HOW TO EAT KOLANUT FOR HEALTHY LIVING

            Kolanut , a widely consumed nut in Africa that is found on Strepculiacasea tree . It is used in ceremonies and given during visitation and part of the cultural heritage of some parts in Africa. Kolanut extracts have been harnessed by some cola producing companies and also it has been used for medicinal purpose. The significance of kolanut to Africans take a major part in the instigation of researchers to elucidate the effects of kolanut on humans evolving the dearth studies about kolanut to many. Several advantageous effects could be effected on humans moreover it also has it deleterious influence on health especially when consumed indiscriminately and excessively.

 ADVANTAGE

Kolanut has very high caffeine content with dominance above other chemical constituent within, caffeine is known for it ability to hinder sleep, encourage alertness and dismay fatigue. This stimulating potential is further jazzed up by threobomine that is a stimulant. These two stimulants make Kolanut a natural stimulant that has been used for this stimulating purpose for years.

Synonymously to bitter kola, kolanut could also be taking by those with Asthma or whooping cough , because of it influence on the bronchioles , it induces bronchiole dilation making passage of air free.

Finally, prolong usage can cause reduction in testosterone level, sperm motility, viability, and count thus promoting infertility in men likewise in women it can cause reduction in weight of ovary and womb due to the perturbed oestrous cycle though this is dose-dependent

In addition to all these benefits, kolanut has some nutrients such as proteins , starch, phenolics, niacin, ribolflavin, that are good for ones health. Other benefits of kolanuts are vision clearance and researchers have suggested kolanut has a natural and alternative medicine for diabetes.

DISADVANTAGES

 , it is good to take some precaution in its consumption. The caffeine content makes it a poison for pregnant women and nursing mothers and those suffering from high blood pressure , cardiovascular diseases, insominia, anxiety problem , high cholesterol level, seizure and palpitation. If consumed by pregnant woman it could cause hormonal imbalance and also consumption by those that have these diseases it could aggravate their condition. Those with stomach and duodenal ulcer should shun it intake because it induces increased production of gastric juice so not ameliorating the state of health but worsen it. Studies have shown it could cause osteoporosis in adult and perturbed bone formation in adolescent which could be traced to its caffeine content.

Furthermore, there are some drugs that shouldn’t be taken with kolanut because it counters the therapeutic effects of the drugs in the body. Drugs like muscle relaxant, heart medication, high blood pressure medication, nitrate and calcium channel blockers shouldn't be taken with kolanut.

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Discerning the advantages and disadvantages of kolanut it depends on the consumer to choose what’s best for his/her health. Personally, its consumption is good for health and fostering of productivity but excessive ingestion should be hindered cause of the hazardous effects it could develop.

CONSUME MODERATEY AND LIVE HEALTHY

FIVE HEALTH BENEFIT OF BITTER KOLA INCLUDE HIV

The scientific name for bitter kola is Garcinia kola. It is called Orogbo in Yoruba. The Hausas call it Miji-goro, while it is called Akiilu by the Igbos. READ ALSO: Sokoto’s Negative Health Statistics Worry Tambuwal This write-up highlights 5 health values of bitter kola and why eating it should be encouraged as stated in a post by Kevin Onuma on The amazing health benefits of bitter kola (Garcinia Kola) in InformAfrica.com 1. Bitter Kola Improves Lung Functions Bitter kola (Garcinia kola) has been used for centuries to treat chest colds in traditional medicine, but research has taken a look and found out why it is effective. A study in the 2009 issue of The Internet Journal of Pulmonary Medicine, performed on mice, reports that Garcinia kola improved respiratory function after 28 days of use of a Garcinia extract. Written by Simon Adekunle of the Ekiti State University in Nigeria, the study shows that Garcinia kola works by dilating the alveolar ducts and sacs in the lungs by improving the strength of the fibers in the lung tissue. Bitter kola’s beneficial lung properties are attributed to its high antioxidant content. 2. Bitter Kola Health Benefit for Malaria Considerable experimental studies found the chemical constituents in bitter kola have anti-malaria properties. That aside, traditional healers have for many years prescribed bitter kola for the treatment of malaria infections. Researchers who reported that bitter kola had anti-malaria effect in the 2010 issue of Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, from a survey of plants used by traditional healers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, attributed this to its quinones content. Further more, kolaviron, the powerful chemical compound found in bitter kola, was reportedly tested on a malaria parasite and found to inhibit malarial activity. 3. Bitter Kola Benefit for Male Fertility (Impotence) Garcinia kola, also called bitter kola is sometimes believed to cure impotence. Frequent taking of bitter kola boosts man performance in bed with a woman. 4. Bitter Kola Health Benefit for Glaucoma (Eye Pressure) An increase in eye pressure can lead to glaucoma, according to a report from The New York Times Health Guide. Researchers at Lagos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria tested the effectiveness of eye drops that contained 0.5 percent extract of Garcinia kola. The results of their study, published in the January 2010 issue of Middle East African Journal of Opthamology, showed that the opthamolic solution that contained the Garcinia significantly reduced eye pressure when used twice a day. 5. Bitter Kola Health Benefit for HIV Bitter kola is a potent antibiotic which could be efficacious in the treatment of HIV and AIDS. A researcher with the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), Mrs. Chinyere Nwokeke told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that bitter kola could be used in treating opportunistic infections associated with HIV. “Bitter kola is highly recommended in the treatment of HIV and AIDS because of its antibacterial, detoxification, and cleansing properties”, she said. Mrs Chinyere Nwokeke also said that the chemical saponin in bitter kola is responsible for its cleansing effect. Saponin is mainly used as tonic for the liver, it enhances the functions of the liver and gall bladder. READ ALSO: Bottled Water Can Be Toxic. Check THIS Next Time You Buy It We should recall that Nigeria’s world renowned Professor, Maurice Iwu during the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) said bitter kola could be used to prevent EVD. The federal government of Nigeria through the ministry of health and its agencies could invest funds into scientific researches to find out more health importance of bitter kola.

