Lifestyle - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

Hospital pre-authorisation vs quotes – what you need to know

Due to the different waves of Covid-19 and the emerging variants, a number of elective surgeries were postponed to help minimise the take up of hospital beds and to avoid unnecessary exposure to the virus. However, surgeries are now getting back on track, – even if it’s only a window during which the backlog of elective surgeries can be tackled. It is the perfect time to talk about the issue of pre-authorisation and quotes and why you should know the difference. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Aid, says pre-authorisation, ahead of any medical procedure or hospital admission, is always required. He also stresses the importance of asking for a quote to submit to your medical aid. This will ensure you know exactly what is covered and whether you should plan for any out-of-pocket expenses. Does pre-authorisation mean payment, in full, is guaranteed? Not necessarily. Let’s take you through the process and T&Cs. What is pre-authorisation? All procedures that take place in a hospital must be pre-authorised. Essentially, it’s an agreement between the medical aid and the hospital, indicating a willingness to pay for costs associated with the visit. But even if you do have pre-authorisation your medical aid is not promising to cover 100% of the costs. All pre-authorisation requests are evaluated against the different schemes’ rules and clinical funding policies however, you remain responsible for any shortfall, including any co-payments. If you are unsure how to go about the process speak to your broker or your medical aid. When do I need to pre-authorise? You must apply for a Pre-Authorisation Reference number (PAR) as soon as a visit or admission to a hospital is planned. This applies for a CT scan, MRI scan or radio-isotope study. Do this as early as possible in case you are required to submit additional documentation or a motivation from your healthcare provider. You also need pre-authorisation for: Renal clinic admissions for dialysis Procedures in doctor’s rooms or day clinics, instead of hospital Physical rehabilitation care in rehabilitation facilities Drug and alcohol rehabilitation care in specific facilities Hospice admissions Oxygen therapy at home All specialised radiology What information is needed? Name and surname of the person having the procedure Membership number and dependent code The date of admission or procedure The diagnosis All proposed surgical procedures, diagnostic procedures or specialised radiology codes available (ICD-10, CPT, NRPL codes) The name of the facility where the procedure will take place The names and practice numbers of the healthcare professionals (doctor, surgeon, specialist etc) Once your pre-authorisation has been approved you will receive a confirmation letter. Read this carefully and check that the information is correct. If you are any queries speak to your doctor or your medical scheme. What about emergency admissions? In the event of emergency treatment or admission to hospital, you – or a family member or the hospital – must contact your medial aid on the first working day after the incident to obtain authorisation. Did you know? Your doctor or the facility you are being admitted to, can do the authorisation on your behalf. Despite this, it remains your responsibility to ensure that the authorisation is completed and correct. What happens if you don’t pre-authorise? You will either be liable for a co-payment, or your procedure will not be covered. Does pre-authorising ensure payment of the procedure? No, unfortunately not. Most medical aid plans have varying hospital benefits according to the level of cover you have chosen and they also have a ‘rate’ and which they reimburse healthcare providers. This means that even if the payment is 100% of the rate, this is not necessarily what the healthcare provider will charge, they may charge 200% of your medical aid rate. This means you are responsible for any shortfall in the form of a co-payment. Co-payments differ from one medical scheme to another and are often higher than anticipated, mostly due to medical practitioners and hospitals charging higher than the medical aid rate. ‘We mitigate this as much as possible,’ says Callakoppen, ‘by negotiating with hospitals and service providers who are on our network, to place a ceiling on the costs of the procedures.’ For this reason, it is best to find a healthcare provider on your scheme’s network Quotes vs pre-authorisation for procedures Callakoppen advises private medical aid members to not only obtain pre-authorisation but to also ask for a detailed quote from the hospital and medical practitioner prior to being admitted to hospital. ‘This gives you an opportunity to negotiate and eliminates any additional ‘surprise’ payments required after the procedure. ‘The most important thing’, says Callakoppen, ‘is to find out, prior to being admitted, what your medical aid will pay and what payment you might be responsible for. The last thing you want to deal with is a surprise large co-payment and the stress related to that when you are recovering from a procedure.’

September 30, 2021

Giving birth – the facts and the myths

With so many truths and myths flying around when it comes to pregnancy and giving birth, it’s no wonder you get confused. Not only does every existing mother and aunt know the ‘right’ answer to everything, but doctors also have varying opinions. Have you ever walked out of the doctor’s office realising that out of the ten important questions you want to ask, 8 slipped out of your mind during the consultation? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. We have listed some popular beliefs and delved into whether they are true or false. Breaking of the waters makes the contractions stronger, thus can speed up labour. True. While there are other medical reasons why breaking the waters may be necessary, once a woman is around 7cm dilated, this process helps speed things up for the painful last three. However, this will only be used if you absolutely need to have things go a bit quicker. So don’t count on it to help you out if you’ve been in labour for 30 minutes without any complications. Braxton Hicks contractions are regular and strong, and will wake the mother up if she is asleep False. Real contractions will start at the top of the uterus and the intense pressure, like a tight belt around her waist, will wake her up. True contractions feel like menstruation cramps. While Braxton Hicks may not be a walk in the park, you will know the difference because they won’t come in regular intervals and increase in intensity. If you lift your arms above your head during pregnancy, the umbilical cord will slip around the baby’s neck. False. The baby is submerged in water and thus gravity will have no influence. Furthermore, the baby may become entangled by the umbilical cord because of the length of it. But the baby can swim through a loop in the cord as well. Dilation of the cervix can occur at any given time of the pregnancy. True. Some women have an “incompetent cervix” which means that the cervix does not tighten properly and a woman who had a child previously, has a slightly dilated cervix. In labour, dilation of the cervix is capable of happening earlier in the pregnancy. This is not necessarily a problem, but your doctor will talk you through it, depending on each case. An epidural might not be possible if the mother previously had an extensive back injury. True. Although this statement is true in certain circumstances, the skills of the anaesthetist will determine the likelihood of the mother having an epidural. If you feel that this may be a problem, make an appointment with the anaesthetist prior to the birth to talk about your options. An emergency epidural can be done if the baby is under stress False. This is not true as an epidural takes up to 20 minutes to have an effect. If the baby is under stress, 20 minutes to wait will be too long. The most successful method of managing pain during labour is the one the mother choose True. To manage the pain of labour, the mother needs to have the right attitude and support. Sometimes a combination of non-pharmacological methods (hypnosis, reflexology, massage and water therapy) is more effective than any given pain medication. While the term ‘mind over matter’ sounds like hocus-pocus when it comes to the pain of birth, it really has proven to help. So if you believe that having a water birth will help you, then you’ve already done some of the work. Bleeding in pregnancy at any given time necessitates a trip to the emergency room. True. Bleeding is always regarded as suspicious and should be investigated. So ignore those who scoff at your apparent paranoia and get yourself checked out ASAP. If the mother wakes up in the morning in the last trimester with a swollen face and extremities, she should contact her primary caregiver immediately True. This may indicate a rise in blood pressure and must be investigated immediately. You should take a urine sample for testing as well. The mother should insist that an advanced lactation specialist help her with breastfeeding. False. All midwives are trained to help and assist the mother with breastfeeding difficulties. However, it is true that a lactation specialist have a particular interest in and passion for breastfeeding. Some hospitals do not have lactation specialists available, then the ward midwife can assist effectively. With the right attitude and the right support, breastfeeding can be a success. The delivery of the placenta occurs within 15 minutes after the birth of the baby with a contraction True. But don’t worry, this contraction is not as strong as during the birth and the tissue is soft and moulds into the area, so the expulsion will be far easier than delivering the baby.

September 29, 2021

How to handle angry feelings

Once there was a red balloon that lived in a house with a family. Every day the red balloon got bigger and bigger without anyone noticing. One day the balloon popped with a loud bang and everyone in the house got a nasty fright. Anger is often like the red balloon in that it builds up slowly over time until it explodes over a seemingly small incident/event. Aggressive behaviour is learned through the modelling of significant others. If you handle your anger like the red balloon, your children might learn that aggression is the best way to deal with uncomfortable emotions. Eventually these emotions could cause school difficulties, anxiety and relationship problems. Emotional control, however, creates a feeling of security and peace within a family. It is thus important for us as parents to ensure that our emotions and our reactions in response to our emotions are equal. For example, when you are angry, you do not have to express that anger by yelling or throwing things. Feeling angry is not wrong, but the way you express it might be wrong. As parents we have the responsibility to teach our children how to deal with their emotions in effective and appropriate ways. The following tools can help you manage your emotions more effectively: If you realise that there are often outbursts among family members, write down your emotions and thoughts. Keeping a journal will help you gain perspective. Humour can help you feel more in control over stressful circumstances. Take deep breaths. This will help to not only relieve some of the tension but will also give you a few moments to think more clearly. Focus all your attention on something in your environment or something on yourself, like the garden outside your window or the pattern on your dress or shirt. This technique can help you gain control over your emotions. Research has shown that there is a close link between a healthy marriage and successful parenting. It is therefore a good idea to invest in building a healthy relationship with your wife/husband. A good way to do this is by going away for a weekend or having planned date nights, to help you reconnect with your partner. Build your self-knowledge. Who am I? What is my personality like? Self-knowledge can help you gain insight into your own behaviour and emotions. Be mindful of external factors that could contribute to your emotions. For example, are you eating healthy foods, exercising, getting enough sleep? Are you stressed and worried?

September 29, 2021

What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19 and I am pregnant?

Given today’s current global COVID-19 pandemic, worrying about the potentially harmful viruses’ effect on your pregnancy and baby is a valid concern. You’re probably wondering the best ways to avoid the virus when pregnant, and what to do if you think you may have caught it. How can I protect myself and my baby from catching the corona virus? Protecting yourself from COVID-19 while pregnant, is similar to that of anyone else avoiding the virus. Minimise contact with others through social distancing, frequently wash and sanitise your hands, and avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth. Don’t be tempted to skip important prenatal visits in lieu of avoiding the virus – chat to your doctor about the best way forward with regard to this. Although slightly disappointing, cancelling events such as baby showers is a good idea, as the risk of exposure and infection becomes bigger with larger groups. Being pregnant, it’s a good idea to be extra precautious where possible. However, the RCOG (Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) states that pregnancy doesn’t increase your risk of becoming unwell from coronavirus, and the majority only develop mild to moderate symptoms. What should I do if I think I have COVID-19 while pregnant? If you think you may have COVID-19 or have tested positive for corona the first thing you should do is contact your doctor. However, it’s best to avoid travelling to the doctors office as you may come into contact with someone positive for COVID-19 in these spaces. As the virus is new, this means that the studies that have been conducted are limited. Because of this it’s essential to follow social distancing guidelines to try and protect yourself, however, if you do contract the virus there is no immediate need for stress, as pregnancy doesn’t increase your risk.

