

Webinar – Cracked nipples during breastfeeding
Sr Talia talks about cracked nipples during breastfeeding, why they are caused and how to treat them.
Sr Talia talks about cracked nipples during breastfeeding, why they are caused and how to treat them.
Sr Ingrid Groenewald explains the different breastfeeding positions that you can try to have a successful Breastfeeding journey, as well as the latch baby, should have.
South Africa is the most obese nation in sub-Saharan Africa*. It’s not surprising then that we also have the highest rate of Type 2 diabetes. The danger is that most people are unaware of the risk until they are diagnosed as pre-diabetic or Type 2 diabetics. Diabetes is the third most significant risk factor for disability and early death in South Africa. While 4.5 million South Africans are currently diagnosed with the condition, what’s more alarming is it’s estimated that 61% of diabetics remain undiagnosed. The concern about the number of diabetics is not restricted to our country though. The International Diabetes Foundation predicts that by the year 2040, over 642 million people worldwide will be diagnosed with the disease. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer at Bonitas Medical Fund, together with the Scheme’s clinical team talks about diabetes and why a proactive and holistic approach to management of the disease is essential. What is diabetes? It is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. Insulin – a hormone made by the pancreas – helps glucose from food get into your cells to be used for energy. An overview Type 1 diabetes. Results from the body’s failure to produce insulin, the hormone that unlocks the cells of the body, allowing glucose to enter and fuel them Type 2 diabetes. With Type 2 diabetes, the more common type, your body does not make or use insulin well Pre-diabetes. This means that your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. If you are at risk for Type 2 diabetes, you may be able to delay or prevent developing it by making some lifestyle changes Gestational diabetes. Is diabetes diagnosed, for the first time, during pregnancy (gestation) 10 early signs of diabetes The symptoms of diabetes are usually so mild that they can easily go unnoticed. This results in many diabetics being unaware of their condition until they are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Fortunately, diabetes is a manageable condition, especially if diagnosed early. Here are 10 early signs you can look out for: #1 Frequent urination When your blood sugar is elevated, the kidneys can’t keep up with the amount of glucose in your system, allowing some of it to go into your urine. This results in you having to urinate more often than usual. #2 Increased hunger and thirst Diabetics usually don’t get enough energy from their food, which leads to a craving for more food. The frequent urination is also likely to cause dehydration and lead to you feeling thirstier than normal. #3 Pain and numbness If you have Type 2 diabetes, you might experience numbness in your hands and feet. This is usually a sign of nerve damage or diabetic neuropathy and is usually after years of living with diabetes. #4 Dry Mouth A dry mouth is one of the most common symptoms of diabetes. Symptoms may include: Trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking, dry, cracked lips, sores or infections in the mouth or a furry, dry tongue. #5 Blurred vision High sugar levels in the blood can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, causing fluid to seep into the lens of the eye, potentially causing blurry vision. #6 Yeast infections Yeast feeds on glucose, so having plenty of glucose around makes it thrive. Yeast infections usually grow in warm, moist areas of skin, like between fingers and toes, under breasts and in or around sex organs. #7 Slow healing cuts and wounds Over time, high blood sugar levels narrow your blood vessels, slowing blood circulation and restricting much needed nutrients and oxygen from getting to the wounds. As a result, even small cuts and wounds may take weeks or months to heal. #8 Skin discolouration Insulin resistance can cause patches of darker skin to form on creases of the neck, armpits, groin area or over the knuckles. This condition, known as acanthosis nigricans, can be a result of diabetes. The skin in the affected area also becomes thickened. #9 Fatigue Diabetes-related fatigue is caused by fluctuating blood glucose levels resulting in not enough glucose for the body’s energy supply. #10 Weight loss Losing weight without trying to, can be a warning sign of diabetes. When your body can’t get energy from your food, it will start burning muscle and fat for energy instead, resulting in weight loss even though you haven’t changed your eating habits. Holistic treatment and management of diabetes critical Over the past few years, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) cited an increased prevalence of chronic conditions, diabetes in particular, as one of the key contributors to a rising disease burden and escalating healthcare costs. ’To offset this growing disease burden and proactively empower patients with diabetes to take control of their health, Bonitas has developed an integrated, holistic programme that is based on the specific needs of members with diabetes,’ says Callakoppen. Diabetic co-morbidities – a higher risk Individuals with diabetes often have other chronic conditions (co-morbidities) – such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease and depression. This fact greatly increases the risk of diabetics developing complications such as nerve damage, eye problems, kidney damage as well as problems in pregnancy. To manage diabetes effectively, all the other conditions and complications must be managed as well. A key feature of the Bonitas diabetes programme is that it manages each individual’s unique mix of disease and lifestyle factors, rather than a standard approach to managing a specific disease. Diabetes Management Complications of diabetes must be prevented by ensuring access to proper treatment such as specialised diabetes’ doctors, paediatricians, podiatrists, diabetic educators to help manage the diabetes. Diabetics need to understand their condition and be empowered to make the right decisions to stay healthy. Containing the risk ‘We believe the way forward is an increased focus on prevention, lifestyle changes, coordination of care by doctors and the utilisation of evidence-based disease management interventions,’ says Callakoppen. ‘The Bonitas clinical team uses an innovative Emerging Risk predictive model and screening algorithms
Sr Ingrid Groenewald explains more about breastfeeding and how to know if baby is full or still hungry.
Sr Talia discusses different vaginal infections that you can experience during pregnancy
Sr Ingrid Groenewald explains the milestones that you can experience in your baby’s first year.
The summer holidays have come to an end and the back-to-school season has arrived. While you might be looking forward to the quiet mornings that come with an empty house, the start of the school year comes with other challenges like preparing wholesome lunches for your kids to get them through a long day of learning. Packing a delicious and wholesome lunch for your children every day doesn’t have to be a chore. Get your kids excited for lunch times on busy school days by keeping their food fresh, colourful, and interesting. How? Rhodes Quality have come up with a few ideas…With these seven lunchbox recipe inspiration ideas you can lovingly prepare snacks and meals that even the fussiest kids will enjoy! Tuna gherkin sandwich Packed full of protein and flavour pack up these sandwiches for your little one’s lunch boxes. Ingredients (serves 4) 2 cans of tuna, well drained 1 tomato, chopped ½ red onion, finely chopped 4- 6 Rhodes Quality Sweet & Sour Gherkins, drained and chopped 125 ml (½ cup) mayonnaise salt and freshly cracked black pepper 45 ml (3 Tbsp) flat-leaf parsley, chopped for serving: 8 slices buttered bread Method Place the tuna, tomato and red onion in a bowl and toss to mix. Add the Rhodes Quality Sweet & Sour Gherkins. Add the mayonnaise and parsley and stir lightly to mix. Season to taste. Spoon the filling onto 4 slices of buttered bread, close with remaining slices and serve. Tomato, salami, and cheese calzones Pizza for lunch is always a good idea. Snack size calzones keep all the toppings tucked away and easy to eat. Ingredients (makes 8) For the pizza dough 600 g plain flour 10 ml (2 t) of salt 5 ml (1 t) sugar 1 x 10 g packet instant dry yeast 30 ml (2 T) olive oil ± 400 ml (1 ¾ C) lukewarm water For the filling 1 x 410 g can Rhodes Quality Tomato Italian Style 100 g salami, chopped 350 g mozzarella cheese, grated salt and freshly cracked black pepper dried oregano Method Sift the flour, salt, and sugar into a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and add the olive oil. Add 250 ml (1 cup) of warm water to the flour and work the mixture together. Continue adding the remaining water, a little at a time, until the dough is soft yet firm and is kneadable without sticking. Knead the dough by hand for about ten minutes or until the dough is elastic and smooth. Form the dough into a ball and place in a floured bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and place in a warm spot to rise until it has doubled in size. Knock down and knead again and then divide into 2. Roll out one half of the dough to an evenly thick rectangle. Use a saucer to cut four circles out of the dough. Spread each circle with a generous layer of Rhodes Quality Tomato Italian Style. Top with the salami and the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Fold each circle in half and press the edges together. Place the calzones on a lined baking tray in an oven preheated to 190° C for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Peanut butter and jam sandwich cookies A traditional twist on a PB and J, chewy and sweet lunch box treats. Ingredients (makes ±24) 160 ml (⅔ cup) butter, melted 140 ml (½ cup + 1 Tbsp) brown sugar 125 ml (½ cup) white sugar 250 ml (1 cup) creamy peanut butter 1 egg 5 ml (1 tsp) vanilla essence 330 ml (1⅓) cup cake flour 5 ml (1 tsp) baking powder 5 ml (1 tsp) salt To sandwich together: 65 ml (1 C) smooth peanut butter Rhodes Quality Strawberry Jam Method Beat together the butter, brown and white sugars, and peanut butter until smooth. Add the egg and the vanilla essence and beat well. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined but do not overmix. Roll the cookie dough into 24 even sized balls and place evenly spaced out on a lined baking tray. Flatten each cookie with a fork. Bake the cookies in an oven preheated to 180º for 12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool. Spread the flat side of a cookie with Rhodes Quality Strawberry Jam. Spread the flat side of a second cookie with peanut butter and sandwich the second cookie to the first. Repeat with remaining cookies, peanut butter, and jam. Mini burgers with tomato relish Kiddie friendly mini burgers for a filling fun lunchbox. Ingredients (makes 8) 500g minced beef 1 egg yolk 5 ml (1 t) dried mixed herbs 5 ml (1 t) Worcestershire sauce salt and freshly ground black pepper 30 ml (2 T) sunflower oil To serve: 8 mini hamburger buns Soft butter for spreading 2 Rhodes Quality Sweet & Sour Whole Gherkins, sliced Rhodes Quality Tomato Braai Relish Method Place the beef mince into a bowl. Add the egg yolk, mixed herbs and Worcestershire sauce. Season the mince with plenty of salt and pepper. Mix the ingredients together using a wooden spoon or by hand. Once the mixture is well blended, divide into 8 equal portions and shape into small slightly flattened patties. Brush the patties with the oil. Heat a non-stick frying pan and grill the patties. Turn the patties over so that they cook evenly on each side. Grill until cooked to your liking. To serve: Slice and butter the mini hamburger buns. Place a burger patty on the bottom half of each bun and top with slices of Rhodes Quality Sweet & Sour Whole Gherkins. Top with a generous spoonful or two of the Rhodes Quality Tomato Braai Relish. Close with the second half of the bun. Crunchy chicken and corn salad Kids always love crispy chicken and paired with a crunchy salad you can be sure
Serves 4 Ingredients: 1 x 400g tin cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 1 bulb fennel, sliced very thinly 1 large stalk celery, sliced 400g medium portabello mushrooms, quartered 1 tsp garlic powder 150g mixed baby lettuce leaves 2 green apples, sliced thinly 50g walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped Fennel fronds, for serving Olive oil, for dressing Sherry vinegar, for dressing Salt and pepper, to taste Method: Place the cannellini beans, fennel and celery in a small bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sherry vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine and set aside. Preheat oven to 200˚C, fan on. Place mushrooms on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Roast for ± 7 minutes until tender and juicy, but retain some bite. Allow the mushrooms to rest. Once the mushrooms have rested, assemble the salad. Layer the baby leaves and apples on a serving platter. Spoon over the marinated bean mixture. Top with the roasted mushrooms. Sprinkle with walnuts and fennel fronds. Season lightly. Drizzle everything with a little extra sherry vinegar and olive oil and serve!
