26.8 C
Lagos
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Home Blog Page 403

Nollywood actress Ruby Akubueze wants to feature in a Marvel project

0
2 mn read

Ruby Akubueze is interested in working on “any Marvel series.

Akubueze had her breakout role as Frances in the television drama series, MTV Shuga, which follows the lives of young people as they encounter love, lust, and the challenges of growing up.

In an interview with Pulse Nigeria, Akubueze was asked about her dream project and she has her sights set on the international scene. “I’ll pick any Marvel series, I have always wanted to be on a Marvel project,” she said.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Ijogbon adventure story grips audience has it becomes top 10 in 10 countries [Instagram/kapmotionpictures]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Ijogbon adventure story grips audience has it becomes top 10 in 10 countries [Instagram/kapmotionpictures]” width=”790″ height=”639″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/0ZxktkpTURBXy9mNWU4NTdiNmJlZTc5NGNmMGNkYTgxNTZjMjBiYjZlZS5wbmeRlQLNAxbNAn_Cww” />

The actress is popularly known for her role as Oby in the 2023 Netflix movie, Ijogbon, directed by Kunle Afolayan, which follows the story of four teenagers who stumble upon a pouch of diamonds and attract the wrong attention.

She said the movie has to be the most challenging role she has ever faced as an actress.

“It was a lot emotionally, physically, and given the time of the year we were filming, it was challenging because the sun was always scorching and we were always filming outdoors.

“We had like a few scenes indoors, and every day you wake up, we are filming outside and next thing is you would hear the director say, ‘Oh, so you guys are going to start running from here to here,’ and I am like ‘Oh my gosh, again!’

“Like we were always running, it was challenging but it was the most fun I had,” she said.

The 26-year-old also shared her admiration for the local and international actresses who have inspired her career journey. She named Ireti Doyle and Angelina Jolie as her favourites.

In the Nigerian space, I will say Ireti Doyle. I watched her growing up in Fuji House of Commotion, and she was like a family fav and there is Angela Jolie in the foreign space,” she said.

GWR: Ghana’s 1-year-old Ace Liam is Guinness World Records’ Youngest Male Artist

2 mn read

Ghana has a new world record holder in the person of Ace Liam, a one-year-old artist.

The child attempted the Guinness World Records in Accra between January 18 and January 20, 2024.

This was announced at a press conference on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

“We are thrilled to inform you that your application for Youngest Artist (male) has been successful and you are now the Guinness World Records Title Holder!” the confirmation letter read.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Ghana's 1-year-old Ace Liam is Guinness World Records' Youngest Male Artist" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Ghana’s 1-year-old Ace Liam is Guinness World Records’ Youngest Male Artist” width=”790″ height=”1054″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/5XjktkqTURBXy8wNjRlZWM0NGIyYmFlZWJiZjRmNWJlNTdiYzJmZDczNS5qcGVnkZUCzQMWzQQewsM” />

Ace Liam’s mother, Chantelle Eghan, expressed gratitude to Ghanaians for the support during her son’s record attempt.

Little Liam started his bid for the World Record on Friday, December 18 at the Museum of Science and Technology, where Ace-Liam showcased his artistic prowess.

In an interview with Accra-based Joy News, the proud mother discussed her son’s artistic journey. “He has been painting since he was six months old, and this will be his 13th painting. The behind-the-scenes of his creative process will be on his social media handles,” she shared.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Ghana's 1-year-old Ace Liam is Guinness World Records' Youngest Male Artist" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Ghana’s 1-year-old Ace Liam is Guinness World Records’ Youngest Male Artist” width=”668″ height=”375″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/7yLktkpTURBXy83YzM2NWQzN2FkNDA0Yjg4OWNkZjVlNjk5N2M5ODgxYi5wbmeRlQLNApzNAXfCww” />

Explaining the requirements for the Guinness World Record attempt, she stated, “For his category, they provide specific criteria. He needs to participate in an exhibition, make sales, and provide evidence of the event, including media coverage and social media handles. If he doesn’t sell the artwork, he won’t qualify.”

Little Liam began painting at the tender age of six months.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Ghana's 1-year-old Ace Liam is Guinness World Records' Youngest Male Artist" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Ghana’s 1-year-old Ace Liam is Guinness World Records’ Youngest Male Artist” width=”521″ height=”424″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/6onktkqTURBXy85NmM5YzkwMjM5M2RhMWIzMTY2ZDEyNTI3MWYxMWNjMS5qcGVnkZUCzQIJzQGowsM” />

The previous record holder, Dante Lamb, achieved the feat at the age of three in 2003

Portable and 4 other celebrities who have been arrested in 2024

2 mn read

Here is a look at five Nigerian celebrities and why they were arrested this year.

Nigerian singer, Portable, has made headlines after videos of him being arrested by the police went viral.

Unfortunately, he is not the only star who has had a run-in with the law within the first five months of this year.

Here is a rundown of why they were arrested and what happened after:

Habeeb Okikiola aka Portable has become a trending topic after being arrested on May 14, 2024, over a debt he incurred after buying a ₦27 million G-Wagon from a car dealer.

Videos circulating across social media platforms show Portable being spoken to by policemen who read his warrant out to him, right before he swiftly leapt over a gate and ran away.

The second video showed the moment he resisted after being apprehended by the policemen who carried him to the patrol vehicle.

The reports were confirmed by the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, who said, “Yes, Portable has been arrested. He bought G-Wagon for ₦27m, paid ₦13m, and refused to pay the rest, claiming the vehicle was bad. We arrested him today.”

Singer Cynthia Morgan was also arrested on May 13 and has been accused of stalking and harassing the Benin crown prince, Ezelekhae Ewuare.

According to the Punch Newspaper, Cynthia has 10 allegations levied against her including defamation, cyberstalking, harassment, threats, and invasion of privacy.

Popular transgender socialite Idris Okuneye, fondly known as Bobrisky, was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on April 3, for abusing the naira.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, aka Bobrisky [EFCC]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, aka Bobrisky [EFCC]” width=”769″ height=”960″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/mKGktkpTURBXy83ZTMyMTNlYjY2ZjU1ZGExOWEyNGRkY2VkYWJlMDYyMy5qcGeRlQLNAwHNA8DCww” />

According to the anti-graft agency, Bobrisky was arrested for spraying new naira notes at four separate events over the past year. The influencer pleaded guilty in court and was sentenced to six months in prison without the option of paying a fine.

In April, popular influencer, Cubana Chief Priest was also arrested by the EFCC for abusing the naira. However, unlike Bobrisky, he pleaded “not guilty” when facing the court and was granted ₦10 million bail with two sureties in like sum.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Cubana Chief Priest [Leadership/X]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Cubana Chief Priest [Leadership/X]” width=”790″ height=”445″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/q49ktkpTURBXy8yY2U3MTkwMjc3NzAzMTU4MDUxMTcwMTQ1NzYwNWQ0OC5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAb3Cww” />

When proceedings resumed on the case on May 2, his lawyer, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), informed the court that his client had opted to settle the case out of court.

Popular Kannywod actress, Amal Umar, was also arrested this year. According to the BBC in March, Police claimed Umar gave an officer ₦250,000 (£137, $175) to have her impounded car released.

Her lawyer, Adama Usman, denied the charges stating that the policeman was the one who asked her for money in exchange for her car.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Nigerian actress Amal Umar [BBC]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Nigerian actress Amal Umar [BBC]” width=”790″ height=”386″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/YrQktkpTURBXy82OWQyYjIxZmQ5NWI0YzViZTJkNTA4N2U1NTYyZmJlNy5wbmeRlQLNAxbNAYLCww” />

“She gave our officer ₦250,000 with a promise to bring more money,” Kano police spokesman, Bashir Muhammad, told the BBC.

