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Edo PDP Reacts As Okpebholo Suspends Attorney-General, LG Commission Chairman

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Edo PDP Reacts As Okpebholo Suspends Attorney-General, LG Commission Chairman

The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the fraudulent activities and financial mismanagement that led to the suspension of Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, and the Chairman of the Edo State Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the state PDP chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, stated that the suspension of the two officials confirmed the party’s concerns regarding financial recklessness and mismanagement.

The situation unfolded on Wednesday when Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, suspended both officials due to alleged official and financial misconduct.

Read Also: Why I Suspended Attorney-General, LG Commission Chairman – Okpebholo

On February 5, 2025, a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, announced their suspension and the formation of a committee to investigate the allegations and provide recommendations.

The suspension would remain in effect until the investigation is concluded.

The letter read: “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the suspension from office of the Chairman of the Edo State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Damian Lawani, and the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Samson Osagie, over allegations of serious official and financial infractions. The suspension is immediate. Consequently, the Governor has directed the formation of an investigative committee to examine the allegations and make appropriate recommendations. The suspension of Hon. Damian Lawani and Hon. Samson Osagie is necessary to allow for a thorough investigation into these financial infractions. They will remain suspended until the investigation concludes.”

Read Also: What Samson Osagie Said About His Suspension As Attorney-General

On Thursday, Osagie denied the allegations of financial misconduct, asserting that he had never been involved in any financial wrongdoing.

He stated that he was not confronted with the allegations before his suspension and was ready to defend himself to clear his name and reputation.

Aziegbemi further emphasized that the suspensions validated the PDP’s concerns about widespread financial mismanagement, maladministration, and illegality under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership. He argued that the suspensions merely scratched the surface of broader systemic corruption, misuse of public funds, and legal violations occurring under the governor’s administration.

He added, “These issues are just the tip of the iceberg, pointing to systemic corruption, misallocation of public funds, and clear legal breaches under the governor’s watch. Despite the suspensions, only a full investigation will uncover the full extent of the corruption and organized theft carried out by these officials, who have regained control of the state’s finances in just 85 days of Okpebholo’s administration.”

He further criticized the administration for illegal actions, such as removing elected council chairpersons with force and mishandling local government funds, which led to a drastic decrease in the state’s internally generated revenue from N8bn to N2bn monthly. He called on the Federal Government to urgently address the executive misconduct in Edo State, restore local governments to their duly elected officials, and ensure their autonomy to promote grassroots development.

Aziegbemi also urged security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the military, the police, and the EFCC, to investigate the financial recklessness and fraudulent activities within the government over the past two months.

The Best Time To Eat Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

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The Best Time To Eat Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

You’ve likely spent a lot of time considering what you eat — balancing fruits, vegetables, proteins, and carbs. But have you ever considered when you eat?

Timing your meals can offer several benefits, such as maintaining a healthy weight, boosting energy, and potentially even preventing diseases.

But how do you figure out the best times to eat?

When is the Best Time to Eat Breakfast?

You’ve probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and that’s true.

Why? Because your first meal sets the tone for your blood sugar levels throughout the day.

It’s best to eat within the first hour of waking up to get your body ready for a successful day.

Ideally, aim for breakfast between 6 and 10 a.m., as it sets you up for a second meal a few hours later.

What you eat for breakfast greatly affects your day.

To avoid blood sugar spikes that lead to energy crashes, skip sugary pastries and coffee.

Instead, opt for a combination of whole grains, protein, and fats, such as whole-wheat toast with peanut butter and strawberries.

When is the Best Time to Eat Lunch?

Your metabolism peaks between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Aim to have lunch during this window to benefit from your body’s strongest digestive function.

Lunch should be lighter than breakfast or dinner, as you’ll need to maintain focus during these hours, especially if you’re still at work or school.

When is the Best Time to Eat Dinner?

Dinner should be consumed about four to five hours after lunch.

If this falls between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., you’ll be eating during the last phase of your body’s heightened metabolic rate before it starts to slow down.

It’s also important to give your body enough time between dinner and bedtime.

The longer the gap, the better, as your body performs various maintenance tasks overnight, such as rest and renewal.

If it’s still digesting food, these essential tasks can’t be completed effectively.

Security, Economy Improved Significantly Under Me – Buhari

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Security, Economy Improved Significantly Under Me – Buhari

Former President Muhammadu Buhari stated on Wednesday that Nigeria experienced significant improvements in both security and the economy during his eight-year tenure.