September 23, 2021

Redefining healthcare in 2022

As South Africa moves to Covid-19 adjusted Level 2 and vaccination numbers increase, access to quality healthcare remains a priority. Today, Bonitas Medical Fund announced its 2022 product line up offering. This includes the use of reserves to keep contribution increases lower, a Benefit Booster to stretch day-to-day benefits, a revised international travel benefit with payment for Covid tests and a contribution towards quarantine costs. There is also a renewed focus on preventative care, virtual consultations and plans that enable more South Africans to have access to affordable, quality healthcare. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas said, ‘The Scheme performed well in a volatile market, attributable to proactive risk management and prudent board decisions. A positive offshoot of the pandemic was an increased appreciation of medical aid cover that resulted in better-than-expected member retention and a 2.3% membership growth since January.’ Top line changes ’We have taken a strategic decision to utilise approximately R600m of reserves to ensure that 82% of members receive a below CPI contribution increase for the 2022 benefit year. The innovative Benefit Booster equates to an increase in day-to-day benefits for members ranging from 16% to 32%, depending on the members’ plan. We believe it is the largest increase in benefits ever seen in the medical aid industry.’ The average weighted contribution increase across all plans is 4.8% with the BonStart premium decreasing by 7.9%, which can be attributed to the low cost versus benefits ratio and the younger membership profile on the plan. The decrease in contribution is an industry first – as was the decision to offer BonFit Select at a 0% increase in 2020. New offerings include an additional virtual plan, BonStart Plus, a renewed focus on Managed Care with an oncology management programme as well as an enhanced member app, powered by AMP, which includes a personalised wellness programme to encourage healthier behaviour. Plans There will be a total of 15 plans for the year ahead comprising traditional, savings, hospital, edge (virtual), network and income-based plans, each carefully crafted with a specific mix of benefits to appeal to various target markets. Increases range from minus -7.9% to 6.5%. Bonitas has opted to increase its options which are currently in a growth phase – BonSave, BonFit and BonEssential – by only 3.6%. Sustainability and affordability The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) recommended increases in line with CPI of 4.2% with the caveat that financial stability and sustainability of schemes must remain a priority. We feel that the use of part of our reserves to cushion members against increasing costs is an appropriate strategy. Other recommendations by the CMS include: Driving innovation from a pricing point of view; exercising caution in terms of utilising reserves to help cushion increases and adopting innovative pricing models – a directive Bonitas took to heart. Boosting benefits The Benefit Booster is the most innovative change in the healthcare industry since the advent of the savings account. It stretches value and equates to an increase in day-to-day benefits ranging from 16% to 100%, depending on the plan. This covers all out-of-hospital claims including acute medicine, GP consultations and non-surgical procedures such as wart removal. Members simply need to complete a wellness assessment (which can be done online), to tap into the Benefit Booster. Claims will pay from this benefit first – helping to preserve savings and day-to-day benefits for members. Managed Care At the launch, Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa,Head of Operations said, ‘Lifestyle diseases have reached epidemic proportions in South Africa. 80% of these Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are caused by lifestyle risk factors like smoking and obesity. Managed Care is designed to help members with chronic conditions by using the best clinical and treatment protocols. This is achieved by analytics and continuous research, alignment to the latest technology, market trends and member needs and leveraging this data for enhanced treatment. Oncology Cancer prevalence is increasing alarmingly. As a result, coordination of care is critical for oncology. Bonitas is introducing a new Oncology Management Programme that utilises a partnership between Medscheme Managed Healthcare and the South African Oncology Consortium (SAOC), to improve the coordination of care of oncology patients. Back and Neck Programme ‘Our back and neck programme has seen a 93% success rate. In 2022, we introduce the eDBC app. This technology-driven channel offers digital coaching solutions and home-based care to help improve pain and mobility. It includes a self-assessment, baseline progress checks and outcomes’ evaluation.’ The GP is key ‘The Scheme believes that the GP is at the heart of the Managed Care model. Care coordination is essential in ensuring that members get the right level of care and support in managing their conditions. Our GP network has a broad national footprint and 98% of members are within a 10km radius of a network GP.’ Virtual Care BonStart, the inaugural Edge plan introduced in 2020, proved very successful – using virtual care as its base. For this reason, the Scheme is introducing an additional Edge plan, BonStart Plus for 2022, aimed at attracting a new profile of member through this diversified distribution channel and attractive pricing. Virtual care has proven a sound and reliable solution, locally and internationally, for improving access to quality healthcare and is now offered across all 15 Bonitas plans. Digital Covid-19 spurred progression of digital enhancements with innovations such as a mobile app and WhatsApp channel being swiftly created. The Member Zone is being enhanced allowing members to manage their medical aid more effectively. Amalgamations Callakoppen says, ‘Bonitas’ track record for amalgamations is excellent and we are currently awaiting approval from the Competition Commission to our proposed amalgamation with the Nedgroup Medical Aid Scheme. The amalgamation will fortify the size of Bonitas as well as decrease the average age and pensioner ratio while bolstering the reserves.’ Travel benefits ‘We wanted to ensure that our members are covered should they need to travel and noted that testing and enforced quarantine could be expensive. The Scheme is therefore offering a Covid-19 PCR test pre-

September 22, 2021

The superior way to treat hyperpigmentation? It’s from the inside-out!

If you’re struggling with hyperpigmentation, you’ll know that treating it can feel a lot like doing a country line dance – one step forward and two steps back. After all, you can be as diligent as you like about treating it but spend just one day outdoors without sunscreen and unravel all your progress in minutes. This is why a high SPF protection sunscreen such as Lamelle Helase 50+ is always your best weapon in the war against hyperpigmentation. But what are you doing to beat it? As it turns out, in this case, a multipronged approach is your best form of attack. Invest in the best Many of the lotions and potions you’ll find promising to help treat pigmentation simply don’t contain the right ingredients to do it, nor are they using them in the right concentration. This is why, switching to a hyperpigmentation-focused medical-grade skincare brand like Lamelle Luminesce is a must. Luminesce Brighter Day, the day cream, contains a recently updated mix of pigmentation-inhibiting superstars that include a triple peptide complex, a resorcinol derivative and DKK 1 gene agonist. The latter can help normalize your skin’s production of melanin, the pigment that gives it its colour. As far as the peptides are concerned, these do a great job of inhibiting tyrosinase – the enzyme that helps create excess melanin as well as transfer it from the depths of your skin up to the surface where it creates the uneven, dark parts we know as hyperpigmentation. Our night hyperpigmentation-beating night cream, Luminesce Evening Glow, contains similar actives to the day but includes an anti-inflammatory turmeric extract as well as Arbutin, Niacinimide and a form of retinoic acid with proven hyperpigmentation-minimising benefits. Get your glow back Another way to bolster your quest for a more radiant, evenly-toned skin is to take an inside-out approach by using Lamelle Ovelle 3D. A twice-a-day, easy to swallow gel capsule, our bestselling supplement is clinically proven to reduce the look of pigmentation by 37-percent in as little as 28 days! What’s in the mix? Tried and trusted vitamin D3 and Pycnogenol, a mega-antioxidant botanical extracted from pine bark. Together, they help boost your skin’s natural resistance to the damaging effects of the sun. Better yet, Ovelle 3D will also help preserve your skin’s collagen stash while improving hydration so firmer, plumper-looking skin can be yours to enjoy! At the end of the day, we get it – treating pigmentation can be tricky. But it’s not impossible – especially if you’ve got the right products scientifically proven to help you get your glow back! Get that glow Waging a war against pigmentation can feel like a losing game. But if you’ve got highly advanced skin brightening products in your artillery, a more evenly-toned, radiant-looking complexion can be yours for the taking. www.lamelle.co.za

September 21, 2021

Why yoghurt is a healthy eating gateway for kids

As parents we are always looking for healthy eating routines for our children – not only to ensure they get the best nutrition for growing bodies but to help set them up for a lifetime of healthy eating habits. It turns out that yoghurt is a special ally for concerned parents. Rich in protein and vital nutrients such as calcium and potassium, as well as beneficial probiotics that promote gut health, yoghurt is a wonderfully versatile and delicious kid’s food. “Yoghurt plays a positive role in a healthy diet and research has shown that children from 8 to 18 years who eat yoghurt at least once a week, tend to have healthier diets overall. Studies show that children who enjoy yoghurt consume 10% more milk, 23% more fruit and 30% more wholegrains, demonstrating that it is gateway to healthy eating choices”, says Registered Dietitian at Rediscover Dairy, Maretha Vermaak. A big advantage is that most kids like yoghurt, and it is not challenging for parents to include it in many different meals and to have it on hand as a convenient and satisfying snack. All the ways that yoghurt is good for healthy growth Growing bodies and developing minds mean that children have particular nutritional needs. Childhood is also a high energy time, and children’s diets must cater to their daily activity levels. The unique nutritional profile of yoghurt meets a range of child nutrition needs, including: High quality protein for a developing body and sustainable energy Calcium for strong bones and teeth Probiotics for gut health and immune system support Potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and Vitamins A and B12 for overall health and growth South African families are lucky to have a wide choice of yoghurt ranges. If child weight management is a concern, parents can easily choose low- and no-fat options. As yoghurt helps a child feel fuller for longer, it is a useful component of a weight maintenance eating regime that can help to avoid unhealthy snacking. Some parents may feel concerned that there are yoghurt ranges that include added sugar. However, it should be noted that the levels of added sugar in some yoghurts is minimal, far below the sugar content in sweets, chocolates and fizzy cold drinks. Children enjoy yoghurt in so many ways As versatile, good food, yoghurt can be a convenient staple in your household, consumed in many ways. Adding yoghurt to oats and other cereals brings balance and nutritional punch to the all-important breakfast which sets your child up for success each day. Individual yoghurts and yoghurt drinks are excellent lunchbox foods. Yoghurt can be used as toppings for desserts, fruits and as the basis of tasty dips at snack time. A dollop of yoghurt adds delicious creaminess to everything from pancakes to soups, wraps to stir-fries and curries. Easily made from scratch at home, frozen yoghurt never fails as a healthy icy treat and yoghurt smoothies are ideal for families-on-the-go. The 22nd World School Milk Day, celebrated on 30 September 2021, is a reminder that other food and health concerns should never eclipse the need for meeting our children’s needs for daily eating regimes that promote their healthy growth. Through its Consumer Education Project (CEP), Rediscover Dairy partners with National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) of the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to highlight World School Milk Day. The NSNP includes dairy once a week in their school feeding programme to support South African children most vulnerable to stunting and wasting. The CEP makes fun information and teacher resources available for Grades R to 7 at http://www.dairykids.co.za/ Parents who are home-schooling due to COVID-19 can download curriculum-aligned interactive posters, worksheets, fact sheets and teaching guides. Children learn all about the healthy eating, SA’s food-based dietary guidelines, the role of dairy in healthy eating and the farm-to-table processing of dairy. For more dairy ideas join the Rediscover Dairy Facebook page: www.facebook.com/RediscoverDAIRY

September 20, 2021

It’s All About the Hass

Did you know that the Urban Dictionary defines the word Hass as “anything kick ass”? We’d say that with the Hass avocado’s rich, nutty, addictive taste, they got that absolutely right! Named after California postman Rudolph Hass, who grew the first tree of its kind from a seed he bought in the 1920s, the Hass avocado cultivar has a thick, pebbly skin and a creamy, slightly nutty tasting flesh. The skin colour of Hass avocados assists in telling whether the fruit is ripe: they usually turn from green to a dark purple-brown as they ripen. But enough of the biology and history lessons; Hass is actually the world’s most popular avocado cultivar, and it’s not difficult to understand why. Besides the fact that the Hass a wonderfully luxurious taste, its thicker skin allows for a longer shelf life. And luckily for us South Africans local Hass avocados are available all the way from March until November. Recent research conducted by SAAGA, revealed that South Africans are very traditional when it comes to eating avo and prefer it with bread, in a salad or simply on its own. Try a Hass the way we all like it – on bread – but with a twist and a bit of extravagance. For further information and avo recipes, visit www.avocado.co.za , like us on Facebook iloveavocadoSA and follow us on Instagram iloveavossa AVOCADO BAGELS WITH FURIKAKE SEASONING Furikake seasoning is a Japanese seasoning of dried seaweed, toasted sesame seeds and spices, usually used on rice; it is also delicious with avocado! Serves 4 Preparation time: 10 minutes Ingredients: 4 Bagels 2 large ripe avocados Toppings of your choice; strawberries, radishes, micro greens, pickled red onion, pomegranate seeds, toasted seeds such as pumpkin and sunflower For the Furikake: ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds 1 sheet nori, torn into pieces Pinch of sea salt flakes Pinch of chilli flakes (optional) Pinch of sugar Method: To make the Furikake: In a mini food processor or spice grinder, whizz the all the Furikake ingredients for a few pulses to break up the nori, take care not to over blend. Assemble the bagels by slicing the avocado or cutting into interesting shapes (with miniature cookie cutters), top with toppings of your choice and sprinkle with the Furikake. Remaining Furikake will keep stored in an airtight container for up to a month.

