Health - Parenting Hub

Expert Advice from Bonitas Medical Fund

All you need to know about your newborn

Newborn Hearing Newborns can hear immediately upon birth and are able to distinguish their mother’s voice above all else. If your baby does not seem to react to your voice or does not startle with a loud noise, be sure to tell your paediatrician. Stimulating your baby’s sensesBelieve it or not your baby will learn a lot in their first year of life. One way you can help them learn is to provide stimulation for them in different forms. This can be done in a variety of ways such as stimulating their vision and hearing or through touch and movement. Remember to spend some time every day working to help your baby explore the world around them. Stimulating your baby’s vision Here are a few ways to help stimulate your baby’s vision: Make eye contact with your baby during times when their eyes are open. Look them right in the eye. They recognize faces very early in life, especially yours!This helps them develop their memory. Use a mirror to let your baby stare at his or herself. They will enjoy looking at “another” baby and watching the movements it makes. Stick out your tongue for your baby or make funny faces. Starting at 2 days old newborns can begin to mimic simple facial movements as they begin to develop problem solving skills. Hold up two pictures for your baby to look at. They should be similar, but with some sort of difference between the two – maybe one has a house and the other doesn’t. Even young babies will look back and forth between the two to try and figure out the difference between them. This can help them develop letter recognition and reading skills later. Stimulate your baby with laughing and singing Laughing and singing are great ways to stimulate your baby and have fun at the same time. Here are a few suggestions: Find ways to get your baby laughing. This can be through methods like gentle tickling, blowing on their arms and tummy, or making funny faces. As they get older you can joke around more too. Laughter is great for babies! Sing song to your baby. Learn as many as you can or make up your own words to songs you already know. Play music to your baby. This can be Bach or Mozart or even the Beatles. Learning music rhythms may help them learn math skills later on. Talk away. In other words, have a silly, fun conversation with your baby. Chat away and pause at places where your baby would speak in the conversation. As your baby grows, they will learn to start chatting to fill in the spaces you leave. Be sure to make eye contact and smile a lot! Play peek-a-boo, it’s great for getting babies to giggle and laugh – it also teaches them that objects can disappear and then come back. Physical activities for your baby As your baby gets older and is more mobile encourage physical activities that can help with motor skills, coordination and problem-solving. Here are a few suggestions: Turn yourself into a playground by lying on the floor and letting your baby crawl all over you. This will help boost their problem-solving skills and coordination. Teach them to move to music. You can teach them to do the twist, twist and shout or even twirl like a ballerina. This helps them develop skills like balance and coordination as well as a sense of rhythm. Create an obstacle course by laying toys, boxes or sofa cushions on the floor and then show your baby how to crawl over and around or under the items. This helps with problem-solving, strength and coordination. Play pick up by allowing them to drop toys or pieces of wadded up paper off their highchair into a bucket or other safe container. This helps them learn and explore the laws of gravity.

May 22, 2023

YOUR GUIDE TO A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

Looking after your health is important, but even more so when you are an expectant mom. There are several steps you can take to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy and give your little one the best possible start in life, here are a few tips brought to you by Bonitas Medical Fund. Eating right is vital Eating healthily during pregnancy will help your baby to develop properly. There’s no need to go on a special diet but, it is important to eat a variety of foods every day to get the right balance of nutrients that you and your baby need. Eating healthily often means just changing the the foods you eat so that your diet is varied. Staying active is a must Regular exercise will help you control your weight, improve circulation, boost your mood and help you sleep better. Pilates, yoga, swimming and walking are all great activities for pregnant women. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Listen to your body though and don’t overdo it. Be sure to check with your doctor first, before starting any exercise programme. Approach chores with caution Chores like scrubbing the bathroom or cleaning up after pets can become risky when you are pregnant. Exposure to toxic chemicals, lifting heavy objects or coming into contact with bacteria can be harmful. So, avoid heavy lifting, climbing on ladders, changing the kitty litter, using harsh chemicals and standing for long periods of time. Take care of your feet Weight gain during pregnancy throws off your centre of gravity, which puts extra pressure on your feet. This can cause painful flattening out of the feet. You may retain fluids too, which can make your feet and ankles swell. To prevent this, wear comfy shoes with good support. Many pregnant moms find they need a larger shoe size even after they give birth, so go a size up if you need to. Benefits for you and your baby Bonitas offers a wide range of maternity benefits as well as benefits for newborns and babies. These are paid for from Risk so they are in addition to your savings and day-to-day benefits. Some are: Maternity benefits Having children is expensive. That’s why Bonitas pays for your maternity benefits in addition to your savings and day-to-day benefits so you can focus on the things that really matter. Contact The Bonitas Maternity Programme today to see all the benefits when you click here. Bonitas is also in the process of establishing a comprehensive mother and baby support programme which will offer pregnant moms a range of benefits including: 24/7 pregnancy care helpline Dedicated Bonitas care advisors Pregnancy education SMSs and emails Online pregnancy education Bonitas pregnancy events with expert speakers on prenatal and postnatal care The full programme has bee available since March 2020 and will ensure there is sufficient support for moms throughout the pregnancy journey. Education and information will be provided to allow for healthier pregnancies which in turn could support higher incidences of natural birth. But there will also be management and support for pregnancy complications including miscarriage and gestational diabetes. In addition, your stay in hospital when your baby arrives will also be covered. Please make sure you pre-authorise your hospital stay after your 24th week of pregnancy. Please note: Your maternity benefits will depend on the medical aid option you have selected. Newborn hearing screening Significant hearing loss is the most common disorder at birth which is why screening all newborns for hearing loss is internationally recommended. We cover two electrophysiological techniques, auditory brainstem responses (ABR) and optoacoustic emissions (OAE) for all babies under 8 weeks old, in or out-of-hospital allowing you to ensure your baby’s hearing is intact or intervene early if necessary. Congenital hypothyroidism screening Cover for TSH tests (to screen for congenital hypothyroidism) is available on all options for children under a month old. Help is just a call away with BabyLine BabyLine (0860 999 121) is the first dedicated children’s health advice line in South Africa. It is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The service is run by paediatric-trained nurses who assist with any queries related to your little one’s health and wellness. The benefit is available to all Bonitas members and is for children under 3 years, it offers: Home care advice Clinic/primary care/GP referral for the same day Clinic/primary care/GP referral for the following day After-hours care within the next six hours Immediate referral to the E

May 22, 2023

Mental health and pregnancy – Antenatal depression

Your health during and after your pregnancy is important to both you and your baby. Normally when people think health, assume physical, but your mental health is just as important. If you are struggling with anxiety and depression during your pregnancy, this is known as antenatal depression. You’re probably chalking your mood swings and doubts down to pregnancy hormones, but when should you start to be worried about your mental health during pregnancy? What is antenatal depression? Mood swings during pregnancy are fairly normal, as your body is adjusting to changing hormones. Not only are your body’s hormones changing, but the emotional, physical and psychological changes that you are going through during pregnancy can also be overwhelming. Most antenatal care focuses on physical health, meaning depression and anxiety are often overlooked during pregnancy. Postnatal depression is far more commonly addressed than prenatal, and it is important that both are equally acknowledged – your mental health is always important. Antenatal depression is different from mood swings in the way that it is a persistent feeling of sadness or loss. Many of the symptoms of depression are similar to what can normally be experienced during pregnancy, such as fatigue and changes in sleep patterns. However, when you are struggling to function normally day to day, or your symptoms persist for weeks on end, it may be time to find professional help. What can I do if I think I have antenatal depression? If you are worried that your feelings of frustration or sadness are not just normal pregnancy blues, here is what you can do to help yourself. Talking to a professional is always a good first step as they can guide you in a direction that will work best for you and your baby. You could help yourself feel better by looking after yourself. Eating healthy, exercising and sleeping well are all ways in which you can boost your serotonin levels. Speak to people with similar experiences or open-up to your close friends and family. Building your support network can help you feel less isolated and alone.

May 15, 2023

YOGA AND PILATES FOR PREGNANT MOMS

Staying active during your pregnancy is another important way of staying healthy. Not only is exercise good for you physically, but it helps relieve stress, improve sleep and boost your mood. However, being pregnant, especially later on in your pregnancy, means that you’ll need to consider what exercise you’re doing. Contact and high-risk sports are a no-no, but if you are looking for a way to stay fit, prenatal yoga and pilates could be your answer. Why yoga and pilates? Prenatal yoga and pilates can help you strengthen your body, stop excess weight gain and help prepare your body for childbirth. Both are low impact and can be adjusted to suit you and your growing baby. During your pregnancy, you may experience backache, aching legs and abdominal pain. Providing nothing serious is wrong, yoga and pilates can help alleviate pain through strengthening your body. Prenatal yoga and pilates classes are specifically tailored to expecting moms, so should be completely safe unless you are recommended otherwise. Getting ready for birth Not only can these practices help reduce stress and anxiety, but they can also help you during childbirth. The combo of stretching and strengthening your body should mean that your body is more equipped to deal with the stress of labour and birth. Strong core and pelvic will help support your spine and help you during birth. Joining prenatal yoga and pilates classes will help you connect with other expecting moms and, a professional can guide you through which poses are best for you throughout your pregnancy. Not only can yoga help you physically, but the breathing techniques you’ve learnt can help calm and focus you during labour. Is there anything I should be cautious of or avoid? Although good for you, there are still certain yoga and pilates poses and exercises that you should avoid during your pregnancy. If you are new to yoga and pilates, most studios offer prenatal classes for beginners, and, if you are practising already you can probably continue with most of your practice, just let your instructor know you’re expecting – they can help you modify your routine. Things to be cautious of are hot yoga, full inversions (poses on your head), deep twists and exercises that cause you to crunch your abdominal cavity. Your body is in constant flux as your baby develops, meaning some days you’ll feel energised whereas otherwise will leave you feeling drained. Because of this, it’s important that you are aware of how your body is feeling while practising. If you notice anything unusual or painful it’s best to chat with your doctor.

May 8, 2023

Preterm Labour

Although most moms pregnancies last 40 weeks (your baby will have spent 38 weeks in your uterus) sometimes birth can begin prematurely. If you go into labour anytime between week 20 and 37 is known as preterm labour. A baby delivered before this is known as miscarrige, and anytime after week 37 is considered normal. If you suspect you’re going into labour early it’s critical that you contact your doctor as quickly as possible so that they can assist you. Ideally your baby needs to stay in your uterus until full term, but even if your baby is premature (sometimes called a preemie) they can still go on to lead a healthy life. Here are the signs of preterm labour, how you can try prevent it and what to do if you think that your baby might be coming early. How to decrease your risk of preterm labour There are some things that increase your risk of going into premature labour – however, that being said, just because your risk factors are low, you aren’t guaranteed not to go into preterm labour. Firstly, throughout your pregnancy staying healthy is critical. Smoking, drinking and recreational drug use are all activities that increase your risk of preterm labour (amongst other things). Good nutrition and prenatal care is a key aspect of a healthy pregnancy and baby. Other risk factors include, having more than one baby in your uterus, short intervals between pregnancies and having had another baby preterm. There are certain infections and chronic conditions that can also contribute to preterm labour. Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, depression, chronic kidney or heart disease or infections can all lead to preterm labour and birth. Signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing preterm labour Controlling what you can, keeping a healthy pregnancy lifestyle and maintaining good prenatal care are not guarantees for your baby’s timely arrival. However, spotting preterm labour early means that you’ll be able to receive treatment as quickly as possible. Backache and pressure in your lower belly (almost as if your baby is pushing down) as well as bell cramps and contractions are all signs of premature labour. These contractions are different to Braxton Hicks contractions as they are regular. Other signs include a change in your vaginal discharge to watery or bloody, or even experiencing a gush of fluid from your vagina. What happens if I go into preterm labour? If you suspect preterm labour let your doctor know right away. Once you have alerted your doctor they’ll give you medication to stop the birth or slow down your labour. How close you are to your due date will impact on how they decide to treat you. You may be given medication to slow or stop your contractions, as well as medication that will help your babies lungs mature and grow, as if they are born preterm they may not work on their own. If your baby is born preterm it is likely they’ll need special care from the hospital as they are at higher risk of health complications. However, even if your baby is preemie they can still go on to live a healthy life.

May 2, 2023

Roll up your sleeve – it’s time for the flu vaccination

The days are getting shorter and the nights longer which means winter is on its way … and with the change in season comes the start of ‘flu season’. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Clinical Executive at Bonitas Medical Fund, provides some important information about flu and why a flu vaccine is highly recommended. He says it’s important to take extra precautions as we head into winter. ‘Understanding how to protect yourself and your loved ones this flu season, will make a difference in staying as healthy as possible’. What is Influenza? According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NCID) influenza or ‘flu’ is an acute viral respiratory infection, transmitted by the influenza virus. This virus has three main types A, B and C. The currently circulating seasonal viruses are A (H1N1), influenza A (H3N2) and influenza B viruses. The flu viruses are typically in circulation in the winter months in South Africa with an average start of the first week of June. Why vaccinate? Although the flu vaccine will not completely eliminate your risk of developing the flu, it will help reduce your risk of developing a severe infection and recover faster. Annually, seasonal flu kills between 6 000 and 11 000 people in South Africa, which is they having the flu vaccine is a good precautionary measure. Do I need a flu shot every year? The short answer is yes. The flu virus mutates and changes which means last year’s vaccine will not keep you safe this year. The flu vaccines for 2023 are: Vaxigrip Tetra and Influvac Tetra, both available as a single dose 0.5ml shot. The vaccine helps produce antibodies and boost your immune system to fight off the virus. It’s best to vaccinate in April or May, before the start of flu season. Flu vaccinations are available at most pharmacies and the costs are generally covered by medicals schemes. Who should get a flu vaccine? It is recommended that anyone in the high-risk groups should have a flu shot – these include: Healthcare workers Individuals over 65 years of age People with cardiovascular disease, including chronic heart disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, chronic renal disease and chronic lung disease (including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Pregnant women People living with HIV/AIDS Who should NOT have the flu vaccine? Individuals who are allergic to eggs or egg proteins as the manufacturing process involves the use of chicken eggs Infants under 6 months of age – the vaccines are not licensed for use in such young children Individuals who may have had a severe reaction to a flu vaccine in the past – if you are unsure discuss with your healthcare provider Individuals who may be suffering from flu symptoms already Can the flu shot give me a mild flu? According to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), no, the flu shot cannot cause flu. Vaccines are currently made either with flu vaccine viruses that have been ‘inactivated’ and are not infectious or with no flu vaccine viruses at all. However, you might experience some common side-effects from the vaccine such as are soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given. Serious allergic reactions to flu vaccines are very rare. Are Covid-19 and flu viruses similar? The World Health Organization (WHO) says that Covid-19 and influenza viruses are similar in disease presentation, mainly because both cause respiratory disease, which presents a wide range of illness from asymptomatic or mild through to severe disease and death. In addition, both viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets and any material that can carry infection. As a result, the same public health measures such as hand hygiene and social distancing is recommended to avoid contracting flu or when you have flu. Am I able to get the flu vaccine and a Covid-19 vaccine or booster shot together? Yes, however, it is recommended that if you decide to have both vaccines at the same time, one should be on the left arm and the other on the right. ‘The flu virus can spread very quickly,’ explains Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Even if the flu vaccine might not prevent you getting flu, it will reduce your risk and, if you do get it, it will be a great deal milder. ‘More importantly, by having the flu vaccine you protect others, who may be vulnerable family members, small babies, the elderly or those who are immune compromised.’

