By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu

The writer

Gambia: How sugar in your drinks destroys the body

I have observed keenly that there is a wide range of sugar desserts in the Gambia.  This is a great concern for public health. I was amazed to see the quantity of sugar one man added to his attaya on fire.

I had to step in to educate the group about the dangers of the high sugar content in attaya tea. I emphasized the numerous health benefits of attaya without sugar. But this does not only pertain to attaya. It is evident in all the desserts I have tasted in the Gambia.  I think it is time we educate the public on the dangers associated with high sugar consumption in the Gambia. Though several studies have linked high sugar intake to cardiovascular disease, cancers, and many others. Surprisingly, it appears the situation is lower in the Gambia.

For instance, one recent study by Koller and Agyemang (2020) reports that the obesity prevalence ranged in the Gambia is about 2.3% to 11.7%. On the other hand, diabetes was 0.3%. Hypertension prevalence ranged from 18.3% to 29%. The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia ranged from 2.2% to 29.1%.

The prevalence of smoking ranged from 16% to 42.2% in men. Prevalence of insufficient fruit and vegetable consumption, inadequate physical activity, and alcohol consumption was 77.8%, 14.6%, and 2.3%, respectively.

An older study by Bah et al. (2001) evaluate the incidence of cancer in The Gambia over 10 years using data collected through the Gambian National Cancer Registry.

The data accumulated show a low overall rate of cancer incidence compared to more developed parts of the world. The overall age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) were 61.0 and 55.7 per 100 000 for males and females, respectively. In males, liver cancer was most frequent, comprising 58% of cases (ASR 35.7) followed by non-Hodgkin lymphoma, 5.4% (ASR 2.4), lung 4.0%, (ASR 2.8), and prostate 3.3% (ASR 2.5) cancers. The most frequent cancers in females were cervix uteri 34.0% (ASR 18.9), liver 19.4% (ASR 11.2), breast 9.2% (ASR 5.5), and ovary 3.2% (ASR 1.6). The data indicate that cancers of the liver and cervix are the most prevalent cancers, and are likely to be due to infectious agents.  According to the latest WHO data published in 2020 Prostate Cancer Deaths in Gambia reached 21 or 0.16% of total deaths annually with a world rank (156). The incidence rate is about 6.08% as juxtaposed Ghana where incidence reached 1,031 or 0.59% of total deaths, the rate is 24.21% annually with world rank (50).

Though Ghana has a higher life expectancy rate as compared to Gambia (64.11 and   62. 61%). Many factors account for these disparities. However, Nigeria has a lower life expectancy (52.89%).

Though sugar in a small amount is fine for you. Too much consumption is seen in the Gambia, which is a huge concern to me as a holistic and preventive health practitioner.  Sugar impacts just about every organ system in the body.

Hence, in this article, I examine the science behind sugar and its negative effect on the body.

Sugar, science

Weight Gain

A recent study by Faruque et al. (2019) affirmed that added sugar in our diets is contributing to the current obesity incidence globally.

Sugar-sweetened drinks like sodas, juices, and sweet teas are loaded with fructose, a type of simple sugar.  Thus, Luo et al. (2015) study agreed that fructose allows us to eat more food, thus increasing our glucose level, the chief sugar in our starchy foods.

On the other hand, leptin, a key hormone that regulates our hunger drive to avert eating is affected by our intake of fructose in animal studies (Aslam et al. 2021).

Two recent studies (Malik and Hu, 2022; Neelakantan et al. 2021) found that the more we eat sugary diets, it leads to weight gain and increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, Ma et al. (2016) found that the more we drink sugar-sweetened beverages we predispose ourselves to more visceral fat, a kind of deep belly fat linked to diabetes and heart disease.

Heart Diseases

Three studies for instance (Neelakantan et al. 2021; Janzi1 et al. 2020; WHO, 2020) report that the increase of heart disease as the number one cause of death is linked to high-sugar diets.

A previous study (DiNicolantonio et al. (2016) agreed that high-sugar diets can trigger obesity and inflammation, triglycerides, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels.  Another (Kolderup and Svihus, 2015) note that too much sugar, from sugar-sweetened drinks, is associated with atherosclerosis.

One human study (Janzi et al. 2020) evaluated 25,877 adults and found that those who ate sugar stood the chance of getting heart disease and coronary problems compared to those who ate less sugar.  It can also increase stroke by just eating about eight servings per week of sugar-sweetened beverages.

Just one 12-ounce (473-ml) can of soda contains 39 grams of sugar, which equates to 8% of your daily calorie consumption, based on a 2,000-calorie diet(https://us.coca-cola.com/products/coca-cola/original).

This means that one sugary drink a day can bring you close to the recommended daily limit for added sugar.