September 20, 2021

Why adopting a green beauty regime matters

When we first started using the word “green” to describe beauty products, very few brands came to mind. There were a handful of options available, some completely natural and others cruelty-free. It was a niche market with a small following. Today, a lot has changed and globally, a major mind-shift has taken shape. Gone are the days when shoppers chose products mindlessly: today’s consumers want to know what’s in their products, how it was manufactured and what brands are doing to offset their carbon footprints… And rightfully so. Mindfulness is the new black, with a major global uptake in vegan lifestyles and minimalist living. These movements paved the way for new and existing “green” beauty brands to grow, and major international brands have also come to the party. We are seeing more and more mainstream or “mass” brands do their bit to be kinder to the Earth, be it adopting a cruelty-free policy, changing their packaging or re-formulating their products. While this is fantastic news, it can be quite difficult to navigate the realm of green beauty products if you’re not certain what to look for. A couple of popular terms to look out for are: Vegan: If a product is labelled “vegan,” it means that no animal products, or animal-derived ingredients have been used in the manufacturing of that product. Vegan products are also cruelty-free. Cruelty-free: If a product is “cruelty-free” it means that it has not been tested on animals, and that no ingredients used in the manufacture of that product has been tested on animals. Cruelty-free products are not necessarily vegan. Plant-based: These products are made only from plant ingredients, such as such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, seeds, whole grains, legumes and nuts. Natural: Natural products refer to products that are made from ingredients found in nature. The term sometimes suggests that the product is free from synthetic chemicals that may be linked to health problems or that many people get irritated by such as fragrance, dyes, and certain preservatives such as parabens. Organic: Organic products refer to items which contain organically grown ingredients: it must be prepared and grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, GMOs, sulphates/parabens or antibiotics. Why does it matter? Taking a greener approach to life and making sustainable choices is not just a fad – it’s crucial in slowing down the process of global warming and protecting nature and our natural resources. A small act like changing your shampoo might seem insignificant, but every bit helps. Sunpac boasts a number of beauty brands making a difference: Skincare ZERO skincare is a 100% natural, plant-based, vegan skincare brand from the UK. Made from the highest quality botanical ingredients, all ZERO products are sustainably packaged and fully recyclable. Try: ZERO Natural Face Wash (R299.00) and Face Scrub (R299.00). This gentle duo is highly effective in removing makeup, dirt and impurities, leaving skin thoroughly cleansed and smooth. Get an all year round glow with St Moriz – this award-winning self-tan brand is vegan and cruelty-free. Try: St Moriz Fast Tan Mousse (R149.95) for a quick tan where you determine the intensity of the shade, or St Moriz Golden Glow Moisturizer (R149.95) for a soft and natural golden glow. Makeup Not only is wet n wild known for their high quality makeup products at affordable prices, but they’re also known for being 100% cruelty-free! Try: wet n wild Dewy Foundation (R119.95) for all day, glowy skin, wet n wild Mega Length Mascara (R92.95) for extra long lashes and wet n wild Megalast Matte Lipstick (R99.95) for long-wearing lip colour. When it comes to makeup brushes, you’re spoilt for choice. Real Techniques, one of the world’s leading makeup brush brands, is vegan, cruelty-free and PETA-certified, meaning that all products have not and will not be subject to animal testing, regardless of where the product is sold. Try: Real Techniques The Everyday Essential Set (R599.99) – a must-have brush kit that will allow you to achieve a flawless daily look with ultimate convenience. This set includes four brushes and a sponge to cover every need from foundation to eyeshadow. Eco Tools is known for their quality selection of environmentally-friendly makeup brushes. The brushes are made from sustainable bamboo and recycled aluminium and the bristles are cruelty-free. Try: Eco Tools Flat Foundation Brush (R152.00) to evenly apply liquid or cream foundation, and Eco Tools Precision Blush Brush (R233.00) for fantastic blending of powdered foundation or blush. Hair care Hask hair care products are not only cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny certified, but their products are also formulated without the bad stuff (including: Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, Gluten and Aluminum Starch). Try: the new Curl Care collection by Hask, a range of products developed to help support smooth, defined and bouncy curls, without the stiff and crunchy feeling sometimes associated with curl products. Quench and restore your curls with the HASK Curl Care Intensive Deep Conditioner (R189.95). This rich, luxe formula (a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E) adds strength, softness and shine, whilst resisting humidity to help lock-out uneven stands and lock-in moisture to help maintain your natural curl pattern. Give your curls long-lasting control with the HASK Curl Shaping Jelly (R189.95). This flexible, non-sticky formula sculpts waves and curls without leaving them stiff or crunchy. Colab dry shampoos are not only vegan and cruelty-free, but they’re also highly effective at refreshing hair and soaking up grease without leaving any white residue behind. Try: newly-launched scents Colab Boho Rose (R89.99) and Black Violet (R89.99). Blessed with curly hair? The Perfect Hair’s Mango & Marula range is vegan! Enriched with nourishing mango butter and marula oils, this range is designed to treat and protect natural hair of all curl textures. Try: The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Detangling Deep Conditioner (R89.99) for an intense moisture boost and The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Soap-Free Silky Soft Shampoo (R89.99) for a soft and gentle cleanse.

September 17, 2021

Braai Day: Lekker Braai Sides for Any Occasion

Heritage Day, also fondly known by South Africans as National Braai Day (24th September) is a great time to fire up the flames and rustle up some quick and easy braai side dishes to share with family and friends. Savour the goodness of our unique food heritage by dialling up the braai menu and special family times, this Braai Day. Rhodes Quality has a range of ideal braai sides like corn, chakalaka, beetroot, gherkins and beans that that will have you making the tastiest braai recipes with ease. Not to mention sticky finger-licking jam marinades and refreshing Rhodes Quality juices to compliment any braai. With the goodness of mother nature sealed into every product you can create nourishing and satisfying meals for your family prepared with love. Gather your family around the patio table and make memorable mealtimes. From a crunchy mixed bean salad, to the ultimate chakalaka and cheddar cheese braai broodjies, a beetroot and red cabbage salad with feta, and much more this braai day. Crunchy Mixed Bean Salad: An easy salad, as a side dish with your favourite meat or perfectly filling on its own. INGREDIENTS (Serves 6) 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Black Beans, drained and rinsed 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Whole Kernel Corn, drained and rinsed 1 x orange pepper, seeded and chopped 1 x red pepper, seeded and chopped 1 x small red onion, finely chopped 65 ml (¼ cup) flat leaf parsley, finely chopped 1 x 410 g can Rhodes Quality Baked Beans 10-15 ml (2-3 tsp) fresh lemon juice] Salt and freshly cracked black pepper METHOD Place the Rhodes Quality Black Beans and the Rhodes Quality Whole Kernel Corn into a large bowl and toss to mix. Add the peppers, onion and parsley and mix again. Stir in the Rhodes Quality Baked Beans. Season to taste with the lemon juice and salt and pepper. Chill until serving. Beetroot & Red Cabbage Salad with Feta: This beetroot and red cabbage salad with feta is quick and easy to prepare. Try this crunchy and colourful salad at your next braai. INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4) Rhodes Quality Sliced Beetroot 30 ml lemon juice 5 ml Dijon Mustard 90 ml olive oil Cabbage Apple sliced Feta cheese 1 clove garlic, finely crushed 5 ml sugar salt and freshly ground pepper METHOD Whisk all the dressing ingredients together until well blended. Season the dressing with the salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste and set aside. In a large bowl toss the cabbage and the apple slices together. Pour enough of the dressing over the salad to lightly coat the cabbage and apple. Add the Rhodes Quality Sliced Beetroot and toss gently to mix. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad. Serving suggestion: Sprinkle over some fresh parsley and nuts over the salad and serve. Chakalaka and Cheddar Cheese Braai Broodjies: A twist on the traditional broodjie, with added Rhodes Quality Chakalaka, you’re sure to win your family over with these lekker braai broodjies. INGREDIENTS (MAKES 6) 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Mild & Spicy Chakalaka 1 farm style loaf Butter for spreading 200 g (2 C) grated cheddar cheese Salt and black pepper METHOD Remove the crusts and slice the loaf lengthwise into 4 even slices. Butter two slices of bread on 1 side and place buttered side down on a board. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over both slices. Spread a generous layer of the Rhodes Quality Mild & Spicy Chakalaka down the centre of each slice. Cover with the 2 remaining slices of bread and butter the tops. Place the sandwiches inside a braai grid and slowly toast them over warm coals until golden brown. Serve hot off the fire. Boerewors Pita Pizzas: Need pizza in a hurry? Using leftover braaied boerewors, these South African Pita Pizzas can be on the table in under 15 minutes. INGREDIENTS (MAKES 4) 4 pita breads 1 x 400g can Rhodes Quality Tomato Braai Relish 200 g cooked boerewors, sliced 65 ml (¼ cup) fruit chutney 250 ml (1 cup) mozzarella cheese, grated METHOD Place the pita breads on a baking tray. Spread the pitas with a generous helping of Rhodes Quality Tomato Braai Relish. Toss the sliced boerewors in the chutney and arrange on top of the relish. Sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese. Bake in an oven preheated to 190°C for 4-5 minutes, or until the pitas are crisp and the cheese is melted. Slice and serve. Apple and Kiwifruit Salad Dressing: This quick and easy dressing is packed with a Vitamin C punch and is a tasty additional to a fresh leaf salad. INGREDIENTS (Makes dressing for 1 medium sized salad) 125 ml (½ cup) Rhodes Quality Apple Fruit Juice Blend 30 ml (2 Tbsp) apple cider vinegar 15 ml (1 Tbsp) olive oil 15 ml (1 Tbsp) water 3 ripe Kiwifruit, peeled and chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed salt and freshly cracked black pepper To serve: fresh salad greens, sliced cucumbers, sliced avocado, sliced spring onions. METHOD Place the Rhodes Quality Apple juice into a blender along with the remaining ingredients. Process until smooth and well blended. Season to taste. Chill until serving. Mix together all the salad ingredients in a large bowl. Pour over the desired amount of dressing. Toss lightly to mix. Orange Tahini Dressing: This salad dressing it packed with Vitamin C and makes for a fresh addition to your side salad or vegetables. INGREDIENTS (Makes dressing for 1 medium sized salad) 65 ml tahini 125 ml Rhodes Quality Orange 100 % Fruit Juice Blend 30 ml (2 Tbsp.) apple cider vinegar salt and freshly cracked black pepper 15 ml (1 Tbsp) honey METHOD Place all the tahini paste, Rhodes Quality Orange 100 % Fruit Juice Blend and vinegar into a blender. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Add honey. Process for 1-2 minutes until well blended and creamy. Thin with a little water if desired. Serve chilled over salad or vegetables. For more #RootedInGoodness inspiration visit: www.rhodesquality.com/recipes or follow Rhodes

September 16, 2021

Covid-19 Information for Moms-to-Be

Pregnant women do not appear to be more severely unwell if they develop Coronavirus than the general population. As this is a new virus, how it may affect you is not yet clear. It is expected the large majority of pregnant women will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu like symptoms.

September 16, 2021

How to tame your baby hairs

There’s nothing like spending hours styling or treating your hair to perfection, only to have the rebellious little hairs along your hairline misbehave and stick up or out, ruining your look. Those fine, wispy strands of hair located along your hairline are referred to as “baby hair” or “edges,” and one of the biggest problems is that they are usually too short to clip back, and too unruly to let loose. This is where edge styling comes in. Edge styling is not a new concept, and can be traced back to the 1920s, when entertainer Josephine Baker was known for her spit curls. Originally, edge styling was done to tame baby hairs, but today it is often done to make a statement and form part of one’s hairstyle. There are endless ways to style your edges: you can swoop them to the side, slick them down or gel them over. You can even create a swirl using a swoop motion – we’ve seen a number of A-list celebs like Alicia Keys and Jennifer Lopez pull off this look! To combat unruly edges, or help you achieve your desired look, hair care brands have developed special edge control hair products that help you secure your edges into place. These are designed to offer ultra-hold, while adding shine to the hair. Edge control products There are two types of edge control products: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based products are often more effective on curly hair, but you may need to try both to find a perfect match. It’s important to use an alcohol-free formula, and if you can use a product with castor oil in the ingredients, you’re on to a winner, as it helps control frizz. Cantu Extra Hold Edge Gel (R139.95) conditions and smooths frizz and flyaway hair for shiny, sleek styles with a long-lasting, flake-free hold. Made with pure shea butter and formulated without harsh ingredients, this extra hold gel is perfect for polished, smooth styles and ponytails. The right tool Whether you are looking to style your baby hairs, or brush them down, a toothbrush, fine tooth comb or mascara wand are the best tools you can use. They’ll give you the precision you need to flatten each strand of hair, plus they’ll help you flatten the desired baby hair without pulling your longer strands into the mix. The Evolve Triple Edge Styler (R119.95) is brush/comb combination to allow for polishing and grooming edges gently and a rat tail for parting hair. The rat tail tip end creates sharp parts and prevents frizz. For natural, relaxed, and braided/protective styles. Protect against breakage In many cases, baby hairs are fragile and tend to be dry, so you’ll need to nourish them to prevent breakage and further damage. Firstly, avoid heat styling them, as far as possible. Secondly, apply a hydrating and nourishing hair care product regularly. Try Cantu Shea Butter Tea Tree & Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil (R169.99). It conditions the scalp to support healthy hair growth and uses the power of some of nature’s most moisturising oils to help protect dry and damaged hair from breakage. You may also want to invest in satin pillowcases or a satin bonnet to wear while you sleep. Satin helps hair retain moisture, while reducing frizz and breakage. Evolve’s Sunset Bonnet (R89.95) made from high quality satin, helps protect your hair as well as maintain its moisture. Getting started Edge styling may take some practice, and the key to not overdoing it, is to ensure you don’t force your hair into positions that isn’t natural. Make sure your hair is in its natural state before you start, and take a good look in the mirror. You’ll notice some thin hairs along your hairline that grow forward and lie flat against your skin. These are the hairs you want to focus on neatening / styling. Shape or style your edges with your preferred product and tool, and then use a diffuser to dry the baby hairs in place. If you prefer, you can also secure them in place by using a scarf and wait until it is dry before removing it. Edge styling may seem straight forward, but mastering it requires practice. There are so many styles and looks you could try, that you may need to play around and experiment before you find the perfect look for you.