SEE THE 13 HEALTH BENEFIT OF BITTER LEAF

Bitter leaf as the name implies is a bitter leafy green or sometimes gray vegetable known in Nigeria as onugbu by the Igbos, ewuro by the Yorubas and chusa-doki shawaka by the Hausas. Scientifically, it is called vernonia amygdalina and sometimes referred to as ironweed. R  Bitter leaf offers many health benefits including but not limited to blood sugar regulation, helping with repair of the pancreas and may also help reduce the risk of breast cancer amongst other things. Nigeria is blessed to have bitter leaf growing any and everywhere. It is among the cheapest vegetables or herbs you can buy. As such, there is absolutely no reason not to incorporate it into your diet. Here is a quick run-down of thirteen major health benefits of adding bitter leaf to your diet. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter ‘Washing’ bitter leaf 1. May reduce the risk of breast cancer 2. Can reduce cholesterol which in turn helps reduce the risk factors associated with Stroke, Heart Attack and Alzheimer’s 3. Contains Antioxidants in abundance which helps to check oxidation thereby increasing the body’s disease fighting properties. 4. It aids digestion 5. Helps in maintaining the liver and kidney Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Bitter leaf soup with eba 6. It helps to cleanse the body. 7. It increases metabolism which, along with other factors, helps in maintaining a healthy weight 8. Bitter leaf is a great source of essential fatty acids such as poly unsaturated fatty acids, linolenic and linoleic acid which helps protect against cardiovascular diseases. 9. It may help to eradicate pain.   10. It helps regulate the blood sugar thereby helping to reduce the risk of Type II diabetes. 11. 11,It is a great source of Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 and B2, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. 12. May help relieve fevers. 13. Contains antibiotic and antifungal properties which helps cure skin ailments and diseases. That should be enough reason to have you sprinting to the market for some bitter leaf right? Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Bitter leaf juice So whether you decide to chow it down fresh or in the form of bitter leaf juice and drinking up, or as a tonic which you store in your fridge and take tablespoons daily or the more popular way of cooking it and incorporating it into various recipes (which is more pleasing to the palate, we might add), you definitely can’t go wrong with bitter leaf in your diet. And while we are on the matter, here are interesting and delicious recipes containing bitter leaf that we think will make you mouth water!

FIVE FOOD THAT BOOST SEX

 

Not only do these foods provide nutrition, but they also help boost hormone production, energy levels, and sexual desire. So, instead of going straight for the Viagra, try eating one of these 5 foods that boost sex drive.

5 Foods That Boost Sex Drive

1. Avocados

Avocados have long been considered sexual enhancers; the Aztecs used them as sexual stimulants and forbade virgin women from leaving their houses during the avocado harvest in fear that they might become sexually overwhelmed by the powers of the avocado.
This fruit is high in folic acid, which breaks down protein and boosts energy. Avocados contain a good amount of monounsaturated fat – the healthy fat – that is necessary for hormone production. In addition, they’re rich in vitamin B6 and potassium, both of which boost male hormone production and give you enough energy to last in the bedroom.

