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How Flaxseeds Support a Healthy Gut Microbiome

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Supporting a Healthy Gut Microbiome with Flaxseeds: Key Benefits and Insights from Award Winning Nutritionist, Rob Hobson.

Flaxseeds are rich in vital nutrients

Flaxseeds are rich in vital nutrients, including lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. While the term “superfood” is often over-used, milled flaxseed genuinely deserves this title and should be a daily addition to your diet to enhance its nutrient density. These tiny seeds offer a wide range of health benefits, particularly in promoting gut health. A healthy gut is crucial for digestion, immune function, and overall well-being, and by choosing milled flaxseed, you maximise the potential benefits.

The Nutritional Power of Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are one of the best plant sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that we need to obtain from our diet. ALA has anti-inflammatory properties and ALA is known to lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol which is great for heart health1

Flaxseeds are also high in dietary fibre, making up about 40% of the seed. Of this fibre, 25% is soluble, which helps lower blood sugar levels and absorb cholesterol, both of which are important for preventing heart disease2. A study found that consuming flaxseed mucilage, which is the gel-like substance that forms when flaxseeds are mixed with water, can reduce levels of insulin and improve blood glucose control3.  This can help to promote better metabolic health such as reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and other risk factors for heart disease like high cholesterol and blood pressure. The remaining 75% of the fibre in flaxseeds is insoluble, which helps add bulk to stool and prevent constipation4.

Flaxseeds are also rich in several other key nutrients, including protein, vitamin E, and magnesium. Flaxseed protein is a high-quality plant-based protein that contains all the essential amino acids, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet for muscle repair and overall health.

Flaxseeds and The Gut Microbiome

One of the key benefits of flaxseeds is helping to maintain a healthy gut microbiome. The gut is home to trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms that play a crucial role in digestion and overall health. A diet rich in healthy and plant-based foods is linked with the presence and abundance of certain gut microbes that are also associated with a lower risk of developing conditions such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease5.

Soluble fibre in milled flaxseed also supports a healthy gut acting as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your digestive system, which can be converted into short-chain fatty acids that help nourish the cells lining the colon, promoting a healthy gut barrier and reducing inflammation6,7. A study published in American Journal of Physiology – Endocrinology and Metabolism found that the fibres in flaxseed help increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, specifically Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia8.

Flaxseeds are also known for helping prevent constipation, a common digestive issue that can negatively affect gut health. In a study where participants ate 10 grams of flaxseed twice a day for 12 weeks, their constipation symptoms, especially stool consistency, improved significantly9.

Flaxseeds have also been shown to reduce intestinal permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut,” where harmful substances pass from the gut into the bloodstream. This phenomenon is associated with inflammation and gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS. A study found that consuming 40 grams of brown or golden flaxseeds daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced intestinal permeability in overweight women10. Research shows that ground flaxseed is particularly beneficial for people with IBS because it is easier to digest and better absorbed by the body. Regular consumption can help relieve constipation, reduce bloating, and improve overall gut health, which is often compromised in people with IBS11.

Conclusion

Flaxseeds are a versatile and nutritious addition to your diet, offering numerous health benefits, particularly for supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Milled flaxseed is an easy and effective way to boost your nutrient intake. Simply add 2 tablespoons of Linwoods Organic cold Milled Flaxseed to smoothies, sprinkle it over porridge, yoghurt, or salads, and mix it into homemade muffins, breads, and pancakes. This is a simple yet powerful approach to enhancing your digestive health everyday.

