Latest news with #SouthEngland
The Sun
4 days ago
- General
- The Sun
The 6p supplement that helps prevent agonising hay hever symptoms – and 5 others to ease your misery
IF you're one of the 16 million Brits plagued by hay fever every... single... summer, chances are you'll do almost anything to banish the misery. And while you've no doubt stocked up on antihistamines and nasal sprays, prayed for 90s wrap-around sunnies to come back into fashion and slathered local honey on your toast, it seems we might all be missing a simple - and super cheap - trick. 4 It turns out a cocktail of supplements might be the missing weapon in your hay fever armoury. While the first cries of sufferers begins as the trees shed their pollen, as early as March, it's now when the majority of hay fever victims emerge, streaming eyed and snotty nosed. And the culprit? Grass pollen. The season typically starts in May and lasts until August - and it's grass that's to blame for 95 per cent of pollen allergies. According to the Met Office's handy pollen forecast, levels are creeping up from today and are expected to be high across the south of England across the weekend. So, if you're one of the unlucky ones, our experts firstly suggest popping a daily vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D, known for its immune-boosting properties, could play a crucial role in supporting the body's ability to handle the increased pollen exposure and reducing the severity of hay fever symptoms, they say. Benjamin Bunting, a sports nutritionist, physical training instructor in the British Army and founder of beForm Nutrition, tells Sun Health: "The UK has just come out of a winter with very little sunlight, and your vitamin D levels could be low if you've not been taking any supplements. "Vitamin D is essential for a healthy immune system, calcium absorption and bone strength. You are at risk of deficiency if you do not get enough sun or take enough vitamin D. "It's like a double-punch with the end of cold and flu season, which can have a lingering effect on immune systems and cause us to overproduce antibodies when we encounter pollen. "I'd recommend taking vitamin D supplements a few weeks before the season to help build your immunity to hay fever, reduce the severity of its symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve how the body manages allergic responses. hayfever recommendations from a boots pharmacist "Check your vitamin D levels with a doctor to determine the right dosage for you, as it is possible to take too many vitamin D supplements." Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics, backs up Benjamin's claims. He tells Sun Health: "Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system, particularly by supporting the function of T-cells and reducing inflammation. "When vitamin D levels are low, the immune system may become more reactive to allergens such as pollen, leading to heightened hay fever symptoms. "Additionally, vitamin D may help modulate the body's inflammatory response." Dr Eamon Laird, assistant lecturer of nutrition at the Department of Nutrition, Atlantic Technological University, Sligo, Ireland, adds: "Research papers have shown positive benefits of vitamin D for allergic rhinitis (for example hay fever - sneezing, itching, congestion, and a runny nose). 4 "Studies have also shown a reduced number of symptoms particularly when used in combination with treatments other than corticosteroids." A study looking at the effect of vitamin D supplementation on allergic rhinitis found that it significantly reduced symptoms and improved overall quality of life for patients. Another study, comparing vitamin D with a placebo, showed that vitamin D supplementation without corticosteroids alleviated hay fever symptoms. Dr Perry adds that ideally you should start taking vitamin D supplements in the late winter or early spring, which is a good amount of time before hay fever season begins. He explains: "This gives your body time to build up adequate levels ahead of peak pollen exposure. "Because many people in the UK and Northern Europe are vitamin D deficient by the end of winter due to reduced sunlight, which is the main natural source of vitamin D. "Since it plays a role in regulating immune response and inflammation, low levels may make hay fever symptoms more intense. "By starting with the supplement around February or March , you're giving your immune system better support before spring and summer allergens appear. "It's always a good idea to check in with your GP prior to taking any form of supplement, especially if you experience recurring seasonal allergies or low energy in winter months." Can vitamin D from sunlight help? 4 One of the best ways to get vitamin D is through sunlight exposure. But during pollen season this may also increase the chances of you having hay fever symptoms. GP and Olbas spokesperson Dr Roger Henderson says: "Some people whose hay fever symptoms definitely improve when their vitamin D levels go up may find that being outside in the sun regularly can help, but for most people the benefits of being out in the sun (and avoiding sunburn or too much sun exposure) come from maintaining their overall vitamin D levels." How much vitamin D should you take? Taking too many vitamin D supplements over a long period of time can cause too much calcium to build up in the body - a condition known as hypercalcaemia. This can weaken the bones and damage the kidneys and the heart. If you choose to take vitamin D supplements, 10 micrograms a day will be enough for most people, advises the NHS. You can buy vitamin D supplements or vitamin drops containing vitamin D (for under 5s) at most pharmacies and supermarkets - and they don't cost the earth. For example, Vitabiotics Ultra Vitamin D 1000IU, which contains 96 tablets, is priced at £6.15 - meaning it's 6p a pill. Can any other supplements help? Vitamin C, omega-3 (fish oil), and probiotics may also offer a helping hand when lessening hay fever symptoms, according to studies. Dr Perry explains: " Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine that can reduce sneezing and watery eyes and can help lower histamine levels and support the immune function. " Omega-3 (Fish Oil) is an anti-inflammatory and may reduce the body's allergic response, and can help calm an overactive immune system. "And finally probiotics help to support gut health, which is closely linked to immune balance." Dr Laird said other macronutrients to consider are zinc and selenium. Zinc plays a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system and can help manage allergic responses. Selenium, an essential trace mineral, bolsters the immune system and may offer some benefits for allergies. How else can you dodge pollen while you're out in the sun? Dr Henderson has some additional tips for those looking to be hay fever symptom-free this summer. He recommends: "Wearing wraparound sunglasses when outside can help to minimise how much your eyes are exposed to pollen, which in turn can reduce eye symptoms. "Simple products that can help soothe symptoms of hay fever include an aloe-vera based nasal decongestant, nasal saline washes and non-sedating antihistamine tablets, sprays or drops." 