Lettuce begin: Step into 2019 by eating clean and thinking green!
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Let’s not beet around the bush, January is riddled with dietary difficulties as we’re hurried out of indulgent Christmas festivities and forced to dive straight into New Year positivities. Kickstart your healthy January with a detox from Christmas luxuries and delve into some of Asda’s healthy New Year options. Whether you’re dabbling in Dry January or simply vowing to cut out bad habits developed over the festive period – Asda is stocking everything from feel-good healthy yoghurts to pure juice mocktails to cover a wide range of New Year’s resolutions.
Asda’s NEW! light, fat free yoghurts are perfect as a snack, dessert or part of a delicious oaty breakfast. Bursting with fruity flavours, it is hard to believe that these yoghurts contain less than 70 calories per pot. With a choice of creamy coconut, rhubarb and vanilla, sweet strawberry or punchy peach, there is a flavour for everyone at Asda.
RRP: £1
Sip into Dry January with Asda’s NEW! range of exciting mocktails. A refreshing twist on cocktail classics, our mocktail lines provide the sweet sensations that satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re mad about mojitos, dazzled by daquiris or pining for piña coladas, our alcohol-free alternatives are all that you need to get through Dry January.
RRP: £1.60
Strapped for time and need a wholesome family meal with one of your five a day? Asda’s NEW! Slow Cooked Casserole Meal Kits will aid you in creating hearty meals in just a few simple steps. Whether you adore the classic flavour of slow cooked chicken or prefer sultry slow cooked beef, Asda has a casserole meal kit for you. With everything you need in the bag ready to go, prepare some of your favourite vegetables for a traditional winter dinner.
RRP: £5.50. On rollback from 3rd to 23rd January for £4.50
January doesn’t have to mean a dull diet – add some extra goodness with Asda’s Good and Balanced meal solutions. The vibrant bowls contain at least one of your five a day and the trays are also high in dietary goodies like protein or fibre. Dishes include: High in Protein Lamb Kofta with Jewelled Cous Cous, High in Fibre Tandoori Chicken with Cauliflower Rice and Chicken Chow Mein.
RRP: Bowls £2, Trays £2.50
POWERED BY PLANTS: Step into Veganuary with Asda!
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If you’re ready to plunge into Veganuary look no further than Asda’s delicious range of vegan products – from sumptuous, rich, chocolate cupcakes to hearty flavourful soups, Asda has something for many palettes to make ‘going vegan’ this January a delight. The cost-effective, tasty products are a simple way to make your Veganuary an effortless success.
Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes
If you’re a chocolate lover, these cupcake delights taste so phenomenally chocolatey they will certainly satisfy any cravings! The soft chocolate sponge, made with strawberry jam and coconut milk is finished with a chocolate flavoured frosting and a white marshmallow and just melts in your mouth, perfect for an afternoon pick me up!
RRP: £1.50
4 Meat Free Vegan Sausage Rolls:
Worried about missing your favourite savoury delights during Veganuary? Do not fear, Asda has meat free sausage rolls to satisfy your savoury cravings throughout January. Certified by the Vegan Society, these delights are almost too good to be true – the traditional pastry with a meat substitute filling is perfect for a light Veganuary snack.
RRP: £1.50
Deep Fill Sweet Potato & Chickpea Pies:
Nothing compares to traditional British hot pie and mash on a cold January evening to warm you up, but why should this be limited to those who eat meat or follow a vegetarian diet? Asda has introduced a sumptuous vegan pie for everyone to enjoy. This pie is stuffed to the brim with sweet potato and chickpeas bathed in tomato sauce, topped with golden puff pastry and scattered with a paprika crumb.
RRP: £2.50
Vegetarian Mediterranean Vegetable Gnocchi:
Whether you’re new to gnocchi or a notorious gnocchi lover, Asda has the perfect Mediterranean medley for you. Covered in a tangy tomato sauce with a drizzling of rich kale pesto, this gnocchi is bursting with tasty flavours and will leave you feeling warm and fulfilled with no regrets.
RRP: £2.50
Vegetarian Spaghetti & Veggie Balls:
Ease your way into veganuary with Asda’s vegan take on a cherished Italian classic. Bathed in rich arrabbiata sauce and finished with a pinch of specially selected herbs and spices, this vegan dish is hearty, wholesome and perfect for soothing any January blues.
RRP: £2.50
Mushroom & Kale Sausages:
Bangers and mash don’t have to be banned from your veganuary lifestyle with Asda’s vegan sausages. Kale, the sought-after superfood of the decade is paired with mushrooms to form a delicious substitute for meat sausages that can be enjoyed as part of any tasty meal.
RRP: £1.50
Beetroot & Sunflower Seed Burger
This vibrant pink beetroot burger is guaranteed to steal the show this veganuary. Stuffed with sunflower seeds for added protein, they’re bursting with flavour and are one of your five a day.
RRP: £1.50
Keep the fizz but stay healthy in 2019
January is the time of year for making New Year’s resolutions and healthy choices, such as staying off alcohol for a month or cutting down on calories or sugar, amongst others. Water is the healthiest way to hydrate and choosing sparkling water is a great way to make it still feel a little indulgent, without any sugar or calories. Despite this, only 1 in 5 of households drink sparkling water.
Johanna Hignett, Registered Nutritionist, added “A great way to start the New Year is to swap out soft drinks for plain water, whether it’s still or sparkling, as it has no sugar or sweeteners.”
According to Public Health England, soft drinks contribute significantly to free sugars in UK diets. Simply switching just one sugar-sweetened drink a day to water, could potentially cut out up to 25g of sugar per day.
We have put together a few suggestions of ways to increase your H₂O consumption as part of a healthier New Year and new you.
Swap at least one drink a day to sparkling water
Original style soft drinks and fruit juices all contain sugar and so also have calories in. Sparkling water can make a great alternative and contains no sugar or calories, and is just as hydrating as still water.
Have a taste to see which one is your favourite
Sparkling waters vary in their amount of fizz (some actually come out of the ground this way) and they have varying levels of minerals so will all taste a little different, depending on where they are from – why not do a taste test to see which you prefer?
Give yourself a fizzy boost
Sparkling water can be a refreshing pick me up because of the bubbles. Next time you need a boost, try a drink of sparkling water.
Get fruity
Add a slice of lemon, lime or even cucumber to give sparkling water an extra dimension. If you’re feeling creative you can make things more interesting by adding fruit ice cubes. You can make these yourselves – just add strawberries, grapes, blueberries or raspberries to the filled ice tray before freezing.
Create your own mocktails
If you’re giving up alcohol for January or you’re just looking for a healthy non-alcoholic drink with a bit of fizz, make your own mocktails using sparkling water as a sugar and calorie free base. For example, add a dash of Angostura bitters to sparkling water for tasty twist.
Water on the table
Whether you’re eating at home, have friends round for lunch or dinner, or you’re off to a restaurant, make sure there is always water on the table. Sparkling water can make it feel more like a treat too.
SEVEN HEALTHY FOOD PRODUCTS WITH SAVINGS OF 50% AND MORE TO MAKE EATING WELL IN 2019 EVEN EASIER!
Quick and easy ways to eat healthier with seven tasty new products to try in 2019!
Starbargains offer savings of 50% and more off RRP on health food and drink
There’s no excuse to not eat healthily in 2019 and stay true to New Year resolutions with Starbargains.co.uk’s health food product round-up of the easiest, tastiest and cheapest ways to up your health game in 2019!
With discounts of 50% and more on health foods, cupboard essentials and home basics from big name brands, StarBargains.co.uk offers the cheapest groceries at prices lower than the supermarkets.
Around 250 new product deals are added to the website every month with discounts available of 50% and more off RRP, as the products are sourced both direct from manufacturers and from supermarkets’ surplus stock.
The Most Important Meal of The Day
Quaker Oat Wholesome Granola Goji Berry & Blueberry 550g NOW £1.89 each, SAVE £2.01 on RRP from StarBargains.co.uk (That’s a saving of £2.01 also on Ocado’s RRP of £3.90).
Quaker Oat No Added Sugar Strawberry Muesli 650g NOW £1.69 each, SAVE £1.11 on RRP £2.80 from Starbargains.co.uk (That’s a saving of £1.30 on Ocado’s RRP of £2.99).
Provamel Organic Bio Macadamia 500ml NOW 49p each, SAVE £13.88 on RRP £19.76 when buying 12 for £4.00 from StarBargains.co.uk (That’s a saving of £21.48 on Ocado’s RRP of £1.79 each).
Snack Right!
Urban Fruit Cheeky Cherry 90g NOW 59p each, SAVE £3.20 on RRP of £2.10 when buying 2 for £1.00 from StarBargains.co.uk (That’s a saving of £3.20 also on Sainsbury’s and Ocado’s RRP of £2.10 each).
Diablo No Added Sugar Coconut Wafers 110g, NOW 59p each, SAVE £1.18 on RRP of £1.20 when buying 2 for £1.00 from StarBargains.co.uk (That’s a saving of £2.07 on Healthy Supplies’ RRP of £2.09 each).
Protein Time!
Bare Naked Protein Noodles 380g NOW £1.00 each, SAVE £1.00 on Sainsbury’s RRP of £2.00 from StarBargains.co.uk (That’s a saving of £1.00 also on Sainsbury’s RRP of £2.00 each).
Healthy Cooking and Baking Replacement
Koko Virgin Coconut Oil 300g, NOW £1.99 each, RRP £4.00 each, BUY 2 for £3.00, SAVE £5.00 from StarBargains.co.uk
www.FightCityGym.co.uk
Just a stone’s throw away from Moorgate station, Fight City offer gym-goers of all ages, backgrounds and experience an enjoyable way of fighting fat and building stamina through their range of unique training programs. Fight City combine combat disciplines with dedicated strength and conditioning training, including Boxing, Mixed Martial Arts, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Judo. Each of these arts are taught by world-class professional athletes who are all masters of their chosen specialty.
On top of the weekly entourage of classes, Fight City also host an exclusive, 12-week ‘White Collar’ programme for those who want to live, train, and fight like a true professional. The course ends with a live match in one of Europe’s top boxing venues, where participants battle on the same stage graced by former British and World Champions including Chris Eubank, Ricky Hatton and David Haye, just to name just a few.