He made this remark while hosting members of the Katsina State Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists at his Daura residence in Katsina State.

Buhari reflected on the difficult security and economic challenges Nigeria faced prior to his administration, asserting that his government had effectively reduced terrorism and prevented an economic collapse.

Read Also: Tinubu Sacks UniAbuja, UNN VCs, Appoints Replacements

He emphasized that the strategies his administration implemented were crucial in addressing the security and economic problems inherited from previous governments.

Buhari also noted that only those in leadership positions could truly understand the administrative hurdles the country faced, pointing out that leaders often encountered significant obstacles when implementing policies and programs.

He affirmed, “Security and the economy have greatly improved in Nigeria under my administration compared to the situation in 2015. I believe the country’s progress will continue.”

Earlier, Alhaji Yusuf Jargaba, Chairman of the Katsina State Correspondents’ Chapel, expressed gratitude to Buhari for his efforts in combating terrorism, banditry, and other security issues during his time in office.

  1. He acknowledged Buhari’s hard work, dedication, and selfless service, which he credited for preserving the nation’s unity and ensuring Nigeria remained indivisible.

 

Tinubu Sacks UniAbuja, UNN VCs, Appoints Replacements

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Tinubu Sacks UniAbuja, UNN VCs, Appoints Replacements

On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu announced the dissolution of the entire governing council of Yakubu Gowon University (formerly UniAbuja) and the immediate dismissal of Professor Aisha Maikudi as Vice-Chancellor.

To replace her, President Tinubu appointed Professor Patricia Manko as Acting Vice-Chancellor for a six-month term. Manko will not be eligible to apply for the permanent Vice-Chancellor position when it becomes available, according to a statement by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The statement, titled ‘President Tinubu announces leadership overhaul at Federal Universities,’ also mentioned that Senator Lanre Tejuoso, currently Pro-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, would take over as Pro-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University.

Read Also: Release Nnamdi Kanu For Peace To Return In South-East – Reps Tell Tinubu

Senator Joy Emordi will succeed Tejuoso in Makurdi and take up the role of Pro-Chancellor at Alvan Ikoku University of Education.

In a further shake-up, Tinubu relieved Professor Polycarp Chigbu of his role as Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, before his term was set to conclude on February 14.

Professor Oguejiofu Ujam has been appointed to succeed him as Acting Vice-Chancellor for six months, with Ujam also ineligible for the permanent position.

Other changes include the reassignment of Gen. Ike Nwachukwu to Pro-Chancellor at the University of Uyo and the appointment of Olubunmi Ojo as the new Pro-Chancellor of UNN. Ojo previously held this role at both the Federal University of Lokoja and the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti. Professor Zubairu Abdullahi will succeed Ojo as Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Lokoja.

Senator Sani Stores was named the new Pro-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education, replacing Senator Joy Emordi, and Olugbenga Kukoyi was appointed Pro-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State.

All of these appointments and reassignment decisions are effective immediately.

President Tinubu stated that these changes are part of his administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance Nigeria’s higher education system through strong leadership and accountability, aiming to improve governance and academic standards within the nation’s universities.

Veteran Actor Columbus Irosanga Is Dead

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Veteran Actor Columbus Irosanga Is Dead

Veteran Nollywood actor Columbus Irosanga, widely recognized for his portrayal of a native doctor, has passed away.

The news of his death was shared on Instagram on Thursday by fellow actress Hilda Dokubo.

In her post, Dokubo expressed her grief, writing, “There can’t be a shortage of angels in heaven that the few here are called home like this na! This one is heavy on Uniport Rivers State Nollywood.”

She added, “Our uncle Coli #colu_mbusirisoanga has gone to be with the lord. Ikoli eh dein na mu.”

Irosanga, from Okrika, Rivers State, was a respected actor and television personality. In addition to his acting career, he was a senior lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt.

He is best known for his roles in films such as Issakaba (2003) and 7 Kilometre (2015).

Over the course of his career, he won several awards, including Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the AMAA, Best Actor in a Drama at the City People Entertainment Awards, Most Promising Actor in Nigeria at the AMVCA, and Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards.

Reps Committee Proposes Creation Of 31 More States [FULL LIST]

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Reps Committee Proposes Creation Of 31 More States [FULL LIST]

The House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has recommended the establishment of 31 new states in Nigeria.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who led the plenary on Thursday, presented a letter from the committee outlining the proposed states.

If approved, this proposal would raise Nigeria’s number of states to 67.

