Health - Parenting Hub

Expert Advice from Bonitas Medical Fund

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

The low down on Covid-19 test protocols

As South Africa finds itself starting to move out of the second wave of a Covid-19 outbreak, over 8 million Covid tests have been carried out in the public and private sector since the start of the pandemic. The global gold standard method to diagnose Covid is the Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test. It is currently the most accurate way to detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19. Will your medical aid pay for the test? According to Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, ‘Funding is in accordance with the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) guidelines, all clinically appropriate and referred diagnostic testing for suspected Covid-19 cases will be funded as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition.’ Bonitas pays for up to three Covid-19 diagnostic tests from risk, whether the result is positive or negative. However, this is subject to the member or beneficiary being referred by a registered healthcare practitioner (doctor or nurse). This referral is dependent upon whether the member is showing symptoms, has been in contact with anyone who has Covid-19 and prior to hospitalisation. It should be noted that laboratories will not normally accept walk-ins for testing and require a referral or request from a healthcare practitioner. This is to ensure that we don’t test unnecessarily and jeopardise the availability of these tests for those who really need them. ‘Despite the PCR being arguably the most accurate laboratory methods for detecting, tracking and studying the Coronavirus, there are limitations in its widespread use,’ says Callakoppen. ‘These include: Access to the test kits; the complexity of performing them; the need for specialised staff to administer them; potential global shortages; high costs; the requirement for laboratory equipment and the delayed turnaround times. For this reason, testing should only be done when it is clinically necessary.’ What about Rapid Antigen Tests Immunoassay devices that detect the SARS-CoV-2 antigen within 15-30 minutes have also been promoted as a possible solution when access to PCR tests is a challenge. An antigen – detected in the blood or any other fluid – is any substance that makes the immune system produce antibodies. Viruses and bacteria are antigens. However, these tests are not as accurate as the PCR tests and have shown variable performance during evaluations, with sensitivities ranging from 0 to 94%. Test specificity has been high, but sensitivity has been erratic, which we need to bear in mind. Why is specificity and sensitivity critical? Sensitivity is the percentage of true positives (e.g. 90% sensitivity = 90% of people who have the target disease will test positive). Specificity is the percentage of true negatives (e.g. 90% specificity = 90% of people who do not have the target disease will test negative). These allow you to rule conditions in or out but not definitively diagnose a condition. What does the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) say? The CMS currently still advocates the PCR test to diagnose Covid-19. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also previously advised that the role of these rapid antigen tests must be evaluated and are “not currently recommended for clinical diagnosis pending more evidence on test performance and operational utility”. However, the WHO has now approved the use of antigen tests (and this is the South African approach as well) as an alternative to the more expensive PCR tests. This is however, in certain defined scenarios such as testing confirmed people in communities where infections have been detected, screening of high risk groups and individuals and for contact tracing purposes. They have also provided conditional recommendations for the use of these tests such as screening at ports of entry, routine screening for employees at their place of work, schools, prior to certain urgent medical procedures, etc. The challenge with these tests is that they are most accurate in patients between 5 and 7 days after showing symptoms – therefore the timing of testing becomes critical in order to ensure accuracy of the result. What about Rapid Antibody Tests? Many countries, including South Africa, are using antibody or serology tests such as the ones offered at various drive-throughs. These can detect whether someone has previously been infected and estimate how widespread the infection is but they are not recommended for diagnosis of Covid-19. For this reason, these are not funded by Bonitas Medical Fund as the use for these tests is limited for purposes of government surveillance and research rather than diagnosing Covid-19. If individuals want to know whether they have previously had Covid-19, for their own information, this test would be able to confirm that – but it is not used to identify whether you currently have the infection. If these tests are done too soon after the infection, they produce incorrect results as the antibodies (IgM and IgG) will not be detectable. There is also no scientific evidence that it provides any immunity to another Covid infection. ‘What is clear is that laboratory testing plays a vital role in the diagnosis and the prevention of the spread of the virus,’ says Callakoppen. ‘Nevertheless, it is important to understand that the timing and correct use of the different types of tests is crucial to gain the best results. We reimburse up to three PCR or rapid antigen tests done in or out of hospital for our members and recommend that this protocol for testing remains, until further research is conducted and evidence provided.’

February 12, 2021

Pregnancy and Medical Aid

Motherhood and pregnancy are times of great anticipation and joy. Each experience is unique but what is probably high on the agenda is that you have a trouble free pregnancy, a healthy baby and then know and anticipate the cost involved for pre-natal check-ups and the birth. ‘Choosing the right medical aid is critical in ensuring the healthcare needs of you and your loved ones are taken care of. More so, when you’re looking at expanding your family. For those who are on a medical scheme or wish to join one, here are some important points to consider when you fall pregnant,’ says Lee Callakopen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund. When you are already a member of a medical aid scheme When should you advise your medical aid of your pregnancy? If you are already a member, you can access the out-of-hospital maternity benefits without advising your medical aid that you are pregnant. However, please ensure that your doctor uses the correct ICD-10 codes on your claim to ensure that it is processed correctly. Bonitas pays for maternity benefits in addition to savings and day-to-day benefits, which help members get the care they need during pregnancy while limiting out-of-pocket expenses. Remember that pre-authorisation is needed for the delivery of the baby, which can usually, be done from 20 weeks onwards. Pre-authorisation will help you understand the benefits you have available on your plan and ensure that you are aware of what is covered. Bonitas members can also register for the Bonitas baby bag once pre-authorisation is obtained. The baby bag is packed with of useful goodies for the baby to make parenthood a little easier. When do you advise the medical aid that your baby has been born and needs to be added onto your medical aid? For our members, the baby needs to be registered within 30 days from the date of birth to ensure there is no break in cover and that your child will be covered from the first day of life. Are there Designated Service Providers (DSPs) in terms of gynaes and hospitals for childbirth? We strongly advise members to use DSPs to get maximum value and avoid co-payments. We agree special rates with these providers, which are covered within a member’s benefits so that they can focus on taking care of their health and wellbeing during pregnancy. What is normally covered in the maternity benefit? This differs from scheme to scheme and according to the plan you are on. Bonitas pays for up to 12 maternity consultations (paid for from a separate benefit), an amniocentesis, antenatal classes, 2x 2D ultrasounds and the delivery. In addition, there are additional benefit for newborn hearing screening tests and childhood vaccination. Does Bonitas cover the cost of a Caesarian birth? Yes, medically necessary Caesarians are covered on all plans. Some expectant mothers do prefer home births – is this covered? Yes the cost for a home delivery is covered. Are all the childhood vaccinations covered by Bonitas and if so, are there any conditions attached ie where the vaccinations should be done? Vaccines are covered as per the EPI schedule on immunisation. Please note this benefit is available on specific plans. The vaccines can be done at any clinic or pharmacy. If an administration fee is charged by these providers, it will be paid from your savings or day-to-day benefits. The vaccines covered are as follows: The Bonitas Babyline – a dedicated children’s health advice line In 2016, Bonitas introduced Babyline – a 24-hour children’s health advice line manned by paediatric trained registered nurses. They are on the other side of the phone to assist with any parental concerns, vaccination schedules and health related issues, 24/7, 365 days of the year. How does Babyline work? Bonitas parents, or their caregivers, simply call the Babyline number on 0860 999 121 to speak to paediatric trained nurse. Through a series of questions asked regarding the health issue, parents will be provided with professional advice on what to do next. Depending on the symptoms, the advice might be to head straight to the ER or to see a doctor or specialist. The nurse will advise which healthcare provider is the most appropriate, given the health issue. The services offered by the Babyline include: Home care advice Clinic/primary care/GP referral for the same day Clinic/primary care/GP referral for the following day After-hours care within the next six hours Immediate referral to the ER The Babyline service is available to members across all the Bonitas plans, for children under 3 years. Joining a medical scheme when you are already pregnant It is very common for women to apply to join a medical aid scheme when they fall pregnant. But according to the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998, medical aid schemes are entitled to impose a 12-month condition specific waiting period for any pre-existing medical condition, such as pregnancy. These waiting periods must be imposed for specific pre-existing conditions to protect the interests of current members of the scheme. When a waiting period is applied to pregnancy, then the pregnancy and birth will not be covered but your baby will be covered from the first day of life – if you register them on your medical aid within 30 days. This will allow you to ensure the needs of your child and the healthcare will be covered. Bonitas has different plans and expectant mothers will be able to select the one most suitable for their needs. Informing the medical aid of your pregnancy Prospective members need to inform their medical aid upon application or within 30 days after you complete the application. What is the policy regarding a member joining Bonitas when they are pregnant? What sort of cover can they expect, if any? The pregnancy would be considered pre-existing and therefore not covered. The baby will be covered if registered within 30 days post-delivery. What happens if someone signs up for medical aid not realising they are already pregnant? At what point is

February 3, 2021

What vitamins and minerals are needed during pregnancy

As an expecting mom you’ll want to do your best to make sure that your baby is as healthy as possible. What you eat is critical during this time, as everything your baby needs comes from you. Prenatal vitamins are supplements which can be taken during pregnancy which contain needed vitamins and minerals. What vitamins and minerals are essential and why? During pregnancy your vitamin and mineral needs will change as you now have a growing baby to provide for. Your food should contain much of the vitamins and minerals needed during pregnancy, particularly if you are already following a healthy, balanced diet. Folic acid and iron are typically found in most prenatal vitamins and are essential in a healthy pregnancy. Folic acids helps to prevent neural tube defects and iron supports healthy growth, helping prevent anemia and blood (in both mom and baby) carry oxygen Vitamin D, calcium and iodine are other important nutrients that are needed during pregnancy. Vitamin D aids in the development of the bones, teeth and nervous system, calcium helps bone and teeth development and iodine is important in brain development. Getting the correct micronutrients is important. Deficiencies can lead to complications such as hypertension and a low birth weight. However, it’s also important not to exceed the healthy amount of certain vitamins and minerals – too much vitamin A, for example, can cause birth defects. What foods should I be eating? Prenatal vitamins are a good idea to cover any nutritional gaps you may have, while they may supplement your diet they don’t replace a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, eating correctly also greatly benefits you and your growing baby. Foods you should try include in your diet are dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, as they contain extra protein and calcium, as well as probiotics. Legumes, such as lentils and soybeans are another good food to include – these contain protein, fibre and folate (which is very important during pregnancy). Sweet potatoes, high in vitamin A and fibre, are another good veggie to add to the shopping list. Eggs, broccoli, lean meat and berries are other wholesome foods you should be including in your diet. A healthy pregnancy benefits both you and your baby in the long run, not only does it ensure that you deliver a healthy baby, but helps your child throughout adulthood development.

January 4, 2021

Working and pregnancy – when to stop and how much is enough

As an expecting mom with a career you may be wondering when the best time would be to stop working and how you can stay comfy and productive when you are still in the workplace. Morning sickness, back pain, frequent bathroom breaks and other pregnancy related symptoms can make working as you used to a more challenging task for you. It’s important that you calculate the risks that your job could possibly have to you and your baby. For instance if you are working with chemicals, heavy metals or radiation you’ll need to either stop working or take extra precautions. Heavy lifting or labour intensive jobs and lots of travel for work are also jobs that’ll become more difficult as your pregnancy progresses. Desk work and computer work are generally regarded as safe, whereas jobs that require lots of standing will become more difficult in later pregnancy. Dealing with work and pregnancy Working can be stressful without having a growing baby in your belly. The physical and emotional changes that you experience can make meeting your body’s and workplaces’s demands a challenging task. However, some moms with healthy pregnancies are able to work almost until they go into labour, how much you can do will depend on your pregnancy. Morning sickness is something many moms have to deal with. There are ways you can help manage nausea at work. Avoiding dining areas, packing mouthwash and a toothbrush and packing in soothing lemon and ginger are all things you can do to make yourself more comfortable. Eating and drinking little and often can also help keep the nausea at bay. Be sure to dress comfortably, and try to take frequent breaks and walks, as this’ll also help you stay more comfortable. What rights am I entitled to as an expecting mom in South Africa? As a pregnant employee, you are probably wondering what rights you’re entitled to. It is a good idea to inform your employee as soon as you can, so that your employer can manage the situation as best as they can (for both of you) – they are required by law to maintain a work environment that is safe for their employees. As an expecting mom, you will be glad to hear that you’re well protected under South African law – you may not be discriminated against or dismissed due to your pregnancy. You also have the right to four consecutive months unpaid maternity leave, anytime from four weeks before your expected birth date. Unfortunately employees are not obligated to pay you during this period, however, your job will be kept open for you until your return to work after maternity leave.