September 14, 2021

Urban living’s impact on our wellness

South Africa is urbanising rapidly: 63% of South Africans are already living in urban areas. Stats indicate this will rise to 71% by 2030 and by 2050, eight in 10 people will be living in urban areas. While it is unavoidable that people migrate to cities for work, it does have a negative effect on people’s health. The most significant effect is the increase in non-communicable or lifestyle diseases. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa,Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, says that the main problems associated with changes in lifestyle and behaviour, due to urbanisation, are: Increased alcohol and tobacco use Lack of exercise. Cities are often over-populated, there are too few public spaces for physical activity and many residents have to use public or private transport because of long commutes to work, schools and amenities Poor nutrition. Changes in diet include more processed and refined food, an increase in high-fat and high-sugar diets, less fruit and vegetables, less complex carbohydrates and fibre Socio-economic factors There is an increasing recognition of the importance of social, economic and physical environments as determinants of health and well-being. Unfortunately, the poorest people living in under-serviced inner city areas or informal settlements are the most exposed to unhealthy urban environments. With urbanisation, the double burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) will increase if no effective health systems and policies are put in place to prevent, detect and treat communicable and non-communicable diseases. ‘Our analysis of lifestyle diseases indicate that hypertension is the most prevalent non-communicable disease, followed by high cholesterol and diabetes Type 2. Obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes Type 2 and hypertension are all symptoms of metabolic syndrome, caused by poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle. ‘The science around nutrition has long been problematic. Published results have varying conclusions but concur that highly processed and food with high sugar and “bad fat” content should be avoided. ‘Also, in the top seven conditions are susceptibility to blood clotting, asthma, underactive thyroid and depression,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. Asthma is a respiratory condition most often caused by pollution or other irritants in the environment and mental health conditions can also be a consequence of urban living. Oncology is also becoming more and more prevalent. The number of Bonitas members with cancer has more than doubled since 2016. Air pollution Motor vehicle, industry and domestic fuel use increases air pollution which is responsible for a range of lung and respiratory diseases, heart conditions and cancers. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma are two of the most prevalent respiratory diseases. ‘We have the expertise to respond to these risks and lifestyle diseases by providing comprehensive, integrated care, every step of the way,’ explains Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘And, through our Managed Care programme, we help equip our members to take responsibility for their health by providing information and education, encouraging wellness, paying for preventative care and providing cover for medical costs incurred. However, more needs to be done and we advocate collaboration with public health authorities to educate and encourage South Africans to look after their health.’ Covid-19 and NCDs It is common knowledge that Covid-19 and non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes interact to create a perfect storm. The pandemic has made people more aware of having to take responsibility for their health and preventing or managing chronic disease optimally. ‘Co-morbidities have an impact on those who contract Covid-19 and there is possibly a synergistic issue with the coronavirus and these co-morbidities that exacerbates the prognosis and burden of disease.’ Managed Care ‘Achieving good patient health outcomes is the fundamental purpose of healthcare,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Measuring, reporting and comparing outcomes is perhaps the most important step towards unlocking rapid outcome improvement and making better choices. ‘Managed Care is a critical component and improves quality of care and we know that proactive intervention and working with members to prevent or control lifestyle diseases is the only way forward. Because when ‘I’ becomes ‘we,’ illness can become wellness.’ The GP is pivotal We believe there needs to be coordination of care and that members should be encouraged to nominate a General Practitioner as the first port of call for all health care needs, who can refer to a specialist or auxiliary provider as the need arises. This eliminates inefficiencies caused by ‘doctor hopping.’ ‘To tackle the rising burden of disease, we need medical schemes to work together with public health authorities, particularly in the context of the challenges of urbanisation, lifestyle diseases and the Covid-19 pandemic.’

September 13, 2021

MONEY LESSONS FOR LITTLE ONES FROM HOUSE KOLISI

7 year-old Nic Kolisi is saving for a car. Not just a remote control one; a real car as well! Although, having done the maths with mom, Rachel Kolisi, on how long he’ll need to save for him to reach his R100 000 target, he’s now having a slight crisis in confidence and focusing on the remote control one instead. The Kolisi family has been using the Sanlam Savings Jar app to get the kids to set goals and save for these. Rachel Kolisi says it’s never too soon for little people to learn these lessons. There’s a rule in House Kolisi. If you don’t work, you don’t earn. Kolisi says she knows that life is crazy, but it’s critical to schedule time to talk money with children. “Time is going and kids keep growing; the sooner they’re conscious of finances and spending, the better! Even if you just spend an hour a week talking about what they’re saving for and how, it makes a difference. I’ve found the Sanlam Savings Jar app really incredible for this. It helps parents have these conversations and it’s so interactive and fun for the kids as well.” Money talk is tough in our times Kolisi says that teaching kids about finances is a different ballgame today. “We used to get pocket money in our hands. Now, it gets deposited into a bank and you’re working with EFTs and cards… it’s much tougher to teach children the value of money. I’d get R5 a week, which used to be enough to buy a Chelsea bun back in the day. These days, it’s totally different. Which is why I think talking about money is more important than ever. It’s scary to see how few children – even adults – have any kind of financial savvy. Talking about money as a family Kolisi says that the family talks about money and sets shared financial goals often, “We’re underway with a big move and there’s a lot of financial change in that. So, we’ve had to sit down and have a conversation about what the next couple of year’s looks like. We’re in our thirties, but we’re responsible for four children. One of our kids is changing schools and our older one is going into a hostel, which is another expense. So, every year we look at our income and expenses to make sure we’re always on track. “Siya and I both grew up in financially-strapped homes and we never wanted finances to be an issue. I do believe that finances can be a breaking point for a lot of relationships and it’s scary to me that money can have such a toll on people. I think, often, it’s just a lack of knowledge, which really comes back to the fact that if you do have financial knowledge, it’s important to share it and pass it on to your kids. There’s a lot on the line for us and Siya’s career is short as well. So, that’s also something we take into consideration on a yearly basis.” Practical ways to teach children finance lessons Kolisi takes the children grocery shopping and they compare the prices and look for the cheapest brands and deals. “We compare the weight of the products and the value we’ll get from buying them. The kids help me a lot with the groceries, and I try and let them be independent with the choices they make. I like to focus on things they eat daily, so they understand the value of the money that’s spent on these products. She says the Sanlam Savings Jar app has been a great way to start conversations and build excitement around saving. “As soon as we downloaded the app, Nic pulled out every money box he’s ever had, and we were counting all the 10c and 5c to put towards his goal. We managed to grow his dragon to adult size for his remote-control car (the more coins saved, the bigger the dragon grows). “Then we also set a goal to help someone else, which I think brings another important conversation up about how you can have goals for yourself, but how are you thinking about others? So many important conversations came from the app; I think the fact that it brings about a discussion between a child and parent is the most important thing.” Work to earn Kolisi says, “We have the non-negotiable daily chores like doing dishes, making the bed, etc. Then we have what we call the ‘extras’. The older kids know that when they want money to go out or whatever, they’ll tell us how much they need and then we give them the list of extra chores to earn the money. Nic has done a good car clean! We have a running list of things like picking up the dog poop, sorting the Tupperware in the cupboards, cleaning the bathrooms… “I believe the reason I work as hard as I do is because it’s stuck in my mind you cannot earn money without working. And I think the sooner a child understands that the better. Anything can change at any moment, but you can always manage because financial knowledge can never be taken away.” Realness and reward It’s also important to make money talk fun. “It can be super daunting, especially for teenagers, when you start talking about how much their education is going to cost. Then if they get a job, how much rent will cost, plus petrol, food, and all of these things. So, I think it’s important to use things like the Sanlam Savings Jar app to open up these difficult conversations in a fun way.” Lastly, it’s important that the conversations are continuous. “Kezzie doesn’t really care about goals yet. Nic is just starting to. Then you have my teenagers who want to go to parties and buy their friends gifts. Then it’s about going into adulthood and starting university and first jobs. Each phase of life needs

September 10, 2021

Prevention of Falls

From the moment a baby starts to crawl, the world is a magical place filled with new adventures and discoveries. From their perspective, everything is a potential mountain to climb (that giant bookshelf), obstacle to overcome (those pesky stairs) or mysterious place to investigate (anywhere beyond the safety gate). Little bumps will happen, but ChildSafe is here to help so these brave expeditions do not result in something more serious.

September 10, 2021

Yoto lands in South Africa Retailers

Yoto, an audio platform developed specifically for kids and the brand behind the critically acclaimed and award-winning Yoto Player, has landed in South Africa. The Yoto Player, a carefully connected screen-free, Bluetooth speaker box provides safe, educational entertainment for children and is now available across the country at selected Toys R Us stores, iStores and a branded store on Takealot, South Africa’s leading online store. Yoto Player is designed to safely give children full control over their listening experience, by entertaining and educating them while reducing screen-time. Yoto Player is controlled using physical cards that are inserted into the Player which plays audio content – helping to reduce excessive screen-time, giving children access to entertaining content without removing the joy of using technology for fun, learning and imaginative play. The Yoto smartphone app gives parents easy control of settings and content management. The free-to-download app also contains a selection of free content available to all and allows families to link the audio to Bluetooth speakers, including in the car for on-the-go entertainment. Additionally, Yoto’s content cards have the ability to play content through the app by simply tapping the card to the back of a smartphone. “We landed in the United States in June last year, and now our breakthrough into other regions and markets will further enable Yoto to globally service and inspire the next generation of creative, independent minds through audio,” said Ben Drury, CEO and co-founder of Yoto. “Every day we are inspired by children from all around the world, and with Yoto we are able to provide parents with peace of mind and children with access to a world of curated audio content.” Yoto Player is available for purchase at a recommended retail price of R2499. The Yoto smartphone app is available to download for free on iOS or Android. About Yoto Born in the U.K., Yoto is an audio platform that introduces children to a world of stories, music, educational activities, sound effects, podcasts and radio. Founders Ben Drury and Filip Denker were inspired by Montessori principles to create a screen-free audio device that kids could safely control themselves; they called it Yoto Player. And in a bid to offer audio that will inspire the next generation of independent creative minds, Yoto is investing in content that promotes mindfulness, meditation, and sleep among children. Since launching the new Yoto Player in early 2020, Yoto has experienced explosive growth, securing partnerships and content deals with trusted household names such as LEGO and Disney as well as licenses with Penguin Random House, Abbey Road Studios, Sony Music, HarperCollins, Hachette, Pan Macmillan and more. Yoto’s extensive and ever-expanding content library is packed with some of the world’s greatest children’s content including The Magic Far Away Tree (Trilogy), The Gruffalo, The Wishing Chair (Trilogy), with Frozen, Finding Nemo and many more household names to be released in the coming months. Now available worldwide, Yoto has been shortlisted for several awards including Design Week, ISDA IDEA, Core 77, Fast Co., D&AD, Dezeen, Junior Design, and Mother & Baby while being included in several Top Product lists. In November 2020, Yoto Player was named one of TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions of 2020.

