Most parents know that during the course of raising a child you will have to deal with different bouts of illness. Here is some information, from Bonitas Medical Fund, which should help you to manage common early childhood illnesses successfully.
At a glance: 340 119 Principal members 709 881 Total beneficiaries 190 000 new members over the past 36 months Average age of beneficiary: 33.9 Average age of new members is 15 years younger than existing members R7.4 billion in reserves 36.5% solvency ratio AA Credit rating Plans Bonitas offers a wide range of plans that are simple and easy to understand. There are 15 options in five categories: Savings, traditional, hospital, Edge (virtual) and income-based. Increases A three-month price freeze will apply in 2023: From January to March contributions remain the same as 2022 The average increase, across all plans, is 5.9%. However, factoring in the three-month price freeze, the average increase drops to 4.8% Plan increases range from 0% to 9.4% BonStart has a 0% increase By applying very low contribution increases since December 2020, the Scheme has effectively passed R1.4 billion in savings back to members Nine plans are priced under R3 000 per main member’s monthly contribution The most popular plans, with newer members, include Primary, Primary Select, BonFit, BonEssential, BonEssential Select, BonStart and BonStart Plus Note: Contributions from April 2023 What’s new? Bonitas has introduced a mental health app – in partnership with Panda. It’s a free to download mental health and wellness mobile app that uses scientifically validated assessment tools and appropriate treatment to provide the right care at the right time. Panda will be available from October 2022 The Hospital-at-Home initiative has been successful and the offering is being extended to include: A programme for re-admissions Screening and disease prevention Alternative to stepdown facilities Kidney dialysis at home An improved programme for chronic kidney disease Restructured benefits are unlimited for PMB cancers across all plans. With a set Rand amount where non-PMB cancer cover is available. Once the Rand limit is exhausted, a 20% co-payment will apply Cover for two doses of the vaccine Human Papillomavirus (HPV) for girls aged between 9 -14 years, on BonComprehensive, BonClassic, BonComplete, Standard and Standard Select Introduction of one booster vaccine for Pertussis or whooping cough, per beneficiary aged between 7 and 64 years on Standard, Standard Select, BonComplete, BonClassic and BonComprehensive. The savings component across the savings plans have been increased from between 5% to 9.4% and amended rules allow members to use their savings as they deem fit for the new year The Benefit Booster – introduced in 2022 which unlocked R446million in additional benefits – has been adjusted according to utilisation Footprint and networks Our footprint extends across all 9 provinces, with our membership concentrated in Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape. A GP network of over 4 400 An extensive Pharmacy network, with around 2 500 practices located in all nine provinces to dispense chronic, acute and over-the-counter medicine through Scriptpharm Dental network, through DENIS, provide access to around 3 000 practices across SA Optical network through PPN gives members access to over 2 300 practices
For many parents, nothing is as stressful as getting your kids to eat all the food on their plate, especially when it comes to veggies. Eating a variety of healthy foods is essential for your children’s wellbeing. Here are some tips on how to get your kids to eat better.
Even though generic drugs have been around for more than half a century, many patients in South Africa are unreasonably suspicious of what is. In essence it’s a ‘carbon copy’ of the original brand of drug or medicine. Bonitas Medical Fund believe it may be because consumers think that if they are cheaper they must be inferior. This lack of understanding costs consumers and medical aids millions of Rands each year.
The Covid-19 pandemic and the resultant lockdowns affected people across the world – mentally, emotionally and physically. These included feelings of isolation, work stress, frustration at rules and regulations, fear for close family and friends and a loss of control over your life. So, it is not surprising that we have seen an increase in mental health related issues. 1 in 6 South Africans suffer from anxiety, depression or substance use disorder. Over the last two years the prevalence of anxiety and depression disorders has increased by 36.4% and 38.7% respectively. 970 million people worldwide have a mental health or substance abuse disorder. A study by the Global Happiness Council (GHC) shows that mental illness is the main ailment among people of working age. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘This has a massive effect on employers as they try to cope with keeping their businesses going, preventing job losses and maintaining a happy and motivated workforce. The economic uncertainty, political instability and poor socio-economic conditions in South Africa have also added to the burden of mental health issues in South Africa.’ To make matters worse, according to South Africa’s National Mental Health Policy Framework, ‘up to 80% of South Africans who need mental health support are unable to easily access it’. In addition to a comprehensive mental health programme, Bonitas is the first medical aid to offer Panda to its members. It’s a free to download mental health and wellness mobile app that provides scientifically validated assessment tools to enable users to objectively measure their mental wellbeing. A gamified tracking tool allows you to document and monitor the progress you’re making on your personal mental health journey. This includes: Engaging in interactive, audio-only sessions with peers and mental health experts in the ‘Bamboo Forest’ Learning new skills through assignments and videos to help you live a more fulfilled life Tracking your mental health progress to measure how you are feeling Getting text-based chat support from an accredited wellness counsellor Booking 1:1 virtual consultations with accredited and registered counsellors, social workers, psychologists and other mental health professionals ‘The level of support depends on the degree to which you need help,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘This ranges from level one, where there is an easy access point to community, information and support, through to level 5 where Panda will notify you to contact emergency services. We know how tough it can be to go through difficult times all by yourself, but with Panda, you will be able to find the support and resources that you need. In a nutshell: The right care at the right time for a healthy mind, using your phone.’ What is mental illness? Mental illness is defined as ‘any behavioural or mental pattern that causes significant distress or impairs normal functioning’. It can occur as a once off, be persistent or recur. The common denominator being the debilitating nature of the condition. It is a medical condition A mental illness affects the way a person experiences and behaves in the world around them. It is a recognised medical condition in the same way as chronic diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure and can affect anyone, regardless of race, religion, income or age. It is not a sign of weakness or madness and is nothing to be ashamed of. The good news is, it’s a condition that that can be managed and treated successfully. Anxiety disorders and depression are the most common mental health problems but others include eating disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar mood disorder as well as psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and personality disorders. Substance abuse, such as drugs and alcohol, is also classified under mental illness. Battling the stigma The Mental Health Society acknowledges, ‘The social stigma attached to mental ill-health and discrimination exacerbates patients’ condition. It often prevents people from seeking treatment. And, if they do, makes it harder to recover.’ Dr Mkhatshwa says, ‘Fortunately, increasingly well-known and influential people who are suffering from or have overcome mental illness, are being more open about it. This will go a long way to debunk myths, negativity, discrimination and judgement’. Recognising the signs These can vary but, in general, these include: Being frequently sad, depressed and gloomy for long periods and feeling overwhelmed by life’s problems Major changes in eating habits, resulting in weight loss or gain Struggling to concentrate and make decisions Loss of energy and lack of motivation Constant stress and anxiety over work, finances, life, friends and family Emotionally distant Frequently tearful Having difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual Loss of interest in activities Easily irritated and more aggressive than usual Having thoughts of death or suicide Drug or alcohol abuse may also be a sign of underlying mental illness Help is at hand There are specialised mental health programmes in place through most medical aids and most mental illnesses can be effectively treated by health professionals and community-based services or NGOs. This may include access to medication, therapy and counselling. The Mental Health Programme (MHP) from Bonitas, which forms part its Managed Care initiatives, is aimed at improving quality of life and empowering people with mental health issues to manage their condition. It is education driven and offers support for loved ones too. ‘The introduction of Panda will dovetail neatly with our MHP,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Mental illness cannot be wished away,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘We can’t expect someone to ‘pull themselves together’, they simply can’t. But with the right support and help, symptoms will be relieved and the recovery rate is encouraging with patients getting back to being happier, more productive members of society.’
Bonitas Medical Fund, one of the leading medical schemes in South Africa, announced its 2023 product line up today. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas says, ‘Our average increases for the year would have been 5.9% – well below the current inflation rate of 7.6%. The good news is that we’ve put a price freeze on contributions for the first quarter of 2023, to offer our members some respite. This effectively means an increase of 4.8% over the 12 months. We have also shared exactly what members can expect to pay from 1 April 2023, so that they can make informed decisions. Bonitas celebrated its 40th anniversary this year and has evolved and expanded its capabilities over the past four decades in response to the needs of a growing membership base. ‘It’s always a delicate balancing act between keeping increases as low as possible while maintaining the stability of the Scheme,’ says Callakoppen. ‘The guidelines, set out by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) in Circular 44 of 2022, requested medical schemes to keep contribution increases for 2023 below CPI. However, over the past decade medical scheme contribution increases have outpaced inflation by around 4%. We are delighted to have kept these well below CPI itself. In fact, by applying very low contribution increases since December 2020, the Scheme has effectively passed R1.4 billion in savings back to members. And, with the challenges we’ve seen recently in the healthcare industry, we know that promoting sustainability is key. So, we’re happy to boast excellent financial indicators from high solvency ratios, strong reserves and a high claims-paying ability. Not only is the Scheme financially sound with over R7.4 billion in reserves but, over the last 36 months we have signed up 190 000 new members. This figure is significantly higher than the size of most schemes in the industry. Even better for sustainability is that the average age of our new members is around 15 years younger than the current membership. It reinforces the fact that we are succeeding in attracting a younger, healthier profile, which is coveted across the industry. The future of healthcare is anchored on primary and preventative care as well as sustaining well-being, as opposed to responding to illness. One of the key healthcare trends is the rise in non-communicable or lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer. 80% of these conditions are caused by lifestyle risk factors which is why we offer a range of Managed Care programmes aimed at assisting members understand and manage their conditions. Cancer care Cancer prevalence is one of the key concerns facing South Africans and is increasing year on year. Last year, we announced our partnership with the South African Oncology Consortium – the largest network of oncologists in the country to enhance the offerings of our cancer programme including screening for early detection, treatment and palliative care. For 2023 we have restructured benefits to be unlimited for PMB cancers, on all options. Diabetes The latest data from the South African Health Quality Assessment, shows that Bonitas has an effective disease management programme and better outcomes than the industry standard for diabetic members, with improved metrics for Hb1Ac, statins and cholesterol. But, as we always look for ways to improve, we are proud to introduce a benefit of R51 000 per family per year for an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor for type 1 diabetics over 18 years. Mental health We are pleased to announce that we’ve introduced an innovative new digital solution, called Panda, to support our members in managing their mental wellness. Panda, a free to download app, offers everything from audio sessions with peers and mental health experts to one-on-one virtual consultations with mental health professionals. We encourage our members to complete a mental health questionnaire in the Bonitas Member App to assess their mental health status. Panda will be available from October 2022. Benefit Booster Launched last year, the Benefit Booster was one of the most innovative changes to hit the medical schemes industry and aimed at supporting our preventative care strategy. It unlocked R446 million in additional benefits for members to extend their day-to-day benefits. For 2023, we’ve opted to adjust the benefits limits in line with utilisation with enhancements seen on several plans. Designated Service Provider (DSP) We implement networks to negotiate the most favourable tariffs for our members so they can avoid out-of-pocket expenses and get more value. These networks are carefully selected to maintain high levels of healthcare, aligned with our brand promise of providing quality healthcare. We have restructured our options to include a wider hospital network component. In 2023, 85% of our members will be within a 30km radius of a network hospital – with a presence across all nine provinces in line with the footprint of our member base. This includes a GP network of over 4 400 of the most efficient practices in the country, an extensive pharmacy network, with around 2 500 practices to dispense chronic, acute and over-the-counter medicine through Scriptpharm. Our dental network, through DENIS, is one of the largest on the continent – providing access to around 3 000 practices while our optical network through PPN gives members access to over 2 300 practices. Medicine formulary We have aligned our medicines formulary to the WHO’s Essential Medicines List (EDL) to promote affordability and accessibility to clinically approved medicines, in support of Universal Health Care and promotion of medicine adherence for our members. Hospital-at-home The technology-enabled Hospital-at-Home service brings all the essential elements of in-hospital care to a patient’s home, without moving away from evidence-based clinical protocols and state-of-the-art 24hr vital sign monitoring. 1 200 members have used the offering to date – equating to around 6 000 days in hospital. We are extending the offering to include: A programme for re-admissions, screening and disease prevention, alternative to stepdown facilities and kidney dialysis at home. Savings We’ve amended our rules to allow members to use their savings as they deem fit for
