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      in diet and nutrition

      What Are Tissue Salts And What Do They Do for You?

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      With the pressures of fast-paced living, stress and less-than-perfect nutrition, it’s no surprise that our bodies sometimes feel out of sync. Add the constant battle against bacteria, viruses, pollution and injury, and you’ve got a recipe for cellular chaos. Our bodies work hard to stay balanced, often using up essential minerals faster than we can replace them through diet. That’s where Natura Tissue Salts come in—a natural and gentle way to help restore your bounce and boost your well-being.

      What Are Tissue Salts?

      Developed in the 19th century by Dr. Wilhelm Schüssler, tissue salts are small doses of 12 essential minerals that help correct imbalances and support healthy cellular function. These salts work by enhancing nutrient absorption, which in turn supports overall health.

      Why Your Cells Need Tissue Salts

      Your cells are crucial to keeping your body running smoothly, but when they’re lacking essential nutrients, they can’t perform at their best. Tissue salts help replenish these nutrients, improving nutrient absorption and helping your cells function optimally.

      Benefits and Usage

      Tissue salts provide essential nutrients to your cells, helping to maintain overall health. Available in small, easy-to-dissolve tablets made from a lactose base, they’re convenient and effective. For immediate concerns, take a dose every half hour; for long-term issues, once or twice a day is usually enough.

      The 12 Tissue Salts

      Calc Fluor: Think of this as your elasticity buddy – keeping your tissues strong and flexible.

      Calc Phos: The bone and teeth superstar, crucial for growing kids and anyone recovering from illness.

      Calc Sulph: Your go-to for clear, glowing skin.

      Ferrum Phos: The immune booster that’s perfect for fighting inflammation.

      Kali Mur: Say goodbye to mucus and phlegm with this congestion reliever.

      Kali Phos: The nerve-soothing champion that helps with stress and fatigue.

      Kali Sulph: Keeps your skin and mucous membranes in top shape.

      Mag Phos: A lifesaver for muscle pains and cramps, especially for athletes.

      Nat Mur: Balances moisture levels and supports emotional well-being.

      Nat Phos: Your stomach’s best friend, keeping acidity at bay.

      Nat Sulph: Supports liver function and helps eliminate excess water.

      Silicea: The body’s natural cleanser, flushing out unwanted materials.

      Trusted by Natura

      Natura has been a trusted provider of tissue salts since 1966. Their products come in handy purple glass bottles, perfect for tossing in your bag or pocket. Each bottle has 125 tablets, enough for a month’s supply if taken daily. Natura Tissue Salts are suitable for all ages and easy to administer due to their pleasant taste.

      A Word on Lactose Intolerance

      If you’re considering Natura Tissue Salts for their incredible health benefits, it’s important to know they are made with a lactose base. Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.

      For further information on the Natura Tissue Salts range, please visit the Natura website. 

      **WH Partnership More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Nailed it: Hidden Health Secrets Of Your Hands

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      Your hands are more than just functional tools; they can provide significant insights into your overall health. Let’s explore what your hands reveal about your overall well-being, the potential risks associated with certain hand care practices, and tips to keep your hands healthy and beautiful.

      What your hands say about your health

      Your hands can exhibit various signs that might indicate underlying health issues. Here are a few common observations.

      Nail colour and texture

      Pale or white nails can indicate anaemia or liver disease.

      Yellow nails might be a sign of fungal infection or respiratory issues.

      Pitted or rippled nails could suggest psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis.

      Skin condition

      Dry, cracked skin can indicate eczema or thyroid problems.

      Red, swollen skin might indicate an allergic reaction or infection.

      Hand strength and coordination

      A weak grip could be an early sign of conditions like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.

      Tremors or shaking might be related to neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.

      Risks and dangers: Nail polish and remover

      Image by Freepik

      Manicures and pedicures can be a delightful boost to your confidence. But certain products used in these treatments may pose health risks. Here’s what you need to know.

      Nail polish

      Many nail polishes contain formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), which can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even endocrine disruption.

      Be wary of these and other toxic ingredients, especially in nail polish that does not disclose the full ingredient list. Always opt for brands that are transparent about their formulations.