April 20, 2023

Advice from the experts

Winter-must haves you’ll need for your baby when the temperature drops

Ask any mom, and she’ll tell you that young children and babies have a list of non-negotiable, crucial must-haves all year round. But winter has a way of turning things up a notch. And we’re not just talking about an increase in clothing and warm layers; like adults, a baby’s skin needs may also change during the colder months, as may their nutritional needs. You’ll probably find that your list of must-haves grows a little longer, as baby needs a few more products to stay healthy and happy. Here are our winter must-have recommendations for babies and toddlers: Safety first You have a first aid kit in your car, and in your medicine cabinet, so why wouldn’t you have an equivalent kit for baby? We all know that there is nothing predictable about babies, and they can often start to feel unwell at a difficult time, like late at night or over the weekend, which is why it’s essential to have some basic healthcare products available for use at home. And while babies can get sick any time of the year, we all know that winter is notorious for bringing on the sniffles. Keeping a healthcare kit on-hand means you’ll be able to access a thermometer, nasal aspirator, and other essential items easily and conveniently – no more searching through drawers and cabinets! Try: Safety 1st Healthcare Kit (R269.95) The Safety 1st Healthcare Kit 11 Pieces comes with all the tools you’ll need to properly see to your newborn’s health needs. It includes a digital thermometer, nasal aspirator, soft toothbrush, medicine dropper, 5 alcohol wipes, an emergency contact card, and a travel case. Immune support As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. While it’s impossible to prevent babies and children from ever getting sick, it is possible to boost their immune systems by ensuring that they get all the vitamins and minerals their bodies need to function optimally. A healthy and balanced diet goes a long way, but we all know that young children can be picky eaters, which means that they are likely not consuming all the nutrients they need from their food. This is where good quality supplements like NutriPure, which is free from sugar, artificial flavours, colours, and sweeteners make all the difference. Try: NutriPure Kids Multivitamin Gummies (R109.95). Made with real fruit juice, these delicious gummies help to maintain your child’s immune system and promote overall well-being. It contains vitamins D, B6, B12, & C, as well as Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, and Niacin. NutriPure Kids Probiotics (R164.95) At any age, a balanced intestinal micro-flora is highly important in keeping the body in healthy working order. The healthy bacterial microflora in the gut is a key element for overall well-being. Each Nutripure Probiotics bear contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost his daily culture intake. Nutripure Kids Immune Support Gummies (R109.95) These delicious gummies contain a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6, and B12 help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. Preventing and treating dry skin Babies and young children, like adults, are prone to getting dry skin when the temperature drops. Humidity levels are lower in winter, and the water content of the epidermis (the top layer of skin) typically reflects the humidity around it. If left untreated, dry skin may become itchy and uncomfortable, and may flake or even peel. Make sure that babies and children are bathed in warm (not hot) water, as hot water strips the skin of its natural oils and may lead to dryness. We recommend applying a nourishing oil to the skin after every bath, and throughout the day as needed, to lock in moisture. Multipurpose oils, such as those from Jamaican Mango & Lime, are great for softening and moisturizing dry skin. Try: Jamaican Mango & Lime Black Castor Oil Tea Tree (R152.00) has anti-inflammation properties and is made with a blend of pure Jamaican black castor oil and tea tree oil, which softens and moisturizes dry, damaged skin. Jamaican Mango & Lime Black Castor Oil Vitamins A-D-E (R152.00) promotes hair growth, moisturizes and softens dry skin and treats dry nails and cuticles. Soothe dry lips Dry and chapped lips are common during winter, and you may find that your (and your little ones’) lips need a little extra TLC when the temperature drops. Did you know that nipple cream is a common remedy for dry lips? Multi-purpose, moms can use it, not only to soothe their nipples when breastfeeding but also to protect and treat the whole family’s lips. Try: Medela Purelan™ – Lanolin Cream (R119.95) helps to restore the skin’s natural moisture balance and keeps the skin supple. Purelan is so safe for your baby that it doesn’t need to be removed before breastfeeding. It is dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic and free from artificial additives and preservatives and also gives you fast relief for sore nipples and dry skin. Nappy cream to the rescue Nappy rash can occur any time of the year, but winter poses some extra challenges as baby’s skin is covered in extra layers of clothing and gets less opportunity to breathe. Apply a soothing nappy rash cream after every nappy change to ensure that baby’s skin is soothed and comfortable. Try: Sudocrem skin and baby care cream, available in 4 tub sizes (400g, 250g, 60g, 125g). The 60g tub (R57.99) is travel-friendly and fits into a handbag with ease. Sudocrem skin and baby care cream heals irritated and sensitive skin so your baby can feel comfortable in their nappy. It is made with a special formulation that contains zinc oxide, is hypo-allergenic, and expertly soothes and restores affected areas. What are some of your baby’s winter essentials?

May 5, 2022

HAPPY TRAVELLING HACKS WITH PANADO® PAEDIATRIC SYRUP, PEPPERMINT 5 ML SACHETS

Even seasoned travellers may find car and plane trips with infants or toddlers daunting. How will you entertain your child while on the road? What if your child experiences earache or a fever during the plane flight? How can you ensure that your entire family arrives safely and in good spirits? Do not fear, fellow parents! These suggestions for travelling with a baby or toddler will ensure that everyone has a pleasant experience. Headaches Regrettably, airplane travel may be a headache generator, especially for pint-sized passengers. Airplane Headache (AH) is exclusively related to airplane travels, and although may occur at any time during a flight; there is a higher incidence during the take-off and landing phase.1 Motion Sickness Headaches arising due to motion sickness from riding in cars can also make your child miserable. Symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and headache are common to motion sickness.2 Encourage your child to look outside the window of the car rather than putting their head down and focusing on books, games or screens. If your child is prone to motion sickness, don’t forget to pack recently launched and conveniently packaged, Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint 5 ml Sachets, for the symptomatic treatment of pain and fever for kids on the move. Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint 5 ml Sachets contain paracetamol, which is included in the List of Essential Medicines for Children of the World Health Organization.3 Avoid Overdoing It Bear in mind that babies and toddlers lack the tolerance that you do for lengthy road trips. If your car trip will take several hours or days, break it up with pauses for playing, eating, and sleeping. Plan Trips Around Your Child’s Sleep Time Your infant or toddler may slumber during your road trip if you’re fortunate! Some experts encourage driving at night when travelling with toddlers or infants. However, arriving in the middle of the night may rouse your children and disrupt their circadian patterns as well. Provide Lots (and Lots) Of Snacks Pack some nutritious travel snacks for children. Consider whole-grain cereals, fruit chunks, and cheese cubes. To ensure food safety, keep refrigerated items in a cooler bag. If your child is prone to choking, serve snacks and meals at a rest stop, park, or restaurant. Ensure That Your Child Is Properly Secured Make sure children are properly buckled in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt – whichever is appropriate for their age, height, and weight.4a The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention says that data shows the correct use of a car seat reduces the risk for injuries in crashes by 71% – 82% for children, when compared with seat belt use alone, while booster seats reduce the risk for serious injury by 45% for children aged 4-8, when compared to seat belt use alone.4b Other Panado® Products Suitable for Your Child In addition to Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint 5 ml Sachet, Panado’s range for children include Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Strawberry (50 ml | 100 ml),5 Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint Alcohol and Sugar-Free (50 ml | 100 ml),6 and Panado® Infant Drops 20 ml.7 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 on Facebook. #Panado #ADoseOfCare 2022040110194118 References: 1. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (IHS) (2013) The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (beta version). Cephalalgia 33:629–808. [Cited 2022 March 29]; Available from https://thejournalofheadacheandpain.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s10194-016-0628-7 2. Cuomo-Granston A, Drummond PD. Migraine and motion sickness: what is the link? Prog Neurobiol. 2010 Aug;91(4):300-12. doi: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2010.04.001. Epub 2010 Apr 21. PMID: 20416353. [Cited 2022 March 29]; Available from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20416353/ 3. de Martino M, Chiarugi A. Recent Advances in Pediatric Use of Oral Paracetamol in Fever and Pain Management. Pain Ther. 2015;4(2):149-168. doi:10.1007/s40122-015-0040-z. [Cited 2022 March 29]; Available from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4676765/ 4a,b. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. [Cited 2022 March 29]; Available from https://www.cdc.gov/injury/features/child-passenger-safety/index.html 5. Panado® Paediatric Strawberry Approved package insert March 2002. 6. Panado® Paediatric Syrup Alcohol and Sugar-Free & Panado® Paediatric Syrup package insert. April 2010. 7. Panado® Infant Drops (Drops) approved professional information, August 1990.

May 5, 2022

Winter sun safety: Why sunscreen is essential during the colder months

As South Africans we are accustomed to the harsh summer sun, and are used to applying SPF before heading down to the beach, or going for a run. But did you know that the sun’s UV rays are equally dangerous during the colder months? While you’re unlikely to experience a sunburn from UVB rays during winter, UVA rays (the ones that accelerate ageing) have the ability to wreak havoc on our skin, particularly on overcast days. “Even when it’s cold or overcast, UV rays that cause skin ageing and skin cancer are reaching your skin,” says Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “In the right winter weather conditions, you can sustain sun damage just as easily as during the summer.” UVA rays have the ability to penetrate through clouds and fog, meaning your skin is vulnerable even on days when the sun isn’t shining. Did you know that UVA rays can also penetrate glass? That means it’s possible for the sun’s rays to harm your skin on a bright winters’ day, while you’re indoors! UVA rays can accelerate ageing, meaning more fine lines and wrinkles, but they also make the skin vulnerable to skin cancer. Enter Lamelle Helase 50 – a broad spectrum sunscreen that offers full protection from UVA, UVB, blue light and infrared light. More than just a sunscreen, this DNA-correcting photo-protection product is in a class of its own. Most people don’t realise that what we think of as the symptoms of ageing, are actually due to deep-seated damage inside our skin cells caused by years of sun exposure. Sunlight physically damages (breaks apart) or mutates skin DNA over time. To a large degree, preventing this damage is the reason we wear sunscreen. Conventional sunscreens fall short The problem with currently available sunscreens is they have been developed to protect human skin from the most obvious of solar insults: ultraviolet A and B radiation. But our skin is susceptible to all five radiation subtypes, including visible light (radiation) and Infrared-A, B and C. If the only way to slow down the ageing process is to protect our skin against all these solar onslaughts, and conventional sunscreen is capable of protecting us from only two of the five, the case for more effective protection has never been stronger. That and the fact that the incidence of skin cancer still continues to climb! Recognising this unmet need, Lamelle Research Laboratories developed Helase 50. Unlike so many other cosmetic products available, this truly is a first to market one of a kind cosmetic; a breakthrough in ageing treatment and it’s being heralded as potentially the best photo-protection product available. Until now, sunscreen and antioxidants have been our only defence against DNA damage; there’s been no means of reversing already existing damage. But now, with Helase 50, it’s possible to not only prevent, but also physically correct damaged DNA (dangerous DNA breaks and “kinks” such as dimers which left untreated, can produce more ‘abnormal’ cells. Correction is therefore essential to return cell function to normal). Helase 50 – More than just a sunscreen Classified as a photo-protection product, Helase 50 is the only available product that can minimize the harmful effects of the full solar radiation spectrum. It includes several trailblazing technologies that set it apart from conventional sunscreens. The secret weapon in its formulation – that which is responsible for the correction process – is photolyase, a powerful DNA-repairing enzyme that’s missing in humans, but occurs naturally in most animals and plants. While we can’t produce our own photolyase, our body knows what to do with it when it’s introduced topically to the skin and the results are astounding. Another core ingredient often used in Lamelle products is Pycnogenol® (one of the most potent antioxidants available). Very simply, the inclusion of a Pycnogenol blend is what controls the inflammation typical from exposure and sunburn and it plays an important role in protecting the skin from damage. There are several other enzymes, receptor inhibitors and filters that have been researched, tested, formulated and proven to deliver unprecedented protection. Helase 50 – How to use it Helase 50 has sunscreen filters and an SPF of 50+.It’s not waterproof and should be applied 10 – 15 minutes before exposure and re-applied 3 – 4 hourly if possible. There is no need to use a “regular” sunscreen if you use Helase 50. It is fragrance free, and anyone over the age of six months is a candidate for Helase 50, but particularly those with fair skin, multiple sun-spots, or a history of skin cancer. It’s the ideal product to use after you have had a moderate peel (once re-epithelialised), and post-laser therapy and IPL. Quite simply – a revolution in skincare has begun with the introduction of Helase 50! Learn more at www.lamelle.co.za

May 4, 2022

Children’s Nightmares and Snoring Can Lead to Headaches

You may want to pay closer attention the next time your child wakes you up after he or she has experienced a nightmare. New research shows children can grind their teeth during a nightmare, or if they snore, and this can lead to them developing headaches. A study published in the Journal of Craniomandibular Practice, aimed to investigate the routine, sleep history and orofacial disorders associated with children aged 3-7 years with nocturnal bruxism (grinding their teeth at night). Data about the child’s routine during the day, during sleep and awakening, headache frequency, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and hearing impairments was obtained through interviews with the parents and caregivers. An electromyography examination was used to assess the activity of facial muscles. Multiple logistic regression (MLR), chi-square test and t-test analyses were also performed. The results showed an association of nightmares and snoring with bruxism, says Dr Elliot Shevel, South Africa’s pioneer in the field of migraine surgery and the medical director of The Headache Clinic. According to Shevel, it is well documented that bruxism can lead to headaches. The causes of bruxism are largely unknown, but risk factors are anxiety, stress, caffeine, sleep apnoea, snoring and fatigue. “At The Headache Clinic we have found that muscle tension in the jaws, face head and neck are some of the major underlying causes of migraine. This knowledge has resulted in our unique muscle treatment methods that restore and maintain the correct, relaxed posture of the jaws, head and neck. Clenching the jaws and grinding the teeth at night is common in many of our patients, not only children, and the headaches that result are treatable – without the use of medication.” “This study now confirms that nightmares and snoring may also lead to children grinding their teeth. Variables related to awakening revealed an association with bruxism. Parents of the main group (children with nocturnal bruxism) reported more complaints of orofacial pain, facial appearance and headache occurrence amongst their children. Auditory and muscle disorders however, were not significant variables,” explains Shevel. Dr Shevel advises that parents should consider treating the muscle tension to prevent migraine pain and teeth grinding, while addressing the underlying fear and insecurities causing their child’s nightmares.