Her lawyer said, “On this case of attempted bribery they are claiming, we are going to pursue it to the end because she was called to come and collect her car only for things to change.”

Umar was subsequently released on bail

5 popular Korean TV series stealing the hearts of Nigerians in 2024

3 mn read

Korean dramas capture Nigerians’ hearts with their captivating stories, talented actors, and unique blend of genres.

With their intriguing stories and distinctive mash-ups of genres, Korean TV shows have emerged as a prominent force.

It’s not just the stories that captivate Nigerians. Korean shows boast a powerhouse of talented actors who bring these characters to life with remarkable authenticity.

Here’s a list of Korean series that are particularly popular among Nigerians in 2024:

SynopsisThe series depicts the crisis and rekindling of love between Hong Hae-in, played by Kim Ji-won, a third-generation chaebol heiress of Queens Group, and Baek Hyun-woo, played by Kim Soo-hyun, the son of farmers from Yongdu-ri, and their three years of marriage.

DirectorJang Young-woo and Kim Hee-won

CastPark Sung-hoon, Kwak Dong-yeon, and Lee Joo-bin

Where to watchNetflix

SynopsisThe series begins in 2023 when Kang Ji-won played by Park Min-young, is terminally ill with gastric cancer. After catching her husband, Park Min-hwan played by Lee Yi-kyung, in bed with her best friend, Jeong Su-min, a scuffle ensues in which Ji-won is accidentally killed by Min-hwan.

Ji-won then awakens in the year 2013, having been sent back in time following the intervention of her late father’s spirit. As she relives her life with the same knowledge and information as in the previous timeline, she discovers that to live a better life, she must transfer her misfortune to others. She then resolves to have Su-min marry Min-hwan to exact revenge and escape her miserable fate.

DirectorPark Won-guk and Han Jin-seon

CastNa In-woo, Song Ha-yoon, and Lee Gi-kwang

Where to watchPrime Video

SynopsisIt is a romantic comedy series about the hate-turned-love relationship of Nam Ha-neul played by Park Shin-hye and Yeo Jeong-woo played by Park Hyung-sik, who had promising prospects in their careers, but fell into a slump due to different circumstances.

Ha-neul and Jeong-woo were high school rivals who despised each other and parted ways after high school. But when they are forced to quit their jobs as doctors, they end up living together at Ha-neul’s house.

DirectorHyun Jong Oh

CastYoon Park, Gong Seong-ha, and Oh Dong-min

Where to watchNetflix

SynopsisThe story follows Yeon Wol played by Hong Ye-ji, who hides her identity and becomes an assassin to avenge her family. Her mission is to assassinate the king but she falls into a trap set by an unknown person. She wakes up the next day with no memory of her past and is appointed as the crown prince’s concubine.

DirectorLee Jung-seob

CastPark Ji-hoon, Lee Joo-won, Hwang Hee, and Ji Woo

Where to watchViki

SynopsisThe series follows the story of Lee Tang played by Choi Woo-shik, who was discharged from the army six months ago, struggles with his life and dreams of visiting Canada. He works at a convenience store and relies heavily on his parents for support.

One night, he is assaulted by a customer, leading to a violent confrontation and the subsequent murder of the customer. Tang is guilt-ridden and prepares to turn himself in, but discovers his victim was a serial killer.

Dutiful detective Jang Nan-gam, remains uncooperative and keeps investigating. It is unclear if Nan-gam is onto him, but Tang continues to kill, revealing his hidden talent for accidentally offending evildoers.

The story explores the question of whether Tang is serving justice or evading it.

DirectorLee Chang-hee

CastSon Suk-ku, Lee Hee-Joon, Kim Yo-han, and Jung Yi-seo

Where to watchNetflix

I want to enjoy this week as much as possible – Hayes

0
3 mn read

Chelsea boss Emma Hayes wants to “enjoy this week as much as possible” as she prepares to bid farewell to the club.

The Blues face Tottenham in the Women’s Super League on Wednesday in a match you can watch live on BBC Four from 19:00 BST, before travelling to Old Trafford to play Manchester United in their season finale on Saturday.

Hayes’ side are second behind Manchester City but will head into the final day top of the WSL if they win their game in hand at Spurs.

“I’m going to enjoy being in this position,” Hayes said when asked about the emotion heading into her penultimate game in charge of the club where she has spent the last 12 years.

“You don’t often get into a position where you are competing for a title going into the last two games of a season. For those of us who have won titles, we know how hard it is.

“I’m happy to be in the position we’re in. I know we have two tough games but I’m looking forward to them.”

‘A week is a long time in football’

It wasn’t long ago that Chelsea were fighting on four fronts and hoping to win a WSL, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup quadruple.

But with disappointment and exits in all three cup competitions, winning silverware in her final campaign hinges on the league and a potential seventh domestic title.

“You can’t win everything all of the time,” said Hayes, who is leaving Chelsea to manage the United States women’s national team.

“But to be in a position to compete for our fifth title in five years, I’d like to see another team do that over the next five years. The reason I say that is nobody really understands how hard that is to keep winning.

“To be in a position to compete for that, that’s all I wanted the team to be in. I just want them to enjoy the next two games.”

Hayes previously said the WSL title race was “done” after her side suffered a shock 4-3 defeat by Liverpool.

But after Manchester City slipped up by losing 2-1 to Arsenal in their last game, just hours before Chelsea hammered Bristol City 8-0, Hayes said Gareth Taylor’s side “opened the door for us again”.

“If you ask Man City they know they were in a commanding position,” she added. “They just had to get a result at home and they didn’t. A week is a long time in football.”

‘I like that this game comes now’

Robert Vilahamn at WembleyIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Tottenham were beaten 4-0 by Manchester United in the Women’s FA Cup final on Sunday

Spurs boss Robert Vilahamn praised Hayes as a “a big role model for women’s football” when speaking in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

But there is no room for sentiment and, after a 4-0 defeat by Manchester United in Sunday’s FA Cup final, Vilahamn sees this as the perfect game for his players to bounce back in.

“I like that this game comes now,” he said. “I like that we can bounce back, hopefully play some really good football and make sure we finish in a good way.

“In one way it’s good that we get this game so close to the other game. Sometimes you want to play and see if you can get back on the tracks. It’s Chelsea and it’s a big game for us.”

Chelsea were 2-1 winners when the sides met in October’s reverse fixture and Vilahamn believes his side are closing the gap between the WSL’s top sides.

While Wednesday’s game will have no bearing on Spurs’ league position having already secured a sixth-placed finish, Vilahamn is hungry to beat his London rivals.

He said: “When we get a chance to play against Chelsea and we can play without any pressure, in one way because we already know where we are going to end up in the table, that makes me even more brave to play the way we want to play.

“But we want to win this game, we want to compete and do everything we can.”

PGA Tour & PIF merger could set up golf ‘for decades to come’ – Rahm

0
3 mn read

Jon Rahm says a merger between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) should not be rushed because it has the “opportunity to set golf up in a very positive way for decades to come”.

The Spaniard, 29, who has won two majors and was part of Europe’s victorious Ryder Cup team in 2023, joined the breakaway LIV tour in December.

Negotiations between the PGA Tour and the PIF, which funds LIV Golf, have been taking place for nearly 12 months in an attempt to end a split in the game.

Fifteen-time major champion Tiger Woods, who is personally involved in the process, accepts that while progress has been made there is a “long way to go” to reach an agreement.

