Health - Parenting Hub

Expert Advice from Bonitas Medical Fund

Putting together your birth plan

As you enter your third trimester you’ll have probably done a fair bit of research on the birth process (if this is your first) and may have a good idea of what you want before, during and after delivery. There are many options and opinions, from whether or not you want pain medication to how many people you would like supporting you. However, trying to keep track of your choices during labour may be tricky, which is why you’d put together a birth plan. So what exactly is it and how do you put one together? Why should I put together a birth plan? Your birth plan is your choices or preferences before, during and after labour and delivery. While things may not always go according to plan, having your preferences written down and communicated means you, your midwives and doctor have a more mutual understanding. However, if your pregnancy doesn’t go accordingly, you need to be prepared to make adjustments on the day. What should be in my birth plan? Your birth plan is how you’d like everything would go in the best-case scenario. Your birth plan will also have to take into consideration what is available at the hospital or place where you are giving birth. Some birth plans are very basic, just outlining a simple overview, whereas others may be far more detailed and in-depth. The choice is yours. Typically a birth plan will include before, during and after labour and birth preferences. Such as who you want to assist you during birth, whether or not you want any pain medication, you birthing positions, and requests for newborn care, such as skin-to-skin time. How can I learn more about the birth process? If you feel like you need to top up your birthing knowledge before putting together a plan they are a few ways you can go about this. Joining antenatal classes are a good way to learn more and to meet other women in your position. Chatting to friends or family who has been through the birthing process themselves is another good way to see what would work best for you. If you and your partner are having a baby together, keep them in the loop as well. Find out what they expect during labour and you can chat about what you want, and what role you see them playing in the process.

July 17, 2023

Webinar – Post Birth Care for Moms

In today’s webinar, Sr Ingrid reminds Mom’s that’s it’s important to look after yourself post birth. What you can experience post birth and how to deal with the body changes, bleeding and uterus contractions.

July 14, 2023

Bonitas 2022: Annual results show steady growth and industry-leading financials

Bonitas Medical Fund, in its 42nd year, announced its 2022 financial results today. The medical aid for South Africa, achieved a net surplus supported by positive membership growth, boosted reserves, an increased solvency ratio and a strong investment performance. ‘We know affordability pressures facing South Africans are overwhelming, which is why we strive to find the right balance between value for our members and long-term sustainability,’ says Luke Woodhouse, Chief Financial Officer. ‘To this end, we are pleased to report a record high R8,8 billion in member reserves at year end 2022. We are also thrilled to confirm that we have exceeded industry benchmarks, particularly for value creation, achieving a R1.78 return for each R1.00 spent on administration and managed care – 12% higher than the industry average of R1.59. ‘Bonitas outperformed all expectations in 2022, in terms of all key indicators and we are poised to continue on this positive trajectory. This performance speaks to the strategy we’ve put in place as well as the Scheme’s overarching aim to make quality healthcare more affordable and more accessible.’ Increases One of the key cost drivers in medical aid contributions is healthcare inflation, typically around 4% higher than CPI. Rising consumer price inflation (which impacts healthcare inflation) has exacerbated the ongoing challenge of medical schemes to remain affordable. We addressed healthcare inflation through two pillars of our strategy: Strategic purchasing and integration of the value chain. We were able to restrict the average increase in membership contributions for 2023 to 4.8%, compared to CPI of 7.2% as of December 2022. To demonstrate our commitment, we introduced our first contribution increase freeze, with increases only applied from April 1, 2023, to create some financial respite for our members. The number of principal members has exceeded 353 763, with 727 041 beneficiaries at an average age of 35.5. In a time when it is a challenge for schemes to acquire new members, Bonitas had a net membership growth of 4% with 47 446 gross membership acquisitions. This excludes the 14 585 acquired from the Nedgroup Medical Aid Scheme (NMAS) amalgamation – highlighting the attractiveness of the Bonitas offering and product range for corporates. We pride ourselves in providing one-on-one assistance to members and their beneficiaries, as well as access to care of the highest quality. To do so, we have partnered with best-in-class service providers. Testimony to this is being awarded a Titanium Award from the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF) for ‘Operational Performance’ in May 2023 for the second year running. The award benchmarks industry excellence and rewards medical schemes, administrators and managed care organisations which provide best value and service to their members. Earlier this year, Bonitas was also named ‘Medical Scheme of the Year’ at the News24 Business inaugural awards. The Scheme was also voted South Africa’s number 1 medical aid in the Ask Afrika 2021/2022 Orange Index. Investment We achieved a 7.2% return on investment for member’s funds during a year which was marked by high volatility and uncertainty in the markets, both domestically and abroad. The investment portfolio value for 2022 reached R9.97 billion. As a medical scheme we don’t have shareholders or investors who receive dividends, we exist and spend our funds purely for the benefit of our members. Cost-saving initiatives The Scheme’s approach to realigning Managed Care initiatives, with a particular focus on hospital negotiations, resulted in a projected negotiated savings of R260 million. Strategic purchasing yielded a value of at least R441 million for our members. Optimising and aligning networks is a key strategy to managing costs. We regularly evaluate the quality of all service providers to ensure there is a reduced healthcare risk for Bonitas (and for our members). Amalgamations Our Board managed the successful amalgamation with NMAS which required close scrutiny of our governance and compliance. Fraud, Waste and Abuse (FWA) In 2022, Bonitas spent R49 million on its FWA programme with Medscheme and, for the first time we banked recoveries in excess of R55 million. Banked recoveries represent a small portion of the actual savings emanating from successful FWA detection and preventions, as service providers who engage in FWA are likely to continue doing so if they are not held to account. We estimate a saving of R1.1 billion from changed behaviour since the commencement of our FWA programme in 2016. Solvency levels Our solvency levels reached an all-time high of 41.3% – 16% above the legislated 25%. Our objective is to sustain solvency levels above 30% and to use our bolstered reserves to benefit our members. Hospital costs Hospital costs again dominated claims, reaching R6.9 billion (2021: R6.45 billion). Managed Care Active Disease Risk Management (ADRM) focusses on improving clinical outcomes, reducing admissions, readmissions and improving medicine adherence. The estimated value realisation of these interventions achieved savings in excess of R14 million. Value for money above industry average Deloitte conducted a Transactional and Relational Governance Review of years 2020 and 2021 with the results received in November 2022. The Review found that Bonitas obtained significant value for money from its primary contracted service providers. For every R1.00 spent on administration and Managed Care, Bonitas derived R1.78 for 2021, an increase of 19%, demonstrating substantial improvement year on year. Outlook for 2023 Our agile approach to the execution of our strategy is likely to stand us in good stead in 2023, as we expect further volatility in local and international markets and an increase in disease burden such as mental health. For our members, affordability and quality remains top of mind. Private medical aid shifted from being a grudge purchase to a necessary monthly budget item during COVID-19. However, Bonitas remains committed to deliver benefit enrichment for members, which we can do through our value-added offerings, healthy reserves and high solvency level. In terms of the NHI draft Bill, we have done extensive scenario planning to consider both best- and worst-case scenarios for Bonitas. We remain unequivocally in support of the principle of universal healthcare but believe that a collaborative and cohesive approach, between the

July 13, 2023

Load shedding – healthcare and chronic meds

Load shedding in South Africa has significant effects on both private and public healthcare. These are far-reaching and can have severe consequences for patients, medical facilities and healthcare professionals. So just what is the impact of load shedding on healthcare in South Africa? In the realm of healthcare, load shedding exacerbates the existing challenges faced by hospitals and clinics. Load shedding further strains infrastructure and compounds existing shortages, compromising patient care. New regulations allow larger public hospitals exemption from load shedding however, Eskom has warned that it would be technically impossible to isolate and exclude most healthcare facilities from load shedding. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Clinical Executive of Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘prolonged or frequent loss of basic services, including the lack of electricity, has been shown to have financial, psychological and physical implications.’ The importance of private healthcare was highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic. ‘Medical aid changed from being a grudge purchase to an absolute necessity and, once again, this is being reinforced by the electricity crisis and load shedding,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Apart from having access to private hospitals, which are predominately well equipped with generator banks and/or inverters, medical aids take every precaution to ensure other services are available at optimum levels and the highest quality.’ He says, ‘To ensure the delivery of cost-effective healthcare, we have a network of hospitals and clinicians with whom we have negotiated favourable rates to minimise co-payments for our members. All of these hospitals and clinician practices have put effective contingency plans in place to ensure they are able to generate sufficient back-up power for uninterrupted patient care.’ Provision of pharmaceuticals These include vaccines, insulin and certain antibiotics, which are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and require refrigeration/strict maintenance of the cold chain. During power outages, the lack of electricity can compromise the integrity and efficacy of these medications, rendering them ineffective or potentially harmful. This does not only pose a risk to patient health but also leads to financial losses as medications and vaccines may need to be discarded, due to compromised storage conditions. He says the provision of chronic medications is essential to ensure members are able to adhere to their medicine regime. The Fund ensures their Designated Service Providers are proactive in developing contingency plans to ensure an uninterrupted medicine supply to its members. This includes having generators and backups, double dispensing of medication to ensure chronic medication deliveries are doubled up and developing communication tools to inform and educate members about medication supply. ‘More than 80% of South Africans are reliant on public healthcare services at the approximately 420 state-run hospitals and more than 3 000 state-run clinics. While private facilities, secondary- and tertiary-level public hospitals appear to be well equipped with generator banks, smaller healthcare facilities including primary healthcare clinics, are often left in the dark,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘The cost of alternative sources of power can be substantial, with a private hospital group recently reporting an average monthly expenditure of R800k to run its generators. ‘The situation is not only unsustainable but is also putting the healthcare of our citizens at risk and, once again, it is the most vulnerable who are compromised the most.’ The original study by the University of the Witwatersrand’s Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences in 2019. http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0256-95742019001200003

July 12, 2023

Due soon? What to include in your hospital bag

With your due date fast approaching, this is a very exciting, yet stressful time for most moms to be. Here is a great list of what to pack for the big day! Ideally, you should have your bag ready to go by 36 to 37weeks, apart from the last minute grabs such as your tooth brush and phone charger. Please see our extensive list of the essential items and also items to make you feel more comfortable for mom and baby (and dad, of course!) Baby Car seat – Many hospitals won’t let you leave without one. Please make sure you know how to strap baby properly into the seat and the seat is secure in the car. Safety first! A going home outfit: It’s important to keep baby skin to skin (this means no clothes on baby; only a nappy) for as long as possible, as this promotes growth, bonding and a calming period for you and your baby. When it’s time to go home, pack different outfits in different sizes as you don’t know how big or small baby will be. Aim for an outfit in Newborn sizes, and 0-3 months. Don’t forget a beanie or socks if the weather is cold. Blankets or Muslin wrap to keep baby nice and cosy. Bottles – If you are going into the hospital knowing you are going to bottle feed, take your bottles with. The hospital usually supplies the formula, but if you have a preferred brand, take some along. If breastfeeding doesn’t work for you, don’t stress! The nurses will provide the bottles and formula. Nappies and wipes to keep baby clean and dry. The nurses in the hospital will show you how to change baby if you are a first time mom. Mom Your medical aid information, your pre authorization/ doctors forms, your ID card and all other important documents you may need. Keep this safely in a folder all together to avoid any stress. A robe or dressing gown – This is such a handy item to have to cover up and make you feel comfortable Pyjama’s that button down at the front – If you are breastfeeding it’s a lot easier to undo the buttons than lift your top continuously. Comfortable, soft and loose pants such as lights weight shorts, stretchy leggings or sleep pants are ideal. Maternity pads and disposable breast pads. Nursing bras are also wonderful and offers great support for breastfeeding moms. Slippers or slip in shoes. Your feet may be a little swollen after delivery, so don’t feel bad leaving the hospital in the snuggest and easiest pair of shoes you can slip into. Slipper socks also work great. Cotton underwear, preferably in a dark or black colour. One that fits you well but rises above the uterus. This is good for moms who have a caesarean section and natural birth as it offers support and doesn’t cause pain along the wound site. Nipple cream – If you’re planning on breastfeeding, your nipples will be happy you are being so proactive. Toiletries – You will want to brush your hair and have a shower after baby has arrived. Take your shampoo, face cream, lotion and body wash, as well as your toothbrush and toothpaste. Deodorant, lip balm and extra hair ties are also a great items to have on hand. Cell phone charger – Because your phone will be full of photos of your new addition to your family. Water bottle and snacks. Take a reusable water bottle as its very important to keep hydrated during and post-delivery. Snack on dried fruit and wine gums to keep your sugar up and to give you energy (with permission from your midwife or doctor of course) A magazine or book, your laptop or some music. Labour may sometimes become a little long. It’s good to keep busy. Most hospitals and birthing clinics supply towels, pillows and blankets. If you have a favourite, take yours along to the hospital. A set of clothes to go home in. Your make up bag and straightener or curling iron. While you won’t be focused on looking great during labour, you may want to take some photos after the birth of your little one. Get someone to help you and make you feel good about yourself (and the great work you’ve just done!) Dad/Birthing partner Camera – Take photos! Lots of them. This is a great job for dad to do during birth. It will make them feel a lot more involved. Snacks: Another great job for dad. Full his bag with plenty of snacks and treats that you can both enjoy during your stay. Comfortable clothes – As he may be sitting with you for quite some time, let him pack some tracksuit pants, t shirts, slippers and hoodies. Extra underwear is also a winner if he is staying overnight. Chargers – For phones, laptops and cameras. The longer the wire, the better, as most plug outlets are likely to be far from you. Toiletries – He may want to freshen up during the course of your stay. Many private hospitals offer you a baby bag when you are admitted for delivery. This is a great item and will contain most, if not all baby’s toiletries such as soap and creams. If you forget something, it’s not the end of the world. The nurses may be able to help or someone can go to the shop for you. All baby ideally needs is a clean nappy, milk, and most importantly, you.

July 3, 2023

What is HELLP?