April 14, 2022

Dissecting Dyspraxia

Dyspraxia is a disability that is believed to affect 2 – 10% of the population. This disability can be defined as “a development disability of organisation of movement. It is caused by an immaturity of the brain resulting in messages not being properly transmitted to the body.” [1] In laymen’s terms, dyspraxia affects motor planning. Before looking further at how this happens, let’s first look at what motor planning is. ‘Motor planning is the ability to conceive, plan and carry out a skilled, non-habitual motor act in the correct sequence from beginning to end…. The child with motor planning difficulties may be slow in carrying out verbal instructions and often appears clumsy in new tasks.” [2] For motor planning to be effective, all sensory systems of the body need to be working correctly. With dyspraxia, the messages that are being sent from the brain are not being reliably transmitted to the rest of the body. Dyspraxia does not change intelligence, but it does change how the child learns. Children with dyspraxia are seen to be clumsy, accident prone and extremely messy. They will take time and repetition to master a new skill. Dyspraxia can hinder thought processes and these children will often experience difficulty with planning and personal organisation. Time management concerns arise, as well as difficulties in memory, perception and processing. Some other issues that arise are poor co-ordination, immature speech, poor attention and social and emotional difficulties. Self-belief and confidence are affected, and the child often experiences anxiety and stress. In order to help a child with dyspraxia, it is imperative that the teacher, school and parents work together in order to best facilitate the child to reach his or her full potential. Regular meetings must be held between teacher and parents in order to ensure that the child is receiving all the support needed and achieving the goals that he / she is capable of. As a teacher and in order to obtain optimal performance, it is imperative that the child’s confidence is developed. Always motivate the child and focus on what they can do. Goals must be within the child’s reach. The following steps can be taken in order to further benefit the child: Verbal instructions are to be given slowly and are to be kept short and simple. Ideally, only one instruction should be given at a time. Minimalise distractions for the child. The child should be placed close to the front of the class. When setting work, this child requires work of a shorter length, that he / she will be able to complete in the allocated time, thus feeling the success of completing a task. This can be done by creating worksheets for the child which require minimal handwriting (e.g. fill in the missing word) Work that needs to be written can be printed out for the learner beforehand, giving the child time to focus on the actual work, rather than the pressure of copying it down. In order to help with handwriting, it is suggested that the child is given books with larger lines to accommodate for writing, as well as larger quad paper, to facilitate in mathematics. During examinations, this child will require certain concessions, such as additional time, rest periods, a reader and perhaps amanuensis. Homework can be scribed by parents in order to take pressure off of the child. The optimal learning environment for a child with dyspraxia would be a one on one learning environment, but with the correct support and intervention, will thrive in a small, nurturing environment where he / she can reach his / her potential, as well as helping him / her with social skills and development. By Linda Langefeld, Grade 4 Teacher at The Bridge Assisted Learning School

April 12, 2022

Talking about TB

Ten people die in South Africa every hour from Tuberculosis (TB). It is and has always been, a serious public health issue that needs to be brought under control. Even though effective treatments are available and there has been considerable progress in fighting the disease – about 450 000 people develop TB every year. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, talks about the state of our nation in terms of TB, the leading cause of death in our country. Of the 450 000 people who develop TB every year, just over half are living with HIV. Although most cases are drug-sensitive and respond well to standard treatment, failure to complete the full course encourages the development of multi-drug resistant TB (MDR TB), which is difficult to treat and has poor outcomes. Is TB a pandemic like Covid-19? TB is considered an endemic but arguably has the criteria to be given pandemic status. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) a pandemic is when: The disease causes death There is persistent transmission between people It spreads in multiple countries An endemic is when the disease is still circulating but at a lower, more predictable rate. The only plausible reason is that the levels of TB are consistent and predictable, rather than the ‘boom and bust’ waves of Covid-19. That said, just because it’s endemic doesn’t mean to say it’s not serious. Smallpox, for example, was endemic for thousands of years and a third of the people who were infected, died. Malaria is also endemic and causes around 600 000 deaths a year. Dr Thandi Dlamini-Miti, senior technical advisor: TB at health NGO Right to Care says, ‘Undiagnosed TB is driving transmission of the disease. Many people with TB don’t know they have it because they don’t have symptoms but they are infecting those around them with this potentially deadly disease.’ Is there enough research and development for TB drugs? The short answer is no. Countries with resources, funds and technical capacity (developed countries) have not invested in the field of TB because the disease has not affected them. It is a disease that flourishes in developing countries, where living conditions are often poorly ventilated and over-crowded. Over 95% of cases and deaths are in developing countries. Another factor to consider is that, although the poor bear the brunt of the burden of ill-health (up to 13X greater incidence of TB), they also have access to far fewer services compared to the rich. Some good news recently came from Right to Care though. Dlamini-Miti says, ‘Since July 2020, a TB prevention treatment called 3HP has been piloted. It is considered a game changer because treatment is shorter, less toxic, promotes better adherence, has a higher barrier to resistance and is safe with first-line antiretroviral therapy.’ Latent TB, HIV/AIDS and immunity TB can be ‘latent’, in other words you have TB in your body but it is not active. You aren’t ill and you can’t spread it. However, if your immune system becomes weak for some reason, the TB becomes active and will make you ill. Having HIV/AIDS is a key factor in the TB epidemic which is why it’s imperative that the almost six million people living with HIV are screened and treated. Latent TB treatment is fairly low cost and can be taken together with anti-retroviral drugs. Despite this, the number of people on medication is only a fraction of those who are eligible. Diagnosing TB Diagnosis is quite complex (particularly for those living with HIV) since many symptoms are similar to those for other common diseases. South Africa has moved towards more intensive and active methods of identifying cases, for example by screening all those attending primary health clinics. The aim is to move from identifying fewer than 70% to 90% of all cases. Currently the process of testing most of the population is a protracted one. The TST (skin test) and blood tests do not differentiate between latent and active TB which means a sputum sample needs to be taken or a chest X-ray. This is both costly and time consuming. A quicker, cheaper method of testing would certainly assist to diagnose TB. Treating TB Current treatment for TB still includes many of the original antibiotics that were developed in the 1950s and 1960s. While newer antibiotics have been introduced, they are still used in combination with the originals whose side effects cannot be ignored. Similarly, BCG is still the only known TB vaccine administered to children in developing countries. Is there a vaccine that can protect adults? Unfortunately not, there is only the BCG for babies, which has become the most widely used vaccine and provides protection to children against miliary and meningeal TB. It provides limited protection against pulmonary TB, which is the most common form of TB. Has TB been affected by the Covid-19 lockdown? Yes, it has reversed years of global progress in tackling TB and, for the first time in over a decade, TB deaths have increased, according to the WHOs 2021 Global TB Report. How is TB contracted? It is transmitted through the air, not by surface contact. Transmission occurs when a person inhales droplets with TB nuclei and it travels though the mouth or nasal passages via the respiratory tract into the lungs to reach the alveoli of the lungs. Each person with TB can spread the disease to another 15 individuals over a year. Who is most at risk of contracting TB? People living with HIV (especially those newly diagnosed or not virally suppressed), living in the same house as someone who has had or has TB, anyone who has had active TB in the last two years, those with diabetes, residents of informal settlements, children under five, the undernourished, alcoholics, smokers, mineworkers, prisoners and pregnant women. How prevalent is TB amongst medical aid members? Protocols required by the National Department of Health dictate that all TB positive patients must be referred to the state for treatment. This means

April 8, 2022

Four Tips to Support Kids Hygiene in Post-Covid School Life

With the country finally opening up, businesses, entertainment venues and schools will see more people than ever coming into contact with each other since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. While grown-ups should have the presence of mind to adhere to healthy hygiene protocols, children may need a bit of extra help in staying safe from viruses and bacteria at school, especially when using high-traffic areas like toilets. Nobuhle Ngubane, Senior Brand Manager at Domestos South Africa, offers parents the four following tips on protecting their children from germs during this crucial time of transition. 1. Educate Them Knowledge is power, and you might be surprised at how much informationchildren, even those as young as two years old, can retain. Make sure to talk to them, repeating terms like germs, cleanliness, washing hands, water, soap, sanitising and so on. Make it fun – use songs and pictures – to each them about social distancing and how to clean up thoroughly. 2. Ask Teachers Do not be shy about engaging with teachers on the hygiene protocolsinside the school, particularly where toilets are concerned. It’s important to be aware of how frequently cleaning takes place – especially considering that the facilities are used by hundreds of learners throughout the day. Aim to be helpful rather than confrontational – share information and resources and express understanding for the load educators have to bear. 3. Equip Them While your child’s school may already have thorough cleaning protocols you can always help your child further by packing a safe and mild sanitiser spray bottle and a small pack of wipes that they can use to wipe their hands after coming into contact with surfaces that may have germs. 4. Keep them Healthy As much as you can keep external surfaces clean, your child’s bestdefence is a healthy diet and even supplements, where necessary. As always, reinforce the need to wash hands before and after eating, using soap or sanitiser, and wiping with clean paper towels. The reality is that millions of learners around the country attend schools without adequate ablution facilities. This not only affects their health but their ability to learn due to the proven negative psychological impact of poor sanitation. Over the past 10 years, Domestos has led the charge on addressing unsafe sanitation and poor hygiene in schools, impacting over 5 million children through school refurbishments, school toilet maintenance programs, as well as participating in an educational program that educates learners on good hygiene and sanitation habits in over 15 000 public schools around the country. You can also get involved in this fight against the sanitation crisis.Purchase a 750ml Domestos bleach bottle, and R1 will be donated towards helping over 1 million learners gain access to clean and safe toilets.

April 4, 2022

Ten tips for flu and Covid-19 vaccines

The seasons are changing and with winter on its way, which heralds the start of the ‘flu season’. We chat to Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund on why a flu vaccine is recommended, not just by the Scheme but also the World Health Organization (WHO). 1.Why should I get a flu vaccine? Although the flu vaccine will not eliminate your risk of developing flu, it helps reduce your chances of severe infection. Annually, seasonal influenza (flu) kills around 11 500 people in South Africa which is why it is a good precautionary measure to take. 2.How are Covid-19 and flu viruses similar? WHO says that Covid-19 and influenza viruses are similar in disease presentation. ‘Firstly, they both cause respiratory disease, which presents a wide range of illness from asymptomatic or mild through to severe disease and death. ‘Secondly, both viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets and any material that can carry infection. As a result, the same public health measures such as hand hygiene and social distancing is recommended.’ 3.What are the essential differences between Covid-19 and flu? Flu is an acute viral respiratory infection, transmitted by the influenza virus. There are three types of influenza, namely Influenza A, B and C. Covid-19 and influenza are essentially different viruses with SARS-CoV-2 being a newly discovered coronavirus that causes Covid-19. 4.Why do I need a flu shot every year? The flu virus changes every year, this means last year’s vaccine will not keep you safe this year. The vaccine helps your immune system fight off the virus by producing antibodies – the soldiers in your body that battle the flu virus. 5.What vaccines have been developed for 2022? The flu vaccines available for this year are: The Vaxigrip Tetra, Influvac and Influvac Tetra. 6.Can I get the flu vaccine and a Covid-19 vaccine together? As per the National Covid-19 Vaccination Programme Circular 3 of 2022, the answer is yes. However, it is recommended that if you decide to have both vaccines at the same time, then one should be on the left arm and one on the right. 7.Who should get a flu vaccine? It is recommended that anyone in the High-risk groups including: Healthcare workers Individuals over 65 years of age Individuals with chronic diseases – or comorbidities – for example: Cardiac disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kidney diseases, etc. Pregnant women People living with HIV/AIDS 8.Who should NOT have the flu vaccine? Individuals who are allergic to eggs or egg proteins as the manufacturing process for the vaccine involves the use of chicken eggs Infants under 6 months of age – the vaccines are not licensed for use in such young children Individuals who may have had a severe reaction to a flu vaccine in the past – if you are unsure discuss with your healthcare provider Individuals who may be suffering from flu symptoms already 9.Will the flu shot give me a mild flu? According to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), ‘A flu shot cannot cause flu. Flu vaccines are currently made either with flu vaccine viruses that have been ‘inactivated’ and are not infectious or with no flu vaccine viruses at all. The most common side-effects from the vaccine are soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given. Serious allergic reactions to flu vaccines are very rare.’ 10.Still not convinced? Flu viruses spread very quickly from person to person. Even if the flu vaccine is not 100% effective against the current flu strain, it will reduce your risk of getting flu and, if you do get it, it will be a great deal milder. More importantly, by having the flu vaccine you protect others, who may be vulnerable family members, small babies, the elderly or those who are immune compromised. As with Covid-19, the more people vaccinated the closer we can get to ’herd immunity’.