September 9, 2021

Benefits of a Gua Sha & Roller and How To Use Them

Did you know that Gua sha and facial rolling aren’t just recent Instagram beauty hacks. Gua sha is an ancient practice evolved from Traditional Chinese Medicine which has been used for thousands of years! Are you keen to try these iconic beauty tools yourself? We discuss their benefits, how to use them and where to get them! Gua Sha and Its Benefits Gua sha literally translates to stroking. Gua sha is used to stimulate blood flow and movement through the body. Its uses are many, but it’s generally used to decrease pain and tension in the muscles. In the last few years, the beauty community has discovered that the gua sha provides many benefits for facial work. The gua sha assists in: Increased facial lymphatic drainage (a workout for our face? Yes please!) Facial muscle tension relief (goodbye sore muscles) Decreased fine lines and wrinkles (woooohoo, bring on youthful skin!) How to use Gua Sha: 1) Always move in the direction of your lymph nodes: scrape from the inside of your face to the outsides scrape up and down the neck scrape to the outsides of the forehead scrape from the middle of your chin towards the bottom of your ear scrape your eyebrows up towards your temple 2) Make sure there’s either some oil or serum on your face and begin your gua sha routine for at least 5 minutes or longer. 3) Apply light pressure with the gua sha but do not overexert. The lymphatic system is stimulated through light stroking so you do not need to push the tool with too much pressure into the face. If you push too hard you may cause bruising or exacerbate inflammation. Ouch! 4) Store your tool in the fridge, if you can. The cool touch of the stone can help decrease redness. 5) ALWAYS clean your gua sha to prevent bacteria build up! How to use Gua Sha for Specific Body Parts: AROUND EYES Work from the inside out TEMPLE Work upwards BACK Work downwards LEGS Work upwards Facial Roller and Its Benefits So what’s up with facial rolling and why is everyone so obsessed with it? Put simply, jade rolling is actually a type of gua sha! The facial roller is a tool that allows for easier usage of the gua on yourself. It allows for easier rolling and stimulation of the lymphatic system without having to stare in the mirror while you do it (but that’s part of the fun right?). The facial roller assists in: reduced redness and scarring muscle pain relief potentially reduces signs of aging How to use Facial Roller for Specific Body Parts: FOREHEAD: Work the roller slowly from the centre of your forehead towards your hairline and the sides of your forehead towards the temples EYES: Sweep the roller across your eyelids, gradually working your way towards the temples. EYEBROWS: Sweep the roller from the arch of your eyebrows up towards your hairline NOSE: Sweep the roller along the bridge of the nose upwards towards the forehead CHEEKS: Using the wider end of the roller, follow your cheek contour towards your ears. JAWLINE AND NECK: Work the roller from the centre of your chin outward and upwards towards your cheeks. Sweep the roller upwards from your decolletage to your chin and downwards from your chin along the neck to your decolletage. 2) Make sure there’s either some oil or serum on your face and begin your roller routine for at least 5 minutes or longer. 3) Apply light pressure with the roller but do not overexert. The lymphatic system is stimulated through light stroking so you do not need to push the tool with too much pressure into the face. If you push too hard you may cause bruising or exacerbate inflammation. Ouch! 4) Store your tool in the fridge, if you can. The cool touch of the stone can help decrease redness. 5) ALWAYS clean your roller to prevent bacteria build up! Ready to get your gua sha and facial rolling on? Well then you’ll be THRILLED to know that you can now purchase your FAVE beauty tools directly at House of Cosmetics! You’re welcome! Can’t wait to see all your glowy faces, remember to tag us!

September 8, 2021

HASK Launches New Curl Care Collection for Long-Lasting, Curl Retention & Definition

On a quest to find the perfect range of products that offer smooth, defined and bouncy curls, without the stiff and crunchy feeling after your curls dry? Thanks to the new Curl Care Collection by HASK, achieving a soft, healthy halo of curls is easier than you think. Enriched with coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E (familiar names we’ve grown to love because they show our curls the love they deserve), HASK has combined this miracle blend with its own Curl-Activating Complex to hydrate and protect your curl texture – reviving curls with definition and bounce. Coconut Oil: Softens and adds shine to hair Argan Oil: Fights frizz and moisturisers hair Vitamin E: Fortifies and strengthens hair Created for the curly haired girl, the new HASK Curl Care Collection is suitable for all curl patterns, with clean beauty ingredients in mind. Free of sulphates, parabens, phthalates, gluten, drying alcohol and artificial colours, HASK’s formula is also silicone free, vegan and cruelty-free. Maintain and Protect Start your wash day with the HASK Curl Care Moisturising Shampoo (RSP R179. 95). Enriched with a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E, this formula hydrates and protects your curl texture from damage. Each wash gently removes build-up without stripping away natural oils, revealing bouncy and weightless curls. Infused with a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E, the HASK Curl Care Detangling Conditioner (RSP R179. 95) helps to retain moisture, soften and smooth curls. Providing an instant slip to easily detangle, the conditioner helps to prevent breakage and improve manageability − reviving curls with definition and bounce. Quench and restore your curls with the HASK Curl Care Intensive Deep Conditioner (RSP R189. 95). This rich, luxe formula (a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E) adds strength, softness and shine, whilst resisting humidity to help lock-out uneven stands and lock-in moisture to help maintain your natural curl pattern. A miracle product, the HASK Curl Care 5-in-1 Leave-In Spray (R189. 95) offers five amazing benefits! Detangles to prevent breakage Up to 24-hour curl control Seals-in moisture Thermal protection Softens & adds shine Smooth and Hydrate Keep those curls in shape with the HASK Curl Defining Cream (RSP R189. 95).This lightweight, humidity-proof formula works to enhance your natural curl pattern, leaving curls soft and defined. The miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E helps to seal-in moisture and shine for a smooth finish. Define and Control Give your curls long-lasting control with the HASK Curl Shaping Jelly (RSP R189. 95).This flexible, non-sticky formula sculpts waves and curls without leaving them stiff or crunchy. A miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin, hydrates the hair to prevent curls from drying out. The HASK Curl Care range is exclusive to Clicks stores.

September 7, 2021

PCOS Awareness with Salome this September

September is international PCOS Awareness Month and Salome is determined to do their bit in creating awareness & empowering women with the option of a naturally based solution to this common hormonal disorder. An estimated 8 – 13% of women suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) that involves reproductive, cosmetic and metabolic problems. The long-term effects of this condition, if not diagnosed and treated early, are infertility due to ovarian dysfunction, as well as the risk of developing diabetes, cardiac problems linked to hypertension, sleeping problems and high cholesterol. Common symptoms and diagnosis Symptoms of PCOS include irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles and elevated levels of the male hormone androgen, which results in excess body hair and acne, and polycystic ovaries where the ovaries are not able to function properly. Getting a diagnosis by a health practitioner is key to effectively managing PCOS. The onset of PCOS can start from as young as 14 or 15 years old and if left undiagnosed and untreated for years – will cause further health complications down the line, including possible infertility. Parents are encouraged to talk to their daughters about what is considered ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’ periods. Just by having these conversations, we can normalize these common women’s health conditions and debunk myths and the unfortunate stigma attached to it. What is Salome and how can it help with PCOS? The Salome range was developed by local pharmaceutical company, 3Sixty Biomedicine, and is based on consumer insights that South Africans are wanting more natural alternatives to treat common female health conditions. Salome Polycos assists with the management of symptoms commonly associated with PCOS by helping to decrease testosterone levels, increasing progesterone levels in women with irregular or absent periods and thus regulating the menstrual cycle, as well as reducing blood pressure levels. It also plays a role in increasing insulin activity in women diagnosed with PCOS, as many suffer from insulin resistance. Due to these hormonal imbalances women living with PCOS often battle with acne, irregular periods, male pattern hair loss or experience excessive body hair growth (hirsutism). Salome Polycos’s main active ingredient is D-chiro-inositol (DCI) which is a natural extract obtained from the carob tree. In cases where infertility can be linked back to the hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS, patients who make use of products like Salome Fertility that contain Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol have seen an increase in their ovulation, a reduction in their hyperandrogenism and in the oxidative stress in their follicular fluid. The efficacy of the product lies in it containing the correct ratio of Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol that have been extracted from the pod of the Carob bean tree. Clinical studies have shown that these natural extracts are instrumental in helping manage the regulation of ovarian function in PCOS patients. Who can use this? Due to the herbal extracts and use of natural ingredients in the products, the Salome range has minimal side effects and can be reimbursed by certain medical aids. The products are available online at www.3Sixtybiomedicine.co.za or on Takealot.com, and can be purchased over the counter at leading pharmacies nationwide. We believe #YourJourneyMatters so follow the Salome range on their social media pages to hear from Salome experts who are committed to educating and normalizing conversations about common women’s health conditions. Visit: 3sixtybiomedicine.co.za Facebook: Salome Range Twitter: SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange

September 2, 2021

Early learning brand PlayShifu makes foray into South Africa

Tech toys loved by children, educators, and parents in over 35 countries will now be available in iStore, Takealot, and ToysRUs PlayShifu, an award-winning early learning brand, announced its launch in South Africa through the distributor Core Group. The brand’s innovative educational tech toys cover a wide range of essential skills, STEM, STEAM, and beyond, a solution that every parent of Gen Alpha child is looking for. Founded in 2016 by two doting fathers on a mission to turn around unhealthy screen time into meaningful time, PlayShifu currently sells in more than 35 markets across the world. PlayShifu toys have been designed to provide innovative, phygital interactions that combine hands-on physical play with fun and interactive digital games. The brand has 12 unique offerings on three product lines – Orboot, Plugo, and Tacto. Orboot by PlayShifu Orboot is a series of first-ever AR educational globes, Earth, Dinos and Mars, encourages children to learn through thousands of facts and hours of game-based exploration. Orboot Earth lets children travel through every nook and corner of our planet and learn scores of facts about wildlife, cultures, cuisines, monuments, maps, and much more. Orboot Dinos brings alive dinosaurs in 3D. Children can learn about evolutionary traits, explore habitats, and see what their favourite dinosaurs looked like up close. Orboot Mars inspires children to discover the Red Planet through the Mars missions that have brought in-depth knowledge of our neighbouring planet. Plugo by PlayShifu Plugo is a STEM gaming system powered by AR. It consists of one Gamepad and four interchangeable gaming kits that work with one companion app. Plugo makes learning fun and engaging for children, whether mathematics, vocabulary, problem-solving or logical reasoning. The Plugo universe comprises Letters (word building kit), Count (hands-on math kit), Link (building blocks kit), and Tunes (music learning kit). Each kit comes with multiple games with hundreds of levels in the app that adapt to the child’s grade. Tacto by PlayShifu Tacto is the first-ever phygital board game platform that uses tablets, innovative touch technology, and AI to reimagine board games. Tacto uses real figurines to drive the games on screen and adds immense richness, variety, and storytelling to the experience. Tacto has 6 different game sets – Classics, Chess, Coding, Laser, Electronics, and Dinos. The experience unlocks a world of foundational skills for early learners like strategic thinking, reasoning, analytical thinking and more. PlayShifu products start at R899 and can be purchased from, iStore, Takealot, and Toys’R’Us. Designed for ages 4 to 12, all the product platforms are supported by free to download apps that work with a range of devices on iOS and Android.

