Agnes Isoje

<h2>One of the major functions of your liver is to digest food consumed and filter toxins from the body.</h2>

So your liver is working round the clock so your body functions properly. However, poor dietary choices can overburden the liver, leading to conditions such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver failure.

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Your body is made of the things you eat, so you should try to consume food items that are good for your liver and avoid foods that can hamper its functioning or make it work harder. Here are 9 everyday foods that could be slowly damaging your liver:

Baked goods like cake, meatpies, cookies etc are loaded with sugar, refined flour and unhealthy fats and consuming too many of these can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and increase triglyceride levels, which are linked to liver inflammation. It also contributes to obesity and fat accumulation in the liver.

Sugary, fizzy drinks put stress on the liver. These beverages contain high fructose corn syrup, which accelerates fat buildup in the liver and increases the risk of fatty liver disease. Excessive consumption of these drinks can also contribute to obesity and insulin resistance.

If you can, completely avoid alcohol. It is one of the biggest enemies of a healthy liver. When the liver processes alcohol, it produces harmful toxins that can cause inflammation, cell damage, and scarring (fibrosis). Over time, excessive drinking leads to cirrhosis (permanent liver scarring), which can cause liver failure and even liver cancer.

<h3>4. White Bread, Pasta, and Processed Grains</h3>

Refined grains like white bread, pasta, and biscuits lack fibre, essential vitamins, and minerals. When consumed, they convert into sugar, which the body struggles to process efficiently. This excess sugar gets stored as fat in the liver, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease. Replace these foods with whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread.

<h3>5. Fast Food (Burgers, French Fries, and Fried Snacks)</h3>

Fast Food (Burgers, French Fries, and Fried Snacks)

Fast food is packed with saturated fats and trans fats, both of which make digestion harder and cause liver inflammation. These unhealthy fats can increase bad cholesterol (LDL) and decrease good cholesterol (HDL), raising the risk of heart disease and liver complications. Over time, frequent fast food consumption can lead to cirrhosis.

Also, these fried snacks contain trans fats which are among the most dangerous fats for liver health.

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Consuming excess salt can cause water retention, making the liver work harder to filter toxins. Processed foods like noodles and salty biscuits are loaded with sodium and unhealthy fats, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease and high blood pressure.

Although red meat is high in protein, digesting it places a significant burden on the liver. When protein breaks down, it releases byproducts that the liver must filter out. Excessive red meat consumption can lead to fat buildup, liver stress, and even kidney damage. Lean proteins like chicken, fish, or plant-based proteins are healthier alternatives.

Full-fat dairy products, such as whole milk, butter, cheese, and cream, contain saturated fats that can clog liver cells and increase fat accumulation. Regular consumption may lead to fatty liver disease and impair liver function over time. Instead, choose low-fat or plant-based dairy alternatives.

<h3>9. Excessive Fructose-Rich Fruits and Dried Fruits</h3>

Excessive Fructose-Rich Fruits and Dried Fruits

Fruits are generally healthy but an excessive consumption of high-fructose fruits (such as raisins, dry fruits, and bananas) can increase liver fat storage. The natural sugar in these fruits, fructose, can contribute to fatty liver disease when consumed in large amounts. Moderation is key.

Your liver plays a crucial role in keeping your body healthy, so make conscious food choices that can reduce the risk of liver diseases and improve your overall well-being.

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9 everyday foods that are slowly destroying your liver [American Liver Foundation]

Unlike some organs, the liver can often function normally even when damaged, showing few or no symptoms in the early stages of disease.

9 everyday foods that are slowly destroying your liver

<h2>According to the World Population Review, Iran is the oldest nation in the world based on the date of the earliest known evidence of an organized government.</h2>

Determining a country's exact age is not always straightforward. It is very hard to pinpoint the exact moment a nation officially began because borders shift, governments change, and civilizations rise and fall over time.