References

  1. Pan, A., Chen, M., Chowdhury, R., Wu, J. H., Sun, Q., Camargo, C. A., … & Hu, F. B. (2012). α-Linolenic acid and risk of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 96(6), 1262-1273. https://doi:10.3945/ajcn.112.044040
  2. Soliman G. A. (2019). Dietary Fiber, Atherosclerosis, and Cardiovascular Disease. Nutrients, 11(5), 1155. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051155
  3. Nowak, W., & Jeziorek, M. (2023). The Role of Flaxseed in Improving Human Health. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 11(3), 395. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11030395
  4. Anderson, J. W., Baird, P., Davis, R. H., Jr, Ferreri, S., Knudtson, M., Koraym, A., Waters, V., & Williams, C. L. (2009). Health benefits of dietary fiber. Nutrition reviews, 67(4), 188–205. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00189.x
  5. Asnicar, F., Berry, S. E., Valdes, A. M., Nguyen, L. H., Piccinno, G., Drew, D. A., Leeming, E., Gibson, R., Le Roy, C., Khatib, H. A., Francis, L., Mazidi, M., Mompeo, O., Valles-Colomer, M., Tett, A., Beghini, F., Dubois, L., Bazzani, D., Thomas, A. M., Mirzayi, C., … Segata, N. (2021). Microbiome connections with host metabolism and habitual diet from 1,098 deeply phenotyped individuals. Nature medicine, 27(2), 321–332. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-020-01183-8
  6. Ding, H. H., Cui, S. W., Goff, H. D., & Gong, J. (2015). Short-chain fatty acid profiles from flaxseed dietary fibres after in vitro fermentation of pig colonic digesta: Structure–function relationship. Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre, 6(2), 62-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcdf.2015.09.006
  7. Martin-Gallausiaux, C., Marinelli, L., Blottière, H. M., Larraufie, P., & Lapaque, N. (2021). SCFA: mechanisms and functional importance in the gut. The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 80(1), 37–49. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0029665120006916
  8. Arora T., Rudenko O., Egerod K.L., Husted A.S., Kovatcheva-Datchary P., Akrami R., Kristensen M., Schwartz T.W., Bäckhed F. Microbial fermentation of flaxseed fibers modulates the transcriptome of GPR41-expressing enteroendocrine cells and protects mice against diet-induced obesity. Am. J. Physiol. Endocrinol. Metabol. 2019;316:E453–E463. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.00391.2018
  9. Soltanian, N., & Janghorbani, M. (2018). A randomized trial of the effects of flaxseed to manage constipation, weight, glycemia, and lipids in constipated patients with type 2 diabetes. Nutrition & metabolism, 15, 36. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-018-0273-z
  10. Sant’Ana, C. T., Amorim, A. D., Gava, A. P., Aguilar, C. M., Silva, N. G., Machado, L. D., Viana, M. L., Oliveira, D. D. S., Silva, P. I., Costa, N. M. B., & Costa, A. G. V. (2022). Brown and golden flaxseed reduce intestinal permeability and endotoxemia, and improve the lipid profile in perimenopausal overweight women. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 73(6), 829–840. https://doi.org/10.1080/09637486.2022.2052820 – 11
  11. Tarpila S, Tarpila A, Grohn P et al. (2004) Efficacy of ground flaxseed on constipation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Curr Topics Nutraceutical Res 2, 119–125. 12

The Ultimate Beauty Christmas Gift List

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the Flat Lay co makeup bags, reviews, makeup bagsThe Flat Lay Co

This is an amazing open flat makeup bag and cosmetics mat. This one is in Lemon. There is an “essentials” one which is the smaller one and carries 6 pieces of makeup comfortably. The bigger one is 52 diameters when open. Stylish and convenient: this is a beauty winner. Why did no one think of it before?

www.flatlay.co

Safe Nail Polish That Peels Off. , safe 'n' beautiful , children's, kids, nail polish, safe, non toxic,

Safe Nail Polish That Peels Off. 

Multi-award winning company Safe ‘n’ Beautiful have unveiled Snails Rose. It is a vitamin enriched kids nail polish. It is a peel-off formula that encompasses rosewater together with Vitamins C and H. It comes in 12 gorgeous shades. The bottles look gorgeous and the nail polish is too. Full beauty marks.

www.safe-nails.com

Morning Glamour Satin Pillowcase. , satin pillowcase, benefits

Morning Glamour Satin Pillowcase. 

I love sleeping on a satin pillow case. It really does make a huge different. This is a perfect stocking filler. 

Megan Barton Hanson’s beauty essential

Megan Barton Hanson has hailed the Morning Glamour Silk Pillowcase a “game-changer.”

Megan says “Keeping my hair frizz-free and healthy is super important to me, and with my Morning Glamour Satin Pillowcase from @makeupboxldn_ I’m getting my best beauty sleep. The satin stops my hair from getting damaged in my sleep, plus it keeps my sleep wrinkles at bay – absolute game changer.”

