Sickle Cell Holistic Health-Living, Lagos (2025)

12/02/2025

Celebrating my 5th year on Facebook. Thank you for your continuing support. I could never have made it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

26/01/2025

Amazing Health Benefits Of Celery

Incorporating celery juice into a nutritious diet can offer multiple health benefits. This super juice has a multitude of healing properties; celery juice helps repair and support your immune system and gut, aids digestion, offers benefits to the brain, and is an amazing detoxifier/has antioxidant properties, and is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. The list goes on and on! Here are some reasons why you should be drinking celery juice each day

Keeps You Hydrated: Celery juice is primarily composed of water, which can aid in maintaining proper hydration. Staying hydrated is essential for various bodily functions, including managing blood pressure, regulating body temperature, supporting brain function, ensuring nutrient delivery, aiding waste removal, and promoting kidney health. However, many individuals do not consume enough water daily. When it comes to celery, think electrolytes. It hydrates on a deep cellular level.

Help Control High Blood Pressure: Celery juice contains unique compounds known as phthalides, which have been shown to relax blood vessels, thereby enhancing blood flow and potentially lowering blood pressure levels

Lowers Inflammation: Celery juice is rich in phytonutrients. Plant compounds that can reduce inflammation. These compounds act as antioxidants, helping to alleviate oxidative stress caused by the accumulation of free radicals in the body. Diet high in antioxidants are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Promotes Gut Health: Celery juice contains luteolin, a plant compound that helps to reduce inflammation in the gut.

Beneficial for People With Arthritis: The anti-inflammatory properties of celery juice may help individuals with arthritis and other inflammatory properties. Apinegin, which is another compound found in celery juice, has shown potential in reducing arthritis symptoms in the body.

Conclusion: Celery juice is strongly alkaline and helps to prevent and counteract acid reflux, acidosis, high blood pressure, joint pain, numbness, blurry eyes, headaches, heart palpitations, edema, heartburn, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, sleep issues, constipation, and bloating. It also helps to purify the bloodstream, aid in digestion, relax the nerves, reduce blood pressure, and clear up skin problems. In fact It is one of the greatest healing tonics of all time.

©️Sickle Cell Holistic Health-Living

Note: If you find the taste of pure celery juice to be too strong, you can juice one cucumber and/or one apple with the celery. This is a great option as you get adjusted to the flavour. As you get used to it, keep increasing the ratio of celery; the greatest benefits come when celery juice is consumed on its own.

11/01/2025

8 Best Foods That Support Your Heart & Gut at the Same (These are good for SCD warriors)

Many foods that are good for your heart are also great for your gut. The common denominators? Fibre, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Believe it or not, 80% of our immune system is found in the gut, so having a healthy gut will keep you far away from being sick and frequent visits to the hospital.

Fibre helps your body excrete cholesterol, which is great for your heart (high cholesterol levels increase your risk of heart disease).

1 Fibre also promotes healthy digestion and can act as food for the good bacteria in your gut.

2 Healthy fats can also help lower LDL cholesterol (known as “bad”) and reduce inflammation in your gut.

3 Antioxidants are also key for reducing inflammation in your gut and protecting your heart from oxidative damage. While many foods could fit the bill, these top eight foods are great for your gut as well as your heart.

1. Almonds
Almonds are at the top of my list of heart-healthy foods because they also benefit digestion, They have healthy mono- and poly-unsaturated fats and are shown to be a budget-friendly way to boost your heart health. They’re chock-full of fibre for healthy digestion. Did you know that a half cup of almonds provides about 8 grams of fibre? That’s about a third of our daily requirements for fibre.

2. Apples
Apples are a great choice for both heart health and gut health. This is because apples contain fibre, which is a key component for maintaining healthy digestion and blood cholesterol levels. Specifically, apples contain a type of soluble fibre called pectin that acts as a prebiotic in the gut. That means it helps feed your healthy gut bacteria to thrive. Plus, pectin can help lower cholesterol. Just make sure to eat the apple skin since this is where most of the pectin is.

3. Avocado
Avocados are a high-fat food, but most of those fat grams are heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. In fact, avocados are Heart-Checked certified food by the American Heart Association, a mark that makes it easy to spot heart-healthy foods. This is likely related to their monounsaturated fat content, as 1/3 of a medium avocado provides 5 grams. Monounsaturated fats help to reduce our LDL or our ‘bad’ cholesterol. Like the other foods on this list, avocados are also full of fibre. One avocado has an impressive 9 grams of fibre or 32% of the daily value (DV). A high fibre diet has not only shown to improve heart health but also gut health! Fibre promotes regular bowel movements by adding bulk to the stool.