Feeding the Brain
Optimise your mental health and performance through nutrition
(Deborah Colson, Cognitive Nutritional Therapist at Re:Cognition Health)
The brain controls the entire body; every thought, emotion, movement and breath. Even when sleeping, the brain is busy clearing away waste, reenergising the body’s cells, regulating mood and appetite. This perpetual activity requires fuel to ensure optimum performance, which is derived from the food we eat and it is the quality of this food which makes all of the difference to the performance of the body and mental health.
Deborah Colson, Cognitive Nutritional Therapist at Re:Cognition Health, specialises in improving mental health and neurological conditions through nutrition, exercise and other forms of lifestyle intervention. She shares her insight into the vital role that diet plays in keeping the brain healthy and nutrition tips for optimising brain function.
Tips for optimising brain health with nutrition:
Keep processed foods to a minimum – these foods are nutritionally poor, lacking in the vital micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, antioxidants etc) which are needed for the brain to function at its best. Processed foods are also more likely to be high in sugar and contain additives and preservatives which are foreign chemicals that require detoxification.
Fats are friends- The brain is a very fatty organ (over 60% of its dry weight is fat) and is the most cholesterol-rich organ in the body, so despite what you may believe about fat being bad for you, it is actually essential for your brain to function at its best. Essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6 found in oily fish, nuts and seeds) are especially important and you should aim for 2-3 portions of oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel sardines) per week, with regular intake of nuts and seeds. Saturated fats from good quality meat, dairy, eggs, coconut oil are also an important part of a brain healthy diet.
Sweeten with caution- Sugar is very bad for your brain (and artificial sweeteners aren’t any better!). Sugar dramatically increases inflammation in the body which increases your risk of dementia by around 20%, along with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and cancer. It also disrupts brain function
Add water- The brain consists of around 70% water, so it’s important to maintain good hydration levels to keep it performing at an optimum level, as dehydration can be detrimental to cognitive performance, memory and attention.
Mind the bottle- Alcohol is toxic to the brain so keep your intake to moderate and occasional.
Bacteria for the Brain- Many people are surprised to learn that the beneficial bacteria living in their gut can affect their brain. The gut consists of a complex ecosystem made up of trillions of different microbiome which are essential to brain health due to the constant two-way communication going on between gut and brain. Bacteria plays a key role in modulating inflammation in the body and is essential for good mental health. Plenty of fibre from vegetables and pulses, fermented foods and probiotics can all help improve gut bacteria.
Pack in the Protein- Serotonin, the mood boosting hormone, is made in the gut as well as the brain. It is manufactured from an amino acid (L-tryptophan) which is present in protein-rich foods, and requires micronutrients in the manufacturing process to convert the L-tryptophan into serotonin.
Go organic – where possible, it’s advisable to choose organic produce which haven’t been treated with chemicals that the body will need to detoxify. There is evidence to suggest that pesticides used to treat produce may cause brain damage and that organic produce is more nutritious.
Good brain nutrients include:
· Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish, seeds, nuts
· Vitamin D derived from sunshine and oily fish
· Tryptophan from leafy greens, turkey, beef, eggs
· Selenium found in protein rich foods such as lean meats, poultry, eggs, shellfish, legumes and nuts (especially Brazil nuts)
· Magnesium from green leafy vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, seafood (salmon, mackerel, tuna)
· Garlic
· Zinc from meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts, seeds, dairy, eggs and whole grains
· Curcumin found in turmeric
· Q10 found in organ meats (heart, liver, kidney), beef, sardines, mackerel and peanuts
Anma Bay Leaf & Clary Sage MUSCLE RELIEF Massage Oil
· This soothing massage oil is infused with Bay Leaf Oil, known to promote a feeling of well-being, and relaxing Clary Sage Oil.
ANMA Bay Leaf & Clary Sage MUSCLE RELIEF Massage Oil has been specially formulated to help:
Relieve muscles and joints pain
Reduce inflammation and irritation
Detoxify the body
· Helps relieve tension and aches, leaving the skin nourished.
· Vegan and Cruelty-free
· 100% Post Consumer Recyclabe botle. Biobased label made from sugar cane ethanol.
£9.99 in all Superdrug.
Anma Ginger & Black Pepper TONING Massage Oil:
· This spicy scented massage oil contains toning Ginger Oil and warming Black Pepper Oil.
· Has been specially formulated to help:
Tone body and mind
Stimulate and tighten
Detoxify and protect from damages caused by free radicals
· Helps clarify and smooth, leaving the skin looking rejuvenated.
· Vegan and cruelty-free
· 100% Post Consumer Recyclabe botle. Biobased label made from sugar cane ethanol.
£9.99 in all Superdrug.
Anma Grapefruit & Lemongrass DETOX Massage Oil:
· This beautifully scented massage oil is infused with purifying Grapefruit Oil and refreshing Lemongrass Oil.
· Has been specially formulated to help:
Purify and detox body and mind
Keep the body free from toxins
Fight the activity of free radicals
· Helps detoxify and promote the body’s natural elimination of toxins, leaving the skin smooth and supple.
· Vegan and cruelty-free
· 100% Post Consumer Recyclabe botle. Biobased label made from sugar cane ethanol.
£9.99 in all Superdrug.
Anma Rosemary & Eucalyptus REVIVE Massage Gel:
· This cooling and refreshing gel contains energy-boosting Rosemary Oil and stimulating and awakening Eucalyptus Oil.
· Has been specially formulated to help:
Revive and refresh
Stimulate mind and body
Relieve stress and anxiety
· Helps energize and revitalize body and mind, leaving the skin looking fresh and hydrated.
Vegan and cruelty-free
· 100% Post Consumer Recyclabe botle. Biobased label made from sugar cane ethanol.
£9.99 in all Superdrug.
Anma Patchouli & Ylang Ylang PASSION Massage Oil:
· This beautifully scented massage oil contains Patchouli Oil, known for its aphrodisiac effects, and relaxing Ylang Ylang Oil.
· Has been specially formulated to help:
Stimulate and activate romance
Boost energy
Relax tensions
· Helps relax the mind and activate romance, leaving the skin soft and silky.
· Vegan and cruelty-free
· 100% Post Consumer Recyclabe botle. Biobased label made from sugar cane ethanol.
£9.99 in all Superdrug.
Anma Lavender & Velvet Rose TRANQUILITY Massage Oil:
· This delicately floral scented massage oil contains calming and de-stressing Lavender Oil and soothing Velvet Rose Oil.
· Has been specially formulated to help:
Calm body and mind
Fight stress and anxiety
Sooth and relax
· Helps calm body and mind, leaving the skin hydrated.
· Vegan and cruelty-free
· 100% Post Consumer Recyclabe botle. Biobased label made from sugar cane ethanol.
£9.99 in all Superdrug.
MISSION LAUNCHES UK’S FIRST RANGE OF ‘BETTER FOR YOU’ WRAPS
CONTAINING SUPER SEEDS AND SOURDOUGH
Mission, the company behind the world’s number one best-selling wraps, is introducing the first ever range containing super seeds and sourdough. Mission Simply Good Quinoa & Chia and Mission Simply Good Sourdough & Linseed are launching into retail now.
Created to meet the consumer demand for products that contain ‘better for you’ ingredients, the wraps are high in fibre and deliver the benefit of additional texture in addition to making people feel fuller for longer.
“Latest research showed that consumers are changing their habits when it comes to food,” said Ieva Dvilinskiene, senior brand manager at Mission. “Instead of focusing on what to take out of diets, they are instead turning their attention to those products that add ‘good’ into their meals, such as fibre or protein.
“Our Simply Good range takes the advantages of consuming super seeds and sourdough and adds them to a versatile product, that’s easy to consume. Our intention is to make products that are easy to use, offer a health benefit and inspire consumers to have more exciting mealtimes. The daily recommended intake of fibre for an adult is 30g, yet average consumption in the UK is only 18g. Fibre has been shown to improve gut health and the Quinoa & Chia and Sourdough & Linseed wraps add 4.5g and 2.4g of fibre respectively per wrap to daily intake levels.”
In addition to the superfood grains, sourdough adds prebiotic benefits to the diet of and is perceived to be a more premium offer by consumers.
“We’re highlighting health benefits prominently on pack and we have also included recipe inspiration to make the purchase decision even easier. The products will be perfect for pre-family consumers and so-called ‘empty nesters’, who tend to search for granary bakery options. As a result we’ve also created a smaller pack format for these audiences,” concludes Dvilinskiene.
The Mission Simply Good range will be available in pack formats of six and will have a MRSP of £1.50.
Feel a Whole Lot Better this January with Lizi’s Granola
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January is the best time of year to kick-start a healthier lifestyle and switching up your breakfast is a good place to start. Whether you’re planning on hitting the gym and upping your protein intake, or would like to cut down on the amount of sugar you’re consuming, Lizi’s Granola is helping you feel a whole lot better this January, and what’s more, if you’re taking part in Veganuary, all Lizi’s Granola products are vegan thanks to the treacle used to bind the oats, instead of honey!
Breakfast has always been incredibly important for any healthy diet. Research has shown that not eating breakfast can lead to weight gain, tiredness and an inactive lifestyle. So, it really is the most important meal of the day.
Lizi’s Low Sugar Granola
For a healthier January breakfast look no further than Lizi’s Low Sugar Granola. It’s an absolute must if you’re after a healthy and delicious breakfast that will stop your junk food cravings.
Lizi’s Low Sugar Granola has less than 4% sugar, which is one of the lowest on the market. So it’s a perfect option for those looking to reduce sugar intake and still feel full. Don’t feel guilty about topping the granola off with some berries and a dollop of yoghurt for an extra treat!
Lizi’s High Protein Granola
With a single 50g portion providing 27% of your daily protein needs, be it for growing children or the elderly needing protection from muscle loss, Lizi’s High Protein granola is a delicious, nourishing option for the whole family this January – not just for the body-builders!