According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, nappy rash is a common type of irritated skin (dermatitis) that appears as inflamed patches on your baby’s bottom. Wet or infrequently changed nappies, skin sensitivity, and chafing are all common causes of nappy rash.1 “Around one in four babies and toddlers not yet toilet trained will experience nappy rash at any given time,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “While nappy rash can be frustrating for parents, it usually goes away with simple home remedies like air drying, more frequent nappy changes, and ointment.” Symptoms Of Nappy Rash Nappy rash signs and symptoms include:2 Red or inflamed skin on your baby’s buttocks, thighs, and genitals Pink or red patches in the nappy area (the folds of the groin will usually look normal) Skin that feels hot to the touch Spots, pimples, or blisters around the nappy area Discomfort, fussiness, or crying, especially when changing nappies Peeling, flaking, or scaly skin What Causes Nappy Rash? Nappy rash is often caused by leaving wet or soiled nappies on for too long, but other factors can also cause nappy rash. Rubbing or chafing Nappy rash can be caused by tight-fitting nappies or clothing that rubs against the skin. Using New Products Your baby’s skin may react to a new brand of baby wipes or nappies, as well as the detergent, bleach, or fabric softener used to wash cloth nappies. Lotions, powders, and oils may contain ingredients that exacerbate the problem. Bacteria Or Yeast Infection What starts out as a simple nappy rash on your baby’s bottom can quickly spread to the surrounding skin. Because the area covered by a nappy is warm and moist, it is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. These rashes can be found in the skin’s creases. You may also notice red dots strewn about the creases. Food Allergies The composition of a baby’s stool changes as your tot begins to eat solid foods. This increases the chances of nappy rash. Changes in your baby’s diet can also cause more stools, which can cause nappy rash. Breastfed babies may develop nappy rash due to something the mother ate. Skin Issues Babies with atopic dermatitis (eczema) or seborrheic dermatitis are more likely to develop nappy rash. Antibiotics Antibiotics can cause a rash by killing bacteria that control yeast growth. The use of antibiotics also increases the risk of diarrhoea. Breastfed babies whose mothers are taking antibiotics are also more likely to develop nappy rash. How To Prevent Nappy Rash Keeping the nappy area clean and dry is the best way to avoid nappy rash. Affinity Health recommends these 10 simple steps to help reduce the chances of nappy rash developing on your baby’s skin. Change your baby’s nappies frequently and request the same from staff if your child is at daycare. Choose disposable nappies over cloth nappies. Disposable nappies have absorbent gel, which is effective because they draw moisture away from the skin. Rinse your baby’s bottom with warm water as part of each nappy change. Cleaning the skin can be aided by moist washcloths, cotton balls, and baby wipes. Use alcohol-free or fragrance-free wipes on your baby’s skin. Alternatively, use a gentle non-soap cleanser, paediatrician and dermatologist-approved, hypoallergenic, ph-balanced, and free from colourants and perfumes. Allow your baby’s skin to air dry, or gently pat it dry with a clean towel. You should not scrub your baby’s bottom. Use powders sparingly. Cornstarch-based baby powders may be problematic because their main ingredient may make a candida-caused nappy rash worse. Apply cream and ointment that contains time-tested ingredients such as petroleum jelly and zinc oxide. After changing your baby’s nappy, thoroughly wash your hands. Hand washing can help keep bacteria and yeast from spreading to other parts of your baby’s body, you, or other children. Nappies should be fastened securely but not too tightly. Nappy rashes can be avoided by using a nappy that allows for some airflow. Nappies that are too tight can irritate the skin. Avoid using plastic or tight-fitting nappy covers. Allow your baby’s bottom to go longer without a nappy whenever possible. Air-drying skin is a natural and gentle way to dry it. Try laying your bare-bottomed baby on a large towel and engaging in some playtime to avoid messy accidents. When Should You See A Doctor? If your baby’s skin does not improve after a few days of home treatment, consult with your family doctor or baby’s paediatrician. To treat nappy rash, you may need prescription medication, or the rash could be caused by something else, such as a zinc deficiency.
Getting back into the school routine doesn’t have to be painful. With some basic planning and organising habits, you can beat the weekday morning blues and get the kids off to school with a smile and a wave. If you do just one thing this year to make the kid’s school life easier on you, consider mastering the healthy lunchbox. It’s easier than you think. Registered dietitian, Reabetjoe Mokoko aka Rea-TheCookingDietitian, says, “Lunchbox packing can be overwhelming, especially with the hectic weekday schedules most parents have. However, school snacks and lunches are important as they help to fuel kids, giving them the energy they need to get through the school day. Research shows that kids who are well-nourished can focus better and are able to perform at their peak academically and at sports. Packing healthy lunchboxes also contributes towards building healthy eating habits in kids. Remember that fresh vegetables and fruit are your best friends when it comes to filling up a lunchbox with goodness. We’re lucky to start off the school year with delicious stone fruit in season, which can be added whole to the lunchbox. Look out for yellow cling peaches and firm nectarines, as well as plums and apricots because these fruits will travel well, and they are always favourites with kids.” Rea points out that the key is to plan and prepare in advance as much as possible on the days that are less busy. She says, “Buy fruit and vegetables on a Sunday, then wash and chop them up in advance. Snacks such as nuts, popcorn and pretzels can also be pre-packed in advance. Pack lunchboxes the night before school so that you can lessen the morning rush of trying to get the kids ready on time while also preparing their breakfast.” With most families on tight monthly budgets due to the ongoing economic downturn, it’s important to focus on packing healthy lunchboxes that are affordable. One cost-saving, time-saving hack is to cook a bit extra at suppertime so that you have tasty leftovers that can be used for school lunchboxes. Rea says, “Portions of leftover pasta, lentil or rice dishes can easily be included in lunchboxes or extra chicken can be used to make a chicken salad sandwich. Many leftover dishes work well in a wrap or pita bread with a bit of fresh salad such as grated carrot and chopped tomato. Instead of buying pre-packed small snacks such as nuts, peanuts, and pretzels, buy the cheaper bulk packs of the healthier snacks and portion them into smaller packets at home. I also always advise to pack fresh fruit that is in season, not only are they more affordable but they also have a higher nutritional value.” So, what does a healthy lunchbox include? Rea says, “Every day, choose a variety of easy to eat foods that your kids enjoy from all the different food groups. Include fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy proteins such as peanut butter and eggs, whole grain starches such as brown bread, and dairy such as low-fat yoghurt, cottage cheese and cheddar. If you need to add fats in your preparation, use a healthy fat such as olive oil.” Rea’s Five Key Tips when it comes to lunch box packing: 1. Involve your kids from the planning to the preparation. 2. Keep it fresh and healthy, limiting highly processed foods. 3. Always include a variety of fruit and vegetables. 4. Limit unhealthy foods that offer no nutrition such as fried fatty foods and items high in sugar and salt such as sweets and crisps. 5. Avoid packing fizzy drinks and opt for low calorie beverages such as milk and water. It helps to have a small repertoire of wholesome recipes that you can use to add healthy, homemade foods to your kids’ lunchboxes. Try these back-to-school lunchbox recipe ideas from Juicy Delicious: Nectarine and Smoked Chicken Lunch Box by Jenny Morris Quick and Easy Nectarine Cookies by Jenny Morris Porky Plum Balls by Jenny Morris Peachy Granola Bars by Lolene Krige Follow @juicydelicioussa on Instagram or visit www.juicydelicious.co.za Choosing a lunchbox Choose an affordable, quality lunchbox and water bottle for each child, such as the Addis BPA free, On-The-Go food storage range and re-usable hydration bottles. Addis is a proudly South African brand producing innovative, quality plastic products for over 100 years. BPA, bisphenol A, is an industrial chemical commonly used in plastics that may have health impacts on children, so it’s important to go with BPA free options.
You may be wondering if your morning cuppa is something to be avoided now that you’re pregnant. Generally, caffeine should be avoided during pregnancy, as it can harm your baby. However, you can consume caffeine in small amounts, so you won’t need to go cold turkey on your coffee habit. But how much is too much? And what caffeine high food and drink should you be avoiding? How does caffeine affect you and your baby? Too much caffeine can have a negative impact on both you and your baby. If you’ve drunk a lot before getting pregnant you may find adjusting to only one cup a day (or the equivalent) pretty tough. As a stimulant, caffeine has the effect of making you feel more awake and alert, but too much (even before getting pregnant) isn’t good for you. Caffeine can increase your blood pressure and heart rate, and leave you feeling fatigued when the stimulant has left your system. Caffeine is also addictive, while it doesn’t cause addiction in the way that drugs do, drinking it often can increase your dependency on it. When you’re pregnant your body will metabolize caffeine at a slower rate. Some studies have linked increased caffeine intake to miscarriage (although there are conflicting studies on this) as well as low birth weight. Because the risks aren’t fully understood it is best to limit your intake. How much is enough? When you find out you’re pregnant it’s best to limit your caffeine intake to 200mg per day. This is the equivalent of two cups of instant coffee (filter coffee has more) or 3 to 4 cups of brewed tea. Energy drinks, sodas and chocolate are other sources of caffeine which you should consider. Remember, caffeine isn’t the only thing in these foods and drinks, energy drinks and sodas have lots of processed sugar, and some energy drinks also contain ginseng, which should be avoided during pregnancy. What are alternatives to caffeine? If you are planning on sticking to as little caffeine as possible per day you’re probably wondering what healthy alternatives there are. Luckily in South Africa, rooibos tea is very popular and perfectly safe to drink. You can swap out filter coffee and flat whites for rooibos tea and red cappuccinos. Decaf coffee is another alternative, but it’s best not to overdo this one as it still has trace amounts of caffeine.
Children and nutrition When preparing meals for your family, include a variety of foods from the five major food groups found on the food pyramid.Here’s some recommendations: Vegetables: 3-5 servings per day (Serving size examples: 1 cup of raw leafy vegetables, ¾ cup of vegetable juice or ½ cup of chopped or cooked vegetables) Fruits: 2-4 servings per day (Serving size examples: ½ cup sliced fruit, ¾ cup fruit juice or medium-sized whole fruit) Bread, cereal or pasta: 6-11 servings per day (Serving size examples: 1 slice of bread, ½ cup rice or pasta or 1 ounce of cereal) Protein: 2-3 servings per day (Serving size examples: 50 grams or 2 ounces of cooked lean meat/poultry/fish, ½ cup cooked beans, 1 egg or 2 tablespoons of peanut butter) Dairy: 2-3 servings per day (Serving size examples: 1 cup low-fat milk or yogurt, 25 grams or 1 ounces of cheese) Children and fitness Focus on finding fun activities rather than on exercise. Some ideas to get your children moving: Find activities your child finds fun Find activities that are age-appropriate Limit screen time (TV, mobile phones, laptops, tablets or game consoles) to no more than 1 to 2 combined hours a day; avoid TVs in children’s bedrooms Make time for play and activities; establishing a routine will make it easier to stick to Aim to do fun activities with your children 30 minutes 3 times a week Walk or bike wherever you can Do household chores as a family and make it fun; try dancing to music, picking up toys as fast as possible or having kids run and jump into a pile of raked leaves or snow Choosing healthy snacks Children are active and for most, occasional snacks can help them get their daily nutritional requirements. Here’s some important things to keep in mind with snacks: Snacks should not affect regular meals; be careful not to give them too close to meals Children will reach for the easiest foods to reach; put healthy choices in easy to reach areas and avoid buying junk food Your food choices affect what your children eat; choose healthy snacks for yourself Involve children in cooking; teach them about healthy and less healthy foods What you teach your child now will last a lifetime; teach a life of healthy eating Healthy snack options Vegetables, with or without low fat dip Fruit Trail mix: low-sugar cereal, dried fruit, nuts and mini chocolate chips Crackers and peanut butter or hummus Low fat yogurt Whole-grain cereal with low-fat milk Crackers and cheese Low-fat microwave popcorn Low-fat cottage cheese Nuts Sandwiches made with whole-grain bread
Headaches aren’t just for adults, kids get them too. But if the sufferer is a child, the discomfort can put parents under enormous strain and anxiety. Knowing how to handle and treat a headache in a youngster can help you and your child feel better.
Drinking during pregnancy is a huge NO, no matter what stage of pregnancy you are in. Alcohol causes harm to your unborn baby, and can cause them to have lifelong physical and mental problems. If you are planning on getting pregnant it is best to avoid alcohol. But if you didn’t know for the first few weeks and have had a few drinks in this time, while this isn’t ideal it is somewhat common and shouldn’t cause you to panic. However, when you know you are pregnant, stop drinking. The consequences of drinking while pregnant If you drink while pregnant, alcohol passes through your umbilical cord to your baby. According to Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, drinking can cause miscarriages and stillbirths, as well as a range of physical, behavioural and intellectual problems. These disabilities are known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Fetal Alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most severe among the range of FASDs. Kids born with FASD can be born prematurely with birth defects such as a smaller head, low body weight, deformities in their facial features and problems with their joints and heart. Growing up they can have issues with coordination, memory retention, attention, vision and hearing as well as intellectual disabilities. Some kids are born with problems that are only noticed when they go to school, when learning issues become apparent. There is no cure for FASD and FAS. Every pregnancy is different, some moms drink very little and their kids end up with severe health problems, whereas others report drinking more and have children with very few problems. If you are struggling to stop drinking it is best to seek professional help South Africa has the highest prevalence of FAS globally, 14 times higher than the global average. There are a number of local NGOs who focus their efforts on spreading awareness around the condition and programs which speak to pregnant mothers about drinking.