Silk Pillowcases have a vast variety of benefits and are becoming increasingly popular with consumers. They help to keep skin clear and prevent breakouts, as they provide a gentle, smooth surface that does not dry the skin out. The smooth surface also helps to reduce friction in the hair as it helps to eliminate hair loss, reduces breakage and prevents snagging which can lead to the static, frizzy look. The non-absorbent qualities of satin mean that any oils applied to the skin at night are retained in the skin and not transferred and helps the hair to retain moisture and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.

Morning Glamour Silk Pillowcase Makeupbox-ldn.co.uk

shea moisture massage oil, Shea Moisture Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Energising Bath & Body & Massage Oil.

Shea Moisture Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Energising Bath & Body & Massage Oil. 

This is an amazing multi-tasking product. You can use it as a bath oil, for a massage, or just rub it in as a body oil. Another great stocking filler.

From www.boots.com

Manta Exclusive Limited Edition Colour Hair Brush

Manta Exclusive Limited Edition Colour Hair Brush

This is a brilliant hair brush. The colour and style are gorgeous too.

NEW! Exclusive Limited Edition colour with Manta Brand Ambassador, Zoe Irwin.

The Manta is the first brush to mould to the shape of your hand and scalp, creating less tension on each strand while massaging the scalp for fuller, healthier, shinier hair.

The patented FLEXGUARD technology on the base enables each bristle to have complete 360 degree motion to gently free knots and minimise breakage. The Manta glides responsively through hair for minimum breakage and maximum shine.

It appeared earlier this year on a BBC1 consumer programme called the ‘customer is always right’. The programme takes a panel of consumers and bloggers and gets them to review new innovations while the inventors sit and listen to the feedback. Manta won the trophy by a landslide. It’s an amazing product, literally a super gentle hairbrush for anyone who is struggling with fine, broken or fragile hair or just really wants their hair to be super healthy.

all is bright stocking filler ren christmas gift list

Ren skincare, hot cloth, cleaners, all is bright stocking filler, AHA, beauty, skincare, christmas gift lists,

REN Clean Skincare

It is harder to get better than REN Clean Skincare. It works so well. Anyone would be delighted to receive the Rosa Centifolia Cleanse and reveal Hot Cloth Cleanser or the All is Bright stocking filler. High quality skincare that really works.

This years gift sets are in collaboration with renowned illustrator, Silken Favours, and pay homage to the ocean and it’s creatures. All sets come in FSC-approved 100% recyclable boxes with biodegradable lamination and are printed with vegetable based inks.

Embryolisse Lait-Créme Concentré

Embryolisse Lait-Créme Concentré

This Parisian favourite is a multipurpose moisturising cream rich in natural active ingredients. You can even use it on babies. It has a mixture of shea butter, beeswax, soy and aloe vera.It is creamy and can even be used as a make-up removing cleanser, as a face mask, a primer, or  your daily moisturiser. It even works well as a shave balm for men. Paraben-free.

Super Facialist , Vitamin C+ Brighten, Booster Retinol + ,Anti-Ageing Booster

Super Facialist 

These are both brilliant and make excellent presents.

Retinol+ Anti-Ageing Booster, 15ml, £20.00

A high-quality retinol that won’t break the bank, Super Facialist’s NEW Retinol+ Anti-Ageing Booster can be added to any moisturiser or serum to create your own personalised skincare regime, based on your skin’s needs. Containing 0.3% pure Retinol, to help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and skin tone, whilst increasing skin firmness. White Lupin Seed Extract stimulates the synthesis of collagen to improve elasticity and firmness, whilst added Vitamin E and Sweet Almond Oil nourish and protect the skin, leaving it radiant and smooth.

 

Vitamin C+ Brighten Booster, 15ml, £18.00

This NEW Vitamin C+ Brighten Booster, gives your skin a boost of pure radiance simply by adding a few drops to your favourite moisturiser or serum. Containing a combination of 1% Vitamin C and Pomegranate Flower, these ingredients work together to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and protect against harmful UV effects. With added Allantoin to increase moisture retention and Vitamin E for its powerful antioxidant benefits, this booster helps to promote a healthy, radiant glow.

