Lifestyle - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

Herbal extracts and how they can help overcome common women’s health issues

These days supplements, which include vitamins, minerals and herbal extracts, are easily available and more accessible. Fortunately, science and technology has also come a long way in recent years and we have made impressive strides with vitamins, minerals and herbal extracts in particular when it comes to studying and knowing the mechanism of action and how it relates to the body’s physiology and thereby, how it helps keep you healthy or how it can help treat ailments. The Salome range, launched by South African pharmaceutical company 3Sixty Biomedicine, addresses common women’s health issues using herbal extracts as a key ingredient. The current product range offers over the counter treatment options to help manage heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and infertility linked to PCOS. 3Sixty Biomedicine locally manufactures their products and because they are based on herbal extracts the added benefit for consumers is that they are safe to use and have limited side effects. Being a biotechnology company, the efficacy of these ingredients included in their products is backed by science and medical studies, which is why their products are recognized and reimbursed by certain medical aids. Common women’s health conditions that moms can do without – period! Primary dysmenorrhea, the technical term for period pain without the presence of other conditions such as endometriosis, is the most common gynaecologic problem in women of all ages and races with the 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 (heavy menstrual flow and prolonged bleeding). 3Sixty Biomedicine created their Salome Heavy Menstrual Bleeding product to help alleviate this problem. The product also draws on herbal extracts from Capsella Bursa-Pastoris, a medicinal plant also 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). Understanding the basics of PCOS 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. There is a solution! The full Salome range that contains natural herbal extracts is available online at Takealot.com and www.3Sixtybiomedicine.co.za, as well as over the counter at most pharmacies nationwide. The products are recognised and can also be reimbursed by medical aids. 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. Facebook: SalomeRange Twitter: SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange

November 1, 2021

Survey shows parents more worried about child consent than Covid-19 vaccine itself

The announcement by the South African government that children aged 12-18 are now eligible for Covid-19 vaccination has brought with it intense discussion around consent and the rights of minors. While this is so far a theoretical concern, given that most children in that age group will need their parents’ help to register for and receive a vaccination shot, a recent survey shows that the efficacy of the jab itself is no longer a sticking point. When gig technology company, M4Jam ran a survey asking adults if they were willing to be vaccinated in late 2020, 32% of the 3000 respondents said they would. 17% believed their community medical facilities could cope with the patient load, and 58% of respondents wanted to wait and see what happened to others who took the jab before deciding for themselves. In August 2021, a follow-up survey found that 56% of South Africans believed medical facilities would cope and 69% said they would happily be vaccinated. In both surveys, leading causes of mistrust and hesitancy were a lack of confidence in both possible side effects and the government’s ability to ensure that the vaccine’s contents were safe and effective. By the end of October 2021, a new dynamic has emerged in the vaccination drive, with parents now able to decide whether their kids should receive a single dose. In a new M4Jam survey, 2498 South Africans answered questions about children and the vaccine, revealing some positive trend shifts from previous surveys. A total of 1886 (76%) of the respondents are parents, which 80% of them said they would get their children vaccinated.. 47% strongly agreed with the statement. 52% of respondents said they had no concerns about children receiving the vaccine, but 74% were concerned that children do not require parental consent to get vaccinated. 64% of the parents said all that mattered to them was how effective the vaccine was in children, although 56% were still worried about possible short and long-term side effects from the vaccine. “The results show an evolution of opinions in line with widening vaccination rollout and proven effectiveness,” says M4Jam CEO Georgie Midgley. “The more people who are vaccinated or know people who are, and the more those vaccinated people that have steered clear of Covid-19, the more positivity around the use of the vaccine will grow. However, people are still sceptical of the long-term safety of the vaccine as only time can resolve.” 83% of respondents felt children aged 12-18 are too young to make such a decision for themselves. “Again, because this is new ground for the vaccination programme, parents are understandably cautious about any potential differences in effects on children versus what adults experience,” says Midgley. When asked which sources of information parents trusted in deciding to get their children vaccinated: “What was very interesting and encouraging was that only 5% of respondents said they trusted what they read on social media completely. Co-workers and classmates received a similarly low complete trust rating at 9%. The vaccination messaging campaign seems to have made significant headway so that any residual concerns and fears are mostly legitimate by this stage. Parents are more worried about the ability of their children to make important decisions than they are about the vaccine itself,” says Midgley.

October 29, 2021

Chicco Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus

Chicco, world leaders in baby travel, introduce the brand new toddler seat, the all-round, comprehensive Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus – perfect for the forward-facing part of your child’s car travels. Relax and #parentmore knowing your little one is as protected as can get with the rigorous safety standards that come with every Chicco car seat. Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus grows with your child and features a new level of safety – the new Safe Pad. The perfect booster seat for toddlers, this group 2/3 car seat is suitable for children weighing between 15 kg and 36 kg (From 3 – 12 years). Installing the Chicco child safety is easy and done in only a few steps by using your vehicle’s own 3-point belt which makes it perfectly suitable for being installed in almost every vehicle type. In order to gain even more safety and security for your child, you can attach the rigid FixPlus connectors to the Isofix-points in your vehicle. No matter when or how fast your little one grows, the Oasys 2-3 Fixplus Evo car seat always adapts perfectly to your child’s body size. Both height and width can be adjusted independently of each other by using a convenient rotary wheel. At the touch of a button, you can adjust the backrest and seat surface in four different levels until a comfortable position for your little one is created. The integrated cup holder keeps their bottle or sippy cup within arms reach for road trips. If your little one spills on the car seat, no problem! Easily remove the cover and throw it in the wash to restore its slick and pristine look. You can pick up Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus from Takealot, Loot, The Kid Zone, Babanino and other participating retailers now.

