excessively high levels.
In addition to its natural blessedness, fermentation is a process zobo passes through and thisintroduces microorganisms which process the original product to churn out more nutrients and phytochemicals which nourish the body.
Please Do Not Drink a Drum of The Thing!
However, although hibiscus seems to be safe for most people, research findings show that it is unsafe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Real news findings also reveal that the drink has no harmful effect on the liver but when consumed in high doses could be harmful to the kidney.
Here’s a Quick Recipe on how to Prepare a Healthful and Delicious Jug of Zobo Drink:
Ingredients::::
• 150g Zobo leaves
• 7 Liters water
• 30g Dry ginger or Fresh ginger
• 3 tbsps. Cloves a.k.a Konofiri
• 1 Large Pineapple
• Artificial flavors and sweeteners such as (foster Clark’s Pineapple flavor, jolly juice e.t.c) -Optional.
• Sugar Cane or Honey – Optional (You can substitute with Sugar)
Directions:::
Step 1: Before peeling the pineapple, wash the skin thoroughly and rinse with clean water. You can use both the inner part and the outer skin to get added flavor. (P.S: Use the skin only if you are sure of how it was stored or if it’s been thoroughly washed.) Peel and Dice the fruit – Set aside
Step 2: Wash the dry leaves of the hibiscus severally with cold water. This is because the leaves are often times dirty due to the way they are stored. Once you’re done washing, place the washed leaves in a large pot and add the water and turn on your burner.
Step 3: Add the chunks of pineapple, ginger and Cloves (Konofiri). The taste of the zobo really intensifies when it’s boiled with the ingredients unlike when its left to steep. Leave to boil for about 25mins.
Step 4: Sieve out the extract into a bowl and leave the drink to cool. The boiled leaves in the pot can still be reused till the red color of the zobo totally reduces. You’d know when the red color becomes less intense.
Step 5: This is supposed to be a health drink so i ensure i use only natural sweeteners and flavors like honey, sugar cane juice, pineapple juice etc. Alternatively if you don’t have the natural juices, you can substitute with Artificial flavors and sweeteners such as Foster clarks flavor, Nutri C, jolly juice e.t.c.
Step 6: Refrigerate and serve cold. ( Recipe Culled fromwww.Dobbyssignature.com).
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My Adventure with The Woman with the Plantain Flour

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I was at a store today to do a little shopping when I saw a woman come in to get packaged unripe plantain flour. I casually asked her what for and she told me her mother suffered from diabetes and had this recommendation from a friend. I did not bother to ask what qualifications this friend had but made a resolve to get a clearer understanding of what properties unripe plantain flour could contain that makes it a more workable substitute to the conventional wheat flour for diabetics. Y’all know i’m not one to hoard, so here you go:

1.) Firstly and foremost, unripe plantain is essentially made of unrefined carbohydrates (complex sugars) which release energy slower into the blood stream, therefore providing longer sustenance while raising the blood sugar only slightly per time.
2.) Unripe plantains are filled with dietary fiber which adds bulk to stool, reduces the risk of constipation and binds to sugars and carcinogens in the G.I.T and disposing of them through faeces.
3.) They contain no GLUTEN which is aan allergen and in summary the criminal content of wheat.
4.) Plantains in general are famed to be diuretics which can prevent kidney and bladder problems and also rescue people from fluid retention (Oedema).
5.) They are good sources of vitamin c, B-complex vitamins (particularly B6) and other minerals such as magnesium, potassium and an ADEQUATE amount of iron. Now, heart diseases are a well known complication of diabetes and these minerals are heart healthy.
6.) Obessity could spell disaster for a diabetic. The dietary fiber and complex carbohydrate content of unripe plantains are a great remedy for weight loss.
Other Reasons to Indulge are:
1.) Plantains have more vitamin C than bananas. Consumption of foods rich in vitamin-C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful oxygen-free radicals.
2.) Plantains have more vitamin A than bananas. In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, vitamin A plays a vital role in the visual cycle, maintaining healthy mucus membranes, and enhancing skin complexion.
3.) As in bananas, they too are rich sources of B-complex vitamins, particularly high in vitamin-B6 (pyridoxine). Pyridoxine is an important B-complex vitamin that has a beneficial role in the treatment of neuritis, anemia, and to decrease homocystine (one of the causative factors for coronary artery disease (CHD) and stroke episodes) levels in the body.
4.) Plantains also contain folates, niacin, riboflavin and thiamin. Folates (folic acid) are essential for healthy pregnancy.
5.) Plantains ease the discomfort associated with the menstrual period.
-To make Plantain flour, simply dehydrate (or sun dry) raw unripe plantains, mill and sieve into a powder. Prepare the same way as semolina(use less water).
I’m not giving wheat flour a bad rap; it definitely does have its attractions as well. I’m just providing a substitute, an alternate; probably an even healthier one to wheat flour. Alright, have a wonderful evening.
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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ORANGES

