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The Best Ectoin Skincare for High-Powered Hydration
Now that that's settled, let's take a closer look at the science. 'Ectoin is an amino acid derivative,' consultant dermatologist and founder of Joonbyrd, Dr Alexis Granite previously told British Vogue. 'It's known as an 'extremolyte,' meaning it's one of a group of compounds that protects plants and microorganisms from extreme conditions like the desert and deep ocean.' Speaking of living organisms—we humans battle extreme conditions everyday, whether it be a scorching summer heat wave, or brutally cold winter. Ectoin, thus, works as a buffer. Elegantly and stealthily, it coats the skin in a protective seal to prevent transepidermal water loss. (If any ingredient moonlighted as a secret agent, it might just be this one.)
Whether you're aiming to soothe irritation, keep a parched complexion at bay, or prevent oxidative stress, ectoin could be your answer. Find out everything there is to know about the ingredient, below, and discover our favorite skincare products that feature it.
In This Story
Best with Exosomes: Skinfix Exo + Ectoin Intensive Repair Baume
Skinfix
Exo + Ectoin Intensive Repair Baume
$70
AMAZON
Why We Love It: This rich, reparative balm pairs ectoin with exosomes to help skin rebound from dryness, irritation, and environmental stress. Its cushiony texture locks in hydration while fortifying the skin barrier—ideal for harsh climates or when skin needs extra attention. 'This is a powerhouse balm for very dry, irritated, or post-procedure skin. Ectoin here works like a recovery blanket, calming and sealing in moisture,' board-certified physician's assistant Paula Brezavscek tells Vogue.
This rich, reparative balm pairs ectoin with exosomes to help skin rebound from dryness, irritation, and environmental stress. Its cushiony texture locks in hydration while fortifying the skin barrier—ideal for harsh climates or when skin needs extra attention. 'This is a powerhouse balm for very dry, irritated, or post-procedure skin. Ectoin here works like a recovery blanket, calming and sealing in moisture,' board-certified physician's assistant Paula Brezavscek tells Vogue. Key Ingredients: Ectoin, exosomes, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal
Ectoin, exosomes, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal Type: balm
balm Size: 1.7 oz
Best Lightweight Serum: The Inkey List Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum
The Inkey List
Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum
$15
AMAZON
Why We Love It: Good bye, dry skin! This lightweight serum that quietly works wonders—the formula blends ectoin with humectants to hydrate in a flash. 'Lightweight and affordable, this serum helps reinforce the skin barrier function while defending against pollution and daily stress,' says Brezavscek. With a fast absorbing gel-like texture, it's perfect for daily use under makeup, and reinforces skin resilience without feeling heavy.
Good bye, dry skin! This lightweight serum that quietly works wonders—the formula blends ectoin with humectants to hydrate in a flash. 'Lightweight and affordable, this serum helps reinforce the skin barrier function while defending against pollution and daily stress,' says Brezavscek. With a fast absorbing gel-like texture, it's perfect for daily use under makeup, and reinforces skin resilience without feeling heavy. Key Ingredients: Ectoin, glycerin, pentylene glycol, citric acid
Ectoin, glycerin, pentylene glycol, citric acid Type: serum
serum Size: 1 oz
Best for Multipurpose: Allies of Skin Copper Tripeptide & Ectoin Advanced Repair Face Serum
Why We Love It: Those looking for brightening benefits without harsh exfoliation needn't look further. This multitasking pick does it all—the formula combines ectoin with copper tripeptides and niacinamide to target hyperpigmentation and overall skin elasticity. Talk about reparative!
Those looking for brightening benefits without harsh exfoliation needn't look further. This multitasking pick does it all—the formula combines ectoin with copper tripeptides and niacinamide to target hyperpigmentation and overall skin elasticity. Talk about reparative! Key Ingredients: ectoin, copper tripeptide, niacinamide, superoxide dismutase, sodium hyaluronate
ectoin, copper tripeptide, niacinamide, superoxide dismutase, sodium hyaluronate Type: serum
serum Size: 1 oz
Best with Peptides: 111Skin Cryo Revitalizing Moisturizer
Why We Love It: Need a wakeup call? Perhaps you're ready to opt for something even more elevated than a good ol' spash of cold water in the face. Inspired by cryotherapy, this moisturizer delivers a cooling sensation alongside peptides and antioxidants to revive dull complexions by mimic the tightening, circulation-boosting effects of a cryofacial (sans cold vapor). The moisturizer is one of many in the brand's celebrity-approved cryo line, which counts Anne Hathaway and Rita Ora as fans.