October 29, 2021

Good news for concerned parents using iPhones – FYI play it safe now available in web browser

FYI play it safe, the app that alerts parents when their children are in potential online danger can now also be used by parents with iPhones. “In our first release of FYI play it safe, we had the ability to provide the application only to Android-families. We have received many requests from parents who use iPhones to develop a version that can be accessed from their devices. We are excited to announce the release of FYI safe web, making the monitoring of children’s activities available to parents from any web browser on any device. This means that parents with iPhones or iPads will now also benefit from the protection of FYI play it safe for their children,” said Rachelle Best, CEO and Founder of FYI play it safe. “Although we are continuously updating the words, phrases and emojis we include in our monitoring mechanisms, this release also includes a significant expansion in any drug-related activity, which we believe strengthens the level of comfort FYI play it safe gives to our parents,” continued Best. Privacy remains a top priority and the relevant measures have been put in place and are continuously strengthened for both parents and their children who subscribe to the app. FYI play it safe is not a parental control app, but rather a complementary layer of added security for parents of children between the ages of 8 and 16. “While tweens and teenagers are focused on having fun and meeting new friends online, parents need to balance the tension between respecting their children’s privacy and navigating the risks presented by social media platforms, gaming, anonymous chat rooms and search engine content.” concluded Best. Download the app at www.fyiplayitsafe.com and follow the easy three-step sign-up process to start your free 7-day trial.

October 22, 2021

Review: Organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser

Organic diffusers are an affordable, versatile, and convenient way to improve your health and quality of life. The organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser is a beautiful atmospheric essential that works through the simple process of oil diffusion, which uses differential in air-pressure to turn oil into a vapour that is then spread around a living space. This innovative Nebulizing Diffuser releases a mist of beautiful fragrance of pure essential oils and works together with one of the product’s main features to produce an LED mood lighting that creates a calm and gentle atmosphere. And… it is truly beautiful to look at making it the perfect accessory to any home or office. The organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser uses the Bernoulli’s Principle. It blows pressurised air through a glass pipe and has a convenient knob to adjust the volume of fragrance coming through the nebulizer. The diffuser is quiet and doesn’t require a lot of effort to setup. Everything is included in the box and we had the unit up and running quickly. Once you load the essential oil into the glass reservoir using the supplied dropper, you can switch the unit on. It is quick to release the fragrance and silent as well as beautiful and mesmerising to look at. Using the turning knob we had the unit on the lowest setting and our home was filled with a beautiful fragrance in no time. Not only is this product beneficial for you, it creates cleaner air. Indoor air quality is another proven benefit and makes room for more health improvement. The essential oils are able to help prevent all that you don’t want around you, including bacteria and fungus that needs to be exterminated. With the dust and bacteria decrease you are able to breathe with ease, especially during allergy season. Organic Aromas offer a wide variety of essential oils for you to choose. They are concentrated and you do not need to add water to the unit, so a little… certainly does go a long way. The Organic Aromas website have essential oil sets or you can purchase individual oils to your individual preference. As accidents do happen and the glass is rather thin, if ever your unit does break, you could easily replace the glass reservoir, adapter or cleaning pipes. Certainly one of the better features is that the unit automatically switches off after two hours. We do recommend the usage of the diffuser within a well-circulated or open area. The Organic Aromas Magnificent – Nebulizing Diffuser is a fantastic device. It has added great value. All I need is this one nebulizer to fragrance my home or office. The benefits of diffusers are many and can safely be used every day to: Help you relax Promote feeling of serenity Improve focus and clarity Enhance your mood Help clear airways for easier breathing Promote healthy sleep patterns Relief of pain and cramping Visit the Organic Aromas website to purchase your unit today