1. Monitor pollen forecasts Stay informed about pollen counts by checking local weather forecasts or allergy apps. Reduce outdoor activity when the pollen count is high. 2. Stay indoors When the pollen count is high, minimise time spent outdoors. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering. 3. Protective gear Wear wrap-around sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes. Consider wearing a mask, especially when mowing the lawn or doing other outdoor activities that may release pollen. A wide-brimmed hat can help protect your face and neck. 4. Clean up Shower and change clothes after being outside to wash off pollen. Consider washing hair to remove pollen particles. 5. Indoor environment Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to remove pollen and dust particles. Keep your home clean and dust-free. Avoid keeping fresh flowers in the house, as they can release pollen. Consider using an air purifier. 6. Car Keep car windows closed when driving. Install pollen filters in your car.
The Sun
24-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
Students in South nearly TWICE as likely to get three A* A-level grades than those in North
STUDENTS in the South of England are nearly twice as likely to get three A* A-level grades than those in the North, data reveals. Just 5,800 of the 258,000 who sat the exams last year came away with three or more top grades. Of those, 3,779 were from the South and 2,021 in the North. Nine out of ten of the best areas for A-levels were in the South. Pupils in reading, in Berks, came out top — with seven per cent hitting the highest grades. Dozens in London suburbs Kingston, Newham, Sutton and Barnet also got top marks. The Government stats show Salford, Gtr Manchester, fared the worst, with a single set of three A* grades. Social mobility expert Professor Lee Elliot Major called it a national scandal, saying: 'These figures lay bare a brutal truth — your chances of the highest academic success at school are still shaped more by where you live than what you're capable of. 'This A-star divide highlights the vast differences in support offered to today's children and young people both outside and inside the classroom. 'Increasingly A-level grades are as much a sign of how much support young people have had as much as their academic capability. 'This isn't just a North-South education divide. It's a London and South East versus the rest Divide.' The Department for Education said: 'We are taking measures to tackle baked-in inequalities.'
BBC News
24-05-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Could Sydney-style water taxis come to Portsmouth?
For those living near harbours in the South of England, the idea of calling a water taxi to get to work or home from a night out could soon be a idea was the subject of a summit last week involving politicians, ferry providers, business leaders and experts in marine event at the Portsmouth's historic dockyard heard the system could work on an "on-demand" basis, like Uber, or on a scheduled timetable, and could be key to helping alleviate some of the South's traffic ferry operators warned that public subsidies would be needed to get services off the ground and encourage people out of their car. The event was organised by Dame Caroline Dinenage, MP for Gosport, who said she wanted to hear the "art of the possible" and mimic cities like Sydney in Australia, which use water taxis for commuting and afterwards she said: "There's a definite enthusiasm to get things up and running to make the most of the water we have here. Everybody in one room helped see what the opportunities and obstacles are." Supporters of the idea included the operators of Gunwharf Quays, Hampshire chamber of commerce and Business South who said it could help encourage economic growth. But some of ferry operators at the summit said it was a challenge to change mindsets, to get people onto boats and out of cars, particularly outside of the summer months. The operator of the overnight ferry connecting Portsmouth and Gosport stopped sailings in February due to a lack of demand. Many in the industry said a change in government policy was needed are government grants to support public transport - like bus service improvement plans (BSIP) and the move back to public ownership for trains - but no such financial support exists in England for the maritime Rayment, owner of Blue Funnel Cruises, said: "Scottish ferries are subsidised, the ferries which cross Sydney harbour get financial support and there's been grants to the Thames clippers in London, but down here on the South Coast, there's nothing we can apply for, that's frustrating."Many in the room said public subsidies were needed while the service was in its infancy as the "passengers won't come instantly".In response, Caroline Dinenage said political backing was key as well as business support. You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
The Guardian
22-05-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
Number of vape shops in England rises by almost 1,200% in a decade