Acne

The report has it that if you want to develop acne, just eat refined carbs, including sugary foods and drinks.  Atkinson et al. (2021) diets with a higher glycemic index, like processed sweets, raise blood sugar more rapidly than foods with a lower glycemic index.   Kucharska et al. (2016) also held the view that sugary foods can cause a spike in blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to increased androgen secretion, oil production, and inflammation — all of which play a role in acne development.

On the hand, low-glycemic diets were found to decrease acne risk, and high-glycemic diets are associated with a higher acne risk (Baldwin et al. 2021).

For instance, one study by Penso et al. (2020) evaluated over 24,452 individuals and report that taking fatty and sugary products, sugary beverages, and milk was linked with present acne in adults.

Finally, Campbell and Strassmann (2016) found that rural communities that consume traditional, non-processed foods have much lower rates of acne compared to more urban, high-income areas where processed food is part of a standard diet. This support the doctrine that diets high in processed, sugar-laden foods contribute to the development of acne.

Type 2 Diabetes

An old study by Rolfe et al. (1992) assessed the register of diabetic patients attending the Royal Victoria Hospital, Banjul, The Gambia, and data on hospital admissions recorded over 1 year. Two hundred and sixty-nine patients (110 men, 159 women) were registered of whom 66 (25%) were receiving insulin. Seventy-five patients (28%: 40 men, 35 women) were newly diagnosed. There were 95 hospital admissions (5.2%) related to diabetes, as were a fifth of medical out-patient attendances.

The World Data Atlas ( Knoema. 2021) reports that Gambia diabetes prevalence was 1.9 % in 2021, down by 0.00% from 2011. Diabetes prevalence refers to the percentage of people aged 20-79 years who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF,2022) also reports that the Gambia has a total adult population of 1,126,000, and the prevalence of diabetes in adults represents 1.6%. The total number of cases of diabetes in adults in the population is 18,100.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is an umbrella organization of over 230 national diabetes associations in 170 countries and territories. It represents the interests of the growing number of people with diabetes and those at risk. The Federation has been leading the global diabetes community since 1950.

The World Health Organisation (WHO, 2022) predicts that about 4% of The Gambian population could be diabetic by 2030.

On the global front, Lin et al. (2020) assert that diabetes is a leading cause of mortality and reduced life expectancy. The incidence rate has over doubled in the past 30 years, and could even go up more.  Rippe and Angelopoulos, (2016) study also found that too much sugar has been connected with an increased risk of diabetes. Though we cannot pinpoint the fact that sugar consumption causes diabetes, there are strong connections.

This is because eating too much sugar could indirectly raise diabetes risk by contributing to weight gain and increased body fat — both of which are risks for developing diabetes (Stanhope, K, 2015).

On the other side, Leitner et al. (2017) study also found that obesity is regarded as a result of too much sugar and is considered the strongest risk factor for diabetes.

When too high-sugar consumption also drives resistance to insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels.  Insulin resistance causes blood sugar levels to rise and strongly increases the risk of diabetes.  Drouin-Chartier et al. (2019) research established that people who drink sugar-sweetened beverages have a high propensity to get diabetes.  The study further found that those who took sugary beverages for over 4 years have a higher risk for type 2 diabetes.

Cancer Risk

It has been established that too much sugar could increase some cancers. This is because too much sugar increases obesity and eventually could trigger some cancers (Crudele et al. 2021).

Additionally, too much sugar rises inflammation in the body and could trigger insulin resistance, both rises cancer risk (Chiefari et al. 2021; Murata, 2018).

Makarem et al. (2018) review 37 prospective cohort studies and found that in two of five studies on added sugar, a 60% – 95% raises cancer risk. The same review found that in 8 of 15 studies on sugary foods and beverages, a 23% – 200% increased cancer risk was detected with greater sugary beverage consumption.

Other studies have found sugar intake to be linked to specific types of cancer.

For instance, one human study (Miles et al. 2018) in 22,720 men over 9 years found that increased sugar consumption from sugar-sweetened beverages was linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer.  On the other hand, Li et al.(2017) study linked oesophageal cancer with higher consumption of sucrose, or table sugar, and sweetened desserts and beverages.  This is why sucrose should be limited in the Gambian sweetened desserts.

Depression

Two studies (Jacques et al. 2019; Knüppel et al. 2017) have linked too much sugar intake to cognitive impairments, memory problems, and emotional disorders like anxiety and depression.  This means that a healthy diet enhances brain health. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar affects our mood and emotions.

Reis et al. (2020) held the view that chronic systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and a disrupted dopaminergic reward signalling system — all of which can be caused by increased sugar consumption — may contribute to sugar’s detrimental impact on mental health.