      Nail polish removers

      Acetone is a common ingredient that, while effective, can be harsh on nails and skin, causing dryness and brittleness.

      Non-acetone removers might be gentler but often contain other chemicals that can still cause irritation or allergic reactions.

      Recent studies have found polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in many cosmetic products, including nail polish removers. PFAS are linked to various health issues, including cancer and reproductive problems.

      READ MORE: How To Strengthen Brittle Nails, According To Dermatologists

      Protect yourself from harmful substances

      For a healthy, safe hand care routine, make sure to:

      Choose products wisely

      Look for nail polishes and removers labelled as “3-free,” “5-free,” or “7-free”, indicating they are free from some of the most harmful chemicals.

      Avoid products with unidentified “fragrance” ingredients, which can hide numerous harmful chemicals.

      Ensure proper ventilation

      When using nail polish or removers, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area to minimise inhaling fumes.

      Remember, natural isn’t always better

      Some natural products contain high levels of botanical extracts, which can cause allergic reactions. Always check the ingredient list.

      Handy tips for healthy hands

      Keeping your hands happy and healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple, effective tips.

      Moisturise regularly: Use hand creams with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, vitamin E and glycerine.

      Protect your hands: Wear gloves when doing household chores or working with harsh chemicals.

      Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

      Go for regular check-ups: Pay attention to changes in your hands and consult a healthcare professional if you notice any concerning symptoms.

      READ MORE: 9 Great Hand Creams That’ll Prevent Dry, Cracked Hands

      By being mindful of the products you use and taking good care of your hands, you can enjoy gorgeous hands while minimising potential risks. Remember, your hands tell a story about your health. Make sure it’s a good one!

      Visit Medihelp’s website at www.medihelp.co.za.

      **WH Partnership More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Can Your VO2 Max Really Reduce Your Death Risk?

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      New research released by Discovery Vitality emphasises the need to view cardiorespiratory fitness (measured as VO2 max) as an important health risk metric. Insights were drawn from Discovery’s unique data, including lifestyle information, clinical screening results and insurance claims data. The findings show the tangible benefits of prioritising CRF which dramatically reduced risk of developing – and dying from – cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers and diabetes, among other conditions.

      [embedded content]

      Vitality Fitness: A one-tap, first-of-its-kind fitness platform

      Linked to these insights, Discovery Vitality announced the launch of two exciting updates to the programme aimed at enhancing the health outcomes of its members. They are a new rewards points metric based on cardiorespiratory fitness level, and a first-of-its-kind exercise platform called Vitality Fitness. The new platform brings a new level of convenience and access to Vitality members, enabling them to view and book an extensive range of workouts provided by a network of gyms and fitness studios around the country. Members access the booking platform through the Discovery app and can book classes in a few taps.

      “My vision is that the insights from this research on cardiorespiratory fitness help inform the global effort to combat the growing epidemic of physical inactivity and its associated health risks. We’re continually exploring ways to incentivise and promote healthier lifestyles among our members, and it’s important that these are backed by research and enabled through the smart use of technology to fit easily into people’s lives,” says Vitality CEO, Dinesh Govender

      READ MORE: Ready To Get Fit? Tap Into The New Vitality Fitness Platform

      VO2 Max: A Key Metric For Overall Health

      Cardiorespiratory fitness refers to how well your respiratory and circulatory systems supply your body with enough oxygen to keep exercising. VO2 max is a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen that your body can use when you’re exercising. As your VO2 max increases, so does your aerobic endurance and ultimately your cardiorespiratory fitness. It is a powerful indicator of one’s potential for a long and healthy life, as even a moderate improvement in VO2 max can reduce risk of death by 21-30%. By understanding and improving VO2 max, individuals can reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and diabetes.

      Vitality’s newly published white paper on navigating cardio fitness for optimal health outcomes highlights the critical role of cardio fitness in health management: Vitality members with higher cardiorespiratory fitness levels experience 30% lower hospital claims, and exhibit 95% lower prevalence of obesity, 84% lower prevalence of high-risk blood glucose levels, and 70% lower prevalence of high blood pressure.