Need a wakeup call? Perhaps you're ready to opt for something even more elevated than a good ol' spash of cold water in the face. Inspired by cryotherapy, this moisturizer delivers a cooling sensation alongside peptides and antioxidants to revive dull complexions by mimic the tightening, circulation-boosting effects of a cryofacial (sans cold vapor). The moisturizer is one of many in the brand's celebrity-approved cryo line, which counts Anne Hathaway and Rita Ora as fans. Key Ingredients: peptides, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins
peptides, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins Type: moisturizer
moisturizer Size: 1.7 oz
Best Rich Moisturizer: Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Ectoin-Infused Face Cream Moisturizer
Dr. Jart+
Ceramidin Ectoin-Infused Face Cream Moisturizer
$65
AMAZON
Why We Love It: Ceramide technology meets ectoin in this nourishing cream, designed to replenish lost moisture and lock it in. Of note, this pick is anything but lightweight—rather, its thick ointment-like texture is ideal for overnight repair and slugging, rather than layered under makeup. The formula cushions against dryness and strengthens the skin barrier for long-lasting comfort. Plus, British Vogue's beauty and wellness editor (and bride-to-be) Morgan Farro names this pick as one of the only products that's given her glass skin.
Ceramide technology meets ectoin in this nourishing cream, designed to replenish lost moisture and lock it in. Of note, this pick is anything but lightweight—rather, its thick ointment-like texture is ideal for overnight repair and slugging, rather than layered under makeup. The formula cushions against dryness and strengthens the skin barrier for long-lasting comfort. Plus, British Vogue's beauty and wellness editor (and bride-to-be) Morgan Farro names this pick as one of the only products that's given her glass skin. Key Ingredients: ectoin, ceramides, shea butter, panthenol
ectoin, ceramides, shea butter, panthenol Type: moisturizer
moisturizer Size: 1.7 oz
Best with Niacinamide: Good Molecules 5% Niacinamide Serum With Ectoin
5% Niacinamide Serum With Ectoin
$8
AMAZON
Why We Love It: A budget-friendly powerhouse, this serum combines ectoin with niacinamide to refine texture, balance oil, and calm visible redness. 'This formula is a smart pairing where niacinamide evens tone and refines pores while ectoin protects and hydrates, making it great for urban skin exposed to pollution,' says Brezavscek. It's a minimalist formulation with maximum everyday payoff.
A budget-friendly powerhouse, this serum combines ectoin with niacinamide to refine texture, balance oil, and calm visible redness. 'This formula is a smart pairing where niacinamide evens tone and refines pores while ectoin protects and hydrates, making it great for urban skin exposed to pollution,' says Brezavscek. It's a minimalist formulation with maximum everyday payoff. Key Ingredients: niacinamide, ectoin, glycerin, betaine
niacinamide, ectoin, glycerin, betaine Type: serum
serum Size: 1 oz
Best Hydrating Serum: Prequel Multi-Quench Serum
Why We Love It: Designed for deep hydration, this serum uses multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid alongside ectoin to replenish moisture deep within. The result: plump, supple skin that stays hydrated all day.
Designed for deep hydration, this serum uses multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid alongside ectoin to replenish moisture deep within. The result: plump, supple skin that stays hydrated all day. Key Ingredients: ectoin, hyaluronic acid, sodium pca, glycerin
ectoin, hyaluronic acid, sodium pca, glycerin Type: serum
serum Size: 1 oz
Best Night Cream: Biossance Squalane + Ectoin Overnight Rescue Face Cream
Biossance
Squalane + Ectoin Overnight Rescue Face Cream
$68
AMAZON
Why We Love It: This overnight treatment melts into skin, delivering a blend of ectoin and squalane that repairs and replenishes while you sleep. Plus, it's a favorite of Miss-Made-From-Scratch herself, Nara Smith, who reaches for this pick every night. 'I always tell people that they have to prioritize their nighttime skincare routine,' Smith previously told Vogue. 'That's when your skin is at its highest level of repair.'