4. Beets
Brightly colored fruits and vegetables are often full of nutrition (hence the age-old adage “eat the rainbow”), and beets are one great example. They're rich in dietary nitrates, which your body converts to nitric oxide to improve blood flow and circulation. Fermented (or pickled) beets also contain beneficial probiotics that nourish your gut. Each cup of beets has 3 grams of fibre or 11% of the daily value. These brightly-coloured veggies can be purchased fresh and can be used in making your sandwiches, salads, and more to add a pop of colour and nutrition to your diet.

5. Berries
Berries are loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols, which support cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and lowering blood pressure. Polyphenols have also been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut and even help protect against colon cancer. Berries are some of the highest-fiber fruits you can eat. One cup of raspberries or blackberries has about 8 grams of fibre, and a cup of wild blueberries has over 6 grams of fibre. The high fibre in berries promotes a healthy gut microbiome, feeds beneficial bacteria, and supports digestion and bowel regularity. Berries can be enjoyed on their own or as a topping for foods like yoghurt, oatmeal, or chia pudding.

6. Lentils
Swapping out some animal proteins for plant-based proteins like lentils can help you eat more fibre and less saturated fat, which is good for your heart and gut health. Lentils are a fibre rich, plant-based protein that’s great for heart health and digestion. They also act as prebiotics, fueling the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Actually, research shows that lentils can help reduce inflammation and support blood sugar regulation and overall gut health. All thanks to their protein, fibre, and antioxidants.

7. Walnuts
Another excellent food for your gut and heart is walnuts. Walnuts are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid associated with better blood lipid profiles, including reduced LDL cholesterol levels. Walnuts also provide fibre and bioactive compounds that support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A walnut-rich diet positively alters the gut microbiome, leading to greater production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate.

short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are known to help reduce inflammation in the gut while promoting a healthy and strong gut lining. Walnuts can be easily added to yoghurt or oatmeal.

8. Whole-Grain Oats
Oats are rich in beta-glucan, a soluble fibre⁶ that helps lower LDL cholesterol, supporting heart health. Not many foods are packed with beta-glucan, so oats are definitely worth eating if you’re concerned about your cholesterol levels. As a bonus, beta-glucan is also great for your gut. This fibre acts as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria and improving overall gut health. Each ½ cup of uncooked oats has 4 grams of fibre or 14% of the daily value. There are so many easy and delicious ways to enjoy oats, from smoothies and hot oatmeal to overnight oats and energy balls.

Summary!!
The great thing about food is that you’ll likely get a “2 (or more) for 1 deal” when it comes to health benefits. And they're so good for your heart and gut. That’s because they are rich in fibre, healthy fats and antioxidants, helping reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and promote healthy digestion. You can easily incorporate almonds, avocados, berries, lentils, walnuts, and oats into your breakfast, lunch, dinner, and / or snacks. So, add them to your shopping cart on your next stop at the grocery store. Your gut and heart will thank you 😊!!

©️Sickle Cell Holistic Health-Living

10/01/2025

5 Super foods that prevent kidney damage

Maintaining the health of the kidneys becomes an utmost priority during winter or harmattan seasons when metabolic processes shift and the body requires some extra support. These organs constantly work hard to flush out toxins and maintain equilibrium in the body, and the right superfood can ease their burden even better during the cold season.

It’s important to include renal-friendly superfoods in your diet, especially at night, to support kidney function, reduce inflammation, and prevent damage. Here are some simple everyday super foods that prevent kidney damage.

1. Beetroot
Rich in antioxidants and nitrates, beets can reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow. The high fibre content can also help digest food, cleanse the body, and help the kidneys to detoxify. You can add beets to your salads or soups. Yes, you can, and it has a low glycemic index, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes by helping to increase glucose slowly in your body. Among the best renal-friendly options, beetroot leads the pack with powerful antioxidants and nitrates, enhancing blood flow and aiding in detoxification. Adding beets to your soups or salads adds colour to them and boosts kidney function very significantly.

2. Cranberries
Cranberries help prevent urinary tract infection and protect the kidneys by stopping harmful bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract. The fruit is also rich in antioxidants that fight oxidative stress. Enjoy cranberry juice or fresh cranberries as a tasty addition to a kidney friendly diet. The fruit is also rich in antioxidants that fight oxidative stress. Enjoy cranberry juice or fresh cranberries as a tasty addition to a kidney-friendly diet. Cranberries are another favourite cold season fruit known for preventing urinary tract infections due to their ability to repel harmful bacteria. Its antioxidants can also help reduce oxidative stress on the kidneys, preventing damage to the organ.