Only Lizi’s cereal measures the Glycaemic Load (GL) per serving, giving you the reliability of a slow energy release that will fuel you throughout the day and stave off those pangs for a quick sugar fix later on.
For a balanced, healthy breakfast that will keep you energised until lunch, or for a quick protein boost after the gym, try Lizi’s High Protein granola with a dollop of yoghurt and top with fresh fruit.
Both Lizi’s Low Sugar Granola and Lizi’s High Protein Granola have an RRP of £3.69 for a 500g bag. Available in all major supermarkets.
Lizi’s Granola Range is available from Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Asda, Whole Foods, Co-Op, Booths and all good health stores.
Also available in other flavour’s including: Organic, Original, Belgian Chocolate, Treacle and Pecan, Passion fruit & Pistachio, Mango & Macadamia, High Protein and On the Go which is available in Original, Belgian Chocolate, Treacle & Pecan.
Happy New Year! With the start of 2019 comes New Year goals and healthy eating resolutions. Whether you are a routine gym goer or a January 1st newbie, fueling your workouts is key for success.
ONE Brands, makers of super indulgent protein bars that deliver 20grams of protein and only ONE gram of sugar, features a roster of gluten free, protein-rich, dessert-inspired bars ranging from Birthday Cake to Maple Glazed Doughnut to Cinnamon Roll and more—proving that you can have your cake and eat it too! The brand also recently launched their newest variety—White Chocolate Truffle. You can stock up on ONE bars on Amazon (hello, PRIME!) or find the product line at Target, Trader Joe’s, GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, and more!
HAVE FUN KEEPING ACTIVE THIS WINTER!
Once winter sets in, it’s tempting to toss the trainers in a cupboard and hibernate til spring. But as well as keeping you healthy, exercising on colder days can be invigorating and fun, says fitness coach Lucy Wyndham-Read.
The majority of us experience a dip in the amount of exercise we take once the colder months arrive. But although winter might not seem like the most appealing time to get fit, it’s important for our health that we resist the urge to spend weeks huddled in front of the fire watching TV.
The health benefits of regular physical activity are well established, including increased energy, lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and body fat, and improved muscle tone. Exercising also boosts your immune system and helps you fight off winter flu and cold bugs.
Feel good, look good!
Because exercise improves your blood circulation and generates heat, a short bout of activity when it’s chilly helps keep you warm. Your skin will benefit too from being out in the fresh air, instead of trapped inside with the central heating on. Plus, you’ll burn off some of those extra calories you consume through eating comfort foods!
The shorter days and lack of sunlight during the winter months can contribute to that low feeling we know as the winter blues. When you exercise, however, you stimulate the release of feel-good chemicals that give your mood a natural lift. Physical activity is also a great way to release stress.
Outdoor winter workouts
If you find it hard to motivate yourself to exercise when the temperature plummets, remember that you don’t have to do all your daily exercise in one go: everyday tasks and chores like taking the dog for a walk, cycling to the shops or raking up the leaves in the garden will get you out of doors and physically active in short bursts.
You could also consider taking advantage of the cheaper low-season rates in hotels and B&Bs to treat yourself to a weekend away somewhere with sports and leisure facilities or just attractive scenery for brisk country walks.
If you choose a sport or activity that you really enjoy, you’re much more likely to stick with it whatever the weather outside. Here are some suggestions for outdoor winter sports that really get you moving and having fun.
Skiing
An obvious exercise that we associate with winter. It’s a great low-impact exercise that requires good lower body stamina and endurance. If you are jetting off to the slopes for the first time, you can prepare yourself by building your lower body strength through walking. If there are hills nearby, combine walking with doing some squats and lunges.
Ice skating
Another sport that we associate with the winter months. There are two forms: figure skating, which involves choreographed dance moves and works on your balance, strength, posture and flexibility; and speed skating, an aerobic exercise that works the power and stamina of your lower body, as well as your arms and abdominals. Alternatively, you could just have a fun day out and a gentle workout with family or friends at the local ice rink.
Snowboarding
A fun exercise that will not only tone and strengthen deep into your lower body muscles, but will give you a great abdominal workout for fab abs! Snowboarding works deep into your core muscles, which help to tone and trim your waist.
Nordic walking
Another great way of keeping fit and lean through the winter, and is one of the most calorific-burning exercises you can do: it burns up to 46 per cent more calories than walking without poles, according to British Nordic Walking.
The exercise uses a technique similar to the upper body action of cross-country skiing. The Nordic walking poles encourage you to work out through your body’s fullest range of motion, so it’s great for toning through your hips, bottom, thighs, abs, waist, arms and chest. It’s also a low-impact physical activity and suits everyone from a complete beginner to an advanced exerciser.
Indoor winter workouts
You don’t have to be outdoors all the time to stay fit and active in winter. If you have a friend or family member who’s up for the challenge, fixing a regular time to play a competitive indoor game or sport will keep you both more motivated to turn up.
Squash
This racquet sport is one of the fastest games you can play, so you need to be reasonably fit to participate. This very fast, stop-start game will give you a challenging workout aerobically. It’s a great sport to do to increase your fitness and speed and as a way of relieving stress. A 30-minute game of squash will boost your heart and lungs, develop strength in your lower body, and improve your hand and eye co-ordination.
Badminton
If you’re a keen tennis player in summer, then consider switching to an indoors racquet sport in winter. Badminton is a fun way of exercising without feeling you’re working at it. It’s a fast game that requires several different components of fitness: balance, flexibility, eye/ball co-ordination, endurance and speed. Playing badminton for 30 minutes will give you a great workout and re-energise you for the rest of the day.
Dancing
A great way to work out that helps increase your strength and flexibility. There are now so many different forms of dance classes available, from salsa to belly dancing. It also helps build your self-esteem by learning new skills and dancing with other people.
For more information in staying active, please visit AXA PPP healthcare.
SAVOUR SOME OFF-SLOPE SELF-CARE THIS NEW YEAR WITH
FIREFLY COLLECTION
Luxury travel specialist Firefly Collection, which offers over 600 ski chalets and villas across 74 destinations, has selected five of the finest winter addresses offering the ultimate in wellness. For the French Alps, this means entire spa floors, expert therapists on call to ease aching muscles, splendid swimming pools and steaming hot tubs, and serene settings to inspire mindfulness.
1.La Bergerie, Courchevel 1850 – sleeps 14, from 125,000 Euros per week
Costing £20 million to construct and finesse, La Bergerie is understandably extravagant yet maintains a discreet presence just five-minutes from the heart of Courchevel 1850, neighbouring the Bellecote piste. Guests in the seven suites – each of which boasts a freestanding bathtub and rainfall shower – enjoy the expertise of a dedicated deep tissue massage therapist and a deluxe chalet spa, Technogym-equipped gymnasium and 20-metre swimming pool. The numerous staff, including chauffeur and butler, ensure that guests’ needs are anticipated round the clock and worry is a world away.
https://www.firefly-collection.com/properties/la-bergerie/luxury-ski-chalet/courchevel-1850/france
2. Chalet Edelweiss, Courchevel 1850 – sleeps 16, from 80,000 Euros per week
Seven-storey ski-in/ski-out Chalet Edelweiss covers 3,000 square metres, evoking the feel of a sumptuous boutique hotel. An enviable location so close to the powder slopes is just the start, as this chalet offers every imaginable luxury from its own nightclub to a car lift (ever so slightly James Bond, as is the breath taking spiral staircase that creates a centrepiece for the chalet interior) – and an entire floor dedicated to wellness. The swimming pool and gymnasium sit alongside a sauna and hammam, and a therapy room where specialists can help relieve slope-weary muscles before the apres-ski really kicks off.
https://www.firefly-collection.com/properties/chalet-edelweiss/luxury-ski-chalet/courchevel-1850/france
3. Chalet Twenty26, Morzine – sleeps 12, from 10,900 Euros per week
Guests in the six luxury en-suite bedroom chalet will enjoy access to the large outdoor wrap-around balcony – ideal for practicing mindfulness or for sunset meditations. A vaulted spa suite boasts two chambers, each focused on different aspects of relaxation whilst the wood burning sauna, heated outdoor swimming pool and alfresco hot tub are perfect for soothing skiers’ muscles.
https://www.firefly-collection.com/properties/chalet-twenty26/luxury-ski-chalet/morzine/france
4. Chalet Marco Polo, Val d’Isere – sleeps 10-14, from 22,800 Euros per week
Set in the heart of Val d’Isere, Chalet Marco Polo retains its privacy due to being set back from the road and at 1,000 square metres, there’s plenty of opportunity to find head space – either with or away from family and friends. The super-stylish main living area commands enviable views of La Face piste and watching the action on the slopes is hypnotic. An entire floor is dedicated to wellness with an indoor jet stream pool – finished in gold leaf – a Jacuzzi and hammam. The massage room – which enjoys a dedicated therapist on stand-by – sits next to an automatic hydro massage area. For those of a romantic bent who simply cannot tear themselves away from their beloved, the chalet gymnasium offers two of every piece of equipment, so a couple can work out together.
https://www.firefly-collection.com/properties/chalet-marco-polo/luxury-ski-chalet/val-d-isere/france
5. Chalet Couttet, Chamonix – sleeps 10, from 15,535 Euros per week
Buzzing Chamonix awaits outside this exquisite design villa – whether guests ever wish to leave its luxury for the slopes is another matter. Designed by Laughland Jones, who created a private ski hideaway for Sir Richard Branson, the deluxe hideout offers a private wellness suite including steam room, sauna, treatment room and dedicated yoga space. The south facing gardens of Chalet Couttet are home to a 12-metre heated swimming pool and hot tub, both of which enjoy Mont Blanc as a beguiling backdrop.
https://www.firefly-collection.com/properties/chalet-couttet/luxury-ski-chalet/chamonix/france
Firefly Collection founder Tim Latimer said: “As these five super-chic chalets show, a winter sports escape can be the ideal way to kick off the New Year’s resolutions of sobriety and self-care. Lavish and luxurious, they also provide opportunities for keeping – or getting – slope-fit, maintaining exercise programmes, rejuvenating mind and body with specialist therapies, and relaxing indoor or al fresco dips.”