March 25, 2022

SYMPHYSIS PUBIS DYSFUNCTION (SPD) AND HOW TO DEAL WITH IT

Symphysis pubis dysfunction or SPD is pain in your pelvis, which is caused by the relaxing of ligaments in the pelvic bones too early before birth. Many aspects of pregnancy can cause discomfort, and SPD is one of them. Here are the signs of SPD and what you can do if you think you to alleviate your discomfort if you are suffering from it. What is SPD and what causes it? Not all moms-to-be will experience SPD but it is thought to be fairly common in pregnancy. SPD is a pain in the symphysis pubis (which can range from moderate to serve) caused by the relaxing and stretching of the ligaments around the pelvic bone. Pain can be brought on by opening your legs, walking up stairs or even turning over in bed, and this may be accompanied by a clicking/grinding sensation in the pubic area. The cause of SPD in pregnancy is the hormone relaxin, aptly named as it relaxes your joints and ligaments to make it easier for your baby to come out at birth. SPD happens when these hormones come into play too early. Not only that but you’re shifting centre of as your baby grows, which can cause main in your lower back and pelvis as your body shifts to accommodate your little one. What can I do to relieve SPD Living with SPD can be uncomfortable at best, so you may be wondering what you can do to help alleviate some pain. Being fit before pregnancy can help, as stronger glute and abdominal muscles can help support your pelvis. Physiotherapy can help manage SPD pain, as a physio will be able to work with you as your pregnancy and pain levels change. Speak to your doctor first, as they may have recommendations for you. Your pelvis should return to normal between 4 and 12 weeks after birth

March 23, 2022

The Basic Guide to Meal Prep for Busy Moms

Every busy mom has had this moment at some point in their lives – the fantasy that plays out in their head where the picture perfect world exists and all they have to do on a busy weekday night is to open the freezer, pull out a pre-packed meal, heat and eat. This isn’t the perfect world, though and reality tends to be a LOT different. For the majority of us, the real world looks like unwashed dishes, hangry kids and half the ingredients for tonight’s dinner still sitting on shelves at the nearest supermarket. The stress truly is enough to warrant popping open a bottle before Wine O’Clock (which according to a recent survey is 6:59pm, by the way). But there are options! You could: Hire a full-time live-in chef Order takeout every night. Learn how to Meal Prep. Now before you throw in the proverbial towel and start looking through your options on UberEats, take a minute to read through this guide to make dinner time a whole lot easier for next time. Let’s start with the basics… What is meal prep? Meal prep is the process of preparing food ahead of time so that it’s readily available at mealtime and can be easily assembled to create full meals. Meal prep differs from meal planning in that one requires making a decision about what meals will be served versus the other, that requires the actual preparation of ingredients for the meal. Either way, both processes are required steps in this guide. What are the benefits? For busy moms, it can be a real juggling act to get good, healthy food on the table. By planning your meals out and prepping them beforehand, you can help ease your ‘mental load’ while preparing more nourishing meals, freeing up more time and saving money in the process. How to begin meal prepping Let’s face it – efficient meal prepping can be overwhelming and won’t happen overnight. It’s a process that takes a lot of work but this is what I’ve found works for me: 1.Meal Plan Use an app, a piece of paper or a printable template to outline what meals you want to prepare for the week. Top tip: Don’t feel the need to have a different meal at every interval. Oats three times a week for breakfast is perfectly okay. In fact, it’s encouraged, seeing as oatmeal can be prepared and covered with a dish cover overnight until it is ready for serving the next day. 2.Go through your pantry / cupboards Once you’ve laid out your meals, you may be tempted to hit the grocery store right away. PAUSE. First take a look at what you have in your kitchen. You might find that you already have all the items needed for a full meal. In that case, simply adjust your meal plan accordingly. This also presents a perfect time to clean out your fridge 😉 3.Head to the grocery store I highly recommend making use of a list here! Ensure that you’ve listed down everything needed to create the meals on your meal plan and get to shopping. Top tip: If possible, try to shop during off-peak hours to avoid long lines and hoards of humans. 4.Prep your storage containers If you plan on meal prepping consistently, you’ll want to invest in reliable containers that are durable and easy to clean. I prefer glass to plastic. You’ll also want to invest in some reusable homeware, such as cotton dish covers, in order to keep food protected as it cools and also keep condensation at bay. These dish covers come highly recommended. Top tip: Pull these out shortly after grocery shopping to remind you to begin your meal prep as soon as possible. Chop veggies, prepare grains and prep your food for the week Now it’s time to get into the real work! This can look different each week but the basic premise is to make sure that all the chopping, dicing and boiling is done. Top tip: Don’t be reluctant to use frozen fruits and veggies as these can go a long way. Soak grains overnight and cover with a dish cover to allow for easy cooking the following day. Avoid preparing grains more than four days from the time you plan on serving them as they tend to degrade pretty quickly. If you are preparing potatoes ahead of time, plan to eat them within the first few days of cooking. 5.Bake, cool, store If you are baking and roasting food, make sure that these items have cooled completely before putting them in the fridge. This is where dish covers really come in handy, as they allow food to cool without condensation and eliminate harmful toxins that may be absorbed into your food from plastic wrap. 6.Place your meal plan on the fridge and enjoy your week Having a meal plan and food prepped can truly be life changing. And guess what? You won’t have to answer the question of what’s for dinner? anytime soon, because it’s posted on the fridge! Everyone wins! Being a mom can mean a lot of things but being a magician when it comes to food doesn’t have to be one of them. By putting in the necessary effort and planning ahead, you can save time, money and be a lot less overwhelmed.

March 18, 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.

March 15, 2022

Medical aid contribution increases: The deferred increase debate

Traditionally, medical aid schemes implement fee increases from 1 January every year. However, the last two years have seen new trends emerge because of the Covid-19 pandemic. These include deferral of increases, dipping into reserves to reduce increases and announcing delayed increases above CPI. What does this mean for consumers? Globally people are feeling the financial pinch and South Africa is no different. High inflation has increased the cost of food, fuel and utilities. Salary increases, if any, are below CPI and many South Africans have lost their jobs. More so than ever, everyone is looking for value for money and better benefits, especially when it comes to healthcare. The balancing act Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘the delicate balancing act between maintaining the sustainability of the Scheme, while ensuring our members have access to affordable, quality healthcare is a core focus. Last year, we were the only Scheme to announce a 0% increase on one of our plans – the BonFit option. This was followed by the industry’s first ever reduction in a premium of 7,9% on our BonStart Plan in 2022.’ What using reserves meant for members ‘We opted to utilise around 3.2% – or R600 million – of the Scheme’s reserves to help limit contribution increases to below CPI for around 82% of our members for 2022. Contribution increases would have been closer to pre-pandemic levels of CPI + 4% if we had opted not to use some of our reserves. Deferred increases vs using reserves This move was in line with the Council of Medical Schemes (CMS) Circular 42 of 2021 which suggested the utilisation of reserves to cushion members against increasing costs. However, despite the guidelines, several schemes opted to defer increases from January to later in the year. These deferred increases range from 5.5 to 7.9%. In general, medical schemes need to keep their contribution increases as close to the rate at which the cost of providing healthcare escalates. The challenge is that most healthcare costs in South Africa are not regulated, which means providers are free to charge as they see fit. And the consumer bears the brunt. An example is the cost of Covid-19 PCR tests, which was finally standardised earlier this year. Consumers in for a rough ride Statistics SA cited CPI at 5,9% in December 2021, 0,4% higher than the month before. This trend is expected to continue with National Treasury projecting headline inflation (the change in CPI) at 4.8% in 2022 and 4.4% in 2023. So, consumers are in for tougher times. Is there freedom to change schemes with deferment? Callakoppen explains that the deferment of increases creates an anomaly for companies, medical scheme members and consumers. ‘Traditionally, members are free to change their options once a year during an open period. However, when a deferred increase arises, this open period does not always come with it. This complicates matters for companies which allow their staff to choose between various medical schemes. If an employee chooses to stay with a scheme offering a deferred increase, it is difficult and sometimes impossible, to switch to another plan. This is compounded by the fact that when these deferred increases take place – they are often above CPI and do not always include an increase in benefits – so members effectively pay more for less. Know what you are getting ‘By announcing our contribution increases in January, our members know what they will be paying for their medical aid from the outset of the year. This means they can plan and, if necessary, adjust their options accordingly to suit both their healthcare needs and their budgets. With the scenario of deferred increases, our advice is for companies to consider a mid-year open period to allow employees to change schemes or options to benefit already cash-strapped employees,” he added. The downside of deferred increases The past year has shown that the actual contribution increases experienced by members, after the deferment period, is typically higher than the industry average. An example is a Scheme that offered a contribution deferment for the first 6 months of 2021 but then applied a 5.9% contribution increase, when the industry average was 4.6%. Contribution increase percentages cannot be looked at in isolation without looking at the Rand value of the contribution. “Based on our analysis, we feel that a deferment strategy is not ideal. It merely utilises scheme reserves to provide a short-term contribution relief to members who subsequently experience an above market related contribution increase. This results in members being worse off compared to the scheme that applied a lower, market related contribution increase from the beginning of the year. Schemes implementing a contribution deferment are already applying above market average contribution increases. Callakoppen says that no matter whether a scheme has chosen to increase contributions or defer them, South Africans need to make sure they get the healthcare cover they need. “No two people or families are alike, medical needs differ, as do finances which is why you need to get cover that suits your health needs and budget. It’s important to interrogate what is being offered, to understand what is covered and any added benefits being offered which won’t impact your savings, before finalising your decision.”

March 10, 2022

GESTATIONAL HYPERTENSION, WHAT IS IT AND HOW CAN I AVOID IT?

Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure (the pressure of your blood on the walls of your blood vessels) during the later part of pregnancy, as opposed to chronic hypertension which is high blood pressure outside of pregnancy. Hypertension affects about 6 – 8 % of pregnant women, and unfortunately can negatively affect you and your baby. How will I know if I have gestational hypertension? You are more at risk if you’re carrying twins, are overweight, had high blood pressure, kidney disease or diabetes before becoming pregnant or are older than 40 or younger than 20.Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure in the second half of pregnancy and some moms may not even realise that they have it – which is why regular check ups are important. Unfortunately, high blood pressure during pregnancy can develop into preeclampsia. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to serious complications and even death. The most effective treatment of this is delivery of your baby (if possible). Symptoms of preeclampsia include headaches, nausea and excessive protein in your urine, with the most common first sign being a rise in blood pressure. How can I avoid or treat hypertension? Although there isn’t anything you can do to prevent hypertension(some variables such as age and number of babies you’re carrying is uncontrollable), you can try to keep yourself (and your baby) as healthy as possible during your pregnancy to help you control your blood pressure. Knowing your blood pressure level before getting pregnant, reducing your salt intake and regular exercise are all things you can do to help stay healthy and aware of your body’s condition. Going for regular checkups during your pregnancy will also help let you catch any problems early.

March 8, 2022

HELPING FUSSY LIL’ EATERS BUILD STRONG BONES

Kids need more calcium as they get older to support their growing bones* and milk is one of the best and most widely available sources of calcium**. However, if your child is a picky eater who doesn’t love a glass of milk, it can be tough to ensure they are getting all the calcium they need. Whilst there are many foods that are great sources of calcium – sardines and dark leafy greens like spinach and kale – neither sound particularly tempting, especially if you are already struggling to cater for your child’s picky palette. Paul Mindry, SPAR Brand Group House Brand Manager, comes to the rescue with 3 easy, fast recipes that your children will love: Milkshake Melody Milkshakes appeal to all ages. Try a different flavour each time, for a calcium-infused dessert the whole family can enjoy on a warm summer’s day. Prep Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4 Recipe Ingredients: 500ml SPAR Classic Vanilla flavoured ice cream Recipe Method: Combine both ingredients in a food blender or processor, or use a suitable jug and a stick hand-held blender if this suits you better. Whizz until foamy, creamy and thick. Beat in the flavouring ingredients of choice thoroughly. Pour into tumblers and serve immediately. Delicious flavour-combos: 1 well mashed banana 125 ml SPAR vanilla custard and 50 ml Squillos strawberry flavoured milk powder If you want more of a Fruit Whip type drink, introduce fresh chopped fruits that puree easily (berries, paw-paw, mango) Homemade Custard Good, wholesome creaminess that can be whipped up with the kids’ help. Prep Time: 10 mins | Cooking Time: 15 mins | Servings: 8 Recipe Ingredients: 200ml double cream 700ml SPAR UHT full cream milk 4 large egg yolks 3 tbsp cornflour 100g caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract Recipe Method: Put the cream and milk into a large pan and gently bring to just below boiling point. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk the yolks, cornflour, sugar and vanilla. Gradually pour the hot milk mixture onto the sugar mixture, whisking constantly. Wipe out the saucepan and pour the mixture back into it. Heat gently, stirring with a wooden spoon until the custard is thickened, but before any lumps form. Eat hot or cold. Hints & Tips For a healthier alternative, you can substitute the caster sugar for honey. Pro-Nutro Puffs Besides the health and nutrient benefits of milk, these also offer wholewheat goodness and the supplemented vitamins of breakfast cereal. Prep Time: 10 mins | Cooking Time: 25 mins | Servings: 8 Recipe Ingredients: 480 g SPAR cake flour (4 Cups) 20 ml baking powder 500 ml ProNutro whole-wheat cereal 5 ml salt 100 ml SPAR canola oil 4 large eggs, lightly beaten 500 ml SPAR UHT full cream milk 250 ml water Recipe Method Preheat oven to 180ºC and grease 2 SPAR Good Living giant muffin pans. Measure all the ingredients into a 3 litre SPAR Good Living porcelain mixing bowl. Blend together using a wooden spoon. Do not over-mix. Spoon mixture into prepared pans and bake for 25 minutes. Hints & Tips Sprinkle with poppy or sesame seeds before baking if you like The apple-bake ProNutro may be substituted for the whole-wheat, but keep in mind it will give a slightly sweeter result For more recipes go to https://www.spar.co.za/Recipes Spar UHT milk comes in Full-cream, Low-fat and Fat-free and is available from Spar Retailers, nationwide.