December 21, 2020

Travel tips during Covid-19

With the increasing number of local Covid-19 cases – over 10 000 in the past 24 hours – we need to be mindful that the pandemic is not on vacation. The statistics are worrying. South Africans need to shake off their Covid-fatigue and get back to making informed choices about their wellbeing and adhering to the protocols: Wear a mask when you leave your home, sanitise and socially distance – if we want to flatten the second wave curve, especially over the holiday season. We have also been asked to remember the 3 Cs: Avoid crowds, confined spaces and close contact. Bonitas Medical Fund, says, ‘Internationally many countries are reinforcing lockdown rules as the cases spiral, with reports too of coronavirus symptoms changing. Some medical practitioners are also saying the second wave is even more dangerous than the first. ‘Over the past month, within our membership community, we have seen an increase in the number of tests, the percentage of positive results, people requiring treatment and those being hospitalised. Through our free virtual consultations we have noted an increase in non-members consulting with doctors around the pandemic, with our call centre load having also increased.’ Here are some tips for travel during the festive season whether within our borders, to neighbouring states or abroad. Medical aid card Remember to carry your medical aid card and details with you. In the case of an emergency, it will streamline the process of getting care quickly or being admitted to hospital. Bonitas also advises that you put the Covid-19 emergency hotline (0800 029 999) or call centre number (0860 002 108) into your mobile phone so it is at hand. Virtual consultations Bonitas continues to offer free virtual consultations to all South Africans – not just its members – until 31 December 2020. If you are on holiday and concerned about your health, download the Bonitas Virtual Care App and make an appointment. The doctor will engage with you in a virtual video consultation wherever you are. The consultation includes any medical issue, Covid-19 or unrelated and advice on the most clinically appropriate steps for further care. These consults are available 24/7. Sanitise, sanitise, sanitise Pack your own soap and sanitiser. The hospitality industry has stringent health and safety protocols in place and most establishments have enhanced their deep cleaning regimes. However, it is still recommended that you keep your sanitiser with you always. If you are taking a road trip, make sure you have waterless soap and sanitiser in the car and limit your pit stops without compromising on taking the necessary rest breaks. Perhaps pack a picnic, to avoid crowded fast food outlets and restaurants on the main routes. Travelling internationally Remember that if you are leaving the country and crossing a border you will need to produce proof of a negative Covid-19 test and will also complete a travel health questionnaire. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has warned South Africans travelling abroad to make sure they know what the respective countries’ Covid-19 protocols are to avoid being stranded – various countries have different protocols and some have also introduced new stricter lockdown measures. She has urged travellers to familiarise themselves with the immigration and health entry requirements of the country they are visiting, as well as South Africa’s re-entry health requirement upon their return. If you are uncertain, contact the local embassy for clarification or the Department of Health. Alert your medical aid It is important that you notify your medical aid scheme ahead of any international travel. Firstly, to check what medical conditions will be covered and, secondly to activate the international medical travel cover. Travel insurance policies Medical expenses that you might encounter when travelling in Africa or other international destinations can be prohibitively expensive. To avoid having your holiday and finances totally ruined, look at what your current medical aid scheme offers in terms of medical travel cover and, if necessary, top this up with additional travel insurance. Carry your policies Travel insurance policies give detailed information about what to do in an emergency situation and have international call centres to assist you. Make sure everyone in the family has these numbers handy. The claiming process Most medical insurance requires an invoice as well as the proof of payment or receipt in order for them to reimburse you. Make sure you are familiar with the claim process. ‘One thing 2020 has taught us, is that life is unpredictable. And although additional, tougher lockdown regulations were recently announced in an effort to curb the second wave of Covid-19 infections, the burden of responsibility remains with each and every one of us,’ says Bonitas. ‘There are real concerns around the current rate of transmission, not only in South Africa but globally. In order to minimise your risks and to stay healthy and safe these holidays we all need to do our bit and stick to the protocols.’

December 18, 2020

Advice from the experts

Eye Allergies in Children

Eye allergies are surprisingly common in children in South Africa and unfortunately, this phenomenon appears to be on the increase. Some children will experience eye allergies as infants and young children but outgrow it as adults, while others will continue to battle with it right into adulthood. If one of the child’s biological parents suffers from some form of allergy, there’s a 40% to 50% chance that the child will have some sort of allergy as well. That probability jumps to 75% to 80% percent when both biological parents have allergies. An allergy describes the “over excited” way in which the body reacts to something in the environment which it sees as foreign. This foreign substance is called an allergen. Types of Allergens Outdoor allergens include pollens, diesel exhaust and petrol fumes. While indoor culprits encompass pet dander, dust mites, mould, and cigarette smoke. A child can come into contact with an allergen by touching it, breathing it in or eating it. The following image has been borrowed from Adam, Inc. which shows some of the various types of culprits that can cause allergic reactions in children whose body sees them as foreign. Allergic Eye Disease Symptoms In a child with allergies, the body mistakenly identifies the foreign object (seen in example above) as a serious threat, which in turn triggers a cascade of immune mediated enzymes and chemicals to be released into the body to fight off this intruder. This overzealous reaction can cause a range of symptoms from having mildly itchy eyes, to chronic scarring with resultant loss of vision. Symptoms may only occur during certain seasons such as spring when flowers start to blossom or may be present throughout the year due to continual exposure to something like house dust mites. Symptoms that occur commonly in allergic eye disease include: Itchy eyes with frequent rubbing. Increased tearing (watery eyes) Red or pink eyes. Mild swelling of the eyelids. Areas around the eye or just below the eye are also often involved. Darkened discoloration of the skin under the eye Watching Children’s Behaviour is key Children are not young adults; therefore, they cannot always describe to us what exactly is wrong. It is very helpful to carefully watch their behaviour, such as: Rubbing their eyes often. Blinking forcefully and repeatedly. Making rolling eye movements in response to the itchy sensation caused by the allergies. Allergies Are Not: Important to note is that eye allergies do not cause the following: A sticky, stringy, mucus discharge. A green or a yellow discharge Lids that are so swollen that they close the eyes. Pain or a fever. Should any of these symptomsoccur, medical attention should be sought immediately! Management of Allergies Once a diagnosis of allergic eye disease has been made by your eye specialist, there are a variety of management protocols that can be followed. The simplest of these is to avoid the possible triggers. Many allergens that cause eye allergies are difficult to identify, but there are a few general procedures that can be helpful: Keep windows closed during high pollen periods and stay indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are at their peak, usually during the midmorning and early evening, and on windy days. Avoid using window fans that can draw pollens and moulds into the house; use air-conditioning in your home and car if possible. In damp areas use a dehumidifier to control mould. Use “mite-proof” bedding covers to limit exposure to dust mites, and wash your bedding frequently, using hot water (above 40C). Wash your hands after petting any animal. In addition to avoiding triggers, your child’s eyes can be made more comfortable by using medication. Some symptoms can be controlled by using over-the-counter medication such as artificial tears, a decongestant drop and oral antihistamines. There are two important factors to be considered when taking these medications. OTC decongestant eye drops should not be used for more than two to three days. Prolonged use can create a “rebound effect” – increased swelling and redness that may last even after discontinuing the drops. OTC Antihistamine tablets may cause dry eyes and potentially worsen eye allergy symptoms. Prescribed drops include preparations such as anti-histamines, mast cell stabilisers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids. Your eye specialist will determine which combination of these treatments are the most appropriate for your child. Correct Diagnosis is Important Eye allergies can cause great discomfort and in rare cases, even vision loss. But with the correct diagnosis and treatment, the condition can be well controlled. It is always recommended to see an eye specialist for the best possible advice. References: Oxford Handbook of Ophthalmology, 2ndEdition, p. 170 American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Allergy Foundation of South Africa Images: Borrowed from todaysparent.com; Adam, Inc.: Parenthub; Paediatric Associates of Franklin; Allergy & Ashtma Center of Atlanta; Eyecare Kids; allergyaustralia.com

May 24, 2018

Talking about periods

HOW SHOULD I APPROACH THIS? Your daughters first period is a momentous event in her life, but it can also be a little confusing and anxious too. When it arrives, it’s important she feels prepared and is aware of what’s happening to her. Discuss the science Although it sounds an obvious thing to say, its worth talking her through the basics of why we have periods, how the menstrual cycle worksand the blood loss she’ll experience. We’ve got all the information you need here to help explain these things, including a Teen Handbook. If she wants to find out herself, direct her to the teen section which includes advice on all aspects of her body Help her feel prepared One of the biggest worries many girls have is starting their period when away from home or in school. Very often, wearing a pant liner on a daily basis can build her confidence as it alleviates any fear that she will be caught unaware. Its also a good idea to give her some pads to keep in her school bag just in case. Lil-lets has a mini purple rangedesigned with petite women and younger girls in mind Is there a minimum age for using tampons? There is no minimum age for using tampons or a medical reason why a girl new to her periods should not use one. However, it is often best for them to understand their flow and monthly cycle before choosing to use this form of protection. Show her products It’s easy to forget that she probably hasn’t seen what a pad looks like. Once you’ve bought a pack, show her a pad, how she should position it and how to dispose of it afterwards. This should give her the confidence to do it herself next time. If you would both rather not have this conversation directly, our Teen Handbookhas explanations of how to use pads so she can have a look in her own time. The same applies to tampons as they can be really confusing, especially as they come in both an applicator and non-applicator formats. Anything else to add? Its perfectly normal for her period to last a couple of weeks too, so again, Its worth sharing this bit of information with her so she will know what to expect. Many thanks to Lil-Lets for their insight, you can read more atÂ https://www.lil-lets.co.za/Advice/Advice-for-parents

May 21, 2018

Veggies for vitality: Get your munchkins to gobble more greens

Diet – probably one of the most dreaded four-letter words in domestic history. The reason why nutrition often feels like a real burden is because our society’s concept of and relationship with food are quite rotten. As a result, there exists a confusing mess of contradicting information on what really constitutes a “healthy diet”. To pile on the pressure, you now have kids whom you love to bits and want to feed wholesome food and it’s most of the time a struggle, right? My own pursuit of answers to the much-debated topic of diet led me to a very simple (and I like to think obvious) conclusion: Eat. Real. Food.To clarify – the closer to nature, the more it will nurture. Conversely, if it is modified (processed or refined), it is best to stay away from it. A “real” diet is inevitably loaded with the substance of life: vegetables! “But my child is a fussy eater!” you say. Let me spill the beans on how you can help to fill your child’s tummy with nature’s best: Start smart The hard truth is: your child will most probably not be begging for broccoli if his palate is spoiled with “easy” foods, such as sweetened yoghurt, crackers and other refined edibles. A baby’s first foods should be freshly prepared vegetables, fruit, natural fats, proteins and whole grains rather than commercially processed baby food. Weaning foods lay the foundation for eating habits. If children won’t eat anything but white bread with cheese spread, we have to ask ourselves: Would that have happened without the option of this “meal”? Our babies have clean dietary slates – they learn to eat what we feed them. So, let them have veggies! What if it is too late for the right start? Detoxing your family from “fake” factory foods and replacing them with wholesome alternatives is a beautiful Plan B. However, it costs commitment! It will be challenging until the whole family, as well as your grocery shopping, cooking, and snacking habits, have adjusted. Cheat them to eat them If mealtimes are mostly synonymous with war, try dosing fussy eaters with vitamins, minerals and fibre by sneakily masking veggies or fruit in their food. Here are some ideas: Make smoothieswith added vegetables. You can even freeze this blend and offer it as popsicles or sorbet. Check out this recipe for a delicious green smoothie. Baked goods(made from healthy flour alternatives) are brilliant hideaways for wellbeing foods! Add grated or pureed veggies, such as carrots, baby marrows, cauliflower or pumpkin to muffins, biscuits, crumpets, breads, wraps and more. Sweeten with blended fruit like banana or dates. See these inspiring recipes for spicy pumpkin muffinsand cauli-wraps. (Google will gladly contribute many more ideas!) Hide veggies in meat recipes(like these fantastic meatballs) – add them to quiches, blend them into yummy soupsor puree them into flavoursome saucesas topping or filling for brown rice, quinoa, omelettes and more. Go on, become a master of disguise… The real deal should also appeal We should be cautious of always offering veggies in easily edible forms. When we do this, we are not accustoming children to their taste and texture and thereby not training them to be vegetable victors. That does not mean that you can’t make it less painful and more fun! Dangle a carrot in front of their noses like this: Build vegetable pictureson their plates. The internet is packed with creative ideas! Give them healthy dipslike hummus, cream cheese or mashed avocado to dunk veggies into. Gardeningis a great way to get kids excited about plant foods! Let them help and witness their greens grow. The key often lies in variety. If Fussy Fiona absolutely refuses mushrooms, give up and give celery. But try again next month. Home-grown habits The apple does not fall far from the tree when it comes to diet. In the end, what you cook and eat yourself is what your child will model. Yup, this means the pressure is on! But luckily it will pay off for your own wellbeing too. A final word of encouragement: Our survival instinct will eventually force us to eat what is available. Your child will not starve if you replace comfort foods with vegetables. May your efforts to fill the apple of your eye with good food bear much fruit! Hopefully, your tantrum-prone little eater will soon be as cool as a cucumber when there is salad for supper!

May 16, 2018

Ponytail May Be Leading to Some Headaches

Some headache and migraine sufferers develop sensitivity of the scalp from all the pain that they experience. This means that things that normally would not cause pain or discomfort, start to cause problems. Wearing a tight ponytail would normally cause no discomfort, but in migraine sufferers who have developed a highly sensitive scalp, wearing a tight ponytail can cause discomfort and pain. It actually has a name – ‘ponytail headache syndrome’, 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. Other signs of scalp hypersensitivity may be discomfort with combing or brushing the hair, shaving, showering, or wearing glasses or earrings – things that are not normally painful. Dr Shevel says that if one does suffer from scalp hypersensitivity – the medical term is cutaneous allodynia – then treating the cause for the overload of pain signals to the brain should come first – i.e. treating the headaches. When the original source of the most significant contributor to the pain is successfully treated, the allodynia subsides along with it. At The Headache Clinic, the emphasis is upon diagnosing the original source of the pain, and then directing treatment in a focused manner at the origin of the pain. In most patients this can be achieved without the use of drugs, with their often unpleasant or harmful side-effects.