This overnight treatment melts into skin, delivering a blend of ectoin and squalane that repairs and replenishes while you sleep. Plus, it's a favorite of Miss-Made-From-Scratch herself, Nara Smith, who reaches for this pick every night. 'I always tell people that they have to prioritize their nighttime skincare routine,' Smith previously told Vogue. 'That's when your skin is at its highest level of repair.' Key Ingredients: ectoin, squalane, shea butter, jojoba esters
ectoin, squalane, shea butter, jojoba esters Type: night cream
night cream Size: 1.7 oz
Best Retinol: Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
Why We Love It: Powered by the brand's proprietary TFC8 complex, this serum integrates a gentle yet effective retinol to encourage cellular renewal, smooth texture, and even tone—without the harsh side effects often associated with retinoids. Of course, squalane and glycerin add in a soothing effect, while ectoin amps up hydration.
Powered by the brand's proprietary TFC8 complex, this serum integrates a gentle yet effective retinol to encourage cellular renewal, smooth texture, and even tone—without the harsh side effects often associated with retinoids. Of course, squalane and glycerin add in a soothing effect, while ectoin amps up hydration. Key Ingredients: Ectoin, retinol, TFC8 complex, squalane, glycerin
Ectoin, retinol, TFC8 complex, squalane, glycerin Type: serum
serum Size: 1 oz:
Best Sunscreen: MediK8 Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF50+
Why We Love It: More than just sunscreen, this formula blends high UVA/UVB defense with DNA-reparative enzymes and antioxidants. Chemical sunscreen fans will also appreciate that it leaves behind zero white cast. It hydrates, shields, and helps reverse visible photoaging in a single elegant step.
More than just sunscreen, this formula blends high UVA/UVB defense with DNA-reparative enzymes and antioxidants. Chemical sunscreen fans will also appreciate that it leaves behind zero white cast. It hydrates, shields, and helps reverse visible photoaging in a single elegant step. Key Ingredients: DNA-repair enzymes, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, vitamin c
DNA-repair enzymes, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, vitamin c Type: sunscreen
sunscreen Size: 1.7 oz
Best Toner Mist: Man:yo Panthetoin Essence Toner
Why We Love It: Who doesn't love a hydrating mist? This toner hybrid combines panthenol and ectoin to hydrate, soothe, and prep skin for the rest of your routine. Its silky texture absorbs instantly, leaving a fresh, comforted feel. Spritz anywhere, any time.
Who doesn't love a hydrating mist? This toner hybrid combines panthenol and ectoin to hydrate, soothe, and prep skin for the rest of your routine. Its silky texture absorbs instantly, leaving a fresh, comforted feel. Spritz anywhere, any time. Key Ingredients: Panthenol, ectoin, glycerin, betaine
Panthenol, ectoin, glycerin, betaine Type: toner
toner Size: 6.8 fl oz
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Forbes
4 hours ago
- Forbes
Best Eye Creams For Puffiness 2025
When you're sleep-deprived, puffy eyes are a dead giveaway—and espresso and under-eye concealer can only do so much. In search of the best eye creams for puffiness, we consulted the ultimate authority: hardworking female founders, CEOs and executives who lead companies. They shared their top picks for de-puffing eye creams that minimize dark circles, hydrate and brighten the eye area, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. While lack of rest is a large contributor to puffy eyes, the condition can also be caused by things like sodium intake, changes in skin elasticity and even genetics, according to the experts we spoke with. No matter what the origin, swollen eyes staring back at you in the mirror is probably not the look you're going for. When you're running on empty from stress, late nights or long flights, these cooling creams, serums and gels are the key to faking a well-rested appearance. Our Top Recommendations Best Eye Cream For Puffiness Overall Key ingredients: Peptides, algae extracts, glycerin | Additional benefits: Hydrates, smooths skin, reduces appearance of dark circles | Size: 0.68 ounces | Cruelty-free: YesDieux's hydrating gel features algae complex that targets fine lines and visibly minimizes the appearance of dark shadows, while its peptide complex hydrates and leaves skin bouncy, without extra fluid retention. "This eye serum, combined with the Dieux eye mask, makes my undereyes look so refreshed—like I got the best sleep of my life or maybe went to the spa for the weekend,' says Melissa Mash, co-founder and CEO of Dagne Dover. 