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5 Advantages Of Drinking Water In The Morning

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Drinking water is essential for several bodily activities, including nutrient transfer to cells, body temperature regulation, and joint lubrication.

Replacing morning beverages with water may provide a variety of health benefits connected with greater water consumption.

Read Also:15 Reasons Why You Should Drink Water

This article delves into these potential benefits, the scientific data supporting them, and how to improve the flavour of water. It also considers potential dangers.

1. Weight Loss Support

Some people believe that drinking water in the morning can help them lose weight.

– Before meals

A 2019 study discovered that increasing fluid intake was associated with improved body composition in young adults.

A previous study from 2010 found that middle-aged and older adults who drank 500 millilitres of water before meals lost more weight over 12 weeks.

This was most likely attributable to lower energy intake, as these people ate less than those who didn’t drink water before meals.

– Thermal genesis

Consuming cold water causes thermogenesis, which is the process of creating heat to warm the body.

A 2013 research of 50 girls found that drinking 500 cc of water three times a day resulted in weight loss after eight weeks.

The researchers attributed this to water-induced thermogenesis.

However, these studies do not definitively show that water alone causes weight reduction, nor do they indicate that drinking water in the morning is particularly effective.

2. Improved mental performance

Water may affect cognition and mental performance.

Even minor dehydration can impair cognitive function, according to a 2016 study.

A 2019 review discovered a trend of enhanced mental performance with sufficient hydration, but the findings were not statistically significant.

Participants in these research drank water throughout the day, indicating that constant hydration is essential for mental clarity rather than only in the morning.

Another 2019 study on male college students found that dehydration affected short-term memory and concentration, whereas rehydration enhanced both.

Drinking water in the morning may improve mental performance, particularly if you are dehydrated.

3. Mood Enhancement

Drinking water may also improve mood.

A 2014 study found that persons who drank less water had a better mood after increasing their water intake.

Those who drank less water reported feeling more thirsty, less calm, and having a lower emotional well-being.

Similarly, a 2019 study discovered that dehydration affected mood, whereas rehydration reduced fatigue and enhanced mood.

To preserve these mood improvements, drink water throughout the day.

4. Improved skin hydration

Many people believe that drinking more water can improve skin health. Water makes up around 30% of the skin’s makeup, which helps it stay plump and supple.

A 2015 study discovered that increased water intake improved skin hydration, especially in people who typically drank less water.

A 2018 review validated similar findings, indicating that increased water intake may moisturise the skin’s outer layer. However, the impact on skin ageing is uncertain.

While enough hydration may make skin appear more supple, it may not prevent wrinkles or address UV damage, genetics, or environmental causes.

Regular water drinking can help with skin hydration, but obvious results may not be instant.

5. Providing assistance with other bodily functions

Water is necessary for various different body processes, including:

– Kidneys: Water aids in the removal of waste from the body.

– Urinary Tract: According to a 2010 study, higher fluid intake may lessen the incidence of urolithiasis (urinary tract stones).

– Cardiovascular System: According to a 2019 study, drinking enough water is vital for cardiovascular health because dehydration can impair blood pressure management and vascular function.

– Joints and Bones: Water is a component of the lubricating fluid that surrounds joints, which may help alleviate joint pain.

Conclusion

Drinking water has many advantages, including potential weight loss support, cognitive improvement, mood enhancement, and skin hydration.

However, for optimal health, it is crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day, not only in the morning.

What Happens To Your Body When Fasting

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Whether fasting or not, the body demands energy, which is mostly derived from glucose, a sugar.

Glucose is primarily derived from carbohydrates found in grains, dairy, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and even sweets.

When the body’s immediate energy requirements are met, the liver and muscles store any surplus glucose as glycogen.

These glycogen stores can be released into the bloodstream as necessary to produce energy.

Read Also: 8 Scientifically Validated Health Benefits Of Fasting

However, while fasting, the body’s process changes. After about 18 to 24 hours of fasting, the liver depletes its glycogen stores.