The letter stated: “This is to inform members that the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered), has received legislative proposals for the creation of states and local governments in the following order:”

NORTH-CENTRAL

  1. Benue Ala State (from Benue State)
  2. Okun State (from Kogi State)
  3. Okura State (from Kogi State)
  4. Confluence State (from Kogi State)
  5. Apa-Agba State (from Benue South Senatorial District)
  6. Apa State (from Benue State)
  7. A 37th state, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

NORTH-EAST
8. Amana State (from Adamawa State)
9. Katagum State (from Bauchi State)
10. Savannah State (from Borno State)
11. Muri State (from Taraba State)

NORTH-WEST
12. New Kaduna State and Gurara State (from Kaduna State)
13. Tiga State (from Kano State)
14. Kainji State (from Kebbi State)
15. Ghari State (from Kano State)

SOUTH-EAST
16. Etiti State (6th state in the South-East)
17. Adada State (from Enugu State)
18. Urashi State (6th state in the South-East)
19. Orlu State (from the South-East)
20. Aba State (from the South-East)

SOUTH-SOUTH
21. Ogoja State (from Cross River State)
22. Warri State (from Delta State)
23. Bori State (from Rivers State)
24. Obolo State (from Rivers and Akwa Ibom States)

SOUTH-WEST
25. Toru-Ebe State (from Delta, Edo, and Ondo States)
26. Ibadan State (from Oyo State)
27. Lagoon State (from Lagos State)
28. Ijebu State (from Ogun State)
29. Lagoon State (from Lagos and Ogun States)
30. Ibadan State (from Oyo State)
31. Oke-Ogun and Ife-Ijesha States (from Ogun, Oyo, and Osun States)

The creation of these states can only proceed if a “third majority of members of the Senate, House of Representatives (National Assembly), the House of Assembly in the relevant areas, and the Local Government Council of the area support it.”

Why Drinking Sugary Drinks May Increase Your Risk Of Death – Study

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Why Drinking Sugary Drinks May Increase Your Risk Of Death – Study

Sugary beverages may contribute significantly to a public health crisis, with potential links to higher mortality rates, according to a recent study.

Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and director of the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University, emphasized the need for immediate action on the issue, calling it a “public health crisis.”

The study, published in Nature Medicine, analyzed global data on sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, using both observational and randomized studies related to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Researchers developed a risk model that estimates sugary drinks are responsible for over 330,000 deaths annually from these conditions.

The effect is particularly severe in Latin America and the Caribbean, where sugary drinks contribute to the highest number of cardiovascular disease cases.

In sub-Saharan Africa, these beverages are linked to the highest rates of type 2 diabetes, according to the study’s findings.

Toby Smithson, a registered dietitian nutritionist with the American Diabetes Association, who was not involved in the study, pointed out that sugary drinks most affect young, educated male adults living in urban areas.

Dr. Mozaffarian stressed the urgency of addressing the problem, saying, “It’s time to prioritize actions to tackle this preventable suffering.”

The Quick Impact of Liquid Sugar

While the study did not directly establish causality due to the lack of an intervention group, its findings highlight the damaging effects of sugary drinks.

Researchers examined data from 184 countries, but did not consider all income levels or the heightened risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases among certain ethnic groups, as noted by Smithson.

Nevertheless, the link between sugary drinks and poor health is well-documented. Sugar-sweetened beverages are classified as “empty calories,” offering no nutritional value.

These drinks also rapidly spike blood sugar levels, as the sugar is absorbed faster into the bloodstream than solid sugars.

Suzanne Janzi, a doctoral student in nutritional epidemiology at Lund University, explained that liquid sugars are absorbed more quickly because they don’t need to be broken down like solid foods. “Solid sugars are often part of foods that also contain fiber, proteins, and fats, which slow digestion and result in a more gradual sugar release,” she said.

Additionally, liquid sugars don’t provide the same sense of fullness as solid foods, which can lead to overeating and poor appetite control, further contributing to excessive calorie intake.

Are Sugar Alternatives Safer?

While beverages sweetened with sugar substitutes may seem like a better option, Mozaffarian warned that both natural and artificial low-calorie sweeteners may also pose health risks.

“Emerging research shows that both natural and artificial low-calorie sweeteners can have health consequences, so these should be seen as a short-term, less harmful alternative, not a long-term solution,” he stated.

For people with diabetes who are used to sugary drinks, Smithson suggested that artificial sweeteners could be a temporary, more diabetes-friendly option.

