Many of the eating habits we indulge ourselves in are absolutely dangerous! While many of them cause more harm than good, we often feel that, because we enjoy these habits, they are healthy.
Common Habits That Are Harmful After a Meal
Here are five things you must not do just after a full meal.
Don’t Sleep!
Have you ever tried sleeping immediately after a major meal? When you woke up, how did you feel? I’m sure you woke up still feeling full from the meal. This is because the meal has not been digested at all. This can affect your intestines in a bad way. Also, a nap immediately after a meal is also not relaxing.
Don’t Smoke!
Experiments from experts show that smoking a cigarette after meal is equivalent to smoking ten cigarettes at other times, increasing the risk of cancer. In any case, smoking is harmful to your body and you should not smoke at any time.
Don’t Bath!
Bathing or showering after a major meal will cause an increased blood flow to the hands, legs and body, and the amount of blood around the stomach will therefore decrease. This could weaken the digestive system in our stomach. Bathing after a meal delays digestion. The blood around the stomach flows to other parts of the body during a shower instead of helping with digestion.
Don’t Eat Fruit!
Different foods digest at different speeds. If you must eat fruit, eat it first as it is the easiest to digest. Fruit should be eaten an hour before a meal or two hours after a meal. Fruit will not be digested properly if you eat it directly after a meal. If you eat fruit just after a full meal, this can cause the stomach to be bloated with air.
Don’t drink tea.
Tea leaves are acidic and will affect the digestion process. If you consume protein in the meal, the acid from the tea will harden the protein content, making it difficult to digest. Drinking tea immediately after a meal will also interfere with iron absorption by the body. Avoid tea one hour before and after meals.
These 5 points listed above are some of the commonest mistakes people make immediately after eating. Remember, health is wealth; therefore, you need to take great care of yourself!
We all like to feast on turkey and all the trimmings when the big day arrives – but an expert has warned that your Christmas dinner could trigger a heart attack.
If you have coronary heart disease or are at risk for it, overeating can have dangerous consequences, warned Marvin Lipman, clinical professor emeritus at New York Medical College.
The warning published on Daily Mail Online found that the average person can eat as many as 5,240 calories during their blow out on Christmas Day – and a whopping 190g of fat.
‘Most people get away with seasonal over-indulgences without significant harm to their health,’ he said.
‘But for those with risk factors such as heart disease or high cholesterol, overeating can set off more serious medical problems.’
Writing for Consumer Reports as its chief medical adviser, Professor Lipman refers to a study of almost 2,000 heart-attack patients that found a single act of overeating could quadruple one’s chance of having a heart attack on the same day.
He explains that triglycerides – a type of fat found in the blood after a large meal – can cause inflammation in the blood vessels to in and around your heart.
‘This is commonly a prelude to a heart attack,’ he said. ‘Large amounts of food and alcohol can also induce the release of adrenaline-like substances that can cause a fatal abnormal heart rhythm.’
Professor Lipman also points to other health problems caused by over-indulging: heartburn, gas and diarrhea, gall-bladder attacks and excessive holiday weight gain.
Avoiding holiday weight gain
Those consuming the average number of calories on Christmas Day would have to run the equivalent of two marathons – 52 miles – to burn it off.
Over the festive period the average person puts on around four pounds just between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. That’s according to a recent survey of more than 1,000 people by Forza Supplements.
It also found more than a third of people said it would take them four months to get back to the shape they were in before Christmas.
A series of images have been released by kitchen gadget MealKitt, showing three courses of a Christmas dinner laid out on a table, which all have different portion sizes.
The smallest reveals the exact amount of food needed to lose weight, the central plate is the amount needed to maintain weight and the largest plate is the amount needed to gain weight.
The take away from the study is while jollying and merrying in the spirit of the season, be mindful of your health.
A Gynaecologist, Dr Adaora Ukoh, says partial evacuation of foetus from the womb during abortion of pregnancy could increase the rate of infertility in women.
Ukoh, who works with a private Hospital in Abuja, said this in an interview with press men on Sunday, noted that abortion is a medical process of terminating a pregnancy by removing the embryo and placenta from the uterus.
She said that abortion could be done in two ways; either through the use of medicines or via a surgical procedure.
Ukoh described medical abortion as a process where the woman takes medication in early pregnancy to abort the foetus, said surgical abortion was a procedure through which the foetus is removed from the uterus with a vacuum device.
Why Abortion Increases Risk of Infertility -Gynaecologist
The expert explained that abortion, itself, does not cause infertility in women; rather complications during the procedure put women at high risk of infertility.
According to her, studies have shown that there is a link between abortion and vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy which leads to complications that could result in infertility.
“Preterm birth placenta problem is a factor associated with abortion and it predisposes an individual to infertility.
“Weakened cervix which leads to premature opening of the cervix can occur during abortion thereby leading to infertility.
“Damage or hole in the uterus, which might need surgery to correct for the woman to be able to conceive, also increases the risk of infertility.
“Inability to get pregnant due to infection or complication during an operation is also a factor associated with abortion.
“Incomplete removal of the foetus and the placenta can arise during abortion which also leads to infertility,’’ Ukoh said.
She said that repeated abortions could cause damage to the cervix and increase the chances of late miscarriages.
She advised strict adherence to the use of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor after an abortion.
Ukoh said that this would help to reduce the risk of infection of the reproductive organs which, ultimately, caused infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
She warned against intercourse for about two weeks after abortion to enable the body to heal properly as well as prevent immediate conception during the healing period.
She also enjoined women to consult a specialist before undergoing any form of abortion in order to minimise complications.
Want to live longer? Trade some of the red meat in your diet for fish, nuts, whole grains, and other healthier protein sources, Harvard researchers say.
Red meat is a term that came from a culinary industry. It refers to all meat that is red uncooked and does not appear white after being cooked. The common red meats being consumed in western part of the world are beef, lamb, goat, horse, goose, duck, pork and other livestock animals.
When red meat is consumed in moderation, it is beneficial to health. Most claims that advice against even small amounts of red meat consumption and assert it as being dangerous for health are misleading and far from the truth. There is no consistent evidence that the fats from red meat significantly raise cholesterol levels above the normal limits, cause a coronary heart disease or result in cancers from unprocessed meats.
Why You Need to Cut Down on Red Meat Consumption
An example of current red meat consumption controversy, a study from Harvard School of Public Health demonstrated that people who ate skinless chicken most days of the week had a 52% higher risk of acquiring a bladder cancer. On the contrary, those who consumed chicken with skin and had a variety of red meats in the diet were less likely to be affected.
Another 191-person study with those who had high cholesterol had defined 2 groups with one group consuming at least 80% of their dietary intake from red meats and another group consuming strictly lean white meats. The results of this study funded by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association demonstrated nearly identical triglyceride and cholesterol levels in both groups. This particular study suggested that lean red meat may be potentially beneficial in low-fat diets to treat high cholesterol.
Benefits of Processed meats
With consistently growing deficiencies of vitamins and minerals that our bodies require to function, the livestock meat is considered an essential element of the food chain.
Processed meats contain some of the most important vitamins and minerals. Without these nutrients, people become sick more often while making a very faint connection to the actual deficiencies they create by their limited daily diet. This can be clearly demonstrated by following endless number of reports that vitamin B supplementation has been very effective to resolve a variety of ailments. Should there be no vitamin B deficiency, these illnesses would not occur in the first place nor would supplementation be effective. Processed meat provides a rich spectrum of vitamin B compounds that work synergistically with minerals in the meat for great absorption and utilization.
But, if you are trying to decide whether red meat is safe to eat, then you should also know that the following four red flags have been raised. Still, it’s up to you to decide:
Reason 1: Processed Meat May Increase Alzheimer’s disease Risk
Scientists believe when proteins called Tau and beta-amyloid accumulate in the brain they either disrupt nerve cells or kill them — and this may be the cause of Alzheimer’s disease. A new study from UCLA, though, suggests that iron accumulation is another possible contributing factor. Using an unusual MRI technique, researchers found that iron had begun to accumulate in the brains of 31 Alzheimer’s patients. Specifically, they discovered this build-up in a part of the brain which is generally damaged in the early stages of the disease. How does this connect to red meat? Well, it’s full of iron, and a high-red meat diet can lead to iron build up.
Reason 2: Red Meat Can Cause Cardiovascular Disease
Time and again scientists have demonstrated a connection between eating large amounts of red meat and an individual’s risk for heart disease. Now, a recent study suggests this link between red meat and disease does not derive from the saturated fats and cholesterol, but the fact that your gut microbes break down a compound found in the meat known as carnitine, which in turn produces trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO). And TMAO has been associated with atherosclerosis, the fatty build-up in your arteries which in turn may cause a heart attack.
Reason 3: Your Risk of Colon Cancer Goes Up With Your Processed Meat Consumption
Quite a few studies have provided evidence of red meat potentially causing colon cancer, and a U.S. study which involved 148,610 participants between the ages of 50 and 74 showed that a high consumption of red and processed meats substantially increased the risk of colorectal cancer. Fish and fowl, though, had the opposite effect: long-term consumption of large amounts of these appeared to ward off cancer of the colon and rectum.
Reason 4: Lots of Beef –> Type 2 Diabetes
According to recent research, red meat consumption is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and three extra servings of red meat every week increases the risk of developing diabetes by 50 percent. That’s a pretty disheartening statistic. And you thought it was the cake and ice cream that would get you.
The President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Dr (Mrs) Stella Okoli, founder and group managing director, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, and other notable personalities have enjoined Nigerians to cultivate the habit of being gratitude to God through thanksgiving, adding that thanksgiving is a way of encouraging God to do more.
The respected pharmacist and PSN boss gave the charge recently while delivering the opening address during the 2019 Emzor Group 15th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner which took place at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.
While calling on Nigerians to emulate the enviable personality and lifestyle of the company’s founder, Dr Stella Okoli by inculcating the habit of giving thanks to God always and by engaging in charitable initiatives which add values to people’s lives, Ohuabunwa, who was the chairman of the occasion said that the Emzor boss had become a role model to many in the society.
“The woman we have all come to celebrate and appreciate God with today is not just an ordinary woman, but a virtuous woman, loving mother, caring leader, a mentor, a role model to many, a pharmacist of repute and an unrepentant thanks giver. So, I am delighted to be here today and celebrate with her and the entire Emzor team,” he said
Her Excellency, Mrs. Paulen Tallen, former deputy governor, Plateau State and Minister of Women Affairs; Dr. (Mrs) Stella Okoli, founder and group managing director, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, and Wife of the Governor of Lagos State, Her Excellency, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu at the event.
Speaking further, Ohuabunwa described Okoli as a detribalized Nigerian, a lover of peace and an advocate of peaceful Nigeria, adding that the country needs more people like her to progress as a nation. “One thing I have discovered about Dr Stella Okoli is that she is a wise woman who understands the power of thanksgiving, and she does it unpretentiously. So I respect her for this and I pray that God will grant her good health and peace of mind to celebrate more years”.
In her opening remarks, Emzor’s founder and Group Managing Director, Dr Okoli noted that the reason she exhibited happiness always was because she sees hope where many see challenges and obstacles. According to her, Emzor’s success story had divine backing, adding that the company strives to take a giant stride every year.
Speaking further, Okoli charges Nigerians to continue leaving a life of gratitude to God in any situation, adding that it is good to be hopeful in whatever situation one is passing through.
A cross of people at the event
She further explained that the annual dinner is an opportunity to worship, honour and give thanks to God for His faithfulness.
Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limitedis a wholly private indigenous pharmaceutical manufacturing group founded in 1984 by Dr Stella C. Okoli, OON. The company is into the manufacturing of high quality pharmaceutical products and medical consumables. Its holding company, Emzor Chemists Limited opened for retail business in January 1977 in Yaba, Lagos.
The rapid growth of the retail business encouraged Emzor Chemists Limited to venture into the importation and wholesale of assorted pharmaceuticals. The idea to manufacturing locally came later and this was predicated on the need to develop local capability, create jobs and provide high quality pharmaceutical products and services to the Nigerian people at prices that are not only affordable but represent value.
Towards the end of the programme, a handful of guests also used the opportunity to congratulate and shower accolades on the Emzor boss with musician on ground to ignite the ceremony.
Others in attendance at the occasion were, Her Excellency, Mrs Paulen Tallen, former deputy governor, Plateau State and Minister of Women Affairs; Wife of the Governor, Lagos State, Her Excellency, Dr Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Chief (Mrs) Sarah Adebisi Sosan, former deputy governor, Lagos State; Chief (Mrs) Bola Obasanjo, wife of the former president; Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, represented by Hon. Princess Abiodun Elegushi Anifalaje; Prof. Anya O. Anya, father of the day; Chief (Mrs) Oprah Benson, Yeye Oge of Lagos; Mr Emeka Okoli, chairman, Emzor Group; Prof. Moji Adeyeye, Director General, NAFDAC, represented by Dr Monica Hemben-Eimunjeze, NAFDAC’s director of registration and regulatory affairs, among others.
Researchers from the Universitat Politècnica de València in Spain have validated the benefits of cooked tomato sauce to the human gut, owing to its possession of a rich antioxidant called lycopene.
The Spanish scientists had embarked on a study to establish how digestion affected the antioxidants – substances which help protect cells from damage – in tomato sauce.
bowl of tomato sauce, pulp, pure, sauce, basil leaves
Findings from their study showed that tomatoes have a better probiotic effect in the gut when fried into a sauce, rather than when eaten raw.
The research, published in Journal of Functional Foods, and reported on Daily Mail Online, found that although a healthy bacteria in the gut prevents some antioxidants being absorbed from tomato sauce, but the sauce boosts the effectiveness of that same bacteria.
“This makes cooked tomato sauce better for gut health than raw tomatoes, because the cooking process preserves the important chemical which gives tomatoes their red colour”, report stated.
It was also stated by the researchers that tomatoes are considered particularly healthy partly because they contain the antioxidant lycopene, which is also what makes them red.
“This boosts the probiotic effect – encouraging the growth of healthy bacteria – of the tomato”, the study finds.
Other health benefits of tomato
Aside from its delicious taste, which has made it an ingredient in hundred of dishes, nutritionists on Daily Mail Online have listed other health benefits of tomatoes below:
They contain a lot of vitamins – namely vitamins A, B, C, E and K, plus calcium, magnesium and fibre.
They contain potassium – 100g of tomatoes would contain around 6% of an adult’s RDA.
Tomatoes contain carotenoids, which may protect against age-related macular degeneration and other eye diseases.
Tomato juice may alleviate some symptoms of menopause, such as anxiety.
They may help to slow the growth of stomach cancers, and tomato sauce is thought to help prevent prostate cancer.
The health benefits of cashews include a healthy heart, strong nerve and muscle function, improved bone and oral health, relief from diabetes, anemia and gallstones. By offering antioxidant defences, they also aid in the formation of red blood cells and encourage a better immune system.
Cashew nut – these super nuts belong to the family of Anacardiaceae, which also includes mangoes and pistachios, and are originally native to the coastal areas of north-eastern Brazil. They are kidney shaped seeds and are widely cultivated in places that have tropical climates. They are grown in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Tanzania. They stick to the bottom of its fruit, known as a cashew apple, and have various diverse uses, particularly in Brazil and some parts of Asia and Africa.
Nutritional Value of Cashews
Cashews are very nutritious and a powerhouse of proteins and essential minerals including copper, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. Sodium is also present in very small quantities. Cashews also contains vitamins such as C, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B-6, folate, E (alpha-tocopherol) and vitamin K (phylloquinone). Cashews are a source of oleic acid and provide a good quantity of monounsaturated fat and low amounts of polyunsaturated fats with no harmful cholesterol, if consumed appropriately.
Enjoy The Remedial Benefits Of Cashew Nut
Monounsaturated Fats for the Heart: Cashews are a good source of healthy dietary fats, which are essential for our body to absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K and produce fatty acids that are vital for the development of the brain and blood clotting. These healthy fats include Monounsaturated fats or MUFA and polyunsaturated fats or PUFA. They are good for the heart and help to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) if consumed in appropriate quantities, even in individuals with diabetes. LDL cholesterol can rise as a result of excessive consumption of saturated fats, posing a major threat for cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis or the hardening of arteries. Studies have demonstrated that choosing unsaturated fats over saturated fats enhances levels of HDL cholesterol, reduces triglyceride levels, and beneficially lowers the blood pressure as well. The inclusion of nuts such as cashews, fish, and vegetable oils including olive oil and canola oil in the diet can provide these healthy unsaturated fats to the body.
Healthy Muscles and Nerves: Cashews are a good source of magnesium, which is vital for the healthy development of bones, muscles, tissues, and organs of the body. Magnesium helps to maintain healthy blood pressure, sustain the immune system, maintain nerve function, and keep the bones strong. It also is involved in metabolic functions, influences the insulin activity and regulates the blood sugar levels of the body. A deficiency of magnesium alters the metabolism of calcium and the hormones responsible for its regulation.
Diabetes: The presence of very low amounts of sugar and no harmful cholesterol in cashews makes them safe for diabetic patients! It even helps in lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Chemotherapy: Research has shown that the wealth of antioxidants like anacardic acids, cardanols and cardols in cashews make them effective for people undergoing treatments for tumors and cancer. Ground cashews are a comparatively simple absorbed form of protein and are advised to be safe for such patients as well.
Red Blood Cells: Cashews are rich in copper, which helps in the metabolism of iron, aids in the formation of red blood cells and helps in keeping bones and the immune system healthy. It is also vital for the nervous and skeletal system of the body. A deficiency of copper in the body may result in osteoporosis, irregular heartbeats, and anemia.
Bone and Oral Health: Cashews also provide phosphorous, which is essential for the healthy development of teeth and bones. Phosphorous also aids in protein synthesis, absorption of carbohydrates and fats and the maintenance of cellular health.
Anemia: Cashews are a source of dietary, iron which is vital for carrying oxygen around the body and aids in the functioning of enzymes and the immune system. A deficiency of iron in the diet can lead to body fatigue, anemia, and an increased susceptibility to infections.
Gallstones: Gallstones are stone-like deposits that usually consist of cholesterol that accumulates in the gall bladder. The regular inclusion of healthy nuts like cashews can help to lower the risk of formation of gallstones.
Immune System: Cashews contain zinc, which plays a vital role in the strengthening of the immune system against microbial infections, protein synthesis and the healing of wounds. It is extremely important during pregnancy for the growth of the baby and the developmental years of childhood to maintain a stable state of the body.
Culinary Usage: Cashew nuts are tasty and highly sought-after nuts. They can be enjoyed either roasted or plain, and with or without salt. They are added to a various vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies and a range of confectionery food items like cookies, biscuits, and ice cream.
Apart from the famous and delicious cashew nut, the cashew tree offers an immense treasure of medicinal and industrial uses as well. These applications are widely popular in Guyana and all over the Amazon.
