Health - Parenting Hub

Expert Advice from Bonitas Medical Fund

Hospital Plans vs Hospital Insurance: Knowing the difference

In times of economic pressure we all relook our monthly expenses to see where we can save on costs but having access to quality healthcare remains a priority – even more so during a global pandemic. Hospital insurance may be cheaper than medical aid hospital plans but is definitely not the same product. We asked the Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, Lee Callakoppen, to help us understand the two different products offerings. Regulation ‘Firstly, before I take you through the benefits and possible shortfalls of hospital plans as opposed to hospital insurance, it is important to point out that hospital plans are part of the offerings provided by medical aids. This means the product is regulated and overseen by the Council of Medical Schemes and in accordance with the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998. Hospital insurance (or medical insurance) is part of the umbrella term, health insurance and includes hospital insurance, hospital cash back plan and gap cover. Hospital insurance is not part of a medical aid but is governed by the Financial Services Board (FSB) and the Long-term and Short-term Insurance Act,’ explains Callakoppen. Medical Aid Hospital Plans A hospital plan provides you with basic, yet important medical cover. The product differs from scheme to scheme but in essence this plan is offered by a not-for profit medical scheme and will cover you in hospital for emergency and planned procedures In the case of Bonitas – you also get access to some additional benefits for wellness and preventative care The hospital plan ensures that when you are admitted into hospital for a procedure or due to an accident or illness, your expenses are covered – within the limits set by your particular plan There are 27 chronic conditions that all medical aid plans must cover, so the hospital plan also covers these which are known as Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) This type of plan does not cover you for other day-to-day medical costs like visits to the doctor, specialist or medicine It is tax deductible Hospital Insurance Hospital insurance is not a medical aid, it pays you for the time you spent in hospital but not for the treatment you receive It provides cash benefits depending on the number of days you are in hospital due to illness or an accident The insurer pays the money directly to you, you are able to use the money however you please – to pay for daily household costs or the hospital, doctor and specialist bills This often seems more attractive than a hospital plan and has a cheaper monthly premium however, the daily amount you receive is often way below the medical expenses incurred while in hospital It is governed by the Short or Long-term Insurance Acts Does not cover Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) May include Personal Accident risk cover such as disability and loss of limbs, inability to work, salary protection, death and/or funeral covers Is not tax deductible The limitations of hospital insurance It is a set amount which might not cover your hospital or medical bills, leaving you financially short and, in some cases, has a waiting period New regulations state that pay-outs are limited per insured life, per hospital stay with an annual limit Typically people buy the policy that pays less than R1 000 per day If you have one of the top plans, the daily pay-out during your stay in hospital may sound like a lot of money however, it usually falls short of actual costs charged by hospitals, doctors and specialists For example, a caesarean birth costs around R30 000. This can be much more if complications occur. Remember that hospital insurance companies are ‘for profit’ unlike medical schemes who are ‘not for profit’. The recommendation by most financial advisors is that a hospital insurance product should be used in conjunction with medical aid, or hospital plan, as income replacement rather than medical aid cover. And what is GAP cover, how does it work? Callakoppen provides an update. Minding the gap At times there may be a shortfall between what the medical scheme pays and what the hospital or specialist charges. You are responsible for paying the difference There is an insurance policy called gap cover which you can take out to pay for this shortfall The amount you receive depends on your policy but there is an overall annual limit Some gap cover policies have a waiting period for certain conditions Most people usually take gap cover together with a medical aid hospital plan It is important to know that gap cover, like hospital insurance, is an insurance ‘policy’ and is registered as Short-Term insurance policies Gap cover premiums are not tax deductable ‘There has been a growth in health insurance products over the past few years and they appear to provide medical cover, but actually don’t,’ says Callakoppen. If you choose to take out health insurance, do so as complementary to medical aid, not a substitute. ‘My advice: Shop around to find the best plan that covers your health needs and suits your pocket. A number of Low Cost Benefit Options have been introduced by Medical Schemes – these offer more affordable plans that give you peace of mind in terms of access to quality healthcare. Interrogate the benefits you receive on the plan you are considering versus the monthly contributions but, above all, never compromise on your health.’

March 18, 2021

Trimester two overview

Your second trimester begins in week 13 and ends at week 28. During this time your morning sickness will ease off, and initially your baby will be small enough that your body won’t be in too much discomfort, earning this trimester the nickname of the honeymoon period of pregnancy. During this trimester you’ll probably tell your family, friends and employees you’re expecting and your tummy will begin to show – time to upgrade your wardrobe! Your body during your second trimester During the second trimester the pregnancy you’ll hopefully notice that your morning sickness is easing up and your energy levels should begin to rise. While you will be feeling better don’t put pressure on yourself to exercise or socialise more than you’re comfortable with. This trimester your baby bump will go from barely noticeable to one that you may struggle to hide. Embrace your changing body and adapt your exercise plan to accommodate your baby, prenatal yoga and pilates classes are a great way to stay in shape, meet other moms-to-be and prepare for labour and delivery. A growing belly and breasts, Braxton Hicks contractions and leg cramps are all common pregnancy symptoms you may experience during this trimester. Not only this but you may experience dental issues, sore and swollen feet, and an achy back and/or pelvis. Your baby’s growth during the second trimester Your little one does lots of growing during your second trimester, and during this time you’ll begin to feel them moving around inside your belly (this is also known as quickening). Not only this, but during trimester two your baby’s ears develop to the point that they can hear your voice and other external sounds. During the second trimester your baby’s eyes and ears become more developed and you’ll soon be able to find out their gender on an ultrasound (if you want to!). Your baby’s muscle tone is also improving, they’ll be swallowing amniotic fluid and their sucking reflex will develop – they may even suck their own thumb. Important things to note during the second trimester At week 19 to 20 you’ll have an anatomy scan. In this scan your doctor will be able to see how your baby is developing, and if there is anything unusual that would be cause for concern. During this scan the doctors will also be able to tell you the gender of your baby – if you decide to be told you can start thinking of baby names! This trimester is also a good time to decide how and where you’d like to have your baby. Decide on if you like a hospital or home birth, and start putting together a birth plan.

March 16, 2021

When the stomach turns .. tummy bugs or COVID-19?

As South Africa nears the end of the second wave of Covid-19 and braces for a third, a stomach bug is circulating and spreading in schools and the community. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, head of operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, discusses the signs and symptoms of a stomach bug and common gastrointestinal (GI) viral infections versus the GI symptoms from Covid-19. He says, ‘Although the period between November and May usually coincides with an increase in diarrhoea and pneumonia cases, according to the MMC: Community Services and Health, Zahid Badroodien, it is significantly reduced with a 29% decrease in cases and a 15% decrease in hospital admissions. The decline is partially attributed to the increased adherence to health protocols for Covid-19 like hand-washing, sanitisation and wearing masks.’ However, the recent tummy bug that is circulating, is proof that the virus is still around, Dr Mkhatshwa talks about common GI viral infections and GI symptoms associated with Covid-19. What are the symptoms of a tummy bug? Stomach bugs (or stomach flu) are known as viral gastroenteritis and are characterised by the following symptoms: Diarrhoea Abdominal cramps Nausea Vomiting Fever Thirst Joint aches Headache General malaise How long does a stomach bug last? People typically develop stomach bug symptoms within 24 to 72 hours of being exposed to the virus. While most cases resolve in three to four days, it’s not uncommon to feel unwell for up to a week. How do I know if it’s food poisoning or a stomach virus? The symptoms of food poisoning and a stomach virus are very similar. However, food poisoning symptoms develop in as little as a few hours. Most people suspect food poisoning when symptoms develop shortly after eating food which may seem questionable. Covid and gastroenteritis Research consistently shows that approximately 10% of adults with Covid-19 report GI symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Typically, patients will also have the more common upper respiratory symptoms that accompany Covid-19, such as a dry cough or difficulty breathing. How do you tell the difference between Covid-19 symptoms and ‘stomach flu’? So, how do you know which one you’re dealing with if you’re experiencing, for instance, a fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea? ‘Unfortunately, it is not always easy,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa, ‘if you have respiratory symptoms, (particularly chest pain) and loss of smell or taste, it is pretty clear cut. However, GI symptoms can occur on their own with Covid-19. A stomach bug also typically lasts only 72 hours while GI related symptoms with the coronavirus can last much longer.’ What should you do if you suspect the GI symptoms are in fact, Covid-19 related? Consult your doctor – via phone or virtually – to discuss your symptoms and if he/she feels you are displaying signs of the coronavirus infection, they will refer you for a Covid-19 test. How long are you contagious with a stomach bug? Stomach viruses are highly contagious and can spread quickly. People infected with a stomach virus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill and also for the first few days (up to 72 hours) after they recover. A stomach virus can spread in several different ways: Eating food or drinking liquids that have been contaminated with the virus Having direct or indirect mouth contact with an infected person or surface with the virus on it Unhygienic behaviour, such as not washing hands after toilet use, not washing fruits and vegetables before consumption The virus also inhabits the vomit and stools of people who have the infection How do you treat or get rid of a stomach bug? Supportive therapy that includes increased hydration, rest, electrolyte replenishment and medication for fever is usually all that is needed for viral illnesses. This is because viruses do not respond to antibiotics and simply need to run their course. If the infection is caused by bacteria, like Salmonella, an antibiotic may be prescribed. Viral gastroenteritis will typically resolve within a few days or less without medication. However, hydration is vital to a speedy recovery and prevention of complications. Here are a few steps you can take at home to aid recovery from a stomach virus or food poisoning: Try not to eat any solid foods until you feel better Suck on ice chips or take small sips of water to prevent dehydration Avoid juices or other beverages with a lot of sugar or sweeteners that can make diarrhea worse Ease yourself back into eating. Start with bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as toast and rice. Stop eating if a feeling of nausea returns Avoid dairy, caffeine, fatty foods and sugar until you feel better You should be cautious of taking over-the-counter medications, unless advised by a healthcare provider, as some can worsen the infection When to treat it seriously and consult a medical doctor? Seek medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms: A bloody stool or vomit Are unable to keep liquid down for 12-24 hours Feel dizzy or light-headed Have a fever above 40°C Are experiencing severe, unrelenting abdominal pain. Fortunately, thanks to the Covid-19 protocols which include wearing masks, social distancing and the washing and sanitising of hands the incidence of stomach bugs has been reduced. However, it is a virus and you may still be susceptible but remember it will run its course and you will recover. During the time you are experiencing symptoms rest, stay hydrated and stay away from others while you are still contagious.

March 10, 2021

Your second trimester – making the most of it

Your second trimester is from the beginning of week 13 until week 28, during this time your pregnancy will begin to show. However, you should feel like you have more energy than you did in trimester one. This is why this trimester is also nicknamed the honeymoon period of pregnancy – your baby isn’t big enough to make you uncomfortable and your pregnancy hormones should have eased up. During this time there are one or two things that you can keep in mind to make the most of this time while you’re feeling better, and to ensure that your baby (and you) are kept healthy and happy. Childbirth classes, preparing your mind and body Even if this isn’t your first baby, childbirth classes can help prepare you for what is to come. If you’re feeling anxious about labour and birth, these classes will help ease your worries, by informing you what is to come and how best to manage your mind and body coming up to, during birth and after birth. Prenatal exercise and a healthy lifestyle Stay fit and healthy during your pregnancy is important to both you and your baby. What you eat and regular exercise are both ways in which you can provide needed nutrition to your baby and keep yourself healthy. Low impact exercise, such yoga, swimming, walking and prenatal pilates can help improve your sleep, and increase your strength and muscle tone. Keeping active can even have the added benefit of helping prepare your body for labour and birth. Maternity wear and staying comfortable Not only is learning about your pregnancy and staying healthy essential but staying comfortable is also important. The second trimester is generally when your tummy will start looking and feeling bigger, so invest in some trousers that have more give in the waistline. Luckily certain fashion items, such as flowy dresses and layered knits, may even mean you can still keep using your pre-pregnancy clothes.

March 9, 2021

Covid and flu – should you still have the flu shot?

Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund unpacks the differences and similarities between ‘flu’ and Covid-19, how it affects your body and offers compelling reasons why you should consider getting the flu vaccine this year. Every year, seasonal influenza (flu) kills around 11 500 people in South Africa alone. To date, Covid-19 has resulted in around 50 000 deaths in South Africa. While the true mortality of Covid-19 will take some time to fully understand, the crude mortality ratio (the number of reported deaths divided by the reported cases) is between 3-4%. For seasonal flu, mortality is usually well below 0.1%. However, mortality is to a large extent determined by access to and quality of health care. How has Covid-19 impacted on the flu virus? The Covid-19 pandemic has, however, had a significant impact on the 2020 flu season where decreased flu activity has been reported. This is most likely related to lockdown and additional hygiene measures. Bearing in mind that The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended flu vaccines for 2021, circulating flu viruses evolve constantly so an accurate prediction for the upcoming season is challenging. Should you still have a flu vaccine in 2021? Dr Mkhatshwa recommends you do. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of influenza illness, hospitalisation and death. Not only will flu vaccinations reduce the risk of getting flu but is an important conservation measure for scarce health care resources which remains a concern with the ongoing the Covid-19 pandemic. The flu vaccine should be given sufficiently early to provide protection for the coming winter. A protective antibody response takes about 2 weeks to develop. As there is limited evidence on the safety and effectiveness of receiving these vaccines simultaneously, Dr Mkhatshwa recommends waiting at least 14 days between having the Covid-19 and flu vaccinations. How are Covid-19 and flu viruses similar? WHO says, ‘Firstly, Covid-19 and influenza viruses have a similar disease presentation. That is, they both cause respiratory disease, which presents as a wide range of illness from asymptomatic or mild through to severe disease and death. ‘Secondly, both viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets and any material that can carry infection. As a result, the same public health measures, such as hand hygiene and good respiratory etiquette (coughing into your elbow or into a tissue and immediately disposing of the tissue), are important actions all can take to prevent infection.’ What are the essential differences between Covid and flu? Flu is an acute viral respiratory infection, transmitted by the influenza virus. There are three types of influenza, namely Influenza A, B and C. Influenza C is less common and produces milder disease. WHO says there are important differences between the two viruses and how they spread. This has important implications for the public health measures that can be implemented to respond to each virus. The two are essentially different viruses with SARS-CoV-2 being a newly discovered coronavirus that causes Covid-19. The speed of transmission This is an important point of difference between flu and the coronavirus. Influenza has a shorter incubation period and can spread faster than Covid-19. Further, transmission in the first 3-5 days of illness, or potentially pre-symptomatic transmission, is a major driver of transmission for influenza. Although with Covid-19, people can be infected by someone 24-48 hours before the onset of symptoms – this is not the major driver of transmission. The severity of illness While the range of symptoms for the two viruses is similar, the fraction with severe disease appears to be different. For Covid-19, data to date suggest that 80% of infections are mild or asymptomatic, 15% are severe, requiring oxygen and 5% are critical infections, requiring ventilation. These fractions of severe and critical infection would be higher than that of flu. Who is at risk? The Department of Health (DoH) together with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) targeted the following groups for the 2021 campaign: Healthcare workers Individuals age >65 years People with comorbidities like heart disease, diabetes or lung disease Pregnant women People living with HIV and AIDS What are the signs and symptoms? In terms of symptoms, Covid-19 and flu can have varying degrees of signs and symptoms, ranging from none (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Common shared include: Fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle pain or body aches, headache, some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. Other signs and symptoms of Covid-19, different from flu, may include change in or loss of taste or smell. A Covid-19 test will confirm the diagnosis. Does the flu shot give me a mild flu? According to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), ‘A flu shot cannot cause flu. Flu vaccines given with a needle are currently made either with flu vaccine viruses that have been ‘inactivated’ and are not infectious, or with no flu vaccine viruses at all. The most common side-effects from the shot are soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given. Serious allergic reactions to flu vaccines are very rare.’ Still not convinced? Flu viruses spread very quickly from person to person Even if the flu vaccine is not 100% effective against the current flu strain it will reduce your chances of getting the flu and, if you do get it, it will be a great deal milder More importantly, by having the flu vaccine you will protect others, via what is called ’herd immunity’. Others may be vulnerable family members such as small babies and the elderly as well as those who are immune compromised. While the world focuses on Covid-19, social distancing, wearing a mask and hand washing or sanitisation can help protect you from both Covid-19 and flu.