March 7, 2022

Obesity considered a global epidemic by WHO

Obesity is one of the biggest health challenges facing the world today, affecting around 800 million people, with millions more at risk. The prevalence of obesity has tripled over the past four decades, imposing an enormous burden on people’s health as well as the healthcare system. According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, more than a quarter of South Africans live with obesity, making the country among the top 20% of the most obese nations in the world! Studies by the SA Medical Research Council indicate that nearly half of all South Africans are overweight. Even more shocking, is the fact that 22% of children between 1 and 9 are overweight or obese. The pandemic, lockdown and increased sedentary lifestyle has made the situation worse Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa,Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund says, for overweight or obese people it’s not just an issue of vanity or fitting into a pair of jeans. ‘Risks associated with obesity include: Significantly contributing to the development of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer (particularly colon, prostate and breast), sleep apnoea, degenerative joint disease, digestive tract diseases (gallstones), mental health and dermatological disorders. What determines if you are obese or not? Your Body Mass Indicator (BMI) calculator checks if you’re at a healthy weight. Here’s how to calculate yours: Divide your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in metres (m²) If your BMI is over 25 you are considered overweight, at 30+ you’re classified as obese. There are detractors of BMI on its own The BMI screening may not be the best option for bulky, body-builder or stocky men for example. This is because it does not distinguish between lean muscle mass and body fat. Best practice is to measure body fat percentage along with the BMI calculation. This provides a better indication of one’s body composition. ‘Obesity is a chronic and progressive disease,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa,‘Urbanisation and the lifestyle associated with it, is one of the main contributing factors.’ There are two reasons for this: Lack of exercise: Cities are often over-populated, there are too few public spaces for physical activity and many residents use transport to commute Poor nutrition. Changes in diet include more processed and refined food, an increase in high-fat and high-sugar diets, less fruit and vegetables, less complex carbohydrates and fibre Although obesity is often associated with poor lifestyle choices, lack of motivation or unhealthy habits – it isn’t always the case. In America, where 40% of adults are obese, obesity has been recognised as a disease by the American Medical Association for nearly a decade. Despite this, they are still seeing most treatment approaches for obesity focus solely on behavioural therapy. The stigma and assumptions like this continue to create barriers that have limited better obesity care. The origin of obesity is complex and poorly understood, but includes nutritional, physiological, psychological and genetic factors. Environmental factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and excess calorie consumption can cause obesity Genetic studies with adopted children have demonstrated that they have similar BMIs to their biologic parents but not their adoptive parents. Twin studies also demonstrate a genetic influence on BMI Secondary causes of obesity can result from medications (eg. antipsychotics, steroids and anti-viral drugs) and endocrine disorders like Cushing’s syndrome and hypothyroidism According to the International Journal of Obesity, adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) incur 42% higher medical costs per capita and are nearly two times more likely to die before age 70 than adults with a healthy weight. They also say that health care providers play a vital role in the prevention, treatment and control of obesity. They recommend that multicomponent behavioural interventions, pharmacotherapy and bariatric (stomach shrinking) surgery are all effective strategies that support clinically significant weight loss. Obesity as with other co-morbidities, was also a poor prognostic factor for Covid-19 hospitalisations The general consensus regarding self-monitoring though is through: Calorie restriction: Reducing your intake by 500-1000 kcal per day will reduce total body weight by an average of 8% over a year Exercise: 30 minutes a day will yield health benefits, but 60 – 80 minutes will assist in weight loss and additional benefits Behaviour modification: Goal setting, self-monitoring and modification of one’s environment to enhance behaviours that will support weight management ‘The reality’, says Dr Mkhatshwa, ‘is that obesity and concomitant lifestyle diseases have become a pandemic in South Africa. Diabetes 2 is amongst these and has significant health implications. Managing this disease is imperative. We offer a diabetes management programme to help people understand this long-term condition and empower them to make the right decisions to stay healthy. This includes access to specialised diabetes doctors, dieticians, podiatrists and diabetic educators to effectively manage of diabetes. However, if you are not on a medical aid, there are several diabetic support groups.’ ‘Everybody needs to act’. It’s time to increase awareness of the root causes of obesity and encourage advocacy for change.

March 4, 2022

Vitamins to support kids in school

Boost your child’s immunity for the new school year with NutriPure Kids range of gummy vitamins The new school year usually brings about a mix of emotions for parents and children. Excitement, anxiety, apprehension, and relief are just some of the feelings that come into play this time of the year. And while it’s normal for a new school year to be met with a little bit of anxiety, the experiences of the past two years have resulted in heightened anxiety among a lot of families. The pandemic has put the schooling system, teachers, and families under immense pressure, with fewer school days each year, virtual learning, and more work to cover in a shorter amount of time. Children haven’t been able to spend time with their friends, their sports and recreation clubs were cancelled and they have had to spend more time cooped up at home than ever before. That’s a lot for any adult to deal with, so imagine how big of an effect it has on a child! With the new school year in full swing, it’s important to ensure that children are getting all the nutrients they need to function optimally while navigating the demands of the school year. Good nutrition, exercise, and naturally sourced supplements can help support focus, brain function, attention span, energy levels, and mental wellbeing. There’s an important factor to consider now that the kids are back in the classroom, and that is their immunity. Due to their young immune systems and their proximity to one another, children are prone to picking up colds and flu. With the added threat of Covid-19, it’s important to ensure that their immune systems are geared up to fight off whatever viruses they may be exposed to. Some of the most important nutrients they will need, include: Vitamin C Vitamin C is a nutritional multi-tasker, responsible for everything from the development of healthy bones and teeth, wound healing, collagen production, and supporting the nervous system. It’s also one of the most important nutrients for one’s overall health. It is a powerful antioxidant that can boost a child’s immunity and help the body fight off viruses. Vitamin D Vitamin D is an important nutrient for bone and muscle health, as it helps the body absorb calcium and phosphate, which are both essential for strong bones. Recent studies have also shown that this vitamin plays a major role in building and maintaining a child’s immune system and protecting them against colds and flu. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining the health of blood cells and nerves and also promotes healthy growth. It also supports the normal functioning of the immune system. Probiotics Probiotics promote healthy gut bacteria, which aids absorption of nutrients and support the body’s digestive functions. They also help fight off “bad bacteria” in the stomach, which can lead to diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal problems. Supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet, and should only be used to top up any nutrient shortfalls in people’s diets. Help boost your child’s immunity with a good quality supplement that is free from preservatives and artificial additives. NutriPure’s range of gummies makes it easy and fun for kids to get their vitamins and minerals: NutriPure Kids Vitamin C (R110.00) Each of these yummy gummies gives your child 80 mg of vitamin C, which is equivalent to the recommended daily amount. NutriPure Kids Multi-Vitamin Complete (R110.00) These multivitamin gummies offer a complete health supplement that contributes to the normal function of children’s immune systems and the normal function of many other systems in the body contributing to general wellbeing. NutriPure Kids Immune Support+ (R110.00) NutriPure Kids Immune Support+ gummies contain a unique blend of essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6, and B12 help to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and are essential in the maintenance of good health. NutriPure Kids Vitamin D (R109.00) NutriPure Kids Vitamin D gummies contribute to normal bones, teeth, and the immune system. This supplement supports the normal function of the immune system, the maintenance of bones and teeth, normal muscle function, and the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. NutriPure Kids Probiotic (R153.95) NutriPure Probiotics are formulated with Bifidobacterium infantis & Lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains that promote healthy gut bacteria. While nutrition is important all year round, the start of a new school year calls for some extra attention to our children’s health. Trust NutriPure to provide your children with all the immune-boosting nutrients they require. What sets NutriPure Kids products apart from other supplements? NutriPure gummies are made using 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 GMA ingredients No Preservatives NutriPure products are available at Clicks, Dis-Chem, Takealot.com, Faithful to Nature, Spar and Pick n Pay. Website: www.nutripure.co.za

March 3, 2022

Help your kids avoid eye strain

Are carrots a lunchtime snack you’ve thought about packing into your child’s lunchbox in-between all the back-to-school craziness? If not, it’s a healthy snack to consider! You’ve probably heard that carrots promote healthy eyes and good vision, and it’s true. Carrots are high in the antioxidant’s beta-carotene—and that’s a start, but it takes a whole lot more to protect your growing child’s irreplaceable vision. Now more than ever, eye strain is becoming increasingly common among children, particularly as many young people spend more time in front of screens for everything from learning to entertainment purposes. While children experiencing ‘digital eye strain’ is becoming more prevalent, it’s important to remember that there are other causes of eye strain. Pre-existing vision problems such as myopia or astigmatism could be the reason why a child struggles visually, as can lighting conditions (too bright or too dim), stress, fatigue, dry air, and even extended periods of reading. It is important for parents to help children set boundaries so they can balance time spent on their screens, reading, learning, and play time. Eye strain can be an uncomfortable and sometimes even debilitating experience for children, affecting their mental and physical wellbeing, as well as their ability to learn and focus in the classroom. However, children don’t have to suffer from eye strain, and there are ways that you as a parent or guardian can help. Start by looking out for these symptoms: your child complains of their eyes feeling tired, dry and sore burning or itchy, watery eyes blurred or double vision sensitivity to light headaches difficulty concentrating or keeping their eyes open a sore neck, shoulders and/or back You can also try the following exercises to help relieve some of their symptoms: Encourage them to blink It may sound strange, but we tend to blink less while we’re staring at a screen or focusing intently on a task. Observe your child’s behaviour while they engage in screen time or any other task and remind them to blink more to encourage moisture in the eyes. Do this with them every day: close the eyes tightly for three seconds. Then, open the eyes wide and blink normally a few times. Repeat this process for one minute. Shift their focus Hold your finger about 15cm away from your child’s face and get them to focus on it. Slowly move your finger away, but your child must still focus on it. Now, ask them to look away from your finger at an object that is a few metres behind you for a few seconds and then back at your finger. Slowly bring your finger towards their face again. Repeat this exercise at least three times. Figure eight This simple exercise should help to keep eye muscles flexible. Get your child to sit down in a chair or on the couch. While seated, ask them to pick a point on the floor or on a blank wall about 3m away. Tell them to ‘draw’ an imaginary sideways figure ‘8’ with their eyes without moving their head. Do this for 30 seconds and then repeat for another 30 seconds in the opposite direction. Step away Take screen breaks or limit the amount of time your child spends engaged in an all-encompassing task, opting for playtime outdoors or any other activity that allows them to rest their eyes. It’s also very important for children to get enough sleep every night to give their eyes a good, long rest. Regular eye care can now ensure your child has healthy vision for life. It’s important to schedule routine eye examinations for your children to ensure that their eyes are healthy and developing as they should. Check with your medical aid to confirm optometry benefits offered. Bestmed Medical Scheme was voted #1 by its members for customer satisfaction in the SA-csi survey 2021. With value for money and preventative care on all of its medical aid plans, it is a Personally Yours choice designed to suit various needs and budgets.

March 2, 2022

NHI – more questions than answers

In July 2019, the Minister of Health published a draft ‘National Health Insurance Bill’, which attracted a great deal of attention and the scrutiny hasn’t stopped. Despite several engagements, the Department of Health (DoH) has failed to provide clarity or explanations on several key issues within the ‘Bill’, which are of major concern to all stakeholders. ‘That fact that universal healthcare is desperately needed in South Africa is not being debated. Having only around 16% of the population on private medical aid, with the rest relying on public health, is unsustainable,’ says Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund. ‘What is worrying is the lack of detail around the implementation of this national health blueprint. Before discussing concerns about the implementation of NHI, we should discuss the ramifications of curtailing the role of medical aids. Medical aids and associated services make an enormous contribution to the annual fiscus. The industry also contributes significantly to employment and, in turn, to the economy of the country. Healthcare administration is a massive undertaking that requires, skills, experience and expertise. State of the art technology is needed to comply with international best practices. South Africa’s medical administrators are world class, it is simply not feasible to consider having one administrator in charge of the healthcare of millions of South Africans. Private healthcare is also a source of excellence in terms of innovation and development, which benefits the public sector. This essential role of private healthcare will be strangled if it is not able to continue in a private setting. A few additional concerning NHI issues include: Funding of the NHI There is a proposed health financing system – designed to pool funds – but nowhere has detail been provided on this funding model. When first presented, the estimated cost of NHI was R256 billion, with it due to be rolled out in 2026. It is not known how this figure was reached. The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) recently stated that NHI is likely to cost around R700 billion a year when fully operational in 2026, as the government now envisages. According to the IRR, ‘The increased tax burden will fall particularly heavily on the 700 000-odd individual taxpayers who currently pay about two thirds of all personal income tax and a hefty chunk of VAT’. What will NHI offer? The Bill defines ‘comprehensive health care services’ as: Healthcare services that are managed to ensure a continuum of health promotion, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management, rehabilitation and palliative care services across the different levels and sites of care within the health system in accordance with the needs of users. However, no further indication of the details of these services / benefits is provided except to indicate that medical schemes will offer what is referred to as ‘complementary cover’. This is defined as third party payment for personal healthcare service benefits, not reimbursed by the Fund, including any top up cover offered by medical schemes or any other private health insurance fund. Single purchaser, single payer? The Bill states that the NHI will serve as the single purchaser and single payer of healthcare services, ie., that there can be no other legal entity that can purchase and pay for healthcare services. This doesn’t distinguish between complementary and duplicative services. Which means it would be illegal for medical schemes (or health insurance firms) to exist, even in a complementary form which contradicts other sections of the Bill. Constitutional rights Bonitas does not agree or support the proposed amendments to the Medical Schemes Act (MSA) as set out in the Bill, we believe allowing medical schemes to provide only complementary cover is unconstitutional. Bonitas does, however, support the healthcare reforms as recommended by the Health Market Inquiry. The Constitution requires the State to protect, respect, promote and fulfil the rights in the Bill of Rights. The State must protect the rights to access that people already have. The right of access to healthcare is much wider than the right to obtain healthcare through the public sector. It includes the right to purchase healthcare from the private sector, if one can afford it. The purchasing power of the consumer is a legitimate means of access to healthcare. Consumers must have the right to apply their purchasing power as they deem fit. The Bill, in its current form, makes it unlawful for people to purchase healthcare services not covered by NHI. The proposed Bill is fraught with illegalities and is in direct conflict with the Medical Schemes Act 31 of 1998 (MSA) and prevailing regulations. The administration of the proposed central system of healthcare will need strict governance as existing medical aids are strictly regulated. Sound corporate governance is of critical importance in preventing mismanagement of assets, corruption, inefficiency, illegality, unethical conduct, abuse of the Fund’s resources and the collapse of the Fund. The way forward The notion of NHI is commendable, but it’s a case of the ‘devil is in the detail’. Detail which is yet to be unpacked and specified. The only way for the healthcare system to evolve is through inter-dependent relationships. Medical schemes should be allowed to assist the NHI administratively and take over some of the risk and burden which would lie with the NHI in respect of members of medical schemes. This would ensure that the funds deployed in the procurement of healthcare services are not unnecessarily exploited through duplication of services and functions. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer, Bonitas Medical Fund

February 25, 2022

Postpartum recovery – How long does it take and what can you expect?

