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I have always known these fruits only by their native name, which is Oyiya. So today, I am writing about the Monkey Kola nut fruit. Most West Africans are familiar with this fruit. Yesterday, I went to the market and purchased these fruits, and here I am writing about the health benefits. But before we go into that, what is Monkey Kola Nut fruit? Cola lateritia K. Schum, Cola tachycardia K. Schum, and Cola lepidota K. Schum are edible wild relatives of the West African kolanut commonly known as monkey kola. These are tropical fruits that are native to West and Central Africa and grow well in the wet forests there.


 
 
Let's look into the health benefits of the monkey Kola fruit (Oyiya fruit).

Yellow Monkey Kola is the most prevalent form of the African indigenous wild fruit known as monkey cola, which can be found surrounding homes and villages in southern Nigeria.
It is known as Ochiricha or Achicha in Igbo, Ndiyah in Ibibio, and Efik, and contains a variety of minerals and phytochemicals, including beta-carotene, vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, fiber, other nutrients, and phytochemical characteristics.
These fruits contain a high concentration of vitamins, carbohydrates, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. It includes vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are useful to human health in a variety of ways, including the following:
 
1. Lowers Body Cholesterol
Because of the presence of niacin (vitamin B3) known as nicotinic acid, this fruit helps to lower the level of bad cholesterol, also known as low-density lipoprotein, and boosts high-density lipoprotein, which is the good cholesterol. Scientists put niacin and satin (cholesterol control) through the same tests to see how they affected cholesterol. The results of an experiment on the effect of niacin on body cholesterol have been studied by scientists. It shows that niacin decreased the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the blood while increasing the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) more than satin.

Do you like avocados? One a week may help to reduce the risk of heart disease. 
Avocados have creamy, pale green flesh that is packed with nutrients that are linked to heart health. Long-term study shows that people who eat at least two servings of this fruit a week are less likely to get heart disease.
 
Dr. Frank Hu, the co-author of the study and Frederick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HSPH), puts the findings in context. "This study adds to the evidence that healthy fat sources such as avocados can help avoid cardiovascular disease," he says. He adds that substituting avocados for less-healthy foods like butter, cheese, and processed meats is a significant take-home lesson.

The difference between fruits

 
As with other foods, different fruits include a variety of nutrients. In general, whole fruits are high in fiber, whereas fruit juices are not. And a cup of fruit juice, even 100% fruit juice, contains far more sugar than a single piece or serving of real fruit. Additionally, whole fruits provide greater satiation than juices. When consuming the appropriate amount of fruit and vegetables, it is preferable to eat them whole rather than drink their juice. However, one should not completely avoid juice—if it is 100 per cent juice—but consumption should be limited to no more than 4 to 8 ounces per day.
 
The freezer department of the supermarket is frequently supplied with an array of frozen fruits. These are frequently already peeled and chopped (like mango), making them handier and frequently less expensive than fresh fruits. Frozen fruits are typically selected and quickly frozen near the point of harvest, which preserves the nutrients. Additionally, certain seasonal fruits, such as blueberries, are easily accessible frozen. The key to selecting is choosing unsweetened frozen fruits.
 
Numerous fruits are available dried, including raisins, apricots, and pineapple, to name a few. Additionally, they have high nutritional content, maintain their freshness for an extended period of time, are handy to carry, and are abundant in calories, making them a favorite of hikers and campers. Some, particularly mango and pineapple, are frequently sweetened throughout the drying process. Dried cranberries nearly always contain extra sugar due to their naturally sour flavour. Even without added sugar, the small size and sweetness make it fairly simple to consume a large quantity in one sitting, and the calories can soon pile up.
 
Sulfur dioxide is also used to maintain the freshness and color of some dried foods, such as raisins and apricots. While this is not a worry for the majority of people, certain individuals, particularly those with asthma, are sensitive. Because sulfur dioxide treatment is clearly labelled on the container, it is easy to avoid if necessary.

 
Consider purchasing organic.

 
We have a variety of organically and conventionally cultivated fruits to choose from, whether they are fresh, frozen, or dried. There is insufficient nutritional difference between the two to warrant choosing one over the other, yet consumers may prefer one over the other depending on growing practices and environmental impact. Although the United States has pesticide laws, some fruits have more residual pesticides than others. It is therefore always advisable to properly wash fruits before eating them.

Superfoods that are anti-inflammatory in every season


Anti-inflammatory food superstars for every season

Summer brings berries and watermelon, while winter brings kale and beets. Seasonal changes can alter the recipe for anti-inflammatory foods to enjoy.

A consistent diet of these nutritious foods can benefit your heart, brain, and even your joints, and scientists believe that their anti-inflammatory properties may be one reason.