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, explores the benefits that 10,000 daily steps have on your health and well-being. You’ve probably heard the hype about walking 10,000 steps daily, but do you know why? The habit of tracking steps has grown in popularity over the last decade. People track to improve their fitness or compete with their friends or coworkers. The current advice is to walk 10,000 steps per day – but why? Interestingly, while this “recommendation” was not initially supported by science, science demonstrates compelling reasons why 10,000 steps per day is a good goal. What’s The Meaning Of A Number? The magical number 10,000 steps originated in a Japanese marketing campaign in 1965 when a Japanese health science professor invented a pedometer and believed that walking 10,000 steps per day would prevent obesity in the Japanese population. The pedometer was named Manpo-Kei, which translates to “10,000-step-metre”. Since then, the 10,000-step recommendation has stuck. How To Get 10,000 Steps Into Your Day If 10,000 steps seem daunting, we have good news: you can begin with fewer steps and reap significant benefits. Even minor efforts to move more throughout the day can have substantial benefits. Research shows that doing anything other than sitting for 30 minutes daily (walking, yoga, skipping, stretching, etc.) reduces the risk of premature death by 17%. Higher-intensity exercise reaps even more significant benefits, reducing the risk of early death by 35%. “Millions of South Africans have been working from home since COVID-19 began. That is why it is more important than ever to get out of the house and walk to improve your health,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Start by tracking your average steps for a week or two if you’re new to tracking steps. Then set a goal to go above and beyond your average step count. Trying to reach 10,000 steps is a great goal, but if you are getting discouraged, consider re-accessing your goal. Get out and move more than you did yesterday.” Health Advantages Of Walking 10,000 Steps Per Day Promotes Weight Loss Walking 10,000 steps per day equals about 8 kilometres. You could burn roughly 150 more calories daily if you added 30 minutes of brisk walking to your daily routine. Of course, the more calories you burn, the more you walk, and the faster you walk. It Helps Clear The Mind According to a Stanford University study, walking opens the mind and promotes the flow of ideas. It sparks creativity and aids in the improvement of concentration. Enhances Sleep Taking more steps during the day may be sufficient to improve our sleep. A new study published in the journal Sleep Health examined healthy adults who slept an average of 7 hours per night. Participants were divided into two groups: the Intervention group, instructed to increase their daily steps by at least 2,000, and the Control group, which was not. Fitbits were given to both groups to track their daily steps. The researchers compared the responses of the two groups to sleep questionnaires, including how long they slept and the quality of their sleep. Overall, the walking intervention resulted in significantly better sleep. Reduces Anxiety And Depression Some studies say a quick 10-minute walk can help lift a depressed mood. Regular exercise can help with depression and anxiety by doing the following: Endorphins, natural brain chemicals (endogenous cannabinoids), and other natural brain chemicals that can improve your mood, taking your mind off your worries to break the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety. Lowers Blood Pressure A healthy heart can pump more blood while exerting less effort. Increasing your physical activity can reduce your systolic blood pressure by 4 to 9 points on average. Stabilises Blood Glucose Walking causes the muscles to use more glucose, lowering blood sugar levels over time. This can make you more insulin sensitive. In fact, according to a study published in Diabetes Care, three short 15-minute walks per day are just as effective as one long 45-minute walk at the same pace in lowering blood sugar levels. According to the same study, taking a short walk after your evening meal helps regulates your blood sugar levels. Reduces The Likelihood Of Having A Heart Attack Numerous studies have shown that walking has health benefits related to cardiovascular disease. A sedentary lifestyle is one of the five major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (high blood pressure, abnormal blood lipid values, smoking, and obesity). Studies show that lowering these risk factors reduces the likelihood of having a heart attack or another cardiac event, such as a stroke, and the need for a coronary revascularisation procedure (bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty). Strengthens Your Lungs Everyday movement helps to strengthen your lungs and surrounding muscles. Your body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently increases as the rate and volume of oxygen you inhale (a measurement known as your “VO2 max“). The fitter you become, the higher your VO2 max. Strengthens Your Bones Physical activity (especially weight-bearing exercises) strengthens your bones, which improves their density and reduces your risk of osteoporosis later in life. Conclusion Keeping track of how many steps you take, how far you walk, and the time it takes can help you see where you started and what is possible. Consider how good it will feel to see how many steps you’ve walked each week, month, and year. Use an activity tracker, app, or pedometer to calculate steps and distance. Alternatively, keep track of these figures in a walking journal. “Walking – no matter the distance – can benefit both physical and mental health. Whatever method you use to incorporate walking into your daily routine, you will most likely notice some benefit that will accumulate over time,” concludes Hewlett.
The holidays are a great time for caregivers and kids to cook together. Families can use this time, away from work and school, to reconnect with each other by cooking together and teaching their families valuable skills. Skills such as how to prep family recipes, learn how meals/dishes are put together, and the nutritional value behind these foods. Caregivers who want to cook with their children are often faced with trying to figure out how to make it fun and engaging. Here are some ideas for easy kitchen activities that will make cooking together a fun experience: Start small and encourage play! Make kitchen time fun by encouraging play. Getting comfortable in the kitchen goes beyond watching but also involves handling food and cooking utensils. We want our kids to feel like the kitchen is their space. Allowing kids to handle ingredients, wash produce, or even simply play with toys within the cooking area creates a connection. Set up a “sensory activity” like allowing kids to use measuring cups and spoons to practice scooping and levelling. You can take this a step further and let them measure the basic ingredients such as sugar and flour Make up songs for simple tasks and make it fun Humming a song, putting on your child’s favourite soundtrack, or creating your very own cooking jingle, can lighten the mood for both of you. This is effective fun when teaching kids skills that require patience like stirring slowly or taking turns. Children will learn to love cooking if you relax and have fun with them in the kitchen. Give the children an opportunity to experiment with your guidance and only step in when it’s necessary, otherwise let them enjoy and create. Embrace the mess Cooking is messy, there is no way to completely avoid it. Kids learn so much from exploring. Don’t mind the mess, let them be creative and have fun. Wiping down the counter or washing up dishes can be a dual exercise. Create food art and encourage their imagination Make healthy eating fun for kids by getting creative at mealtimes. Presenting food in the form of a picture or simple pattern, or decorating the rim of the plate, can make it more exciting and enticing for children. Animals and faces are always popular, and broccoli and cauliflower make excellent trees! Why not let kids cut carrots and cucumbers with cookie cutters, into interesting shapes like hearts, stars and diamonds. Encourage your kids to be imaginative in the kitchen. Give them free reign when decorating their cookies or challenge them to create a fruit-salad rainbow or vegetable animals. Turn it into a contest to see who can come up with the best design. But remember, everyone is a winner as they all get to enjoy a delicious prize. ROLL, ROLL, ROLL THE DOUGH Get your pre-schoolers involved teaching them about the dough. Helping to roll out or need dough will give their muscles a good workout, and they’ll be amazed when they see the results of their labour. Children tend to eat more of the healthy food on their plates when they help prepare it. There are lots of tasks that your children can help with. Washing, grating, or mashing are all fun activities for kids. And don’t forget the washing up too! For fun recipes and more tips, visit the Nestlé for Healthier Kids site: www.nestle-esar.com/N4HK By Anne-Marie De Beer, Nutrition, Health and Wellness Manager, Nestlé East and Southern Africa
Just as the holiday season had settled in, it’s time to prepare for the upcoming school year from shopping for new stationery supplies, thinking about healthy meal plans and more. Starting the year with optimum health is certainly one of the biggest things on the to-do list. It is vital for any parent to consider the absolute best options for their child’s physical and mental health and performance and how to maintain and boost sustainably. NutriPure understands the need of parents and the challenges their children may have to face going into the new year. Between new subjects, new schedules, and physical activities, it’s essential that parents support their children in the best possible way. Supplements like NutriPure Gummie Vitamins can help unlock energy, support immunity, and maintain overall health daily. NutriPure gummies are specially formulated with natural fruit pectins for adults and children. Say goodbye to morning delays as Nutripure Gummie Vitamins offers an easy and tasty way for kids and adults to take their daily vitamins with an all-natural sweet treat packed with best ingredients for you. NutriPure is vegan-friendly, has no sugar coating, and it is GMO-free. The NutriPure range is the perfect way to enhance your daily routine anytime, anywhere. Nutripure has now made it even easier for you with their convenient travel-friendly pouches that contain 14 gummies each (R36,95). The pouches come in five different variants and are available at Dis-Chem. Three variants for kids: Immune Support+ Vitamin C Multivitamin Two variants for adults: Immune Support Multivitamin Nutripure can be found at Dis-Chem, Clicks, Takealot, and other major retailers. For more information, go to http://nutripure.co.za/ Our back-to-school essential vitamin list: Children’s bodies are constantly challenged by rising toxin levels in the environment and dietary supplements cannot replace a healthy diet, but they can support these efforts. Multivitamins help ensure that basic nutritional needs are met. Try NutriPure Immune Support + (From R 109.95) to help protect your child’s immune system daily. NutriPure Immune Support Gummies have been carefully formulated with six essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium which all contribute to the maintenance of good health. Their body needs certain bacteria to stay healthy. Bacteria aids digestion, absorbs nutrients, and fights off other disease-causing bacteria. Try NutriPure Multivitamin for kids (From R109.95) which contributes to the function of the immune system and many other systems in the body. Each NutriPure Multivitamin complete contains 11 essential vitamins & minerals: vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin help to increase energy levels and strengthen the immune system. A balanced gut is essential in keeping the body healthy at any age. Try NutriPure Probiotics for kids (From R 109,95) is formulated with bifidobacterium infantis & lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each Nutripure gummy contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost their daily culture intake. Vitamin C’s best-known function is its role in supporting the body’s immune system. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and is essential for maintaining overall health, and helps boost the immune system when your child catches a cold. Try NutriPure Vitamin C 60s/120s (From R 109.95) which contributes to the immune system by helping to boost immunity. Vitamin C also contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system and can reduce fatigue and exhaustion. Nutripure gummies contain 80mg of vitamin C.
Designed with babies and toddlers in mind, the Air Purification Pal, by air treatment and lifestyle technology specialists Solenco, will improve the air quality in nurseries and baby rooms, which brings with it important health benefits – both immediate, like helping babies to sleep better, and long-term, like increased life expectancy and reduced chances of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease later in life. Bianca Leonard, Marketing Manager at Solenco says that breathing cleaner air has a number of health benefits. “Ensuring that your baby breathes purified air gives him or her the best start in life. It will help to protect your baby’s health by reducing the chance of him or her catching colds and flu, and developing asthma, allergies and hay-fever.” The Air Purification Pal is approved by the South African Allergy Foundation and advances the foundation’s agenda of enhancing the quality of life and reducing the cost of healthcare for South Africans suffering from allergic disorders and primary immune deficiencies. Remaining steadfast in their mission to help improve overall health and enhance comfort in living spaces, Leonard says there was no reason why babies and toddlers shouldn’t be included too. She explains that even the cleanest home can have polluted air – cleaning materials, carpets and upholstered fabrics, pets and nearby traffic can all impact indoor air quality. “In fact, indoor air can be five times as polluted as outdoor air and, since indoor air is not circulated as much as outdoor air, many airborne pollutants thrive inside.” The Air Purification Pal’s triple filter system kills bacteria and viruses and traps up to 99.975% of particles, allergens, pollen, dust, smoke, mould spores and pet dander. It also reduces VOCs (volatile organic compounds, which can be 10 times more concentrated indoors compared to outdoors), toxic fumes and odours, ensuring that your babies have an increased chance of developing a healthy respiratory system. Health benefits aside, with its soft night light, cute interchangeable stickers and low noise output, the Air Purification Pal is perfect for toddlers. It’s also compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to move around the house, and its impact on a household’s electricity bill is minimal. Solenco sources international award-winning air treatment and lifestyle products to improve the health of South African families. These include a range of air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers to suit regional climates. “The Air Purification Pal fills a gap for health-conscious parents who want to give their babies every advantage,” said Leonard. The Air Purification Pal can be purchased via the website or Takealot.
