Temi Iwalaiye

When it comes to hair growth, a lot of misinformation is spread because many people are desperate to have longer hair.

Let’s separate the myths from the facts.

<h2>Myth 1: Plucking grey hairs cause more to grow&nbsp;</h2>

Grey hairs do not increase because they are plucked [philiadephiasun]

Fact: It is believed that if you pluck one grey, many more grow in its place. Grey hairs are caused by a decrease in melanin production and by genetics and not by plucking or refusing to pluck your grey hairs.

<h2>Myth 2: Cutting off your hair makes it grow longer</h2>

Fact: It makes sense to cut off your hair if it has become damaged and begin the process of growth again, but if nothing is wrong with your hair and you decide to cut it, it is unlikely that you will notice any major changes.

However, regular trimming of split ends is important if you want to have more healthy hair.&nbsp;

Split ends make your hair appear as if it isn't growing at all. It is much better to cut split ends periodically for healthier looking hair.

<h2>Myth 3: Do not wash or shampoo your hair if you want it to grow</h2>

Fact: Regular and frequent use of shampoo is not good for your hair but not using shampoo at all? Well, that is downright false.

Washing your hair with shampoo helps to remove excess oil, product build-up and dirt from your scalp and that makes your hair look healthy and manageable. It also makes conditioning easier.

<h2>Myth 4: You can get longer hair by the food you eat</h2>

The food you eat plays a big role in your hair growth. Drinking plenty of water, eating a lot of protein and a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables will do wonders for your hair.&nbsp;Protein is important for hair growth.

<h2>Myth 5: Protective hairstyle keep your hair from breaking</h2>

Always loosening and plaiting your hair isn’t good if you want your hair to grow.

&nbsp;However, some people feel like if they do certain protective hairstyles like twists or braids it would prevent hair breakage but this is not always the case.

Firstly, some so-called protective hairstyles at your front hair and lead to bald patches. Secondly, while your hair is cocooned in a protective hairstyle, you do not wash, shampoo and oil it as you should. By the time you loosen it, your hair is dried, dirty and full of dandruff.

Haircare while on protective hairstyles is important to reduce hair breakage.

Many myths surrounds having longer hair [byrdie]

There are a lot of myths and false beliefs about growing longer hair.

5 hair growth myths and facts

In light of the tragic news of young men who passed away after allegedly taking poisoned soup, what are the best first aid treatments for food poisoning?

<h3>Does palm oil protect you from poison?</h3>

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/5-poisonous-plants-growing-in-bushes-around-that-can-kill-instantly/rdez9eb">5 poisonous plants growing in bushes around that can kill instantly</a>

Palm oil is often used to induce vomiting after eating or drinking poison, but this method can worsen the situation.

While palm oil may initially absorb some toxins, it eventually spreads them to the lungs, which can lead to severe complications.

In cases where the poison is oil-based, it can mix with palm oil and increase toxicity. Contrary to popular belief, palm oil does not neutralise poison and can increase the stomach's gastric volume, causing more harm than good.

Avoid giving palm oil to anyone who has ingested poison, as it is ineffective and may lead to serious health complications.

<h3>Using charcoal after being poisoned</h3>

Benefits of activated charcoal [Indiamart]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/how-to-identify-prevent-and-treat-food-poisoning/d56vb13">How to identify, prevent, and treat food poisoning</a>

Another common myth is the use of household charcoal as a remedy for poisoning.

While hospitals may use activated charcoal in certain poisoning cases, this is very different from regular cooking charcoal.

Activated charcoal is refined to remove impurities, making it safe for ingestion. Its porous structure traps chemicals and poisons in the intestine, preventing them from entering the bloodstream.

However, regular cooking charcoal contains impurities and lacks these properties, making it ineffective and unsafe.

Activated charcoal, available in pharmacies, can be used to treat certain types of poison if administered quickly. However, it does not affect substances like alcohol, caustics, lithium, or petroleum products.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/5-foods-we-love-to-eat-but-can-be-poisonous/xtp2bg2">5 foods we love to eat but can be poisonous</a>

Milk is not a cure for food poisoning, as it can irritate the stomach lining, make it difficult to digest dairy, and promote bacterial growth, which can worsen symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea.

Vomiting is only effective within an hour of poisoning and can be dangerous in cases involving petroleum-based substances like gasoline or kerosene, as it can cause severe breathing problems.

Instead of trying to induce vomiting yourself, get to the hospital as soon as possible.