Inflammation: How it Benefits and Harms the Body


Inflammation is a natural part of the healing process in your body — it's why your knee swelled and turned red after you injured it. However, this inflammatory repair process can occasionally go awry, lasting too long and causing more harm than good. When inflammation is a result of a persistent problem, it can exacerbate health problems. Chronic stress, obesity, or an autoimmune disorder can all contribute to the development of conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, or cancer. Additionally, it may be detrimental to the brain. Researchers have discovered a link between increased brain inflammation and an increased risk of cognitive decline and impairment. Including anti-inflammatory foods in your diet on a regular basis may help to inhibit this process.


Three anti-inflammatory diets


No research has been conducted specifically on the anti-inflammatory benefits of eating seasonal foods. "However, it is widely accepted that eating what is in season is likely to be fresher, and there are obvious additional benefits, including those for the environment," says Natalie McCormick, a Harvard Medical School research fellow in medicine. Consuming seasonal foods may also help you save money on your grocery bill.

When it comes to anti-inflammatory foods, the objective should be to include as many as possible in your daily diet. "Our focus is now on eating patterns, as interactions between foods and their combinations appear to have a greater effect than individual foods," McCormick explains.

According to her, three diets, in particular, contain the optimal combination of components: the Mediterranean diet, the DASH diet, and the Alternative Healthy Eating Index. These diets are similar in that they emphasize anti-inflammatory foods such as colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats such as olive oil and nut butter. However, these diets also eliminate foods — such as highly processed snacks, red meat, and sugary beverages — that have been shown to increase inflammatory markers in the body, such as a substance called C-reactive protein.

You are aware of the adage about apples and physicians, correct? Researchers tested the old adage a few years ago, using dietary data from roughly 8,400 adults, including 753 who reported eating an apple daily. While daily apple eaters appeared to use fewer prescription medications, they were no less likely than the rest of the research population to attend health care appointments.



However, in 2020, an article in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition discovered a slew of heart-health benefits associated with apple eating. Consuming one medium apple daily, the authors concluded, may help reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation. Apples, both peeled and unpeeled, are a wonderful source of fiber and substances called polyphenols that promote heart health.
Pomegranates include hundreds of tasty ruby-red arils with a sweet, tart flavor. They're also packed with heart-healthy nutrients, particularly antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. Pomegranate juice, in fact, contains three times the antioxidants found in red wine or green tea. According to several studies, the juice may help lower unhealthy LDL cholesterol and blood pressure.


However, as is the case with many fruits, it is recommended to consume the fruit whole (with fiber-rich seeds) rather than drinking juice. Pomegranate arils contain only 72 calories in a half-cup.
I grew up eating mangos not knowing that mango is a pricy fruit in some countries. Mangos are not only tasty but also have a lot of health benefits.


What are mangoes?

Mangos are a delicious delight that is rich in minerals, proteins, and carbs, whether you eat them whole or cut them into long or short pieces. Mango is one of the most fleshy fruits available. It might be small enough to fit in your hand or large enough to weigh more than a kilogram because it has hundreds of varieties. India, China, Thailand, and the Philippines continue to be the world's top producers of a wide range of mangos. People in these countries would slice them, soften and eat them, or use them to make delectable chutneys.  


Interesting fact: The world's largest mango, which holds the Guinness World Record, is over 3.5 kilograms and hails from the Philippines.

Nutritional Values of Mangoes
Mangos are high in carbs, with an average-sized mango providing up to 15g of carbohydrates. A typical sized cup of sliced mango has approximately 100% of your daily vitamin C need. Vitamin A is another important nutrient present in mango. Calcium is the most common mineral, followed by manganese, magnesium, and iron. Zinc and sodium are also present in trace amounts. Thiamine, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin K, and vitamin E are some of the other vitamins you may get by eating a mango. Mangos have no cholesterol, therefore you shouldn't be concerned about your cholesterol levels when eating them. People frequently refer to them as superfoods or super fruits because of their diverse vitamin and mineral content.

Mangoes Have a Lot of  Health Benefits.

The tasty fruit has several benefits for your skin, hair, eyes, immune system, and more!

1. Mangoes help in the enhancement of sexual life.

Vitamin E has an effect on a person's sexual desire. Your sexual desire will enhance if you have a well-balanced vitamin E level in your body. Beta-carotene and vitamin E, both present in mango, have been demonstrated in studies to improve the health of sperm in males. Eating mangos can also help to reduce sperm membrane oxidation.

2. Reduced Chances of Heart Disease.

When it comes to body fat and cholesterol control, mangos may be quite beneficial to your health. To begin with, you might consume them and feel satisfied without increasing your cholesterol levels. Mangos' satiating qualities will protect you from overindulging in calorie-dense meals that will make you gain weight. Mango phytochemicals can also help you lose weight by having a favourable influence on your body's fat. As a result of these benefits, you can avoid heart-related disorders and stay healthy.


3. A Bone Health Boost.

Mangos are high in vitamin A and C, making them ideal for bone health. Collagen is a protein that is essential for skin health as well as bone health. Collagen makes up the fibrous portion of the bones. While vitamin A is beneficial to bone health, too much of it can be harmful.

