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Baked Fish, Boiled Fish Or Fried Fish - Which Has More Nutritional Value

Baked or boiled fish is a better source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids than fried, salted or dried fish, according to a new study.

And adding low-sodium soy sauce or tofu to boiled or baked fish, will further enhance the benefits.

Fish is consumed almost everyday in most Nigerian homes. While most people in villages prefer smoked fish, those in the cities prefer eating either fried, baked or boiled fish. But, of all these categories, which has more nutritional value?
Baked or boiled fish is a better source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids than fried, salted or dried fish, according to a new study.

And adding low-sodium soy sauce or tofu to boiled or baked fish, will further enhance the benefits.
"It appears that boiling or baking fish with low-sodium soy sauce (shoyu) and tofu is beneficial, while eating fried, salted or dried fish is not. In fact, these methods of preparation may contribute to your risk. We did not directly compare boiled or baked fish vs. fried fish, but one can tell from the (risk) ratios, boiled or baked fish is in the protective direction but not fried fish," said Dr Lixin Meng at the University of Hawaii, lead researcher of the study.

The findings also suggest that the cardioprotective benefits vary by gender and ethnicity - perhaps because of the preparation methods, genetic susceptibility or hormonal factors.

Many studies have suggested that eating omega-3 fatty acids reduces the risk of heart disease; however, little is known about which source is most beneficial.

In this study, researchers examined the source, type, amount and frequency of dietary omega-3 ingestion among gender and ethnic groups.

The study found that men who ate about 3.3 gm per day of omega-3 fatty acids had a 23% lower risk of cardiac death compared to those who ate 0.8 gm daily.

"Clearly, we are seeing that the higher the dietary omega-3 intake, the lower the risk of dying from heart disease among men," Meng said.

Meng said that for women, the omega-3 effect was cardioprotective at each level of consumption but not consistently significant. Salted and dried fish was a risk factor in women.

 "My guess is that, for women, eating omega-3s from shoyu and tofu that contain other active ingredients such as phytoestrogens, might have a stronger cardioprotective effect than eating just omega-3s," said Meng.

Prevent Cancer, Other Disease With Foods Supplements




In the Nigerian market, the foods supplements category of the Natural health industry is widening everyday. the reason for these might not be far from the nutritional values that are derived from consuming these supplements.While a healthy balanced diet often provides a source of vitamins and minerals, taking dietary supplements on top of your healthy diet may prove beneficial in ensuring your body may be the nutrients it needs each day. Dietary supplements are marketed as a solution or preventative measure for a number of disorders, or to supplement nutrients lacking in your diet. To safely reap the benefits of taking dietary supplements, always consult with a physician before taking any supplement to help avoid negative side effects.

Foods supplements help with proper metabolism. After a meal, your body breaks down the carbohydrates, proteins and fats from your meal, and also absorbs the other nutrients in the meal. Absorbing these nutrients partially relies on a number of vitamins -- the B-class vitamins -- that you must consume each day. Supplementing your diet with B vitamins can help prevent the numerous effects of vitamin deficiencies, including skin disorders, joint pain, nerve damage and anemia. 

Consuming dietary supplements may also aid in tissue maintenance and repair, processes that occur throughout your life. Your day to day activities put a strain on your tissues, and specialized cells within your body continually produce proteins that make up healthy new tissue to replace old, damaged tissue. Defects in tissue repair and maintenance lead to diseases, such as osteoporosis, that develop from bone wasting that commonly occurs as you age. You can help promote proper tissue growth and bone strength by taking calcium and vitamin D.

The consumption of some dietary supplements may also help prevent cancer. A number of essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C and E, act as antioxidants in the body. They work to neutralize chemicals called free radicals that cause oxidative damage within your cells. The National Cancer Institute of the United States explains that oxidative damage to your cells promotes cancer development.

Increase Your Longevity With Pineapples



Pineapples can be found  everywhere in Nigeria, African and the entire world. But, First of all, let's look at the origin of this special gift of nature. Contrary to popular belief, pineapples, which came to be known as such because of their resemblance to pinecones, did not originate in Hawaii. Christopher Columbus brought pineapples back to Europe after one of his expeditions to South America, where they are believed to have originated from. Pineapples became known as an extravagant and exotic fruit, served only at the most lavish of banquets.
Today, pineapple can be commonly found in many markets and in many homes all-around the world. In Central and South America, pineapple is not only valued for its sweet taste - it has been used for centuries to treat digestion problems and inflammation.