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Because of these complexities, any list of the world’s oldest countries depends on how one defines a country's "beginning." For this list, we consider the birth of a country to be the date of the earliest known evidence of an organized government. Based on this criteria, here are the 10 oldest countries in the world:

Iran is the oldest country in the world and home to one of the world's earliest civilizations, dating back to 3200 BC (Before Christ) with the rise of the Elamite kingdom. The Persian Empire, established in 550 BCE, became one of history's most powerful empires, known for its cultural and scientific contributions. Despite various conquests and dynastic changes, Iran has retained a strong national identity for thousands of years.

Ancient Egypt, founded around 3100 BC, is renowned for its pyramids, hieroglyphic writing, and monumental architecture. The unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under Pharaoh Narmer marked the beginning of one of the longest-lasting civilizations. Today, Egypt remains a key political and cultural force in Africa and the Middle East.

Vietnam traces its origins to 2879 BC with the establishment of the Hồng Bàng dynasty. The country has a long history of resilience, having defended itself from numerous invasions, including centuries of Chinese rule and Western colonialism. Vietnamese traditions, language, and governance have remained strong through millennia.

Dating back to 2492 BC, Armenia has one of the richest histories in the Caucasus region. It became the first country to officially adopt Christianity as its state religion in 301 CE. Despite facing numerous invasions, Armenia has preserved its unique language, culture, and national identity.

According to Korean legend, North Korea’s history began in 2333 BC with the founding of Gojoseon by Dangun, a mythical ruler. While Korea has seen many dynasties rise and fall, the modern state of North Korea emerged in the 20th century, carrying on the traditions of its ancient past.

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China’s first recorded dynasty, the Xia Dynasty, was established around 2070 BC, marking the beginning of one of the world’s longest-continuous civilizations. From the Great Wall to Confucian philosophy, China has significantly influenced global culture, trade, and governance for thousands of years.

India’s history dates back to 2000 BC, with the rise of the Indus Valley Civilization. Home to Hinduism, Buddhism, and some of the world’s oldest scriptures, India has been a center of science, mathematics, and philosophy for millennia. Today, it remains one of the world's largest and most diverse nations.

Established around 1300 BC, Georgia has played a crucial role in the history of the Caucasus region. It boasts one of the world’s oldest languages and was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity in the 4th century. Despite numerous invasions, Georgia has preserved its distinct cultural and national identity.

Israel traces its origins to 1300 BC, with the biblical Exodus and the establishment of the ancient Kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The region has been a center of religious, cultural, and political significance for thousands of years. Modern Israel, established in 1948, continues to be shaped by its deep historical and spiritual roots.

Sudan, dating back to 1070 BC, was home to the powerful Kingdom of Kush, known for its pyramids and influence along the Nile. The Nubian civilization thrived alongside Ancient Egypt, playing a crucial role in African history. Sudan’s deep-rooted cultural and historical significance remains essential to the continent’s heritage.

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This is the oldest country in the world [PRETEND Magazine]

The country dates back to 3200 BC.

This is the oldest country in the world

<h2>Nigeria is often called the "Giant of Africa" due to its vast population and economic potential. However, this title does not necessarily translate into economic strength or a high quality of life for its citizens.</h2>

Despite being rich in natural resources, the country grapples with economic instability, high inflation, unemployment, inadequate infrastructure and a weak currency.

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Meanwhile, several African currencies are thriving and outperforming the Naira. Here are 10 African currencies stronger than the Naira.

This is Africa’s strongest currency. Tunisia has strong trade ties with Europe and this benefits them greatly. They have a controlled foreign exchange policy and a stable economic framework.

Despite political instability, Libya’s currency remains strong. The country’s massive oil reserves support the Dinar’s high value.

The Moroccan Dirham remains one of Africa’s most stable currencies. Morocco’s diversified economy, covering tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing, ensures steady currency performance.

The Botswana Pula is one of Africa’s most resilient currencies. Botswana has successfully implemented sound economic policies while maintaining substantial foreign reserves.

The Seychellois Rupee benefits from a thriving tourism sector and prudent fiscal management. Seychelles, a small island economy, has strategically leveraged its natural attractions to attract foreign investment.

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The Ghanaian Cedi has experienced fluctuations due to inflation and external debt challenges. However, Ghana’s economy anchored in cocoa, gold, and oil has shown signs of recovery, supported by IMF interventions and fiscal tightening measures.