A human study (Knüppel et al. 2017) of 8,000 people found that men who consumed 67 grams or more of sugar per day were 23% more likely to develop depression than men who ate less than 40 grams per day.

Another human study (Gangwisch et al. 2015) in over 69,000 women found that those who take high sugars had a significantly greater risk of depression, compared to those with the lowest intakes.

Speed Skin, cellular Aging

Aragno and Mastrocola, (2017) study established that advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are compounds formed by reactions between sugar and protein in our body, and they speed up skin ageing.

The same authors further established that taking too much-refined carbs and sugar leads to the production of AGEs, which may cause your skin to age prematurely. This means that our skin wrinkles are a natural sign of skin ageing. They appear eventually, regardless of your health. But, poor food choices can worsen wrinkles and speed up the skin ageing process.

Also, Galiè et al.  (2020) study found that eating too much sugar accelerates telomere shortening, which increases cellular ageing.

For instance, a pilot study (Wojcicki et al. 2018) on 61 preschool-aged children found that too many sugar-sweetened beverages were connected to decreased telomere length, signifying cellular ageing.

Telomeres are structures found at the end of chromosomes, which are molecules that hold part or all of your genetic information. Telomeres act as protective caps, preventing chromosomes from deteriorating or fusing. One study by Boccardi et al. (2016) found that as we grow older, telomeres naturally shorten, which causes cells to age and malfunction.  Although the shortening of telomeres is a natural part of ageing, certain lifestyle choices can speed up the process.

Too much sugar affects energy

Foods high in added sugar quickly spike blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to increased energy. However, this rise in energy levels is brief.

Mantantzis et al. (2019) study found that sugar-loaded products that lack protein, fibre, or fat lead to a brief energy boost followed by a sharp dip in blood sugar, often referred to as a crash.   A previous study by O’Reilly et al.(2015) found that experiencing constant blood sugar swings can cause major fluctuations in energy levels.

Mantantzis et al. (2019) meta-analysis examining sugar’s effect on mood found that carbohydrate consumption, particularly sugar, lowers alertness within 60 minutes of consumption, and increases fatigue within 30 minutes after consumption.

It has been recommended that to avoid this energy-draining cycle, choose carb sources that are low in added sugar and rich in fibre. Also pairing carbs with protein or fat is another great way to keep your blood sugar and energy levels stable.

For example, eating an apple along with a small handful of almonds is an excellent snack for prolonged, consistent energy levels.

Fatty Liver

Too much fructose has been linked to an increased risk of fatty liver.

Fructose is a common type of sugar, with one major source being high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) used to sweeten soda, candy, baked goods, cereals, and more. Muriel et al. (2021) study explained that unlike glucose and other types of sugar, which are taken up by many cells throughout the body, fructose is specifically broken down by the liver. In the liver, fructose is converted into energy or stored as glycogen. However, the liver can only store so much glycogen before excess amounts are turned into fat.

Hence, Jensen et al. (2019) agreed that too much intake of added sugar in the form of fructose burden the liver thus leading to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition characterized by extreme fat build-up in the liver.

Another animal study (Jang et al. 2020) confirmed that feeding mice a high-fructose diet over time worsens their intestinal barrier, liver inflammation, liver tumours, and signs of fatty livers juxtaposed to a control group.

The same study found that the same amount of fructose is more likely to lead to developing a fatty liver when consumed through beverages rather than food, and when consumed in a single setting compared to several doses spread over a longer amount of time.

For instance, Ma et al. (2015) human study of over 5,900 adults found that people who drank sugar-sweetened beverages daily had a 56% higher risk of developing NAFLD, compared to people who did not.

Other Health Risk

Too much sugar could also harm you in other ways. For instance:

• Raises kidney disease risk: Miao et al. (2021) found that fructose raises serum concentrations of urate, thus increasing kidney disease.  The inability to manage raised blood sugar levels can also damage the delicate blood vessels in your kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney disease (Melsom et al. 2016).
• Bad dental health: Naorungroj S’s (2020) study notes that too much sugar can increase cavities. This is because bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and release acid byproducts, which cause tooth demineralization.
•  Gout: Gout is an inflammatory condition characterized by pain in the joints. A study (Ebrahimpour-Koujan et al. 2020) held that too many sugars raise uric acid levels in the blood, increasing the risk of developing or worsening gout.

 How Much to Take

The heart.org recommends that

Men should eat no more than 9 teaspoons (36 grams or 150 calories) of added sugar per day.

Women should eat no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams or 150 calories)

Foods high in sugar include:

• sweets, including candy, pie, cakes, and cookies
• dairy desserts like ice cream and milkshakes
• soda
• fruit juice
• sports drinks
• low-fat yoghurt
• condiments like ketchup, honey mustard, and bbq sauce
• many common breakfast cereals

Added sugar is described by the same website as sugars that are added during the processing of foods, during preparation, or at the table.