      Good Habits Can Influence Your CRF

      While many may think that their genes largely determine their cardiorespiratory fitness level, this research revealed the importance of forming good habits: Vitality’s fittest members tend to exercise more frequently, for longer, and at higher intensities. Vitality members with higher cardio fitness levels also tend to have earlier bedtimes, earlier wake-up times, and longer sleep durations. All in all, members with higher Vitality statuses exhibited higher cardiorespiratory fitness levels

      “Through advancements in wearable technology and the Vitality Fitness Assessment, our members can easily estimate their VO2 max. This cardio fitness measurement serves as a valuable benchmark for overall health. Our new white paper provides comprehensive research insights, practical guidelines, and tailored pathways to help members understand and improve their VO2 max,” says Dr. Mosima Mabunda, Vitality’s Head of Wellness.

      Prof Jon Patricios, Professor of Sports and Exercise Medicine at Wits University, adds, “In a country with stretched health resources and large disparities in access to care, there is an accessible and affordable solution: optimal cardiorespiratory fitness. The prescription of aerobic-based exercise provides some of the most effective disease prevention strategies and should be our core lifestyle intervention.”

      From July 2024 onwards, Vitality members can earn up to 10,000 Vitality points by improving their VO2 max.

      VO2 max readings will be categorised into five Vitality Cardio Fitness Levels: low, fair, good, excellent and superior. While there is no single ideal VO2 max, everyone should strive to improve to the next level due to the health benefits. The greatest health benefits are seen in individuals who move from a low to a fair level, with additional benefits realised as one improves to a good or higher level. For most people, reaching a good Vitality Cardio FitnessLevel for their age and gender is a great milestone and will provide the health protection needed to live a long, healthy life.

      “By rewarding Vitality members for knowing and improving their cardio fitness, we are not only encouraging varied exercise intensities and durations but also helping them protect their health and extend their lifespans,” says Govender.

      Download the research paper here: Navigating Cardiorespiratory Fitness for Optimal Health. More

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      in fitness and body

      The July/August 2024 Issue Stories That Are Inspiring Our Editors Right Now

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      We really created something special with this issue – yes, we said it! While tackling all things ‘positive body image’, ‘sports’ and celebrating the inspiring girlies who are off to the 2024 Paris Olympics, so much careful consideration went into each topic covered.

      The July/August 2024, themed The Body Issue, couldn’t have come at a better time, reckons our editor Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini. She reminds us of this very crucial factor: “What’s important is to know that our current body is all we have and any future version of ourselves will be reached with this present-day body. So it doesn’t need criticism, it needs encouragement.” The WH Sport section (flip the mag to access it) covers a cycling taboo that’ll give you literal goosies. We certainly had many ‘WTF’ and ‘women go through so much’ moments while editing it.

      Read on to find out what stories our editors are excited for you to lay your eyes on. These, are some life-altering reads we tell ya!

      These Stories Are Inspiring Our Editors Right Now

      Strength Is Universal, July/August 2024

      Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor

      “I hate to sound clichéd, but I’m completely hooked on the entire WH Sport bumper edition! I’m such a die-hard sports fan. You know the type – I get choked up at the finish line and spend Sundays rewatching the highlights. Yep, that’s me, #TeamSA’s biggest supporter. So, this issue is pure gold in my books! From the captivating cover featuring Jo-Ané van Dyk to the Hall of Fame story on Penny Heyns – and all 10 global editions of Women’s Health uniting to celebrate women in sport, this issue is an absolute must-buy. If you’re as passionate about sports like I am, I urge you to grab your copy a.s.a.p!”