May 9, 2018

Bedwetting: When to consult a doctor

Bedwetting is an issue that millions of families face every night. This can be very stressful for the whole family, and often the children feel embarrassed or guilty about wetting the bed. Bedwetting can also cause anxiety when spending the night at a friend’s house or going away to a school camp. In most cases, children will grow out of bedwetting, but there are certain cases that will need medical attention. There can be numerous reasons for bedwetting. This is a problem experienced by an estimated 10% of South African children aged between 4-15 years old. In most cases, it’s linked to delays in physiological development. Children are unique, and each child develops at a different pace. It could also stem from being in a very deep sleep or a bowel issue like constipation. Bedwetting could also be caused by psychological problems that have resulted from issues at school or a change in family dynamics. Whatever the circumstances, the question remains: When should I start being concerned about bedwetting? Dr Michael Mol, Brand Ambassador for DryNites® Pyjama Pants, sheds some light on when parents should consult a healthcare professional when it comes to bedwetting and which specialist would suit the situation: “The signs that parents need to look out for when their child is bedwetting include: Signs of bladder or Kidney infection. These signs will be evident when your child cries or complains when urinating, when there is pink urine or bloodstains or when your child visits the toilet more frequently than usual If your child is over the age of 5 and cannot control their bladder When your child who in the past was able to control their bladder has begun to wet the bed and this is happening more frequently There are several healthcare professionals who can help deal with bedwetting. These specialists can also provide you with the relevant advice you need to assist both you and your child,” says Dr Michael Mol. A General Practitioner If your child is five years old or over but is still wetting the bed at night, you should consult your GP on the subject, especially if the bedwetting persists beyond seven years of age. It is also advised to consult your GP in the case of secondary enuresis (when a child starts to wet the bed again after a period of at least six consecutive months of nighttime dryness). A Pediatrician Your GP can recommend you to a pediatrician if the initial treatments are unsuccessful. A Pediatrician Urologist This specialist may be consulted only by referral from your GP or Pediatrician. Referrals will be made in the case of daytime bladder leakage which may be caused by a recurrent urinary tract infection. A Psychologist If your child is suffering because of regular bedwetting in terms of a loss of confidence, feelings of guilt or embarrassment, a tendency to isolate themselves, etc. you are advised to see a psychologist. Visible symptoms in children include depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, behavioral issues and lack of concentration. A psychologist may also be referred by your GP in cases of secondary enuresis. An appointment with a psychologist can be arranged by your GP or pediatrician. You cannot stop your child from wetting the bed. You can however help to manage their bedwetting by making them feel more comfortable. One way of doing this is to introduce them to DryNites® Pyjama Pants. DryNites® Pyjama Pants are available for boys and girls and come in two different sizes; 4-7 years and 8-15 years. These age appropriate disposable pyjama pants are super absorbent and comfortable like real underwear. They are thin enough so that children can discreetly wear them underneath their pyjamas, helping them to feel more confident and independent. For more information on DryNites® Pyjama Pants, or to ask Dr Mol a personal question or to request a free sample, visit www.drynites.co.za. DryNites® Pyjama Pants are currently available at selected retailers nationwide.

May 4, 2018

Quality Nutritional Supplements: A Benefit for pregnant moms

Expectant moms want the best for their babies but often feel overwhelmed by the information they receive on what is and isn’t good for them and their baby, which is often contradictory. Getting the right nutrients during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding, can help to ensure the best health outcomes for you and your baby, so it is important to be able to differentiate between facts and myths. Diet1 and appropriate nutritional supplementation2 play an important role in a healthy outcome for both mom and baby. Research has shown that conditions like excessive weight gain1,3,undernutrition caused by nutrient deficiencies2, and gestational diabetes4 during pregnancy can have a negative and lifelong impact on mom and baby.3,4 Abby Courtenay, a registered consulting dietician from Nutritional Solutions, provides tips below on how nutritional supplementation can help you have a happy and healthy pregnancy: When should you supplement your diet? If you suffer from loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, supplementing your diet will help you reach your calorie and/ or nutrients goals. If you are not consuming enough calories, not gaining any or enough weight or carrying a high-risk pregnancy, a nutritional supplement may help to bridge any nutritional gaps.5 Nutritional supplements which are formulated to contain a variety of nutrients, can be used as a great on-the-go option for busy moms who don’t have the time to prepare healthy snacks. These nutrients include a combination of carbohydrates, proteins and fats which will assist to lower your glycaemic response6, ensuring that you have sustained energy throughout the day; as well as a host of micronutrients to support a healthy pregnancy. It is important for you to look after yourself during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding your baby – a happy, healthy mom ensures a happy, healthy baby Similac® Mom provides an easy and convenient nutritional solution for expectant moms as well as for breastfeeding moms. Similac®Mom is available at all major pharmacy groups and selected retail outlets and via online shopping. References and notes: Source: https://nutrition.abbott/za Muktabhant B, Lawrie TA, Lumbiganon P, Laopaiboon M. Diet or exercise, or both, for preventing excessive weight gain in pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2015, Issue 6. Art. No.: CD007145. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007145.pub3. Haider BA, Bhutta ZA. Multiple-micronutrient supplementation for women during pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2017, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD004905. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004905.pub5. Nutrition Working Group, O’Connor DL, Blake J, Bell R, Bowen A, Callum J, Fenton S, Gray-Donald K, et al. Canadian consensus on female nutrition: adolescence, reproduction, menopause, and beyond. J Obstet Gynaecol Can. 2016 Jun;38(6):508-54.e18. Abstract available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27368135 De-Regil LM, Fernandez-Gaxiola AC, Dowswell T, Pena-Rosas JP. Effects and safety of periconceptional folate supplementation for preventing birth defects. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Oct 6;(10): CD007950. Abstract available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20927767 Nutrition Working Group, O’Connor DL, Blake J, Bell R, Bowen A, Callum J, Fenton S, Gray-Donald K, et al. Canadian consensus on female nutrition: adolescence, reproduction, menopause, and beyond. J Obstet Gynaecol Can. 2016 Jun;38(6):508-54.e18. Abstract available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27368135 Augustin LS, Franceschi S, Jenkins DJ, Kendall CW, La Vecchia C. Glycemic index in chronic disease: a review. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2002 Nov [cited 2013 Jul 6];56(11):1049-71. Abstract available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12428171

May 1, 2018

Is decision making an art or a science? Is it crafted or learnt?

By Jenny Platford Crawford College La Lucia School Counsellor “You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…” (Dr Seuss) As Dr. Seuss so clearly emphasizes, much of how we go about making our decisions is based on a personal sense of self, shaped by our personality, life experiences, knowledge, sense of self- awareness and confidence, values both personal and societal. He implies that we have a sense of purpose and control over our decisions irrespective of the external factors impacting on us. There are definite steps that can be followed when making an informed decision-these include identifying and clarifying the decision that is to be made, seeking information to provide adequate knowledge and understanding, weighing up pros and cons and then making a decision based on all known entities. This may be the science of decision-making- a clear process, a plan of action. There can, however, be no definite known outcome, no matter the preparation that goes beforehand. Rather all decisions inherently offer more than one outcome and hence many involve an element of risk. In the society in which we live, this perceived potential for risk and uncertainty, can add stress and anxiety to the larger life decisions we face. Added to this, our society is in a constant state of flux – Politically (as populist movements increase), economically (challenges from crypto currencies) and socially (with the advent of social media platforms- challenging the essence of our relationships with one another). Many young people face uncertain futures as they watch the challenge to our tertiary system. Online courses are on the increase and careers are constantly evolving. Uncertainty can foster a sense of indecision and self-doubt. The media constantly floods our cognitive space, setting definitive guidelines as to what would be construed as socially acceptable and cyber communication brings an immediate communication of all world events clouded by the advent of fake news. There is an overwhelming amount of information available to us and often, young people feel incapable of making sense of it all. How then do young people learn to take control over their lives through effective decision-making? Those students who appear adept in this skill are those who often have a clear sense of self, which has been developed as a result of authentic life experiences, rather than those based on contrived digital experiences. They are familiar with the wonderful potential of both their intellectual and their physical capacity and have developed a sense of resilience, having faced failure in a supportive environment. Parents who allow their children to celebrate the learning that occurs when mistake are made, teach resilience. Thereby overcoming the fear of failure that often paralyses young people when they face life decisions. Young people who are allowed to be curious and independent in their thinking, find decision making another opportunity to explore the unknown, chart a different course, flex themselves. This becomes the art of decision-making. Those who travel, read, explore their faith, live in the physical, and not the digital world, get to build a wealth of insight into their capabilities, and their limitations. They have authentic knowledge as to challenges they have faced, skills they have relied on and support that they can draw on. This frees them, to try new things, trust their judgment and act out their choices. Interaction with a variety of people, exposure to diversity in terms of ideas, faith and culture is empowering and builds understanding, insight, compassion and empathy – all necessary when making informed decisions as very rarely does a decision just impact one person -inevitably, ethical considerations are often required and so a true sense of one’s personal values is of paramount importance. The world we live in requires that individuals are innovative, creative and solutions driven. All these factors require young people to be able to make decisions, act on them and then reflect on the decision made and the outcomes presented. Parents, who make all the decisions for their children, stunt their curiosity and buffer the learning process thereby preventing independence of thought and the development of self-confidence. Decision-making therefore in my mind is crafted over time, built alongside character and identity and bolstered by lessons learnt through life experiences and teachable moments.14324

April 24, 2018

Medical aid payments

It’s a lament often heard. There are, however, two sides to every story and the problem doesn’t always lie with the medical scheme. There are a variety of reasons for non-payment ranging from members not following the correct claiming procedures or rules, benefits not being depleted or even providers not billing correctly. Gerhard Van Emmenis, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund gives some tips on what may have gone wrong and how to fix it. The important thing to remember is that medical aid scheme options differ, which means some options cover procedures that others might not, but there are certain rules everyone needs to adhere to. Your medical scheme will usually tell you the reason for non-payment. If you are unhappy you can take it up with them, however, the best advice is to first check that the fault doesn’t lie with you or the medical practitioner. Your membership number This may sound simple but it is surprising how often an incorrect membership number or dependant code is submitted with a claim. In some instances, this information is omitted or incomplete. A medical scheme cannot pay without proof that you had the treatment. Remember to update your details if you have changed your medical aid option or medical scheme. ICD-10 codes ICD-10 codes are used by medical schemes and healthcare providers, including doctors and specialists to identify specific conditions. These must be correct as they are a diagnosis for specific conditions. If there is no ICD-10 code or, for some reasons that condition is not covered by your medical aid, the account won’t be paid. Schemes also have sub-limits, for example they agree to pay for rehabilitation and the amount they will cover is finite, so check prior to the treatment. Certain dental procedures have definite sub-limits so it is important to read the fine print and check your policy for what is covered and what isn’t. Your contributions are not up to date It sounds simple but check that your debit order has gone through or that your employer has paid your contribution, non-payment of premiums could result in your bill not being paid – especially if your membership is suspended. The claim has expired Be aware that there is a cut-off date for submitting a claim. It is usually four months from the date of treatment. Ensure that the correct date is on the top of the account. Your benefits are depleted If you do not manage your medical aid benefits carefully you can run out of benefits before the end of the year. This means that you may have to pay the bill yourself. Different options have different limits for various procedures so, once again, make sure you understand what your option covers. Medical schemes are required to pay for Prescribed Minimum Benefits in full but you may have to use a specific provider. Waiting periods may apply When you join a new scheme there is a waiting period of three months and sometimes, based on your medical history, a twelve month exclusion could be enforced for certain conditions. If you claim before the waiting period is up, the bill will not be paid. Your hospital/doctor is not on the network Most schemes have hospital and doctors networks who agree on certain rates for their members. If you choose to go to another hospital or a private doctor you could end up paying a large portion of the bill. You didn’t use a Designated Service Providers A Designated Service Provider is a specific provider that has been appointed by a medical scheme for a specific service. If you choose not to use a Designated Service Provider, you may have to pay a co-payment or not be covered – depending on the Scheme Rules or your specific plan limits. Pre-authorisation was not obtained If you are going to undergo a procedure you need to get authorisation from your medical aid ahead of going to hospital and, once again, make sure you have the right information and ICD-10 Codes for this. You’re using medicine that’s not on the formulary Every scheme has a formulary, which lists chronic medication approved by your medical aid. These are often generics which are copies of the original medication but more affordable. Ask your pharmacist for a generic as a matter of course as it will ensure your benefits last longer. The procedure or treatment may be an exclusion All medical schemes have a list of exclusions which are not covered. This often includes cosmetic surgeries and non-medical expenses. Van Emmenis says, ‘If you read the small print and know exactly what the rules are for your medical aid and the plan you are on, you will be able to ensure that your benefits last as long as possible and that the bills are paid.’