However, Rahm says he is unperturbed at the length of negotiations given what is at stake for golf.

“Some decisions and negotiations can’t be taken lightly, so it should take quite a bit of time to get it done properly,” Rahm said.

“I wouldn’t want to see something rushed just to get a resolution. They should take their time to make this work properly.

“I don’t know if that takes one, two, three, five, six years. I don’t know what that might be like. But I don’t feel like I’m in any rush to make something happen today.

“You need the people that do this for a living that are far smarter than I am to get together to come together to be able to make it work.”

Woods, who is a member of the PGA Tour Policy Board transaction subcommitteem which is tasked with working out a deal, added: “We’re working on negotiations with PIF. It’s ongoing. It’s fluid. It changes day-to-day. Has there been progress? Yes. But it’s an ongoing negotiation so a lot of work ahead for all of us with this process.

“We’re making steps. It may not be giant steps, but we’re making steps. We’ve made some progress, yes, for sure, but there’s a long way to go still.”

The businessman who set up the deal, Jimmy Dunne, resigned from the PGA Policy Board on Monday saying “no meaningful progress” had been made, with multiple reports saying he was unhappy at the slow pace of talks, which have stretched well beyond last December’s original deadline.

Both Rahm and Woods were speaking as they prepare to compete in this week’s US PGA Championship, which starts on Thursday at the Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky.

Woods, 48, a four-time winner of the Wanamaker Trophy, also triumphed at Valhalla in 2000, on his way to becoming the only player in the modern era to hold all four major titles.

Woods hoping to overcome lack of sharpness

Tiger Woods drives the ballIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Tiger Woods shares the PGA Tour record of 82 career wins with Sam Snead

Woods, who remains the biggest draw in the game is likely to play to packed galleries when he gets under way at 13:04 BST in Thursday’s first round, alongside 2011 winner Keegan Bradley and Australia’s Adam Scott.

And while he finished last of the 60 players to make the cut at April’s Masters, he remains convinced he has another title in him despite having barely played any competitive golf over the last 12 months.

“I still feel that I can win golf tournaments. I still feel I can hit the shots and still feel like I still have my hand around the greens and I can putt,” Woods said.

“I just need to do it for all four days, not like I did at Augusta for only two.”

The American, whose schedule has been limited since he suffered a catalogue of serious injuries in a car crash in 2021, shares the all-time PGA Tour record of 82 career wins with Sam Snead.

However, expectations of an 83rd and 16th major title are sure to be tempered by his lack of sharpness and the physical demands he will have to overcome on a course measuring 7,609 yards.

“I don’t have a lot of competitive reps so I’m having to rely on my practice sessions and getting stuff done either at home or here on site. I need to be ready mentally and physically come Thursday,” he added.

“Getting around is more of the difficulty that I face day-to-day and the recovery of pushing myself either in practice or in competition days.

“This is a big golf course, and if you get in the rough here, things could get a little bit sore, but if I drive it well and do the things I need to do and what I did 24 years ago, hopefully it works.”

5 hidden health dangers of fruit juice that make it as harmful as soda

0
2 mn read

Fruit juice has become so popular these days, but do you know it is unhealthy?

We all should know how important it is to eat fruits, especially to maintain a balanced diet. Fruit provides necessary nutrients and lowers the risk of chronic diseases.

However, many people prefer fruit juice, thinking it is more healthy. Fruit juice, including 100% fruit juice, can have as much sugar as soda, and many juices contain added sugar and other additives.

What makes whole fruit preferable to fruit juice?

Juice has more concentrated sugar and calories than whole or chopped fruit. If you are drinking fruit juices without skin, pulp, or fibre, then you might as well be drinking soda since fibre helps slow down digestion, reduces blood sugar spikes, and promotes fullness, which is why people eat fruit.

Juicing diets often lead to a severe calorie deficit and fast weight loss, but this is difficult to sustain for the long term. Extreme juice cleanses can cause negative side effects like diarrhoea, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.

Juicing fruits rather than eating them whole doesn’t help your body absorb more nutrients. Juice diets can slow metabolism and lead to nutrient deficiencies.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="Dangers of juicing [selecthealth]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Dangers of juicing [selecthealth]” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/fEMktkpTURBXy84OTYwMzVjZWVjMmQwMTE1M2U0NjIzZDQ5ZTUxZDNiNS5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

Juice lacks the protein and healthy fats your body needs for overall health. Protein is crucial for muscle building and repair, while healthy fats provide sustained energy, hormone balance, and help absorb essential vitamins .

Juicing non-organic vegetables with fruits can lead to the consumption of other toxins, such as pesticides. Juicing with vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains can lead to kidney failure. This is because different research has shown it led to kidney problems.

Juice can be nutritionally balanced by adding protein and healthy fats like whey protein, almond milk, avocados, Greek yoghurt, and peanut butter. Also, make the fruit into a smoothie with your blender if the fruit isn’t your thing. This creates a tasty beverage that has fibre.

Aston Villa reach Champions League for first time

0
2 mn read

Aston Villa have qualified for the Champions League for the first time after top-four rivals Tottenham Hotspur lost to Manchester City on Tuesday.

Tottenham had been the only team who could have overtaken Villa into fourth before Tuesday, but are now five points behind Unai Emery’s side with one game remaining.

Villa have not reached Uefa’s premier club competition since it rebranded from the European Cup to the Champions League in 1991-92.

They last played in the European Cup 41 years ago in 1982-83 having won the competition the season before.

Villa did finish second and fourth in the Premier League in 1992-93 and 1995-96 respectively, but in both those seasons only first was good enough to reach the Champions League.

Celebrations at club awards night

Villa’s players and staff were holding their annual awards night at Villa Park on Tuesday night and celebrated as the result at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was confirmed.

The club posted photos on social media, external of Emery and the players cheering and spraying champagne.

“It’s a very special day,” Emery said. “It’s our dream, we started the season to be here. We’ve had injuries but the team was always focused. It’s fantastic. To play Champions League is the best.”

“Nobody expected us to be there but we believed in ourselves and believed in our dream,” wrote defender Lucas Digne on Instagram, external. “It was hard but the achievement is amazing.”

Centre-half Diego Carlos added, external: “After more than four decades we are back in the Champions League. We are experiencing a historic season! Up the Villa!”

Fans including the Prince of Wales, who was at Villa’s recent match against Olympiakos, also celebrated the news.

“We are Champions League!” he wrote on X, external. “A historic season and an amazing achievement. Thanks to Unai, the whole squad and everyone at Aston Villa. Can’t wait for next season.”

Emery turns Villa’s fortunes round

Aston Villa appointed manager Emery in October 2022 with the Villains 14th in the Premier League, three points from the relegation zone.

The Birmingham-based club had finished their previous two seasons in 14th and 17th and had been playing in the Championship just three years earlier in 2019.

But Emery has turned Villa’s fortunes round. Only Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal have collected more Premier League points than Villa since the Spaniard took charge.

And he is set to manage his sixth different club in the Champions League after Valencia, Spartak Moscow, Sevilla, Paris St-Germain and Villarreal.

10 skincare hacks for every skin type

0
3 mn read

These simple skincare hacks are easy to follow and work for all skin types.

Taking care of your skin is important because it’s the largest part of your body and it protects you from germs and the environment.

No matter what type of skin you have—oily, dry, combination, or sensitive—there are simple skincare hacks that can help you keep your skin looking and feeling great.

Here are ten easy skincare tips suitable for any skin type!