September 1, 2021

What to know about Covid 19 vaccines and skin reactions

As we all know, our skin is our biggest organ, and our skin is affected by EVERYTHING in life – our lifestyle, what we eat, drink, medication, sun exposure and also when we are sick. With this pandemic, a lot of focus has been on the vaccines, and obviously the main focus is to stop the spread of the virus. This, however, leaves a few questions regarding treatment before and after receiving your vaccine. Guidelines has been given to our industry, as well as to the aesthetic medical industry, on timeframes to make sure adverse reactions do not occur. The main aim of this, is to prevent FURTHER inflammation as this is the main reason why we struggle with skin problems. Inflammation is the umbrella of all problematic skin conditions. Ageing is caused by inflammation, pigmentation, acne, atopic skin conditions like eczema, rosacea and skin sensitivity. These all caused by inflammation of some kind! Now, with the Covid 19 vaccine, we are introducing inflammation into the body therefore it could definitely affect our skins too! It can make the skin super-sensitive, it can dry out the skin, cause severe dehydration, it may cause hyperpigmentation etc. We actually don’t know, but based on what we DO know about inflammation, it is necessary that we know how to treat skin in these times. If you have received your vaccine, or are planning on getting your jab, please make sure to support your skin! This can be done in a number of ways. Q: What should we use on our skins to support our skin against inflammation of any kind? A: We need to use medical grade skincare products and ingredients that are well tolerated by the skin, and specifically growth factors and antioxidants to fight against the inflammation that may be caused in the skin. Hydrating, barrier repair as well as sun protection! This doesn’t mean that you need to change your whole skincare routine or product range at home, you would need to only slot in a product like the AQ Active Serum once a day under your day moisturiser! Q: How long before receiving your vaccine should you introduce these ingredients into your skin care routine, if you are not already using them? A: This is quite an open-ended answer, as some medical specialists say 4 –6 weeks and other say 14 days. I think to be perfectly honest, we should rather be safe than sorry, and try to prepare the skin at least 4 weeks prior to getting your vaccine, as this is how long a regular, healthy cell turnover will take in your epidermis. Q: What about recommendations for aesthetic treatments and medical aesthetic procedures? A: For superficial, mild and non-invasive treatments, 14 days before and 2-3 weeks after getting the vaccine… For your more advanced skin treatments such as micro needling, plasma pen, certain chemical peels, laser and medical aesthetic procedures such as botox, fillers and threads etc: 4 –6 weeks before and after getting your vaccine. Q: What types of treatments are totally safe to have done? A: Focus on anti-inflammatory treatments like Growth Factor induced therapy that we refer to as GFIT treatments. This is where we use the AQ Skin Solution Recovery Serum with different modalities. In this case just an application with LED light for about 30 minutes or a light stamping with 0.5mm depth. Certain chemical peels that have anti-inflammatory properties. Calming, healing and antioxidant-type ingredients plus of course hydration and barrier protection. Q: How long after receiving the vaccine should you keep using these ingredients? A: I think it is hugely important to understand that all of us are different and all of us will react or respond in different ways, therefore I would suggest to keep on using these ingredients on your skin for an extended period of time. Q: What do growth factors do in the skin? A: It is very important to use growth factors at a time like this because AQ growth factors allows your skin to heal itself! It will work differently on each person’s skin because it will assess what needs to be done. Some patients have more inflammation than others, or maybe the vascular system within the skin isn’t functioning properly or it’s affected their collagen production. The growth factors will regulate the cell functions and bring it back to its norm, therefore it will work on any and all skin conditions. It basically regulates the different processes within the skin so that the skin can heal itself correctly and be in its healthiest state. Q: What makes AQ Skin Solutions growth factors different to other growth factors on the market? A: The Human Growth Factors found in AQ Skin Solutions is fibroblast-derived, and then cloned in the lab to react the same way your natural growth factors do. We have a Halal Certificate showing that no genetic material from the donor line is utilized within the formulation. Human growth factors will be easily recognised by the cells, meaning no side effects, no contra indications and it can be used on skin of all ages and all skin types. Other growth factor products are derived from plant extracts or some from bacteria. AQ is one of 5 Human growth factor products worldwide, the only HGF range available in Africa! We use between 150 and 200 different growth factor families within each formulation at optimal combinations and percentages to ensure sufficient communication to the cells. Q: Medical-grade skincare is surprisingly affordable, isn’t it? A: There is a misconception that medical-grade skincare is expensive, but the reality is that investing in it will likely save you money in the long run. While you may have to pay a little more upfront, using medical-grade skincare that is tailored specifically to your concerns means you’ll get the visible results you’ve been seeking. Also, because they are highly concentrated with active ingredients, you only need to use a small amount to get your results. Therefore, medical-grade skincare products

August 31, 2021

Masks and Essential Oils

Grabbing a mask before you leave the house has become second nature these days, almost as important as remembering your keys and wallet! While some people only need their mask when they pop down to the shops, others are required to wear one for most of the day, if their job entails close contact with people. The act of mask wearing is not something we have done all of our lives, and while it might seem normal now, it can still cause discomfort or distress in certain individuals. Poor mental focus, anxiety and headaches are a few symptoms that people report after long periods of mask-wearing, but luckily there are solutions to these problems. While we can’t just stop wearing masks, there are a few natural ways to alleviate negative feelings. One such remedy is the use of essential oils. One or two drops of an essential oil onto your mask can greatly improve your mood and reactions to poor effects from a mask. The array of essential oils have various benefits including the following: Lavender oil to reduce anxiety and fight against any tension you may have. Orange oil for calming down and feeling more at ease. Lemon oil to give you energy for the day. Peppermint oil to relieve headaches and open the lungs. Eucalyptus oil to clear the mind and lungs and open up the sinuses. These oils reach the brain through your smell nerves and act to calm you down and make you feel better, as well as reach the lungs to open them up and relieve difficulty breathing. A drop or two of dilute oil onto your mask will work wonders. If this is too strong, you can add a drop to the side of your face for the same effects. Another method to apply essential oils is that of the mask spray. To create this spray, mix distilled water, and about 10-12 drops of your oils of choice Apply 2-3 light sprays onto your mask and let it dry completely. Once this is done, your mask will have a lovely scent which not only smells good but improves your mental state too! Try these essential oils from SOiL Organic Lavender Oil (Lavandula Angustifolia) 10ml – R100 A must for the first-aid box! A versatile oil, Lavender is renowned for its relaxing and calming properties and its ability to relieve headaches and insomnia. Excellent for all skin types, it is also very effective in the treatment of burns and prevention of scarring. Organic Orange Oil (Citrus Sinensis) 10ml – R30 Warm sweet orange has a fresh and fruity aroma which has a refreshing effect. It is useful in treating dry skins and renewing dull complexions. Organic Lemon Oil (Citrus Limon) 10ml – R40 This lively oil with its refreshing citrus aroma is highly antiseptic making it useful in treating wounds and infections. Also useful in the home to clean and deodorise. Organic Peppermint Oil (Mentha Piperita) 10ml – R60 Peppermint is known for its refreshing and stimulating properties. It is said to aid circulation and treat various digestive upsets. Organic Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus Smithii) 10ml – R30 This oil is very pleasant for use in massage blends and steam inhalations. It helps clear breathing passageways and can protect against colds. It cools the body in summer and protects it in winter. Easy Breathe – R65 Expertly formulated by our certified aromatherapist, this blend of essential oils contains 100% PURE and certifed organic essential oils. The combination of Cajeput, Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Clove essential oils help to control pain and fever, congestion and sinusitis All products available online at www.soil.co.za

August 31, 2021

Do Children Need Multi-Vitamin Supplements?

In an ideal world, children’s supplements would not be necessary as most of their nutrients would come from the food they consume on a daily basis, such as fruit, vegetables, grains and dairy. Today, with busy schedules and fussy eaters, often our children fail to eat enough of the right foods to obtain the necessary amount of nutrients per day. Given the reality of time-crunched parents, those well-rounded, home-cooked meals aren’t always possible. As such, multivitamins are becoming a non-negotiable requirement to maintain our children’s general wellbeing. NutriPure’s Multivitamin Complete is formulated as a soft gummy that makes taking vitamins quick and easy. NutriPure Vitamins are perfect for children of 3 years and older and provide an easy and delicious solution to replenish essential vitamins and minerals daily. Vitamins, taken properly, won’t do any harm as long as they don’t take the place of a healthy diet, which all children need for good growth. Always follow the “rainbow diet” that includes a colourful variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure your children get the nutrients they need and give them a multivitamin as a bonus! Many children struggle with medical conditions, allergies or aversions to certain foods, and miss out on the essential nutrients that well-balanced meals would provide. Very often, children who are lactose intolerant, have inflammatory bowel syndrome or gluten intolerances would have a deficit of vitamins such as A, D and K, and would benefit greatly from a multivitamin to replenish these nutrients. Each NutriPure MultiVitamin Complete contains 11 Essential Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin D, B6, B12, C, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid and Niacin that helps to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health (be sure to talk with your child’s doctor before starting a supplement if your child is on medication). NutriPure’s gummy vitamins are a quick and painless solution to taking supplements and are tasty too. As a parent you can confidently give NutriPure gummy vitamins to the whole family, yes, they are available in adults variants too. All variants are 100% vegan friendly, have no sugar coating, are fruit pectin based and contain no artificial colourants, flavours, sweeteners, GMO ingredients or preservatives. NUTRIPURE RANGE FOR KIDS: MULTIVITAMIN Complete (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Multivitamin Complete gummies have been specially formulated into a soft and chewy treat, making vitamins fun and easy for children 3 years and older. Multivitamins help promote the normal functioning of a child’s immune system and promote general well-being. Each NutriPure Multivitamin Complete contains 11 essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. These help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN C (60) – R109.95 Research shows that in the winter months, children are at a higher risk of colds and flu due to the weakening of their immune systems. NutriPure Vitamin C is a tasty and effective solution to help strengthen their immunity during these periods. Vitamin C also helps children maintain a functioning nervous system, a normal energy-yielding metabolism, and reduces fatigue. One NutriPure gummy contains 80mg of vitamin C which is 100% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). PRO BIOTICS (60) – R153.95 At any age, a balanced intestinal micro-flora is important to keep the body in healthy working order. NutriPure Probiotics are formulated with Bifidobacterium infantis and lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each NutriPure gummy contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost their daily intake of these beneficial bacteria. They also provide immune support when children are taking antibiotics. IMMUNE SUPPORT + (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Immune Support + contains a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6, and B12 help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN D Gummies (60) – R109.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Extra soft so suitable for even the fussiest eaters. Vitamin D also contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, the maintenance of normal muscle function, and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. NUTRIPURE RANGE FOR ADULTS MULTIVITAMIN Complete (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Multivitamin Complete has been specially formulated for adults. Each NutriPure Multivitamin gummy contains a balanced dosage of 12 essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. These help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. IMMUNE SUPPORT – Vitamins C, D, B6 & B12 (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Immune Support has been carefully formulated with 6 essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, D, B6, B12, zinc, and selenium are vital for strong immunity. VITAMIN D – High Strength (60) – R134.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Vitamin D also contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, the maintenance of normal muscle function, and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR – Gummies (60) – R159.95 Boost your immune system by taking great-tasting apple cider vinegar gummies. Nutritional highlights: 500mg of apple cider vinegar per serving for immune support and metabolism, vitamin C for immune health, vitamin B6 for energy-yielding metabolism, and vitamin C & B6 to reduce fatigue. A delicious array of vitamins and minerals for every occasion. Stock up, eat up, and stay healthy. Stockist: Dis-Chem & Yooper – limited items available on Takealot, PNP, Spar and Clicks Website: www.nutripure.co.za