April 24, 2018

Help ! My child’s being bullied

Unfortunately bullying, especially cyber-bullying is a major problem facing children. Sadly it isn’t ‘just an inevitable part of growing up’. Research shows that whether your child is being bullied, being the bully, or watching their friend being bullied, they need help. It affects everyone (even you as parents) and often has a major impact on children’s developing sense of self, school performance and self-esteem (even into adulthood). Often it’s emotionally terrifying – silently imprisoning kids in shame, feeling worthless and desperate. Some warning signs in children: depression and anxiety – often seen as a nervousness and loss of interest in usually enjoyable activities strong feelings of sadness, loneliness, worry and fear disturbances in sleep and eating patterns health complaints – poor appetite, headaches, abdominal pain, tiredness school refusal – skipping class, or dropping out performance deteriorates From shoving, hitting, mocking, threats, name-calling, shunning, spreading rumours or exclusion tactics to forcing victims to do or give them things, bullying is any ongoing/repetitive intentional tormenting. Cyber-bullying –via electronic messaging, online chatrooms, the internet and social media – is even more complex and has become a major problem worldwide. Warning signs in cases of cyber-bulling : loss of/obsessive interest in the computer and cell phone won’t talk about what’s going on gets stressed when receiving e-mail, texts or instant messages withdrawing from family and friends Bullying is all about power, with those with the lowest self-esteem (i.e. the least power) becoming the victims. Bullies have unfortunately learnt to feel powerful in destructive ways, and are often doing so from their own previous emotional hurt. Although children may respond differently, they will rarely admit that they’re being bullied (even if you have a close relationship.) This makes it vital to learn more about bullying and seek help for your child. Become involved – check whether your child’s school runs anti-bullying awareness campaigns and has a policy of how to deal with bullying. The best antidote is to help build their self-esteem. (see the author’s revolutionary children’s self-esteem game : www.raisingkidspositively.com/game)

April 20, 2018

HOW DOES PLAY PROMOTE HEALTHY SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Play is a child’s language, his work, his relaxation and the way he builds relationships. Forming a healthy relationship with parents help children to feel secure. This sets the stage for a child’s social and emotional development for the rest of his life. Social development is how we interact with others, the ability to form secure relationships. Emotional development is the ability to regulate and express our emotions. Strong social-emotional development is the basis for all later social, emotional and academic success. According to the National Academy of Sciences there are three qualities children need to have to be ready for school. Intellectual skills, motivation to learn and strong social and emotional capacity. How do we as parents create the opportunities needed to develop these skills? It is simple, children need to play. Children use play to release emotions, work through feelings and understand their world better by play-acting in situations they can control. The give and take patterns of play allow children the opportunity to practice the skills necessary for healthy emotional development. Here are some practical ways to help: Suggest ways for children to interact and play together. If you see a child struggling to build a tower, suggest that one helps by holding it while other one builds. Help children learn to take turns, or share what they have. “Ethan wants to play too but he has no play-dough. Let’s give him some of ours so we can all play together.” Help your child build empathy and sympathy for others. If someone got hurt let him give a hug or a special toy to help him feel better. Teach him to help someone up if they fell. Build your child’s vocabulary regarding feelings. Being able to express his feelings adequately will result in less frustration and aggression. For example, disappointment, nervous, frustrated, curious, amazed and astonished. Acknowledge your child’s feelings. Help him to talk about how he is feeling. Comfort and hold him and speak to him softly and calmly. Love your child and show affection towards him. Give him lots of hugs and cuddles. Tell him that you are proud of him. Role play and pretend play are lovely ways to teach children about feelings. Tell a story about how the bear got hurt, or how someone said something ugly to him. Explain how he is feeling and give your child a chance to explain what feelings the bear could be having because of what has happened. Let him help the bear with suggestions of how he can make him feel better.

April 19, 2018

Should I be taking aspirin while pregnant?

When you are pregnant everything that you take in your baby takes in too. This relates to the food that you eat, the drinks that you consume and of course any medications that you take. This means that you need to be very careful with the medications you take, even when it seems that they are seemingly harmless medications that you normally wouldn’t worry about at all. What Is Aspirin? Aspirin is a common, over the counter western medication that is used to treat fever, inflammation and/ or pain. It is quite the norm for most people to take aspirin to treat colds and flu, as well as many other common illnesses. Due to the fact that aspirin is such a common medication to take it can be easy to assume that it is perfectly safe to take while pregnant, however it is important to always check any medications that you want to take while you are pregnant with your doctor first. While taking a few low doses of aspirin during pregnancy may possibly have no negative, taking regular adult doses of aspiring while you are pregnant can causes problems for your baby, as well as for you. For this reason it is probably best to avoid taking aspirin altogether while pregnant unless prescribed by your doctor. It is also not recommended to take aspirin while breastfeeding. Taking aspirin during pregnancy can cause the following problems: Increase of miscarriage if aspirin is consumed around the time of conception and during early pregnancy. You are at higher risk of placental abruption (which is when part of the placenta separates from womb) if you take aspirin throughout your pregnancy. Your baby’s growth could be affected by taking aspirin regularly during pregnancy. Taking aspirin late in your pregnancy means that there is a chance that your labor could be delayed and it could increase the risk of your baby developing heart and lung problems after birth. Taking aspirin could also cause problems with bleeding complications for your baby and for you. A number of studies have shown possible links between birth defects and taking aspirin during early pregnancy, however none of these studies are conclusive – most of your baby’s development takes place in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy so it is best to avoid aspirin during this time. If you take standard doses of aspirin after 30 weeks pregnant it can result in the ductus arteriosus closing while your baby is still in the womb. The ductus arteriosus is a blood vessel that needs to stay open to supply the baby in the womb with oxygen and nutrients from the mother. If there is premature closure of the ductus arteriosus then your baby may need to be delivered early. Use of NSAID’s (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin) during pregnancy after 30 weeks can cause oligohydramnios which is when there is not enough amniotic fluid around the baby in the sac. How To Use Aspirin Safely While Pregnant There is no evidence to suggest that low dose aspirin has any negative effects on mother or baby during pregnancy, as long as both mommy to be and baby are healthy and not taking any other medications that may be affected by aspirin. Low dose aspirin is a total of 75 to 300 milligrams per day. In fact low dose aspirin is sometimes prescribed in these scenarios when pregnant: If you have Hughes Syndrome (antiphospholipid syndrome or APS), which means you are more prone to blood clots developing which in turn can lead to miscarriage. Taking low doses of aspiring along with the medication heparin will help to prevent blood clots from forming and reduce the chances of miscarriage occurring. If you have a high chance of developing pre-eclampsia due to having diabetes, having had pre-eclampsia before or if you have high blood pressure. If you have taken standard dose aspirin (325mg up to 4g per day) after you are 30 weeks pregnant you should inform your doctor immediately so that your doctor can assess your baby’s well being and you may need extra scans as well as monitoring. Check all the medications you take while you are pregnant, lots of over the counter medications such as Med-Lemon has aspirin listed in its ingredients. If you are pregnant the best is always to look for natural remedies for colds and flu, or alternatively ask your doctor to recommend medication that is safe for you and your baby.

April 19, 2018

Help! My child is being bullied at school

Navigating a world of people can be more challenging that climbing the most treacherous of mountains! Cindy Glass, Director and Co-founder of Step Up Education Centres says “As people, we are governed by emotions, and, unless kept in check, negative emotions can lead to negative behaviours that are detrimental to others as well as to ourselves. Bullying is a national epidemic and the harmful effects on a bullied child can last a lifetime. If you can remember that we can only give to others how we feel about ourselves, we will understand that someone who has a need to hurt another is hurting himself!” Cindy goes onto say “As people, we are also like magnets. We unconsciously attract into our lives, people who reinforce how we feel about ourselves! Bullies, who have low self-esteem, tend to target children who have low self-esteem! Both parties deal with a lack of self-esteem or self-worth in their own way and both need assistance in changing this! And, herein, lies the first and most important key to stamping out bullying- improving confidence and self- value!” Cindy’s top tips for dealing with bullying: Help your child by becoming his safe-place. Ensure that you always have a non-judgemental ear to listen and a supportive shoulder to lean on! Help your child to reclaim his/her power. Within each of us is the power to make positive choices. We can choose to internalise the words or actions of a bully or we can choose to stay detached and not allow these negative behaviours to determine who we are! Teach your child that it is not ok to be treated badly by others. Do not ignore incidents of bullying in the hope that it will just go away. The lower your child’s sense of self becomes, the more intensely he/she is likely to be bullied! Remember that we cannot control the behavioural choices of others but we can control how we react to them. Consider enrolling your child into activities which build confidence. A confident child is less likely to be preyed upon by a bully. Try drama, sports, scouts, dancing, art, debating etc. If your child shows signs of being physically hurt by bullies, you will need to ask the teacher or even principal for help. Do not confront the bully yourself. This will most likely fuel the bully into expanding his attack on your child. Confronting the parents of the bully can lead to negative outcomes because of the intense emotions that both parties are likely to feel. Schools need to focus on teaching children emotional intelligence skills. Remember, it is the bullied child as well as the bully who need support in developing positive self-worth. Cindy concludes by stating “Bullying is never ok. There are no one-stop-shop solutions to the problem. We cannot ignore these destructive behaviours. Building self-worth is the key to long-term success!”

April 16, 2018

Medical Aid and VAT

Since the announcement of the 1% Value Added Tax (VAT) increase by the Minister of Finance last month, there has been much debate around its impact on consumers and just how this will affect the money left in their pockets at the end of the month. With the revised general fuel levy, it’s clear that consumers will have to tighten their belts and adhere to stricter budgets. The rising costs of healthcare One area of concern is the cost of private medical aid and VAT. For years increasing healthcare inflation and economic pressures have been a challenge for the healthcare industry. ‘The reality is that when consumers are struggling, medical aid, which is essentially a grudge purchase, is often viewed as unaffordable,’ says Gerhard Van Emmenis, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund. ‘In addition healthcare costs are not regulated which is why it is crucial for medical aid schemes to continue to explore ways to contain costs without compromising the level of health care offered to members.’ Members’ contributions However he says there is some good news regarding VAT and medical aid because the 1% increase will not impact monthly contributions or annual benefits. ‘Many members are confused as to whether VAT is payable on medical aid contributions but let me reassure you it is not,’ says Van Emmenis. ‘The VAT increase will have no effect on members directly and what they pay every month. Medical aid contributions for 2018 are already set and Bonitas will not increase contributions mid-year to accommodate the change in VAT. So, while the increase in VAT may influence the price of services, it will not impact benefits.’ Van Emmenis says: ‘If your plan covers you at 100% of a Scheme’s Rate, you are still covered at 100% of that rate, no matter what the cost to the Scheme because the Scheme will absorb the VAT when paying for member’s benefits. The only impact is when it comes to savings and day-to-day benefits with members having a 1% lower buying power.’ The Council for Medical Schemes In fact changing contributions in the middle of the year can only be done with the permission of the Council for Medical Schemes following a request from the Trustees of the medical scheme. This is a rare occurrence and most schemes generally put through contribution increases in January each year. The law He adds that VAT is never the property of any private entity but belongs to the Government. ‘We are therefore only vendors that collect the monies on their behalf. From April 1, Bonitas will increase the VAT to all providers of the Scheme by 1%. However, although this will have a direct impact on the budget of the Scheme for 2018 it will be absorbed by operational surpluses and not passed on to members.’ Tax credits One positive announcement out of the budget speech regarding medical aid was around tax credits. ‘Medical tax credits are effectively used as an ‘expense’ when calculating tax and reduces the amount of tax payable by a household belonging to a medical aid,’ says Van Emmenis. ‘There are eight million people who rely on these credits to make medical aid more affordable. Speculation was rife that the tax credit would be removed but it is a relief that private medical aid members have some reprieve.’ Conclusion The bottom line: The 1% VAT increase and the additional 52 cents general fuel levy will have a knock-on effect for South African consumers, things will cost more. However, it will not affect monthly medical aid premiums or member benefits although it will have an indirect impact in terms of healthcare services being more expensive, which will reduce buying power.

April 12, 2018

11 Things to expect postpartum

Pregnancy is an amazing journey and towards the end moms to be start preparing for their labor and birth, as well as the exciting prospect of meeting their new baby. The baby nursery will be prepared and hospital bags packed and ready. Then once baby has arrived the new mommy will be spending her days caring for her new baby, breastfeeding and bonding. Another important thing to remember and focus on is that the first six weeks after birth is considered a recovery period. Some moms will recover faster and other moms may take longer. How you give birth will also play a role in your recovery period, your symptoms and how you will need to look after yourself. Here are some tips for recovering after birth: Postpartum Bleeding Postpartum bleeding is known as lochia. You can expect to bleed anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 weeks after birth. Postpartum bleeding is heavier than a normal period. Your bleeding will be heaviest for the first 3 to 10 days after birth and then it should get lighter. Postpartum bleeding is made up of blood, mucus and uterus tissue. Your bleeding will turn from red to pink to brown and finally to yellow-ish white. You will need to stock up on maternity pads which are much more heavy duty than normal sanitary pads. Keep in mind that you should not use tampons for the first 6 weeks after birth – tampons could lead to bacteria in your uterus during this time. Consider buying some disposable maternity panties for use in the hospital and while you are bleeding heavily at home. You will undoubtedly leak through your maternity pads at some stage and ruin your panties. Having these stretchy disposable panties means firstly that you are comfortable but also that you needn’t worry about stains and extra washing during this time. If you get large blood clots in your bleeding or your bleeding is excessively heavy so that you are bleeding through a pad in an hour or less contact your doctor immediately as this could postpartum hemorrhage. After Your C-section When you have a c-section you won’t be mobile on the day of the birth. You will receive a epidural which means your lower body is numb and you will have a catheter which will be removed the morning after your c-section. While you won’t be able to move around fast or far in the beginning it is important that you start moving around as soon as possible after your catheter has been removed. This will help your body functions to start working (especially your bowels). It will also help to lower the chances of any post-operation complications like blood clots in your legs. Many women experience gas and bloating after their c-section which may be uncomfortable and even painful. You will need to keep your c-section wound clean and dry for the first 10 days – you will probably have a waterproof bandage on it so you can shower. When you go for a checkup after birth your doctor will remove the bandage and check your scar to see if it is healing properly. Once the bandage is off clean your scar daily and pat it dry afterwards. Check with your doctor whether he advises you leave your scar open or keep it covered. Your c-section scar will be incredibly sore the first few days and stay tender for a long time after the operation. Your doctor will prescribe you anti-inflammatory medication as well as pain medication to help you manage the pain. Using a postpartum girdle after a c-section (or even after natural birth too) comes with many benefits, including providing your stomach with support which will help with easing the pain. You can read more about postpartum girdles here. It is important not to do any lifting after your c-section other than when you need to pick up your baby of course. Refrain from lifting anything other than your baby for the first 6 weeks to give yourself a chance to heal. After Natural Birth Giving birth naturally usually means a quicker and easier recovery than giving birth via c-section, however parts of your body will have taken a bashing. Make sure to look after your perineum (the area between your anus and vagina) properly. For the first 24 hours after birth ice your perineum. Keep a spray bottle handy and fill it with warm water when you need to urinate. Give your vaginal area and perineum a squirt of warm water before and after urinating. This will keep the urine from irritating any torn skin. Your perineum may have torn during birth requiring stitches or your doctor may have performed an episiotomy (a surgical cut to the perineum) to widen you vagina during an assisted birth, if your baby is in distress or to prevent your perineum from tearing. Your body may also be achy and sore from pushing. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication and you can also take a hot shower or use heating pads to ease the aching. Your Uterus and Tummy Your stomach will take a while to get back to its normal size, so don’t expect a flat stomach after birth. You may even still look pregnant for a while. It will take some time for your uterus to contract back to its normal size. You can also expect some cramping as your uterus contracts. Breastfeeding your baby will help your uterus to contract so you can expect to feel cramps when you breastfeed. It may take a few weeks to a couple of months for your tummy to start looking normal again. You can expect to have some stretch marks and if you have had a c-section you will have a scar. You can look into ways to reduce your stretch marks, but also remember that your stretch marks are a sign that you have brought life into this world. Caring For Your Breasts Whether you are breastfeeding or

