Ask a Biochemist

WHEN AND HOW SHOULD WE TAKE RAW GINGER FOR MAXIMUM HEALTH BENEFITS?

Raw ginger works because it contains gingerol and related bioactive compounds that influence digestion, inflammation, and circulation.

But how and when you take it affects how beneficial it is.

BEST TIME TO TAKE RAW GINGER

• Morning: Helps kick-start digestion and metabolism.
• Before or after meals: Reduces bloating and aids digestion.
• At onset of cold or sore throat: Helps ease inflammation and congestion.
• During nausea or motion sickness: Small amounts can calm the stomach.

HEALTHIEST WAYS TO TAKE GINGER

1. Chew a small fresh slice (about 1–2 cm) for digestion or nausea relief.
2. Ginger tea: Crush or slice fresh ginger and soak in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Add honey or lemon if desired.
3. Ginger + honey mix: Good for cough, sore throat, and immunity.
4. Add to meals or smoothies: Keeps the benefit while making it easier to consume regularly.

SCIENTIFIC CAUTION

Too much raw ginger can irritate the stomach or cause heartburn. People on blood thinners or with stomach ulcers should take it cautiously.

BIOCHEMIST'S TAKEAWAY

Ginger works best as a regular, small daily habit, not as a one-time remedy. Consistency gives the real benefit.

©️ Ask a Biochemist ✍️

Can Fasting Reduce Excess Sugar in the Body? — A Biochemist’s Perspective

Yes, fasting can help reduce excess sugar in the body, and the science behind it is well established.

When we eat carbohydrates, they are broken down into glucose, raising blood sugar levels. Excess glucose is stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen. During fasting, the body stops receiving external glucose and begins to use up these glycogen stores, usually within 12–24 hours. As this happens, blood sugar levels fall naturally.

Fasting also lowers insulin secretion. With consistently high insulin levels (common in frequent eating and high-sugar diets), cells become insulin-resistant, allowing sugar to remain in the bloodstream. By reducing insulin exposure, fasting improves insulin sensitivity, helping cells absorb glucose more efficiently.

Once stored sugar is depleted, the body shifts toward fat metabolism, reducing dependence on glucose and limiting further sugar accumulation. This metabolic switch is one reason fasting can benefit people with excess sugar intake or early insulin resistance.

However, fasting is not a cure-all. Its benefits are strongest when combined with:

1. Reduced refined sugar and ultra-processed foods
2. High-fiber, whole-food diets
3. Regular physical activity

Fasting should be approached cautiously by people with diabetes on medication, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with eating disorders.

In summary: fasting, when done responsibly, is a powerful metabolic tool that helps lower excess sugar, improve insulin function, and restore balance to glucose metabolism.

— Ask a Biochemist 🧬

Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS)

In this condition, strands of the amniotic sac wrap around parts of the baby’s body in the womb. As seen here, the band has almost cut off the baby’s left arm. 💔

Causes:
The exact cause of Amniotic Band Syndrome isn’t always known. It happens when the inner lining of the amniotic sac (amnion) tears and fibrous bands float freely. These bands can wrap around the baby’s limbs, fingers, or toes, restricting growth or blood flow.

Prevention:
Sadly, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent ABS since it usually occurs by chance during pregnancy.

However:
Regular antenatal check-ups and ultrasounds can help detect it early.
Proper maternal care and avoiding abdominal trauma during pregnancy may lower risks.
Once detected, close monitoring by specialists is essential to manage complications.

The best protection is early detection and consistent prenatal care.

Mangoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that offer several health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the key health benefits of mango fruit:

1. Rich in Nutrients

Mangoes are high in:

Vitamin C – boosts the immune system, aids in iron absorption, promotes collagen production.

Vitamin A – important for eye health, skin, and immune function.

Folate (B9) – essential for DNA synthesis and cell growth, especially important during pregnancy.

Vitamin E & K – support skin health, wound healing, and blood clotting.

Potassium & Magnesium – regulate blood pressure and muscle function.

2. Boosts Immunity

Mangoes provide a powerful dose of antioxidants, including:

Vitamin C – helps produce white blood cells.

Beta-carotene – a precursor to Vitamin A, supports immune defense.

3. Supports Eye Health

Mangoes contain:

Lutein and Zeaxanthin – protect the eyes from harmful blue light.

Vitamin A – prevents dry eyes and night blindness.

4. Promotes Heart Health

High in fiber, potassium, and magnesium, which can help control blood pressure and support overall cardiovascular health.

Mangiferin, a plant compound in mangoes, may reduce inflammation and protect heart tissue (based on early research).

5. Aids Digestion

Mangoes contain:

Enzymes like amylases that help break down carbohydrates.

Fiber – promotes regular bowel movements and supports gut health.