For example, sucrose or dextrose added during food processing is an added sugar, as is honey used to sweeten tea at the kitchen table.

“Added sugars” are listed separately on Nutrition Facts panels below the line for “total sugars,” making it easier to determine whether or not your food contains any added sugars.

Other possible names for sugar to look for:

• Brown sugar

• Anhydrous dextrose

• Confectioner’s powdered sugar
• Corn syrup
• Corn syrup solids
• Dextrose
• Fructose
• High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)
• Invert sugar
• Lactose
• Malt syrup
• Maltose
• Molasses
• Nectars (for example, peach or pear nectar)
• Pancake syrup
• Raw sugar
• Sucrose
• Sugar
• White granulated sugar

Brown Sugar v White Sugar

Both brown and white sugar are produced from either the sugarcane or sugar beet plant. However, brown sugar contains molasses, which is responsible for its unique flavour and appearance.

Compared to white sugar, brown sugar is slightly higher in a few key micronutrients, which is thanks to the addition of molasses. In particular, each serving of brown sugar provides a small amount of iron, potassium, calcium, and copper.

There are also slightly fewer calories in brown sugar, although the difference is minimal. While 100 grams of white sugar provides 387 calories, the same amount of brown sugar contains 380 calories.

Keep in mind, however, that the nutritional differences between brown and white sugar are very small. Although brown sugar does contain a small amount of several vitamins and minerals, it is not considered a good source of these nutrients.

Additionally, because of its molasses content, brown sugar tends to harden faster than other types of sugar. Fortunately, if you ever find yourself in the process of whipping up a delicious brown sugar recipe only to find that the sugar in your cabinet has become hard and dense, there’s a simple solution.

One of the easiest methods how to soften brown sugar is to place a moist paper towel on top of the sugar and microwave for 20–30 seconds in a microwave-safe bowl. Then, simply use a fork to break up the chunks and help soften them up.

Types/Varieties

Brown sugar comes in different forms in the market.

I present some of the most common types as espoused by Rachel Link, 2020 article:

• Light brown sugar: This type of sugar is made by adding a small amount of molasses to white sugar, which gives it a pale brown colour and mild flavour.
• Dark brown sugar: Like light brown sugar, this form of sugar is made by adding molasses to white sugar. However, it contains a higher amount of molasses than lighter varieties, which is responsible for its dark colour and complex flavour.
• Demerara sugar: This type of cane sugar is less refined than other kinds of sugar, giving it a light brown colour, subtle flavour, and large, crystal-like grains.
• Turbinado sugar: Also known as “raw sugar,” turbinado sugar is partially refined and contains a small amount of molasses, which provides a caramel-like flavour and brown hue.
• Muscovado sugar: This form of sugar is unrefined, meaning it still contains molasses. This gives it a sandy, somewhat sticky texture, along with a darker colour and richer flavour than other types.

Nutrition

The brown sugar nutrition profile is high in calories and carbohydrates. It also contains a very small number of micronutrients, such as calcium, copper, and iron.

One teaspoon of packed brown sugar contains the following nutrients:

• 17.5 calories
• 4.5 grams carbohydrates
• 3.8 milligrams calcium (0.3 per cent DV)
• 0.002 milligrams copper (0.2 per cent DV)
• 0.033 milligrams iron (0.2 per cent DV)
• 0.4 milligrams magnesium (0.1 per cent DV)
• 0.003 milligrams manganese (0.1 per cent DV)
• 0.006 milligrams pantothenic acid (0.1 per cent DV)
• 6.1 milligrams potassium (0.1 per cent DV)
• 0.05 micrograms selenium (0.1 per cent DV)
• 0.002 milligrams of vitamin B6 (0.1 percent DV)

Healthy Alternatives

As espoused by Rachel Links, (2020), these are the healthier alternative form of brown sugars you can choose just in case you still want some sugars in your desserts:

Stevia

This simple substitute for brown sugar is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, a species that is native to several parts of South America. Like other non-nutritive sweeteners, such as sucralose, not only is stevia free of calories but it has also been associated with several powerful health benefits.

Anton et al. (2010) study found that this type of sugar lower blood sugar and insulin levels compared to regular sugar, making it a great brown sugar substitute for diabetics.

2. Maple Syrup

Another great brown sugar substitute is maple syrup, which is produced from the sap of the sugar maple tree. It is slightly more nutrient-dense than regular sugar and contains a small number of micronutrients and antioxidants in each serving.

It can also be used as a simple substitute for brown sugar in cooking and baking. Just swap out one cup of brown or white sugar for 3/4 cup of maple syrup in your favourite recipes and enjoy.