 Available from www.boots.com, www.sainsburys.co.uk and www.superfacialist.co.uk 

 

grow gorgeous hair mask grow gorgeous original hair growth serum

Grow Gorgeous

Grow Gorgeous has relaunched with 6 complete routines for every hair type, concern and lifestyle.

Having built the brand from a single product, the original intelligent haircare solution and bestselling Hair Growth Serum they have moved on to other products like the Balance Shine-Enhancing Overnight Mask. The Original Hair Growth Serum has had rave reviews with 90% of women finding it made their hair fuller. The overnight mask is indulgent and leaves hair soft and shiny.

From growgorgeous.co.uk and lookfantastic.co.uk

Common Breastfeeding Problems

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breastfeeding, benefits of breastfeeding, mum, baby, what age to stop breastfeedingDr Emma-Jane Down offers insight into common breastfeeding woes…

Why people say ‘breast is best’

Breast milk is regarded as nature’s natural food for your baby and it’s certainly full of essential nutrients.

According to Unicef, research has shown that breastfeeding provides babies with various health benefits, including essential nutrients that offer protection from infections and diseases.

Plus, women who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing cancers such as breast and ovarian cancer.

Breastfeeding for beginners 

Since 2003, the Department of Health has recommended that women should ideally feed their baby with breast milk for the first six months of an infant’s life, before introducing any other food or drink.

But like any skill, learning to breastfeed can be difficult to start with, and some women can be affected by health issues during feeding.

If you’re finding it difficult or painful to breastfeed, be assured that you are not the only one to feel this way. “It’s important to ask for help if you aren’t finding it easy or comfortable,” advises GP at AXA PPP healthcare, Dr Emma-Jane Down. “It does get easier.”

Breastfeeding health conditions

Sometimes health conditions can occur during breastfeeding, creating difficulties for mum and baby. These include issues such as blocked milk ducts, mastitis, abscesses and thrush.

Blocked milk duct

“Occasionally a blocked milk duct can occur, causing a swollen, red area on the breast,” explains Dr Down.

Mastitis 

Mastitis occurs when a blocked milk duct doesn’t settle after one to two days, making the breast infected. “It will become red, hard, painful and swollen, and you may develop a fever and feel very unwell. You need antibiotics to clear this up, along with continuing to feed from that breast to clear the blockage,” advises Dr Down.

Breast abscess

“A breast abscess is another rarer complication causing a red painful, hard lump.” This contains a collection of pus and needs draining quickly by a doctor, along with a course of antibiotics.

Thrush

Breast thrush causes severe nipple or breast pain and can be spread from mum to infant. “Thrush is treated with prescribed anti-fungal medications, usually cream for the mother and drops or gel for the baby’s mouth,” explained a spokesperson for Unicef. Painkillers may be required too to help ease pain.

How to make breastfeeding comfortable

Breastfeeding can be an important way of bonding with your baby. The skin-to-skin contact helps comfort your baby and the more you feed, the more milk you produce. So it’s worth persevering with it, even if it doesn’t feel comfortable at first.

Some of the issues that can contribute to making breastfeeding difficult, suggests Dr Down, include not latching on properly, timed or scheduled feeding and the overuse of pacifiers and dummies.

“Latching on and getting into the correct position for mum and baby is key,” she says. “This helps prevent sore nipples and blocked milk ducts.”

Tips to make breastfeeding go more smoothly

To help breastfeeding go more smoothly, the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) suggests these tips:

.       Sit comfortably before you start feeding. Make sure you relax your arms and shoulders.

.       Make sure your baby’s head and body are in a straight line. This will help them swallow more easily.

.       Position your baby’s nose level with your nipple, so they can reach up and attach easily to your breast.

.       Ensure your baby’s neck, shoulders and back are well supported.

If your baby needs encouragement to feed, try stroking their top lip to encourage them to open their mouth wide.

“If your baby is difficult to feed or seems unhappy, then do ask for help,” emphasise the NCT.

Feeding with formula

If breastfeeding doesn’t work for you and your baby, then the next best step is formula feeding.

“No mother should be made to feel ashamed or guilty for using formula,” believes Dr Down.

