Latest news with #NataliyaVaitkevich
IOL News
11 hours ago
- Health
- IOL News
Sweet deception: everyday foods and drinks that are loading us up with sugar
Excessive sugar intake impacts not only weight, but also our organs, skin, teeth and energy levels. Image: Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich South Africans are consuming dangerously high amounts of sugar every day - far more than what health experts recommend. A recent study by Wits University revealed that the average person could be taking in between 12 and 24 teaspoons of sugar daily, a staggering figure compared to the World Health Organisation's (WHO) guideline of just six teaspoons. Dietitian Mbali Mapholi has also cautioned: 'Hidden sugars are often sneaky and can add up quickly throughout the day without us even realising it.' 'Many snacks and drinks that aren't noticeably sweet still contain sugar, meaning that many of us may be consuming a lot more sugar than we realise, which can significantly impact our health over time.' This growing concern has prompted health organisations and experts to call for greater awareness about the dangers of added sugars, especially those hidden in processed foods and sugary beverages. Both Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics, and Professor Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA), have expressed concerns regarding sugar's role in exacerbating the nation's health crisis. 'The country faces an epidemic of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and obesity, with raised sugar consumption playing a key role in driving these conditions,' said Naidoo. Most of this excess comes not from natural sugars found in fruits or vegetables, but from added sugars in processed foods and sugary drinks. Items like soft drinks, energy drinks, flavoured waters, fruit juices, breakfast cereals, sauces and packaged snacks often contain high amounts of hidden sugar. Over time, this excess intake raises blood sugar levels, burdens vital organs and contributes to serious illnesses such as: Heart disease and hypertension. Type 2 diabetes. Liver disease. Dental decay. Obesity and related complications. 'Excessive sugar intake affects not only weight but also our organs, skin, teeth and energy levels,' Naidoo added. 'The high rate of added sugars in diets, especially in beverages, is a major contributing factor to SA's obesity crisis.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Excessive sugar intake impacts not only weight, but also our organs, skin, teeth and energy levels. Image: Pexels/Mikhail Nilov To help tackle the issue, the South African government introduced a sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax in 2018 - but experts say awareness and personal lifestyle changes remain just as important. Jennings pointed out that sugary drinks pose a particularly dangerous risk because of how quickly the body absorbs liquid sugar. 'When we consume sugar-sweetened beverages, the body absorbs it rapidly, often within 30 minutes, which can lead to a sharp spike in blood sugar levels,' she explained. 'Unlike solid foods, these drinks don't make us feel full - so people often end up drinking more without realising it. Cutting down on SSBs is one of the simplest and most effective changes people can make to reduce their sugar intake.' Even seemingly 'healthy' options, such as fruit juices or smoothies, can be deceptively high in sugar. For example, one glass of fruit juice can contain as much sugar as a can of soda. The first step to managing sugar intake is understanding where it hides. Added sugars can appear under many different names on food labels, including: Sucrose. Glucose. High-fructose corn syrup. Dextrose. Maltose. Syrup (such as rice syrup or corn syrup). Molasses. Fruit juice concentrate. 'Reading food labels carefully is crucial,' said Mapholi. 'Many products marketed as 'low-fat' or 'healthy' often compensate with high sugar content to improve taste.' Practical tips for reducing added sugar Cut down on sugary drinks: Replace sodas, energy drinks and fruit juices with water, rooibos tea or sparkling water infused with fresh fruit. Watch your snacks: Opt for whole foods like nuts, fresh fruit and plain yoghurt instead of processed options. Cook at home: Preparing meals allows you to control how much sugar goes into your food. Limit sauces and condiments: Tomato sauce, salad dressings and marinades can be surprisingly high in sugar. Choose whole fruit over juice: Whole fruit contains fibre, which helps regulate blood sugar spikes. Gradually retrain your palate: Reducing sugar slowly allows your taste buds to adjust over time. 'Small changes - like replacing one sugary drink a day with water or unsweetened rooibos - can make a massive difference over time. It's about taking back control and making conscious choices for better health," noted Jennings.