Eritrea’s government maintains strict control over foreign exchange transaction and while this limits economic growth and foreign investment, it has helped the Nakfa remain relatively stable.

South Africa’s deep financial markets and well-developed banking system contribute to the Rand’s prominence. The South African Rand is the continent’s most widely traded currency.

The Namibian Dollar is pegged to the South African Rand, mirroring its fluctuations. Asides that, Namibia benefits from strong governance and a mining-driven economy, which help sustain currency stability.

Similar to Namibia, Lesotho’s Loti is also pegged to the South African Rand. While the peg ensures stability, Lesotho remains economically dependent on South Africa. Still, the Loti holds more value than the Naira.

With 54 countries in Africa, where exactly does the Naira fall? The bottom 15.

<ol><li>Nigeria – Naira</li><li>Malawi – Kwacha</li><li>Rwanda – Franc</li><li>Congo – Franc</li><li>Angola – Kwanza</li><li>Sierra Leone – Leone</li><li>Madagascar – Ariary</li><li>Burundi – Franc</li><li>Comoros – Franc</li><li>Uganda – Shilling</li><li>Guinea – Franc</li><li>Somalia – Shilling</li><li>Sudan – Pounds</li><li>Liberia – Dollars</li><li>Tanzania – Shilling</li></ol>

10 African currencies stronger than the Naira [Premium Times Nigeria]

Despite being rich in natural resources, Nigeria grapples with economic instability, high inflation, unemployment, inadequate infrastructure and a weak currency.

10 African currencies stronger than the Naira

Alhamdulillah, we have reached the twenty-first day of the blessed month of Ramadan.

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Ramadan Day 21 marks the beginning of the last ten nights, a period filled with immense blessings and opportunities for spiritual growth. These final nights hold the powerful Night of Decree (Laylatul Qadr), making it a time to increase worship, seek forgiveness, and draw closer to Allah.

"O Allah, as I enter the final days of Ramadan, strengthen my faith, increase my patience, and accept my fast. Grant me the ability to worship You with sincerity and devotion. Forgive my past sins and guide me on the path of righteousness. Ameen."

"Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni." "O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness; so forgive me." (Tirmidhi)

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<h3>Ramadan Day 21 Hadith of the Day</h3>

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "Whoever stands (in prayer) during Laylatul Qadr with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven." (Bukhari, Muslim) This Hadith highlights the importance of increasing worship during these nights, seeking Allah’s mercy and blessings.

<ul><li>“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:3) </li><li>“When the last ten nights of Ramadan begin, the Prophet (PBUH) would stay up at night, wake his family, and tighten his belt (engage in more worship).” (Bukhari)</li><li>"A single night of sincere devotion can transform a lifetime of worship."</li></ul>

As you enter Day 22, dedicate time for Tahajjud, the night prayer. It is a moment to seek Allah’s mercy and guidance, especially as Laylatul Qadr may fall on one of these nights.

As the last ten nights unfold, embrace them with sincerity, prayer, and remembrance of Allah. Seek forgiveness, give in charity, and maximize your ibadah. May Allah accept our fasts, prayers, and duas, and grant us the blessings of Laylatul Qadr. Ameen.

Ramadan Day 21: Prayers, Dua, and Hadith for the last 10 nights [Why Islam]

May the almighty Allah accept all our sacrifices this period and beyond as we fast and pray today.

Ramadan Day 21: Prayers, Dua, and Hadith for the last 10 nights

<h2>Azad palace - the abode of the Oyinoyi of Ebiraland stands out as the most beautiful palace in Nigeria and arguably in West Africa.</h2>

The palace which was first built in 1927 serves as the residence of the fifth Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Tijjani Ahmed Anaje who was installed in 2024. This magnificent structure stands as a symbol of the cultural heritage and royal history of the Ebira people.

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The previous king of Ebira land, HRM (Dr.) Abdul Rahman Ado Ibrahim who is now deceased named the Azad Palace, named after his eldest deceased son. The Azad palace is the seat of power for the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and is a true marvel of architectural beauty.