One cup of fresh pineapple chunks contain approximately 82 calories, 0 grams of fat, 0 grams of cholesterol, 2 milligrams of sodium, 22 grams of total carbohydrate (including 16 grams of sugar and 2.3 grams of fiber) and 1 gram of protein.

Fresh pineapple is the only known source of an enzyme called bromelain.
One cup of fresh pineapple chunks provides 131% of your vitamin C needs for the day, 2% of vitamin A needs, 2% of calcium and 2% of iron.
Pineapple is also a source of important vitamins and minerals such as thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, manganese and potassium and antioxidants and polyphenols, such as beta-carotene.
Fresh pineapple is the only known source of an enzyme called bromelain, which has been used in studies to determine it's effectiveness in alleviating joint pain, arthritis, reduce inflammation, inhibit tumor growth and shorten recovery time following plastic surgery.

Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like pineapples decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality, diabetes, heart disease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, overall lower weight.
Age-related macular degeneration: A higher intake of all fruits (3 or more servings per day) has also been shown to decrease risk of and progression of age-related macular degeneration.
Asthma prevention: The risks for developing asthma are lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, found in plant foods like pineapple, mangoes, papaya, apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, pumpkin and carrots.
Blood pressure: Increasing potassium intake by consuming high potassium fruits and vegetables can help with lowering blood pressure. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, fewer than 2% of US adults meet the daily 4700 mg recommendation.1
Also of note, a high potassium intake is associated with a 20% decreased risk of dying from all causes.1
Cancer: As an excellent source of the strong antioxidant vitamin C, pineapples can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer.
Diets rich in beta-carotene may also play a protective role against prostate cancer, according to a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health's Department of Nutrition7 and has been shown to have an inverse association with the development of colon cancer in the Japanese population.8
High fiber intakes from all fruits and vegetables are associated with a lowered risk of colorectal cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society:
"there are studies suggesting that bromelain [found in pineapple] and other such enzymes may be used with standard cancer treatment to help reduce some side effects (such as mouth and throat inflammation due to radiation treatments)."
Diabetes: Studies have shown that type 1 diabetics who consume high-fiber diets have lower blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetics may have improved blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels. One medium pineapple provides about 13 grams of fiber.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 21-25 g/day for women and 30-38 g/day for men.
Digestion: Pineapples, because of their fiber and water content, help to prevent constipation and promote regularity and a healthy digestive tract.
Fertility: Antioxidant-rich diets have been shown to improve fertility. Because free radicals also can damage the reproductive system, foods with high antioxidant activity like pineapples that battle free radicals are recommended for those trying to conceive. The antioxidants in pineapple such as vitamins C, beta-carotene and the vitamins and minerals and copper, zinc and folate have properties that affect both male and female fertility.5
Healing and Inflammation: Some studies have shown that bromelain, the enzyme found in pineapples, can reduce swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain associated with injury and surgical intervention. Bromelain is currently being used to treat and reduce inflammation from tendinitis, sprains, strains, and other minor muscle injuries as well as swelling related to ear, nose and throat surgeries or trauma.9
Heart health: The fiber, potassium and vitamin C content in pineapple all support heart health.
In one study, those who consumed 4069 mg of potassium per day had a 49% lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease compared with those who consumed less potassium (about 1000 mg per day).1
High potassium intakes are also associated with a reduced risk of stroke, protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones.1
Skin: The antioxidant vitamin C, when eaten in its natural form (as in a pineapple) or applied topically, can help to fight skin damage caused by the sun and pollution, reduce wrinkles and improve overall skin texture. Vitamin C also plays a vital role in the formation of collagen, the support system of your skin.

Close-Up Herbal Relaunched In Lagos



Yesterday, Close up Toothpaste relaunched itself into the Nigerian market. The event which took place in Lagos attracted many people from all walks of life, especially the youths who were the target of the exercise. One of the variants from Close up that was relaunched is the Close up herbal toothpaste.

It would be recalled that, some months ago when a herbal variant of Close up toothpaste was launched, the Brand Manager, Close-Up, Mrs. Tolu Dipe-Okogie, explained the formulation of the herbal product. She noted that the offering has been enriched to meet the oral health need of Nigerians, which would translate to a long lasting fresh breath. According to her, the paste consists of ingredients that offer anti-germ benefits and give confidence for consumers to stay closer.
Okogie said the revolutionary blend of Aloe Vera alongside the mint leaf extract put the product ahead of its competitors, noting that it provides anti-bacteria benefits and fresh breath.