A national lock-down together with winter descending may have seen some of us reaching for comfort food more often than we should be. And to be fair, it’s understandable that we have felt the need for some extra sweetness to get us through these rather bitter times. Something else has happened during lock-down – Gayleen’s Decadence, the artisanal, gourmet chocolate that packs a powerful but delicious health-boosting punch, has re-branded as GD Chocolate and received a stylish new look, with all the good stuff that Gayleen’s many fans love – dairy, preservative, refined sugar and HFCS free, and sweetened only with raw honey. Furthermore, GD Chocolate recently launched their chocolate Buttercups. Retailing at R20, the Buttercups are a treat-sized favourite that allow you to get your chocolate fix without the temptation to over-indulge. GD Chocolate Buttercups are made with 71% dark chocolate and about 80% raw ingredients, providing all the superfood benefits of cacao. The buttercups are available in five deliciously indulgent soft-centre fillings to choose from – Mint, Mocha-Coffee, Turkish Rose, and newcomers to the range, Almond Butter and Vanilla. GD Chocolate Buttercups provide the perfect pick-me-up before exercising, and are a great substitute for coffee when the dreaded mid-afternoon office slump kicks in. And if you’re inclined to share them, they make a healthy yet delicious addition to school lunchboxes or as after-dinner dessert nibbles with friends. GD Chocolate and Gayleen’s journey started more than 10 years ago, when she adopted a healthier lifestyle but was loath to give up her favoured sweet treat. She started experimenting with chocolate and soft fillings, and became the first chocolatier in the world to replace sugar or sweeteners with raw honey. She says, “I was told by other chocolatiers that it wasn’t possible to make chocolate sweetened with honey, and eventually had to have my chocolate analysed to prove that I wasn’t lying! Not only did honey work, but what started out as a stall at a local market is now a national business, with GD Chocolate now sold at Wellness Warehouse, health shops, pharmacies, deli’s, on-line retailers and selected Spar stores around the country – all thanks to my loyal customers!” Follow GD Chocolate on social media Facebook: GD Chocolates Instagram: @gdchocolate For more information or imagery, please don’t hesitate to contact me or visit https://gdchocolate.com/
One in eight young people between the ages of 5 and 19 are at risk of developing a mental disorder, of which Mood and Anxiety Disorders are the most prevalent. Emphasis on the mental health of young people recently increased as a result of the disruption caused by Covid-19 and lockdowns which exacerbated challenges that existed before the pandemic. It has therefore once again become important to not only start talking about the mental health of young people, but also to recognise symptoms and know where to look for help, an education and mental health expert says. “The prevalence of mood difficulties among young people is increasingly becoming a concern internationally,” says Dr Jacques Mostert, Brand Academic Manager at ADvTECH, SA’s leading private education provider. Dr Mostert holds a PhD in Psychology of Education and is globally renowned in his field, having conducted experiential research in education in Denmark, the UK, South Africa and The Netherlands. Dr Mostert notes that an estimated 24% of teens between the ages of 11 to 19 suffer from depression caused by the home environment, 25% are subject to cyber-bullying and loneliness, 92% of LGBT youth report depression during the ages of 11 to 19, and 80% of teens between the ages of 11 to 19 report a sense of isolation that causes them to feel depressed. “It is very important to understand the signs of depression, so that action can be taken timeously should concerns about the mental wellbeing of a child arise,” says Dr Mostert. “Teachers and parents can recognise the onset of depression when a sudden change in behaviour becomes apparent and continues for at least 3 weeks or longer. These include an atypical lack of energy, becoming increasingly irritable and agitated without a rational explanation, and a sense of being down in the dumps for no reason.” Some adolescents may withdraw from friends and family over a sustained period of time, he notes, adding that this is especially concerning if this is atypical of the normal interactions of the teen. “Another red flag is the inability to concentrate in class where ADHD or other non-neurotypical difficulties are not present, as well as regularly failing to complete classroom and homework assignments in time or often being late to class because of feeling overwhelmed. “This, coupled with unusually defiant behaviour towards teachers and other school staff, especially if this is non-typical behaviour, may indicate that the teen is experiencing difficulties with mood and affect.” In the same way as with anxiety difficulties and disorder, the student often asks to go home because of feeling ill with no discernable symptoms. The teen often has days off from class time due to doctor’s appointments, hospitalisation, or inability to attend classes. Changes in sleep patterns, a significant weight loss or gain in a short period of time and disinterest in hobbies or areas where the teen previously showed interest also raise concerns about the mental wellbeing of the teenager. Finally, a loss of future-mindedness, or talk about death or suicide, engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviour (drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or cutting, for example) are clear signs of the teen suffering from mood difficulties or a possible mood disorder. “Not all of the above need to be present, but if there is a discernable and drastic change in a young person’s behaviour which continues for a period of several weeks or longer, intervention is necessary,” Dr Mostert says. He says first steps teachers and parents can take to help their child deal with depression at home and in the classroom include: DEVELOPING COLLABORATIVE RELATIONSHIPS Parents of teenagers should develop the habit of listening with empathy and not give in to the easier way out of lecturing. However, it must also be said that parents should be gentle yet persistent when it comes to holding realistic expectations of their child. AVOIDING NEGATIVE TECHNIQUE STRATEGIES Punishment, sarcasm, disparagement, and passive-aggression is a way of affirming the depressed teenager’s belief of not being worthy or a valued member of the family or society. Parents must be willing to be vulnerable and acknowledge their own and their teenager’s feelings, especially at a time of disruption such as the Covid-19 pandemic. NOT LOWERING EXPECTATIONS OR GIVING UNEARNED REWARDS Realistic and earned rewards is one of the most important tools in a parent’s approach to supporting their depressed child. The sense of having earned a reward, and receiving acknowledgement for an aspect of their life they find significant affirms a sense of value. However, the opposite is also true. Unearned praise leaves the teenager with a feeling of inauthenticity and affirms their already negative self-perception. PLANNING FOR EARNED SUCCESS Activities that are of interest often fall by the wayside when teenagers are depressed. Often parents try to arrange and engage in these activities as a panacea to their teenager’s depression. However, this may exacerbate the young person’s feeling of worthlessness. Parents should find novel and interesting activities that may lead to earned success. This may include DIY activities around the house or asking for help with a specific app or technology in which, when success is achieved, due praise is earned. “Most importantly, parents should trust their gut,” Dr Mostert says. “If your teenager insists that nothing is wrong, despite a prolonged period of depressed mood or being diagnosed with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, parents should trust their instincts and seek help. “Should the above techniques not bring about an improvement in the mental wellbeing, parents should seek advice from their medical practitioner or a psychiatrist.”
Just as your baby is learning how to eat solid food, so too will you be learning the skill to read your baby’s hunger and fullness cues. A healthy baby will eat without being coaxed and stop when full. Being responsive to your baby’s signs of hunger and fullness will help manage many frustrating mealtimes and also leave you rest assured that your little human is happy and content with a full tummy. Feed Me! Your baby will let you know when they are hungry by reaching out or pointing to food. They may even become excitable when placed in a familiar eating place like a highchair, and be rather expressive with smiling, cooing, squeals of glee, and maybe even a frustrated cry. Your baby may also move their fingers towards their mouth or try and reach out for the spoon as you prepare to feed. Fill Up! Adults, babies, and children are less likely to eat beyond fullness and your baby will very clearly tell you if they need more food or if their tummy is full. What started out as a content baby in a feeding chair, now becomes fussier and more irritable. The pace of eating will slow down, and your baby will close the mouth, push food away and even spit it out. Older babies may grab and throw food to the floor. There will be a change in posture from excitable and upright to disinterested and slumping in the chair, and some babies may even fall asleep. It is good to know that it is normal for your baby’s appetite to change from day to day, and even from meal to meal. Be guided by your baby’s interest in food and appetite levels to know how much to offer, rather than worry about an exact amount eaten. It is recommended that you check your baby’s weight regularly and if you are concerned about the amount your baby eats or about its weight you should consult your doctor or specialist. For a convenient way to get your baby to try its first foods, why not try Squish 100% fruit and veg purees? Squish offers a range of 100% fruit and veg purees and pressed 100% fruit and veg juices. The convenient pouches are well-loved amongst mommies and are perfect for babies from the first introduction of solids, right through the weaning process – from babies to toddlers and beyond.
All growing children need good nutrition to build healthy bodies. Eating patterns that are formed while growing up influence dietary patterns throughout life and is a good prediction of overall health in adulthood. Therefore it is important that parents should not only strive to feed their children a healthy balanced diet, consisting of a variety of foods, but also set a good example by eating healthy food themselves. Maretha Vermaak, registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy says: “Growing children need vital nutrients, including those found in dairy foods, to help them develop strong, healthy bodies. It is important to make sure that children are not at risk. Hunger and poor nutrition are not only connected to their growth and development, but also their readiness to learn. When children have regular access to nutritious meals, especially breakfast, research shows a connection to better performance in school.” Everyone in the family needs dairy in every stage of their life It starts at pregnancy. Because dairy is important for bone health and development, it is important for a pregnant mother. When a woman expects a baby, she needs to make sure that she gets enough calcium to maintain her own bone mass and the skeleton of her growing baby. Healthy, sensible eating and planning are necessary to give your body and the growing baby everything needed for a healthy outcome. Dairy will help provide you and your baby with many of the important nutrients you need. Your daily calcium needs during the life cycle Your baby grows very fast in the first year of life: Birth weight triples Length increases by 50% Head circumference increases by 30% The percentage of water in the body decreases, whereas the percentage of fat and protein increases At one year of age, your baby should have at least developed four teeth It is well recognised that the period from birth to two years of age is a ‘critical window’ for the promotion of optimal growth, health, and behavioural development. Breastfeeding your baby is the best start for any child. Breast milk helps keep your baby healthy and it supplies all the necessary nutrients in the proper proportions. It also protects your baby against allergies, sickness, and child obesity. Breast milk is the perfect food for your baby – it changes constantly to meet babies’ needs. The milk volume and composition changes according to the time of day, nursing frequency, and the age of the baby to promote healthy growth. The World Health Organisation encourages exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. By the age of six months, your baby is now ready to be introduced to solid foods. This is the time to start with complementary feeding. Complementary feeding is defined as the process starting when breast milk alone is no longer enough to meet the nutritional requirements of infants, and other foods and liquids are needed in addition to breast milk. When you introduce your baby to solids, start with small amounts of one food at a time and increase the quantity as the child gets older. Examples of introductory foods include: soft maize meal porridge; iron-fortified rice cereal; sweet potatoes or potatoes; butternut and other mashed or strained vegetables; chicken livers or fine, soft meat or chicken; and mashed fruit like bananas or pawpaw. Subsequently, a variety of foods is recommended. This is also the ideal time to introduce yoghurt and cheese to your child. Yoghurt is a perfect base for lunch or an in-between snack. You can mix plain full-cream or double cream yoghurt with fresh mashed fruit. Remember your baby does not know the taste of sugar or salt and you do not need to add any sugar or use sweetened yoghurt. You can grate cheese into their vegetables or allow them to eat a piece of cheese just like that – it is a perfect finger food. Full-cream milk may also be used to mix their cereal or in a white sauce as an addition to vegetables. Adding milk to your baby’s food ensures the addition of many important nutrients and good quality protein. At the age of six months your baby still needs breast milk and mothers are strongly advised to continue breastfeeding. If possible, breastfeeding should continue up to two years. At six months your baby still needs 150 ml milk per kilogram of body weight. Acceptable milk sources include fresh full-cream milk, long-life milk (UHT), fermented milk (maas), or yoghurt. Increase the consistency and variety of food gradually as the infant gets older, adapting to the baby’s requirements and abilities. Infants can eat pureed, mashed, and semi-solid foods from six months of age. By eight months, most babies can also eat ‘finger foods’, which is food that they can eat on their own. By 12 months, most children can eat the same types of foods as the rest of the family. However, keep in mind the need for foods rich in nutrients. It is important to teach children from an early age to enjoy their food. Mealtimes should be times of relaxed social interaction in a loving environment. How and when to introduce dairy in your child’s diet There is a dairy product to suit everyone’s taste and dietary preferences.
WHITE GLO UPS THE ANTE ON ORAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY AS ONE Australian owned brand and leading dental innovator, White Glo is taking over our daily beauty and hygiene routines once again with a new range of hotly anticipated products. No stranger to pushing the boundaries of dental health and beauty, White Glo has launched world first innovations in their Curcumin and Turmeric, Instant White and Micellar Whitening Toothpastes – shaking up our daily brushing routine as we know it. Maintaining our health and wellbeing has never been more important than right now, and oral health and hygiene are no exception. Our mouths are the gateway to our immune system and vital organs and is often the first port of call when assessing our overall health. But a nod to oral health doesn’t just benefit our insides – taking care of our teeth, tongue and mouth with a consistent routine inevitably brings a freshness to our smiles, and there’s nothing quite like the confidence that a bright white smile brings. Getting there is not as tricky, disruptive or time consuming as you may think. Enter: the next generation of White Glo. Guaranteed to be working harder and smarter than the toothpaste sitting on your bathroom counter right now, White Glo’s new range heightens every health and beauty routine with a little pizazz you didn’t even know you needed. White Glo Curcumin and Turmeric Whitening Toothpaste (R72.95) – Stockist – Dis-Chem You’ll be forgiven for questioning whether you really did read turmeric in the same sentence as whitening toothpaste. These days, turmeric conjures images of spiced lattes and fragrant recipes, but it also works wonders for gum inflammation and keeping plaque and tartar build up at bay. White Glo’s Curcumin & Turmeric Whitening Toothpaste is equipped with extra strength agents that whitens and protects against decay at the same time. White Glo Instant White Whitening Toothpaste (R79.95) – Stockists – Clicks, Dis-Chem & Pick n Pay The joys of a product that make us feel glowing in a moment and has long-term health benefits is truly a thing to behold. White Glo Instant White Whitening Toothpaste has a firm seat at the table, as just one brush will leave you with a new spark to your pearly whites while simultaneously working to whiten the enamel on your teeth in the long term. The Blue Foam Optical technology is based on colour science – blue offsets yellow in the colour spectrum therefore this formula is designed to give teeth an immediate boost for when you need it most. White Glo Micellar Whitening Toothpaste (R49.95) – Stockist – Dis-Chem Health and beauty gurus are no stranger to the wonders of micellar water for when our skin needs a deep clean. It turns out the same goes for our teeth! White Glo Micellar Whitening Toothpaste is formulated with micelles – an active cleaning molecule which acts as a magnet to capture stains, plaque and tartar on the enamel. No vigorous brushing, no lengthy whitening processes – just a gentle brush with micellar and you’ll be on your merry way to a fresh white smile. A bright smile goes hand in hand with oral health. It’s never been simpler to satisfy both at once than with White Glo!
