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How to survive the holiday season without too many gut problems

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The holiday season means many different things to different people, it is supposed to be a period of joy but often it really doesn’t live up to all those expectations that we often have. The media portray images of idealistic families around the Christmas tree having all their dreams come true. For some people the reality is somewhat different, Christmas can be a traumatic time and managing with all the family can be challenging, but it can also be a time when some people are alone too. Here are some tips to help you navigate your way through the period and avoid your gut spoiling the fun.

1. Tis the season to be jolly – really? You have my permission to be a Grinch too if you wish. You should not be expected to see people and be jolly, especially people who you never get along with during the rest of the year. If you don’t get on with someone then Christmas is not a time that somehow the ‘magic’ will make a difference, and likely if your inhibitions are lowered with the odd glass of Advocaat (add your choice of tipple here!) it will not end well! Suggest that you have other plans this year, make your apologies for not seeing them if you wish.

2. Scenes on TV cookery shows promote the domestic goddess, but don’t forget all those well choreographed scenes take time and lots of other people to help, likely months of planning too. Not so much of a goddess then! So don’t try to live up to this myth of being able to manage it all, you will only end up frazzled and this will likely make symptoms worse. You could have a Jacobs join – were everyone brings a different part of the dish. Or you could ask people to bring dishes from around the world, and think of others or you could go out to eat on Christmas day. Consider inviting someone who might be on their own on Christmas day. It really doesn’t have to be a traditional day – make new traditions!

Click on here to see what Nigella really thinks

Click on the image to see what Nigella really thinks.

3. Ensure you eat regularly on Christmas day – leaving hours between meals will not help, plan to have a light breakfast before your Christmas lunch – this doesn’t mean grazing all day either. Manage your portion sizes – use a smaller plate if you like your plate full and you will be just as satisfied and not over full and unable to move!

https://i1.wp.com/www.thethingswesay.com/img/4320.jpg

4. Don’t slouch on the sofa eating snacks whilst watching those Christmas movies, let gravity help you gut and try to sit up when eating – or don’t snack, you will eat more than you realise if you are not being mindful about what you are eating. Alternatively plan how much you are going to eat and put it in a bowl so you know when you have had enough. Your body will thank you for it.

Seriously – not a good idea!!

5. Include some light activity mid afternoon if you are able – a gentle walk in the park perhaps or some games to get you moving around.

6. Family dynamics can be a rich source of conflict during the season, this can lead to arguments in the period leading up to Christmas and especially on the day itself. Arguments at mealtimes are really not advisable, this will do nothing to help your digestion. Stress causes your body to produce adrenaline, the fight or flight hormone, this is a response to conflict or dangerous situations, originally utilised so you can escape from predators. Your body is therefore NOT concentrating on digesting lunch. In the distant past a dose of indigestion was a very small price to pay to avoiding being eaten. So you might need to be assertive and lay down some ground rules for everyone to follow so that the meal can be as calm as possible.

7. Budget as much as you can. Planning is the key here and Christmas is for thinking of others, but not at the expense of experiencing anxiety at not being able to live up to their expectations. Again tell people in advance what you are planning, say that you are only going to be able to afford to do certain things – you may find that people are relieved that they don’t have to meet these expectations either.

8. Stick rigidly to your Low Fodmap foods (or other tolerated foods) before the day, so if you eat something that you react to, you possibly won’t have as severe symptoms as you would have with eating as you please for the full season.

9. Drink plenty of fluids through the day – a least six to eight cups of non carbonated drinks and if you do drink alcohol, match every alcoholic drink with a non alcoholic one – this will mean you drink less and stay hydrated at the same time. Drinking whilst eating slows the absorption of alcohol into the body. Stay within the healthy drinking guidelines (no more than 2-3 units per day) and watch mixers for fodmaps and fizz. Make a glass of water the final drink before going to bed to counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol. Remember alcohol is a gut stimulant and hangovers won’t help your IBS symptoms although some people can tolerate small amounts. Try not to over indulge – intoxication can remove your resolve and you might be tempted to have more than you planned. Check out Drink Aware for details of how much alcohol is in your favourite tipple. https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/understand-your-drinking/unit-calculator

The true toll of Christmas tipple how excess plays havoc with mind and body

10. The best tip is – remember to enjoy yourself – it is not money that makes the difference but being in the presence of friends, family and company on the day – spending time with others.

