Nutrition
Benefits of sheabutter
Shea butter is a fatty substance derived from the nuts of the African shea tree. Sheabutter has gained popularity in the Western world as a natural alternative to traditional beauty products and as a food ingredient.
Unrefined, raw shea butter is the best option for food preparation as it has not been treated with any chemicals and retains its natural properties.
-Shea butter is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in vitamin A and vitamin E, which are both known to be beneficial for the skin. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy skin and eyes, while vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays and environmental toxins. Shea butter also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin F, and zinc. Shea butter is a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
-Traditionally, Shea butter is used in cooking. It is used as a cooking oil, as well as an ingredient in soups, stews, and porridges. Another way Shea butter is consumed is as a spread on bread and as a dip for vegetables. It is also an ingredient used to make a type of fermented porridge called koko, which is made with millet, sorghum, or other grains and flavored with spices, peanuts, and Shea butter. Additionally, Shea butter is used in some traditional confections and candy sweets.
– Shea butter has been traditionally used to treat a variety of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also be beneficial for those with joint and muscle pain.
-Eating shea butter may also benefit weight management as it is relatively low in calories and high in healthy fats. It can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can help to prevent overeating and weight gain.
-As previously mentioned, Shea butter is also rich in vitamins and nutrients. It is a great source of Vitamin E that helps maintain healthy skin and eyes, and strengthen the body’s immune system against illness and infection.
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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when the world turns pink to remind us that early detection and prevention save lives. But beyond the screenings and campaigns, there’s another powerful prevention tool many people overlook: nutrition.
Emerging research shows that what we eat can influence our risk of developing breast cancer. Diets high in processed foods, red meat, and refined sugars can increase inflammation and disrupt hormones—conditions that support the growth of cancer cells.
On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains provides the antioxidants and nutrients the body needs to protect cells from damage.
Foods like tomatoes, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish (such as salmon and sardines) are especially beneficial. They help reduce inflammation and support hormone balance, both critical in breast health. Meanwhile, limiting or avoiding alcohol, stopping smoking, and maintaining a healthy body weight are proven ways to lower one’s risk.
Nutrition alone isn’t a guarantee against cancer, but it’s a vital part of a healthy lifestyle that also includes regular exercise, adequate sleep, and routine breast checks.
At Women, Media and Change (WOMEC), we continue to advocate for women’s health through information and empowerment. We urge women everywhere to eat right, get screened, stay informed, and take charge of their well-being.
Every healthy choice brings you one step closer to prevention. The right diet doesn’t just nourish your body—it could help save your life.
Feature article by Women, Media and Change under its “Nourish Ghana: Advocating for Increased Leadership to Combat Malnutrition” Project.
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Ingredients
• 2 ripened plantains
• 6 eggs
• 1 bottle vegetable oil
• 2 large onions
• 2 large tomatoes
• Bell pepper (green, red, yellow) – 1 each
• Cheese (optional)
• 5 sausages
• Seasoning
• Salt to taste
• 3 tablespoonfuls of curry powder
• 2 tablespoonfuls of thyme powder
Method
Wash and cut the ripened plantains into smaller round shapes. Sprinkle some salt on them and mix thoroughly.
Preheat oil in a pan and fry the plantains until golden brown, then set aside.
Break the eggs into a bowl, add a pinch of salt and seasoning, and whisk together.
Pour some oil into a pan and add diced onions, bell peppers, and fresh tomatoes. Add chopped sausages and lightly season with a pinch of salt, seasoning, curry, and thyme powder.
Allow to fry for about three minutes, then pour the mixture into the bowl of whisked eggs and mix to form a uniform blend.
Pour the mixture into a pan and neatly arrange the fried plantains on top. Sprinkle cheese over it (optional).
Cover the pan and cook under low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes until set and golden.
Remove from heat, transfer onto a flat plate, and cut into triangular slices.
Serve and enjoy your delicious Plantain Pizza! 🍕
By Theresa Dzifa Tsetse
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