Cashew Nut Shell Liquid– This is a by-product obtained while processing cashews and is a versatile material in terms of industrial usage. It is one of the sources of naturally available phenols. It is a raw material that is used in the preparation of drugs, insecticides, paints, plastics, resins, and anti-termite treatments for timber. Due to its medicinal properties and the presence of anacardic acids, cashew nut shell liquid has an antibiotic effect and is used in the treatment of sore tooth, leprosy, ringworm, warts, scurvy, and elephantiasis.
Cashew Bark and Leaf – The bark and the leaf of the tree possess medicinal benefits and have been used as remedy for both diarrhea and colic. Cashews leaf extract is utilized to reduce blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Oils extracted from the seeds prove effective in the preparation of insecticides. The infusion of the bark of the cashew tree has astringent properties and is used as a mouthwash for treating oral ulcers and as a remedy for sore throat and influenza. Leaves of the cashew tree, when boiled with water, serve as an anti-pyretic and are used for the treatment of aches and pains throughout the body.
Cashew Fruit (Cashew Apple) – Cashew apples possess anti-bacterial properties and have been proven to be effective in treating stomach ulcers and gastritis, which is usually caused by H. pylori bacteria. Its juice is rich in vitamin C and has an anti-scurvy effect. Cashew apple juice is widely utilized in the cosmetic industry due to the presence of antioxidants and is used in the preparation of various creams and shampoos.
Cashew extract contains anarcardic acid which is an antioxidant and has been shown to limit the pigmentation effects of aging and to eradicate the cancer cells. Fruit of the cashew tree is used to treat infant’s thrush and sore mouth. In the Amazon, people use the tea prepared from the bark and the cashew apple juice for chronic dysentery and as an anti-diarrheal remedy. It is also believed to possess sudorific or sweat-inducing properties. The juice extracted from the cashew apple can also serve as an ointment for aches of rheumatism and neuralgia.
In South America, it is used to prepare sauces, jams, and curries, and it is also fermented into vinegar and liquor. It is not very popular because of its acidic taste, owing to the presence of a layer on its skin that can lead to allergic reactions on the throat or tongue, making it non-palatable. It can be consumed only after steaming or boiling for a few minutes.
Cashew Seed – Oil extracted from cashew seeds are widely used in curing cracked heels. Powdered cashew seeds have anti-venom effects and are used for treating snake bites.
Cashew Stem – Gum extracted from the cashew stem is used as a varnish for wood works and books.
A Few Words of Caution Regarding Cashews
Kidney Stones: Cashews contains oxalate salts, which interfere with the absorption of calcium in the body. The accumulated calcium can result in the formation of kidney stones. Research conducted on this topic has made it clear that people who are prone to develop kidney stones should consider eating only small to moderate amounts of cashew nuts.
Cashew Allergy: Despite a number of health benefits, the consumption of cashews can cause health hazards to those who are allergic to tree nuts. It is informative to know that along with the changing national standards in food manufacturing, handling, and processing practices, such allergies also vary for different regions or countries.
Allergic reactions caused by tree nuts such as cashews, walnuts, and pistachios can be mild or severe. They can lead to one or more of the complications explained below.
Contact Dermatitis– Contact dermatitis is an itchy skin ailment caused as a result of the skin coming in contact with the allergen. Hives and swelling can develop around the mouth or other parts that have come in contact with the nuts or their shells. The anacardic acid present in cashews, which is also the reason for the vesicative activity of the cashew nut shell liquid, can lead to acute skin rashes and allergies.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort– Some people might experience nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, coughing, and vomiting if they have an allergy to cashews.
Breathing Difficulties– Runny nose, coughing, and shortness of breath can often be felt.
More severe reactions can result in a fatal condition like glottis edehma or anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis–Anaphylaxis is a fast progressive allergic reaction that can happen to the whole body due to some substance or chemical to which the body has developed sensitivity. It is most commonly triggered by food allergies. As demonstrated by various research studies, cashew nuts can pose a high risk of anaphylaxis. It can lead to symptoms like noisy breathing, unconsciousness, pale appearance, swelling of the tongue or throat, and hoarseness in the voice. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and should be given the utmost attention. It is advisable to consult doctors if one develops any allergies after consuming cashews.
Nuts – Barring a few exceptions, they are a healthy option to be included in the diet. If consumed in appropriate quantities, they can help maintain a robust and steady state of health. Especially for vegetarians or vegans who avoid meat, nuts can stand as a good alternative to compensate for their share of essential nutrients.
While a number of studies claim moderate alcohol consumption can benefit heart health, new research suggests consuming just one drink a day may raise the risk of atrial fibrillation – a major risk factor for stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular events.
Researchers say just one alcoholic drink a day could prove detrimental to heart health.
According to the United States National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), around 71 percent of Americans report consuming alcohol in the past year, while almost 57 percent report drinking in the past month.
While heavy drinking is known to be severely detrimental to health, accounting for around 3.3 million deaths in the United States in 2012, an array of studies have suggested moderate alcohol intake may be beneficial for heart health.
Earlier this year, for example, a study reported by MedicalNewsToday associated consuming three to five drinks a week with lower risk of heart attack and heart failure.
Moderate Alcohol Intake May Raise Risk Of Stroke, Heart Failure
However, in the new study, senior author Dr. Gregory Marcus – of the University of California-San Francisco (UCSF) – and colleagues suggest moderate alcohol intake may not be so good for the heart after all.
The researchers publish their findings in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
The team analyzed the data of 5,220 participants of an average age of 56 who were part of the Framingham Heart Study.
Electrocardiograms (ECG) were used to assess the electrical activity of the participants’ hearts, enabling identification of atrial fibrillation (AF) – a condition characterized by irregular heartbeat.
Information on subjects’ alcohol intake was gathered from standard medical questionnaires.
Over six years of follow-up and more than 17,600 ECG scans, the researchers identified 1,088 cases of AF, and long-term alcohol intake was found to raise the risk for this condition.
Results of the analysis revealed that the more intake of alcoholic substance participants consumed, the greater their risk of AF; each 10 grams of consumption each day (just under one drink daily) was linked to a five percent greater risk of new-onset AF.
The researchers say this increased risk of AF is likely down to enlargement of the heart’s left atrium as a result of alcohol intake; each additional 10 grams of consumption daily was associated with a 0.16 millimeter increase in size of the left atrium.
What is more, around 24 percent – and up to 75 percent in some cases – of the relationship between regular intake and risk of AF could be explained by enlargement of the heart’s left atrium, the team reports.
These findings remained after accounting for a wealth of possible confounding factors, such as blood pressure, smoking status, and diabetes.
“Our study provides the first human evidence of why daily, long-term alcohol consumption may lead to the development of this very common heart rhythm disturbance. We were somewhat surprised that a relatively small amount of alcohol was associated with a larger left atrium and subsequent atrial fibrillation.”
The researchers are unable to conclude that alcohol intake is a direct cause of AF, but they say the results challenge previous studies linking moderate alcohol consumption to better heart health.
“Our data suggest atrial fibrillation might be prevented by avoiding alcohol – however, just as alcohol likely has variable effects on individuals, there are almost certainly various mechanistic subtypes of atrial fibrillation,” says Dr. Marcus. “It’s not one size fits all when it comes to the effects of alcohol and heart health.”
The team concludes that further studies are needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms by which alcohol intake influences the electrical activity of the heart.
“Our hope is that by understanding the mechanistic relationship between alcohol and atrial fibrillation we might learn something inherent to atrial fibrillation in general that could help identify new ways of understanding and treating the disease,” says Marcus.
Enzymes are proteins which are responsible for catalysing most metabolic reactions occurring in biological systems. Enzymes are highly selective and specific in their activity, as they usually catalyse only one reaction or type of reaction.
Enzymes are now widely used in industry, owing to their specificity for their particular substrate and the fact that they are not consumed after each reaction means that small amount of enzyme can catalyse the formation of large amount of product, making their application very economical.
Sometimes, enzymes can be mixed with their substrate in solution, kept at a suitable temperature and pH, and allowed to catalyse the reaction in which substrate is converted to product. In some cases however, enzymes are immobilised on a suitable insoluble support. For example, some enzymes maybe trapped in little jelly-like beads substance sodium alginate. The beads can be packed into a container and a solution of the substrate allowed to flow over them. The enzyme then convert the substrate into product as it flows by.
There are several advantages of using immobilised enzymes, rather than enzymes in solution:
The enzymes are easy to recover, so that they can be used over and over again
There is no need for expensive purification as the product does not contain enzymes
Immobilisation makes it difficult for enzymes to change shape, as a result they are more stable at temperature and pH changes.
However there are some demerits of using immobilised enzymes one of such is that they work more slowly than enzymes in free solution.
Fructose are widely used in food manufacture because it is sweeter than glucose. It is made from starch, usually obtained from maize. First the starch is converted to glucose using the enzyme Amylase. Amylase is cheap and easy to obtain; usually from fungi. Next glucose is converted to fructose using the enzyme Glucose isomerase. This enzyme is more expensive to produce, so it is used in immobilised formed so as to be easily recovered and reused.
Proteases and Lipases.
Enzymes such as proteases are used in the manufacture of detergents for the removal of stains such as blood and sweat. Proteases are enzymes which hydrolyse proteins to polypeptides or amino acids. Example of proteases commonly used for this purpose is Subtilisin, which is obtained from bacteria. Subtilisin and other proteases have been engineered and modified to work alongside with bleaches and other chemicals in detergents that can affect their shapes. They have also been made more thermostable and been used together with lipases – in biological detergents to break down and digest – the substances in stains into smaller, water soluble substances
Proteases are also used to pre-digest proteins during the manufacture of baby foods.
Most of us are not aware of the immense benefits of Ocimum gratissimum popularly known as scent leaf, efirin(Yoruba), nchanwu leaf(Igbo) and daidoya(hausa). Efirin, daidoya, nchanwu or scent leaf, whose botanical name is Ocimum gratissimum, is a tropical plant species that belongs to the family of Labiatae.
It is usually a homegrown shrub used mainly as spices for cooking delicacies due to its unique aromatic taste. Scent leaves are high in calcium,phophurus, iron, potassium, carbon and vitamin A . The scent leave has been reported to be rich in plants chemicals. Oil from the leaves has been shown to posses antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal activities.
11 Amazing Health Benefits of Scent Leaves
Scent leave aids digestion. If you are the type of person that eats late at night, it is likely you will experience indigestion and bloating. Scent leave has immense health benefits such as easy bowel evacuation and weight management.
2. Scent leave can be used to treat stomach ache, diarrhoea, chronic dysentry and vomitin. The aqueos extracts of the scented leaf can be taken to relief ear ache and colon pains. Scent leaf decoction is used in treatment of mental illness.
3. Scent leave can be used to treat oral infections. Say bye bye to smelly mouth as scent leave will kill all the bacteria in your mouth and also prevent tooth decay and bad breath.
4. It is used in the treatment of fungal infections, fever, cold and catarrh.Squeezed nchanwu leaves are applied on the skin for treating skin diseases and ringworm.
5. Nchanwu oil can be used as food preservative due to its anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties.
6. Scent leaves can also be used for the prevention and treatment of malaria, catarrh, cough and fever.
7. The aqueous extracts of the scented leaf can be taken to relieve ear ache and colon pains.
8. The stick of this leaf is being used by some people as a local chewing stick.
9. When left to dry and burnt, this leaves could serve as a mosquito repellent.
10. Nchanwu seeds can be infused for treating urinary infections,gonorrhoea infection, vaginal douches for vaginitis. From recent finding scent leaf has been found to be useful in the medication for people living with human immunodefficiency virus (HIV) and Acquired immune defficiency syndrom(AIDS).
It was a carnival-like reception at the NECA House, Ikeja, Lagos, the venue of this year’s ACPN Continuing Education Conference, as community pharmacists across the State applauded the grand unveiling and commissioning of New Heights’ new professional and home blood pressure devices, Omron M7 Intelli IT, Omron HBP-1320 and Omron HBP-1120.
The colourful unveiling and commissioning attracted hundreds of participants and stakeholders in the healthcare sector, who besieged the venue to witness the occasion.
Beaming with smiles and enthusiasm, Pharm. Ebenezer Olayinka, marketing manager, New Heights Pharmaceuticals explained the benefits of the products to the audience, noting that Omron M7 Intelli IT – is the latest cutting edge innovation in blood pressure monitoring, while the other two – The HBP-1320 upper arm blood pressure monitor is easy to use, has a rugged design, and an integrated handle that makes carrying easier. The HBP-1120 upper arm blood pressure monitor has a compact and space-saving design which is created for professional use in medical practices and nursing homes.
A cross section of stakeholders and participants at the programme
Olayinka said both HBP-1320 and HBP-1120 are devices that put the healthcare professional in control, saying they can carry out measurements on patients either manually or automatically using the devices and they can compare results to confirm accuracy.
Continuing, he said there all kinds of electronic blood pressure measuring devices in the market today, but majority of them are not accurate and cannot stand the rigours of use in a healthcare environment, but New Heights Pharmaceuticals Limited, the official business partners for Omron Healthcare in Nigeria, with over a decade of partnership has come to bridge the gap in solving the problem of accuracy and validation in professional blood pressure measuring devices.
He further disclosed that Omron M7 Intelli IT is the company’s latest innovation in accuracy that assures consistent accurate result from any position around the upper arm, adding that it is embedded with their first Omron smartphone app, and it has come to address the problem of accuracy, validation and safety.
“Among other things, it has the capacity to sync your readings to your smartphone in such a way that you can easily track your results and monitor its progress by turning the results into meaningful graphs. It can also share the data via email to your healthcare professionals. What this simply connotes is that, you are in control of this new Intelli Wrap Cuff technology which assures consistent accuracy from any position around your upper arm,” he noted.
In his remarks, President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, remarked that he is eager to see the impact of the devices especially in the area of improved control of high blood pressure among the Nigerian masses, adding that New Heights Pharmaceutical is an household name in terms of quality products.
Speaking with Pharmanews, Pharm. Ogheneochuko Omaruaye, managing director of New Heights Pharmaceuticals, noted that Omron Healthcare with over 80 years’ experience manufacturing medical devices and the number one global brand in digital blood pressure monitors, has come up with solutions for professional blood pressure measuring devices specifically developed for Healthcare professionals to help address the problem of accuracy, validation and safety, adding that these professional blood pressure measuring devices has now been introduced into the Nigerian market by New Heights Pharmaceuticals, the official business partners for Omron Healthcare in Nigeria.
Lauding the launching of the devices, Pharm. Okotie Jonah, secretary, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Lagos State branch remarked that the unveiling and commissioning of Omron M7 Intelli IT and other ranges was a huge success, adding that the products were well received by community pharmacists in Lagos State given its advanced features and improved reliability in cardiovascular screening.
“The launch of the M7 Intel IT as an amazing experience as the device will give both the healthcare practitioner and the patient an amazing experience. It is a device that elicits trust from the patient and builds the confidence of healthcare practitioners. New Heights is a leading company in pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution sector, so with this unveiling, it has added a feather to its cap”, he said
After a keynote speech on cardiovascular diseases by Dr Ramon Moronkola, consultant cardiologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), the Omron products were formally unveiled amidst a thunderous ovation from the appreciative audience.
It would be recalled that New Heights Pharmaceuticals Limited, in collaboration with Omron Healthcare previously launched Omron M7 Intelli IT and other ranges at Atrium Event Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, some months back.
Eating greens or salad every day boosts our memory, according to new research. The findings suggest that eating about one serving per day of green, leafy vegetables may be linked to a slower rate of brain aging – the equivalent of keeping our brain 11 years younger.
The Rush University study found that people who ate at least one serving of green, leafy vegetables a day had a slower rate of decline on tests of memory and thinking skills than people who never or rarely ate such vegetables.
Salad eaters’ brains functioned as though they were more than a decade younger than those of people who did not eat their greens, according to the research team.
Study author Professor Martha Clare Morris, of Rush University Medical Centre in Chicago, said: ‘Adding a daily serving of green, leafy vegetables to your diet may be a simple way to foster your brain health.
‘Projections show sharp increase in the percentage of people with dementia as the oldest age groups continue to grow in number, so effective strategies to prevent dementia are critical,’ she said.
The study, published online by the journal Neurology, involved 960 people with an average age of 81 who did not have dementia and were followed for an average of 4.7 years.
The participants completed a questionnaire about how often they ate certain foods and had their thinking and memory skills tested yearly during that time.
The survey asked how often and how many servings they ate of three green, leafy vegetables: spinach, with a serving being a half cup of cooked spinach; kale, collards or greens, half cup cooked; and lettuce salad, with a serving of one cup raw.
The participants were divided into five equal groups based on how often they ate green, leafy vegetables.
The people in the top serving group ate an average of about 1.3 servings of greens per day. Those in the lowest serving group ate on average 0.1 servings per day.
Overall, the participants’ scores on the thinking and memory tests declined over time at a rate of 0.08 standardized units per year.
Over 10 years of follow-up, the rate of decline for those who ate the most leafy greens was slower by 0.05 standardized units per year than the rate for those who ate the least leafy greens.
That is the difference of about 11 years worth of change, according to the study authors.
They said the results remained valid after accounting for other factors that could affect brain health such as smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, education level and amount of physical and cognitive activities.
But Professor Morris noted that the study doesn’t prove that eating green, leafy vegetables slows brain aging, it only shows an association.
She also warned that the study cannot rule out other possible reasons for the link.
Professor Morris added that because the study focused on older adults and the majority of participants were white, the results may not apply to younger adults and people of other races.
It was a conducive and friendly atmosphere at the second floor auditorium of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, as the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Professor Tokunbo Fabanwo highlighted the health implications of working in a negative workplace to employees.
The LASUTH boss, who was the guest speaker at the 2019 Annual Retreat of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) spoke on the topic: “Health & Workplace”, while listing the adverse effects of working in an unhealthy workplace to include : depression, chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and others.
Cross section of participants at the retreat.
He urged all organisations to embrace the policy of healthy workplace as enunciated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as it is cheaper to create a conducive working environment for employees than treating them of illnesses developed through toxic working places.
His words : “The question about the workplace negative impacts on workforce is that if the work environment is not conducive, it leads to work stress, loss of productivity, absenteeism, people don’t want to come to work, they will always sign off sick, because they are not happy going to the environment where they work.
“So the emphasis now is to make our work environment as healthy as safe as conducive as possible, because we know that we spend about one-third of our lifetime in a work place, because if you work between 8am and 4pm, that is 8 hours in 24 hours, which amounts to one-third of your lifetime in your office.
“The implication of stress among workers is that it can lead to depression, chronic illnesses cropping in like hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disorder and others”, he asserted.
Professor of Obstetrics and gynaecology, also stressed the importance of having healthy canteens and cafeterias at workplaces as the type of meals served in these places go a long way in determining the health of the people.
He also mention the need for employees and employers to realise that there is life after work, which allows them create time for recreation, in order to boost productivity. “There must be life after work, and people must realise that. And if we don’t realise that, and we overwork our staff, we don’t care how they get home, and we know that some people don’t reach their homes until 12 midnight on a daily basis in Lagos. This will go a long way to affect their health conditions”.