3. Monk Fruit

This type of sweetener is derived from the monk fruit plant, which is native to Thailand and China. It’s often used as a brown sugar substitute on keto because most varieties are virtually free of calories and carbs.  Zhou et al. ( 2009) found that Monk fruit extract increases the secretion of insulin, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

4. Raw Honey

One of the best brown sugar substitutes is honey, which is a sweet substance that is produced by bees. Geldof et al. (2002) study found that honey is a great source of antioxidants and flavonoids, which help fight free radical damage to protect against disease.

Raw honey is also less processed and is generally free of additives and fillers, which is why it’s one of the best brown sugar substitute options without molasses.

5. Blackstrap Molasses

A simple yet delicious brown sugar substitute is molasses, which is made by boiling raw sugar to produce a highly concentrated, sweet syrup. Blackstrap molasses, in particular, is thick, dark, and slightly bitter, which can add an interesting twist to your dishes and desserts.

Take Home

Studies have demonstrated the many negative health implications associated with taking too much sugar.  Though small amounts of sugar as recommended is good for your health, you should cut it down or do away with it.  This is how:

1. eat whole, unprocessed foods

• drink your attaya or herbal teas without sugars.

Jllian Kubala, (2022) also advised that

• Swap sodas, energy drinks, juices, and sweetened teas for water or unsweetened seltzer.
• Drink your coffee black or use a natural alternative for a healthier option.
• Sweeten plain yoghurt with fresh or frozen berries instead of buying flavoured, sugar-loaded yoghurt.
• Consume whole fruits instead of sugar-sweetened fruit smoothies.
• Replace candy with a homemade trail mix of fruit, nuts, and a few dark chocolate chips.
• Use olive oil and vinegar in place of sweet salad dressings like honey mustard.
• Choose marinades, nut butter, ketchup, and marinara sauce with zero added sugars.
• Look for cereals, granola, and granola bars with under 4 grams of sugar per serving.
• Swap your morning cereal for a bowl of rolled oats topped with nut butter and fresh berries, or an omelette made with fresh greens.
• Instead of jelly, slice fresh bananas onto your peanut butter sandwich.
• Use natural nut butter in place of sweet spreads like Nutella.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages that are sweetened with soda, juice, honey, sugar, or agave.
• Shop the perimeter of the grocery store, focusing on fresh, whole ingredients.

The ultimate advice is that avoid commercial desserts and prepare healthy desserts such as wonjo, nam mburu, chakree etc, and meals at home and avoid buying foods and drinks that are high in added sugar. But just in case you still need some sugar, there are several healthy brown sugar substitute options available to help satisfy your sweet tooth. Some of the best brown sugar substitute options include stevia, maple syrup, monk fruit, raw honey, and blackstrap molasses. But avoid any sugar produced from GMO crops, such as the sugar beet plant.

NB:

Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups.  My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.

The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. President, Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT)/African Naturopathic Foundation, Ashaiman, Ghana. Currently BL Candidate at the Gambia Law School, Banjul. E. mail: [email protected]. + 2207452652(for more information)

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By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu

The writer

Attaya: Improves Prostate Health?

I found that attaya is green tea, and science has demonstrated the numerous benefits of drinking green tea. There are many benefits to drinking green tea without adding sugar. My only concern is the quantity of sugar Gambians add to their attaya.  You can get all the benefits from drinking green tea without adding sugar.

Especially for black men, living long enough means you are going to have problems with your prostate. While the prostate is typically a small, walnut-sized gland in young males, it undergoes two phases of growth later on in life which often result in urinary problems. The first phase of growth occurs during puberty and usually doubles the size of the gland, while the second phase of growth begins at around 25 and continues for the rest of your life leading to benign prostatic enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH).

More than 50 per cent of men have BPH by the age of 60 and experience urinary difficulties. Although prescription medications are commonly used to treat BPH, herbal supplements may provide much-needed relief during the initial stages of the condition. One such herbal solution is green tea which is the ingredient in Gambian attaya.

I found that it appears we are drinking for the sake of drinking. But attaya goes more than just drinking for men. Do you know that both green tea and hibiscus tea are among the top drinks for prostate health? Both types of tea contain potent antioxidants. Studies show that green tea can help prevent prostate cancer from forming and may also slow the growth of aggressive prostate cancer. Studies show that green tea can also benefit men with BPH and prostatitis.

Let us explore some of the benefits in detail:

Green Tea

Green tea comes from the plant Camellia Sinensis. The two main varieties of tea plants are Camellia sinensis, a small-leaf variety native to China, and Camellia sinesis assamica, a large-leaf variety that was first discovered in the Assam district of India. Hundreds of cultivars and hybrid plants have evolved from these two plant varieties over time.