March 4, 2021

New Head of Operations for Bonitas

Bonitas Medical Fund has announced the appointment of Dr Morgan Busuku Mkhatshwa as Head of Operations. Dr Mkhatshwa is a medical doctor with extensive experience in the healthcare sector. He has a proven track record of spearheading the introduction of enhanced comprehensive healthcare services and programmes including occupational healthcare services. In addition, he has led organisational restructuring efforts within highly unionised environments, launching accelerated business expansion and improvement initiatives to maximise revenue growth. Compassionate about management, business development and stakeholder engagement, he began his career as a science teacher before he pursued his medical studies. He worked as a medical officer before progressing to principal medical officer in the public service. He spent some time as Hospital Manager at Life Healthcare and went onto become MD of one of the divisions in the company. After Life Healthcare he joined Lenmed Health as Group Business Development Manager and later became Group Head of Operations. ‘We are delighted to have Dr Mkhatshwa joining our management team,’ said Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer. ‘He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise, not only as a medical doctor but also years of experience in strategic planning and execution, general operations management, project management, coaching and mentoring. We know he will be a valuable asset to our team and our members.’ Dr Mkhatshwa has a BSc. (Biological Sciences), Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB), Hons BSc (Limnology), Master of Science (Medical Microbiology) and Master of Business Administration (MBA). Oher achievements include the completion of the Harvard Business School – General Management Program.

February 26, 2021

Advice from the experts

Screen Addiction: parenting in the age of a digital era

No other topic could create a catastrophe of opinions, judgements, beliefs and arguments as parenting. Add technology in the mix and you’ve created world war 3. According to a survey conducted by internet security company AVG in the US, 92% of children have an online presence by the time they are 2 years old. These days’ children learn to swipe a screen before they are able to hold crayons. The digital revolution of the past 2 decades has induced a moral panic in parenting. When a child goes on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, parents have certain unanswered questions such as: Are our kids aware of the privacy settings on social networking sites? Do they adhere to them? What kind of online games are our kids playing? Are they playing the right ones or ones that are not suitable for their age/ taste/ social-cultural backgrounds? How much digital engagement is enough and how much is too much? Though a child’s online presence allows young people access to invaluable resources and learning opportunities, it also brings about parenting challenges such as cyberbullying and filtering age-appropriate content. Parents play a vital role in teaching the children practice of “netiquette” outside of the classroom, all these require that the parent themselves be digitally literate. A digitally illiterate parent poses a risk to the privacy and safety of children. A tech naive parent may in a moment of some parental pride, post content(pictures, videos, information) of their child exposing them to the bad world of cybercrime. So we often ask ourselves which of these 2 parents is the perfect parent? Is there such a thing as correct parenting? Especially in this technologically advanced era we live in? And how much technology is too much technology? What happened to the good old days when kids played outside instead of staring into their phones and the television during their school holidays? Being a parent is hard and raising children in a digital era is even harder. Gone are the days of kids just being kids, playing hopscotch in the backyard, catching a ball in the garden or planning how they are going to build that tree house. These days playing involves Fifa and a ps4 or perhaps and X Box or candy crush. What happened to good old fashion childhood games our parents used to play? At Sugar Bay we encourage children to hold on to their childhood as much as possible, kids get to be outdoors the whole day engaging in activities such as kayaking, bmxing , rock climbing or they can choose to spend a relaxing day beading or baking amongst other things. These activities encourage kids to show their creative side, help them discover their hidden talents and passion and leaving a small room to be thinking about their phones. Like our saying goes: “What we learn in fun we never forget”. Sugar Bay is much more than a luxury holiday resort. Sugar Bay ensures the personal development and growth of a child, increase self-esteem, self-confidence and independence. Allowing campers to pick and choose from over 100 activities allows them to make decisions for themselves which encourages independence. We understand the constant need kids have of always being on their phone, but which parent wouldn’t want their child to enjoy being a child and being outdoors in the garden like they did in their good old days.

February 15, 2019

Chocolate can trigger migraines; Finds study

You should think twice before giving that someone special chocolates this Valentine’s day – it may just give them a migraine! And that’s not because they’re not in the mood; a scientific double-blind study shows chocolate can trigger migraines. The London-based study, published in Cephalalgia, the official journal of the International Headache Society, was conducted on 20 migraine sufferers. Chocolate bars were given to the subjects and bars of carob were used as a placebo. The chocolate bars caused migraine in 8 of the 20 migraine subjects while the carob bars did not induce migraine in a single sufferer. Dr Elliot Shevel, Medical Director of The Headache Clinic, and South Africa’s internationally recognized Migraine expert and pioneer in the field of Migraine Surgery, says the study clearly shows individuals who are prone to getting migraines should be careful when eating chocolates. “The reason for this is chocolate contains a chemical called phenylethylamine which is thought to trigger migraines by affecting the arteries in the scalp which are the source of the pain. Unfortunately phenylethylamine is found in the cocoa bean which is what chocolate is made from,” he says. “Carob bars, available from your local health store may drastically improve your chances of getting lucky this Valentine’s Day!” What other items can trigger migraines? Alcohol Migraine sufferers should try not to drink liquor since this can be a regular trigger of migraines. If you can’t resist, have one glass of champagne or white wine, as it is generally the dark alcoholic beverages that trigger migraines. Flowers Hay fever headaches are triggered by flowers and cause a dull, deep, throbbing pain. Some of the symptoms of hay fever headaches are pain in one specific area of your face or head (for example, behind your eyes) or the face is tender to the touch. Rather don’t buy your partner flowers if they are prone to getting migraines. Perfume People who are sensitive to fragrances and/ other odors should bear this in mind when shopping for a Valentine’s Day gift. Seek those that are fragrance free and ask a pharmacist for advice if necessary. When do I consult with a medical professional about my migraines? “People should not leave a migraine untreated,” says Dr. Shevel. “It is imperative that you undergo a multidisciplinary investigation to diagnose the specific factors behind the recurring headache. “There are a number of healthier treatment options than medication available right here in South Africa. It is possible to get to the bottom of the problem and resolve the pain permanently without medication so that you can enjoy the quality of life you deserve.” He has the guidelines for when it is possible time to consult a medical professional: • If you are unable to manage your headache on your own. • If a headache persist or if you frequently get them. • If in interferes with your day-to-day activities.

February 15, 2019

HEALTHY EATING FOR A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

There’s nothing else quite like pregnancy to sharpen your focus on your health and well-being. The journey of carrying and nurturing new life within your body is an exceptionally special time, and moms-to-be are deeply invested in doing it as well as they can. Advice will inevitably come from all quarters, and it is important to tap into expert sources that will give you peace of mind that you are on the right track. The aim of Pregnancy Awareness Week this month is to help moms access the information they need to support a healthy pregnancy and safe motherhood. The Department of Health urges pregnant South African women to access antenatal care as early as possible in their pregnancies. This provides the opportunity to understand and manage any health issues, as well as get information on important factors such as self-care and nutrition. Once the pregnancy is confirmed by a nurse at a health facility, the mother can register for MomConnect, a free cell phone-based resource for accessing pregnancy-related health information. Nazeeia Sayed, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for ADSA (Association for Dietetics in South Africa), points out that good nutrition is vital as it supports a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. “Pregnancy is a great opportunity to get yourself and the family into the habit of healthy eating before the new baby arrives,” she says. “You don’t need special or expensive foods. A healthy diet during pregnancy is made up of foods that we commonly encounter when grocery shopping. A variety of fruit and veg, whole grains, legumes and lentils, dairy, plant fats and lean meats, fish and eggs can all be enjoyed while you are pregnant and will provide the nutrients you need.” What nutrients should moms-to-be focus on? Following a balanced diet according to the accepted healthy eating guidelines is the optimum nutritional route to support a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy is definitely not the time for weight loss or fad diets that focus on particular nutrients at the expense of others. Registered dietitian and ADSA spokesperson, Cath Day says, “Energy (kilojoule) restriction during pregnancy is not recommended! High protein diets which increase ketone production are also not recommended as the foetus has a limited ability to metabolize ketones. It is much healthier for you to adopt a balanced diet with a good variety.” Nutrients such as folic acid, calcium, iron and protein are all important to the developing baby; however a balanced diet will, in most cases, meet these needs. Women enrolled in the government’s antenatal care programme will receive supplements of the essential micro-nutrients; and many women choose to supplement with folic acid to prevent the risks of Spina Bifida and cleft palate. Day points out that meeting protein requirements during pregnancy is as simple as ensuring that you eat roughly six servings or between 180 g- 210 g of protein each day (size of two palms or two decks of cards). One serving equates to 30 g lean meat or fish, 1/2 cup of legumes, 15 g nuts or one egg. “These are also the best sources of iron which is needed to prevent anaemia,” she says. “By eating fruit and vegetables high in vitamin C at the same time as eggs, nuts and pulses, you can enhance iron absorption from these foods.” Focusing on a variety of healthy foods for each meal or snack, rather than the particular nutrients, is what helps to ensure you and baby get what you need. Sayed says, “Some examples of this are choosing nutrient-dense meals or snacks like an omelette with veg, a fruit and yoghurt smoothie, a salad with raw veg, nuts or lean meat; or a cooked lentil dish with green leafy veg and rice.” What should moms-to-be avoid? Smoking tops the list of what shouldn’t be going into a pregnant body. While there’s debate about whether drinking one glass of wine is safe for a growing baby, many experts and governments around the world advise a complete avoidance of alcohol during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid foods with a greater risk for contamination with Listeria or other bacteria or parasites, including under-cooked meat and eggs, raw fish, processed meats and unpasteurised dairy and soft cheeses. Dietitians also advise avoiding fish that may contain high levels of mercury such as swordfish, shark, tuna steaks and canned fish brands that are not tested. Caffeine intake should be limited, and rather swopped out for decaf options, with water as your best beverage of choice. Foods that are high in salt, sugar and other refined carbohydrates should be limited as they crowd out the opportunity for you to eat healthy foods which provide for your vitamin, mineral and fibre needs. They can also lead to excessive weight gain which increases your risks of developing high blood pressure issues and gestational diabetes. Reach out and get help when you need it Healthy eating during pregnancy does not have to be complicated or a minefield. It might be more challenging for moms-to-be who need to make big changes; or who are overweight or managing other health conditions. A registered dietitian can be an important ally to come up with a healthy eating plan that suits your food preferences, your budget and your lifestyle. “The big advantage of using your pregnancy as the inspiration to eat well is that you can go on to become a healthy eating role model for your precious child, instilling healthy eating habits that can last them a lifetime,” Sayed concludes. To find a registered dietitian in your area visit www.adsa.org.za.

February 14, 2019

Why we should be testing our food for nitrates and GreenTest’s top tips for summertime healthy eating

Summer is here, and the holiday season is approaching with the promise of lots of outdoor fun and relaxation time. As we start to anticipate fun in the sun, lazy afternoon cricket games on the lawn with the kids and sharing cold slices of juicy watermelon around the pool; these happy musings are imbued with the expectancy of our glowing health. However, as we all know the good health of ourselves and our loved ones can never be taken for granted. There’s ever-increasing awareness that taking responsibility for our health is multi-faceted, and latest scientific research is continually alerting us to nutritional and environmental issues that we need to get to grips with to safeguard our families. We can thank latest technology solutions that this is becoming far easier to do for ourselves. Recently launched food safety device, GreenTest shows us that taking our health into our own hands does not have to be difficult and demanding at all. The range of lightweight, easy to use, award-winning nitrate detectors empower us to make better food choices in the moment. As Lila Bruk, a registered dietitian points out, South African consumers are becoming far more conscious not just of the nutritional value of the foods we eat, but of food safety issues as well. “With lifestyle diseases on the rise, it is becoming increasingly important for consumers to be able to test their own food so that we can not only choose nourishing foods but manage our future health and well-being. The ability to test nitrate and nitrite levels in our own food is significant and empowering for South African consumers.” Why we should be testing our food for nitrates Nitrates and nitrites are naturally-occurring compounds containing nitrogen. Nitrates are essential for plant growth and occur in differing amounts in most of our plant-based foods. Nitrites are typically used as a preservative in smoked and processed meats. At low levels, nitrates which are converted into nitrites once ingested, are generally harmless in the human body. However, at high levels, nitrates and nitrites are toxic to humans and animals. Higher concentrations of nitrates in food, especially in meat cooked at high temperatures, also pose the risk of the formation of nitrosamines which have been associated with various health risks, including some cancers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer lists ingested nitrate or nitrite ‘under conditions that result in endogenous nitrosation’ as ‘probably carcinogenic to humans’ (Group 2A). Concerns about nitrate levels present in our food have been growing over the past decades because of ever-increasing use of nitrate-based fertilisers in the conventional farming sector. Nitrates and nitrates are water-soluble and also leach into the ground. It stands to reason that we are likely to be consuming way more nitrates than previous generations, and this has raised concerns that we are at risk for nitrate toxicity and the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines. The World Health Organisation (WHO) specifies that the acceptable daily intake of nitrate is 3.65 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, but up until now there’s been no way for the consumer to monitor this. GreenTesting your summer fruits GreenTest devices, launched in South African by food safety company, Alvarita provide an accurate reading of the nitrate levels in 64 different kinds of commonly eaten fruits and vegetables in a matter of seconds. Some models also test the nitrate levels of meat, fish and water. “The unique rapid analysis feature provides a green, orange or red result that informs you whether you can go back for more; should moderate your intake or rather just avoid a food for the sake of your health,” says Alvarita CEO, Damian Michael. “With GreenTest the power to make truly healthy food choices is conveniently in your hands.” GreenTest’s top tips for summertime healthy eating: As the days get hotter, it’s the ideal time for cooler eating. Focus on crisp salads full of fresh ingredients; swap dollops of heavy, starchy veg for light and tasty crunchy greens, and prioritise fresh fruit and veg as the premium snack options Upscale and diversify the ubiquitous red meat braai by creating equally delicious vegetarian, chicken or fish braai options. Actively reduce your nitrate intake by substituting more yummy, quick and easy plant-based foods for hot dogs, as well as cold and smoked processed meats Tip the scales in favour of fruit and veg at every meal – or at least make sure that half your plate is covered with salads and non-starchy veg. Shifting to more and more plant-based food options is a real investment in your future health. GreenTest your fruit and veg to keep track of your daily nitrate intake Yes, it’s the holidays, but still keep the treats in perspective. It’s okay to enjoy occasional treat food without feeling guilty, after all it’s the holidays and treats abound. Who wants to feel deprived when everyone else is indulging? It’s okay to occasionally enjoy rich or sugary foods; just keep them in balance. Serve yourself smaller portions of your favourite treats and take the time to savour each bite. Mindful eating increases pleasure and satisfaction while keeping you finely attuned to your body’s real needs and comfort zone Walking on sunshine – Daily physical activity goes hand in hand with healthy food choices. The summer holiday provides plenty of opportunity to get up and moving for a minimum of 30 minutes each day. Long, sunshiny days are ideal for family bike rides, hikes and other fun physical activities

February 9, 2019

Listen Up! What’s the big deal with childhood hearing loss?