Located around the Inioziomi area of Okene in Kogi State, Nigeria, the palace is not just a royal residence but a cultural and historical powerhouse. Historically, the title of the monarch in Ebiraland was known as the "Attah of Ebiraland." However, in the 20th century, the title of "Ohinoyi" became the official designation for the ruler of the Ebira people.

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The position of the Ohinoyi is elected by a group of elders and is traditionally rotated among the major clans of the Ebira, ensuring that leadership is shared across the different groups within the kingdom.

The palace's intricate design, coupled with its serene environment, has earned it the title of one of the most beautiful and interesting palaces in West Africa. Azad Palace serves as a center for traditional ceremonies, cultural celebrations, and political meetings, making it a focal point for the Ebira people and visitors alike.

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Which King has the most beautiful palace in Nigeria? [X/@Gen_Buhar]

The palace was first built in 1927 and serves as a symbol of the people's cultural heritage and royal history.

Which King has the most beautiful palace in Nigeria?

<h2>All men have at some point or another have wondered whether their penis is big enough.</h2>

It could have been driven by insecurity or curiosity, but there's no denying the confidence that comes with having a "good enough" size. After all, that's why the term Big Dick Energy exists!

We have a list of the top 20 countries with the biggest penises BUT studies on this topic often rely on self-reported data which means some exaggeration is inevitable. Even though they provide insight into global averages and trends, it's not the gospel truth. Anyway, let's dive in:

<h3>Top 20 Countries With The Biggest Penis Size</h3>

Which countries have the biggest penis sizes?

<ol><li>Sudan – 7.1 inches (17.9 cm)</li><li>Democratic Republic of the Congo – 7.1 inches (17.9 cm) </li><li>Ecuador – 6.9 inches (17.6 cm) </li><li>Republic of the Congo – 6.8 inches (17.3 cm) </li><li>Ghana – 6.8 inches (17.3 cm) </li><li>Nigeria – 6.7 inches (17 cm) </li><li>Venezuela – 6.7 inches (16.9 cm) </li><li>Lebanon – 6.6 inches (16.8 cm) </li><li>Colombia – 6.6 inches (16.8 cm) </li><li>Cameroon – 6.6 inches (16.6 cm) </li><li>Jamaica – 6.4 inches (16.3 cm) </li><li>Kenya – 6.4 inches (16.3 cm) </li><li>Dominican Republic – 6.3 inches (16 cm) </li><li>Senegal – 6.3 inches (15.9 cm)</li><li>Cuba – 6.2 inches (15.9 cm) </li><li>New Zealand – 6.2 inches (15.8 cm) </li><li>Zambia – 6.2 inches (15.8 cm) </li><li>Belize – 6.2 inches (15.8 cm) </li><li>Angola – 6.2 inches (15.7 cm) </li><li>Brazil – 6.2 inches (15.7 cm)</li></ol>

The global average erect penis length is 5.54 inches (14.08 cm) and most countries fall into this bracket.

Maybe. Maybe not. However, research suggests that men tend to worry about their size more than their partners do. Studies indicate that most women are satisfied with their partner’s size, with girth often being considered just as (if not more) important than length. In the end, confidence and sexual compatibility matter more than measurements.

Still, we have also compiled a short list of countries with the smallest penis size so if size matters to you, you might want to steer clear of men from these regions.

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<h3>Top 5 Countries With The Smallest Penis Size</h3>

<ol><li>Thailand – 3.7 inches (9.4 cm) </li><li>North Korea – 3.8 inches (9.6 cm) </li><li>Cambodia – 3.9 inches (9.8 cm) </li><li>Nepal – 3.9 inches (9.9 cm) </li><li>Myanmar – 4.0 inches (10.1 cm)</li></ol>

Surprisingly, they are all Asian countries but according to research, race has only a marginal impact on penis size. More studies indicate possible connections between environmental or hormonal factors and penis size. During a person’s younger years and adolescence, improper nutrition can impact penile development.

Endocrine disruptions, which can be caused by exposure to pesticides, plasticizers, and even natural sources, can negatively impact genital development. Finally, a 2016 study observed that men who were circumcised as newborns tended to have slightly smaller penises.

As you can see, the various studies and research on this topic are insightful and confusing but none are definitive. While we await more conclusive data, it's best to embrace the size you have and focus on improving your skills.