Green Tea Ingredients

Without sugar, green tea is not only the second most popular beverage across the globe but also a pleasant alternative to soft drinks and coffee. It contains potent polyphenols, and catechins with anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and antioxidant properties. The active ingredients in green tea include gallic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and epigallocatechin (EGC), among other polyphenols.

The polyphenol known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is effective in reducing the overproduction of cells common in BPH and in preventing the onset of prostatic enlargement. Other specific polyphenols found in green tea can treat the symptoms and eradicate various causes of BPH, making green tea irreplaceable for managing the condition alongside lifestyle changes, medications, and other interventions.

 Green Tea, Prostate Health

Green tea contains antioxidants that reduce the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone that promotes the growth of the prostate. A reduction in the levels of DHT decreased the risk of developing an enlarged prostate. The catechins in green tea regulate the secretion of DHT and PSA, promoting normal prostate size and volume and reducing the risk of BPH.

Also, the catechins in green tea have been proven in science their efficacy in relieving urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, night-time urination, and problems with urinary flow. Improved urine flow, relief of annoying urinary symptoms, and reduced prostatic inflammation which leads to a higher quality of life. Apart from this, the catechins in green tea can kill certain viruses and bacteria, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections that may occur in men with an enlarged prostate. One study by Tepedelen et al. (2017) found that EGCG reduced the over-production of cells which happens during the development of an enlarged prostate.

Also, chronic prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate gland, is another prostate condition that could be soothed by a polyphenol in green tea – this time the bioflavonoid quercetin (Khan and Mukhtar, 2013).

An earlier study by Shoskes DA, et al. (1999) in Urology found that around two-thirds of men with prostate problems like chronic prostatitis who took quercetin every day saw their symptoms improve by at least 25%.

Factors affecting the effectiveness of Attaya

Dr. Reid Graves, Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis, and Dr. Adam Oppenheim of St Pete Urology, board-certified urologists explained that the strength and effectiveness of green tea depend on the amount of the tea consumed. Studies have shown that men who take large quantities of green tea regularly enjoy more prostate health benefits from the tea than those who take the tea irregularly or in small amounts. The amount of catechins in green tea also depends on where the plants are grown, how the tea leaves are harvested, and how the leaves are processed. For instance, Japanese green teas usually have greater quantities of catechins than Chinese teas, with slight differences within specific groups. Remember that the power of green tea comes from the fact that its leaves are not oxidized and can retain essential substances such as catechins that promote both general health and prostate health.

Attaya, warnings

Gegbe et al. (2015) study found that if attaya is not boiled the right way or excess consumption or mixed with another product as in the case of Sierra Leone, it can lead to many health implications. Additionally, Poor hygiene at attaya bases has high risks of Cholera and Tuberculosis (TB), although attaya bases enhance Love and Unity across the country.

Also, in Ghana, the ministry for national security has warned the public about brands that are unwholesome for public consumption. So, in choosing, opt for quality brands approved by the FDA.

Green tea can cause side effects due to caffeine. These can include anxiety, tremors, irritability, and sleeping problems. This is more likely if you’re sensitive to caffeine or take large doses, Green tea extracts may cause liver problems. Symptoms can include yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, nausea, and stomach pain. The negative effects of green tea extract on the liver may depend on how much green tea extract you consume each day.

Also, it is important to choose caffeine-free sources of tea, though. Caffeine can irritate both the prostate and the bladder. A study found that men who consumed 234 mg or more of caffeine each day were 72 per cent more likely to experience urinary incontinence compared to men who drank the least amount of caffeine. If you have urinary or pain symptoms due to prostatitis, caffeine can make these symptoms worse. If you have BPH or prostatitis, make an effort to reduce your caffeine intake by cutting back on coffee, soda, or energy drinks. Avoiding caffeine can make a big difference in your urinary health.

Green tea contains small amounts of vitamin K. This means it may decrease how well blood thinner medicines work. Since green tea acts as a mild stimulant, you shouldn’t use it with other stimulants. It may change the effects of other medicines.

 Conclusion

There are many benefits to drinking attaya. My only concern is how sugar is added in the Gambia. But without adding sugar, attaya drinking may also have positive effects on the prostate gland. However, its association with prostate health is primarily due to research that connects it to protection against prostate cancer, not prostate enlargement.

For instance, Katz et al. (2014) study found that people with known or suspected BPH did link improved lower urological health with the consumption of a green and black tea extract supplement. In this study, the researchers found that people who were supplemented with 500 milligrams (mg) or 1000 mg of a green and black tea extract blend showed improved urine flow, decreased inflammation, and improvements in quality of life in as little as 6 weeks.