Hearing is one of the most important senses. Through hearing we learn how to communicate with others, we experience the joy of music, the excitement of laughter, the symphony of nature and the bustling sounds of the city. Hearing also protects us, it alerts us to approaching danger and keeps us connected to the outside world. According to the World Health Organization, about 466 million people have disabling hearing loss, 34 million of these are children. Hearing loss is the most prevalent birth defect and every day 17 babies are born in South Africa with some degree of hearing impairment – half of which have no known risk factors for hearing impairment. In the past, majority of children who were born with congenital hearing loss were only identified at about age 2 when they were not reaching their speech and language milestones. Research has demonstrated that children who are diagnosed with hearing loss and have the appropriate intervention by 6 months of age, will have speech and language milestones comparable to that of a normal hearing child by age three years. What are the causes of hearing loss in children? Congenital Hearing Loss This means that the hearing loss is present at birth. Congenital hearing loss is either caused by genetic or non-genetic factors. Some non-genetic factors include: Birth complications, including the presence of herpes, rubella cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis or another serious infection, lack of oxygen or the requirement of a blood transfusion for some reason. Premature birth. Babies that have a birth weight of less than 1.3 kilograms or that require certain life-sustaining drugs for respiration due to prematurity are at risk for hearing loss. Complications with the Rh factor in the blood A nervous system or brain disorder. The use of ototoxic medication by the mother during pregnancy. Ototoxic medications are not usually illicit substances – medications like various antiobiotics Maternal diabetes. Drug or alcohol abuse by the mother or smoking during pregnancy. Genetic hearing loss means that either the gene for hearing loss was inherited from the parents or that the child presents with a genetic illness commonly associated with hearing loss. Acquired hearing loss A child with acquired hearing loss is not born with a hearing loss but rather acquires the hearing loss due to one of many factors. Factors include: A perforated eardrum Infections like meningitis, measles, mumps or whooping cough Taking ototoxic medications A serious head injury Exposure to loud noise, causing noise-induced hearing loss Untreated or frequent otitis media (ear infections) What signs and symptoms should I look out for in my child? When a child does not turn his/her head towards a sound, especially a loud sound When a child frequently touches or pulls one or both ears When a child reacts to some but not all sounds When a child turns their head upon seeing you, but not when their name is called from outside their field of vision Does my child have difficulty following instructions Does my child ask for instructions to be repeated When a child has delayed speech and language development. If the answer to any of the following is “no”, then your child may have delayed speech and language development: Is my child using single words such as “dada” and “mama” by the age of 1? Is my child using 2-word sentences by the age of 2? Is my child using 3-word sentences by the age of 3? Is my child using understandable 4-5 word sentences by the age of 4? When should I test my child’s hearing? Most private hospitals and some government hospitals have audiologists who assess the babies hearing soon after they are born. Generally, this is an optional service so it is a great idea to opt in for the screening. The audiologists use an OAE (Oto-acoustic emissions) or an AABR (Automated Auditory Brainstem Response) machine. The test generally takes a few minutes and requires no response from your child. The Audiologist will be able to tell you if your child’s hearing is normal or if further testing is required. Even if you don’t feel like your child has a hearing loss it is important to have your child’s hearing tested once a year much like testing their eyesight! What happens if my child has a hearing loss? If your child is diagnosed with a hearing loss the Audiologist will guide you through the process. Depending on the cause, degree and configuration of the hearing impairment, the audiologist will either refer your child for further medical treatment or recommend hearing aids and perhaps a further evaluation for a cochlear implant. Your child will also require intensive speech and language therapy in order to catch up to his/her developmental milestones. The later a child is fitted with amplification the poorer the prognosis is for the child. Early intervention is of the utmost importance, we live in a an incredible time where even children with a profound hearing loss can have access to sound again and become integrated into society with ease. Be sure to contact a qualified Audiologist, if you would like to have your child’s hearing screened.

February 8, 2019

Baby’s Skin Care – What You Need to Know

It is our instinct to nourish and protect our babies. As caring mothers, we would never knowingly expose our precious babies to harmful chemicals and artificial nasties. Yet sadly these ingredients are all too common in many conventional baby toiletries. A baby’s skin is approximately three times thinner than our own skin, which means that any chemicals or irritants your baby is exposed to will absorb into their system faster and increase the risk of adverse reactions and toxicity. The most common chemical nasties Mineral oil Mineral oil is the primary ingredient in conventional baby oil products – Conventional baby oil is essentially made of mineral oil mixed with artificial fragrance, which is a nasty combination. Mineral oil is a cheap by-product of petroleum processing and acts as a “plastic wrap” on the skin, inhibiting the skin’s ability to release toxins. It is also a non-renewable and environmentally unfriendly resource. The best way to go is to treat your baby’s delicate skin with natural plant-based oils, such as our Cherish Baby Massage Oils. All our oils are made with 100% natural ingredients, organic wherever possible, and stored in amber glass bottles (kinder to the environment and will not leach chemicals into the product). Our Baby Massage Oils are made with: *Coconut oil – a superb skin moisturiser and helps to replenish and protect dry, damaged, chapped, cracked and irritated skin Sweet Almond oil – naturally rich in Vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium and zinc and is excellent for keeping skin soft and supple *Jojoba oil – Improves elasticity and suppleness, helping the skin remain hydrated, moisturised, soft and smooth Vitamin E oil – an excellent antioxidant that protects and repairs skin and guards against free radical damage *indicates organic ingredient We have three variants to choose from – *Lavender, *Mandarin or fragrance-free. Our products are fragranced with 100% natural essential oils, using organic oils wherever possible. Lavender and Mandarin essential oils both offer calming and relaxing properties and are great to use on little ones before bed time. For particularly sensitive babies we offer a fragrance-free version, which contains no essential oils, but still has all the goodness of the other oils. Fragrance Fragrance is added to countless products, either to create a particular smell or to mask the odour of the nasty chemicals used in production. The problem with fragrance is that it’s a catch-all term for whatever secret ingredients companies wish to add (companies are not obligated to reveal what’s included under the term “fragrance” or “parfum”). These ingredients are often coal- and petroleum-derived synthetic chemicals. The effects of fragrance are long lasting, lingering on the skin for hours, and can cause respiratory, neurological, skin, and eye damage. There is evidence that exposure to artificial fragrance chemicals as a child may lead to asthma. Unless the product you’re buying expressly states that the fragrance is derived from natural sources / essential oils, it’s probably not natural, and can have severe harmful side-effects, especially to babies. All Cherish Baby Products are scented using 100% natural essential oils, and we use organic oils wherever available. Parabens Parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, isoparapben, etc.) are a class of synthetic preservatives often used in cosmetics and skincare products to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Parabens are hormone disruptors and can wreak havoc on oestrogen levels. Parabens are extremely common chemicals and can be found in soaps, body washes, shampoos, and moisturizers, including those marketed toward babies. Parabens are neurotoxins and are linked to skin irritation. It is best to opt for products that do not contain preservatives, such as our Cherish Baby Balm Range Our range of balms are 100% natural and free from petroleum, mineral oil, zinc oxide, phthalates and parabens. Cherish Balms will soothe and hydrate delicate skin and help treat diaper rash, cradle cap and other minor skin irritations. Formulated with specially selected moisturising oils and calming herbs to nurture and protect sensitive skin. Our balms include: *Cocoa butter – forms a protective layer on the skin and locks in moisture Coconut oil – a superb skin moisturiser and helps to replenish and protect dry, damaged, chapped, cracked and irritated skin Sweet Almond oil – naturally rich in Vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium and zinc and is excellent for keeping skin soft and supple Calendula oil – has antiseptic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions. It helps to speed healing and soothe irritated skin *Jojoba oil – improves elasticity and suppleness, helping the skin remain hydrated, moisturised, soft and smooth Vitamin E oil – an excellent antioxidant that protects and repairs skin and guards against free radical damage *indicates organic ingredient Our Baby Balms come in the same three variants as the Baby Massage Oils and Natural Baby Body Wash, so you can create your own nurturing set! Sodium Lauryl (Laureth) Sulfate Also known as sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, laurilsulfate, SDS or SLS, this ingredient is an economical surfactant that removes oil and is a foaming agent. It is commonly found in shampoo, soap, cleansers, bubble bath, toothpaste, mouthwash, body wash, and most products that foam. It is also found in industrial strength detergents and engine degreasers. It may contain 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a chemical known to harm your nervous system. SLS has a comedogenic rating of 5, which means it has a high probability of clogging pores – it strips the skin of oils, which can cause the skin to over compensate and produce excessive sebum – not ideal in a skincare product! Our Natural Baby Body Wash range is free from SLS and other harsh chemicals, and has been especially formulated using naturally derived ingredients to be as gentle as possible on baby’s delicate skin. Our Natural Baby Body Washes come in the same three variants – Lavender, Mandarin and fragrance-free. The long-term effects of chemical additives in baby skincare products are not always known. But researchers believe our little ones are at higher risk of

February 7, 2019

How to prepare yourself emotionally for when your child starts eating solids

Eating solids is a huge milestone in the life of your child! It is also a milestone for all moms who have breastfed their little ones up until that point. Letting go of the intimacy of feeding times can be an incredibly difficult journey for a woman. Therefore, know how to cope with this by reading on below now. We have a few suggestions to help you emotionally face the transition from liquids to solids in your little one’s life. Don’t Say Goodbye Just Yet Even though your child should be able to start eating solids from around the four month mark, this doesn’t mean you need to say goodbye to breastfeeding just yet. Luckily, you will be able to still breastfeed for as long as you see fit. Breastfeeding experts suggest you should aim to breastfeed your child for two years. From between four to six months, you will be able to introduce them to a more solid diet but continued breastfeeds are strongly supported. How To Cope When Eating Solids Are Enough For Your Little One Ending a breastfeeding journey can be a mixed bag of emotions. Many women have been known to go through a myriad of emotions in the space of a day! Some of the most common emotions you will experience are as follows: Relief: some moms may experience a sense of relief at the thought of ending their breastfeeding journey. This doesn’t suggest that they loathed the time spent with their child, but rather, that they look forward to enjoying a carefree diet once more! for whatever reason, some women feel a profound sense of relief at the thought, and this should not be belittled. Guilt: in the same right, guilt will rear its ugly head in the emotional trio. Moms will feel guilty for being relieved at the thought of ending this journey. In the same right, some women will feel guilty in that they don’t know if it is the right time for their child. Whichever way you experience it, note that guilt will probably surface during this time. Sadness: naturally, sadness will come into play. Breastfeeding is a hugely emotional and sentimental journey between mother and child. It also plays a huge role in the formative years of a child’s life. Naturally, saying goodbye to this practice will pull on the old heart strings. Putting Your Emotions Into Perspective The best thing to do for yourself is allow yourself to go through the motions of any feeling which pops up during this time. Another wonderful way to ensure you don’t lose any connection to your child is to set time aside daily for skin to skin hugs. Perhaps begin to schedule these in the times you would’ve usually spent breastfeeding. This will ensure you never miss out on the intimacy you shared with your child before.

February 5, 2019

Bad Posture may lead to headaches

There are many different medications, surgeries and interventions to treat headaches, but a new study reveals an effective way to treat primary headaches might be at your fingertips – neck stretching. By performing simple neck stretching exercises that stubborn and painful headache might just disappear. The study, published in Workplace Health and Safety, examined the effects of a neck stretching exercise intervention on nurses’ primary headaches. It used a pretest and posttest two-group design with a total of 60 female staff nurses employed by a medical center in Taiwan. Participants in the experimental group (a total of 30 patients) practiced neck stretching exercises while experiencing headaches. The participants in the control group (the other 30 patients) managed their headaches as they would usually do. According to Dr. Elliot Shevel, Medical Director of The Headache Clinic, and South Africa’s internationally recognized Migraine expert and pioneer in the field of Migraine Surgery, a structured questionnaire was used to collect data on headache intensity at baseline, and at 30 minutes and 1 hour after intervention. “Decrease in headache intensity of the experimental group was significantly larger than that of the control group,” says Shevel. “The conclusion was that neck stretching exercises is an effective method for treating primary headaches.” What exercises can you do? By simply doing some physiotherapy exercises at the office or in the comfort of your own home, you can treat your own headaches, says Shevel. The Headache Clinic’s in-house Physiotherapist Urvashi Chiba has put together a short demonstration video with practical advice and exercise demonstration. Please click here. Things to remember when doing neck stretching: Do the neck stretches two to three times per day. Stretches are more effective and comfortable when the muscle is warm. Ideally it can be done in the shower, after a bath or after heating the muscles with a heat pack. Do not pull too hard; a gentle pulling sensation should be felt. The stretch should be gentle and should not cause you pain Take regular breaks from the computer or seated position. Maintain correct seated position in front of your computer or desk. Correct computer posture Maintain correct seated position whilst driving. Correct driving posture Avoid awkward positions, especially for extended periods of time. Common awkward positions Slouching in a chair Sticking your bottom out Standing with a flat back Leaning on one leg Hunched back and ‘text neck’ (from hunching over while texting) Poking your chin by sitting too low in front of your screen Rounded shoulders Cradling your phone between head and shoulder