The number of vape shops on high streets across England has increased by almost 1,200% over the past decade, while deprived areas have up to 25 times as many bookmakers and pawnbrokers as affluent ones, according to research. In 2014, only 33.8% of 317 local authorities in England had a vape shop, rising to 97.2% in 2024. Similarly, in 2014 less than 1% of local authorities in England had 10 or more vape shops, rising to 28% in 2024. The study, conducted by researchers at Health Equity North, looked at Ordnance Survey data to track how amenities had changed between 2014 and 2024. The amenities were divided into those seen as 'health promoting', such as pharmacies, libraries and supermarkets, and 'health reducing' such as vape shops, bookmakers, takeaways and alcohol-only outlets. They found a stark decline in healthier amenities, with unhealthy alternatives taking their place. Takeaway shops were up by almost a quarter (24%) across England, while the number of banks and building societies decreased by 40%, and supermarkets by 10%. The report found there were stark regional divides across England regarding high-street amenities, with twice as many vape shops in the north of England. The number of takeaways in the north of England rose by a third (31%), compared with a rise of 18% in the south. There were three times as many vape shops in deprived areas compared with the least deprived ones. Deprived areas also had 25 times more pawnbrokers and more than three times as many bookmakers. Dr Eman Zied Abozied, research associate at Newcastle University Population Sciences Institute, said the study showed that high streets were becoming 'less healthy and welcoming places to visit'. 'The disappearance of amenities such as supermarkets, banks, pharmacies and public toilets particularly affects groups such as women, children and the elderly,' she said. 'But what we're seeing impacts all of us. The deterioration of our high streets makes our centres feel less safe, less inviting, and ultimately makes us feel more disconnected as communities.' She added: 'It is important that we act now to reverse this decline. If we involve local communities in making decisions about their high streets, we can make our high streets and towns more accessible and healthy for everyone.' Prof Clare Bambra, an academic co-director at Health Equity North and professor of public health at Newcastle University, said: 'Over the last decade, our high streets have been hit by a devastating succession of shocks – from the impact of austerity to the Covid-19 pandemic. They've also been hollowed out by changing spending habits, and the rising cost of living. 'This trend has disproportionately affected the most deprived places in our country. The northern high street now has fewer places to go to buy essentials, as well as fewer supermarkets, public toilets and other amenities and resources. The north has twice as many vape shops as the south, as well as more takeaway outlets and bookmakers. 'You should be able to walk down a high street, and feel the uniqueness, culture and identity of that community. Through innovative design, better public transport, and measures that promote people over cars, we can rethink these spaces so they become 'go-to's' rather than 'ghost towns'.' A government spokesperson said: 'For years high streets have been starved of investment despite their potential to thrive, but we are taking decisive action to turn the tide through our Plan for Change. 'Councils and local leaders have powers to tackle persistently vacant properties in city, town and village centres by putting the leases up for auction to help restrict the types of businesses that fill those lots. 'We are driving regeneration and growth with £1.5billion through the Plan for Neighbourhoods to boost high streets, and we're bringing empty shops back to life through our high street rental auctions.' City of London, London: 4.6 Blackburn with Darwen, north-west: 1.7 Preston, north-west: 1.6 Blackpool, north-west: 1.2 Bolton, north-west: 1.2 Lincoln, East Midlands: 1.2 Thanet, south-east: 1.2 Chesterfield, East Midlands: 1.1 Hyndburn, north-west: 1.1 Derbyshire Dales, East Midlands: 1
BBC News
20-05-2025
- Climate
- BBC News
The new secret supercomputer helping to predict UK's weather
The UK's weather service, the Met Office, has introduced a new supercomputer that will help predict the weather more accurately. It's hoped the supercomputer will make better predictions about the weather up to two weeks before it happens, while forecasts for rain will also be more reliable. The Met Office is working with computer company Microsoft to run the new system called Azure, which stores information in a 'cloud' online. The cloud is a way of holding and using data over the internet. This supercomputer is so powerful that it can do 60 quadrillion calculations every second. That's a huge number! Why are more accurate weather forecast important? The new system will help weather predictions for things like flying can also give better information about problems like floods and wildfires. This is important because climate change is making these things happen more often, so it's hoped it can make people, communities and emergency services more prepared."There's never been a more critical time for weather and climate intelligence," said Prof Simon Vosper, the Met Office's science director."We know the climate's changing, as we know the risks of hazardous weather."Even though the exact location of the computer is a secret, we know it is based across two data centre sites in the south of England. How have people predicted the weather over time? Hundreds of years ago people didn't have supercomputers or technology to predict the weather. Instead, they used what they could see around them. Farmers might look at the clouds, the colour of the sky or how the wind was blowing to guess what kind of weather would the 1800s, scientists started using machines to measure things like temperature and air pressure. This helped them understand the weather a little better. Advances in chemistry and physics led to better understanding of atmospheric processes and they could make predictions about things like rain or storms based on these the 20th Century, weather balloons were sent up into the sky to take more measurements, and the first weather satellites were put into space. These satellites can take pictures of the clouds and help scientists see what the weather looks like from far above the we have computers that can make weather predictions much faster. With supercomputers like the one the Met Office just got, forecasters will be able to predict the weather for days or weeks ahead more accurately.