<ol><li>Do not ingest anything (including water, milk, alcohol, or household charcoal) after poisoning.</li><li>Seek medical attention immediately.</li><li>Bring the substance or item that caused the poisoning to the hospital so doctors can determine the correct treatment.</li></ol>

In cases of poisoning, rapid medical attention is needed for the best chance of surviving.

What to eat after taking poison [thisdaylive]

Many people believe that taking palm oil, milk, or charcoal can neutralise poison. But is this true?

What should you use after eating poisoned food? Does palm oil, milk, charcoal work?

Bile is what gives poop its brown colour. If your poop is a different colour, it could be a sign of something else.

Poop colour can change as a result of var health issues, depending on the type of food eaten and other lifestyle choices.

Green poop may be because of green diarrhoea that results from food digesting too fast or green vegetables, green food colouring, and iron supplements.

Yellow poop is a bit normal for many people, but it may be a sign of too much fat, which could be a sign of the body's inability to digest food properly.

Black poop is often a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract, which can be caused by stomach ulcers.

It can also be a sign of acid reflux, noncancerous tumours in the upper GI tract, or cancer.

Foods like black liquorice, blueberries, iron supplements, and medications can turn your poop black.

What the colour of your poop says about your health [shuttershock]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/how-many-times-should-you-poop-every-day/bze0yvp">Do you need to poop every day? Science has the answer</a>

If you notice your poop is red or reddish, you should not be alarmed right away. If you see red or reddish poop in the toilet, ask yourself if you've had red foods lately.

Many foods like beets, tomato soup, gelatin dessert, and red drinks can change the colour of your stool to a pink or reddish colour.

You may also notice <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/reasons-you-might-see-blood-in-your-poop/pn98xn9">blood in your poop</a>, especially if you don't think your diet is the cause.

Common causes include noncancerous tumours, cancer, inflammation in the colon, polyps in the colon, diverticular disease, and haemorrhoids.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/healthy-foods-that-help-you-poop-better/3tplrp9">7 healthy foods that help you poop better</a>

Orange poop is most likely due to some orange foods, such as carrots, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, sodas, candy, or gelatin desserts.

Additionally, antibiotics and antacids with aluminium hydroxide can make your stool orange. Failing liver health can also cause orange poop, but usually it will be pale or clay-coloured.

In summary, different stool colours can indicate various health issues, and it's important to consult a doctor if you notice any changes in poop colour.

What the colour of your poop says about your  health [shuttershock]

Here’s what the colour of your poop means.

What the colour of your poop says about your health

A ceiling collapse is one of the most alarming events that can happen unexpectedly and it can be quite dangerous.

While it’s hard to predict exactly when a ceiling might fail, there are warning signs to look out for:

Cracks are a common indicator that is often ignored. While not all cracks are serious, it's important to inspect them.

Look especially for gaps and cracks where sections of the ceiling meet, as these can signal immediate structural concerns.

Signs the ceiling of your house is going to collapse [tenantslawfirm]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/bi/politics/politics-the-floor-of-the-jakarta-stock-exchange-has-collapsed-injuring-at-least-28/dfy9fxh">The floor of the Jakarta Stock Exchange has collapsed, injuring at least 28</a>

A sagging ceiling is a sign of weakness that many people overlook. If your ceiling appears bowed or feels soft to the touch, it needs urgent attention.

Sagging usually indicates structural compromise and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage or accidents.

If you notice water stains or leaks, it's a serious sign that moisture is damaging the ceiling.

Water is a leading cause of ceiling collapse, so check for any signs of staining or dampness and address them immediately.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/the-most-expensive-house-on-earth/cfdtl31">This is the most expensive house on earth - but it cannot be bought or sold</a>

Pay attention to any fixtures, such as ceiling fans, chandeliers, or light bulbs, that seem loose or fall.

This could indicate a weakening ceiling rather than just an issue with the fixture itself, hinting at potential collapse.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/5-iconic-houses-that-can-only-be-visited-but-never-be-bought/ge66069">5 iconic houses that can never be up for sale</a>

If you hear creaking, popping, or cracking sounds from your ceiling, this can be a strong sign that it’s at risk of collapse.

Such sounds indicate structural weakness, which could lead to sudden failure.

Being aware of these signs is the first step. If you notice any, don’t panic, but consult a professional promptly to ensure safety and prevent further damage.

Signs the ceiling of your house is going to collapse [reddit]

Here are some things to look out for to avoid sudden ceiling collapse.