IOL News
12-08-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Tame your inner hormone monster: a guide to befriending your body's mood swings
Hormonal shifts shape many of the key transitions in a woman's life – from one's first period to pregnancy and, eventually, menopause. Image: Nataliya Vaitkevich/pexels Think of hormones as the unsung influencers of your life, controlling your mood, energy, body, and even your sense of self. Hormones are the silent conductors of our health symphony, orchestrating everything from physical growth to emotional balance. As a woman, understanding the ebb and flow of these hormonal shifts can empower you to embrace each life stage with grace and confidence. From the first blush of puberty to the transition of menopause, these hormonal changes can feel overwhelming, but they also mark significant milestones in your life. Yet, in South Africa, cultural taboos and gaps in healthcare mean many women navigate these journeys feeling confused or alone. Research from Femmeflow shows that over 70% of women experience mood and energy swings tied to hormones, and it takes an average of seven years to get a proper diagnosis. That's why this conversation matters, now. Stage 1: Your period, the first act of the hormone drama Menstruation is a natural rite of passage, yet many girls approach their first period with fear and confusion. Dr Palesa Kennedy, an obstetrician and gynaecologist at Mediclinic Hermanus, emphasises the importance of open conversations about menstruation. 'Every girl should feel comfortable discussing this natural process with a trusted adult,' she says. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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From mood swings to bloating, every woman's experience is unique. Kennedy suggests several strategies to manage these symptoms: Stay active: Regular exercise can combat feelings of irritability and anxiety. Mind your diet: Opt for whole foods over high-sugar or high-fat snacks to maintain emotional stability. Prioritise sleep: Rest is crucial for hormonal balance. Stress management: Techniques like meditation or yoga can help keep stress levels in check. Good hygiene during your period is also vital. 'Your body is more vulnerable at this time, so maintaining hygiene can prevent infections,' Kennedy advises. Simple practices like washing hands before changing sanitary products and opting for breathable cotton underwear can make a significant difference. Stage 2: Planning for pregnancy Pregnancy is a hormonal high-wire act, with energy surges, appetite shifts, and emotions running deep. It is a transformative journey, filled with excitement and a fair share of anxiety, especially for first-time mothers. Kennedy recommends prioritising your health and mental well-being during this time. 'This eliminates room for anxiety associated with ignorance'. Regular health checks are essential for both mother and baby, beginning with that all-important first appointment once pregnancy is confirmed. Standard antenatal tests in South Africa include screenings for anaemia, syphilis, HIV, and rubella. Involving a birthing partner in these appointments can also enhance your support system. Attending antenatal classes is invaluable. Not only do they provide practical knowledge about pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare, but they also connect you with other expectant parents, fostering a community of support. Stage 3: Preparing for menopause Menopause typically arrives between the ages of 45 and 55, marking another significant hormonal shift. The decline in estrogen and progesterone can bring about symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings and sleep disturbances. Kennedy advocates for a holistic approach to managing these changes: 'Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise and stress management is crucial.' To ease the transition into menopause, consider these tips: Nourish your body: Focus on a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Stay active: Regular exercise can help maintain mood and overall well-being. Sleep hygiene: Prioritising restful sleep is essential for hormonal balance. Dress for comfort: Light clothing and cool environments can help manage hot flashes. Self-care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. As a woman, understanding the ebb and flow of these hormonal shifts can empower you to embrace each life stage with grace and confidence Image: Polina Tankilevitch/pexels Beyond the big three: Understanding hormonal influences Hormonal fluctuations aren't exclusive to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Factors such as chronic stress, thyroid issues, and certain medications can also impact hormonal balance. Low estrogen levels during menopause, for instance, can lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, the impact on cardiovascular health cannot be overlooked. As estrogen levels decrease, cholesterol levels may rise, heightening the risk of heart disease. Regular check-ups and a heart-healthy lifestyle become imperative as you transition through menopause. Emotional and mental health Your emotional landscape is also influenced by hormonal changes. Mood swings and anxiety are common during various life stages, and many women find themselves experiencing emotional turbulence. Cognitive health can also be affected. Many women report experiencing 'brain fog' during menopause, which can be frustrating but is often a normal part of this transition. Sexual health Hormones significantly influence sexual health and libido. Many women notice changes in sexual desire throughout their menstrual cycle, with increased libido in the middle of their cycle. However, declining estrogen levels during menopause can lead to decreased libido and discomfort during intercourse. Kennedy's final message resonates deeply: 'Hormonal changes are inevitable, but they don't have to be feared. With the right knowledge and support, South African women can navigate each life stage with confidence and care.'