Five benefits of enjoying a hearty bowl of homemade soup We’ve just come out of a country-wide cold snap and it’s likely we will face another before winter is up. The cooler weather definitely offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in a hearty bowl of homemade soup. Be it a bisque or broth, Catherine Clark, the owner and founder of Harvest Table says that soups are not only an easy choice to warm you up, they are the ultimate healthy meal or snack that the whole family will love. “Whatever the season, my favourite go-to meal for my family is soup. The most wonderful thing about this easy, convenient meal is the health benefits that come with it. Combining so many essential food groups, soups are rich in the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that your body needs to keep you going, especially in the colder months,” Catherine says. She offers five reasons why you should be eating more soup this winter are: 1. Soup is inexpensive Making soup is a great way to use up all the leftovers you’ve got in your fridge and a little goes a long way. If you have veggies that are starting to wilt, tossing them into a soup can give them new life. Play around with ratios and measurements to create a warming, delicious bowl of goodness and add a variety of herbs and spices to create new flavours. 2. Soup is easy to prepare Soup is one of the easiest, stress-free meals to cook. You need zero “cheffy” skills to whip up a mouth-watering homemade delight. It’s simply a case of sweating off some onions, leeks or even celery, adding water or stock and whatever else you fancy, be it root vegetables, chicken or greens, and just waiting until everything is cooked through. It couldn’t be simpler. 3. It’s good for you Soups are versatile and you can pack them chock full of nutrient-dense fibrous vegetables, meats, lentils and beans. And because soups are slow-cooked, these ingredients retain their nutritional value, delivering a meal in a bowl that is easy to digest, appealing in texture and tastes great. Just go easy on the salt and cream, and your bowl of soup will always be a nutritious and filling option. 4. It freezes well Forget ready-made meals, soup is the last word in convenience foods. To prepare lunches or dinners in advance, whip up a big batch of your favourite soup over the weekend and you can stash half in the freezer to enjoy later. A bonus: you’ll have a healthy, homemade meal at the ready when you’re busy, under the weather or too tired to cook. 5. It can give your immune system a boost While all the ingredients used to make a homemade soup are nutritious, you can also give your immune system an extra boost by adding Harvest Table Bone Broth Powder to your soup. Good immunity starts in your gut, and bone broth ensures a well-functioning digestive system as it helps seal up any holes, heals the lining and nourishes the gut with important nutrients. Plus, bone broth is mild enough to be able to blend into almost any dish without the risk of it overpowering, or even changing the flavour. In fact, in soups, it is known to enhance the flavour. In hopes of tempting even beginner cooks to jump on the soup bandwagon, here is a much-loved simple, but delicious soup recipe by @drjoshaxe from the Harvest Table kitchen: Home-made Chicken Broth INGREDIENTS: 2kg chicken necks/feet/wings 3 carrots, chopped 3 celery stalks, chopped 2 medium onions, peel on, sliced in half lengthwise and quartered 4 garlic cloves, peel on and smashed 1 teaspoon Himalayan salt 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 bay leaves 3 sprigs fresh thyme 5–6 sprigs parsley 1 teaspoon oregano 18–20 cups cold water **Optional: 8 tablespoons of The Harvest Table Bone Broth DIRECTIONS: Place all ingredients in a 10-quart capacity slow cooker. Add in water. Simmer for 24–48 hours, skimming fat occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Discard solids and strain remainder in a bowl through a colander. Let stock cool to room temperature, cover and chill. Use within a week or freeze up to three months. Harvest Table has a wide range of collagen products that are available from www.harvesttable.co.za. Follow Catherine on Instagram: @whole_healthy_me.
Cravings’ are often the cause of overindulging and cheating on everyday healthy eating that contributes to weight gain. But…did you know that your ‘craving’ could be the cause of a deficiency in your diet or your body telling you that it needs a certain nutrient. Continue reading, if you want to know which nutrients you really need to nip those ‘cravings’ in the bud. Craving this…. Means you may be missing this… General overeating The science behind overeating, hunger and cravings is vast and can easily fill a book. We overeat for many reasons — hunger (the rumbling in your stomach) and appetite, of course — but also when we are tired or to celebrate, to be social, to soothe and to relieve boredom. However, a lack of silicon (found in nuts and seeds), tryptophan (found in cottage cheese, raisins, sweet potato and spinach) and tyrosine (present in orange, red, green fruits and vegetables, Vitamin C supplement) could also contribute to overeating. If you ‘crave’ the following foods, it could be your body telling you what you really need. Hormones and cravings As many as 70% of women suffer from PMS-related food cravings, bloating, fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood swings and irritability – any of which have the potential to sabotage a healthy diet. First, you have food cravings, usually for sweet, starchy foods with an underlay of fat, like chocolate ice cream. And then, your bad mood makes you say, ‘To hell with it!’ You lose your willpower to exercise and any control over what you are eating. What do we eat when those cravings hit? Chocolate is no. 1 on the hit parade, followed generally by other sweets. Salty foods, particularly chips, are a distant third. The hormonal ebbs and spikes that occur throughout a woman’s cycle are the major culprits in PMS. Cravings during PMS could further be exacerbated by a deficiency in zinc! Cravings, foods and moods Food also influences our mood and mood influences our food choices or could be the cause of you succumbing to that ‘craving’. If you find that your mood changes after meals and snacks, it may be that you’re lacking the nutrients that can help promote good mental health. Anxiety is often due to a deficiency of folic acid and magnesium. Folic acid can be found in foods such as meat, spinach, beetroot and asparagus. Depression could be made worse if your diet is lacking in vitamin B6 and B3 found in lean meat, oily fish (salmon, trout, tuna), whole grains, some fruits and vegetables as well as avocado. If poor concentration & attention is a problem then you need omega-3 fats and Vitamin B1 found in pork, seafood, whole grains, seeds and most vegetables. Insulin: Fuel for cravings Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body produces insulin but the body’s cells do not use the insulin properly. Insulin helps cells use blood glucose for energy. After you eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner, insulin is released into the bloodstream. Insulin’s job is to give muscles and organs permission to access sugar in the bloodstream. When people are insulin resistant, their muscle, fat and liver cells do not respond properly to insulin. As a result, their bodies need more insulin to help glucose enter cells. The pancreas tries to keep up with this increased demand for insulin by producing more. When there is too much insulin present, it contributes to sugar cravings as well as the “mid-afternoon lows.” Eventually, those sugar cravings lead to weight gain if we give in. Insulin resistance increases the risk of developing pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A person is classified as being insulin resistant if their middle circumference is >88cm (women) and >102cm (men). So get those measuring tapes out……or alternatively your Dietitian would be able to arrange for the necessary blood tests to be performed to determine if you are insulin resistant. Insulin resistance is a major global health concern that proves to be difficult to combat. Are you a victim? Tips on controlling those nasty cravings Have regular meals as well as snacks and DON’T skip meals. This will help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and prevent cravings. Limit starchy carbohydrates intake to meal times only and choose Low Glycemic Index starches. NO Starchy carbohydrate snacks – rather choose lean protein e.g. biltong, a small portion of nuts or yoghurt Exclude refined sugar like jelly, sweets or biscuits – this will only make the cravings worse! Know your metabolic rate: use it as an indication of the total carbohydrates that you need (and are allowed to eat) in a day –Your dietitian would be able to measure this for you. Have yourself checked out! Our dietitian’s take a complete diet history, assess your diet and establish which nutrients you are lacking in. Anél, Caryn or Sanmare can then advise you on how to make the necessary dietary changes to ensure a nutritionally balanced diet. If you are concerned about the nutritional adequacy of your diet, then make use of a good quality, comprehensive multi-vitamin/mineral supplement. Ask your dietitian for advice. Craving sugar and carbohydrates? Then consider using a chromium supplement. Chromium helps to maintain blood-sugar levels, by assisting insulin to do its job and keep the blood-sugar levels even which reduces sugar cravings. You require 200 mcg Chromium, twice a day, for control of cravings. Some forms of chromium may be toxic – so make sure you use the correct supplement. Discuss this with your dietitian, otherwise come and have a look at the practice where we stock the correct brands of chromium. Brushing your teeth is a tactic to help avoid late night snacking, which is mainly something that’s habitual. Many times when we eat late at night, it’s by force of habit, not because we are really ‘craving’ or hungry. Another tactic is to avoid the kitchen after a certain time at night, say 8pm. Many of us go in the kitchen like mindless zombies looking for stuff to munch on, so this “no kitchen re-entry” rule
This easy-to-make classic is a failproof winner for all busy moms! We’ve taken our version of this dish to the next level by adding more flavour and some extra crunch. Cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and phosphorus; three nutrients particularly important to help build and maintain healthy bones, making our Triple Mac and Cheese a nutritious meal with each serving including about 60 grams of cheese. Serves 4-6 people Ingredients 100 g salted butter 100 g (3/4 cup) flour 750 ml full-cream milk 180 g (1.½ cup) grated mild cheddar cheese 120 g (1 cup) grated white mature cheddar cheese 40 g (1/3 cup) parmesan cheese 1/4 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp mustard powder 500 g pasta – fusilli is recommended For the topping 60 g (1/2 cup) mild cheddar cheese (as a topping) 1 small packet sour cream and chives crisps – crushed (get the kids to help out) salt and pepper to taste Method Pre-heat the oven to 180°C. Bring a big pot of water to the boil then season well with salt. Cook the pasta by following the package instructions. Whilst the pasta is cooking, start the triple cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, on a medium-high heat, melt the butter, then add all the flour. Whisk it together and cook them for about a minute. It should form a smooth paste called a roux. Then remove from the heat. Heat up the milk in the microwave for about 2-4 minutes, this will prevent lumping. Add small amounts of the hot milk to the roux, and mix well until incorporated each time. Cook the sauce for a few minutes, whisking the entire time with a hand whisk for about 5-10 min. Your white sauce should be nice and smooth and quite thick. If it’s too thick then just add a bit more milk. Remove the pan from the heat and then add the cheeses, give it a good stir until all the cheese have melted. Add the paprika and mustard powder, mix well. Season with salt and ground pepper. Set aside. Once the noodles are done, firm to the bite – al dente, drain and then return them to the pot, pour about 3/4 of the cheese sauce into the pasta and give it a good stir with spoon. Pour the Triple Mac and Cheese into a greased, oven proof dish. Add the remaining cheese sauce on top of the pasta and smooth it out using the back of a spoon. Make sure you cover the entire surface. In a small bowl decant the packet of crisps and crush it. Mix the half cup of grated cheddar cheese with the crisps. Sprinkle this mixture on top of the Mac and Cheese. Pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Enjoy! Nutrition analysis Serving size: 280 g Energy (kJ) 1434 Protein (g) 13.2 Total Carbohydrates (g) 34.2 Fat (g) 16 Calcium (mg) 162 To download the recipe card and find other dairy inspired recipes, visit https://www.rediscoverdairy.co.za/otw-portfolio-category/recipes-dairy/
Your baby is nearing six months and excitement starts to mount as you prepare to introduce solids for the first time. To help you navigate your way through this journey, here are a few top do’s and don’ts. DO: ● Even though milk alone may not meet your baby’s nutritional needs from 6 months, milk is still an important source of nutrients essential for healthy growth. This means that you will continue to offer your baby milk when you start with solid foods. Squish 100% fruit and veg purees are the perfect way to introduce solids to your baby – free from preservatives, flavourings, colourants and starch, the Squish range of fruit and veg purees offer a convenient solution to baby’s weaning needs. ● Look beyond cereal or porridge as a first food. Traditionally, starches like cereals and soft porridge (e.g. rice porridge or maize porridge) are preferred. While these are good options, you can also try other foods like puréed sweet potato, butternut, carrots, apples, pears, pawpaw, and peaches. ● For a convenient way to get your baby to try their first foods, why not try Squish 100% fruit and veg purees? Squish offers a range of 100% fruit and veg purees and pressed 100% fruit and veg juices. The convenient pouches are well-loved amongst mommies and are perfect for babies from the first introduction of solids, right through the weaning process – from babies to toddlers and beyond. ● Prepare your baby’s first food with milk. Regardless of the food you choose, prepare it with baby’s milk to help your baby recognise a flavour that they have been used to for the past 6 months. Offer this food for three days before moving on to another food or changing the flavour in the food, to check that babyyour is not allergic to anything. The Squish range of single fruits like Squish 100% Apple puree or Squish 100% Pear puree are a convenient way to start baby on solids. ● Offer your baby a variety of flavours from early on. It is good practice as you progress on your solids journey, but continually offer baby’s tastebuds new flavours and taste dimensions. Blend starches, fruit, vegetables and flavours in interesting combinations e.g. beetroot and blueberry, cinnamon and pumpkin, oats and apple puree, cauliflower and peach, etc. Squish 100% fruit and veg purees offer a wide range of flavour choices, all ready for you and baby to try, no mess, no fuss. Like Squish Summer Berries, Squish Medley of Fruits, and Squish Mixed Veg, or why not try our NEW Squish apple, sweet potato and sweet corn, or NEW Squish sweet potato, apple and cinnamon puree. ● Let your baby play with food. The eating experience is about more than just taste and the other senses like sight, feeling and smell are equally important. Allow your baby to experiment with the food you are serving by adding some to the tray of the feeding chair or scooping into their little hands. This will encourage your baby to start moving the hand to the mouth to learn the important skill of self-feeding. DON’T: ● Do not introduce solids for the first time when your baby is sick. Illnesses, fever, teething, and runny stomachs are not a good time to try solids as your baby will not be in a happy space. ● Do not limit your baby’s exposure to other textures. While it is important to start with pureed options as your baby first experiences the change in texture from liquid milk, it is easy to get stuck here. Be sure to progress to lumpier foods over time. Go from fully pureed to leaving some lumps, and rather than using a blender roughly mash with the back of a fork. The ability to handle lumpier foods is important long term for your baby’s oral development for speech and can happen quicker than most parents realise. ● Do not prepare baby’s food with added salt and sugar. A baby’s kidneys are not mature enough to manage a lot of salt. There is no need to prepare food with added salt, and it is advised to avoid adding salt when preparing your baby’s meals. There is also no need to add sugar. Let your baby get used to the natural sweetness from foods like fruit and dairy. Rather use a variety of herbs and spices to excite your baby’s taste buds, such as cinnamon, cumin, mint, vanilla essence, etc. ● Do not avoid rejected foods. Studies have shown that it takes up to 15 exposures of a new food before a baby is likely to eat it. To help track this, make a list of foods like fruits, vegetables, protein and starches and place on the fridge. Every time you offer it to your baby, mark it off with a tick (if liked) or cross (if baby spits it out). Simply freeze the pureed food that your baby rejects and try (and try and try) again another time. ● Do not avoid fruit. There is no evidence that babies will not like vegetables if they have already had naturally sweeter fruit. Suitable fruits can be introduced early on, such as apple puree or mashed banana. You can also mix fruits with yoghurt and vegetables, such as carrot and apple puree or sweet potato and pear puree. Do not worry or stress too much, follow your baby’s lead and enjoy these special first moments watching your baby learn and find their way. Whatever it is, remember your baby will let you know when it is ready and you should enjoy the process.