5 signs the ceiling of your house is about to collapse

Do you have a boyfriend you love, but he just can’t seem to do the things you like?

You’ve asked, dropped hints, and even begged, but he’s just not listening. Here’s a theory that might work:

The "Black Cat Girlfriend" theory, popularised on TikTok, describes a girlfriend who embodies traits of independence and aloofness.

She doesn’t chase; she lets him pursue her. Like a typical black cat—independent, mysterious, and content alone—this girlfriend keeps him intrigued.

According to the theory, women should act like black cats, while men take on the role of golden retrievers: loyal pursuers.

If you want your boyfriend to do the things you like, you may need to be the "black cat" and let him become the "golden retriever."

Black cat-golden retriever pairs often succeed because they illustrate the idea that opposites attract.

This is grounded in the Theory of Complementarity, which suggests that one person’s traits can enhance or complement those of another.

How to get a man to do anything for you [freepik]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/relationships-weddings/4-traits-in-men-that-women-are-obsessed-with/xvbg6vs">4 traits in men that women are obsessed with</a>

&nbsp;This can be tough, but constant nagging often pushes him further away. If he behaves in ways you don’t like, tell him once.

If he doesn’t listen, avoid situations where he’ll likely repeat those actions. Set your boundaries.

&nbsp;Don’t act like you need him and he’ll start needing you more.

Instead of begging him to spend time with you, plan vacations with your girlfriends, go out on solo dates, and enjoy your own life. When he sees you having fun without him, he may feel left out and want to join.

How to make a man obsessed with you [istockphoto]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/movies/discovery-with-glory-how-to-make-a-nigerian-man-happy/njcffbc">How to make a Nigerian man happy</a>

The saying "familiarity breeds contempt" has some truth. While it’s great to share, leaving a bit of mystery keeps things intriguing.

Don’t reveal everything about yourself; let him wonder a little about who you are and when he asks, don't divulge everything.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/relationships-weddings/ladies-only-7-easy-ways-you-can-get-a-guy-to-like-you/cg09nd0">7 easy ways you can get a guy to like you</a>

&nbsp;If you want flowers, buy them for yourself. If you like scented candles, treat yourself. Show him how well you treat yourself, and he’ll learn to follow your lead.

If, after a while, he still shows no interest in treating you well despite having the means, he might not be the one for you.

These are just a few attributes of the black cat approach. If a man truly loves you, he will pursue you. But if you appear desperate and needy, you may risk driving him away.

How to get a man to do anything for you [shuttershock]

Ladies, here's how to have your man fawning over you.

How to get a man to do anything for you in a relationship

While you may think calculating billionaires' net worth may lead you to the total amount of money in the world right now, you will be wrong.

This is because a lot of private wealth is tied up in assets like real estate, stocks, and businesses, which aren't immediately accessible as cash.

To determine how much money is available in the world, you have to use information given by central banks and other financial institutions.

<h3>The total amount of cash in the world </h3>

As of November 28, 2022, the global M1 supply - basically all of the money in circulation, like banknotes and coins, as well as traveller's checks and demand deposits like checking and savings accounts—was $48.9 trillion.

The M2 (which includes M1 plus assets) supply was worth $82.6 trillion in total.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/the-strongest-currency-in-the-world/wves7zx">Here's the strongest currency in the world - No, it's not the dollar or pound</a>

<h3>The total amount of investments and digital money</h3>

Money can also be found in investments and derivatives. According to Visual Capitalist, there are about 80 main stock exchanges worldwide, and their combined value is $110.2 trillion.

The entire value of the cryptocurrency market adds almost $2.08 trillion to that sum. The overall value of the stock market, cryptocurrencies, and M2 money supply is $194.88 trillion.

Total amount of money in the world [freepik]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/top-5-african-cities-with-the-most-millionaires-in-dollars-2024/ccmdv7q">Top 5 African cities with the most millionaires in dollars (2024)</a>

The World Bank estimates that the global GDP (gross domestic product) is about $100 trillion.

We can't use GDP to determine how much money is in the world. GDP measures the total value of all goods and services produced in a country, but it doesn't tell us about the overall wealth or money supply.

It doesn't consider factors like people's living standards or the amount of money they have.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/heres-the-country-with-the-most-worthless-currency-in-the-world/0wywbfw">Here's the country with the most worthless currency in the world</a>

<h3>The total amount of private wealth&nbsp;</h3>

In case you are wondering how much private all billionaires and millionaires own, the UBS "Global Wealth Report 2023" also reports that total net private wealth stood at $454.4 trillion at the end of 2022.

