The Nation Newspaper

Tag: healthier

  • NIBUCCA seeks healthier workplace

    NIBUCCA seeks healthier workplace

    The Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NIBUCCA) has called on corporate Nigeria to rededicate itself to fighting HIV-AIDS and other work place health challenges.

    In a media release to mark its 15th anniversary,  it said though the fight against ill health in the workplace had not been totally won, NIBUCAA and its partners had made great strides against HIV/AIDS in its first 15 years, adding that it was time to consolidate on that good record.

    The coalition also lauded its founding fathers, its present managers and its 32-member partners, scattered all over the country, saying the achievements of the last 15 years could not have been possible without them.

    But it added that it was time to give the cause a further boost.

    Founded on 15 February 2003, after a breakfast meeting between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and high level corporate leaders, NIBUCAA was then established as a company limited by guarantee with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2008.

    Its first co-chairmen, Dr. Pascal Dozie, then of Diamond Bank and Jay Pryor of Chevron Nigeria, emerged from that meeting, with President Obasanjo urging them to be the drivers of the private sector, in a collaborative effort, with the Federal Government, to tackle the HIV/AIDS challenge in the workplace.

    They were succeeded by the second co-chairmen, Dr. Hebert Wigwe, MD/CEO of Access Bank and Nicholas Terraz, MD/CEO  of Total Exploration and Production Nigeria Ltd, who took over in 2015.

    NIBUCAA recalled that the coalition came into existence when there was high level of HIV-AIDS stigma and victimization of workers; but added that with its constant seminars, trainings and other programmes, such negative tendencies were coming down, with a better impact on the bottomline.

    Due to its enlightenment efforts too, it has been able to generate greater awareness among the general public, so much so that the incidence of HIV had been better managed.

    Announcing NIBUCAA’s latest strategic plan, Advocacy, Innovations, Partnerships and Impact Investment, the coalition calls from greater drive and better cooperation among its present partner-members, while calling on new members to join to make the workplace more health-friendly for workers.

     

  • How can I live a healthier, longer life despite heart disease?

    Perhaps you have a heart disease, perhaps you don’t, perhaps a close relative or a friend does – don’t panic. Anyone can live a healthier, longer life despite heart disease. How? Don’t worry, I’ll get there. Before I do, it is important to note that, unfortunately, heart disease, especially hypertensive heart disease, is the leading cause of death among adult and aged Nigerians. Also remember, this statement does not need to apply to you and your loved ones, which is the purpose of this article.

    First, you need to know what heart disease means. Heart disease refers to any condition that causes the heart not to function appropriately. For example, atherosclerosis heart disease results from the build-up of plaques that clutters the arteries and vessels, thereby causing the heart to pump against high resistance. Other examples of heart diseases include hypertensive heart disease, congenital heart defects, coronary heart disease, inflammatory heart disease, ischaemic heart disease, rheumatic heart disease, and so on. All these heart conditions cause the heart not to pump well, which can cause heart failure, and even heart attack. If not monitored well, they can lead to cardiac arrest, and worst, sudden cardiac death.

    Secondly, you need to know if you’re either at risk of developing a heart disease, or at risk of complicating your existing heart-related condition. So, who is at risk? The answer is anyone and everyone, especially:

    Unborn babies in the womb (foetus)

    Adults from their 30s, and the aged

    Youths in their 20s with excessive drinking and/or smoking habits

    Individuals with diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and kidney disease

    Individuals with a family history of heart (-related) diseases

    Women experiencing their menopause

    Thirdly, you need to know the factors that increases your risk of having heart disease, and your loved ones:

    For an unborn baby: taking non-prescribed medications, not controlling and monitoring existing diseases such as diabetes and hypertension in the mother, not keeping up with your immunisation schedule, stressing a lot, drinking alcohol and smoking, and taking hard drugs.

    For children, adults, and aged folk: smoking or dwelling for long in smoke-filled environments, eating an unhealthy, salt-rich diet, non-compliance with prescribed medications, and physical inactivity.