At this point, the body enters a condition known as gluconeogenesis, in which it begins to produce glucose from fat storage, signalling the body’s transition to fasting mode.

As the fasting continues and carbohydrate sources become unavailable, the body finally depletes its fat reserves.

At this point, the body enters starvation mode, a more serious state in which the metabolism slows and muscle tissue is broken down for energy.

Although “starvation mode” is a common concept in diet culture, genuine starvation usually occurs after several days or weeks without eating.

Individuals fasting for up to 24 hours are normally safe to go without eating for a day, as long as they have no underlying health issues that make fasting dangerous.

Why Drinking Too Much Coconut Water May Be Bad For Men

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While coconut water has various health benefits, excessive use may pose hazards to males due to its high potassium level and other variables.

Here’s why drinking too much coconut water isn’t ideal:

High potassium levels

Coconut water is high in potassium, with an average cup having approximately 600 mg. While potassium is vital for heart health, muscle function, and fluid balance, excessive consumption can lead to:

Kidney Function Concerns

Men with reduced renal function may struggle to eliminate extra potassium, potentially resulting in hyperkalaemia (high potassium levels).

This illness can induce irregular heartbeats, muscle weakness, and, in extreme circumstances, life-threatening problems.

Medicine Interactions

Potassium can interact with medications that control potassium levels, such as blood pressure medications and diuretics.

Men taking such medications should contact with their doctor before increasing their potassium intake, since this may have an impact on blood pressure management.

Effects on Hormone Balance

Coconut water’s high potassium level may alter hormones such as:

– Aldosterone and testosterone

Elevated potassium levels may influence the release of aldosterone, a hormone that controls blood pressure and potassium homeostasis.

This could have an indirect effect on testosterone levels, which are important for male health, including muscular growth, libido, and overall vitality.

– Electrolyte imbalance

Excess coconut water consumption can disrupt electrolyte balance, affecting hormone control and metabolic functions.

Digestive Concerns

While coconut water is normally well-tolerated, excessive drinking might cause:

– Gastrointestinal discomfort

Some coconut water products contain additional fibre, and ingesting high amounts may result in bloating, gas, or other digestive difficulties.

– Dehydration risk

The diuretic action of coconut water, caused by its high potassium content, may raise the risk of dehydration if not accompanied by adequate water intake.

Allergic Reactions and Sensitivity

Though it is uncommon, certain men, particularly those with coconut allergies, may react allergically to coconut water.

Itching, redness, and stomach issues are all possible symptoms. Even if you don’t have a full-blown allergy, drinking coconut water may cause some discomfort.

Influence on Weight Management

Although coconut water is low in calories, excessive use might lead to an increase in caloric intake, which may influence men who are trying to lose weight.

Tips for Safe Consumption

For guys, 1-2 glasses of coconut water per day is typically considered safe.

Moderation is essential for preventing potential negative effects and maintaining good reproductive and general health.

Conclusion

Although coconut water is a healthful and hydrating beverage, men should avoid overconsumption.

Excessive ingestion can cause high potassium levels, hormonal abnormalities, intestinal problems, and allergic reactions.

Men can benefit from the nutrients of coconut water while avoiding the drawbacks by drinking it in moderation.

Red Meat And Cancer

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While the health consequences of red meat have been extensively examined, the majority of the study is observational, which means that it can detect relationships but not demonstrate cause and effect.

Confounding variables are frequently used in observational studies, which are factors other than the one being examined that may impact the outcome.

Read Also: Red Meat And Heart Disease

It is impossible to account for all of these variables, making it difficult to determine if red meat affects certain health effects.

This limitation should be considered when studying literature and determining whether to incorporate red meat in your normal diet.

Red meat and Cancer

According to observational studies, eating both processed and unprocessed red meat increases the risk of some malignancies, including colon and breast cancer.