Pregnancy and the arrival of a new baby is a time of great excitement and joy for expectant parents. However, occasionally there can be complications, which is why pregnant moms should have regular health checks and be aware of any unusual symptoms that may develop. Over the past few years, there has been discussion around a condition known as HELLP Syndrome. It’s a life-threatening complication in pregnancy that can be difficult to diagnose. We reached out to Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund and his clinical team, to get some answers and advice about HELLP. What is HELLP Syndrome? HELLP (Haemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelet count) Syndrome usually develops before the 37th week of pregnancy but can occur shortly after delivery. It’s a serious complication that affects the blood and liver. H = Haemolysis is the breakdown of red blood cells that carry oxygen from lungs to the rest of the body. EL= Elevated liver enzymes. High levels of these chemicals in the blood can be a sign of liver problems. LP = Low platelet count. Platelets are little fragments of blood cells that help with blood clotting. A low platelet count can lead to serious bleeding. What causes HELLP? ‘We don’t know what causes HELLP syndrome,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa, ‘however, you are at risk if you have pre-eclampsia or eclampsia.’ About 1 to 2 in 10 pregnant women (10 to 20 percent) with pre-eclampsia or eclampsia develop HELLP. Pre-eclampsia is caused by high blood pressure. It usually starts after the 20th week of pregnancy or giving birth. Eclampsia is when pre-eclampsia is uncontrolled and causes seizures. Many women are diagnosed with pre-eclampsia before they have HELLP which is a more severe form of pre-eclampsia. What are the symptoms / signs of HELLP? You may feel tired, have pain in the upper right part of the belly, bad headaches and nausea or vomiting. You may also experience swelling, especially of the face and hands and blurry vision. Some women develop HELLP suddenly, without having any signs or symptoms. If you have any signs of HELLP Syndrome, call your medical practitioner, emergency services or go to a hospital emergency room for medical care right away. How is HELLP diagnosed? To find out if you have HELLP Syndrome, your healthcare provider will do a physical exam to check for: Belly pain or soreness, especially in the upper right side An enlarged liver High blood pressure Swelling in your legs Other tests could include: Blood tests to check your liver enzyme levels, lactate dehydrogenase and full blood and platelet count with a peripheral smear Urinalysis to check for protein in the urine A CT scan to see if there’s bleeding in your liver Non-stress test or ultrasound to check your baby’s health. A non-stress test checks your baby’s heart rate, in the womb, to see how the heart rate changes when your baby moves. This test is to make sure your baby’s getting enough oxygen. Ultrasound uses sound waves and a computer screen to show a picture of your baby inside the womb Is HELLP painful? Symptoms of HELLP include serious pain just below the ribs, or the upper right side of the chest area (where the liver is), shoulder pain or pain when breathing. How is HELLP treated? You may be given medication to control your blood pressure and prevent seizures or you may require a blood transfusion to treat anaemia and low platelet levels. Early birth may be necessary because HELLP complications can get worse and harm both you and your baby – either through an induced labour or by C-Section depending on the health assessment results of the baby. How does it impact the baby? Infants born to mothers with HELLP Syndrome may have a variety of birth injuries: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or severe respiratory distress. Are there long term effects of HELLP? A history of HELLP Syndrome means you are at increased risk for recurrent pre-eclampsia and HELLP Syndrome as well as increased long-term morbidities, particularly depression and chronic hypertension. Can HELLP develop after childbirth? Yes, up to 30% of all patients who develop HELLP Syndrome do so after giving birth, typically within 48 hours. Can I have another baby after HELLP syndrome? If you had HELLP in a previous pregnancy, regardless of the time of onset, you have a greater risk for developing it in future pregnancies. ‘The condition is serious but rare’, stresses Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Throughout your pregnancy it’s important to understand the changes your body is going through and to discuss any unusual pain or symptoms with your medical practitioner. This will ensure you receive the right help especially if you develop a complication and make the pregnancy and birth the joyous event it should be!’

June 22, 2023

Advice from the experts

Do I Need to Take a Multivitamin?

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, explores the benefits of multivitamins. Multivitamins and minerals are the most consumed dietary supplements worldwide. Many believe that multivitamins can do the following: Improve health Compensate for bad dietary habits Lower the chance of chronic disease But is this belief fact or fiction? What are Multivitamins? Multivitamins are dietary supplements containing many vitamins and minerals. That is often besides other components. There is no universal definition of a multivitamin. But the nutrient makeup of these supplements differs by brand and product. Multivitamins come in many forms, including tablets, capsules, chewable gummies, powders, and liquids. Thirteen vitamins and about fifteen minerals are necessary for good health. Many multivitamins contain variable concentrations of these vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they might contain herbs, amino acids, and fatty acids. The Food and Drug Administration does not see dietary supplements as prescription pharmaceuticals. So, some multivitamins may contain higher or lower levels of certain nutrients. Multivitamins Supplements and Cardiovascular Disease Heart disease is one of the worldwide causes of death. Some feel that taking multivitamins can help avoid heart disease. But data does not appear to support this claim. Multivitamin Supplements and Cancer Inconsistent evidence exists on multivitamin use and cancer risk. Some studies find no correlation between multivitamin consumption and cancer risk. But others do see a correlation. Do Multivitamins Offer any Other Health Benefits? Some studies have discovered that multivitamins may aid in memory and mood enhancement. Moreover, antioxidant vitamins and minerals may help reduce blindness. Are There Health Risks Associated With Taking Multivitamins? Some people may tolerate large quantities of some vitamins and minerals. But excessive amounts can be dangerous. Solubility can affect the dosage of a multivitamin as follows: Water-soluble: Your body eliminates excess quantities of these vitamins through urine. Fat-soluble: Since your body cannot release them, vitamins may build in your liver. Good to Know Pregnant women must be especially mindful of their vitamin A consumption. Excessive intake may cause congenital abnormalities. Certain minerals, such as iron, in excessive amounts, can cause: Stomach distress Constipation Vomiting Fainting Inhibited absorption of zinc Men should be especially aware of their iron intake. They tend to store more of it than women and those with hemochromatosis. Should You Take Multivitamins? In reality, evidence that multivitamins are healthy is inconclusive. In certain instances, they may even be harmful. “Multivitamins contain many nutrients, most of which you may not need. Fresh, whole foods are better overall,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “But if you need a specific nutrient, it may be preferable to supplement with that nutrient. For your benefit, it is best to consult your healthcare provider,” concludes Hewlett. Learn More: The Importance of Good Nutrition in Early Childhood

October 4, 2022

Bonitas 2022 contributions continued for 2023!

Bonitas Medical Fund, one of the leading medical schemes in South Africa, announced its 2023 product line up today. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas says, ‘Our average increases for the year would have been 5.9% – well below the current inflation rate of 7.6%. The good news is that we’ve put a price freeze on contributions for the first quarter of 2023, to offer our members some respite. This effectively means an increase of 4.8% over the 12 months. We have also shared exactly what members can expect to pay from 1 April 2023, so that they can make informed decisions. Bonitas celebrated its 40th anniversary this year and has evolved and expanded its capabilities over the past four decades in response to the needs of a growing membership base. ‘It’s always a delicate balancing act between keeping increases as low as possible while maintaining the stability of the Scheme,’ says Callakoppen. ‘The guidelines, set out by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) in Circular 44 of 2022, requested medical schemes to keep contribution increases for 2023 below CPI. However, over the past decade medical scheme contribution increases have outpaced inflation by around 4%. We are delighted to have kept these well below CPI itself. In fact, by applying very low contribution increases since December 2020, the Scheme has effectively passed R1.4 billion in savings back to members. And, with the challenges we’ve seen recently in the healthcare industry, we know that promoting sustainability is key. So, we’re happy to boast excellent financial indicators from high solvency ratios, strong reserves and a high claims-paying ability. Not only is the Scheme financially sound with over R7.4 billion in reserves but, over the last 36 months we have signed up 190 000 new members. This figure is significantly higher than the size of most schemes in the industry. Even better for sustainability is that the average age of our new members is around 15 years younger than the current membership. It reinforces the fact that we are succeeding in attracting a younger, healthier profile, which is coveted across the industry. The future of healthcare is anchored on primary and preventative care as well as sustaining well-being, as opposed to responding to illness. 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 which is why we offer a range of Managed Care programmes aimed at assisting members understand and manage their conditions. Cancer care Cancer prevalence is one of the key concerns facing South Africans and is increasing year on year. Last year, we announced our partnership with the South African Oncology Consortium – the largest network of oncologists in the country to enhance the offerings of our cancer programme including screening for early detection, treatment and palliative care. For 2023 we have restructured benefits to be unlimited for PMB cancers, on all options. Diabetes The latest data from the South African Health Quality Assessment, shows that Bonitas has an effective disease management programme and better outcomes than the industry standard for diabetic members, with improved metrics for Hb1Ac, statins and cholesterol. But, as we always look for ways to improve, we are proud to introduce a benefit of R51 000 per family per year for an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor for type 1 diabetics over 18 years. Mental health We are pleased to announce that we’ve introduced an innovative new digital solution, called Panda, to support our members in managing their mental wellness. Panda, a free to download app, offers everything from audio sessions with peers and mental health experts to one-on-one virtual consultations with mental health professionals. We encourage our members to complete a mental health questionnaire in the Bonitas Member App to assess their mental health status. Panda will be available from October 2022. Benefit Booster Launched last year, the Benefit Booster was one of the most innovative changes to hit the medical schemes industry and aimed at supporting our preventative care strategy. It unlocked R446 million in additional benefits for members to extend their day-to-day benefits. For 2023, we’ve opted to adjust the benefits limits in line with utilisation with enhancements seen on several plans. Designated Service Provider (DSP) We implement networks to negotiate the most favourable tariffs for our members so they can avoid out-of-pocket expenses and get more value. These networks are carefully selected to maintain high levels of healthcare, aligned with our brand promise of providing quality healthcare. We have restructured our options to include a wider hospital network component. In 2023, 85% of our members will be within a 30km radius of a network hospital – with a presence across all nine provinces in line with the footprint of our member base. This includes a GP network of over 4 400 of the most efficient practices in the country, an extensive pharmacy network, with around 2 500 practices to dispense chronic, acute and over-the-counter medicine through Scriptpharm. Our dental network, through DENIS, is one of the largest on the continent – providing access to around 3 000 practices while our optical network through PPN gives members access to over 2 300 practices. Medicine formulary We have aligned our medicines formulary to the WHO’s Essential Medicines List (EDL) to promote affordability and accessibility to clinically approved medicines, in support of Universal Health Care and promotion of medicine adherence for our members. Hospital-at-home The technology-enabled Hospital-at-Home service brings all the essential elements of in-hospital care to a patient’s home, without moving away from evidence-based clinical protocols and state-of-the-art 24hr vital sign monitoring. 1 200 members have used the offering to date – equating to around 6 000 days in hospital. We are extending the offering to include: A programme for re-admissions, screening and disease prevention, alternative to stepdown facilities and kidney dialysis at home. Savings We’ve amended our rules to allow members to use their savings as they deem fit for

September 30, 2022

Easy-to-make Yoghurt Granola Bars

We are into the last quarter of the school year and fast running out of fresh ideas for lunchboxes. Yoghurt-based granola bars are the perfect solution for a snack that works in both school and work lunchboxes! They tick all the boxes: Easy to make The ingredients are versatile More cost effective than store-bought granola bars Can be made over the weekend for the week ahead Contributes to daily dairy intake It’s easy to control the portion, because you can determine the size of the bars, based on kid vs teen vs adult lunchbox Can also be used as a post sport or in-between meals snack The Rediscover Dairy ‘Yoghurt Berry Granola Bars’, created by Reabetjoe Mokoko, the Cooking Dietitian, are made with fresh blue berries, but these can be substituted with other seasonal fruit, like apples, peaches, pears or nectarines. You can even add crushed nuts and raisins. Below is the recipe or you can download the recipe care here: https://www.rediscoverdairy.co.za/recipe/yoghurt-berry-granola-bars/ Ingredients Granola bars 100 ml full-cream plain yoghurt 2 cups oats uncooked ½ cup berries fresh and mashed ½ cup honey Yoghurt drizzle 50 ml Yoghurt ½ cup (125 ml) Icing sugar Instructions Preheat oven to 180°C. In a bowl mix the ingredients for the granola bars, yoghurt, oats, berries and honey. Line a 25×30 cm baking dish with baking paper Pour the granola bar mixture into the lined baking tray and press it down with a wooden spoon till it is flat and even. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 min or until golden brown. Once baked and golden in colour remove from the oven and leave the mixture to cool down. Cut into equal bars and drizzle with the yogurt icing.

September 23, 2022

HIV Symptoms – Children Born With HIV

Affinity Health is a leading provider of high-quality healthcare cover. Here is their take on HIV infection in children as a growing public health concern. In 2002, 800,000 children under 15 contracted HIV. The majority of cases live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Mother-to-child transmission accounts for over 90% of all HIV infections in children. Most of these children are younger than the age of 15. The chances of a pregnant mother transmitting HIV to her unborn child are 5-10%. 10-20% of transmissions occur during labour and delivery and 5-20% during nursing. “Preventing the transmission of HIV from mothers to children is important. It is crucial for the global HIV/AIDS control strategy,” says Murray Hewlett, Affinity Health CEO. How is HIV Transmitted to Children? Mother-to-child transmission is the most common way infants and young children contract HIV. It is important to remember that not all HIV-infected mothers pass the virus to their babies. Two-thirds of babies born to HIV-infected women do not become infected with the virus. A baby can become infected between early pregnancy and the end of breastfeeding. Still, more research must show if other nutritional deficiencies play a role. Learn More: The Importance of Nutrition and Diet in HIV/AIDS Other factors to consider include: The length of labour after the waters have broken. Delivery method. Neonatal practices. All women are at risk of acquiring HIV infection from: Having unprotected penetrative vaginal or anal sex without using a condom. Receiving an unsafe blood transfusion. Using unsterilised needles and syringes. Surgical or cutting instruments contaminated with someone else’s blood. Some cultural practices may increase women’s infection risk. For example, abstaining from sex during pregnancy or breastfeeding could cause conflict. The conflict may encourage men to have sex with other partners. That increases the risk of HIV infection. In turn, men may infect women and unborn children. The Importance of Antiretroviral Therapy Antiretroviral treatment (ARVs) and combination therapy do the following: They increase the CD4 count They reduce the impact of HIV on the body They lower the chances of mother-to-child transmission. In most developing countries, antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) are not easy to access. That places many pregnant women in danger. A Word on Unsafe Blood Transfusions A transfusion increases the risk of infection if the blood has HIV. Screening blood before transfusion is vital. All women lose some blood during delivery. Women’s bodies can compensate for blood loss during delivery. But recovery measures need to happen after birth. A mother may need a blood transfusion. Blood transfusions are routinely given to women to replace blood loss. A transfusion increases the risks of infection if the blood has HIV. And if she becomes infected, she may relay the virus to her baby during breastfeeding. “An HIV-positive mother can relay HIV to their baby at any time. That includes during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t have children. Preventative treatment and HIV management are key. That can control risks of transmission to your baby,” concludes Hewlett. Mothers should never hesitate to speak to healthcare providers if they classify as follows: HIV-positive and intending to fall pregnant. Or are already pregnant. Learn More: Should You Get HIV Tested?