However, green and black tea extracts are highly concentrated and will have different health effects than traditionally brewed teas. Despite limited evidence on enlarged prostate, adding green tea to your diet could have prostate health benefits. It has known chemoprotective abilities, especially in the case of prostate cancer, so green is a good choice regardless (Henning et al. 2011).

Also, Kurahashi et al. (2008) study found that men drinking green tea had a lower risk of advanced prostate cancer.

Finally, a recent study by Sharifi-Zahabi et al. (2021) evaluate the effects of green tea on the PSA level, by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and found no effect.

Drinking three to five cups of attaya per day seems to be optimal to reap the most health benefits. Try to choose a higher quality brand of green tea, because some of the lower quality brands can contain excessive amounts of fluoride (Lu et al. 2004).

So, imagine that we could be improving our prostate health by just drinking sugar-free attaya. This is because green tea and hibiscus tea are among the top drinks for prostate health. Both types of tea contain potent antioxidants. Studies show that green tea can help prevent prostate cancer from forming and may also slow the growth of aggressive prostate cancer. Studies show that green tea can also benefit men with BPH (enlarge prostate) and prostatitis. Always remember not to add sugar to your attaya or better still buy green tea.

NB:

Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups.  My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.

The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. President, Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT)/African Naturopathic Foundation, Ashaiman, Ghana. E. mail: [email protected].

Health myths/benefits

The use of Tobacco mixed products known locally as “tabaa” is a common practice across The Gambia, Senegal and Guinea Bissau. It is used by women who insert it into their vaginas for increased sexual pleasure, it is also applied to wounds to relieve pain and aches.

The product is sold underground without regulation and has raised concern among healthcare workers for its effects on health and well-being. In 2017, France24 investigated the practice, interviewing two Senegalese women.

The report states: “The powder seems to provoke a wide range of reactions — while some users report that this drug makes them feel pleasantly drunk or provides relief from pain, others say it causes dizziness, vomiting, diarrhoea and skin irritations. While neither of the women interviewed said that they felt sexual pleasure after putting the “tobacco” in their vaginas, that seems to be the case for other users.

“After about 15 minutes, sexual desire takes over the woman’s body and she feels an immense sensation of pleasure as if she were straddling a man,” states an article about the mysterious powder published in the Senegalese newspaper, Le Populaire.

A Senegalese gynaecologist was interviewed and stated: “I first heard about this powder when I examined a woman from Guinea-Bissau in October 2015. Since then, I’ve had many other patients admit to me that they use it. All of these women had urinary or vaginal infections. Some even had sores on their vulvas because the powder is toxic and causes itching and irritation.

That said, not all users experience dizziness and diarrhoea. But whatever the side effects, all users are putting their lives in danger. They are increasing the risk of developing cervical cancer.

What worries me is that, even when I explain the risks to them, most of these women keep using it.”

[Editor’s note: numerous people contacted by the FRANCE 24 Observers said the powder was addictive and that some women had trouble experiencing sexual pleasure without it.]

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By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu

The writer

Attaya: Improves brain function, protects brain ageing

In recent times, I have been delving into the potency of attaya in the Gambia. This is partly due to the ingredient green tea which science has demonstrated its abilities on our health. Another area I found to share with you is our brain health.

Due to the numerous health benefits, we derived from green tea, I have been advising that we do away with the sugar we add to attaya. Attaya is akin to the Japanese version of their green tea called Matcha.

Attaya and Brain function, the Science

Drinking attaya improves brain function. For instance, Green tea does more than just keep you alert, it may also help boost brain function. The key active ingredient is caffeine, which is a known stimulant. Though green tea doesn’t contain as much as coffee, however, it has more to produce a response without causing the nervous effects associated with taking in too much caffeine.

How does it work on the brain?

Two studies answer this question:  (Nehlig et al. 1992; Bertil B. 1995) assert that caffeine works on the brain by blocking an inhibitory neurotransmitter called adenosine.  When this happens, it raises the neurons and the concentration of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.

Ruxton, (2008) also notes that caffeine may support diverse areas of brain function, including mood, vigilance, reaction time, and memory.

Nobre et al.(2008) emphasized that apart from caffeine that is known as a brain-boosting compound in green tea.  The amino acid L-theanine is also found in green tea and this can even penetrate the blood-brain barrier.

How L-theanine also works was explained in three studies: Nobre et al. 2008; Nathan et al. 2006; Egashira et al. 2007) by increasing the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti-anxiety effects. It further raises dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain.

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine can have synergistic effects, and thus have a powerful effect in improving brain function (Kelly et al. 2008; Dodd et al. 2015).  Due to the presence of Caffeine and L-theanine, green tea could make you have a milder and different kind of buzz than coffee.  Several people have reported that drinking green gives them more stable energy and makes them more productive as compared to coffee.