Parents of young children often fear whether their child will “fit in”, cope in a sporting environment or achieve academically if they are non-neurotypical. These concerns are based on a societal perception that children should at least be ‘average’, even if they are not top of their class. However, an educational psychologist says this is the wrong approach to take for parents of non-neurotypical children, because it will always be possible for them to belong and fit in somewhere, even if this does not occur perfectly within society’s norms of what ‘fitting in’ means. Dr Greg Pienaar, Educational Psychologist and Principal at The Bridge Assisted Learning School, in Lonehill Sandton, notes that ‘average’ is literally defined as dividing a total by the number of quantities. “By that definition alone, no child will be average. Every child has strengths and weaknesses. That is the Neurodiverse approach, which acknowledges variations in the brain regarding learning, attention, and moods in a non-pathological sense. In other words, as Judy Singer noted, these differences are not deficits, they are variations. That does not however mean that we can’t support our children – with the help of their school, their teachers and potentially their therapists – to achieve and empower themselves to the best of their ability, says Dr Pienaar. “Most educational scientists or educational psychologists will tell you that everybody needs support somewhere. Some people less than others, some people more. Some children require assistance with academic areas. Some children require assistance with developmental deficits or with their “building blocks”. This could mean Speech or Occupational Therapy, for instance. Most professionals would agree that the earlier certain developmental issues are addressed, the better the chances are that issues may be either sorted out, or much improved.” Dr Pienaar notes that at an Assisted Learning School such as The Bridge in Lonehill, support is provided as a team of the teacher, the therapists involved, and always the parents or guardians. “It is therefore important to work together. Even if your child is receiving professional support, parents or guardians of the child have an important role to play at home. Very often (most of the time) it is vital that many of the concepts learnt during therapy are reinforced in the home environment. Regardless of the interventions and support required, by identifying what kind of support is needed, and by working together as a team, all children can rise to their potential,” Dr Pienaar says. The team of Therapists at the Bridge compiled the following helpful tips for parents: SPEECH 1. Bath Time Language Modelling: Bath time is a great opportunity to model language as the options of bath toys and sensory-integrated water play is endless. Quantity concepts: Water cups and toys are great to teach concepts of ‘more’ ‘less’ ‘heavy’ ‘light’ ‘the most’ ‘the least.’ Your child can fill up water cups with water from the bath to the desired quantity you specify to them. Remember that the modelling on the quantity is important so that they understand the concept before they are expected to demonstrate it. Oral Motor Exercises: Blowing the bubbles in the bubble bath or using toys to collect the bubbles and blow them is a great way to stimulate the oral motor muscles required for the various articulation movements. 2. Transition Games: Transition games are activities that can be done as your child transitions between places or routines. I-Spy Games: While driving to school in the morning, play a game of I-Spy with your child and ask them to name items starting with specific sounds. This targets an underlying early literacy skills or initial sound identification. Memory Games: As you walk through the grocery store with your child, play a memory game with them where they are required to recall items you put into your trolley, adding in a new item each time, and asking them to recall the list. 3. Bedtime Routine Games: Bedtime is the best time of day to include reading stimulation and book awareness. Use the method of paired reading, ask questions about the book, make predictions, point, and label items and colours, and make it fun. OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Foundational skills such as sensory processing, body awareness, eye movements, postural stability, and proximal stability (to name a few) form the building blocks of executive functioning skills such as performing gross/fine motor movements, writing, spatial reasoning, and so forth. These foundation skills can be supported and developed by: Providing deep pressure which improves body awareness and can assist with sensory regulation. Give lots of hugs Roll your child in their towel Let your child sleep with a heavy blanket Alternate seating improves postural and proximal stability. Let your child lie on his/her tummy while playing, watching TV, or working Let your child sit on a gym ball instead of a chair Work against a wall by sticking the work on the wall, instead of working on a table Activities of daily living can help in developing good planning and organisation skills, strength and stability, bilateral coordination, and other executive functioning skills. Wash a car with your child Allow your child to lay the table for meals Baking activities Allow your child to assist with wiping windows/mirrors Assist with putting clothes on the line “These are some of the few ways you can be involved in your child’s development, to allow for regular and consistent stimulation,” says Dr Pienaar. “While it is extremely important to facilitate your child’s development through structured tasks, children should also be encouraged as much as possible to play and to explore their environment. As our world becomes more technologically inclined, children are playing less and exploring less, which results in delayed development. “If you identify areas of concern, it is important to approach a professional team as early as possible, to assist your child as soon as possible. Then, get involved in the professional support. By all role-players being involved in your child’s development, a supportive environment is created for your child to learn
If you’re expecting a baby then you’ll probably know that you’ll have a choice between a home or hospital birth. If a home birth is something you’re considering it’s important that you weigh up the relative pros and cons. A home birth means you’ll be giving birth at home as opposed to the hospital, and if this is something that you are considering it is important that you discuss it with your doctor. What are the benefits of a home birth? The first pro of a home birth is that you are at home, in a familiar environment with familiar people or trusted friends. It is only recently that hospital births have become so common, and prior to half way through the 20th century, most births did happen at home . Another reason why some moms choose to deliver at home is the fact that allows them to give birth with a lesser degree of medical intervention and they have more freedom in the birthing process. After giving birth you are able to be in the comfort of your own home with your new baby and family, another reason why home birth would be chosen over a hospital by moms. If you think this may be an option for you, you’ll need to find a midwife who has experience with home births so that if any issues should arise, she has a contingency plan to deal with the situation. The risk depends on your situation. If you are only carrying one baby, don’t have diabetes or high blood pressure, haven’t had a previous c-section and live around 15 mins away from the nearest hospital (in case of emergency) you are a more ideal candidate for a home birth. It’s important to weigh in on the possible risks before deciding if a home birth method is right for you and your baby. When would the hospital be a better option? Generally speaking, hospital births are safer because there are always doctors available in the case of an emergency, for instance if the baby becomes blocked in the birthing canal or the mom starts hemorrhaging. During your home birth, you may need to be transported to the hospital if your labour or birthing process doesn’t go to plan (that’s why it’s important to live close by to one if you choose this option). If your labour is slow, you need pain relief, the baby shows signs of distress or isn’t head first it’s best to be transported to the hospital for medical assistance. What do you need to prepare for a home birth? If you are seriously considering a home birth make sure you’ve consulted with your doctor to make sure this is a good option for you and your baby. If it’s something you want to consider, you’ll probably be wondering what you need to prepare for a home birth. Before getting to the details, you’ll need to choose a midwife or health care professional to assist, create a birthing plan, a well as a plan to prepare for a hospital transfer, should this become needed. If you still have questions, Home Birth South Africa, which is a website dedicated to home births in South Africa, has many resources you can browse through.
Taking charge of your medical expenses has become increasingly important as healthcare costs continue to rise. Finding the right healthcare cover, that is affordable and meets your healthcare needs, is the first step. At this time of year, medical aid members are reviewing their options to ensure they make the right decision regarding access to the highest quality of healthcare, for the year ahead. It’s a delicate balancing act that needs to support your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, provides some insights into how you can save on healthcare costs by using networks, Designated Service Providers (DSPs), opting for virtual care and generics to stretch your benefits. Using networks One way of reducing monthly medical aid contributions, without compromising on care, is to use a network plan. Generally, these are around 15% cheaper but, you must agree to use network hospitals. ‘We implement networks to negotiate the most favourable tariffs for our members so they can avoid out-of-pocket expenses and get more value,’ explains Callakoppen. ‘Using networks also means you can reduce or eliminate co-payments. ‘Members are seeing the value of hospital networks,’ he says. ’Around 1.2 million open scheme members are on a network option, accounting for 53% of the industry.’ If you choose to go with a network plan, ensure there are doctors and facilities in your area. Check what co-payment might have to be paid for not using a DSP or network. Don’t forget that network options are waived for emergencies. Co-payments Medical practitioners and hospitals often charge more than medical aid rates, this means medical schemes seldom cover the entire bill. A co-payment refers to the outstanding portion of the account, for which you will be responsible. Co-payments vary from one scheme to another. Tariffs and rates of payment Every medical scheme has a rate of payment: The amount the scheme will pay for that service. Some providers charge different rates known as the Scheme Tariff. Members often misunderstand that 100% of the scheme tariff/rate doesn’t necessarily mean 100% of the account or what you will be charged. Read the details of your plan carefully and know what rate is being paid and the benefit limits to avoid any surprises. Virtual has the Edge Technology is driving innovation and with the introduction of virtual integration and digital interventions, this is an ideal way to access healthcare, while stretching your benefits and minimising your monthly contribution costs. Designated Service Providers (DSPs) Healthcare costs in South Africa are unregulated, which means providers are free to charge any tariff, However, by using DSPs you can limit out-of-pocket expenses and co-payment and stretches your annual benefits. ‘Bonitas networks include over 4 000 GP practices, a pharmacy network of around 2 500 to dispense chronic, acute and over-the-counter medicine, around 3 000 dental practices and an optical network of over 2 300 practices. Use generics A generic is the exact copy of brand-name drugs. They have the same dosage, intended use, effects, side effects, route of administration, risks, safety and strength as the original. But they are much cheaper than the originals. – on average between 30 and 80% less. The Medicines Control Council (MCC) carries the responsibility of making sure that generic drugs are safe and effective in South Africa. Generic manufacturers have to prove their medicine is bioequivalent to the innovator brand before a product is allowed into the South African market. Benefits The benefits you receive vary depending on the plan you choose, make sure you read the fine print to understand what is and isn’t covered. Gap Cover Gap cover is an insurance policy, designed to cover the difference between what the medical scheme pays and the service provider charges for in-hospital procedures/treatment and specified outpatient procedures. The advantage of having a Gap Cover is that you are insured against some of these additional costs. However, never assume that all costs will be covered as the payment options depends on the product you have taken out, which is subject to limits and exclusions and you might still be asked for a co-payment. Medical savings A medical scheme allocates an annual fixed amount for medical savings – you need to know what this allocation is and whether you feel it will be adequate for your needs and you are able to tap into your savings for a number of medical expenses. Managed Care One of the key healthcare trends is the rise in non-communicable or lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer. ‘80% of these conditions are caused by lifestyle risk factors,’ explains Callakoppen, ‘which is why we offer a range of Managed Care programmes aimed at assisting members understand and manage chronic conditions include cancer, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, mental health and back and neck pain.’ To this end use the supplementary benefits offered by your medical aid to save on significant day-to-day expenses such as: Blood pressure medication, cholesterol, blood sugar and Body Mass Index (BMI) measurements through to mammograms, pap smears and prostate testing. You can ‘work smart’ with your medical aid benefits. And wisely. Not only will you have access to quality healthcare but you will be able to extend your benefits.
Pack away the sweaters! Summer is here and that means more time to get outdoors with your family and friends. There is nothing better than a lazy Sunday walk followed by a delicious picnic in the park, on the mountain or at the beach. If you’re out of ideas of what food to pack, Rhodes Quality has you covered with convenient, easy-to-make and wholesome goodness that is sure to put an end to the cries of ‘oh no not another tuna sandwich.’ Try these quick tasty, sweet and savoury treats the next time you are packing a basket to head outdoors: from a gherkin cheese ball to crispy chicken and avo wraps or Hawaiian pizza pancakes, jam filled shortbread cookies or a chickpea trail mix; there’s something for everyone. Gherkin cheese ball No-stress appetiser, perfect for outdoor dining. Ingredients (serves 8) 130 g (± 8 whole) Rhodes Quality Sweet & Sour Whole Gherkins, chopped 250 g (1 tub) plain cream cheese 80 ml (⅓ cup) sour cream 250 g (1 cup) grated cheddar cheese 2.5 ml (½ tsp) garlic powder 45 ml (3 Tbsp) flat leaf parsley, chopped salt and freshly cracked black pepper 100 g (1 cup) pecan nuts, chopped To serve: crackers or bread Method Place the cream cheese and sour cream in a large bowl and mix until smooth. Stir in the sour cream, cheddar and garlic powder until evenly mixed. Add the Rhodes Quality Sweet & Sour Whole Gherkins and the parsley and stir to mix. Season to taste. Chill the mixture for 30 minutes. Spoon the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and use the plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a ball. Roll the ball in the chopped nuts. Serve with crackers or fresh baguette. To prepare for a picnic: Roll the mixture into individual small balls. Crispy chicken and beetroot wrap Crunchy and fresh, these are an excellent wholesome meal on their own. Prepare and wrap individually ready for your picnic. Ingredients (serves 4) 250 ml (1 cup) Rhodes Quality Sliced Beetroot in Vinegar, drained 250 ml (1 cup) Hinds Southern Coating Original 400 g chicken breast fillets, sliced into even strips 125 ml (½ C) all-purpose flour 2 eggs, beaten oil for frying Wraps 4 wraps 500 ml (2 cups) mixed salad greens, washed To serve: lemon wedges and mayonnaise (optional) Method Toss the chicken strips in the flour and shake off any excess. Dip the chicken strips in the egg and then toss in the Hinds Southern Coating until evenly coated. Deep fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Heat the wraps. Top with lettuce. Top each wrap with a serving of Rhodes Quality Sliced Beetroot in Vinegar. Divide the chicken between the wraps. Top with mayonnaise if using. Chickpea trail mix Crunchy roasted trail mix, perfect for lunch box munchies, picnics or a hike. Ingredients (makes 5 cups) 1 x 410 g can Rhodes Quality Chickpeas 15 ml (1 Tbsp) brown sugar 15 ml (1 Tbsp) ground cinnamon 250 ml (1 cup) pumpkin seeds 100g (1 cup) walnuts, toasted 125 ml (½ cup) sunflower seeds 125 ml (½ cup) chocolate chips 500 ml (2 cups) popcorn Method Drain and rinse the Rhodes Quality Chickpeas. Lay the chickpeas out in a single layer on a clean dish towel. Pat as dry as possible and leave to air dry for a further 30 minutes. Place the chickpeas on a baking sheet that has been lined with baking paper. Roast in an oven that has been preheated to 180°C for 10 minutes. Mix together the brown sugar and the cinnamon. Remove the chickpeas from the oven and toss in the cinnamon sugar. Return to the oven and roast for a further 15 minutes or until golden. Turn off the oven and leave the chickpeas to cool and crisp. Toss the cooled chickpeas with the remaining ingredients. Store the trail mix in an airtight container. Hawaiian pizza pancakes Savoury pancakes perfect for packing. You can make these ahead of time, cool and portion to save for later. Ingredients (makes 12) 1 x 50g sachet Rhodes Quality Tomato Paste 1 x 440 g can Rhodes Quality Pineapple Pieces in Light Syrup, drained 250 g (2 cups) self-raising flour 1 ml (¼ tsp) salt 300 ml (1 cup +3 Tbsp) milk 1 egg 150 g ham, chopped sunflower oil for frying Method Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl. Whisk together the Rhodes Quality Tomato Paste, milk and the egg. Whisk the milk mixture into the dry ingredients, beating until a smooth thick batter. Stir in the Rhodes Quality Pineapple Pieces and the ham. Allow the batter to stand for 10 minutes. Heat a little oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Use a 65 ml measuring cup to scoop the batter onto a non-stick pan and shape quickly into rounds. Fry only two pancakes at a time. Cook until the pancakes have bubbles on the top, then flip them over and cook for an additional minute. Repeat with the remaining batter. Cool, portion and freeze for later use. Remember to Go with Goodness this summer, go with the right food choices for your family, go with Rhodes Quality. Visit: www.rhodesquality.co.za or follow @rhodesquality #GoWithGoodness for more summer inspiration.