September 21, 2022

National Oral Health Month: Here’s how to get your brightest smile yet

September is National Oral Health Month – a month dedicated to encouraging healthy dental habits and oral hygiene. Did you know that dental cavities and gum disease are two of the world’s most common health problems? It is estimated that up to 90% of South Africans will experience gum disease at some point in their lives. Caused by plaque on the teeth and under the gum line, gum disease can lead to the loosening of teeth, movement of teeth, bad breath, receding gums and inflammation. It’s even been linked to diabetes and heart disease. While poor dental hygiene can lead to health problems, it can also put a damper on your smile. If you don’t look after your teeth and gums, it could lead to discolouration, stains and even erosion of the teeth’s enamel, which can affect one’s confidence and make smiling with confidence, difficult. We smile when we’re happy, but the act of smiling also has the ability to make us happy – and that’s a fact. When we smile, our brains release dopamine and serotonin, two of the hormones that are responsible for making us feel good. And the same thing happens when someone smiles at us: being smiled at can trigger the brain to release feel-good hormones. Smiling is also linked to lower blood pressure, stress relief and a reduction in pain. The bottom line? Smile as often as you can! It’s good for your mental and physical health, as well as the health of those around you. Not everyone is blessed with a so-called perfect smile, but modern oral care products make is easy to maintain healthy teeth and gums, increase the brightness of your smile and treat and prevent discolouration. While there is no substitute for regular check-ups at the dentist and professional teeth cleaning at the oral hygienist, it is absolutely essential to practice good oral care habits at home if you want to keep maintain the health of your teeth and the beauty of your smile. Daily maintenance A healthy oral care routine starts with mastering the basics: brushing twice a day and using a good quality mouthwash. O7 Active® Whitening Toothpaste (R129) contains active oxygen to effectively kill bacteria, remove plaque, maintain healthy teeth and gums and keep teeth beautifully white. It removes superficial stains but is mild on the enamel and does not contain any aggressive bleaches or abrasives. O7 Active® Rinse (R169) can be used twice a day after brushing. This active oxygen mouthwash kills bacteria and helps prevent gum disease, improving your overall oral health by just rinsing for 30 seconds, twice a day. Available on www.takealot.com. Flossing is for everyone Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough to remove food and plaque – especially in hard-to-reach places like between the teeth and below the gum line. Flossing is the best way to remove food particles and impurities. But before you cringe at the thought of manually flossing with string every night, have you considered water flossing? Water flossing for one minute before brushing easily removes bacteria and debris from hard-to-reach areas deep between teeth and below the gum line. Quick and easy to use, Waterpik® Water Flossers utilise a unique combination of water pressure and patented pulsations to massage and stimulate gums as well as clean deep between teeth and below the gum line. They are clinically proven to be more effective than traditional dental floss for reducing plaque, gingivitis, and gum disease. Waterpik® Water Flossers are clinically proven to remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas. The unique combination of water pressure and pulsations is up to 50% more effective for improving gum health than ordinary string floss. Try: Waterpik® WF-02 Cordless Express Water Flosser (R999.00). Ideal for braces and other dental work, it requires only 3x AA batteries to operate, making it great for travel. Using this flosser for just one minute a day prior to brushing ensures a cleaner, fresher and healthier mouth. The unit comes with two unique Classic Jet tips for general use. Waterpik® WP-450 Cordless Plus Water Flosser (R1 399.00). The WP-450 Cordless Plus water flosser takes up less space on the countertop and includes four unique tips: Classic Jet tip (for general use), Plaque Seeker tip (best for implants, crowns, veneers and bridges and removes plaque in hard-to-reach areas), Orthodontic tip (ideal for braces and is 3x as effective as floss for removing plaque around orthodontic appliances) and the Tongue cleaner (removes bacteria from the tongue to freshen breath). Waterpik® WP-100 Ultra Water Flosser (R1 499.00). The WP-100 Ultra Water Flosser is the ultimate in water flossing performance. It features 10 pressure settings for optimum control. The contemporary design is compact with a covered reservoir to keep out dust and debris. Six unique tips are stored in the unique undercover compartment in the lid of the reservoir. To view and shop Waterpik® products, visit www.waterpikflosser.co.za. Also available at selected dentists, Dis-Chem stores and Takealot. Professional whitening White teeth look healthier and more attractive, plus they go a long way in promoting a more youthful appearance. If you’re looking to brighten your smile or improve the appearance of stained or discoloured teeth, professional teeth whitening is the way to go. Performed by a qualified oral health practitioner, professional teeth whitening is safe and effective, and as it’s done by a professional, it does not carry the risks that a lot of home whitening systems do. The leading choice in teeth whitening, Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening is a fast, safe bleaching process that takes place under the care of your dentist to lighten the discoloration of your enamel and dentin. You don’t have to pay a Hollywood price for your new movie star smile either; Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening is both convenient and affordable in delivering you with the smile you have always wanted. The entire in-office bleaching procedure takes just over an hour. Using the Zoom Whitespeed LED advanced technology, your teeth can be bleached up to eight shades whiter. All of the Zoom bleaching gels have a pH booster, meaning it is completely

September 20, 2022

What Parents Need To Know About Measles

Leading healthcare cover in South Africa, Affinity Health, explains how parents should keep an eye on measles. When most people hear the term measles, they envision flu-like symptoms. Symptoms tend to lead to a rash a few days later. But measles holds the potential to be life-threatening. Measles can cause dangerous complications. Complications include any of the following: Pneumonia Visual impairment Encephalitis Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) Measle complications tend to occur in children younger than five years old. Adults older than 20 years old are also prone to infection. What is Measles? Measles is a highly contagious illness. It is an after-effect of the rubeola virus. The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected individual or airborne droplets. Over 140 000 individuals died from measles complications in 2018. Most of the fatalities were under five years old. Due to efficient immunisation campaigns, this number is now 73% lower than in 2000. Symptoms of Measles Measle symptoms tend to emerge 7–14 days after exposure. But they can take up to 23 days to be visible. Examples of symptoms include: High fever (up to 40°C) A hacking cough A runny nose Sneezing Watery eyes Body aches Rash: Tiny white spots occur in the mouth before a red rash emerges on the body. How Do Symptoms Arise? The virus enters the body via the mouth, nose, and eyes. From there, it circulates throughout the body to these various organs: Liver Skin Central nervous system Spleen The measles virus produces inflammation in the capillaries of the skin. That results in the characteristic rash of measles. Anyone who has never had measles, or measles immunisations, can become unwell. Falling ill can happen once they inhale contaminated droplets. You can also get sick via close physical contact with an infected person. Did You Know? Measles Can Lead to Liver Complications If the measles virus spreads to the liver, it can result in hepatitis. While heavy alcohol consumption can cause hepatitis, other factors can cause illness. Hepatitis can occur due to any of the following lifestyle choices: Some drugs Pollutants Certain medical problems Viruses Viral hepatitis is a chronic infection. It is a silent and neglected cause of morbidity and mortality in South Africa. In 1960, experts published the first case report of acute liver failure in patients with measles. Later, they discovered that more than 50% of hospitalised people with measles showed diminished liver function. “Measles make our bodies build up specialised immune cells. That teaches the body to produce antibodies that target a specific pathogen component. But measles can destroy these cells. It may take up to five years for the immune system to recover,” says Murray Hewlett, Affinity Health CEO. Measles prevention is the best way to guard against immune system damage. What Treatment Options are Available? There is no known antiviral therapy for the measles virus. But there is a way to prevent measle outbreaks. Vaccination is the most effective means of protection against measles. Vaccination against measles is usually for children in South Africa. Children receive the vaccination in two doses. They take the first dose between 12 and 15 months of age. Then they receive the second dose between four and six years of age. Learn More: Should You Vaccinate Your Infant?

September 16, 2022

Give The Gift Of Life By Registering As An Organ Donor

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, talks to kidney donor recipient, 38-year-old Cristina Dos Santos-Walters on her life-changing organ transplant journey. At any moment in South Africa, about 4,300 people are waiting for organ donations. Typically, these individuals require new livers, kidneys, lungs, or hearts. However, organ donors are in scarce supply. This is not a South African phenomenon. Many nations worldwide are unable to meet the demand for organ donors. Twenty-two years ago, Cristina was diagnosed with Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis (PSGN), a rare kidney disease that can develop after group A strep infections. “In my case, I had had an upper respiratory infection a few weeks before my kidneys failed; the doctors believe that was the cause of my sudden kidney failure at the age of 13,” says Cristina. “My main symptom was sudden blurred eye vision. A visit to the optometrist showed nothing wrong with my eyes, and I was then referred to my family doctor for further investigation. Tests revealed my blood pressure was slightly elevated and my creatinine was nearly double the normal range. She advised we run more blood tests the following morning after fasting. Again, they remained elevated. I was prescribed medication to stabilise the levels, but a couple of days later, I had an excruciating headache, and my blurred vision worsened. A trip to casualty revealed my blood pressure was dangerously high. The doctors were surprised I wasn’t in a coma, let alone walking around.” Cristina was hospitalised, and many more tests were done, with blood pressure checks every 15 minutes. Things did not improve. A few days later, Cristina’s kidneys had completely shut down, and the toxins in her blood were alarming, so the only way forward was to commence haemodialysis. She was put on the kidney donor list, and, 20 months later, a match was found. “I had my kidney transplant on 5 December 1999. The donor was a 21-year-old man who had died in a motorcycle accident. His family had noted on the system that they did not want to be contacted by any of their son’s organ donor recipients. There isn’t a day where I am not grateful for the greatest gift he has given me, a second chance at life,” says Cristina. Cristina adds that her transplant differed from other kidney transplants as it did not come from a living donor. Initially, her mother tried to see if she could give Cristina one of her kidneys. It involved a lot of testing that spanned over six weeks, and unfortunately, the tests revealed she was not a compatible match. The potential kidney transplant recipient’s information is stored in a database with a cadaver donor. Three factors determine if a transplant will be successful: blood typing, tissue typing and cross-matching. When I got my call that a donor match had been found, I immediately went to the hospital. Blood tests were done to ensure I was in good health, and a pre-transplant haemodialysis session was done to ensure my blood was as toxin-free as possible for the surgery to succeed,” says Cristina. “My first few days after the transplant were challenging due to my kidney not working immediately. I resembled something like a bloated hippo with fluid retention and unable to pass urine. They performed a biopsy on the new kidney, and all tests showed that the kidney was alive; it just needed to ‘wake up’ and start working. To not fully overload the new kidney, the doctors had me do a few more haemodialysis sessions.” Unfortunately, the kidney did not start working immediately. “Rule of thumb is that a kidney can only be on ice for 48 hours before it becomes ineffective. I received mine in the last remaining hours of that period. It took 20 days to start working. But it was the best Christmas present I have ever received,” she says. What lifestyle changes did Cristina have to make following the kidney transplant? “After the transplant, I was immunocompromised, so I had to learn to avoid sick people, maintain a healthy diet, exercise, go for regular check-ups and, most importantly, learn to listen to my body,” says Cristina. “To ensure that my body didn’t reject the transplant, one of the most fundamental things I had to do was to remember and acknowledge that this disease is with me for life. A kidney transplant is not a cure; it’s a treatment. Nonetheless, there are some measures a recipient can try to maintain to ensure the transplant’s longevity. Never miss taking the chronic medication. Trust your team; they are there to guide and support you. Regular blood testing and check-ups with your nephrologist are crucial in determining how the transplanted kidney is coping.” Cristina says she has suffered a few health scares since the transplant. A common cold would turn into bronchitis and even pneumonia within a day of initial symptoms. Stomach bugs or food poisoning required immediate visits to hospitals. Antibiotics had to be administered intravenously to ensure quick and effective treatment was put into action to prevent any damage to the kidney. Stress is something that takes its toll on a body that is immunocompromised, so Cristina says it’s essential to keep your stress levels in check and seek help when things get a bit daunting. “To anyone thinking of becoming an organ donor, I, for one, thank you. It is the most selfless, life-changing gift you can give a fellow human being. Be it to someone you know if you are to become a living donor, or to a stranger upon your death. What a gift! I have now had my gift for over two decades, and my kidney is strong and healthy. I got a second chance to live. I got to enjoy my teenage years, complete my studies, travel, become a mother to a beautiful 12-year-old daughter, and all because a young man and his family believed that someone’s life could be improved by donating his organs. I’d like to believe I have and am doing his memory

September 15, 2022

Air pollution, infertility and heart health: A must-read for women

Loadshedding. It’s our very own South African swear word. Whether it’s level 2 or stage 4, or possible, or definite, or possibly definite, loadshedding causes stress. Extra hours spent in traffic; dodgy connectivity; and, for the parents among us, also the challenges of getting kiddies homework-ed, bathed, fed and into bed, all with no power. Unfortunately, the loadshedding stress isn’t going anywhere any time soon. And, there’s another serious health hazard connected with our country’s coal-fired electrical supply, which we don’t talk about enough: Air pollution. Here’s some geography: The coal fields between eMalahleni and the Highveld are responsible for around 84% of South Africa’s production, and are the second-worst sulphur dioxide pollution hotspot in the world. Read that again. In. The. World. As background, here’s some science from Greenpeace: The burning of coal puts harmful toxins into the air, such as fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, lead, mercury, and other heavy metals. Coal combustion emits microscopic sulphate particles that are small enough to enter the bloodstream and have been linked to a slew of health issues, including respiratory system inflammation resulting in coughing, throat irritation and breathing difficulties. They can impair lung function, worsen asthma attacks, and exacerbate pre-existing heart disease. Bianca Leonard, Marketing Manager of air treatment specialists, Solenco, says that if you think you’re protected from such air pollution because you spend most of your time indoors, you’re wrong. “If particles are small enough to enter your bloodstream, you can be sure that they’re being carried in the air, in your car, in your home – in fact, wherever you are.” And, says Leonard, while air pollution affects everyone, women are especially vulnerable. Here are the two most significant ways that dirty air affects women’s health: 1. Heart health Worldwide, heart disease is the number one cause of death for women. Post-menopausal women are at even higher risk as they often have higher blood pressure and cholesterol, and lower hormonal levels. At the same time, the most common diseases caused by air pollution include heart disease and stroke, especially if there’s a predisposition to these conditions. 2. Infertility A recent analysis of 18,000 couples in China found that those living with moderately higher levels of small-particle pollution have a 20% greater risk of infertility (not falling pregnant within a year of trying). The study design didn’t enable the scientists to determine how air pollution might reduce fertility, but pollution particles are known to cause inflammation in the body, which could damage egg and sperm production. Another recent study of 600 women attending a US infertility clinic found that increased exposure to air pollution is associated with a lower number of maturing eggs in the ovaries. Unfortunately, in South Africa at least, ‘clean’ electricity constitutes only about 14% of the national power grid and, while there are plans to expand this, the solution is (light!) years away. In the meantime, says Leonard, women can protect themselves by investing in an air purifier to ensure clear air in their homes. Not all air purifiers are created equal though, she cautions: “When looking at a home air purifying system, it’s important that you look for one that carries the Allergy Foundation of South Africa’s (AFSA) stamp of approval.” Leonard says that when it comes to filtration systems in various air purifiers, they don’t all function the same way and you should be looking out for a product that contains both a H13 Medical Grade HEPA filter and an Activated Charcoal or Carbon Filter. An Activated Charcoal or Carbon Filter captures harmful airborne chemicals and gasses such as SO2 (Sulfur Dioxide) and Carbon Monoxide. HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air and works by forcing air through a fine mesh. There are various classes of HEPA filters, namely True HEPA and H13. With H13 being the best in class, it captures particles 3 times smaller than True HEPA filters, which makes all the difference when you consider the smallest particles that arise from asbestos, insecticide, tobacco smoke and virus carriers. H13 HEPA filters trap 99.9% of harmful particles including toxins, chemicals and metals generated by the coal industry, as well as pollen, pet dander and dust mites as small as 0.1 microns in size – smaller than the eye can see – and definitely small enough to pose serious health issues.”