The Brand Building Director, Unilever Nig. Plc, Mr David Okeme, also lent his voice at the event. He stated that the essence of the new offering is to encourage young Nigerians in a manner that would deepen their love for the Nigerian dream which he said relied solely on them.

He said: “This product is a fusion of science and energy. This is a mix that we created for Nigeria.  As we speak, people from other markets are demanding for it, which shows the uniqueness and value of this offering. And that is what our brands stand for.  This is an embodiment of the Nigerian spirit and a milestone achievement for the Close-Up brand and Unilever Nigeria, as it would help reach out to young Nigerians and satisfy their need. The future is here, the future is now. The future is the Nigerian youth and we acknowledge and celebrate you.”


Dipe–Okojie said the new offering was targeted at bringing smiles to  Nigerians with a view to expressing the strong connection between the Close-Up brand and Nigeria. The new Close-Up Naija Herbal Gel toothpaste is another way of showing this.

Over the years, Close-Up has been able to clearly re-inforce its understanding of Nigeria’s oral care needs and restate its commitment towards sustaining its position as one of the leading oral care products in the market.

With this new offering, Nigerians have a chance to truly experience the benefits of a revolutionary herbal toothpaste, created specifically for Nigerian youths.

Herbal Cure For Fibroid: Two Amazing Testimonies



Pregnant In 3 Months After Taken
Herbal Medicine For Fibroid
I have been trying to conceive for 2 years with no success. My doctor told me that my fibroids so big they were stopping me from getting pregnant, and I would never have a child unless I had surgery.

I didn't like what he was saying, so I searched the internet for natural treatments for fibroids. I found a particular herbal remedy and looked at all the testimonials, everything looked good so I ordered it and the Body Cleanse Kit.

It arrived very quickly and I began to take it. Within 3 months of taking them, my period stopped, so I took a pregnancy test.

I WAS PREGNANT!!! I am so happy!!

My latest scan showed that the fibroid had shrunk to the size of an egg, and the pregnancy is going really well. I'm now taking AlkaGreens Plus to keep the fibroid small while I am pregnant.

I am recommending natural remedy to all of my friends who have fibroids. I have a friend in Haiti who was supposed to have surgery in June, but I have paid for the same natural medicine that I used to be sent to her, so she can have the same results as me.

Thank you so much!



 The Fibroids Pain Felt Like I Was Going To Die
But Natural Medicine Gives Me Beautiful Periods Now!
I have 4cm fibroid at the bottom of my uterus which caused me a lot of pain.
Ever since my period started, I would have to stay in bed for 2 to 3 days: the pain was so bad, I thought I was going to die! No painkiller or drug could help me with that pain.
I also use to get a Urinary Tract Infection every month, and I couldn't even pee. There was one month where the pain and inflammation got so bad, I could not pee at all for days.
When I went to see my Naturopathic Doctor about my periods, he told me that the fibroids were the cause, and he recommended a Herbal medicine
I have been taking it for 3 months and it's helped me a lot. I now have beautiful periods... no pain, no inflammation, no cramping.
Thank you so much.
Do you have fibroid? has the doctor told you that you cannot conceive unless you undergo surgery? you dont need to worry. You can be cured of fibroid with natural medicine. To get NAFDAC approved herbal medicines for fibroid, call +2347031040178.


"Pfizer's New Contraceptive may Cause Cancer In African Women" - Obianuju Ekeocha, Coordinator Culture Of Life Africa



Recently, the Pfizer & Melinda Gates Foundation partnered to launch  a new contraceptive into the African market, Nigeria included. But, the new contraceptive may be doing more harm than good to african women. The following article, sent in by Obianuju Ekeocha of the Culture of Life Africa, an organistion that protects the sanctity and dignity of Life in Africa, explains while this is so.