2. Oysters

They’re the classic aphrodisiac: oysters have been consumed by individuals for years to boost libido. Casanova himself is rumored to have eaten dozens of raw oysters each day, and for good reason, too.
Oysters increase dopamine, a hormone that boosts libido, and zinc, which proliferates testosterone and sperm production. Not to mention, some people find the act of eating oysters quite erotic. Others are bothered by the texture, so maybe the next food is a better choice…

3. Hot Peppers

These hot and fiery vegetables are a great way to spice up your sex life. They’ve got the right amount of kick to increase blood flow and circulation, and the side effects of consumption are pretty similar to those associated with sex; sweating, increased heart rate, and a tingling sensation.
Cayenne and chili peppers are also good sources of capsaicin – the molecule that gives peppers their hotness – and help your body release endorphins to get you feeling frisky. Whip up some guacamole (avocado!) and add a few peppers for the ultimate pre-bedroom party.

4. Bananas

Bananas contains bromelain, an enzyme that may increase sex drive and reverse impotence in men (bromelain is also found in pineapple). Bananas are high in potassium and riboflavin, which increase the body’s energy levels, so that makes them a great snack to eat before a “workout.”
In addition, bananas are great for anyone who gets pre-date butterflies because they help relax the nervous system. With all of these great benefits, it’s no wonder monkeys are so obsessed with them.

5. Chocolate

While this may seem too good to be true, there’s truth behind the libido boosting effect of our fifth food. Chocolate contains a compound called phenyl-ethylamine, which is produced in the brains of people who are in love. When it’s consumed, the body releases serotonin (the same hormone released during sex) and an array of endorphins.
Now, this doesn’t mean that you should go eat a few candy bars before sex; only choose chocolate that contains at least 60% cacao. Better yet, try dipping strawberries (or any other fruit that’s high in vitamin C) in melted dark chocolate to add even more oomph to your bedroom festivities.

Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain

CAUSES OF ARTHRITIS
 arthritis and joint painWe take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited. The cause of this for many people comes in the form of arthritis, or the inflammation of one or more of your joints. There are two main kinds, osteo and rheumatoid, both of which affect the joint in different ways. Osteo arthritis is when the cartilage between bones wears down, until bone grates on bone. Rheumatoid is little less straightforward, being caused by an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the synovial membrane (a soft tissue that protects joints in the body) and that can lead to bone loss. Whichever you experience, there are natural remedies for arthritis to manage the pain and ease the symptoms.
Home Remedies for Arthritis & Joint Pain

Exercise


When it’s painful and difficult just to move, the last thing you feel like doing is getting up and exercising. As unpleasant as it may sound though, exercise is vital for those who suffer from any form of stiffness, joint pain, or arthritis. Exercise will help control weight (an excess of which puts more strain on your joints) strengthens the muscles that support the joint, even when the cartilage is thinning, and lubricates the joints, allowing them to move more freely. When we are inactive the synovial fluid in the joints is the consistency of a thick gel, but once we get moving and warming up, the liquid becomes more viscous and can do a better job of lubricating our joints and keeping them going smoothly. Just imagine if you were to be sedentary every day, pretty soon you’d be so stiff it’d be just about impossible to move. But if you get up and move around every day, you’ll get stronger and will loosen up as well.

Try…
-Going for a brisk walk-start with 15 minutes and work your way up into a solid daily routine.
-Doing joint-targeted exercises-certain stretches and exercises specifically target joints to help rid them of stiffness and pain.
-Getting a dog-doing so backs up the first point, because you’ll have no choice but to walk!



Turmeric & Ginger Tea

Turmeric and ginger are both anti-inflammatorys, and will help with oseto and rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric in particular has gotten a lot of attention lately. Its active ingredient is something called curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it lowers the levels of 2 enzymes responsible for causing inflammation (which is what we’re often fighting with arthritis.) You can take these in a capsule form or make a nice spicy tea to enjoy daily.

You will need…
-2 cups of water
-1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
-Honey to taste

Directions
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and had ½ teaspoon each ground ginger and ground turmeric. Reduce to a simmer and let it be for 10-15 minutes. Strain, add honey to taste, and enjoy twice daily. This yields 2 servings.


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Best Fruits for Arthritis

Avocado. The rich, creamy texture of this fruit comes in part from its high content of anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fat. Avocados are also rich in the carotenoid lutein. Unlike most fruits, avocados are a good source of vitamin E, a micronutrient with anti-inflammatory effects. Diets high in these compounds are linked to decreased risk of the joint damage seen in early osteoarthritis.

Studies also show eating avocados daily increases “good” HDL cholesterol and lowers its “bad” LDL counterpart. Despite the fruit’s relatively high calorie content, research has found that regular avocado eaters tend to weigh less and have smaller waists. Their high fiber and fat content may help people control cravings, Dulan says.