September 14, 2022

Clever ways to make the most of your leftovers

Leftovers are an important part of every busy household – and for good reason. They’re a great way to save food from going to waste, plus they’re an excellent option if you’re looking to save a little time and money. But reheating food can be a dangerous game to play. And, if done incorrectly, it can lead to wasted taste and nasty side-effects. The good news, however, is that there are safe ways to reheat and revive your leftovers that will give your food a tasty second chance. Here’s what you need to know about reviving leftovers. Store food properly The first step to great leftovers is proper storage. Sealing leftovers is a must, as this will prevent bacterial growth and thwart cold air from drying out your food. It’ll also stop leftovers living in the fridge picking up scents and tastes from other groceries. Of course, some leftovers can be stored outside of the fridge, and most baked goods will be fine in a sealed container in a cool, dry spot. When it comes to prepared food though, you’ll want to keep leftovers in the fridge. Prepared food usually starts entering the danger zone for bacterial growth when kept at room temperature for longer than two hours. So, if you’re cooking a big batch of Saffron Rice for instance, you’ll want to get that into an airtight storage container and into the fridge as soon as possible after it has cooled. And that could become your rice component for the next time you cook your famous Chicken Curry. For a longer storage solution, the freezer is your best bet. Once again, keep the two-hour rule in mind and ensure that items are properly sealed. Know when to say goodbye You may be tempted to hang on to leftovers for days, thinking that they’re safe and sound in the fridge. Generally, however, already cooked food should only be stored for three to four days tops. Fridge storage should be reserved for cooked foods that you plan to finish soon. If you want to sustain something for longer, or if it’s just too much to consume in a few days, turn to the freezer. When it comes to items like cold foods or cooked vegetables, safe storage time may differ. Cold foods like deli meats or chicken need to stay cold. If these foods have been left out for over two hours, it’s best to toss them. However, they’ll keep for seven to ten days in the fridge. With cooked vegetables, only hang on to leftovers for a maximum of three days. Revive them in the right appliance Knowing which appliance to turn to when reheating food can make or break the taste factor. Microwaves are great for convenience but can change the texture of leftovers – sauces can separate, and pizza loses its crisp base. Rather stick to reheating rice, couscous, soups, and stews in the microwave. Ovens are a great option if you want to revive the crunchiness and taste of things like potatoes the next day. However, they take time to reach the desired temperature, making your next-day meal slightly more time consuming. Air fryers are a convenient alternative here. They heat up faster than an oven and don’t leave your dishes soggy afterwards. The most convenient option of all is something that combines all the best elements of a microwave, oven, and air fryer into one versatile appliance. With multiple heating and cooking settings, the LG NeoChef Convection acts as an air fryer, microwave, convection oven, and more. It cooks quickly, heats evenly, and uses Smart Inverter technology to precisely control the temperature. This means you can pick the perfect setting, no matter what your leftovers are. It’s easy to use and sure to be a firm favourite in your kitchen. For the perfect leftovers, be sure to store your food properly, use it on time, and reheat it under the right setting. For ultimate convenience, invest in an appliance that can meet all your reheating needs with the simple push of a button.

September 13, 2022

Best finger food recipes for babies

Once your baby is accustomed to purees you can start introducing finger foods, usually at around 6 to 8 months. Finger foods are an important part of your child’s food journey, helping them develop biting and chewing skills and developing their coordination and motor skills. Try these recipes. CREAM CHEESE DIP Little ones love dipping! This dip is super versatile – use Squish 100% Fruit Puree if you’ll be serving it with fruit slices, or add Squish 100% Veg Puree if you’re opting for savoury. Make this dip using any already open Squish 100% Fruit or Veg pouches you have in the fridge – feel free to mix and match flavours. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree pouches come with a resealable lid, which cuts back on food waste when you are introducing new tastes and textures to your baby, and just want to try a small amount at a time. Ingredients ½ cup plain cream cheese ½ pouch of Squish 100% Fruit or Veg Puree Lightly steamed vegetable batons or slices of apple or pear Method Place cream cheese in a bowl and add your child’s favourite Squish 100% Fruit or Vegetable Puree. Stir well to blended. Finger food tip: Cutting food into wedges or batons is best. Make them around 7cm long so that your baby can hold in their fist. It is essential to steam or roast crunchy vegetables so that they can’t break into large chunks and become a choking hazard. SWEET POTATO PANCAKES Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene and vitamin C and their natural sweetness makes them an excellent choice as your baby gets used to new flavours. These pancakes are made using a pouch of Squish 100% Sweet Potato, Apple and Cinnamon Puree. They freeze well, so you can have them easily on hand when you need a tasty meal for your little one. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are made using quality fresh fruit and veg and are free from nasties like preservatives, flavourants and colourants. Ingredients: 160 g (1 cup) cake flour 5 g (1 tsp) baking powder 2 eggs 125 ml (½ cup) milk (you can switch this out for breastmilk or formula) 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Sweet Potato, Apple and Cinnamon Puree 15 ml (1 Tbsp) oil for frying Method: Sift together flour and baking powder. Whisk together eggs, milk and Squish Puree. Whisk the Squish mixture into the dry ingredients and beat to a smooth, thick batter. Heat the oil over a very low heat in a non-stick frying pan. Add spoons of the batter and shape into circles. Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake, then flip over and cook on the other side until the pancake is firm to the touch. Repeat with remaining batter. Finger food tip: Sometimes little ones can ‘store’ food in their mouths. At the end of mealtimes give their mouth a quick check to see they have swallowed all of their food. VEGGIE-LOADED SCRAMBLED EGG From around six months it is safe to introduce eggs into your child’s diet. Although you might not think of scrambled eggs as finger food, your little one with love picking up the bits of egg and eating it. Just make sure when you’re scrambling that you don’t break the egg up into pieces that are too small. This scrambled egg has Squish 100% Veg Puree added to it – we used Squish 100% Mixed Veg Puree, but you could try different flavours too, including Butternut + Carrot or Pear + Sweet Potato. Serve with toast cut into fingers. Ingredients 2 eggs 50 ml (½ pouch) Squish 100% Mixed Vegetable Puree (or any flavour you please) 45 ml (3 Tbsp) cheddar cheese, grated Method Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk. Add Squish Puree and mix well. Melt a blob of butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the egg and puree mix and cook, stirring, until just cooked. Stir in the cheese. Finger food tip: When your baby first starts on finger foods you need to ensure the food is soft. Your baby should be able to squash the food between their fingers.

September 12, 2022

Hospitals may be held liable for refusing to admit women in labour

South African hospitals have made the news on multiple occasions for refusing to admit or treat patients needing emergency care including women in labour. Hospitals can face potential liability when this happens. This is according to Kirstie Haslam, partner at DSC Attorneys, who says that there are circumstances where hospitals can be held liable when refusing to admit women in labour. Examples of South African hospitals to treat women in labour Unfortunately, there are many examples of South African hospitals turning away women in labour. Haslam cites some incidents from recent years. Woman gives birth in hospital car park In 2021, a young woman in premature labour was allegedly by staff at Helderberg Hospital in Somerset West. Despite multiple requests from a woman who was transporting the pregnant woman in her car, staff didn’t leave the hospital to assist them. The woman was forced to give birth in the car park and the baby died. Woman in labour turned away for being “too old” In 2019, a 45-year-old pregnant woman was turned away from the Stanza Bopape Clinic in Mamelodi, Tshwane. The woman was allegedly told that she couldn’t give birth at the clinic because she was too old and considered high risk. The delay meant the woman’s waters broke and she gave birth outside the clinic gate. It was only then that the staff realised that the situation was serious and came to assist her. Woman forced to give birth outside clinic In 2019, a 29-year-old pregnant woman was allegedly turned away twice by security guards at the Marulaneng Clinic because she’d forgotten her clinic card despite being in pain. She was forced to walk home to collect it and she started to bleed. When she returned to the clinic with her mother, she was told no-one was on duty to help her. While they waited, the woman gave birth outside in the rain. The security guards then called the nurses to assist but it was too late. The baby was pronounced dead. Woman gives birth at a station after being turned away by three hospitals In 2017, a Congolese woman was forced to give birth at Park Station in Johannesburg. She was allegedly turned away from three hospitals because she’s an asylum seeker. The woman and her husband spent hours waiting and travelling by train while she was in labour to try to get medical care. Two hospitals turned her away. Even after she gave birth on the station floor, a third hospital refused her care. The Constitution ensures asylum seekers have the right to the same emergency medical care as South African citizens, including maternity care. What the law says about emergency medical treatment Haslam says that the South African law is clear about a person’s right to emergency medical treatment, including how it pertains to women in labour. “With regard to the right to basic emergency treatment under Section 27(3) of the South African Constitution, no-one in South Africa may be refused emergency medical treatment,” she explains. “A medical emergency is defined as an acute injury, illness or medical situation that requires immediate medical care because the life or long-term health of the patient is in danger. This includes emergency care for women in labour.” Under the Constitution, Haslam says that this right applies to South African citizens and asylum seekers, regardless of whether they have medical aid. Haslam says that exceptions to the above do exist but under very specific circumstances including: When the patient has no insurance, and the situation is not a medical emergency If the hospital is under-resourced (overcrowded, no beds, inadequate staff) When the hospital believes the patient would receive better treatment elsewhere If the hospital doesn’t have the correct equipment to treat the patient properly. Factors that help determine liability Medical malpractice cases are rarely straight forward. If a patient is denied care, certain factors help determine liability. Haslam says that if a person arrives in critical condition and failure to treat the patient results in death or severe injury, a hospital or medical practitioner is liable. “Hospitals can never turn a patient away for discriminatory purposes, such as race, sex, gender, sexual orientation or nationality. In these circumstances, the hospital would be held liable.” “How serious the case was and whether it could have been managed without emergency care must be investigated,” she adds. “Whether the hospital was adequately resourced to respond to the emergency is also a factor.” She says that all these factors need to be considered to determine if a medical malpractice claim is valid. Liability of hospitals for refusing to admit women in labour If a hospital’s refusal to admit a woman in labour leads directly to a mother or her baby being harmed and the accepted standards of care are violated, Haslam says that a personal injury claim can be made against the hospital or individual health practitioners. “In the case of a government medical facility, a personal injury claim can be made against the State, usually the Department of Health.” Get an attorney to assist with claim Medical malpractice is a highly specialised area of the law. Haslam says that claims against hospitals for refusing to admit women in labour require comprehensive knowledge of the law and experience in medical malpractice cases. “It is therefore advisable for claimants to seek the assistance of an attorney that has extensive experience in medical malpractice claims,” she concludes. For more information visit: www.dsclaw.co.za

September 9, 2022

4 budget-friendly tips for mealtimes

The rising cost of living means we are all feeling the pinch when it comes to putting healthy and delicious meals on the table for our families. These smart budget-friendly tips for meals for your little one will help keep your grocery bills in check, without compromising on quality and natural goodness. 1. Plan ahead and shop wisely Before you head to the shops, do a quick audit of your grocery cupboard, fridge and freezer so you only buy what you need. Compare prices at various supermarkets to make sure you make the most of any specials – the easiest way to do price comparisons is to log onto their online shopping apps. And don’t be afraid to try cheaper cuts of meat – if they’re cooked long and slow you can produce a delicious meal. 2. Stock up on staples A good supply of basics in your grocery cupboard is a real cost-saver – it means you can quickly and easily create a meal or snack without heading to the store (or being tempted to get takeaways). Got a tin of butter beans in your pantry? Quickly whip up this Bean Dip and serve with mini pitas or veggie sticks. And remember, having a selection of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree pouches in your pantry means you’ll always have a meal on hand for your little one. They are designed to be the perfect portion size and fit easily into your handbag or nappy bag if you’re heading out with your baby or toddler. Squish Purees are filled with quality ingredients and are free of nasties like preservatives, colourants and flavourants – plus they have no added cane sugar. 3. Cook batches of food and freeze The freezer really is your friend when it comes to saving money – and time! Next time you’re cooking a mince or chicken dish, double the recipe and freeze half. Freezing also means you can cut back on waste. Instead of throwing out veg that are past their prime, use them to make a soup or stew and freeze in meal-size batches. This Easy Veggie Sauce is a real winner too. It’s made with Squish 100% Mixed Veg Puree and can turn rice, mashed potato or pasta into a goodness packed meal in a jiffy. Cook up a batch and freeze in smaller portions for extra convenience. 4. Maximise leftovers With a little imagination and a few pantry basics, leftovers can be transformed into a delicious meal for your toddler. Stir Squish 100% Veg Puree through leftover pasta, rice or mash, add shredded chicken or tuna and pop in the microwave to heat through. Squish Puree pouches all come with a resealable screw-on lid, which means you never need to waste a drop. Use what you need, then pop in the fridge to use later. They’re available in a variety of flavours, including Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot; Sweet Potato, Apple + Cinnamon; Apple, Beetroot + Guava; and Pear + Sweet Potato.