Winter is here, it’s the ideal time to spend with family by the fireside, wrapped up snuggly with deliciously warm meals. Winter is also a time to stay healthy and boost your immune system. Did you know? Tomatoes are rich in natural vitamins and antioxidants and perfect to fight off those nasty winter bugs! Rhodes Quality has a range of canned tomato and paste products that will have you making the tastiest, heartiest winter recipes with ease. With the goodness of mother nature sealed in every can, rest assured you will create nourishing and satisfying meals for your family prepared with love. Everything from lasagne to slow-cooked pulled pork, an easy pumpkin and chickpea curry, beef and veg pie or a lighter lunch with chicken parmesan wraps – these 5 simple meals all have the goodness of Rhodes Quality tomatoes in them. Mexican Baby Marrow Lasagne A delectable, spicy, Mexican-inspired no-carb lasagne that is perfect for a cosy Mexican themed dinner night in with the family. This dish uses Rhodes Quality Mexican Style Tomatoes, Onions & Chilies, which has been made by sealing in all the goodness of the spices in one can for your convenience – for an added Vitamin C boost serve the dish with a glass of pineapple juice. A delectable, spicy, Mexican-inspired no-carb lasagne that is perfect for a cosy Mexican themed dinner night in with the family. This dish uses Rhodes Quality Mexican Style Tomatoes, Onions & Chilies, which has been made by sealing in all the goodness of the spices in one can for your convenience – for an added Vitamin C boost serve the dish with a glass of pineapple juice. Ingredients (serves 6) 1 x 400g can Rhodes Quality Tomato Mexican Style 15 ml (1 Tbsp) 1 onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed 500 g lean beef mince salt and freshly cracked black pepper 400 g baby marrows, washed and thinly sliced lengthways 250 g plain cream cheese 2 eggs 60 g (½ cup) grated mozzarella cheese 60 g (½ cup) grated cheddar cheese 1 red pepper, seeded and diced Method Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add the onion and fry until softened. Add the garlic and fry for a few minutes more. Add the can of Rhodes Quality Tomatoes, Mexican Style and bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes and season to taste. In a casserole dish that has been sprayed with non-stick spray, layer up the mince alternatively with the baby marrow slices, ending with a layer of mince. Whisk together the cream cheese and the eggs until smooth and season to taste. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the top of the mince. Mix the cheeses and sprinkle over the cream cheese then sprinkle over the red pepper. Bake the lasagne in an oven that has been preheated to 180° c for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden and set. Serve hot. Slow-cooked pulled pork Tender enough to pull apart with a fork, this slow-cooked pork can be served on buns, in wraps or over rice and mash and is a versatile meal for lunch or dinner and the sauce uses Rhodes Quality Tomato and Onion Gravy for your convenience. Pair with a delicious Rhodes Quality 100% orange juice to pack a vitamin C punch. Ingredients (serves 6) 2 x 400 g cans Rhodes Quality Tomato and Onion Gravy 500 ml (2 cups) Rhodes Quality Orange 100% Fruit Juice Blend 1.5 kg pork shoulder salt and freshly cracked black pepper 125 ml (½ cup) brown sugar 4 garlic cloves, crushed 250 ml (1 cup) prepared chicken stock Method Place the pork into the bottom of a slow cooker and season well. Pour the Rhodes Quality Tomato and Onion Gravy and the Rhodes Quality Orange 100% Fruit Juice Blend over the meat. Add the brown sugar, garlic, and chicken stock. Cook over medium heat for 5 -6 hours or until it shreds easily. Remove the meat from the sauce and shred using two forks. Pour any excess oil off the top of the sauce and whisk well. Season to taste. Serve the meat on buns or wraps with the sauce on the side. Pumpkin and Chickpea Curry An easy vegetarian curry, prepared in under and hour made with Rhodes Quality tinned Chickpeas for your convenience. Ingredients (serves 6) 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 x 115 g Rhodes Quality Tomato Paste Cup 500 g (2 cups) peeled and chopped pumpkin 30 ml (2 Tbsp) vegetable oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 carrots, peeled and chopped 1 red pepper, seeded and sliced 1 garlic clove, crushed 30 ml (2 Tbsp) Pakco Curry Paste 1 x 400 ml can coconut milk 200 g broccoli, washed and cut into florets to serve: rice, poppadums and fresh coriander Pepper Steak Pie A South African winter favourite. Homemade conveniently with Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped and Peeled. Deliciously saucy. Ingredients (makes 4 pies) 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped & Peeled 1 x 50 g Sachet Rhodes Quality Tomato Paste 1.5 kg beef steak, de-boned and cubed 125 ml (½ cup) cake flour salt & freshly cracked black pepper 30 ml (2 Tbsp) sunflower oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed 10 ml (2 tsp) dried mixed herbs 500 ml (2 cups) prepared beef stock 20 ml (1Tbsp + 1 tsp) cracked black pepper 1 x 400 g roll ready-made puff pastry 1 egg, lightly beaten Method Place the beef cubes in a large bowl. Add the cake flour and season well with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Heat the oil in a large heavy bottomed saucepan. Shake the excess flour off the meat and fry in batches until sealed on all sides and set aside. Add the onions to the saucepan and, over a low heat, fry until softened. Add the garlic and herbs and fry for a few
Covid-19 has changed the way we do things. It has simplified the aspect of staying home. Whether you need to get vegetables, fast food, host an important meeting or even get your child to catch up with school work, it can all be done from the comfort of your home. The pandemic has allowed us to stay home but still remain connected. It has even made it possible for patients seeking mental health assistance to get help from their home. From scheduling your medication to virtually speaking to your provider it is all possible for the patient’s benefit. There are also a number of support groups that have been made available to help people who are unable to cope with social distancing to the anxiety of contracting the virus. This new age of no longer needing to sit in a therapy chair and pour out your trouble has been received well by patients. Infact studies show that most people are very comfortable with the idea of not needing to leave their home to seek help. In the United States more than half of the patients say the pandemic has changed the way they speak to their doctor. And most of them have also said they would switch to a different provider if the current one did not offer telehealth appointments. In South Africa this has also become the new way of seeking help. Many helplines have already been setup to assist people who need the mental health support online. But the real question is where does it leave real life support? There are still a number of people that feel they are more comfortable seeking help in person. This means that while many have adopted to the online portal there are still those who need face-to-face contact. Let us look at some of the benefits of online treatment versus face-to-face treatment. Online: Using this platform allows you to seek help without leaving your home. This means those that are dealing with issues of anxiety and agoraphobia would prefer this method of therapy. Face-to-face: This has been the way of treatment for a long time and for many this what they are familiar with. Online: A big advantage for people with physical disabilities as well as those that are located in remote areas. This way they can still be in contact with their health care provider regardless of where they are at the time. Face-to-face: Therapist are able to engage all senses. By having a patient physically in front of you in a session you are able to read their body language and reactions. It also helps patients take in the atmosphere and treatment. Online: This might be disrupted if you share an apartment or home with multiple people. One might not be able to find a quite space to engage with the therapist during the session. Face-to-face: A therapy session might be the only safe place for a patient. This means that they would only find comfort and escapism in the confines of the offices of this trusted person. For someone like this online would be a major adjustment. The differences might not mean that there needs to an adjustment in the way therapy is conducted. However, what it does open us up to is the possibility of having an alternative medium to seek help. This might have been practised on a small scale pre-covid, but now that the accessibility to mental health care is constant, there is a good chance more and more people would be on board to seek help. As we continue to accept this new way of living let us be open to these possibilities and encourage a living that is both holistic and convenient. Devan Moonsamy is the CEO of ICHAF Training Institute, a South African TVET College. He is the author of Racism, Classism, Sexism, And The Other ISMs That Divide Us, AND My Leadership Legacy Journal available from the ICHAF Training Institute. The ICHAF Training Institute offers SETA-approved training in business skills, computer use, and soft skills. Devan specialises in conflict and diversity management, and regularly conducts seminars on these issues for corporates. To book a seminar with Devan or for other training courses, please use the contact details below. Tel: 011 262 2461 | 083 303 9159 | Email: [email protected] [email protected] | Website: www.ichaftraining.co.za | www.devan-moonsamy.com By Devan Moonsamy
South Africa has constantly teetered on the edge of food insecurity and Covid-19 has officially pushed us over. While food security was highlighted during the pandemic, as the pandemic recedes it will likely become a major social and political issue as the coming year unfolds. And rightfully so. The 2020 Child Gauge identified food insecurity as one of the main reasons why South Africa remains stuck in a low-growth trajectory. The report points out that not only are 25% of South Africa’s children stunted through insufficient nutrients for healthy growth and development but that most South African children now live in communities where healthy foods are no longer available or affordable. Above inflation food prices are one reason for this especially if we consider that a food basket for the poor has increased by 15.3% over the past year, costing R4 051,20 on average. And the impact is certainly being felt. An increase in destitution Some of the NPOs we support report a dire situation on the ground. For instance, Sue Wildish, MD of The Lunchbox Fund reports that the collapse of the tourism and hospitality industry throughout the pandemic has pushed large swathes of population into poverty, with serious consequences for childhood development. It established a downward spiral in which parents were unable to pay fees into Early Childhood Development Centre (ECDCs) and consequently keep their children at home. Those ECDCs that were able to stay open suffered from reduced capacity and teachers in turn could not be paid. With more jobs lost, even more households were pushed into food-insecurity. Schools need to be encouraged to stay open and to accept children regardless of cost so they can be in a place of safety and be fed. People working in NPOs further note that queues at Department of Social Development and Home Affairs have increased by 50% in most areas. This increase in destitution means children are eating low quality, low-price foods with little nutritive value. Wildish reports the impact of this as being “children who are stunted, undernourished and overweight – a triple impact”. Anecdotally, she says, 25% of ECDCs that are unfunded by the Department of Social Development or who are not receiving support from NPOs have closed permanently, and two million children will no longer have access to pre-school educational stimulation and the meals they receive at school. One meal a day, if that Feedback from Kelvin Glen, Executive: Stakeholder Relations, Afrika Tikkun, is that its teams of social workers, educators and community development officers have reported an increase in the incidence of malnutrition throughout their communities. The meals served at their centres are often the only meal the children/youth receive. He believes that poverty and suffering, as well as a lack of opportunities in already overpopulated areas, lead to a rise in crime, alcohol and drug abuse, and violence. Afrika Tikkun believes that this is due to rising food prices, which has resulted in a lack of access to healthy, nutritious meals, as well as high levels of unemployment and poverty. He is convinced that the solution lies in upscaling feeding schemes by the NPO industry and government in the short term. Recognizing that battling fires all the time is impractical, Glen proposes a two-pronged long-term strategy: “We must solve the structural inequality in our society through long-term growth and mobilization of the youth to achieve economic independence.” Secondly, South Africa has an abundance of fertile land and unemployed unskilled youth, the solution is ‘agripreneurship’ training in agriculture and entrepreneurship.” Empowering the unskilled and unemployed youth to become entrepreneurs in the agriculture sector will dually address the issue of poor nutrition and create employment in the production of fresh vegetables and livestock. Worryingly, Afrika Tikkun believes that those who are poor have already hit their breaking point. In turn, the non-profit sector is overburdened in attempting to help what has been described as a “tidal wave of need.” Poverty: a hidden problem Noting a reduced media coverage around food insecurity in SA – HOPE worldwide South Africa’s Dr Marc Aguirre says his organisation continues to see many families that are suffering, caused mainly by to food insecurity and hunger and that are living lives of ‘quiet desperation’ HOPE argues that food insecurity will continue to debilitate our society by increasing illness, child stunting and mortality. It increases the direct economic costs of coping with the health impacts of malnutrition and enormous reduction in human potential and economic productivity. Aguirre offers his ‘wish list’ of what could be done in the longer term of combat malnourishment: Increase the child support grant amount to levels that will allow families to put adequate quality food on the table Reduce the cost of staple foods through mechanisms such as price subsidies Promote local food production closer to communities Continue to raise awareness through media channels about the massive and growing plight of families and children facing food insecurity and hunger Continue to raise funds through mechanisms such as the Solidarity Fund and funding for NGOs to continue to enable them to reach the most vulnerable While KFC’s Add Hope has provided 360 million meals to date – supporting more than 140 different non-profit organisations (NPOs) and feeding 150 000 children daily since inception, we are only too aware that much more needs to be done. Rising food prices has a devastating impact on impoverished communities. It means less food purchasing power both in terms of quantity and quality. This has an impact on health, child development, and social and mental well-being and given that South Africa produces enough food to feed the entire population it begs the question, why can’t we solve South Africa’s malnutrition problem? Andra Nel, CSI and sponsorship manager at KFC Africa