The expert also explain why there should be zero tolerance for workplace harassment and discrimination among employees, adding that there should be reallocation of workload if need be, where this is causing an issue.
Fielding questions from pressmen, the Director General, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) stated reasons why ailing staff members should disclose their health conditions to medical professionals around them, to avoid unfortunate incidence of sudden death.
“The point being made is that people should not keep their ailments to themselves. This should be discussed with relevant professionals within the institute especially as a medical research institute, there will be doctors, nurses, and the likes. So when you have any issue about your health, the best thing to do is to discuss with a professional so that they can attend to it early.
“But when you decide to keep this to yourself, you are providing the disease the opportunity to grow, ravage your body and that can lead to death. The salient point is that if you have any health issue, please discuss with your medical team, and when you don’t have a medical team, please find the nearest hospital to visit”, he urged.
The NIMR DG also disclosed the intention of the institute to focus more on non-communicable diseases as they are now overtaking infectious diseases in terms of morbidity and mortality, especially in Africa, where Nigeria is a giant. “There is a need for the institute to develop research in the area of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, sickle cell anaemia, cancer, etc”.
Researchers from the Pole Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie du Grand Nancy in France have found that regular cannabis use could damage eyesight.
The study conducted in France has found prolonged marijuana use could wear down retinal ganglion cells, the nerves that sit just behind the retina.
According to the research published on DailyMailOnline, it showed that previous studies have noted that cannabis helps patients with glaucoma, while the new study negated the earlier research,it found regular users had a delay in processing visuals – even after quitting.
But the study found people who smoked weed for around six years experienced a delay in neural signals to the brain – even after giving up the drug.
Smokers Beware: Cannabis Can Damage Link between Retina and Brain
The finding complicates scientific understanding on the link between cannabis and vision, since previous studies have shown the drug helps patients with glaucoma, and even improves night vision.
According to the lead author, ‘our findings may be important from a public health perspective since they could highlight the neurotoxic effects of cannabis use on the central nervous system as a result of how it affects retinal processing,’ lead investigator Dr Vincent Laprevote, of the Pole Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie du Grand Nancy in France, said.
‘Independent of debates about its legalization, it is necessary to gain more knowledge about the different effects of cannabis so that the public can be informed.
Future studies may shed light on the potential consequences of these retinal dysfunctions for visual cortical processing and whether these dysfunctions are permanent or disappear after cannabis withdrawal.’
The small study involved 52 participants – 28 cannabis users, 24 never users.
All of the cannabis users stopped consuming the drug before the trial started, but had been regularly using it for at least six years.
The researchers used a standard electrophysiological measurement called pattern electroretinography (PERG), which involved averaging a high number of responses.
After adjustment for the number of years of education and alcohol use, there was a significant increase for cannabis users of the amount of time it took for the retina to transmit signals to the brain.
‘This finding provides evidence for a delay of approximately 10 milliseconds in the transmission of action potentials evoked by the RGCs,’ the authors wrote in JAMA Ophthalmology.
‘As this signal is transmitted along the visual pathway via the optic nerve and lateral geniculate nucleus [a relay center in the thalamus for the visual pathway] to the visual cortex, this anomaly might account for altered vision in regular cannabis users.’
It is not a coincidence that the yuletide comes with colourful decorations for the holidays as experts have disclosed that the lights and colour schemes of the holidays happen to be the same ones that boost moods, making us feel better among our relations and associates.
Holiday decorations done right can help to prevent family conflicts by putting you and yours in the right mood, experts said. The colour schemes and decor of the season happen to also be the same ones that psychologists say tend to lift spirits and create an evolutionary sense of comfort.
In a report published on Daily Mail online, a Chicago environmental and design psychologist Dr Sally Augustin, asserted that whatever appeals to all the senses will definitely optimise our ability to call back fond memories and relax among our loved ones.
Xmas decorations
Analysing the effects of the beautification on the human system, Dr Augustin said it has the potentials to open to us new connections and less likely to fight with our least favourite in-laws.
Some of the health benefits of colourful home decorations as highlighted by the psychologist are:
Warm lights boost our moods, creativity, and appetites
She said that as we have evolved, “our eyes and neural networks developed in tandem in a way that creates positive associations with warmer light”.
These positive associations with warm colours – like warm white or red-tinted Christmas lights – put us in a more relaxed mood. “’When we experience warmer coloured lights, candle light or light from warmer bulbs, it puts us in a more positive mood, which is great for getting along with others,’ says Dr Augustin.
Research has also shown that intense light intensifies our moods, too, whether positively or negatively. Seasonal lighting encourages the inevitable feasting families indulge in this time of year, too. This simply explains why people overeat at the holidays because “warm colours tend to spur our appetite and, Christmas decorations, at least, are likely to be red, so you can hardly help yourself from having that second piece of pie” ,says Dr Agustin.
Cozy textures and familiar scents set the stage for peaceful family time
But even for those who aren’t drawing on old positive memories, other decorating principles can help to create a calm and comfortable environment. Many of these, Dr Augustin says, are similar to the principles of the trendy Icelandic tradition of hygge.
When decorating for the holidays, ‘make sure there are lots of soft textures and cuddly warm blankets,’ says Dr Augustin. ‘We have positive associations to soft warm, cuddly and flannel textures. These are all good things in our mind that boost our mood, and when we are in a better mood, we get along better,’ she says.
Minimize stress with curvy lines and clutter-free spaces
While urging people to create reasonable space and amount for decoration, Dr Augustin said they should be mindful of their limited resources in order to avoid being stranded after the holidays. If you create a space that’s too complex visually, it makes you tense.
The psychologist also advised that when adding other decorative elements, it’s good to bring in things with curvy lines, because we find those relaxing and associate them with nurturing.’
Yet to get your apartment decorated for the season? You have heard it all, on why it is healthful to your and all yours.
Compliments of the season from all of us at Pharmanews.
Men have long experimented with remedies to treat erectile dysfunction and have had mixed results. Though research is still in its preliminary stages, some studies suggest that watermelon may be a viable substitute for Viagra.
The advent of Viagra and other erectile dysfunction (ED) treatments revolutionized the world of sexual medicine. No longer did men with certain medical conditions or age-related ED have to resign themselves to unsatisfying sex lives.
However, ED drugs do not work for every man. Some men experience side effects, while the drug is unsuitable for others, such as men with certain types of chest pain and heart disease.
For men who cannot take Viagra, watermelon is a safe alternative that is unlikely to cause serious side effects.
Why watermelon could help with ED
Watermelon viagra
Citrulline naturally occurs in watermelon and it may support better erections.
Watermelon is a natural source of citrulline. Citrulline is an amino acid that may support better erections.
Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the penis, allowing a man to more easily get an erection when he is aroused. Citrulline may do the same thing, although it works in a different way to Viagra.
Preliminary research suggests that the body may convert citrulline to another amino acid, called arginine. Arginine converts to nitric oxide. Nitric oxide opens the blood vessels wider, increasing blood flow to the penis and improving erections.
Because watermelon is mostly water, the highest concentrations of citrulline come from concentrated watermelon juice.Men who want to try watermelon as a natural Viagra may find better results with watermelon juice.
What the research says
Research suggests watermelon may be a safe alternative to Viagra.
Research into the effects of citrulline and watermelon is relatively new. Most studies have been small or looked only at animals. As such, it is too early to say there is conclusive proof that watermelon can act as a natural Viagra.
Preliminary research is promising, and there are few or no risks associated with consuming watermelon. This means that most men can safely try watermelon juice or citrulline supplements as an alternative to Viagra.
A 2011 study followed 24 men with mild ED. The men took a placebo for 1 month. For another month, they took a citrulline supplement.
Just two of the men taking a placebo saw their erections return to normal hardness levels. But half of the men who took citrulline experienced improvements that brought their erections to normal hardness levels.
Men who took citrulline also had more sex, averaging 1.37 sessions of intercourse per month before treatment, and 2.3 per month after treatment. None of the men experienced side effects.
A 2013 study gathered data on rats with ED due to low blood flow to the penis. This disorder, called arteriogenic erectile dysfunction, is a common cause of erectile problems in humans.
Rats that took a citrulline water supplement experienced improvements in erectile function compared with rats that received a placebo and rats that underwent surgery on their blood vessels. This finding suggests that citrulline may improve blood flow, potentially improving erections.
A 2014 study evaluated male rats treated with watermelon flesh extract. Rats who consumed watermelon were more likely to mount females and start intercourse. This increase in libido, the study’s authors concluded, suggests that watermelon might also be a viable treatment for ED.
There were no serious side effects, and the rats that ate watermelon extract did not experience an increase in weight.
Research published in 2017 sought to further understand the role of citrulline and arginine in erectile function. Researchers measured levels of both amino acids in 122 men with ED.
They found lower levels of one or both amino acids in men with ED, particularly in men with arteriogenic erectile dysfunction. This suggests that increasing levels of either citrulline or arginine, or both could improve erectile function.
Men should note that watermelon is likely not as effective as Viagra, and may not work for men who have not been able to get an erection with Viagra.
Pieces of Watermelon in a basket tray
This is because watermelon increases blood flow to the penis, just like Viagra. If another issue, such as nerve damage or a serious relationship problem, is causing a man’s ED, merely increasing blood flow may not be much help.
While research on animals often applies to humans, this is not always the case. Studies finding positive results in rats may point toward the value of citrulline in treating ED, but they do not prove that it works in humans.
Risks and benefits of watermelon for ED
Unless a person has an allergy or diabetes, watermelon can be safely consumed.
Watermelon is considered safe, even in large quantities. Unless a man has an allergy to watermelon, he can safely consume it.
Men with diabetes should discuss with their doctors how much watermelon they can safely consume. Watermelon and other fruits can raise blood sugar levels; so eating large quantities may be unsafe for some people with diabetes.
Watermelon is low in calories, but overconsumption of any food can lead to weight gain. It is unwise to eat large quantities of any food, especially if doing so causes gut pain or uncomfortable feelings of fullness.
No research has found any serious side effects associated with watermelon in healthy men or animals. As such, it is okay to try watermelon as a Viagra alternative, or even to use it alongside Viagra.
How to use watermelon
The benefits of watermelon come from citrulline. Using watermelon in a way that maximizes citrulline intake can increase the benefits.
A 2005 study found that red watermelon was slightly lower in citrulline than yellow or orange varieties. Watermelon rind has higher concentrations of citrulline than the fruit’s flesh. There were no significant differences between seeded and seedless watermelon varieties.
To maximize citrulline intake, people can try blending watermelon rind in a smoothie.
Some supplement manufacturers, such as those found here, also sell citrulline supplements. Though these products can increase citrulline intake, the FDA do not evaluate the safety or effectiveness of these supplements.
Yuletide is a season of caring and sharing lovely items with our loved ones. It is a time when hampers of different shapes and sizes are distributed from one office to the other, in appreciation of services rendered during the year.
However, it is has been discovered that books are part of perfect presents you can give to special persons to you because they are always impactful anytime any day. Books have been described as thoughtful gifts, as they are portable and can last for a lifetime.
This explains why you need to include Pharmanews books, especially the newly unveiled autobiography of the publisher, Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi- “My Life and Pharmanews”, on the list of your gift items this season.
Images of the books on display.
As described by Emeritus Professor Ikenna Onyido, “My Life and Pharmanews is a manual that helps young and old to navigate the waters of life with success, satisfaction and fulfillment in the face of societal disarray and decay”.
Also succinctly put by Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, on the book “… Equally important are the fascinating revelations he made about the less-travelled path of selfless service, resilience and integrity through which Pharmanews navigated to become the success story it is today.
“My Life and Pharmanews is indeed more than an autobiography, it is an all-in-one package of riveting reminiscences, instructive encounters, uplifting triumphs as well as enduring principles for success in life and business”.
Aside the autobiography, there are other life-transforming series of Pharmanews books, which will definitely impact your special ones for life.
Delay no longer, order your copies now! Call this mobile number for more information on the books- 08134835525
There are very interesting reasons why taking cucumber has remained a very strong tradition for thousands of years in many countries around the world. Beautifully summarizing these reasons, Katherine Tallmadge of the American Dietetic Association, simply said, “There doesn’t seem to be a downside to taking cucumber”. This basically means that every bite of cucumber is a refreshing magic for health, vitality and defense for the body.
Although cucumber is commonly thought to be a vegetable, cucumber is actually a fruit. Cucumber is known to have excellent cleansing properties, and those properties actively eradicate accumulated toxins from the body system.
The health benefits of cucumber cannot be overemphasized. As a matter of fact, it is extremely beneficial.
According to history, cucumbers were very popular in the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece; their uses were not limited to just being food. It was also known for the positive effect it had on the skin.
Cucumbers are low in calories but high in water and several important vitamins and minerals. Eating cucumbers with the peel provides the maximum amount of nutrients.
In addition to the above benefits, cucumber also contains unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
A pile of fresh cucumbers lying diagonally with drops of water with one cut open
Health benefits of cucumber
1. It Promotes Hydration
Water is crucial to your body’s function, playing numerous important roles
It is involved in processes like temperature regulation and the transportation of waste products and nutrients
In fact, proper hydration can affect everything from physical performance to metabolism
While you meet the majority of your fluid needs by drinking water or other liquids, some people may get as much as 40 percent of their total water intake from food
Fruits and vegetables, in particular, can be a good source of water in your diet.
In one study, hydration status was assessed and diet records were collected for 442 children. They found that increased fruit and vegetable intake was associated with improvements in hydration status.
Because cucumbers are composed of about 96 percent water, they are especially effective at promoting hydration and can help you meet your daily fluid needs.
2. It protects the brain
Cucumbers contain an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin. And the importance of this fisetin cannot be overemphasized when it comes to playing a major role in brain health. Because it improves your memory and protects your nerve cells from age-related decline.
3. It reduces bad breath
When bacteria find comfort in the mouth, bad breath becomes a guest. However, with the rich presence of water in cucumber, the production of mouth saliva increases upon consumption; which in turn helps wash away the bacteria that cause the odour in the mouth.
4. It helps reduce the risk of cancer
Cucumbers contain polyphenols called lignans (pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol), which may help to lower the risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers.
They also contain phytonutrients called cucurbitacins, which has been proven to have anticancer properties.
5. It helps manage diabetes
Over the years, cucumbers have been useful for diabetic patients. Cucumbers possess a hormone required by the beta cells during insulin production.
The Glycemic Index of cucumbers is actually zero. The presence of carbohydrates and their result on the body is measured by the quantity Glycemic Index.
Every food item contains essential nutrients in different percentages. The carbohydrates contribute in raising the glucose level, however, the carbohydrates present in the cucumber can be easily digested by diabetic patients.
Thus, the consumption of cucumbers keeps the glucose level in check.
6. It keeps the body in a healthy state
Cucumber is known to have excellent cleansing properties. Those properties actively eradicate accumulated toxins from the body system.
And since these properties also help in the removal of uric acid, it has, therefore, been effective for the treatment of arthritis.
Furthermore, cucumber is very good for optimizing urinary bladder, kidney, liver and pancreatic functions. It is also considered a natural diuretic because it aids in urine secretion.
7. It protects the bones
Cucumber is a good source of vitamin K: One cup contains 22 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K. This vitamin is essential for bone health, as low vitamin K intakes have been associated with a higher risk of bone fracture.
Vitamin K is also important for improving calcium absorption in the bones.
8. It keeps the heart in shape
Cucumbers contain potassium, which is associated with lower blood pressure levels. A proper balance of potassium both inside and outside your cells is crucial for your body to function properly.
As an electrolyte, potassium is a positively charged ion that must maintain a certain concentration (about 30 times higher inside than outside your cells) in order to carry out its functions, which includes interacting with sodium to help control nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and heart function.
9. It May Aid in Weight Loss
Cucumbers could potentially help you lose weight in a few different ways.
First of all, they are low in calories. This means that you can eat plenty of cucumbers without packing on the extra calories that lead to weight gain.
Cucumbers can add freshness and flavor to salads, sandwiches and side dishes and may also be used as a replacement for higher calorie alternatives.
Furthermore, the high water content of cucumbers could aid in weight loss as well.
One analysis looked at 13 studies including 3,628 people and found that eating foods with high water and low calorie contents was associated with a significant decrease in body weight.
Summary: Cucumbers are low in calories, high in water and can be used as a low-calorie topping for many dishes. All of these may aid in weight loss.
– As Lagos ACPN holds Continuing Education Conference
To sustain success in business, despite the prevailing economic circumstances, which arise as a result of several government policies and continued closure of land borders by the federal government, community pharmacists in the country have been advised to focus on financial discipline and capacity building, while striving to blend with the evolution of the practice from mere dispensing of drugs to patient-centered care.
These were the submissions of Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, president, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Samuel Adekola, national chairman, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Dr Ramon Moronkola, consultant cardiologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Pharm. Chris Ehimen, chairman, Nett Pharmacy, and other stakeholders at this year Lagos ACPN Pharmacists Education Conference, held recently at NECA House, Ikeja, Lagos.
According to the number one pharmacist in the country, the continuing education programme for community pharmacists was timely, as knowledge gained would help them keep their businesses afloat in course of the current economic imbroglio and thereafter.
A cross-section of participants at the event
He added that the current economic policies of the government is not friendly and does not favour business owners, but advised that pharmacists should raise their games and improve themselves with more knowledges, and build capacity. “The more educated you are, the more knowledgeable and improved you will be, so all pharmacists should imbibe continuous and never ending knowledge, and they should utilize every opportunity to learn new things,” he advised.
Ohuabunwa also seized the opportunity to address the issue of land borders closure which he said is restricting trade and further compounding an uncertain outlook for the country’s economy, adding that such a drastic move, which ostensibly aimed at stemming flows of smuggled goods such as rice and others, has not only severed trade with neighbouring countries, but also casts doubt over the continent’s wider push toward free trade and cooperation.
Speaking in the same vein, Pharm. Samuel Adekola, national chairman, ACPN, commended the Lagos State ACPN for choosing the theme, “Business Survival in a Rapidly Changing Environment, saying if any pharmacist want to be effective and efficient, such a pharmacist needed to have his or her knowledge updated always through several seminars, workshops and continuing education programmes.
Speaking further, Adekola disclosed that the Continuous Education Conference programme in Lagos has been consistent over the years because of the importance ACPN places on knowledge and effective service delivery, adding that in healthcare sector, development is needed on daily basis, and for it to be achieved, there is a need for periodical update of knowledges, acquiring of new knowledge and refreshing of the old one.
Earlier in his address, Chairman of ACPN Lagos, Pharm. Olabanji Benedict Obideyi lamented that the economic situation in Nigeria was shrinking pharmaceutical business across the country, adding that, if there is any appropriate time for the practitioners to up their games, the better time is now, noting that many businesses are currently grappling with high production and operating cost which has made sustainability difficult for many of them.
“It is an obvious fact that a lots of things is now happening in the business space and one has to be prepared. Most of the community pharmacies in Lagos are working assiduously to improve and move with the trend, so the programme is to sensitize us on how to thrive in the midst of these challenges. And that was what informed the theme for this year,” Obideyi said.
