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Benefits of cowpea (Black-Eyed Peas)
-Weight Management
-With their high fibre and protein content, cowpeas are a satisfying and low-calorie food option. Foods high in protein have a lower ghrelin level, which is a hormone that increases appetite. Soluble fibre keeps the stomach full and suppresses unpleasant hunger feelings while delaying the rate at which the stomach empties. Including cowpeas in the diet can help one feel full and satisfied, making it easier to manage weight.
-Blood Sugar Control – Cowpeas have a low glycemic index, meaning they do not cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. In addition, the benefits of soluble dietary fibre and protein help regulate blood sugar spikes.
-Digestive Health
-Cowpeas are an excellent source of dietary fibre, aiding in digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and reducing the risk of digestive disorders. Additionally, black-eyed peas function as a prebiotic, promoting the development of beneficial bacteria in the stomach that support a healthy microbiome, aiding in digestion, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the immune system.
-Skin Health -Rich in protein, zinc, vitamins A and C, and other nutrients. Cowpeas promote the production of collagen, accelerate skin restoration, and stimulate the growth of new skin cells. The presence of vitamins and antioxidants in cowpeas can help maintain healthy, glowing skin. –These nutrients can reduce the signs of ageing, boost collagen production, and protect your skin from UV damage.
-Ideal for Expectant Mothers – Cowpeas are a rich source of folate (vitamin B9), which helps in the production and upkeep of red blood cells in the body. Both pregnant women and those who are intending to get pregnant need to take this vitamin.
-Prevents Anaemia Iron is a highly effective treatment for anaemia. Cowpeas are a rich source of iron, aiding in the treatment of anaemia. Iron plays a vital role in the body’s protein metabolism and is necessary for the synthesis of haemoglobin in blood and red blood cells (RBCs), reducing the risk of anaemia caused by a deficiency of haemoglobin and RBCs.
-Immune Support -Cowpeas contain a wealth of vitamins, including vitamin C and vitamin B6, which bolster a robust immune system. Regular consumption can help your body defend against infections and illnesses.
Source: carehospitals.com
News
No announcement of artistes for ‘Shades of Love Concert’ — Akwaboah
Highlife musician, Gladstorm Kwabena Akwaboah Jnr., known in showbiz circles as Akwaboah has explained why he will not announce the guest artistes performing at his ‘Shades of Love concert’ on Valentine’s Day.
According to him, past experiences have taught him that publicising guest artistes can be risky, as some would fail to show up.
To avoid deceiving the public with the names of artistes who may not perform, Akwaboah has decided to keep the guest acts a secret.
“I’ve had experiences in the past where I made guest artistes public, and they failed to show up. Some even attended rehearsals but didn’t appear for the event itself.
“Since people often buy tickets because their favourite artistes are performing, I don’t want to advertise names and risk some not showing up, making it seem like I deceived the public. So, I’ve decided not to make it public,” he explained.
Akwaboah’s ‘Shades Of Love Concert is scheduled for February 14, 2025, at the Palms Convention Centre to celebrate love on Valentine’s Day.
News
Keta Municipal hospital organises free cervical cancer screening
The Keta Municipal Hospital in the Volta Region has ended this year’s cervical cancer awareness month of January with free screening exercise.
The screening exercise was also used to educate the public on the causes, preventions, management and the effects of the disease.
Dr Martha Ampadu, a Gynaecologist at the Keta Municipal Hospital, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said that cervical cancer was deadly and the public should prioritise their health and get screened against cancer and other diseases.
Cervical cancer always occurs in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus in the female reproductive system which typically develops over time, and it is often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and dangers associated with this disease include death,” she said.
She said that other risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer include sexual intercourse at a tender age, having multiple sexual partners, weakened immune system, smoking, poor diet and lack of exercise, among others.
Dr Ampadu explained that some common symptoms of cervical cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding between monthly periods and after sex, pain during sex, unusual vaginal discharge, bad odour, weight loss and fatigue, bleeding after menopause, pelvic pains, loss of appetite and others.
“The only way to detect cervical cancer is through a routine test or screening to check for abdominal cell changes in the cervix and to check for the present of high risk HPV types that can cause cervical cancer and that was the aim for our screening for the month.”
She said that some methods of preventing cervical cancer was by through Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine which was recommended people between the aged 12 and 26, and regular screening, practicing safe sex and limited number of sexual partners, avoid early sex and smoking, as well as engaging in regular exercise.
Dr Ampadu said that over 200 women were screened for the cervical cancer disease within the month of January, “and from Monday those who will come for the screening will be made to pay for it.”
She appealed to the public to as a matter of urgency prioritise their health and get screened as early as possible for early detection and treatment to prevent any unforeseen circumstances that could lead to death of the victims.
She urged all to visit the hospital with a valid National Health Insurance Card regularly when they suspect any bad feeling within the body for urgent attention and vaccination.
Some beneficiaries GNA interviewed expressed gratitude to the health workers and thanked them for the kind gestures. The theme of this year’s cervical cancer awareness month was, “screen, learn, vaccinate.”