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Oranges’ Healing Power (Phytochemicals):
In recent research studies, the healing properties of oranges have been associated with a wide variety of phytonutrient compounds. These phytonutrients includecitrus flavanones(types of flavonoids that include the moleculeshesperetinandnaringenin),anthocyanins,hydroxycinnamic acids, and a variety of polyphenols. When these phytonutrients are studied in combination with oranges—vitamin C, the significant antioxidant properties of this fruit are understandable.
A Glass of Orange Juice More Protective than Vitamin C Alone
Consuming vitamin C supplements does not provide the same protective benefits as drinking a glass of orange juice, shows research by Italian researchers in the Division of Human Nutrition at the University of Milan, Italy.
Said lead researcher, Serena Guarnieri, “It appears that vitamin C is not the only chemical responsible for antioxidant protection.” In oranges, vitamin C is part of a matrix involving many beneficial phytochemicals (for example, cyanidin-3-glucoside, flavanones and carotenoids). Owing to the multitude of vitamin C’s health benefits, it is not surprising that research has shown that consumption of vegetables and fruits high in this nutrient is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes including heart disease, stroke and cancer.
Protection against Cardiovascular Disease
The World Health Organization’s recent draft report, “Diet, Nutrition and the Prevention of Chronic Disease,” concludes that a diet that features citrus fruits also offers protection against cardiovascular disease due to folate, which is necessary for lowering levels of the cardiovascular risk factor, homocysteine; their potassium which helps lower blood pressure, protecting against stroke and cardiac arrhythmias; and the vitamin C, carotenoids and flavonoids found in citrus fruits, all of which have been identified as having protective cardiovascular effects.Free radicals also oxidize cholesterol. Only after being oxidized does cholesterol stick to the artery walls, building up in plaques that may eventually grow large enough to impede or fully block blood flow, or rupture to cause a heart attack or stroke. Since vitamin C can neutralize free radicals, it can help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol.
Vitamin C, which is also vital for the proper function of a healthy immune system, is good for preventing colds and may be helpful in preventing recurrent ear infections.
A Glass of Orange Juice More Protective than Vitamin C Alone
Consuming vitamin C supplements does not provide the same protective benefits as drinking a glass of orange juice, shows research by Italian researchers in the Division of Human Nutrition at the University of Milan, Italy.
Said lead researcher, Serena Guarnieri, “It appears that vitamin C is not the only chemical responsible for antioxidant protection.” In oranges, vitamin C is part of a matrix involving many beneficial phytochemicals (for example, cyanidin-3-glucoside, flavanones and carotenoids). Owing to the multitude of vitamin C’s health benefits, it is not surprising that research has shown that consumption of vegetables and fruits high in this nutrient is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes including heart disease, stroke and cancer.
Protection against Cardiovascular Disease
The World Health Organization’s recent draft report, “Diet, Nutrition and the Prevention of Chronic Disease,” concludes that a diet that features citrus fruits also offers protection against cardiovascular disease due to folate, which is necessary for lowering levels of the cardiovascular risk factor, homocysteine; their potassium which helps lower blood pressure, protecting against stroke and cardiac arrhythmias; and the vitamin C, carotenoids and flavonoids found in citrus fruits, all of which have been identified as having protective cardiovascular effects.
Possible Cholesterol-Lowering Benefits
Lab tests indicate that human liver cells produce less apo B when exposed to limonin. Apo B is a structural protein that is part of the LDL cholesterol molecule and is needed for LDL production, transport and binding, so higher levels of apo B translate to higher levels of LDL cholesterol.Arguably, the most importantflavanonein oranges,herperidinhas been shown to lower high blood pressure as well as cholesterol in animal studies, and to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Importantly, most of this phytonutrient is found in the peel and inner white pulp of the orange, rather than in its liquid orange center, so this beneficial compound is too often removed by the processing of oranges into juice.
Compounds in Orange Peel May Lower Cholesterol as Effectively as Statin Drugs
A class of compounds found in citrus fruit peels called polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) have the potential to lower cholesterol more effectively than some prescription drugs, and without side effects, according to a study by U.S. and Canadian researchers that was published in theJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Although a variety of citrus fruits contain PMFs, the most common PMFs, tangeretin and nobiletin, are found in the peels of tangerines and oranges. Juices of these fruits also contain PMFs, but in much smaller amounts. In fact, you’d have to drink about 20 glasses of juice each day to receive an amount of PMFs comparable in humans to that given to the animals. However, grating a tablespoon or so of the peel from a well-scrubbed organic tangerine or orange each day and using it to flavor tea, salads, salad dressings, yogurt or even rice may be a practical way of achieving some cholesterol-lowering benefits.
