How Blood Sugar Levels Affect Weight Gain

 

Weight gain is epidemic in the South Africa, with over 70% of women being overweight or obese (this is the highest in Africa). Even more frightening is that 13% of our children are overweight or obese (this is more than double the world average!).1 Being overweight increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and dementia, respiratory problems, osteoarthritis and depression.2 The cost is enormous, not only in rands but also in pain and suffering. Continue reading “How Blood Sugar Levels Affect Weight Gain”

Dealing With Depression Without Medication

We all know someone who suffers from depression or have been depressed ourselves. The problem comes in when we can’t get over the depression and it becomes chronic.

 The World Health Organisation estimates that depression affects 300 million people worldwide.1 According to Mental Health UK, 1 in 6 adults experiences anxiety or depression and 1 in 5 adults has considered suicide at some point.2 In the US it is estimated that over 12% of the population uses antidepressants.3 Depression affects more women than men. In one study, in older people, it is thought to affect ±70% of older people in some countries.4 Continue reading “Dealing With Depression Without Medication”

Antibacterial Cleaners Are Bad For Our Health!

Antibacterial soaps

Just last week I noticed an ad on TV for a new anti-bacterial version of a well known brand of dish washing liquid. It’s another example of how detergent manufacturers are using fear tactics to sell products, in spite of clear evidence that the antibacterial ingredients in the products are seriously bad for our health and the environment . Over the last few years we have been bombarded with ads implying that we are bad parents if we don’t protect our children by using these chemicals.

 Ever stop to think that generations grew up happily, and healthily, without them? Continue reading “Antibacterial Cleaners Are Bad For Our Health!”

High fructose consumption causes liver damage and increases risk of heart disease, putting youngsters at risk.

Fructose in sodas causes health problems

Studies have shown that fructose, commonly found in soft drinks and processed foods can cause serious liver damage and increase the risk of heart disease. This raises concerns for millions of youngsters who consume soft drinks daily, along with processed and packaged foods. Continue reading “High fructose consumption causes liver damage and increases risk of heart disease, putting youngsters at risk.”

Using Paracetamol (Panado, Tylenol, etc) During Pregnancy Linked With Motor Skills and Behavioural Problems In Childhood.

 

Two recent studies have shown that children born to women using paracetamol (acetaminophen) for pain and fever during pregnancy had increased risk of motor skills, communication and behavioural problems. Continue reading “Using Paracetamol (Panado, Tylenol, etc) During Pregnancy Linked With Motor Skills and Behavioural Problems In Childhood.”

Mother’s diet influences baby’s brain and immune system development in the womb and beyond.

Just how important a pregnant woman’s diet is has been dramatically highlighted in the last few years. A number of studies have shown that the baby’s DNA, immune system, future intelligence and even muscle strength are all influenced by what mom eats during pregnancy. It’s becoming all too clear that the future health of the next generation will be determined by the lifestyle choices of women today. In this article we’ll look at a number of recent studies and how women can use the findings to ensure that their babies get the best possible start in life. Continue reading “Mother’s diet influences baby’s brain and immune system development in the womb and beyond.”