Health & Beauty

Healthy hacks: how to make small changes

It’s World Health Day on 7th April so here’s some tips on making small changes when it comes to being healthy.

• Drink more water • Try herbal teas such as green tea • Aim to go for a daily walk • Do some exercises in front of the TV (when the ads are on!) • Make a weekly smoothie – put soft fruits and chia seeds or wheatgrass in them • Download apps that exercise the brain – one we like is MindPal • Be kind to yourself – allow time for meditation or just reading quietly

A closer look at… Magnesium GET CLEAR!

Magnesium is found in every cell in the body and it is vital to everyday functions, yet 70% of us are thought to not be getting enough. Harley Street nutritionist and weight loss specialist, Kim Pearson, identifies three reasons to consider adding this powerful supplement to your daily routine.

Stress Relief: Many of us often reach for an alcoholic drink during periods of stress. It may feel like alcohol is de-stressing you in the short-term due to its mild sedative properties, but it is in fact a depressant that changes our levels of serotonin, meaning that you could feel more stressed and anxious as the effects wear off. Studies show that magnesium may reduce stress by positively impacting the hypothalamus which controls our stress responses. So, upping your levels of magnesium is a more effective way to de-stress.

Better Sleep: Magnesium is a fantastic sleep aid. The mineral works to activate the parasympathetic nervous system which promotes feelings of calm and relaxation. Boost Your Energy: One of the key

roles of magnesium is supporting energy creation within the body, aiding the process of converting our food into energy. Some studies have even shown that magnesium can boost athletic performance such as running, swimming and cycling. Did you know… you don’t have to take tablets to get magnesium. Better You offers transdermal application (application through the skin) See betteryou.com/pages/

transdermal-magnesium

It’s estimated that 13 million people in the UK suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis, otherwise known as hay fever. Allergens normally begin spreading throughout the country in the spring, when plants begin to release pollen; however, research is showing that allergy season tends to get worse every year, and the length of time that these allergens spread across the country is growing. Xlear Sinus Care Saline Nasal Spray (£11.99 for 45ml) is available from independent health stores and Amazon and contains xylitol, which has special cleansing benefits not found in normal nasal spray, to provide fast relief for congestion and clearing the nose of allergens. Unlike its synthetic counterparts, Xlear’s Nasal Spray is 100% natural and safe for daily use, without any side effects or the risk of long-term damage.

Tips for hay fever sufferers include:

• Be aware of the pollen count: There are a few good

websites and apps that can alert you when specific allergens are high in your area. Knowing when levels are higher will help you prepare. • Close the windows: Even though it is warm and nice outside, make sure to keep your house as allergen-free as possible so you have a place to escape when needed. • Frequently shower: You will always come in contact with allergens—it’s inevitable. Getting the allergens off your body is key to making sure you don’t have a bad reaction.

Shower morning and night and wash your hands and face throughout the day. • Frequently wash bedding and linens: Make sure the

places you spend the most time are fresh and clean. It is also a good idea to get mattress and pillow covers for allergies.

• Don’t use the car’s heating/air conditioning unless it

is filtered: Many car heating and air conditioning units suck in air from the outside so it is good to find out if your car’s system filters the air or you are at risk of sucking in and circulating pollen and allergens. Spray Xlear Nasal Spray twice in each nostril when you wake in the morning and before bed. For more information, please visit https://www.xlear.com/