Warmer weather is finally here, and as summer approaches, we’re looking forward to lazy days spent next to the pool and on the beach. While spending time outdoors is great for your mental wellbeing as well as for your vitamin D production, it’s important to take precautions against one of the biggest threats to our skin: the sun. Exposure to some sunlight can be good for you, but overexposure can be extremely harmful. The sun’s UV rays penetrate the outer layers of our skin and have the ability to reach the deeper layers where they can potentially damage or even destroy skin cells. UVA rays are the type that cause ageing (think fine lines, wrinkles and that leathery texture we’ve all seen before) and UVB rays are the ones responsible for burning the skin. Without protection against both of these rays, your skin will not only burn, but it can also develop sun spots, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and even precancerous and cancerous growths. Living in South Africa means that you are likely to develop a tan during summer, even if you take all the proper precautions. Follow these simple do’s and don’ts to ensure a safe and healthy glow this season. Tannings do’s DO get a fake tan While a little bit of sun exposure is good for our vitamin D production, there is no such thing as a healthy tan, with any level of skin darkening indicating damage. The best way to get a golden glow is to use self-tan products at home. Modern formulas are easy to use, offer even, natural-looking colour and don’t result in any mess or fuss. Australian Gold offers a variety of easy-to-apply formulas: Australian Gold Instant Sunless Mousse (R264.00) is a quick-dry, oil-free formula that delivers a natural-looking, Aussie-glow all year round. It allows for even, streak-free coverage in one easy motion. Australian Gold Instant Sunless Lotion (R304.00) helps your skin develop a rich, sun-kissed bronze colour in no time. It offers the perfect balance of caring and bronzing ingredients for summer-ready skin that’s healthy and nourished. Australian Gold Instant Sunless Spray (R312.00) combines bronzing ingredients and nourishing moisturisers to feed and protect skin while developing a sunless tan that lasts longer. Its oil-free formulation dries quickly and allows for even, streak-free coverage. DO avoid direct sun during peak hours The sun’s rays are at their strongest between 10am and 2pm. Try to schedule your outdoor activities outside of those hours, and if not possible, find a spot in the shade and cover up with a sun hat, sunglasses, kaftan or other protective materials. DO apply after sun lotion Even if your skin hasn’t been burnt by the sun, it’s important to hydrate it after sun exposure as the sun can be incredibly drying. After sun products are specifically formulated with this in mind, offering plenty of hydration and cooling formulas. Piz Buin After Sun Lotion (R104.00) is non-greasy and fast-absorbing, and combats the effects of sun stress by cooling and moisturising skin for 24 hours with aloe vera and mint extract. DO choose a broad spectrum SPF formula It’s important to select a sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection to ensure you’re protected against sunburn as well as against developing signs of ageing. Piz Buin In Sun Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF30 (R172.00) offers advanced UVA/UVB filters to protect the skin from the sun. It is also enriched with antioxidants to prevent premature skin ageing and is non-greasy to allow skin to breathe. Tanning don’ts DON’T forget to reapply SPF Even when a sunscreen is water-resistant, you’ll need to reapply it after each and every swim to ensure you get full protection. In general, it’s recommended to reapply after every two hours, however, you may need to do this more often if you are swimming or sweating, and less often if you are indoors. DON’T bake in the sun We all know that a fake tan is the healthier option, but regardless of this, there will always be people who opt for a natural tan instead. If you’re going to go that route, it’s important to take precautions. Don’t lie in the sun and bake during peak hours. Rather get your tanning time in early morning or late afternoon. Protect your skin with a tan-enhancing SPF product like Piz Buin Tan & Protect Tan Accelerating Oil Spray SPF30 (R216.00) which protects skin from the sun while helping enhance the natural tanning process with a special ingredient called melitan. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion (R248.00) is formulated with a powerful blend of bronzing ingredients, ideal to achieve a dark and natural sun-kissed look. The Black Walnut Extracts delivers an instant gold colour, the DHA focuses on providing a delayed tan. This product doesn’t contain an SPF so it’s essential to apply a sunscreen over it. DON’T forget smaller parts of the body It’s so easy to forget to apply SPF to your ears, lips or even between your toes, but don’t neglect these areas: skin cancer often develops on one’s ears because they’re usually forgotten when it comes to sunscreen! Piz Buin Allergy Face Cream SPF50(R152.00) is a great option for smaller or more sensitive areas of the body. It offers very high protection to sun sensitive skin and combines immediate and effective UVA/UVB sun protection with Calmanelle®, a unique anti-irritant shield complex proven to help strengthen the skin’s resilience to the sun. It provides hours of moisturisation to keep delicate skin soft. Piz Buin Moisturizing Sun Lipstick (R54) is perfect for lips – it offers SPF30 protection, has a lovely velvety texture, and a great flavour too! However you plan on speeding your summer, be sure to be sun-smart – your skin will thank you for it.
Wearing sunscreen every day is no longer an option, it’s a necessity. The sun’s harmful UV rays have the potential to harm and even destroys skin cells, resulting in hyperpigmentation, sunburn, wrinkles, a leathery skin texture, and in some cases, skin cancer. Despite the accessibility of sunscreen products, some people are still reluctant to use one, thinking they don’t need it, or forgetting to apply it. If you fall in that category, this image might change your mind. This photograph was shared on social media by Dr. Avi Bitterman, a dermatologist in New York. It depicts the cheek and neck of a 92-year-old woman, who for more than 40 years, applied UV-protective moisturisers on her face, but not on her neck. The consequences are visually striking. The skin on her cheek shows significantly fewer spots of discolouration, fewer wrinkles and has a smoother texture and more even appearance than the skin on her neck. While it’s only recently made waves on social media, this image was originally published in the Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology in October 2021 as part of a report on skin cancer and ageing. Read more about this image here. How does the sun damage our skin? The sun’s rays emit UV light, which is an invisible form of radiation. Exposure to this radiation can result in damaged skin cells, which manifests in the form of wrinkles and discolouration (also referred to as hyperpigmentation). UV exposure can also result in skin cancer. While those with fair skin and light hair are at higher risk, the truth is that anyone can get skin cancer, no matter what your age, skin type or ethnicity. UV radiation is not just a summer concern. The sun’s rays can damage your skin on overcast and wintery days too, so it’s important to stick to your sun care regime all year round. Help is at hand in the form of SPF. It is recommended that everyone (including children and babies over the age of six months) wear a broad spectrum SPF on all exposed areas of the body, whenever they go outside. Broad spectrum means that it offers protection against both UVA rays (the rays that are responsible for ageing the skin) and UVB rays (the rays that are responsible for burning the skin). And if this image has taught us anything, it’s that you shouldn’t neglect any parts of the body! The skin on our necks is as vulnerable as the skin on our faces, and because both are usually exposed, it’s essential that they are protected by sunscreen every time you step outside. Piz Buin has been a trusted sun care provider for more than 70 years. In fact, Piz Buin was one of the first to make tanning safer by implementing the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) system in the 1960’s. After suffering overexposure to the sun while climbing the Piz Buin alpine peak in 1938, chemistry student Franz Greiter developed one of the world’s first sun protection products in 1946, the Piz Buin Gletscher Creme, or Glacier Cream. Working with his wife Marga, a trained beautician, they developed a specialist sun care brand dedicated to developing cutting edge sun protection with luxurious skincare for anyone who wanted to enjoy life in the sun. And the rest, as they say, is history… All Piz Buin sun care products contain advanced UVA / UVB protection to ensure you get effective sun protection, and the extensive range offers something for everyone. This summer, stay protected with one (or more!) of Piz Buin’s hard-working formulations. For skins sensitive to the sun, try: Piz Buin Allergy Face Cream SPF50 (R190.00) Offering very high protection to sun-sensitive skin, this sun cream combines immediate and effective UVA/UVB sun protection with Calmanelle®, a unique anti-irritant shield complex proven to help strengthen the skin’s resilience to the sun. It provides hours of moisturisation to keep the delicate skin on the face soft. Piz Buin Allergy Lotion SPF30 (R270.00) This water-resistant lotion has been clinically proven to protect sensitive skin from the sun. It also provides long-lasting moisturisation and increases the skin’s tolerance towards the sun. For those who want to develop a tan faster, try: Piz Buin Tan & Protect SPF15 Tan Intensifying Lotion (R270.00) This protective lotion is formulated with melitan to enhance the skin’s natural tanning process. It offers medium protection from UVA/UVB rays and leaves skin moisturised. Piz Buin Tan & Protect SPF30 Tan Accelerating Oil Spray (R270.00) This spray protects skin from the sun while helping enhance the natural tanning process with a special ingredient called melitan. It is fast-absorbing and non-greasy. For everyday protection, try: Piz Buin In Sun SPF30 Sun Lotion (R215.00) Offering advanced UVA/UVB filters to protect the skin from the sun, this SPF lotion is also enriched with antioxidants to prevent premature skin ageing. It has a lovely non-greasy formula that allows skin to breathe. It takes just one or two bad sunburns to put you at a high risk of developing skin cancer. Be sure to stock up on your favourite sun care products and enjoy a safe summer (and younger looking skin, for longer!).
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, explores the ongoing debate regarding whether the consumption of artificial sweeteners poses health hazards. If you’re trying to limit the amount of sugar and calories in your diet, you may resort to artificial sweeteners or other sugar replacements. Various foods and beverages labelled as “sugar-free” or “diet” contain artificial sweeteners and other sugar replacements, including soft drinks and baked goods. What are all these sugar substitutes? And what role do they play in your diet? Understanding artificial sweeteners and alternative sugars Sugar substitutes are sweeteners used in place of traditional sugar (sucrose). Artificial sweeteners are only one sort of sugar replacement. There are several sweeteners on the South African market, with Sorbitol, Xylitol, Acesulfame, Potassium, Aspartame, Saccharine, Stevia, and Sucralose being the most common. Mannitol and Maltitol are utilised in producing goods and are not sold separately as sweeteners. The pros and cons of artificial sweeteners Artificial sweeteners are chosen as an alternative to sugar because: They can be used in baking or cooking Artificial sweeteners have almost no calories and don’t cause weight gain They are not associated with tooth decay or cavities. They aren’t carbohydrates and generally don’t raise blood sugar levels. “For decades, artificial sweeteners have been the subject of intensive scrutiny,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Critics of artificial sweeteners assert that they contribute to numerous health issues, including cancer. However, according to the National Cancer Institute and other health agencies, no solid scientific evidence exists that any of the permitted artificial sweeteners cause cancer or other major health problems. Numerous studies demonstrate that, in moderation, artificial sweeteners are generally safe.” The Food and Drug Administration has defined an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for each artificial sweetener. The ADI is the maximum amount of a substance considered safe for daily consumption throughout a lifetime. It’s essential for consumers not to exceed the recommended ADI. Different Artificial Sweeteners Aspartame Aspartame, a low-calorie sweetener created in 1965, tastes similar to sugar but is 200 times sweeter. It is unique among low-calorie sweeteners in that the body metabolises it to amino acids, aspartic acid, phenylalanine, and a minor quantity of ethanol. In 1981, aspartame was authorised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in various foods. It has been hypothesised that aspartame’s interference with the function of rheumatoid factor can decrease joint pain and immobility caused by chronic inflammation. It has also been argued that aspartame’s components can cause various health issues, including increased susceptibility to seizures, behaviour, mood, or cognitive function. However, there are no solid indications that aspartame can cause these problems. Saccharin Saccharin was discovered more than a century ago. It is typically used to enhance the flavour of toothpaste, diet foods and beverages, as it is 300 to 500 times sweeter than sugar. According to limited studies, consuming saccharin-containing items may cause weight gain and obesity by interfering with core homeostatic and physiological processes. However, on the whole, sucralose is deemed safe for all population segments, including those with chronic health conditions such as diabetes. Acesulfame Potassium Acesulfame Potassium is a non-caloric sweetener found in numerous products. The US FDA approved acesulfame K for non-alcoholic beverages in 1998 and awarded permission for general use in 2003. The Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), a scientific advisory council for the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, assessed the evidence and found that acesulfame K is safe. Neotame Neotame is a no-calorie sweetener derived from the dipeptide composed of aspartic acid and phenylalanine amino acids. The components of neotame are combined to create a distinct sweetener. Neotame is approximately 8000 times sweeter than table sugar and 40 times sweeter than aspartame. Neotame is chemically similar to aspartame but more chemically stable, making it suitable for usage in baked goods. However, it may also be employed as a flavouring agent in other types of food. It was approved by the U.S. FDA in 2002, although its use is still uncommon. Stevia Stevia is produced from the South American herb Stevia Rebaudiana, which has been used to sweeten liquids and create tea in Paraguay for generations. Rebaudioside A is one sweetening chemical found in the stevia plant. The steviol glycosides meet the JECFA’s purity requirements (WHO). The clinical investigations demonstrate that stevia sweeteners do not influence blood pressure or blood glucose response, indicating they are safe for people with diabetes to consume. Recent studies, including human intake, metabolism, and toxicity studies, support the safety of stevia sweeteners. Based on published research, independent scientific experts from the United States and worldwide have agreed that stevia sweeteners are safe for persons of all ages. Stevia has an extremely low acute toxicity and no known adverse responses. Conclusion Several scientific studies are conducted to determine the safety of artificial sweeteners, which regulatory agencies subsequently approve. Some substances are also approved with warning labels. “If you’re concerned about whether an artificial sweetener is safe and its potential side effects, always read the warnings and recommended daily allowance on the product. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns,” concludes Hewlett.