August 30, 2021

Performing in a pandemic: Bonitas announces healthy annual results

Bonitas Medical Fund reported its financial results for 2020, with significantly bolstered reserves of R6.1 billion. Luke Woodhouse, Chief Financial Officer of Bonitas says, ‘The Fund, which has 40 years’ experience in the medical aid industry, had 333 141 principal members and total beneficiaries of 710 157 as of 31 December 2020. This accounts for 14% of the open scheme market, representing 8.3% of total market share.’ Bonitas ended 2020 with an unprecedented surplus of R1.7 billion (2019: R186.1 million). The surplus is the largest ever reported by the Fund and is largely attributable to the suppressed utilisation of non-COVID related claims expenditure. ‘The surplus was also positively impacted by the effective implementation of our strategic pillars, proactive risk management and prudent Board decisions in a unique, but volatile year,’ says Woodhouse. ’Bonitas’s medium-term objective is to sustain solvency levels above the statutory minimum of 25% and to make meaningful, strategic decisions about current reserves in the interests of our members. This while facing significant uncertainty, especially in terms of the cost and prolonged impact of COVID-19, non-COVID-19 utilisation and roll-out of vaccines.’ 2020 performance at a glance: R3 billion gross healthcare result (2019: R1.3 billion) Reserves reaching R6.1 billion (2019: R4.3 billion) A net surplus of R1.7 billion (2019: R186.1 million) Solvency ratio of 32.7% (2019: 24.9%) R51.7 gross recoveries from Fraud, Waste and Abuse (2019: R41.2 million) Strategic purchasing yielded hospital negotiation savings of R346 million (2019: R370.4 million). This is lower than the previous year, in absolute terms, due to lower outflows as a result of COVID-19, including cancellation of elective procedures and a reduction in trauma and major medical related costs An investment income of R316.6 million (2019: R420.1 million) that exceeded CPI Net claims decreased by 4.7% to R14.3 billion (2019: increased by 8.9% to R15.0 billion) Healthcare cost savings initiatives realised savings of R221m – the most significant of these were achieved through the Scriptpharm chronic medicine capitation model 83.0 claims loss ratio (%) (2019: 92.3) The Investment Committee was particularly active given the volatility in equity markets and the market crash that occurred in March 2020. The active management and continued strategic asset allocation approach contributed to a turnaround in investment returns, growing the investment portfolio (excluding cash and cash equivalents) from R5.01 billion in December 2019 to R7.14 billion at the end of December 2020 – delivering an overall return of 4.16%. Although COVID-19 induced severe capacity constraints in the healthcare system, the hiatus in all other areas of healthcare decelerated a long-term trend towards overuse and medical cost inflation. This occurred against an economic backdrop of market volatility, record low interest rates, rising unemployment and declining incomes. The significant surplus capacity was systemic within the healthcare industry. Investments and economic growth In addition to investment volatility, South Africa’s sovereign credit rating was downgraded to sub-investment grade status with a negative outlook by the Moody’s and Fitch ratings agencies. According to the IMF, South Africa’s real GDP contracted by 8% in 2020, but is expected to show 3% growth in 2021, before slowing again. Claims’ expenditure While some categories such as in-hospital admissions experienced a major decline, with a high number of elective surgeries cancelled, there was a marked increase in medicine claims and costs. Under servicing could, however, lead to higher downstream healthcare costs over the long term. The combination of these factors led to lower claims in an environment where Bonitas actively continued to manage costs, promote Managed Care and supervise investment performance. As opposed to other years the key cost drivers were COVID-19 related, including: Hospital admissions, investment in PPE, pathology test costs, home-based care, healthcare support to members in the workplace, medication and deferred elective surgeries. Hospital negotiations This year we participated in the first collective negotiation process on hospital tariffs with five other medical schemes administered by Medscheme. This followed the finding by the HMI that collective negotiations would not contravene the Competition Act. The common tariff resulted in a 3.1% saving in 2021 terms and these savings could exceed R200 million in 2021. In addition, hospital costs and medical specialist costs reduced by 5.4% (2019: increased by 8.9%) and 5.3% (2019: increased by 10.0%) respectively on a per-member-per-month basis. Total claims per-member-per-month declined by 8.7% (2019: increased by 8.1%). Strategic purchasing Cumulative savings since the start of the strategic partnership arrangement with hospital groups in 2017 was R1.247 billion. Growth and retention To retain members under significant financial stress due to COVID-19, members received assistance in line with CMS regulations This had a negligible impact on performance but assisted in retention of members during the worst of the pandemic. COVID-19 also resulted in a marked increase in queries about joining a medical fund as people realised the need for quality healthcare. We experienced a cumulative net decline in membership of 5 610 members (1.7%) in 2020, which compares well against a significant contraction in GDP and increased unemployment. Despite the challenges experienced in 2020, Bonitas acquired 37 814 new members (2019: 50 680). Bonitas also kept increases as low as possible without jeopardising the sustainability of the Fund. There was a competitive weighted average contribution increase of 4.6% – 1.61% higher than CPI whereas, under normal circumstances, contribution increases are set at a minimum of CPI +3,5%. Day hospitals We identified day hospital use as a viable option to improve efficiency and reduce costs. There is minimal disruption to members, speedier recovery times, less risk of infection. Home-based care During COVID-19, home-based care received renewed interest and focus. Not only is it a cost saver but studies have shown that patients recover faster in their comfort of their own homes. Efficiency Discounted Options (EDOs) The four EDOS introduced have been a success – the EDOs cover over 74 000 lives and the principal members who join are around 10 years younger than the average Bonitas member. Members on these plans use network healthcare providers and pay around 15% less for the same benefits. Virtual

August 30, 2021

Go on… make the Switch!

If you are anything like me, you like when a product works seamlessly from one device to another. And while this may be a small feature, it really can make life a little easier. Imagine a life where you can ask your child to immediately disconnect their console from the TV because your favourite show is starting and there are no ooohhhsss or ahhhhh’s because he can continue playing? This is what makes the Nintendo Switch an easy Switch to make. One of the core features of the Nintendo Switch is being able to continue playing no matter what! Your child will be able to switch from the TV and then comfortably to the hand-held console, even to splitting the console up and playing with a friend. Yup that’s right… the Joy-Con (controller) can be split so that friends can play too. By turning your Joy-Con into two units, either party is able to play with either side or with motion control games, one is able to use the Joy-Con much like a Wii remote. However, if you want to purchase another Joy-Con you certainly can. We found a large variety are available in the Nintendo Online Store which makes the experience even more personal. So how many ways can you play? The Nintendo Switch is a “hybrid” console that can be used at home on a TV, and also as a portable console. #1 TV Mode Your gaming experience can start on your television when connected via an HDMI cable. The unique configuration allows the Nintendo Switch to adopt a number of different forms. From either splitting the controller up into two separate Joy-Cons for multi-player games or keep it connected to the grip and play alone. #2 Tabletop Mode With the Nintendo Switch built-in LCD screen one is able to either play hand held or you can detach the Joy-Con Controllers, open the stand at the back of the screen and place it on a flat surface. Perfect for when you do not have a television available. #3 Handheld Mode Easily reattach the Joy-Cons to the unit and play hand held and when you are done simply place the Nintendo Switch in the docking unit to charge…. It has never been easier. The Joy-Con controllers snap to the sides of the tablet making the device a hand-held unit. Accessories and Games? With accessories galore from themed Joy-Cons, cases, HORIPAD and Racing Wheels, you can make your gaming experience everything you ever hoped it would be. With the Nintendo e-Shop, one is able to purchase multiplayer games as well as Free-to-start Games. With all your favourites available in their online store, you could be bouncing around with Super Mario or taking on a Pokemon in no time! Online Membership starts at R52 per month and there is a family membership available for up to 8 members at R459 for 12 months. This ensures that all your gaming data is safely stored to the cloud so that all those achievements unlocked are never lost. The Nintendo Switch can be connected online for a greater Nintendo Experience or download the Mobile App. The Nintendo Switch Online App is designed to enhance your online gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch. You can view your stats, or chat to friends while racing through the streets in your game. The App is available in both the Google Play and Apple App Stores. Cool Features: The unit is easy to transport and with a longer life battery of between 3 and 4 hours, your child will be entertained during load shedding or even a long car trip. Can’t find your Joy-Con? No problem, activate the search for controller feature and you will locate them in no time. The Nintendo Switch is a touch screen. Adjust the menu to dark mode… easier on the eyes for sure! See how long a player has played for. We all had so much fun playing Super Paper Mario, thank you Nintendo for helping us make the switch! This unit is certainly one of the more affordable gaming consoles at a retail price of R7999. You can purchase online at the Nintendo Online Store or at participating retailers. Included in the box: 2x Joy-Cons (left and right) with built-in rechargeable battery Nintendo Switch console Nintendo Switch AC adapter Nintendo Switch dock A Joy-Con grip Joy-Con strap High speed HDMI cable Hand held remote Paper Mario- The Origami king Nintendo’s Paper Mario – The Origami King – is a fun game for individuals aged seven and above. The game centres around Mario and his new friend Olivia. They are tasked with stopping Olivia’s brother, Olly, who is the Origami King. Olly has folded Princess Peach and many other characters into origami shapes. The only exception is the toads, which Mario and Olivia save throughout the game. The main objective of Mario and Olivia is to remove various coloured streamers that enclose Princess Peach’s Castle and which will lead them to Olly. Each streamer level provides a fun new task for the player to go through. As they go through each level, they are able to unlock Vellumentals, which are a group of god-like creatures found in their own Vellumental Shrines and Temples. To gain the ability to use Vellumentals, players need to defeat each of them throughout the game on each different streamer level. A Bibliofold will eventually be revealed to the player. This contains instructions for Olivia on origami folding. This will allow Olivia to Transform into a Vellumental through the corresponding magic circle. The magic circle will allow Mario to also use the elemental powers during a Boss battle and even waive battles where the enemy has a magic circle above its head. As well as collecting toads through the game, Mario and Olivia also collect confetti. They are tasked with repairing the broken world by using the confetti that they collect throughout the game. Once each streamer level is complete the confetti intake of the bag will increase. The increase

August 27, 2021

3Sixty reasons why herbal extracts are becoming the preferred choice to treat women’s health issues

The Salome range, launched in 2020 by South African pharmaceutical company 3Sixty Biomedicine, addresses common women’s health issues. The current product range offering over the counter treatment options is based on herbal extracts to help manage heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and infertility linked to PCOS. Later in 2021 the range is looking to expand its offering to include capsules that treat the symptoms commonly associated with menopause. Even prior to the presence of COVID-19, there was a growing trend by consumers to explore more organic alternatives to synthetic medical treatments. Now it’s become more important than ever for consumers to know what they’re putting into their bodies, which has been the driving force over the past two years for 3Sixty Biomedicine’s product development of the Salome range. Salome Polycos assists with the management of symptoms commonly associated with PCOS by helping to decrease testosterone levels as well as blood pressure levels. It also plays a role in increasing insulin activity in women diagnosed with PCOS, as many suffer from insulin resistance. Due to these hormonal imbalances women living with PCOS often battle with acne, irregular periods, male pattern hair loss or experience excessive body hair growth (hirsutism). Salome Polycos’s main active ingredient is D-chiro-inositol (DCI) which is a natural extract obtained from the carob tree. In cases where infertility can be linked back to the hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS, patients who make use of products like Salome Fertility that contain Myo-inositol and D- Chiro-inositol have seen an increase in their ovulation, a reduction in their hyperandrogenism and in the oxidative stress in their follicular fluid. The efficacy of the product lies in it containing the correct ratio of Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol that have been extracted from the pod of the Carob bean tree. Case studies have shown that these natural extracts are instrumental in helping manage the regulation of ovarian function in PCOS patients. Dysmenorrhea, the technical term for extreme period pain, is also a common women’s health issue that impacts up to 20% of women with their menstrual cramping being severe enough to interfere with daily activities, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Salome Menstrual Pain is based on herbal extracts of yarrow (Achillea millefolium) which has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory & analgesic effects, which may provide relief for spasm associated with menstrual periods known as dysmenorrhoea. What is great about Salome Menstrual Pain is because it contains natural ingredients, females from as young as 13 years old who suffer from menstrual pain can use it to manage painful menstrual cramping without worrying about unwanted side-effects. Another common problem experienced by women is menorrhagia (abnormally heavy flow and prolonged bleeding). 3Sixty Biomedicine created their Salome HMB product to help alleviate this problem. The product also draws on herbal extracts from Capsella Bursa-Pastoris, a medicinal plant also sometimes known as Shepherd’s purse, as an active ingredient to assist with the reduction of heavy menstrual bleeding in women with regular menstrual cycles. The medicinal benefits of this plant have been scientifically proven to have smooth muscle stimulant effects. As an added bonus Capsella has antioxidant features that improve uterine tone, meaning that it will facilitate the regulation of menstrual blood flow. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can have a positive impact on the management of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). The full Salome range is available online at Takealot.com and www.3Sixtybiomedicine.co.za, as well as at most pharmacies nationwide and you can even ask for the range from your Clicks pharmacist. Read more about this exciting female health range at https://3sixtybiomedicine.co.za/salome/ and then enter our competition for a chance to win a stylish Salome Hamper consisting of a custom designed Lou Harvey cosmetic bag, Salome Menstrual Pain and Salome Heavy Menstrual Bleeding packs. We believe #yourjourneymatters, so don’t let anything get in your way with the help of the Salome range!

