HEALTH TIPS AND NEWS TO KEEP ON YOUR RADAR

All the latest health news and tips you should know about

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International Earth Day: 22 April
Our health is directly related to the biodiversity of our planet. A balanced ecosystem is needed for food production, clean water, and disaster prevention. We also depend on plants to produce modern pharmaceuticals.

The effects of climate change have made us more aware of humanity’s future and how the Earth sustains us. On 22 April, the focus is on balancing social, economic, and environmental concerns and being in harmony with nature. In celebration of Earth Day, we remember how much it provides for us. We want to thank you, Planet Earth.

Backyard Shenanigans
What you may not have known is that taking a break from your fitness routine does not mean you have to miss a workout. Gardening tasks such as raking leaves, planting flowers, or sweeping the driveway can be effective ways to still keep moving. A recent study suggests you can perform short bursts of physical activity while carrying groceries, taking the stairs, and even doing yard work.

A Case Of Anaemia
Anaemia is a common condition mostly found in young children and pregnant women. Anaemia is characterised by low haemoglobin levels in the blood. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath, and can be acute or chronic.

Several factors can influence your anaemic status, including socioeconomic status, genetics, and your age. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that globally 42% of children younger than five and 40% of pregnant women are anaemic. Foods rich in iron, like red meat and spinach, can help prevent and treat anaemia.

Does Witch Hazel Actually Work?
For many years, witch hazel has been used for its medicinal properties due to its beneficial oils and biological properties, including antioxidants. The use of witch hazel products is still a popular remedy for various conditions, so you can easily treat a number of ailments.

Among these are insect bites, haemorrhoids, sensitive scalps, inflammation, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It could also help to slow bleeding and reduce itching. There seems to be no end to the wonders that this plant can perform!

Benefits Of Buttermilk
It is difficult to imagine that fermented dairy could be beneficial to our health, but it is! The nutrients contained in buttermilk include calcium, vitamin B12 (which is vital for the structure and function of the red blood cells, metabolism, and the functions of the nerves) and protein (Hey, low-calories!). Further, cultured buttermilk contains beneficial bacteria that promote gut health. So, make sure to keep buttermilk in mind the next time you head to the grocery store.

World No-Tobacco Day:
31 MAY Studies show that South Africans smoke approximately 27 billion cigarettes per year. This habit can be detrimental to your health in so many ways. This is why the World Health Organisation (WHO) created World No-Tobacco Day in 1987 – an annual event to raise awareness about the deadly effects of smoking and what can be done to combat the tobacco epidemic.

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By: Saadiqah Schroeder
Images: Gallo/Getty, Shutterstock, Freepik