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Stay hydrated [iStock]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Stay hydrated [iStock]” width=”612″ height=”408″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/-NFktkpTURBXy9iMWNkNTg1ZmViNTJmOTgzMjE5ZmJlZTQyOGViMjg2ZC5qcGeRlQLNAmTNAZjCww” />

Drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your skin. Water helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside out, making it look healthier and more vibrant. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Wash your face daily" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Wash your face daily” width=”530″ height=”318″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/cMBktkqTURBXy9hZTFmN2ZhMmFlNGQ2YjRmYThiYjUxZDI3ODVjMzcxZS5qcGVnkZUCzQISzQE-wsM” />

Keeping your face clean is important, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Wash your face in the morning when you wake up and at night before going to bed to remove dirt and oil that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Use sunscreen" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Use sunscreen” width=”790″ height=”593″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/oSPktkuTURBXy8wMmFjMzA4OS0yNTE4LTRhZjktOTI3OC0zMmU4YWY0MDBhNWEuanBlZ5KVAwAAzQdczQWFlQLNAxbNAlHCww” />

Sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days at the beach; it’s a must-have for every day, even when it’s cloudy. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause ageing and skin cancer. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Moisturise your skin" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Moisturise your skin” width=”790″ height=”593″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/-7bktktTURBXy8zM2ZjYmUzMy03Mzk0LTRiMGUtODNlYS1hZmU1NzIzY2FiYWEucG5nkpUDAADNBvLNBTWVAs0DFs0CUcLD” />

Every skin type benefits from moisturising. If you have oily skin, choose a light, oil-free moisturiser. For dry skin, go for something richer. Moisturising helps to keep your skin’s barrier healthy, preventing dryness and irritation.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Getting a good sleep is great for your skin [NewsTrackLive]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Getting a good sleep is great for your skin [NewsTrackLive]” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/91xktkpTURBXy8xMmI4YTMwYjljNGEyOWViYjIxZGY1Nzg2NzJhMzkyOS5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

Sleep is when your skin repairs itself. Not getting enough sleep can lead to dark circles under your eyes and make your skin look dull. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to give your skin time to rejuvenate.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Exfoliate" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Exfoliate” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/V6HktkqTURBXy8xNTFmZTVmNjVlNTMxZjRjOGExZDg3ZmJjZDk0NTI0ZS5qcGVnkpUDAADNBlTNBDiVAs0DFs0CD8LD” />

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells that can make your skin look dull. Use a gentle exfoliator once a week to keep your skin smooth and clear. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate your skin.

Your hands touch many things during the day and can pick up a lot of dirt and germs. Try not to touch your face too much to avoid transferring these germs to your skin, which can cause breakouts.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="Use natural remedies" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Use natural remedies” width=”781″ height=”475″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/wQpktkqTURBXy83YjQ0YzJkZTc3YjVkOWRmMzBmZDZhNDY1NWM2NTFkMy5qcGVnkpUDAADNAwzNAduVAs0DDc0B28LD” />

Natural ingredients like honey, oatmeal, and aloe vera are great for your skin. Honey is antibacterial and moisturising, making it perfect for acne-prone skin. Oatmeal is soothing and can help calm sensitive or irritated skin. Aloe vera hydrates and heals dry or sunburned skin.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="Eat healthy [Health]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Eat healthy [Health]” width=”612″ height=”408″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/v05ktkpTURBXy84YjMzMWIxYWY3NTg4NzUzZjJlMDAzOWE4MWJkOGM3Yi5qcGeSlQMAAM0CZM0BmJUCzQJkzQGYwsM” />

What you eat affects your skin. Foods high in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, can help your skin look its best. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, are also great for maintaining healthy skin.

Always be gentle when you’re taking care of your skin. Avoid using hot water when washing your face because it can dry out your skin. When drying your face, pat it gently with a towel instead of rubbing.

Fernandes, Branthwaite, Wan-Bissaka, Frimpong, Guimaraes, Lukaku, Thuram

0
2 mn read

Bayern Munich are looking at a move for Manchester United’s 29-year-old Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes this summer. (Independent)

Several leading Bayern Munich players, including England striker Harry Kane, 30, want manager Thomas Tuchel to perform a U-turn on his decision to leave at the end of the season. (Abendzeitung – in German)

Manchester United are prepared to offer £55m for Everton’s 21-year-old English defender Jarrad Branthwaite. (Mail)

Manchester United will listen to offers for 28-year-old English defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka. (Sun)

Netherlands defender Jeremie Frimpong, 23, is leaning towards leaving Beyer Leverkusen in the summer. Real MadridManchester CityArsenal and Manchester United are keen to take advantage of a £35m release clause in his contract. (Bild – in German – subscription)

Arsenal and Manchester City have made contact with Newcastle United’s Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, 26, over a summer move. (Caughtoffside)

Chelsea will accept an offer in the region of £35m for 31-year-old Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku. (Football Insider)

Brentford manager Thomas Frank is a strong contender for the Manchester United job should they sack Erik ten Hag. (Telegraph – subscription)

Manchester United have contacted Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna, who has worked as a coach at Old Trafford. (Star)

Napoli have offered former Chelsea and Tottenham manager Antonio Conte £5.6m a year to become their next coach, but AC Milan have cooled their interest. (Sport Italia via Football Italia)

AC Milan want Tottenham’s 25-year-old Brazil defender Emerson Royal. (Fabrizio Romano)

Manchester United are aiming to beat Newcastle United to the signing of Fulham’s 26-year-old English defender Tosin Adarabioyo. (Talksport)

Liverpool have been offered the chance to sign Nice and France midfielder Khephren Thuram, 23, for £13m this summer. (Mirror)

Feyenoord boss Arne Slot is planning to make assistant manager Sipke Hulshoff the first appointment to his backroom staff at Liverpool when he succeeds Jurgen Klopp. (ESPN)

Wolves are expected to offer manager Gary O’Neil a new three-year contract. (i – subscription)

Juventus want to part ways with manager Massimiliano Allegri at the end of the season. (Rudy Galetti)

Aston Villa are keen to sign 21-year-old Spanish midfielder Gabri Veiga from Al-Ahli after he indicated he wants to return to Europe in the summer. (Givemesport)

5 edible art installations that will blow your mind

0
2 mn read

Here, we explore five of the most stunning and creative edible art installations from around the world that stand out for their innovation and beauty:

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="The Underwater Labyrinth [Artsy]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”The Underwater Labyrinth [Artsy]” width=”275″ height=”183″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/PmwktkqTURBXy84ZTRiZjMyZTU0N2NkNmUzYzBhYTg0ZjI0ZWQ4Nzg0NC5qcGVnkZUCzQETzLfCww” />

Singapore-based chef and artist Janice Wong has been at the forefront of the edible art movement. One of her most remarkable installations is the “Underwater Labyrinth,” created for the Russia-Singapore Business Forum. This installation used 1,100 kg of isomalt sugar to craft a mesmerising seascape of edible “corals,” complemented by bonito macarons, wakame truffles, and seaweed marshmallows, creating an immersive underwater experience​​.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="Las Bolos de Costa Rica [KatherineMaginnis]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Las Bolos de Costa Rica [KatherineMaginnis]” width=”275″ height=”183″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/KjGktkqTURBXy8xOTcwNjQ0NjA1MmM0MGY0ZTFiODY2ZjJlZWQ1ODdmZC5qcGVnkZUCzQETzLfCww” />