I stumbled upon the recent joint announcement  of Pfizer Inc., the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) to expand access to Pfizer’s injectable contraceptive, Sayana Press (medroxyprogesterone acetate), for women in the world’s poorest countries. Some of the targeted countries named for this expansive contraception project include Burkina Faso, Kenya, Niger, Senegal, Uganda and my own country Nigeria. 
This announcement was immediately picked and praised by many News Agencies in the western world including BBC News where it was described as "The One dollar contraceptive set to make family planning easier "
One cannot help but wonder, "easier" for whom? For Ugandan, Kenyan and Nigerian women? Or for the multi-billionaire Pfizer, Gates and CIFF?
Reading this announcement and the related News articles further, I realised that this project is not a new one rather its inception can be traced back directly to the extensive contraception fundraising project launched by Melinda Gates 2 years ago during the Family Planning summit of 2012.
All of it seems now to be actualised in this cheap contraceptive device targeted towards the poorest women in the world.
So by sheer determination and will, these wealthy figures - Pfizer, Gates & CIFF, have succeeded in rolling out in the world of the poor,  the $1-per-piece device designed to become the prevalent self injectable contraception of the developing world, the wonder device that will make it all so easy to sterilise millions of women across my Continent.
They claim that this would be the pathway to development as well as the emancipation and elevation of African women. They tell us that it will give African women control over their lives.
But I dare to ask them exactly how sterilising the wombs of the poorest women in the world would give them control over famine, draught, disease and poverty. It absolutely will not make women more educated, or more employable. This extensive contraception project will provide food or safe drinking water for women who submit to it. It will not make African women happier or more satisfied in their marriages. No. It will only make them sterile at the cheapest rate possible.
This is certainly not what the African women have asked. It is not the miracle that our hearts crave amidst the trials and difficulties of Africa. But yet in a world of shocking cultural imperialism, it is what our "betters" have chosen to unleash upon us.
And what is more insidious is that this product being launched is the self-injectable version of the highly controversial Depo-Provera that has been put into question in the developed world after having been shown in various studies to carry dangerous and even lethal side effects.

In October 2011 the New York Times published an article entitled Contraceptive Used in Africa May Double Risk of H.I.V. This article was based on a cohort study by prestigious medical Research journal The Lancet that clearly stated that "the risk of HIV-1 acquisition doubled with the use of hormonal contraception especially the injectable methods."
And what is most shocking is that this study was partly sponsored by the Gates Foundation and yet after these findings, they have gone ahead to launch this high risk product in targeted countries of their choice (Uganda, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria and many others), countries where the women may never be able to raise their voices when the lethal effects set in.
In addition to the HIV-related effects of this product, there is also the doubled risk of breast cancer demonstrated by various studies like the extensive research done by the Fred Hutchingson Cancer Research centre, Seattle and published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) in February 2012, with the research team stating clearly after their studies :
"We found that recent DMPA (Depo-Medroxyprogesterone acetate a.k.a Depo-Provera) use for 12 months or longer was associated with a 2.2-fold increased risk of invasive breast cancer."

In addition to this publication the team also made a compelling press release following their research.
Furthermore, this same product Depo-Provera has been clearly linked to permanent bone density loss and on this very note, Pfizer has had a staggering number of  prosecutions, class-action law suits and out-of-court settlements all to the tune of millions of dollars.

As a direct result of this, the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a compulsory "black-box" warning on this product that reads :
"Use of Depo-subQ Provera 104 or Depo Provera may cause you to lose calcium stored in your bones. The longer you use Depo Provera, the more calcium you are likely to lose. The calcium may not return completely once you stop using Depo Provera. Loss of calcium may cause weak bones that could increase the risk that your bones might break, especially after menopause. It is not known whether your risk of developing osteoporosis may be greater if you are a teenager when you start to use Depo Provera. You should only use Depo Provera long term (more than 2 years) if other methods of birth control are not right for you".
This product is flawed. It is dangerous. And from all indications it could be lethal.
And in the developed countries, it has been marked as such.
In spite of this glaring reality, that which has been deemed unsuitable and terribly flawed in the land of the rich, has now been brought in to the land of the poor.
As an African woman my heart is racing today as I consider this latest collaborative move by Pfizer, Gates Foundation and CIFF.
I think about the full implications and ramifications of this on my people, my sisters, my aunties and my friends.
I think about the poor women in Africa who will have no means at all of filing class-action lawsuits against these giants from the western world.
I think about our sorely inadequate healthcare systems in Africa that is not in any way equipped to deal with the fallout or onslaught of the medical side effects like breast cancer, osteoporosis (bone density loss) as well as increased HIV infection rates, all associated with this contraceptive product.
I cannot help but think about the thousands of African women who will die as a direct result of this $1 per piece product.
Yes, my heart is racing and my mind is reeling as I try to take it all in.
Simply put, this is racism, it is imperialism and it is a form of colonialism where the poor African women are being treated as subhuman subjects to the wealthy and worldly.
Who will speak up for the women of Africa? Who will lament the crass disregard for their well being? Who will complain about the cruel disrespect with which they are being treated? Who will shed tears for the irreparable damage that could befall them?
I am only one African woman, but from where I stand I choose today to speak up, to lament, to complain and to shed silent tears for my fellow African women, with the hope that by the end of today, my words and tears may reach and touch the hearts of people of goodwill around the world who will join me in defending the dignity of the African women.