Your baby is nearing six months and excitement starts to mount as you prepare to introduce solids for the first time. This is often called first-foods (weaning) or complementary feeding, implying that foods complement milk at this stage of the weaning journey, instead of replacing it entirely. Even though milk alone may not meet your baby’s nutritional needs anymore, it is still an important source of nutrients and minerals essential for healthy growth and this means that you will still offer baby milk when you first start with solid foods. Ready… The best food to start with is one that is culturally acceptable and familiar to the family. Traditionally, this may be a soft porridge like rice porridge or maize porridge, but other options may be single flavours like puréed sweet potato, or butternut, carrots, apples, pears, pawpaw, or peaches. Regardless of the food you choose, prepare it with breast milk (or formula) to help your baby recognise a flavour that they have been used to for the past 6 months. Offer this food for three days before moving on to another food or changing the flavour in the food. For example, if your baby likes pumpkin, mix with pureed apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon next time as you can mix foods together from early on. It is good practice to continually offer baby’s tastebuds new flavours and taste dimensions as you progress on your solids journey. There is no evidence that babies will not like veggies if they have already had naturally sweeter fruit. It is also suggested that you try a food that is not an allergen for now, avoiding for example a wheat-based cereal (gluten), yoghurt (cow’s milk) or egg at first. For a convenient way to get your baby to try its first foods, why not try Squish 100% fruit and veg purees? Squish offers a range of 100% fruit and veg purees and pressed 100% fruit and veg juices. The convenient pouches are well-loved amongst mommies and are perfect for babies from the first introduction of solids, right through the weaning process – from babies to toddlers and beyond. Squish 100% fruit and veg puree and juice flavours give parents a broader range of taste options for even the fussiest of eaters, right from the first introduction of solids through to a full meal, or tasty snack. Set… Time to stock up on baby-friendly spoons, bowls, and bibs. Think about where you want to feed your baby. Choose an appropriate feeding space, one that will help promote sensory stimulation and the social aspect of mealtimes. Remember, meals do not need to be limited to the feeding chair and you can feed your baby on the lap. Meals also do not need to be limited to the kitchen or dining room. When age appropriate, sit on the floor with a blanket or outside under the trees on a warm day. Regardless, it is important to ensure however that your baby is always well supported and sitting upright when being fed. Invest in different sized bowls with fun colours (silicon cups work great) and a fun mini cooler bag for when you’re out and about. Squish 100% fruit and purees and pressed juices offer convenient meal solutions whether at home, on the go, right from the start of the weaning journey. And because Squish purees are free from preservatives, flavourants, colourants, you can rest assured you are offering your baby a meal that is pretty much the same as making it yourself. Go! It’s go time which means it’s time to choose the right time of day, ideally when both you and your baby are calm, relaxed, and not in a rush. This may be the weekend for working parents, or a weekday for stay-at-home moms. You may also want to include other family members for this memorable milestone. The best time of the day to start offering solids to your baby is when your baby is most alert and awake, and in a happy mood. This may be after waking from a midmorning nap and between milk feeds so that your baby is not too tired, too hungry, or too full. During the beginning stages, do not worry too much about the formality of mealtimes as we know it, like offering cereal for breakfast at 8am or a vegetable with lunch at 1pm. Follow your baby’s lead and enjoy these special first moments watching your baby’s taste buds get excited about solid food. You can then start to add other tastes and eventually other textures when your baby is ready, and Squish 100% fruit and veg purees offer a meal solution for every occasion.
It’s World Chocolate Day on the 7th of July and this year we are celebrating this sweet occasion with GD Chocolate! World Chocolate Day is all about championing one of the greatest culinary innovations in human history while educating ardent chocolate fans on the processes, resources and methods that go into each slab. GD Chocolate is a unique chocolate manufacturer in that not only do they focus on delicious taste but also seek to highlight the inherent health benefits of authentic cocoa and elevate them with natural, superfood ingredients. Let’s take a look closer at all the different treats you can indulge in this Chocolate Day. GD Chocolate Slabs GD Chocolate prides itself in sourcing sustainable, natural and authentic cocoa to champion in all their chocolates. Besides being mouth-watering delicious, chocolate’s initial popularity is accredited to cocoa’s immense health benefits, especially when kept as natural and unprocessed as possible. With each slab of GD Chocolate you are getting a dose of essential mineral magnesium, theobromine (which strengthens and improves heart function), anti-oxidants and tryptophan which boosts serotonin levels and gives us that good-feel chocolate is so famously associated with. Furthermore, all chocolates in GD’s range are dairy-free with no preservatives, no soy lecithin, no artificial colourants or flavourants. The slabs come in seven different flavours: Lemon & Black Pepper, Himalayan salt, Vanilla, Coffee, Orange, Mint and Rooibos & Matcha. GD Loaded Logs One of GD Chocolate’s most unique and innovative products, the GD Loaded Logs pack a superfood punch. Brimming with ingredients that contain powerful health-benefits, these chocolates are delicious and deliver the nutrients your body is looking for. The four different flavours target different specific health areas: Collagen: If you’re looking for the spring of eternal youth, The Collagen Log is your ticket. Loaded with collagen and sporting a lusciously chewy toffee-like taste, this is your go-to if looking to add some extra TLC to your skin, hair and nails. Vitamin C: Vitamin C plays an important role in strengthening your immune system and should be consumed daily. With a sweet citrus tang, GD Chocolate’s Vitamin C Loaded Log has made it an easy pill to swallow. Maca Moringa: In need of an energy pick-up? The Maca Moringa Loaded Log is made specifically to give you an extra boost that, unlike other chocolate bars, is sustained and won’t suddenly leave you hanging. Turmeric: Finally, help your body out with a punch of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory benefits with the ginger-warm, coconutty Turmeric Loaded Log. Buttercups: With crisp, thin, quality chocolate enveloping a soft, mouth-watering centre coming in five delectable flavours, you really can’t beat GD’s sensational buttercups. These decedent, bite-sized gourmet chocolates are the perfect treats to indulge in when wanting something just a little more exciting than your run-of-the-mill chocolate experience. With flavours like Almond Butter, Mint, Mocha-Coffee, Turkish Rose & Vanilla, there is something for everyone. Vegan Slabs: GD now offers three delectable vegan options in the form of slabs (R65 ea). GD’s Vegan & Sugar Free Slabs are full bodied, dense, rich-tasting chocolate that are keto and vegan diet friendly as well as free from cane sugar. They have been sweetened with Erythritol and are made with love. They contain nosoya lecithin, preservatives, artificial colourants or flavourants. No matter if you’re feeling adventurous with one of GD’s innovative loaded logs, looking to treat yourself with a delectable buttercup or are just craving a classic chocolate slab, get ready to boost your body and satisfy your every chocolate dream this World Chocolate Day. With GD Chocolates in your corner, forget New Years and consider July 7th the new best day on the block. About GD Chocolate: GD Chocolate is passionate about bringing deliciously healthy chocolate options to the South African market. GD chocolates are dairy-free and contain no cane sugar as only the very best local raw honey is used. They also contain no soya lecithin, preservatives, artificial colourants or flavourants. The Vegan GD Chocolate range is sweetened with erythritol, making it 100% vegan friendly. https://gdchocolate.com
Cheese contains a unique combination of valuable nutrients. It is not only nutritious but also delicious and versatile. Add it to dishes for flavour, eat it in moderate amount by itself or on a sandwich, or put it in a lunch box as a convenient snack. There are many varieties of cheese. Some of the well-known ones are Cheddar, Gouda, Mozzarella and Feta. Cheese Packed with protein, calcium, zinc and other essential nutrients, cheese deserves its place as a healthy food item in your family’s diet – whichever one you choose. Here’s why cheese is good for you: Cheese is an excellent source of good-quality protein. It contains all the essential building blocks (amino acids) you need to build strong bones and muscles. With one portion of cheese per day, that is two slices of cheese or 2 tablespoons of grated cheese (40 g), you get: 15% of your daily vitamin A needs – for good eyesight and to fight against disease 30% of your daily calcium needs – for strong, healthy bones and teeth 27% of your daily needed zinc – to support your immune system and help protect you against disease. Cheese fills you up with a unique combination of valuable nutrients and makes you feel fuller for longer, preventing unnecessary snacking. You can have a portion of cheese daily even if you have high cholesterol. Research shows that cheese has a neutral or even protective effect on heart disease. Hard cheeses such as Cheddar and Gouda contain little to no lactose, which makes them good choices in case of lactose intolerance. Protein, calcium and phosphorus in cheese help to protect your teeth against decay. Research shows that eating hard cheese directly after a meal is a good way to protect your teeth and keep them healthy. To make cheese an affordable option in your diet, buy it in bulk when it is offered at a good price. Grate everything and then store it in smaller amounts in an airtight container or plastic bag in the freezer. This way the cheese will last long. You can use it directly from the freezer as needed. Choose cheese as a snack or part of a meal to: Help you reach your goal of 3 servings of dairy a day so that you get enough calcium for healthy bones Keep your teeth in tip-top shape so that you can keep smiling Help you regulate your appetite and feel fuller for longer. For more cheese tips, visit www.rediscoverdairy.co.za
It is common knowledge that healthcare costs rise exponentially and medical schemes have to find ways to reduce costs both for the medical scheme and its members. Kathy Malherbe spoke to Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, about generics and biosimilars and how they contribute towards reducing healthcare costs. One of the cost drivers is medication which is why The Pharmacy Act of 1997 and the Medicines Control Amendment Act, among other things, have made it mandatory for dispensers of medicine, be they doctors or pharmacists, to offer a patient a generic substitute if one is available. However, generics are not the only cost savers. The patent expiry on many biological medicines is opening the door to more affordable, life-saving ‘biosimilars’ to be produced – another ‘champion’ in the pharmaceutical industry. Increased consolidation in the healthcare industry is also having a positive impact on medicine prices and availability. Medical aids are trying to create more competition, even among medicines that are still under patent. They are also tightening up their formularies, in part to encourage pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide better pricing. What is a generic drug? A generic is a pharmaceutical drug that contains the same chemical substance as a drug that was originally protected by chemical patents. It is an exact copy of brand-name drugs that has the same dosage, intended use, effects, risks, safety and strength as the original. In other words, their pharmacological effects are identical to those of their brand-name counterparts. But at a much more affordable price… Generic medicines cost, on average, between 30 and 80% less than the original. What guarantee is there that generics are true replicas? In South Africa, the Medicines Control Council (MCC) carries the responsibility of making sure that generic drugs are safe and effective. Generic drug manufacturers have to prove their medicine is bioequivalent to the original brand before a product is approved into the local market. What is a biosimilar? Biological drugs are large, complex proteins made from living cells through highly complex manufacturing processes. Biosimilars are a close equivalent but not exact copies of biologicals. and are manufactured after the patent for the biological/reference drug ends. To be called a biosimilar drug, it must be shown to be safe, work as well as, and work in the same way as its reference drug – the biological. It must also be used in the same way, at the same dose, and for the same condition as the reference drug. The cost of manufacturing biological medicines is more expensive than conventional chemically produced medicines and, because biosimilars are close copies, they remain expensive but are still more cost effective that the original. What are they used to treat? The most important biological medicines are used to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes and cancers. How are they different from generics? The reason biological copies are called biosimilars is that, unlike generic medicines, the active ingredients are not exactly the same as the original but ‘similar.’ It is impossible to make identical copies when ‘translating’ biological molecules from living cells in the laboratory. Very importantly to note though, is that even though biosimilars are not a direct copy, the therapeutic effect is the same as the original biological product. Why are generics and biosimilars less expensive? Generics Pharmaceutical companies are researching and testing new active ingredients and medicines all the time. The patent is valid for about 20 years which means that only the approved company may research, create a new formulation (the ‘recipe’ and process for creating the actual medicine) and register the medicine. This takes years and carries a huge financial burden. After about 8 to 10 years on the market the patent usually expires and other drug companies can make an exact copy of the drug without the initial clinical research costs. Biosimilars While these medicines have revolutionised treatments for many diseases, the research and development expenses, including the costs of highly skilled scientists, clinical trials and the specialised equipment needed, are the main cost drivers. Companies are required to fund these costs, often in excess of 10 years, before registration for use by patients. Biosimilars save costs because: The molecule and effects have already been discovered and identified by the originator The number of patients required in the clinical trials is reduced The original biological medicine would have been ‘manufactured’ at least 20 years ago. New manufacturing methods are more efficient. The cost-efficiencies, which generic and biosimilar medicines provide, are assuming greater importance for state and private health funders as populations age and the prevalence of cancers and other non-communicable diseases increase. SA’s already stretched healthcare budget is coming under increasing pressure to fund the high cost of pharmaceuticals, especially biological medicines. While generics and biosimilars may not be a panacea for high healthcare costs, they will go a long way towards offering a cost-effective, quality treatment for a large range of diseases. In addition, these breakthrough treatments can halt progression and sometimes even prevent recurrence by acting on proteins that affect the genome/immune system.