4. Improves and gives fairer skin.

Topical treatments to enhance your skin will never produce excellent effects unless you feed your body nutritious foods on the inside. Collagen is found in mangos. Collagen is the protein that gives your skin its elasticity and radiance. If you want to look your best, eat mangos. You may use mango for skin not just by eating it, but also by using one of the many mango masks available.

In the wellness world, elderberry is getting a lot of buzzes. It may be found on the shelves of virtually any supermarket and health food shop, and it's marketed as a way to promote immune system health.

The berries of the elder plant are high in polyphenols, which have several health advantages, making it a great tool for battling seasonal changes, a weaker immune system, and even stress symptoms. But, with so many elderberry products on the market, how can you know which ones are best for you?



What Is Elderberry?

Elderberry, often known as elder, is a plant that is native to Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia and belongs to the Sambucus genus. The plant's berries are frequently utilized for their nutrient content and immune-supporting benefits in the United States, and it has grown increasingly popular for its medicinal capabilities.

The most prevalent form of the plant, Sambucus nigra, contains strong antioxidants and anthocyanidins, as well as micronutrients including vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium in its blossoms and berries.

Health Benefits of Elderberry

1. Antioxidant-dense

Elderberries have a high antioxidant profile thanks to the presence of quercetin and anthocyanidins, two important antioxidant chemicals that assist to combat oxidative stress. One of the most abundant antioxidants in a balanced diet is quercetin. It's a powerful substance that supports a healthy inflammatory response and contains skin-protecting chemicals that assist to suppress pro-inflammatory signals.

Elderberries include anthocyanidins, which are also present in blueberries and cherries and have immune-supporting and strong antioxidant properties. These antioxidants may also help to maintain the health of the respiratory system, according to research.

Elderberries' polyphenols may also help with heart health. Although research on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry components is limited, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of elderberry compounds may promote healthy blood pressure and general heart health.

2. Aids in the maintenance of a healthy immune system

Elderberry is well-known and well-researched for its immune-boosting properties. The antioxidants in the berries, known as anthocyanins, have a broad immune-boosting impact and aid the immune system's natural defensive reaction when confronted with an intruder.

3. Improves the health of the skin

According to preliminary studies, the antioxidants included in elderberries may help to maintain a healthy skin structure and improve general skin health. Because of its vitamin A concentration, elderberry may be found in certain topical skincare products. Vitamin A aids in the maintenance of good skin health and the promotion of healthy ageing.

4. Promotes a Healthy Digestive System

Although there isn't a lot of evidence, some studies suggest that elderberry can assist with digestion. It promotes regularity and has moderate laxative properties, making it an effective treatment for constipation.

A great way to start a healthy diet is with delicious fresh fruit and vegetables like delicious red strawberries, spinach, and beautiful yellow peppers. Flavonoids, the powerfully medicinal plant chemicals that give them their colour, appear to influence many areas of health. A huge Harvard study found in July of 2017 that flavonoids are also linked to improved cognitive function.

Scientists who conducted the study examined health data and self-reported food information collected over 20 years from more than 77,000 middle-aged men and women.



The statistics included individuals' weekly intake of foods high in flavonoids, such as vegetables, and whether people experienced cognitive changes in their 70s, such as difficulty in:

recalling recent occurrences or a brief list

recalling what you just experienced

the comprehension of information

after being in a group discussion or following a TV show

discovering their way around the streets that they know well


Researchers then calculated participants’ intake of six classes of flavonoids:
flavonols (such as quercetin in onions and kale)
flavones (such as luteolin in green chile peppers and celery)
flavanones (such as naringenin in grapefruit and oranges)
flavan-3-ol monomers (such as catechins in red wine and strawberries)
anthocyanins (such as cyanidin in blackberries and red cabbage)
polymers (such as theaflavins in black tea).
We frequently discuss how diets high in fruits and vegetables are beneficial to one's health. But how much do you have to average every day to gain significant benefits? According to a Harvard study, eating five servings of fruits and vegetables each day provides the most health advantages.



The study, published online March 1, 2021, in the journal Circulation, included self-reported health and nutrition data from hundreds of studies from throughout the world, including almost two million people who were tracked for up to 30 years. 
People who ate five servings of fruits or vegetables per day had a lower risk of heart disease than those who ate only two servings per day.

a 13% reduction in the likelihood of dying from any cause
a 12% reduction in the risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease or stroke
a 10% lower risk of death from cancer
a 35% lower risk of death from respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Fruits and vegetables are high in numerous nutrients that are closely connected to good health, especially heart and blood vessel health: potassium, magnesium, fibre, and polyphenols [antioxidant plant chemicals].

Your everyday objectives
Among research participants, the most beneficial combination of fruits and vegetables was two servings of fruits and three servings of vegetables per day, for a total of five servings per day.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should be used to replace direct medical advice from your doctor or another trained practitioner.
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