For the keynote speaker, Dr Ramon Moronkola, consultant cardiologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), it is high time pharmacists woke up and got involved in the management of serious health conditions like hypertension, diabetes and others, adding that to achieve a goal oriented service in the managements of these ailments, pharmacists, nurses and other healthcare professionals needs collaboration and must work as a team.
“The world is changing, so also is healthcare practice; hence the need to consistently update our knowledge in order to meet up with what is going on around the world. It has been discovered that more than 68 percent of patients get to the community pharmacists first before any other healthcare provider, so it is high time you enrich your knowledge, so that you don’t become stale,” he advised.
According to the chairman of the occasion, Pharm. Chris Ehimen, chairman, Nett Pharmacy, the passage of the Finance Bill which seeks to amend seven Acts of the National Assembly relating to taxes payable in the country, as well as the ongoing closure of the country’s land borders and other policies are making business environment very tense, adding that the upward review of the VAT at this time will hurt businesses, the economy and citizens.
Speaking further, the experienced entrepreneur advised the community pharmacists to be business savvy at this period, saying a ‘desperate situation require a desperate measure’. “We can turn the situation around for our benefit, so it is not time to sit down and lament, but rather a time to get to work and do it smarter.
Other dignitaries at the event included: Pharm. NAE Mohammed, registrar, PCN, who was represented by Dr Ukamaka Okafor, a director, at PCN; Pharm. Moyosore Adejumo, director, Pharmaceutical Service, Lagos State Ministry of Health, who was represented by Pharm. Moses Awolola; Pharm. Deji Osinoiki, chairman, Board of Trustees, ACPN; Pharm. Bolanle Adeniran, chairman, PSN, Lagos State; Dr Afoke Isiavwe, consultant endocrinologist, Rainbow Specialist Medical Centre, Lagos; Pharm. (Mrs) Abiola Paul-Ozieh, immediate past chairman, ACPN, Lagos State among many others.
The reopening of the primary healthcare facility, which was massively graced by political, traditional, and healthcare leaders in the community, had in attendance the Ambassador of Japan in Nigeria, Mr Takayuki Shinozowa and his team members; Mrs Tosin Taiwo, founder, Street to School Initiative; Dr Eniola Erinosho, representative of chairman, Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board; Chairman of Agbado/Oke-Odo, Dr Arogundade Augustine; Baale of Oke Abiye Community, Nojeem Ajolojuota; Dr Yewande Adesina, consular to the Japanese Government for Lagos State; nurses, and other members of Surulere East community.
Mrs Tosin Taiwo, founder, Street to School Initiative, speaking at the occasion, while the Ambassador of Japan in Nigeria, Mr Takayuki Shinozowa and his team members, listen attentively.
It was revealed that the Surulere East PHC was abandoned some years back due to lack of infrastructures and poor staffing, as doctors and nurses were unavailable to attend to patients in the facility. Sequel to the traumatic experiences of the Surulere East community people, who had to travel some kilometres to get to the nearest PHC, the Japanese Embassy through the advocacy of Street to School Initiative, came to their rescue.
Addressing the audience at the occasion, the Japan Ambassador in Nigeria, Shinozowa expressed his gratitude to the people of Nigeria, and the implementing partner for giving his country the opportunity to improve the healthcare system of Nigeria, noting that Japan over the years has built and maintained a consistent partnership with the Nigeria Government in improving and strengthening the healthcare sector.
He mentioned some previous projects funded by the Japanese Government in Nigeria to include: Polio eradication project; Non-project grant aid for provision of Japanese SME’s products in 2014; Project for strengthening pro-poor community health services in Lagos State in 2016; Delivery of 43 ambulances to the Federal Ministry of Health and others.
The Japanese Ambassador emphasised the place of viable PHCs in the country, saying that it is the foundation of healthcare delivery system, and if all PHCs are effective and accessible, then most problems that would lead one to secondary healthcare institutions would be non-existent.
“It is in recognition of this fact and considering the huge impact this project will have in this community and the neighbouring communities that my government decided to undertake it. This project is aimed at bringing inclusive basic healthcare to everyone in this community and neighbouring communities.
Ambassador of Japan in Nigeria, Mr Takayuki Shinozowa,(right) cutting the commissioning tape, along Mrs Tosin Taiwo, founder, Street to School Initiative; Chairman of Agbado/Oke-Odo, Dr Arogundade Augustine, and other dignitaries at the event.
“By renovating this facility and providing a water purification system, solar power system, office furniture, hospital equipment and more, about 10,000 people from this community and the neighbouring communities are expected to benefit for this intervention project”, he explained.
Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr Erinosho, described the project as a valuable one which will assist the Lagos State government in achieving the health components of SDGs. He therefore gave an express directive to the health officers in the community to ensure the inclusion of the PHC in the list of effective PHC system in the state within the next two weeks.
Erinosho highlighted some of the services to be enjoyed free of charge at the newly renovated PHC to include delivery, birth registration and issuance of birth certificate, while he urged the people not to hesitate in reporting any abnormal development they notice in the PHC to the appropriate quarters for immediate intervention.
For the founder, Street to School Initiative, Mrs Taiwo, the project was borne out of her passion to see every mother and child access healthcare services without itches, as she has lost a pupil of her tuition-free-elementary-school, whose parents could not afford private healthcare service to the cold hands of death.
She also lamented the avoidable death of a mother to a sponsored child in her school, due to inaccessibility to healthcare. ”On 20 February 2018, another sponsored child lost his mum, because she could not access healthcare in good time, and when she eventually did, there were no available beds in the hospital where mama was transferred to, thus mama returned home and died the next day”.
Taiwo noted that the importance of accessibility to quality healthcare in rural communities cannot be overemphasised, as a sick child cannot learn well in school, thus it is critical to good health.” No child deserves to die like little Mary, because they cannot access healthcare.
Stating that the renovation and equipping of Surulere East PHC was the second GGP funded project to be implemented on a row after Ikola PHC in 2018, Taiwo expressed her profound gratitude to the Japanese Embassy for their swift intervention, noting that it is a rare privilege which is not taken for granted.
She however charged the audience at the occasion on the development of Nigeria, which she said is a collective responsibility in all sectors. “It is not a job for one, it is a responsibility for all. If we must grow as a nation we must join hands actively, not passively”, she quipped.
Chairman of Agbado/Oke-Odo, Dr Arogundade Augustine, while appreciating the Japanese government for their investment in healthcare of the community, assured them of the optimum use of the health facility to the benefit of residents in the area. He however cautioned the people to desist from any act of vandalising that will render public properties useless.” This project is ours and should be well utilised”, he warned.
Pharmacist Margaret Oluwayemisi Adedapo is the coordinator, Logistics Management Coordinating Unit (LMCU) of the Lagos State Ministry of Health. Born on 12 December 1971 in Surulere, Lagos, she obtained her Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Obafemi Awolowo University lle-lfe, in I994, and a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Public Health from the University of Lagos in 2009.
A passionate professional, Adedapo went to Boston, USA in search of supply chain knowledge in 2019, and bagged a certificate in Supply Chain Fundamentals from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston, USA.
Adedapo has had a notable career history, beginning at the Obafemi Awolowo University, where she had her internship, after which she went for her National Youth Service at the Police Clinic State Headquarters, Makurdi, Benue State. Thereafter, she resumed as a junior trainee fellow with the Obafemi Awolowo University in 1998 and proceeded to work as production pharmacist with Ranbaxy Nigeria Ltd between 1999 and 2001.
She ventured into community pharmacy practice in 2001 with Chez-Pharma Nig. Ltd (Sole franchise holder for Sanofi-Synthelabo at that time) where she marketed brands of Sanofi-Synthelabo product. In 2002, Adedapo became superintendent pharmacist at Meg Pharmacy and Stores, Lagos, before joining the Lagos State Health Service Commission in 2006.
She has also got hospital practice experience, having worked at Mainland Hospital, Yaba, General Hospital Lagos and lfako-ljaiye General Hospital, at different times.
Adedapo played key roles in curtailing the outbreak of Ebola Virus disease in Nigeria, as she was one of the volunteers at the Ebola Treatment Centre, Lagos, where the country recorded success in combating the Ebola Disease.
An astute team-builder, Adedapo coordinates supply chain management activities for public health commodities in Lagos State, working with MOH agencies directorates, and units, development partners, consultants, healthcare workers and volunteers in a way that has made Lagos the centre of supply chain excellence in the country.
The Lagos LMCU was central to development of the PSM section of the grant documents for the LSMOH / GF HIV/AIDS Grant, the first state government to be made Principal Recipient of the Global Fund in Africa.
Amidst her tight professional responsibilities, she also created time to serve the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN) in different capacities. She was National Treasurer, AHAPN (2012-2015); National Financial Secretary, AHAPN (2015 – 2018); Treasurer, Lagos AHAPN (2009-2012); Assistant Secretary, AHAPN Lagos (2012-2015) and Financial Secretary (2015-2018).
A resource person for the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Adedapo facilitates the training of scores of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and other health workers in supply chain management, quality data reporting and pharmacovigilance.
Adedapo has got several awards to her credit, including the 2018 Lagos State Health Merit Award as Outstanding Pharmacist, from the Lagos State Ministry of Health; and the National Distinguished Service Award (DSA) of AHAPN.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is one of the most remarkable breakthroughs in modern medicine. Over four decades ago, ART by way of in vitro fertilization (IVF) produced its first success in the world through the birth of Louis Brown, after several years of rigorous research experimentation. About 10 years later, sub-Saharan Africa recorded a similar success. Since then many medical scientists have ventured into this medical field to offer hope to couples battling with fertility issues.
One of such notable medical professionals with significant contributions to ART development in Nigeria is Professor Prosper Igboeli, a former president of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and founder/director of M&M Fertility and IVF Hospitals in Abuja and Aba. His M&M Hospital has been providing specialised care in reproductive health, using state-of-the-art equipment, facilities and a team of experts pooled from internationally certified IVF centres across the globe. This has assisted many couples in having children of their own, as well as giving hopes to many more.
Prof Prosper Igboeli
Background and education
Prof. Prosper Igboeli was born to the family of Mr Moses and Mrs Margaret Igboeli who hailed from Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. He passed his Elementary School Leaving Certificate with Distinction (at St. Peter’s, Okija, Anambra State). Thereafter, he had his secondary school education at the prestigious Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha, where his leadership qualities became manifest as he was elected the chapel prefect in his senior year. After the war, he was appointed the senior prefect. He was an Eagle Scout and troop leader of first Onitsha Boys’ Scout troop.
In 1971, he was selected as a patrol leader by the Nigerian government to represent Nigeria at the 13th World Boys Scout Jamboree, on Asagiri Heights, Japan. It was there he met his American benefactor’s son, Michael Peres, now professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA.
Igboeli showed exceptional brilliance when he sat for and passed the West Africa Examination Council Examination with Grade 1 Distinction. He got scholarships and admissions into the University of Ibadan and the University of Benin but fate would take him to faraway USA, where he did a first degree in Biology at Utica College Of Syracuse University, New York, and in the process set the unequalled record of completing a four-year course in two and half years to the amazement of all. He became, with this feat, the graduating class salutatorian. Remarkably, throughout his university programme, he was on the Dean’s high honour list.
Igboeli was admitted to study Medicine at the State University of New York College of Medicine, Syracuse, New York, in 1973, where he graduated in 1977 with Doctor of Medicine degree. He immediately proceeded to do his postgraduate training, first in Surgery, at the St Elizabeth Hospital of Boston; and then to his chosen field of specialisation, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, at the Danbury Hospital, an affiliate of the Yale School of Medicine. In the process, he became a Fellow/Diplomate of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (FACOG) and the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ABOG).
Subsequent exposures would allow him to become a Fellow of the American Society of Colposcopy and Cervical Cytology; member of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine; member of the European Society of human Reproduction and Embryology; Fellow of the International College of Surgeons (FICS); Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons (FWACS) and Fellow of Nigerian Medical Association (FNMA).
Igboeli is a recipient of many national and international distinguished awards for both academics and his humanitarian services. In 1992, he received the highest award of the Syracuse University: “The Outstanding Alumnus Award.” He also received an honorary award of “Doctor of Humane Letters” from Syracuse University, New York, USA, in 1994.
A surgeon per excellence, Igboeli on return to Nigeria, in 1982, had a brief stint working with the government. Thereafter he set up a thriving private practice in the east of the country, M and M Hospital, Aba. This later grew to become M and M Fertility and IVF Centre, with a branch in Abuja. The hospital remains a leading fertility unit in the country.
Igboeli has authored many publications and has made several presentations in national and international scientific conferences. He has been a research scientist since 1972. His landmark publications on the emerging field of Dermatoglyphics (Fingerprints) and on Carcinoma of the Cervical Stump deserve special mention.
Igboeli, indeed, is a man with a large philanthropic heart. He has given his resources and talents to every institution that shaped his life and has expended more to bringing up the young and future generations. He simply believes in human investment and capacity building.
In serving as a zonal chairman of the NMA in 2001-2006, he was not allowed to hand over, for he completely turned the fortunes of Aba Zone to the point that members would not hear of his plans to hand over but continued in a standing ovation until he reneged on his plans to vacate the chairmanship seat on handover date. He immediately was elected unopposed by the doctors in Abia State to become the Abia State chairman of the NMA on completion of his third term as zonal chairman. The legacy he left is yet to be equalled. He single-handedly and personally constructed, equipped and donated an ultra-modern, one-story secretariat complex to the state NMA and medical doctors, as well as ensured the acquisition of a new 14-seater bus for the NMA.
It was not therefore surprising that he is a recipient of numerous awards, including the Distinguished Leadership Awards from NMA Affiliates. As national president (2008-2010), the testimonial of Igboeli is daunting. Within the two-year tenure as NMA president, this icon achieved many notable feats, two of which are mentioned here. One, he ensured the expedited movement of NMA national secretariat from Lagos to Abuja and subsequently negotiated and purchased the twin duplex building that was initially rented for a two-year period. This building, the first ever tangible asset of the NMA in the past 50 years, was fully acquired for the NMA at a staggering cost of 130 million naira. It is on record that Igboeli used his own money when needed to ensure that the dream of having a secretariat was achieved and is one president that is known to have spent his personal money to run the NMA. Two, he succeeded in working for the achievement of a separate salary structure (COMESS) for Nigerian doctors without resort to strike action.
Igboeli has strong interests in Boy Scouting, travelling, writing and deeply embedded in research. In 2013, he developed interest in stem cell research and was the first scientist to build a stem cell centre in West Africa in collaboration with an America stem cell processing centre in Florida, USA. This was officially opened in Abuja in 2015. Stem cell has been found beneficial in treatment and management of many conditions afflicting the human body.
Igboeli has therefore advanced beyond his practice of IVF (Reproductive Medicine) into stem cell research to rejuvenate premature ovarian failure to resume steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis with eventual restoration of fertility in collaboration with research associates (including Prof. Al-Hendy, principal investigator) in the USA. He is happily married to Dr Chidimma Joy Igboeli and they are blessed with children.
Garden egg is called igba in Yoruba, afufa or anyara in Igbo, and ganyen gauta in Hausa. Its botanical name is Solanum melongena (Fam: Solanaceae).
Also known as eggplant, garden egg comes in a range of colours, shapes, and sizes. They vary from small and oblong to long and thin, and from shades of purple to white and green.
Constituents: Garden egg is a good source of dietary fibre, as well as other mineral and vitamins such as vitamin B1, potassium, folate, manganese, magnesium, Vitamin B6, niacin, vitamin K, vitamin C and copper. It also contains alkaloids.
Preparations: The fruit and the leaves can be eaten raw alone, with groundnut or made as a sauce for eating boiled yam or plantain. Cooking methods include steaming, roasting, boiling, baking, or frying, but steaming appears to preserve the antioxidant levels most effectively.
Pharmacological actions and medicinal uses: The anthocyanins and chlorogenic acid in garden egg may protect heart health, function as antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Another chemical in garden egg, nasunin, may help improve blood flow to the brain. In a study, an increased intake of anthocyanins was associated with significantly lower blood pressure. Polyphenols in garden egg have been shown to have anti-cancer effects.
The anticancer action of anthocyanins appears to include preventing new blood vessels from forming in the tumour, reducing inflammation, and blocking the enzymes that help cancer cells to spread.
Garden egg
The green garden egg is beneficial in weight reduction because it contains low carbohydrates and calories essential for weight management.
Garden eggs are fibrous fruits that help in controlling bowel movement, reducing constipation and improving digestion. They contain iron and calcium that aid in reducing the chance of osteoporosis, thereby keeping the bones strong and healthy.
They are rich in folic acid which is beneficial to pregnant women (folic acid protects infants from neural tube defects that do occur); rich in iron and copper, which help to increase the red blood cell in the body, thereby aiding in fights against anaemia.
It is an excellent food for people suffering from diabetes, as it goes a long way in the reduction and prevention of type 2 diabetes.
They contain a high amount of minerals that help in maintaining electrolyte balance, thereby reducing blood pressures. It aids in neutralising sodium effects in the body, thereby controlling blood pressure levels.
Regular consumption of this helps in maintaining good blood pressure and cholesterol levels because of its chlorogenic acid content.
Adverse effects:it is diuretic in nature which can cause stimulation of menstruation in pregnant women. Consuming garden egg regularly can also lead to acidity problems.
Too much potassium can cause vomiting, stomach upset; excess fibre can cause diarrhoea, constipation, difficulty in nutrients absorption.
Garden egg may cause allergies like nausea, itchiness, rashes and swelling of the throat. Therefore, it is advisable to consume garden eggs moderately to avoid its side effects. .
Economic potentials: A study showed that the mean net return per hectare from garden egg production was N105, 140.07.The results also showed that cost of agro-chemicals and size of farm land were the major determinants of net returns from garden egg production by showing a statistically significant effect at 5% level. Provision of these inputs in adequate quantities and at affordable prices will ensure enhanced net returns from the production.
Our thoughts create our reality. Thoughts lead on to purposes, purposes go forth into action, actions form habits, habits decide character, and character fixes our destiny. To change your external conditions you must first change your inner thoughts.
Thought is the foundation of all life experiences. For things to change for you, you must change within. For your life to progress, you must fill your heart with thoughts of success, greatness and joy.
Below are three tips to improve on your thoughts
Understand what shapes your results: You are a spiritual being that uses intellect and lives in a physical body. As a spiritual being, your creative power is in your thoughts. You use thoughts to create idea in your intellect which determines your results in your physical world. Your ability to think of something and turn it to reality is what makes you the vicegerent of the earth. Your ability to think is what separates you from all other creatures and empowers you to create, build and make things happen. Therefore, for you to experience anything in the physical world, you must first experience it in your subconscious mind.
Let me make this more practical for you. For you to eat a particular food, you must first think about the food; for you to put on a particular outfit, you must first think and decide which one of your outfits to wear out of the various clothes in your wardrobe. My point is, your everyday life experience is happening first within you before expressing itself in the physical form.