Tom Wolfe, a pioneer in the field of food art, created “Las Bolos de Costa Rica” as a stunning tribute to the megalithic stone spheres found in Costa Rica. By using chocolate, sponge cake, fresh mint, and gold leaf, he designed an edible landscape that not only represented the region’s topography but also engaged the senses with its detailed craftsmanship.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="Marshmallow Ceiling [Facebook]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Marshmallow Ceiling [Facebook]” width=”225″ height=”225″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/48cktkqTURBXy82MjljNjA0NGVlNGE5OGE3OTIyNmFhYjBjODljZWYyNC5qcGVnkZUCzOHM4cLD” />

Another inventive installation by Janice Wong is her “Marshmallow Ceiling,” where visitors could pluck bergamot and seaweed-flavored marshmallows from a ceiling installation, making it a playful and interactive art piece​.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="Eggs in sand [TomWolfeProduktion]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Eggs in sand [TomWolfeProduktion]” width=”624″ height=”592″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/0koktkpTURBXy8xMWU4MDc0ODNhMWI4NmE0Y2FkNjUzMjExNmVkYjIxMi5qcGeSlQMAAM0CcM0CUJUCzQJwzQJQwsM” />

This installation evokes a surreal seascape. It features a beach scene crafted from sugar and pannacotta – a luxurious Italian custard. Nestled within this sugary landscape lie “eggs” – not your average breakfast kind. These “eggs” are actually pannacotta creations, mimicking the smooth texture and pale colour of real eggs. Seashells scattered around complete the illusion.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData aligncenter" title="Gravity-defying cakes [DailyMail]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Gravity-defying cakes [DailyMail]” width=”790″ height=”475″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/5b4ktkpTURBXy9iOWEzMzY3MmVmMmE3MmNmYWEzNTE0ZGE3YmY1OGVmZC5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAdvCww” />

Edible artistry also extends to cakes, with gravity-defying cakes being particularly impressive. It uses hidden supports to create cakes that seem to defy the laws of physics. These cakes can be designed to look like they are pouring or even floating, adding a magical element to any celebration​.

 

Each of these installations and creations not only showcases the talent and creativity of their makers but also pushes the boundaries of what food can represent in art.

McIlroy files for divorce in week of US PGA Championship

0
2 mn read

Rory McIlroy has filed for divorce from his wife Erica in the week of the US PGA Championship in Kentucky.

Court records show the Northern Irishman submitted a “petition for dissolution of marriage” in Palm Beach County in Florida on Monday.

They married in 2017 and have one child together, Poppy Kennedy McIlroy, who was born in 2020.

A spokesperson for the golfer confirmed the news and “stressed Rory’s desire to ensure this difficult time is as respectful and amicable as possible”.

The pair met in 2012 when Erica was working for the PGA of America at the Ryder Cup and McIlroy credited her with helping him get a police escort to the course after misreading his tee time for the Sunday singles.

McIlroy made it to the course with just minutes to spare and went on to beat Keegan Bradley as Europe pulled off the ‘Miracle at Medinah’ by recovering from 10-6 behind to retain the trophy.

McIlroy, 35, filed for divorce the day after winning the Wells Fargo Championship for the fourth time at Quail Hollow.

The world number two is scheduled to speak to the media at 18:00 BST on Wednesday at Valhalla as he prepares for the second men’s major of the year, which starts on Thursday.

He won his fourth and last major to date at the Louisville course in 2014.

Analysis from BBC golf correspondent Iain Carter:

This news will shock many observers of the game, given the way that McIlroy has made a priority of family life since marrying Erica seven years ago.

Only recently he talked about how his perspective had altered from the days prior to his marriage. “I lived and died by every result,” he said. “It’s a little different today where I’m married, have a child and after the round you’re just a father.”

From a golfing perspective the 35-year-old has previously shown that he is able to prosper during difficult times in his personal life. In 2014 he split with then fiancee Caroline Wozniacki and in the same week won the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.

McIlroy then embarked on his most successful summer winning The Open and US PGA Championship.

Only last Sunday he completed a stunning victory at the Wells Fargo Championship a day before submitting his divorce papers. He won, playing alongside Shane Lowry, at the Zurich Classic in his previous outing earlier this month.

McIlroy has been seen on the practice range on Tuesday as he prepares to try and land his fifth major title.

De Zerbi ‘speaks with his heart on his sleeve’

0
6 mn read

“If that coffee machine was not working properly, I genuinely wouldn’t be surprised to see it on the lawn.”

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber is talking about his charismatic, perfectionist and coveted manager Roberto de Zerbi.

Outward assessments of the Italian can differ from the experience of those who work most closely with him.

What is clear is that De Zerbi has high standards and sets high targets. He doesn’t respond well to failure.

“We have learned what he says externally is a little bit misunderstood. He speaks with his heart on his sleeve.”

You get the strong sense Brighton are bored with the debate around De Zerbi’s future and would prefer to focus on other things.

That is understandable. But in an extended BBC Sport interview with Barber, one of those most forward-thinking Premier League executives, De Zerbi has to feature prominently, given speculation about the Italian’s future and links with some of the top managerial vacancies around Europe.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber, left, and owner Tony Bloom, right.IMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber and owner Tony Bloom

‘We can’t control clubs coming in for De Zerbi’

Brighton enter the final week of what has been both a historic and challenging campaign with a realistic shot at finishing ninth, which would be their second-highest placing and second-highest top flight points tally. De Zerbi was also responsible for the best last season.

Yet for the second half of the campaign De Zerbi has behaved as though he has had enough of the ‘Brighton model’ and that he resents the restrictions imposed by it.

Barber does not offer clarity over the De Zerbi’s future. But he does confirm conversations have always been honest and open.

“Privately, Roberto is quiet, calm, reasonable and sensible,” says Barber. “He understands what our limitations are. Behind the scenes, the model is very well known to him.

“He has got two more years to go. My understanding is that he is happy. He likes the club. He likes this group of players a lot. He knows he has a good owner. He knows he has good facilities. He knows it is a club that has a particular model and we won’t break it for anyone. Those are consistent. He also knows he can see me or Tony (owner Tony Bloom) at any time. There are no surprises.

“What we can’t control is a club anywhere in the world coming in and making an approach for him. But we knew that with Graham Potter, and Chris Hughton, who did a great job for us. We are very cognisant of that happening to us but we have a plan for all those eventualities.”

The Brighton model and a lengthy injury list

In an era of over-spending, Brighton are viewed as the gold standard for how to run a club properly.

They do owe Bloom £373m and paid their owner £36m out of a club record £122.8m profit announced last month. But Barber points out a large part of that debt was because of construction of the Amex Stadium.

The stadium’s capacity can be increased beyond its current 31,876, but “by hundreds not thousands”, says Barber. A new fan zone is intended to keep people in the stadium vicinity longer, increasing spend and also taking some of the pressure off rail services that take supporters to and from the out-of-town venue.

But, for funding purposes, Brighton remain wedded to their model, which Barber has committed to with a new contract to 2030.

The philosophy is theoretically simple: scour the world for talent, which is recruited, honed and sold on for a vast profit. Think Moises Caicedo, signed as an 18-year-old from Ecuador for £4.5m, loaned to Belgian club Beerschot, then sold to Chelsea for £115m two years after his arrival.

However, Southampton and Leicester have been lauded in the past for their recruitment model. Both spent this season in the Championship when it went wrong.

Something as unpredictable as a crippling injury list – Brighton have lost Solly March, Joao Pedro, Kaoru Mitoma and Billy Gimour for long periods – can also send a season spiralling into freefall.

“Losing Caicedo and (Alex) Mac Allister, we knew it would be very difficult to replace them like for like overnight,” says Barber. “What we couldn’t foresee was the number of injuries to critical players at critical periods in the season.