6. Antioxidant Properties

Mangoes are rich in:

Polyphenols – including mangiferin, quercetin, and gallic acid, which help fight oxidative stress and inflammation.

7. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar (in moderation)

Despite their sweetness, mangoes have a low to moderate glycemic index, especially when eaten with fiber-rich foods.

Portion control is key for people with diabetes.

8. Good for Skin and Hair

Vitamin A & C support collagen production and skin renewal.

Antioxidants help protect skin from sun damage and aging.

9. May Support Weight Management

Mangoes are relatively low in calories (~100 kcal per cup).

The fiber helps keep you full, which may reduce overeating.

Nutritional Snapshot (1 cup diced mango / ~165g):

Calories: ~100

Vitamin C: 67% of the RDI

Vitamin A: 10% of the RDI

Folate: 18% of the RDI

Fiber: ~3g

Sugar: ~23g

CAUTION
High in natural sugars – best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those with insulin resistance or diabetes.

May cause allergic reactions in some people (especially those allergic to poison ivy due to similar compounds).

Follow this page for more Health tips to help you stay healthy.

Medical Knowledge.
1 Anaemia - Deficiency of haemoglobin in the blood
2. Analgesic - Medicine which alleviates pain
3. Arthralgia - Pain in a joint
4. Cephalalgia - Headache
5. Nephralgia - Pain in the kidney
6. Neuralgia - Nerve pain
7. Myalgia - Muscle pain
8. Otalgia - Ear ache
9. Gastralgia - Pain in the stomach
10. Pyoderma - Skin infection with pus formation
11. Leucoderma -Defective skin pigmentaion
12. Hysterodynia - Pain in the uterus
13. Hysterectomy - Excision of the uterus
14. Nephrectomy - Excision of a kidney
15. Adenectomy - Excision of a gland
16. Cholecystectomy - Excision of gall bladder
17. Thyroidectomy - Excision of thyroid gland
18. Arthritis - Inflammation of a joint
19. Bronchitis - Inflammation of the bronchi
20. Carditis - Inflammation of the heart
21. Cervicitis - Inflammation of the cervix
22. Colitis - Inflammation of the colon
23. Colpitis - Inflammation of the va**na
24. Cystitis - Inflammation of the urinary bladder
25. Enteritis - Inflammation of the intestines
26. Gastritis - Inflammation of the stomach
27. Glossitis - Inflammation of the tongue
28. Hepatitis - Inflammation of the liver
29. Laryngitis - Inflammation of the larynx
30. Metritis - Inflammation of the uterus
31. Myelitis - Inflammation of the spinal cord
32. Nephritis - Inflammation of the kidney
33. Pharyngitis - Inflammation of the pharynx
34. Blepharitis -Inflammation of the eyelids
35. Cholelithiasis - Stone in the gall bladder
36. Nephrolithiasis - Stone in the kidney
37. Osteomalacia - Softening of bones through deficiency of calcium or D vitamin
38. Adenoma -Benign tumour of glandular tissue
39. Myoma - Tumour of muscle
40. Diplopia - Double vision
41. Thrombosis - Formation of a blood clot
42. Pyloromyotomy - Incision of pyloric sphincter muscle
43. Hedrophobia - Fear of water(Rabies in humans)
44. Neuroplasty- Surgical repair of nerves
45. Pyloraplasty -Incision of plastic pylorus to widen passage
46. Hemiplegia - Paralysis of one side of the body
47. Nephroptosis - Downward displacement of the kidney
48. Amenorrhoea - Absence of menstrual discharge
49. Dysmenorrhoea - Painful menstruation
50. Leucorrhoea - Whitish va**nal discharge
51. Menorrhoea - Menstrual bleeding
52. Haemorrhage- Escape of blood from a vessel
53. Arrhythmia -Any deviation of normal rhythm of heart
54. Cholestasis - Diminution in the flow of bile
55. Haemostatis - Arrest of bleeding
56. Neurasthenia - Nervous debility
57. Cystostomy - Surgical opening made into the bladder
58. Cystotomy - Incision into the urinary bladder
59. Hypertrophy - Increase in the size of tissues
60. Haematuria - Blood in the urine
61. Glycosuria - Presence of sugar in the urine
62. Albuminuria - Presence of albumin in the urine

The only part of the human body which does not grow in size from birth to death is the "innermost ear ossicle" or the "Stapes".
The stapes is 3 mm is size when a person is born. As a person grows or develops,this ossicle does not grow in size.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ONIONS
1. Have Many Antioxidants. ...
2. Help with Blood Sugar Levels. ...
3. Improved Digestive Health. ...
4. Loaded with Nutrients. ...
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties. ...
6. May Keep Certain Cancers at Bay. ...
7. Reduces Risks of Alzheimer's Disease. ...
8. Great Source of Vitamin C...

We Shall be discussing onions and its health benefits in the coming days.