Find Firefly Collection at www.firefly-collection.com
5 Destinations on The Cultural Horizon for Wellness in 2019
Whether you’re into surfing or yoga, or just need a nap-inducing Swedish massage, kick start your year with a wellness-focused trip to one of 2019’s buzziest destinations. Here are five spots guaranteed to restore body and mind.
The Alps
Epic mountain vistas, mind-clearing air and endless blue and green spaces make the Alps the ultimate place to get headspace. The recent opening of Our Retreat in the chocolate-box resort of Chamonix, a wellness offering that combines mindful skiing sessions with yoga, massage and life coaching, is now bringing even more attention to the area. Gstaad’s Le Grand Bellevue also offers comprehensive wellness experiences – think outdoor meditation, breathwork classes and off-piste adventures – to help stressed-out souls reconnect with nature. Elsewhere,Bürgenstock Resort, nestled above Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, is the place for a total mind-body overhaul.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech may conjure up images of bustling spice markets and overcrowded streets but those in the know check in the region’s award-winning spas for the ultimate urban escape.
Experience a traditional hammam at the Royal Mansour’s bliss-inducing spa, set in Moorish gardens heavy with orange trees; soothe travel-weary limbs in La Mamounia’s cavernous spa, which spans three floors; or indulge the senses at La Sultana’s luxurious offering, which boasts a rooftop terrace with views of the Atlas Mountains beyond. Those seeking a more active escape can head to the coastal town of Essaouira, all but a short drive away, where you’ll be spoilt for choice with surf and yoga retreats.
Joshua Tree, California
The distinctive silhouettes of yuccas against pastel sunsets have been attracting artists and spiritual seekers to Joshua Tree since the 1960s. There’s a palpable ambiance where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts collide, a vibrancy some believe can be explained by a mysterious energy vortex. The National Park’s woo-woo mysticism has gradually melded with wellness culture from neighboring Los Angeles (a 2.5 hour drive to the west), making it one of the top destinations in the world right now for health-minded travelers. Try a breathwork circle at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, pick up medicinal tinctures at herbalism store Greatful Desert, and book an out-of-this-world sound bath inside a glistening-white sonic sphere known as the Integratron.
The Hamptons, New York
Situated along the pretty coastline at the far end of Long Island, the affluent towns comprising The Hamptons each have their own flourishing wellness scenes. In Sag Harbor visit Goop’s pop-up “livable shopping concept” and pick up “objects of desire” at Donna Karan’s Urban Zen. While in Montauk try meditation in a Himalayan salt cave followed by a herbal massage at Naturopathica spa. And if you’re in East Hampton don’t miss SUP yoga on the beach for the greatest savasana of your entire life.
Ubud, Bali
With its placid rice paddies and emerald hills, the landscape of Ubud puts you in a calm state of mind almost immediately. Add to that the significant impact of Eat Pray Love and it’s little wonder this Balinese town has become one of the world’s most noteworthy wellness tourism destinations. Don’t miss the jackfruit tacos at vegan Mexican restaurant Sage, the petal-filled bathing experience at Karsa Spa, and yoga with a difference courtesy of Ketut Arsana – a renowned local healer and guru.
Nutrition & Health Director
Marie Spreckley
MSc MBus BA
Dip Clinical Nutrition, Anatomy & Physiology, Exec. & Personal Coaching
Marie is a clinical nutritionist, life coach, personal trainer and barre instructor and is passionate about helping you look and feel your best.
She has an excellent track record of helping her clients get healthy, lean and energised for life and takes a holistic, well balanced and practical approach to health including nutrition, exercise and overall lifestyle. Her approach is individually tailored to each client, creating completely personalised formulations for the individual’s goals and health concerns from the inside out, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
She has an excellent track record of helping her clients get healthy, lean and energised for life and takes a holistic, well balanced and practical approach to health including nutrition, exercise and overall lifestyle. Her approach is individually tailored to each client, creating completely personalised formulations for the individual’s goals and health concerns from the inside out, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.Marie has worked and lived around the world including England, Australia, the United States, Germany, Austria and Ireland and has worked for a variety of companies and organisations including PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte and the United Nations. She is a member of the British Dietetics Association, the Obesity Medicine Association, the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine and the European Mentoring and Coaching Council. In her function as the Nutrition and Health Director at Harley Street she works closely with clients to facilitate long term, sustained weight loss success as well as continuously ensuring that the clinic as a whole maintains a standard of excellence.
We’re bombarded with the newest, groundbreaking diets or weight loss aids on a daily basis. Every one of them promises to have unique benefits ranging from being able to consume unlimited calories to detoxifying your system to boosting your metabolism. Unfortunately, we are the heaviest and unhealthiest we have ever been with more than 62% of adults in the UK being overweight, of which 26% classify as obese. So why do we have more weight loss resources than ever, yet are not able to keep the weight off? The answer is, unfortunately, surprisingly simple. The diet industry is a huge industry that lives off us not keeping our weight off. They want to keep us coming back so they can keep making more money off our continuous attempts to finally shed the pounds. According to Statista, the market value of health and wellness in the UK was over £23 billion in 2018. Keep that in mind next time you buy into the newest fad diet.
When it comes to weight loss, the answer, from a scientific, comprehensively research backed point of view, is very straightforward. It always has been, and always will be, all about the calories you consume vs. the calories you burn. You do not have excess fat because you are not drinking skinny teas, consuming copious amounts of protein powder or aren’t doing exhausting hour-long workouts every day. You are not losing weight because you are consuming more calories than you burn. It is advisable to eat healthy to ensure you keep your body nourished and healthy with an array of vital nutrients, yet weight loss is all about your overall calorie consumption. Exercise is great to keep you fit and healthy both mentally and physically and to burn some calories while doing it but weight loss will only occur if you consume less calories than you burn. It also does not matter if you eat more fats or carbohydrates. In an equal calorie deficit, you can choose to either eat more fats or more carbohydrates. Both approaches have consistently shown equal results. So if you’re serious about losing weight, start by monitoring your calories for fat loss, eat healthier and exercise to improve your overall health and trust the process.
Crash diets are harmful for your health because you are likely cutting out vital nutrients like fiber on low carbohydrate diets, which is crucial for both your microbiome and overall digestive health, or healthy, unsaturated fats on low fat diets, which are vital for hormone production, brain function, vitamin absorption and cell function. Juice cleanses and other, very restrictive, short-term diets can not be adhered to for life and will likely lead you to binge once you’re finally able to consume the appropriate amount of calories, nutrients and food groups again, leaving you demotivated, disappointed in yourself and potentially heavier than before. Do yourself a favour and eat a balanced, mainly whole-foods based, calorie controlled diet, watch your portions and move more consistently in ways you enjoy. Take your time, be kind to your body and trust the process. Lose weight the right way this year to set you up for a healthy body and mind for life.
TEN TIPS ON HOW TO GET A JOB YOU LOVE IN 2019
“I know I want to do something different, but don’t know what it is!” is the most common phrase heard by career transition expert John Lees. But how do you take those first steps towards making a change to start really unlocking your hidden potential? In the 2019/20 edition of his best-selling guide, How to Get a Job You Love (McGraw-Hill, £12.99) John expertly guides readers through the job transition maze to help discover your strengths, identify your real career drivers, and provides his advice on negotiating today’s jobs market.
Here are John’s ten top tips for How to Get a Job You Love this year.
What happened to my career? Firstly, analyse the problem. How did you get to your current role, what’s preventing you from getting a job you’ll love? How much of your career is about regret or missed opportunity? You’ve now taken the first step to change.
Analyse your skills. What do you do well? Review your skills, especially those acquired outside work. What skills always feel natural? What skills do you look forward to using in the workplace? List your current skills development, learning and any voluntary activities.
Work out your top 10 jobs criteria. Develop a wish list of the ingredients in your ideal job – think about key elements such as the kind of people you enjoy working with, the results you like to achieve and the organisation’s working style. Then throw your values into the mix – what products or services matter to you? Look for jobs which match at least six out of the 10 criteria.
Stock take. It’s very easy to believe that the only solution to job dissatisfaction at work is job change. Often our dissatisfaction is because there’s a mismatch between who you are and what you are doing. Review your job carefully. What parts do you actually enjoy? Make a list of what you would change if you had a magic wand, then look at what you could actually change. Sometimes the solution may just be in voicing your aspirations about what you’d like to do more of to your boss or HR.
Focus on the ingredients not the job title. “I’m looking for a job that involves these skills, this knowledge, and this working style”. Let people make creative suggestions rather than just responding to your stated job title.
What would you do if you won the lottery? Two years later after you’ve won the lottery and had some down time, if money is not the reason for working, what would you want to do if you could do anything you wanted? Taking money and status out of the picture let’s you focus on what you would like to do most of the time.
Mine your experience. Few people discover their dream job through career tests. Usually it’s through combining ideas and past experience. Look at what you have found stimulating in the past – in work, study or leisure – and map that into the workplace by asking about what people actually do.
Look before you leap. Research before you job search. Don’t rely on second-hand information, find out for yourself! Pick a couple of job ideas and ask around until you get a chance to talk to people who actually do the role. A friend of a friend, someone at the gym, or in your street. Find out what the job is really like, if they love what they do and learn to talk the language.
Get your message right. When you get closer to deciding what your ideal job is, learn how to present what you are and what you do in short, focused statements. Be ready to summarise your skills and know-how quickly, and say how you can help an organisation. Decide in advance what are the six most important things on an employer s shopping list, and prepare engaging stories to match.
Just do it! You’ve done your homework, researched the market, spoken to people who do the job and honed your message and CV, so now ask for the opportunity! Ask if you could job shadow them for a day, ring to see if they know of any opportunities and discover the ‘hidden’ job market by networking continuously, and don’t let setbacks put you off.
The new and fully updated edition of How to Get a Job You Love will challenge your perceived limitations, find your true passion and start applying it to your working life. The practical guide also looks at overcoming the blocks between you and a great career; discovering new areas of work; creative job search strategies, de-bunks job hunting myths and finding a job using social media. Key new features in this edition include fresh exercises to draw out your personal values, checklists including self-employment, new chapters and revised resources.