IOL News
04-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Why South Africans are redefining wellness: a shift towards authentic self-care
Explore wellness apps or mindfulness tools to support your mental and physical health on your terms. Image: Nutrisense Inc /pexels Before the pandemic, wellness often felt like a luxury or, worse, an afterthought. Burnout was glorified as a sign of ambition, therapy was whispered about in secrecy, and 'doing it all' was the unspoken standard. For many South Africans, wellness was something you turned to only in a crisis. But five years after Covid-19 upended the world, something has shifted. While the world remains tough, rising living costs, load-shedding fatigue, and escalating mental health challenges affect people, especially younger generations, who are softer. And that softness isn't weakness; it's a quiet rebellion against survival mode. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Younger South Africans, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are leading this charge. A 2023 survey found that 55% of these generations have sought therapy, with 40% actively pursuing it in 2024. Compared to Baby Boomers, only 11% have done so since the pandemic began. This shift reflects a growing cultural movement: the pursuit of wholeness over wealth, connection over competition, and designing lives instead of simply managing crises. Wellness is within reach, and it starts with small, intentional changes. Image: Nataliya Vaitkevich/Pexels Wellness is no longer confined to spa days or luxury retreats. It has stepped into the real world, becoming proactive, personal, and deeply relevant to how we live today. A new kind of self-care In 2020, wellness was largely reactive. Today, it's about prevention and intentional choices. South Africans are finding wellness in everyday moments, such as sunset walks with friends and meaningful conversations, and prioritising their mental and physical health. A Global Nature Survey recently revealed that South Africans spend more time outdoors than any other nation, with over 92% of global respondents prioritising time in nature. These moments of connection with the natural world are more than a trend; they're a lifeline in an increasingly demanding world. Wellness has also expanded to include the basics, sleep routines, step counts, healthy relationships and open conversations about mental health. In group chats, people are swapping therapy tips instead of pretending everything is fine. There's a collective shift toward normalising mental health struggles and seeking real, actionable tools to address them. But the reality is that one in six South Africans lives with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse. Public access to mental health care remains limited, with only one psychologist per 100 000 people in the state system. This gap has driven more people to turn to technology for help. A personalised approach helps individuals prioritise their mental and physical health, while also benefiting businesses. With the rise of digital tools, wellness is now more accessible than ever before, says Jaco Oosthuizen, managing director and co-founder of YuLife South Africa. South Africans don't need more apps that push users to extreme fitness goals, we encourage people to embrace wellness at their own pace. Wellness has also expanded to include the basics, sleep routines, step counts, healthy relationships and open conversations about mental health. Image: Polina /pexels Given the prominent place of social media in our lives today, it's not surprising that so many people want to share the habits, activities, and practices they use in their daily pursuit of physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental wellness. Whether in tweets, Facebook posts, or Instagram photos, many want to share their improvements and advice with others. In some cases, however, this desire to share experiences can turn into a need to 'perform' one's wellness. This can become a hindrance, overshadowing the initial goals those habits, activities, and practices were meant to serve (Well+Good, 2018). 'Prioritising wellbeing isn't just the human thing to do; it's a smart, sustainable business move,' Oosthuizen adds. Rising healthcare costs, preventable conditions, and drops in productivity all take a toll on companies. Supporting employee wellness is no longer a 'nice-to-have'; it's essential. A cultural reset This new era of wellness indicates a critical cultural reset, a collective exhale after enduring years of chronic stress. So, what does this mean for you? The message is simple yet transformative: wellness is within reach, and it can begin with small, intentional changes. The takeaway is simple but powerful: wellness is within reach, and it starts with small, intentional changes. Here's how you can embrace this new era of self-care: 1. Take it outside: Spend time in nature. Whether it's a walk in the park or a hike, being outdoors can lower stress and boost your mood. 2. Sleep smarter: Prioritise a consistent sleep routine. Rest isn't just important, it's foundational to your overall well-being. 3. Talk about it: Share your mental health journey with trusted friends or family. Normalising these conversations helps break the stigma. Explore wellness apps or mindfulness tools to support your mental and physical health on your terms. Health sometimes is in the choices we make, the boundaries we set, and the moments we create for ourselves.