“What Roberto has done to keep us in the top 10 and the last 16 of the two biggest knockout competitions has been remarkable. I don’t think he has got half as much praise as he deserves for that achievement alone.”

‘Chelsea have taken a lot of our good people’

For a time this season, when Brighton won twice and lost seven in 12 games over a two-month period to the end of April, it seemed cracks were appearing in a structure that has not only lost key players, but also manager Potter and key recruitment personnel Paul Winstanley and Sam Jewell to Chelsea.

“We have lost good people – and Chelsea have taken a lot of them,” says Barber.

“But they are taking the hose not the water supply. The water supply is Tony and the incredible data we use.

“We work very hard on succession planning. It is one of the things I am obsessive about. I try every day to think about what would happen if we were to lose one of our top 20-25 people, on and off the field. Not players – staff. Who would be the obvious replacement and where are they? Are they ready to step up?

“Player recruitment is not a perfect science. We have a ‘twin track’ of investing a lot of money in our academy to find players on our own doorstep and finding talent from parts of the world others are not even looking in, let alone recruiting from. It is that part which gives us confidence.”

Brighton fans at the Amex StadiumIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Brighton fans at the Amex Stadium

The new ‘Amex generation’ of fans

Brighton’s back story is known to most football lovers. But their history of playing in Gillingham and nearly falling out of the league is lost on what are viewed as ‘the Amex generation’, younger fans who started following the club around the time they moved into their new stadium and know only good times.

Bloom explains: “When I arrived at Brighton in 2012, I would drive along the sea front and see Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool shirts. Now when you drive along the same stretch, almost without exception, you see kids in Brighton shirts.”

For them, this season, despite a European campaign most fans never remotely thought possible, might be viewed as average. Historically, it is anything but.

“I can understand why some people would say it has been an OK but not great season,” says Barber. “But it is only 11 seasons out of 123 that the club has even been in the top flight, let alone the top 10. It is an incredible time for the club and an incredible period for the fans.”

Barber on ‘complex concept’ of EFL deal

Which brings us to a major bone of contention for some.

How can Brighton, with their historical background in the EFL, be resistant to the ‘New Deal’ for EFL clubs, the proposed financial handout which the Premier League has put on hold?

“We understand why the EFL is concerned,” says Barber. “We understand why the government are concerned. But we want to be sure what we do is fair for everyone.

“There are clubs in the leagues below us who have owners who are wealthier than ours. The concept of working really hard and investing in Brighton’s case, over 26 or 27 years, to go from the basement of the Football League to a top-six position in the Premier League to create a relative amount of success for ourselves… To suddenly have to hand over the proceeds of that success to somebody without knowing how they will use the additional money, potentially on players with the aim of replacing us, is a complex concept.

“We need to fully understand the consequences.

“That is not to say, in our case, we have forgotten where we have come from, because we certainly haven’t, and it doesn’t mean to say we don’t consider the pyramid to be sacrosanct, because we do.

“We want the whole game to feel sustainable for every community in the country. But we can’t do that if it is going to damage our progress and our continuity and our stability. That would be bizarre.”

How to make a healthy yoghurt bowl for weight loss

0
3 mn read

Make yoghurt bowls a regular part of your weight-loss plan.

We’ve all been there. You look in the mirror and decide it’s time to make a change. You want to feel healthier, have more energy, and maybe even fit into that favourite pair of jeans again.

But then the struggle begins. Diets seem restrictive, bland, and leave you feeling hangry (hungry and angry!). But did you know there are ways to lose weight that are both delicious and sustainable?

The yoghurt bowl is both healthy and delicious, and it can help you in your weight loss journey.

Yoghurt bowls offer a perfect combination of nutrients that can support your weight loss journey. Here’s why:

  • Greek yoghurt, a popular base for yoghurt bowls, is packed with protein. Protein keeps you feeling fuller for longer, reducing cravings and helping you manage portion sizes.
<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Greek yoghurt [BBCGoodFood]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Greek yoghurt [BBCGoodFood]” width=”235″ height=”214″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/EU-ktkqTURBXy9kNjhiM2Q1MDM3NzQ0M2Q0MGMxNzZiYmU1NzMyMzkwMi5qcGVnkZUCzOvM1sLD” />

  • Many yoghurts contain live and active cultures, also known as probiotics. These friendly bacteria can support gut health, which plays a role in weight management.
  • Adding fruits, nuts, and seeds to your yoghurt bowl can boost your fibre intake. Fibre keeps you feeling satisfied and can help regulate digestion, both essential for weight loss.
  • Compared to sugary cereals or pastries, yoghurt bowls are generally lower in calories. This calorie deficit helps your body burn stored fat for energy, aiding weight loss.
  • The beauty of yoghurt bowls is their endless variety! You can tailor them to your taste preferences and dietary needs, keeping things interesting and preventing you from getting bored.
<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Yoghurt bowls variety [TheCleanEating]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Yoghurt bowls variety [TheCleanEating]” width=”225″ height=”225″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/OD1ktkqTURBXy8zNDI0ZmJmMjk5YzUzMDk1NTA3YmNmNjljNzU3Nzg2Mi5qcGVnkZUCzOHM4cLD” />

Now that you know why yoghurt bowls are a champion for weight loss, let’s get creative and build your perfect bowl! Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

1. The yoghurt base

  • Choose plain Greek yoghurt – it’s lower in sugar than flavoured varieties and gives you more control over the sweetness.
  • Opt for low-fat or nonfat Greek yoghurt – these versions are still high in protein but lower in calories.
  • Consider portion size – a ½ cup to 1 cup serving of yoghurt is a good starting point.

2. The fruits

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Fruit options [BBCGoodFood]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Fruit options [BBCGoodFood]” width=”440″ height=”400″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/p95ktkpTURBXy9kOTBlNGEyMWM3NzJlMGRlMDNjMGZlYmMyZTUyZGM2MS5qcGeRlQLNAbjNAZDCww” />

  • Load up on fruits for sweetness, vitamins, and fibre. Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries) are low in calories and high in antioxidants.
  • Sliced bananas or chopped apples are classic choices, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other fruits like mango, pineapple, or kiwi.
  • Keep portion size in mind – aim for ½ cup to 1 cup of fruit to avoid adding too much sugar.

3. The nuts

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Nuts option [Quora]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Nuts option [Quora]” width=”602″ height=”401″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/glKktkqTURBXy9mMTA3YmU1NzQ5Mjc0YzM2NjQ2ODcwMGQ0OGZmZTI1MC5qcGVnkZUCzQJazQGRwsM” />

  • Top your yoghurt bowl with nuts and seeds for a satisfying crunch and extra protein and healthy fats.
  • Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are all excellent choices.
  • A sprinkle of granola can add some texture, but go easy – granola can be high in calories. A tablespoon or two is enough.

4. Sweet touches (optional)

  • If you crave a little sweetness, drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top. However, remember, these are added sugars, so use them sparingly.
  • A sprinkle of cinnamon adds a warming spice and a touch of sweetness without adding calories.
  1. In a bowl, scoop your desired amount of Greek yoghurt.
  2. Wash and chop your fruits, then add them to the yoghurt.
  3. Sprinkle your chosen nuts and seeds for some crunch.
  4. If desired, drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup, or sprinkle some cinnamon on top.
  5. Enjoy your delicious and healthy weight-loss creation.
<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Enjoy your delicious yoghurt bowl [TheBalancedNutrition]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Enjoy your delicious yoghurt bowl [TheBalancedNutrition]” width=”512″ height=”333″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/XXiktkpTURBXy8xNDk5Yzk5ZmVkOGQ5NTVlYzA3NTY4YWE4NjI4ODdkMi5qcGeRlQLNAgDNAU3Cww” />

Yoghurt bowls can be a great addition to your weight-loss plan in a few ways:

  • Start your day with a protein-packed yoghurt bowl and you’ll be less likely to reach for sugary snacks midday.
  • For lunch, a yoghurt bowl can be a healthy and satisfying pick-me-up to keep you going until dinner.
  • Craving something sweet after dinner? A yoghurt bowl with minimal added sugar can satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your weight-loss goals.