Aloe Vera: The Commander Of A Multitude Of Health Benefits

The health benefits of Aloe Vera are numerous, beginning with improving the digestive system all the way to preserving food; it can result in optimal health in the long run. Aloe Vera strengthens the immune system, delays the aging process, cures dermatitis, alleviates menstrual problems, reduces arthritis pain, heals wounds, cures nausea, eliminates ulcers, lowers blood sugar levels, prevents diabetes, reduces oxidative stress, inhibits cancerous growth, heals the side effects of radiotherapy treatments, promotes hair growth, and soothes acid reflux symptoms.
This widely useful plant also lowers cholesterol and triglycerides, improves cardiovascular functions, alleviates joint and muscle pain, enhances life span, and cures gum diseases. This plant has been used for ages to alleviate pain, since it has excellent anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies are still being conducted to discover more benefits of the aloe plant that will undoubtedly make it even more important in the medicinal practices of cultures all around the world.
Aloe Vera is also known as medicinal aloe, and some of its common names are Lily of the Desert, Burn Plant, and Elephant’s Gall. It belongs to the family of succulent plants in the genus ‘Aloe’. The origin of Aloe Vera is believed to be in Sudan and has been used for more than 6,000 years. The great virtues of this plant have been recognized by many civilizations, including the Egyptians, Spanish, Persians, Greek, Italians, Africans, Japanese and Indians. Aloe Vera grows best in warm, dry climates and is densely found in India, Africa, and other arid zones. This species has a wide usage in herbal medicine. The Aloe Vera plant has compounds such as mannans, polysaccharides, lectins, and anthraquinones that are extremely beneficial for human health.
Aloe Vera plant is often a stemless or sometimes very short-stemmed juicy plant that grows 60–100 cm (24–39 in) height, and the offsets spread out wide. The leaves of this plant are thick and fleshy; and the color varies from green to grey-green. Some varieties of this plant have white flecks on the upper and lower portions of the stem surfaces. The margin of the leaves is like saw-tooth and the flowers bloom . This plant can be easily grown both indoors and outdoors.
Nigeria Natural Health Online will feature subsequent articles on how to apply aloe vera for specific purposes. Always keep a date with us.

The Difference Between A Babalawo And A Herbal Practitioner

In the Nigeria society, there is a certain amount of apathy against herbal practitioners by a generality of a public. This apathy is mainly borne out of the fact that most people do not know the difference between herbal practitioners and babalawos or [witch doctors] . Some people feel that if you are a herbal practitioners then you must be a witch doctor. But this is wrong. Infact, majority of herbal practitioner in Nigerian cities are elder christians or muslims.

Have you heard of charmers, enchanters, sorcerers, conjurers, magician, witchcraft and wizadry before, these group of people, who are the real babalawos, use a multiplicity of natural elements like air, water, earth, fire and herbs to execute things in the spiritual realm to have a physical effect.


Herbalists, also sometimes called herbal practitioners and licensed herbalists, are specially trained in the field of herbal medicine. An herbalist uses plants and other natural substances to improve health, promote healing, and prevent and treat illness.
Herbal medicine, also called herbalism, botanical medicine, or phytomedicine, has been used for thousands of years. In Western civilizations, including the United States, herbal medicine is considered a type of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 80 percent of people worldwide use herbal remedies as part of their overall health care.
Herbalists use the seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, and flowers of plants called herbs or botanicals for medicinal purposes. In some country, herbal products are classified as dietary supplements, rather than drugs or medicines (pharmaceuticals). Labeling standards and health claims for dietary supplements, including herbal remedies, are set by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act.
In Nigeria, herbal product are regulated by NAFDAC, which these they required approval for such product to be distributed and sold  only not Nigeria but also exported to other country. On account of NAFDAC certification, Nigerian herbal products are respected in most country of the world. However, the local market appears to be suffering from an influx of foreign herbal products, especially from countries in Asia.