'Neither of these things ever happens, so I was wildly impressed." Best Eye Cream Applicator For Puffiness Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, peptides, vegan collagen | Additional benefits: Firms and softens skin, reduces the look of wrinkles | Size: 0.5 ounces | Cruelty-free: NoFrench company Caudalie is known for its use of anti-aging ingredients derived from grapes. This gel cream formula combines antioxidant-rich resveratrol with firming collagen and moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid. The result? Eye swelling and sagging is reduced. 'I travel a lot for work and my schedule can be all over the place, so I'm always looking for something that helps me look more rested than I sometimes feel,' says Angela Vranich, co-founder and chief product officer at Little Spoon. 'This one is a staple in my bag—it's lightweight, super hydrating and instantly helps with puffiness after long flights or late nights.' Best Luxury Eye Cream For Puffiness Key ingredients: Caffeine, antioxidants, glycerin | Additional benefits: Revitalizes and lifts, reduces dark circles, smooths appearance of fine lines | Size: 0.51 ounces | Cruelty-free: YesSimilarly to how consuming coffee can help battle fatigue, caffeine in an eye cream is a key rejuvenator because it reduces fluid accumulation and can aid in circulation. Sisley's formula uses caffeine along with plant extracts and moisturizing shea butter and glycerin to revitalize the eye area with a spa-like feel. 'I've tried many eye creams, but this one is a game changer,' says Sara Naghedi, founder of Naghedi. 'I use it night and day; it's not too thick so you can use it under makeup. The tool it comes with is great for puffiness, and the refillable container is the cherry on top of a perfect product.' Best Anti-Aging Eye Cream For Puffiness Key ingredients: Vitamin C, bakuchiol, caffeine, peptides, tranexamic acid | Additional benefits: Reduces dark circles and fine lines, brightens | Size: 0.5 ounces | Cruelty-free: YesIf you're looking to battle puffiness, dark circles, hyperpigmentation and crow's feet all at once, this formula may be the answer. It includes all-star ingredients such as brightening vitamin C, cedar bark and caffeine to increase microcirculation and improve the look of dark circles. And bakuchiol and peptides target annoying creases around your eyes. 'I love InnBeauty's Bright & Tight because it not only helps fine lines but it adds a glowing lit-from-within brightening effect—so much so that I often don't need to wear concealer,' says Rachel Liverman, CEO of Glowbar. 'I religiously use it after flights, and it makes puffiness go right down like with a compression sock.' Best Eye Serum For Puffiness Key ingredients: Caffeine, glycerin, malachite extract | Additional benefits: Firms and hydrates skin | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-free: YesIf you're prone to water retention, this product specifically targets fluid-filled under-eye bags. It de-volumizes by improving circulation—caffeine is a main ingredient—and gently moisturizes all while firming and protecting skin from free radicals. 'The serum has a very watery texture, so it glides right on,' says Roni Hirshberg, co-founder of Generation Love, who uses it every morning and evening along with the brand's Crème Contour Yeux et Levres Biofixine. 'I love the applicator of the Crème Contour because it has a metal tip and it feels cool on the under eye, almost like a little spa treatment. I always feel refreshed after using it.' Best Value Eye Cream For Puffiness Key ingredients: Persian silk tree, oat extract, hibiscus flower acids | Additional benefits: Hydrates, reduces appearance of bags and circles, soothes and depuffs | Size: 0.5 ounces | Cruelty-free: YesThis affordable formula packs a punch with a trifecta of effective ingredients: Hibiscus flower acids work to gently exfoliate the eye area without causing irritation; Persian silk tree helps fade the appearance of dark under-eye circles; and oat extract hydrates the eye area. "[This is] a must-have step for the morning, and I love the metal tip applicator that really helps with de-puffing,' says Jessica Tse, founder of Notte Jewelry. 'I have quite sensitive skin, and its ingredients are effective yet gentle. I use it twice a day, morning and evening for extra hydration. Unlike some other eye creams I've used in the past, it doesn't peel or make my makeup patchy. It sits really nicely under sunscreen, too.' Best Hydrating Eye Cream For Puffiness Key ingredients: Aloe vera, peptides, panthenol, antioxidants, elastin | Additional benefits: Softens fine lines, hydrates, fades dark circles, supports collagen renewal | Size: 0.5 ounces | Cruelty-free: YesSwedish brand Gunilla is known for its spa-grade, plant-based skincare, and this formula uses ingredients like witch hazel, arnica, and St. John's Wort to visibly reduce swelling and increase circulation around the eyes. It has a silky feel, absorbs quickly and leaves lasting moisture without a heavy, sticky residue. 