September 7, 2022

Cooking with Dairy – Less waste and more goodness

Milk, maas, cheese and yoghurt are frequently essential components of our family meals, adding not just flavour and texture but high nutritional value. Dairy offers us a nutrient-dense option packing a punch with high-quality protein well-balanced with carbohydrate and fat, as well as important nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium and vitamins. From young to old, dairy offers benefits to every family member. When it comes to planning meals and managing the monthly food budget, dairy products also offer incredible flexibility and versatility. Dairy can literally feature in any meal of the day – from yoghurt and fruit at breakfast, the cheese in a lunchbox sandwich to the heart-warming lasagne for family dinner. Dairy can be used to enhance the nutritional value of a meal or snack, as well as improve the flavour and texture of a dish. Getting more from dairy, while avoiding food waste It helps to keep track of the ‘use-by’ dates on dairy products. Many dairy products such as milk, yoghurt and hard cheeses freeze well, so, if it looks like there is going to be a surplus, divide into portions and freeze beforehand. In these tough economic times, when we are trying hard to make the budget stretch, it helps to have some tips for making good use of leftover milk and other dairy, for instance: To save costs substitute milk for cream in soups and sauces. Add leftover or slightly soured milk to other soup and sauce recipes, as well as to your stock for risotto for a creamier result. Use any surplus of milk to bake bread, muffins, pancakes or cake. It can also be used for dessert in a custard sauce or sago pudding or treating the kids to a cup of warm milk before bed. Turn a cup of leftover milk into a buttermilk substitute by adding it to a teaspoon of white vinegar and lemon juice. Stir gently and let it stand before use. When it comes to leftover hard cheeses such as cheddar and gouda, cut off any mould that has developed, about one centimetre deep, and still use the remainder. Don’t discard the rinds of hard cheeses such as parmesan and pecorino. Instead add them to soups and stocks while they cook. They add a delicious umami flavour and slightly thicken soups and sauces. Remove the remaining rinds before serving. Smart hacks for cooking with dairy Dairy such as yoghurt, cream, milk, crème fraiche and full-fat cream cheese should be added to sauces, soups and other dishes over a low heat and gently stirred in. Dairy-based sauces such as a bechamel, cheese or custard should similarly be prepared over low to moderate heat, and boiling should be avoided. Yogurt, milk, cream and sour cream can benefit from a touch of flour during cooking to ensure that it doesn’t separate into curds and whey. Maas, buttermilk and yoghurt can all be used to tenderise meat and chicken. Lactic acid in dairy helps to soften inexpensive cuts of meat giving you a more succulent result. Marinate meat and chicken with dairy overnight or for a couple of hours in a covered dish kept in the fridge. Dairy-marinated chicken is excellent for braaing, potjies, frying and oven-baking. Yoghurt is an excellent addition to soups, stews, sauces and curries. Fold it into the dish gently over a low heat to maintain its rich and creamy consistency. Swop buttermilk or maas for milk in recipes for omelettes, flapjacks and pancakes for a fluffier result. To prevent your veggie quiche from turning out too watery, sprinkle a little flour over the veggies and then replace all or half the milk with cream, maas or double-cream yoghurt. Use yoghurt as a substitute for oil or mayonnaise in dips, salad dressings and sauces. Yoghurt is ideal for freezing and makes excellent frozen lollies for kids and yoghurt bars for the whole family. Swop buttermilk or maas for coconut milk in curry recipes for a creamier, flavourful result. Here are some Rediscover Dairy recipes that are perfect for cooking with maas, using left over milk, using dairy in salad dressings and baking with dairy: Amasi Pot Bread Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Citrus Baked Sago Pudding Creamy Amasi Baby Marrow Soup For more dairy ideas join the Rediscover Dairy Facebook page: www.facebook.com/RediscoverDAIRY

August 30, 2022

Pregnancy And Obesity: Understand The Dangers

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, highlights the benefits of weight loss when you’re pregnant and obese. Did you know? A high body mass index (BMI) during pregnancy is dangerous for you and your unborn baby? Obesity is diagnosed as a BMI of 30 or above. How to Calculate Your BMI? To calculate your BMI, divide your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared. If you are 1.65m tall and weigh 85kg: weight / height squared = 85 / 1.65 x 1.65 = 85 / 2.72 = 31.25. Then your BMI would be 31.25. According to CDC, BMI weight status is as follows: Could a High BMI Hinder My Ability To Become Pregnant? In short, yes. A high BMI can impair fertility by interfering with normal ovulation. The greater the BMI, even in women who ovulate regularly, the longer it may take to conceive. Additionally, some data shows that a greater BMI relates to an increased chance of in vitro fertilisation failure (IVF). How Can My BMI Impact My Pregnancy? A high BMI during pregnancy raises the risk of a variety of pregnancy problems, such as: Stillbirth, miscarriage, and repeated miscarriage Gestational diabetes Preeclampsia (a pregnancy complication marked by elevated blood pressure and symptoms of organ system impairment, most commonly the liver and kidneys) Heart difficulties Sleep apnoea The necessity for a C-section How Can My Weight Affect The Health Of My Unborn Baby? A high BMI during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of a variety of health issues for unborn babies, including: Congenital diseases Being much bigger at birth than typical (foetal macrosomia) Growth issues Paediatric asthma Paediatric obesity Cognitive difficulties and developmental delay How Much Weight Gain Is Recommended During Pregnancy? When deciding how much weight you need to gain during pregnancy, it is vital to consider your pre-pregnancy weight and BMI. If you have a BMI of 30 or above and are carrying one child, you should gain about 5 to 9 kilograms. If your BMI is at least 30 and you are pregnant with twins or multiples, the recommended weight increase range is about 11 to 19 kilograms. “Instead of suggesting that you acquire a set amount of weight during pregnancy, your healthcare professional may advise you to avoid gaining too much weight,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Will I Require Specialist Treatment During My Pregnancy? If your BMI is 30 or higher, your health care practitioner will follow your pregnancy regularly. Your service provider may suggest: 1. Prenatal screenings for gestational diabetes Between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, a screening test known as the glucose challenge test is often administered to women at average risk for gestational diabetes. If your glucose levels are within the normal range, you will have a second screening test between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy. If the results indicate that your blood glucose levels are high, more testing will be required. 2. Changes to your ultrasound of the foetus To check a baby’s anatomy, routine foetal ultrasound is often performed between weeks 18 and 20 of pregnancy. However, ultrasound waves have difficulty penetrating belly fat tissue. This can compromise the efficacy of foetal ultrasonography. 3. Diagnostic testing for obstructive sleep apnoea Sleep apnoea is a potentially dangerous sleep disease characterised by recurrent pauses in breathing during sleep. Pregnant women with obstructive sleep apnoea are more likely to develop preeclampsia and other problems. If obstructive sleep apnoea is suspected, your health care physician may send you to a sleep medicine expert for examination and potential treatment. What Measures Can I Take To Ensure That My Pregnancy Is Healthy? You can reduce the effects of a high BMI on your health and the health of your baby. For instance: Schedule a doctor’s appointment before conception Your provider may prescribe a daily prenatal vitamin and refer you to other health care professionals, such as a qualified dietitian, who can assist you in achieving a healthy weight before conception. Seek frequent prenatal care Prenatal appointments allow your physician to monitor you and your unborn baby’s health and manage any medical issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea. Consume a nutritious diet Work with your doctor or a qualified nutritionist to maintain a balanced diet and prevent excessive weight gain. Remember that you will need extra folic acid, protein, calcium, iron, and other critical nutrients during pregnancy. Perform physical activity Consult your doctor about safe methods to be physically active throughout pregnancy, such as walking, swimming, and low-impact aerobics. Avoid dangerous chemicals If you smoke, consult your health care practitioner for assistance quitting. It’s also important to avoid alcohol and illegal substances. “While a BMI of 30 or over during pregnancy can raise the risk of problems for both mother and child, there are ways in which you can manage your risks and promote a healthy pregnancy. Never hesitate to speak to your health care provider should you have any questions or concerns,” concludes Hewlett.

August 26, 2022

Do Women Burn Fat After Menopause?

According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, hormonal changes of menopause can cause weight gain in women. Here is how to keep the weight off. What Causes Weight Gain During Menopause? The hormonal fluctuations of menopause may increase the likelihood of weight gain, especially around the tummy area. However, hormonal changes alone may not always induce weight gain during menopause. In most cases, the weight increase may be due to ageing, lifestyle, and hereditary factors. Typically, muscle mass decreases with ageing, whereas fat increases. Loss of muscle mass slows down your metabolism. That might make maintaining a healthy weight more difficult. If your current eating habits and levels of physical activity do not improve, you will gain weight. There may also be a genetic component to menopausal weight gain. If your parents or other close relatives carry excess abdominal fat, you are also prone to gain weight. Other factors, such as a lack of exercise, bad food, and insufficient sleep, may also increase weight during menopause. People who are sleep deprived tend to nibble more and eat more calories. How Dangerous Is Weight Gain Following Menopause? Menopause-related weight gain can have severe health consequences. Excess weight, particularly around the waist, raises your risk for the following health problems: Breathing difficulties Cardiovascular and vascular disease Type 2 diabetes In addition to increasing your risk for breast, colon, and endometrial cancers, obesity also raises your risk for other forms of cancer. What Is The Greatest Way To Avoid Gaining Weight After Menopause? No secret technique exists to prevent or reverse menopausal weight gain. It is as simple as sticking to these weight control fundamentals: Exercise more Physical activity, such as aerobic exercise and strength training, can aid in weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight. As you grow muscle, your body burns calories more effectively, making it simpler to maintain a healthy weight. “Experts recommend moderate aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, for at least 150 minutes per week or strenuous aerobic activity, such as running, for at least 75 minutes per week for most healthy individuals,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Additionally, weight training should happen at least twice each week. Depending on your fitness goals, you may need to exercise more.” Eat less To maintain your current weight or remove extra kilograms, you may require around 200 fewer calories per day in your 50s. That may be less compared to your 30s and 40s. “To cut calories without sacrificing nutrients, be mindful of what you eat and drink. Select more fruits, veggies, and whole grains, especially those that are little processed and high in fibre,” adds Hewlett. A plant-based diet is often healthier than other alternatives. Good options include legumes, nuts, soy, salmon, and low-fat dairy products. Eat red meat and poultry in moderation. Replace butter, margarine sticks, and shortening with olive or vegetable oil. Learn More: Vegetable Protein Cuts Risk of an Early Menopause Limit alcohol Alcoholic beverages add extra calories to the diet and increase the chance of weight gain. Alcohol may contribute to weight gain in several ways: It prevents your body from burning fat. It is high in kilojoules. It can make you feel hungry. It can induce you to make bad eating choices. Whether or not you gain weight from alcohol depends on what you drink, how much you drink, how often you drink and what you eat while drinking. In addition to the possibility of weight gain, excessive alcohol use poses severe health hazards, including high blood pressure, high triglycerides, insulin resistance, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and some malignancies. Seek help Surround yourself with friends and family supporting your efforts to improve your nutrition and physical exercise. Even better, make the lifestyle modifications as a group. “Remember that effective weight loss at any age needs persistent dietary and activity modifications. Commit to lifestyle modifications to prevent menopausal weight gain,” concludes Hewlett.

August 24, 2022

5 Facts Parents Should Know About Cleft Lip And Palate

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, highlights National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month. Fact 1: Cleft Lip And Cleft Palate Is More Common Than Many Realise Did you know that 1 in 700 births occur with cleft lip and palate? Cleft lip and palate are amongst the five most common birth defects reported in South Africa. Children with clefts may have delayed feeding and language development. They may also be at a higher risk for ear infections, hearing impairments and tooth problems. “Cleft lip and palate are birth abnormalities. They develop when the lips or mouth do not form correctly during pregnancy. These congenital deformities are orofacial clefts,” says Murray Hewlett, Affinity Health CEO. Fact 2: Cleft Lip And Palate Occurs During The First Few Weeks Of Pregnancy Your lips form between four and seven weeks of pregnancy. The palate forms between six and nine weeks of pregnancy. Cells increase and move when a baby grows during gestation. Specialised cells from either side of the head move forward and fuse in the centre to form the face. This tissue fusion creates face characteristics, such as the lips and mouth. A cleft lip occurs when the tissues that comprise the lip do not unite before birth. That results in the upper lip opening. The aperture in the lip may be a little slit or a large hole extending from the lip to the nose. A cleft lip can develop on one or both sides of the lip. But, although rarely, it may also form in the centre of the lip. Children with a cleft lip are also susceptible to having a cleft palate. Fact 3: There Is No One Cause Of Cleft Lip And Cleft Palate In the majority of cases, the reasons for orofacial clefts are unknown. Some children are born with a cleft lip or cleft palate due to alterations in their DNA. It is a common belief that cleft lip and palate comprise a mix of genes. Other circumstances may also contribute to cleft formations: Immediate surroundings. Food and drinks consumed during pregnancy. Specific drugs she takes during pregnancy. What Increase The Risks Of Having A Child With An Orofacial Cleft? Smoking: Smoking during pregnancy enhanced the likelihood of orofacial cleft development. Diabetes: Diabetic mothers may be more susceptible to having babies with a cleft lip or palate. Epilepsy Treatment: The following epilepsy medication may be unsafe during the first trimester: Topiramate Valproic acid Taking these medications may increase the dangers of cleft lip or palate in babies. Genetics: Parents with a family history of cleft lip or palate have a higher likelihood of having a child with a cleft. Obesity: Obesity during pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of cleft lip and palate in infants. Gender: Boys are more likely than girls to have a cleft lip with or without a cleft palate. Fact 4: An Ultrasound May Not Always See Cleft Lips and Cleft Palates. During pregnancy, a regular ultrasound can identify orofacial clefts. More specifically, cleft lip with or without cleft palate. Doctors may also see them only after birth, particularly cleft palates. Even so, cleft palates may be unidentifiable until later in life. That would include: Submucous cleft palate Bifid uvula Fact 5: Surgery Is Often The Best Course Of Treatment For Cleft Lip And Cleft Palate Services and treatment for children with orofacial clefts might range according to severity. Their age needs and medical history will determine the best course of action. Surgery to correct a cleft lip occurs within the first few months of life. Doctors might also prefer to resolve it within the first year. Cleft palates may need surgical repair within the first 18 months of life. As children age, they will often need more surgical treatments. Surgical correction can enhance facial appearance. It can also enhance breathing, hearing, and language development. Children born with orofacial clefts may need more treatments and services. Examples of treatment include speech therapy or orthodontic care. “Children with orofacial clefts can lead healthy lives. Therapy gives them the tools they need to recover,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Children with orofacial clefts may have self-esteem difficulties. They may be self-conscious about their visual differences from other youngsters. Families of infants with orofacial clefts may find support through parent-to-parent groups beneficial.” Cleft Friends is the only organisation in South Africa made up of parents of children with cleft lip and/or palate. Speaking from experience, they encourage new parents to celebrate their babies and seek help from the medical professionals available through Smile Foundation. For more information on Cleft Friends, click here.