According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, while prostate cancer primarily affects men over the age of 65, it can strike earlier, especially if you have a family history of prostate cancer. What Is Prostate Cancer? Prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in the prostate. In males, the prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Many prostate cancers are slow-growing and limited to the prostate gland, where they may not cause significant harm. While some prostate cancers grow slowly and require little or no treatment, others are aggressive and spread rapidly. Early detection of prostate cancer, while still confined to the prostate gland, gives the best chance of successful treatment. Who Is Predisposed to Prostate Cancer? Every man is at risk of prostate cancer, but some factors contribute to the risk. Age: The most critical risk factor for prostate cancer is age. Men aged 65 and older account for roughly two-thirds of all prostate cancer diagnoses. However, as you age, the disease becomes less aggressive, especially after age 70. Family History: Men with a history of prostate cancer are at a higher risk. Having a father or brother with the disease doubles your chances of getting it. When multiple family members are affected, your chances increase. Race: Black men are about 60% more likely than white men to develop prostate cancer. When cancer is diagnosed, it is more likely to be advanced. Doctors aren’t sure why different races have different rates of prostate cancer, but they believe environmental factors are to blame. Diets High In Fat: Dietary fat may also be linked to prostate cancer. Men in high-fat diet countries eat fewer fruits and vegetables. The disease is much more prevalent in countries where meat and dairy products dominate the diet, as opposed to those where rice, soybean products, and vegetables are the primary staples. Obesity: Extra weight does not appear to increase your chances of developing prostate cancer. However, it may reduce your chances of getting a lower-grade type and increase your chances of getting an aggressive form. Although not all study findings agree, some evidence suggests that obese men are more likely to have advanced prostate cancer and die from it. Sedentary Way of Life: Although there haven’t been many studies to determine how closely a lack of physical activity is linked to prostate cancer, it has been shown to play a role in other types of cancer, including colon and endometrial cancer. However, because a lack of physical activity is frequently associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome, there may also be a link between it and prostate cancer. Changes in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 Gene: These are what your doctor may refer to as mutations. Because you are born with them, they are risk factors over which you have no control. They run in families, but only a few people are affected. They increase the likelihood of breast and ovarian cancer in women, as well as prostate cancer in some men. Lynch Syndrome: Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is caused by a gene change that occurs at birth. It can increase your chances of getting a variety of cancers, including prostate cancer. Signs and Symptoms While most prostate cancers are asymptomatic, the following symptoms and signs of prostate cancer may occur: Urine flow that is weak or interrupted, or the need to strain to empty the bladder Urge to urinate frequently during the night Urine with blood Erectile dysfunction Urinary pain or burning An enlarged prostate (that causes discomfort or pain when sitting) Back, hip, thigh, shoulder, or other bone pain Leg or foot swelling or fluid buildup Unknown cause of weight loss Fatigue Alteration in bowel habits If you are concerned about any changes you are experiencing, please consult your doctor. Your doctor will ask you how long and frequently you have been experiencing the symptom, among other things (s). Diagnosis is made to assist in determining the cause of the problem. Screening For Prostate Cancer A digital rectal examination or finger test is the only way for a doctor to examine your prostate. To check the size of the prostate and for lumps, a doctor must insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum and press the bowel wall, this is unpleasant, but a minute of discomfort can save your life. The prostate exam is the most effective screening test for prostate cancer. Screening should begin at the age of 40 if you have a family history of prostate cancer. If you are not at high risk, you should start screening at the age of 50, unless you have any of the warning signs, in which case you should begin screening right away,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Treatment Of Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer treatment options include surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy, which can be used alone or in combination. “Treatment is highly individualised and is planned according to clinical findings. The earlier prostate cancer is detected, the better the prognosis,” concludes Hewlett.
With early morning weekly starts or lazy weekend mornings, everyone can agree that getting up in summer is much nicer than the colder months we’ve come out of. But, when it’s just too hot to cook breakfast, here are some yummy pick me up smoothies to get you on your way. Four delicious juicy smoothies are vitamin packed to keep you going whether it’s on the run for work, heading into the outdoors or just lazing by your pool. Pineapple and cucumber smoothie A fresh fast-morning smoothie packed with greens and vitamins. Ingredients (makes 4) 1 whole cucumber 1 x 440 g can Rhodes Quality Pineapple Pieces in Syrup, drained 250 ml (1 cup) Rhodes Quality 100% Pineapple Juice, chilled 250 ml (1 cup) coconut water, chilled 2.5 ml (½ tsp) Hinds Spices Pure Ground Ginger Method Place the cucumber, Rhodes Quality Pineapple Pieces in Syrup, Rhodes Quality 100% Pineapple Juice, coconut water and Hinds Pure Ground Ginger into a blender. Blend until smooth. Serve immediately. Spinach and orange juice smoothie A fresh fast-morning smoothie packed with greens and vitamins. Ingredients (serves 2) 375 ml (1½ cups) Rhodes Quality Orange 100% Fruit Juice Blend 1 small cucumber, chopped 500 ml (2 cups) fresh spinach, washed 1 large banana 250 ml (1 cup) ice optional: 10 ml (2 tsp) honey Method Place the Rhodes Quality Orange 100% Fruit Juice Blend into a blender. Add the remaining ingredients and blend on high until smooth and creamy. Serve immediately. Carrot, apple, ginger and orange juice An everyday immune boosting juice. Ingredients (serves 8) 250 ml (1 cup) Rhodes Quality Apple 100% Fruit Juice, chilled 250 ml (1 cup) Rhodes Quality Orange 100% Fruit Juice, chilled 2.5 ml (½ tsp) Hinds Ground Ginger 2 carrots 1 cup ice Method Place the Rhodes Quality Apple 100% Fruit Juice and the Rhodes Quality Orange 100% Fruit Juice into a liquidiser. Add the Hinds Ground Ginger, carrots and ice. Process until smooth. Serve well chilled. Peach and ginger smoothie Fast and fresh breakfast smoothie. Add a little ginger to smoothies for its anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties. Ingredients (makes 2) 1 x 410 g can Rhodes Quality Peach Halves in Syrup, drained 5-10 ml (1-2 tsp.) Fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated 5 ml (1 tsp.) Honey 190 ml Coconut milk To serve: Ice cubes Method Place the Rhodes Quality Peach Halves in Syrup in a blender. Add the ginger, honey and coconut milk. Blend until smooth. Pour the smoothie over the ice cubes and serve. Remember to Go with Goodness this summer, go with the right food choices for your family, go with Rhodes Quality. Visit: www.rhodesquality.co.za or follow @rhodesquality #GoWithGoodness for more summer inspiration.
Candice Chirwa is an author, gender activist, and thought leader affectionately known as the Minister of Menstruation due to the incredible work she has done around period poverty and educating girls about period hygiene. Since 2021 she has helped the Salome range by participating in their campaigns aimed at removing the stigma attached to menstruation. Together with Salome, Candice shares her top tips to get you ready for a stress-free holiday that won’t cramp your style. Period fatigue is real – so rest I would highly recommend that you get your rest in. Year-end fatigue is real and so is period fatigue, and it is important to not skip out on any form of rest especially during the holiday season. Make it your goal to get eight to nine hours of sleep throughout the holiday season. Heavy menstrual bleeders, we’ve got you too! Everyone has different methods of handling period pain. For some, it’s using hot water bottles and applying it directly to their abdomen, for others it’s exercising that helps reduce menstrual cramping. I do suggest that menstruators opt for comfort during this season. Avoid wearing tight clothing and instead choose to wear loose clothes during the summer. For heavy menstrual bleeders, I’d also recommend using period products that last for 12 hours such as night time pads, menstrual cups, period underwear and tampons. Busting a holiday myth – period One myth that some people still believe in is that you shouldn’t swim when having your period. I believe in the exact opposite and would highly recommend going for a gentle exercise, like swimming, to keep you cool and to release endorphins which is nature’s own pain reliever. If you’d like something more intense and a cardio burner to help manage period pain, a hike is a sure way to manage the pain and keep your PMS mood swings away. Any low-stress exercise such as dancing and yoga stretches can make you and your body feel happier. Be careful of what you are eating Stay away from foods that can cause bloating such as dairy and foods that contain a lot of sodium. It can be difficult to make healthy choices when braai food and sugar treats are in readily available during the festive season. However, when it comes to your period it is a good time to remain hydrated. Go for herbal extract solutions There are definitely benefits to using herbal based medicine that relieves menstrual cramps. A particular pro, is that ranges like the Salome range have minimal side effects that can impede on your daily holiday activities. I also find using natural treatment options to be a healthier route that is unlikely to lead to gastric issues. The Salome range, launched in 2020 by South African pharmaceutical company 3Sixty Biomedicine, addresses common women’s health issues. In 2022 Salome expanded its herbal extract based range to include products that assist with managing symptoms commonly associated with menopause and for the relief of minor symptoms in the days before menstruation (premenstrual syndrome). Now the current product range based on herbal extracts offers over the counter treatment options that help manage heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and infertility linked to PCOS. The full Salome range that contains natural ingredients is available online at Takealot.com and www.salome-range.co.za, as well as over the counter at most pharmacies nationwide. For more information about the Salome range, go to www.salome-range.co.za or connect on social media: Facebook: Salome Range Twitter: SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange
‘Blindness cuts us off from things but deafness cuts us off from people’ [Helen Keller] Hearing loss is more common than we think, up to 19% of South African school children suffer from varying degrees of hearing difficulties. Hearing is the foundation for speech and language development as well as learning and communication. The long-term impact of losing one of the key senses has a major impact on the quality of life. Early detection and treatment is vital and it’s important to conduct hearing tests throughout a child’s schooling. However, the reality is that many learners have limited or no access to audiological screening and treatment. To address this important health issue and close the gap on hearing impediments, Bonitas Medical Fund has partnered with humanitarian aid organisation, Gift of the Givers, on a project that will initially screen around 15 860 learners during 2023. ‘The Gift of the Givers Foundation is internationally recognised for its swift disaster response, community support and healthcare interventions,’ says Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer at Bonitas. ‘We are truly excited by this partnership and we know this ambitious project will have a profound impact on so many lives.’ The importance of hearing tests According to the South African National Deaf Association (SANDA), children should have their hearing tested several times throughout their schooling: When they enter school, at ages 6, 8 and 10 and at least once during Grades 8 or 9 and Grades 10 and 12. This audiology project, which is being rolled out over a 10-month period, will initially test around 15 860 learners across Grade R to Grade 12 at various schools located in six areas in KZN: Umlazi, Indanda, Chatsworth, Phoenix, Marionhill and Durban central. The plan is to expand the project to other Provinces. Screening practicalities A South African manufactured portable audiometer, called the Kuduwave, will be used for the project. This state-of-the-art, medically certified device has revolutionised the testing and diagnosis of auditory related deficiencies. It combines a headset, audiometer and sound booth into a single, lightweight device, which can be used in just about any location. This means the audiology team can test learners at school. ‘Two Kuduwave units will be used to increase capacity and reduce downtime,’ explains the audiology team at Gift of the Givers. The programme is being overseen by an ear, nose and throat surgeon as well as an audiologist and speech therapist. They will provide training, consultation and oversight for the audiology team conducting the screenings. ‘Each test takes between 5 and 15 minutes,’ explains Gift of the Givers audiology team. ‘During which time the learner’s middle ear will be pressure tested for ear infections and ears will also be checked for inflammation and earwax. Diagnostics and after-care If the screening fails, a full diagnostic test will be undertaken. ‘This project not only covers the screening but goes a step further and offers an after-care element. This includes follow-up medical treatment, if required, to ensure learners receive the assistance they need so that their development is not delayed,’ explains the audiology team. ‘I cannot even begin to imagine a life without sound,’ says Callakoppen. ‘Not hearing someone’s voice, the lyrics of a song, rain falling on a roof or laughter. As a medical aid we advocate for prevention through early screening, detection and treatment for any ailment – including hearing.’