'It not only feels incredible under the eyes, but I can instantly feel the moisture penetrating my skin,' says Stephi Maron, co-founder of Blushington. 'It also has a cooling sensation, which I love, since my undereyes can get puffy. I put what is left from the product on my finger and massage it on my eyelid area to help keep that area hydrated and lifted.' Maron also likes that it's fragrance-free and has 'no harsh chemicals, which is important to me especially for such a sensitive area.' Best Brightening Eye Cream For Puffiness Key ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen | Additional benefits: Reduces the appearance of dark circles and crow's feet | Size: 0.5 ounces | Cruelty-free: NoThis ingredient-rich cream is made with 10% THD ascorbate—a stable form of vitamin C—vitamin E and ferulic acid to brighten dull, tired-looking eyes. These ingredients are combined with hydrating hyaluronic acid and de-puffing caffeine for an overall, 'I just came back from vacation and am super refreshed' vibe. 'This is the first and only eye cream I've ever loved, and it comes at a time when I really do need it (oh age!),' says Leigh Plessner, chief creative officer at Catbird. 'I tap a bit on after applying hyaluronic acid, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. It's moisturizing and brightening and doesn't make my eyes burn or get in the way of wearing mascara and a flick of eyeliner.' Best Tightening Eye Cream For Puffiness Key ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, escin, granactive retinoid | Additional benefits: Reduces the appearance of lines, improves skin laxity, brightens | Size: 0.5 ounces | Cruelty-free: YesThis formula is designed to brighten and boost collagen production, and it has a type of retinoid that is less likely to cause irritation to the delicate eye area. It also includes escin, which works to reduce swelling, inflammation and fluid accumulation. "I can feel my skin getting tighter and firmer every time I use it, which is what I look for in an eye cream,' says Grace Na, founder of Pistola Denim. 'I use it every night. It conceals fine lines and tightens the skin around the eye to prevent further fine lines.' Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted beauty team invests lots of time researching, testing and writing about beauty products to determine the very best from the not-worth-your-money items. We've covered topics including the best vitamin C serums, the best hair straighteners and the best moisturizers for aging skin. How We Tested The Best Eye Creams For Puffiness To determine the best de-puffing eye creams, we used a comprehensive approach, relying on our beauty team's market knowledge and a broad review of top eye creams for puffiness before meticulously narrowing down picks based on testing and expert insight. What To Consider When Choosing A De-Puffing Eye Cream Puffiness under the eyes comes from two primary sources, according to dermatologist Dr. Ashley Magovern. 'The first is fluid retention, often triggered by factors such as allergies, diet, salt intake, hormonal changes, insufficient sleep, or even an uncomfortable sleeping position,' she says. This swelling can fluctuate and is more likely to improve with topical treatments, cold compresses, or lifestyle changes. The second is structural changes that happen as we get older and the fat pads around the eyes shift and the bony skeleton of the midface resorbs. 'This leads to a more permanent type of puffiness or bulging that doesn't improve the same way fluid-related swelling does,' Magovern says. There are a few key ingredients to look for when purchasing an eye cream for periorbital puffiness. In general, you'll want to look for ingredients that target inflammation and circulation, like caffeine, green tea and peptides, according to Magovern. 'Caffeine constricts blood vessels and helps reduce swelling, and peptides can strengthen and firm the skin, supporting both puffiness and fine lines,' she says. 'Hyaluronic acid plumps and hydrates, softening the look of crepiness. Vitamin C, niacinamide and licorice root extract are multitaskers—they help brighten the under-eye area, improve pigmentation from dark circles and boost overall radiance.' Magovern also suggests the use of a mild retinoid under the eyes if it's something you can tolerate, as it helps preserve the thickness of delicate under-eye skin and supports collagen over time. In general, avoid high concentrations of glycolic acid or other alpha-hydroxy acids, which can cause irritation and compromise thin and delicate eyelid skin, says Dr. Pooja Rambhia. Fragrances and essential oils can also trigger contact dermatitis for sensitive eyes. 