Why sleeping on big pillows damages your spinal cord

DAR ES SALAAM: HEALTH experts warn that noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension and lifestyle-related ailments are becoming silent killers across the globe. Dr Moses Makalla, Managing Director of Norland Global Tanzania, echoes this warning and champions the effectiveness of their herbal and organic products in managing these conditions.

In an exclusive interview, Dr Makalla emphasised that while herbal medicines are impactful, relying solely on medication is not a sustainable solution. He stressed that lifestyle changes, particularly those rooted in education, are crucial in preventing and managing chronic diseases.

“People are still sleeping on big pillows, some even use two or three and they don’t realise the health hazards this habit brings,” Dr Makalla said. “This seemingly innocent act can cause lasting damage to the spinal cord, impair oxygen and blood flow to the brain and even lead to memory loss.”

He explained that large or multiple pillows can misalign the neck and spine, compress cranial nerves and contribute to lumbar spine damage, specifically the fifth lumbar vertebra. His advice? “Use one pillow or none. Let your neck and spine rest in a natural position.”

Q: Recent reports from Doha suggest Norland products were well received in Qatar. Can you confirm this?

Dr Makalla: Yes, we recently visited Qatar and the reception was phenomenal. We treated numerous cases, ranging from lifestyle-induced illnesses, gastric issues, acid reflux, to diabetes. The results were impressive and we’ve been invited to return. The trip was a major success.

Q: How long were you in Qatar?

Dr Makalla: Just a month. But within that time, we noticed a common trend, most diseases were lifestylerelated. The modern world is filled with toxins from food, water, stress and our environment. It’s essential we learn how to detoxify our bodies regularly to stay healthy.

Q: Were there similarities in health issues between East Africa and Qatar despite different climates?

Dr Makalla: Absolutely. While Qatar faces unique issues like dehydration and kidney stones due to high heat and low water intake, the underlying cause in both regions remains poor lifestyle choices. We must all adopt healthier diets and habits, regardless of where we live.

Stem Cell Therapy and the Reborn Project

Norland is also a global leader in stem cell therapy. Launched in 2010, the ‘Reborn Project’ focuses on anti-aging, organ repair and regenerative health through stem cells.

“The project aims to rejuvenate five major organs— liver, pancreas, lungs, kidneys and heart, by cleansing and restoring them. This results in improved organ performance, stronger immunity and even aesthetic benefits such as better skin, hair and nails,” Dr Makalla said.

He added that Norland’s anti-aging products are popular globally, largely because they are 100 per cent organic and chemical-free.

Norland Global was established in various African countries including Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa before arriving in Tanzania.

“I was introduced to these products while trying to save my late wife in 2019. Sadly, I discovered their effectiveness too late,” Dr Makalla shared emotionally. “Her passing became the driving force behind establishing Norland Global Tanzania. It was a seed planted in sorrow, now growing into a solution for many Tanzanians.”

Norland now has three branches in Tanzania, Arusha (headquarters), Dar es Salaam and Dodoma—with plans to expand to Mwanza and Mbeya.

Norland offers supplements in various forms, capsules, syrups, powders and even coffee mixes.

“Many prefer the coffee or powder form because it doesn’t feel like medicine,” Dr Makalla noted. “Still, all forms are effective and wellreceived.”

He affirmed that Tanzanians are increasingly aware of Norland’s products, largely due to positive testimonials and noticeable results. Norland medicines are said to address a wide range of NCDs including:

• Hypertension • Ulcers • Dental and eye conditions • Infertility • Back and joint pain • Cancer • Radiation-related ailments from electronic devices.

But awareness remains critical. Dr Makalla stressed the importance of community education, pointing again to lifestyle habits like sleeping posture.

“A small piece of education, like using only one pillow, can prevent a lot of suffering. Likewise, eating four hours before sleeping can protect your health.”

Norland collaborates closely with local herbalists and researchers and many Tanzanian traditional medicine practitioners integrate Norland products into their treatments.

“This collaboration has yielded major strides, especially in areas like immune boosting and cancer care,” Dr Makalla said.

He also praised the Tanzanian government, particularly under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, for supporting their mission. Norland is a member of the Tanzania Association of Local Medicines and Herbs, their products have been officially approved by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) after inspection visits to their manufacturing facilities in China.

“We are not in competition with conventional medicine,” he added. “We are partners in the health sector, helping reduce suffering and save lives.”

The key takeaway from this conversation with Dr Makalla is simple but profound, health begins with awareness. Whether it’s about what we eat, how we sleep or how we manage stress, education is the foundation of prevention. Herbal and organic solutions like Norland’s may offer alternative healing, but true wellness starts with changing our daily habits.