The researchers are currently exploring the mechanism of action by which PMFs lower cholesterol. Based on early results in cell and animal studies, they suspect that PMFs work like statin drugs, by inhibiting the synthesis of cholesterol and triglycerides inside the liver.
A Very Good Source of Fiber
Oranges’ health benefits continue with their fiber, which has been shown to reduce high cholesterol levels thus helping to prevent atherosclerosis. Fiber can also help out by keeping blood sugar levels under control, which may help explain why oranges can be a very healthy snack for people with diabetes. In addition, the natural fruit sugar in oranges, fructose, can help to keep blood sugar levels from rising too high after eating. The fiber in oranges can grab cancer-causing chemicals and keep them away from cells of the colon, providing yet another line of protection from colon cancer. And the fiber in oranges may be helpful for reducing the uncomfortable constipation or diarrhea in those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
In addition to oranges’ phytonutrients, vitamin C, and fiber, they are a good source of folate, vitamin A (in the form of carotenoids), vitamin B1, potassium, copper, pantothenic acid, and calcium.
Prevent Kidney Stones
Want to reduce your risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones? Drink orange juice. A study published in theBritish Journal of Nutritionfound that when women drank 1/2 to 1 litre of orange, grapefruit or apple juice daily, their urinary pH value and citric acid excretion increased, significantly dropping their risk of forming calcium oxalate stones.
Help Prevent Ulcers and Reduce Risk for Stomach Cancer
An orange a day may help keep ulcers away, according to a study published in theJournal of the American College of Nutrition.Researchers are uncertain whether H. pylori lowers blood levels of vitamin C or if high blood levels of vitamin C help protect against infection—either way, eating an orange or drinking a glass of orange juice each day may help prevent gastric ulcers.
Diabetes
Oranges are high in fiber, which can help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 1 diabetes and improve blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association lists oranges, along with other citrus fruits, as a superfood for people with diabetes.
Digestion and weight loss
Oranges are high in fiber, which aids in digestion by keeping you regular. It is also good for weight loss. Oranges are a low-fat, nutrient-rich food with a low glycemic index, which make it an ideal food to consume to protect against obesity, which can lead to other diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke.
Vision
Oranges are vitamin A rich. This nutrient contains carotenoid compounds like lutein, beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, which can help prevent age-related macular degeneration, an incurable condition that blurs central vision. Vitamin A also helps your eyes absorb light, and it improves night vision. Furthermore, the American Optometric Association reports that vitamin C can help reduce the risk of cataracts and may slow the progression of macular degeneration.
Dangers of Consuming too Many Oraanges:
Oranges are great for you, but you should enjoy them in moderation. When eaten in excess, the greater fiber content can effect digestion, causing abdominal cramps and could also lead to diarrhea.
Though oranges are relatively low in calories, eating several of the fruits in a day can add up and may lead to weight gain. It is also possible to have too much vitamin C (more than 2,000 mg a day). An excess of this nutrient may lead to diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, bloating or cramps, headaches, insomnia, or kidney stones.
Because they are a high-acid food, oranges can contribute to heartburn, especially for those who already suffer [from heartburn] regularly. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD, also called acid reflux disease) may experience heartburn or regurgitation if they eat too many oranges.
People who are taking beta-blockers should be careful not to consume too many oranges. These medicines increase potassium levels and, if mixed with too many potassium-rich foods like oranges and bananas, can lead to an excess of potassium in the body. This is a significant concern for people whose kidneys are not fully functional, as the additional potassium will not be effectively removed from the body.
A Quick Serving Idea
Healthy sauté onions and ginger, and then deglaze the pan with orange juice. Use this liquid as a sauce for salmon or tuna.
Practical Tip: For the best DNA protection, skip the vitamin C—fortified bottled drinks and enjoy a glass of real (preferably organic as organic foods have been shown to contain higher amounts of phytonutrients), freshly squeezed orange juice—or simply eat an orange!.
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WHAT YOU PROBABLY DONT KNOW ABOUT CUCUMBERS