As countries grow their economies and move towards virtual or digital currencies, the future of money is predicted to change. Many central banks like China, Japan, and Sweden are already creating digital currencies.

What's the total amount of money in the world right now [corporatefinanceinstitute]

How much money is in the world right now?

What’s the total amount of money in the world right now?

Whether you are looking for a baby or you are active sexually and you want to avoid getting pregnant, it’s important to know how many days in a month a woman is most fertile.

The myth that a woman can get pregnant any time of the month is false, as eggs and sperm only live for a short time.

Eggs can only be fertilised for 24 hours after being released from the ovary while sperm lasts around five days.

<h2>How many days in a month can a woman get pregnant?</h2>

Pregnancy is technically only possible if you have sex during the five days before ovulation or on the day of <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/womens-health/ovulation-horniness-5-natures-tricks-to-get-a-woman-pregnant/kphpl8e">ovulation</a>.

But the most fertile days are the three days leading up to and including ovulation. Having sex during this time gives you the best chance of getting pregnant.

By 12-24 hours after ovulation, a woman is no longer able to get pregnant during that menstrual cycle because the egg is no longer in the fallopian tube.

There’s almost no chance of getting pregnant if you have sex before or after the fertile window (but if you’re not trying to get pregnant, don’t rely on this; contraception is your best option as you may get a surprise baby).

When are women most fertile? [medicalnewstoday]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/how-ovulation-calculators-can-help-you-conceive-a-boy/2brmnlv">How ovulation calculators can help you conceive a boy</a>

The 'fertile window' refers to the days in a woman's menstrual cycle when pregnancy is possible, depending on the length of the cycle.

It occurs when an egg is released from the ovary five days before intercourse.

Ovulation takes place when a mature egg moves down the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized.

If sperm is present during ovulation, the egg is likely to be fertilised, creating an embryo that can grow into a baby.

<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/ladies-heres-how-to-track-your-ovulation/2wgmzt1">Tracking your menstrual cycle</a> can help identify fertile days and increase conception chances or prevent you from having sex on those days if you are avoiding pregnancy.

Use a menstrual calendar, diary, or period-tracking app to record your cycle. To calculate your cycle length, start counting on the first day of your period (day 1). The last day of your cycle is the day before your next period begins.

In conclusion, three days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation are the most fertile days of the month for most women.

How many days in a month can a woman get pregnant [Motherhoodfertility&ivfcentre]

When is a woman most fertile?

How many days in a month can a woman get pregnant?

Men, her birthday is a day to celebrate her with messages and photos that truly reflect your love and admiration.

Every message and post on social media should clearly show how much you love her.

Your caption should focus on her, not on what she does for you. Avoid things like “Thank you for cooking great food” or “Thank you for being a great wife.”

<h2>Here are the best messages to send your girlfriend or wife on her birthday</h2>

<ol><li>Happy Birthday, my love! I’m so lucky to celebrate today with you—you make every day better just by being in it. Here’s to another year of happiness and joy. Kindly check your bank account for a surprise.</li><li>Happy Birthday to the most amazing girl in my life! You deserve all the joy in the world, and I’ll do everything I can to make sure you get it, but first, hope you love the few gifts I got for you.</li><li>Wishing the happiest birthday to my beautiful, kind, and brilliant girlfriend. Can’t wait to spoil you today! I’ve booked an all-expense staycation. I love you so much.</li><li>Happy Birthday, babe! I’m grateful every day for you, but today I get to make sure you feel extra loved and celebrated. I made a reservation for us at your favourite restaurant. I can’t wait to see you.</li></ol>

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/here-are-3-months-with-almost-no-birthdays/l49nj91">Here are 3 months with almost no birthdays</a>

Best birthday messages for wives and girlfriends [freepik]

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/heres-how-to-easily-reply-all-the-overwhelming-messages-on-your-birthday/msplsfc">Here’s how to easily reply all the overwhelming messages on your birthday</a>

5. To my love, my best friend, my everything—happy birthday! Here’s to making even more memories together this year. You mean the world to me, and I want to show you the world.

6. Happy Birthday, beautiful! Today is all about you. I hope this year brings you as much happiness as you bring to my life. I love you.

7. Happy Birthday, my love! Thank you for being the incredible person you are. I’m so lucky to have you by my side. I can’t wait to make today unforgettable!

