🥩 Can you live on meat alone? The carnivore diet is all over social media, but what does the science say? Scurvy, zero fibre, bowel cancer and a surprising twist on epilepsy: my new plain-language summary explains it all, with every claim referenced. 🔍 Read it before you ditch your veg! 🥦
How effective are modern weight-loss medicines such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, and what are the risks? This plain-language summary reviews the evidence on benefits, side effects and weight regain after stopping treatment, and explains why preserving muscle and bone is essential.
Is weight gain really just about eating too much and moving too little? Here, I explore the surprising web of causes behind overweight and obesity, from pregnancy and sleep to stress, screens, food environments, poverty and pollution and explain why understanding beats blame.
Most of us eat too much salt, a few eat too little, and the shaker is rarely the main culprit. Here I unpack what salt really is, whether "natural" salts are better, why iodine matters, how much sodium is just right, and who needs more rather than less.
Homocysteine is a natural amino acid linked to heart, brain and bone health. Discover how folate, B vitamins, choline, diet, genes and lifestyle affect your levels, what raises or lowers homocysteine and why lowering it does not always translate into better health outcomes.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient found abundantly in fruits and vegetables. In Part 1, discover how vitamin C supports collagen formation, wound healing, immune function, antioxidant defence and many other vital processes, why deficiency can lead to scurvy, and who is most at risk.
Eggs are affordable, versatile and nutrient-dense foods that provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients. This evidence-based review explores their effects on heart health, diabetes, cognition, growth, weight management and healthy ageing.
Cow’s milk is a nutrient-dense food that provides protein, calcium and vitamin B12 to support bones, muscles and overall health. For most people, milk, maas and yoghurt are safe and beneficial, but tolerance varies and effects depend on the type consumed and the overall diet.
Riboflavin (vitamin B₂) is essential for energy production, redox balance, and iron metabolism. Found in dairy, meat and fortified foods, it supports multiple metabolic pathways. Although deficiency is uncommon, suboptimal intake may impact fatigue, anaemia and chronic disease risk.
Coffee is a complex, widely consumed beverage. It contains bioactive compounds such as caffeine and antioxidants that influence flavour and function. These foundations inform the health effects explored in Part 2: Is coffee a health elixir or a hidden risk?
Creatine is often linked to athletes and bodybuilding, yet its benefits extend far beyond the gym. This article examines creatine synthesis, dietary sources, supplementation and diverse health effects—from exercise and cognition to chronic disease—while addressing safety and practical use.
Physical activity is a fundamental health need—synergising with diet, protecting body and mind, reducing disease risk, and delivering lifelong benefits when done consistently and sustainably.
Turmeric is a culturally rich spice with a potent bioactive compound curcumin. Curcumin may support metabolic, cardiovascular and brain health. This article explores turmeric’s culinary roots, bioavailability, safety and curcumin's therapeutic potential.
Coffee is a chemically rich beverage. Moderate intake may lower risks of diabetes, heart disease and neurodegeneration, while excess use can disrupt sleep and raise cholesterol. This article explores coffee’s health effects and tips for mindful consumption.
Energy drinks promise a quick energy boost, but their high caffeine, sugar, and stimulant content can pose health risks—especially for children and frequent users. This article explores what's really inside these drinks, their effects on the body, and safer alternatives to consider.
No- and low-alcohol (NoLo) drinks are growing in popularity as consumers seek healthier, mindful alternatives to alcohol. This article explores their classification, benefits, risks and role in reducing alcohol-related harm—especially when used as substitutes, not additions.
Artificial sweeteners offer low energy but may disrupt metabolism and gut health. Sugar alcohols support dental health but can cause digestive issues. Stevia and monk fruit are natural options with antioxidant benefits. Limit sweetener use overall and prioritise whole foods with natural sweetness.
Understanding the full spectrum of sweeteners—from natural sugars in fruit and milk to added and alternative sugars in processed foods—is key to informed eating. Each type affects health differently, influencing blood sugar, satiety, and energy intake.
Here, I discuss the effectiveness of low-carb diets for weight loss and their benefits for insulin-resistant individuals. While low-carb diets can work, a balanced diet with high-quality carbs, proteins, and fats, combined with physical activity, is the most sustainable long-term approach to health.
Here I examine if bananas prevent muscle cramps, noting their potassium content, which supports muscle function. Although widely believed to help, scientific evidence is limited. Regular banana consumption benefits overall health but is not a guaranteed solution for cramps.
This adaptation of Nomvula Mthembu’s Chicken Pasta with Broccoli from the Heart & Stroke Foundation South Africa Cookbook boosts health benefits by swapping oils, adding more vegetables, and incorporating mushrooms. Pre-cooked pasta increases resistant starch, making this dish even healthier.
Free radicals from normal body processes can lead to oxidative stress, increasing disease risk. Antioxidants like vitamin C, E, and phytochemicals neutralise these molecules. Balance is key—opt for a colourful diet rich in fruits, veggies, and grains, as too much from supplements can be harmful.🍎🥦
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is vital and found abundantly in various fruits and vegetables. It plays a crucial role in health, aiding in wound healing, immune function, and antioxidant protection. Deficiency can cause scurvy; balance diet intake is key, as excess supplements may harm high-risk groups.
Obesity is a major public health challenge, but we can win this battle. By uniting families, healthcare professionals, educators, policymakers and communities, we can develop sustainable strategies for healthy living.