In 2015, the World Health Organisation (WHO) classed red meat as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” and processed meat as “carcinogenic to humans,” citing substantial evidence tying processed meat to colorectal cancer.

A study of many research found that people who ate a lot of processed and unprocessed beef had a 9% and 6% higher risk of developing breast cancer than those who ate the least amount.

While the specific mechanisms are unknown, it is thought that nitrites used to cure and smoke meats can produce carcinogenic chemicals.

Furthermore, cooking meat at high temperatures, such as grilling, may produce cancer-causing compounds.

However, further research is needed to fully understand how processed and unprocessed red meats contribute to cancer formation.

Treatment For Sleep Deprivation

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Lack of sleep takes a toll on both your emotional and physical well-being.

Research has associated poor sleep to several health risks, including weight gain and a weakened immune system.

If you’ve ever had a restless night, you know how it makes you feel the next day—tired, grumpy, and off-balance.

Read Also:Strategies For Improving Blood Pressure

Missing the required 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night does more than only make you feel tired and cranky.

Sleep deprivation has major long-term repercussions that can be life-changing.

Treatment for Sleep deprivation

The primary treatment for sleep deprivation is getting the required 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.

While this may appear to be a simple task, it can be difficult, especially if you have been sleeping poorly for an extended period of time.

In such circumstances, it may be important to consult with a doctor or sleep specialist who can diagnose and treat any underlying sleep issues.

Sleep problems can not only interfere with your ability to get a good night’s sleep, but they can also raise your likelihood of experiencing the negative symptoms of sleep deprivation.

Some common sleep problems are:

Symptoms include obstructive sleep apnoea, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, insomnia, and circadian rhythm abnormalities.

To identify these issues, your doctor may propose a sleep study, either in a professional sleep centre or at home using monitoring tools.

If a sleep condition is discovered, treatment options may include medicine or technology, such as a CPAP machine for obstructive sleep apnoea, to enhance sleep quality and promote a regular sleep schedule.

7 Carbohydrates You Should Eat Every Week

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Before we get into which carbs should be on our plates, we need to understand why carbohydrates are necessary in the first place.

Carbohydrates (often known as carbohydrates) are the body’s preferred source of energy. Without enough carbohydrates in your diet, you may feel weary, have digestive issues, and even acquire bad breath.

Additionally, avoiding carbohydrates can result in dietary shortfalls. According to research, persons who adopt low-carb diets may be deficient in critical nutrients such as thiamine, vitamin C, and folate.

Fibre, a kind of carbohydrate, is well-known for its health advantages. Fibre passes through the digestive system because it is not totally digestible, aiding in the regulation of bowel movements, promoting feelings of fullness, and supporting a healthy gut flora and cardiovascular health.

7 Carbohydrates You Should Eat Every Week

Among the many carb options available, here are seven that you should incorporate into your weekly diet to support your health, meet nutritional requirements, and maintain consistent energy levels.

1. Sweet potatoes

These naturally sweet tubers are extremely nutritious.

A single medium sweet potato has more than 150% of your daily vitamin A requirements, which are critical for skin, immunological, and eye health.

Eating the skin increases your fibre intake.

Sweet potatoes are a healthy side dish, but they can also be a filling breakfast when topped with nut butter, cinnamon, and granola.

2. Dairy milk

Milk is a fantastic source of healthful carbohydrates, as well as protein, calcium, and magnesium, all of which are essential for bone health.

If you are lactose intolerant, lactose-free alternatives can still give these advantages.

3. Black beans

Black beans (and all beans) are nutrient-dense, providing plant-based protein, fibre, and antioxidants.

They’re an inexpensive and tasty carbohydrate to include in meals.

4. Oats

Oats include a lot of prebiotic fibre, which helps feed the good bacteria in your gut.

They also include beta-glucan, a soluble fibre that may lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and improve heart health.