Pharm. Sesan Kareem
If everyday experiences like eating and dressing are shaped by your thoughts, then all other results in your life right now are products of your previous thinking and conditioning. To change your results, you must change your thoughts. For you to change your thoughts, you must understand how your thoughts shape your results. Honestly, there is real power within you and the earlier you are conscious of this phenomenon the better your ability to create your reality.
You become what you think most of the time. A lot of scholars, strategists and life coaches have shared various principles, strategies and tactics about how to live a good life. While they all have different approaches to success and happiness, they all agree on the fact that man becomes what he thinks most of the time. If your heart is filled with thoughts of peace most of the time, your mind will develop the idea of serenity and your body will be calm and relaxed. On the flip side, if your heart is filled with fear, your mind will develop the idea of stress and your body will become rigid. Your dominant thoughts affect your state. Your state affects your result.
Think about what you want most of the time and things will happen for you. Focus your thoughts most of the time on your problems or challenges and you keep experiencing more problems or challenges. Focus your thoughts on solutions and you keep finding innovative ways to get results. To achieve lasting change in any area of your life, you must always focus your thoughts on what you want, regardless of the conditions surrounding you proving otherwise.
Fill your mind with wonderful thoughts: Think of success, joy, peace, abundance and greatness. Fill your mind with beautiful aspects of life. Think positively and progressively. Think creatively and consciously. Let your thoughts be filled with possibilities, progress and peace. Back your positive thoughts with faith, action, gratitude and expectancy. Life gives us what we expect. When you strive hard for result with faith, gratitude and expectation, life has a strange way of making the impossible possible for you.
You can move your life to a fast track of success, happiness and peace, if you understand what shapes your results, think of what you want most of the time and filled your mind with thoughts of possibilities because when you change the thoughts in your heart you will change your condition for better.
ACTION PLAN: Create time to study how your thoughts shape your reality. Be conscious of your dominant thoughts and how they affect your action and reaction. If you identify any negative thought, quickly replace it with a positive thought.
AFFIRMATION: I think positively, differently, deeply and constructively. I am blessed and highly favoured.
Sesan Kareem is a life coach and management consultant. He inspires ordinary people to do extraordinary things. He helps organisations to have a fast tempo for action and a bias for results.
One of the frequent questions dentists asks when you visit their office is what type of toothpaste do you use?
We often answer by mentioning the brand and wonder what prompts the question or if there is something wrong with our choice of toothpaste.
Toothpaste is a common product used every day by most people. The numbers of toothpaste options available on the market these days are so numerous and it can be confusing to make a decision about the best one to buy.
The dentist’ question is no cause for alarm. The dentist just wants to ascertain if you use the toothpaste for your oral hygiene.
Does Your Toothpaste Contain Right Level of Fluoride?
There are different kinds of toothpaste that strengthen gums, whiten teeth, control tartar and contain fluoride among other things.
But the question still stands- which is the best toothpaste to be purchased? According to Nigeria Dental Association (NDA), the right toothpaste should contain fluoride.
What is fluoride?
According to NDA, fluoride is one of the most important ingredients in toothpaste especially in this part of the world.
Fluoride is a chemical that occurs naturally worldwide, present in natural water and even plants.
The effect of fluoride is widespread and important at a certain level, but just like all substances excessive ingestion is harmful.
At controlled levels, fluoride improves the strength and quality of the teeth by improving the crystalline structure of the enamel (the thin outer covering of the tooth body) making it less susceptible to acid dissolution.
Fluoride is beneficial to both the tooth and the tooth structure and it prevents the tooth against bacteria causing tooth decay
Despite the importance, it is not all toothpastes that contain fluoride and they contain varying levels.
NDA in an educational tweet on its twitter handle, @nigdental said that traditionally, toothpaste should contain fluoride level of 950 -1500 Part Per Million (PPM) and this is often indicated on the product.
The tweet recommended that Nigerians should always try to patronise the Nigerian brands of toothpaste as they contain the recommended dose of fluoride for this part of the world.
It, however, warned that though it is important to use a fluoride toothpaste to brush the teeth, children should not be allowed to ingest and swallow toothpaste.
The tweet also advised that, irrespective of the brand of toothpaste, they should always check to ensure that it contains fluoride before using it.
“There are also brands of toothpaste for children with lesser fluoride content too,” it said.
A new research has found that drinking cherry juice is as good as taking anti-hypertensive. The study, which was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that people who drank 60ml of cherry concentrate, diluted with water, saw their blood pressure drop by 7 per cent within three hours. This was enough to slash the risk of a stroke by 38 per cent or heart disease by 23 per cent.
High blood pressure, one of the dreaded diseases in the world today, has sent many to their graves untimely, and if left untreated, increases risk of heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease, stroke and dementia.
The researchers tested 15 people who were displaying early signs of high blood pressure with cherry juice.The volunteers were given either 60ml of a Montmorency cherry concentrate diluted with 100ml of water, or the same volume of a ‘placebo’ drink, a fruit-flavoured cordial.
The scientists found that the participants given the cherry concentrate saw their peak blood pressure drop 7 per cent further than those who drank the fruit cordial.
From their observation via the experiment, it is the opinion of the research team, that cherry juice has such a strong impact on blood pressure because it is rich in phenolic acids – a type of naturally-occurring antioxidant.
When tracking the volunteers, the team found that the greatest improvement in blood pressure occurred when two phenolic acids – protocatechuic and vanillic acid – reached peak levels in patients’ blood.
They further discovered that people who drank 60ml of cherry concentrate, diluted with water, saw their blood pressure drop by 7 per cent within three hours
According to the lead author, Karen Keane: ‘The majority of cardiovascular disease is caused by risk factors that can be controlled, treated or modified.’These include high blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, tobacco use, lack of physical activity and diabetes.
‘The magnitude of the blood pressure lowering effects we observed was comparable to those achieved by a single anti-hypertensive drug and highlights the potential importance that Montmorency cherries could have in the effective management of high blood pressure.’
Co-author Professor Glyn Howatson added: ‘This is the first study to investigate the acute effects of Montmorency tart cherry consumption on blood pressure, arterial stiffness and microvascular vasodilation in males with early hypertension.
‘This exciting set of data complements a growing body of research to show that eating the right sorts of foods can provide potential health benefits.
‘We believe these benefits might be linked to the combined actions of some of the plant compounds within the Montmorency concentrate and the positive impact they exert on vascular function.’
The recently concluded Annual National Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), tagged “Crocodile City 2019” and held from 4 to 9 November in Kaduna will be remembered for its uniqueness in the years ahead by many participants who attended the gathering.
In a rather unprecedented move, more than 4000 pharmacists stormed the city of Kaduna for the conference, which was held at the Kaduna Trade Fair Centre and themed “Navigating the Wind of Change in Professional Practice in a Volatile Economy.” To have this huge turnout for the conference during a period when there was so much security concern in Kaduna and the adjoining cities as a result kidnapping and banditry was indeed phenomenal.
Conference Banner
We commend the Kaduna State Government for not leaving any stone unturned in ensuring the security of lives and properties of all participants at the conference. Kudos must also be given to the PSN Conference Planning Committee (CPC) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for mobilising pharmacists from all over the country to be part of the event. Most importantly, we salute the commitment of pharmacists themselves who placed their passion for the profession above every odd to be at the conference.
Another high point of the historic gathering was the presence of the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai and the Deputy Governor, Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, at the opening ceremony. This was also unprecedented. It is rare to have the two helmsmen of a state at a single event; but the PSN made this possible at the conference in Kaduna. It was a testament to both the hard work of all who were involved in organising the conference and the goodwill of the state government towards the pharmacy profession.
The opening ceremony was also very colourful because of the presence of other top dignitaries, including Dr Olorunnibe Mamora, minister of state for health; Prof. Pat Utomi, the keynote speaker; Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, director general, NAFDAC; past PSN presidents, Pharm. (Alh.) Yaro Budah, Pharm. (Dr) UNO Uwaga, Pharm. Azubike Okwor, Pharm Olumide Akintayo and Pharm. Ahmed Yakasai as well as top captains of the pharmaceutical industry.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Utomi, gave a powerful foretaste of what to expect throughout the conference with his insightful analysis of the conference theme which got him a standing ovation at the end of the presentation. Also, the introduction of a standup comedian to lighten up the mood at the opening ceremony was a delightful initiative, as it significantly added colour and glamour to the ceremony.
The idea of having live transmission of conference proceedings on a large screen in the exhibition ground was also a laudable idea as it allowed those at the exhibition to keep track of what was going on in the hall.
However, aside from the above high points and others that made “Crocodile City 2019” a resounding success, there were also some lapses that should be noted and avoided in future conferences. The first of this shortcomings was the distance of hotels to the conference venue. The distance made commuting to and from the conference venue tedious. While the LOC must be commended for providing buses for transport, it would have been much better if the conference venue had been closer to the hotels.
Another drawback was the capacity of the conference hall, which was clearly too small to accommodate participants during the opening ceremony, forcing some of them to stand during this important session.
It is also important to note that, these days, conferences are live-streamed for people who are in far places, so they can keep track of proceedings. We urge the PSN to do all that is necessary to make this possible at its conferences while also ensuring maximum publicity for the annual event. We must also point out that since exhibition has become a major component of the PSN conference, more should be done towards making the exhibition ground comfortable and spacious for participants.
As we look forward to the next PSN conference holding in Osogbo, Osun State, the PSN CPC and LOC must take on board lessons learnt from the historic conference in Kaduna and ensure that the 2020 conference is an improvement on the just-concluded edition.
– As Ozekhome lauds man who returned N2.2bn to bank
In recognition of his exceptional contributions towards the promotion of the pharmaceutical industry, Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, publisher of Pharmanews, was among the eminent personalities who were recently honored with the 2019 Business Hallmark People of the Year awards.
The glitzy ceremony was held 10 November, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, and attracted a horde of professionals from different sectors of the nation.
The event, which was hosted by Nigeria’s former Ambassador to the United States and Chairman, Business Hallmark Advisory Board, Professor George Obiozor, and chaired by former Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), Professor Anya O. Anya, witnessed colourful displays by the Lagos Cultural Troupe and the Nigerian Police Band, among others, who thrilled guests with their performances.
Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, recipient of 2019 Business Hallmark People of the Year Award (middle) flanked by his wife, Lady Joan and other well-wishers.
In his opening remarks, Obiozor noted that the award was organised to celebrate achievers and encourage other Nigerians to aspire to greatness by doing right things.
This, he said, had become more urgent given the dire economic and social situations in the country and the need for expedited efforts to reverse the trend.
Aside from the Pharmanews boss, notable winners of the 2019 edition of the awards included Chief Willie Obiano, Anambra State governor – who won the Hallmark Man of the Year Award; Kennedy Uzoka, CEO, United Bank for Africa – Banker of the Year Award; Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN) – Professional Excellence Award in Law and Jurisprudence; Chief Sam Maduka Onyishi, CEO, Peace Mass Transit Limited – Business Integrity Award; Chief Bisi Olatilo, founder, Biscon TV – Professional Excellence Award in Media and Communication; Mrs Folake Ani-Mumuney, group head, marketing & corporate communication, First Bank of Nigeria – Professional Excellence Award in Marketing & Corporate Communication; and Prof. Olufemi Adelowo, consultant rheumatologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) – Outstanding Achievement Award in Medicine.
Others were Air Peace Airline – Company of the Year; Collins Chikeluba, CEO, GMO Group – Entrepreneur of the Year; Fidelity Bank Plc. – co-winner, Special Product of the Year; Sterling Bank H.E.A.R.T Initiative – co-winner, Special Product Award; Mr Jackson Agbai Abbah, CEO, Dover Hotel – Outstanding Achievement Award in the Promotion of Hotel and Hospitality; Mr Abubakar Bello, MD NEXIM Bank – Professional Excellence Award in Banking and Financial Services; Dr Godwin Ehigiamusoe, MD, LAPO Microfinance Bank – Outstanding Achievement Award in Micro Financing; Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission – Public Servant of the Year Award and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) – Parastatal of the Year Award.
The Business Hallmark People of the Year Award is an annual event organised by Business Hallmark to celebrate institutions and individuals who are deemed to have influenced national development in positive ways in the course of the year.
While thanking the organisers on behalf of the awardees, Chief Mike Ozekhome applauded Business Hallmark for finding them worthy of the honour.
The SAN noted that he was particularly impressed by the fact that recipients of the awards were not governors and political appointees as many would have expected, but mostly professionals who were honoured strictly on merit.
He used the platform to demand accountability in government, stressing that Nigeria had to be restructured to avert its imminent collapse.
Ozekhome also singled out Peace Mass Transit CEO, Chief Sam Maduka Onyishi for praise, noting that patriots like him were rare.
“I must not forget to thank Onyishi who found N2.2bn in his account and dared to return it to the bank.”
“Others would have said, what the hell? After all, the banks are making money. But you see, it was God speaking to you. We thank you for that large heart. God has not yet started with you,” he said
On his part, Onyishi explained that he took the decision to return the said amount because he could not bear to invest money that didn’t belong to him into his business.
Recalling how he started life as a bus conductor, bus driver and spare parts dealer, the transport mogul said God had blessed him beyond his imagination and he could not therefore fail Him at this point.
“The amount they paid in was ₦3,219,500,000 but my own money there was ₦1,000,000,000, so the remaining balance was not mine”, he said amid applause.
“I resolved that I cannot invest this money by reaping from another person’s sweat. I can’t keep $7million that doesn’t belong to me,” he stressed.
Everyone desires good health, and God has promised good health to His children. Nothing pleases God as seeing His people prosper and be in health. The blood of our Lord Jesus Christ has provided healing of diseases for those who believe. But the soul must be prospering.
A soul that prospers is controlled by the Spirit of God. Proverbs 3:7-8 warns, “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil. This will bring health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.” Malnourished bones are responsible for poor quality of bone marrow and blood. Therefore, health of the bone is fundamental to health of the body.
Marrow nourishes and moistens the bones, thereby making them strong and healthy. Bone marrow produces red blood cells, platelets and white blood cells. When something goes wrong with the blood, the whole body is affected. The Bible says that life is in the blood. The condition of the blood is always an indication of someone’s health.
Pharm.(Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi
What marrow is to the bones, the fear of God is to the soul of man. Fear of God will establish and strengthen you against sin and cause them to do the will of God. However, fear of God is not only useful in the salvation of the soul but also in the health and welfare of the body. It will prevent those diseases which are often contracted through sinful lusts and passions. It will keep the soul in good state. It is the beginning of wisdom.
Obeying, honouring and pleasing God brings health to the body. On the contrary, disobeying, dishonouring and displeasing God is responsible for some sicknesses. Proverbs 4:20-22 says, “My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart. For they are life to those that find them, and health to all their flesh.”
The fear of the Lord prolongs life: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened (Proverbs 10:27). The more we internalise the word of God, the better for our health. The word of God is medicine that we need to take always to bring us healing and health. It has the power to change lives – to bring solutions to all emotional, physical, spiritual and relational issues. If you believe that the word of God is medicine, how regularly do you comply with this divine prescription? How often do you take this medicine?
Obedience is a key to good health. Exodus 15:26 says, “If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His sight, and give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you.”
Disobedience to God is sin. And sin separates us from God, making us miss His provisions, mercy and grace. Disobedience attracts curses. Deuteronomy 28:15-68 has a long list of afflictions and diseases caused by not fully obeying God. Doctors and medicines cannot provide relief for such curses imposed by God. Verse 29 says, “And you shall grope at noonday, as a blind man gropes in darkness; you shall not prosper in your ways; you shall be only oppressed and plundered continually, and no one shall save you.”
Only God can reverse the prognosis of such disaster. Usually, sincere repentance, resulting in the forgiveness of sin can cause a reversal of the curse.
Those who serve and please God will be blessed. You must be carrying out God’s assignment wholeheartedly and giving generously to receive God’s blessings. Exodus 23:25 says, “So you shall serve the Lord your God, and He will bless your bread, and your water. And I will take sickness away from the midst of you.”
Your vitality will be renewed as you serve God and you will not grow weary. You will be healed of your sickness and will be refreshed and strengthened. This will enable you to accomplish those things which God has planned for you to do.
This may appear like fantasy to some people because the natural man cannot receive the things of the Spirit of God. In fact, they are foolishness to him. In order to discern the spiritual implications of health, you must be born again. You must have a personal and intimate relationship with God.
This year 2019 marks the 40th year anniversary of Pharmanews. Published every month since its inception in 1979, Pharmanews is the largest circulating health periodical, covering all the 36 states of Nigeria and beyond.
Pharmanews Journal, December 2019 Edition
Pharmanews continues to break new grounds in health reportage and has established an enviable reputation in the healthcare sector and in the pharmaceutical industry, in particular. Our website (www.pharmanewsonline.com) has become West Africa’s biggest online health news portal, attracting thousands of global visitors, especially healthcare professionals, on daily basis.
To appreciate readers and subscribers for their continuous patronage all these years, Pharmanews limited is offering free copies of Pharmanews (PDF format) from March to October 2019.
Attached to this post are copies of Pharmanews Journal PDF Edition from March 2019 to date.-
– As Esimone, Faduyile, MedPlus, others receive special recognition awards
In appreciation of their individual and corporate support to the growth of pharmacy practice in Nigeria, the leadership of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has honoured eight personalities and five companies with special awards.
The award ceremony took place during the gala night of the 92nd Annual Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) held at Kaduna International Trade Fair Centre on 5 November, 2019.
Recipients of the awards included Prof. Charles Esimone, vice chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, who was honoured for attaining the peak of his career as head of a university; Prof. Chinedum Babalola, vice chancellor, Chrisland University (for same reason as Esimone); Prof. John C. Aguiyi, University of Jos – recognised for discovery of first anti-snake venom in Nigeria; HealthPlus Pharmacy, for practising pharmacy in the most ethical manner in 2019 (based on applications submitted and verifiable evidences); and MedPlus Pharmacy, for having the highest number of pharmacists employed in 2019 (125 pharmacists based on application submitted and verifiable evidences).
L-R: Prof Charles Esimone, vice-chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Pharm. Joke Bakare, MD Medplus Pharmacy, Dr Francis Faduyile, president, NMA.
Others were Alpha Pharmacy & Stores, for having the highest number of pharmacy interns employed in 2019 (based on application submitted and verifiable evidences); and Augustine Odibo, who was honoured as the most innovative and impactful young pharmacist in 2019.
In addition, Joedicta Ekeh was recognised for academic excellence for graduating from UNILAG with a CGPA of 4.96; Mary Mbah, received an award for graduating from UNN with a CGPA of 4.94; while John Idoko Orgah received an award from UNIJOS for graduating with a CGPA of 4.76.
Moreover, Dr Francis A. Faduyile, president, Nigerian Medical Association, was recognised for his efforts to bring harmony to the health team; Phillips Pharmaceuticals was hnoured for being the biggest sponsor of Crocodile City 2019, while Pharmanews was awarded for being the most widely read and consistent pharma journal in 2019
In another category, the duo of Pharm. Jibrin Aliyu and Pharm. Peters Joanna Olawunmi (Fellows of the profession) won the Pfizer Award while Pharm. Nwafor Maureen Ngozi clinched the Biogenerics category.