January 24, 2019

12 Breastfeeding Super Foods

Moms that are breastfeeding must consider which foods they can include in their daily diet. All foods or drinks that are consumed in large quantities can pass through the breast milk to your baby’s system and can as a result have a negative effect on your baby’s health or overall well-being. There are a few helpful tips to consider for milk supply when nursing your infant: Make sure that you include a well-balanced eating plan and consume a variety of foods to provide your baby with different kinds of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that is vital for healthy growth. *Foods that should be avoided or consumed in moderation are:Caffeine, fish, chocolate, parsley, peppermint, alcohol, citrus, dairy, peanuts, gassy vegetables (such as cabbage) and spicy foods. Always be vigilant by watching your baby’s reactions after you’ve eaten certain foods that could have an undesirable effect on your baby. If you are unsure or have any health concerns with regards to certain food items, always check with your pediatrician to be on the safe side. Another great way to promote milk supply is pumping to induce lactation. The best method for increasing milk supply is by stimulating the nipples whether it is by pumping or putting baby to your breast. If you aren’t stimulating the breasts regularly, no supplement or food is going to help you increase your milk supply. When pumping frequently, the aim is to remove more milk from breasts and increasing the frequency of breast emptying. Adding pumping sessions in between or after nursing sessions can be very beneficial when you’re looking to induce lactation, therefore increasing your milk flow and upping your milk supply. Have a look at these 12 breastfeeding superfoods to promote lactation: Oatmeal A good choice for comfort food which is easy to prepare. Oatmeal is a rich source of iron which is vital for Moms that are experiencing post-pregnancy anemia. Oatmeal helps to increase red blood cell count in blood which can lead to increased breast milk production. Another great benefit is stimulating the production of Pitocin which is a key hormone when it comes to producing breast milk. Water Drinking enough water is vital when you are breast feeding. For your body to function properly and to promote milk supply (water forms the basis of breast milk), you must drink enough water to make up for the fluids lost when you’re sweating as well as producing enough milk to quench your baby’s thirst. Green Papaya Women across Asia often consume unripe papaya which is a great galactagogue (food that increases breast milk). Green papaya helps promoting the production of oxytocin which in turn increases milk production. Garlic One of the best food choices for increasing milk supply in breastfeeding mothers is garlic. A great way to add an extra layer of flavouring to your dishes plus garlic has an array of health benefits, including providing relief for babies suffering from colic. Drinking garlic pills is a great option for ladies that don’t enjoy the after taste of garlic. These pills provide the same benefits as garlic without the lingering after taste. Fennel Fennel has similar properties as estrogen, therefore fennel or fennel seeds are ideal for promoting lactation. Another great option is making use of fennel essential oil, but it’s important to keep in mind that long-term use can affect the urinary tract, therefore it’s best to use it for up to seven to ten days at a time and no more. Fenugreek seeds Fenugreek is one of the most popular and safest herbs used for milk supply since biblical times, as it stimulates the secretion of human growth hormone. It can be boiled in tea or you can buy them in capsule form. Many cultures also use Fenugreek as a herb or spice in food to treat medical conditions. Other benefits include, slowing the digestive tract as well as stabilizing blood sugar levels. Nuts Almonds, cashews and macadamia nuts contain monounsaturated fats which increase the richness of your milk. They need to be eaten raw (not roasted and salted) and you can enjoy up to three servings a day. Grains or Legumes Brown rice, lentils, millet and barley are excellent examples of grains or legumes that promote milk supply as well as stabilizing blood sugar levels. Spinach Spinach is a great source of calcium, iron, Vitamin K, A and folic acid. Folic acid is vital for women who are breastfeeding. Dark leafy greens contain phytoestrogens which promote lactation and breast tissue health. But to avoid any food-borne illness, make sure you boil it before consumption. You can also add it to salads but ensure that you’ve rinse it properly beforehand. Carrots Carrots are rich in Vitamin A which is great for assisting with baby’s growth and they are also believed to assist with lactation. Sesame seeds Not only are they delicious, but they are high in calcium and polyunsaturated fat, making them a very nutritious choice. They are also known as lactogenic food which means they help to increase breast milk production. Asparagus Asparagus is one of the must-have food items for nursing mothers because it is rich in fibre, high in Vitamin A and K and helps stimulating the hormones that are essential for nursing moms when it comes to lactation. Conclusion: Every lactating Mom who is breastfeeding, will have questions about what to eat and what to avoid when producing and providing the necessary quantity of breast milk that is also nutritious. Certain food items, known as galactagogue specifically assist with lactation, boost milk production and provide essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients to your baby when nursing. Remember to stay hydrated and ensure that you are taking in enough fluids when breastfeeding. Now that you know which foods can promote lactation and increase the production of milk supply, you can add them to your daily diet and provide your baby with the best possible breast milk that he/she needs to stay healthy and have a full tummy. Read Also:

January 21, 2019

Summer fun without the headache

Summer is the season most South Africans look forward to for its long, lazy weekends and holidays full of braais, swimming, sports, and picnics. Relaxing in the sun are highpoints in the year for most of us. However, mixed with some tension and frustrations and the mix of breaking your routine, eating and drinking differently, staying up late and having too much sun can all lead to headaches. According to a study published in Neurology the official journal of the European Neurological Society, your headache risk jumps 8% each time the temperature climbs nine degrees. Heat may make the blood vessels in your skull expand and press up against surrounding nerve endings, creating a very sensitive situation. As a result, even normal blood flow can feel like a jackhammer drilling through your cranium, says Dr Elliot Shevel, South Africa’s pioneer in the field of migraine surgery and the medical director of The Headache Clinic. Headaches are people’s number one physical woe, but you don’t have to live with the pain. You can stop the throbbing and get back to the beach. Eat healthy meals Eat balanced meals three times a day with healthy snacks in between to make sure your body gets the nutrients and energy it needs. Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can also trigger headaches in many people. If a meal with high sugar content is eaten, it can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels followed by a fast drop that may trigger a headache. Eating a meal with low sugar content may prevent the onset of a headache during the day. Call us on 011 484 0933 for a list of foods which have a low glycemic index. Remember that skipping meals is a sure-fire trigger for headaches. Eat in moderation and enjoy your meals. Beware of too much sun It’s not only the heat, but bright sunlight will often also trigger headaches. Many headache and migraine sufferers are sensitive to bright light and they should avoid it when they have a headache. It is wise to wear sunglasses for protection. Polarized lenses are recommended, as they are effective in cutting out glare. A suitable hat may also be helpful. Get enough sleep A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, tested 32 women with tension-type headache. The investigators studied self-report data on headache triggers, pain interference with sleep, and self-management strategies for pain. 81% reported that going to sleep was the most frequently used self-management strategy, and this group also rated going to sleep as the most effective strategy. So don’t lose out on sleep this winter. Fatigue is a major trigger of headaches as well, aim to sleep seven or eight hours a night. Stay active Taking part in physical activities are not only great fun, but also an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Take up some form of everyday physical activity that will help you stay healthy. Learn the right stretching exercises to stretch the muscles of the head, face, neck and jaw. Stretching should be gentle and soothing, not agonizingly painful. For a free copy of exercises, contact The Headache Clinic on 011 484 093. These exercises will help you to stretch the neck and jaw muscles carefully and will give results. Steer clear of stress Summer can be a very stressful time for most, thanks to large family gatherings over the festive season and stress is a major headache trigger. The research conducted by the World Health Organization has shown that 80 % of headaches are caused by muscle tension, which is triggered by stress. Headache and migraine sufferers should try plan ahead of time for big family get-togethers and holidays to avoid tension headaches. Try to avoid last minute gift shopping, ensure your car is serviced before travelling, delegate chores to family members, and make travel reservations well in advance. Keep your fluid intake up The human brain is more than 75% water, and it is very sensitive to the amount of water available to it. When the brain detects that the water supply is too low, it begins to produce histamines. This is essentially a process of water rationing and conservation, in order to safeguard the brain in case the water shortage continues for a long period of time. The histamines directly cause pain and fatigue, in other words a headache and the low energy that usually accompanies it. It is best to drink plain water, as many carbonated soft drinks contain substances that can also trigger headaches. Substances that headache sufferers should avoid include common ingredients in soft drinks such as caffeine. When to see a doctor It is crucial that if your headaches persist, you should get to the root of the problem. The longer the headache persists, the more damage will be done to the underlying structures. A “multidisciplinary” assessment will need to be done. There are so many different structures in the head, face and neck, all of which can be involved in the migraine process, that no single specialist can have all the knowledge necessary to make a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis. Which structures are causing the pain and generating the pain signals is the million dollar question. For those patients who want to have healthier alternatives to medication, there are a number of non-drug breakthrough treatment options. These include bloodless “surgery”, minimally evasive arterial surgery, posture modifying technologies, Botox and trigger point therapy to name but a few. In most cases it is possible to get to the bottom of the problem and resolve the pain permanently.

January 17, 2019

Understanding the effect of alcoholism on children

An Open Letter To My Teacher Dear Teacher, I think it’s time I told you why I have been acting out at school and crying sometimes. I think you know that something is wrong, because you keep asking me, “What’s the matter?” The reason I haven’t told you before is that I can’t talk to you in the hallway with all the other kids staring at me—and until now, I didn’t feel like I could talk to anybody about it. I’m worried about my schoolwork. I keep getting in trouble for not doing my homework, and not listening in class. Sometimes I am so scared that I just get mad at everybody. I don’t mean to yell. I just feel like everyone is picking on me at home and at school. You see, my dad has a drinking problem. It’s called “alcoholism.” It means that he can’t control his drinking. He comes home some nights really drunk and yells at all of us. Then Mom yells back at him for being drunk and spending all the money. Sometimes he hits her, or my sister and me for no reason, just because he is drunk. Sometimes my sister and I are so scared that we hide in our room. I used to hate my mom and dad for all that – Mom for yelling at Dad and making him even madder, and Dad for his drinking. I don’t hate them anymore because I found out why they were like that. One day a lady came and talked to my mom, and I listened, too. She was the one who explained to us what alcoholism is. I learned that my dad was not horrible, just sick. He has a disease called alcoholism. She told us that when there is someone in the house with a drinking problem, the whole family gets hurt by it. She also told my mom about Al-Anon. That is where families and friends of problem drinkers go to understand the disease of alcoholism and how they can stop being so scared and mad all the time. Now Mom goes to Al-Anon. It works, too. Mom doesn’t scream at Dad or us as much anymore. I go to Alateen, that’s for kids affected by someone else’s drinking. Sometimes we have friends that drink too. Now I understand, and it feels good not to be the only one with my kind of problem. I think that teachers should know about alcoholism, because then they would understand kids like me. If you know of any kids who might have a problem with a drinking parent or a drinking friend, you could tell them where they can get help. It really helped me. Your Student ____________________________ For nearly 70 years, Al-Anon Family Groups, globally, has helped the families who live with the disease of alcoholism. The disease of alcoholism in a family member or friend affects children and teenagers in many ways that impact on their behaviour and ultimately, their school work. Frequently, students and educators do not realise that a relationship with an alcoholic could be a factor in poor performance, disruptive behaviour and other problems. Alateen helps young people understand how alcoholism affects the lives of all who are associated with a problem drinker. It especially effective for children in the Teens & Teens age group Alateen in South Africa We have learned that learners are very cautious about attending Alateen meetings at their schools. In some areas Alateen meetings are held in the evenings in a nearby church hall, community centre or somewhere secure. Parents/guardians must give written permission for Alateen attendance. Alateen South Africa has groups across the country. A list of Alateen meetings may be found on our websites: http://www.alanon.org.za/meetings/ http://www.alanongauteng.co.za/ Teen Corner (Alateen) [email protected] — 24 hr Helpline – 0861 25 66 66 Literature & more information is available. Just call us.

January 16, 2019

Preparation tips for parents on back to school headaches

It’s back to school time again. Parents know this time of year all too well. There are school clothes and supplies to be purchased, class and bus schedules to review, and seemingly countless other details to deal with. For children who get headaches, this time of year means anxiety, stress, and chronic head pain. The research conducted by the World Health Organization has shown that 80 % of headaches are caused by muscle tension, which is triggered by stress. “In order to start the school year off right, you need to have a headache strategy” says Dr Elliot Shevel, South Africa’s pioneer in the field of migraine surgery and the medical director of The Headache Clinic. He advises parents to take note of the following: Install a blue light filter on devices If your child uses a computer, tablet or mobile phone for many of their school activities and leisure, installing a blue light filter on each device is recommended to reduce muscle stress of the eyes which contributes to headaches and migraines. Blue light filters also block out the light that contributes to insomnia and poor sleeping. Lack of sleep is also a trigger for headaches and migraines so every member of the family should have blue light filters on their devices too. Choosing the correct backpack/ posture related headache Choosing a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and padded back. Pack light and organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of your child’s body weight. Always use both shoulder straps as slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles and lead to muscle tension headache. Consider a rolling backpack; this type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs. Nutritional lunch boxes/ dietary related headache Nutritious home packed lunches start in the supermarket; use the nutritional facts label to help choose healthy foods. Compare nutrient levels for similar foods. Select those lower in fat, sodium and sugar. Dietary headache is a common affliction. These are usually triggered by foods that assist with energy such as chocolate. Instead of giving your child a chocolate as a sweet treat rather include a fruit. Fruits make a sweet and nutritious contribution to lunch. They are generally rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber and water. Take note of which foods trigger headaches for your child by keeping a diary and avoid these foods. A Dietary Trigger Diary is available on this link free of charge to assist you. Remember to remind your child to eat their lunch as skipping meals is a surefire trigger for headaches. Teach them to eat in moderation and enjoy their meals. Ponytails, braids, weaves, tight hats or headbands The scalps of headache sufferers are far more sensitive than people who are not susceptible so be mindful of your child’s hairstyle to ensure that it is not contributing to their headache pain. Pulling hair tight can often cause discomfort but this will be relieved as soon as the pull on the hair is relaxed or released. Remember to pack a fruit juice/ dehydration headache Dehydration is a common trigger, adequate intake of fluid throughout the day to prevent headaches. Select 100% fruit juice, not just any soda drinks. Soda drinks contain mostly caffeine and sugar and are low in nutrients. Caffeine has been known to trigger headaches in children and it is also highly addictive. A better choice is 100% fruit juice or water. First day stress headache Having your child feel anxious and stressed on the first day is a surefire way to trigger a headache. Remind your child that he/she is not the only student who is a bit uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers also know that students are anxious and will make an effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible. Point out the positive aspect of school, such as it being fun and them getting a chance to make new friends. If you feel it appropriate, drive your child to school and pick them up after on the first day. Taking part in sports/ stretching exercises Parent should encourage their children to take part in physical activities at school as these are not only great fun, but also an important part of playing and learning. It is also vital for healthy growth and development. Persuading those children who don’t enjoy organized sport to take up some other form of everyday physical activity will help them stay healthy. Teach your children the right stretching exercises to stretch the muscles of the head, face, neck and jaw. Stretching should be gentle and soothing, not agonizingly painful. Get your children to stretch their neck and jaw muscles carefully and this will give results. For a free copy of the exercises, contact The Headache Clinic on 011 484 0933. These will help them to stretch the neck and jaw muscles carefully, this will give results. When to consult a medical professional If your child’s headache persists, it is imperative that you undergo a multidisciplinary investigation to diagnose the specific factors behind the recurring headache. There are a number of healthier treatment options to medication available right here in South Africa. It is possible to get to the bottom of the problem and resolve the pain permanently without medication so that your child can enjoy the quality of life they deserve. For more information go to www.theheadacheclinic.net alternatively contact The Headache Clinic hotline on 011 484 0933.

January 11, 2019

Is my child talking the talk?