“It may not be quite as good for your baby as breast milk, but is a safe alternative if you’re not able to breastfeed the baby,” she says. “A happy mum makes a happy baby, so sometimes you have to do what is best for you too.”

Tips on making up formula milk 

When you’re making up formula milk, Dr Down advises:

.       Follow the instructions carefully.

.       Don’t change the ratio of powder to water, as it’s not safe.

.       Always carefully wash and sterilise bottles to avoid dangerous vomiting or diarrhoea bugs – they can quickly grow in formula milk that’s left hanging around in unsterilised bottles.

 

If you have any concerns or worries about feeding your baby, then do speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor for advice and support.

 

 

New Research Shows The Benefits of Vitamin D Supplementation And Heart Health

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As our summer lurches from cloud to cloud, this latest information from HSIs (The Health Supplements Information Service, an independent body) is interesting:

 

Taking a vitamin D supplement may improve heart function in people with chronic heart failure according to a paper published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology and presented at the American College of Cardiology in Chicago on April 4.

Commenting on the trial, Dr Emma Derbyshire a public health nutritionist for the Health Supplements Information Service (HSIS) noted: “This was a randomised double blind controlled trial in 223 people with chronic heart failure due to secondary left ventricular systolic dysfunction of the heart and also vitamin D deficiency.

“Trial participants were either allocated to one year of high dose vitamin D3 supplementation 4000 IU (100 micrograms daily) or a placebo. Measures made included the change in left ventricular function and the ability to do a test walk.

“Vitamin D supplementation restored normal levels of vitamin D in these people and left ventricular heart function was also better in the vitamin D supplemented group than placebo. There were no changes on the walking test with vitamin D.

“These findings are very encouraging as chronic heart failure is increasing and treatments can be expensive. Many people in the UK have very low levels of vitamin D. In fact average vitamin D intakes in the UK are between 2.3 and 5.1 micrograms daily which is not enough to protect against deficiency.
“A previous modelling exercise found that more than 8 micrograms would be needed daily to ensure a normal vitamin D status in most people. In addition, while the best source of vitamin D is sunlight, the Northerly latitude of the UK means that we lack the right form of sunlight for more than half of the year”.
The Health Supplements Information Service (HSIS) (www.hsis.org.uk; Tel: 020 7052 8955) is an independent information body, set up to provide balanced information on vitamins and minerals. It is supported by a restricted educational grant from the Proprietary Association of Great Britain (PAGB).

 

 

Pros And Cons of Breastfeeding at Different Ages

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breastfeeding, benefits of breastfeeding, mum, baby, what age to stop breastfeedingPros and cons of breastfeeding at different ages by Geraldine Miskin The Baby Show Breastfeeding Specialist

1 day

Baby

Your baby gets colostrum, which is perfectly designed to provide all the nutrients, and immune boosting properties that he needs. The closeness of breastfeeding helps your baby feel secure in new and unfamiliar surroundings.

Mum

Breastfeeding helps your uterus contract quickly to reduce the risk of a post birth haemorrhage. You’re amazed and excited to be able to breastfeed.

Cons

It can be stressful, feeds erratic as baby learns what to do. It can be painful as both you and baby are learning a new skill and need to learn about each other.

Tip

Be patient with yourself and your baby. Allow him to try to feed, keep him in skin-to-skin contact with you as much as possible to allow him to activate and put his innate feeding instincts into practice. It should become more comfortable.

1 week

Baby

His stomach has stretched in line with your increasing milk supply from the size of a malteser at birth to the size of a ping-pong ball by day 8.

Mum

Frequent feeds have primed your breasts for long-term milk production. Your breasts are full, see milk drops on the nipple at the end of the feed and your baby seems milk drunk at the end of the feed.

Cons

It’s worrying if baby loses more than 10% of his birth weight, or develops jaundice. Engorgement, which results in hard, hot, full and uncomfortable breasts, can feel scary and painful. Baby keeps you busy and awake at night.

Tip

Know that a bumpy start is normal. Feed more frequently and wake baby if you need to, do more skin to skin and offer both sides at each feed. Hot, throbbing breasts respond well to cold packs so grab something from the freezer, wrap in light muslin square and apply to breasts at each feed until you feel better.