      Liquid Gold, July/August 2024

      Kemong Mopedi, Deputy Editor

      If there ever was a place called soup heaven, pages 90 to 95 in the latest issue of Women’s Health SA is it. Cooking, once a favourite pastime of mine, is now a chore that I dread with every fibre of my being (adulting, not me!) Enter soups…Easy and convenient to make, one pot usually ensures that I get all the necessary nutrients needed to sustain my body. I love discovering new recipes and sprucing up old ones. I also scored another soup jackpot in the form of our digital soup guide – pages upon pages of soup recipes for all seasons! Prepare to seriously ladle up…

      READ MORE: The Secrets Of Successful Athletes

      Self-Esteem Under The Microscope, July/August 2024

      Michelle October, Features Editor

      2024 has turned out to be my year of deep self-work in order to uncover this elusive ‘self-love’ concept buried under years of trauma. Self Esteem Under The Microscope (page 48) couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s not so much a step-by-step guide to loving yourself (spoiler: it’s always a work in progress); rather, this article looks at the science of self-esteem and the many layers that create how you view yourself. By unearthing these layers, you can address them one by one until you’ve got a more positive way to look at yourself! An absolutely fascinating read. 

      Why Women Are Choosing To Be Child-Free, July/August 2024

      I’ve always known that being a mother wasn’t my journey. But I’ve always been told that it should, and will, be. Why Women Are Choosing To Be Child-Free (page 84) interrogates this concept and shares the views of many women who decided to forgo motherhood. It also serves as a helpful guide to child-free by choice women who need a bit of guidance for navigating conversations around the topic with others. Because there’s no reason to live a narrative that isn’t yours. 

      Hot & Bothered, July/August 2024

      Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini, Editor

      Everywhere I turn, I come across headlines that read something along the lines of: ‘Hidden Signs Your Body Is Inflamed’ or ‘How To Reduce Inflammation’. Inflammation is a common buzzword in the health and nutrition sphere lately. It’s deemed a major player in all sorts of health issues you don’t want to deal with. *Cue scary music*. But not all inflammation is necessarily bad. In fact, it can be quite a healthy, normal process for our bodies. Like, if you have a sprain, your body is stopping you from moving your foot. So how can you tell “good” inflammation from the kind of inflammation that you need to address pronto? Hot & Bothered (page 57) lays down the facts and gives science-backed advice about inflammation.*Cue chilled beats*

      The Stories We Tell Ourselves About Our Bodies, July/August 2024

      Hands up if you’ve never been self-critical in front of a mirror. There are very few women without body issues. Now, I’m not saying they don’t exist, but they are extremely rare. It’s much easier to find that women are generally dissatisfied with their appearance, which honestly is very very sad. If you’re having a hard time making peace with your body, The Stories We Tell Ourselves About Our Bodies (page 72), helps explore how to change your inner monologue, according to experts and women who’ve done it. Definitely worth a read.

      READ MORE: Get A Full-Body Workout In Just 15 Minutes With Only 2 Household Items

      Build A Strong Base July/August 2024

      Kelleigh Korevaar, Managing Editor

      If you’ve been sleeping on training your pelvic floor, it’s time to wake up. And you definitely shouldn’t be waiting for a specific stage of your life to start strengthening your core. Build A Strong Base (page 24) gives you a test to see where your pelvic floor is at, different goals and action plans and some causes of pelvic floor dysfunction (think: birth, impact sports, allergies, stress and poor posture or prolonged sitting – we’re all guilty of at least one). Plus, you’ll get an express full-body equipment free workout you can do at home .

      Cycling’s Silent Epidemic, July/August 2024

      We’ve all been there – a casual Sunday cycle, an intense spinning class or a cardio session on the gym bikes that leaves you sore and uncomfortable the next day (and sometimes a few days after too). Cycling’s Silent Epidemic (page 22 of WHSPORT) tells of the harrowing reality of many women who are forced off their bike seats due to labial swelling pain and swelling. With accounts of women who have experienced it first hand, insights into why it happens as well as information on what you can do about it and prevent it in the first place, this is a real page-turner. 

      How To Be Decisive, July/August 2024

      Pia Hammond, Creative Director

      I struggle with decisiveness. Doubt creeps into my mind on a daily basis – is what I’m making for dinner healthy enough for me to should I buy a house right now? When is the right time for anything in life? I’m learning that sometimes we need to trust the process and know that everything falls into place at the right time. I cope with these choices by talking it through, having a clear mind and being realistic with myself. Impulsivity can be damaging, rather lean into being vulnerable and trust yourself and the advice given by those around you. To anyone as indecisive as me, there are plenty of guidelines on page 60.

