When we are planning to exclude certain food groups for a long period of time, especially if these foods are nutrient dense, it is important to know if our body is thriving on the new diet or if certain nutrients are missing. In the case of vegan, and to some extent vegetarian diets, there are certain health checks and blood tests that we should do more frequently, just in case.

Today, garlic is a familiar household herb, and we often forget its true properties and health benefits. Before the advent of anti-biotics, garlic was one of the herbs often used to assist with many health conditions and diseases. Studies now show that garlic, apart from having potent anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, can also lower high blood pressure and assist with hyperlipidemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

At some point most of us wonder why we are here, about the overall purpose of our lives and the relevance of our existence. These philosophical and existential ponderings are part of being human. There are no easy answers, but Viktor Frankl’s views about Ultimate Meaning provide a framework that may help guide us to the answers.

We look more closely at flaxseed, garlic, pumpkin and several other vegetables, and their anti-cancer and anti-tumour effect in vitro and in animals.

Today we have a better understanding of the importance of protein-rich foods on cognitive function. While quality protein and amino acids are crucial during pregnancy and child’s development, they are also important for healthy ageing and brain health. That is why elderly adults over the age of 65 should increase their protein intake to prevent or at least delay cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disease.

Osteopathy focuses on treating and understanding the entire body. This is why it has a wide range of applications, and can assist with anything from decreasing joint pain, improving mobility and range of motion, reducing chronic pain, and assisting with respiratory and gastrointestinal health.

Short naps have shown to increase the ability to store and recall information, and improve vigour, alertness and cognitive performance. Current studies also suggest that brief daytime napping might have a positive effect on anxiety and depression.

There are three most well-known types of ginseng, but not many know that they differ in their potency. While American ginseng is valued for its calming and anti-stress effects, Siberian ginseng is known for its adaptogenic qualities. Korean ginseng, on the other hand, has proven antioxidant, immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and heart protective effects.

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient, and has a crucial impact on our health and healthy pregnancy. It serves as a cofactor for enzymes, impacting cell function and growth. It also has a role in DNA replication and contributes to the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.

Chemical interactions between packaging and food products might pose potential health hazards, since chemicals from packaging can migrate into the food and be ingested.

Acupuncture is a treatment that encourages energy flow through the body. Acupuncture points are located along channels, or meridians, through the use of needles. The treatment can help neurological, chemical and hormonal processes in the body.

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, bok choy, cabbage and cauliflower have proven to provide a certain level of anti-cancer and anti-tumor protection, and in certain quantities may even prevent cancer cell proliferation. So, how often should we include them into our diet?