With the world moving towards an emphasis on health, an increased focus is placed on the importance of breastfeeding for both mothers and infants, and awareness has grown around the delicious alcohol-free malt beverages that are now available to enhance health for expecting and lactating mothers such as ULTIMALT, a favourite new malt beverage recently launched in South Africa. Humans have consumed barley for thousands of years with good reason. The medicinal effects of the barley grain, from which barley malt extract is derived have long been recognized in Africa and Asia, and now malt’s complete nutritional properties are confirmed by nutritional science. Barley malt contains protein, essential amino acids, soluble fibres, vitamins B1, B2, B6 and B612, and other micro minerals. It is also one of the richest dietary sources of beta-glucan, a polysaccharide that has been shown to increase prolactin, the hormone responsible for lactation. This not only makes barley malt highly nutritious, but when enjoyed 90 minutes prior to breastfeeding, promotes an increase in milk production. Malt drinks are well known to be both wholesome and highly nutritious, while providing some protein, sugar, essential minerals and levels of vitamins A and B vitamins. It also provides the all-important folic acid that is beneficial during both pregnancy and breastfeeding and plays an important role in the maintenance of the gut microbiome. A healthy Diet During Pregnancy A healthy diet during pregnancy helps to support the mother’s wellbeing and supplies the nutrition the baby needs to develop and grow. As a general guide, pregnant mothers need to eat a healthy diet, high in nutrients and low in sugar, salt, and saturated fats with an extra total of about 300 calories for the additional energy expenditure and nutritional needs. Fresh fruits, healthy fats such as avocado and salmon, free range and pasture fed meats, fresh vegetables such as leafy greens, and other folate and vitamin boosting foods such as malt barley, conveniently packaged in malt beverages such as ULTIMALT. The Consumption of Alcohol During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Sadly, South Africa has the highest prevalence of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) than anywhere else in the world with 111.1 instances per 1 000 children (the global average is 7.7) which is a result of expecting mothers consuming alcohol. Alcohol crosses the blood barrier and travels into the unborn foetus wreaking havoc of stillbirth, miscarriage or a range of disabilities that are classified under the term FASD. Lactating mothers are further adversely affected by consuming alcohol which is absorbed from their blood into their breastmilk. Consuming alcohol while breastfeeding can lead to several ill effects such as: Impaired milk production in the mother Disturbed milk ejection reflex in the mother Sleep disturbances for baby Increased crying for baby Increased startling for baby Decreased milk intake by baby Decreased weight gain by baby However, consuming a malt beverage such as ULTIMALT delivers a nutritious punch of vitamins, proteins, and other components, without any of the disadvantages – for both pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Breastfeeding is the ultimate milk for a baby as it supplies all the necessary nutrients for optimum infant health in the proper proportions. It protects against allergies, sickness, and obesity. It protects against diseases such as cancer, and even against infections, like ear infections. Of course, many mothers are not able to breastfeed for a variety of health or personal reasons, however if naturally able to breastfeed, breastmilk is the safest and healthiest food for the first six months of life for all children everywhere. ULTIMALT is brewed using an authentic African recipe, with the most advanced western brewing processes. The result is a tastier, healthier & lighter malt drink. Tastier as an authentic and exclusive African recipe is used, unlike other sugary drinks that can leave an aftertaste in the mouth. Lighter as no refined sugar is added in the brewing process. Healthier as it contains natural sugar from barley and fructose from fruit.
It’s the time of year when medical schemes announce revised contributions, benefits and enhancements for the year ahead. With all the options it can be a little confusing, which is why you need to be smart by doing due diligence to ensure you choose a medical aid that provides the cover you need and is affordable. It’s also important to look at how you can manage your medical expenses to make your healthcare benefits last. ‘There are 17 open medical schemes in South Africa, each with their own set of plans and benefits,’ explains Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund. ‘It can be a little overwhelming trying to decide what is best which is why we advise consulting a medical aid broker or financial advisor.’ Brokers are accredited by the Council of Medical Schemes (CMS) and are qualified to offer advice and support at no extra charge. Together you can work your way through the different options, ahead of choosing a medical aid plan. Brokers also know the financial stability of the schemes, which should be a consideration in the final decision. A starting point, with or without a broker, is to compare what is available. Most medical schemes offer a range of healthcare options – from traditional medical aids through to hospital, savings, network or income-based plans that can make private healthcare more affordable. So, what should you consider? Affordability is key Take a careful look at your monthly budget to determine what you can afford. The rule of thumb is that contributions should not exceed 10% of your monthly income. However you also need to take a look what the plan you’re considering offers and whether there are additional costs, such as co-payments. A medical aid co-payment is a fee that the member is liable for when making use of certain medical services. These co-payments usually apply to specialist or elective medical procedures and differ from one medical aid scheme to another. Your health status Assess your current health status and that of your family so that you can determine what cover you need. Specifically, consider pre-existing conditions or ailments, together with any chronic medication or treatment that you or your family make use of as well as how often you visit a doctor or specialist and what you spend on dentistry or optometry. Then reflect on what expenses over the past year were once-off (like childbirth) and which are likely to come up time and again – such as flu. This will help you decide on whether you need a comprehensive medical aid or a hospital plan. The fine print It’s important to take the time to read all the information. Benefits vary from plan to plan, so you need to establish what is and isn’t covered. Check what supplementary benefits are available that can potentially save significant day-to-day expenses. These could include preventative care benefits, ranging from basic screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and Body Mass Index (BMI) measurements through to mammograms, pap smears and prostate testing. In some cases, these extend to maternity programs, dental check-ups, flu vaccinations and more. Once you understand what is on offer, you can make an informed comparison and decision. Managed Care Managed Care programmes help members manage severe chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes and HIV/AIDS. Ask whether the scheme you are considering has a managed care programme. Medical savings A medical scheme allocates an annual fixed amount for medical savings – you need to know what this allocation is and whether you feel it will be adequate for your needs. Daily detail Look at what the scheme suggests will help make your benefits last, bearing in mind the following: Are you required to use a specific GP, hospital network or Designated Service Providers (DSPs)? Although this helps keep costs down, you need to check the network in your area before making a final decision Having to be referred to a specialist by your GP? Does your medical plan offer additional GP consultations, which they will pay for, after you have exhausted your day-to-day benefits? Technology Technology and virtual care are being embraced by medical schemes, even more so since the Covid-19 pandemic. Check what is offered on the plan you’re considering and also whether you’re able to access your benefits, submit claims, find healthcare providers, WA chat and access your medical information online 24/7. Age will impact your decision If you have young children, ensure that the medical aid option you select provides sufficient child illness benefits. For young couples looking to start a family: Does the option provide sufficient maternity benefits? However, if you are slightly older, ensure you select an option that covers chronic conditions and provides sufficient in-hospital cover in the event of hospitalisation. Waiting period and exclusions The Medical Schemes Act and the specific scheme’s rules determine this. Callakoppen recommends that you enquire with the relevant scheme about their exclusion list and waiting periods. Financial stability of the scheme With two medical schemes recently being placed under curatorship, it’s important to choose a medical scheme with a solid track record and reputation. Check the claims payment record … do they pay on time? Equally important is the demographics and size of the scheme. Has the membership of the scheme grown over the past few years and what is the general age? And finally, take a look at the annual contribution increase, in fact a good idea is to look at the increases over the past three to five years to see how these compare with the rest of the industry. ‘Health is the new wealth,’ says Callakoppen. ‘Your health is important, as are your finances, don’t take either for granted. When it comes to healthcare cover, invest time to research and understand what you need. If in doubt, phone the call centre, your broker or financial advisor to ensure you find the right medical scheme to walk the healthcare path with you.’
‘Like’ it or not, social media can cause anxiety, depression, and other health challenges. Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, discusses the link between social media and mental health. People frequently turn to social media to gain positive feedback to increase their self-esteem and experience a feeling of belonging in their social circles. For some people, social networking is a terrific way to improve their mental health. For others, the opposite rings true. “Because social media can have both benefits and drawbacks, it’s critical to understand how it impacts you and your mental health,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Why social media can be detrimental to mental health It Can Be Addictive There is evidence that social media addiction exists. Social media addiction is a behavioural addiction defined by an excessive preoccupation with social media. An uncontrolled want to log on to or use social media and invest so much time and effort in social media that it interferes with other vital aspects of life. Like substance use disorders, addictive social media use may result in mood and behaviour changes and withdrawal symptoms. It Can Trigger Depression The greater our use of social media, the less content we appear to be. Research has discovered a correlation between Facebook use and decreased happiness and life satisfaction. The more participants use Facebook daily, the more these two measures reduce. Comparisons Can Be Psychologically Harmful As we scan through our feeds, we fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others and passing judgement on how we measure up. One study examined how we compare ourselves to others in “upward” or “downward” ways, i.e., whether we feel better or worse off than our friends. In the realm of social networks, it appears that most feel they don’t measure up after spending excessive periods on social media. It Can Spark Jealousy It’s no secret that the comparison factor in social media promotes jealousy; most people will admit that seeing other people’s exotic vacations and well-behaved children makes them envious. Research has shown that using social media causes feelings of envy and resentment. It Can Cause A Negative Cycle Part of the unhealthy loop is that we return to social media even though it does not make us feel excellent. This is likely due to what is known as a “forecasting error”. Like a drug, we believe getting a fix will help, but it makes us feel worse due to our inability to predict our responses accurately. One study compared how individuals feel after using Facebook to anticipate feelings beforehand. The individuals in this study almost invariably felt worse after using Facebook than those who engaged in other activities. However, a subsequent investigation revealed that people generally assumed they would feel better, not worse, after scrolling through social media feeds. It Can Create Social Withdrawal Having more social media friends does not necessarily indicate a better social life. Obtaining genuine social support is essential, as loneliness is associated with various physical and mental health issues. Time spent with virtual friends is not as beneficial as time spent with real ones. “Of course, this does not imply that social media has no benefits. However, if social media negatively impacts your mental health, you should consider taking a break,” Hewlett adds. “Everyone is unique, and there is no set amount of time spent on social media, the frequency you check for updates, or the number of posts you make that indicates your use is becoming unhealthy. Instead, it is about the influence of social media on your mood and other elements of your life.” Warning signs your online habits are unhealthy Keep these warning indicators in mind as you consider if you should investigate how social media affects your mental health. You don’t make time for self-care. You devote more time to social media than to friends and family. After being online, your feelings of despair or anxiety worsen. You frequently compare yourself to others and are envious of their posts. You are preoccupied with social media and neglect your interests or hobbies. You constantly have to check social media. Here’s how to keep your mental health safe when using social media Use these four suggestions from Affinity Health to strike a good balance between social media and mental health. Reduce your time on social media: If you believe that social media has a detrimental impact on your mental health, limit your time. Set screen time limitations or make a timetable for when you will check social media. Don’t use social media to start or end your day: Rather than starting or finishing your day on a potentially unpleasant note, replace it with things you enjoy. According to a 2018 study, persons who check Facebook at night are more likely to be dissatisfied or depressed. Consider why you’re signing on: Knowing your reasons for using social media will assist you in shifting your emphasis away from social media and toward other things, such as exercising or starting a new hobby. Spend time with friends and family: While social media platforms can be a source of connection, they can also lead to feelings of loneliness if you aren’t getting what you anticipate from the community. Face-to-face contact and quality time are not substitutes for social media. Making time to spend with friends and family can assist in combating this.