      Remember…It’s never too late to start living well. Find the July/August 2024 issue of Women’s Health on shelves now, or buy yourself a digital copy. Happy reading! More

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      in health and weelbeing

      What’s Sceletium And What Does It Do?

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      The buzzy plant has cropped up in supplements, drinks and as tinctures. Here’s what we know about the herbal medicine and plant sceletium.

      What is sceletium?

      Sceletium tortuosum is an ancient plant. It’s also called kanna or kougod and has been used for ages by the Khoisan people of South Africa. Carl von Linnaeus, a Swedish biologist, described and classified the plant in 1753.

      Traditionally, the medicinal herb has been used by the Khoisan people for various ailments. Sceletium was chewed or smoked and used to relieve toothache, abdominal pain, and as a mood-elevator. It was also used as an analgesic (pain relief), hypnotic, anxiolytic (anxiety relief), thirst and hunger suppressant, and for its intoxicating/euphoric effects.

      Now, it’s commonly used as an anti-depressant or to reduce anxiety. Added to that, some people are using it as an alternative to party drugs. Scientists are uncovering its properties as a cognitive enhancer.

      What does it do?

      The plant has positive effects on the central nervous system. It has potential as a SRI (serotonin reuptake inhibitor) or antidepressant. However, more clinical studies are still needed to explore its full potential. Redditers also describe using it to ‘feel right’. So far, this is what small studies have shown:

      Anxiety and depression

      Small studies reveal that sceletium may be useful in reducing anxiety, depression and stress response. But these studies were small. Simply put, we need more larger-scale studies.

      Sleep

      In a small randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study in healthy subjects, people taking the herb daily for nine weeks said they slept better.

      Is sceletium safe?

      Very little data exists to point to how sceletium would interact with other medications in the body. It’s best to chat to your doc before taking it, especially if you’re already taking an antidepressant.

      Where to get sceletium

      For now, if you want to enjoy its reported effects (calm and restful sleep), you can have sceletium in capsule, drink or tincture form.

      Euphorika Sceletium Tortuosum Extract

      This tincture lets you control the dosage, especially if you like to microdose.

      Sereen Sceletium Capsules

      These capsules contain 200mg of sceletium and may improve focus and cognitive function.

      Tea of Life Honeybush Sceletium

      Enjoy the calming effects of this kombucha blend. Plus, probiotics could improve mood over time.

      Keen to read more?

      Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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      in health and weelbeing

      What To Know About MPox, Treatments & What To Do If Infected

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      Unsurprisingly, winter sees its fair share of viruses doing the rounds. And now, South Africa is witnessing an outbreak of mpox (previously known as monkeypox). As of June 2024, the South African government has confirmed 16 cases of mpox since the outbreak in May 2024. These confirmed diagnoses come from laboratory testing. All cases are males, aged between 23-43 years old.

      What is mpox?

      Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Per the South African government, “it can be transmitted to a person through contact with the virus from an animal, human, or materials contaminated with the virus.”

      Anyone can become infected, regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender or race. The people most at risk include children, pregnant people and those with chronic conditions (like HIV, TB or diabetes). While the virus is preventable and treatable, three people have died in South Africa from mpox.

      Mpox can spread by:

      touching, kissing or having sex with an infected person

      hunting, skinning or cooking infected animals

      being in contact with contaminated materials like sheets, needles or clothes

      passing on the infection to your baby, if pregnant

      What are the symptoms of mpox?

      Per the World Health Organisation (WHO), “common symptoms of mpox are a skin rash or mucosal lesions which can last two to four weeks, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.”

      Typically, the first symptoms include a sore throat, fever and muscle aches.

      For some people, the first symptom may be a rash – but everyone is different. The rash can appear anywhere on the body. Your rash could appear:

      on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet

      on your face, mouth or throat

      in the groin or genital area, including the anus

      Some people also have painful swelling of their rectum or pain and difficulty when peeing.

      What to do if you have mpox

      According to a statement released by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, “The Department of Health urges members of the public who experience suspected symptoms of Mpox disease to visit their nearest healthcare provider for screening and testing to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment to prevent further spread of the disease.”

      For treating mpox, the focus is on treating the rash, managing pain and preventing complications. The recovery from mpox could take two to four weeks.