ANNOUNCES…
THREE MAJOR SPORTING EVENTS
FOR 2019
Following the unbelievable success of 2018, Virgin Sport is announcing the return of its THREE Major Events to the 2019 Sporting Calendar!
MORE FITNESS… MORE FUN… MORE SWEAT!
HACKNEY FESTIVAL OF FITNESS
17th-19th May 2019, Hackney Marshes
80,000 people expected over three days at the
UK’s LARGEST OUTDOOR FITNESS FESTIVAL including Open Air Cinema, Sweat Sessions and… Market on The Marshes.
PLUS… The 13.1 mile Headline Event
Hackney Half Marathon!
ASICS LONDON 10K
21st July 2019, Westminster
The Ultimate 10K Tour of Westminster, where runners pass by iconic London landmarks including Trafalgar Square, the Embankment, Big Ben and more.
OXFORD HALF
13th October 2019, Oxford City Centre
This fast and flat 13.1 mile route through historic Oxford kicks off from the City Centre. Runners will speed by world-famous museums, universities, parks and more on this one-of-a-kind run.
Sally Wilkinson – Sally is a 48 year old mother of 3 & known as ‘Mrs Motivator’ she used exercise as a way out of her depression, after becoming bankrupt.
She trained to do an Ironman as her distraction – she came last but was still presented with a medal as it was a huge achievement for her and then since then exercise has been her therapy. She has also been through a weight loss journey. Sally has been described as an energetic health and fitness enthusiast with a cheeky sense of humour who gets a kick out of inspiring others to motivate themselves to make change! That last sentence is the key… she wants to empower people to motivate themselves to make change.. she does this using health and fitness, movement, mindfulness, gratitude and a bit of self love! Sally is now a qualified Fitness Instructor and qualified Juice Therapist and Nordic Walking Instructor too! Sally says; “I used to be a lot bigger than I am now, I found it very difficult to lose weight after my third child. I know what it feels like to hate yourself. I know what it feels like to feel hopeless. I have been on and off diets all my adult life. I was an emotional eater and totally understand what it feels like. I have gone through depression and bankruptcy and have experienced the very real fear of both. I know the futile feeling and lack of self worth when you may eat or drink too much to numb the pain of your worries and fear. I believe you can do ANYTHING if you want it enough (providing you don’t have an injury!)”
Lucy Locket Loves – Lucy Locket Loves specialises in fun vibrant fun prints and catchy slogans. www.locketloves.com – Lucy promotes body positivity and her activewear range is suitable for everybody offering size 6 to size 24 which makes her stand out in a market offering such a limited size range.
Staying fit should be for everyone. Women of all sizes work out, play sport and stay active. She says; “So many of my customers tell me how hard it is to get activewear that fits properly when you are a size 16 and above, that it’s almost impossible. We live in a society that is constantly telling us that we need to be unhappy with our bodies – we need to be skinnier, but still have curves – it’s ridiculous. ‘If we want people to learn to love themselves and create a love of exercise, they need to feel comfortable whilst exercising. They need to know that they can do a workout and feel great and have kit that fits properly. We want to help everybody, whatever the journey they are on and wherever they are.’
2019 Wellness Trends Explained
LIVE WELL LONDON experts comment on Welltodo’s 2019 Consumer Wellness Trends report, highlighting the trends that will really deliver next year.
Live Well London show partner Welltodo has recently published the 2019 Welltodo Consumer Wellness Trends which highlight topics including inclusivity, the need for a greater sense of purpose, a demand for more convenient wellness solutions, the growth of The Boutique Model, the evolution of mental health and the role businesses can play in the holistic health movement.
Here, some of our Live Well London experts consider how these trends might impact on our lives in the year ahead. At Live Well London, the UK’s top health and wellbeing experts will be helping visitors discover the health, fitness and wellbeing ideas and experiences that are most suited to them – whatever stage of their physical or emotional wellness journey they are at.
Mental Health – Wellness evolves to embrace mental wealth
Laila Datoo (www.alifemoremindful.com) is both a business and a well-being coach. Considering the growing number of people suffering from mental or neurological disorders, Laila firmly believes that wellbeing is wealth when you give yourself permission to pause. “We are fortunate to be in a time where there is a huge awareness of personal well-being as the fitness, yoga and wellness industries grow from strength to strength. Yet in the work space, people’s daily work lives are becoming all-consuming and there is little space for adopting well-being.
The biggest gift I empower clients to give to themselves is the space and permission to practice well-being. My approach is positive, consistent action rather than a one-off act of desperation to salvage a stressful week. Listen to your body – what do you need right now? It could be an hour yoga class, a 30 minute walk or run, 10 minutes reading, a 5 minute pause or 3 breaths. Being aware of your stress triggers is huge and then giving yourself the space to manage your response – it doesn’t have to be big to be powerful!”
Holistic Health – Health and wellness approaches combine as consumers take control
Dale Pinnock, (www.themedicinalchef.co.uk) The Medicinal Chef, is the pre-eminent voice in eating for good health. He has degrees in Human Nutrition and Herbal Medicine and a Masters in Nutritional Medicine, so he knows what foods really do your body good, and why. He has also worked as a chef and collaborates regularly with GPs and health professionals to teach people that good diet is instrumental in good health. “I think there is a growing understanding that our health is certainly something that we can actively engage in.
We can determine much of our health future, our wellness, and now that there are more practical and creative ways to do that, its adoption has been inevitable. Gut health and fermented foods is a growing trend which will continue well into 2019 as there is more and more exciting research being published in terms of the role of gut flora and health. Another big trend is mindfulness and stress management. My one word of warning though is be careful of who you take advice from. Just because someone has a big following on social media, it doesn’t make them an expert.”
Cognitive Optimisation – How to create the best version of you
Lara Morgan, founder of Scentered (www.scentered.me), the mood therapy balm brand, believes that the wellness industry is undergoing a massive change to respond to consumer demand for solutions to help them be their best. “The speed at which we work, our desire to detox, the endless and relentless demand of digital to be on and responsive – all these things are driving the necessity for individuals to be wholly conscious of how they can deliver their best work whilst living their best lives. The uplift and growth in exercise space with the redesign of buildings is facilitating lifestyle changes in the whole way we
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work, play and relax. Newness abounds – the health and beauty shelves are merging and being renamed wellness. Nutrition is a fiercely competitive, growing sector of the industry. Sleep experts are looking at circadian rhythms to understand how we can recover and refresh better, flow will be a key conversation in next year’s media conversations for wellness learning and awareness. The changes are happening all around us. Personally I anticipate that better self-care will be supported by tools that aid individuals to improve their habit rituals so that they can confidently keep on track to live their best lives.”
The Boutique Model – How smaller is stronger
Dave Thomas is co-founder of The Foundry (www.foundryfit.com), a community focused boutique gym group that offers classes and small group personal training. He explains the growing popularity of the Boutique Model: “The embrace of boutique fitness is a return to the traditional history of fitness communities. With the commercialisation of fitness, gyms became giant, soulless places relying on thousands of members to cover their baselines, rather than propagating a small, loyal base.
As a result, the community aspect, where people know and support each other, was lost as members became isolated in their fitness journeys, accustomed to the lone wolf approach. Dunbar’s number suggests the perfect size for a community is 150, an extended family, therefore the growth of boutique fitness reflects the customer’s desire for support, attention and the sense of belonging which comes from being a part of a community. Boutique fitness is about value rather than price. The big growth area in 2019 will be personalising the approach to fitness even further, focussing on customers’ ‘holistic health’ with a particular emphasis on mental and emotional well-being.”
Inclusivity – Wellbeing evolves to be more accessible and make a difference to all
Gian Power is the founder of TLC LIONS (www.tlclions.com/contact), a collective of ordinary people who share extraordinary stories to ignite emotion in organisations. In these powerful, personal and emotive sessions, the Lions (speakers) share stories from the heart that build empathy and understanding in the audience. Gian firmly believes that wellbeing is no longer a nice to have, it’s a business imperative and has a direct impact on employee happiness and productivity.
Gian comments, “At TLC LIONS we support some of the world’s largest companies and are seeing an increasing number of them fast tracking their inclusion agenda. Our clients see the power of storytelling and creating more inclusive workforces to promote wellbeing at work and boost productivity. Inclusion is not only the right thing to do, it also makes business sense.”
Sophie Clyde Smith, Welltodo Careers Manager, will host a career’s focussed talk on the Knowledge Stage – Cultivate a Career in the Wellness Industry – on Saturday 2 March 2019. Welltodo helps people build incredible businesses and careers in the wellness industry. Through the creation of global wellness industry news and insights, an exciting and engaging calendar of events and a globally recognised careers platform, Welltodo informs and connects brands, investors, industry professionals and job-seekers to help support the growth of the global wellness industry.
Welltodo’s goal is to inspire, educate and share ideas that impact the evolution of the wellness industry globally.
Visitors at Live Well London will hear first-hand practical, realistic advice about the tools, techniques, tried and tested methods to help them lead a healthier, happier life. Familiar voices and faces will include Matt Roberts, Liz Earle MBE, Kristina Karlsson (kikki.K), Amy Rushworth (Wellness with Amy), Dale Pinnock (The Medicinal Chef), Sophie Radcliffe (Challenge Sophie), Richie Norton (The Strength Temple), Anjali Mahto (Consultant Dermatologist and Author of The Skincare Bible), Niraj Shah (Mind:Unlocked), Jo Fairley (The Beauty Bible) and more…
www.livewelllondon.com
UK revealed as the most unfit country in Europe
www.targus.com
Targus research reveals a poor work/life balance as the main reason
for the UK’s shocking exercise habits
No gender gap in the gym – men and women just as health conscious across the continent
London, UK – 3rd January, 2019 – Targus – a global leader in mobile accessories – has carried out research revealing that workers in the UK have the worst fitness habits in Europe. Results showed that over half of the nation admitted they struggle to fit in exercise around their working lives and an alarming 10% admitted to doing no exercise at all – the highest percentage compared to any other country.