However, Mozaffarian advocates for completely eliminating sugary drinks and opting for healthier choices like seltzer, unsweetened tea, coffee, or plain water.

Smithson emphasized that staying properly hydrated is key for managing blood pressure, blood sugar, body temperature, and digestion. “The best hydrating beverage is water,” she said. “If you don’t like plain water, try infused water with lemon, lime, or fresh herbs, or sparkling water with no added sugar.”

Edo Governorship Election: INEC Fails To Produce Witnesses, Closes Defence

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Edo Governorship Election: INEC Fails To Produce Witnesses, Closes Defence

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) failed to present any witnesses before the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja on Thursday.

At the tribunal’s resumed session, INEC did not provide any testimony to defend its declaration of Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the September 21st governorship election in Edo State.

The Commission had previously indicated, through its legal team led by former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi (SAN), that it would produce witnesses to support the result.

However, Agabi informed the tribunal that after further consideration, INEC decided not to present any witnesses.

This came just a day after the Commission had stated it had lined up five witnesses to testify in its defense.

“In light of further reflection after yesterday’s proceedings, we concluded that the best course of action is to close the case of the 1st Respondent, which we hereby do,” Agabi told the tribunal.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, expressed no surprise at INEC’s decision.

Their lawyer, Adetunji Oyeyipo, remarked that it was within INEC’s right to make such a choice, and they had no objection.

With no INEC witnesses and the case closed, the defense counsels for Governor Okpebholo, Onyechi Ikpeazu and D.C. Dewigwe, representing the APC, accepted the decision and requested an adjournment to gather their own witnesses

. The tribunal adjourned the case until Monday for Governor Okpebholo’s defense to begin.

INEC had previously declared Okpebholo as the winner with 291,667 votes, defeating Ighodalo of the PDP, who secured 247,655 votes.

 

How Coffee-Drinking May Affect Early Death Risk – Study

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How Coffee-Drinking May Affect Early Death Risk – Study

Drinking coffee has long been linked to better heart health and increased longevity.

However, recent research suggests that when you drink coffee may be just as important as how much you consume in achieving these benefits.

A study published in the European Heart Journal recently indicates that limiting coffee consumption to the morning could be most beneficial, regardless of factors like the amount consumed, genetics, or added sweeteners.

“This is the first study to examine how the timing of coffee drinking might affect health outcomes,” said Dr. Lu Qi, the study’s lead author and a professor at Tulane University’s Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health. “While we don’t usually offer timing advice in dietary guidelines, this research suggests it could be a factor worth considering moving forward.”

Previous studies have linked moderate coffee intake to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and premature death.

However, the impact of variables like genetics, the quantity consumed, or sweeteners remained uncertain.

This new study analyzed health and dietary data from 40,725 adults aged 18 and older in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999-2018).

Participants provided information on their daily food and beverage consumption, and a subset of 1,463 adults was included in a separate validation study. Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee were considered, and consumption was categorized into three time periods: morning (4 a.m. to 11:59 a.m.), afternoon (12 p.m. to 4:59 p.m.), and evening (5 p.m. to 3:59 a.m.).

The study identified two main drinking patterns: morning-only and all-day coffee drinking. After almost 10 years of follow-up, there were 4,295 deaths from all causes, including 1,268 from heart disease and 934 from cancer.

Those who drank coffee only in the morning had a 16% lower risk of premature death and a 31% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to non-coffee drinkers. On the other hand, all-day coffee drinkers showed no reduction in risk.

These results remained significant even after adjusting for factors like sleep, age, race, sex, education, physical activity, diet, and health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Interestingly, the quantity of coffee consumed in the morning—whether less than one cup or more than three cups—did not affect the outcome, with any morning coffee consumption still linked to a lower risk of mortality.

Vanessa King, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, noted that the study was observational, meaning it cannot establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

However, she highlighted its significance, as heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S.

Why Timing Matters

Dr. David Kao, a heart health expert, praised the study as one of the most comprehensive on the topic, particularly due to its use of machine learning to categorize coffee consumption patterns and validate findings with external data sources.

However, Kao pointed out that participants’ dietary recall may not be entirely accurate, and the study did not account for long-term habits.

The researchers also acknowledged that morning coffee drinkers might lead generally healthier lifestyles, potentially exercising more and consuming less processed food.

A possible explanation for the findings is that drinking coffee in the afternoon or evening could interfere with circadian rhythms and melatonin production.

Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, is also involved in blood pressure and oxidative stress, which are linked to heart disease.