1 month

Baby

Your baby’s immune system is growing with each feed. He is less likely to develop food allergies until age 3 years, diarrhoea, chest infections and ear infections due to the immune boosting properties of your milk.

Mum

Feeds are getting shorter and your baby may be sleeping longer stretches at night. You don’t have to wash and sterilize bottles so have more ‘free’ time between feeds.

Cons

If breastfeeding isn’t going well, you’ll be stuck to sofa all day, feel like you have failed at something that others seem to get right easily and might get heat for introducing bottle feeds.

Tip

Get help and know that any breast milk your baby gets is beneficial. Surround yourself with those who encourage and empower you and do what works for your family.

3 Months

Baby

Babies digestive system has developed and is able to cope with foreign properties more easily. Less likely to develop childhood diabetes (Type 1) by 19 and 27%. Up to 40% less likely to develop asthma in families with history.

Mum

Baby may feed for 10 minutes or less. You are more likely to start losing baby weight between month three and six.

Cons

Babies become more social and pop on and off breast frequently to survey surroundings.

Tips

Rather than seeing this as a frustration, see it as a new milestone that your baby has reached.

6 months

Baby

Baby is less likely to develop allergies to common triggers such as cows milk which makes introducing solids easier. There is also a reduced risk of him developing childhood cancers like leukaemia.

Mum

Breastfeeds are spaced out and usually only 10 minutes long. You are less likely to develop breast and ovarian cancers as well as osteoporosis.

Cons

You may worry about how much milk your baby gets in his short feeds and feel obliged to get more into him which leads to fighting at the breast.

Tips

Trust your baby to take what he needs and know that he grows at a slower rate so needs less calories than when he was young. Follow his lead.

12 months

Baby

Continues to get immune boosting properties through your milk. The muscles used for breastfeeding are also important for speech.

Mum

It’s an easy way to comfort baby when he topples over or hurts himself. You have saved a healthy sum by breastfeeding. If your baby had 90ml per feed 8 times a day, you’d buy a new tin of formula (£12) every 8 days.

Cons

You may feel touched out and want to reclaim your body.

Tips

Breastfeed for nutrients and comfort whilst encouraging your partner to spend one on one time with your little one to create some time for yourself.

18 months

Baby

Baby continues to get skin-to-skin time with you which reduces stress hormone production. His immunity continues to grow.

Mums

You get a forced break, time to sit down and catch your breath when you have a million things to do on your ‘To Do list’.

Cons

Baby can use breastfeeding to curb boredom and get your attention, usually as soon as you answer the phone.

Tips

Introduce a feeding chair, which you use for feeds. Your little person will quickly realize that when you sit in the chair, he can have a feed. Create time in for one to one play to ensure your baby gets your attention in a different way.

Over 2 years

Baby and Mum

Mums usually only feed first thing in the morning and last thing at night by this age. It is a great way to start and end the day for both involved. The little one continues to get immune boosting properties from bugs that he has encountered during the day.

Cons

It can be embarrassing when an older child announces that he wants BOOBY or constantly tugs at your shirt, wants to tweak your nipples in public.

Tips

Find a word that both you and baby know pertains to feeding. Use the feeding chair tip as above to help your little one understand when to ask for milk. Educate those around you that the human body benefits from breast milk irrespective of age.

Benefits of breastfeeding for infants

Breast milk aids brain development, eye sight

Reduced incidence of the following:

Gastroenteritis

Necrotising enterocolitis

Chest infections

Eczema

Middle ear infections and glue ear

Urinary tract infections

Sudden infant death syndrome

Leukaemia

Benefits for the adult who breastfed as a baby

Reduced incidence of the following:

Obesity

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Diabetes

Benefits for mums

Reduces risk of developing ovarian cancer

Reduces risk of develop breast cancer

Reduces risk of developing type 2 diabetes

Helps reset mums metabolism

Reduces risk of osteoporosis

Effective insulin production

Helps the womb return to non-pregnancy size

Acts as a contraceptive

Work From Home Week 2015 – 19th to 25th January

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working from home, work, home workingAs someone who works from home I can vouch for its good points and its bad ones. Mostly it is great, offering flexibility and the chance to work to the best of your potential. No nasty commute needed so it is good for your bank account and the environment too. In fact, this is Work From Home Week and in June 2014, new rights to flexible working laws were introduced in the UK, declaring that all employees – who have worked for the same employer for at least 26 weeks – are eligible to request flexible working, including the option of working from home. In fact, most recent figures now show that around 14% of people in employment are working from home, highlighting the idea that it’s increasingly becoming a viable and attractive alternative for businesses.