'Additionally, avoid products with excessive emollients or occlusive agents that may exacerbate morning puffiness by impeding natural fluid drainage during sleep,' she says. If you're looking for a multifunction formula, which many of us are, certain ingredients can give an additional boost to puffy eyes, according to Rambhia. Eye creams for puffiness can come in a variety of formulations—creams, gels or serums. Some products, like Caudalie's Resveratrol-Lift Depuffing Eye Cream, have a cooling applicator that is popular with users. But timing of application is also important. 'The skin around the eyes tends to accumulate fluid during sleep, making morning application optimal for depuffing benefits,' says Rambhia. 'A lightweight, cooling gel with caffeine in the morning can help minimize swelling,' says Magovern. 'At night, you can use richer, more reparative formulas with peptides, hyaluronic acid, or retinol to address fine lines and overall skin quality. Bear in mind, though, that consistency of application is most important. 'Regular use twice daily will provide the most comprehensive results for both immediate depuffing and long-term eye area improvement,' Rambhia says. Thin periorbital skin responds gradually, says Rambhia, and individual results vary based on genetic factors. Hydrating ingredients and caffeine may show results immediately or within the first week. Within two to four weeks, niacinamide and peptides can show improved skin texture and anti-inflammatory benefits. Within six to eight weeks, retinol can help with fine line improvement and you can see dark circle reduction from brightening agents like vitamin C. 'Significant collagen remodeling and sustained improvements in all concerns require consistent use for 12 to 24 weeks,' says Rambhia.
New York Post
5 hours ago
- New York Post
This super trendy drink can mess with your body's iron levels — how to drink it safely
That sip might be doing a number on your bloodwork. Nutritionists are warning that a trendy drink hyped for its health perks could be throwing off your iron levels — raising your risk for anemia and leaving you feeling weak and worn out. But don't toss your cup just yet. With a few simple changes, experts say that you can still ride the wellness wave without the unpleasant side effects. Advertisement 3 Proponents of the drink predict it could become as ubiquitous as coffee as demand skyrockets. JCM – The buzzy beverage, matcha, is made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, which are then ground into a fine powder and whisked with hot water. The result is a frothy, vibrant drink with an earthy kick that's been a staple in Japan for centuries. It's taken the west by storm in recent years, becoming such a viral sensation it's triggered a global shortage. Across the internet, matcha has become the morning drink of choice for influencers and wellness warriors who claim it's a healthier alternative to coffee. Advertisement They aren't totally wrong. 'Matcha contains an amino acid called l-theanine, which is known for its calming effects,' Sarah Martel, a registered dietitian, told the Toronto Star. 'This, in combination with matcha's natural caffeine content, provides a nice boost of energy, all without all the anxiety and jitters that come with coffee,' she added. Advertisement It's also packed with antioxidants like catechins, which may help fight cell damage, reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer. 3 Matcha is generally much more concentrated than regular green tea. Uuganbayar – Studies have shown matcha may support liver health, boost brain function, promote heart health and even help with weight loss. But it's not all green juice and glowing reviews. Lately, some users on social media have been raising red flags about its potential to affect your body's ability to absorb iron — and they aren't totally off base. Advertisement The mineral is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that shuttles oxygen from your lungs throughout the body. Iron is also critical for brain development, hormone production and overall cell function. 