Watermelon. Watermelon is another fruit with anti-inflammatory action; studies show it reduces CRP. It’s high in the carotenoid beta-cryptoxanthin, which can reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, according to studies that followed people’s dietary habits over time. It leads the fruit pack in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against certain cancers and lower heart attack risk, says Dulan.

Once cup has about 40% more lycopene than raw tomatoes, the next richest raw food source. Watermelon is also ninety-two percent water, which makes it great for hydration and weight management. One cup of watermelon has about 40 calories – plus about a third of your recommended daily allowance of vitamins A and C.

Grapes. “Grapes, both white and darker-colored varieties, are a great source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols,” says Dulan. “Fresh red and black grapes also contain resveratrol, the heart-healthy compound found in red wine that contributes to cardiovascular health by improving the function of blood vessels.”



Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Red Peppers and Squash

These brightly orange- and red-hued vegetables get their distinctive color from carotenoids like beta-cryptoxanthin. Plant pigments also supply sweet potatoes, carrots, squash and red peppers with antioxidants. Some research suggests eating more foods rich in beta-cryptoxanthin could reduce your risk of developing RA and other inflammatory conditions.
Red and Green Peppers

Peppers – no matter what their color or whether they’re mild or hot – are an abundant source of vitamin C, which preserves bone, and may protect cells in cartilage. Getting less than the recommended 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men daily may increase risk for OA of the knee. Just a half-cup of red bell pepper gives you a full day’s supply.
Onions, Garlic, Leeks and Shallots

These pungent vegetables are all members of the allium family, which are rich in a type of antioxidant called quercetin. Researchers are investigating quercetin’s potential ability to relieve inflammation in diseases like RA. Alliums also contain a compound called diallyl disulphine, which may reduce the enzymes that damage cartilage.
Olives

9 STEPS I USE TO IMPROVE ON MY SEX LIFE

Yoga is one of the ultimate mind-body experiences. The same can be said for great sex! But the two are more interlinked than you may realise.

Not only is yoga an amazing stress reliever, but it improves flexibility, increases blood flow, and opens your heart all necessary for a healthy sex life.

Yoga is like a friend with benefits, guaranteed to enhance your love life. 

Here are just some of the reasons why: 

1. Get flexible

Tight hamstrings and stiff hips can get in the way of deeper penetration and more exploratory positions. Yoga helps to increase flexibility of all major muscle groups, which means a greater range of movement between the sheets.

Read: The benefits of hot yoga

Many postures also help lubricate the joints, so say goodbye to awkward cramps at inopportune moments!

2. Better backbone

Muscle tension and poor spinal health can seriously impede sexual performance. The good news is that yoga can help by releasing tension in the back muscles and restore the natural curvature of the spine, keeping you limber and ready for action.

3. Strength

Some extra muscle coupled with improved endurance goes a long way when it comes to stoking the fires of passion. There’s nothing like regular yoga practice to ready yourself for improved performance.

4. Clear the mind

Nothing is a greater passion killer than an over stressed mind. It can reduce your libido and stand in the way of a healthy sex life. Clearing the mind through yoga and meditation has a positive effect on both mind and body – a vital ingredient in the recipe for good loving.

5. Be present

Sometimes being present during sex is harder than it seems. You might love everything your partner is doing, but you tend to get too caught up on how you sound or look – and end up missing the deeper stuff. A huge part of practicing yoga is being mindful of your body in each moment. When you're in tune with yourself you can bring your entire presence into any sexy situation.

6. Gain confidence

Yoga helps us achieve balance in our lives. This results in a toned, healthy body, which leads to an improved body image and increased self-confidence. Both are invaluable for increasing libido and confidence in the bedroom.

7. Process emotions

Yoga teaches us to let go of things like anger, frustration and jealousy, and invite in emotions that actually serve us in a positive way. This can be a huge help in our romantic lives. It allows us to resolve disagreements quicker, and release any anger we may be holding towards our partner.

8. Mula Bandha

Yoga incorporates strength-building poses that require you to work your mula bandha, or root lock.  Standing poses, such as warrior poses, lunges and balancing poses, force you to support your own body weight while contorting this way and that. This results in contracting the muscle between your sphincter and the muscle that controls urination. Strengthening this muscle means greater control and stronger, more intense orgasms.

9. Feel the love

Regular yoga practice can open your heart and invoke deep feelings of love. While the purpose behind the practices is spiritual in nature, the energy and emotions that are generated can linger, helping you feel closer to your partner, igniting deeper passion in your relationship. START PRACTICING NOW