The survey – conducted by OnePoll and carried out in seven countries across Europe – uncovered the key factors that are restricting people from living more active lifestyles, with a poor work/life balance and stress cited as the main reason by consumers.
Given a large part of the Dutch workforce pursues a healthy work/life balance with an average four-day working week, it comes as no surprise that respondents from The Netherlands topped the charts as the most active European country, with 45% of people exercising four times a week or more. Similarly, the Dutch also appeared to have a more positive work/life balance, with 70% claiming they do not struggle to find time to exercise.
Raphael De Perlinghi, EMEA Director at Targus, said: “People are nowadays far more aware of both the physical and mental health benefits an active lifestyle brings. However, these survey findings show there are still many people across a number of countries that are struggling to engage in regular exercise, due to both a lack of time and stress. With Targus’ Work and Play range of backpacks specifically designed for professionals looking to include sport into their daily routines, we wanted to offer the ideal accessory that essentially combines work and life.”
No gender gap in the gym
When it comes to the frequency of exercise among the sexes, men and women are just as health conscious across the continent with two thirds of men (67%) and women (64%) carrying out some form of activity at least twice a week.
There was, on the other hand, a contrast when it came to accessorising for the gym, with men (74%) much more likely to exercise if they can fit their work and gym stuff into just one bag, compared to women (59%).
De Perlinghi added: “The research revealed that men are far more swayed by convenience when it comes to exercise, especially when it comes to gym gear. We factor these requests into the design and creation of our products in order to deliver what is sought after in the market – our Work and Play collection carries not just your tech, but your gym stuff too, so you no longer have an excuse for not pursuing that before or after work exercise!”
Advice from Jenny Arrington Wellness Advisor at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Jenny teaches two lineages of yoga, meditation, mindfulness practices, and sound healing.
“A lesson we can take from yoga when we are facing a new year is a concept called Sankalpa. It is a vow with your highest self, your spirit. The typical new year’s resolution is grounded in the belief that we aren’t good enough. We often choose resolutions like, “I need to lose weight. I need to work out more. I need to watch less t.v. I need to get a boyfriend. I want to make more money. I want to get more flexible.”
At the heart of these “resolutions” is wanting and needing. I want, I want, I need. When we set these kinds of goals, we are putting out the energy of “want” and we will just get more wanting. A Sankalpa assumes we are already whole, healed, and we just need to take some steps to more fully manifest our highest selves. If we are starting with the thought, “I need to lose weight,” we need to drill down to what is driving that. Ask yourself why you need to lose weight. Is it because you have diabetes and your life depends on it? Is it because you think you need to in order to attract a mate? Is it because you want to be stronger in order to do a particular sport? Is it because you feel unattractive? Once you answer that, ask Why again. Why do you want to play that sport? Why do you want to attract a mate? Once we drill down enough, we usually end up realizing that at the core, we want to feel loved. We want to love ourselves and we want to feel the attention from others that sparks that love. We want to feel safe, protected, and taken care of.
If our goal is lose weight and we find ourselves tempted to binge on a bag of potato chips, our Sankalpa will guide us by reminding us of that core wish that we discovered through our exploratory “why” questions. We can think, “I have made a vow with my highest self to choose activities and habits that support me feeling loved, nourished, and whole.” A statement like that is coming from a loving place rather than a punishing, “I’m not good enough” place. It feels very different than, “I’m fat and ugly and I can’t eat these potato chips.” Words, whether they are spoken aloud or thought silently, are incredibly powerful. A Sankalpa is a tool that can keep us on track while promoting positive thinking.”
12 Wellness Holidays to Transform Your Life in 2019
A new year marks a new beginning, so it’s natural to want to reflect and make resolutions to improve different aspects of your life. Give yourself the best shot at success this year as you follow through your resolutions on a transformative health and fitness holiday. Whatever your goals in 2019, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists, can find a destination to satisfy your wellness needs; be it a digital detox, sleep enhancement, emotional healing or fitness and nutrition. With carefully crafted programmes and the support of experts, in some of the world’s most beautiful locations, choose a wellness holiday to transform your life this year.
The Digital Detox Holiday – Santani Detox, Sri Lanka
Disconnect from the outside world and tune in with yourself on this Sri Lankan digital detox haven. At Santani, technology is banned in public areas, so that you immediately see and feel the difference the moment you step in. Enjoy your stay in blissful harmony with activities including yoga and meditation sessions, active adventures, guided nature hikes and mountain biking. Whilst decluttering your mental space, cleanse your body with a comprehensive detox programme backed by a bespoke meal plan, together with indulgent spa treatments resting and then rebooting your system from head to toe.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Santani Wellness Resort & Spa from £2,135pp and £2,805 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a detox programme, and return private transfers.
The Back to Nature Escape – Quintessence Sports and Health Retreat, France
Get in touch with nature in the heart of the French Alps for a much-needed wellness break that promises to revive the mind, body and soul. Embrace the great outdoors with active living in an exceptionally beautiful location through a combination of functional fitness classes and tailored nutrition. In between exhilarating activities enjoy the social dining facilities to refuel with energy boosting meals, snacks and smoothies. Enjoy your down time with a pamper-filled session at the spa or by the fireplace, sipping on herbal tea whilst reading a book to perfectly round off your day.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Quintessence Retreats from £1,895pp and £2,590 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a wellness programme, and return private transfers.
The Emotional Healing Break – Revivo Emotional Balance, Bali
Use the power of the mind to create positive changes to your life on this transformative healing retreat in Bali. Whatever mental or emotional hurdles you might be facing, at Revivo, you can take your time to slow down and rediscover yourself through a variety of different holistic therapies including Reiki and chakra balancing, harmonised with yoga and Pranayama breathing sessions. Through a meticulous blend of mindfulness activities and self-affirming therapy, learn to channel your energy productively to strengthen your self-discipline and unlock the gates to enhancing your emotional strength and inner peace.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at REVĪVŌ Wellness Resorts from £3,355pp and £5,235 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a wellness programme, and return private transfers.
The Ideal Weight Loss Retreat – Euphoria Retreat Advanced Weight Loss, Greece
Everybody has a different body and therefore a different journey of personal experience and goals. At Euphoria Retreat, they have created a weight loss programme that is built around your own unique needs and physiology. Their patented technique called 3GL, (a full-body assessment) adds a scientific basis to your programme and analyses your body’s glutathione, glycogen and glucose levels to determine the best nutrition plans and exercise to suit you. Shape up with private fitness training sessions, cleanse with the detoxifying lymphatic drainage massage and fully unwind with Theta healing and meditation sessions.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Euphoria Retreat from £3,995pp and £4,375 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a weight-loss programme, and return private transfers.
The Healthy Foodie Getaway – Fusion Maia Raw Food Detox, Vietnam
A luxury tropical oasis located in Da Nang, Vietnam, Fusion Maia is one healthy foodie getaway you wouldn’t want to miss. Develop your healthy eating knowledge and inspiration with a rainbow of wholesome cuisine inspired from modern Asian flavours to comfort food classics including a guilt-free pizza which is as delicious as it looks. With a ‘raw until four’ nutritional plan, you can experience Fusion Maia’s 80:20 approach, enjoying a balanced raw food regimen that does not skimp on taste or nourishment. Complement your stay with up to three tailored spa treatments per day, taking you into deeper relaxation and rejuvenation.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Fusion Maia from £2,040pp and £3,140 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a detox programme, and return private transfers.
The Learning Escape – BodyHoliday SwimFit, St. Lucia
You’re never too old to learn how to swim or to improve your swimming confidence and ability. With the BodyHoliday’s SwimFit programme, you are bound for a learning retreat that could change your life. Led by Olympic medalists Keri-Ann Payne and David Carry, master the fundamentals whilst also perfecting your technique with private and group swimming lessons. See more of the beautiful island of St Lucia with a Swim Safari to the Pitons or challenge yourself and enter the One Mile Swim to put you through your paces. Back at the retreat, wind down with daily spa treatments to soothe tired muscles leaving you fully recharged after your stay.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at BodyHoliday from £4,525pp and £4,660 for single occupancy. Price is all-inclusive and includes a SwimFit programme and return private transfers.
The Cultural Wellness Adventure – Pravassa Cambodia
Cambodia guarantees to captivate the senses with its rich culture and grand historical landmarks. Combine this with the signature wellness elements brought to you by Pravassa and you have an exceptional cultural journey that’s life-changing to the very core. Offering immersive and authentic travel experiences, you can explore the country with visits to bucket-list worthy spots like Angkor Wat, the colonial town of Battambang and the beautiful coast of Kep. A typical itinerary includes accommodation at exclusive luxury retreats, private experiences with local healers and personal assessment of your wellness needs that can ensure your programme is tailor-made to fit!
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 11 nights with Pravassa Cambodia from £4,090pp. Price includes full board wellness programme and return private transfers.
The Self-Love Retreat – The BARAI Spa Ultimate Unwind, Thailand
Reward yourself with some self-love as you indulge in the most luxurious way at The BARAI Spa located in the vibrant seaside town of Hua Hin. This award-winning spa destination marries traditional Thai wellness techniques with contemporary standards in the form of specialty massages and rejuvenating spa therapies. Relax in one of their eighteen lavish treatment rooms each featuring a private outdoor soaking pool, an experience rain shower, day-bed enclave and vanity area. Don’t miss the divine 120-minute caviar facial, which guarantees to restore and revive dull skin.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at The BARAI Spa from £2,335pp and £3,420 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a wellness programme, and return private transfers.
The Sleep Solution Holiday – Grand Resort Bad Ragaz Sleep Diagnostic, Switzerland
Sleep quality and quality of life go hand in hand, that’s why Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, a well-being haven set along the foothills of the Swiss Alps, has designed a sleep enhancement programme that promises to give sustainable results. With a focus on diagnostics, get to the root cause of your sleeping problems through a combination of state-of-the-art medical analysis, consultations and a personalised health plan. Whether you’re finding it difficult to fall asleep, waking in the middle of the night or are tired during the day, this retreat will find the right sleep solution for you and teach you techniques which could transform your life altogether.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz from £4,425pp and £4,760 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast, a sleep enhancement programme, and return private transfers.