Learning to communicate effectively is a complicated process, involving multiple skills that develop concurrently. A child’s speech and language skills develop as they grow from infancy to school age. This development should follow suggested timelines and patterns. When it doesn’t, this can be a worry for parents and is cause for a professional evaluation by a speech-language pathologist. Often, these difficulties can be treated with speech and/or language therapy. Normal speech might seem effortless, but it’s actually a complex process that needs precise timing, and nerve and muscle control. When we speak, we must coordinate many muscles from various body parts and systems, including the larynx, which contains the vocal cords; the teeth, lips, tongue, and mouth; and the respiratory system. The ability to understand language and produce speech is coordinated by the brain. A number of events must occur for us to speak. The brain MUST: Want to communicate an idea to someone else Send the idea to the mouth Tell the mouth which words to say and which sounds make up those words Incorporate patterns and accented syllables (to avoid sounding like a robot) Send the signals to the muscles that control the tongue, lips, and jaw Language is what we speak, write, read, and understand. Language is also communicating through gestures (body language or sign language). There are two distinct areas of language: receptive (what we hear and understand from others’ speech or gestures) and expressive (the words we use to create messages others will understand). In order for children to begin using and understanding spoken language, they must: Hear well enough to distinguish one word from another Have someone model what words mean and how to put sentences together Hear intonation patterns, accents, and sentence patterns Have the intellectual capability to process what words and sentences mean, store the information, and recall words and sentences heard previously when communicating an idea to someone else Have the physical capability to speak in order for others to hear and understand the words they are saying Have a social need and interest in using words to communicate with others Have another person to positively reinforce their attempts at communication Language Disorders483 AGE RED FLAG Birth & Up • does not smile/interact with others 4 – 7 months • does not babble (“bababa”) 7 – 12 months • very few sounds or gestures (pointing) 7 months – 2 years • poor comprehension of what others say 1 1/2 – 2 years • speech is difficult for listeners to understand 1 1/2 – 3 years • does not combine words into sentences 2 – 3 years • difficulty talking to and playing with peers 2 1/2 – 3 years • difficulty with early literacy and writing skills Speech Sound Disorders AGE RED FLAG 1 – 2 years • incorrect production of early sounds /p,b,m,h,w/ in words 2 – 3 years • incorrect production of /k,g,f,t,d,n/ in words 2 – 3 years • speech is unclear, even to familiar listeners Stuttering Disorders AGE RED FLAG 2 1/2 – 3 years • difficulty producing sounds or words 2 1/2 – 3 years • repeats the first sound of words (b-b-b-baby for “baby”) 2 1/2 – 3 years • frequent pauses of silence when talking 2 1/2 – 3 years • stretching sounds out while talking (sssss-silly for “silly”) Voice Disorders AGE RED FLAG any age • hoarse- or breathy-sounding voice any age • nasal quality to voice Hearing Problems AGE RED FLAG birth – 1 year • poor attention to sounds in the environment 7 months – 1 year • does not respond when name is called 1 – 2 years • difficulty following simple directions birth – 3 years • delays in speech and/or language development any age • scratching or pulling at ears school-age • limited academic progress, especially math and/or reading school-age • social isolation and unhappiness at school school-age • discomfort in ears after exposure to loud noise Encouraging good communication Parents play the most important role in building communication skills in their children. Children develop communication habits by the way they see parents interacting with others. Parents who listen and speak with patience, interest, and attention prove to be the best teachers of listening and give their children the greatest audience in the world. Listening Skills Listening is a learned skill and an essential part of the communication exchange with your child. It is important to model good listening skills when your child is communicating via verbal messages (questions, requests) or nonverbal ones (actions or non-actions). You will be setting a good example for your children, and help them to become active listeners. Active listening is the central component of communication. When parents are active listeners, other people may describe them as having good intuition and as being “tuned in” to their children. The process of active listening will help your child understand feelings and be less afraid of the negative ones. It will also allow them the opportunity to talk about and solve their own problems as well as gain more control over behaviour and emotions. To become an active listener: Set aside time to listen and block out distractions as much as possible. Encourage your child to talk directly to you so you may model the habits of good listening. Some parents and children find they can communicate best just before bedtime or when they share an evening snack. Maintain eye contact while your child talks. When your child speaks to you, show that you are genuinely interested in their thoughts and feelings. Listen to, summarise, and repeat back to your child the message you are hearing. Watch for your child’s nonverbal cues including facial expressions, posture, energy level, or changes in behaviour patterns. The underlying messages may include the feelings, fears, and concerns of your child such as being scared… sad…angry…happy. Accept and show respect for what your child is expressing, even if it does not coincide with your

December 18, 2018

What to do if your teenager is depressed

Growing up can be an emotional rollercoaster, during which a young person has to contend with many high and lows, from school and friendships to puberty and their sexuality. If you have noticed that your teenager seems to be experiencing more lows than highs, and these lows are happening more and more frequently, this may be a sign that they are struggling with depression. It can be distressing to watch your teenager feel constantly sad and low. However, it’s important to know that you’re not alone, and the most important step you can take to help is to seek help. Here, we provide information on the symptoms of depression in teenagers to look out for, as well as guidance on the ways that you can support them. What does depression feel like for your teenager? Whilst it’s normal to feel sad occasionally, the intense and overwhelming low moods that depression causes can stop your teenager from getting pleasure from things they usually enjoy. This all-encompassing sadness can also prevent them from being able to function and perform daily tasks. We have outlined what depression actually feels like for a teenager to help you understand what they may be going through: For young people, depression can feel like they have a sieve in their head, which washes away all positive reinforcements and keeps hold of all negativity, which they focus on and magnify A teenager may feel like they are wearing a mask in front of friends. They will put on this brave face to cover up how they really feel, as they believe that they will be a burden if they show their real mood. This mask can be exhausting to wear, so by the time they come home they often can’t keep it up, meaning that you are likely to see the true picture Many young people describe depression as being tortured in their head. Anything that they hear gets turned into something negative, and even if they are told by a specialist that their depression is treatable, they believe that they’re the only one that can’t get better Signs of depression in children If you are becoming increasingly worried about your teenager, we have outlined common symptoms that they may be experiencing and warning signs for you to look out for: Psychological symptoms: Persistent sadness, or low mood Anger and irritability Crying more than usual Being highly sensitive to bad news or rejection Feeling worthless or guilty Low self-esteem Poor concentration Indecisiveness Feeling empty or numb Self-harming Suicidal thoughts Drugs or alcohol abuse Social symptoms: Social withdrawal Lacking interest in activities they once enjoyed Poor performance and behaviour at school or college Physical symptoms: Insomnia, or sleeping more than usual Frequent headaches and stomach aches Eating more or less than usual Unexplained digestive problems Exhaustion Lethargy Restlessness I think my teenager is depressed – what are the next steps? Talk to your child If you’re worried, sit down with your child and calmly explain that you’re concerned because they don’t seem to be themselves lately. If they’re willing to open up to you, try to find out how they are feeling and what is troubling them, and let them know that you’re always there to talk. If your teenager doesn’t want to talk to you, encourage them to speak to someone else they trust, such as another parent or a teacher. Take them seriously If you haven’t experienced depression yourself, it can be difficult to understand what your teenager is going through. Something that doesn’t seem to be a problem to you could be a major issue for your child, which is why it’s important to take them seriously and avoid being judgemental or critical. Be open and listen If your teenager wants to talk to you about their problems, it’s important to be open with them and listen to what they have to say. This lets them know it’s OK to talk about how they’re feeling, and they’re not alone. Learn the symptoms By familiarising yourself with the symptoms of teenage depression, not only will this help you to empathise with your child, but will also mean that you are able to spot when they’re going through a particularly difficult time. It can also help you to manage expectations, and understand that it’s possible that things may get worse for your teenager before they get better. Reduce risks Give them the phone numbers for charities such as LifeLine, and encourage them to call if they ever need to. You could also give them useful apps to look at such as Headspace or Mindspot. If they have thoughts about harming themselves, ask them to share those thoughts with you in a way that they feel comfortable with, so you can help keep them safe. They could write their thoughts down, send them in a text message or email, or talk to you about them when they’re feeling calm and perhaps distracted with an activity. Things you can do to reduce risks include locking away any medication and asking the young person what websites they are accessing online, and talking through whether these are really helpful to them or not. It’s also important to establish the best way that you, as a parent, can support your teenager. Ask them what you can do to help; they may just want hugs, a distraction such as watching a film with you or not to be left alone at night time. Seek help It’s crucial to seek professional help if you think your child is struggling with depression. This will ensure that they receive the support they need to prevent their depression from becoming worse. Make an appointment to see your GP; they will be able to recommend next steps. Also, reassure your teenager that depression is treatable and advise them that it would be worth taking them to a doctor to find out if they have depression, and if so, to get them the right support. Dr Hayley van Zwanenberg

November 20, 2018

SUNUMBRA P – Embrace the sunshine

Sunumbra P is a Natural Sunscreen with Organic Ingredients and a core purpose to make a difference inpeople’s lives as well as the environment by embracing the sunshine. Don’t damage your skin with chemicals to avoid getting sunburnt. Zinc Oxide, as a mineral sunscreen, is 100% natural, provides a high level protection for both UVA and UVB, plus has excellent healing qualities. Three of the great Sunumbra P sunscreens available: Sunumbra P Sport SPF 40+ (RSP: R265.00) Sunumbra sport is a natural sunscreen containing organic ingredients that is specially formulated for the active outdoors person Sunumbra sport is a natural sunscreen containing organic ingredients that is specially formulated for the active outdoors person to ensure… 5 Star rating (UVA) SPF40+ (UVB) Fully certified ISO/COLIPA for UVA & UVB Water resistant 40 minutes High protection Broad Spectrum Sunumbra P Sunkids SPF 40 (RSP : R299.00) •Protects against UVA and UVB light at the highest level•Contains natural, organic, photo-protective botanicals •Contains the powerful anti-radiation properties of zinc oxide •No harmful chemicals •Dermatologically tested and approved •Specially formulated for children and people with sensitive skin•A tinted sunscreen using natural botanicals containing pigments•Tested on human skin only, not animals •PH in balance with children’s skin •Can be used by anyone with a dietary or environmental concern Sunumbra P SPF 30+ (RSP : R299.99)Natural sunscreen ● Organic ingredients ● SPF 30+ (UVB) ● 5 ***** UVA rating (highest level) ● Free of Parabens ● 100% Free of harmful Chemicals ● A tinted sunscreen using natural botanicals containing pigments● Not tested on Animals ● No Animal derivatives ● Water resistant ● Developed, Formulated and manufactured in South Africa Tip: As this is a tinted sunscreen, any clothing stains that may result from the natural oils can be removed by simply applying dish washing liquid directly to the stain (because regular laundry detergent does not contain oil-removing properties), then launder as normal. Why you should choose and natural sunscreen? Natural and organic preservatives do not damage your health. Commonly used Parabens are endocrine disruptors mimicking estrogen, upsetting hormone balance, plus are carcinogenic. No Petrochemicals or Mineral oils: they clog up skin pores, trap toxins, slow skin cell growth, disrupt normal hormonal functions, rob bones and the nervous system of magnesium, can be estrogenic, plus absorb oil soluble vitamins A, D, E and K from you and then excrete them. Natural Colorants are non-toxic – vs toxic Synthetic ones Natural organic ingredients smell delightful. Added Fragrance can be toxic. Avoid unnatural Polymers for Water Resistance, which coat the skin and prevent it breathing Many Organic plant extracts provide Anti-oxidants, which protect against free radical damage and atmospheric toxins, eliminate chemical reactions, and repair skin cells. Direct benefit from every ingredient. No fillers are required to counteract negative reactions to chemicals. Reverse sun damage. Switching from toxic chemical sunscreens to non-toxic sunscreens with added organic ingredients, you can possibly reverse some existing sun damage What chemicals to avoid and what are their potential health risks: Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate): gender bending (estrogenic) Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3): allergic reactions and hormone disrupting. Avobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane): becomes toxic in sunlight! Octocrylene: potentially carcinogenic! Homosalate: Hormone disruptor; forms toxic metabolites Padimate O (Octyl Dimethyl Paba / Paba Ester): releases free radicals; damages DNA; estrogenic and allergic reactions. Ensulizole (Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid: potentially carcinogenic! Mexoryl SX: Degrades 40% in sunlight, produces reactive oxygen species. Octyl Salicyclate: penetration enhancer; allows other chemicals into blood. Benzophenone (Sulisobenzone): irritates skin & eyes. Penetration enhancer. Avoid toxic cosmetic ingredients. A healthy lifestyle is vital to combat toxins from modern industries. Choose cosmetics with healthy ingredients and avoid these toxic ones: Sodium Laurel, Lauryl Sulfate, or Sodium Laurel Sulfate: Combined with other chemicals this becomesNitrosamine, a powerful carcinogen, which penetrates the skin’s moisture barrier, allowing chemicals in.PEG (Polyethylene Glycol), Polysorbates, or Ethoxyylate alcohol: all contain dioxane, which is carcinogenic and probably one of the most potent toxins known to man. Propylene Glycol: can cause dermatitis, kidney or liver abnormalities, skin growth prevention, or just plain irritation. Phenol Carbolic Acid: Can cause circulatory collapse, paralysis, convulsions, coma, and even death from respiratory failure. Acrylamide: Can cause breast cancer Toluene (Benzoic; Benzyl or Butylated Hydroxtoluene): can cause anaemia, low blood cell count, liver and kidney damage and birth defects.

October 31, 2018

Give Your Special Needs Child the Best Future Possible

When you’re told that your child will be born with a mental or physical disability, the news can be crushing and leave you with many doubts. Will you be able to provide for them? Will their childhood be as full of joy as the other kids? Will you have the stamina to carry on when the going gets tough? The answers are yes, yes, and yes. Though you’re facing the greatest challenge of your life, you can see it through with plenty of love and the right preparation. Here are some things to do before your baby arrives in this world. Research Their Disability How you get ready mentally, physically, and financially depends on the nature of your child’s disability and what obstacles they will face growing up. A good place to start your inquiries is Parent to Parent USA. Not only will you find a treasure trove of information on conditions ranging from blindness to mobility impairment to Down syndrome, this organization will put you in contact with other parents who have already faced the same challenges. Look Into Financial Aid Read up on the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA, which is a federal law that guarantees your child access to early intervention, special education, and related services from birth until adulthood. These include therapy sessions either at home or in the community to aid in the development of motor, cognitive, and communication skills needed to thrive during their infant and toddler years. Grants are available through agencies in each state. Find Support From Nonprofits There are also a number of charity organizations that are ready to step in and offer assistance when federal aid is insufficient. Many of these are devoted to children suffering from specific conditions such as autism, while others, like the Legacy of Hope, offer access to exciting activities outside of education such as art classes, music lessons, and even horseback riding, helping to ensure a well rounded and enjoyable childhood. Begin Navigating Health Insurance Thanks to recent health care reforms, insurers cannot deny coverage to children under the age of 19 based on pre-existing conditions including disabilities, according to the experts at Allied Wealth Partners, adding that you have 30 days after the birth of your child to add them to your health plan. Speak with your insurer to find out which physicians and providers are in-network to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Depending on your income, you may also qualify for Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. Set Up an Emergency Fund There will be items that you have to pay for yourself. Luckily, more and more states are offering residents as well as non-residents the opportunity to open a tax-advantaged ABLE account for any disabled person under the age of 26, with contributions limited to $14,000 per beneficiary per year, according to finance magazine Kiplinger. This money can be withdrawn tax-free and used to cover medical treatment and other expenses. Prepare Your Home You’ll need to make some modifications to ensure that your child is safe and can move around comfortably. If they’ll be confined to a wheelchair, then begin your research into options for improved accessibility, such as wheelchair ramps, which cost $1,604 on average. Other renovations include grab rails in the bathroom as well as a roll-in shower to make washing up easier at the end of the day. Contact local professionals to get an estimate in your area. Take Care of Yourself Giving your child the support and attention they deserve is impossible if you are tired and strung out. Begin a regimen of self-care now to ensure you’re in the best possible condition when the parenting begins. That, above all, means a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and a good night’s rest, as well as techniques for relieving stress such as meditation or yoga. There’s a lot of work to be done, but rest assured that there are ways to overcome the obstacles that you and your child face. It just takes love and courage, and you’ve got both in spades.