      The WHO recommends staying home, treating your symptoms and isolating from others. If you’re around others, wear a mask and cover up lesions.

      To treat the rash, the WHO recommends the following:

      cover lesions when around others

      do sitz baths with baking soda or Epsom salts

      take painkillers

      don’t pick at your skin or pop blisters – this can spread the rash

      clean your hands very regularly to prevent spreading the virus

      Read more to stay healthy: More

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      in diet and nutrition

      Unlocking Gut Health: The Power Of Probiotic Supplements According To A Medical Expert

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      Trusting your gut feeling is encouraged if the situation is certain. However, when your gut health is anything but healthy, we recommend scrolling down to read more on how to remedy the situation. Here’s how to find the perfect probiotic to combat gut deficiencies. 

      Meet The Expert: Sam Swaine is a vitamin and supplements counsellor and founder of The Rebalance Lab. The lab provides a holistic approach to ageing and longevity.

      What Is Gut Health?

      Gut health is the health of your entire digestive system, including the microorganisms living in your digestive tract. When your gut is healthy, it can break down food, provide essential nutrients and support body systems with ease. If you have come across terms such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), acid reflux disorder, gluten intolerance and more of this sort, this alludes to an unhealthy gut. To fight these off, look to probiotics and find the next addition for your supplement drawer. 

      READ MORE: What To Eat To Keep Your Gut Healthy And Your Skin Glowing

      What Are Probiotics?

      According to Sam Swaine, probiotics are living bacteria and yeasts that are good for our digestive system. Probiotics carry bacteria which many may think are harmful but on the contrary, the “germs” or bacteria are ‘good’ bacteria which, as Swaine illustrates, “…add to our existing supply of friendly microbes which also helps us fight infections and boosts our immunity.”

      For improved gut health, probiotics have been known to “…improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, help manage diarrhoea, boost the immune system and help maintain your microbiome or get it back in balance after it’s been disturbed.”

      “A good probiotic is allergen-free and doesn’t trigger any food sensitivities or upset your digestive system.”

      Probiotic Supplements Recommended For Gut Health

      “When choosing a probiotic, it’s important to look at Colony Forming Units (CFUs). This measures the number of active microorganisms found in a serving of probiotics. It is recommended that a probiotic taken for general gut health should have at least 10-20 billion CFUs according to research” says Swaine.

      Bifidobacteria

      It helps support the immune system and limit the growth of harmful bacteria in the intestine. They also help digest fibre and assist in producing important vitamins that the body needs.

      Lactobacillus

      It is a variety of bacteria that produces lactase – the enzyme that breaks down lactose, or milk sugar. These bacteria also produce lactic acid. Lactic acid helps control the population of bad bacteria and increases the body’s absorption of minerals. 

      Helpful tip by Swaine: always read the ingredients on the bottle of your probiotic, choose a brand that is transparent about the probiotic strains in their supplement and all the additional ingredients you’ll find in their product.

      Who Should Not Take Probiotic Supplements?

      “Probiotics are generally safe, but you should always consult a healthcare specialist before taking any supplement,” says Swaine. Although probiotics are recommended here is a list of people Swaine advises to hold off the probiotics.

      People with weakened immune systems taking immunosuppressant drugs.

      People with critical and chronic illnesses. 

      People who have just had surgery as their immune system is compromised. 

      People with severe food allergies

      People with preexisting gastrointestinal disorders.

      READ MORE: “I Drank Kombucha Every Day For 10 Days — It Was Amazing”

      Healthy Habits You Should Consider To Accommodate The Probiotics

      Recommendations by our expert, Sam, on how to help you “maintain a happy and balanced gut.”

      Avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar as these foods decrease the amount of “good” bacteria and diversity in your gut.

      Eat a diet that is rich in fermented foods, these contain a natural source of probiotics.

      Examples include yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, miso, and tempeh. 

      Drinks like kombucha are also a great source of probiotics, and speaking of drinks, keeping hydrated with water is crucial for a healthy gut.

      Eat high-fibre foods. 

      Look to collagen-rich foods like bone broth.