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Cucumbers, like all vegetables are chuck full of micro nutrients and fiber, that is basic knowledge. The watery crunchers have also been found to bear some other health benefits which most of you may not know. Well, what am I here for!?!
WHAT YOU KNOW:
Cucumbers like water melons are 95% water and are full of micronutrients with little room for calories, carbohydrates and fat. They are also marvelous detoxifiers and are great to get the urinary system moving. The potassium, magnesium and fiber content of the veggies are great in combating high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular problems. They keep the digestive system going and help in alleviating constipation. Cucumbers are also great for weight watchers and loosers..an absolute miracle.
WHAT YOU PROBABLY DONT KNOW
Cucumbers have been found to contain three lignans (lariciresinol, pinoresinol and secooisolariciresinol) that research has shown to keep the heart healthy and strong.

Cucumbers contain aa hormone needed by cells of the pancreas to produce insulin. This hormone has been found to be beneficial to diabetic patients. Compounds in cucumber seeds aallso help to control blood sugar levels. A study in 2011 shows that alkaline diets have been linked to more energy balance and in reduction in major degenerative diseases.
Cucumbers are great for your nails. It does this through a large amount of silica it possesses which can help in getting rid of splitting and spoiling end of your nails. This is also relevant in hair growth and sheen; in lieu of its sulphur and siilicon content, hair specialists recommend a mixture with carrot and spinach and lettuce to work wonders!
It is also useful in dissolution of bladder and kidney stones. It also helps in reduction of. Uric acid levels and when mixed with carrot juice can do a lot for the person with joint pain and arthritis.
Recently, cucumbers have been found to contain aa phytonutrient known as CUCURBITACIN. Cucurbitacin A, B, C,D and E have been determined by researchers to block several different signaling pathways required for cancer cells to grow.
Guess what???..It can be used to prevent hangovers!.m. Nutrients like B vitamins, sugars and electrolytes greatly reduce the intensity of a hangover after a drinking bout.
How To Enjoy:
Use half-inch thick cucumber slices as petite serving dishes for chopped vegetable salads.
For refreshing cold gazpacho soup, simply puree cucumbers, tomatoes, green peppers and onions then add salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled!
Cucumber juice extracts also taste great with carrot juice.
Take a knife and indulge in this crunchy, watery guy.. don’t forget to take everything including the outter greenish flesh, that’s where most of the wonder is!..
Have a great evening!
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EAT YOUR OATS