August 23, 2022

Essential check-ups for women

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), known as lifestyle diseases, pose some of the biggest threats to the health of South Africans. They are a result of the way we live, combined with genetic, physiological, environmental and behavioural factors. The most common are hypertension (or high blood pressure), diabetes and obesity. It is imperative to have regular or annual check-ups. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, offers advice about these tests and others specifically for women. Weight and BMI Almost 70% of women in South Africa are overweight or obese. The Body Mass Indicator (BMI) is used to check if you are a healthy weight. To calculate your BMI: Divide your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in metres (m) Then divide the answer by your height again Good to know Underweight <than 18.5 Normal weight 18.5 to 24.9 Overweight 25 to 29.9 Obese 30> Diabetes With over 4.6 million people in South Africa living with diabetes, it’s important to check your blood glucose. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. They are different conditions but are both serious and need to be treated and managed properly. One of the biggest problems with diabetes is when it remains undiagnosed. This can lead to blindness, heart attackstroke, kidney failure, impotence and amputation so it’s vital to be checked. Blood pressure Hypertension (high blood pressure) is when blood pressure stays elevated over time. It is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ since nearly 33% of people who have it, don’t know it. If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your arteries (and your heart) and if it’s not treated, hypertension can cause kidney failure, eye problems and heart disease. Good to know Range Normal 120/80 to 129/84 Upper end of Normal 130/85 to 139/89 Mild hypertension 140/90 to 159/99 Moderate hypertension 160/100 to 179/109 Severe hypertension More than 180/110 Besides testing for these three main NCDs, Dr Mkhatshwa also advocates specific checks for women. A Mammogram From the age of 18 you should do regular self-examination of your breasts, if you see or feel any changes, consult your doctor immediately. Early detection increases the chance of survival and can save your life. Some doctors recommend having a mammogram, every two years from the age of 40, others believe you only need to start at 50 years of age. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray which radiologists analyse to look for changes in breast tissue. Although the greatest risk for breast cancer is age, women can get breast cancer from a very early age. Cervical cancer South Africa has a high rate of cervical cancer, this has been attributed to the fact that not enough women are screened regularly. Screening can detect early changes in the cervix which can be treated and save your life. Screening includes: Pap test (pap smear) which looks for cell changes (pre-cancers) in the cervix that may progress to cancer if not treated. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test. Looks for the virus that causes most cervical cancers It is recommended that between the ages of 21and 65, women should have a pap smear every two years and, from the age of 30 onwards, a pap smear and HPV test can be done every 5 years A vaccine has been developed to protect women from getting HPV. It is administered free of charge, annually, to girls between Grade 4 and 7 (9 to 12 years of age) in all government schools. The HPV vaccination can be a cost-effective strategy in lowering the cervical cancer risk among women in South Africa. Bone Density As you age, your bones become thinner and weaker. Over time this can lead to a condition called osteoporosis. If you’re aged 65 or older a bone density test is recommended. Called a DEXA scan, the frequency of this screening varies depending on your bone density and other risk factors. Your doctor may suggest you have this test earlier if you: Broke a bone in the past Have taken steroids for a long time Have rheumatoid arthritis Are underweight Have a parent who has broken a hip after a minor injury Treatment for osteoporosis is available – usually the first choice is Bisphosphonates. Colorectal Cancer Screening These tests look for cancer in the colon or rectum by checking for tissue growths, called polyps. If you don’t have an elevated risk for cancer, then you should start having these tests when you turn 45. A colonoscopy, where the doctor looks at your entire colon, should be done every 3-10 years depending on what is found during your exam. A Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) should happen annually. The FIT is also a screening test for colon cancer which tests for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. Skin Checks Skin cancer is caused by the abnormal growth of skin cells – usually on the skin that has been exposed to the sun but not always. There are three major types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Examine your skin carefully at least once a month and, if you are prone to getting lots of moles, go to a dermatologist and have the mole ‘mapped.’ If skin cancers are found early and treated, they are almost always curable. If you have a history of skin cancer in your family have your skin checked regularly by a doctor. Remember early detection of any of these conditions can save your life, so remember to go for regular check-ups with your doctor.

August 19, 2022

Goodness-packed lunchbox fillers

A nutritious and delicious lunchbox is essential to see your little one through the day. These quick and easy prep-ahead snacks are packed with Squish goodness and will take the hassle out of filling your child’s lunchbox every morning. Add a Squish 100% Pressed Juice box to their lunch bag to help keep your toddler hydrated as they go about their busy day. SQUISH BAKED BREAKFAST BARSSQUISH BAKED BREAKFAST BARS These breakfast bars store really well in a sealed container, which means if you bake a batch on the weekend, they should see you through the week. We’ve used Summer Berries in this recipe, but it works just as well with any of the many Squish flavours. Try Pear + Prune; Pear, Butternut, Yoghurt + Mango with Cinnamon; Apple + Guava; or Fruit Salad. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are made used quality ingredients and are free from preservatives, flavourants and colourants. Ingredients 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Summer Berries Puree 750 ml (3 C) quick oats 125 ml (½ C) sugar 2.5 ml (½ tsp) salt 5 ml (1 tsp) baking powder 5 ml (1 tsp) ground cinnamon 125 ml (½ C) butter, melted 2 eggs Method Place the dry ingredients into a large bowl. Mix together the puree, butter and eggs. Add the puree mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well blended. Line a baking tray with baking paper and spoon in mixture. Flatten with the back of a spoon. Bake in an oven that has been preheated to 180°C for 25 minutes or until firm to the touch. Leave to cool slightly then cut into fingers. TIP: These breakfast bars are also delicious crumbled over some natural yoghurt and topped with Squish 100% Fruit Puree. SQUISH FRUIT AND SPICE LOAF This moist tea cake stores well in the fridge so you can simply slice off as you need. The loaf is packed with grated carrot too, which is high in fibre, Vitamin A and beta-carotene. Ingredients 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Pear, Butternut, Yoghurt + Mango with Cinnamon Puree 125 ml (½ C) Squish 100% Apple Juice 440 ml (1¾ C) cake flour 250 ml (1 C) sugar 5 ml (1 tsp) cinnamon 2.5 ml (½ tsp) baking powder 5 ml (1 tsp) bicarbonate of soda 125 ml (½ C) grated carrot 2 eggs 125 ml (½ C) sunflower oil Method Sift the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda into a large bowl. Add the grated carrot. Mix together the eggs, oil, juice and puree. Add to the dry ingredients and beat well to mix. Pour the batter into a loaf pan that has been sprayed with non-stick spray. Bake in an oven preheated to 180°C for 35 minutes or until the loaf is well risen and a wooden skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Turn out and leave to cool. TIP: Use a frozen Squish 100% Pressed Fruit Juice box as a lunchbox cooler. Your child can then enjoy it later in the day once it has melted. CHEESY VEG BALLS These tasty little balls are so moreish, and they’re packed full of healthy veg! They’re a great way to use up half-empty Squish 100% Veg Purees you might have in your fridge – just make the quantity up to 110ml. All Squish Puree pouches come with a resealable screw-on lid, helping you cut back on food waste. Just use what you need, then pop in the fridge for later. Ingredients 1 cup cheese 1 x 110ml Squish 100% Mixed Veg Puree (or any flavour you please) ¼ small onion, finely grated 2 cups breadcrumbs (simply put several slices of bread into your processor and blitz) ½ cup wholewheat flour 2-3 large courgettes, finely grated 2 large carrots, finely grated ½ clove garlic grated, finely grated 2 Tbsp olive oil/coconut oil 1 tsp dried herbs Method Combine all the ingredients then leave to rest for 20 minutes. Roll into small balls. Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for 20-25 minutes. For a dipping sauce, simply mix some full-cream plain yoghurt with Squish 100% Veg Puree. TIP: These can also be cooked in an air-fryer – 10 minutes tops. • Looking for more toddler-friendly lunchbox inspiration? Click here.

August 17, 2022

Everyone snacks, but not everyone thinks before they snack!

Our on-the-go lifestyle has made snacking a way of life for adults and kids. When it comes to snacking, you want to satisfy your child’s hunger and taste buds, but still help them make smart choices, shifting the focus to mindful snacking. Mindful snacking means being conscious of meeting nutritional needs; adding functional benefits like increasing energy, controlling appetite and getting the nourishing goodness from fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals and probiotics; but still providing guilt-free pleasure and indulgence. Dairy is a very accessible and affordable snacking option to include. There are a variety of dairy products available that make ideal snacks, like yoghurt, cheese and flavoured milk. Here are five reasons to choose dairy as a snack: Dairy products are convenient, tasty and versatile snacks that are ideal for any time of day, especially when you are rushed. Dairy products are a source of key nutrients. You need nutrients every day to keep your body healthy. Children love the taste of dairy. Include it in their lunchbox. Dairy products contain lots of nutrients in a single product, which is money well spent. Milk and flavoured milk are ideal thirst quenchers after school sport. Maretha Vermaak, registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy says: “Choose maas, milk, flavoured milk or drinking yoghurt as a beverage; add cheese to any sandwich or serve crackers and cheese as an afternoon snack; eat yoghurt in between meals and freeze the yoghurt in summer for a yoghurt lolly; and don’t forget to add fresh fruit to your yoghurt snack.” Planning for your weekly snack allocation will ensure that there is always a healthy snack available and will save you from those ‘I’m so hungry’ stops at stores and unplanned snack spending. Follow Rediscover Dairy on Instagram and Facebook for more dairy ideas, tips and recipes.

August 17, 2022

How Does Juvenile Arthritis Affect Children?

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, highlights Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). What Is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is the most frequent form of arthritis in children. “The condition can result in lifelong joint damage. It makes daily living difficult for children,” says Murray Hewlett, Affinity Health CEO. “Some children with arthritis experience lifelong remission. The illness may no longer be active despite the absence of a cure. But others suffer from persistent pain, stiffness and joint swelling. Recurring symptoms may last days, weeks or longer.” What Are The Symptoms And Indicators Of Juvenile Arthritis? Symptoms may fluctuate over time. There may be periods when symptoms worsen, referred to as flares, and times when they improve, referred to as remission. Among the symptoms are:2 Pain Joint discomfort Swelling Lymph node enlargement Fever Rash Tiredness Loss of appetite Irritation of the eyes What Causes Arthritis In Children? Arthritis can affect children of various ages, races, and ethnicities. Experts are still undecided on the exact cause of juvenile arthritis. Individual cases of juvenile arthritis are likely caused by genetic factors, environmental exposures, and the child’s immune system. How Is Arthritis In Children Diagnosed? A physical examination diagnoses arthritis in children, combined with X-rays and laboratory testing. If you suspect your child has arthritis, your family health care practitioner may refer you to a rheumatologist who specialises in childhood arthritis and associated diseases. A physical therapist to preserve your child’s joint flexibility, range of motion, and muscle tone. “It’s important to note that there is currently no cure for juvenile arthritis, but with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, remission is possible,” adds Hewlett. “The focus of treatment is on reducing pain and inflammation, enhancing function, and preventing further harm.” The Different Types Of Arthritis In Children Juvenile arthritis can affect a single or several joints. There are various subtypes of juvenile arthritis, although systemic, oligoarticular, and polyarticular are the most common.3 Symptoms determine the type of arthritis your child has, the number of joints affected, and if fever and rashes are present. Complications Juvenile arthritis is associated with several severe consequences. However, keeping a close eye on your child’s condition and obtaining proper medical treatment can significantly lessen the likelihood of these complications: Eye issues: Some types can induce irritation of the eye. This illness can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, and possibly blindness if left untreated. Eye inflammation commonly occurs without symptoms; hence children with this disorder must get regular ophthalmologic examinations. Growth issues: The onset of juvenile arthritis might hinder your child’s growth and skeletal development. Some therapeutic medicines, primarily corticosteroids, can potentially decrease development. Lifestyle And Natural Treatments Parents and caregivers can assist children in learning self-care strategies that reduce the severity of juvenile arthritis. Techniques include: Regularly engaging in exercise: Physical activity is essential because it increases muscular strength and joint mobility. Swimming is a fantastic option since it causes minimum joint stress. Hot or Cold Applications: Many youngsters with juvenile arthritis have morning stiffness. Some youngsters respond to cold packs, especially after physical exercise. But, most youngsters prefer warmth, especially in the morning, such as a hot pack, bath, or shower. Healthy Eating: Some children with arthritis have low appetites. Others may get weight because of drugs or inactivity. A nutritious diet can aid in maintaining a healthy weight. So, adequate calcium intake is essential. Children with juvenile arthritis are at risk for developing the following conditions: Brittle bones due to the use of corticosteroids. Limited physical activity. Excessive weight-bearing.

August 16, 2022

ASTHMA

Asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses, affecting over 339 million people worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), asthma kills around 1 000 people every day and the prevalence is rising. South Africa is ranked 25th worldwide for asthma prevalence and is ranked fifth for asthma mortality. The lack of appropriate diagnosis, treatment or access to care may be important considerations in tackling asthma morbidity and mortality in South Africa. What is asthma? Asthma is one of the most common respiratory complaints in the world where your airways – known as bronchial rubes – become inflamed. This swelling or inflammation makes the airways extremely sensitive to irritations and increases their susceptibility to an allergic reaction. In an allergic reaction, the airways swell and the muscles around the airway tighten, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. It affects approximately one in 10 children (10%) and one in 20 adults (5%) and can occur for the first time at any age, even in adulthood. Although asthma usually begins before the age of five, a few children affected will ‘outgrow’ it during their teenage years but it usually persists if contracted in adulthood. Asthma tends to run in families, as do related allergic conditions like hay fever and eczema Signs and symptoms Asthma is often under-diagnosed and under-treated. If you fail to recognise and avoid triggers that lead to your tightened airways, you may have an asthma attack, feel respiratory distress or experience a life-threatening situation. So, it’s important that you know how to avoid the triggers and recognise the signs of this condition to enjoy a better quality of life. Symptoms can range from mild to more serious depending on the severity of the illness but include: Coughing that does not subside and gets worse at night Wheezing Shortness of breath Tightness or pain in the chest What causes asthma? The exact cause of the asthmatic process is not well understood but it is thought to be triggered off by an allergy or when the lungs are irritated by something in the air. Research shows that the risk facts are a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to inhaled substances and particles that may cause allergic reactions or irritate the airways. These include indoor allergens – such as dust mites and pet dander in the home, outdoor allergens – such as pollen and mould as well as tobacco smoke and air pollution. Other triggers can include cold air, stress or physical exercise. Certain medications, such as aspirin and other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and beta-blockers (which are used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine) can also set off an asthma attack. Factors associated with asthma prevalence or disease severity in South African children include the adoption of an urban lifestyle, atopy (a genetic predisposition),obesity, respiratory infection, or exposure to industrial pollution or tobacco smoke. Treating asthma Asthma can be life threatening when left untreated and cannot be cured but, with the right treatment most asthmatics will lead completely normal lives. The aim of treatment should be to make the lungs and breathing tubes as normal as possible so that there are minimal symptoms and as little disruption to ordinary life as possible. Get help Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘If you are experiencing asthma symptoms or think you might have asthma, it is important for you to talk to your GP. This will help you establish if your symptoms are linked to asthma or whether something else is causing them.’

