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THE INTRICATE CONNECTION BETWEEN MIND AND BODY: EXPLORNG THE COMPLEX RELATIONSHIP

  Author: Akau B.Z. INTRODUCTION  The concept of mind-body connection is often known as psychophysiology or psychosomatic medicine. The connection between the mind and the body is a multifaceted and dynamic relationship that has intrigued scholars, scientists, and philosophers for centuries. This profound interplay between our mental and emotional states and our physical well-being is a fundamental aspect of human existence. This comprehensive article delves into the intricate connection between the mind and body, exploring how thoughts, emotions, and mental health significantly influence physical health and vice versa.  UNDERSTANDING THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION  The mind-body connection is the recognition that our mental and emotional states are not separate from our physical bodies but, rather, are deeply intertwined and constantly influence each other. It is a holistic perspective that acknowledges the bidirectional relationship between these two aspects of human exi...

THE DELICIOUS WORLD OF DATES: NATURE'S NUTRIENT-RICH SUPERFOOD

  Akau B.Z.   INTRODUCTION Dates, the sweet and succulent fruits of the date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera), are often known as "nature's candy." It is also referred to as the "fruit of paradise." For centuries, people have treasured these adaptable and nutrient-dense fruits for their flavor, nutritional worth, and culinary uses. HISTORY AND ORIGIN D ates, native to arid regions of North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, have a rich history dating back over 6,000 years. Originating in ancient Mesopotamia, they have played a significant role in the diets of various cultures, with references to their consumption found in religious texts like the Bible and the Quran. Known by many names as the "tree of life," date palm trees are indigenous to these areas and can reach heights of up to 75 feet. Cultivation of date palms is labor-intensive, requires patience and can take several years to start bearing fruit. The cultivation of date palms marks a sig...

BITTER KOLA: NATURE'S SECRET SUPERFOOD, HEALTH BENEFITS AND ADVERSE EFFECTS

  Author: Akau B.Z. INTRODUCTION Bitter kola is a fruit with a bitter flavor indigenous to West and Central Africa. It is scientifically known as garcinia kola. Bitter kola has been cherished for centuries for its health benefits, cultural significance, and diverse applications. This dietary staple is deeply rooted in traditional medicine and African culture. The bitter kola is a flowering plant species and a 3-5 cm long ellipsoid-shaped nut. Bitter kola gets its name from the bitter taste it leaves in the mouth after eating it.  Bitter kola is widely used in African culture for traditional and medicinal purposes. This article explores the history, health benefits, adverse effects, cultural significance, and various uses of bitter kola.   HISTORY AND ORIGIN Bitter kola is believed to have originated in the rainforests of West and Central Africa and has been used for centuries by indigenous communities. It has been used historically in religious and cultural ceremonies in ...

PREVALENCE OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND AWARENESS OF ITS HEALTH EFFECTS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN ZONKWA, ZANGON KATAF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KADUNA STATE

  Author: Akau B.Z. Abstract Background: Alcohol is the most common psychoactive substance abused in Nigeria and globally. Studies have shown a sharp increase in alcohol consumption among adolescents and young adults in Nigeria and around the globe. This increase is likely to continue due to increased local production and the availability of alcohol in the country. Alcohol use among adolescents and young adults remains a significant public health problem worldwide. Knowledge of the prevalence and awareness of the health effects of alcohol use is necessary, considering the public health effects of alcohol use. Aim: To determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption and awareness of its health effects among young adults in Zonkwa, Zango Kataf LGA, Kaduna State. Methods: An interviewer-delivered structured questionnaire was used to complete a descriptive, cross-sectional study. To choose a sample, a multi-stage sampling technique was applied. The data were gathered using t...