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Whole grains such as oats are often recommended for their beneficial effects on the gastrointestinal tract. The role that beneficial bacteria in the human digestive tract play in human health is an area of great interest, with potential health effects ranging from immune health to reducing risk for obesity and chronic disease.
CARDIOVASCULAR BENEFITS
A review of the most recent and compelling studies on oats and oat bran and cardiovascular disease risk factors concluded that oats and oat bran lower total cholesterol and LDL-C by respectively 2-19 percent and 4-23 percent; the effects are particularly prominent among people with high cholesterol levels.Oatmeal also contains a special type of antioxidant called avenanthramide. Avenanthramides fight off free radicals that attack high-density lipoproteins, or HDL (good cholesterol). They also protect LDL cholesterol from oxidizing from copper, which reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.The cholesterol-lowering effect of oat beta-glucan depends on its viscosity in the small intestine, and therefore its molecular weight. A high molecular weight means it can be released from the food matrix during digestion and form a viscous gel inside the small intestine.
PREVENTS WEIGHT GAIN:
Oats are a miracle for those who want to loose weight!. Beta-glucans helps prevent weight gain by providing satiety for a longer period of time thereby delaying hunger while the body makes use of fat reserves.
BLOOD GLUCOSE STABILIZATION
Oats are high in fiber which help in stabilizing blood sugar. This is especially relevant to diabetics who require blood glucose regulation.Aside from fiber, oatmeal is also a good source of magnesium, which regulates the body’s insulin and glucose levels. To up the ante, add milk to the oatmeal. The boost of low-fat dairy can also lower the risk for diabetes.
PREVENTS THE ARTERIES FROM HARDENING Avenanthramides not only protect against heart disease, they also prevent the arteries from hardening. Those antioxidants suppress the production of molecules that allow monocytes to adhere to the walls of the arteries. Research has shown that postmenopausal women who eat six servings of whole grains a week reduced their risk of developing atherosclerosis, which is the build-up of plaque along the passageways of the arteries, and slowed the progression of stenosis, which causes the passageways of the arteries to narrow. When paired with vitamin C, the cardiovascular benefits of oatmeal are enhanced, so drink a glass of orange juice or eat some citrus with your oatmeal.
BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM
Oatmeals’ beta-glucan fiber protects against heart disease and also keeps the immune system active. It helps the immune cells seek out and repair areas or the body that may be fighting a bacterial infection.
OATS AND HANGOVERS
Oats can neutralise acidity levels and help absorb toxins. As hangovers are the result of the toxins found in alcohol, a bowl of porridge can genuinely help to relieve the symptoms. Oats also contain one of the highest levels of soluble fibre of any cereal, and soluble fibre is essential for healthy digestion. Alcohol reduces sugar levels and the slow-releasing carbohydrates in porridge help redress this. The soluble fibre and complex carbohydrates also found in porridge release energy slowly. So, eating a bowl for breakfast should see you comfortably through to lunch time, even with a hangover.
NATURES OWN VIAGRA
 Porridge oats improve the libido in both men and women by balancing testosterone and oestrogen levels. Basically, low testosterone means low sex drive. If you have this problem then porridge could well be the answer, it’s got to be worth a try.
Oats make a great substitute to pap and can be enjoyed with milk as a filling and nutritious breakfast. To add even more value to the meal, carrots, strawberries and cabbage could be added to it to make your breakfast a complete one.
In all, remember that moderation is key.
A cup of oats (250mls) is about 300kcals; apart from added milk and sugar.
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Recent Study On Hypertension in Nigeria

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A research carried out in Nigeria by scientists from the University of Edinburgh, England, revealed that one in every four Nigerian is at risk of being diagnosed with high blood pressure. High blood pressure – also known as hypertension – which can cause stroke, heart disease and kidney disease, is twice as high in Nigeria compared with other East African countries and very few are aware that they have the condition. The study also revealed that the figure will sharply rise as more Nigerians continue to live like westerners lives until drastic measures are put in place. There were more than 20 million cases of hypertension in Nigeria in 2010, affecting one-in-three men and one-in-four women and researchers predict a rise in figure to 39 million cases by 2030. Their findings have been published in the “Journal of Hypertension” and it is the first up-to-date nationwide estimate showing how hypertension affects Nigerians at an alarming rate.

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The Very Latest on Carrots.

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The Different Health Benefits of Carrots first.

It is well-known that all vegetables are packed with nutrients. Carrots have been widely publicized to virtually “make the blind see” but is that all they do?.. Here’s a rundown of the different health benefits one could gain from eating carrots:
Carrots are naturally rich in vitamins, antioxidants and dietary fiber. They only give 41 calories for every 100 grams, with a negligible fat content and no cholesterol.
Carrots are also rich in vitamin A and beta-carotenes, which help protect people from developing mouth and lung cancers. These compounds, along with flavonoid compounds, help protect the skin too.
Research conducted by the scientists at the University of Newcastle discovered that falcarinol found in carrots may help prevent cancer, as it destroys cells that are pre-cancerous. The study was conducted on laboratory animals.
Fresh carrots are also rich in vitamin C, giving about 9% of the RDA. Vitamin C helps keep the gums, teeth and connective tissues healthy. Its antioxidant properties also help the body be protected from various diseases caused by free radicals.
The root is also rich in B-complex vitamins, such as vitamin B6, folic acid, thiamine and many more. These are co-factors to certain enzymes that are needed for substrate metabolism.
Carotenes are changed by the liver into vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for the maintenance of good vision, sperm production and skin integrity, plus normal growth and development.
Carrots and Cancer Research