'Matcha contains tannins that bond to non-heme iron, which is the form of iron found in plants, and can in turn block your body's ability to absorb the mineral,' Farzanah Nasser, a nutritionist, told Vogue. If left unchecked, this can lead to iron deficiency, which affects about 10 million people in the US — and may even progress to iron deficiency anemia, impacting some 5 million Americans. The condition develops when your body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells. At first, it might fly under the radar. But as iron levels drop, symptoms can include extreme fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, brittle nails and even strange cravings for ice, dirt or starch, 3 Iron deficiency anemia is a common condition, especially among women. dragonstock – But don't panic — there's a way to sip smart. Advertisement 'Drinking matcha with or immediately after meals will have a stronger inhibitory effect on iron absorption than drinking it between meals,' Kirbie Daily, assistant director of Olympic Nutrition at the University of Memphis, told 'I recommend giving yourself at least one to two hours in between your meals or iron supplementation, and having your matcha,' she advised. Experts also suggest pairing meals with vitamin C-rich foods — like citrus or bell peppers — to help boost iron absorption. Advertisement And when it comes to matcha, moderation is key. One cup a day is generally considered safe, even for those watching their iron. 'If someone is having a matcha a day, I'm not concerned,' Jessica Cording, a registered dietitian, told Well + Good. 'But it's probably not the best if you're drinking matcha around the clock and close to meals.'
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
Midwife brings claim against trust after ‘Prevent referral over Palestine posts'
A midwife is bringing an employment claim against a hospital trust she worked for after it lodged a Prevent referral with police over her online support for Palestine and criticism of Zionism, her lawyers have said. Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust made the referral to the Home Office's early intervention counter-terrorism programme, along with one to the Nursing and Midwifery Council regulator, a year after Fatimah Mohamied had resigned from her employment and following a complaint about her online activity from UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI), according to law firm Leigh Day. The mother-of-two, who lives in London, alleges the referrals breach her rights under the Equality Act 2010 and constitute post-employment harassment and/or discrimination. She said: 'I have been subjected to a concerted and targeted effort to intimidate, harass and punish me into silence for my Palestinian advocacy and criticism of Zionism. 'I am taking legal action against my former employer to finally seek accountability for a campaign of harassment against me in the midst of a live genocide perpetrated by the Israeli state – I will not accept the attempts to silence me and those like me. 'Healthcare workers in the NHS have the right to critique a colonial political ideology that has upheld an illegal occupation for decades and is responsible for violating universal values of health.' A complaint was lodged on October 8 2023 about Ms Mohamied's social media posts in which she voiced her support for Palestinian people and her opposition to Zionism in the wake of the October 7 attacks in Israel, according to Leigh Day. Her line manager asked her to consider deleting the posts or her account but she refused to do so. Three further complaints were made about the midwife's social media posts and on December 20 2023 the trust received a letter from UKLFI accusing Ms Mohamied of expressing support for Hamas. In early January the following year, the trust's director of maternity told Ms Mohamied that if they received 'more emails or letters of concern' her actions could be considered misconduct. Ms Mohamied, who was employed as a 'cultural safety lead' midwife and who had worked at the trust since June 2019, resigned in March last year. In March of this year, the trust received a second letter from UKLFI which launched further complaints about further social media posts and accused Ms Mohamied of anti-semitism, bullying and harassment and of stirring up racial hatred against Jews and Israelis. Towards the end of the month, the trust referred Ms Mohamied to the Nursing and Midwifery Council and then to the Metropolitan Police under Prevent over her online activity. Both referrals were dismissed, and Leigh Day said in a letter to the trust that the regulator and police each assessed Ms Mohamied's posts 'amounted to lawful expression of her beliefs and did not present cause for concern'. Liana Wood, partner at the law firm, said: 'We say the trust's referrals against Fatimah, made a year after she had stopped working for them, were an entirely disproportionate response to her lawful expressions of belief on her personal blog and social media accounts. 'Fatimah's case, which has parallels with other cases we have seen recently in the NHS, highlights the need for employers to resist pressure from lobby groups in such cases, and to carefully consider any potential infringement on an individual's rights before taking action against them.' The hospital trust has been contacted for comment.