IOL News
26-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- IOL News
A comprehensive guide to eyelash extensions: Types, application and maintenance
Eyelash extensions have become very popular. Image: Freepik If you're a beauty enthusiast or just want to make your morning routine a little easier, eyelash extensions might be just what you need. They give you instantly fuller, longer lashes without having to slap on coats and coats of mascara every morning. So many women rave about lash extensions, and just like manis, pedis and hair care, they have become a part of their regular monthly beauty maintenance. If this is something you find appealing and keen to give a try, it's best to know what you're getting yourself into. Eyelash extensions are glued one by one to your natural eyelashes using a medical-grade adhesive. Image: Nataliya Vaitkevich / Pexels Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ From the different types of lashes to how to take care of them, here's everything you need to know. Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent fibres, typically synthetic, silk, or mink, that are glued one by one to your natural eyelashes using a medical-grade adhesive. Unlike strip lashes or temporary lashes, extensions are tailored to each lash and meant to last through the natural lash cycle, shedding gradually over weeks. Lash extensions come in a variety of materials, lengths, thicknesses, and curls. Choosing the right kind depends on your natural lashes, the look you want to achieve, and maintenance preferences. Types of material Synthetic: The most common and affordable. These are firm, glossy, and provide a dramatic look. Ideal for bold and dense lash styles. Silk: Softer and more flexible than synthetic lashes with a semi-matte finish. They're lightweight and good for a more natural appearance. Mink: Made from real mink fur, or faux mink for an animal-friendly option, these lashes are incredibly soft, feathery, and natural-looking. However, they are typically more expensive. Lash styles Classic: One extension is applied to each natural lash. Great for adding length and a bit of fullness while maintaining a natural look. Volume: Multiple thinner extensions are fanned out and applied to a single natural lash. Ideal for sparse lashes or dramatic, fluffy volume. Hybrid: A mix of classic and volume lashes. Perfect for a textured, semi-dramatic look. Mega volume: Uses even thinner lashes than volume and applies more per natural lash. For maximum drama and density. There are different types of lashes. Image: RDNE Stock project / Pexels Curl types J Curl: Most natural-looking, mimics the natural curve of lashes. B and C Curl: Slightly curlier than J, the C curl is most commonly used for a noticeable lift. D Curl: Very dramatic and curly, ideal for deep-set or downward-pointing lashes. L Curl: Has a flat base with a strong upward curl; great for hooded or monolid eyes. The application process Applying eyelash extensions typically takes one to three hours, depending on the style and technician. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect. Consultation: Your lash technician assesses your natural lashes, discusses desired results, and helps you choose the best style. Preparation: Your lower lashes are taped down, and your upper lashes are cleaned to remove oil or makeup residue. Application: Individual lashes are applied using tweezers and adhesive. You lie still with your eyes closed. Curing and final touches: After the application, the lashes are dried and checked for comfort and symmetry. Maintenance and aftercare Proper care is essential to prolong the life of your extensions and keep your natural lashes healthy. Do's: Brush your lashes daily with a clean spoolie to keep them untangled. Clean lashes gently three to four times a week with an oil-free lash cleanser to remove buildup. Sleep on your back or use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction. Schedule fills every two to three weeks to replace lost lashes and maintain a full look. Don'ts: Avoid oil-based products around the eyes because they can break down the glue. Don't rub, pull, or tug at your extensions. Avoid waterproof mascara and eyelash curlers, which can damage both extensions and natural lashes. Stay away from saunas and steam rooms for the first 24–48 hours after application to allow the glue to fully cure. Pros and cons of eyelash extensions Pros Enhances eyes instantly Reduces the need for daily makeup Customizable styles Long-lasting with proper care Cons Requires maintenance and cost Potential for irritation or allergic reaction Risk of damaging natural lashes if improperly applied or maintained IOL Lifestyle Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