Falcarinol is an antioxidant found in carrots and has proven anticancer properties. Researchers in the UK and Denmark reduced cancerous tumors by 1/3 in mice and rats with lab induced cancers.

Additionally, a human study found that consumption of carrot juice increased blood levels of carotenoids in breast cancer survivors. The researchers believe that increased carotenoid blood levels acts as a cancer preventive.

The experiment was conducted using raw carrots so researchers do not yet know if eating boiled carrots or drinking carrot juice, for example, would have the same effect.
Falcarinol is toxic in large amounts but to obtain a lethal dose you would have to eat 400 kilograms of carrots at once. Researchers suspect it is effective because it stimulates mechanisms in the body that fight cancer, although they have yet to carry out a detailed analysis in this respect.

Carrots are full of nutrients, which is why people should include these in their diets. These root crops can help people become healthy as well as prevent the onset of various diseases, including cancer. Young and tender carrots are the best ones, as they are sweet and full of various nutrients.

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COCA-COLA: The Toxic Relief.

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Coca cola has become the most consumed carbonated product in the world. Its refreshing taste and crispy sweet feel has gotten many people near addicted to the thing. You probably don’t know that the toxic and health damaging ingredients used to make this product is what brings that very temporary feel that you near get addicted to. For example, it contains carbonated water, sodium benzoate, citric acid, orthophosphoric acid, aspartame, sodium cyclamate, food coloring and assorted aromas. It is important to look at each of these ingredients in order to truly understand what is included in the drink. Of course, the aromas are basically there to make the drink smell good so you will drink it.

*Orthophosphoric acid is one of the drink’s most abundant ingredients. It is also the most infamous. A scary thing about this particular ingredient is that it is so corrosive that it must be trucked in using special containers in order to guard against the containers becoming corroded by this ingredient. It is a frightening prospect to think of putting anything in your body that is so dangerous that it can corrode steel on contact. However, it is a prevalent ingredient in Coca-Cola. Inside the body, it typically prevents the absorption of calcium, leading to bone density problems. This in turn may lead to more serious problems later on such as osteoporosis and even broken bones. It also adversely affects the eyes and even the skin, often causing painful skin rashes that can lead to infections.

*High Fructose Corn Syrup: This is found in Coca-Cola Classic. It is used too extend it’s shelf life as well as a sweetner. Linked to obessity due to the pervasiveness of its presence, digestion of this substance promotes fat storage in the body.

*Sucralose: This is found in diet coke and is 600 times sweeter than regular sugar preliminary research discovered that it can cause organ damage and intestinal complications as it is removed from the blood stream by the kidneys.

*Saccharin: This is an organic petroleum molecule, 300 times sweeter than sugar and should be avoided during pregnancy. It is used in Diet Coke and can cause brain tumors, cancers and can be especially harmful to children.

*Sodium benzoate: This can be potentially dangerous if you happen to have an allergic reaction to aspirin or if you have asthma. It has a tendency to exacerbate these conditions and can make asthma worse in a matter of seconds. According to Sheffield University in Britain, a study found that it has the ability to deactivate human DNA. The deactivation of DNA may lead to Parkinson’s disease and other diseases that are associated with it. It can also cause cirrhosis of the liver, a potentially fatal disease.

*Coca-Cola Light relies on aspartame in order to get its sweet taste. Aspartame is a sugar substitute which actually breaks down into methanol under certain conditions. When aspartame gets hot enough, it actually has the capability of transforming into the gas methanol, which may cause blindness due to irreversible optic nerve damage. While it is unlikely that it could become that hot in a can of Coca-Cola, one thing that does frequently happen in warm drinks is that it actually turns into formaldehyde. Formaldehyde inside the human body causes a host of potential medical problems. Some people exhibit hearing and memory loss, blurry vision, joint pain, fatigue, headache, nausea, dizziness and even heart palpitations. The high level of phenylalanine and methanol in Aspartame could damage neurons, lead to memory loss, brain tumors and even cancer. Diseases associated with aspartame consumption include chronic fatigue syndrome, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Grave’s disease, multiple sclerosis and even brain tumors.