Fight Asthma And Other Aiments With Fish Oil

The rate of asthma keeps rising. The fact is that, children’s asthma is continuing to increase at an alarming rate. Environmental pollution and poor eating styles are largely the culprit.
Essential fatty acids in fish and fish oil will restrain the inflammatory chemicals associated with this disease. Research shows that children who eat oily fish more often than once a week have one-third the danger of getting asthma as children who do not eat fish or eat lean fish regularly.
Fish-oil supplements are beneficial for both children and adults with asthma. Again, the key benefits of fish oil take months before the natural anti-inflammatory benefits start to take hold.
The health benefits of fish oil also include its ability to aid in the treatment of various heart diseases, high cholesterol, depression, anxiety, AHDH, weakened immune system, cancerdiabetes, inflammation, arthritis, IBD, AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, eye disorders, macular degeneration and ulcers. It also helps aid weight loss, healthy pregnancy, fertility and skin care (particularly for conditions such as psoriasis and acne).
Most of the health benefits of fish oil can be attributed to the presence of omega 3 essential fatty acids like Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Other useful essential fatty acids in fish oil include Alpha-linolenic acid or ALA and Gamma-linolenic acid or GLA.
While fish oil has plenty of beneficial qualities, There is need to know the particular source of fish oil to consume for maximum benefits.The most common ones among these for obtaining oil are albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, sardines, lake trout and salmon. The quality of fish oil greatly depends on the type of fish from which you retrieve the oil.

Why You Should Consider A Regular Diet Of Bitter Leaf

Bitter leaf is a common vegetable found all over Nigeria, especially in the southern part of the country. Bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) is used in preparing the popular Bitter leaf soup. It is also known as Onugbu, Shiwaka & Ewuro by the Igbos, Hausas&Yorubas in Nigeria.

Although this plant has been around for hundreds of years, only a few people know of its medicinal and healing properties.

  Bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) as the name implies, is actually a bitter plant whose leaves, extracts, stems and barks are used for culinary,medicinal and curative purposes.  
  Vitamins in Bitter leaf include: Vitamin A, Vitamin C ,Vitamin E, Vit.B1 and Vit.B2.

Bitter leaf is very familiar to some people but others may not have any idea about this wonder leaf. Bitter-leaf can grow anywhere unlike other leaves that only grow in certain places and temperature. These leaves flourishes anywhere they grow. They add beauty to all places where they are present. The most distinctive characteristic of this plant is its bitterness. Every part of this plant is bitter starting from the leaves to its roots. The bitterness of this plant is actually good for the body. It has a lot of health benefits to people. The plant can remind people that life is not always sweet; it takes to taste bitterness before you can achieve sweetness. This plant is very useful in toning the vital organs of the body especially the liver and the kidney.
The liver is one of the most important organs of the body. It has a lot of vital functions that is needed for normal functioning of the whole system of the body. Without the liver all major process in the body will be paralyze. The liver is known as the largest organ inside the body. It has an approximate weight of 1-3 kg in an average adult individual. There are a lot of major functions that the liver should do every day and this includes the production of bile acid that helps in fat metabolism.
Without the liver fats will not be digested inside the body to be use as energy. Bitter-leaf can be very helpful in maintaining the livers optimum health to release bile acid every time people eat fatty foods. Another major function of the liver is the production of glycogen. Glycogen is stored energy that is release in times of low level of glucose especially for people who do fasting.
The liver should be well taken care of by using bitter-leaf. Once the liver is been damage it can’t be restored into its normal function. People with liver problems can boil a bitter-leaf and drink a glass of it every day.
Another very vital organ inside the body is the kidney. Kidney helps in the excretion of waste products inside the body. If the normal function of the kidney breakdown there will great huge problem inside the body. Bitter-leaf a natural herb that is useful in taking care of the kidney and the liver.
Diabetic patient can also use bitter-leaf as one of their medication to prevent high sugar level in the blood. It will not only lower the sugar level in the blood but also repair impaired pancreas. As you all know pancreas is the organ responsible for the production of insulin for glucose to reach each cell to use by the body as energy. Impaired pancreas does not release the right amount of insulin to maintain the right sugar level in the blood. Bitter-leaf is a real wonder of nature. You can take the benefit of this amazing plant by squeezing its leaves in ten litters of water.