Schmidt et al. (2014) study employed memory tasks and an advanced imaging technology called functional MRI to evaluate cognitive functions in healthy volunteers.  They found that those given green tea extract performed better on memory tasks. They also observed enhanced connectivity between areas in the brain involved in the tasks.

This implies that the subjects show physiological changes in the brain that are linked with improved mental function.

A previous study, using an electroencephalogram to monitor brain activity, found improvement in brain wave activity after taking an EGCG (green tea extract) supplement (Scholey et al. 2012).

The benefits extend beyond cognitive enhancement. For instance, in healthy adults, green tea also reduced psychological stress, including feelings of anxiety and depression, and led to a feeling of calmness (Hozawa et al. 2006; Scholey et al. 2012).

Finally, another review study (Mancini et al. 2017) assesses the current state of knowledge in the literature regarding the effects of green tea or green tea extracts, l-theanine and epigallocatechin gallate both components of green tea on general neuropsychology, on the sub-category cognition and brain functions in humans.

The study found evidence that green tea influences psychopathological symptoms (e.g., reduction of anxiety), cognition (e.g., benefits in memory and attention), and brain function (e.g., activation of working memory seen in functional MRI). The effects of green tea cannot be attributed to a single constituent of the beverage. This is exemplified in the finding that beneficial green tea effects on cognition are observed under the combined influence of both caffeine and l-theanine, whereas separate administration of either substance was found to have a lesser impact.

Attaya, protect brain ageing

Apart from improving brain function in the short term, it may also protect your brain as you age. For instance, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, common neurodegenerative diseases in older adults could all be protected by drinking green tea.

For instance, Ma et al. (2016) conducted one of the largest studies, a pooled analysis of 52,503 participants in countries around the world and found that tea significantly reduced the rate of multiple kinds of cognitive disorders by 35%.

Another large meta-analysis (Liu et al. 2017) examined the risk of cognitive disorders in 48,435 individuals. The study found that higher tea consumption was associated with a significant reduction in cognitive disorders.

They also found that green tea consumption was more reliably associated with cognitive benefits than oolong or black tea.

Two other studies (Feng et al. 2010; Kuriyama et al. 2006) report that there is a 36% reduction in cognitive disorders in habitual consumers of green tea as compared to non-habitual drinkers. Scientists also found a dose-response relationship: The green tea consumed, the greater the protection from cognitive dysfunction. In practical terms, those who drank 16 ounces of green tea per day derived nearly six times more protection from the development of cognitive disorders than those who drank 3.5 ounces.

For instance, three studies, (Weinreb et al. 2004; Mandel et al. 2008; Caruana and Vassallo, 2015) demonstrate that the catechin compounds in green tea could decrease the risk of dementia by protecting neurons in test tubes and animal models.

For Parkinson’s disease, two case-control studies (Barranco Quintana et al. 2009; Hosseini et al. 2013) conducted in non-western populations found that tea consumption has a strong protective effect against Parkinson’s disease. About 41% were found in those who constantly drink tea more than those occasional drinkers.

A large meta-analysis (Qi et al. 2014) included 344,895 respondents globally and found that the amount of green tea drinking is associated with how one is protected from Parkinson’s disease.  The study demonstrates that about 26% of those who take two cups daily had a reduced risk of Parkinson’s, especially in European and Asian populations.

Finally, Tomata et al. (2012) large, prospective study evaluated the impact that green tea can have on functional disability, regardless of the underlying cause.  The study used about 14,000 Japanese respondents aged 64. They reported that there is a good protective effect of greater green tea consumption, reducing the risk of disability and the need for support for daily activities.

This study also found that if we drink about five or more cups per day, we are likely to have 33% less functional impairment as compared to those who do not drink at all.  

 Take Home

Large Studies in humans have demonstrated the many benefits of drinking attaya (green tea) on our brains. For instance:

Ma et al. (2015) meta-analysis found that the rate of cognitive disorders was 35% lower in people who regularly drank tea.

Qi et al. (2015) also found that Parkinson’s disease risk was reduced by 26% for every two cups per day of tea consumed in another study. Green tea intake can reduce the risk of brain damage from strokes in multiple ways.

How much should we drink daily?

The studies reported drinking five or more cups of attaya (green tea) per day.  I still reiterate the elimination of sugar in your drink.  You can also buy green tea extracts in capsule form as they provide high quantities of polyphenols (catechins).

 NB:

Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups.  My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.

The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. President, Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT)/African Naturopathic Foundation, Ashaiman, Ghana. Currently BL Candidate at the Gambia Law School, Banjul. E. mail: [email protected]. + 2207452652(for more information)

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