In the category for Annual May & Baker Professional Award, Prof. Wilson Erhun was announced as winner of the 2019 edition, while Pharm. Adeola Adeogun picked the BASF Award
The World Health Organisation (WHO) through the newly released World Malaria Report 2019, has disclosed that Nigeria and Democratic Republic of the Congo accounted for 84 million of the total 155 million malaria cases in the 11 high burden to high impact (HBHI) countries in 2018; while Ghana and Nigeria reported the highest absolute increases in cases of malaria in Africa in 2018.
Although there was reduction in the malaria burden from some countries in 2018 compared to 2017, such as in Uganda and India, where there were reported reductions of 1.5 and 2.6 million malaria cases, respectively, in 2018 compared with 2017; but Nigeria and Ghana still had increased cases in the year under review.
However, Nigeria was not totally in bad light from the report, as it revealed that Nigeria had the largest reduction in malaria deaths, from almost 153 000 deaths in 2010 to about 95 000 deaths in 2018, with the total deductions from about 400 000 in 2010 to about 260 000 in 2018.
It was also noted that the number of pregnant women and children in sub-Saharan Africa sleeping under insecticide-treated, bed nets and benefiting from preventive medicine for malaria increased significantly in recent years, though malaria afflicted 228 million people and killed an estimated 405 000, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Infograph by WHO showing the countries with highest to lowest estimate of malaria burden in 2018
The report explained why concerted efforts were placed on pregnant women and infants, as pregnancy reduces a woman’s immunity to malaria, making her more susceptible to infection and at greater risk of illness, severe anaemia and death. Maternal malaria also interferes with the growth of the fetus, increasing the risk of premature delivery and low birth weight – a leading cause of child mortality.
According to WHO Director General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, “Pregnant women and children are the most vulnerable to malaria, and we cannot make progress without focusing on these two groups. We’re seeing encouraging signs, but the burden of suffering and death caused by malaria is unacceptable, because it is largely preventable. The lack of improvement in the number of cases and deaths from malaria is deeply troubling.
“In 2018, an estimated 11 million pregnant women were infected with malaria in areas of moderate and high disease transmission in sub-Saharan Africa. As a result, nearly 900 000 children were born with a low birthweight.
“Despite the encouraging signs seen in the use of preventive tools in pregnant women and children, there was no improvement in the global rate of malaria infections in the period 2014 to 2018”, he said.
The report identified inadequate funding as a major barrier to future progress, noting that in 2018, total funding for malaria control and elimination reached an estimated US$ 2.7 billion, falling far short of the US$ 5 billion funding target of the global strategy.
Going forward, WHO has recommended adequate funding from governments and international donors to subdue the burden of malaria in globally, and particularly countries with highest burden.
It also recommended adequate coverage for pregnant women in the region, such as coverage of the recommended 3 or more doses of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), delivered at antenatal care facilities (ANC), as report showed increased from an estimated 22 percent in 2017 to 31 percent in 2018.
WHO recommends the use of effective vector control (insecticide-treated nets or indoor residual spraying) and preventive antimalarial medicines to protect pregnant women and children from the disease. Robust health services that provide expanded access to these and other proven that this control tools – including prompt diagnostic testing and treatment – is key to meeting the goals of the Global technical strategy for malaria 2016-2030 (GTS).
The current report indicated that too many women do not receive the recommended number of IPTp doses, or none at all. While some women are unable to access antenatal care services, others who reach an ANC facility do not benefit from IPTp as the drug is either not available or the health worker does not prescribe it.
For children under five living in Africa’s Sahel subregion, WHO recommends seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) during the high-transmission rainy season.
For as many that love to apply pancakes, foundation and concealer using the powder or sponge, a study conducted by several scientists from the School of Life and Health Sciences at Aston University in Birmingham, United Kingdom, have recently found that many makeup products that have passed their expiry dates, as well as many beauty tools particularly, makeup sponges not periodically clean, harbour potentially dangerous bacteria, such as staphylococcus aureus and escherichia coli.
Makeups are substances or products used to enhance or alter the appearance of the face or fragrance and texture of the body. Many makeups are designed for use of applying to the face and body. They are generally mixtures of chemical compounds derived from natural sources, or may be synthetic or artificial.
According to recent data, as of May 2017, 31 percent of people aged 18–29 years, 41 percent of people aged 30–59 years, and 35 percent of individuals aged 60 years and over wear makeup on a daily basis.
When people apply makeup in places like public toilet, bathrooms, on car, train, and plane, it is established that journeys give makeup powders and associated beauty tools plenty of chances to gather potentially dangerous bacteria.
All makeup products have a “shelf life,” which refers to the period during which they are typically safe to use. The duration of this period varies from product to product, and improper use of makeup such as rubbing eye shadow with unclean fingers can affect it, too.
Revealed: How Dirty Makeup Powder can Breed Bacteria Infection
Many companies use a symbol (an opened makeup jar) and a number representing a number of months on the packaging to indicate how long these products are safe to use for after a person has opened them.
European Union regulations enforce the rule that all makeup products on sale in countries should feature this shelf life information, which they call “period of time after opening,” on the packaging.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “[t]here are no U.S. laws or regulations that require cosmetics [including makeup] to have specific shelf lives or have expiration dates on their labels.” As a result, in the U.S., at least, manufacturers can get away with not giving consumers any information about the length of time for which a makeup product remains safe.
Additionally, many makeup users also own special tools, such as brushes and sponges, to apply their products. These tools, too, can easily pick up harmful bacteria, but many users still neglect to clean them as frequently as they should.
The study also shows that the existing evidences that makeup products and cosmetic applicators harbor dangerous bacteria.
Prof. Peter Lambert analyzed samples from 467 beauty products that U.K. users had donated. These products included: 96 lipsticks, 92 eyeliners, 93 mascaras, 107 lip glosses, and 79 beauty blenders (makeup powders that people use to apply foundation or concealer).
The researchers’ tests revealed that about 70–90 percent of all these products were contaminated with bacteria and that beauty blenders were the worst offenders.
Predominantly, the investigators found S. aureus, E. coli, and Citrobacter freundii — which bacteria are associated with skin infections, food poisoning, and urinary tract infections (UTIs), respectively.
“The majority of contaminants were found to be staphylococci/micrococci. Enterobacteriaceae were also detected in all product types, with particularly high prevalence in the beauty blenders (26.58 percent),” the researchers write in their study paper.
Beauty blenders also had the highest rate of contamination with fungi, at 56.96 percent. The investigators believe that this is because people must first moisten these powders to be able to apply makeup with them. Moist surfaces, the study authors explain, provide fertile breeding grounds for fungi.
Some of the highest loads of bacterial contaminants particularly Enterobacteriaceae were also present in lip glosses, with lipsticks demonstrating the lowest rate of contamination.
According to self-reported information from the people who had sent these products to Bashir and Prof. Lambert for their research, only 6.4percent of beauty products had ever received a cleaning. None of the submitted mascara wands had ever undergone cleaning.
Also, from the self-reported data, people typically applied as many as 27.3 percent of the beauty products and particularly eyeliner in bathrooms, which can lead to contamination with fecal matter.
Disturbingly, it also turned out that people had dropped 28.7 percent of the products on the floor, which can teem with bacteria. Of the beauty blender samples, people had handled or stored 35.6 percent of them in bathrooms and dropped as many as 64.4 percent of them on the floor.
The researchers warn that these findings may spell trouble, particularly for immune compromised individuals who are more prone to infection.
Amreen Bashir, Ph.D. said, “Consumers’ poor hygiene practices when it comes to using makeup, especially beauty blenders, is very worrying when you consider that we found bacteria such as E. coli — which is linked with fecal contamination — breeding on the products we tested.”
“More needs to be done to help educate consumers and the makeup industry as a whole about the need to wash beauty blenders regularly and dry them thoroughly, as well as the risks of using makeup beyond its expiry date,” Bashir emphasized.
Are you battling with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, kidney stones, infections or bad cholesterol? Now you can heave a sigh of relief because a landmark discovery has been made by a group of Nigerian researchers that will interest you.
The scholars found out that consumption of coconut and its extracts causes a release of certain phytochemicals that cleanse and aid kidney function, dissolve kidney stones, produce anti-cancer and hypoglycaemic effects by balancing blood sugar, lower risk of heart disease and improve blood cholesterol level.
To understand what makes the coconut so highly valued, some additional details will be provided here.
The coconut palm is popularly referred to as the “Tree of Life” for its high value as both a source of food and medicine globally. Coconut is botanically called Cocosnucifera. Early Spanish explorers called it coco, which means “monkey face” because the three indentations (eyes) on the hairy nut resemble the head and face of a monkey. Nucifera means “nut-bearing.”In Nigeria, it is called agbon among the Yorubas, kwakwa in Hausa and aki-oyibooraki-gbekein the Igbo speaking areas of the country.
Coconut provides a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk, and oil that has fed and nourished populations around the world for generations. On many islands, coconut is a staple in the diet and provides the majority of the food eaten. Nearly one third of the world’s population depends on coconut to some degree for their food and their economy. Among these cultures the coconut has a long and respected history.
Coconut is highly nutritious and rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. It is
How Coconut Curbs Diabetes, Obesity, Others – Researchers
People from many diverse cultures, languages, religions, and races scattered around the globe have revere the coconut as a valuable source of both food and medicine. Wherever the coconut palm grows the people have learnt of its importance as an effective medicine. For thousands of years coconut products have held a respected and valuable place in local folk medicine.
In traditional medicine around the world coconut is used to treat a wide variety of health problems including the following: abscesses, asthma, baldness, bronchitis, bruises, burns, colds, constipation, cough, dropsy, dysentery, earache, fever, flu, gingivitis, gonorrhea, irregular or painful menstruation, jaundice, kidney stones, lice, malnutrition, nausea, rash, scabies, scurvy, skin infections, sore throat, swelling, syphilis, toothache, tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, ulcers, upset stomach, weakness, and wounds.
A medical review recently carried out at the Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta state, Nigeria, further confirms the medical potency of the coconut. In the report titled: Cocosnucifera (Coconut) Fruit: A Review of its Medical Properties, the author, Victor Emojevwe, reveals how different studies showed the hypoglycaemic effects of coconut husk extract on 20 alloxan-induced diabetic female rats randomly grouped into two (n=10). Emojevwe said the extract of coconut husk was obtained by cooking the husk in boiling water for 45 minutes in a gas stove flame at a 100 degree Celsius and the fluid was filtered out and kept as the tea for the experiment. The control group was given 2 ml of 0.9 per cent (normal) saline daily and group 11 was given 2 ml of the coconut husk tea only daily by Oro-gastric tube and random blood sugar was measured daily in the rats.
According to the reviewer, at the end of the experiments, the animals were sacrificed and the pancreas harvested and histopathological slides made. In the treated diabetic rats, blood glucose levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) on consumption of the Cocosnucifera husk extract. The weight also reduced. The histopathological study showed some regenerative ability in the rats that received the extracts (coconut husk tea). He therefore concluded that Cocosnucifera husk tea had significant hypoglycaemic and anti-diabetic effects inalloxan-induced diabetes.
Emergency intravenous fluid: Its ability to mix easily with blood was experimented during World War II in emergency transfusions. The result showed that it can serve as an emergency short-term intravenous hydration fluid. This is possible because the coconut water has a high level of sugar and other salts that makes it possible to be used in the bloodstream, much like the modern lactated Ringer solution or a dextrose/water solution as an intravenous solution(IV).
Replaces electrolytes:
Coconut water beats dehydration and is an excellent electrolytes replacement. It contains more electrolytes than most sports drinks and more potassium than banana. Besides that, it is naturally sterile making it safe to drink even without undergoing water purification treatments. The coconut water is said to aid in exercise performance and reduce swelling in hands and feet.
Fights infections: Doctors advise to drink coconut water to wash out bacteria that cause UTI “Urinary Tract Infection”. Coconut water contains electrolytes, calcium, potassium,magnesium and other vitamins and minerals that ensure health for the kidney and the urinary bladder.
Weight loss agent: Because there are no calories in coconut water, it gives no extra worries for people who intend to lose weight; the calorie counter would not tip a single digit as it has less fat and no cholesterol.
Coconut meat aids weight gain: It gives a lasting boost of energy to the body because of its high protein content. Coconut meat is especially great for people who are trying to gain weight like body builders since it helps build and increase muscle mass. Coconut meat can also be used to make local and traditional foods.
Health benefits of coconut oil
Since the coconut has several healthy extracts like the water, oil, husk, bark, and others, the Coconut Research Centre, an educational website, has also established the medicinal benefits of coconut oil to the human system. It is said to contain fatty acids, Lauric, Caprylic, and Capric. Aside from its many non culinary uses, such as a hair conditioner or health supplement, it is frequently used as a cooking ingredient. It can be used in the same applications for which most other oils are used – pan frying and deep frying – but it can also be added directly to food, similar to the way one would add olive oil to bread or a salad.
The coconut oil is notable for its anti-microbial properties that fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and has been used for medical purposes in tropical countries for centuries. Recent studies have even shown that the use of coconut oil helps the body and skin to heal and repair faster protecting it from deadly disease.
According to the Coconut Research Centre, coconut possesses many health benefits due to its fibre and nutritional content, and its oil makes it a truly remarkable food and medicine. Once mistakenly believed to be unhealthy because of its high saturated fat content, it is now known that the fat in coconut oil is a unique and different from most all other fats and possesses many health giving properties. It is now gaining long overdue recognition as a nutritious health food.
The site further states:
“Coconut oil has been described as “the healthiest oil on earth.” That’s quite a remarkable statement. What makes coconut oil so good? What makes it different from all other oils, especially other saturated fats?The difference is in the fat molecule. All fats and oils are composed of molecules called fatty acids. There are two methods of classifying fatty acids. The first you are probably familiar with, is based on saturation. You have saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats.
“Another system of classification is based on molecular size or length of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. Fatty acids consist of long chains of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached. In this system you have short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), and long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). Coconut oil is composed predominately of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), also known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). The vast majority of fats and oils in our diets, whether they are saturated or unsaturated or come from animals or plants, are composed of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). Some 98 to 100 per cent of all the fatty acids you consume are LCFA.
“The size of the fatty acid is extremely important. Why? Because our bodies respond to and metabolize each fatty acid differently depending on its size. So the physiological effects of MCFA in coconut oil are distinctly different from those of LCFA more commonly found in our foods. The saturated fatty acids in coconut oil are predominately medium-chain fatty acids. Both the saturated and unsaturated fat found in meat, milk, eggs, and plants (including most all vegetable oils) are composed of LCFA.”
The research site further distinguishes MCFA from LCFA, stating that they do not havenegative effect on cholesterol and help to protect against heart disease. MCFA help to lower the risk of both atherosclerosis and heart disease. It is primarily due to the MCFA in coconut oil that makes it so special and so beneficial.
Studies on individuals with dry skin show that coconut oil can improve the moisture and lipid content of the skin. Coconut oil can also be very protective against hair damage as one study shows effectiveness as sunscreen, blocking about 20 per cent of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Another way to derive benefits from coconut oil is using it like mouthwash in a process called “oil pulling”, which can kill some of the harmful bacteria in the mouth, improve dental health and reduce bad breath.
References:
Coconut Research Center, 2004
Journal of Science Education Development Institute
Discussions on how best to strike a balance between work and family life took the centre stage at the Dr Abayomi Finnih Park, Oregun, Lagos, venue of the 2019 Forum of the Association of Lady Pharmacists (ALPs) Lagos Chapter, as resource persons spoke one after the other on the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
It was submitted that every successful professional woman needs to achieve balance in different areas, such as balance lifestyle, balance diet, balanced family life, a good work/play ratio, exercise, social life and others.
Some members of the association in a group photograph.
Top among dignitaries that graced the occasion are: Distinguished Professor Cecilia Igwilo, former dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, UNILAG; Professor Boladale Silva, father of the day; Chief Yetunde Morohundiya, former chairman, Lagos ALPs; Former chairpersons of Lagos ALPs; Chairman, Lagos State PSN, Pharm. (Mrs) Bolanle Adeniran; Chairman, Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN) Lagos Chapter, Pharm. (Mrs) Titilayo Onedo, and others.
In her welcome address, the Chairman of the occasion, Pharm. (Mrs) Adenike Adenuga, said the word ‘woman’ epitomises wisdom, strength, resilient, multi-tasking, and a home builder.
Thus, to attain balance on all spheres of life, she urged the lady pharmacists to socialise more, network, and associate with confidants whom they can share their heartfelt issues with. ”Studies have found that hearts laden with all sorts of bitterness, hatred and malice, don’t go far in accomplishing their goals in life, so let go of anyone who has offended you, release them from your heart so that you also can be free”, she urged.
Adenuga also stressed on the need for the women to properly train their girls, in order for them to become better home makers at home in the nearest future. She advised the lady pharmacists to be humble, become more spiritual and endeavour to always adapt to their husbands and their immediate environment.
The keynote speaker, Miss Ifeoma Nwabachili, speaking on the theme “professional women and home management”, urged the pharmacists to say no to work abuse, as wellness and work life integration is the trend.
The home management expert advised the ladies to make their kitchens comfortable and invest in quality kitchen items, as they make life easy for women at home.
She asked them some crucial questions to drive positive changes in their homes. “How is your wardrobe? How clean is your fridge, freezer? How decorated is your living-room?” She asked.
For a better home management skill to be cultivated, Nwabachili, encouraged the participants to create a monthly plan for maintenance of items in the home, cleaning, fumigation, furniture, family talk time, meal time-table, family outing, and others.
There was also a section on skin care and make up, led by Pharm. Mariam Giwa, who taught the ladies how to specially care for their skin for the best youthful look and aging gracefully.
The Chairman, Lagos ALPs, Pharm. (Mrs) Modupe Alli, appreciated all members for their contributions towards the activities of the association from January to December, saying all work and no play, will not give them the best.
Therefore she urged them to seize the opportunity of the forum to unwind, relax, network and enjoy themselves for a better overall performance.
For women who love to constantly straighten and dye their hairs with different colours, today red, next week brown, and so on, a worldwide study conducted by scientists at the National Institutes of Health, United States, has recently found that women who use permanent hair straighteners and dye have a high risk of developing breast cancer than women who don’t use any of these products.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) breast cancer is the most common among women, impacting 2.1 million women annually, and also causes the greatest number of cancer-related deaths among women. In 2018, it was estimated that 627,000 women died from breast cancer – that is approximately 15 percent of all cancer deaths among women
The findings reported on MedicalXpress and published in the International Journal of Cancer, revealed that breast cancer risk increased with more frequent use of these chemical hair products.
To analyze the facts, scientists used data from 46,709 women in the Sister Study, they found that women who regularly use permanent hair dye in the year prior to enrolling in the study were 9 percent more likely to develop breast cancer than women who didn’t use hair dye.