Launched in 2003, Work From Home Week, running from the 19th to 25th of January, puts a spotlight on this rising figure, raising awareness of working from home for both employers and employees alike.

In a time of constantly evolving technology, it’s never been easier to access information away from the office, so we’re calling on employers to embrace the opportunity as a way to boost happiness and productivity among their employees.

Graham Long, Vice President of the Enterprise Business Team at Samsung UK supports working from home.

‘’At Samsung, we believe it’s vital for people to be given the option and the tools to work flexibly, which is why we view Work from Home Week as an important and worthwhile initiative.

“Our own research reveals over a quarter of workers would opt for flexible working over a pay rise, and more than four in 10 (42%) employees strongly agree with the idea of being able to access work emails and apps outside of official working hours. Despite this, many businesses still don’t trust their employees to do so, highlighting the need to educate enterprises on the benefits of working from home. The option to work more flexibly can have a huge impact on productivity and wellbeing and with advancements in mobile technology, it is now possible for employees to work beyond the confines of the office, making working from home a choice that should be open to all rather than a select few.’’

Of course, for many across the UK, working from home isn’t just for a week. For the hundreds of single parents, carers, injured veterans and those living with disabilities, working from home is a necessity.

To celebrate working from home, the team behind the campaign have compiled the top 5 reasons to consider it!

Money – Not only would you save money on travel costs – train tickets, petrol, parking, etc. – but not eating out for lunch on a regular basis is bound to save you some pennies too. For parents, it gives the opportunity to radically reduce the costs of childcare.

Commute – Forget about delayed trains or road traffic dampening your spirits.

Comfort – Rather than donning a power suit or being restricted to a desk all day, choose your own dress code and working environment.

Green Living – Working from home can help reduce your carbon footprint, conserve office space for your employer, and perhaps most importantly, allow you to be the master of your own environment!

Freedom/Flexibility – Having the freedom to choose your hours and coffee breaks, while not being dragged in and out of corporate meetings all day is something that could potentially boost your overall moral and work ethic. Not to mention it allows you to create that ideal work/life balance.

Work From Home Week runs from the 19th – 25th January 2015. Twitter @WorkFromHomeWK  #WFHW

 

Maternity Burden On Small Business ‘Overstated’

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1024px-Mother_Kissing_BabyWe found this very interesting at Frost: Small business owners over-estimate the burden of providing maternity protection to their staff a new review, conducted by a team of experts from Middlesex University for the International Labour Organization, has revealed in a new report, out now.

The review, led by Middlesex University Professor of Organizational Psychology Suzan Lewis, suggests that effective maternity protection has a positive rather than negative on SMEs and can have a range of positive productivity related outcomes for firms, as well as wider social benefits.

 

 

The team found:

SME owner-managers are often adverse to maternity protection regulations, fearing the time and costs involved can lead to a competitive disadvantage.

There is a link between maternity protection and improvements in performance and productivity, linked to enhanced employee satisfaction and commitment.

There are wider societal benefits of effective maternity protection including poverty reduction, reproductive health, gender equality, fertility rates, and economic development.

Commenting on the review’s findings, Professor Lewis said: “Anything that is going to impact the financial stability of a business is naturally of concern to its owner, and that is why it is so important to understand that many maternity protection practices can have little or no costs and considerable benefits.

Middlesex University Centre for Enterprise and Economic Development Research (CEEDR) Research Associate Dr Bianca Stumbitz added: “It is clear that a supportive workplace is crucial – one that is sensitive to gender-specific issues and that recognises the joint roles that both men and women play in family life.”

The report shows that women who know their employer will support them as they start a family and avoid stereotyping their role in the workplace are happier, more loyal and therefore more productive. For these positive effects to arise and maternity, paternity and family responsibilities to become a normal fact of business life, maternity protection and other work-family balance measures need to ‘fit’ into practices and interests of SMEs.