April 11, 2018

How The Way You Feel About Yourself is Interpreted to How Your Child Feels About Themselves 

(attend one of our free EQ talks – click here for details) Emotions are energy and movements within our bodies based on how we interpret life and events. When we fall in love, our bodies feel wonderful, warm, tingly, cosy and excited as endorphins are released by the brain into our bodies. However, when we feel scared or threatened, our bodies feel constricted and tight which comes from the adrenalin and cortisol released to activate the fight or flight response. We experience hundreds of different feelings but interestingly enough all of these feelings are produced from two core feelings; love and fear which all starts with whether we feel accepted or not. Acceptance is a Primal Need Acceptance is our most primal human need. Every one of us strives for acceptance; who we are, what we stand for, what we believe and what we look like. ALL of this combined is what creates the way we feel about ourselves and how we respond and express ourselves. When we accept and love ourselves, we feel emotionally safe and are able to express ourselves from a place of love. But when we believe that we are unacceptable, we become defensive and express ourselves from a place of fear, which can come across as anger, frustration, irritation, impatience, judgement or by being dismissive. Rose-Tinted Glasses I’m sure you have heard the saying ‘seeing life through rose tinted glasses’. Well here’s the thing, we all have our own pair of tinted glasses that we view life through. When someone close to you – a partner, child or friend expresses their feelings of discontent to you, we immediately tend to assume it’s about us. We ‘view’ their words through our ‘glasses of non-acceptance’ and fear kicks in. We interpret whatever they are saying as criticism or believe that we did something wrong and feel responsible for their feelings and in the process become defensive. Putting our Parents On Pedestals So where does all this non-acceptance or acceptance of ourselves start? It starts in childhood and with our parents. If our parents like themselves and they feel good about themselves, those feelings are transmitted to us verbally and non-verbally. But if our parents are not okay with who they are, then this too gets transmitted to us verbally and non-verbally. Children tend to make everything about themselves, they put their parents on pedestals, and whenever something doesn’t feel right, they think that it’s because of them. My mom loved to turn simple events into adventures. She always tried to look on the bright side. I recall one evening sitting at the kitchen table watching her make pancakes. I adored my mother, we were extremely close and as I watched her, I picked up her distress. I realised that her act of excitedly making pancakes was to mask the fact that all we had in the form of groceries was milk, water, eggs and sugar; the very same ingredients needed to make pancakes. I felt my mother’s distress of not knowing where the next meal was going to come from and in my ‘adoration for my mother,’ I came to the conclusion that if I wasn’t there, then her burden would be less. From that moment on, I grew up not wanting to be a burden to anyone and took on a stance of ‘I can do without’ and therefore I did go without so much for so many years until I uncovered this crazy belief and got rid of it. As you can see from that example, I made my mother’s feelings all about me, it changed me as a person, it changed the way I felt about myself and it changed the way I expressed myself. Not for one instance did my mother tell me I was a burden, I concluded that all on my own. You see, the only way you can change the tint on your glasses is by changing your internal view, which basically means to change the way you view yourself. How Acceptance helps your child Acceptance is a choice, to accept yourself, means being totally open and honest about who you are, and then giving yourself permission to be that person. The minute you do this, you change the tint of your glasses and not only are you able to see all the good stuff about you and your life, but you are able to do the same with others. Your defensiveness of yourself and your judgement of others disappears. Once you accept yourself, you are able to accept others for who they are too. And, more importantly you will role-model this to your children, they too will feel acceptable just as they are. I am not saying that this includes accepting bad behaviour. what I am saying is that your children need to know that who they are is acceptable, that they are enough and worthy of your love and respect, that it’s not dependant on their good behaviour. Click here to attend one of our free EQ talks in April and May

April 10, 2018

How to teach your child to overcome their fear of water

Before your child can begin learning how to swim, it’s critical to build their water confidence and remove any mental barriers they may have developed. If your child exhibits fear of the swimming pool, you’re not alone. Many children experience water anxiety that can impede progress during swimming lessons. Fortunately, this mental block can be overcome. In this article, I’ll discuss how best to deal with children who are nervous around water to help your child on the path toward proficient swimming. For new parents, I’ll also cover some common mistakes to avoid that can help prevent problems when it’s time to teach your child how to swim. Born to Swim You might be surprised to learn that babies are natural born swimmers. Just like adults, children’s bodies are naturally resistant to water. The same reflex that prevents infants from inhaling milk while breastfeeding protects them from choking on water while swimming or in the bath. If you’ve ever blown sharply in your baby’s face, you may have observed a natural mammalian diving response; a baby will automatically close their eyes and hold their breath. This is known as the bradycardic reflex and is present in infants up to one year old. Also remember that your child spent the first nine months of their lives in a veritable lap pool. They understand buoyancy and most infants don’t fuss at all about being taken into the water as long as it’s not too cold. Since fear of the water is a learned behavior, children who are apprehensive about swimming have typically had a childhood experience that caused that apprehension. Many of my swim students who started class with an existing fear of the pool had doubts simply because a parent instilled those doubts in their child, or the parents were overly cautious about getting water on their baby’s head and face when bathing. Most of these parents are well-meaning and did what they thought was best for the child at the time. Unfortunately, this teaches the child to be nervous around water and can lead to resistance when it’s time to start swimming. Take It Slow If your child has already started showing signs of water aversion, such as resistance, crying or refusing to go in or near the pool, it’s important to take it slow and proceed with caution. Don’t try to force the issue before she is ready to tackle the challenge on her own terms. Otherwise, you could end up facing an uphill battle with strong emotions like panic, crying, and sometimes, deepened fear. Start With Bath Time As the adult, you have the divine knowledge that water is completely harmless for your child. When it’s bath time, your job is to be a calm and confident parent. Use a cup to scoop water from the tub and pour it over baby’s body and head. Don’t be hesitant or express worry. Don’t make a big deal out of it by telling your child to hold her breath and count to three. And, most importantly, don’t shield your child’s eyes and face from the water. If you’re concerned about soap getting into her eyes, do an initial rinse with her head tilted back and a second and third rinse straight over the head. Let the water flow over her eyes, nose, mouth and ears. Remember that children learn to react like their parents and peers do. The same way that we inadvertently teach children to scream at the sight of a cockroach, we often teach them to be afraid of water too, sometimes just by showing outward nervousness when our children’s faces get wet. Capitalize on Interpersonal Relationships I’ve found that a role model can be tremendously encouraging for a child. If your kid has an older sibling, cousin or friend who can swim, take everyone to the pool together so your younger kid can see how exciting it is to swim independently. Often, this is enough to stimulate a non-swimmer to want to start lessons. In fact, I often teach dual-level lessons to allow for a more advanced child and a beginner to share pool-time. When the novice student sees their older brother or best friend excelling, they’re more likely to try skills they wouldn’t have attempted had they been on their own. Or, if you have two children at the same level, you can try them in a class together as well. Though some siblings have a harder time concentrating when their counterpart is around, others are encouraged by natural sibling rivalry. Make Pool Time Play Time If you have your own pool or you take regular trips to a community aquatics facility, you’re already on your way to helping your child overcome their water anxiety. If you plan to sign up for lessons, there’s no need to work on any specific skills in advance. Just allow your child to get used to the water’s feel and buoyancy. Bring some pool toys along to make the experience a positive one. When shopping for pool toys, let your kids help you decide. After all, they’ll be using them more than you and you want them to be excited about a new game before they get to play it. There’s really no wrong toys. Any toy that floats can be tossed out into the water and “rescued” with your help; anything that sinks can be placed on a step and reached down to while you encourage them to blow bubbles into the water. Even toys that aren’t meant for the pool will often work as long as they don’t have holes that water can get trapped inside and grow mold. Among the odder things in my toy bag, I have a water-tight baby doll, ping-pong balls and artificial flowers with fishing weights attached to them so kids can “pick the flowers” off the bottom. It’s important to keep pool toys separate from the regular stash so that kids don’t lose interest in them before you make it into

April 9, 2018

Vitamin B12 deficiency: A silent epidemic with serious consequences

Vitamin B12 deficiency isn’t a bizarre, mysterious disease. It’s written about in every medical textbook and its causes and effects are well-established in the scientific literature. However, B12 deficiency is far more common than most health care practitioners and the general public realise. Research suggests that 40 percent of people between the ages of 26 and 83 years have vitamin B12 levels in the low normal range – a range at which many individuals experience neurological symptoms. Symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency are easily mistaken for signs of other ailments. If you’re feeling more anxious, tired, or worn out than usual, a B12 deficiency may be to blame. Vitamin B12 deficiency can be sneaky and harmful, so keep reading for some insight. WHAT DOES VITAMIN B12 DO? Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin and is also the only B vitamin that is almost exclusively found in animal foods. The human body needs vitamin B12 (together with folate) to make red blood cells, DNA and help promote healthy function of nerves. In addition, B12 is one of the vitamins responsible for a well-functioning metabolism and robust energy levels. Like most vitamins, B12 can’t be made by the body. Instead, it must be gotten from food or supplements. And therein lies the problem: Some people don’t consume enough vitamin B12 to meet their needs, while others can’t absorb enough, no matter how much they take in. The absorption of B12 is also complex and involves several steps – each of which can go wrong. As a result, vitamin B12 deficiency is relatively common. WHO IS AT RISK FOR B12 DEFICIENCY? There are many causes for vitamin B12 deficiency. In general, the following groups are at greatest risk for a deficiency: Vegetarians and vegans Because B12 is not generally found in plant-based foods, vegetarians are at risk for B12 deficiencies. This explains why studies consistently demonstrate that up to 50% of long-term vegetarians and 80% of vegans are deficient in B12. People aged 60 or over The condition is more likely to occur in older people due to the cutback in stomach acid production that often occurs with ageing, making it harder to absorb this vitamin. It has been estimated to affect about 40% of people over 60 years of age. It’s entirely possible that at least some of the symptoms we attribute to “normal” ageing – such as memory loss, cognitive decline, decreased mobility, etc. – are at least in part caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency. People who regularly use PPIs or acid suppressing drugs If you take proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) e.g. omeprazole (antacid or heartburn drugs) you may be at risk for B12 deficiency. These drugs reduce acid production in the stomach and acid is needed to absorb vitamin B12. Medical conditions Conditions that interfere with food absorption, such Coeliac or Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bacterial overgrowth (intestinal dysbiosis), atrophic gastritis (thinning of stomach lining) or gut inflammation, pernicious anaemia (an autoimmune condition where the body destroys intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for the absorption of B12) can cause B12 trouble. Certain medications Use of some commonly prescribed drugs such as metformin (insulin resistance and diabetes), or anti-seizure medications such as phenytoin may cause a B12 deficiency. Heavy drinkers or alcoholism Drinking alcohol, even in moderation (more than one alcoholic drink a day), can have profound effects on the way your body absorbs vitamin B-12. Genetic variations Common genetic variations may interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12, and subsequently levels of the vitamin in the blood. Weight loss surgery People who have stomach stapling or other forms of weight-loss surgery are also more likely to be low in vitamin B12 because the operation interferes with the body’s ability to extract vitamin B12 from food. SYMPTOMS OF VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY Vitamin B12 deficiency can be slow to develop, causing symptoms to appear gradually and intensify over time. It can also come on relatively quickly. A vitamin B12 deficiency occurs in four stages. Stage 1 – beginning with declining blood levels of the vitamin Stage 2 – progressing to low B12 levels within the body’s cells Stage 3 – increased blood level of homocysteine and reduced ability to repair and produce DNA Stage 4 – finally, macrocytic anaemia Anemia A vitamin B12 deficiency can cause anaemia (low red blood cell production). Red blood cells carry oxygen all over the body. When the body does not produce enough red blood cells, the amount of available oxygen in the body, decreases as well. B12-related anaemia can cause many other issues, including: Extreme Fatigue: It’s normal to get tired during the day if you didn’t sleep well the night before, just ate a large meal, or completed strenuous exercise. But it isn’t normal to experience an overwhelming fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest. Muscle Weakness: You might experience soreness after a hard workout for a day or two, but if your muscles feel like you just ran a marathon after a simple activity like brushing your hair, you may be anaemic. Heart Palpitations: Feel a flutter in your chest? You could be experiencing heart palpitations due to decreased oxygen circulation. Breathlessness: Breathlessness is normal after activity, but if you find yourself short of breath during rest, it’s an indicator that something’s not right. Just like heart palpitations, anaemia can cause breathlessness due to a lack of oxygen in the blood. Pale Skin: Red blood cells are responsible for the rosy colour in our cheeks. When red blood cell production decreases—as it does in anaemic individuals—the skin becomes pale and colourless. Pins-and-Needles Sensation You know the pins-and-needles sensation you often get when your foot falls asleep? This sensation is called peripheral neuropathy and can be linked to nerve damage caused by a B12 deficiency. According to the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy, a B12 deficiency damages the sheath that surrounds and protects nerves, resulting in an unpleasant and sometimes painful tingling sensation. Other diseases such as diabetes can

April 5, 2018

Children with ADHD: Bullied or bully?

Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are unlikely to go unnoticed in a school environment. It can quickly earn your child the “different”, “difficult” or “disruptive” label and attract the attention of bullies. ADHD can inhibit your child’s understanding of social cues, which can have a negative impact on everyday conversations and social interactions. The exclusion from social circles only leads to heightened feelings of isolation and depression. Bullying in schools can have a serious impact on your child’s participation and academic performance. Over 3.2 million South African students are bullied yearly but more than 67% don’t speak up due to fear, shame, and doubt that parents or teachers can change their situation. Bullying is often directed at insecure and passive children who display physical weakness and poor social skills. Bullied or bully? Whether brought on by ADHD tendencies or low self-esteem caused by the condition, research suggests that ADHD children are nearly 10 times more likely to attract the attention of bullies. They tend to avoid confrontation but when taunted by bullies, ADHD children often overreact emotionally. Unfortunately, the display of tears and anger or an impulsive retort to provocation usually adds fuel to the flame for a bully. That said, recent research found that children with ADHD are almost four times more likely to bully other children without the condition. Likewise, this can be due to low self-esteem or could be in response to victimisation or feelings of depression. The destructive impact of bullying Bullying can be linked to lasting emotional, mental and physical health issues for both the bullied and the bully. If your child is bullied at school, he or she is likely to experience heightened levels of insecurity, anxiety, depression, loneliness, poor sleeping and eating patterns, and decreased academic achievement – over and above ADHD symptoms. On the other hand, if your ADHD child has become the playground bully, he or she is more likely to get into fights or partake in risky activities. Keep a close eye on school attendance as both the bullied and the bully are more likely to bunk school. Fortunately, there are many other ways to deal with bullying at opposite ends of this spectrum. In addition to a holistic treatment plan and an active support group, the impact of ADHD in the school environment can be successfully managed. That means less attention from bullies and a memorable and carefree childhood. For more information around the symptoms, impact and treatment of ADHD, visit MyADHD.co.za or My ADHD on Facebook.

March 29, 2018

Making your medical benefits last

As each new year begins medical aid members start with a clean slate, with new benefits and replenished savings available. ‘If you manage your medical expenses correctly you can avoid out-of-pocket expenses and limit the possibility of running out of benefits,’ says Gerhard Van Emmenis, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund. Van Emmenis, gives some tips on managing your medical expenses to make them last. Find a GP on your medical aid’s network Using network doctors is an invaluable tool to make your medical aid last longer as it means you won’t be charged more than a specific amount. At present, Bonitas Medical Fund has the largest network of GPs in South Africa – with over 6 000 doctors. Always use partner networks Medical schemes negotiate preferential rates with providers who have partnered with them. This means if you use a network hospital, doctor or pharmacy you will not be charged more than the rate agreed with the scheme. This will also help you to avoid co-payments, deductibles and additional out-of-pocket expenses. Ask your pharmacist Buy over-the-counter medicine to treat less serious ailments and consider using generic medicine which is cheaper but effective. Pharmacists are able to provide sound medical advice on problems such as rashes, colds or illnesses that are not severe, simply ask! Going to hospital – get the facts Talk to your doctor or specialist before being admitted to hospital. Check what they are going to be charging and what your scheme will cover. If there is a large difference, don’t be afraid to approach your doctor to see if they are prepared to adjust their fee. Alternatively, you can also check if there are other healthcare providers who are on your scheme’s network that will charge you a better rate. Remember to pre-authorise Pre-authorisation is required for all hospital admissions to ensure your stay will be covered. Always ask if there are any co-payments or sub-limits that will apply and what you can do to avoid these. For planned procedures, it’s also worth checking with your scheme if you will obtain better cover by using contracted providers or having the procedure performed in the doctor’s rooms or a day clinic. ICD-10 codes If you need to undergo an operation, ask your surgeon for the codes that will be charged. This will include the procedure codes and those for any other products that will be needed, this all helps with pre-authorisation and ensuring the costs will be covered. Look for schemes that offer benefits paid from risk These benefits give you more value for money and are in addition to your savings and day-to-day benefits. Bonitas pays for maternity consultations, wellness benefits, preventative care and dentistry from risk on most plans. Managed care benefits Some schemes offer programmes to help you manage severe chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes and HIV/AIDS. These programmes are usually covered from the risk portion of your medical contribution and are not funded from your savings account. They help you use your benefits to maximum advantage while ensuring you receive quality care by using specific providers. Be aware of consulting after hours In an emergency one has no choice, but after hours consultations are very expensive. As a general rule, try to avoid using an ER facility where possible. A bona fide medical emergency usually results in admission into hospital. Manage your chronic medicine correctly The golden rule for chronic illness benefits is to try to use the medication on your scheme’s formulary and to obtain this from a specified pharmacy, either on the network or a designated service provider. Bonitas offers a home delivery service for chronic medicine, to make things even more convenient for members. PMBs If you suffer from a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition, understand what benefits are provided as part of a PMB condition and utilise the service of the designated service provider to ensure that your claims are paid from risk rather than from your medical savings account. ‘Don’t be uninformed,’ says Van Emmenis. ‘Your health is important, so take the time to research and understand the medical aid plan you’ve chosen. Read the information sent to you by the Scheme or your broker. Ensure you read the fine print and understand the Scheme Rules. This will go a long way in helping you know your rights and making the most of your benefits.’

March 29, 2018

Key signs that your child may have eye problems

Our eyes are windows to the wonderful world around us. It allows us to see the world as it is, and it shows us the world in its full splendor. We see a lot of great and amazing things throughout our lives, but it’s also important to remember that our eyes work with us for as long as we take care of them. Sadly, children, perhaps the most creative beings out there, don’t always have the awareness needed to take care of their eyes. As parents, guardians, and people who are concerned for their welfare, it’s up to us to make sure their eyes stay as vibrant as ever. Here are some signs that our child might have an eye problem, or might develop an eye problem. Is Your Child Prone To Lean Close To Electronics? It’s not wrong to lean closer to objects we can’t exactly see properly, but if we see our children lean close to electronics all the time, then we might be witnessing the first signs of an eye problem in its infancy. Remember, electronics emit light radiation and bright light, and constant exposure to bright light can permanently damage our child’s eyes, especially now that they are still in development. If your child has a gadget like a smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop, and you find them leaning in close too much to watch a video or play games that are already on full screen, then your child might have a developing eye problem. If your child is exhibiting the above but is also wearing glasses, then it might be a sign of a worse eye problem. Try to observe just how close your child is compared to the electronic device you’re seeing, and gauge if the normal eye could see the things they’re leaning towards. If, say, a text is something visible from your end at the same distance, and it seems blurred for your child, then you may be facing a problem. Is Your Child Experiencing Difficulties In Things Related To Vision? The signs aren’t just related to electronics, however, as your child might exhibit difficulties in tasks related to vision as well. Try to observe their behavior towards tasks involving following objects, or using their eyes to do things. If your child likes to read books closer to their faces, then this might be one of the little signs that they may have an eye problem. If your child tells you they can’t distinguish colors properly, then they may have a problem. If they experience trouble seeing the blackboard, looking at small objects from a distance, or potential hazards such as corners and stairs, then this might be a vision problem. You have to pay attention if your child is clumsy when doing things that shouldn’t let them be prone to injury, such as walking to somewhere while holding something. If your child avoids tasks that involve near vision activities like writing or coloring, and if they avoid distance vision activities like catch, seeing planes and birds, then these may be signs of a vision problem. Does Your Child Have Strange Eye Habits? We all have our quirks, and children have theirs too. However, if they have “quirks” involving their eyes that seem out of place, then your child might be experiencing the signs of a vision problem waiting to happen. If your child squints or blinks often than usual, especially when doing tasks that need their eyes, then they might have an eyesight problem. If your child tilts to see better, or closes one eye to see an object better, then they may have an eye problem. If your child is prone to rub their eyes even if they aren’t itchy, then they might have an eye problem as well. Do Your Child’s Eyes Look Strange? Perhaps the most obvious signs of a potential eye problem might be staring us right in the face and we aren’t seeing it. This is especially when we’re talking about our children. Try to look for these signs in their eyes that might tell if they have a vision problem waiting to happen. If there are any changes to their eyes that don’t seem normal, then it might be best to get them checked. For instance, if they looked cross eyed, or if the eyes don’t seem to look like they work at the same time, or if there are droopy eyelids and bulgy eyes. If your child’s eyes appear to be extra sensitive to light, then you might have a child with an eye problem. If there are recurring headaches, or if your child’s eyes show sensitive to light with pain, or a redness that doesn’t seem to go away, then your child might have a vision problem. What To Do Next? If you see these signs in your child, it’s important not to panic and assess the situation more closely. Which of these signs appear and how often do they manifest? Start taking notes, especially when it comes to describing the frequency of these signs, and what sort of signs appear. If possible, try to take pictures while they’re “on the act” for your personal reference. These kind of data are important especially when presenting your case to an eye doctor, which can also get a better assessment of your child’s case when they see the things they do when they’re at home. Remember, try not to panic, especially when these signs manifest. It’s always better to try to get a cool and calm head by planning what to do next and finding the best remedies with your doctor. These signs don’t automatically mean your child is going blind. They may have a condition that affects their eyes. If you want to get an initial assessment before going to the doctor, then try to check if you have relatives that may have an eye problem that is known to be genetic. Knowing this, and sharing this to the doctor, may help

March 27, 2018

What is a doula?

A doula is a labour coach that offers emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner before, during and after childbirth. The word “doula” is a Greek word meaning “woman servant”. Women have complex needs during childbirth. In addition to the clinical aspects of birth, women need consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labours are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily. What does a doula do: Recognises birth as a key experience you will remember all her life Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labour Assists you in preparing for and carrying out her plans for birth Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective point of viewpoint, as well as helping you get the information you need to make informed decisions Facilitates communication during labour between you, your partner and your clinical care providers Perceives her role as nurturing and protecting your memory of the birth experience Allows your partner to participate at his/ her comfort level Stays with you throughout labour Helps you track your birthing sensations and help you to decide when to call your midwife or head to the hospital Gets your birthing pool set up Helps you get settled in at the hospital Works with your partner to help you get comfortable Wipes your brow and remind you to breathe Squeezes your hips Helps your partner feel confident Take photos Tidies up post home birth Supports with words of encouragement Guides you through your first round of breastfeeding Shares your emotion Steps back while you enjoy some precious moments Offers education, companionship and non-judgemental support during the postpartum fourth trimester Assists with newborn care, family adjustment, meal preparation and light household tidying Offers evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing and coping skills for new parents and makes appropriate referrals when necessary Did you have a Doula at your birth? How was the experience?

March 26, 2018

Should you be giving your child fish oil?