The first bath. The first sleepover at granny. The first giggle. And now, the first taste of solid food. Initially babies only need milk (breast or formula) but as your baby grows the more proteins and minerals as well as thicker textures are needed, which is why the introduction of solid foods is crucial in baby’s development. Starting solids is an exciting milestone for the family but can also bring about some distress as to when to start. The World Health Organisation, supported by the South African Department of Health, encourages that babies start solid food from 6 months. This is an optimal time when your baby’s gut and kidneys are physiologically mature enough to handle solid food. Another reason is that your baby is born with only enough iron and certain other mineral stores to last about 6 months, after which your baby will need to start getting iron and other necessary minerals from food. Your baby will also start to show physical and developmental signs that they are ready to start eating solid food. Baby will sit without support and can hold their head steady. Baby will watch as you or a family member moves food to your mouth. Baby may try to grab your food and put it in its mouth. Baby will instinctively open the mouth when a spoon approaches. Baby may start to wake up more frequently for night feeds than before, indicating hunger. If your toddler starts to show these signs, in addition to the age consideration, it may be time to consider introducing solids. During this time it is important to continue to offer your baby milk. It is a good idea for the first solid meal to be offered during the day after a mid-morning nap and milk feed and when your baby is not too tired or too hungry. Your baby needs to be in top form to learn this new skill and to start its first food journey. It is always a better time to start when your baby is happy, healthy, and well, and not when ill, has a fever or any rashes. For a convenient way to get your baby to try its first foods, why not try Squish 100% fruit and veg purees, perfect for babies from the first introduction of solids, right through the weaning process – from babies to toddlers and beyond. Squish convenient puree pouches are well-loved amongst mommies and provide delicious tasting convenience, whether at home or on the go. Even better is that Squish purees are preservative free, colourant free and flavourant free with no added starch. Squish 100% fruit and veg puree and Squish 100% fruit and veg pressed juices flavours give parents a broader range of taste options for even the fussiest of eaters, right from the first introduction of solids through to a full meal, or tasty snack. For individualised professional advice for premature babies or any health or nutritional concerns, contact a healthcare professional such as a registered dietitian, paediatrician, or paediatric nurse. Brought to you by Squish 100% fruit and veg puree meals for babies, toddlers and beyond
Our bodies have more of a chance of managing the difficulties that life throws at them if they are well nourished. Indeed, good nutrition is one of the few things under our control when we need renewed vigour. Tip: Exhaustion can be an early warning that the body is not getting enough needed nutrients. We could be recovering from surgery or injury, struggling with illness, undergoing stress or be elderly. Or busy lives may result in our relying a bit too heavily on fast foods and snacks. Over the longer-term this can result in essential nutrients lacking, carrying a greater risk of degenerative disease. At all these times we have increased nutritional needs, especially for protein. Lifegain® Advanced Nutritional Shake has been tried and trusted by South Africans for 20 years, and its excellent formulation can help to restore nutrient levels and assist in repairing body tissues and maintaining muscle mass. Visit https://lifegain.co.za/real-life-stories/ for inspiring stories from users. Lifegain® is also a nutritious choice for healthy people who want to stay that way! In its 20 years on the South African market there has never been an equivalent nutritional supplement packing the ALL-IN-ONE cost-effective punch of Lifegain®. So, when shopping for various supplements, it is worth comparing content and cost per serving. It would take a lot of tablets to get the protein and nutrients that once-a-day Lifegain® provides at only R13-R14 a serving for example. Mixed with milk or water, Lifegain®’s gently processed triple protein blend of soy, milk and whey protein isolate provides 15 grams of protein a serving, plus essential amino acids, antioxidants, isoflavones, vitamins, minerals, glutamine and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Blitzed up with ripe pawpaw or berries, bananas, peanut butter or chocolate powder, Lifegain® also makes a delicious breakfast or anytime smoothie https://lifegain.co.za/recipes/ Available from Takealot, selected pharmacies and retail outlets nationwide. Price: Lifegain® 1 kg tin in vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry flavours, around R435. Lifegain® 300 g tin in vanilla, chocolate, cappuccino, or strawberry flavours, around R180. Lifegain® single serving sachets in strawberry or vanilla, around R19. Lifegain® Junior from 3 years, 300 g tin in vanilla, around R180. Lifegain® Glutamine 200 g tin, around R170. Enter here to win one of 2 hampers of Lifegain® products each valued at over R1000
Here’s a winter health fact. Our bodies need Vitamin D for many important processes including supporting the immune system, bone and muscle building, and to promote better sleep and mood. We can even produce enough vitamin D ourselves. That’s if we bare our arms, legs, back, chests or faces to the sun for a limited period of time, because the sun’s UV rays produce Vitamin D in our bodies. Scientists reckon that five to 15 minutes, or five to 30 minutes for darker skinned people, of sun exposure two or three times a week will do it. But during winter, just when we need this immune boosting and stress relieving sunny gift to help us through the season of colds and ‘flu, the days are short, we stay indoors, and are usually covered up head to toe for much of the time. But, fun tip ladies: if you wear a cami under your warm clothing, you can head for a sunny spot at a warm time of day, strip off the top layers and you’re all set for a short spot of winter sunbathing. You may not wish to try this at the office! For those of us who can’t do the sun thing, vitamin D is also available in some foods, mainly in fatty fish like pilchards, tuna and salmon. Milk, yogurts and cereals are often fortified with Vitamin D too. Still, there are good reasons why many of us can’t get enough Vitamin D from sun or food (being elderly, covered up clothing for religious reasons, no time to go outside, being darker skinned…). In those cases, a one-a-day Nativa Complex® Vitamin D3 https://www.nativacomplex.co.za/immune-health/#nativa-complex-vitamin-d3 can fill the gap. It’s the newest addition to the well-established Nativa Immune Complex® range. Nativa Complex® Vitamin D3 supplies 1000 IU of Vitamin D and can be administered from 6 years of age. Cost is around R100 for a month’s supply, from Takealot, Dis-Chem, Clicks and selected pharmacies nationwide. Read about this well formulated immune boosting range at https://www.nativacomplex.co.za/immune-health/#immune-complex-product, and then enter our competition for a chance to win one of two R750 vouchers from Cotton On . Their stylish men’s, women’s and kid’s clothing can see you through winter, and (yay) into Spring. #VITAMIN D3 #sunshine vitamin
With winter on its way, is your body sending you the sign’s that it’s collagen-deficient? If your neck is drooping, your hair is drying out and your joints ache, these are all warning signs that you may be collagen-deficient. And the worst is yet to come. Catherine Clark, the Owner and Founder of Harvest Table says that while there is no way to measure the amount of collagen in your body, you can generally tell when your body doesn’t have enough. “Collagen deficiency strikes nearly everyone over the age of 30. As you age, your body naturally begins to manufacture less collagen. But this is the glue that holds your body together and without it, your body literally starts falling apart. So if you have any of the signs that you may have a collagen deficiency, it’s time to act,” Catherine explains. Catherine shares five of the key signals that you could be collagen deficient. Wrinkling It’s not just your imagination, winter really is harder on your skin as cold air and wind strip away the skin’s hydration. That’s why you will often see more wrinkles appearing in the colder months, especially on your face. The great news is that collagen will keep your skin strong and elastic. Collagen aids in the skin’s hydration and helps wound repair and stretch marks by improving skin elasticity. It will also help your fingernails and hair grow and keep your teeth strong. You lose flexibility If your collagen stores are running low, you may lose some flexibility and find that your tendons and ligaments are stiffer. Whether you head indoors during winter or brave the cold outside, collagen can aid in exercise recovery and muscle growth. Glycine and arginine, two of the most important amino acids found in collagen, play a role in helping to form and repair muscle tissue, healing injuries, sparing tissue wasting, boosting the metabolism and aiding in muscle development. Joint pain Another all too common problem you may experience is joint pain. Though we often assume this is a natural part of ageing or caused by over-exercising, it can actually be due to a collagen deficiency. Cartilage is the buoyant, rubber-like tissue that covers the ends of long bones at the joints and it’s mostly made up of collagen. A collagen deficiency leads to more bone-on-bone movement, which can cause excessive friction that will lead to inflammation and may eventually progress to arthritis. Collagen will assist your body in preventing joint stiffness, swelling and pain. Cellulite A collagen deficiency can also result in worsening cellulite. When the fatty tissues underneath your skin push upward against your body’s connective tissues, the skin at the surface begins to pucker, resulting in cellulite. As your levels of collagen reduce, your skin becomes less firm, grows thinner and becomes more vulnerable to damage. The result is the all too familiar “orange peel” look that worsens with age. Collagen will boost your cell renewal and the skin’s suppleness and will reduce the all too obvious signs of cellulite. Digestive problems Uncomfortable bloating and other gut symptoms can be an indication that your body needs more collagen. A lack of collagen in the gut can lead to intestinal permeability or “leaky gut syndrome” and symptoms include constipation, diarrhoea, brain fog, fatigue and an impaired immune system. Again, this is easy to reverse if you boost your body’s collagen levels. Catherine says that the easiest and most efficient way to address a collagen deficiency is to look after your body with the right diet and supplements. “While we often think of wellness in terms of what we can see and apply on the outside, there’s a lot that can, and should, happen on the inside,” Catherine explains. “By supplementing your diet with collagen and making it part of your daily routine, you can vastly improve your skin and boost immune, cardiovascular and digestive health. Healthy winter skin and joints are only one scoop away.” Harvest Table has a wide range of collagen products that are available from www.harvesttable.co.za. Follow Catherine on Instagram: @whole_healthy_me.