October 20, 2021

Let’s Talk about PND

In the weeks leading up to the birth of my daughter, I remember waking multiple times a night due to being uncomfortable and all those bathroom breaks! I was thinking this was my body’s way of preparing me for waking through the night to care for my baby— and would get filled with a sense of excitement and also dread. Although my little one was premature, she was a good sleeper (by newborn standards), I still however never got more than a few hours of sleep at a time. I was physically exhausted, but the emotional roller-coaster was worse. I was constantly anxious, having panic attacks, I was distraught because I felt like my life had been unequivocally changed and that I’d never get it back. I cried every day, but could rarely explain why. I was not the mother she needed, I was not coping, I was failing her, myself and my husband. Why could I not rejoice and marvel at the child I had always longed for? At the time I put this down to the baby blues that I knew was very common after having a baby. But weeks turned into months and the feelings stayed and so did my desperation, I was lost and I did not think I would ever find my way back. I had to reach rock bottom before I realized that I needed help that this was not “normal”. My baby blues had turned into full-blown depression, I knew I had to do something! So I got help, and it was not easy finding my way back. During my journey, there were a few things that helped me find myself again. Get help: Any kind of depression should be seen like any other illness, for example: diabetes. No one will ever tell you to just sort yourself out if you were a diabetic and it is the same with depression. It needs intervention from medical professionals South African Depression and Anxiety Group (sadag.org). Make time for yourself: relax and take a break from your little one. Do something that makes you feel good. Share what you are feeling: Having someone just listen to how you are feeling can help you work through how you feel in a safe place. Have a support system: support will play a big part in recovery make sure they know how you’d like to be supported. Very often it is our instinct to take on everything. Allowing others to help can reduce your stress. Make time for friends and family. Spending time with those you love increases your “feel good” brain chemicals. Make meals a priority. The foods you eat can affect your mood. Keep blood sugars stable and ensure you continue to take your postnatal vitamins. Get out and about: going outside in the fresh air and slowly introducing some exercise. It can give you some perspective and time for your body and brain to have a breather. Join a group for mothers. Chatting to others who are experiencing similar struggles can be reassuring and it is also a good social outlet. Get some sleep: A good night’s sleep. This was one of the biggest factors for me. When I started sleeping more, I notice a huge difference in not only my mood but in my child. At the time I did not realize how sleep and your mood are extremely closely related and mounting evidence suggests that the fewer hours sleep you get, the more likely you are to have a mood disorder like postpartum depression. A recent study shows that only 10% of parents get an average of 7 or more hours of sleep a night! This suggests we are at risk of creating an issue not only for us but for our children who need more sleep than we do! If you suspect how you are feeling is more than just crazy post-baby hormones, please reach out for help, you do not have to continue to struggle in silence, you are not alone and there is help available! By Ohara Kydd – Good Night Consultant

October 19, 2021

essence – What’s Your Fruit Mood

We’re almost out of winter, and just as we prepare our wardrobe and bodies for Summer 2021, it’s time to get into the summery mood with our beauty items too! Sweet watermelon, refreshing grapefruit and exotic coconut – this trio is just as much a part of summer as the sun, sea and sand! Inspired by these three super fruits, essence is bringing the new Trend Edition “What’s your FRUIT MOOD?” with bright colours and fruity-summer fragrances to our face, body and nails this June to put us in the mood for the summer! Whether you’re enjoying a sundowner on the balcony or a picnic in the garden – with primer, fixing spray, nail polish, lip balm and co, everyone is sure to find just what they need for their very own summer vibe! Now it’s time to find out: “What’s your FRUIT MOOD?” Refreshing Jelly essence jelly primer – 01 Be The Coolest One In A Melon! / R57,95 Wonderfully refreshing – and the perfect base for any make-up! The fruity jelly primer with a delicious sweet watermelon fragrance instantly creates a good mood. It makes your foundation last longer and ensures a smooth complexion thanks to its soft-focus effect. The pampering gel texture also offers a cooling sensation for a boost of freshness in the summertime! Smells Fruity essence Mini Scented Nail Polish – 01 Let’s Melong Together! | 02 Be My Main Squeeze! / R30,95 Girls just wanna have fun! The two nail polishes in the Trend Edition don’t just make your eyes light up – the summer-y nuances also have a delightful scent! Whether as refreshing as grapefruit or as sweet as watermelon, the minis turn your manicure into an absolute summer highlight for all the senses and they’re sure to find their space in any beauty bag. Sweet Lips essence Grapefruit Lip Balm / 01 Grab The Fruit! / R47,95 This mini grapefruit is so sweet, you almost want to eat it! And the contents are great too – with this pampering lip balm that gives the lips a subtle red tint and a delicious grapefruit fragrance to put you in the mood for summer. Kissable Lips essence Mini Lip Set / 01 Let Your Moods Swing! / R57,95 Matte or glossy? Or both? In this case, the mini lip set in a cute bag is just what you need as it offers two different colours, finishes and summery fragrances: the highly-pigmented matte liquid lipstick enchants you with its sweet coconut fragrance and the super shiny jelly lip gloss refreshes with invigorating grapefruit. For gorgeous lips with a feelgood factor! Refreshing Mist essence Refreshing All Over Mist / 01 Fruit Up Your Energy! / R67.95 The ultimate body spray by essence with an invigorating grapefruit fragrance offers the perfect boost of freshness on hot days – now even the midday lull at high summer temperatures won’t stand a chance. What’s more, it protects against UV-rays with an SPF of 25 and is PERFECR for your handbag. Simply spray on the desired area of your body – and feel refreshed all around! Super-fine Spray essence Mini Fixing Spray / 01 Keep Calm And Coco On! / R47,95 For maximum durability – even on hot days: the super-fine Mini Fixing Spray with moisturizing coconut water is perfect for on the go and is sure to fit into any handbag. The pleasant coconut fragrance is super relaxing – just like the knowledge that your look will last. Because thanks to the fixing spray in the practical mini format, eyeliner, blush & co. are sure to stay in place even at the height of summer! Stylish Brushes essence Mini Brush Set / 01 In The Mood For Mixed Fruit / R95,95 4 in 1! A total of four stylish mini brushes with transparent handles and pink-metallic elements create the ideal set for an easy beauty look. And the most important thing – the super-soft bristles optimally apply powder textures and effortlessly blend every foundation. Now there’s nothing standing in the way of a fantastic summer look! FAN-tastic! essence Watermelon Fan / R67,95 This fan is your soon to be cutest summer accessory! Stay cool on hot summer days – because this watermelon fan offers a breath of fresh air! With its cute design, it’s also a true eyecatcher and gives every outfit that extra special touch. Available at Clicks, Takealot and House of Cosmetics. Ready to get your fruity on? We can’t wait to see it! Please tag us in your look – here’s to the perfect summer ahead!