Fish oil is one of the most studied nutritional and health products. The main components of interest in it are the omega 3 fatty acids. The human body cannot synthesize omega 3 and so it has to be sourced from the diet. Fish is one of the best sources of omega 3. The two main biologically active ingredients in omega 3 are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Sources of fish oil include the processing of oily fish such as salmon, sardines, tuna and cod. Fish oil also contains some small amounts of vitamin A. In view of all this; it is now easier to tackle the question of whether fish oil should be given routinely to children. The first question every parent should consider is whether they are giving their children adequate fish oil through the diet. This can be answered easily by assessing the number of times in a week the children eat any of the oily fishes. This has to be several times week. In the U.S, the American Heart Association recommends more than 3.5 oz. of oily fish two times per week. Since many children’s diet is a reflection of what the adults are taking, it is likely that they also get inadequate fish oil from the diet and hence supplementation is necessary. Everything in proportion The typical western world diet consists of high omega 6 fatty acids intake. These are mainly vegetable oils. High consumption of these oils has been linked with a high incidence of degenerative disorders. In an ideal situation the ratio of omega 6 and omega 3 should be about 1:1. This helps to counteract the undesirable effects of omega 6. In some cases the consumption ratio is disproportionate with omega 6 being up to 10 times more than omega 3. To bring the ratio to near normal fish oil should be given to the majority of children. The benefits of fish oil for children There are many documented benefits to giving your children Omega 3, including: Healthy brain development Improved cognitive ability Health bones and joints Good eye health Reduced hyperactivity disorders symptoms Healthy skin How much fish oil should children be given? The amount of fish oil supplementation depends on the amount of omega 3 it contains. Therefore the dosage for children is given in terms of omega 3 amounts (total DHA and EPA) and it is age dependent. Different countries also have slightly different recommendations. Below is a suggested dosage regime. 0-12 months about 0.5 grams per day 1-3 years about 0.7 grams per day 4-8 years 0.9 grams every day 9-13 years 1.2 grams each day for boys. Girls can do with 0.2 less grams than boys 14-18 years 1.6 grams daily with girls in the same age bracket needing about 1.1 per day Some countries recommend dosages in terms of mg per kg of body weight. Ascertain your country’s guideline before giving fish oil to your children. Side effects of fish oil Fish oil is generally well tolerated. However, children with known allergies to the oil or certain sea-foods should better avoid it unless your doctor says it is okay. Cod liver oil is a type of fish oil sourced from the liver of cod. It contains a lot of vitamin A and D. These vitamins are fat soluble and if taken in excess have accumulating effects in the body and they can cause serious health effects. Never exceed manufacturers’ recommended fish oil dosage. Jane Hutton is a nutritionist and health enthusiast. She also enjoys rock climbing and sailing in her free time. She’s passionate about animal rights and works for an Omega 3 brand called NothingFishy. Facebook: NothingFishy Omega3 Twitter : @nothingfishyco

March 23, 2018

What are the early signs of autism in children

Almost every mom gets herself into a twist if her baby or child is not reaching milestones according to the so called norm, wanting to know if her child is just late to reach those milestones or if there may be a more serious cause for this. While the majority of babies and children reach their milestones at the average age, there will be some babies that reach their milestones much earlier and some that just lag behind the rest. There is usually no need for alarm, they are just late bloomers and will get there in their own time. What is important to look out for is that your baby or child is developing and gaining new skills, even if they are a little slow to reach milestones. Some babies will start crawling late, or not even at all, yet start walking earlier than the norm. If your baby is making progress overall then chances are there is nothing to be concerned about. That said if you are concerned about anything it is best to take your baby for a check up since if there is any sort of developmental delay or disability it is always best to know about it as early as possible. Early diagnosis means that interventions with autism doctors and specialists can be implemented and outcomes can be improved drastically. You will also need to learn about special needs parenting and how you can help your child. Complex disorders of brain development are now classified under the broad terms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Autism. This means that autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome all fall under the broad spectrum of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and restricted and repetitive behavior. If your child does have autism it will make the world of difference if you can start behavioral therapy before 18 months of age. What makes this tricky is that very often the most obvious signs and symptoms of autism tend to emerge between the ages of two and three years old. According to Connecticut & Golf Coast ADHD Associates: Autism spectrum disorders are lifelong conditions with no known cure. However, children with ASD can progress developmentally and learn new skills. Some children may improve so much that they no longer meet the criteria for ASD, although milder symptoms may often persist. What are Early Signs of Autism in Children? The earliest signs of autism in children involve the absence of normal behaviors as opposed to the presence of abnormal behaviors. Since autistic babies are very often quiet and undemanding parents may think that they have an easy baby and not realize that there is a problem. It is very common for autistic babies to not respond to cuddling, not reach out to be picked up and not to make eye contact with anyone. Early signs that your baby may have autism are when your baby or toddler does not: follow objects or your movements visually, or does not visually follow where you point use gestures to communicate such as waving goodbye or pointing respond to the sound of your voice or respond to being called by name make eye contact with you reach out to you when being picked up respond to or initiate cuddling make noises to grab your attention play with other people show enjoyment or interest imitate facial expressions and gestures care or even seem to notice if you get hurt or are upset in any way The following symptoms are cause for concern, so you should take your baby to be evaluated: No big smiles or signs of happiness and enjoyment by the age of 6 months Does not interact by sharing sounds and smiles, and imitating of other facial expressions by 9 months old Your baby does not respond to his or her name by one year old Your baby does not make any noises or “baby talk” by one year old Your baby does not make any gestures such as waving, pointing. reaching or showing by one year old Your baby does not speak any words by 16 months old Your baby does not speak any meaningful two word phrases that are not imitating or repeating by two years old While some babies and toddlers just develop later than others, if you are worried about anything take your child to be checked out. It is better to be safe than sorry later on, especially since the younger the child is when autism is diagnosed the better. It is also vital as a mother or father to trust your own instincts, so get a second opinion from a child development specialist if you are not sure about a diagnosis. As children get older the signs for autism become more diversified and noticeable. Impaired social skills, non-verbal communication difficulties, inflexible behavior and speech and language difficulties are typical signs of autism.

March 22, 2018

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CO-SLEEPING WITH YOUR NEW BORN?

Co-sleeping is often thought to be synonymous with bed sharing – also known as letting baby sleep in the same bed with you. But co-sleeping can also mean putting baby to sleep in the same room as you but in a separate bed. If your baby is six months or younger, experts recommend that healthy infants be placed on their backs for sleep, as this is the safest position for an infant to sleep. Putting your baby to sleep on his back decreases his chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This applies to daytime naps as well as during the night. Huggies® expert and midwife, Lynne Bluff, sheds some light on some of the benefits of co-sleeping with a newborn baby. Remember for the first three to four months of life it is recommended to have skin to skin between baby and mom and dad, as much as possible. Skin to skin is when baby only has nappy on and no clothes. Baby is then placed against mom’s bare chest (skin to skin) and baby is wrapped with a shirt or blanket against mom’s or dad’s chest. Many parents choose to co-sleep with baby because it allows for more skin to skin contact. There are many benefits to co-sleeping! Here are some benefits of keeping baby close: Babies naturally fall into a daytime and night time pattern: it isn’t uncommon for new-borns to mix up their days and nights. Many babies sleep extra soundly throughout the day but can be restless or wakeful much of the night. Keeping baby close during the day with lights and noise around can eventually help baby stay a bit more alert in the daytime. Keeping baby close at night, meeting their needs with a quiet and dim environment, can help them learn to rest more at night. Babies also rest more soundly when they feel secure. Co-sleeping helps babies practice rousing themselves: while having your new-born falling into and staying in a deep sleep might sound appealing, it isn’t the type of sleep they were designed to have. Co-sleeping babies are frequently aroused when close with their moms. This practice rousing can help babies learn to use their self-preservation instinct to rouse when there’s any danger such as being overheated, being too cold or something blocking their airway. Being able to easily rouse may reduce the risk of SIDS. Meet baby’s needs without getting up: Most babies need to be fed, soothed and changed at night. If baby is close by, mom can do all of these things while in bed and remaining in a restful state. Getting out of bed, walking down the hall, changing nappies on the changing pad, feeding in a glider and soothing baby back to sleep requires being fully awake and alert. Experience less night time crying: babies sleep well when they feel secure. Knowing mom is close will likely help baby sleep better and fuss less. Moms that co sleep are able to notice earlier signs of hunger and needing to be changed. Often mom can wake during these early signs and meet baby’s needs before they begin to cry. When you co sleep there is less trying to get baby to settle down to sleep before laying them down. This often means less crying. You aren’t likely to have an overtired baby fussing and protesting being laid down in their cot to sleep. Co-sleeping helps with bonding and secure attachment: a secure attachment between baby and caregiver is an emotional bond that leaves baby feeling secure and cared for. This secure attachment, fostered infancy, translates to a child feeling secure and knowing their caregiver will always return to meet their needs. Children with a secure attachment often respond appropriately to situations, show minimal distress when their mother leaves, and are happy when their mother returns. Co-sleeping helps with maintaining an adequate milk supply: feeding on demand helps moms maintain an adequate milk supply. Breast milk production is a supply and demand process. Babies are designed to eat frequently at night and co sleeping helps to make it easier for mom and baby to meet this need. Co-sleeping can mean better rest for mom: moms, not just babies, are wired for closeness. Studies show that new moms do not experience a better quality of sleep if their babies go to the nursery at night. Co-sleeping may not guarantee more sound sleep for every mom, but many report sleeping better knowing baby is safe and close by. Moms also release oxytocin when close to their babies. Oxytocin improves sleep quality and it’s also great for breastfeeding. As your baby grows, he may not want to sleep all night, every night, with you. With a bit of trial and error, you’ll eventually find a method that works for you, your partner, and your baby.

March 21, 2018

Natural remedies for heartburn during pregnancy

Heartburn affects a lot of women during pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester of pregnancy.The reason for heartburn during pregnancy is increased levels of progesterone. Progesterone relaxes muscle, including the stomach valve that keeps the stomach acid out of the oesophagus. Another cause of heartburn during pregnancy is the growing baby putting pressure on the stomach, pushing the acid from the stomach upwards and of course with the stomach valve relaxed it just goes up into the oesophagus. If you have suffered from heartburn during pregnancy you know how horrible it can be so this article is going to share with you some things you can do to avoid heartburn during pregnancy, some natural remedies for heartburn during pregnancy and if all that does not work some medication you can take to try and get rid of your heartburn during pregnancy. Ways to avoid heartburn during pregnancy Prevention is always better than cure, so here are some measures you can take to try and prevent getting heartburn during pregnancy. While they may not work entirely to prevent heartburn you can be assured the symptoms would be much worse if you didn’t do these things. Eat Smaller Portions – Instead of eating 3 larger meals a day eat much smaller meals more often. This gives your system a chance to digest the food without overloading your stomach. It also means you are eating more often and have less of a chance to get hungry. If you are hungry you will also be prone to heartburn during pregnancy. Keep snacks on hand if you are out so you can eat regularly. Eat Slowly – Eating slowly not only aids digestion but it gives your stomach a chance to let you know when you are full. This will help you to eat smaller portions which will also help prevent heartburn during pregnancy. Sip Liquids – Instead of drinking large amounts of liquids, sip constantly throughout the day and in between meals. Avoid drinking any liquids with a meal. Sit or Stand after eating – Make sure you sit or stand for a few hours after eating. Avoid bending over and lying down as this will cause the stomach acid to come up your throat, Don’t eat just before sleeping – Wait a few hours after eating before you lie down or sleep. This will give you a chance to digest your food before lying down. Sleep elevated at night – Being in the lying down position encourages the stomach acid to come up your oesophagus. Prop yourself up on pillows so your head and chest are elevated while you sleep. Avoid heartburn trigger foods – Certain foods trigger heartburn, so try and avoid these. While there are certain foods that are often triggers for a lot of people, they may not be for others. Pay attention to what you are eating and if you get heartburn try and eliminate those foods that caused it. Foods that commonly trigger heartburn are caffeine, fizzy drinks, chocolate, citrus, spicy foods, fatty foods, fatty red meat, french fries, omega 3 (fish oils), raw onion, oil, fried foods, butter and tomatoes. Wear lose fitting clothing – Avoid any clothing that can put pressure on your stomach or chest areas, this will just make any heartburn symptoms worse. So think stretchy, it will be much more comfortable for you anyway! Natural Remedies for Heartburn During Pregnancy Although there are some steps you can take to lessen your chances of getting heartburn during pregnancy the fact is that many women will still suffer from it. When you do here are some natural remedies you can try before you resort to medication. Yogurt or Milk for heartburn – Eating yogurt or drinking some milk can relieve heartburn. While cow’s milk often gives immediate relief, it can over time worsen the heartburn. Alternatives you can try are nut milk, rice milk or goat milk.You can also warm milk and add some honey. This can soothe your burning chest. Bentonite Clay for Heartburn – You can take bentonite clay before eating meals can coat the stomach and bring down acid levels. Bentonite clay is found in tablets, capsules and powder form.It is alkalising and absorbs the stomach acid, easing heartburn symptoms. Marshmallows for Heartburn – Sounds crazy right? Well apparently marshmallows coat the lining of the stomach and oesophagus, protecting them from the stomach acid. Slippery Elm Bark – Slippery elm bark is available in capsule, powder and lozenge form. It builds up the mucous lining of the stomach and protects it from the stomach acid. Chewing Gum – Try chewing gum for heartburn during pregnancy, it works! Apple Cider Vinegar – Low stomach acid creates heartburn, so drinking acid cider vinegar can increase the acids can result in relief. Papaya, pineapple, avocados and bananas – These all contain naturally-occurring enzymes which help break down food. Green Olives – Apparently eating a dozen green olives a day can help prevent heartburn and ease it if it does occur. Coconut Water – Coconut water has lots of potassium and electrolytes that help to keep the body hydrated. Sipping coconut water throughout the day and drinking a glass before bed can help to acid reflux away. Almonds – Roasted or raw almonds will do, just eat some every day to keep the heartburn away. Ginger – Ginger in any form is great for heartburn, whether powdered, pickled or fresh. You can even try ginger biscuits or ginger ale. Bicarb of Soda – Bicarbonate of soda quickly neutralises stomach acid, relieving heart burn. Drinking Aloe Vera Juice – The healing property of aloe vera soothes the entire oesophagus track and provides relief from heartburn. Chiropractor – Some recent studies show that seeing a chiropractor can help with heartburn. Certain chiropractic adjustments shift the oesophageal valve into a better working position. This relaxes the muscle, helping prevent acids from making their way back up. Aromatherapy for heartburn – Add four drops of lemon, orange blossom or orange essentials oils to a teaspoon of