Which countries have the biggest penis sizes? [Science IIIustrated]

Does size really matter?

<h2>Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager is set to become the first millennial saint in the Catholic Church.</h2>

Carlo was born in 1991 in London, to Italian parents and he was raised in Milan, Italy. He died at age 15 but his short life left a lasting impact in the Catholic Church. He combined his deep Catholic faith with his passion for technology and through his devotion to the Eucharist, he documented miracles from around the world

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From a young age, Carlo displayed an extraordinary love for his faith even though his parents were not particularly religious. He insisted on attending Mass daily and frequently prayed the Rosary.

As a child, his deep spirituality was evident, as he would donate his pocket money to the poor and defend bullied classmates in school. Carlo was also a skilled computer programmer. He used his talent to create a website cataloguing Eucharistic miracles from around the world. His goal was to help others recognize the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

His work gained international attention and is still used today in Catholic teachings. Carlo believed that "the Eucharist is my highway to heaven", emphasizing the importance of frequent communion and adoration. Despite his young age, he was deeply dedicated to living a holy life, always putting others before himself.

This earned him the name, "God's Influencer." At the age of 15, Carlo was diagnosed with acute leukaemia. But even in his suffering, he remained steadfast in his faith, offering his pain for the Pope and the Church. He passed away on October 12, 2006, and was buried in Assisi, the hometown of his favourite saint, St. Francis of Assisi.

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<h3>Why Carlo Acutis Qualified for Sainthood</h3>

Carlo’s journey to sainthood began after reports of miraculous healings attributed to him surfaced. <ul><li>First Miracle (Beatification – 2020) - A Brazilian boy suffering from a rare pancreatic disease was miraculously healed after his family prayed for Carlo’s intercession. The Vatican recognized this as an official miracle, leading to Carlo’s beatification on October 10, 2020. </li><li>Second Miracle (Canonization – 2024) - A Costa Rican woman recovered from a severe brain injury after praying to Carlo. This second miracle paved the way for his canonization in 2024, making him the first millennial saint.</li></ul>

<h3>How the Catholic Church Declares Someone a Saint</h3>

The Catholic Church follows a structured process for canonization, which involves several stages: <ul><li>Servant of God – The process begins at the diocesan level, where the candidate’s life, writings, and virtues are examined. If approved, they are given the title "Servant of God." </li><li>Venerable – The Vatican reviews the case, and if the person is found to have lived a life of "heroic virtue," they are declared Venerable. </li><li>Blessed (Beatification) – A confirmed miracle through the candidate’s intercession is required for beatification, after which they receive the title "Blessed." </li><li>Saint (Canonization) – A second miracle is needed for full canonization, after which the person is officially declared a saint by the Pope.</li></ul>

Carlo Acutis is expected to be canonized during the church’s Jubilee of Teenagers between April 25 and April 27.&nbsp;Faithful Catholics are gathering in droves in the Sanctuary of the Spoliation in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi to view the preserved body of the teenager before he is canonized as the&nbsp;first millennial saint&nbsp;next month.

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<h3>Other Notable Saints in Catholic History</h3>

Carlo Acutis joins a long line of saints who have inspired millions with their faith and service. Some notable saints include: <ul><li>St. Francis of Assisi – Known for his love of poverty and nature, he founded the Franciscan Order. </li><li>St. Teresa of Ávila – A mystic and reformer of the Carmelite Order, she is one of the greatest teachers of prayer in the Church. </li><li>St. John Paul II – A modern saint, he played a major role in ending communism in Eastern Europe and was loved for his teachings on faith and human dignity.</li></ul>

This is a frequently asked question. Catholics do not worship saints because worship is reserved for God alone. Instead, they ask saints to intercede (pray) for them, just as they would ask a friend or family member to pray for them.

One of the biblical basis for this is James 5:16:

<blockquote>Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed</blockquote>

According to them, the Bible encourages Christians to pray for one another and if we ask fellow believers to pray for us, why not ask those who are already in heaven?

Catholics are not required to pray to saints. They can pray directly to God. However, many Catholics find comfort in seeking the intercession of holy men and women who have lived virtuous lives and are believed to be in God’s presence.