Additionally, coffee contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, a contributor to cardiovascular problems.

The study suggests that the anti-inflammatory effects of coffee may be stronger in the morning, as blood markers of inflammation tend to be highest at that time.

Adjusting Your Coffee Routine

If you’re thinking about limiting your coffee intake to the morning but struggle with afternoon fatigue, experts recommend evaluating your sleep quality.

Poor sleep, possibly caused by conditions like sleep apnea, could be contributing to your tiredness. Staying hydrated or diluting your coffee with water during the day may also help improve alertness.

For those who don’t currently drink coffee but are considering adding it to their routine, dietitians advise evaluating your overall lifestyle.

A balanced, active lifestyle combined with a sustainable diet is key to reaping the potential benefits of coffee.

Until more research clarifies the best timing for coffee consumption, it’s advisable to follow guidance from your doctor or dietitian regarding caffeine intake.

8 Most Acidic Foods

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8 Most Acidic Foods

Acidic foods, those with a pH of 4.6 or lower, can typically be part of a healthy, balanced diet, but they may cause discomfort for individuals with certain health issues.

For example, people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may find that acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits irritate the esophagus, leading to acid reflux.

Similarly, individuals with interstitial cystitis (painful bladder syndrome) may experience bladder irritation from these foods.

What is pH?

The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 0 is highly acidic, 14 is very alkaline, and 7 is neutral.

  1. Citrus Fruits
    Citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits have a pH between 3.0 and 4.3. Their tart taste comes from citric acid. Sour fruits like lemons and limes can have even lower pH levels, down to 2.

Other acidic fruits include:

  • Grapes: pH 2.8–3
  • Plums: pH 2.8–3.4
  • Strawberries: pH 3–3.9
  • Blueberries: pH 3.1–3.3
  • Raspberries: pH 3.2–4
  • Apples: pH 3.3–4
  • Peaches: pH 3.3–4
  • Apricots: pH 3.3–4.8
  • Pineapple: pH 3.2–4
  • Prunes: pH 3.6–3.9
  1. Tomatoes
    Tomatoes are mildly acidic, with a pH ranging from 4.3 to 4.9, depending on ripeness. Unripe tomatoes are more acidic, while overripe ones are less so. Commercially canned tomatoes may have added citric acid or lemon juice, lowering the pH for preservation. Tomato paste and juice have pH values as low as 3.5 and 4.1, respectively. Ketchup, made with tomatoes, sugar, and vinegar, is also acidic.
  2. Coffee
    Coffee is acidic, with pH levels ranging from 4 for lighter roasts to 4.3 for darker roasts. It contains various acids such as chlorogenic, quinic, and acetic acids. Those with GERD may experience fewer symptoms by switching from coffee to water.
  3. Carbonated Drinks and Fruit Juices
    Many carbonated beverages and fruit juices are acidic due to preservatives and flavorings. Phosphoric acid in sodas helps preserve freshness, while citric acid gives a tart flavor. Malic acid, found in apples and cherries, is commonly added for enhanced taste.

Examples of acidic drinks include:

  • Lemon juice: pH 2.3
  • Cranberry juice: pH 2.6
  • Lemonade: pH 2.6
  • Energy drinks: pH 3.1
  • Other sodas: pH 3.1
  • Sports drinks and flavored water: pH 3.3
  • Pineapple juice: pH 3.4
  • Flavored tea: pH 3.5
  • Apple juice: pH 3.6
  • Orange juice: pH 3.9
  1. Fatty Foods
    While not highly acidic, fatty foods can worsen heartburn and acid reflux. They relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Foods to avoid include full-fat dairy, fried items, and fatty meats like bacon and sausage.
  2. Yogurt
    Yogurt is mildly acidic, with pH values between 4 and 4.4. During fermentation, lactose is converted to lactic acid, lowering the pH. Despite its acidity, low-fat yogurt may help with acid reflux due to its probiotics, which aid digestion. Some studies suggest yogurt doesn’t cause enamel erosion like other acidic foods.
  3. Alcohol
    Alcoholic drinks are generally acidic due to fermentation. Whiskey and rum have pH levels around 4.3 and 4.1, respectively. Wine ranges from 3.1 to 3.5, while beer has a pH between 3.9 and 4.5.
  4. Pickled Foods
    Pickled items such as cucumbers, sauerkraut, and olives are preserved in vinegar (acetic acid) and typically have pH levels between 3.4 and 4.2.
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