Parenting Without Tears has got together with a team of experts to provide you with easy to follow advice to improve your health: A to Z Health Bible. We are presenting this in three parts – here is H to P.
H – Harmonise with hemp
“Phytocannabinoids are natural substances found in the hemp plant, most of which are non-psychoactive. Research has suggested that some phytocannabinoids can have benefits for our health including anti-anxiety, calming effects. For this reason, a supplement containing natural phytocannabinoids such as the brand new Natures Plus HempCeutix Complete Capsules (£39.95) could have benefits for calming our nervous system and helping prevent burnout,” explains Cassandra.
I – Immunity
“Echinacea is most commonly used as a herbal immunostimulant. You can get Echinacea root and make a herbal tea or a herbal tincture to prevent flu symptoms and the common cold. It appears to increase red blood cell count and reduce the length of illness,” explains Francesca Cappozzo, Nutritionist at Maitre of Thyme.
J – Junk food
“Junk food and pre-packaged, processed foods usually have no nutritional value. Remember to consume a varied and colourful diet and choose foods rich in fibres such as sweet potatoes, turnips, carrots, roots, legumes and pulses. These foods can satisfy a sweet tooth and prevent the scales shifting,” suggests Martina Della Vedova, Nutritionist at Natures Plus.
K – Keep hydrated
It’s recommended to drink 6-8 glasses of water each day. “Don’t wait until you get thirsty to drink. You can do that by monitoring your fluid loss during hot weather, illness or exercise, and drinking enough liquids to replace what you lose,” advises Dr Marilyn Glenville.
L – Laugh
“Having a laugh is one of the best remedies for stress. Many studies show that laughter boosts our energy, decreases stress hormones, improves immunity and diminishes pain. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the natural feel-good chemicals that make us happier and relaxed,” explains Dr Glenville.
M – Meal plan
Say goodbye to those pre-packaged supermarket lunches, says Nutritionist Cassandra Barns. “Meal prepping on a Sunday can ensure you have healthy, nutritious lunches available to take with you to work. By already knowing what you’re going to eat for lunch it eliminates the factor of spontaneity, which can lead to the temptation of buying take-away or processed and packaged foods.”
N – Nibble on nuts
Snacking is important to help ward of those mid-afternoon sugar craving. “The best foods to snack on, especially if you have a desk bound job, are unsalted nuts, berries with a pot of Greek yoghurt and lightly salted popcorn,” suggests Francesca.
O – Oily fish
“Essential fatty acids, which are found in oily fish such as Salmon, are important for your health in general, but they also slow down the rate at which the stomach empties, making carbohydrates even more slow-releasing. They can make you feel fuller for longer and also control hunger,” explains Dr Glenville.
P – Pilates
Young, old and all fitness levels can do Pilates. “The wider benefits of Pilates range from an increase in strength and flexibility, better postural awareness, a reduction of pain and an increased function to better sleep. Pilates has also been associated with improving mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, fatigue and fibromyalgia and reducing stress,” explains Eleonora Sansoni, Pilates Instructor at Maître of Thyme.