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Happy Holiday!

talkhealth Blog

A World Without Downs

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I will write more about ‘A World Without Down’s/NIPT soon – I need some time to gather my thoughts first (and I’ve got a poorly Ella to look after at the moment!).  The following post is cobbled together from my Facebook posts over the last few days… Alternatively, you could read ‘Losing Down’s Syndrome?‘ – a post I wrote earlier in the year.

Many of you may have noticed that Down’s Syndrome is big news at the moment. Something that I’m sure you know is important to me.

This is the week that Sally Philips’ important documentary is due to air. She will explore the ethical issues and questions arising from the proposed roll out of the new NIPT screening test for Down’s syndrome.

The biggest question being asked…

Can you imagine a world without people like Ella?

 

I am aware that I share a lot of articles, pictures, blog posts and other information relating to DS on my timeline. I am not apologising for this, Down’s Syndrome is a big part of our lives and I am very committed to educating others (maybe you) and busting some of those long-standing, ingrained cultural myths about the condition.

Mainly, I want to get across that having DS is not to suffer, is not debilitating and does not cause distress or trauma to those living with it, (unlike the media would have you believe).

I am not against testing or screening in pregnancy. Nor am I against the new NIPT screening that offers women the chance to find out earlier in their pregnancy, with greater accuracy and in a safer, less invasive way whether her unborn child has a chance of having a chromosomal abnormality – such as Down’s Syndrome.

I do believe women should have choice – in this case, to terminate or not to terminate as difficult a concept as that may be to me. What I am striving for, along with many others is for parents to be given balanced, factual, unbiased information relating to a positive diagnosis of Down’s Syndrome along with unbiased language (no ‘I’m sorry’ and using ‘chance’ instead of ‘risk’) and access to support following a diagnosis – whether that is given pre or post-natally. This is happening far too infrequently at the moment.

I’m encouraging everyone to try and watch the documentary and to think about the issues that Sally puts across.  For she speaks for the vast majority of us within the Down’s Syndrome community.

You can watch on BBC iPlayer (UK only) here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07ycbj5/a-world-without-downs-syndrome

If you watched the documentary or not, please consider taking a few seconds to join our social media THUNDERCLAP for Down’s syndrome.  Supporting the need for women to be given unbiased, factual and better information regarding Down’s syndrome and the screening process itself. We’d also like to see better access to counselling and support groups at the point of diagnosis and that language used should be non-leading e.g. ‘I’m sorry…’

https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/47907-a-world-with-down-s-syndrome

 

Thank You

#worldWITHdowns

 

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talkhealth Blog

A World Without Down’s Syndrome?

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Some of you may have noticed (many of you won’t care!) but it’s almost a year since I posted on here. Not something I’m proud of nor ashamed of but it has made it harder each time I approach the keyboard to know where to start with all of Rosie’s achievements (and mischiefs) in the past 12 months.So I’ve chosen the eve of a potentially groundbreaking short film to ease back in and write a quick post to help spread the word…Tomorrow (Wednesday 5th October 2016) BBC2 will be airing the eagerly awaited documentary from Sally Phillips, ‘A World Without Down’s Syndrome?’”Driven by the experience of raising her son Olly, who has Down’s syndrome, Sally explores some of the ethical implications of our national screening policy.”This could be an important documentary for something that is so so important to me when new parents are faced with a pre-natal diagnosis of Down’s syndrome. That something is, ‘choice’ and not just choice but INFORMED choice. This was one of the primary reason’s I started The Future’s Rosie and it continues to be the driving force behind why I (albeit sporadically now) blog and share personal moments of Rosie’s life on social media. This in itself isn’t easy as I question myself daily about whether it’s the right thing to do – do people really see why I do this or do they carry the opinion I’m exposing what would otherwise be personal family moments as a selfish need for attention? I can answer those that think the latter by saying in all honesty life would be much simpler and less hassle for me if I didn’t do it at all, I’d much rather live in a world where Rosie’s condition wasn’t something I felt I needed to share to show ‘it’s okay’. Too many people are afraid of the ‘unknown’ with Down’s syndrome – yes I was that person too once which is why I know it’s a very real problem. I’m not and never intend to be a part of any ‘PC brigade’ most DS advocates don’t either. For me it’s always been about educating in a non-patronising way and if that means sharing my daughters life to help the cause, then for now at least I’m still positive it’s the right thing to do – even if it is a mere drop in the ocean of change.I, along with so many other parents am very grateful that Sally, who is already in the public eye for professional reasons has used her platform to reach people on a much grander scale than someone like myself could ever dream of. This isn’t a small gesture either I would imagine it’s taken an awful lot of hard work, careful contemplation and courage. Sally is now exposing herself to inevitable debate and criticism which can’t be easy – all for the greater good of educating society to the ‘other’ side of ‘Down’s syndrome, a side that many healthcare professionals would have you believe doesn’t exist – and as you may or may not know I say that from first-hand experience. If you get the chance please do tune in to watch or set your record buttons! The more people that see this short film the better so please share and spread the word too! A world without Down’s syndrome would be a world without my baby, my beautiful girl, ‘Daddy’s little Princess’ and to that I say a resounding no thank you.http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07ycbj5