    Fourthly, you need to know the symptoms of heart disease, and know that they vary depending on the kind of heart condition and individual.

    For many Nigerians, chest pain and discomfort in the arms, upper abdomen, or shoulder are the first signs

    Pain or discomfort in the face and neck area, including the jaw and tooth ache

    Physical weakness and light headedness

    Breathlessness, Gasping, Panting, Shortness of Breath

    Cold sweat

    Swollen ankles and foot

    Feeling ‘sick to your stomach’/nausea

    Make daily lifestyle changes to help reduce your risk of (further) heart complications including:

    Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, and foods low in saturated fats. Eat whole grain products, fish, beans, and lean meat.

    Avoiding drinking alcohol by reducing your intake (including red wine!), or simply never start drinking.

    Maintaining a healthy weight. Have you checked your BMI lately? If no, check and talk to a doctor about your weight if it doesn’t feel right.

    Quit smoking and protect yourself from tobacco by avoiding smoke-filled environments.

    Get active! A 30-minute walk everyday can help reduce the likelihood of a heart attack and stroke. Please, avoid aggressive, heart heavy sports – leave that for healthy teenagers – plus, I prefer football for the kids. Before adults embark on any form of excessive exercise/sport such as tennis and football, check your numbers (see the next point).

    Know your numbers: check your blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels regularly.

    Carefully take your medication as prescribed – don’t wait until your first ICU admission to make a change. Instead, avoid it by carefully taking your medication.

    Take your existing heart conditions seriously, especially high blood pressure.

    Finally, discuss with your cardiologist about the best ways to reduce your heart disease risk. Join a heart healthy club such as LECC’s Cardiac and Vascular Care Programme for those with chronic heart condition.

    • Dr. Alli is Consultant Cardiologist at Lagos Executive Cardiovascular Clinic
  • For a healthier you in the 2016

    For a healthier you in the 2016

     If your resolution is to take better care of yourself in 2016, the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention has some tips for you, writes OYEYEMI GBENGA-MUSTAPHA.

    You can make 2016 your healthiest year. Here are some ways to boost your health and well-being, and be an inspiration.  The first steps, according to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), is to learn how you can live a safer and healthier life.

    This includes: Protecting  yourself from injury or disease by wearing a helmet, sunscreen, or insect repellant when necessary.  Make an appointment for a check-up. It’s time to take charge of your health. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss what screenings and exams you need and when you need them. Go also for vaccination, or screening.

    Besides,wash your hands often with soap and water to prevent the spread of infection and illness.

    Learn health tips that take five minutes or less. Yes, five minutes can make a difference. Being healthy and safe takes commitment, but it doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Most things are so simple and take so little time, that you’ll wonder why you’ve been avoiding them. Taking just a few of the 1440 minutes in a day is worth having a safer and healthier life for you and your family

     

    Healthy You

    Make healthy food choices. Grab a healthy snack, a healthy eating plan emphasises fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. Make sure your food is low in saturated fats, transfats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars.

    Stay within your daily calorie needs. Eat healthfully and enjoy it.  A healthy eating plan that helps you manage your weight includes a variety of foods you may not have considered. If “healthy eating” makes you think about the foods you can’t have, try refocusing on all the new foods you can eat

    Eat fresh, frozen, or canned fruits, do not think just about  apples or bananas. All fresh, frozen, or canned fruits are great choices. Be sure to try some “exotic” fruits, too. How about a mango? Or a juicy pineapple or kiwi fruit! When your favorite fresh fruits aren’t in season, try a frozen, canned, or dried variety of a fresh fruit you enjoy. One caution about canned fruits is that they may contain added sugars or syrups. Be sure and choose canned varieties of fruit packed in water or in their own juice.

    Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Vegetables, ¯try something new. You may find that you love grilled vegetables or steamed vegetables with an herb you haven’t tried like rosemary. You can sauté (panfry) vegetables in a non-stick pan with a small amount of cooking spray. Or try frozen or canned vegetables for a quick side dish just microwave and serve. When trying canned vegetables, look for vegetables without added salt, butter, or cream sauces. Commit to going to the produce department and trying a new vegetable each week.