October 31, 2018

Medical aid unpacked

When it comes to medical aid, affordability is usually the biggest consideration. However, monthly premiums should be weighed and balanced against the actual benefits and healthcare coverage being offered in order to make an informed decision. The biggest question around medical aid costs is why healthcare inflation is rising at such an alarming rate and how schemes deal with this. ‘Currently, medical inflation is outpacing general economic inflation by between 3 and 4%,’ says Gerhard van Emmenis, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund. ‘And while the jury’s still out in the form of the Health Market Inquiry into the private healthcare sector, fingers are being pointed at all role players from private hospitals and specialists to medical schemes. However, you need to remember that the former are all about the bottom line, while medical schemes are not-for-profit.’ Consumers, unable to make Rands or sense of the many plans available and what they’re actually offering, are often tempted to migrate to what is perceived as a more affordable plan, but with less coverage. ‘Comparing the average percentage increase in isolation is not an indicator of the value of the healthcare being provided,’ says Van Emmenis ‘We urge consumers to compare monthly contributions with the benefits to ensure they are getting the cover they need.’ He maintains that simply comparing the average percentage increase announced by the various schemes is not a litmus test for value for money, since it does not take into account the basis on which the increase applies. Here is a simple maths example: Two schemes offer the same benefits however, Scheme A costs R1 000 pm while Scheme B costs R1 100pm. If Scheme A announces a 10% increase (R1 100pm) and Scheme B announces a 7% increase (R1 177) but neither change or increase the benefits, then Scheme A is still providing the same benefits, at a lower cost, even though it announced a higher contribution increase. ‘That’s why it’s important to compare the actual benefits and contributions rather than only looking at the percentage increase,’ says Van Emmenis. This is where a Broker can be invaluable. While consumers are becoming more savvy and educated on the inner workings of the medical scheme industry there is confusion. Brokers assist consumers by making informed recommendations that take into account their specific needs. They also play a vital role in education around the offerings, how to maximise your benefits, how to benefit from Managed Care, both financially and in terms of quality of life, various healthcare terminology and assisting members with claims. Van Emmenis explains that schemes with a growing membership base will require additional loadings in the monthly contributions to increase the reserves in order to meet the statutory solvency requirement of 25%. ‘This is a legislative requirement and does not imply the scheme is performing poorly – in fact the opposite is true in this context,’ he says. According to data released by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), the market has not been successful in attracting young, healthy people who are less prone to chronic health conditions like diabetes or hypertension: Lifestyle diseases that adversely effect of the pool of contributions. The increasing age of beneficiaries is also a huge concern. The CMS reported that the industry average beneficiary age increased from 31.9 years in 2013 to 32.5 years in 2016. The pensioner ratio increased slightly to 7.9%, with a general rise in the ratio for both males and females. Schemes with an ageing membership base generally experience increased claims costs, in excess of inflation, due to the higher use of benefits. ‘We have seen around a 2% increase in claims by members annually as they age,’ says Van Emmenis. ‘In addition, all chronic conditions, except Type 1 Diabetes, have shown an upswing, ‘says Van Emmenis. ‘These conditions are PMBs that need to be paid in full by all schemes. So, although the regulation is well intended, it is without doubt one of the factors driving up the cost of healthcare. At the same time, there have been particularly steep increases in the cost of specialists and hospitals, which together account for more than 61% of total claims paid.’ Runaway healthcare costs are difficult to contain because of a myriad of contributing factors. Most rooted deeply in a complex health system where much of what happens is beyond the influence of the schemes. Take for example the over-regulation in the form of exclusion from collective bargaining by the Competition Commission. This leaves schemes with no option but to negotiate individually with service providers, blocking the development of a more efficient and cost-effective healthcare sector. Open enrolment also impacts costs as schemes have to accept anyone who wishes to join, regardless of their health status, which does maximum damage to risk equalisation. So what is the best approach for medical schemes going forward? Van Emmenis says that schemes need to continue to explore and implement cost containment strategies and offer value for money to members. ‘Access to quality healthcare remains a concern and priority for the majority of South Africans. Our mandate has always been to provide quality healthcare at affordable prices and this will continue.’

October 30, 2018

Food’s influence on childhood behaviour and learning

Worldwide, allergies are on the rise, and in South Africa a staggering 40% of sufferers are children, according to the Allergy Foundation of South Africa – affecting quality of life and learning potential. The problem, and solution, to common allergy symptoms, says world-renowned nutrition expert Patrick Holford, is diet. “One in three children with behavioural problems have allergic reactions to foods. Other than overt physical reactions, individual food allergies can affect thought processing and cause irritability, agitation, aggressive behaviour, nervousness, anxiety, ADHD, autism, hyperactivity and learning disabilities,” says Holford. A trial study conducted by Dr Joseph Egger, head of the Pediatric University Hospital in Munich, Germany, and his team in 1985, which studied hyperactive children to find out whether diet could contribute to behavioural disorders, found that 79% of the children participating reacted adversely to artificial food colourings and preservatives, but also found that different foods produced the same symptoms in different individuals. “In the 1980s, researchers found plenty of evidence that allergies affect any system in the body and are behind a diverse range of symptoms, yet this research has largely been ignored since,” says Holford. Patrick Holford is a pioneer in new approaches to health and nutrition, specialising in the field of mental health. Having suffered throughout his childhood and adolescence with migraines, sinus infections and ear infections, Holford sought a solution and discovered that his troubles were due to milk and yeast allergies. “The truth is that the majority of people are likely to suffer for years not knowing that they have an allergy – but also not knowing how to treat it,” says Holford. Not to be confused with an intolerance or sensitivity, an allergy is an exaggerated physical reaction to a substance where the immune system is involved. As our personal defence system, the immune system releases chemicals when it comes across a substance it doesn’t like. The chemicals released by the immune system in response to an allergy result in symptoms such as mood-, attention-, memory- and intellectual impairments, as well as behavioural problems, overt physical ailments and delayed reactions that make pinpointing the allergy difficult. Other symptoms of a food allergy include nausea, cramps, flatulence, fatigue, throat trouble, sweating, skin rashes, acne and boils, migraines, apathy and confusion, depression, and paranoia. “The good news is that you can grow out of most food allergies and reduce your child’s allergic potential,” says Holford. According to Holford, the best way to prevent and reduce allergic potential in your child is to stick to the following dietary guidelines: Completely remove wheat and dairy products from their diet for a month or so and see if their symptoms improve. Have an IgG ELISA food allergy test done and see a nutritional therapist. Improve your child’s digestion by including plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and seeds in their diet. Ensure you keep antibiotics and painkillers to a minimum, as they damage the digestive tract. Include fish in their diet to ensure that they are getting sufficient Omega 3 oil, Zinc and Vitamin A. Avoid foods containing chemical food additives. The most common ones to look out for are aspartame, tartrazine and MSG. Eat whole, natural foods as much as possible. Choose organic food (free from pesticide residues). For further information on food allergies, nutrition and childhood behavioural problems, visit www.holforddirect.co.za.

October 19, 2018

Exploring Middle Ear Infections

What is a Middle Ear Infection? A Middle Ear Infection (also referred to as Otitis Media by healthcare professionals) refers to an infection, inflammation or fluid build up behind the eardrum. Middle ear infections can either be acute or recurrent in nature. Recurrent Otitis Media is defined as 3 or more separate episodes of Acute Otitis Media within a 6 month period. Otitis media with effusion, also known as ‘glue ear’, describes fluid that remains in the middle ear after the infection has resolved. It is usually not painful, but does affect the child’s hearing ability. Middle Ear Infection is the most common childhood illness and is very common in children aged between 6 months and 4 years. This is due to the Eustachian tube being shorter and more horizontal than it is in older children and adults. The Eustachian tube is meant to help equalize the pressure in the middle ear and drain the fluid in the middle ear – when fluid cannot be drained and stays in the middle ear it is likely that it becomes infected. Who is at risk for Middle Ear Infections? Children aged between 6 months and 4 years 75% of children will have at least one middle ear infection by the time they are three years old. Nearly half of these children will have three episodes by the time they are three years old Children who are bottle fed while lying flat When children are being bottle fed, they should be propped up at a 20 degree angle, at least. This ensures that the milk does not flow back into the middle ear Children who have not been breast fed Children with prolonged dummy use Children exposed to smoke Family history of Middle Ear Infections Children with allergies Children who are more susceptible to colds and flu specifically those prone to sinus infections Symptoms of a Middle Ear Infection Hearing difficulties Ear pain Tugging of one or both ears Difficulties sleeping Fever Loss of balance Irritability Discharge from the ear What should I do? When should I get help? Most cases of acute Middle Ear Infections should resolve by themselves. It is recommended that the child is treated for pain for the first 48 hours, however, if they symptoms worsen or do not improve then it is recommended that the child be seen by a doctor. The doctor will generally prescribe antibiotics. It is extremely important to complete the course of antibiotics. A child who has any discharge coming from their ear should see a doctor immediately. If your child has had multiple cases of Middle Ear Infections it is recommended that you take your child to an Ear Nose and Throat Specialist (ENT), who will decide if grommets are necessary. Your child having grommets inserted is a relatively simple procedure that places small ventilation tubes within the ear drum. The grommets allow for drainage of fluid in the middle ear, let air into the middle ear as well as equalise the pressure between the middle ear and the ear canal. All children who have suffered with Middle Ear Infections should be taken for a full diagnostic Audiological evaluation with an Audiologist once the middle ear infection has been resolved. What to expect from an Audiologists visit The audiologist will conduct a full comprehensive Audiological evaluation which will include an in-depth evaluation of your child’s outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. The Audiologist will complete the following examinations: Otoscopy An Otoscopic examination is used to visualize the ear drum. During this assessment, the audiologist will be able to see if there is still presence of a Middle Ear Infection or if the ear drum has burst during the ear infection. Tympanometry Tympanometry is an examination used to test the middle ear volume and pressure. During this assessment the Audiologist will be able to see if there is a middle ear infection present, if the ear drum is intact and if the pressure in the middle ear is normal. Audiometry The Audiologist will then conduct a pure tone audiometric examination. During this test, the audiologist will be able to determine your child’s current hearing ability and if any damage has occurred to your child’s hearing by the ear infection. Middle Ear Infection complications The following complications may arise from Middle Ear Infections: Burst ear drum In severe cases of Middle Ear Infections the fluid build-up puts too much pressure on the eardrum and subsequently causes the ear drum to burst (hole in the ear drum). This can either heal by itself over time or the ENT may deem surgery necessary to repair the hole. Delayed speech and language During an ear infection the child’s hearing is reduced by 24-45 dB. Their hearing is similar to how you hear while under water or with foam earplugs in your ears. This is a crucial time for speech and language development. If a child is not getting adequate speech and language input due to their decreased hearing, their speech and language development may become delayed. In these cases, it is important to seek professional help from a speech-language pathologist as soon as possible. Permanent hearing loss In some cases when there have been too many occurrences of Middle Ear Infections or the damage from the infections is too extensive, it may cause permanent hearing loss. In these cases a hearing aid may be beneficial. It is important to seek professional help from an Audiologist as soon as possible Prevention of Middle Ear Infections Never bottle feed your baby, while they are lying flat Avoid exposing your child to second hand smoke Keep up to date with your child’s recommended immunisations Although some preventative measures can be taken, it is important to note that if a child is susceptible to Middle Ear Infections, there is very little that can be done to completely avoid them. If you are worried about your child’s hearing or speech development, it is important to consult a medical

October 17, 2018

Medical Aid choices

It’s business as usual for medical aids… While the NHI remains a work in progress in terms of policy and planning, currently nothing changes in terms of medical aid schemes. As the NHI White Paper stipulates: Until the new system is fully implemented and operational, it is ‘business as usual.’ And, even when NHI is implemented, medical aids will still exist. According to Gerhard van Emmenis, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, South Africa’s second largest open medical scheme, one of the changes that will be seen once the NHI is a fait accompli, will be a decline in the number of medical schemes. ‘From what I understand, and we are talking of the future, there will be three or four medical aids which will serve as complementary health product providers and fill the gaps left by the NHI.’ Medical Aid ‘launches’ will go ahead in September – when schemes announce amended plans and premium increases for 2019. Costs of medical aid It is also the time when new members sign up and existing members scrutinise and review their existing cover, whether it’s a full medical aid or hospital plan. Medical aid may seem like a grudge purchase until you find yourself faced with unexpected and expensive medical cost. Unfortunately, healthcare inflation continues to outpace general inflation by about 5%. So while consumers are struggling in the economy generally, medical aids have to explore ways to contain costs without compromising the level of health care offered to members. Time to scrutinise the small print The medical aid landscape can be tricky to navigate so it’s important to compare all the available options and schemes to make sure you find a medical aid that works for you and your family’s health and is within your budget. Bonitas offers some advice on what to look out for and consider ahead of making a final decision. If you are already on an existing medical aid Before you decide on the best medical aid option, you need an idea of what your typical health care costs are. Reflect on the following over the past twelve months: How much you spent on day-to-day healthcare expenses Were you or any of your dependants admitted to hospital Did you need to visit a specialist regularly How often did you visit a GP Do any of you have any chronic conditions How much do you spend on dentistry, optometry and over-the-counter medicine Did you exhaust your day-to-day benefits and/or savings in the year How much did you pay in co-payments and/or deductibles Then consider which of the expenses listed above were once-off and won’t come up again soon (such as childbirth) and which are likely to come up again and again (such as flu). Empowering yourself with information Also take the time to read the information sent to you by the scheme and/or your broker to ensure you understand what it being offered so that you can make informed choices. The day-to-day detail for new or existing members Often the cost containment measures medical schemes apply for the day-to-day benefits are broad. So investigate, or bear in mind, the following: Does your medical aid contract with hospitals, doctors and specialists and, if so, are you willing to use them and are they close by? Using contracted or network providers usually means obtaining full or improved cover levels. It also helps ensure you are getting more value for money as doctors on your medical scheme’s network will not charge more than the rate agreed with your medical scheme. Must you be referred to a specialist by your GP? Does your medical aid offer additional GP consultations, which they will pay for, after you have exhausted your day-to-day benefits? Additional benefits Ask what supplementary benefits might be available that can potentially save significant day-to-day expenses. These could include the following: Preventative care benefits, ranging from basic screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and body mass index measurements) through to mammograms, pap smears, prostate testing. In some cases this extends to maternity programmes, dental check-ups, flu vaccinations and more. These usually require authorisation from the scheme, failing which they are simply met from your day-to-day benefit limits. Ways to get more value for your money Use generic medication wherever possible – ask your doctor and pharmacist about this Try to keep your claims within any specified sub-limits, e.g. optometry Find out if your option has any day-to-day benefits that are paid by the scheme from risk (not from your day-to-day sub-limits or savings) Using network doctors is an invaluable tool to make your medical aid last longer. It means that doctors can’t charge you more than a specific amount. At present, Bonitas has the largest GP network in the country. Age impacts your decision If you have young children, ensure that the medical aid option you select provides sufficient child illness benefits Check the maximum age of child dependents. Some allow students to remain on the scheme until they are 25, while others cut off at 21 or 23 However, if you are slightly older, then check that the option you select covers chronic conditions and provides sufficient in-hospital cover in the event of hospitalisation. Also keep an eye out for programmes that help you to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and cancer. Ensure the affordability of the medical aid plan selected When comparing the different medical aid options available, consider all the costs involved before you make your final decision, such as: Affordability of the monthly contributions given your monthly income and expenses. As a rule of thumb, your medical aid contributions should be around 10% of your monthly income at an individual or household level As a general rule, the lower the cost of the option the fewer the choices available to the member regarding medical treatment, healthcare providers and medications. However, this can greatly benefit people who have very limited resources available to them for healthcare, or for people who don’t have chronic and existing