*Sodium cyclamate: This is an artificial sweetener that was originally banned by the FDA due to evidence that it could cause cancer. However, it was later determined by the World Health Organization that it was safe for human consumption and now appears in Coca-Cola as well as other products. However, the evidence that it has the potential to cause cancer still exists. It also causes infertility in men and diminishes testicles.

What Happens Within 1 hour of Coca-Cola Consumption:
Almost immediately after you finish drinking a can of Coca-Cola, you have what amounts to approximately 10 teaspoons of sugar in your body. It takes all this sugar approximately 20 minutes to cause the insulin in your blood to skyrocket as the liver starts changing the sugar into fat. This fat is then stored in your body and unlike fat from food, it is very difficult to get rid of. Approximately 40 minutes after you have consumed a can of regular Coca-Cola, the caffeine is affecting the body to the greatest extent. This causes your blood pressure and your heart rate to go up. You feel more awake, but you are also jittery and you may become irritable. Almost immediately thereafter, a chemical called dopamine is produced in your brain. This is a chemical that is designed to produce a sense of euphoria. It is also basically the same effect that heroin addicts experience when they shoot up. A few minutes later, and approximately 1 hour after you have consumed a can of Coca-Cola, your metabolism rises, but not in a good way. Zinc, magnesium and calcium are bound by the phosphoric acid contained in the brink. This means that your body is largely unable to use anything in the drink that may be helpful. Virtually all of the calcium in your body is then expelled in your urine. After that, you essentially experience the “crash” that comes after consuming large amounts of sugar because any positive effects have gone, leaving you feeling exhausted and mentally dazed.

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Kale- The Magical Vegetable

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Kale is a leafy green cruciferous vegetable that is chock-full of essential vitaminsA, C and K as well as minerals like copper, potassium, iron, manganese and phosphorus. A cup of fresh kale has only about 40 caloriesbut packs almost 3 grams of protein.
One cup of cooked kale has over 1000% more vitamin C than a cup of cooked spinach and unlike spinach, kale’s oxalate content is very low which means that the calciumand iron in kale are highly absorbable in the human digestive system.