5. Bananas

Bananas are a convenient, inexpensive, and delicious carbohydrate source that can help you stay energised throughout the day.

Slightly underripe bananas include resistant starch, a prebiotic fibre that promotes intestinal health, but ripe bananas have a lot of fibre and minerals.

6. Apples

Apples are an excellent carbohydrate source, especially if you consume the skin, which contains fibre, vitamin C, and copper.

Apples also include quercetin, an antioxidant that may help with brain function, as well as heart-healthy soluble and prebiotic fibre, which improves gastrointestinal health.

Apples can be eaten whole or sliced into a salad for a nutritional boost.

7. Brown rice

Rice has received some criticism, however it is a highly nutritious grain.

Brown rice contains protein, fibre, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Half a cup of cooked brown rice has around 120 calories, 2 grammes of fibre, 3 grammes of protein, and 25 grammes of nutritious carbohydrates.

NAFDAC Shuts Down Kaduna Warehouse Stocked With Expired Products [VIDEOS]

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has closed a warehouse in Kaduna for stockpiling expired food and cosmetic products worth more than N75 million.

NAFDAC revealed that the achievement was accomplished as a result of information obtained from a concerned individual.

On Tuesday, the agency announced the warehouse’s location at PP2A Bayajidda Street along Kano Road, New Ogbomosho Road, using its official X Twitter.

Read Also: What Tinubu Allocated To Healthcare Sector In 2025 Budget

“During the raid, workers were caught repackaging expired biscuits into sacks and other expired items, including dairy milk, vegetable oil, soft drinks, and detergents, were also discovered,” the agency reveals.

The warehouse’s managing director has also been arrested for interrogation.

NAFDAC emphasised that strict regulatory sanctions would be imposed after the conclusion of the investigation.

While carrying out the raid, the team discovered expired products valued at over seven million naira, including “H-Pylori” test kits, which pose serious risks to public health.

Since November 26, 2024, the agency said it has developed standards for managing and disposing of unwholesome pharmaceuticals and NAFDAC-regulated products (food, medicines, medical devices, and cosmetics) in Nigeria.

It stressed that no regulated product should be manufactured, imported, exported, sold, or used in Nigeria unless registered under NAFDAC regulations.

“Products are considered unwholesome if they are expired, improperly sealed, damaged, improperly stored, incorrectly labelled, counterfeit, substandard, prohibited, or unauthorized. At the facility level, proper management includes maintaining an inventory book for unwholesome products,” it noted.

It encouraged the people to be watchful and report any suspicious products or activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.

See videos below:

 

Striking Doctors Challenge Wike, Akpabio To Use FCT Hospitals

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FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senate President Godswill Akpabio have been challenged by striking resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to use government hospitals in the nation’s capital to feel the plight of public health workers and patients.

George Ebong stated on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Wednesday:“If we are ready to fix the healthcare system in this country, I would think that every government official must use the government hospitals. Let’s start with that”

“I would like to see the minister use Wuse General Hospital. I would like to see the Senate President use Maitama General Hospital. I would like to see the Speaker use Iyanya General Hospital. Then, we can start to fix the system. If they don’t use it, then we can’t fix it. I’m sorry but that’s the truth.”

Read Also: What Tinubu Allocated To Healthcare Sector In 2025 Budget

The doctors embarked on a three-day warning strike on Wednesday over unpaid salaries, and allowances, among others after the expiration of a three-week ultimatum issued earlier.

This development grounded activities at government hospitals in Abuja from Wuse to Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, Nyanya, and others.

Ebong who is the President of resident doctors in the FCT, accused Wike and other government officials of neglecting health facilities and workers’ welfare in Abuja.

He stated that though Wike has been busy fixing roads, he abandoned health institutions in the nation’s capital with many in deplorable condition.

“That’s just where we have our concerns. The minister has been very busy with projects, fixing roads, and all of that. We feel that he should also focus on the hospitals right now.