August 8, 2022

Natural organic oils vs mineral oils

Here’s why knowing the difference could have major benefits for your skin. With such a big variety of oils on the market these days that it’s important to gain an understanding of what each type of oil is, and what it does, so that you can use it to your advantage. After all, not all oils are created equal, so it’s important to know what you’re putting on your skin. Two of the most common oils used in cosmetic products are natural organic oils and mineral oils. Different in their make-up and origin, they’re often put up against one another in the quest to find the best skincare treatments. Understanding the differences between them will help you make an informed decision – and it could save the health of your skin! Natural organic oil What is it? The term “organic” is often misused in the beauty industry, leading to confusion and misinformation. An ingredient or product is “organic” if it adheres to certain standards and requirements during the sourcing, production and processing phases. This includes practices like avoiding the use of prohibited substances (for example pesticides) and other potentially harmful additives. Natural organic oils are oils sourced organically, from organically-grown plants, fruits, nuts, flowers, bark, leaves, roots and stems. These oils are highly concentrated and filled with natural nutrients. Pros These oils absorb into the skin quickly and can actually penetrate the skin through pores and the intracellular matrix. Natural organic oils offer a wide variety of skincare benefits. They may be moisturising, antimicrobial, soothing, clarifying, detoxifying, balancing and rejuvenating. Natural organic oils are free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives and are safe to use on skin. Many of these oils have been used for centuries, providing us with the peace of mind that their long-term use is safe and beneficial. Organic farming practices are eco-friendly; they help restore soil health and prevent harmful chemicals from entering water sources and soil. Cons Natural organic oils may be more expensive than other oils. In a very small percentage of people, the use of certain natural oils may lead to skin sensitivity or irritation. The terms “natural” and “organic” are not well-regulated, and are often used in misleading ways. When purchasing natural organic oils, make sure you are buying from a reputable brand that’s transparent about the source of the ingredients. Mineral oil What is it? Despite being a popular ingredient in cosmetic products, mineral oil is known to arouse quite a bit of suspicion. It is, essentially, a derivative of petroleum (as in crude oil). But unlike untreated crude oil, mineral oil is highly refined and stripped from potentially harmful carcinogenics like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons before it is used in cosmetics (mineral oil is popularly used in antiperspirants and moisturisers). Despite being refined, there is still a lot of concern over the trace amounts of chemicals present in mineral oils, and their potential to pose health risks. The pros Mineral oil has the ability to protect the skin’s natural barrier and to lock in moisture. It has hydrating, softening and smoothing properties. It is well-tolerated and inert, and while some plant-based oils may cause irritation, mineral oil is unlikely to trigger sensitivity or irritation. It is inexpensive. The cons Depending on its level of refinement, mineral oil may be comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores, causing blackheads and breakouts. It is highly occlusive, which has led to concerns that it may prevent toxins from leaving the body through the skin. There are concerns over the trace amounts of chemicals present in mineral oil, which are present despite the refinement process. It is derived from a non-renewable resource. While it is effective at forming a thin barrier on top of the skin to prevent moisture loss, it can leave a heavy feel on the skin, so it needs to be combined with other ingredients to improve its cosmetic appeal. While we know that mineral oil goes through a refinement process, some companies use more refined mineral oil than others, and as a consumer, it is very difficult to know how refined the oil in your product is. If not highly refined, it may include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic. Typically, mineral oils used in the USA are not as refined as those used in Europe. Medical News Today recommends*, “People should avoid buying products that contain mineral oil unless the label states that it is fully refined as white petrolatum or white mineral oil. White mineral oil is highly purified and meets specifications to ensure that it is safe to use in over-the-counter products.” Considering both the pros and the cons of natural organic and mineral oils, it is clear that natural organic oils are not only better for your health, but also for the environment. Looking for top quality natural organic oils to nourish and protect your skin? BaoCare is a proudly South African skincare brand that harnesses the power of organic baobab oil to offer consumers 100% natural healing baobab oil serums suitable for the whole family. Why baobab oil? The baobab tree is known for offering an abundance of treasures, with almost every part of the tree (roots, leaves, fruit etc) being utilised by people living around it. The discovery of the beauty benefits of baobab oil has led to this natural oil gaining international recognition and popularity in the beauty industry. A lot of lotions and moisturisers on the market are water-based, which means that they require added stabilizers, synthetic preservatives, performance enhancers and fragrances to keep them stable and improve the user’s sensorial experience. Natural organic oils rarely need any of these additives, and baobab oil in particular is a very stable oil that does not require preservatives (it has a natural shelf-life of two years or more!). Baobab oil is a naturally light oil made up of very small molecules and therefore absorbs quickly and easily into the skin. It leaves your skin with a soft satiny finish without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. It’s one of

August 4, 2022

Reducing childhood mortality through local vaccine manufacturing

Vaccines remain one of the most cost-effective and critical medical interventions to successfully eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases while reducing the burden of disease and mortality from diseases such as pneumonia and other associated pneumococcal diseases1, writes Professor Prakash Mohan Jeena, paediatric pulmonologist and head of the paediatric intensive care and pulmonology department at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Vaccines have proven effective in eradicating and eliminating preventable diseases, with smallpox caused by the variola virus (VARV) and rinderpest from the rinderpest virus (RPV) now eliminated, thanks to vaccine intervention initiatives2. Similar benefits are now being realised with the implementation of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), with PCV7 being introduced in 2009 and the more advanced PCV13 emerging in 20113. PCVs have had a resounding impact, and have averted as many as 175 million cases and 624,000 deaths associated with pneumococcal disease4. While statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) confirm that medical interventions such as vaccinations are needed to tackle the plight of preventable diseases such as pneumonia, more needs to be done, particularly when considering that over 740,180 children died from pneumonia in 2019. The disease remains the single most infectious cause of mortality in children worldwide and accounts for up to 14% of deaths in children under the age of five5. Reducing disease incidence in South Africa The South African Department of Health’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) recommends that children receive three doses of the PCV13 vaccine6 to protect against potentially serious and even deadly infections7 caused by pneumococcal disease. This includes Streptococcus pneumoniae – a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia and Invasive Pneumococcal Disease (IPD) such as pneumococcal meningitis8. While PCV7 had little effect on lowering meningitis incidence, global studies have indicated that PCV13 has proven effective in reducing the impact of this disease by as much as 48%9. When considering the burden of pneumococcal disease in children between 0 and 59 months, the number of infected children with pneumococcal disease drastically declined from 107,600 cases per year between 2005 and 2008 to an estimated 41,800 between 2012 and 2013. While several interventions such as HIV care and prevention initiatives were in place during this time, this reduction can be largely attributed to the introduction of effective PCV medications10. More needs to be done to increase childhood immunisation in SA Vaccines save lives, and the repurposing of Clairwood Hospital in Durban is a good example of this. Once a healthcare facility that dealt primarily with infectious diseases, the hospital has had to adapt its practices in recent years as infectious disease wards remained empty. South Africa’s immunisation coverage rate is lower than the 90% coverage rate set forth by the Global Vaccine Action Plan11, with the country recording 83.9% in 2020, according to the EPI National Coverage Survey Report 202012. While these figures are up from the 81.9% recorded in the 2018/2019 period12, more needs to be done to increase South Africa’s childhood immunisation rate to prevent future disease outbreaks13. What’s holding South Africa back? While there are several factors that lead to low immunisation coverage rates, including the impact of COVID-1914, the Academy of Science of South Africa’s Root Causes of Low Vaccination Coverage and Under-Immunisation in Sub-Saharan Africa consensus study report suggests that the overarching reasons include education, low trust, difficulties in accessing reliable immunisation services, and poor vaccine stock availability15. As such, Community Healthcare Workers (HCWs) need to be more involved in the mission of the EPI programme as they are instrumental in raising awareness of the dilemma and driving educational community-based vaccination campaigns12. While South Africa’s EPI is successful, there continue to be challenges related to human resources capacity. Apart from the real-time collection, collation and analysis of data, the programme needs to invest in a robust health facility network and community-based interventions to drive immunisation coverage across all districts in the country, including tapping into the power of mainstream and social media to do so12. The Global Alliance for Vaccines Initiative (GAVI) has also come to the party to provide access to vaccines for children in low-income countries, and to date, has helped with the vaccination of nearly half of the world’s children against deadly and debilitating infectious diseases16. Since South Africa falls under the middle-income category, it does not have access to the subsidized vaccine benefits of its low-income counterparts. However, manufacturing affordable vaccines locally will be greatly beneficial to the country, offering several advantages. The many benefits of local vaccine manufacturing Manufacturing vaccines locally will increase South Africa’s health security, ensuring a seamless and adequate supply of vaccines for its citizens. It will also stimulate the economy by increasing the GDP, creating additional employment opportunities and growing the local sector’s technological expertise17. Manufacturing vaccines locally will reduce the country’s dependency on importation and reliance on foreign trade, and make life-saving vaccine interventions more affordable to meet South Africa’s needs17. Notably, the Biovac Institute and other local manufacturers have been instrumental in the packaging and manufacturing of vaccines to enable the country to respond to regional epidemics and vaccine-preventable diseases. As a result of a partnership with the government, the ongoing success of the institute is key to the provision of affordable vaccines for national health management and vaccine security18. The benefits of local vaccine manufacturing are plentiful and will continue to ensure that, apart from the economic benefits, more South African children will have access to affordable interventions that will ensure they live healthy and productive lives, and become integral members of our future society. References: 1. Immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases is essential to protect children [Internet]. [cited 2022 Jun 19]. Available from: https://www.unicef.org/southafrica/stories/immunization-against-vaccine-preventable-diseases-essential-protect-children 2. dev-site. 8 Diseases (Almost) Eradicated from Existence Thanks to Vaccines [Internet]. Makati Medical Center. 2021 [cited 2022 Jun 21]. Available from: https://www.makatimed.net.ph/blogs/8-diseases-almost-eradicated-from-existence-thanks-to-vaccines/ 3. Kleynhans J, Tempia S, Shioda K, von Gottberg A, Weinberger DM, Cohen C. Estimated impact of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine on pneumonia mortality in South Africa, 1999 through 2016: An ecological modelling study. PLoS Med. 2021 Feb 16;18(2):e1003537. 4. Ten year public

August 3, 2022

Turn leftovers into tasty toddler suppers

With a little culinary creativity, last night’sleftovers can be transformed into a quick and easy supper for your little one. These recipes will help you make tasty suppers in a flash – and help you cut back on food waste (and your grocery spend) too. It’s a win-win for everyone! CREAMY TUNA PIE This dinner is so delicious and easy, it is worth cooking a little extra mash each time you make it so that you have leftovers for this toddler-friendly fish pie. We used Squish 100% Mixed Vegetable Puree, but it will be as yummy with Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees allow you to conveniently add natural goodness to your toddler’s mealtimes. They’re made using quality fresh fruit and veg and contain no preservatives, colourants or flavouring, so they’re as good as homemade, just minus the fuss! Ingredients 1 cup mashed potato 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Mixed Vegetable Puree 1 x tin tuna, drained 2 Tbsp milk 1 Tbsp grated cheddar, for topping Method Stir drained tuna, and Squish Puree into leftover mashed potato, mixing gently. Add milk to make the mixture more creamy. Place mixture in ramekins and top with grated cheese. Bake in the oven at 180° for around 15 minutes until heated through. TIP: Got a little leftover cooked chicken in the fridge too? Switch the tuna for shredded chicken and follow the same method. VEGGIE SAUCE Leftover cooked pasta loves this sauce – and so does mash! This is also a great way to use up the leftover Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees you may have in your fridge too. You can use a mixture of them to make up the required amount – this recipe is forgiving so you could use a little more or a little less too. All Squish Purees come with a convenient resealable screw-on lid, so you don’t need to waste a drop. Just use what you need then pop it back in the fridge for later. Ingredients 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 x 410 g can Rhodes Quality Chopped & Peeled Tomatoes 1 x 110ml Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot Salt and pepper 2 Tbsp basil leaves, finely chopped Method Heat the oil in a medium saucepan. Add the onions and fry until softened. Add the garlic and fry for a few minutes more. Add tomatoes and Squish Puree. Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat, season to taste and stir in the fresh basil. TIP: This sauce freezes well. Make a batch and divide into meal-size portions so you can just grab out of the freezer and use when needed. CHICKEN AND VEG RICE The convenience of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree means you can always serve your child a nutritious meal, no matter how little time you have – especially when you have other tasty leftovers on hand too! This recipe uses cooked rice and chicken. Ingredients 1 cup cooked rice 100g chicken, shredded 1 x 110 ml pouch Squish 100% Apple, Sweet Potato + Sweetcorn Method Heat a small saucepan over medium heat, adding a dollop of butter. Add rice and chicken and fry briefly. Add Squish Puree and continue stirring until heated through. TIP: Having ready-cooked chicken breasts in your fridge is the key to easy suppers. Steam a batch on Sunday night so you’re prepped for the week. You can add to leftover rice, mash or pasta and stir through a pouch of Squish 100% Veg Puree.