October 14, 2021

Home-based care – there is no place like home

The shift towards home-based care was accelerated by the Covid pandemic. Although not necessarily always possible for Covid patients, the benefits of home-based care vs hospitalisation have been highlighted for both patients and their families for several procedures and illnesses. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, says the Scheme has a renewed focus on home-based as an alternative to in-hospital care, without compromising the health of its members. What is home-based care? It’s defined as the provision of health services, by healthcare practitioners and formal and informal caregivers, in the home. Home-based care is to promote, restore and maintain a patient’s maximum level of comfort, function and health, including care towards a dignified death. It can be classified into preventive, promotive, therapeutic, rehabilitative, long-term maintenance and palliative care categories. When is home-based care appropriate? Post-operative care – after a surgery or procedure so that you gain your independence and become as self-sufficient as possible Generalised illness – when you are ill enough to be admitted to hospital but can be treated at home by healthcare practitioners Palliative care – when you have life-limiting illnesses and the focus is on the relief of symptoms, pain and stress. Some patients may also receive therapeutic treatment. The primary benefit of home care is that you are in a space which is familiar and usually surrounded by loved ones. This is beneficial not only for those recovering from a disease or needing palliative care but especially those who have cognitive diseases such as dementia. The alternative to hospital strategy (ATH) Dr Mkhatshwa says, ‘Hospital-at-home enables some patients who need acute-level care to receive care in their homes, rather than in a hospital. This care delivery model has shown to reduce costs, improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience. The need for home-based care is not only because of the cost of hospital care but a shortage of beds, nursing staff and other healthcare professionals, particularly in the public sector.’ ‘Bonitas is constantly looking for ways in which to minimise contributions and add value for members. It is common knowledge that hospitalisation costs are the main cost driver for all medical schemes. Even with 24-hour professional care at home the costs are far less. Most medical aids will pay for nursing care at home For this reason, Bonitas’ partnered with Quro Medical, an innovative South African digital health company, to provide patients with active treatment by healthcare practitioners at home. The technology-enabled hospital-at-home service brings all the essential elements of in-hospital care to the patients’ home, without moving away from evidence-based protocols and state-of-the-art vital sign monitoring. Patients are monitored wirelessly, automatically and continuously to enable early identification of significant clinical change or deterioration. In fact, research has shown that, ‘patients admitted in the home programme were less likely to return to the hospital within 30 days of their discharge’. ‘The partnership also offers earlier and safer relocation to the home,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa’ home-based care is offered to all members, subject to pre-authorisation and Managed Care protocols. ‘It’s important to note that the treating doctor remains at the centre of the patient’s care. While patients who are medically stable may qualify for home-based care, each and every one is different and their response to hospitalisation and/or surgery differs. This means each request has to be reviewed carefully to ensure we provide quality care to deliver the best possible health outcome for the patient.’ The advantages of home-based care Health care at home, in a comfortable environment, improves patient participation in treatment. Having family members and loved ones participating in the care of a loved one – such as helping with bathing, feeding – makes a significant difference in the outcome. Personal attention Hospitals, out of necessity, have strict rules so instead of the patient adjusting to these, they can be at home, amongst family and in familiar surroundings. Nursing sisters or carers come to the home for a few hours a day, full time or when the need arises There are no visiting hours and the patient is the primary focus of the caregiver, so needs are met faster and more time is spent with patients. This also means a faster recovery and the chances of picking up an infection, which can happen in hospital when they are exposed to germs, is reduced. Independence and companionship Losing independence is always a huge concern for those chronically ill or the elderly. Having home-based care means they have more control and can decide when they want to eat, drink, socialise and sleep. Companionship A caregiver provides your loved one with a familiar face, friendly conversation and a meaningful human connection, all of which can have a big impact on overall health and well-being. Family involvement Home care enables the family to play a larger part in their loved one’s care plan, this includes a direct line of communication with the caregiver and a care manager providing frequent updates regarding care. Pets It is common knowledge that pets are beneficial to those who are vulnerable and home-based care means pets can stay with their owners. They help calm dementia patients, reducing heart disease and stress related conditions and generally make patients happier. What about home-based care for COVID-19 For patients with mild disease, home management may be possible, provided they are not at high risk of deterioration (i.e., older than 65 years or presence of co-morbidities). Dr Mkhatshwa says, ‘It must be stressed that while hospital care is indispensable for patients in critical condition, home health care is equally right for thousands of people. This personal approach to treatment gives patients the confidence they need to lead independent, full lives. We have no doubt that this is going to play a key role in the future of healthcare.’