Axial Spondyloarthritis affects around 60 million people worldwide. We estimate around 160 000 people in South Africa may have it. If you are younger 45 years, and you have back pain that lasts for more than 3 months that is not mechanical, and feels better with excercize, you could have AxSpA and you do not even know it. Ankylosing spondylitis, now frequently referred to as spondyloarthritis (SpA), is a chronic inflammatory disease causing axial arthritis and inflammatory lower back pain resulting in the eventual impairment of spinal mobility. Moreover, its systemic complications include stiffness and inflexibility, restriction of lung capacity and function, eye inflammation, compression spinal fractures, and heart problems. Hence, early diagnosis and intervention play a key role in preventing acute complications and improving the quality of life. It’s a painful, progressive form of inflammatory arthritis. It mainly affects the spine but can also affect other joints, tendons and ligaments. Other areas such as the eyes and bowel can also sometimes be involved. Inflammation occurs at the site where ligaments or tendons attach to the bone. This is known as enthesis The inflammation is followed by some wearing away of the bone at the site of the attachment. This is known as enthesopathy As the inflammation reduces, healing takes place and new bone develops. Movement becomes restricted when bone replaces the elastic tissue of ligaments or tendons Repetition of this inflammatory process leads to further bone formation and the individual bones which make up your backbone (vertebrae) can fuse together AxSpa places a huge physical impact and psychological stress on patients which can disrupt every aspect of their life and its quality including mobility, sleep, work and relationships. It is a poorly understood disease that causes patients to worry for their future. Here is Matthew’s story Mathew Fah was just seven years old when he developed persistent pain in his ankle. And the pain never went away. After a host of blood tests, X-rays and doctors’ visits, the little boy whose knee was also painful, was finally diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA). The prognosis couldn’t have been worse. His parents were told that their son would be wheelchair-bound by the time he turned 16. “Being so young, I did not really understand this, but it was a huge stress for my parents.” Matthew’s diagnosis meant that he couldn’t participate in many sports, play with his friends or live a normal life. “I had to take a handful of pills every day, the worst of course, Cortisone.” His diet also changed drastically. Fast forward a few years. While the pain and flares began to decrease, they didn’t go away entirely. During his high school years, the pain flares had decreased to about once a year. But his constant was persistent back and neck pain. “Going to the doctors was now second nature, but my back and neck pain was never linked to any auto immune condition.” Regular visits to the physiotherapist helped. He was 16 years old when his GP told him the wonderful news that he was in remission. A delighted Matthew was able to join his friends and play the sports he loved. As the years advanced, he learned to live with back pain, but then he began to experience pain in his hips and ribs. “The pain was so bad that I was unable to walk or breathe. I feared each time I had to sneeze, cough or do any sudden movements.” After many tears and sleepless nights, Matthew feared that it was something related to his diagnosis as a child, but he was too scared to do anything about it. “The thought of living my life like I had done as a child persuaded me to not seek any medical help.” Cortisone injections for pain became his normal, as did visits to the physiotherapist and chiropractor. It was on Christmas morning in 2013. when he woke up with a burning pain in my big toe. “Initially, I thought I had been bitten by a spider. It was red, swollen, and sore to the touch.” His girlfriend insisted that he see a doctor. At the age of 27, he was diagnosed with gout. He searched for remedies on Google, but the pain never subsided.” So it was back to the doctor again. “My GP had treated me all my life. He knew my history with JRA and had diagnosed me with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I was just not happy with this diagnosis.” Matthew decided to get a second opinion. While his blood tests didn’t show any rheumatoid factor, the Gout diagnosis was confirmed despite normal uric acid levels. The pain became steadily worse. It moved from his toe into the arch of his foot, heel, knee, hands and fingers. “I could hardly walk or hold anything in my hands. Not so great for a Personal Trainer.” At this point, he was diagnosed with Sero-negative Rheumatoid Arthritis: All the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis, but just no blood markers. Then a good friend of mine recommended that he consult with a Rheumatologist. It took Matthew a month to get an appointment. The Rheumatologist took the time to listen, perform her assessments and study Matthew’s extensive medical history. “Then she sat me down. With certainty, she said she was almost 100% sure that I had Ankylosing Spondylitis.” Matthew went for all the previous blood tests, but this time, the test included the HLA-B27 gene. X-rays on his back, neck and hips followed which showed no fusion of his neck or back, but there was some fusing in his Sacroiliac joints. The HLA-B27 came back positive. Diagnosis: Ankylosing Spondylitis. “The nice thing about my Rheumatologist is that she is very careful with her prescription of medication. She did not want to rush straight to biologicals, but rather start with methotrexate and NSAIDS.” It took Matthew a couple of months to find the right dose, as well as an NSAID that worked. He was put on Salazapyrin at a later stage. “Medication is
Your baby’s health during your pregnancy solely depends on you – what and when you consume is important to both of you. Intermittent fasting is a diet that many turn to to lose weight and improve health. This is a time restricted form of fasting and you may wonder if it’s healthy to keep up this kind of eating while trying to get pregnant or when you are pregnant. Is it safe to fast while I am pregnant? Fasting during your pregnancy is not recommended. While there is research that shows this may be a good way to help with weight loss and potentially reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, this is not ideal when your body needs more calories than normal. While pregnant your nutritional focus should be to make sure that your baby is getting all the right vitamins and minerals. While in the initial stages of pregnancy you might not need more calories than normal, as your pregnancy progresses you will need to eat more – making fasting a less viable option. However, if you are struggling with morning sickness (most prevalent in the first trimester), you’ll find that eating bland foods little and often can help ease the nausea, which isn’t compatible with fasting for hours at a time. Not only will snacking help keep the nausea at bay, but it’ll also keep your blood sugar stable. While there aren’t studies that look at intermittent fasting throughout pregnancy, it has been found that moms-to-be with lower glucose levels had lower fetal movement, which can be a warning sign of potential issues during your pregnancy. Can I start intermittent fasting straight after birth? If you’ve decided to eat regularly during your pregnancy, you may wonder if you can return to your old lifestyle after having your baby. However, while you are breastfeeding it’s best to stick to a regular eating schedule. Even after birth your body will be needing extra calories for breastfeeding – restricting these can lead to reduced milk supply
Baobab fruit powder is an astonishingly nutrient-rich super food providing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibre and is traditionally eaten throughout Africa to boost a range of health benefits. Baobab powder is a nutrient-dense pulp that is extracted from baobab fruit. When the fruit are ripe the pulp inside the fruit dries out naturally, concentrating all the nutrients into a naturally formed powder. One of baobab’s greatest gifts is that it is one of the richest plant-based sources of calcium known, containing almost four times the amount of calcium in milk, making it an excellent source of calcium for everyone, but especially children, vegans, pregnant and post-menopausal women. Did you know? It can take a baobab tree up to 200 years before it produces its first hard, green-brown velvety pod-shaped fruit? Baobab powder, extracted from the dried fruit pulp contains: 1# Six times as much potassium as a banana which assists in regulating blood pH, blood pressure, and conducting nerve impulse. 2# The highest vitamin C content of any fruit, offering four times more than an orange. It also has one of the highest antioxidant ratings. 3# Is an excellent source of magnesium containing twice as much magnesium as dark leafy greens. 4# Is an exceptionally rich source of bioavailable iron. ENERGY & VITALITY BaoActive Super blend Baobab Moringa 80g pouch R72.00 / 300g R198 High in vitamins C, E, K, B3 & B6, potassium, calcium and magnesium, protein, and soluble dietary fibres. Baobab powder is combined with Moringa powder in a 75:25 ratio to provide strong immunity-building functions to protect the body from the toxic effects of stress and provides important level of vitamin C as an antioxidant boost against infections. This powerful combination of vitamins and minerals works to: 1# combat tiredness and fatigue 2# promotes muscle growth and strong bones 3# memory enhancement and cognitive health 4# keeping you energised, sharp and focused Its dietary fibre provides roughage and stimulates the growth of intestinal microflora, as well as calcium which supports the function of digestive enzymes. By reducing acidity in the gastric environment, the Baobab Moringa Super blend acts as an anti-ulcer agent. Pale, creamy green in colour and with a refreshing sweet-sour and green-leaf flavour, Baobab Moringa is a super food you can add to smoothies, power shots, lattes and yoghurt and combine with other delicious ingredients like coconut water, almonds and frozen banana, for a creamy delicious boost to your day in minutes. TRY THIS RECIPE: Green Moringa Smoothie POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANT BaoActive 100% PURE Hibiscus Powder 80g R98.00 High in vitamins B3 and B6 Polyphenols and flavonoids and antioxidants. This Hibiscus Superfood is made from the trumpet-shaped flowers of the Hibiscus Sabdariffa plant and is known to: 1# reduce hypertension 2# lower cholesterol 3# prevent fat accumulation 4# lower blood pressure. With a deep pink, fuchsia colour and a refreshing, tangy raspberry flavour, mix a teaspoon to water, hot and cold teas with honey to taste, smoothies, yoghurts, ice-cream, desserts, and other healthy recipes, such as the unique TRY THIS RECIPE: Quinoa & Hibiscus Soup perfectly soothing and satisfying at the end of a long day. IMMUNITY & GUT HEALTH BaoActive 100% PURE Baobab capsules (120) R164.00 are a daily supplement high in vitamin C and are excellent source of plant-based calcium. Each capsule contains magnesium, potassium, and iron as well as elevated levels of dietary fibre providing a prebiotic effect helping to: 1# stabilize blood sugar levels 2# boost satiety and weight loss 3# boost natural vitality BaoActive products are naturally gluten free, Vegan friendly and made for raw and plant-based diets with each ingredient certified organic, Halaal and Kosher. Available for online purchase at BaoActive and Wellness Warehouse.
Affinity Health is a leading provider of high-quality health cover. Here are their views on binge drinking for people living with high cholesterol. A glass or two of red wine daily can lessen the chance of developing heart disease. Alcohol has some heart-healthy properties. But before you raise a glass and toast to your heart, you should be aware of the dangers of alcohol. Can Alcohol Raise Cholesterol Levels? First, the good news! Moderate drinkers have lower incidences of cardiovascular disease. They may even live longer than abstainers. Additionally, alcohol may reduce the risks of blood clots. Alcohol can also reduce inflammation. Red wine may be beneficial for reducing the risk of heart disease and death. It includes higher levels of natural plant compounds, such as resveratrol. This is a compound with antioxidant characteristics and may protect artery walls. What Are The Dangers Of Consuming Too Much Alcohol? Now, the bad news! Light to moderate alcohol intake may be beneficial to your heart health. But excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of: Heart disease and stroke. Blood pressure. Obesity. Triglyceride levels in the blood. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can result in: Cardiac muscle damage (cardiomyopathy). Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia). Stroke. Heavy alcohol consumption may render the heart too weak to pump effectively. That is a condition known as congestive heart failure. Learn More: The Effects of Alcohol on the Brain All You Need To Know About Cholesterol You may know that cholesterol is dangerous to your health. But your body needs cholesterol to execute essential functions. Examples include producing hormones and constructing cells. Cholesterol circulates through the blood on two lipoproteins: HDL high-density lipoproteins That is the good cholesterol that can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. LDL low-density lipoproteins That is the bad cholesterol that can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Excessive LDL cholesterol can accumulate in your blood vessel walls. That accumulation is known as plaque. As your blood vessels accumulate plaque over time, their interiors become constricted. That constriction can eventually obstruct blood flow to and from vital organs. Blood flow obstruction may cause angina or a heart attack. “Your body requires cholesterol for proper functioning. But too much cholesterol can lead to health problems. That includes an increased risk of heart disease. So, maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is essential,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Affinity Health does not recommend that you start drinking alcohol to lower your cholesterol or improve circulation due to the dangers of alcohol consumption. Instead, Affinity Health recommends: Controlling your weight. Consuming a balanced diet. Exercising regularly to maintain appropriate cholesterol levels. “If you do plan to drink, consult with your doctor first. Drink in moderation (one glass of wine or beer a day for women, two for men),” adds Hewlett. Does It Matter How Often And How Much You Drink? Many variables influence the effects of alcohol on health, including cholesterol levels. It is important to remember that alcohol affects individuals differently. For instance, women are more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol. That is because they have lower quantities of the alcohol-degrading enzyme dehydrogenase. So, women cannot metabolise alcohol at the same pace as men. They absorb more alcohol into their bloodstream. That is why alcohol consumption recommendations vary by gender. Current recommendations for moderate alcohol consumption are one drink or fewer per day for women and two drinks or less per day for men. When Should You Consult A Physician? A healthcare expert can analyse your cholesterol levels and potential heart disease risk factors. They can determine whether they are within a healthy range. “Light to moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to worsen cholesterol levels. But heavy alcohol consumption is dangerous. If you are concerned that your drinking is negatively impacting your health, you should visit a medical expert,” concludes Hewlett. Learn More: What is Alcohol Use Disorder?
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