“Lactose intolerance is not a milk allergy, but a gastrointestinal disturbance that happens after consuming more lactose than the body can handle”, says Maretha Vermaak, registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy. “It is merely the inability to digest the sugar naturally found in milk and milk products, called lactose.” Lactose consists of two sugar components, namely glucose and galactose, bound together. During normal digestion, the body produces an enzyme called lactase to separate these two sugar components, so that they can be absorbed into the blood. If the body does not produce enough of the enzyme lactase, the two sugar units cannot be separated. The milk sugar then starts to ferment, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, gas, loose stools and stomach pain. Most people who are lactose intolerant can tolerate up to 12 g of lactose in a single dose and experience few or no symptoms. A cup of milk (250 ml) typically contains 12 g of lactose. Dairy foods such as milk, maas, yoghurt and cheese provide important nutrients such as protein, calcium and potassium. Everyone – young and old – needs these nutrients for good nutrition. Lactose intolerance should not prevent you from having a healthy, balanced diet including milk and dairy products. Here’s how you can tolerate lactose better: Consume small amounts of milk and dairy at a time and space your intake throughout the day. Full-cream milk is tolerated better than low-fat or fat-free milk. Use milk and dairy foods combined with another food. For example, have milk with cereal or pap, stir plain yogurt or amasi into soup or have cheese on bread. Eating lactose-containing foods such as milk and other dairy products with other types of food slows the digestion of lactose and so helps to ease possible discomfort. Cheeses such as Cheddar, Gouda and Mozzarella contain very little lactose (less than 1 g lactose in a portion of 40 g) and are generally tolerated well. In fermented dairy products such as yoghurt and amasi some of the lactose is already broken down. As the live cultures in fermented dairy also improve lactose digestion, yoghurt and amasi are ideal choices if you are lactose intolerant. You can also try lactose-free dairy products. Dairy products help to build strong bones and teeth and contribute to good overall health. So, don’t miss out! You can benefit from the nutrients in dairy even if you are lactose intolerant. For any other questions about dairy, please visit: www.rediscoverdairy.co.za/askdairy/
Is your toddler going through a [insert latest favourite food craze here] phase? Think about how they want to hear the same song on repeat and play with the same toy, all day, every day. Eating the same foods every day is just another version of this. So, while we can helplessly blame this on a toddler’s love for routine and repetition, as parents, there are few things we can do to make these phases as healthy as possible. Up the Nutrition Bread, cheese, potatoes: whatever the food, be sure to always offer up the most nutritious option or version of that food. For example, leave the skin on the potatoes, a valuable source of nutrients and fibre, offer up wholewheat pasta or whole grain bread, or choose sugar- and salt-free peanut butter (may contain allergens). A good tip for starches like pasta, bread or cereal is to be guided by the food label. Aim to choose a starch product that has more than 6g of fibre per 100g, as this is defined as a high fibre food. Feeding your little one Squish 100% Fruit and Veg purees you can rest assured you are giving your little one the best. Squish is preservative-free, colourant free, flavourant free and contains no added starch, what’s more, they come in a convenient pouch perfect for meal-times or on-the-go-snacks. Texturize It is a good idea to offer up the favourite food in a variety of textures, as and where possible. This will at least allow for your little one to be exposed to various textures of foods at this time, which is important for motor and oral development. For example, bread can be toasted and cut into fingers or triangles or offered as a softer, round bread roll. Potatoes can be cut into chunks or mashed, and you can mix small, diced pieces of banana or strawberries into yoghurt. Try adding a Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree to a small dish and get your little one to dip their finger foods into it. Good news for moms with slightly older babies and toddlers – Squish 100% fruit and yoghurt purees now come in a new, bigger toddler-friendly 200ml pack for growing babies with growing appetites. The bigger pouch size means you can serve your toddler a full meal or snack in one handy serving, as their appetites increase, in a convenient pouch format. The Squish 200ml bigger pouch range comes in 6 delicious fruit and yoghurt flavours, are free from colourants, flavourants and preservatives, and are ideal for your little one’s growing needs. Flavour Focus Focus on a variety of flavours with this food, both to challenge the taste buds and offer a nutrient variety. For example, if the bread is your toddler’s current favourite you could dip in egg to up the protein and make French Toast or serve up peanut butter and banana sandwiches with added healthy fats. You can mix pureed veg like carrot into mashed potato or try different types of cheese, from softer Mozzarella to stronger Cheddar. Make them scrumptious fluffy and warm breakfast flapjacks filled with sweet, hidden fruits and yoghurt: https://squish.co.za/quick-easy-recipes/sweet/apple-banana-flapjacks/ Patience makes Perfect Throughout this time, keep presenting your toddler with other healthy foods at mealtime, as well as the favourite food. According to research, between 8 and 10 exposures to food may be needed before a child is willing to try it. This means that patience is key when getting through these phases of food obsessions. Like all things, it is comforting to know that this too shall pass, and it is unlikely that your little human’s current food obsession will have any long-term negative health effects. If you are concerned, speak to a registered dietitian or pediatric nurse for more helpful advice.
Winter is the time when children are most at risk of burns. There is a lot more hot food and drink around and generally trying to stay warm with heaters and fires. All these are potential risks for burns in children. Young children can be burned very quickly, and this often happens even when an adult is present, so it is important to be alert around children. Last year, the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital alone, treated 871 children for burns, the most common (733 children) was caused by hot liquids (such as hot water, drinks and food), followed by flames (48 cases), which are caused by fires. A further 43 children were treated for touching or coming into contact with very hot surfaces such as heaters and hotplates on stoves. “Most burn injuries can be avoided. As most of the burns happen in the home, specifically the kitchen. Make sure that the entire house is installed with smoke alarms. Children are not always able to know when something is dangerous, so parents can start by checking every room in the house for possible burn risks to children. In the kitchen e.g making sure that hanging kettle cords are properly secured and out of a child’s reach. Kettles are a major cause of hot water burns, which is traumatic and can be debilitating for the child.” said Yolande Baker, Executive Director of ChildSafe. Here are a few ways to keep ourselves and our children safe from burns during the winter season. Kitchen area Turn pot handles away when cooking Keep kettle cords and other electrical wiring out of children’s reach Place matches and lighters out of children’s reach Never hold a child while cooking at the stove Never store things like paraffin, which are highly combustible near any heat Living room Always check the temperature of food and drink before serving to young children Always place hot liquids and food in the center of the table, using place mats instead of tablecloths which are easy to pull Keep all heaters out of reach of children Install smoke alarms to detect fires in home early Blow out candles before you leave the room or before you go to sleep – we recommend the Candle-in-a-jar Avoid illegal electrical connections and that multiple plugs are not overloaded, as these can overheat causing sparks and fires Never pass hot liquids and food over a child’s head Bathroom Run cold water before hot water Outside the home Never leave open fires unattended and in case of a fire, put the fire out with water When there is a fire inside your home: Warn people inside the house to get out safely. Help people to get out and stay out of harm’s way. If there is a lot of smoke, crawl out below the smoke to escape the fire. Where possible, have more than 1 exit from your house, with clear routes to the door. What to do in case of a burn injury: For more information on the prevention of burns, please visit www.childsafe.org.za
There’s no denying that frozen foods are a lifesaver for quick meal solutions and come out tops from a convenience, lifespan, and waste-reduction point of view. But some may question the quality and nutritional value of frozen foods, not to mention the fear of preservatives. We got some insights from McCain, a leader in the frozen foods category, to dispel some of the common misconceptions when it comes to frozen vegetables and potato products. It’s fresh: “Our produce is sustainably sourced from local farmers, harvested at its peak and snap frozen within hours to maintain freshness and lock in nutrients,” says Catharina Bester, Marketing Manager: Foodservice & Retail at McCain. Freezing is a safe and natural way of preventing bacterial growth and enzyme activity and eliminates the need for undesirable chemical preservatives It’s convenient: There’s no way around it, frozen vegetables are a win on a busy weeknight. The cleaning and chopping have all been done for you, so all you need to do is take it out of your freezer, cook according to the on-pack instructions, and serve. It’s healthy: Contrary to popular belief, freezing causes very little nutrient loss and preserves the vitamins and minerals in food – so all those fantastic nutrients end up on your dinner table, meaning you get a nutritional meal every time. Frozen produce is packed with nutritional value and provides the easiest way for you and your family to get your daily nutrition. It’s reliable: We all know the feeling of reaching for some veggies in the fridge, only to find that it’s expired or heading to the shops to get a specific ingredient, and not being able to find it. By keeping your freezer stocked with frozen vegetables and potato products, you know you’ll have what you need, ready to go, when you need it. It’s affordable: Frozen foods have a much longer shelf-life than fresh produce and you only use what you need so there’s less wastage. Meaning you get more broccoli for your buck, and not to mention less frequent visits to the store. It’s versatile: The meal options are endless – from quick snacks, tasty potato chips and wedges, stir-fries, pasta sauces and toppings and even baking. You can even create your very own personalized McCain Family Cookbook, which is easy and can be completed in just a few steps. First off, give the book a name and personalise it with a special message. Then, upload six family recipes accompanied by photos, to give it that personal touch. Then, tailor the rest of the book using easy, pre-made recipe categories curated by McCain and chosen by you. According to Danielle De Villiers, Senior Brand Manager at McCain “This cookbook is a continuation of our mission to help families grow and thrive. You can now not only receive mouth-watering, easy-to-follow and accessible recipes that the whole family will love, but also pass on your own recipes to the next generation.” Included in your cookbook will be your personalised recipes, a selection of Food24’s most popular recipes, and family-friendly meal ideas using McCain products. The cookbook will also feature Food24 editorial packed with tips, cheat guides, storage suggestions and other fun food snippets from the team, making this cookbook the perfect addition to any kitchen. Once your personalised cookbook has been completed, check out, and you will receive a digital copy in your inbox and a printed copy delivered to your door. Check out McCain’s extensive range of proudly farm to freezer products, including gluten and preservative-free chips, ready-made creamed spinach, diced beetroot, Hawaiian stir fry mix and a firm kids favourite, Smiles.Follow the #MadeWithMcCain conversation on McCain Facebook or McCain Instagram or visit their website https://www.mccain.co.za/ for more information.
About one in three people tend to skip breakfast. Breakfast is undeniably one of the most important meals of the day and smoothies are a quick and easy way to provide you with all the important nutrients you need to start your day. Why smoothies for breakfast? They can be prepared with as little as three simple, nutritious ingredients that are part of a healthy eating pattern. MILK contains a powerful combination of 9 important nutrients, such as high quality protein, calcium, potassium, vitamins A, B12 and B2, as well as magnesium, phosphate and zinc. Milk is a versatile ingredient, because in a single product you get a variety of nutrients, that are easily absorbed and ready to be used. YOGHURT, like milk, is a source of high quality protein, which helps to keep you satisfied and at the same time builds and maintains your muscles. Yogurt is a fermented dairy product that is a vehicle of friendly bacteria and contributes to good intestinal health. These friendly bacteria are used during the manufacturing process to acidify the milk. Similar bacteria also occur naturally in the human digestive system to ensure that nutrients are absorbed efficiently from food. By eating yogurt, you help maintain the bacterial population in your intestinal tract so that you can get the best possible nutritional value from food. FRUIT is packed with important nutrients, which complement milk and yogurt. It is a rich source of folic acid, vitamin C and fiber. Together with milk and yoghurt, it makes a perfect combination for your smoothie. You can also add nuts, seeds, peanut butter, vegetables or oatmeal for texture and flavor. Smoothies are so easy to make! Try this delicious Peanutbutter Whip With Apples smoothie created by the team at Rediscover Dairy. Make it at home with a regular whisk or in a food processor. You can make it in advance and freeze it and then use it to keep your lunch box cool. It is advisable to use plain, unflavoured yoghurt because in this way you can limit unnecessary sugar. Milk and yoghurt are also available in different options. From full-cream, low-fat, medium-fat to fat-free milk which means there is an option for everyone. Alternate the type of fruit and vegetables you add to ensure variety and to give it a new, interesting flavor every day. Smoothies are a quick, easy and “trendy” breakfast option, packed with nutrients. They are a delicious, easy grab-and-go meal. Make sure you give your body the support and nutrients it needs. Try to include 2-3 servings of milk and dairy in your diet daily. Milk and dairy are good for the whole family – young and old! For more dairy tips and recipes visit the Rediscover Dairy Facebook page.