3. Sweet potatoes
This is another superfood for renal health that is full of vitamin C and A, fibre, and potassium. It stabilises blood sugar levels and supports healthy blood pressure, which is essential for protecting kidney function. Try boiled or baked sweet potatoes as a warming, nutrient rich dish. For a comforting and nourishing choice, turn to sweet potatoes, filled with vitamin A and C, potassium, and fibre, they contribute to stabilising blood glucose and blood pressure, which are both important risks factor in kidney disease. Not only are they tasty, but they also contribute to better overall well-being

4. Garlic
Garlic enhances flavour the flavour in foods and aids healthy kidneys due to its wonderful anti-inflammatory properties. Allicin is the anti-inflammatory properties found in garlic that help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Adding garlic to your foods will improve taste with providing enormous health benefits. Using garlic isn't just about adding flavour to your food, but its anti-inflammatory properties, through allicin, lowering the blood pressure, and cholesterol protect the kidneys.

5. Spinach
Spinach is rich in iron, magnesium, and antioxidants that are essential for the health of the kidneys. However, it should be consumed in moderation because of its oxalate content, which can be a problem for those who are prone to kidney stones. Spinach, high in iron, magnesium, and many other nutrients, is another winter superfood and benefits kidney health if eaten in limited amounts.
While its high oxalate content can be a concern for those prone to kidney stones, including spinach in balanced quantities can provide vital nourishment. By adding these superfoods to your nighttime routine, you can nourish your kidneys and enhance your overall health, especially in cold seasons.

Cold nights, like the winter or harmattan seasons, provide an opportunity to "feed" and "shield" your kidneys with mindful food choices. In addition to including these superfoods, drinking enough water, not consuming too much salt, and staying warm and active can also promote kidney health. All of these small, impactful habits not only safeguard your kidneys but also promote overall vitality during the colder months. Let your plate be a reflection of health and warmth, making every meal a step towards wellness.

Note: The kidneys need extra care during cold season, and including renal-friendly superfoods in your diet can support their function. Stay hydrated, limit salt intake, and maintain warmth and activity for optimal kidney health.

©️Sickle Cell Holistic Health-Living

08/01/2025

6 Nuts That Boost Long-Term Health

Nuts are delicious, so addictive. Whether cashew, pistachio, almond, peanuts, or walnut, it’s nearly impossible to eat just one.

Nuts are pretty healthy, so there’s no need to be fanatical about restricting them. For sure, they’re high in fat and high in calories, but also extremely rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. Some research suggests that eating nuts can help us maintain a healthy weight or even lose weight, and eating nuts definitely seems to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels, hormones, inflammation, etc.

Of course, not all nuts are created equal. Some are higher in certain minerals, and some are higher in certain antioxidants. To help you suss out the difference, here’s a guide to six of the best nuts to eat to boost your health.

1. Walnuts
Walnuts are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin B, and trace elements. They’re filled with antioxidants that benefit everything from gut to heart to brain health. (In fact, walnuts have been shown to contain more antioxidant activity than fish oil.) Walnuts may also be especially beneficial to women experiencing PMS or perimenopause; not only do they contain melatonin, which can help curb insomnia, but the antioxidants in walnuts are also powerful hormone-balancers.

2. Hazelnuts
This nut is beloved by athletes for its high protein: 50g (¼ cup) of hazelnuts contains 7.5g of protein. Hazelnuts also have a particularly beneficial effect on cholesterol: “a hazelnut-enriched diet decreases low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in a significant way and shows a trend toward reduction of total cholesterol,” one study recent noted.

3. Almond nuts
Many of us love a handful of raw almonds as a snack. But did you know that almonds are particularly great for preserving bone health? Their high content of phosphorus and calcium helps improve bone mineralization, which keeps bones strong. For those who are intolerant to dairy products or those who are vegan, almonds are a great source of calcium and phosphorus.

4. Pecans
Rich in potassium and magnesium, pecans help stimulate the functioning of the nervous system as these two chemical elements are involved in exchanges between nerve cells and help to advance nerve impulses to the brain. Pecans are therefore perfect for improving cognitive mechanisms like concentration, learning, and assimilation. Pecans have also been shown to improve cardiometabolic risk factors linked to obesity. “Displacing a portion of the saturated fat in a typical American diet and enhancing phytochemical intake with a handful of whole pecans daily, can protect adults at risk for developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes due to their age, overweight status, and body fat distribution.