March 19, 2018

Natural remedies for relieving back and neck pain during pregnancy

While pregnancy is a time of great joy and happiness, very often it is accompanied by aches, pains and unpleasant pregnancy symptoms. Although the mother to be is often very uncomfortable it is tolerated as a bitter sweet experience. It is very common for a pregnant woman to experience back pain and neck pain, sometimes it can be mild but some women experience quite intense pain that can impact her lifestyle negatively. Back pain during pregnancy can cause numerous problems from missing time at work, a more difficult labour and birth, and very often can also create problems that can extend long after birth. So while back pain and neck pain during pregnancy are common symptoms it is essential to look at the problem and manage the back and neck pain during your pregnancy. There are two common types of back pain during pregnancy, lower or lumbar back pain (sciatica) which is felt above the waist and posterior pelvic pain which is felt below the waist. Lumbar back pain is most often felt when standing or sitting for too long, or from repetitive lifting. Posterior pelvic pain is often brought on or made worse when sitting up from a lying position, standing up, rolling over, running, walking, taking stairs, bending forward, lifting something or twisting your body. The three most common causes of back pain during pregnancy are weight gain, changes in the moms centre of gravity which puts strain on different muscles and hormonal changes which relaxes muscles and joints. Here are some helpful natural remedies you can try for relieving your neck and back pain during this time. Proper Exercise During Pregnancy for Relieving Back Pain While exercising during pregnancy is highly recommended it is very important to do exercise that is appropriate for pregnancy. You don’t want to cause more damage than good. Being fit and active during pregnancy will help you to strengthen your back muscles, abdominal muscles and pelvic floor which will help to reduce back pain. Being active will also help to keep your weight gain under control, which will in turn also help manage back pain. The fitter and stronger you are during pregnancy the easier your labour and birth will be on your body, so it can also help reduce your labour pain. Exercise that is considered good during pregnancy is swimming, brisk walking, indoor stationary cycling, yoga and low impact aerobics. Make sure to take take yoga and aerobics classes taught by a certified instructor. Maintain a Good Posture to Manage Pregnancy Back Pain As mentioned above, when you are pregnant your centre of gravity shifts causing new muscles to take strain. Add in the additional weight and very often pregnant women then fall into the habit of bad posture. Having bad posture will cause back and neck pain, so try and hold your spine erect with balanced posture. Massage Therapy for Managing Pregnancy Back Pain Getting a massage during pregnancy can help your body to relax. A massage will also increase reduce joint swelling by increasing circulation and moving fluids around the body. This can help relieve sciatica. The massage therapy can also include heat pack or a cold pack for providing the maximum relief. It is important to be safety conscious and to only book a massage with a therapist that is qualified in prenatal massage. Get Enough Rest It is vitally important to get enough sleep during your pregnancy so you can enjoy your pregnancy in good health. If you are not getting enough restful sleep you will feel it in your body which could increase back pain. You can check this web article which provides you good information and tips on getting relaxed and pain free sleep at night. There are many high quality specially designed pillows for pregnant women that can support your back and your belly at the same time. Buy one for your body and baby to give yourself the best care. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees can help to greatly reduce back pain. Visit Your Doctor This can be your last resort after trying out some of the basic things above. You doctor may recommend you do some effective exercise along with medications that are meant to reduce the inflammation and relieve joint pain during pregnancy. Neck and back pain during pregnancy can definitely be relieved with the help of these measures. In fact, as soon as you experience some form of pain, the ideal option for you is to become proactive and find out the most suitable measures that can help you. Consequently, you will be able to breathe a sigh of relief soon.

March 16, 2018

Heads up on infant health ahead of taps running dry

When the dam levels reach 13.5%, the city will begin to shut down its reticulation system in residential areas, which essentially means the taps will run dry. Day Zero, currently earmarked for mid-May 2018, has serious ramifications for the city, which has already been declared a disaster area and it’s close to 4 million residents. ‘We have been inundated with advice about water saving tips,’ says Gerhard Van Emmenis, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, ‘and, as a medical scheme entrusted with taking care of our members wellbeing, we felt compelled to do our bit to help our members and the citizens of Cape Town with advice around health issues during a drought, especially for the more vulnerable such as infants and the elderly. ‘We have researched the potential health risks in the time of a water crisis and compiled easy to follow guidelines. Even before taps are turned off, when clean drinking water is not readily available there is a high risk of some diseases which, as a health care community, we need to anticipate and mitigate.’ In the case of infants (aged under 3 years), advice from the Bonitas Babyline team is as follows: Care should be taken to adequately sterilise bottles and pacifiers. In the current heat, any formula or milk left in the bottle after a feed should be discarded if not consumed immediately. Parents should take care to make just enough for baby for each feed Make sure your child has enough water to drink and is well hydrated. Children often do not realise they are thirsty and play in the heat. Ensure your child drinks water often With water restrictions, children are prone to bacterial and fungal infections of the skin. Ensuring the skin is cleaned as thoroughly as possible every day will help prevent these infections The single biggest threat to child health with water restrictions is from gastro-enteritis. Make sure food is prepared as hygienically as possible and reduce the amount of bought cold foods and salads in the child’s diet. Cooked foods served fresh are best. Here are 10 tips to help you stay healthy ahead of the taps being turned off Boil water or use water purification tablets for the rain water we are able to capture. However, preferably use this for flushing the toilet, not for drinking. Use Milton to add to water to wash raw veggies – with the listeriosis outbreak as well as the possibility of a Hepatitis A outbreak we can’t afford not to wash our fresh produce! Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser or wet wipes to keep hands clean (and hand cream because that stuff gets pretty harsh after a while!). Bicarb and vinegar are excellent for cleaning especially as it doesn’t destroy water for grey use. Dodgy tummy prep: Rehydrate, probiotics and medicine for stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea. Use vinegar in the toilet and drains to help with any odours and bacteria. Clean with micro-fibre cloths or rags as sponges become unsanitary. It’s far easier to clean cloths and hanging them up immediately can delay them smelling. You can also throw rags away. Alternatively wipe down surfaces using wet wipes. Stock up on bottled water exclusively for drinking while water stations are being sorted out. The recommendation is 5 litres a day and to have four days’ worth of fresh water per person. Do not drink non-potable water (gray water). This water should also not be used for cooking. Vaccinate against Hepatitis A if you have never been vaccinated (especially healthcare workers, communal food handlers, patients in long-term care facilities and immune-compromised people.) Mental illnesses such as increased anxiety, depression and even suicide can be managed with the right help. If you, your family and especially your infant have any of the above symptoms, visit your doctor for an assessment sooner rather than later. ‘We know it is a difficult time for Capetonians’ says Van Emmenis, ‘it is stressful trying to save as much water as possible while trying to remain healthy through this time. But help is at hand, the local authorities and medical professionals are on high alert and standby to assist and, for Bonitas members, we also have our Babyline – 24-hour children’s health advice line manned by paediatric trained registered nurses. They are on the other side of the phone to assist with any parental concerns, or health related issues, 24/7, 365 days of the year.’ The Babyline service is available to members across all Bonitas plans, for children under 3 years. Parents simply need to call the Babyline on 0860 999 121.

March 15, 2018

The benefits of yoga for pregnant woman

Introduction Unknowingly, many of you are transforming from a woman into a mother and you have all the privilege to give birth and to nurture. At this stage, pleasure and pain merge into this cosmic experience of creation, and you can think of nothing, but your little precious baby. This world will soon be your baby’s playground, a place that he/she can grow into his/her own unique characteristic. But for now, the child is starting experience the world through us, therefore, we need to prepare all of the best things to welcome them. Therefore, I would like to share my experience with yoga during my pregnancy which can help any moms stay fit as well as deliver healthy and happy babies. What Yoga Can Help Women in Pregnancy For me, pregnancy and bringing a child into the world is regarded as the unique experience, but it is also a time of immense change of excitement, joy, anticipation, nervousness as well as other fluctuating emotions. As a consequence, practicing yoga is extremely beneficial for pregnant women for many reasons that I will show you now. Nevertheless, you still need to consult with your doctor before taking it up so as to make sure that you will not suffer from any pregnancy-related complications. When I was pregnant for the first time a few years ago, many people advised that I should enhance strength for my lower and upper body in order to endure the additional weight as well as adapt to such adjustment in balance. Thus, I started coming to yoga and surprisingly, this routine deals with the actual birthing muscles which are utilized during the birth process including my lower back, pelvis muscles along with the hip. Furthermore, during my pregnancy, I had to put up with back pain as my tummy size increased dramatically. As a result, pain-busting moves in yoga did a great job in supporting my waist and then my lower back. Moreover, owing to the increase in my weight and the change in my body shape, I felt wobbly, so that some balancing exercises in yoga can help me to get familiar with my changing center of gravity. Going to the next point, I used to go through a depressed period when having my first baby and prenatal yoga can help me release endorphins in my system. Thanks to this incredible exercise, I can get into happy positive state of mind, avoid the morning sickness as well as keep me active the whole day. Therefore, do not hesitate anymore since you have to try this and you can totally achieve all of these great things like me. In addition, you and your baby are so intrinsically connected that when there is any toxicity in your body or any stress, all of them will go straight to the baby. Therefore, practicing yoga can help moms to live more purposely and efficiently. I used to have doubts in these benefits when first inviting to yoga, but now, I have to admit that it is exceptionally suitable for any pregnant woman. Before, I believed that sleeping is the the best way of rest but I have changed my mind after coming to a yoga class. You will be surprised to know that the relaxation pose that comes at the end of any yoga classes is useful for your rest. I am sure that many women do not believe at this moment, but you need to take my advice and see the magic in the end. Last but not least, I recommend that taking part in yoga classes is the cheapest method to meet moms who are going through the same process as you. After some classes, I have made a lot of good friends and until now, we still meet each other with our children at the weekends. We can share the difficulties as well as some tips to take better care of our precious children. Conclusion As you know, pregnancy is one of the most powerful and tough times in a woman’s life. Therefore, prenatal yoga really trains the woman’s mind and body to be able to give birth consciously. After reading this article, why don’t you join a yoga class right now and if you have any confusion, please feel free to contact me anytime. Emma Baster is the editor of Eruditemommy.com. She understands deeply about the difficulties of pregnant women and mothers. Therefore, she built this blog to share her knowledge about nutrition, taking care of children, mommies’ health. Better care for families is everything she wishes to convey in this blog. Follow Emma on Twitter @EruditeMommy

March 15, 2018

The do’s & don’ts of returning to exercise after a caesarean section

Moms out there who have had or are planning to have a caesarean we’d like to give you a few tips and coping mechanisms regarding that sometimes very scary and difficult recovery period. First and foremost a caesarean delivery can be considered as major abdominal surgery therefore postpartum return to exercise must be delayed until you have made a complete medical recovery. We therefore strongly suggest that your doctor needs to give you the “green-light” to commence exercise. Generally, it takes about 6 weeks for your stitches to heal if you have experienced no other complications. So here are our top 5 tips on coping with the return to exercise post C section. 1. First and foremost, getting in and out of bed… There’s no two ways about it, you WILL need to get in and out of bed countless times during the night to tend to that new born so here’s our advice as to how to protect that wound as well as your lower back when getting in and out of bed: Bend your knees up one at a time Roll onto your side with your knees still bent and together Push yourself up with your arms (Not sitting up using your abs), allowing your legs to swing down towards the floor Stand from this position Do the same in reverse to get back into bed 2. It has been suggested that new moms are, in fact, encouraged to walk as soon as possible after a caesarean delivery. Walking increases blood flow circulation, which helps speed up the healing process. Therefore it is safe to suggest that you should be up and walking as soon as your spinal block has worn off. So up you get, have a nice warm shower and then start with little bouts of walking to and from your baby and around the maternity ward as much as possible. Increase these bouts of walking slightly each and every day leading up to your 6 week doctors check-up. Remembering that if you would like to go walking with your baby, use your pram rather than a front pack or sling as this can stress your core and lower back. 3. Now for our personal favourite piece of advice for that 6 week recovery period, begin practising your pelvic floor exercises as soon as possible. Pregnancy can put a strain on your pelvic floor, so these exercises are important, however you gave birth. Every time you lift your baby, tighten your pelvic floor muscles and lower tummy muscles at the same time. This will help to protect your lower back, and will prevent you from any accidental leaking. 4. Whether you choose to breast feed or bottle feed your new born we suggest that you make sure you’re always seated comfortably, someone once told me to make sure that I bring my baby to me rather than taking me to my baby during a feed which made perfect sense. Avoid hunching over/leaning down to feed your baby. Feed in a comfortable and well supported chair that also supplies arm support and where possible make use of a feeding pillow so that it does the work rather than you bearing the weight of your baby. 5. Last but certainly not least, make use of any and all medication given to you. You will probably be supplied with a week to 10 days’ worth of pain relief, anti-inflammatory and constipation medication, and while you might start to feel great a couple of days after leaving hospital and think that you no longer need these meds TAKE THEM! They have been given to you for a reason which is to support your body during the inflammatory response of healing and so they are a necessity.

March 15, 2018

The common myths & FAQ’s when talking about Teen Suicide

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is highlighting Teen Suicide Prevention Week (11-18 February) to help parents, teachers and loved ones with tips and information to talk about Teen Depression and Suicide Prevention to their teens. 1 in 4 South African teens have attempted suicide, talking to teens about depression and suicide can help prevent them from taking their life. Most people are too scared to talk about the topic, or if they do they don’t know what to say. “For many teenagers adolescence is a transition into a different stage of life of the beginning of living itself, however unfortunately for some it can also be the end of their life altogether. Teen suicides are real and rob many young people of a future and our society of a future. Let us speak about teen suicide today so that we may never have too again in the future.” Says Clinical Psychologist, Zamo Mbele. Remember that people who are thinking about suicide feel alone and isolated, and often feel like no one understands how they feel. Changes in life may be upsetting and they may want to escape a difficult problem or situation, or get relief from terrible stress. You may know if your friend or loved one is going through a tough time. Here are some common myths and facts about Teen Suicide: death in the family – can cause depression. If you are worried about someone you care about, encourage them to tell their parents, see a doctor, counsellor, or teacher – you can even go with them so you know they get there, and they know you are there to support them. The most important thing is that they speak to someone and get help. If you are worried about your teen or friend who may be depressed or suicidal, contact a counsellor at SADAG 0800 567 567 or 0800 12 13 14 or visit www.sadag.org . We can provide free telephonic counselling, info and referrals to resources throughout South Africa.

March 14, 2018

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