The Family Activity Trip – Six Senses Zighy Bay Family Holiday, Oman
Spend quality time with your family in the best way possible on an active beach escape at Zighy Bay in the stunning Musandam Peninsula. Unforgettable family activities are at your disposal, with a children’s and teen’s club. Younger children can experience fun adventures from treasure hunts to swimming relays, as the teens try slack lining, rock climbing, yoga and snorkeling. There is no end to the excitement even for mums and dads, with kayaking, mountain biking and paragliding on the list. After getting your heart racing, unwind in the luxury spa for a wellness break that has something to offer for everyone.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Six Senses Zighy Bay from £8,550pp. Price includes breakfast, a family holiday programme, and return private transfers.
The Active Lifestyle Escape – Marbella Club Optimal Fitness & Energy, Spain
Embrace active living in the beautiful backdrop of the Golden Mile at Marbella Club, sheltered beneath the Sierra Blanca Mountains, which gives Marbella its signature balmy micro-climate. With a wellness philosophy that centers on our deep connection with nature, get ready to kick-start your fitness journey in the holistic studio, on a beachfront haven with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. This transformative retreat aims to help you achieve your goals with daily personal training sessions and energising outdoor activities, all backed by bespoke nutrition. For a well-rounded approach, recover with an assortment of indulgent spa treatments fusing modern and ancient healing methods.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Marbella Club from £2,545pp and £3,830 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast, a fitness programme, and return private transfers.
The Holistic Healing Retreat – Svarga Loka Holistic Healing, Bali
Set on the riverbanks of the spiritual Campuhan river in Ubud, Svarga Loka makes for an ideal sanctuary for healing and reflection. Using century-old Balinese traditions, experience an authentic holistic approach that encompasses healing for the mind, body and spirit. On top of that, take part in a range of grounding activities including yoga and meditation, as well as wellness workshops and talks. Svarga Loka not only offers a tranquil healing sanctuary, but also provides its guests invaluable skills and knowledge to further their transformation journey long after their stay.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Svarga Loka from £1,945pp and £2,485 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a wellness programme, and return private transfers.
For advice, guidance and booking visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com
Garden Food Prep
www.gardenfoodprep.com
We are a meal prep company that specialises in making tasty food healthy. We use natural ingredients and accurate measurements to help our clients achieve their goals. Our system makes it almost too easy and convenient to succeed by delivering this healthy goal orientated food to our clients door after a few simple clicks from their online order.
If you want to become sustainably healthy from today, we are your best option.
Spend Well with ZeroWater
A lack of water intake can cause headache’s, stress, lack of sleep or even muscle strain due to bad posture. There simplest fix is drinking more water, although bottled water can be more expensive than a litre of petrol and tap water can be full of chlorine and taste poor.
There is an easy fix to save money by using the leading water filter brand on the market. ZeroWater’s filtration jug has been created to make drinking perfectly filtered water easier.
ZeroWater is the only gravity-fed filtration system to match the TDS levels found in purified bottle water, the result is great-tasting water, straight from the tap. The average glass of tap water contains large amounts of lead, heavy metals, or chromium. ZeroWater removes 99.6% of all toxins.
Enjoy great-tasting water with next generation filter technology. The ZeroWater filtration system combines FIVE sophisticated technologies that work together to remove virtually all dissolved solids from your tap water, delivering you great tasting water. ZeroWater filters are also the only pour-through filters on the market certified by the NSF to reduce lead.
Zerowater is available in range of sizes to suit all homes/offices prices start from just £24.99 from Zerowater.co.uk
Salt Baths: The Trend That’s Heating Up
Westlab’s 100% pure, natural mineral salts solve health problems while you soak
Bathing has long been known as a calming evening ritual, but a warm soak is also an excellent way to boost health, up mineral intake, help the body to detox and to improve its sleep pattern, not to mention providing a well-needed moment of peace and quiet in a busy world. Re-discover the art of bathing with Westlab Salts, the UK’s best bath salt manufacturer specialising in pure, high-grade mineral salts that are free from chemicals and additives to ensure a wellness-infused bath every time.
Westlab’s best-selling pure bathing salts, from £5.99 for 1kg, are available from Boots, Superdrug, Tesco, Look Fantastic and leading health retailers.
Epsom Salt
Best for: sore muscles, digestion, bloating
The muscle-relaxing, pain-relieving effects of Epsom Salt make it a longstanding favourite with athletes, A-Listers and Health Editors across the world. Epsom Salt is packed with high-grade magnesium which is responsible for over 300 enzyme reactions within the body and aids muscle control helping to soothe and ease sore, cramped or twitching muscles. Epsom Salt is also widely used for aiding digestion: a tried and tested red-carpet bloat buster, Epsom Salt relaxes the muscles in the abdomen and small intestine to draw out excess fluids and gas, leaving the figure feeling streamlined and comfortable. £5.99 for 1kg
Dead Sea Salt
Best for: dry or itchy skin, eczema, psoriasis
For a fail-safe skincare routine, take note from the beauty tips of our ancient ancestors. Bringing the healing and hydrating benefits of the Dead Sea to the bathroom, Dead Sea Salt was used by Cleopatra to keep her skin soft and smooth. Today, it is just as useful for those with eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis as it reduces itching, irritation, redness and inflammation. Calcium acts as an anti-oxidant to promote cell renewal, whilst potassium balances the skin’s moisture levels and magnesium calms and repairs the skin. £5.99 for 1kg
Himalayan Salt
Best for: detoxing, cleansing
The blush-pink grains of Himalayan Salt are renowned for their deeply cleansing and detoxifying benefits. Helping the body to rid itself of toxins and negative substances, a Himalayan salt bath is ideal for when the body feels tired, run down or overworked. £5.99 for 1kg
Magnesium Flakes
Best for: aiding sleep, reducing tiredness
A magnesium-infused bath should be the first choice for anyone finding it difficult to drift off, wake up or stay asleep throughout the night. It’s thought that up to two thirds of us are deficient in magnesium, resulting in a disrupted night’s sleep. Since the best way to absorb magnesium is transdermally (through the skin), Westlab’s Magnesium Flakes are an ideal way to top up the body’s magnesium levels before bed. £8.99 for 1kg
INTERVIEW with Vicky Anstey the UK’s leading fitness expert, also in SAS who dares wins and the founder of Barreworks!
Hi Vicki tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m a 40 year old business owner, non-professional ‘athlete’ and most recently, finalist in the Channel 4 programme SAS: Who Dares wins.
How did you find taking part in SAS?
Every second, minute and hour was harder than any other second, minute or hour of my whole life. And you literally lived it moment-by-moment. The beastings were brutal and (for me at least) some of the tasks were terrifying, but the toughest part of it was permanently living in a high anxiety state. Never knowing what was next. Where we were going. What we would be doing when we got there. How long we might have to catch our breath after a 3 hour beasting before the next one, or how long we might have to sleep in-between night watch postings. ‘Lights-out’ was meaningless.
You became institutionalised very quickly. Bonding with the other recruits immediately and by the end of the course, feeling totally dependent upon each other for survival.
At times, it was very, very cold. At times, we were very, very hungry. Most of the time we were beyond the point of exhaustion and just kept going anyway. That’s when you realise just how much mental resilience you have.
We lived on pure adrenaline, which by-passed most moments of pain/ discomfort, minor (and critical) medical issues and assessment of risk in completing tasks. When I came home, I found that to be the hardest thing to adjust to. For several weeks, my sleep was affected, I had nightmares and generally felt very apathetic about most ‘routine’ aspects of my life.
How long have you been a Barre expert for?
I set up Barreworks 10 years ago this February. I trained in the original barre method, Lotte Berk over 12 years ago and built up a following across London before settling in Richmond and establishing my Studio.
What did you do before Barre?
I worked in advertising and marketing. Initially for agencies and then in-house for IKEA and Eurostar, producing their national TV and print campaigns. I loved it and was good at it, but always felt there was something missing – a sense of real fulfilment.
How do you continue to push yourself with your fitness?
I’m a real ‘workhorse’ I never give up and have a steely determination (that sometimes gets the better of me!). I map out my training schedule every week and stick to it no matter what. I do a really high volume of training and probably don’t rest as much as I should, but it is very varied so I think that helps me manage my recovery. I’ve been a member of British Military Fitness for 12 years, I’ve run 5 marathons, completed a 400km cycle across Sardina in 4 days, I train extensively with Mel Deane (ex-professional rugby player), do olympic lifting and of course a LOT of barre!
How are your fitness role models and inspirations?
I love seeing women who aren’t ‘conventional athletes’ beat the odds and do amazing things. Kiko Matthews for example (who was the fastest woman to row the Atlantic and was a school teacher). I’m not so inspired by social media sensations that come and go. I also love seeing ex-professional sports people continue to train and compete after ‘retirement’ Mel inspires me in that sense and girls like Helen Glover (ex-Olympic rower) who are still smashing workouts and training sessions/challenges.
What is left on your bucket list that you haven’t yet done within the fitness arena?
I’m still trying to work that out! I’d love to find something a bit left field, unusual – especially for a woman to take on. Something a bit crazy. Something that I have to adapt my training for and learn new skills, push my limits in other ways. Any ideas?!
For anyone that hasn’t done Barre before how would you describe it?
Barre mirrors a dancers training regime. All the behind-the-scenes strength-building, posture-improving, total body ‘balancing’ that a dancer needs to perform. I always say that Ballet dancers are the most supreme athletes. You’re working on stability and flexibility and strength, but you have this higher goal of control and aesthetics. Our workouts incoprarate use of weights, resistance bands and other small props. We work to upbeat music, they are pretty brutal. We work with athletes too, to improve their performance, change the training stimulus for them and ensure they stay out of injury. We’ve worked with rugby players, hockey players, professional horse riders and olympic rowers amongst others.
What does 2019 have in store for you?
We’re celebrating our 10 year anniversary at Barreworks in February and launching some exciting new strands of the business – hoping to continue to work with more athletes and teams/squads to bring something different to their programmes. We have some ground-breaking events planned for the barre industry and I’ll be looking to take my personal training and associated training to another level. I’m participating in the Turf Games in February and the National Fitness Games later in the year. Lots going on!