“We feel that we are the human abandoned project. No matter the things he does by fixing roads and bridges, the hospitals are the very first point of innovation and rehabilitation. They are hallowed ground; he cannot neglect them,” he said.

Ebong said, “For example, we don’t have electricity, sometimes you can’t run some tests over the weekend, we don’t have drugs, we don’t have scan machines working, and we don’t have enough manpower.” He said only one doctor man some hospitals in Abuja.

Ebong stated that many doctors have not been paid their six months’ salaries despite working assiduously and taking on the responsibilities of four or more persons.

“When he (Wike) first became the minister that was the only time we’ve met him but we’ve met everyone that works under him. We’ve sent him a series of letters and I am sure he is aware,” Ebong said.

He faulted the so-called bottlenecks in the system that have not allowed things to be done properly.

“I urge the minister to please try to ensure that all the wages are paid. I urge the minister to please visit all the ministers and see the state in which the hospitals are at the moment,” he said.

Ebong stated that the association would look into the situation again after the warning strike and if the congress felt nothing was done, “the congress will not have a choice than to go on a timeless shut down”.

African Union Reacts To US Withdrawal From WHO

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The African Union voiced disappointment Wednesday with President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organisation, urging his administration to reconsider.

Just hours after taking office on Monday, Trump signed an executive order urging the US to withdraw from the UN organisation, threatening to defund global health efforts.

African Union Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat said in a statement that he was “dismayed to learn of the US government’s announcement to withdraw” from the Geneva-based WHO.

Read Also:Implication Of Trump’s US Pullout Order On WHO

Washington is by far the organization’s largest financial contributor, and the pullout comes as Africa faces a number of health crises, including recent outbreaks of mpox and the Marburg virus.

“Now more than ever, the world depends on WHO to carry out its mandate to ensure global public health security as a shared common good,” Moussa Faki said, adding he hopes “the US government will reconsider its decision”.

He stated that Washington was an early sponsor of the Africa CDC, the African Union’s health watchdog, which collaborates with the WHO to combat current and emerging pandemics.

Trump has often lambasted the WHO’s handling of the Covid-19 outbreak, claiming prior to his inauguration that “World Health ripped us off.”

During Trump’s first term, the United States was in the process of withdrawing from the WHO, but Joe Biden reversed the decision.

Tom Frieden, a former US senior health official, stated on X that the withdrawal “weakens America’s influence, increases the risk of a deadly pandemic, and makes all of us less safe.”

It comes as concerns increase about the pandemic potential of a bird flu outbreak that infected hundreds and claimed the first human life in the United States earlier this month.

Since late 2021, WHO member states have been discussing the world’s first treaty on tackling future pandemics, which will now proceed without the United States.

What Tinubu Allocated To Healthcare Sector In 2025 Budget

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President Bola Tinubu allotted N2.48 trillion to the healthcare sector in the 2025 budget, accounting for 5.18% of the overall ₦47.9 trillion budget.

Tinubu’s 2025 Appropriation Bill, titled “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,” prioritises security, infrastructure, and human capital development.

The President made numerous substantial budget commitments, including N2.48 trillion for healthcare, which is the fourth biggest allocation, encompassing critical areas such as infrastructure, basic healthcare, and human capital development.

Additionally, N4.91 trillion was set aside for defence and security, N4.06 trillion for infrastructure, and N3.52 trillion for education.

He emphasised the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage programs, which seek to boost primary healthcare systems throughout Nigeria.

“In this way, we have allocated 402 billion naira for infrastructure investments in the health sector in the 2025 Budget and another 282.65 billion naira for the Basic Health Care Fund,” Tinubu stated.

According to the president, Nigerian hospitals will be revitalised with medication and improved resources to ensure that all Nigerians receive quality care.

“This is consistent with the Federal Government’s planned procurement of essential drugs for distribution to public healthcare facilities nationwide, improving healthcare access and reducing medical import dependency,” he said.