As a first-time parent, you may have thought that the most challenging part of parenting would be the newborn stage. Little did you realize the trials you would face as you enter the toddler years. Little personalities coupled with big emotions and an inability to express themselves makes it feel like you are having a conversation in an exotic language. But while our toddlers may not be able to speak to us (yet), if we pay attention, they are particularly good at communicating, especially when it comes to their eating habits. As babies become toddlers the parenting role of nourishing growing tummies continues – it’s still about the need to provide tasty, healthy meals and snacks that are nourishing, filling and simple to get into little people. With growing appetites comes growing independence and it’s exciting and liberating when little people can eat and enjoy snacks and meals by themselves. It is normal to be a picky eater It helps to know that you are not alone in the dinnertime struggles with your toddler. According to research, fussy eating is quite common in young children, peaking at 20 months and gradually fading away by 5 – 8 years of age. This frustrating toddler habit is also about the need to express their independence as they figure out this new and exciting world. Like all things, this too shall pass. Great news for parents of picky eaters, there is a new Squish 200ml 100% fruit and veg puree offering, available in 6 delicious flavours specially made for growing kids with growing appetites. The Squish purees are preservative-free, colourant free, flavourant free with no added starch and come in a convenient pouch, perfect for meal-times, snack-times or on-the-go. “My appetite is never the same” Your child may eat breakfast like a king yet they will barely taste their dinner. It is very normal for your toddler’s appetite to change from day to day, and even from meal to meal. Every toddler is different. Some wake up very hungry to eat a lot at breakfast, while others have bigger appetites at dinner when eating with the family. Teething babies and toddlers are often not extremely interested in food, while growth spurts may mean you cannot keep up with what is on offer. Be guided by the interest your toddler expresses in food rather than assuming they will eat the same amount at each mealtime. “I’ll tell you when I am full” Babies and toddlers are particularly good at listening to their bodies and eating when hungry and stopping when full, unlike adults. Pay attention and you will quickly learn when your little one has had enough to eat. The pace of eating slows down and your toddler will purse their lips closed. They may turn their head in defiance, push food away, and even throw the food to the floor. If you don’t notice these initial signs, your toddler might get rather irritable and demand to leave the dinner table or exit the feeding chair. “Please can I feed myself” With good intentions, many parents will feed their toddlers at mealtimes. However, stepping back and letting your toddler feed themselves is a vital part of their development. The practice of self-feeding stimulates hand-eye coordination and is also important to encourage them to learn to listen to their fullness cues. From about 8 – 9 months you can start offering your baby age-appropriate finger foods like scrambled egg, small soft chunks of butternut, or grated cheese, and toddler-friendly utensils can be used from 15 – 18 months. If you are nervous, serve some meals that allow your toddler to eat on their own and others that you guide.
Exercise and video games seem a bit odd at first glance. Sitting on your couch with a controller or a handheld device doesn’t seem like the best way to get up and active. Over the years there have been a few games and consoles focused on getting its players up and moving, to varying degrees of success. For the current generation however, one of these is a game I was at first a bit skeptical about – Ring Fit Adventure. At first glance I figured it was like every other gimmicky peripheral, but if you’re looking for something to get both you and your kids off the couch and moving about, then this might be what you’re looking for. It’s not a straight exercise game, unlike some other releases in the market, but rather the entire premise is set in a hero ‘saves the world’ narrative, by completing challenges and – you guessed it – exercising while doing it. It comes with the gaming equivalent of a Pilates ring, in which you dock one of the motion sensitive Joy-Cons. The other Joy-Con is strapped to your leg, and this monitors your movement as you quite literally run (on the spot in real life) around the environment collecting items and defeating enemies. The Joy-Cons are surprisingly sensitive for this kind of work, and the game will tell you to correct your form if you’re holding the ring incorrectly so you can get the most out of your workout. When we first got it, my kids were quite enamoured with the game, which gets you to complete a series of challenges that get progressively harder. It also consistently monitors your movement and heart rate, feeding back on how hard you’ve worked in each session. As a parent I was pleased that they were up and moving around, and then a part of me figured, “Hey why don’t I give this a try?” I can honestly say that I was breathing hard and sweating by the time I finished a couple of levels, which meant that I could use it (and did) to exercise on my own as well. Apart from the fact that you can set the difficulty level, each exercise is designed to work different parts of your body, so you’re working your core, your legs and arms, as well as getting some cardio in there. The game narrative itself is quite basic, but it does keep you coming back, even if it’s just because you feel like you’re accomplishing something as you progress. If your kids are more inclined to play video games than run around outside, this is a great way to get them moving and perhaps more interested in exercise overall. Being able to see real world fitness results from a video game is a big draw card in my book! If you’re a parent looking to give their kids some motivation, or perhaps looking to fit in a quick workout of your own without leaving the house when you have a few minutes, I can highly recommend giving this a try. To find out more about Ring Fit Adventure, visit the Nintendo Online Store South Africa and maybe even take advantage of the current promotion to save R1000 on the Ring Fit Adventure set which includes the Nintendo Switch console. By Pippa Tshabalala on behalf of Nintendo Distributor SA
The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Growing children Children grow and learn at their own pace. It is normal for your child to be ahead in one area, but behind in another. Learning what is normal for each age group can help you feel comfortable with where your child is at and spot any problems early on. Milestones: age 2 Milestones for age 2 include: Walking by themselves; this usually takes place between 9-17 months with the average being 14 months Running: about 6 months after learning to walk Climbing stairs and onto furniture Kicking a ball Ability to scribble with crayons, pencils or markers Imaginative or make-believe play Communication includes using real words by 15-18 months and simple phrases by 18-24 months Milestones: age 3 Milestones for age 3 include: Improved balance: can stand on one foot for a short time, can petal a tricycle and can walk upstairs without holding the railing All baby teeth have come through Potty trained during the day 20/30 vision Communication includes increased vocabulary (hundreds of words), uses short sentences, uses plurals and pronouns and asks many questions Can dress self with exception of laces, buttons, etc. Knows their name, age and gender Learns to share Milestones: age 4 Milestones for age 4 include: Hops on one foot well Throws a ball overhand well Uses scissors to cut out a picture Communication includes increased vocabulary (thousands of words), uses longer sentences, uses past tense and asks even more questions than ever Learns simple songs Starting to understand time better Milestones: age 5 Milestones for age 5 include: 20/20 vision Increased coordination: skipping, jumping and hopping well Learning to use writing utensils well Communications includes increased vocabulary (over 2000 words), uses sentences with 5 or more words and uses all parts of speech Knows the primary colours Learning to understand math Learning to behave with more responsibility and less aggression
June is World Infertility Awareness Month, a time dedicated to heightening awareness about infertility – a medical condition often not widely spoken about yet something which affects a surprisingly large number of couples around the world.1a “Infertility is when you cannot get or stay pregnant after trying for at least a year and you are under the age of 35, or if you are over the age of 35 and are unable to get or stay pregnant for six months,” says Dr Sulaiman Heylen, President of the Southern African Society of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endoscopy (SASREG).” In the past few years, the number of couples seeking treatment for infertility has dramatically increased due to factors such as postponement of childbearing in women, and lifestyle factors such as stress, smoking and body weight.1b However, an additional recent stumbling block has been the fear of contracting COVID-19 which has had an impact on delaying people’s fertility journeys. For those already undergoing fertility treatment, when COVID-19 hit, there was a suspension of treatment worldwide and the subsequent delay of fertility treatments has resulted in much psychological distress for many patients.2a The month of June therefore aims to highlight why it’s so important not to let the pandemic ruin one’s fertility plans. “In addition to psychological issues, there are the physiological ones too,” says Dr Heylen. “Delaying fertility treatment due to fear of COVID-19 can further reduce your chances of successful treatment outcomes, with studies showing a reduction in live birth rates in patients who have postponed treatment.” “Treatment was suspended during the hard lockdown, but clinics are open once again, and particularly ‘high risk’ patients whose chances of falling pregnant would be further reduced by delaying treatment are encouraged to seek assistance,” says Dr Heylen. Dr Heylen says that infertility is a disease as defined by the WHO that can lead to disability (loss of function). “Section 27 of the constitution entrenches the fundamental right to access healthcare services and specifically includes reproductive health. SASREG feels that fertility services are an essential service and should therefore not be withdrawn for patients for whom delay in treatment would affect their prognosis.” “It’s very important to stress that assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinics are safe and have taken precautions to ensure the health and safety of patients and staff, while we await the availability of the vaccines,” says Dr Heylen. “There is minimal risk of exposure to the virus at these clinics and there is therefore no need to wait for a vaccine to reach out to receive fertility treatment.” Dr Heylen also notes that there has been much misinformation circulating online about the potential negative impact the COVID-19 vaccine might have on fertility, which has been causing patients to delay treatment while deliberating whether to have the COVID-19 vaccine or not.2b With COVID-19 vaccines now available globally, the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has stated that there is “absolutely no evidence” that these vaccines can affect the fertility of women or men.3a “Patients undergoing fertility treatment should be encouraged to receive a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available to all South Africans,” says Dr Heylen. “There’s no evidence that vaccination before or during fertility treatment will impact the outcome of treatment in any way. As the vaccine does not contain any actual virus, there is also no reason to delay pregnancy attempts after vaccination.” People undergoing fertility treatment (in vitro fertilisation (IVF), frozen embryo transfer, egg freezing, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination, or using donated gametes) can be vaccinated during treatment but may wish to consider the timing given the potential side effects in the few days after vaccination.3c People may start their fertility treatment immediately after being vaccinated, unless they wish to have a second dose before pregnancy.3d Those who are donating their eggs or sperm for the use of others can also still have a COVID-19 vaccine.3e Don’t delay fertility treatment One in every four couples in developing countries is affected by infertility4a, while one in six couples worldwide experience some form of infertility problem at least once during their reproductive lifetime.1a The current prevalence of infertility lasting for at least 12 months is estimated to affect between 8 to 12% worldwide for women aged 20 to 44.1a “More than 50% of patients who visit a fertility centre are 35 or older,” says Dr Heylen. “It is very important for people not to wait too long when they consider having children. Young women need to be aware that there is a slow decline in fertility from their 20s until the age of 35, after which it starts to decrease rapidly until the age of 45. About half of infertility cases can be linked to the male. It’s therefore extremely important to investigate your fertility options and fertility preservation earlier in life, rather than leaving it too late. A woman who is not ready to have a child can choose to freeze her eggs to try to preserve her ability to have a child later on should she wish to.” Treatment options It is now estimated that more than 9 million babies have been born worldwide since the first IVF baby was born in the last 70s.1c The most common fertilisation treatment is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)1e. This accounts for around three quarters of all treatments globally while conventional IVF accounts for around one quarter.1e Success rates from frozen embryo transfer are increasing too.1e “The good news is that over the last decade the advances that have been made in the field of assisted reproduction are massive and there is hope for those who might be suffering from some form of infertility,” says Dr Heylen. “You are not alone and there are many options available to help you realise your dream of having children.” Visit a fertility clinic near you to speak to a doctor about the options available to you and your partner. For more information, visit www.merckfertilityjourney.co.za #WorldInfertilityMonth #DontDelay #Merck
Many South Africans live demanding lives where time is of the essence and nobody feels their pressure more than the moms and dads who, after a long day still need to ensure that the little ones have a nutritious meal when needed. Thankfully Baby & Kiddies Tastes can relieve you of that task. What is Baby & Kiddies Tastes? Baby & Kiddies Tastes trusted meal supplier for the little ones between the ages of 6 to 12 months, then up to 6 years old. The company was started by Vanessa Crichton, a dedicated mother, wife and entrepreneur who also knows her way around the kitchen, trained as a chef in London. Having started many other successful culinary companies such as Exquisite tastes catering, Vanessa, who has eleven years’ experience in making children’s food has turned her attention to helping moms and dads when it comes to mealtime for their young kids. What does Baby & Kiddies Tastes offer? Baby & Kiddies Tastes offer nutritionally tested fully textured, natural and healthy frozen meals for children between the ages of 6 to 12 months for children up to the age of 6 years old. Meals are made using the best ingredients that are also packed with flavour. Vanessa has meticulously crafted up to 50 different flavour combinations ensuring that every meal is a great experience for your child. What are the benefits of using Baby & Kiddies Tastes? Baby & Kiddies Tastes takes away the stress of having to prepare a meal for your young ones and ensures that every meal is jam-packed with essential nutrients that children need. It is also easy to prepare as the meals are cooked and frozen with a 2-month freezer life. It is also worth noting that our meals contain no additives or preservatives and no added salt or sugar, due to this, we do not suggest freezing for longer than 2 months. What other advantages can moms and dads benefit from? We know that convenience is key when it comes to mealtime, as mentioned our meals are packed with flavour and full of nutrients but they also offer added benefits. These include innovative modular packaging which limits food wastage. We know that kids can get a bit inquisitive and might make an unwanted mess. For this reason, we provide tamper-proof Kiddies Tastes tubs for those who are slightly older. Our packaging is also recyclable. Are there currently any special offers? We have a allergen range, “Local is Lekker” options, as well as vegetarian meals. Free delivery is offered for monthly orders. How do I get Baby & Kiddies Tastes meals? Baby & Kiddies Tastes offers free delivery on all monthly orders and we deliver to Johannesburg and Pretoria based areas. Ordering is quick and easy, just head over to www.babytastes.co.za where you will find a list of our meals. Customers can order individual meals or place a monthly order. Alternatively, contact us via [email protected] and your order will be delivered within 3 to 5 days. Baby & Kiddies Tastes brings the freshness and goodness of local South African ingredients to your freezer, ready for your child’s meal time, anytime.