5. Pistachios
Are pistachios currently the most popular nut? Judging by their ubiquity in vending machines and on pastries, perhaps. But these easy-to-eat nuts aren’t just tasty. They’re also special: they are very high in vitamins B6, which is essential for regulating blood sugar levels and creating haemoglobin. Pistachios are also high in vitamin E and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These elements promote good cardiovascular health by reducing bad cholesterol and improving blood circulation. Furthermore, pistachios are high in antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative damage. And, fun fact: pistachios are the lowest calorie nut around.

6. Peanuts
Peanuts are staple snacks known for their health benefits, in weight management, lower cholesterol levels, and anti-ageing effects, and may reduce cancer risk. Peanuts also help decrease stroke risk and fight depression due to its nutrient-rich profiles.

Peanuts are rich in polyphenolic antioxidants, mainly p-coumaric acid, which can reduce the risk of stomach cancer by limiting carcinogenic nitrosamines formulation in the stomach. Peanuts are an excellent source of resveratrol, which serves as a protective function against cancer and other diseases. Resveratrol found in peanuts may lower stroke risk by altering molecular mechanisms in blood vessels and boosting nitric oxide production. Peanuts positively impact blood sugar control and can maintain heart health.

With this, I will say that eating a handful of nuts each day will help you to maintain a healthy body.

©️Sickle Cell Holistic Health-Living

07/01/2025

8 (Eight) Health Benefits Of Cabbage 🥬

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) is a cruciferous vegetable originally from Europe. You can enjoy cabbage cooked or raw, but it's important you prepare it the right way to reap its benefits. Cooking cabbage can reduce its nutrients. Opt for quick-cooking methods like stir-frying or eating it raw in a salad or slaw. Cabbage has several possible health benefits, such as improved bone and heart health. Cabbage is also good for you because its nutritional value includes being a source of filling fiber and vitamins C and K.1. It's low in calories, with about 17.5 per cup of raw, shredded cabbage.

1. Affordable, Low-Calorie Option
Try replacing calorie-dense foods with low-calorie ones if you are trying to lose weight. Raw, shredded cabbage has 17.5 calories per cup.1 It's a low-calorie option that can help you lose or manage weight. Many low-calorie, nutrient-rich foods are pricey, but cabbage is relatively inexpensive.

2. Controls Blood Pressure
More than one billion people globally have hypertension (high blood pressure), which is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Cabbage is a source of potassium, which helps control blood pressure. Potassium is a mineral that aids in nerve and muscle function and helps maintain a regular heart rhythm. Consuming potassium can also counteract the effects of sodium. Sodium can cause high blood pressure if too much of it builds up in your blood.

3. May Prevent Cancer Cell Growth
Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage contain glucosinolates. These sulfur-containing chemicals are responsible for cabbage's bitter taste. Research has found that our body breaks down glucosinolates into compounds that may have anti-cancer benefits. Eating cabbage may not entirely prevent cancer. However, cabbage is still a healthy addition to any diet, so incorporating it into your meals can be a good idea.

4. Might Improve Bone Health
Cabbage contains vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and blood clotting. About 53 micrograms of vitamin K are in 1 cup of raw cabbage. Men and women need 120 micrograms and 90 micrograms of vitamin K per day. Vitamin K deficiency is rare, but some people, such as those with digestive disorders like celiac disease and ulcerative colitis, may be at risk. Lack of vitamin K can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis and bleeding problems. Osteoporosis is characterized by brittle, weak bones that fracture easily.

5. Protects Against Heart Disease
You might not immediately think of cabbage as a heart-healthy food, but you may want to add it to your diet. Research has shown that cabbage has anti-inflammatory benefits that help reduce heart disease risk.

6. Reduces Inflammation
Cabbage can help in reducing chronic inflammation, which is a long-term inflammation that persists for months to years. Long-term inflammation can damage the cells in your body and increase the risk of several conditions. Arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and heart disease have been linked to chronic inflammation. Eating cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, reduces inflammatory markers in adults aged 20-40 years old due to its Isothiocynates. Isothiocyanates are compounds found in cabbage, which have antioxidant-like properties and can protect cells against damage.

7. Rich in Vitamin C
Cabbage can provide a significant amount of vitamin C if you need to add more to your diet. Getting enough vitamin C in your diet is important since the body does not make it naturally. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps your body absorb iron from plant-based foods. It also makes collagen to heal wounds, boosts and supports immune function.

8. Supports Digestion
Cabbage can help you get more fiber in your diet. Two cups of raw shredded cabbage have nearly (4 grams) of fiber. The recommended daily intake is (21-38 grams) for adults. Fiber adds bulk to your meals to keep you full for long periods. High-fiber foods like cabbage can alleviate constipation, control blood glucose (sugar), improve gut health, and lower total cholesterol.