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Meet Carlo Acutis: The first millennial saint in the Catholic Church [America Magazine]

"We are all born as originals, but many die as photocopies."
— Blessed Carlo Acutis

Meet Carlo Acutis: The first millennial saint in the Catholic Church

<h2>A weak currency is one that has a low or declining value compared to other global currencies.</h2>

When a currency weakens, it can significantly impact a country’s economy, leading to higher import costs, reduced purchasing power, and financial instability for businesses and citizens alike.

This weakness can result from various factors, including economic mismanagement, soaring inflation, political instability, trade imbalances, and external economic shocks such as global recessions or sanctions.

In 2025, these are the 10 weakest currencies in the world:

Lebanon has the world’s weakest currency in 2025. Since 2019, Lebanon has been facing a severe financial crisis due to government mismanagement, corruption, and political instability. Inflation skyrocketed, and a banking sector meltdown wiped out savings, leaving the Lebanese pound the weakest in the world.

Another reason why the Lebanon pound is the weakest in the world is also due to the ongoing conflict in the region which has led to economic sanctions from world leaders.

Iran's currency has been suffering for years due to heavy economic sanctions imposed by the US and its allies. Dollars are in great demand in Iran because they are in serious need of imports and they need dollars to buy them from outside and these sanctions make it hard for them to earn dollars.

The collapse of the Iran nuclear deal, political instability, and a struggling oil sector have also made things worse. Hyperinflation and a lack of foreign investment continue to drive the rial’s value down, making it the second-weakest currency in 2025.

Vietnam has intentionally kept its currency weak to boost exports, but this strategy has caused significant inflation and economic instability. This strategy is meant to attract foreign investors. So, they will first devaluate the currency to make exports more competitive then slowly and gradually appreciate the currency to ensure foreign investors will always get more over time.

This strategy was used by the Japanese and Chinese before and it worked for them. However, restrictions on foreign investment and ongoing economic uncertainties have also weakened the dong so while Vietnam remains a manufacturing hub, its currency continues to decline due to these government-controlled devaluations.

Laos is a poor country because of many factors including limited resources, an underdeveloped and unregulated economy, corruption, and lack of infrastructure.&nbsp;Their currency, Laotian kip has also been hit hard by high inflation, slow economic growth, and a rising debt burden.

Laos has also struggled to attract foreign investment, and its reliance on imports has led to a trade deficit. The government has tried to stabilize the currency, but economic uncertainty continues to push the kip lower.

Sierra Leonean Leone is an African currency that is highly affected by poverty. The country has witnessed conflicts and a heinous civil war including a history of scandals and corruption. All these led to a downfall of the country’s economy and value. The Ebola infection is an additional and constant factor that affects the country’s population and further consumes financial aid.

The country’s reliance on foreign aid and a lack of economic diversification have kept the leone weak. Political instability and poor governance have further worsened the situation.

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Despite being Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia has been struggling with inflation and fears of a potential recession. In the last seven years, the currency has not improved. Their weak currency has made imports more expensive, while high government debt has added pressure on the rupiah.

Factors contributing to its devaluation include its decreasing foreign exchange reserves. Indonesia is heavily dependent on the export market, and with the fall in the cost of commodities, the currency value has further devalued.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Uzbekistan has significant oil and gas reserves and the government has employed many means to improve the country’s economy, but none of them have proved successful. Its currency remains weak due to high unemployment, inflation, and corruption.

The country’s slow economic reforms have also deterred investors, while trade restrictions and an inefficient banking system have further devalued the som. The COVID-19 pandemic also impacted the country’s economy negatively.

Guinea’s currency has struggled since the conflicts of the 1990s. Political instability, military unrest, and high inflation have kept the Guinean franc weak. Although the government has made some efforts to stabilize the economy, ongoing corruption and poor infrastructure remain significant challenges.

The Paraguayan guarani has long suffered from high inflation, unemployment, and corruption. The presence of counterfeit currency in circulation has further eroded trust in the guarani. Paraguay’s economy has been slow to grow, and without strong economic reforms, its currency remains one of the weakest in the world.