The key is to be mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake. Generally, one yoghurt bowl a day is a great way to incorporate this healthy and delicious meal into your diet.

Jude Bellingham scored his 19th La Liga goal as champions Real Madrid thrashed Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu.

0
< 1 mn read

The England international opened the scoring in Madrid’s first game since securing the title when he guided Toni Kroos’ 10th-minute cross over Jesus Owono.

Bellingham’s goal left him one adrift of Girona striker Artem Dovbyk in the race for the golden boot with two league matches remaining.

Vinicius Jr doubled Real’s lead in the 27th minute with a close-range finish after a fine ball by Eduardo Camavinga.

Federico Valverde made it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time with a beautiful strike into the top corner, before the impressive Vinicius netted his second with a lovely effort of his own.

Belgian keeper Thibaut Courtois started ahead of Andriy Lunin and produced a number of great saves, leaving Real boss Carlo Ancelotti with a tough decision to make on who will be in goal against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final.

Turkish teenager Arda Guler rounded off the scoring in the 81st minute with a composed finish into the bottom corner.

Real are now just one game away from equalling their club record of 31 La Liga games unbeaten, set during the 1989-89 season.

Here are 7 reasons you keep experiencing painful leg cramps when you are asleep

0
2 mn read

Experiencing leg cramps during sleep can be both painful and disruptive.

Here are some common reasons why they might occur, along with tips on what you can do to alleviate and prevent them:

  1. Electrolyte imbalance: A lack of potassium, magnesium, or calcium in your diet can contribute to leg cramps.
  2. Dehydration: Not drinking enough water throughout the day can lead to cramping as muscles require hydration to function properly.
  3. Overexertion: Excessive exercise or overuse of the muscles during the day can lead to cramping at night as your muscles try to recover.
  4. Poor circulation: If your legs are not receiving adequate blood flow, you might experience cramping.
  5. Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics used for blood pressure, can increase the risk of cramps.
  6. Prolonged sitting or inactivity: Being in one position for too long, especially with poor posture, can trigger cramps.
  7. Age: As you get older, muscle mass decreases, and tendons naturally tighten, which can lead to more frequent cramping.
  1. Stay hydrated: Ensure you’re drinking enough fluids throughout the day. Aim for about 8 glasses of water, but this can vary based on your activity level and personal needs.
  2. Nutrition adjustment: Increase your intake of foods rich in potassium (bananas, oranges, cantaloupes), magnesium (nuts, seeds, whole grains), and calcium (milk, cheese, yogurt).
  3. Stretch regularly: Stretch your leg muscles before bed. Simple stretches like calf stretches, hamstring stretches, and ankle circles can help.
  4. Exercise moderately: Regular, moderate exercise can improve circulation and muscle function, reducing the risk of cramps.
  5. Improve sleep environment: Use comfortable bedding and ensure that your sleep position does not strain your legs. Consider using a pillow under or between your legs for better alignment.
  6. Warm compresses or baths: Taking a warm bath before bed or using a heating pad can relax your muscles and reduce the likelihood of cramps.
  7. Massage: Gently massaging the affected area can help ease the muscle contraction and alleviate pain.

If leg cramps are frequent and severe, and these tips do not help, it might be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions. They can offer additional treatments or adjustments to your medication if needed.

First Women’s Club World Cup to take place in 2026

0
< 1 mn read

The inaugural Women’s Club World Cup will take place in January and February 2026, Fifa has confirmed.

The 16-team tournament will be held every four years and fall during the domestic season for European leagues, between the Women’s Champions League group stages and the knockout rounds.

The USA’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season usually begins in March.

Fifa announced its intention to create a global women’s club competition in December 2022 and a Fifa congress confirmed the plans on Wednesday in Bangkok.

Barcelona are the current European champions, NY Gotham FC the reigning NWSL champions and Brazilian side Corinthians are the holders of the Copa Libertadores Femenina.

The Fifa congress also approved a new international match calendar from 2026-29 with the aim of providing players with more opportunities for rest and recovery by reducing the number of international breaks from six to five.

“The women’s international match calendar and the subsequent amendments to our regulations represent an important milestone in our pledge to take the women’s game to the next level by enhancing competitiveness across the world,” said Fifa president Gianni Infantino.

The first edition of the expanded men’s Club World Cup tournament – which will also be staged every four years – is scheduled for next summer.

The Fifa congress is also set to vote for the host of the 2027 Women’s World Cup with Brazil up against a joint bid from Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands.

10 African countries that have banned cryptocurrency

0
3 mn read

Several governments suspect the digital asset for several reasons.

Cryptocurrency transactions in some African countries have remained banned despite the possibility of introducing comprehensive regulatory frameworks to support its development.

According to Chainalysis, Africa is currently one of the fastest-growing crypto markets in the world, with Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa having the highest number of users in the region.

Several governments suspect the digital asset for several reasons, including its use for money laundering and illicit activities, tax evasion, as cryptocurrency transactions can be difficult to trace, and financial fraud.

In 2021, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directed all banks to shut down all customer accounts involved in cryptocurrency transactions.

The financial regulator, however, lifted the ban in December 2023.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) increased the restrictions on May 6, 2024, by announcing the delisting of the naira from all peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms.

The Director-General of the Commission, Emomotimi Agama, further hinted that the government was drafting a new set of regulations to govern the crypto sector, following the International Monetary Fund (IMF) ‘s advice on regulating the industry.

Here are countries in Africa that have placed an outright ban on cryptocurrency transactions:

In 2018, the Tunisian central bank criminalised crypto use after issuing a statement warning against using any digital asset not authorised by the state.

Sierra Leone’s apex bank banned two crypto companies in 2019. The bank also denied issuing licenses to businesses or financial institutions to take deposits for crypto investing or trading.

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Congolese government has outright banned crypto. A 2018 study by Ecobank also revealed that the Congolese Government and the country’s Central Bank have yet to articulate a public stance regarding the use of cryptocurrency and its legality.

The Ghanaian government has also placed an outright ban on crypto transactions. While assessing the use of blockchain and how the technology fits into the nation’s payments system, the government, in 2022, reiterated its 2018 ban on the use of crypto in all financial transactions

The Algerian parliament, in 2018, passed the Financial Law, which placed an embargo on the purchase, sale, use, and possession of crypto.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Cryptocurrency transactions in some African countries [Nur Photo]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Cryptocurrency transactions in some African countries [Nur Photo]” width=”790″ height=”395″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/ixYktkuTURBXy84ZWNmNWRmOS1jM2I1LTQ4MzUtYTlhYS1jZDc2NjEwZDgyZTAuanBlZ5KVAwAAzRM-zQmflQLNAxbNAYvCww” />

The country’s central bank, in 2018, issued a statement prohibiting the promotion and investments in cryptocurrency.

The bank described crypto as unregulated and unlicensed.

Morocco’s Ministry of Economy banned all forms of crypto transactions in 2017 for violating exchange regulations. The country’s central bank, however, announced in 2023 that a new crypto trading regulation was being drafted.