October 13, 2021

Keto And Zuri Learn About COVID-19

Roche and the Kolisi Foundation today launched a children’s book, Keto and Zuri Learn about COVID-19, that will help parents and caregivers across Africa explain COVID-19 to children by sharing scientific facts in age-appropriate language. The book is available to download for free on both the Kolisi Foundation and Roche’s websites, and a limited run of free printed copies will be distributed throughout Africa in seven languages. “We recognize the confusion and concern that children may be facing as a result of the pandemic and the changed behaviors of those around them. Similarly, we know the difficulties many parents and caregivers share in explaining scientific facts and public health policies to their children,” said Bart Vanhauwere, Area Head Africa, Roche. “This book aims to present the realities of COVID-19 in an easily digestible, approachable manner to help children and adults alike understand the changes caused by the pandemic and continue taking action to stay healthy.” “We often notice that the families we meet need information in addition to more practical support. This is why the Kolisi Foundation is proud to partner on the creation of this book. It helps children understand COVID-19 and emphasizes the importance of health and safety behaviours, to protect themselves and their family members and friends. The full-colour illustration is visually appealing and the book is published in multiple languages,” said Valerie Anderson, Kolisi Foundation Operations and Programmes Manager. In South Africa, Transnet, a 25-year partner of Roche, will be handing out a limited printed supply of the books through the Phelophepa trains. These two trains, of which Roche is the main external sponsor, are free, mobile healthcare clinics that are now dedicated to COVID-19 screening, testing and awareness for people living in rural communities. The One by One Target Covid Campaign is also a partner of Keto and Zuri Learn about COVID-19. The Campaign is proudly supporting the distribution of the new children’s book in Uganda, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. To help spread further awareness, they announced the creation of the book to their AfricaCovidChampions, who they brought together in an effort to spread reliable information about COVID-19. AfricaCovidChampions is a new initiative that includes some of the most prominent African celebrities, media personalities, journalists, and influencers from the sports, entertainment, business, cultural and faith communities. Among many others, these prominent figures include Heritier Wanabe (Musician), Simon Mwewa Lane (TV Show Host), Joseph Kusaga (Media Owner), Jeff Koinange (Journalist/Talk Show Host) and Gift Ali (Ugandan Football player / Sports Personality). These influencers have committed to serve as powerful public health advocates and will help the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reach people with the essential information needed to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital copies of the children’s book can be downloaded here. It is available in multiple languages, including English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa Setswana, Portuguese, French:https://www.roche.com/sustainability/philanthropy/covid-19-childrens-book.htm About Roche Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics focused on advancing science to improve people’s lives. The combined strengths of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics under one roof have made Roche the leader in personalised healthcare – a strategy that aims to fit the right treatment to each patient in the best way possible. Roche is the world’s largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology and diseases of the central nervous system. Roche is also the world leader in in vitro diagnostics and tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a frontrunner in diabetes management. Founded in 1896, Roche continues to search for better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases and make a sustainable contribution to society. The company also aims to improve patient access to medical innovations by working with all relevant stakeholders. More than thirty medicines developed by Roche are included in the World Health Organization Model Lists of Essential Medicines, among them life-saving antibiotics, antimalarials and cancer medicines. Moreover, for the twelfth consecutive year, Roche has been recognised as one of the most sustainable companies in the Pharmaceuticals Industry by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI). The Roche Group, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, is active in over 100 countries and in 2020 employed more than 100,000 people worldwide. In 2020, Roche invested CHF 12.2 billion in R&D and posted sales of CHF 58.3 billion. Genentech, in the United States, is a wholly owned member of the Roche Group. Roche is the majority shareholder in Chugai Pharmaceutical, Japan. For more information, please visitwww.roche.com. About the Kolisi Foundation Founded by Siya and Rachel Kolisi, the Kolisi Foundation has the vision to change the narratives of inequality in South Africa. Seeking to support people living in under-resourced communities in South Africa by providing relief resources, facilitating capacity-building and horizontal learning exchanges, and mobilizing and advocating for systemic change. Driven by their motto to ‘remember the one, one by one’, the Kolisi Foundation is invested in researching, piloting and developing projects centred around three programmatic areas: Food Security, Gender-Based Violence, and Education and Sports Development. For more information, please visit www.kolisifoundation.org.

