CHOCOLATE FOUND TO BOOST COGNITIVE FUNCTION
Chocolate lovers of the world rejoice. A new review[1] has found that plant chemicals called cocoa flavanols could boost cognitive function within just a few hours of consumption. The researchers also found that regular, long-term intake of cocoa flavanols may protect against cognitive decline. The latest study adds weight to previous studies showing that flavanols can improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure.
NATURAL HELP FOR POST-FLIGHT COLDS
With many of us flying off to foreign climes at this time of year post-flight colds are a common complaint. Poor air quality inside the aircraft cabin as well as circulating germs are the usual triggers.
If you start to sniffle and sneeze the answer is to dose up with extracts of pelargonium. Research [2]shows it can help to kick start your body’s natural killer cells to fight the infection as well as helping to relieve typical cold symptoms such as a sore throat and nasal congestion. The advice is – take 30 drops of pelargonium extract three times a day at the first sign of symptoms.
STRAWBERRY TEA PARTIES RAISE MONEY FOR BREAST CANCER
Host a strawberry tea party this August for friends, family or colleagues in support of Breast Cancer Care. Whether you host an event in your garden, local town hall or tennis club, it couldn’t be easier. Just keep the strawberries and cream coming and ask for a donation in return, which will go towards funding much-needed practical and emotional support for the thousands of women facing breast cancer. For more information visit the breast cancer care website
NEW RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS RELAXED ATTITUDES TO SUN EXPOSURE
Despite the slew of evidence pointing towards the dangers of the sun, one in four UK parents still believe that a sun tan is a sign of good health according to a recent survey carried out for the Met office and NHS England [3].
The survey based on interviews with 1,000 parents of under 16s found that 21 per cent would only apply sunscreen if their child started to go red and burn while a quarter had encouraged their children to sunbathe.
Nigel Acheson, NHS England South region medical director, said: “It’s important that parents take extra care to protect their babies and children. Their skin is much more sensitive than adult skin, and damage caused by repeated exposure to UV could lead to skin cancer developing in later life.’
The advice is: if the Met Office UV forecast is moderate or high, children should spend time in the shade and out of direct sunlight – particularly from 11am to 3pm. Meanwhile, we should all remember to cover up with suitable clothing including a sun hat and wear sunscreen with a good UVA protection at all times.
[1] http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318211.php.
[2] Pelargonium sidoides extract for treating acute respiratory tract infections Antje Timmer , Judith Günther , Edith Motschall , Gerta Rücker , Gerd Antes and Winfried V Kern Online Publication
[3] https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/news/releases/2017/research-highlights-parents-relaxed-attitude-to-sun-safety