8. Happy Birthday to the girl who stole my heart. Every day with you is a gift—here’s to celebrating many more birthdays together.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/happy-birthday-prayer/47grv1f">50 birthday prayers and wishes to make a loved one feel special</a>

9. Happy Birthday to my drop dead gorgeous girlfriend! May your day be filled with all the things you love, and know that I’m here to make sure of it.

10. Happy Birthday, love! You’re everything I ever dreamed of and more. Here’s to a day as amazing as you are—can’t wait to spend it by your side!

Listicle ideas by ChatGPT and modified by the author.

Remember, your girlfriend or wife’s birthday message is all about making her feel special.

10 birthday messages every woman wants to see on her birthday

<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/vaginal-odour-9-different-types-you-must-know-about/0c6kt8y">Vaginal odours</a> can sometimes indicate infections, like sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or some poor lifestyle choices.

While it is recommended to see a doctor or gynaecologist, these home remedies may fix it in the interim.

<h3>Why does your vagina smell bad?</h3>

The fishy smell is also often associated with bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis can cause a strong, fishy odour after sexual intercourse, possibly due to semen interacting with vaginal fluid.

Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, can cause the vagina to have a pungent <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/why-your-vagina-smells-like-fish-and-how-to-solve-it/0kcs845">fishy odour.</a>

A forgotten tampon or other foreign object in the vagina can cause rotting smells.

Remove the object immediately to prevent toxic shock syndrome, a fatal condition caused by bacteria releasing toxins.

Urine spills, sweat and yeast infection can also give your vagina a chemical, musty or yeasty smell.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/what-a-healthy-vagina-smells-like-and-what-it-does-not/2zwfm47">How does a healthy vagina smell?</a>

<h3>Home remedies to fix vaginal odour</h3>

It has many antibacterial and antifungal properties and is a source of fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Garlic strengthens the immune system and balances intestinal flora, which reduces the incidence of vaginal odour.

You can buy capsules of raw garlic oil in pharmacies or natural health stores to avoid the mouth odour that comes from chewing garlic.

One effective way to get rid of vaginal smell is to use vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar; it helps eliminate pollutants that cause fishy smells.

Its antibacterial qualities and acidic nature aid in the destruction of bacteria that cause odours.

You can drink two tablespoons of vinegar in lukewarm water or have an apple cider vinegar bath once a day till the odour is eliminated.

Guava leaves contain antibiotic properties, aiding in treating vaginal infections.

Boil one litre of water, add guava leaves, infuse for 3 to 5 minutes, strain, and place in a basin.

When it is cool, sit on the basin without clothes to cleanse the genital area two to three times a day.

Baking soda can be used to adjust your body's pH level. Just soak for around 20 minutes after adding a half cup of baking soda to your bath water, or simply drink baking soda in a glass of warm water.

Many anecdotals prove that pineapple eliminates vaginal odour.

However, no scientific evidence exists. You can include raw pineapple and drink one or two glasses of juice daily.

Finally, don't forget to also consult your doctor to get an appropriate diagnosis.

If your vaginal odour seems off, here are five common home remedies to fix it.

Does your vagina have a bad smell? See 5 home remedies to freshen it up

If you're Nigerian, you may have noticed that your<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/nigerians-struggle-as-rising-cooking-gas-prices-hit-purchasing-power/y6trfxb"> cooking gas</a> tends to finish every Sunday, which is typically the most inconvenient time for your gas to run out, as most shops are closed.

If you're curious, here's why you always run out of gas on Sundays.

After a hectic workweek, you have all the time to buy food stuff, cook, and stock up your fridge with all manner of soups and stews.

You may also have family and friends over and need to cook for a larger group. Cooking a lot on weekends will inevitably lead to your gas running out.

Temi Iwalaiye

Articles written by the author

5 hair growth myths and facts

What should you use after eating poisoned food? Does palm oil, milk, charcoal work?

What the colour of your poop says about your health

5 signs the ceiling of your house is about to collapse

How to get a man to do anything for you in a relationship

What’s the total amount of money in the world right now?

How many days in a month can a woman get pregnant?

10 birthday messages every woman wants to see on her birthday

Does your vagina have a bad smell? See 5 home remedies to freshen it up

Why does cooking gas always finish on Sundays?

Is your urine yellow? Here's why

Did he shift your womb or not? 5 reasons for stomach pain after sex

Here's the strongest currency in the world - No, it's not the dollar or pound

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Did you know moringa leaves can clear acne and pimples? Here’s how