Madagascar’s economy has been heavily impacted by political instability, corruption, and natural disasters. The Malagasy ariary has lost significant value due to inflation and a lack of foreign investment. The country’s struggling economy and poor infrastructure have made recovery difficult, keeping its currency weak.

When a currency weakens, it can significantly impact a country’s economy.

10 worthless currencies in 2025 - Two African countries are on this list

<h2>The modern energy drink industry began gaining traction in the late 1980s, with the launch of Red Bull in Austria in 1987.</h2>

By the early 2000s, brands like Monster, Rockstar, and 5-Hour Energy entered the scene, further fueling the popularity of these beverages. Today, energy drinks remain a multi-billion-dollar industry, with evolving variations but despite their widespread use, concerns about their health effects particularly on kidney function have continued to grow.

Energy drinks promise an instant surge of energy and the caffeine and stimulants found in them help improve concentration, making them appealing to those needing mental alertness. Beyond functionality, energy drinks have also become a lifestyle choice, often marketed as symbols of adventure, excitement, and social connection.

However, what many people don’t realize is that these beverages can have serious consequences for kidney health. Energy drinks are packed with high levels of caffeine, sugar, sodium, and other stimulants so they can contribute to dehydration, kidney stones, and even chronic kidney disease.

A literature review from South Dakota State University found that energy drinks significantly increase the risk of kidney stones due to their high content of fructose, caffeine, and sodium. This is how:

<h3>1. Excessive Caffeine Overworks the Kidneys</h3>

Energy drinks typically contain two to three times more caffeine than a regular cup of coffee. While caffeine can provide a temporary energy boost, it also acts as a stimulant that raises blood pressure.

According to Dr. Sujeeth Reddy, Senior Consultant Nephrologist at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, excessive caffeine intake forces the kidneys to work harder, increasing strain, particularly for people with hypertension or pre-existing kidney conditions. Over time, this extra workload can lead to chronic kidney failure.

<h3>2. Energy Drinks Act as Diuretics, Leading to Dehydration</h3>

One of the biggest dangers of energy drinks is their diuretic effect, which increases urine production and fluid loss. Dehydration reduces the kidneys' ability to filter waste and regulate electrolytes, which can eventually lead to kidney damage. When the body lacks enough water, urine becomes more concentrated, increasing the risk of kidney stones and other kidney-related issues.

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<h3>3. Energy Drinks and Kidney Stones</h3>

Energy drinks contain several ingredients that contribute to the formation of kidney stones, including: <ul><li>Fructose and High-Fructose Corn Syrup – These sugars lower urine pH, making it more acidic. Acidic urine promotes the formation of uric acid stones, especially in people with insulin resistance or diabetes. </li><li>Caffeine – Excess caffeine leads to dehydration, which increases oxalate and uric acid levels in urine, making stone formation more likely. </li><li>Sodium – Many energy drinks contain high amounts of sodium, which forces the kidneys to excrete more calcium, increasing the risk of calcium oxalate stones.</li></ul>

<h3>Hidden Ingredients In Energy Drinks That Are Harming Your Kidneys</h3>

Beyond caffeine and sugar, energy drinks contain additional ingredients that can negatively impact kidney function: <ul><li>Guarana – A natural stimulant that contains twice as much caffeine as coffee beans, amplifying the negative effects of caffeine on the kidneys. </li><li>Artificial Sweeteners – Many energy drinks use artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose, which have been linked to kidney function decline over time. </li><li>Vitamin B6 and B12 – While these vitamins are essential in small amounts, energy drinks often contain excessive levels—up to 600% or even 10,000% of the recommended daily intake. High levels of vitamin B6 can reduce oxalate excretion, increasing the risk of kidney stones.</li></ul>

Regular consumption of energy drinks doesn’t just increase the risk of kidney stones, it can also lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Dehydration, high caffeine intake, and excess sodium create long-term stress on the kidneys, gradually impairing their ability to function properly.

If you want to protect your kidneys, consider healthier alternatives such as drinking water, herbal teas, or eating nutrient-rich foods for a natural energy boost. Your kidneys work hard to keep your body healthy, don’t overburden them with energy drinks!

