Hello 2017

OK I must admit, I’ve been quite bad at this blogging idea. Kids can keep you extremely busy!

So here’s my first blog for 2017…. I’ll make this short and sweet.

SCHOOL!

At the beginning of every year, most families are preparing to send their kids off to school…playschool, preschool, primary school, high school…when does it end!?

With that, comes the mingling of many, many, mannnyyy germs that your precious ones will encounter. We need to prepare them, prep their tiny developing immune systems in order for them to ward off all these infections.

The bare essentials :

  1. ECHINACEA : Immune booster of note, especially the practitioner range that is safe for the whole family. Take every day as a preventative and double up during acute infections.
  2. OLIVE LEAF : The same as above with the added power of being anti-parasitic, so if you’re suspecting a worm infestation this would be your go-to tincture!

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk brain power! Especially during exam time but also a good all year rounder type of herb is BACOPA . A good tincture to assist with poor memory, anxiety and lack of concentration. Bacopa is also noted for its usage in ADHD (clinically proven trials!). So if you feel that your child needs the extra help, please give this herb a try!

Wishing you all the best of health for this year! (I think my next article should be about how to deal with the stress of being a parent!)

Dr Fatima Hansa

Diabetes Part 2 : Alternative Treatment

So you’ve been diagnosed, now what?

Always, always, always manage a chronic condition such as diabetes with a qualified health practitioner. KNOW YOUR NUMBERS. Check your glucose levels often and DIARISE! Do Not blindly move towards the natural route if you are not monitoring your levels.

  1. GYMNEMA

A well-known herb known for lowering blood glucose levels. Generally safe to use long term. Not advised for children as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women.

 

  1. MORINGA (Also known as drumstick)

Drumstick, is quite commonly cooked in Indian households, especially amongst the older generation, and now, science has linked their long-term use to many health benefits.

The leaves of this tree are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, not to mention anti-inflammatory properties!

Moringa has also demonstrated that it may have anti-diabetic as well as cholesterol-lowering properties as well.

If you are buying the powdered form, add this to your daily smoothie!

 

  1. CHIA SEEDS

Contraindicated in those taking blood thinners.

More antioxidants in this one, these tiny seeds are full of fiber, calcium and contain an exceptionally high amount of omega-3’s.

The seeds can be taken in many ways, initial dosage , 1 tablespoon a day that you can add to water, juice, a smoothie, cereal, even a dessert!

chia-seed-699962_1920

These seeds may assist in controlling blood glucose levels, reduce your appetite as well as provide a healthier source of energy. Come on, who doesn’t need this?!

 

Well, if you were looking for a jump-start into a new you, this is as good as any! You can do this! Start small, form a habit, everything will fall into place soon.

Good Luck!

Dr Fatima Hansa