As a new mom, or a potential new mom, you are probably wondering how long your body will take to recover post birth and pregnancy. The postpartum period is generally regarded as the first six weeks after childbirth. This is an important time for both you and your baby, as you there are lots of emotional and physical adjustments that happen in this period. Recovering from having a baby can be a long process, especially considering that you now have a new baby to look after as well. What can I expect postpartum? Postpartum recovery will differ between moms and pregnancies. If you have opted for a vaginal birth, your vagina will hurt postpartum, and recovery can take 3 to 6 weeks depending on if you had an episiotomy or your perineum tore. C-section incisions can be painful and you can expect a recovery period of 4 to 6 weeks. Initially you may find moving difficult, but it’s important to move a little bit to avoid blood clots. Some new moms can experience difficulty urinating, perineal discomfort or soreness, vaginal bleeding, contractions, constipation and breast tenderness post birth. During the postpartum period you may also feel irritable, anxious or have sudden mood swings, this is also known as the ‘baby blues’ and is caused by hormonal changes in the first few weeks. However, if this period is extended you could be suffering from postpartum depression, and should speak to your doctor about this. How can I help my postpartum recovery? Be aware of pushing yourself to return to ‘normal’ as soon as possible, even if you have had an easy pregnancy and birth, your body has still been through an ordeal and you will need time to recover. Avoid over exercising (even if it’s tempting to get straight back into it!) and trying to socialise too much with friends and family eager to meet the new baby. Don’t be afraid to ask people for space and to limit your baby’s visitors.

February 10, 2022

Covid – how and when might it all end?

Covid-19 has disrupted the world in so many ways, including the uncertainty of what the future holds. The Bonitas Medical Fund clinical and actuarial teams unpack some of the pandemic versus endemic terminology and offer scenarios for the future. Since the start of Covid-19, the word ‘pandemic’ has been on everyone’s the lips. What is a pandemic and what is the difference between an outbreak, an epidemic and a pandemic? According to Harvard Medical School, ‘An outbreak is a sudden increase of an infectious disease in a particular place, an epidemic is a larger outbreak in a restricted country or community, while a pandemic means a global epidemic.’ Do the governments of various countries decide there is a pandemic? It is the World Health Organization (WHO) which declares a global pandemic as was the case on March 11, 2020, when the virus was present in over 110 countries. WHO will also decide the degree of severity and communicate this to the world? The declaration gives governments time to prepare for the pandemic, legislate laws and restrictions – such as travel and trade – and begin emergency procedures to protect their citizens. What are the criteria for a pandemic? There is no universally agreed definition of when a disease outbreak should be called a pandemic but there are three reasons WHO can declare a pandemic, when: The disease causes death There is persistent transmission between people It spreads in multiple countries The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) explains it as a ‘term most often applied to new influenza strains’ and says it’s used when viruses can infect people easily and spread from person to person in an efficient and sustained way in multiple regions. The declaration refers to the spread of a disease, rather than the severity of the illness it causes. What are examples of other pandemics? Past pandemics, which had a profound effect on the world, were the Plague or Black Death in the 14th Century, the outbreak of flu in 1918 each killing around 50 million people. Both the AIDS pandemic and Covid-19 are more recent. Who keeps a finger on the pulse of the pandemic? During pandemics, epidemiologists work as profilers. They are experts in the branch of medicine which deals with the incidence, distribution and possible control of diseases. Epidemiologists are scientists who: Trace, monitor and predict the movement and behaviour of a pathogen to create a detailed portrait. Key epidemiological questions include: What is the spectrum of disease severity? How transmissible is the virus and who is most likely to spread it? What are the risk factors for severe illness and death? How does the behaviour of the infection vary by location and does it change over time? Answers to these questions can determine what public health measures should be implemented and what resources should be allocated. These choices have a profound effect on the outcomes. Who decides that a pandemic is over? The pandemic may be widely considered over when WHO decides the virus is no longer an emergency of international concern. It is generally when the infection is mostly contained and rates of transmission drop significantly throughout the world. The expert committee reassess every three months and the world are waiting for a decision from WHO regarding the end of the pandemic as we know it. However, they are still anticipating a 5th wave. Despite this the organisation is calling for travel bans to be lifted as they have proved to be ineffective in stopping the spread of the Omicron variant. Downgrading from pandemic to endemic There is a consensus that Covid-19 will eventually settle into becoming a more predictable virus, like the flu. This means there will be seasonal outbreaks but not the huge numbers the world is experiencing now. It will transition from a pandemic phase to endemic phase and the world will adapt to living with it. What is the difference between endemic and pandemic? Endemic means the disease is still circulating but at a lower, more predictable rate — and with fewer people being admitted to hospital. Epidemiologists would consider a disease endemic when levels are consistent and predictable – unlike the ‘boom and bust’ waves we have seen so far in the pandemic. That said, just because it’s endemic it doesn’t mean to say it’s not serious. Smallpox, for example, was endemic for thousands of years and a third of the people who were infected, died. Malaria is also endemic and causes around 600 000 deaths a year. What are the hypotheses for the way in which the pandemic will end? It is difficult to predict when the pandemic will end but three scenarios emerge as the most probable. It is important to note that these will be determined by WHO and governments around the world. 1.Getting through it as quickly as possible This means the government allows people and communities to be exposed as quickly as possible so that most people have been infected or developed immunity. At some point herd immunity will be reached – when the virus cannot find new hosts -and the pandemic slowly peters out. The problem with this is that hospitals reach peak capacity very quickly and millions may die. 2.Slow it down or delay it and vaccinate As happened with most countries’, governments used various methods to slow down the spread. This reduces the number of lives lost but the virus still spreads slowly and many of these measures have a devastating effect on the economy. 3.Co-ordinate globally to crush it This is achieved by introducing travel bans, quarantining, social distancing and restricting travel. In this scenario the world should co-ordinate efforts to reduce transmission. In the best-case scenario this could end the pandemic swiftly with low loss of life. The virus will not be eliminated through this means alone but reduced transmission and spread. Each has its pros and cons but it’s generally accepted that vaccination, assisted by as much global coordination as possible, is the best possible scenario. What is

February 7, 2022

Fruity back to school lunch box ideas for a healthy start to 2022

Make the morning rush a little easier with healthy lunch box recipes that all kids will love. Plums, peaches and nectarines, known collectively as stone fruit, pack a nutritious punch offering generous helpings of vitamins and other essential nutrients to keep budding learners sharp throughout the day. Make sure your children get their share of nature’s juicy summer bounty by including stone fruit as a snack in their lunch boxes or turn them into delicious, nourishing meals and treats. We all know how fussy children can be when it comes to balancing their daily food intake, so here are some nifty ideas to get nutritious stone fruit into their lunch boxes. Celebrity chef, Jenny Morris, has created two moreish lunch box salads that tick all the right boxes. Her peach and bulgar wheat salad is a super easy and satisfying meal that can be prepared the night before. It is an absolutely yummy and filling alternative to regular school sandwiches, guaranteed to keep hunger pangs at bay. Jenny’s nectarine and smoked chicken salad is another substantial lunch box meal your children will tuck into with glee. Bursting with colour and flavour, it is quick and easy to whip up. For something sweet when energy stores start running low, Jenny’s plum jelly treats are the perfect lunchbox filler. These homemade treats are great for on the go snacking. Karen Hart’s peachy whole wheat muffins are a super nutritious lunch box filler. They are easy to make ahead of time and are sure to stay fresh and go the distance. Plums, peaches and nectarines are naturally sweet super fruit with a low glycaemic index (GI). They are high in fibre and abound in health-giving potassium and vitamins A, C and E, all-powerful antioxidants that protect against disease and help to build healthy minds and bodies. To keep children’s lunches fresh all day, Addis, the original and trusted food storage container brand, has the perfect solution. Addis Clip ‘n Seal lunch boxes come in various sizes and great colours with a high quality, clip closing design that guarantees an airtight and leakproof seal. They are made in South Africa and are BPA free. Visit www.addis.co.za for more information. Feel inspired by following @juicydelicioussa on Instagram or visit www.juicydelicious.co.za for more tempting stone fruit recipes. Peach and Bulgar Wheat Salad By Jenny Morris Serves 4-6 Ingredients: 2 cups cooked bulgar wheat ½ red onion finely diced 2 spring onions with tops finely chopped ½ cup chopped mint 2 large cling peaches washed, stoned and finely diced ½ medium cucumber finely diced ½ cup finely diced red pepper 2 red chillies chopped (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Method: Toss all the ingredients together and add the dressing 30 minutes before serving. Dressing: ½ cup orange juice ¼ cup lemon juice 1 Tbsp honey ¾ tsp salt Pepper to taste 2 cloves finely grated garlic 1 tsp mustard of your choice ½ cup olive or vegetable oil Method: Stir together all the ingredients except the oil, taste and adjust the seasoning, then whisk in the oil. Nectarine and Smoked Chicken Lunch Box By Jenny Morris Serves 4 Ingredients: 1 cup cooked bulgar wheat Zest of 1 yellow lemon 2 Tbsp chopped mint 1 cup cucumber, chopped or thinly sliced 2 large firm nectarines stone removed and chopped 300g chopped smoked chicken breast 30g toasted almonds chopped Salt and pepper to taste Dressing: ¾ cup mayonnaise 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp lemon juice Stir together and season to taste. Method: Place all the ingredients together in a bowl, season with salt and pepper and lightly toss together, add the dressing and stir together gently. Divide into 4 portions and pack into lunch boxes. Plum Jelly Treats By Jenny Morris Makes: 24 – 30 (depending on the size of the mould) Ingredients: 15 plums, halved and stoned ½ cup water ½ cup caster sugar 6 Tbsp gelatin powder Silicone mould of your choice Non-stick cooking spray Method: Place the plums in a small saucepan with the water and simmer until soft. Place in a blender and process until smooth. Strain the liquid through a sieve and return to the pot (alternatively, if you have a juicer, simply juice the fruit and place in the saucepan). Add the caster sugar and dissolve over low heat. Sponge the gelatin in a little water, according to the package instructions. Once, sponged, place the gelatin in the warm plum liquid and stir to dissolve. Lightly spray your mould with the non-stick spray and place on a baking tray. Carefully pour the liquid into the mould – using a jug – and place in the fridge for an hour and a half, or until set. Pop out and enjoy! Whole Wheat Peach Muffins By Karen Hart Makes 12 muffins Ingredients: 1 cup whole wheat flour ¼ cup cake flour 1 ½ cup oats ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 1 ¼ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp nutmeg ½ tsp cinnamon 11/2 cups peeled and diced fresh peaches or nectarines (2 peaches/nectarines) ⅓ cup buttermilk 1 tsp vanilla extract ⅓ cup honey ⅓ cup sunflower or canola oil 1 egg Extra oats to sprinkle on top (optional) Method: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flours, oats, baking soda, baking powder, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon. Stir in the peaches. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, vanilla, honey, oil and egg. Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until it is just mixed. Spoon the batter into a 12-hole muffin tin, lined with paper liners. Sprinkle a little oats over each muffin (optional). Bake in a preheated oven of 180ºC for 18 – 20 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

February 4, 2022

HAPPY KIDS ARE GOOD KIDS

In the words of Oscar Wilde, “The best way to make children good is to make them happy,” and that’s what the Friends In Your Freezer are intent on achieving through delicious, healthy, fun, and convenient food. Oh, and a chance to win a family holiday worth R50 000 too! Two of the largest brands in the frozen food world are on a mission to create convenient and nutritious mealtime solutions, while bringing fun into the kitchen and onto kids’ plates. Whether their summer holiday was the greatest six weeks of their little lives, or a time spent ranting about having nothing to do, the back-to-school transition is daunting for most children, and more than likely, moms too. Having a stable eating routine with exciting food helps children to look forward to mealtimes, and a nutritious eating routine improves not only their energy levels, but their concentration and mental health too. McCain and Sea Harvest offer the finest quality frozen fish and vegetables, which are incredibly healthy too. Their produce is harvested at its peak, sustainably sourced and snap frozen within hours to maintain freshness and lock in nutrients, meaning that your little ones not only get to enjoy a delicious meal, but one that’s packed with vitamins and minerals too. “Frozen foods are a convenient and affordable way of incorporating protein and vegetables into your children’s diets. The combination of products that McCain and Sea Harvest offer are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of little palates,” says Jared Patel, the Head of Marketing of the Sea Harvest Group. Get the kids involved in the kitchen and create a fun and fresh (or shall we say, frozen) take on sushi: Fish Finger ‘Sushi’ with Smiles Serves: 4 Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Difficulty: easy Ingredients Fish & Smiles 8 Sea Harvest Fish Fingers 1 x 415 g bag McCain Smiles Sushi 8 slices of brown bread, crusts cut off 40 ml mayonnaise 8 slices of pre-sliced cheddar cheese 1 small cucumber, peeled into ribbons 1 large carrot, peeled and finely grated Dipping Sauce ¼ C (60 ml) mayonnaise 2 Tbsp (30 ml) chutney Method Fish & Smiles Preheat the oven to 200 ºC. Lay frozen Fish Fingers and Smiles onto a baking tray. Place into the oven for 15-20 minutes and cook until golden and crunchy. Alternatively, cook in an air fryer for the recommended time. Allow the fish fingers to cool completely. Sushi Roll each slice of bread with a rolling pin to flatten by half. Dollop roughly a teaspoon of mayonnaise on each slice of bread and spread evenly to all corners. Place a slice of cheese right on the edge of the side of the bread closest to you – this will ensure that there is a margin of bread left on the other side that will stick the sushi roll together. Place a cucumber ribbon on the edge of the cheese that is closest to you followed by a cooked Fish Finger. Top the fish finger with grated carrot, then roll the bread roll away from you to form a neat log shape. Press down on the seam to seal the roll. Trim off the ends off, then slice into 4-5 bite-size pieces of sushi. Repeat the rolling process until you have completed and sliced all of the rolls. Dipping Sauce Mix the mayo and the chutney together and set aside. To Serve Serve fish finger sushi rolls with potato smiles and dipping sauce on the side. Having these Friends In Your Freezer ensures that mealtime planning and creativity in the kitchen isn’t higher grade, so to speak. “Our purpose is to make mom’s lives easier, and kid’s lives happier. The first two months of the year are generally chaotic and there’s no doubt that having frozen meals on hand eliminates the added pressure of meal prep on a busy week night,” says Danielle De Villiers, Senior Brand Manager at McCain. Purchase any 1 McCain and 1 Sea Harvest product from participating stores and stand a chance to WIN 1 of 4 family holidays valued at R50K each with McCain and Sea Harvest. Competition ends 28 February 2022, T&C’s apply. For more information, visit www.friendsinyourfreezer.co.za, McCain Facebook, McCain Instagram, Sea Harvest Facebook or Sea Harvest Instagram. You can also download this fun activity book filled with puzzles, games and jokes, to keep the kids busy!