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WHY YOU SHOULD DRINK WATER FIRST THING IN THE MORNING

Nobody wants to get sick, we all need a healthy life. Getting sick affect your health, your work, your income, your energy and can possibly lead to death. But do you know that drinking water can help you avoid getting sick. This is what you need to know.

Drinking water first thing in the morning flushes out the stomach and therefore balances the lymphatic system. A stable lymphatic system will help build a strong immune system, which will prevent us from getting sick as often.

What is the lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system is a network of delicate tubes throughout the body. It drains fluid (called lymph) that has leaked from the blood vessels into the tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream via the lymph nodes. The main roles of the lymphatic system include: managing the fluid levels in the body.

So why should I drink water??

1. Increases Skin Radiance for a Flawless Complexion
• By drinking water, your body is able to releasetoxins faster, which will therefore give your skin that glow and radiance you may buy products for.
• In fact, 500 mL of water has proven to increase blood flow and make your skin glow while increasing production of new blood cells.
• The shortage of water in your body can also cause premature wrinkles and deeper pores.

2. Helps Weight Loss

• Besides being less hungry and decreasing cravings, by drinking water immediately after waking up, your body is releasing toxins, which begin movement in your bowels. This process will recover and improve your digestive system.

3. Improve Metabolism

• If you are dieting, you know that just by drinking water on an empty stomach, you can increase your metabolic rater by 24%! By increasing your metabolic rate, you are digesting faster and therefore improving your digestive system.

• The water also purifies your colon, letting the organ absorb nutrients faster naturally.

4. Increase Shine and Hair Texture

• Did you know that water makes up 25% of the weight of one strand of hair? By decreasing water intake, you are actually causing your hair to turn thin and delicate. Just another reason why drinking water on an empty stomach will increase hair growth and hair characteristics.

5. Relieves Heartburn and Ingestion

• Heartburn and Ingestion can be caused by increased acidity in your stomach and acid refluxes in your esophagus. When you drink water early in the morning, the water pushes the acidity down and dilutes the stomach.

• The water will decrease the acidity in your stomach so that when it is time for your breakfast, you will be comfortable.

6. Inhibits Kidney Stones and Bladder Infections

• Just like with heartburn, the water will dilute the stomach acidity to decrease the chance of kidney stones.

• The more water you drink, the more toxins are rid from your body, which prevents bladder infections.

Follow Ask a Biochemist and Joshua C. Joshua for more insight.

Your greatest asset is your health. Start to listen to your body. I will show you how.

Follow this Page for your daily tips on how to take care of your body.

FACTS ABOUT BITTER KOLA

Garcinia kola, often known as Bitter kola, is a flowering plant found mostly in the tropical rain forest region of Central and West Africa. In folkloric medicine, every part such as the seeds, stem, and leaves has medicinal value. The seeds are edible and are consumed as an adjuvant to the true kola (Cola nitida) and for medicinal purposes.

Bitter cola is a strong and effective medicine to a lot of illments. For example;

1. Snake bite, if you encounter snake bite, chew it immediately to noilify the venomous poison of the snake released in your body.

2. Seized me**es, if you're going through this, please, peel the bitter cola, slice it to shapes, soak in water for 1week and then drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
NOTE: If your menstruation has seized for years, get as many bitter cola as you can, grate it and put in a container, add dry gin, soak for 2 weeks and take it twice a day, morning and night. Drink for 2 weeks. By God's grace that will be the end of that problem.

3. Painful menstruation, chew 3 piece of it first thing in the morning.

4. Blocked tubes, Grate and soak the bitter cola with ginger in dry gin for 2 weeks then take one short in the morning and one at night. On an empty stomach. At least your last meal for the day should end by 4pm

5. For diabetes, chew at least 4 pieces everyday to help regulate your sugar level.

6. For stomach pain and ulcer,Slice and soak in dry gin, drink a short after meal everyday.

7. If you step on charm or suspect you did,, chew it immediately to subdue the dark spell in the charm.

8. For low ej*******on or one minute man, soak bitter cola and cola nut in dry gin and give him to drink 2 shorts before having s*x to prolong his s*xual ability.

9. For infection, grate bitter cola as many as you can, soak it in dry gin and drink 2 shorts first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, after one hour, you eat your food.

10. For system cleaning, boil the bitter cola after peeling in a pot, add water to your desire and drain it to a flask and drink it warm every morning. If you're pregnant chew it, it will help make you thirsty so you drink plenty of water and flush your system of toxins.

"This will work faster if you stop to eat bread, tea, sugary foods and eat more of unripe plantain for iron and beans.".

Please note, DO NOT TAKE BITTER COLA IMMEDIATELY AFTER TAKING MEDICINE, IT WILL SPOIL AND SUBDUE (NEUTRALIZE) THE POWER OF THE MEDICINE.

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