Is SAS the toughest thing you have ever done?
I think I had a realistic expectation of how hard it would be. I have done a lot of military-style training before and although I found the physical tasks tough, I got through them ok.
I didn’t expect that we would have no opportunity to shower, no change of underwear, two sets of military fatigues (one ‘wet’ one ‘dry’ that ultimately both became ‘wet’, filthy and ripped).
I also found it more REAL than I had anticipated. I thought that I would be able to maintain a notion that it was a TV programme and that whatever happened, it wasn’t real. Within the first hour of being there, I realised how wrong I had been. The DS were TERRIFYING. The tasks were DANGEROUS. Our bodies were DESTROYED, we had cuts, bruises, injuries, chest infections, altitude sickness and the worst DOMS of our lives. We were not cleaned up, patched up and given plentiful food off-camera. We fended for ourselves 100%.
If there was ever a point that I felt like giving up, it was when the mere thought of what was coming next became so overwhelming and so stressful that I honestly thought I couldn’t deal with it. A sense of total fear with no control over the situation at all.
Debunked: 5 Myths and Misconceptions About Rugby Concussions
Researchers recently uncovered that suffering from a concussion in your 20’s can increase the risk of dementia by 60%.
To help raise awareness of this mild brain injury, Samurai Sports have shed light on the signs and symptoms of concussion, before recommending recovery tips: https://www.samurai-sports.com/concussion-in-sport/
5 Myths and Misconceptions About Concussions
A helmet will prevent concussion – Helmets can prevent cuts and skull fractures but they are yet to be proven to prevent concussions.
You need to be hit in the head – As concussions are caused by the internal motion of the brain, they can also be caused by a hit to the neck or chest.
They only occur in high-impact sports – False. You can still receive a concussion in a non-contact sport i.e. basketball, ice-skating and cycling.
No loss of consciousness means no concussion – In fact, only 10% of concussions occur with a loss of concussions.
Rest is the best recovery method – You should only rest for the first 24-48 hours before partaking in physical exercise therapy which focuses on gradual training.
Samurai Sports have also delved into how concussions are most likely to occur in the UK
Red dates snacks
They come in soft and crunchy, taste naturally sweet witout added sugar, and are only 70 kcal per serving. All vegan. Perfect for the new year.
What are Red Dates / Jujube Fruits?
Red Dates, also called Jujube fruits, are a berry from the Far East enjoyed for health and well-being for thousands of years. They have a natural caramel flavour and are packed with nutrients. They contain 18 out of 24 essential amino acids which help tissue repair and recovery – perfect after a workout. Also, they are known as an adaptogen, which helps the body adapt to stress, both mentally and physically. The fresh jujube fruit has 20 x more vitamin C than citrus fruits. With only 60 kcal per serving, they are low in calories, high in fibre, and also gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, paleo, no added sugar, sulphite free.
Who is Abakus Foods?
Abakus Foods helps people discover and harness the power of natural foods. This London-based health food start-up was launched in 2016 by Helen Wang, who was born in China, raised in Germany, then moved to London and worked in finance. Helen’s mum would send care packages including Jujube to help keep her workaholic, stressed daughter in full health – and they worked so well that Helen decided to bring the Jujube fruit into the UK and spread its health-boosting benefits.
RRP: from £1.49 per bag
Stockists: Ocado, Grape Tree, Whole Foods, Planet Organic, Revital, independents, and www.abakusfoods.com
Free-from: Gluten-free, dairy-free, sulphite-free, no added sugar, paleo, vegan, vegetarian, non-GMO.
Purition – because nothing beats real food
Honest and nutritious, Purition wholefood shakes are made using natural, nourishing ingredients with no hidden nasties.
Flying the flag for a truly natural product, Purition is a nutritionally balanced and versatile product. More than just a natural protein powder, Purition can be used as a healthy alternative to meal replacements, ideal for healthy living, weight management and sports nutrition. It is also suitable for people with certain dietary requirements or illnesses who are looking to eat more mindfully.
Purition uses only high quality ingredients and is committed to sourcing these responsibly. 45% of the ingredients come from the UK. All products are made in-house, in the UK, to strict SALSA Approved food production standards. Purition is available in Original protein powder and also Vegan Dairy Free.
Purition is a growing online business, selling to customers via the internet and Amazon. Purition is also available at selected high street retailers including the Wellness section in Boots, Whole Food Market, Planet Organic and Supervalu and Fresh in Ireland.
Edward Taylor, Managing Director of Purition, commented “Healthy living remains a hot topic in today’s busy lifestyle. Purition provides natural, no-nonsense nutrition in a convenient way. Being mindful of ingredients and wellbeing isn’t a fad but a lifestyle.”
In 2018 Purition was ranked in The Telegraph’s Top 10 Best Proteins for both Dairy and Dairy Free products. It has also been a finalist for Best Online Business (Chamber of Commerce) and was the winner of two awards in the 2018 Nourish Awards, including the People’s Choice award. Purition has launched an environmental initiative, helping to reduce unnecessary plastics waste by removing recyclable plastic scoops from its products. The Shropshire company has also supported the Great Ormond Street Hospital London Marathon fundraisers and the Breast Cancer Care charity.
Lettuce begin: Step into 2019 by eating clean and thinking green!
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Let’s not beet around the bush, January is riddled with dietary difficulties as we’re hurried out of indulgent Christmas festivities and forced to dive straight into New Year positivities. Kickstart your healthy January with a detox from Christmas luxuries and delve into some of Asda’s healthy New Year options. Whether you’re dabbling in Dry January or simply vowing to cut out bad habits developed over the festive period – Asda is stocking everything from feel-good healthy yoghurts to pure juice mocktails to cover a wide range of New Year’s resolutions.
Asda’s NEW! light, fat free yoghurts are perfect as a snack, dessert or part of a delicious oaty breakfast. Bursting with fruity flavours, it is hard to believe that these yoghurts contain less than 70 calories per pot. With a choice of creamy coconut, rhubarb and vanilla, sweet strawberry or punchy peach, there is a flavour for everyone at Asda.
RRP: £1
Sip into Dry January with Asda’s NEW! range of exciting mocktails. A refreshing twist on cocktail classics, our mocktail lines provide the sweet sensations that satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re mad about mojitos, dazzled by daquiris or pining for piña coladas, our alcohol-free alternatives are all that you need to get through Dry January.
RRP: £1.60
Strapped for time and need a wholesome family meal with one of your five a day? Asda’s NEW! Slow Cooked Casserole Meal Kits will aid you in creating hearty meals in just a few simple steps. Whether you adore the classic flavour of slow cooked chicken or prefer sultry slow cooked beef, Asda has a casserole meal kit for you. With everything you need in the bag ready to go, prepare some of your favourite vegetables for a traditional winter dinner.
RRP: £5.50. On rollback from 3rd to 23rd January for £4.50
January doesn’t have to mean a dull diet – add some extra goodness with Asda’s Good and Balanced meal solutions. The vibrant bowls contain at least one of your five a day and the trays are also high in dietary goodies like protein or fibre. Dishes include: High in Protein Lamb Kofta with Jewelled Cous Cous, High in Fibre Tandoori Chicken with Cauliflower Rice and Chicken Chow Mein.
RRP: Bowls £2, Trays £2.50
POWERED BY PLANTS: Step into Veganuary with Asda!
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If you’re ready to plunge into Veganuary look no further than Asda’s delicious range of vegan products – from sumptuous, rich, chocolate cupcakes to hearty flavourful soups, Asda has something for many palettes to make ‘going vegan’ this January a delight. The cost-effective, tasty products are a simple way to make your Veganuary an effortless success.
Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes
If you’re a chocolate lover, these cupcake delights taste so phenomenally chocolatey they will certainly satisfy any cravings! The soft chocolate sponge, made with strawberry jam and coconut milk is finished with a chocolate flavoured frosting and a white marshmallow and just melts in your mouth, perfect for an afternoon pick me up!
RRP: £1.50
4 Meat Free Vegan Sausage Rolls:
Worried about missing your favourite savoury delights during Veganuary? Do not fear, Asda has meat free sausage rolls to satisfy your savoury cravings throughout January. Certified by the Vegan Society, these delights are almost too good to be true – the traditional pastry with a meat substitute filling is perfect for a light Veganuary snack.
RRP: £1.50
Deep Fill Sweet Potato & Chickpea Pies:
Nothing compares to traditional British hot pie and mash on a cold January evening to warm you up, but why should this be limited to those who eat meat or follow a vegetarian diet? Asda has introduced a sumptuous vegan pie for everyone to enjoy. This pie is stuffed to the brim with sweet potato and chickpeas bathed in tomato sauce, topped with golden puff pastry and scattered with a paprika crumb.
RRP: £2.50
Vegetarian Mediterranean Vegetable Gnocchi:
Whether you’re new to gnocchi or a notorious gnocchi lover, Asda has the perfect Mediterranean medley for you. Covered in a tangy tomato sauce with a drizzling of rich kale pesto, this gnocchi is bursting with tasty flavours and will leave you feeling warm and fulfilled with no regrets.
RRP: £2.50
Vegetarian Spaghetti & Veggie Balls:
Ease your way into veganuary with Asda’s vegan take on a cherished Italian classic. Bathed in rich arrabbiata sauce and finished with a pinch of specially selected herbs and spices, this vegan dish is hearty, wholesome and perfect for soothing any January blues.
RRP: £2.50
Mushroom & Kale Sausages:
Bangers and mash don’t have to be banned from your veganuary lifestyle with Asda’s vegan sausages. Kale, the sought-after superfood of the decade is paired with mushrooms to form a delicious substitute for meat sausages that can be enjoyed as part of any tasty meal.
RRP: £1.50
Beetroot & Sunflower Seed Burger
This vibrant pink beetroot burger is guaranteed to steal the show this veganuary. Stuffed with sunflower seeds for added protein, they’re bursting with flavour and are one of your five a day.
RRP: £1.50