August 3, 2022

It’s cold and flu season once again- here’s how to attain winter wellness with Nutripure

During the course of the Covid-19 pandemic, seasonal colds and flu performed somewhat of a vanishing act. And while it seemed perplexing at the time, it made complete sense: We stayed at home, wore face masks when we went out, washed and sanitised our hands, and practiced social distancing. Think about how quickly a cold or flu passes through the office or school classroom… Many of us worked and taught our kids from home. When lockdown restrictions were at the toughest, we didn’t have the opportunity to pass germs around, and as a result, it was not just the spread of Covid-19 that was limited, but also the spread of other viruses, including that of the common cold and flu. Now that South Africa and the rest of the world have eased lockdown restrictions, and many parts of life have returned to normal, there seems to be a resurgence in winter colds and flu, with many of us getting the sniffles for the first time since the start of the pandemic. But getting sick in winter is not inevitable. One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself against viruses is to boost your body’s immune system. The immune system protects the body from potentially harmful substances by recognizing and responding to antigens (these are substances, usually proteins, on the surface of cells, viruses, fungi, or bacteria). When your immune system is strong, you are less likely to get sick, and when you do get sick, you are likely to get well quickly. When your immune system is weak, your body struggles to fight off viruses and bacteria, which may lead to more serious illnesses and pose long-term health risks. Our immune systems are influenced by various factors and a healthy lifestyle is one of the most important things to build up strong immunity: Get enough rest Getting enough good quality sleep can boost the immune system and increase immune system function, so be sure to get your eight hours! Exercise Regular physical activity is vitally important for a healthy body. When you exercise, it gets your body’s immune cells moving, via white blood cells, to other locations in the body where viruses and bacteria may be identified. Stay hydrated Drinking adequate water (about 6 – 8 glasses per day) helps to carry oxygen to your blood cells and helps to remove toxins from the body. This prevents a build-up of toxins which may negatively affect the immune system. Consume the right nutrients While we need to take a holistic approach when attempting to increase our immunity in winter, it is important to note that diet and nutrient intake is one of the most important factors to consider. If your body does not get the right vitamins and minerals, your immune system could be compromised. In terms of diet, that means consuming plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (especially those that are brightly-coloured as they are rich in antioxidants!), lean protein, fibre, and healthy fats. It also means limiting your salt and sugar intake. However, the truth is, that even when we follow a healthy diet, we might still lack essential nutrients. Modern farming methods and the use of pesticides as well as the use of GMO practices mean that a lot of our fresh foods may not be as nutrient-dense as they used to be. Some water-soluble vitamins are also lost in the cooking process. To ensure our bodies get all the nutrients we need to build up a strong immune system, it is recommended to take a good quality supplement daily. For adults, we recommend: NutriPure Immune Support (R135.00) has been carefully formulated with 6 essential vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Zinc, and Selenium. Together, these vitamins and minerals play a critical role in the maintenance of good health. NutriPure Multivitamin Complete (R135.00) has been specially formulated for adults. Each NutriPure Multivitamin gummy contains a balanced dosage of 12 essential vitamins and minerals. NutriPure Vitamin D3 (R135.00) helps maintain strong bones and teeth, It is also great for the immune system and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. For the kids, we recommend: NutriPure Kids Immune Support+ (R110.00) contains a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal function of the immune system. NutriPure Kids Multi Vitamin Complete (R110.00). Multivitamins contribute to the normal function of the immune. Each NutriPure MultiVitamin gummy contains 11 Essential Vitamins & Minerals. NutriPure Kids Vitamin C (R110.00). Vitamin C contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, normal energy-yielding metabolism, and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. One NutriPure gummy contains 80mg of Vitamin C which is 100% of the daily recommended allowance. Why NutriPure? NutriPure gummies are made with real fruit juice, making them extra soft and juicy. Gluten-Free No Artificial Flavours No Artificial Colours No Milk, Wheat, Eggs, Nuts No Artificial Sweeteners No GMO ingredients No Preservatives NutriPure products are available at Clicks, Dis-Chem, Takealot.com, Faithful to Nature, selected Spar and Pick n Pay stores. Website: www.nutripure.co.za

August 2, 2022

Nutritious packed snacks and lunches for a day out with your toddler

With a little careful planning – and an extra change of clothes! – heading off for a day out with your toddler in tow needn’t be daunting. Packing a variety of nutritious single-serve snacks and treats is essential to keep hunger at bay. These recipes are tasty and packed full of natural goodness – your little one will love them! FRUIT CRUNCHIES These treats are full of sweet fruit which means less cane sugar. We used Squish 100% Apple Fruit Puree in the recipe, but you can switch it for any flavour you choose, or use a combination of leftover Squish Purees from your fridge. All Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees have a screw-on lid, which means you can just pop the lid back on and save leftovers for later. Ingredients: 230 g (1 cup) rolled oats 60 g (½ cup) desiccated coconut or ground almonds 125 g (¾ cup) cake flour 2.5 ml (½ tsp) baking powder 1 ml (¼ tsp) bicarbonate of soda 60 g (⅓ cup) dried apricots, finely chopped 65 g (¼ cup) butter 55 g (¼ cup) brown sugar 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Apple Fruit Puree Method: Place the oats, coconut (or nuts) and cake flour into a bowl and stir to mix. Add the baking powder and bicarbonate of soda. Add the apricots. In a small saucepan melt the butter and the sugar together. Whisk in the Squish Puree and leave to cool. Add the apple mixture to the dry ingredients and stir well until evenly blended. Press the mixture into a baking pan that has been sprayed with non-stick spray and lined with baking paper. Bake in an oven that has been preheated to 160°C for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and slice into bars in the pan. Leave to cool. TIP: Use a frozen Squish 100% Pressed Fruit Juice as an ‘ice pack’ in your cooler bag. Your little one can drink it later in the day once it has melted. CREAM CHEESE DIP AND CRUDITÉS This snack is so quick and easy to make and travels well. Plus, it provides a perfect combo of protein, dairy and healthy fruit and veg. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are made from quality fresh fruit and veg and are free from preservatives, colourants and flavouring, which means they’re just like homemade. And there is no added sugar or starch. Ingredients ½ cup plain cream cheese ½ pouch of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree Fresh veggies or fruit, for dipping. Method Place cream cheese in a bowl and add your child’s favourite Squish 100% Fruit + Vegetable Puree. Stir well to blended. Serve with washed and cut fruit and vegetables. TIP: Switch the cream cheese for cottage cheese for a different taste and texture. POTATO POPS These filling and delicious pops are mess-free and easy to serve. You can switch the regular potatoes for sweet potato if you like. Ingredient 500 ml (2 cups) mashed potato 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Veg Butternut + Carrot Puree 250 ml (1 cup) grated cheddar cheese 1 egg 295 ml (1 cup + 3 Tbsp) breadcrumbs salt and freshly cracked black pepper 30 ml (2 Tbsp) sunflower oil Method In a large bowl, combine the mash, Squish Puree and cheese. Add the egg and 45 ml (3 Tbsp) of breadcrumbs and mix well. Season to taste. Shape into balls and roll in breadcrumbs. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan. Fry the potato pops in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. These can also be cooked on a baking tray in the oven at 180°C for 15 minutes. TIP: These pops freeze well. Make a double batch and keep a stash in the freezer for lunchbox fillers. For more delicious delicious toddler-friendly recipes, visit www.squish.co.za

July 25, 2022

Did you know?

Pain can be hard for a child to describe, especially if your tot’s vocab is limited to “mama”, “dada”, “woof”, and “nana”. However, fever and pain occur together frequently in childhood conditions.1 Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint 5 ml Sachets, contain paracetamol, an effective option for treatment of pain and fever in children.2 The Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint 5 ml Sachets, are great for on-the-go parents and super convenient for when you’re travelling! Make pain and fever care easy by shopping for Panado products from independent pharmacies and selected Clicks, Dis-Chem, and Pick ‘n Pay stores. For more information, visit https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations onFacebook. #Panado #ADoseOfCare 2022042510198726 References: 1. Clinch J, Dale S. Managing childhood fever and pain – the comfort loop. Child Adol Psych Mental Health 2007;1:7. doi:10.1186/1753-2000-1-7. [Cited 2022 March 29]; Available from : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1971248/ 2. De Martino M, Chiarugi A. Recent advances in paediatric use of oral paracetamol in fever and pain management. Pain Ther 2015;4:149–168. DOI 10.1007/s40122-015-0040-z. [Cited 2022 March 29]; Available from : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1971248/

July 15, 2022

Value of flavoured milk for children – choose smartly!

Think about the role of your milk children’s diet. Are they getting enough of the essential nutrients needed to grow and stay healthy? When choosing a drink for your child, you should consider both hydration and nutrient content. A sweetened drink that provides nine essential nutrients, like flavoured milk, is a wiser option than a high sugar, low nutrient beverage. Flavoured milk is a tasty, nutrient rich choice for a growing child! Did you know? Flavoured milk contains the same essential nutrients as unflavoured milk, including calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins A and B12, riboflavin and niacin. Flavoured milk is liked by children and helps them achieve the requirement of three dairy servings daily. Studies have shown that consuming low-fat or fat-free flavoured milk can boost adolescents’ intake of nutrients without adding unnecessary energy to their diets. Flavoured milk helps meet nutrient needs: Maretha Vermaak, registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy, says: “During adolescence, children often decrease their milk consumption while increasing their intake of soft drinks. Scientific evidence shows that bone fracture risk is three times higher in girls who drink carbonated beverages and seven times greater in physically active girls who consume both carbonated and noncarbonated drinks.” Some parents are reluctant to offer children flavoured milk because it is sweetened. However, according to the American Dietetic Association increasing the palatability of nutrientdense foods and beverages by sweetening can promote diet healthfulness. Flavouring and sweetening milk does not take away its nutrients. When you compare a glass of low-fat milk to that of flavoured milk, the nutrients are still present and the differences between the two are not significant: Comparison of low-fat flavoured and unflavoured milk Facts Flavoured milk is rich in nutrients, meaning it contains many nutrients in relation to its energy content. Although it is sweetened, it does not add empty kilojoules to the diet. Milk – flavoured or unflavoured, full-cream, low-fat or fat-free, provides three of the five nutrients that fall short in children’s diets, namely calcium, potassium and magnesium. Studies showed people who drank flavoured milk had higher calcium and nutrient intakes compared with those who did not drink flavoured milk. Flavoured milk can increase children’s overall milk consumption. The protein in flavoured milk increases satiety, contributing to the feeling of fullness. Research has shown flavoured milk to be a good rehydration and recovery drink after sport. For more information visit www.rediscoverdairy.co.za or follow Rediscover Dairy on Instagram (rediscoverdairy) or Facebook (RediscoverDAIRY)

July 13, 2022

When the ENT comes to the rescue

Sleep is so essential for our children’s overall development and health, but we cannot address sleep habits if there are medical reasons for a child’s restless nights. There are a few ear, nose and throat (ENT) related conditions that can contribute to poor sleeping – let’s look at the two most common causes amongst infants and toddlers: Adenoid hypertrophy or enlargement Any form of a blocked nose causes difficult, uncomfortable and noisy breathing while sleeping. The most common cause for a chronically blocked nose that an ENT specialist diagnoses are enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Adenoids are lymphoid glands that form part of your immune system. They are located behind the nasal cavity where they trap viruses and bacteria or allergens that try to enter and infect the upper respiratory tract. When they are constantly exposed to viruses or bacteria (for example at creche or school) or even to allergies, they enlarge and block the passage where air needs to pass from the nose to the airway. Adenoids are often enlarged in children, but shrink as we grow older and our immunity improves. Adenoid hypertrophy causes snoring, a blocked and runny nose, nasal voice, mouth breathing and postnasal drip with night-time wet coughs. Severe cases can even lead to obstructive sleep apnoea where your child stops breathing for a few seconds at a time. Your child will snore loudly and wake sporadically during the night due to these pauses in breathing and will not be able to enter the deeper part of sleep. In the long run this is detrimental to their sleep and overall health as essentially, they are not getting enough oxygen to their bodies and their hearts and lungs must work extra hard. It can lead to failure to thrive and poor growth, behavioral problems, poor school performance due to lack of concentration, enuresis (bed wetting) and even heart failure. Middle ear infection or effusion The middle ear has a natural drainage pathway to the back of the nose called the eustachian tube. Any fluid build-up in the ear from inflammation or an ear infection is supposed to drain naturally via the eustachian tube. When the adenoids are enlarged and block the eustachian tube’s opening, this cannot occur and fluid builds up and becomes stagnant in the middle ear. This leads to recurrent infections or chronic fluid build-up called an effusion. You know the feeling you get when your ears need to pop when landing in an aeroplane? That is the pain a child has almost constantly when there is pressure build up in their middle ear, especially when lying down and there is increased blood flow to the head. That is enough to keep anyone awake at night. Not only is it painful for children, but it can cause difficulty in hearing and eventually delay their speech development because of the muffled sounds. In severe cases it can even affect their balance. Some mothers notice how their infants walk differently when their ears are acting up. These conditions are very common in infants from around 6-8months of age into toddlerhood and if the above symptoms are present, it’s best you visit an ENT specialist. There are certain medications that can be prescribed if caught early to try and reverse the inflammatory process and essentially shrink the adenoids, but often it requires surgery. The surgery is a low-risk, quick procedure where the adenoids are removed through the mouth (often combined with a tonsillectomy) and grommets can be inserted into the eardrums to drain the fluid. Once these medical conditions have been resolved there will be a marked improvement in their sleep and a child that already had well-stablished sleep habits, will often return to sleeping well once they are feeling better. What can you expect from their sleep once they have been treated? Waking early: Suffering from any of these conditions affect both the quality and quantity of your child’s sleep. Some children become so accustomed to poor quality sleep that once they finally get helped, they find themselves waking up at the crack of dawn refreshed and ready for the day. They’ve never slept so soundly before, and it can take your child a while to adjust to sleeping more appropriate hours. White noise: Once ears are cleared of fluid, some children become hyper-sensitive to the white noise in their room. You can temporarily reduce the volume and remember to never exceed 50 dB once you turn the volume back to normal. Discomfort: This will need to be addressed and you should offer your child comfort and reassurance. Once they are feeling better go back to your plan and ensure that they don’t become reliant again on any unsustainable sleep associations. Short term-use is often not the problem, it is allowing the bad habits to creep back in permanently that becomes an issue. Once your child is feeling better and has recovered, go back to their normal routine. Often sleep concerns after a procedure are easily resolvable and your sleep-trained child will undoubtedly surprise you with how well they bounce back. If your child slept poorly prior to the procedure, look at contacting a sleep consultant for some assistance. Quality sleep is vital to your child’s health and well-being and they certainly deserve a good night’s rest after what they’ve been through. By Dr Nina du Toit – ENT and Tammy Buitendach – Good Night Consultant www.drninadutoit.co.za

July 11, 2022

Dealing with Postpartum Depression – plus ways to deal with mental health after pregnancy

As a new mom, the birth of your baby is a beautiful and exciting time, but there is a darker side to childbirth. Postpartum depression affects about 15% of moms after delivery, and while it is a serious disorder it can be overcome through treatment. What is Postpartum depression? Feelings of anxiety, sadness and fatigue are common after birth and are often referred to as the ‘baby blues’ and should subside within the first two weeks. However, if these feelings stick around for longer, you could be experiencing postpartum depression. Restlessness, mood swings, insomnia, irritability, disconnection from your baby and feeling of worthlessness are all red flags for postpartum depression. Some moms feel guilty or ashamed to be feeling this way, however PPD can affect any woman. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help, as PDD is treatable through both medicated and unmedicated options. What should I do if I have the symptoms of Postpartum Depression? The good news is that PPD is treatable. There are a variety of common types of treatment, which depend on the type and severity of symptoms. Treatment can include counselling, therapy groups, antidepressants and hormone therapy. Self-help groups can be helpful, as it allows you to connect with others who have experienced similar problems and stop feelings of isolation. Recovery time will also vary from mother to mother, but untreated the disorder will last much longer and can interrupt mother-child bonding. Getting help does not mean you are a bad mother, it is important to reach out if you are feeling depressed. Postpartum Psychosis In rare cases moms can develop postpartum psychosis. This should be treated as a medical emergency, and it is essential that you receive help right away. Symptoms include paranoia, delusion and erratic/disorganised behaviour. How to deal with mental health after pregnancy Your mental health is critical to you and your child’s well-being. If you are worried about PPD it is important to get professional help. However, you can help your mood by slowly getting back into exercise, setting aside time for yourself and leaning on those around you for support. It is important to stay connected to family and friends so that you don’t feel alone.

July 8, 2022

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