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talkhealth Blog

Diabetes Foods to Eat – Eat Without Fear

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When you or someone you love is at high risk for developing diabetes or has already been diagnosed with this nearly epidemic disease, fear can sometimes take over. That is only natural, as diabetes does really carry some serious health risks and increase your chances of developing more health concerns than those who are not diabetic. One of the major concerns often becomes what foods to eat; don’t worry, you have a lot to eat without fear.

Nutritionists and physicians will tell you that any sound nutritional plan is not really all about making strict lists of what you can eat and what you can’t eat. It is more about being aware of what you eat and how those foods are likely to be metabolized by the body, and having a balanced diet full of foods rich in fiber and low in calories.

You may have to cut down on sweets, starches, and processed foods, which may be difficult if you are used to eating a lot of them, but that does not mean you will suddenly be subjected to eating only tasteless, yucky foods. You have a lot to eat without fear.

Vegetables, especially fresh or frozen veggies, are delicious and provide all sorts of nutritional value. Broccoli has recently been touted as a blood sugar wonder food, in addition to all its other benefits, so if you are a fan like I am, you are in luck. Just about all vegetables are beneficial, like tomatoes, green beans, cabbages, brussel sprouts, tomatoes, celery, and the like are great for you.

Fruits, even though they do have a bit of sugar in them, are also nutrient dense. You may have to watch which ones you eat, but you do not need to eliminate tasty fruits from your diet altogether.

Protein is important for your muscles, so eating lean meats is healthy and nutritious. Fish, poultry, and lean beef and pork should have a spot on your plate. If you prefer not to eat animals, tofu or some other high protein food will also do well.

Learn More About Blood Glucose Levels.

How to Treat Eczema Without Prescription

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Eczema is an aggravating skin condition also known as dermatitis. Eczema is not contagious and is not a life threatening problem. Eczema causes the skin to itch, turn red, and become flaky and dry. If you are suffering from severe eczema then you must be looking for the effective treatments which can really put an end to this irritating skin infection.

1. An ice pack is a great way to relieve the itching associated with eczema. Simply place a few ice cubes into a plastic bag, and then wrap the bag with a towel. Then apply the towel onto the itchy areas for some quick relief.

2. Avoid excessive sweating and exercise while treating eczema. Excessive perspiration can irritate the condition. Wear light cotton clothing and avoid materials that irritate your skin.

3. Raw tomato is very beneficial for treating eczema. Tomato has Vitamin A that is very beneficial for the body and skin. You can have fresh tomato juice or use sliced tomatoes in salads for getting your regular quota of tomatoes. Regular consumption will help in reducing itching and rashes.

4. Lifestyle changes like avoiding smoking, taking alcohol, avoiding spicy food that may irritate the mouth & lips is another way of treating this condition and trigger flare ups.

5. Paste made of camphor and sandalwood powder provides effective relief on applying to the affected area. Neem a good herb that helps to wash away the infection causing bacteria from the body.

6. Eliminate processed foods and those with high yeast content from your diet. Avoid large amounts of dairy, an extremely common trigger for eczema. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.

7. Application of coconut oil to the skin rashes will help in getting rid of them. Coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer that produces amazing result when you have to treat eczema naturally.