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Hidden ingredients in energy drinks that are harming your kidneys [Healthline]

While energy drinks may offer a temporary energy boost, the long-term effects on kidney health are concerning.

Hidden ingredients in energy drinks that are harming your kidneys

<h2>Every country, regardless of its size, population, or economic power, has its own characteristics, resources, and potential for growth.</h2>

However, some countries or micro-nations are struggling in various ways. These countries are unknown to many and if they were to disappear, their absence would likely go unnoticed.

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This is a tiny island country in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a population of merely 12,000 people. They have only one source of income; they operate a controversial detention centre for Australia, referred to as “Australia’s Guantanamo Bay”. Nauru was once a source of great wealth, but bad choices caused it to crash.

Phosphate, used as a fertilizer and a key component in explosives, had been discovered on Nauru in the early 1900s and Nauru once enjoyed wealth thanks to phosphate mining. However, the country’s story took a drastic turn when bad investments, a failed airline, and environmental destruction took their toll.

By the early 2000s, Nauru was facing bankruptcy as there was no more phosphate. The environmental impact of mining left much of the land inhospitable, and the country now faces the threat of rising sea levels, and only one-fourth of the citizens could possibly afford a ticket to escape.

Tristan da Cunha is known as the most remote inhabited place on Earth. It is part of the British Overseas Territories though they largely run as a de-facto autonomous country. With a population of about 300, the island's only industry is crayfish processing, and its agriculture is limited to potato farming.

This tiny island has no airport, and its harsh volcanic terrain makes it difficult to develop further. The islanders live a quiet life with limited access to modern amenities. There’s a school for children, a tiny hospital, two churches, a shop, a swimming pool, and a post office. You get four hours of very expensive Internet a day, and two hours of FM radio.

In 1961, there was a volcanic eruption in Tristan. Every last Tristanian was moved to Calshot, UK. But, as soon as the volcano stabilised, all of them came back to their quiet life of potato farming and nothing else. Tristan has nothing. Tristan wants nothing. Tristan has nothing to offer. They just want to be left alone.

Sealand is a self-declared micronation located on an old World War II sea fort. It has a population of just 27 people and boasts a GDP of $600,000. Despite having no official recognition from other countries, Sealand has its own flag, government, and even a football team. Its claim to fame lies in its eccentricity, such as offering knightships for £99.99 and other quirks of its self-proclaimed sovereignty.

The Pitcairn Islands, which include four islands in the South Pacific, are home to just about 50 people. Most of them are descendants of the infamous Fletcher Christian, of Mutiny on the Bounty fame. With no airport and limited resources, the islands have little economic activity besides tourism and the sale of stamps and coins.

As to their religion, they are all Christians, of the Seventh-Day Adventist variety. A large number of them have been convicted of sexual assault, and confined to a prison that they had to build themselves. The Supreme Court has three judges, all of whom live in New Zealand.

There is no airport, and until recently, the only telephone link was a manual telephone exchange connected via satellite, and there is no internet. Pitcairn Islands is too small to be granted independence and too remote to be made part of a neighbouring country.

Venezuela, once one of the wealthiest countries in Latin America due to its vast oil reserves, has experienced a dramatic fall from grace. Poor governance, over-reliance on oil, and economic mismanagement during the tenure of Hugo Chávez and his successor Nicolás Maduro led the country into an economic crisis.

Almost every household was pushed to do jobs in oil companies and they imported everything from other countries and did nothing to build any infrastructure. When oil prices hit $45 around 2014, it was game over. They couldn't survive. Now, Venezuela is suffering hyperinflation.

Ultimately, it's human beings who make a place useless or prosperous. These countries are “useless” because the people who live there made choices and built cultures that defined their fate.

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See the 5 most 'useless' countries in the World

These countries are unknown to many and if they were to disappear, their absence would likely go unnoticed.

<h2>Mangoes are packed with essential nutrients that offer numerous health benefits but just how good are mangoes for men?</h2>

In some parts of the world, mango is called the “king of fruits” and they play a vital role in improving overall health and well-being. Mangoes are one of the sweetest fruits and are mostly only available at the end of the dry season.

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Agnes Isoje

Articles written by the author

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