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The Potential of Palm Wine in Candidiasis Treatment

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By: Francis Appiah, ND Email: kofiappiah803@gmail.com In the heart of West Africa, where palm trees sway gently in the tropical breeze, an ancient tradition has been passed down through generations. For centuries, people in this region have harnessed the power of palm wine, a sweet and intoxicating beverage, to treat various ailments, from digestive disorders to skin infections. Unbeknownst to them, their traditional remedy holds the key to unlocking a new frontier in the fight against candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida species that has become a significant public health concern, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. Candidiasis is responsible for an estimated 1.4 million deaths annually, with most cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. The disease is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, ranging from 30% to 70% in immunocompromised individuals. The economic burden is staggering, with estimated annual costs exceeding $10 billion i...
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The Pain of Looking Back: Why Nostalgia Hurts

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By: Francis Appiah, ND. Email: kofiappiah803@gmail.com Imagine holding a picture of your ex, remembering the way they smiled at you, the way they made you feel like you were home. The memories are bittersweet, a reminder of what you had and what you've lost. Or, picture yourself at a cemetery, standing in front of a loved one's grave, feeling the weight of their absence like a heavy blanket that's suffocating you. The pain is overwhelming, a mix of grief, guilt, and regret that's hard to process. Nostalgia is a feeling that can make us happy and sad at the same time. It's like taking a trip down memory lane, but it's not always a happy journey. When we look back at past experiences, relationships, and memories, it can be painful, especially if we've lost someone or something important to us. These memories can be like a double-edged sword, bringing both joy and sorrow. We often remember the past as being better than it really was. We forget the hard times an...
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The Adverse Effects of Multiple Sexual Partners on STI Transmission, Mental Health, and Reproductive Health Outcomes: A Critical Review

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By: Dr. (ND) Francis Appiah, Naturopathic Doctor Email: kofiappiah803@gmail.com Abstract   The prevalence of multiple sexual partners (MSPs) remains high worldwide, with sub‑Saharan Africa reporting some of the most pronounced rates, especially among young adults (UNAIDS, 2023). This article presents a systematic review of peer‑reviewed literature published between 2010 and 2024 that examines associations between MSPs and three key health outcomes: sexually transmitted infections (STIs), mental‑health disorders, and adverse reproductive outcomes. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science identified 48 eligible studies, and quality was assessed using the PRISMA checklist and the Newcastle‑Ottawa Scale. The review consistently found that MSPs are linked to increased odds of bacterial STIs (odds ratios 1.8–3.5) and viral STIs (odds ratios 1.9–2.5), higher prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms (prevalence ratios 1.4–2.1), and greater risks of unintended pregn...
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Healing Hearts: Cultivating Wellness Amidst Loss of a Parent

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By: Dr. (ND) Francis Appiah, Naturopathic Doctor Email: kofiappiah803@gmail.com In the twilight hours of Ghana's cocoa-scented forests where ancient drums whisper secrets to the Harmattan winds, and vibrant kente cloth drapes dignified bodies at funerals like solemn tapestries of remembrance, there exists an achingly universal truth – the loss of a parent unfurls like a tidal wave across our souls, submerging us in grief's profound depths where tears mingle sacredly with libations poured for ancestors in Akan traditions. Imagine walking barefoot through Accra's bustling Kejetia market, where colourful fabrics swirl like confetti amidst chattering crowds, yet sorrow brews palpably like morning mist veiling the Atlantic coastline – a father's guiding voice silenced forever, a mother's warm embrace now an ethereally cherished memory. My father, Mr. Joseph Appiah, born in August 1956 to Madam Araba and Mr. Kwaku Denkyira in Manso Agroyesum, Amansie South District of the...
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Hookup Nation: Don't Forget the Condom, Duh!

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Hookup Nation: Don't Forget the Condom, Duh! By: Francis Appiah, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Medical Journalist, & Medical Laboratory Technologist Email: kofiappiah803@gmail.com Let's Get Real Warning: you're about to enter a judgment-free zone where hookups are plentiful, but condoms are not always included. Proceed with caution (and a healthy dose of humor) as we dive into the wild world of Hookup Nation, where the only thing more abundant than the hookups is the number of people who forgot to bring condoms. It's like, what's the plan here? "Hey, let's hook up and hope for the best?" Newsflash: hope is not a viable contraceptive method. But seriously, folks, let's get real, hookup culture is a wild ride, and safe sex practices are the seatbelt that'll keep you from crashing and burning. So, here's a joke to get us started: Why did the condom go to therapy? Because it was feeling a little "wrapped up" in its own problems...
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Inside the Abortion Conversation

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Inside the Abortion Conversation By: Francis Appiah, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Medical Journalist, & Medical Laboratory Technologist Email: kofiappiah803@gmail.com Every day, women worldwide face the daunting decision of whether to carry a pregnancy to term or terminate it, often amidst a complex web of personal, social, and economic considerations. The intense debate surrounding abortion further complicates this decision, with proponents on both sides presenting compelling arguments that reflect deeply held values and beliefs. Approximately 73 million induced abortions occur worldwide each year, with six out of ten unintended pregnancies ending in abortion. Unsafe abortions result in 30,000 annual deaths, particularly in regions with restricted access. The abortion debate has far-reaching implications beyond legal and moral considerations, impacting individuals, families, and communities. The World Health Organization emphasizes that lack of access to safe abortion care is ...
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Foods that Mimic IV Drips for General Wellness

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Foods that Mimic IV Drips for General Wellness  By: Francis Appiah, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Medical Journalist, & Medical Laboratory Technologist Email: kofiappiah803@gmail.com In a world where wellness trends come and go, one phenomenon has stood the test of time: IV drips. These intravenous infusions have gained a loyal following among health enthusiasts and busy professionals, promising to revitalize the body and mind with a potent blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. But what if you could reap similar benefits without the need for needles and clinics? Imagine fueling your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive, simply by making informed choices about your diet. The good news is that you can. By incorporating specific foods into your diet, you can mimic the effects of IV drips and support your overall health and wellness. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of IV drips and the foods that can help you achieve similar results, including boosting ...
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