The review also found there was space for government to help ease any financial strain on small businesses complying with maternity provisions.

Professor Lewis said: “The economic reality means that if we want small business to implement strong maternity protections, some financial compensation by way of tax breaks or public subsidies may be necessary – and that is something policy-makers ought to consider seriously.

“Additionally, education campaigns designed to raise awareness and provide practical advice to employers struggling with maternity entitlement issues is also vital – especially information which highlights the potential productivity benefits.”

The report also highlighted the urgent need to address economic and cultural challenges facing working mothers in developing countries, which has largely been ignored by research.

Compiled for the International Labour Organization, the review was authored by Professor Suzan Lewis, Dr Bianca Stumbitz, Dr Lilian Miles and Dr Julia Rouse.

 

 

The Benefits of a Vegan Pregnancy

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vegan pregnancyAll essential vitamins and minerals can easily be found in a wide variety of vegan foods, including green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, lentils, pulses, beans, soy, whole grains and flax. So there is no need to worry about how to get enough protein, calcium, iron, omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin D. The only exception is vitamin B12, which can be easily supplemented.

Actors Alicia Silverstone and Emily Deschanel have both had vegan pregnancies. Alicia says, “All of the vegan pregnancies I have witnessed have been way smoother than those of my non-vegan friends. … From my point of view, the more vegan you are, the more healthy you are and that makes your pregnancy go more easily and helps your baby to be super duper healthy!”

 

 

  1. Ward off morning sickness: Morning sickness is one of the least fun aspects of pregnancy, and interestingly enough, a vegan diet during pregnancy may alleviate some of those symptoms. Some studies have connected a diet high in meat and dairy with more severe symptoms of morning sickness. The science is this: Morning sickness is the body’s natural attempt to protect the fetus from unhealthy substances, physically clearing those substances (and the food that contains them) out of the mother’s body. Many of the chemicals that are cleared out most commonly come from meat and dairy products, because these products are at a higher risk for contamination. Thus, eating a vegan diet (ideally organic) may reduce or totally eliminate the symptoms of morning sickness. Unlike meat and dairy product, plants can help to rid the body of toxins, ultimately providing the fetus with lower amounts of unhealthy chemicals that we consume in our food.
    In addition, a vegan diet ensures that the mother is not consuming the foods that are commonly known to be harmful for fetuses, including fish and seafood, deli meats, and unpasteurized dairy products. Each of these can put a fetus at risk for birth defects, and eating a vegan diet guarantees that none will be an issue.

 

  1. A healthier, happier you: A vegan diet is great for your health! According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, vegans are less likely to develop heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or high blood pressure than meat-eaters are. Vegans get all the nutrients that they need to be healthy, such as plant protein, fiber, and minerals, without all the nasty stuff in meat that slows you down and makes you sick, such as cholesterol and saturated animal fat.

 

  1. It’s the best way to help animals: Every vegan saves the lives of countless animals each year. There is simply no easier way to help animals and prevent suffering than by choosing vegan foods over meat, eggs, and dairy products.

 

If you are considering making the switch to a vegan diet- please visit peta.org.uk where you can order a free vegan starter kit and find out more on how to have a healthy and happy vegan pregnancy.

 

PETA supporter and vegan mum, Kimberley Brewser says:

 

There was no doubt in my mind that a vegan pregnancy was what was best for me and, more importantly, my precious bundle.

 

Apart from my initial morning sickness, I thoroughly enjoyed my pregnancy. I’ve never felt better inside and out.

 

For any food that I craved, there was a vegan alternative, so I never felt that I was missing out. I always made sure that I had my favourite foods in the house if I had a craving. I ate very well.

 

While some of my pregnant friends suffered with low iron levels and high blood pressure, my iron levels were high and my blood pressure was fantastic throughout.

 

I’m a dancer and continued to perform at shows and dance throughout my pregnancy. I had so much energy. I was dancing four days before I gave birth.

 

Hadley was a healthy 7 lbs, 11 ozs when he was born. Now at 15 months, he continues to thrive on a healthy, varied and colourful vegan diet. He’s a happy, healthy, beautiful little boy.

 

Would I recommend a vegan diet to expectant mothers? Definitely!