Nutrition of Cabbage
One cup of raw, shredded cabbage contains the following nutrients:

Calories: 17.5

Fat: 0.1 grams (g), or 0.1% of the DV

Sodium: 12.6 milligrams (mg), or 0.5% of the DV

Carbohydrates: 4.1 g, or 1.5% of the DV

Fiber: 1.8 g, or 6.4% of the DV

Added sugars: 0 g, or 0% of the DV

Protein: 0.9 g, or 1.8% of the DV

Note: You can enjoy cabbage cooked or raw. Just make sure to clean the cabbage before cooking or eating it. Do not cook cabbage too long, which can weaken its nutritional value.

©️Sickle Cell Holistic Health-Living

06/01/2025

The Benefits of Ginger Tea for Gut Health

Having a healthy gut not only aids in digestion and nutrient absorption, but it also supports a myriad of other parts of the body, including your immune system, brain, skin, heart, and more. Since the extensive health benefits have come to light in recent years, many people are interested in boosting the well-being of our microbiomes. But contrary to what you might think, you don’t need to take an expensive supplement to support a healthy gut. In fact, certain drinks you may already have on hand can make a big difference.

From reducing inflammation to relieving nausea, certain teas stand out as gut-friendly powerhouses. In this article, we delve into the best tea for gut health, guided by the expertise of registered dietitians, to help you sip your way to a healthier digestive system. Not a fan of tea? Don’t worry. We'll also review other ways to support your gut health and provide tips on how to incorporate them into your daily routine.

The Benefits of Ginger Tea for Gut Health

While there are many teas that offer benefits for gut health—including peppermint, chamomile and fennel—ginger tea stands out as one of the best. Made from the root of the ginger plant, it is a popular natural remedy used for many health ailments. Its unique combination of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive-aiding properties makes it exceptionally effective at helping to soothe various digestive issues.

1. Helps Relieve Indigestion
Ginger has been recognized for its therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal health, particularly for managing conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and indigestion. Research has shown that ginger can help reduce the production of stomach acid, which may help decrease symptoms of GERD. Additionally, ginger’s ability to relax gastrointestinal muscles may also ease cramping, bloating, and discomfort associated with indigestion.

2. Reduces Constipation Risk
Notably, ginger has been shown to accelerate gastric emptying, which is the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. By expediting this process, ginger may help reduce the amount of time food spends in the stomach. This may help reduce the risk of constipation as well as other digestive discomforts like nausea and heartburn.

3.Fights Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a long-term and persistent inflammatory response to things like environmental toxins, lifestyle factors, stress, and more. Over time, it can damage the digestive tract, which may increase the risk of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or leaky gut syndrome. “The bioactive ingredient [in ginger]—gingerol—is a powerful antioxidant that can help alleviate intestinal inflammation.” This can help calm irritation and swelling in the gut lining, which may prevent further damage. Ginger tea alleviates exercise-induced gut issues.

Other Ways to Support Your Gut Health

While ginger tea offers numerous benefits for gut health, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. To truly nurture a healthy digestive system, it’s important to adopt a holistic approach that incorporates various lifestyle practices. Here are some additional strategies to support and maintain optimal gut health.

A- Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to provide fiber that supports a healthy gut microbiome. Fiber is essential for regular bowel movements, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and helping to maintain a healthy balance of microbes in the digestive system.

B. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water aids digestion and helps maintain the balance of good bacteria in your gut. Water can also help soften stool, making it easier to pass. Staying hydrated also supports the mucosal lining of the intestines, which aids in nutrient absorption.

C. Include Probiotics and Prebiotics: Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other fermented foods contain probiotics, while garlic, onions and bananas are good sources of prebiotics. Together, they support a diverse and thriving gut microbiome.

D. Manage Stress: Some stress in life is inevitable, but consistently high stress levels can negatively impact your gut health. Over time, this can increase chronic inflammation that may disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, increasing gut permeability and altering digestive function. Stress hormones like cortisol can affect gut motility and the integrity of the gut lining. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and regular physical activity can help reduce stress and support a healthy gut.

The Bottom Line:
Having a healthy gut is crucial not only for digestion and nutrient absorption but also for overall well-being, impacting a variety of bodily processes. Among the array of teas that support gut health, ginger tea emerges as a standout, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to alleviate digestive discomfort. This tea has been shown to reduce nausea, calm indigestion, relieve constipation, and decrease inflammation. If you are not a tea-drinker, you can also support your microbiome through a variety-filled diet rich in probiotics and prebiotics, adequate hydration, and stress management. The best way to nurture a healthy gut is to take a holistic and well-rounded approach.

©️Sickle Cell Holistic Health-Living

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