October 12, 2021

WEANING 101: HOW TO START SOLIDS

It’s something to celebrate when your tiny tot tastes something other than formula or breast milk for the first time. But often, the overload of information makes parents fearful of starting solids. Go with your gut and take your cues from your kiddie. If they’re old enough and face-planting into your plate to try to share your lunch, it’s usually a sign they’re ready! Here are some simple tips for a solid start to solids. Nadia Jansen van Rensburg, co-founder of Rooted Natural and a clinical dietitian with a special interest in paediatric nutrition, says, “We started Rooted Natural because we wanted children to have a healthy relationship with food right from the get-go. It’s natural for parents to be preoccupied with whether their little ones are eating well. But it can become an unhealthy obsession very easily, which means missing out on the joy of the experience. “The best advice is to be relaxed and let your baby lead the process. Repeated exposure of as many tastes, textures, smells and colours as possible. We eat with all our senses!” Here are van Rensburg answers parents’ most pressing questions when it comes to solids: When should I start solids? It’s different for every child. From four to six months, infants are developmentally and emotionally ready to start exploring a new method of feeding – and new foods, flavours and textures. Their nutritional needs increase and the introduction of solids helps to optimise growth and brain development. Plus, more energy from food supports their increasingly active bodies as they begin to sit, play and crawl. It’s a wide window period, so take your cues from your little one. They need to be able to sit with minimum support and have good head and neck control. Children often show you when they’re ready by grabbing at food, and sucking their lips or opening their mouths when morsels are nearby. How do I set the scene for success? It’s a great idea to get into regular feeding rhythms right from the start. Sit your little one at the table in a chair or in a chair with a clip-on tray and make sure their feet are supported. Avoid screens and any distractions. Try to get them excited about the food – its taste, textures, colours and smells! Positively talking about food is an important part of the process. Allow them to play! Play is a pivotal part of children’s learning process so let them have fun with their food. That’s how they’ll learn to eat by themselves. Time it well. Your baby should be rested, hungry and interested; not overly hungry, overtired, stimulated or fed. Importantly, you need to be relaxed as well. Go with a single flavour at first. Think about starting with vegetables, then progressing to fruit, grains and protein combinations. Should I do the puree or baby-led weaning approach? That’s up to you! The more traditional take is for first foods to be smooth, soft purees, then there’s a progression to textured purees and, eventually, whole meals. The latest trends and research are seeing parents include the baby in the meal – e.g., if they reach for a whole broccoli stem, let them try it. There’s no right or wrong! We recommend combining the two methods. This way, you ensure adequacy, but baby also gets to play, participate and explore, which fuels tactile development. Remember, the bigger the mess, the higher the success! Van Rensburg concludes, “Our Rooted Natural brand was designed to bring fun to the feeding process, with wholesome, sugar-, salt- and preservative- free foods that let children play with new tastes and textures. Healthy kids are happy kids. I’m a dietitian and my co-founder, Kirby, is a professional chef. We combined our love of food to create a range of organic, earth-friendly baby and toddler food that takes the stress out of solids. “We encourage you to relax and enjoy this new chapter. It’s a beautiful, exciting one. Most importantly, you’ve got this. You’re a brilliant parent. Go with your gut and learn with your little one.” For more information on Rooted Natural, visit RootedNatural.co.za or follow on Instagram and Facebook.

October 8, 2021

IN TOUGH TIMES, IT’S MORE IMPORTANT TO TALK MONEY THAN EVER

Most people’s expenses exceed their income. That is according to a recent poll by popular parenting platform ‘Momsays’. Just 25.8% are managing to save consistently. More than 40% don’t save at all. Many families are feeling stretched and stressed right now, which makes it more important than ever to play open cards, pull together, and start having those important money chats. Having regular family ‘money dates’ is one of the best ways to set shared goals and get on the same page. It’s super important to pull little people into the family financial planning. But try to do so in a way that makes it real – and less boring! Money talk can be so dry and small people’s eyes tend to glaze over easily. Try to make it as relevant and practical as possible. Mariska Oosthuizen, Head of Brand at Sanlam, says, “When you’re buying groceries, turn finding the lowest price for the same product into a game. Or, have a competition at home to see who can earn the most money from doing extra chores. Or sit together as a family and go round the circle and name a dream you each want to save for.” The Momsays Survey showed that South African families talk about money more than many may think. Oosthuizen adds, “Encouragingly, 91.3% of respondents said they speak about money as a family, with 32.8% doing so on a monthly basis, 20.6% weekly and 15.8% have daily discussions. “That’s really amazing. However, of those with kids, 51.8% of participants’ children were not saving. There’s a real opportunity when kids are young to set them up on a solid savings journey for life. Our free Sanlam Savings Jar app can help kick-start this. It encourages ‘young dragon masters’ to embark on an epic savings quest. The more virtual treasure kids save, the bigger their ‘pet dragon’ grows! This is all part of inspiring little ones to live with financial confidence – now and in adulthood.” Goal setting is a pivotal part of learning to manage money. The survey showed that of the people who were managing to save, 51.8% were saving for their kids, 37% were contributing to an emergency fund, and 15.6% were saving for a house. Oosthuizen adds, “It can be a really special exercise to share these goals together. Happily, 67.2% of respondents said they do set shared financial goals as a family. Let your little ones know what you’re saving for and ask them what they’d like to save for as well.” Another big part of introducing children to finances is teaching them the value of money. Over half (54.8%) of the respondents said their last ‘big spend’ was on food, 11.4% said health-related items, and 8% their vehicle. Most wished they spent less money on bills (48.1%), 22.9% said ‘eating out’ and 6% said beauty buys. It’s important to be honest about these things and involve kids in the budgeting discussions so that they gain an understanding of what things cost. 45.6% of respondents said they never involved children in these chats. Oosthuizen adds, “It’s so important to teach kids the difference between needs and wants. Take them through the budget and your expenses each month. It’s vital to let them see you enjoy your money and indulge in spoils occasionally. But it’s equally important to show the ‘opportunity cost’ of that. ‘If I put money towards this now, I’ll have less money for the other goal we’re saving for’. “The bottom-line is that it’s wonderful to make ‘money talk’ a natural, frequent conversation in your home. It takes any ‘scariness’ out of finances and it can encourage a real closeness. It’s special to celebrate big and small victories together. It’s also important to show kids how learning vital savings lessons in the tough times means manifesting good money habits in the ‘good times’ as well. That’s what a mind-set of abundance is all about.”