     

    Calcium-rich foods ¯

    You may automatically think of a glass of low-fat or fat-free milk when someone says “eat more dairy products.” But what about low-fat and fat-free yogurts without added sugars? These come in a wide variety of flavors and can be a great dessert substitute for those with a sweet tooth.

     

    A new twist on an old favorite ¯ If your favorite recipe calls for frying fish or breaded chicken, try healthier variations using baking or grilling. Maybe even try a recipe that uses dry beans in place of higher-fat meats. Ask around or search the internet and magazines for recipes with fewer calories, ¯ you might be surprised to find you have a new favorite dish!

    Do I have to give up my favorite comfort food?

    No! Healthy eating is all about balance. You can enjoy your favorite foods even if they are high in calories, fat or added sugars. The key is eating them only once in a while, and balancing them out with healthier foods and more physical activity. Some general tips for comfort foods:

    Eat them less often. If you normally eat these foods every day, cut back to once a week or once a month. You’ll be cutting your calories because you’re not having the food as often.

    Eat smaller amounts. If your favorite higher-calorie food is a chocolate bar, have a smaller size or only half a bar.

    Try a lower-calorie version. Use lower-calorie ingredients or prepare food differently. For example, if your macaroni and cheese recipe uses whole milk, butter, and full-fat cheese, try remaking it with non-fat milk, less butter, light cream cheese, fresh spinach and tomatoes. Just remember to not increase your portion size.

    Be active to improve overall health. Try simple things such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Consider mall walking if the weather is cold or icy. Be active for at least 2½ hours a week.

    Be smoke free. Get enough sleep. Remember that sleep is a necessity, not a luxury.

     

    Healthy Family

    Learn how to be healthy before, during, and after pregnancy. Reduce auto-related injuries by using seat belts, child safety seats, and booster seats that are appropriate for your child’s age and weight. Learn positive parenting tips to keep teens safe on the road.  Lower the risk of food borne illness as you prepare meals for your family. Gather and share family health history. And get pets vaccinated and keep pets healthy.

  • Which is healthier, butter or margarine?

    The differences between butter and margarine are sometimes described as nominal, generally by supporters of margarine, or significantly different, as reported by pro-butter or health experts. There are several articles of dubious authenticity floating around the Internet which even claim that margarine is only one molecule away from becoming plastic. The most basic difference between these two substances, however, is that butter is derived from animal fat while margarine is derived from hydrogenated vegetable oils.

    Butter is a much older food product than margarine. Butter is produced from the fatty cream of cow’s milk, although other animal milks can be used. The fat molecules are usually held in suspension in the cream, but steady agitation in a butter churn causes the fat molecules to cling to themselves and eventually fall out of the cream as a thick mass of butter. Salt is often added to the raw butter, but is not strictly necessary. Churned butter is composed almost entirely of saturated fat, along with a significant amount of natural cholesterol.

    Margarine, on the other hand, is a manufactured food product designed specifically to be a butter substitute in 1869. The early margarine products used beef fat as an ingredient, but most margarine formulas changed to vegetable oils by the early 20th century. The normally liquid vegetable oil is solidified through a process involving hydrogen gas bubbles passing through the mixture. The result is a solid butter substitute with no cholesterol and little if any saturated fat. Margarine does contain polyunsaturated and trans fatty acids, however, which many health experts consider to be unhealthy for humans because of their artery-clogging tendencies.

    Butter and margarine differ in shelf life as well. Butter must be kept refrigerated in order to remain fresh for several days. Margarine should be refrigerated to maintain its solid form between uses, but it can remain stable much longer than butter. Butter, like many other dairy-based food products, can become spoiled or rancid without proper storage and refrigeration. Butter and margarine can both be used in recipes, but butter appears to be the default choice of professional chefs, while margarine is favored by more casual cooks. Butter is often more expensive than margarine, and the difference in flavor or texture between butter and margarine can be very subtle depending on the quality of the brand names used.