February 4, 2022

All about Boosters

As the COVID-19 pandemic waxes and wanes around the globe, it is universally accepted that as many people in the world as possible need to be vaccinated to develop immunity. Depending on which vaccine you received, you will either have had one or two initial vaccines doses and then, between 2 and 6 months afterwards are eligible for a booster. Kathy Malherbe speaks to Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, about COVID-19 immunity, vaccines, boosters and the way forward. What do boosters and vaccines do? They develop immunity against infections. In the case of COVID-19, when we are fully vaccinated, we acquire what is called ‘vaccine-induced immunity’. However, it has been shown that the immunity created by vaccines may wane over time so an additional dose of the vaccine (full or half strength) – in the form of a booster- is then given to provide the strongest and long-lasting protection possible. What exactly is immunity? Simplified, it is your body’s ability to protect you from becoming ill when you encounter a germ (virus, parasite, fungus, bacteria). It is not a simple process but essentially your body produces cells that try to stop the invading germs. This includes cells which ‘memorise’ a particular infection or germ and then recognise it when it returns and try to destroy it. Immunity can be natural or vaccine induced Natural immunity is your body’s natural ‘fighting mechanism’ which creates antibodies to fight an infection. If you get a disease mildly (like COVID) you do not develop a powerful natural immunity and your natural immunity, regardless of how strong it is, weakens over time – faster than immunity from a COVID-19 vaccine. For this reason, it is recommended that even if you have natural immunity, you still need a COVID-19 vaccine. Why is a booster necessary when you are fully vaccinated Fully vaccinated people have proved to be well-protected from becoming severely ill or dying from COVID-19. So, you may ask why a booster then? Even though vaccines protect you, their efficacy does lessen over time, regardless of which variant of COVID, especially with people 65 years and older. This is not only in the case if a COVID vaccine. If a vaccine does not contain a live, (weakened) virus, a booster is required in most cases. The COVID vaccine does not contain any form of live viruses and, like other inactivated vaccines, will need several doses over time to remain effective. The booster is designed to help people maintain their level of immunity for longer. It is important to know that immune responses can differ in people who get COVID-19 and recover from the illness There are many vaccines which require a booster so you’re more than likely going to receive at least one in a lifetime. When should you have a booster shot? For those who received the double-dose Pfizer vaccine, you’re eligible for a booster shot at least 6 months after the final dose of the vaccine was administered If you received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you should get a booster if you’re 18 or older and got vaccinated two or more months ago Can you have different booster shots from the original vaccine? The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHRPA) has not licensed mix and match vaccines. However, there is good evidence that mix and match vaccines are just as effective (and sometimes better) at increasing antibody levels. SAHRPA has requested submission of evidence to support this approach, so watch their website for updates. Do booster shots use the same ingredients as existing vaccines? Yes. COVID-19 booster shots are the same ingredients (formulation) as the current COVID-19 vaccines. Some boosters have the same ingredients but it is not a full dose. J&J and Pfizer boosters are the full dose. Are there side effects from the booster shot? There is a chance you may feel like you have mild flu after your booster shot. This could include a sore and even slightly swollen arm, a temperature, a headache and fatigue for a day or two. These symptoms mean that your immune system is responding to the shots and building up immune protection against the coronavirus. Can I have a booster if I am immune compromised? Yes, but should be referred by your doctor. Persons who are immunocompromised should receive an additional Pfizer or J&J booster at least 28 days after receiving their last vaccination. Presently, persons who are considered immune-compromised should have the same booster as the initial vaccine dose (or doses). Even though there is talk that COVID-19 will move from being a pandemic to endemic, there’s no getting away from the fact that this virus will be part of our lives for a long time and we will need to learn to live with it. Which means that in order for the world to develop immunity against the virus, as many people as possible need to be vaccinated and also receive booster shots.

January 31, 2022

Health at School

The school year is in full swing and children are as busy as ever with all their activities and homework. By following a few lifestyle tips you can keep your child healthy and cut down on their sick days says Bonitas Medical Fund.

January 30, 2022

Your pre- hospitalisation check list

Waves of Covid-19 and the emerging variants meant that several elective surgeries were postponed to minimise the use of hospital beds and to avoid unnecessary exposure to the virus. As the number of infections decrease, surgeons and hospitals are catching up on the backlog of elective surgeries. So, what exactly is elective surgery? It does not mean, as the name implies, that the surgery is optional but rather that it doesn’t need to be performed immediately. It can be scheduled at the patient’s and surgeon’s convenience. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, says there are pre-hospitalisation requirements for those going in for elective surgeries. Here’s a quick checklist. Hospital networks Medical schemes negotiate preferential rates with Designated Service Provides (DSPs) who have partnered with them to ensure that members get the best quality services, at the most cost-effective rate so that benefits are optimised. If you use a network hospital, doctor or pharmacy you will not be charged more than the agreed rate. This will help you avoid co-payments and make your medical aid last longer. So, to reduce co-payments and even avoid them altogether, find a healthcare professional on your schemes network. Pre-authorisation All procedures that take place in a hospital must be pre-authorised. Essentially, it’s an agreement between the medical aid and the hospital, indicating a willingness to pay for costs associated with the visit. But even if you do have pre-authorisation your medical aid is not promising to cover 100% of the costs. All pre-authorisation requests are evaluated against the different schemes’ rules and clinical funding policies however, you remain responsible for any shortfall, including any co-payments. If you are unsure how to go about the process speak to your broker or your medical aid. Quotes A quote is not the same as a pre-authorisation. Most medical aid plans have varying hospital benefits, according to the level of cover you have chosen and they also have a ‘rate’ and which they reimburse healthcare providers. This means that even if the payment is 100% of the rate, this is not necessarily what the healthcare provider will charge, they may charge 200% of your medical aid rate. Asking for a quote prior to being admitted to hospital means you will know what your medical aid will pay and what payment you might be responsible for. It gives you an opportunity to negotiate and eliminates any additional ‘surprise’ co-payments required after the procedure. Co-payments Medical practitioners, hospitals and pharmacies often charge more than medical aid scheme rates, which could be between 100% – 300% of the medical aid tariffs. A co-payment refers to the outstanding portion of the account, for which the member is responsible. This co-payment varies from one medical scheme to another and is sometimes not required if members use DSPs or network hospitals. Day hospitals Consult with your surgeon to see if your surgery can be done in a day hospital. Globally, day surgery hospitals have changed the experience of patients by offering an alternative to acute/conventional hospital surgery. The advantages include: No overnight stay, ideal for children so they don’t have the trauma of overnight stays; there is a lower risk of infection because patients go home on the same day and there is a decreased waiting list. Step-down facilities Your medical aid will stipulate the number of days you need to stay in hospital and check whether you will need a step-down facility when you are discharged. There are several facilities where patients can be cared for and start rehabilitation in conjunction with other medical professionals, for example physiotherapists. Home-based care Find out if you are eligible for home-based care after your procedure. Many patients prefer to be discharged from hospital as soon as possible and receive Hospital-Level Care at home. This means good, clinical quality care which translates into a great patient experience and is also more affordable With Hospital-Level Care at Home, nurses, other health providers and caregivers are an essential element of the care continuum and play a critical role in recovery. GAP Cover Gap Cover is an additional insurance cover that complements medical schemes. It helps to pay the difference in cost between the amount the specialist or hospital charges and the amount paid by a hospital or medical plan. You will be required to pay any shortfalls (co-payments), after which you may claim from your Gap Cover. Keep all documentation related to the surgery and hospitalisation to submit to the Gap Cover provider. Covid-19 Test For emergency admissions, a Rapid Antigen Test is performed at the hospital but for elective surgery you are required to have a PCR test a maximum of 72 hours before admission. If your test is positive, you will have to delay your surgery by at least 10 days and then re-test. Pre-admission Pre-admission can be done a few days before you are scheduled for surgery and makes the admission process less stressful on the day. Pre-admission involves answering a series of questions and tests to eliminate the possibility of allergic reactions, drug interactions or physical complications before, during and after the surgical process. For administrative purposes the following items are required upon admission: Your identification document or passport Your medical aid card Authorisation number supplied by your medical aid, or the letter of guarantee issued by your insurer X-rays, if applicable Chronic medication, if staying overnight Dr Mkhatshwa says, ‘In addition to these, remember to take any chronic medication you are on to the hospital and make sure the doctor/anaesthetists are aware of what you are taking. By following this checklist and making sure the surgeon and hospital have all the necessary information, you will eliminate unnecessary stress ahead of your procedure and prevent unpleasant surprises when you are supposed to be recovering.’

January 19, 2022

Healthcare tips with NutriPure

With the wide variety of vitamin options available, it’s easy to get frustrated about what your body really needs to perform optimally on a physical and mental level. NutriPure has made it easy for you to understand your body’s essential needs and has broken down the vitamins your body may need the most and why. Read our quick guide about general health concerns and how you could address them by taking NutriPure’s Gummie Vitamins. Boost your overall health Taking a Multivitamin daily can help with the following: Increase energy levels We can become weak and lethargic if our bodies don’t meet nutritional standards. Taking a multivitamin regularly can help restore energy. Taking a multivitamin and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help keep you energized and healthy. Strengthens the immune system Multivitamins contain vitamins C, E, and D and are known to strengthen the immune system. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that help reduce allergy symptoms. Improve brain function Some vitamins and fatty acids slow or prevent memory loss. Vitamins such as vitamin B12 can help restore brain function. Reduce stress and depression B vitamins stimulate the nervous system to produce stress hormones and relieve stress. Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals improves the function of the brain, which governs mood. Try NutriPure Multivitamin for kids (From R109.95) and NutriPure Multivitamin for adults (From R134.95) contribute to the function of the immune system and the function of many other systems in the body. Each NutriPure Multivitamin complete contains 11 essential vitamins & minerals: vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin help to increase energy levels and strengthen the immune system. Support your immune system With the recent pandemic and continuous new viruses being discovered, it is vital to keep our immune systems as healthy as possible. A healthy immune system is essential year-round to prevent infections and illnesses. Eating nutritious foods, leading a healthy lifestyle, getting enough sleep, and exercising are the best ways to boost your immune system. Additionally, research has shown that supplementing with specific vitamins and minerals may improve immune responses and protect against disease. Try NutriPure Immune Support + (From R 109.95) and NutriPure Immune Support for adults (From R134.95) have been carefully formulated with six essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium which all contribute to the maintenance of good health. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient essential for the health and function of the immune system. Many people are deficient in this vital vitamin, which can adversely affect immune function. Supplementing with vitamin D can improve your immune response. Try NutriPure Vitamin D for kids (From R109.95) and NutriPure Vitamin D3 for adults (From R 134.95) which are excellent for the immune system and are known to aid in the fight against viruses. NutriPure Vitamin D contributes to the following: The normal function of the immune system. The maintenance of normal bones and teeth. The maintenance of normal muscle function. Normal absorption/utilization of calcium and phosphorus. Probiotics Your body needs certain bacteria to stay healthy. Bacteria aids digestion, absorbs nutrients, and fights off other disease-causing bacteria. A balanced gut is essential in keeping the body healthy at any age. NutriPure Probiotics for kids (From R 109.95) is formulated with bifidobacterium infantis & lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each Nutripure gummy contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost their daily culture intake. Apple Cider Vinegar Apple Cider vinegar has many health benefits, including aiding weight loss, reducing cholesterol, lowering blood sugar levels, and improving the symptoms of diabetes. NutriPure Apple Cider Vinegar (From R 159.95) is a great natural Immune Booster. At last, taking, apple cider vinegar was made easy and great tasting. Nutritional highlights: With 500mg of Apple Cider Vinegar per serving for immune support and metabolism Vitamin C for immune health Vitamin B6 for energy-yielding metabolism Vitamin C & B6 to reduce tiredness & fatigue Reaching your daily vitamin intake can feel like a chore. The NutriPure range is the perfect way to enhance your daily routine anytime, anywhere. Nutripure has now made it even easier for you with their convenient travel-friendly pouches that contain 14 gummies each (R36.95). The pouches come in five different variants. Three variants for kids: Immune Support+ Vitamin C Multivitamin Two variants for adults: Immune Support Multivitamin Nutripure gummies are tasty for kids and adults and come in an all-natural sweet treat with all the best ingredients for you. NutriPure is vegan-friendly, has no sugar coating, and it is GMO-free. Nutripure can be found at Dis-Chem, Clicks, Takealot, and other major retailers. For more information go to http://nutripure.co.za/