Possible health benefits of consuming kale

Diabetes:Studies have shown that type 1 diabetics who consume high-fiber diets have lower blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetics may have improved blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels. One cup of chopped fresh kale provides about 2.6 grams of fiber.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 21-25 g/day for women and 30-38 g/day for men.
Kale contains an antioxidant known as alpha-lipoic acid, which has been shown to lower glucose levels, increase insulin sensitivity and prevent oxidative stress-induced changes in patients with diabetes. Studies on alpha-lipoic acid have also shown decreases in peripheral neuropathyand/or autonomic neuropathy in diabetics.
Of note, most studies have used intravenous alpha-lipoic acid and it is unsure whether oral supplementation would elicit the same benefits.
Heart disease:The fiber, potassium, vitamin C and B6 content in kale all support heart health. An increase in potassium intake along with a decrease in sodium intake is the most important dietary change that a person can make to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease, according to Mark Houston, M.D., M.S., an associate clinical professor of medicine at Vanderbilt Medical School and director of the Hypertension Institute at St. Thomas Hospital in Tennesse.
For blood pressure, increasing potassium intake may be just as important as decreasing sodium intake for lowering blood pressure because of potassium’s vasodilation effects.
You can count on kale to provide valuable cardiovascular support in terms of its cholesterol-lowering ability. Researchers now understand exactly how this support process works. Our liver uses cholesterol as a basic building block to product bile acids. Bile acids are specialized molecules that aid in the digestion and absorption of fat through a process called emulsification. These molecules are typically stored in fluid form in our gall bladder, and when we eat a fat-containing meal, they get released into the intestine where they help ready the fat for interaction with enzymes and eventual absorption up into the body. When we eat kale, fiber-related nutrients in this cruciferous vegetable bind together with some of the bile acids in the intestine in such a way that they simply stay inside the intestine and pass out of our body in a bowel movement, rather than getting absorbed along with the fat they have emulsified. When this happens, our liver needs to replace the lost bile acids by drawing upon our existing supply of cholesterol, and, as a result, our cholesterol level drops down. Kale provides us with this cholesterol-lowering benefit whether it is raw or cooked. However, a recent study has shown that the cholesterol-lowering ability of raw kale improves significantly when it is steamed. In fact, when the cholesterol-lowering ability of steamed kale was compared with the cholesterol-lowering ability of the prescription drug cholestyramine (a medication that is taken for the purpose of lowering cholesterol), kale bound 42% as many bile acids (based on a standard of comparison involving total dietary fiber).
Cancer:Kale and other green vegetables that contain chlorophyll have been shown to be effective at blocking the carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic amines, which are generated when grilling foods at a high temperature.If you tend to like your grilled foods charred, make sure to pair them with green vegetables to help negate these effects.
Bone health:Low intakes of vitamin K have been associated with a higher risk for bone fracture.Adequate vitamin K consumption is important for good health, as it acts as a modifier of bone matrix proteins, improves calcium absorption and may reduce urinary excretion of calcium.
One cup of kale provides a whopping 550 micrograms of vitamin K, over 680% of our daily needs.
Digestion:Kale is high in fiber and water content, both of which help to prevent constipationand promote regularity and a healthy digestive tract.
Healthy skin and hair:Kale is high in vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production to keep hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair.
Adequate intake of vitamin C, which kale can provide, is needed for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair.
Iron-deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, which can be prevented by an adequate intake of iron-rich foods, like kale.
Kale is now recognised as providing comprehensive support for the body’s detoxification system. New research has shown that the ITCs’ made from glucosinolates can help help regulate detox at a genetic level.
Researchers can now identify over 45 different flavonoids in kale. With Kaemferol and quercetin heading the list, kales’ flavonoids combine both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits in way that kale has a leasing dietary role with respect to avoidance of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.
Risks and precautions
Beta-blockers, a type of medication most commonly prescribed for heart disease, can cause potassium levels to increase in the blood. High potassium foods such as bananas should be consumed in moderation when taking beta-blockers.
Consuming too much potassium can be harmful for those whose kidneys are not fully functional. If your kidneys are unable to remove excess potassium from the blood, it could be fatal.
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Coconut Oil and the Dermatologist

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 COCONUT OIL AND THE DERMATOLOGIST ( Coconut oil with a focus on skin care):

Lol, okay I know the ladies mostlly are gonna laaaawwwv this. A dermatologist once told me that any hair or skin product with coconut oil does magic. Yes, we know coconuts are high in anti-oxidants especially vitamin E which protects the skin from oxidative damage and adds this infinite glow. Let’s see some other reasons why coconut oils are the best choice in keeping a healthy and marvelous skin:
1.) Recent research has shown that the use of coconut oil on the skin improved hydration and kept the skin surface lipids intact. It also stated that when it came to thick, scaly, fissured feet or rough leathery elbows and knees, coconut oil definitely beat regular moisturizer to the finish line.
2.) Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer and with good anti-inflammatory properties ( related to anti-oxidants such as polyphenols) keeps eczema in check, according to Ted Lain.
3.) The combination of anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-bacteriaal and hydrating properties make it truly unique. According to the Advanced Dermatology PC in Westchester, NYC, coconut oil is composed primarily of saturated fats and medium chain fatty acids which not only help to repair the skin barrier and trap water, thus hydrating the skin, they also reduce inflammation.
4.) In one study, coconut oil reduced protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair when used before shampooing and as aa leave-in treatment. Coconut oil is able to penetrate the hair shaft due to its low molecular weight and affinity for proteins.
WARNING:
Not everyone should apply it head to toe, such as those with very oily skin. For patients with acne-prone skin, it has been found to be comedogenic. However, the anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits of the polyphenols also make coconut oil part of a rejuvenating skin care regimen.
There are tons of real life testimonials that say slathering the raw oil on hair and skin are a part of a daily beauty routine for them, I however recommend an enriched skin/hair cream. It guarantees smoother hair, more shine and not to mention crazy soft skin!

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