October 17, 2018

Why breakfast really is the best way to start your day

The importance of breakfast has long been a part of the prevailing wisdom, and the habit of eating breakfast has always been a marker of a healthy lifestyle. Yet, if there’s a meal that is going to be skipped, it’s probably breakfast; and this is a pity because research clearly shows that there are many vital health benefits associated with eating breakfast regularly. Studies show that 1 in 5 South African children skip breakfast. For the first time, a broad coalition of health partners including leading non-profit organisations, health professional associations as well the National and Provincial Departments of Health, have aligned National Nutrition Week (9 – 15 October 2018) with National Obesity Week (15 – 19 October 2018) to promote a shared and very important message that eating breakfast is the best way to start your day. After our longest fast, a healthy breakfast kick-starts the metabolism, lights up mental functioning and boosts physical energy on a day-to-day basis. However, the health benefits of breakfast are not just experienced over the short-term. Studies show that eating a healthy breakfast regularly over the long term helps to reduce risks of heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. This correlates with studies that show that children, adolescents and adults who eat healthy breakfasts regularly have better, sustainable weight outcomes and are at a lower risk of becoming overweight and obesity. “It is ironic that one of the common reasons for skipping breakfast is the desire to lose weight when it has the opposite effects,” says Rebone Ntsie, Director: Nutrition at the National Department of Health. “The lack of breakfast leads to a far greater risk of compensating with unhealthy snacks to get through to lunchtime and with bigger lunch portions.” Ntsie points outs that, according to the 2016 South Africa Demographic and Health Survey, 68% of women and 31% of men in South Africa are overweight or obese. Life-threatening, severe obesity affects around 20% of women and 3% of men. Approximately 13.3% of children under 5 years of age are overweight or obese; and according to the 2012 South African Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (SANHANES), 14.2% children aged 6 to 14 years are overweight or obese. CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, Professor Pamela Naidoo says: “At least 80% of early deaths caused by heart disease and stroke can be avoided by following a healthy diet, which includes eating a healthy breakfast, in combination with regular physical activity and avoiding the use of tobacco. It is important to understand how the food choices we make contribute to overweight and obesity.” Many South Africans consume large amounts of sugary drinks and eat a lot of convenience foods that are typically high in sugar and fats. There’s also a common preference for highly refined starchy foods over those that are minimally processed and healthier. Taking in too much food energy from nutrient-poor foods leads to weight gain. However, making poor food choices is not the only issue. Professor Naidoo points out that our modern lifestyles easily lead to ‘portion distortion’. “Large portion size is also a major contributor to weight gain whether people eat out or at home,” she says. “With a gradual increase in the amount of food being purchased and served ready cooked, many people can no longer recognise the size of a healthy portion.” Lack of knowledge and poor food choices lead to unhealthy diets, which are a risk factor for non-communicable diseases. Dr Christine Taljaard-Krugell, ADSA (Association for Dietetics in South Africa) President, points out the importance of engaging with a registered dietitian to help make healthy breakfasts a habit for the whole family. “Other reasons so many South Africans skip breakfast include food not being available, it not being a family routine, time pressure in the mornings, not feeling hungry or not liking typical breakfast foods. From food budgeting to menu planning and meal preparation, there are solutions to all these issues. Information and help are available.” What should a healthy breakfast consist of? Breakfast should consist of at least one food group (excluding beverages). However, to stay fuller for longer and improve the variety of nutrients you take in at breakfast, it helps to include foods from three or more food groups. A rule of thumb is to choose a minimally processed starchy food combined with a food from at least one of the following groups: vegetables or fruit dry beans, lentils, split peas, soya fish, chicken, lean meat or eggs milk, maas or yoghurt plant oils, soft margarine, peanut butter In addition, it is important to drink clean safe water instead of a sugary drink. The ‘breakfast is the best way to start the day’ campaign offers some key messages to inspire making a healthy breakfast a long-lasting habit and family routine: Be ‘breakfast ready’ and beat the morning rush – Breakfast doesn’t have to be a big production – with some planning and preparation, it can be quick and easy. Before you go to bed at night, set up your kitchen for breakfast. Soak the oats and slice the fruit so you don’t have to do it in the morning. Cook extra maize meal porridge for the next day’s breakfast when making supper, or boil some eggs the night before. Make it healthy and enjoyable – “It’s easier to make breakfast a daily habit if you enjoy it,” says Carol Browne of the Nutrition Society of South Africa (NSSA). “While our cultures may define what breakfast foods are, there are really no hard and fast rules. It doesn’t matter whether you eat the same things as others for breakfast – it just matters that you have a healthy start to the day. This means having a minimally processed starchy food, as part of the meal, and combining it with food from at least one other food group.” For example, maize meal porridge with maas and an apple; brown bread with pilchards and sliced tomato; Last

October 11, 2018

How to Treat Poison Ivy Rashes

Poison ivy has grown more toxic than ever before, making your family time outdoors a potentially big hazard for your children. Fortunately, kids are no more susceptible to poison ivy than adults, and the symptoms they experience are exactly the same. Here’s some tips on how to keep you and your family safe from the effects of poison ivy. How It Makes Your Child Sick The urushiol found in poison ivy is what causes trouble. This substance is found in every part of the plant and has no tell-tale warning signs of its presence: it’s odourless and lacking colour. The only physical sign is its sticky, sap-like consistency, something that can really only be recognised once contact is made. Even brief contact with urushiol can cause a rash that lasts up to three weeks. But touching poison ivy itself isn’t the only danger. Urushiol can be transferred from animals or even clothing that has come into contact with the oil. The best way to protect your children from poison ivy is to teach them about its appearance. The old line “Leaves of three, leave it be!” is enough for little ones, but if you wish to be vigilant yourself you’d do well to learn more specifics about the plant. How To Tell Your Child Is Afflicted Contact may not be immediately recognised. That’s because it can take one-to-three days for the earliest symptoms to appear. Once they do, you’ll notice a pattern on your child’s skin based on how the urushiol touched them. It’s when blisters, swelling, itchiness, and inflammation occur that your child will need special attention. Even a small amount of the plant’s oil can cause rashes, and your child may not be able to resist the urge to itch. If they do itch, they risk spreading the rash to other areas of their body. These symptoms will pass naturally in a few weeks. However, if the symptoms worsen, impact your child’s ability to breathe, if they have a fever, or if the rash covers over half of their body, seek professional medical treatment as soon as possible, as these symptoms may be caused by heightened sensitivity. If poison ivy is burned and the smoke inhaled, or if the plant is ingested, these symptoms affect the lungs, digestive tract, and other internal organs. Such cases require emergency medical treatment and could prove fatal if left alone or addressed improperly. The More You Know, The Safer You’ll Be As the old saying goes, “Prevention is the best medicine.” If your child loves the outdoors, make sure they wear long-sleeved cotton shirts and pants to limit the amount of exposed skin. If you suspect your child has come into contact with poison ivy, thoroughly wash the affected part of their body with warm, soapy water as soon as possible. You can wash away the urushiol up to fifteen minutes after exposure and eliminate the risk of rash. If a rash does ensue you can start treatment at home by alleviating the itch with cool baths, ice packs, over the counter pain relievers, and calamine lotion. It is absolutely necessary that your child understands not to itch the rash! In severe cases where the pain is too much, a doctor can prescribe steroid creams. Though most cases aren’t serious, exposure to poison ivy can still be painful and traumatic for a child. Through education both you and your children can be more alert to the dangers posed by poison ivy and will be better prepared to handle any incidents resulting from exposure.

October 10, 2018

Is Stress Holding Your Teenager Back?

Teenagers grow up and eventually become the parents of teenagers! The circle of life is such that we forget, often with some relief, what it was like to deal with the stressful challenges of our changing bodies, academic expectations and social interactions when WE were teenagers. Cindy Glass, Director and Co-founder of Step Up Education Centres explains “The reality is that long-term, unchecked stress can lead to the greater challenges of anxiety, depression and negative behavioural choices in our teenagers.” Cindy looks at this important subject in greater detail… 1. What causes stress in teenagers? Teenagers are complex, over-thinkers by nature. It is not surprising then, that what may seem to us to be a minor challenge, could indeed be a cause of debilitating stress in our teenager! Negative body, and self-image. School pressures, these can be social or academic. Making mistakes (including poor behaviour choices) and the fear of failure. Financial or personal concerns arising from their families. 2. What are the signs of excessive stress in teenagers? They start sleeping too much or too little. They experience panic attacks. They can start acting aggressively or withdrawing from activities that they once enjoyed. Fatigue that affects normal activities. Stressed teenagers tend to eat way too much or way too little. This would be out-of-character. Regular mood swings, crying and angry episodes can indicate excessive stress. 3. How can you help? Non-judgemental communication is key! Aim to listen to understand! Listen to support and help them find positive solutions. Challenges are a part of teenage life and cannot be avoided, just make sure your teen knows that you are the go-to person they need! Encourage your teen to exercise regularly and to make healthy nutrition choices. A healthy, fit body can weather many-a-stressful-situation. Teach emotional intelligence skills: self-awareness, self-regulation, self-motivation, empathy and social skills are essential in developing positive body- and self- image. These skills will also help your teenager navigate the complexities of interpersonal relationships! Know that mistakes are inevitable. Speak of mistakes being learning opportunities and help your teen to find positive solutions. Discuss perspectives. It is essential to understand that everyone is coming from his/her perspective and that, so often, upsetting encounters with others is as a result of their experiences and perspectives of life in that moment. Remember, if you have not caused the negative encounter, it is not your stuff! 4. When would you need to seek expert help? Seek immediate professional help if your child is having suicidal thoughts. Seek help if the symptoms of stress are not subsiding or if they are getting worse. Cindy explains “Stress can be a two-edged sword. It can motivate us to positive action, and it can result in potentially serious emotional and physical challenges if it becomes long-term and excessive. Watch for the latter and aim at seeking ways to ease the effects of negative stress in your teenagers!”

October 9, 2018

Sensory Diet

As a parent you are very aware of giving your toddler a balanced diet. Five fresh fruit and vegetables a day are what we are aiming at. How many of us even consider that we need to give them a varied sensory diet as well? Creating a sensory rich environment for your toddler will help them strengthen their bodies and their brains. Mature thinking and learning are based on neural pathways that develop as a child masters physical coordination, balance and skilled movement. Yet many parents view “child play” as an outdated activity. We live in a digital age- let them master computers, electronic games so they may conquer the universe! How wrong they are! We need to get our children back to the games we played, back to exploring a three dimensional world where they get full of mud and run and jump in puddles. Let’s look at Emily, a four year old. She is a bossy little girl who tells her parents what to do. She is a fussy eater that would eat yoghurt all day if she could, refuses to dress herself and does not play well with other children. If they brush against her, she pushes and shoves. If she shows affection she hugs too tightly. Dad thinks she needs stronger boundaries from Mom. Mom feels she is just expressing a strong will. At school Emily never likes to play with blocks or draw. When she does use the crayon it is with hard strokes which often break the crayon frustrating her even more. When Emily runs, it is with a clumsy gait and she often falls. At the end of the day she is tired and irritable. Is Emily just being naughty or is there more to this behaviour? Research done with children showing similar patterns indicate that this may be a sensory processing disorder. This is a common but very misunderstood problem that affects behaviour, influences the way children learn, move and relate to others and feel about themselves. Emily needs to learn how to modulate her senses in order to cope with day to day life. She exhibits this bad behaviour when she can’t cope with what’s happening around her, when she feels overwhelmed. So how do we help Emily and all the little ones like her? What we need to do as parents is to focus on developing and maintaining a balanced sensory diet for our children. As they develop and grow we need to relax and think about incorporating sensory experiences in to their day to day life. Let’s begin by looking at tactile stimulation. A child can be hyper or hypo sensitive to touch. In both cases it will affect learning and the way we interact with people. Emily might be hypo sensitive, hence she pushes or hugs too hard. Not everyone realises that we have internal senses as well, called the near senses. These play a vital role in our development especially in the early years. Movement is the only way to stimulate this internal sense. Emily needs more movement to help with her balance. Smell and taste are interlinked. Expose them to different smells and let them explore different tastes, even ones they don’t like. Emily is sensitive to the textures of her food and that could be the reason that she is a fussy eater. The eyes and ears are the senses that can give us the most problems later. If we don’t process what we see and hear we have auditory or visual processing problems which lead to learning difficulties at school. Emily finds the noise of the classroom too much and prefers to be on her own. For this week don’t just think five fresh fruit and vegetables think five sensory activities to enrich their learning experience.