Although Tanzania does not have a written regulatory framework for crypto transactions, its central bank issued a statement cautioning the public against trading and using virtual currencies. The bank noted that the only accepted legal tender is the Tanzanian Shilling.

At the moment, the only central bank for the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC)—the Bank of Central African States (BEAC), to which Cameroon is affiliated—has not enacted any regulation regarding cryptocurrency trading.

The government is currently reviewing new regulatory mechanisms for the industry.

By religious decree, cryptocurrency trading is prohibited under the Islamic Law. The country’s primary Islamic legislator, Dar al-Iftai, issued a religious decree classifying Bitcoin transactions as haram in 2018.

The Central Bank of Egypt followed up in 2019 with a statement saying it would develop a law banning the creation, trading, or promotion of cryptocurrency without a license.

I lost sight of what I love about BMX – Worthington

0
4 mn read

Three years ago, British BMX freestyle rider Charlotte Worthington sat on her bike, with her arm around her coach and a smile on her face, as she awaited the score from her final run at the Tokyo Olympics.

She had just made history by becoming the first woman to pull off a 360 backflip in competition and was about to make even more – as her score of 97.50 led to her being crowned the first female BMX freestyle Olympic champion.

What followed that moment of ecstasy was a difficult period during which the 27-year-old struggled to balance her love of the sport with the desire to compete.

Worthington had arrived in Japan to compete in the event, newly introduced for the 2020 Games, as a “complete underdog” and left having achieved the holy grail of women’s freestyle BMX – catapulting her into the limelight.

“There’s so much more about BMX that I love and I lost sight of that in the year after the Games,” she told BBC Sport.

“I lost a big balance of enjoying it and pushing myself and taking risks to [thinking] ‘why am I doing this any more? Is it worth it? What’s actually enjoyable about it?'”

Charlotte Worthington doing 360 backflipIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Worthington’s 360 backflip was the highlight of her gold-medal winning routine

Worthington is not the first athlete to open up about the highs and lows of being an Olympic champion.

Three-time Olympic swimming gold medalist Adam Peaty has previously admitted to periods of depression and alcohol problems.

Worthington said she discussed her own issues with Peaty and other Team GB team-mates after the Tokyo Games.

“He was also going through a bit of a rough stage and we spoke and I asked him ‘how was your game after your first medal?’ and he said ‘down the toilet’,” she said.

“I’m very grateful for speaking to the other athletes because if I hadn’t been able to speak to them I wouldn’t have felt that it’s a lot more normal.

“That’s why I don’t mind talking about it now because I’m sure it will help other people.”

Charlotte Worthington finds out winning score at Tokyo 2020 OlympicsIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Charlotte Worthington celebrates after finding out her winning score at the 2021 Games

‘It wasn’t sustainable’

Worthington had been riding for just five years prior to the Olympics, having previously worked as a chef, and the sudden spotlight brought pressures and challenges.

“I was a scooter kid from Manchester that worked in a kitchen and suddenly I’m on the Olympic stage and I’ve won a gold medal,” she said.

“It was super-motivating at the time to think what more could be possible.

“But I’d start to treat every contest like the Olympics and then you realise just how much prep actually went into that and that’s actually not sustainable.”

In the aftermath of her historic achievement, Worthington received an MBE and people took an increased interest in her career.

Away from the plaudits and recognition, she was battling an internal dilemma.

“It became all about the competition and when I started it wasn’t just for the competition. I started because it was something fun you did after school with your mates,” she said.

“I had a lot of expectation that I put on myself. I suddenly had sponsors and I was just learning how to deal with all that.”

Worthington decided to take a break from competition, go back to basics and rediscover what she loved about the sport.

She withdrew from last year’s World Cup event in Montpellier, France – a competition attended by many hoping to qualify for the 2024 Paris Games.

“I thought ‘I’ll just hone in and focus on the things that actually light me up about the sport and really focus on them for a while’,” she said.

“I had no agenda, no training, just riding a BMX and that’s what helped me rebuild.”

The 2019 European champion had planned to feature at the 2023 European Games but instead pulled out to focus on Olympic qualifying events, including the World Championships in Glasgow in August, where she finished seventh in the 11-strong field.

‘I’m still learning the balance’

Worthington is now preparing for the Olympic Qualifier Series where 48 riders – 24 women and 24 men – will compete for Olympic quota spots on 17-19 May in Shanghai and 20-23 June in Budapest.

There is a clear aim for Worthington – to be in Paris this summer. But, more importantly, she is loving the sport again.

“I feel in a much better place. Still learning, focusing mainly on the enjoyment and I still train alongside that, but I don’t want to push myself over the edge to where it’s not enjoyable any more,” she said.

“I don’t know whether I’ll keep up with my own standards because I set them pretty high.

“I’m still learning how to have that balance and compete, be competitive and push but not forget where I came from and why I really do it. The result is just a by-product.”

The BMX racing world championships also take place on 17 and 18 May with Olympic champion Bethany Shriever part of an 11-strong British team in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Action from those championships is available to watch on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app on 18 May from 19:00 to 22:30 BST.

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this story, BBC Action Line has links to organisations that can offer help and advice.

2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria

0
2 mn read

Founded with a mission to uplift and support women, men, youths, and farmers across the country, the foundation has made significant strides in enhancing livelihoods and fostering community resilience. During a recent press conference, the Board Members of the BATN Foundation proudly announced the forthcoming celebration of its two-decade anniversary, set to take place on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/WtSktkpTURBXy9jZmFiZjg3ZjViYTNmMzFjN2I2Zjc5NjdjNjkzYmZkMi5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/pxkktkpTURBXy9jMjQ2NGFmNmQwYmIzZTFlMzI2MDg4NWE4ZGM0ZWVmZS5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

Over the years, the foundation’s impact has been profound, touching the lives of countless individuals and communities nationwide. Among the notable achievements highlighted by the Board Members are the empowerment of over 300,000 smallholder farmers, who have benefited from training, resources, and support to improve their agricultural practices and increase productivity. Additionally, the BATN Foundation has implemented over 300 community projects spanning across all 36 states in Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. These projects have addressed various needs and challenges within communities, ranging from infrastructure development to healthcare and education initiatives.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/M_1ktkpTURBXy82YmExZTRlZTE4MmY1NzNiNDZiYmFiNzc4ZTY0M2EwZi5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/IVBktkpTURBXy82YWY3ZTcwMjg5NzFlYTk3Zjc5MzYyNWZjNjM2OTY4OC5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

Environmental sustainability has also been a key focus area for the foundation, with the planting of over half a million trees to mitigate deforestation and promote ecosystem conservation. This commitment to environmental stewardship reflects the BATN Foundation’s holistic approach to sustainable development, recognising the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental factors in building resilient communities.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”1086″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/ENcktkpTURBXy9mYjdjZGYwMThlYTNlYmQ0ZWUwZWY2OTc2MjU5ODQ1ZC5qcGeRlQLNAxbNBD7Cww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”533″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/5J-ktkpTURBXy9kOTMxNTViZGQ2YzZlM2MwZTU3ZGFkOGY5NjcyZWQ0My5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAhXCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”540″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/MoIktkpTURBXy85ZmNlMTczM2E5NzE1YTYzNTVmMzVlZDgwMDEyZDRkZS5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAhzCww” />

As the BATN Foundation prepares to commemorate its twenty-year journey of service and impact, it stands as a beacon of hope and progress for rural communities across Nigeria. Through its unwavering dedication to empowerment, collaboration, and innovation, the foundation continues to drive positive change and create lasting opportunities for generations to come.