August 27, 2021

Take Your Hair Pick from Our Line-up of Three Multi-award Winning Hairbrush Adapted to Suit Every Hair Type

Ever since the Original — the multi-award winning hairbrush that launched the brand, Tangle Teezer has amassed a growing number of devoted fans and Tangle Teezer siblings. It has been referred to as the magic hairbrush with superior detangling powers. Nobody can quite put their finger on why these hairbrushes work so well, they just do! THE POWER’S IN THE TEETH Well now here’s the answer, the unique and innovative patented two tiered teeth which can’t be found on any other hairbrush in the world! Tangle Teezer’s innovative technology has been adapted across each hairbrush to suit every hair type. Detangling and smoothing without breakage or damage, whatever Tangle Teezer you choose, The Power’s in the Teeth! Thanks to this ground-breaking technology, their prescriptive detangling hairbrushes quickly and gently detangle all hair types and textures with minimum damage, leaving hair soft and shiny. HOW THE TEETH WORK The long teeth detangle, removing tangles, reducing breakage and leaving hair healthier-looking; while the short teeth smooth the cuticle, leaving the hair glossy and frizz-free. It’s as simple as that! From their innovative two-tiered teeth technology and iconic ergonomic palm shaped design, coupled with their cool, bold and fun on-trend colours, Tangle Teezer stands out from the crowd! THE ORIGINAL The Original Tangle Teezer detangling hairbrush isn’t a multi-award winning hairbrush for nothing! A cult classic loved by everyone, it’s ideal for regular hair types, but particularly well-suited to regular or flyaway locks. Detangling wet or dry hair with its two-tiered regular-flex teeth, which glide through the hair with no pulling and tugging, the Original delivers a pain-free detangling experience, leaving tresses tangle-free and super-smooth with increased shine. Boasting a variety of popping hues, the Original is available in coral/lilac, pink/mauve and red/pink which makes for one big beautiful colour clash! THICK & CURLY Adapted for thick, curly, textured and afro hair, Tangle Teezer’s Thick & Curly detangling hairbrush delivers increased confidence in detangling challenging hair types! Using the innovative two-tiered firm-flex teeth – both longer and stronger than the Original, it gently detangles wet or dry hair quickly and easily. The result is less time spent on detangling without any tugging or pulling, minimizing breakage, whilst leaving curls totally tangle-free, healthier looking and super-defined with plenty of bounce. Available in a delightful azure blue and lilac fondant, the Thick & Curly detangling hairbrush will soon be available in a beautiful mint green/lilac fondant colour combo! FINE & FRAGILE The perfect detangling hairbrush for sensitive hair, take the fear out of brushing with Tangle Teezer’s much-loved Fine & Fragile detangling hairbrush. Aware of the numerous reasons someone may have delicate hair, Tangle Teezer was inspired to reinvent its Original design to cater for those who have colour-treated, fine or fragile hair. For those worried about hair loss, there’s no need to be extra careful. Detangling wet or dry hair with its two-tiered soft-flex teeth – they’re 30% softer than The Original – it glides from root to tip with 85% less tugging and up to 5 x less breakage for tangle-free hair. The most recent colour additions to the Fine & Fragile family include; coral/blue, blue/coral, and lilac/mint. Whatever your hair texture, Tangle Teezer has every strand covered for fabulous and healthier hair! All three detangling hairbrushes retail for (RRP R255.00) and are available to purchase at Sorbet Dry Bar and Candy & Co.

August 26, 2021

Delicious Vitamins – A treat for daily maintenance

In today’s world, more people are in need of food supplements to support their diets, but do not enjoy taking pills. That’s why Nutripure fruity chews make vitamins easy and painless to take. The delicious tasting Nutripure fruity chews are specially formulated with natural fruit pectin for adults and kids. Here are a few reasons why fruity chew vitamins are so popular: They are easy to take, especially for adults and children who struggle to swallow tablets. They are very convenient, you don’t need to have a glass of water with you, you can take them anytime and anywhere. They are easily digested. They are delicious and come in a variety of fruity flavours. Gelatine Free No Sugar Coating Vegan Gluten Free No Artificial Colours or Sweeteners No Preservatives No GMO Ingredients FOR KIDS: MULTI VITAMIN Complete (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Multi-vitamin Complete have been specially formulated into a soft and chewy treat, making vitamins fun and easy for children 3 years and older. Multivitamins contribute to the normal function of children’s immune systems and the normal function of many other systems in the body contributing to general wellbeing. Each NutriPure MultiVitamin Complete contains 11 Essential Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin D, B6, B12, C, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid and Niacin help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN C (60) – R109.95 Contributes to the normal function of the immune system* Research shows that in the winter months children are at a higher risk of colds and flu due to the decline in their immune system. NutiPure Vitamin C is the tasty and effective solution to compensate for the deficiency of this vitamin and to contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C also contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, normal energy- yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. One Nutipure bear contains 80mg of Vitamin C which is 100% of the EC RDA. PRO BIOTICS (60) – R153.95 With 1 billion live friendly bacteria. At any age, a balanced intestinal micro-flora is highly important in keeping the body in healthy working order. The healthy bacterial micro-flora in the gut is a key element for overall well-being. NutriPure Probiotics is formulated with Bifidobacterium infantis & Lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each Nutripure bear contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost his daily culture intake. Ideal to use every day. Important to take when children are on antibiotics. IMMUNE SUPPORT + (60) – R109.95 A factor in the maintenance of good health* NutriPure Immune Support + contains a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6 and B12 help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN D Gummies (60) – R109.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth plus is great for the immune system and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Extra soft so suitable for even the fussiest eaters. Vitamin D contributes to: The normal function of the immune system, the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, the maintenance of normal muscle function, normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. FOR ADULTS MULTI VITAMIN Complete (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Multi vitamin Complete has been specially formulated for adults. Each NutriPure Multivitamin chew contains a balanced dosage of 12 essential vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, B6, B12, C, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid and Niacin help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. IMMUNE SUPPORT – Vitamins C, D, B6 & B12 (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Immune Support has been carefully formulated with 6 essential vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Zinc and Selenium are all a factor in the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN D – High Strength (60) – R109.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth plus is great for the immune system and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Vitamin D contributes to: the normal function of the immune system, the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, the maintenance of normal muscle function and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus APPLE CIDER VINEGAR – Gummies (60) – R159.95 A great natural Immune Booster. At last taking apple cider vinegar has been made easy and great tasting. Nutritional highlights: 500mg of Apple Cider Vinegar per serving for immune support and metabolism, Vitamin C for immune health, Vitamin B6 for energy yielding metabolism and Vitamin C & B6 to reduce tiredness and fatigue. A delicious array of vitamins and minerals for every occasion. There is now no excuse not to stock up and maintain your health.

August 25, 2021

Tantalising the Toddler’s Taste Buds

Did you know that you can influence your child’s taste buds from when you are pregnant? Starting much earlier than we realised, your baby gulps amniotic fluid in your womb and this healthy eating journey continues during breastfeeding, too. While these opportunities may have passed by the time you have a baby and toddler, it is good to know that there are still practical ways to help the not-so-exploratory little tastebuds discover the wonderful and varied world of flavours. The Spice of Life Gone are the days of boring, bland, and tasteless foods for babies and toddlers. Just like adults, our little ones, too, appreciate flavourful food. It is important that, soon after starting your solid journey, you introduce a range of flavours such as fresh herbs (e.g. mint, basil, thyme, etc.), mixed dried herbs, cinnamon, cumin, curry, garlic, cocoa powder, and the like. Sugar-free nut butter also packs a flavour punch, but always check for allergies first. Stir into a warm bowl of oats in winter or offer up on a slice of wholewheat toast as a snack. Luckily for busy moms, Squish 100% fruit and veg purees come in a range of delicious flavours so exploring many different flavours from baby, toddler and up will be easy for your little one with Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees. Mealtime = Fun Time Children eat with their eyes. Make mealtimes fun, interesting and appealing. Call in the help of your child’s favourite superhero or princess with colourful kiddie-friendly cups, plates, utensils, placemats, and lunch boxes. Cut and arrange assorted coloured fruit and vegetables into interesting shapes and funny faces. Use cookie cutters on wholegrain sandwiches or arrange mashed sweet potato into fun shapes. Squish 100% fruit and veg purees come in a convenient pouch which is safe for your little one to explore eating on their own. Squish is a convenient, tasty meal or a snack, or for older kids, try it on the side for dipping – they’re sure to love it. Game On As any parent can attest, it is a daily struggle to get children to eat their fruits and vegetables. Fruit and vegetables are some of nature’s most perfect foods: rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients and fibre, highly nutritious for preventing illness and disease and overall health. To encourage variety, print a picture of a rainbow and place on the fridge or in your child’s room. Encourage your child to choose a fruit or veggie each day from a different colour of the rainbow. For example, tomatoes and watermelon are red, berries and beetroot are purple, and mangoes and carrots are orange Rewards systems like using star charts to mark off how many fruit and vegetables are eaten are also a fun game for your child. Place somewhere visible and offer your child a reward when a goal is reached, such as going to the park or an extra story at night before bed. Another fun way to get your child to eat fruit and veg is by offering them Squish 100% fruit and veg purees and pressed 100% fruit and veg juices. The convenient pouches are well-loved amongst mommies and are perfect for babies from the first introduction of solids, right through the weaning process – from babies to toddlers and beyond. And the 100% fruit and veg pressed juices are deliciously refreshing and a good way to get babies, toddlers and young kids to enjoy fruit and veg. Get Green Fingers Children love being outside and getting their hands dirty. Use this to your advantage and build a vegetable garden. If you do not have a garden, windowsills and vertical/hanging gardens are good alternatives. With your child, plant various herbs and vegetables, and, when ready to be harvested, pick the vegetable with your toddler. Little Chef Older toddlers and young children will enjoy being in the kitchen. Let your children watch you prepare family meals and talk to them about what you are cooking. Let them help you set the table, stir ingredients in plastic bowls, and older children can help chop soft vegetables like baby marrow with a butter knife. One at a Time As much as we want to encourage a variety of flavours, it is important to introduce new foods and previously disliked foods one at a time. Children are naturally wary of anything unfamiliar. Always offer up new food with well-liked food to help increase your child’s acceptance of the food. Remember, it can take up to 15 exposures of food before your child likes it, so keep being patient and keep trying. And if all else fails, there is always the Squish 100% fruit and veg puree range with enough delicious flavours to please even the fussiest of eaters.

August 24, 2021

Chicco Akita Fix Air 123 Car Seat

We get asked by a lot of parents – what do we do when our baby outgrows the infant car seat that came with our Travel system? What is the best option to keep baby safe? When will we know to “upgrade” to the next level of car seat? In an ideal world, parents will only need one homologated seat that can be used from birth till your child is 12 years of age – but this is not always possible. Often, parents use previously purchased travel systems in the case of a second or third child joining the family or are using gifted items from loving friends and family. Once your baby reaches the age of approximately 9 months, they will have outgrown their infant car seat also known as group 0+ (unless you have a fully homologated option – we have a few in our range that you can research) and it will be time to transition them into a group 1/2/3 seat to ensure they are kept safe in the car. INTRODUCING THE CHICCO AKITA FIX AIR 123 CAR SEAT The Chicco Akita Fix Air 123 is a comfortable and safe solution for children that have grown out of their Gro 0+ travel system car seat and now require a front-facing car seat. Installed either with Isofix connectors or your vehicles 3-point seat belt, this seat can be used from 9 months till 12 years of age. It is imperative that the belts and headrest of the seat be perfectly adapted to your child’s size – there is no one size fits all when it comes to safety after all – but this is simply done as the Chicco Akita Fix can be adjusted simultaneously with just one movement. A seat reducer provides a supportive and comfortable cushion for smaller children. Once your child reaches the age of 4, they are considered tall enough to be buckled up with your car’s own seat belt. The built-in belt system of the child car seat can be dismantled easily – that way, the Chicco Akita Fix can be transformed into a group 2/3 child car seat in no time at all. To ensure the best possible positioning of the lap belt, an additional belt positioner forms part of this versatile seat. Equipped with a side impact protection system for maximum protection, the comfy and elegant Chicco Akita Fix will convince the whole family and remain a loyal companion – for many years. Get yours from any participating baby outlet for R5499.99. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za

August 24, 2021

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