Usage of Hair Straightener and dyed Increases Breast Cancer Risk-Study Finds
Among African American women, using permanent dyes every five to eight weeks or more was associated with a 60 percent increased risk of breast cancer as compared with an 8 percent increased risk for white women. The research team found little to no increase in breast cancer risk for semi-permanent or temporary dye use.
“Researchers have been studying the possible link between hair dye and cancer for a long time, but results have been inconsistent,” said corresponding author Alexandra White, Ph.D., head of the NIEHS Environment and Cancer Epidemiology Group. “In our study, we see a higher breast cancer risk associated with hair dye use, and the effect is stronger in African American women, particularly those who are frequent users.”
An intriguing finding was the association between the use of chemical hair straighteners and breast cancer. Dr White and colleagues found that women who used hair straighteners at least every five to eight weeks were about 30 percent more likely to develop breast cancer. While the association between straightener use and breast cancer was similar in African American and white women, straightener use was much more common among African American women.
Co-author Dale Sandler, Ph.D., chief of the NIEHS Epidemiology Branch, cautioned that although there is some prior evidence to support the association with chemical straighteners, these results need to be replicated in other studies.
When asked if women should stop dyeing or straightening their hair, Sandler said, “We are exposed to many things that could potentially contribute to breast cancer, and it is unlikely that any single factor explains a woman’s risk. While it is too early to make a firm recommendation, avoiding these chemicals might be one more thing women can do to reduce their risk of breast cancer.”
Scientists have recently discovered how vitamin E deficiency may cause neurological damage by interrupting a supply line of specific nutrients and robbing the brain of the ‘building blocks’ it needs to maintain neuronal health.
Researchers from the Oregon State University (OSU) in their findings on the work done on zebrafish – as published in the Journal of Lipid Research, which was supported by the National Institutes of Health, USA, showed that zebrafish fed with a diet deficient in vitamin E throughout their life had about 30 per cent lower levels of DHA-PC, which is a part of the cellular membrane in every brain cell, or neuron. Other recent studies have also concluded that low levels of DHA-PC in the blood plasma of humans are a biomarker than can predict a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Just as important, the new research studied the level of compounds called “lyso PLs,” which are nutrients needed for getting DHA into the brain, and serve as building blocks that aid in membrane repair. It showed the lyso PLs are an average of 60 per cent lower in fish with a vitamin E deficient diet.
According to a professor of Micronutrient Research in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences, at OSU and lead author on the research, Maret Traber, noted the implication of the study which connotes the indispensability of vitamin E in neurological health.
Boost Your Brain Efficiency with Vitamin E
“This research showed that vitamin E is needed to prevent a dramatic loss of a critically important molecule in the brain, and helps explain why vitamin E is needed for brain health. Human brains are very rich in DHA but they can’t make it, they get it from the liver,” said Traber.
“There’s increasingly clear evidence that vitamin E is associated with brain protection, and now we’re starting to better understand some of the underlying mechanisms,” Traber said.
She explained that the year-old zebrafish used in the study, and the deficient levels of vitamin E they were given, are equivalent to humans eating a low vitamin E diet for a lifetime. In the United States, 96 per cent of adult women and 90 per cent of men do not receive adequate levels of vitamin E in their diet. This is a clear indication that Africans, especially Nigerians, will need a lot of vitamin E to boost and maintain their brain health.
Traber, who is also a principal investigator in the Linus Pauling Institute at OSU, added that the particular molecules that help carry it there are these lyso PLs, and the amount of those compounds is being greatly reduced when vitamin E intake is insufficient. “This sets the stage for cellular membrane damage and neuronal death.”
She continued: “DHA is the needed nutrient, but it’s lyso PLs which help get it into the brain. It’s the building block. You can’t build a house without the necessary materials. In a sense, if vitamin E is inadequate, we’re cutting by more than half the amount of materials with which we can build and maintain the brain.”
Some other research, Traber said, has shown that the progression of Alzheimer’s disease can be slowed by increased intake of vitamin E, including one study published last year in the Journal of the American Medical Association. But that disease is probably a reflection of years of neurological damage that has already been done, she said. The zebrafish diet used in this study was deficient in vitamin E for the whole life of the fish – as is vitamin E deficiency in some humans.
According to a Professor of Comparative Anatomy and Neuroscience, at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, James Olukayode Olopade, “deficiency of vitamin E is very rare, and almost impossible clinical condition despite the fact that many diets are low in vitamin E which is as a result of vitamin E denaturing from food processing. Diets also low in fat pose a nutritional challenge, because vitamin E is contained in high quantity in fatty foods such as vegetable oils, nuts and seeds”.
The anatomy expert who explained the distribution of energy in the human body said, the brain accounts for only 2 percent of the body weight, but uses almost 25 per cent of the glucose energy supply. It also requires about 15 per cent of the blood supply and a host of vitamins to keep it functioning optimally. A deficiency of some vitamins can compromise how well one can remember things and concentrate, focus and balance, and the overall health of the brain.
A severe deficiency of vitamin E can lead to symptoms such as impaired balance and coordination (ataxia) as well as abnormal eye movements (Haris, 2015).
He however emphasized the benefits of vitamin E in the elderly; saying evidences exist that imply that the mind and memory of older people can benefit from vitamin E. One of such benefit is the prevention or reduction in the rate of cognitive decline, which can be achieved by a healthy intake of vitamin E. This implies that vitamin E supplementation may assist to prevent or delay the onset of serious neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Hence, the protection of neurons, by vitamin E, against oxidative damage is of immense importance on healthy neurological aging (Jensen, 2002).
Nonetheless, Prof. Olopade noted that caution should be taken in the use vitamin E as a supplement, as there are existing controversies surrounding the benefits of the vitamin.
Facts about Vitamin E
Vitamin E is found naturally in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. “Vitamin E” is the collective name for a group of fat-soluble compounds with distinctive antioxidant activities.
Naturally occurring vitamin E exists in eight chemical forms (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherol and alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocotrienol) that have varying levels of biological activity .Alpha- (or á-) tocopherol is the only form that is recognised to meet human requirements.
Serum concentrations of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) depend on the liver, which takes up the nutrient after the various forms are absorbed from the small intestine. The liver preferentially re-secretes only alpha-tocopherol via the hepatic alpha-tocopherol transfer protein; the liver metabolises and excretes the other vitamin E forms. As a result, blood and cellular concentrations of other forms of vitamin E are lower than those of alpha-tocopherol and have been the subjects of less research.
Antioxidants protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, which are molecules that contain an unshared electron. Free radicals damage cells and might contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Unshared electrons are highly energetic and react rapidly with oxygen to form reactive oxygen species (ROS). The body forms ROS endogenously when it converts food to energy, and antioxidants might protect cells from the damaging effects of ROS. The body is also exposed to free radicals from environmental exposures, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and ultraviolet radiation from the sun. ROS are part of signalling mechanisms among cells.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that stops the production of ROS formed when fat undergoes oxidation. Scientists are investigating whether, by limiting free-radical production and possibly through other mechanisms, vitamin E might help prevent or delay the chronic diseases associated with free radicals.
In addition to its activities as an antioxidant, vitamin E is involved in immune function and, as shown primarily by in vitro studies of cells, cell signalling, regulation of gene expression, and other metabolic processes. Alpha-tocopherol inhibits the activity of protein kinase C, an enzyme involved in cell proliferation and differentiation in smooth muscle cells, platelets, and monocytes. Vitamin-E–replete endothelial cells lining the interior surface of blood vessels are better able to resist blood-cell components adhering to this surface. Vitamin E also increases the expression of two enzymes that suppress arachidonic acid metabolism, thereby increasing the release of prostacyclin from the endothelium, which, in turn, dilates blood vessels and inhibits platelet aggregation.
Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin E
Below is the list of vegetables that can naturally supply vitamin E to the human body, while the use of supplements is encouraged where it is difficult to obtain them.
Tomatoes
Fresh, juicy tomatoes have a memorable taste and smell, but what’s even more impressive is the rich nutrients in each of these flavourful fruits. Slice up a tomato and add it to your scrambled eggs, salad, pizza, pasta, soup, sandwich, or whatever else you’re in the mood for. Doing so will reward your body with Vitamins E, A, C, and K, as well as fibre and lycopene. Serving Size (1 medium), 0.66 milligrams of Vitamin E (3 per cent DV), 22 calories.
Mangoes
The colourful and tropical mango is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including Vitamin E. The average mango contains about 2.32 milligrams, or enough to reach 11 per cent of the recommended daily value. Mangos are also a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, copper, and potassium. Serving Size (1 mango), 2.32 milligrams of Vitamin E (11 per cent DV), 135 calories.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are full of essential vitamins and minerals that your body depends on. Half a cup of sunflower seeds provides just over the daily recommended value of Vitamin E for the average adult. Serving Size (1 cup), 46.52 milligrams of Vitamin E (225% DV), 818 calories.
Chili Powder
Chili powders packs and punch, and not just in flavour. Just one tablespoon of this feisty spice contains 1.49mg of Vitamin E, contributing 7 per cent toward the recommended amount for the day. Its impressive Vitamin E contents helps your skin stay fresh and healthy, but other vitamins and minerals contribute to several additional aspects of your health. Serving Size (1 tablespoon), 1.49 milligrams of Vitamin E (7 per cent DV), 16 calories
Dried Apricots
When you’re in a hurry or you just want something easy, dried fruit is a great snack option because it’s healthy and hassle-free. One cup of dried apricot halves provides 5.63mg of Vitamin E, or 27 per cent of the recommended daily value. If you have yet to try them, enjoy dried apricots as a midday snack or as a sweet but healthy dessert option. Serving Size (1 cup), 5.63 milligrams of Vitamin E (27 per cent DV), 313 calories.
Cooked Spinach
Spinach is almost always at the top of the list when it comes to the best health foods. Each dark green leaf is home to several essential vitamins and minerals including Vitamin E. A half-cup serving of cooked spinach provides 16 per cent of the daily value. Spinach can also be eaten raw, often in salads, but cooking or steaming the spinach prior to eating it can increase the amount of several of its nutrients. Serving Size (1/2 cup), 3.36 milligrams of Vitamin E (16 per cent DV), 32 calories.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are generally known for two things: carving pumpkins, and Vitamin E. Once you’ve finished carving your Halloween pumpkin and have cleaned the gunk from the seeds (or you’ve simply gone out and purchased a pack of pumpkin seeds from the grocery store), you can cook and eat the seeds for their Vitamin E and several other healthful components. Serving Size (1/4 cup), 46.52 milligrams of Vitamin E (225% DV), 818 calories
Avocados
When it comes to your skin, it doesn’t get much better than avocados. In fact, some people skip the snack and put the creamy mashed avocado right on their faces for silky smooth skin. If you actually eat the avocado instead, you’ll get all the benefits of the Vitamin E and more. Avocados are also high in B vitamins, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and several minerals. Serving Size (1 avocado), 4.16 milligrams of Vitamin E (20 per cent DV), 322 calories
Vitamin E has an essential role in the health of the skin and body organs, and its antioxidant properties help reduce damage to cells. Make sure you’re looking and feeling your best by enjoying a diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and other healthy sources of essential Vitamin E.
Other health benefits of vitamin E
Cancer and cardiovascular diseases
This vitamin is lipid-soluble, which means that it helps in cell-membrane stability. The antioxidant content in Vitamin E protects our cells from the negative effects of free radicals. Free radicals are the by-products of our body’s metabolic process. These free radicals are harmful to our body as they damage cells, which further increase the chances of the body developing chronic diseases like cancer and other cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin E has the ability to limit the production of these free radicals, so it might help in the prevention of cancer and other chronic diseases.
References
Jaewoo Choi, Scott W. Leonard, Katherine Kasper, Melissa McDougall, Jan F. Stevens, Robert L. Tanguay, Maret G. Traber. Novel function of vitamin E in regulation of zebrafish (Danio rerio) brain lysophospholipids discovered using lipidomics. Journal of Lipid Research, 2015
Worried by the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Kwara State, as expressed by the State AIDS Control Agency (KWASACA) recently, which is evident with the number of brothels scattered around the region, the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS), University of Ilorin Chapter, organised a walk against HIV/AIDS, in marking the 2019 World AIDS Day.
In commemorating the World AIDS Day held on 1 December, 2019, the PANS members embarked on a 10km sensitisation rally from the University gate to Tipper Garage, with the goal of increasing awareness and enlightenment about AIDS, as well as advocating for safer sexual practices in the municipal city of Ilorin.
Group picture of UNILORIN Pharmacy Students Advocating for Safer Sexual Practices
The HIV/AIDS awareness walk was in line with the theme for this year’s celebration, which was “communities make the difference”. With various HIV/AIDS campaign slogans captioned on placards and banners, scores of students displayed these banners round the university community to arrest residents’ attention.
As a prove that positive health outcomes is a collaborative approach, medical students from the College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin also participated in the campaign.
“We expressed the intention to collaborate with Medical Students’ Association in Oke-Oyi on a very short notice, and they didn’t reject us. They honoured the health walk programme with their presence and active participation. They have shown themselves as good examples to other students in the healthcare team. We all belong to multidisciplinary healthcare team”, UNILORIN PANS President, Abdul Hakeem Oyinlola, remarked.
Condoms were also distributed to those vulnerable populations as part of the tactical approaches to reducing the prevalence of the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases in the city.
Top among the PANS executives in attendance at the walk were, the PANS President, Oyinlola; the Vice-President, Niniola Dada and the General Secretary, Babatunde Yusuf Olalekan.
The battle against AIDS cannot be achieved without the efforts of healthcare professionals, non-healthcare professionals and the public at large. Through public enlightenment, awareness, sensitisation and collective advocacies, the fight against AIDS will be won.
In continuation of a project initiated last year, in commemoration of the World AIDS Day, a team of researchers from the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) and Saint Louis University, staged an awareness campaign for youths from over 11 secondary schools in Lagos, on ideas presentation about HIV self-testing.
The secondary school awareness campaign, held at the Police College, Ikeja, was planned to propagate the concept of HIV self-testing among Nigerian youths.
Cross section of students listening to the presentation of their mates at the awareness campaign.
Fielding questions from journalists at the programme, Dr Juliet Iwelunmor, principal investigator, Saint Louis University; explained why they needed to continue from where they stopped last year, as they are yet to get enough youthful ideas on HIV self-testing, for all the youths in the country. “There are over 60 million youths in Nigeria, and one solution will not fit all. You can’t say one idea is going to capture all youths, that’s why we are having it this year. We got some ideas last year and we need more for effectiveness of the campaign.
“We also got winners that came from Enugu for example, two from Lagos, one from Akure, one from Ibadan, but these can’t get across to all youths in Nigeria. So we are still scratching the surface when you think of where the highest case of HIV is. For example Akwa Ibom, we have no representation.
“So our goal is to say that no one idea can reach the over 60 million youths in Nigeria. That’s why we are here and the idea is to decentralise HIV self-testing, to enable everyone do the test in the confine of your home, and do away with stigmatisation”, she remarked.
For Dr Oliver Ezechi, principal investigator, NIMR, although recent survey shows that HIV rates has dropped in Nigeria, but is still very prevalent among the youth. “So we decided to use research, method to reach a number of young persons here today. When we adults design a programme for young persons, they don’t listen to us, but when it is designed by the youths for the youths, it achieves the goal”, he stated.
He narrated further the objective of the team in gathering the youngsters, which was for the students to come and share their thoughts on how best to reach young persons with the concept of self-testing.
“When a young person visits the hospital for HIV test, all eyes might be on him, but what we are doing is to encourage them to do self-testing in the confine of their homes. Thereafter, there are phone numbers or social media contacts they can contact if they are positive.
“We are partnering with Lagos State AIDS Agency, Civil Society Against AIDS; Young People Against AIDS, and Saints Louis University”.
Speaking on the new discovery that patients with undetected viral can have unprotected sex with their partners without transmitting the virus, Ezechi said it’s a possibility if a patient is on his drugs, ” but it is only a doctor that can tell you when your viral load is undetected. A patient cannot stay back at home and say his viral load is undetected. It is only a medical doctor that can do that, after conducting a medical test on the patient.
One of the students with the name Mary Edopa, from Majidun Senior Grammar School, Ikorodu spoke on the provision of HIV self-testing kits by the government, in supermarkets and other places.She opinded that there should be seminars, workshop, film show especially on people living HIV, as most people are scared of the test because they are not sure of their status.
Nelson Garuba, another presenter from Majidun Senior Grammar School, Ikorodu, spoke on using soft drinks advertisements to get the attention of the young people. “For instance partnering with bottling companies like Coca Cola, Pepsi, to place their advertisements side by side with that of HIV self-testing would suffice”.
Some of the schools that participated in the programme are: Majidun Senior Secondary School,Ikorodu; Ayo-Olusheun College, Alakpere; The African Church model college, Agege; Bolu college, ilupeju; Surulere Snr Secondary School; Onike Girls Junior Secondary School; Surulere Girls Junior Secondary School; Ayetoro Senior Grammar School; Iponri Estate Snr High School; Birel Avenue Senior Secondary School Yaba; Stadium Senior High School, Surulere, among others.
Sunday 1 December 2019, was World HIV/AIDS day, and over 37 million people are currently living with HIV (PLWH), while 22.3 million have access to ART, allowing them to have an almost normal lifespan, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) survey. Unfortunately, it was discovered that the medications don’t reach the cells where the virus lies dormant for years. Whereas potential long-term adverse effects of these medications remain unknown.
A good number of scientists from the Montreal Clinical Research Institute (IRCM) have recently identified a way to overcome this deadly virus (HIV) infection at its very early stages.
HIV: Overcoming the Enemy from the Start
According to research, these 1.7 million people who are condemned to the lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) also risk developing fatal AIDS.
Still, HIV research has been making steady strides to help the large number of PLWH. HIV laboratories around the globe are trying to unlock the “secrets” of the virus and find its weak spots in order to prevent or cure the infection.
“Against the common belief, HIV is not so easily transmitted,” says Éric Cohen, the director of the Human Retrovirology Research Unit and a virology professor in the Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology at the university.
Cohen said he and his colleagues are studying the window of vulnerability of the virus, meaning the moments in the infection process when it could be weakened or attacked. He noted that they focused on the very early stages following viral invasion.
“Once transmitted, HIV does not immediately spread through the body. It initially has to multiply locally, mainly in the genital tissues. It is only after this initial, local expansion that the virus spreads. This localized expansion offers a very brief window of vulnerability before the virus efficiently establishes a systemic infection.
The immune response is like an armed struggle: an enemy infiltrates and the body defends itself. Viruses are the intruders, and white blood cells are soldiers trying to hold down the fort. The white blood cells are equipped with their own “infantry units”: lymphocytes, phagocytes, granulocytes and others. The phagocyte group has an even more specialized unit known as ‘plasmacytoid dendritic cells’ (PDCs).