January 13, 2022

GLENOAKS SPEARHEADS CHANGES TO DISABILITY TAX LAWS

Glenoaks Remedial and Special Needs School has shown once again that our passion to meet the needs of our children is as strong as ever. Glenoaks School made a stand by challenging the changes to the disability tax laws put in place by SARS. In so doing, we sought to protect the rights of learners with special needs (LSEN) in our community. LSEN, and their parents, experience daily societal stigma that exists towards them. As a school, we could not stand back and allow our community to endure more pressure and have a law impede on their abilities as individuals. This would be the likely impact of the amendment to the list of qualifying medical expenses, as it read before our successful challenge thereof. Section 6B of the Act allows a taxpayer to claim a tax rebate on qualifying medical expenses (expenses incurred in consequence of a disability). The amendment, among other aspects, limited parents in terms of how much they were able to claim back from SARS. The list, as it read in 2012 and until 2020, allowed parents to claim a percentage of school fees on the difference between a private special educational needs (LSEN) school and the closest public school to their home. The 2020 amendment stated, however, that this comparison would now be a percentage of school fees between an LSEN school and the closest fee-paying private school (not specializing in supporting learners with special educational needs). The difference between these two comparisons was, in many instances, profound. What defines an LSEN school? In short, our schools identify each child as an individual, with individual strengths, potentials and areas where they require accommodations and adaptations. This may mean differentiated lessons, adapted work levels, adapted pace, adapted content preparation and presentation, revision, and repetition of tasks in various methods, observing, assessing and reporting – constantly meeting a child at their developmental, emotional, vocational and academic level. This within a small class setting, so that this level of support is possible. Our learners’ developmental ages differ from their chronological ages in certain or all respects. The Learning and Developmental theory of Vygotsky states that as human beings, we learn within a zone of proximal development. Therefore, we need to identify what a learner is currently capable of, and then identify where they need to be. Our role is to find professional strategies to enable a child to reach their potential in a variety of academic and vocational areas. Ultimately, our learners require far more than a basic education. They need to work so much harder than many others do. As many parents reading this article will know, quality schooling opportunities for learners with remedial and special needs are currently limited within the public schooling system. In the majority of cases, the only option for parents is to place their children in a private school environment that can meet their needs. With the 2020 list in place, many parents would not have been able to afford private LSEN schools, and the amendment would have put extra pressure on an already struggling public educational system. The result would have been learners who were not placed or are incorrectly placed at schools. Private special needs and remedial schools, like Glenoaks, exist and have existed for years, largely because parents can receive financial assistance from a fair tax rebate. When we became aware of the 2020 list, Glenoaks hosted a parent meeting where an expert in the field discussed the amendment and the implications to follow. With the support of our parent body and school board, our next step was to seek the legal opinion of constitutional law practitioners. This expert opinion confirmed for us that we had to fight for the rights of the LSEN community. Glenoaks initially collaborated and was involved in many consultative processes; all, over the course of 2 years, proving to be ineffective. We were forced to take our case to the level of litigation. We were so grateful to receive the support of a group of advocates and legal professionals who gave up their valuable time to help Glenoaks stand up for this cause. The Equal Education Law Centre, represented by the Centre for Child Law joined us, and together we forged forward challenging systems that were meant to uphold our children’s rights. Our small group put it all on the line to stand up for the rights of the special needs community. On 29 October 2021, SARS reverted to the previous list. Glenoaks is sincerely grateful for this decision. Interestingly, this journey has taken Glenoaks back to our roots. Glenoaks School was started by Dr Lorna Swartz, a qualified Psychiatrist. In the 1960’s her daughter started to display extreme impulsivity and distractibility. Nobody at this time could provide her with support or advice. She travelled to America where she sought the assistance of a variety of professionals. Dr Swartz then returned home and started her own school, determined to make a difference in the lives of children with special needs. Dr Swartz is reported, in an interview (https://myinclusivecourse.wordpress.com/2016/07/06/dr-lorna-swartz/) to have chained herself to a government building, demanding that the government make changes to their education system. Eventually, she was able to establish a formalized and registered school. This, being the time of Apartheid, also included Glenoaks opening their doors to a variety of children, from different racial groups, with special needs. Glenoaks’ hope for the future is to provide further financial support to learners through the help of individuals or businesses who may be able to offer bursaries or donations. In addition, we would like to share our knowledge to empower university students and educators to be able to provide more support to their own learners in all educational streams. Ultimately, Glenoaks wants to enable the potential of as many children as we possibly can. Glenoaks has proven that we are a school with enough heart, courage and commitment to protect and vindicate the rights of both our children and their parents. GO Glenoaks,

January 12, 2022

Give your body a leg up – immune boosting

Now more than ever we need to find ways to boost our immune systems as much as possible. And, while there are no medications or immunity-boosting supplements that can cure or prevent the coronavirus, there are some simple lifestyle changes we can make and steps we can take to strengthen our defences. Good nutrition can also reduce developing other health problems including obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘Eating a healthy diet, high in immune-boosting nutrients, is just as important during this pandemic. What we eat and drink can affect our body’s ability to prevent and fight disease and recover from it. This is one of the ways in which we can improve our health proactively.’ What is the immune system? The immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. It also keeps a record of every germ (microbe) it has ever defeated, so it can recognise and destroy the microbe quickly if it enters the body again. There is no magic pill that will instantly boost your immune system. However, together with a healthy lifestyle, various supplements can boost your immune system and give you a fighting chance. Together with those people who have not been vaccinated, it is well documented that people with co-morbidities and poorly functioning immune systems are at the highest risk of getting really ill from Covid-19. Although you cannot suddenly reverse a co-morbidity or instantly boost your immune system, now is a good time to make your health and natural defences a priority. Tips for maintaining a healthy diet: Eat a variety of food, including wholegrains (like maize, oats, rice, and legumes) as well as plenty of fruit and vegetables in your diet Limit salt intake to 5 grams (a teaspoon) a day Eat moderate amounts of fats and oils. Avoid saturated fat (animal fat). Try steaming instead of frying when cooking Limit sugar intake. This includes sweets, fizzy and sugary drinks. Choose fresh fruit over biscuits, cake, and chocolate Drink water. Good hydration is crucial for good health so make sure you drink enough water. There are many foods with high water content – such as cucumbers and celery – add these or lemon and mint, to a glass of water. ‘Ideally we should try and get all our vitamins from the food we eat. However, that’s not always possible which is why taking vitamin supplements can help bridge the gap,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘The recommendation for general health is a combination of essential vitamins and minerals to keep your body healthy.’ Vitamin C: Key to fighting infection is to increase white blood cell production, eating foods high in vitamin C – such as grapefruit, oranges, sweet red pepper, broccoli, strawberries, kale, and tomato juice – are thought to help plus Vitamin C has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections. Beta-Carotene: Beta-carotene converts into vitamin A, which is an anti-inflammatory vitamin that can help your antibodies respond to toxins, such as a virus. Beta-carotene is found in carrots, spinach, kale, apricots, sweet potato, apricots, and squash. Vitamin E: Is an essential antioxidant that helps fight cell damage and supporting immune system function. Foods rich in vitamin E include nuts, peanut butter, seeds, avocado and spinach. Antioxidants: Green tea is packed with antioxidants that have been shown to enhance immune system function. It also contains amino acids that may aid in the production of germ-fighting compounds in your T-cells, which reduces inflammation in the body and helps fight infection. Vitamin D: This vitamin also fights off infections and maintains strong bones. It is found in salmon, canned tuna, egg yolks, milk, cereals, breads, and mushrooms. Alternatively, make sure you expose your body to 13-15 minutes of sunshine three times a week for a natural Vitamin D fix. Studies have shown that Vitamin D can expedite healing and stall inflammation in the respiratory system but there has not been robust clinical evidence to prove its use against Covid-19. Probiotics: Live cultures, known as probiotics, are said to help stimulate the immune system to fight off disease. Yogurt, Kombucha, Sauerkraut, Kimchi, pickles as well certain types of cheese contain live cultures. Vitamin B-6: Is essential in the formation of new and healthy red blood cells and helps maintain the lymphatic system. Chicken, turkey, cold-water fish (salmon and tuna), chickpeas (traditional hummus), bananas, fortified breakfast cereal and nutritional yeast are great options for consuming vitamin B-6. Zinc: Is a mineral that our body doesn’t store or produce, however our Immune system cells need zinc to function as they are intended, it boosts the metabolism along with healing wounds. Red meat, shellfish, poultry, beans/legumes, and nuts/seeds are high zinc foods. ‘During this global pandemic we need to understand that our actions are not just to protect ourselves but also those around us,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘The risk of contracting Covid-19 is higher in crowded spaces so, reiterating what the President said, we need to heed the call to make sure you socialise outdoors or have plenty of fresh air flowing through your homes and workplaces. The World Health Organization talks about avoiding the 3Cs: Spaces that are closed, crowded, or involve close contact. ‘We need to work together to contain the spread of Covid-19 especially during the various mutations of the virus. With the 4th wave upon us, we need to vaccinate, wear masks, keep our distance, follow good hygiene protocols, boost our immune systems and get plenty of exercise and fresh air.’

December 10, 2021

The best defence is a multi-defence

Shew, the disruption, stress, fear, and grief that Covid-19 has brought into our lives! We have no choice but to keep on doing the best we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Nearly two years into the pandemic there is much scientific evidence about how individuals can ward off the virus, prevent hospitalisation or support recovery. Fortunately, we live in a country with a well-respected medical body which has informed South Africa’s vaccination rollout, and a professional and compassionate healthcare fraternity that goes the extra mile for their patients. Still, as individuals, we have a huge part to play in our own defence, and as always, the best defence is to adopt a multi defence strategy. “Face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated, frequent hand-washing and physical distancing, can help to slow the spread of the virus” As many of us return to the office and congregate indoors over meals and drinks, we also need to think about ventilation to minimise the indoor spread of Covid-19. And we can power up our body’s natural immune defences to fight against the onslaught of contagious infections, germs which are everywhere, poor diet, stress and pollution. Things we can control: Eat healthily, which means more vegetables and fruit and cutting back on deep fried and stodgy fast foods. Move regularly. This can add up to big health and fitness benefits, for example, 20 minutes of brisk walking five or more days a week has been shown to boost immunity. Plan fun active get-togethers with family, friends, or colleagues. Think bike rides or walks to collect coffee, start up a backyard cricket or footy game, take a ball or frisbee for play dates. Supplement healthily. Well-respected nutritional supplier, Nativa, has a range of immune boosting nutritional supplements. Check them out on https://www.nativacomplex.co.za/immune-health/#nativa-complex-multi-defence Look out for new Nativa Complex® Multi-Defence tablets, a health supplement formulated to deliver the benefits of two immune and antioxidant boosting vitamins (Vitamins C and D) and minerals (zinc and selenium) to promote antioxidants and good health. All products are available from Takealot, Dis-Chem, Clicks and selected pharmacies nationwide. WIN! A Philips Air Fryer valued at R1600 from Nativa Complex® Immune Boosting Supplements when you click here

December 9, 2021

SCHOOL CHILDREN AND THEIR CHANGING NUTRITIONAL NEEDS

As our kids enter their school-going years their growth is steady, but slower and somewhat less dramatic when compared to the rapid baby-toddler-to-little-person transformation. It’s an interesting time nutritionally as school-going children tend to be more open to trying different foods and are developing their foodie likes and dislikes. They are more able and adept at learning about different foods and their nutritional impact, so you can really start communicating with them about the importance of food and healthy eating. Many of our lifelong dietary habits are rooted in this young life-stage. According to Zelda Ackerman, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for ADSA (The Association for Dietetics in South Africa) the primary school-going age is an ideal time for parents to help set our children up for a lifetime of healthy eating. She says, “What happens around food in both the home and school is really important not just to ensure optimal nutrition for growing bodies, but to educate our children about how important daily food choices are to our overall health and our abilities to perform well in life. For instance, balanced nutrition is vital for developing strong bones, teeth and muscles, as well as supporting our immune system to prevent disease. However, it impacts too on our abilities to focus and learn in the classroom, and to achieve in sports and other physical activities.” Physical growth demands energy, and children’s energy needs are high. According to another ADSA spokesperson, Vanessa Clarke, also a Registered Dietitian, “These energy needs increase as children get older and are influenced greatly by a child’s level of exercise. As children move through the various school levels, their energy demands will increase which means they need more carbohydrates, protein and fat to support necessary bodily functions and their growth. Children may also require increasing amounts of certain vitamins and minerals as they get older. Some children going through adolescence who are physically active each day may require more energy in the form of calories than even an adult female or male. It’s also important to remember that children continue to grow and develop well beyond their tweens and during their teenage years into young adulthood.” During your child’s school-going years, it’s essential to get a good start to the day in the form of a sufficient balanced breakfast, even if it is a breakfast on the go. A balanced breakfast means that the meal includes high-fibre carbohydrates (wholewheat toast, oats, granola), protein (eggs, cheese, yoghurt) and fat (avocado, nut butters, olive oil), as well as vitamins and minerals (fruit and/or veg). This sets them off to school with a powered up brain and energy to spend. It’s typical for school-going children to need to eat four to five times a day – their snacks are really important, so don’t skip or skimp on their lunchboxes. What is an optimal school lunchbox? Depending on their school age and their after-school activities, your child’s lunchbox may be their snack or their midday meal. For older children participating in late afternoon after school activities, their lunchbox may need to contain their morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack. You need to adjust the quantities based on the day’s schedule and your child’s level of physical activity. In order to ensure the lunchbox is optimal nutritionally, always strive for a balanced snack or a balanced meal containing all the essential nutrients. Focus on home-prepared wholefoods rather highly processed snack foods. Vanessa offers this suggestion: Include high-fibre carbohydrates such as wholewheat bread, wholewheat wrap or high fibre crackers such as Provitas. Choosing a high fibre option ensures they stay fuller for longer, and have a more sustained level of energy Add a fruit like an apple, naartjie, banana or nectarine Pop in a portion of vegetables such as sweet pepper strips, cucumber wedges or carrot sticks Include a protein portion by making a chicken mayo sandwich with the high-fibre bread, or add chicken drumsticks, meatballs, biltong or cheese Make sure they have their freshly filled up water bottle to meet their fluid needs. You can add a sprig of mint, a lemon slice or a few blueberries if they prefer flavoured water. Avoid any sugar-sweetened beverages that contribute towards obesity and tooth decay If your child will be having a longer school day, add extra portions of fruit and veg and raw nuts, and consider including a yoghurt or smoothie. Older children participating in sports may also need an extra wholewheat sandwich and additional lean protein portions to help preserve lean muscle mass. Dealing with the challenges of food at school School tuck shops can be a source of food for your children, but parents need to be aware of what kinds of foods and drinks are on offer. There are many convenience and snack foods that, although marketed to children, are nutrient-poor and contribute to rising childhood obesity. School tuck shops that do not have well-informed, dietitian-led healthy eating policies often offer these types of foods because they are popular with children and drive profits. Zelda says, “Parents need to stand together and approach school governing bodies to raise their concerns about unhealthy food being offered at school. Of course, children like sweets, chocolates, crisps and sugary drinks – and if they are on offer, that’s what they will choose. School tuck shops need to be committed to only offering healthy food, snack and drink options. A registered dietitian can help parents with a list of healthy tuck shop food and drink options.” Under-resourced South African schools also face school food challenges with many parents concerned about the nutritional quality of the school’s nutrition programme. Zelda says, “Sometimes, there are problems around the inadequate supply of food to address child hunger, but a persistent issue is the lack of fresh vegetables and fruit. Here, parents can help to motivate or get involved in the establishment of school food gardens to supplement school meals. Many nutritious vegetables such as spinach, beetroot, tomatoes, beans and butternuts are easily grown by beginner gardeners. Schools

December 9, 2021

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