October 4, 2018

MySchool sponsors children’s diabetes camp

Life is never the same again for children and teens diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Diabetes is one of the most prevalent diseases in South Africa. Type 1 diabetes which occurs mainly in children and young people, is an autoimmune disease, where the insulin producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed by the bodies own immune system. It s chronic, life-threatening and exceptionally demanding in its daily treatment regime. With a major organ, the insulin-producing pancreas, in fail-mode, the patient has to manually replace its functions 24/7. To function normally; to avoid complications and death, a child with Type 1 diabetes is subjected every single day to a minimum of 3 to 5 insulin injections, 6 finger-pricking blood glucose tests and a rigidly-controlled diet. It is a disease management programme that severely taxes the self-discipline and emotional resilience of most adults. There is little wonder that it is often overwhelming for a child who is still developing on all fronts, and often very taxing on the entire family. Worldwide, one of the most effective strategies for helping children and teens diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes is camps that bring them together for education, care and solidarity. This is why the MySchool fundraising programme decided to sponsor the latest Children’s Diabetes Camp organised by non-profit organisation, Diabetes SA in association with the Diabetic Clinics of the Tygerberg, Groote Schuur and Red Cross Children’s hospitals. Thanks to MySchool supporters, 50 children and 20 nurses and leaders enjoyed an action-packed three days that combined vital education with fun and comradeship. “Children with diabetes have very challenging lives,” says Margot Mc Cumisky, the National Manager of Diabetes SA. “They most often develop a negative attitude towards living with this chronic disease which they experience as isolating them from their peers and being burdensome on their families. That’s why it is really important for camps to bring them together. They realise that they are not alone in their suffering and feel supported; they learn how to self-manage the treatment and gain confidence; they start to feel that they are empowered to manage their self-care, deal with the socio-emotional challenges and lead a healthy life despite the enormity of their diagnosis.” While Children’s Diabetes Camps are open to those from all walks of life, many of the young sufferers in the Western Cape come from under-privileged communities and could not afford to attend even though camp fees are kept as low as possible. In the absence of government funding, Diabetes SA is reliant on donors to hold Children’s Diabetes Camps on an ongoing basis. Research has shown that the camps do help limit the burden of disease on the country. Hospital admissions are reduced after camps; and parents and children’s doctor’s report that they find that their children are more motivated to play their part in managing the disease. “For a child diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, the world they have always known can suddenly become hostile,” says Helene Brand , MySchool’s Social Responsibility Manager. “They cannot eat what every other child is eating. They have to know so much more than any other child does about the role of the pancreas, the hormone insulin and nutrition. At school, they have to remove themselves from situations to test and to inject. They could find themselves judged and alone. At home, they are commonly the focus of parental anxiety and stress; and family drama that is centred on their condition. These camps give them a much-needed break, as well as the skills and insights they need to manage their disease optimally. I am really proud of MySchool shoppers because they made this important sponsorship possible.” You can sign up for your free MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet card online or simply by downloading the free mobile app and make Diabetes South Africa one of your beneficiaries. Every time you swipe at the till point of a participating retailer, they make a contribution on your behalf, at no cost to you at all. Go to www.myschool.co.za or your app store to sign up for your free MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet card.

September 27, 2018

Brushing those teeth

Do you have problems with brushing your little ones teeth? Most of them do at some stage or another. It’s his mouth and he is letting you know that he has control over it. It’s just another struggle on his part for self-determination. He is not going to give in and it would not be wise for you to give in because even baby teeth need to be cleaned. So what now! Enlist the help of a third voice. You know the dentist has much more clout than you have. We had the most fantastic dentist when my kids were little. He started checking their teeth from a very young age and would ask to count them, having a quick look at the same time. He then told them that they had such lovely teeth and must be looking after them very well. At home all I had to do was say “Remember Dr Robinson said you had to brush your teeth to keep them healthy.” This worked very well. The other option is to give them a choice. Have a few toothbrushes on hand. Different colours, some with pictures on. Let him choose which one to use, it helps them feel in control. The third trick is to let him brush his teeth himself, this will help to develop his motor skills and independence and then you finish up with a good clean afterwards. It really is only at around seven years of age that they can be relied upon to brush properly so don’t let them do it on their own until then. Limit the bottle with juice. Sugars in the juice remains in their mouths and eats away at the tooth enamel causing cavities. Rather give your child lots of fresh water to drink. When all else fails let them scream… at least you can see the teeth!

September 5, 2018

Get your kids excited about brushing

By Philips Oral Health Every parent wants what’s best for their child’s health, but not all parents are experts in the dentistry field and let’s be honest, we can’t remember brushing our teeth at such a young age and the process is quite different now as an adult. What’s more, brushing your teeth as an adult is a routine activity – a dull process – so if we’re not that excited, how do we get our kids excited about it? Our challenge as parents is to promote good oral health and hygiene to our kids at a young age – rather than getting frustrated trying to convince them to brush properly. Good oral health goes beyond having a nice smile – its fundamentally intertwined with overall well-being. Dental practitioners have long been aware of the relationship between the mouth and the body and poor oral health and gum disease has been associated with several non-communicable diseases – so it’s important that while the kids are young, parents are focusing on instilling life-long good oral habits. Most parents are doing the brushing of their children’s teeth while they are young and until they have developed their motor skills. But demonstrating proper brushing techniques and making the process as fun and creative a possible is critical. Not only is it’s a good learning processes, but a bonding experience as well. So how do you kick start an exciting path to lifelong health oral habits? We have a few tips and tricks to take care of your little one’s oral health: Teach them the importance of brushing and flossing their teeth from a young age. Dental care for children should start as soon as they start developing teeth. Get the right size toothbrush – a long handle may be needed if they are a little reluctant to open their mouths wide – but funky toothbrushes can go a long way. Sing a song, tell a story or watch a movie/video to make tooth brushing fun – this also ensures that they brush for the recommended two minutes. Make sure that you know the right technique of tooth brushing because your child will follow your example When they are younger you can brush their teeth by standing behind them or having them sit on your lap. As they get older they will naturally want to brush themselves – just make sure that they are brushing properly Let them stand on a step or stool to face the mirror and do not forget to teach them to brush their tongue as well as it is a popular hiding place for bacteria Stick to a routine – make sure they don’t miss their daily teeth brushing routine twice a day – in the morning and before bed so there are no excuses. If your children are 6 years and older, alcohol-free mouthwash can be used after they have brushed their teeth as it flushes out any additional bacteria – but remember to get the flavour they like! Make brushing fun again by using an electronic toothbrush as these are more effective than they’ll ever be at removing plaque and bacteria, and will protect your children’s gums from aggressive brushing. An annual dental check-up is essential – so make sure to find a dentist that they like. It should never be a dreaded visit. Remember you are their role model of good oral hygiene – so the more fun you have, the more you use brushing time to bond – the more likely they get excited about brushing!

August 24, 2018

Getting insight into bullying

Rita Niemann Bullying is an example of school violence, which mostly stems from aggression and poor self-image. Bullying can be defined as a conscious, wilful, and deliberate hostile activity and as it tends to happen at any point in time, it makes it very difficult to predetermine. Louw and Louw (2007:230) emphasise the need for humans to belong and states that social development is characterised by an increasing involvement with peers as that contributes towards satisfying emotional needs. Teachers and parents, therefore, must account for the various phases of relationship building during adolescence and must guide children towards sound social and interpersonal relationships. Because bullying cannot be contextualized by group, age or gender, any child can fall prey to a bully. However, children tend to follow the example of their parents and if parents condone acts of aggression or violence, children tend to emulate such acts, resulting in others feeling threatened and unsafe. Legislatively, every learner has the right to be educated in an environment that is “clean and safe” and is “conducive to education” (RSA, 2006). Unfortunately, bullying has become both a national and international concern. Most acts of bullying are related to an imbalance of power to ensure dominance, boosting the bully’s self-image and getting attention (even if it is negative attention). Barbara Coloroso (2005: 49-51) identified different kinds of bullies. Those who: have powerful personalities, are admired by others and are not easily recognised as being a bully. use gossip and verbal abuse to manipulate others. show little emotion, but is determined to continue the bullying. are hyperactive, struggle with schoolwork and have poor social skills. Any child can become a bully’s target depending on the bully’s inner insecurities. Bullies tend to prefer submissive children, but it could also simply be because the person is younger, smaller, thinner, fatter, or even because of his or her gender. Bullies also tend to choose targets who have characteristics they crave themselves, such as being clever and dedicated. Parents and teachers often wonder why victims do not report the bullying. Often, victims of bullying feel ashamed because of what is happening to them, or they feel that there must be something wrong with them. They also fear that the bullying may get worse if it is reported. Bullying must be dealt with swiftly and deliberately – see the follow-up article in this regard. References Coloroso, B. 2005: The bully, the bullied and the bystander. From pre-school to secondary school – how parents and teachers can help break the cycle of violence. London:Piccadilly. Louw, D., & Louw, A. 2007. Child and Adolescent Development. Bloemfontein: ABCPrinters. Niemann, R., Marais, N., Swanepoel, Z. & Moosa, M. 2016. Problem areas in schools In: Jacobs, M. Teaching-learning Dynamics, Johannesburg: Pearsons Republic of South Africa (RSA). 2006. Regulations for Safety Measures at Public School). Government Gazette No. 26663. Pretoria: Government Printers.

August 21, 2018

Sports in Education: Core Skills Addressed

By: Zelda Varela (Crawford Preparatory Fourways Sports Coordinator) Can you remember that elated feeling of being part of a team, or maybe not making the A- team and then being so determined that you put in the extra hard work to improve to be selected? Can you remember being forced to run around the field five times, doing push-ups for days at end, because you thought the PE teacher disliked children and was trying to make you suffer? Whether you have good or bad memories related to sport or any physical activity, one thing is for sure, that physical activity promotes not only your health but instils good personal attributes required throughout life. Team sports boost self-confidence and self-esteem. Being part of a team helps children to find a sense of belonging. It teaches acceptable ways to interact with others and how to be considerate and respectful of teammates. Physical activity promotes agility and coordination. It supports healthy growth of muscles and bones, which is critical in schooling years while children are still growing and can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels, especially with the highly pressurized society that we find ourselves living in. Through participation in sport your child will gain five different skills including research skills; social skills; thinking skills; communication skills and self-management skills. Social & Communication skills: it teaches acceptable ways to interact with others and how to be considerate and respectful of teammates. Thinking Skills: In a team sport situation, children learn to think and perform under pressure, critical basic thinking skills are promoted, which in turn can help in coping with everyday life. (http://thinkingforsuccess.com/cognition-sports.html) Self-management & Research skills: Be on time for practises/matches. Remember sport clothes and equipment needed for a sport. Children build self-confidence by participating and feeling good about themselves and their achievements. Physical activity helps children set goals for themselves which leads to learning how to deal with failure and success, and to have a positive attitude no matter what the outcome of an event. Encourage your children to get active and uncover any potential opportunities and skills that young people may find useful not only in the sport sector but other sectors of their lives.

August 17, 2018

Cooing over Communication

One minute they are crying, the next they are conversing! Communication development begins at birth. From the time your precious newborn gives their first cry, they start learning all about language, communication, and connecting with the world around them. Babies have “conversations” through their cries, facial expressions and body language long before the arrival of their first words. The development of language takes place through the encouraging and loving interactions young children have with the people in their lives. It is through responsive and repetitive processes that young children learn how to communicate. Why do baby’s communication abilities matter? Communication skills that are learnt in the first year of life are what set the bar for success in many learning areas. Communication development is directly linked to the development of reading, writing (spelling) as well as building social skills and forming relationships later on in life. Language skills are divided into three main areas – RECEPTIVE LANGUAGE, EXPRESSIVE LANGUAGE, and PRAGMATIC LANGUAGE. Development of all areas is vital for effective communication, and begins developing after birth. Receptive communication involves the ability to receive and understand information. Listening and reading fall into this category. Expressive communication is the ability to convey a message to another person. Speaking and writing fall into this category. Expressive skills are more difficult to develop than receptive skills. Pragmatic communication refers to social language abilities or the “rules” of language. These are vital for communicating our personal thoughts, feelings and ideas. It includes what we say, how we say it, our body language and whether the communication interaction is appropriate to the given situation. Language Acquisition Guidelines By Maureen Wilson (Speech Language Pathologist) Age Receptive Expressive Pragmatic 0-3 months Moves in response to sound or voice Shows interest in caregiver Briefly looks at people Quiets in response to sound Excites when caregiver approaches Smiles and coos Quiets when picked up 3-6 months Fixes gaze on face Responds to name Vocalizes to expressions and sounds 6 months Enjoys being played with Initiates vocalizing with another person 7 months Responds to name Responds to ‘no’ most of the time Listens when caregiver is speaking to them Uses hands to request Different vocalizations for different moods Anticipates actions 9 months Babbles Vocalizes to toys or pets Dances to music Intentional two way communication Recognizes familiar people Makes physical contact to gain attention Shouts to attract attention 10 months Plays peek-a-boo Points to request Shakes head ‘no’ Waves ‘bye’ when cued 11 months Recognizes familiar people and objects when named Looks at named pictures or objects Pushes and pulls others to direct them Reaches to request object 12 months Identifies two body parts when asked Gives objects upon request Imitates words to best of ability Uses 5-10 words (typically names and preferred objects) Alters behaviour based on others reactions Vocalizes to respond 14-18 months Follows 1-step instructions without cue Uses gesture + word combinations Uses exclamations – ‘uh oh’ Uses ‘Hi’ and ‘Bye’ Can roll toy back and forth Points to desired objects Comments Protests Acknowledges speakers with eye contact / response 18 months Nod/shakes head for yes/no Identifies 3 body parts on self or doll when asked Understands IN and ON Vocabulary at least 50-100 words (50% nouns) Words are understood outside of routine activities Names familiar objects on request How can I help? Communication skills can be stimulated and elicited from birth. It is so important to provide opportunities for your babies to “talk” to you from birth. Conversations with your baby might feel very one sided initially but your baby will still try to join in! You can encourage communication development by smiling, talking, playing, and reading with your baby. It will help them develop the communication skills needed to build meaningful relationships and succeed in school. Use a high-pitched, sing-song voice. This helps get and keep your baby’s attention while you talk. Play with sounds. Get silly while playing and make sounds that connect with what your child is doing. Use facial expressions and gestures to communicate the meaning of words. Describe your actions throughout the day while performing daily routines such as changing nappies, dressing, feeding, and bathing your child. Pairing the same words with routine activities is a great way to develop language. E.g. “I am changing your nappy, this wet wipe might be cold!” Describe the objects your child walks by when walking around the house / shop / outside. Encourage two-way communication. When your child communicates with you using sounds, words, or gestures, be sure to respond and take turns in the “conversation”. Read with your child. “Reading” can simply mean describing pictures without following the written words. Choose books with large, colorful pictures, and encourage your child to point to and name familiar objects. Expand your child’s vocabulary by building on the words they already know. For example if your child says “dog” you could say “Yes, that’s a big brown dog!” Reword your child’s phrases. If your child makes a speech or language error, respond with the phrase in the correct form. This helps them learn proper pronunciation and grammar. For example, if your child says “Doggy big” you can respond with “Yes, the doggy is big”. Remember to respect your child’s need to disengage when they become tired. Observe and end the conversation when they let you know it’s time to move on to something else. When should I worry? It is important to remember that language development occurs at different rates and all children develop at their own pace. Guidelines are there to show you the averages, when these skills should be present and observable, but do not have to be necessarily mastered. Having a general guideline for milestone development can help to determine whether there is a language delay present. Often, parents want to “wait and see” how things turn out. However, if there is a language delay present, early intervention is the most ideal form of intervention. Early intervention can change a child’s developmental trajectory

August 17, 2018

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