These small, round-shaped cells patrol the body, specializing in both pathogen detection and antiviral response orchestration. In other words, they are the whistleblowers, the ones through which the entire defense process is set into motion. When they detect a threat, they change shape and develop protuberances called dendrites. “Most importantly, they start producing large amounts of interferon, a protein that triggers a state of infection resistance in other cells,” Cohen explained.
As its name implies, HIV preferentially targets the immune system: it attacks and weakens the body’s own defenses, and the infected person becomes susceptible to the slightest infection. As soon as it arrives. HIV gets PDCs out of the way and prevents them from sounding the alarm. “The virus doesn’t seem to kill them directly, but it makes them disappear in a way that is still not understood,” said Pham, the senior research associate in the Human Retrovirology Research Unit. “The loss of PDCs from both the infection site and throughout the body helps establish the infection.”
A humanized mouse model to fight HIV infection
“Given what HIV does to PDCs, we wondered what would happen if we boosted PDC levels and their function both prior to and during infection,” said Cohen. To test this, the scientists used a special protein known as Flt3 receptor ligand to stimulate the production of PDCs from the bone marrow of humanized mice. These rodents are engineered to have a human immune system in place of the mouse’s own machinery. Consequently, in an infected humanized mouse, HIV behaves as it otherwise would in a human host.
Administration of this special protein maintained high levels of PDCs in these mice and produced some striking results: 1) the initial number of infected mice was reduced; 2) the time it took for the virus to be detectable in the blood was lengthened; and 3) the amount of virus in the blood, also known as viremia, was significantly reduced. “We observed up to a 100-fold decrease in viremia,” Pham noted. “In other words, the initial infection is suppressed by maintaining a high level of PDCs.”
This seminal work also showed that the injection of the Flt3 receptor ligand not only increased PDC abundance, but also boosted their ability to detect the virus and produce interferon following its detection.
Of course, HIV infection normally goes unnoticed and by the time the viremia is detectable, it is a little too late. In this context, the discovery by Cohen and Pham is highly important in terms of prevention and a potential cure. “These new findings will be crucial in the design of an HIV vaccine, which is basically aimed at teaching the immune system to defend itself by introducing it to a weakened form of the virus,” said Cohen. “We can now focus on PDCs in order to control the seeding and expansion of the virus at the early stage of infection.”
Materials provided by University of Montreal. Note: Content are edited for style and length.
As Nigerians join the rest of the global community to mark the 2019 World AIDS Day, which is celebrated on every 1 December 2019, the Executive Director of The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS), Winnie Byanyima has stressed the need to end the stigma that comes with HIV/AIDS in order to make the world a better place to live for all.
Byanyima made the remarks during a press briefing to commemorate the 2019, World AIDS Day, on 30 November 2019, stating that people living with HIV are more prone to malnutrition and need a healthy and nutritious diet. She added that stigma and discrimination can discourage people living with HIV from getting tested and seeking support.
“Global fund advances in prevention and treatment of HIV and TB have saved millions of lives. But discriminatory attitudes and punitive laws, policies and practices are fueling the epidemics and driving people away from health services.” She added.
World AIDS Day 2019: UNAIDS Tasks Communities on end to stigmatisation
The theme of this year’s World AIDS Day is “Communities make the difference” being a pivotal year for viral AID global campaign, the UNAIDS has called on governments and people across the world to take action and raise awareness to help people living with HIV have access to treatment today because communities have fought for it every day since the start of the epidemic.
Byanyima said, without communities, 24 million people would not be on treatment today. Without communities led by women living with and affected by HIV, we would not be close to ending new HIV infections among children, raising orphans and caring for the sick.
“People living with HIV are more prone to malnutrition and need a healthy and nutritious diet. Good nutrition is vital for better toleration of HIV drugs, enhance retention in care and maintaining a healthy weight and overall wellness” as reported by UNAIDS.
Studies carried out in different parts of Nigeria show that only half of children living with HIV have access to life-saving treatment.
“I believe in communities. Communities make change happen. Communities are the best hope for ending AIDS because communities have fought against HIV right from the beginning.
“In the face of adversity, communities of gay men, sex workers and people who use drugs have organised themselves to claim their right to health as equal citizens. So, we know that communities have proved their worth. There is no debate there.
“Twenty-five years ago, a Burundi woman called Jeanne was the first person to disclose that she was living with HIV. Today, Jeanne is holding leaders accountable and fighting for the right to health care.
“Pioneers like Jeanne have been joined by younger leaders, like 20-year-old Yana, who was born with HIV in Ukraine. Yana founded Teenergizer, a group bringing together young people across Eastern Europe. In a world where power resides with old men, she wants her peers to have a voice and a choice,” Byanyima explained.
She said that communities make the difference all over the world, however, the way communities are being taken for granted has to change.
On World AIDS Day, UNAIDS salutes the achievements of activists and communities in the struggle against HIV. They remember and we honour all those whom we have lost along the way.
The Executive Director call on governments to open a space so that activists can do the work they do best with communities in the lead and governments living up to their promises saying they will end AIDS.
With an area of 81km2 and a population of over 650,000, Ajekunle, an extension of the Ikosi-Isheri Local Government Development Area, a Lagos suburb, is located along the Mile 12, Ikorodu axis, in Lagos. Ajegunle, characterised by low-income residents, is particularly dominated by indigenes of riverine areas, who are artisans and petty traders. A common phenomenon with this environment is the annual flooding of the place which makes dwellers vulnerable to various infectious diseases and other psycho-social effects of the flood.
Patrick Akarama, a resident of Ajegunle, who sells wood, narrated his ordeal to the Pharmanewsonline crew when we visited the vicinity.
Another aged resident of the area, who has been living in Ajegunle for over four decades accused governments of not coming to their aid. Although he applauded the administration of Governor Babatunde Fashola, who granted them some reliefs, but he noted that no other government has bothered to care again for them.
Of more concern was the Holy Ghost Church of Christ Ministries, led by Comr. Ugochukwu D.N Chijioke, submerged in water, as the pastor was seen scoping water out of the church when our team visited.
After flood sensitization infograph for affected people by WHO
Going by the traumatic experiences of these people in a city like Lagos, public health experts have condemned the existence of such hazards without corresponding action from government, as they highlighted the psycho-social burden on the health of the people.
Dr (Mrs) S.I. Smith, head, Emergency Preparedness and Response Research Group, of the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) while speaking with Pharmanewsonline highlighted some of the effects on the victims.
Pharm. (Mrs) Bisi Bright, CEO Livewell Initiative, has also tasked government on public health awareness creation to the residents of such areas, as their living conditions can predispose them to several diseases.
For the Councillor, representing Ward G Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Salami Yunusa, he said they have provided some palliative measures at the LCDA level, such as the construction of a wooden foot-bridge to aid movement, sensitisation of residents on the implications of living in flooded areas, but there are still much more to be done, if the Sustainable Development Goals are to be actualised here.
A rare disease, also referred to as an orphan disease, is any disease that affects a small percentage of the population. A recent study published in the journal Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, have found a better solution for this rare disease problem.
Millions of rare diseases have increasingly affect thousands of people across the world, yet because each case is so rare, doctors struggle to accurately distinguish the nature of the problem and effectively treat individual patients.
Every time a patient with an unspecified disorder walks into a new clinic or shows up in an emergency room, doctors must start from scratch. It was reported that patients often go through years of such experiences before they ever get a diagnosis.
Experts Discover Better Cure for Rare-Disease Challenge
Most rare diseases are genetic, and are present throughout a person’s entire life, even if symptoms do not immediately appear.
In order to get a handle on this problem, an international team of data scientists and rare disease specialists came up with a way to characterize and define diseases so that they would be sharable among physicians across the globe.
For years, patient advocacy groups and regulators have often cited an estimate that there are roughly 7,000 “rare” diseases, however the new research suggests this number may be undercounting by thousands.
“This preliminary analysis suggests that there could be a substantially higher number of rare diseases than typically assumed with obvious implications for diagnostics, drug recovery and treatment,” they write.
The scientists call for a coordinated effort to better define rare diseases so that clinicians can effectively diagnose and treat patients.
The reason: Doctors can’t successfully treat what they can’t recognize.
“Most of these diseases they’ll never see again in their lifetime,” said lead author Melissa Haendel, Ph.D., associate professor of medical informatics and clinical epidemiology in the Oregon Clinical and Translational Research Institute (OCTRI). “If we can’t count them, that means we also can’t define them, and therefore we can’t adequately diagnose them.”
The lack of agreement and imperfections in current rare disease definitions also affect research on rare disease mechanisms and potential therapies.
Researchers estimate that as much as 10% of the world’s population suffers from a rare disease, translating into hundreds of millions of people. Yet the inability to reliably diagnose a specific rare disease hinders doctors’ ability to treat individual patients and researchers’ ability to develop effective treatments.
Handel wrote the commentary with 18 co-authors from the United States, Australia, France and Germany. In it, the authors call upon the World Health Organization, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the European Medicines Agencies, the National Academy of Medicine and other entities to adopt a unified definition of rare disease.
Scientists have reiterated it overtime that your health status has a direct impact on your sex life, and this has shown with people managing one condition or the other.
However, in what sounds like an incredible story, but which has been validated through an empirical research, a new study has shown that social media is damaging the confidence of Britons in the bedroom. The study which was commissioned by anonymous online journal Pencourage.com, also found that a majority of people are less likely to engage in sex after seeing other people’s posts on those sites.
A man and his lovely wife having a good time in bed without any social media interruption
According to the report published on Daily Mail Online, it found that Photo-sharing appeared to have a stronger effect on men, with two-thirds saying it affected their performance in the bedroom.
It further revealed that more than a quarter of women stated that logging into Facebook or Instagram before bedtime resulted in them feeling ‘less sexy’, and seven per cent said they ‘do not feel like sex’ after checking their Instagram or Facebook account.
Confirming the development, a Psychologist Dr Richard Sherry said: ‘These findings go further than previous studies, which showed that intimacy is affected because we spend more time on our smartphones than we ever did before.
What a revelation! But would you go with this finding?
Festive periods are known for different activities as people rally round to meet their targets before the year ebbs out. While some pursue these goals legitimately, others are bent on having a merry Christmas by hook or by crook, not minding the aftermath of their actions.
Statements from victims in the past have shown that the sharp practices range from sales of uncompleted goods at standard price, substandard products, snatching of purses in the market places, adulteration of products, etc.
However, the closure of the Nigerian borders by the Nigerian Custom Service since 28 August 2019, has included rice to the list of manipulated products by unscrupulous traders, who now repack expired rice for sale to the unsuspecting consumers.
With the over 29 percent increase in the price of rice as shown by market survey from July till November, these dishonest business men have introduced new dimensions of selling repackaging local rice in foreign bags and also re-bagging expired rice for sale.
She said it is instructive to note that expired and caked rice are unwholesome as they contain moulds and microorganisms that cause diseases which are of immense public health concern.
The NAFDAC DG who narrated the encounter of some officials of the agency with miscreants during their inspection in Ogun State, spoke through a press statement mailed to Pharmanewsonline:”The Ogun State office of NAFDAC received a report from the Department of State Services (DSS) in the state, of ongoing food fraud at Oke-Aje market in Ijebu Ode.
“On the 14th of November 2019, officers of the State office in company of men of the Nigeria Police Force proceeded to the scene of the illegal activity. On arrival the suspected perpetrators of the food fraud instigated unnamed persons to unleash mayhem on the team of investigators.
“However, Enforcement Officers of the agency and its Federal Task Force team stormed the market in company of Department of State Services officials. They sighted miscreants at the market who took to their heels. Bags of expired rice, caked rice, bags of local rice, bags of popular foreign rice and sealing machines were found in the shops when the NAFDAC Enforcement team finally gained access into the shops. Thereafter, three shops were sealed during the operation”.
She therefore urged the general public to be vigilant and exercise discretion when purchasing rice and other food items, saying NAFDAC is fully alive to her responsibilities of assuring the safety, wholesomeness and quality of foods and other regulated products offered for sale to the public.
Adeyeye further tasked members of the public on reporting cases of re-bagging and sale of caked and expired rice or other food items to the nearest NAFDAC office across the federation.
Whenever a baby is born with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), a recent study from Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital in USA, suggests that there should be need a for immediate treatment.
The study shows that there is no need to delay treatments for weeks or months, instant treatment should commence. The baby should be started on HIV treatment quickly – ideally, within an hour, but at least within four hours of being born says the study
The findings, from a small but unique study in Botswana, could influence care in Africa and other regions hit hard by the virus. They also might offer a clue in scientists’ quest for a cure.
The Harvard-led team found super early treatment limits how HIV takes root in a newborn’s body, shrinking the “reservoir” of virus that hides out; ready to rebound if those youngsters ever stop their medications.
“We don’t think the current intervention is itself curative, but it sets the stage” for future attempts, said Dr Daniel Kuritzkes of Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, who co-authored the study.
Researchers Harp on Immediate Treatment for Babies with HIV
Giving pregnant women a cocktail of anti-HIV drugs can prevent them from spreading the virus to their unborn children, a step that has dramatically reduced the number of babies born with the virus worldwide. Still, some 300 to 500 infants are estimated to be infected every day in sub-Saharan Africa.
Doctors have long known that treating babies in the first weeks to months of life is important, because their developing immune systems are especially vulnerable to HIV. But an infant dubbed the “Mississippi baby” raised a critical question: Should treatment start even earlier? The girl received a three-drug combination within 30 hours of her birth in July 2010, highly unusual for the time. Her family quit treatment when she was a toddler—yet her HIV remained in remission for a remarkable 27 months before she relapsed and restarted therapy.
The Botswana study was one of several funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health after doctors learned of the Mississippi baby, to further explore very early treatment.
The findings are encouraging, said Dr Deborah Persaud, a pediatric HIV specialist at Johns Hopkins University who wasn’t involved with the Botswana study but helped evaluate the Mississippi baby.
“The study showed what we hypothesized happened in the Mississippi baby, that very early treatment really prevents establishment of these long-lived reservoir cells that currently are the barrier to HIV eradication,” Persaud said.
She cautioned: “Very early treatment is important, but prevention should still be our top priority.”
In Botswana, researchers tested at-risk newborns, enrolling 40 born with HIV, treating them within hours to a few days, and tracking them for two years. They reported results from the first 10 patients, comparing them with 10 infants getting regular care—treatment beginning when they were a few months old.
According to the findings on MedicalXpress, medication brought HIV under control in both groups. But the children treated earliest had a much smaller reservoir of HIV in their blood, starting about six months into treatment.
The earliest-treated children also got another benefit: more normal functioning of some key parts of the immune system.
In the U.S., Europe and South Africa, it’s becoming common to test at-risk infants at birth. But in most lower-income countries, babies aren’t tested until they’re 4 to 6 weeks old, said study co-author Dr Roger Shapiro, a Harvard infectious disease specialist.
Another research shows that adherence levels go down in women after they have had a baby. Advising that it’s very important that you continue to take each dose of your treatment at the right time and in the right way to protect your health and the child’s health.
Some university dons and medical experts have appealed to the federal government and stakeholders in the country to establish more old people’s home for ageing and elderly persons with a view to addressing their current plights as well as come up with policies that will support them in the society.
The experts include: Prof. Bolanle Fatuga, dean, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Sagamu Campus; Prof. Adewale Sule-Odu, a professor of obstetrics and gynaecology, OOUTH; Dr Olubukola Jeminusi, a lecturer in the department of Community Medicine, OOUTH, among others.
Speaking at a community health outreach organised at the Palace of the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, to kick off this year’s Faculty of Clinical Sciences Week, Dr Jeminusi, in his lecture titled “The Care of the Elderly” added that aside the establishment of old people’s home and recreation centres to care for their needs, social and economic policies should equally be put in place to support the capabilities, wellbeing and autonomy of older persons.
He said Nigeria’s ageing population of 65 years and above is gradually decreasing, adding that there are roughly 6 million elderly people (65 years and above) in the country, which represented 3 per cent of the total population. “According to the latest World Health Organization (WHO)data, around 54.5 years of age is the average life expectancy of Nigerians” which is quite worrisome, Jeminusi said.
Speaking further, the university don listed challenges such as lack of affordable healthcare provision, lack of household help, weakness, arthritis, failing vision, hearing problem, low libido, challenge with bone density, memory loss and wrinkles as some of the challenges associated with ageing.
L-R: Prof Adewale Sule-Odu; Chief. Adeyemi Salami, Lisa of Sagamu; HRM, the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi; and Prof. Bolanle Fatuga, dean, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Sagamu, during a courtesy call on the royal father recently
He added that healthcare is the greatest physical need for the elderly because when they are healthy, they need far less basic support. “Aside healthcare need, what we could do for the elderly is to treat them with respect and shower them with lots of love and affection and support in every way possible so that they can lead a normal life too,” he said.
“By getting the right healthcare services, screenings, and treatments, you are taking steps that help your chances for living a longer, healthier life. At your age, health and family history, lifestyle choices, what you eat, how active you are, whether you smoke, and other important factors impact what and how often you need healthcare and how healthy you will be,” he advised.
While receiving the experts in his palace, the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi appreciated them for paying a courtesy visit on him, as well as their good gestures in bringing the health awareness advocacy to his domain, in order to enlighten his chiefs and offer free medical screening to them.
Oba Adewale further expressed his delight in the free medical screening conducted for the Akarigbo –In- Council, adding that the exercise would greatly help to prevent illnesses and promote longer, healthier life. “It is good when one is aware of his or her health status and I am happy that this is happening in my domain” he said.
Speaking further, the referred monarch however promised to work closely with the university community when necessary, adding that traditional institutions are meant to play fatherly role in the society.
Also speaking, the spokesperson for the Akarigbo-In-Council, Chief Adeyemi Salami, Lisa of Ofin, Sagamu, said they were delighted that that the experts thought it wise to come to their domain with such a laudable programme, adding that government should do more than it is doing presently to care for the elderly and ageing.
“The elderly and ageing in the country deserve cares from both government and general public because ageing is not an emergency situation or an accident, but a transitory period of maturation, a process that every human being prays to go through,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the duo of Prof. Fatuga and Prof. Sule-Odu noted that the programme was part of the faculty’s community effort at reaching out to the people for the purpose of rendering community service.
The scholars added that the medical outreach was part of the programmes lined up to mark this year’s Faculty Week, adding that their functions in the university comprises of both teaching, consulting and community service, which is the main reason for the health outreach.
“Health outreach is important because Nigeria is undergoing epidemiological disease transition and we found out that a lot of people are coming down with chronic disease conditions and health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes and other silent killer diseases, so this awareness is very important and we are happy we have done it,” Fatuga said.
For the Head, Sales and Marketing, Seagreen Pharmaceutical Limited, Mr Adelodun Adeniyi Wasiu, disclosed that as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR), Seagreen is committed to enhancing the health and wellness status of the Nigerian society, adding that the company long to see a Nigeria where everyone has access to basic essential medicines regardless of their socio-economic status.
Speaking on the rationale behind the partnership with OOUTH, he said the company decided to organise the medical outreach and free screening exercise to give back to the community and to promote healthy living among Nigerians, adding that regular health screening is good as it involves checking patients’ current health status and risks.