8. Use of black strap molasses (sheera) has been found beneficial in this treatment of this disease. This is presumably due to its high nutritive properties. One tablespoon of molasses mixed in a half a glass of milk should be taken twice daily by grown up children. Improvements will be noticeable within two weeks time.

 

Author is an online medical researcher on eczema treatment and skin care. Click read more on eczema treatment, acne treatment.

Related How To Treat Eczema In Babies Articles

Singaporean Mother Finds Natural Cure for Baby Eczema without Using Steroids

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Singapore, SG (PRWEB) June 18, 2014

6-month old baby Lauren was suffering from baby eczema, otherwise known as atopic dermatitis. The intense itch resulted in the infant scratching herself until she bled, and her mother, Jolene Liow, founder of Jo Lauren Baby Skincare & Bath, decided enough is enough – She created her own natural cure for her baby’s eczema.

Instead of applying topical steroids on Lauren, Jolene relied on her knowledge from her previous work in the skincare industry and formulated the Baby Miracle Balm.

“Lauren was fully breast fed from birth so we could rule out food allergies,” said Jolene, “And it was clear her skin was flaring up due to product irritants in her baby products.” Despite trying several products recommended by Lauren’s pediatrician and friends, Lauren’s eczema only worsened over time.

Instinctively, Jolene decided to create her own moisturizer for Lauren, and bathed her in organic colloidal oatmeal. The result? Baby Lauren’s eczema showed instant improvement and over the course of just 2 months, healed completely without scars. Lauren is turning 15 months and no longer suffers from eczema flare-ups and has enviable baby soft skin.

It was not easy. Even after consulting with veteran industry experts in baby products, Jolene had to come up with several formulations until she perfected the Baby Miracle Balm. Insisting on only the best quality ingredients, Jolene crafted the products using organic and 100% food-grade ingredients. Her mantra: If it’s safe enough to eat, it’s gentle enough for baby’s skin.

Jolene credits the efficacy of the Baby Miracle Balm with its 100% organic high-linoleic sunflower oil base. Instead of the commonly used olive oil or coconut oil base, high-linoleic sunflower oil has a wealth of research backing it’s use in repairing baby skin’s natural barrier function and improving hydration levels. To boost the skin repair quality of the oil, Jolene infused organic Calendula flowers and Plaintain leaves, both of which have proven healing powers. Since bacteria can worsen eczema, Jolene added Elderberry extract, organic Lavender oil and organic Tea Tree oils for potent anti-bacterial and antioxidant qualities in the Baby Miracle Balm.

What started as a remedy for her own baby’s eczema became the inspiration for the boutique line of 8 products for babies and toddlers. And thanks to the Baby Miracle Balm, many mothers have spared their babies from using topical steroids, evident from the glowing customer testimonials on the official website, http://www.jolauren.com.

“My 3 month old had a sudden burst of rashes along the thighs and legs, arms as well as tummy and face. After a week of steroid cream from the paediatrician, there wasn’t much improvements,” said customer Eunice Zhou. “Then I decided to give the miracle balm a shot, hoping for a miracle! After a week of application, the rashes started to dry up and clear, starting with the arms and legs. Her face no longer flares up when she rubs. I’m glad I chanced upon Jo Lauren’s Baby Miracle Balm. Looking forward to my baby regaining her baby soft skin.”

Another customer left a testimonial for the Baby Miracle Balm, “The Baby Miracle Balm has been working wonders! On my baby’s first application, the rough and dry patches became smooth overnight and disappeared just after 4 days of continuous application before bedtime!” Customer Xie Xiaofen continued, “Yesterday, I applied the Baby Miracle Balm over his red flare ups and it calmed down overnight too! The results have been really amazing and best of all, it is so portable to bring along everywhere. Finally a product that is both organic and affordable! Bidding goodbyes to steroids and my boy is ready to try out new food without worrying about those rashes. Definitely recommending it to family and friends.”

Founder Jolene Liow believes that her Baby Miracle Balm is key to restoring baby’s natural skin barrier and that baby eczema can be healed completely without the use of steroids.

Based in Singapore, Jo Lauren Baby Skincare & Bath will be available at Robinsons Department Stores on the 1st of July 2014. For overseas customers, Jo Lauren ships worldwide. For more information, please email contact(at)jolauren(dot)com or visit http://www.jolauren.com.