      Find foods that are rich in polyphenols (plant compounds supporting beneficial gut bacteria) such as blueberries, plums, cherries, apples, strawberries, black currants, black olives, dark chocolate, black tea, coffee, hazelnuts, and pecan nuts.

      Good quality sleep.

      Regular exercise.

      Manage stress levels. 

      Words by: Lesego Kgatle More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      6 mental health clinics for a therapy session in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      13 mins ago

      With the high-pressure society we live in, mental health is quite often an overlooked subject.
      To delve into the matter, it’s important to provide an opportunity for people around the world to make mental health care a reality for all.
      As the UAE continues to break the stigma surrounding this, mental health clinics have gained popularity to address factors surrounding depression, fatigue, anxiety, panic attacks and more.
      With the previous outbreak of COVID-19, several clinics have adapted to Zoom healthcare services, adding a new meaning to virtual sessions, along with in-person sessions as per usual.
      If you, or anyone you’re aware of, might require these services, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the mental health clinics here in Dubai.
      The LightHouse Arabia

      With a team of over 30 psychologists to address different areas in one’s life, The LightHouse Arabia provides high-quality services to help with a wide range of mental health and well-being challenges. From adoption support to psychotherapy, the in-depth sessions make it one of the leading mental health clinics in the UAE. With various events hosted every month, the interactive sessions make it helpful for people to address their problems in a community-driven environment. Located in Villa 1, Al Wasl Road, Al Safa 2, it’s open daily from 8am to 8pm with Fridays being closed.
      For more information visit lighthousearabia.com
      Priory Wellbeing Centre

      Each treatment programme is tailored to the specific needs of each individual ensuring the best possible outcome is achieved. Knowing that everyone has a different pace, the sessions are tailored to each person’s potential in their own time. With a team of professionals, the therapies provide an experience to suit each patient. From cognitive behaviour therapy to individual therapy, the clinic helps everyone to work through their problems. Also, to discover more about themselves. Located in Dubai Healthcare City, Block F, it’s open on Sunday and Monday from 8am to 7pm, Tuesday and Wednesday from 8am to 6pm and Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, with Fridays being closed.
      For more information visit priorygroup.ae
      Thrive Wellbeing Centre

      In a judgment-free environment, this clinic helps clients accomplish their goals while supporting them in a warm, empathic and seamless manner. Combining the latest research, the professionals know that mental health is just as important as physical health. From parenting support to individual therapy, the expert psychologists support people through a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues and trauma. The clinic also conducts a host of workshops for people together in a group. Located in Office 706-710, HDS Tower, Cluster F, it’s open from  Saturday-Thursday: 9am–8pm and Friday: 9am–5pm.
      For more information visit thrive.ae
      Wise Mind Centre

      This clinic is committed to building a sense of community and belonging ensuring that anyone who visits is never treated as an outsider. Creating a confidential space to explore and harbour lasting change, Wise Mind Center ensures its clientele is kept small for quality over quantity. With individual access to each therapist, the services are provided in Arabic, English and Dutch. Located in Lake Central Tower, 1209, Business Bay, it’s open daily from 10am to 8pm, except Friday’s are closed.
      For more information visit wisemindcenter.com
      American Wellness Centre

      As the ever-increasing societal pace wears people down, the clinic was born to make the brunt of modern life a lot easier. This multi-specialty clinic ensures every session is carefully tailored as per the customer’s surrounding concerns. From mindfulness training to parenting skills training, both children and adults are looked after in a safe environment with highly qualified experts. Located in Al Faris Building 39, Dubai Healthcare City, it’s open from 8am to 10pm.
      For more information visit americanwellnesscenter.ae
      Camali Clinic

      With a step-by-step guided programme created to address any challenges, the clinic creates a personalised schedule to overcome each obstacle. By identifying the root cause of each patient’s personal challenges, clinically proven counselling sessions provide a holistic approach to addressing its client’s mental health. Various emotional and behavioural issues are addressed with love and support. With two locations, it’s situated in Block A, Ibn Sina building no. 27 in Dubai Healthcare City and Cluster M, HDS Center, in JLT.
      For more information visit camaliclinic.com
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