Let’s kick off with a happy gut
Did you know that nearly 80 per cent of your immune system is housed in your gut? The gastrointestinal tract hosts trillions of microorganisms collectively called the gut microbiome. These help break down food, produce vitamins and minerals, regulate the digestive system, and play a crucial role in regulating the immune system. There are easy ways to keep your gut bacteria happy and support your immunity this winter:
Dry brushing. The lymphatic system is responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body, including the gut. Dry brushing stimulates the lymphatic system by boosting circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage, helping to remove toxins.
Eat fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, yoghurt and kefir … great sources of healthy bacteria.
Get enough prebiotic fibre – think gut-friendly Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus, onions and garlic, tomatoes, whole grains and legumes.
Choose vegetables in a range of different colours. These contain essential anti-oxidants – polyphenols that activate pathways to help reduce your body’s inflammatory response. They are also rich in insoluble fibre that your body can’t ordinarily break down.
Limit refined carbohydrates and processed, fried and high-sugar foods. These can lead to an imbalance of bacteria in the gut.
Exercise. That daily run or walk is essential to the health of your gut and the rest of your physical and mental well-being.
We also suggest the Kiko Vitals Heal Your Gut Duo … a powerful duo which has a 360 approach to healing and balancing your gut biome, calming inflammation, repairing your gut barrier and assisting with IBS, leaky gut, digestion and bloating. There’s a daily Prebiotic + Probiotic alongside Debloat + Gut Glow, which gives instant bloat relief and alleviates puffiness. R818 for the two from kikovitals.com/products
Cheers to sustainable paperboard wine bottles
Sustainable paperboard bottles, with unpretentious labelling and fine wine. A round of applause to Journey’s End Vineyards and new wine brand Interpunkt, who teamed up to launch this innovative idea – a first in South Africa, and one that shows we can enjoy wine while reducing the impact on the environment. The bottles, made from 100 per cent recyclable paperboard outers, are five times lighter than a normal glass bottle, with a lower carbon footprint. Added to that, Interpunkt also aims to make wine more engaging, accessible and inclusive, particularly for new and occasional wine drinkers, by removing the specialist and intimidating language often used. The South African Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz are described simply as ‘fresh and zesty’ and ‘juicy and easy drinking’ respectively. You’ll find them at Checkers, Checkers Hyper supermarkets, and Checkers LiquorShop stores for around R119.99.
Calming, natural tea for tots
Little Tlou Tea – created by mom and tea merchant Ditshego Sedikela with the professional guidance of clinical paediatric dietitian Dr Kath Megaw, is a range of delightful teas for tots. Naturally caffeine free, no preservatives or colourants, and subtle, delicious flavours … a Gentle Belly option, a Little Defender infusion, and this Slumber Sip – a rooibos chamomile infusion. R55 for a box of 20 from tloutea.co.za
Minimalistic active wear
We love this new Plain Colours Trilogy Activewear Collection from N3YH – with three natural plain minimalistic shades … crème, cinnamon roast brown and charcoal. There are full-length leggings and mid-thigh shorts (both a high-waisted, broad waistband for extra support and comfort around your midsection), a bra and a scrunchie. Prices from R120 to R980. Buy online on n3yh.co.za. @n3yh.official on Instagram.