October 7, 2021

Your child needs a Cyber Safety Helmet

Whether our children are into cycling, motorcycling, BMX, Skateboarding, Motocross or roller-skating, it is only a matter of time before accidents happen. One of my adrenaline-junkie friends always says there are two types of riders: those who have had their first accident; and those who are going to have their first accident. This analogy can be applied to our children’s online and offline activities. When you buy your child his or her first bicycle, or pair of roller-skates it typically goes hand-in-hand with a helmet to keep them safe in case they fall. Through trying out and playing different types of sports, we equip them with the right gear to ensure they play it safe. Navigating their digital journeys, online interactions or the way they search for information on their mobile devices are not dissimilar. With smartphones being such an integral part of our future and the careers they will eventually choose, we don’t want to deprive them from participating in the digital world, but we want to ensure they play it safe. …but definitely not my child As parents, we sometimes get stuck thinking about our children as the innocent toddlers and kids they were. We picture them unwrapping their first bicycle with the safety wheels still on, wanting to put their helmets on the right way. Still knowing that they need protection and not giving any attention to whether this look is cool enough, which becomes the main concern in their teenage years. The harder reality that we are faced with, is that even when we think they are ‘innocence impersonated’, they are subjected to an amount of peer-pressure and participating in an online world that we cannot fully comprehend. They are exposed to an environment where they are constantly inundated with new apps, new online friends (who they have or have not met), new information and a new way of balancing their digital activity and reality. Keeping them safer in this world means reinventing the way we educate them about cyber safety and, even then, monitoring what they are exposed to, but in a way that also protects their privacy. It’s about giving them the phone, but adding the cyber safety helmet. Protecting their young minds Most tweens and teenagers go through a phase of getting stuck in their minds rather than talk about everything. When they encounter events that bother them, whether in person or online, their first port of call may not be their parents. They fear that when they speak up about difficult situations and their parents try to intervene (or interfere), that the situation will get worse. This could happen when they are being bullied or cyberbullied or when they have seen content that their minds can’t really deal with at that age. They may also encounter content such as pornography or sexting that cause them to feel guilt and shame, but remaining curious to engage even more. When these events happen, they need our help more than ever. They need advice from parents or caregivers to guide them on this journey. But for parents, not knowing when or how this happens means that we can’t protect their minds or their thoughts and unless they talk to us about it, we seldom have any way of knowing. Some parents keep a close eye on all the devices in the home, but with all our time constraints, it is so easy to miss something small that could lead to a bigger issue. However, wearing their cyber safety helmet when they participate in the digital world, the state of the art algorithms of FYI play it safe empower parents with this information. Whether their thoughts are about the bullying situation, or when they consider searching for information about self-harm or suicide, their cyber safety helmet will protect them and alert you to intervene and guide them to safety. Playing it safe with FYI play it safe Smart parenting is about watching them skateboard through the streets and knowing that they have the equipment to safely lean into the next corner. It’s watching them mountain biking on a single-track downhill at a ridiculous speed, but with the certainty that they are protected and are less likely to get hurt if they fall. It is about building better relationships with our children, where we have the information to discuss actual difficult situations they encounter, rather than hypothetical scenarios. Where our guidance actively influences the content they search for, post and like on social media. Where we have the opportunity to guide them on who they accept as friends or which messages on chats they react to and more importantly, how they respond. Safety, whether physical, emotional, psychological or in cyberspace isn’t expensive. It’s priceless.

October 6, 2021

Child Passenger Safety

Road traffic injuries are the 4th leading cause of injury in children and account for 12% of all injuries. In 2020, 677 children were treated for traffic related injuries at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital Trauma Unit, down from 769 in 2019. Passenger injuries were 22% of traffic injuries. Of the child passengers treated, only 13% were in car seats. Most children in South Africa travel without being properly buckled up either in child safety seats or seat belts. If a child is not properly buckled up while in a car, they have a great chance of dying in the event of a collision or crash. Child safety seats and safety belts, when installed and used correctly, can prevent injuries and save lives. In the event of a car crash and there is a child standing in the car, that child can be thrown out of the car, like a missile and there is a 75% chance that the child will die! Parents and caregivers must always buckle up all children at every opportunity. ChildSafe reminds parents and caregivers of the following:

October 6, 2021

Emotional Intelligence: The most important gift you can give your child in this post-pandemic world

EQ. Two simple letters that wield such a determining influence in our children’s lives. Emotional Intelligence (or EQ as it’s more commonly known) is not a novel concept. For years the importance of developing children’s EQ and IQ in tandem, has been discussed and promoted in scholarly articles and mainstream media alike. The question being asked now (and louder than it’s ever been asked before) is – were we paying attention? The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the calling upon of resilience, empathy, confidence, adaptability to unpredictability, embracing of change and countless other skills that the emotionally intelligent child possesses. And in doing so, it has shone a spotlight on the vast difference in the coping capacity of the high-EQ child versus the not-so-high. But does this matter? Yes. Yes it does. It matters because the pandemic has demonstrated that being emotionally intelligent is an outlook, an approach to life and a determinant of success that will be more important than ever in the aftermath of multiple levels of lockdown and the severe restrictions that were and still are being placed on our children’s complex socialisation needs. The socio-emotional consequences of 2020’s school closures and mandatory isolation are manifesting fast and furiously. Increased cases of childhood anxiety, depression, peer-related issues and behavioural challenges are presenting at schools and in homes…And it’s only through increased efforts in EQ Education that we can hope to offset these consequences for our children in the long-run. But where do we even begin? At the very beginning, ofcourse. Much like learning the basics of reading and writing requires first learning the alphabet – children should be taught emotional awareness and expression (the basic principles of EQ) by first being taught to identify their feelings accurately. Too few children are able to differentiate their feelings and the feelings of others beyond “happy”, “sad”, “scared” or “angry”. But “sad” is not the same as “guilty” and “angry” is not the same as “rejected”. Storybooks like those in the “Game Ranger Grace & The Big 5 Feelings” series have been specifically created to expand the emotional vocabulary of young children. To expand a child’s emotional vocabulary is to help them take their first step on the road to emotional intelligence, because the ability to accurately identify an emotion directly impacts the ability to effectively regulate and express it. And the good news is that the younger the child when EQ Education efforts start, the greater the long-term benefits will be. So start at the very beginning…it’s a very good place to start! Visit www.tjtrainingsolutions.co.za to order copies of the first book in the “Game Ranger Grace & The Big 5 Feelings” series or email [email protected] to query available EQ resources and workshops.

October 5, 2021

The Dry Shampoo Phenomenon

Once just a standby for hair emergencies, dry shampoos have fast become a staple in more or less everyone’s beauty routine and even more so since lockdown hit last year. With many of us still working and studying remotely and practicing social distancing, dry shampoo has become particularly handy on days when we feel like skipping a wash day or two but still want our tresses to look fresh when we need to jump on that last minute Zoom call. Lockdown has taught us many things with one of them being to never underestimate the confidence boosting power of a dry shampoo! No longer do we turn to dry shampoo just to banish greasy roots; we also use it as a quick fix to breathe life into second-day styles and let us not forget to mention all the time and water you save washing your hair less frequently. After all, we all know that washing your hair daily strips away the natural oils that keep your hair healthy and well moisturised. As with most things in life, less is often more and when it comes to looking after your locks, less shampoo equals healthier hair! A phenomenon when it comes to dry shampoos, COLAB, the multi award-winning dry shampoo, created by a team of beauty industry experts is a favourite amongst many. Loved by all hair types, colours and textures, not only does COLAB offer powerful oil absorption but it’s completely invisible and smells amazing too. What’s more, COLAB is totally cruelty-free, against animal testing and vegan-friendly! Developed using a very fine starch, COLAB’s innovative formula uses tiny particles to effectively absorb excess oil and grease from the scalp, whilst instantly refreshing roots. Because less product is sprayed onto the hair, COLAB dry shampoo goes to work invisibly, leaving absolutely no white residue! Not even on dark hair. Hair feels instantaneously clean, soft and beautifully fragranced without the hair’s natural body and bounce being compromised. The perfect choice for reviving your tresses quickly and on the go, simply spray directly on to your hair, massage and style! Packaged in a confident, colourful and cool vibe and available in a range of incredible fashion-forward fragrances, COLAB has something for every occasion and every mood! Below we’ve rounded up some of our favourite scents, including the two most recent additions to the COLAB family – Boho Rose and Black Violet. COLAB Dreamer Dry Shampoo COLAB Dreamer dry shampoo gives hair an instant heavenly fix, while softly scenting tresses with delicate notes of cotton and musk. Dare to live the life you’ve dreamed! If you prefer a lighter, barely there fragrance, this award winning scent is a must-have. COLAB Boho Rose Dry Shampoo COLAB Boho Rose is a sweet blushing floral with a vintage soul, inspired by whimsical flower crowns and fine spun with fragrant notes of peony and delicate rose. All whilst instantly and invisibly absorbing oil – with no white residue to ruin your flower crown. COLAB Black Violet Dry Shampoo COLAB Black Violet is a rich, dark floral fragrance inspired by hedonistic evenings under the moonlight, surrounded by sultry wild orchid and sensual violet. Dance the night away with this absolute hair essential! COLAB products retail for RSP R88.95 and are available at Clicks stores.

October 1, 2021

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

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