Every year on 14th June, World Blood Donor Day (WBDD) serves as a global reminder of the critical role voluntary blood donors play in saving lives. In 2025, this message resonates more profoundly than ever in the UK, as the nation grapples with dangerously low blood reserves. The urgency to act is paramount, and understanding…
Water is the foundation of life, accounting for approximately 60% of the adult human body. It’s involved in every cellular function, from temperature regulation to nutrient transport, and even brain function. Yet despite its importance, dehydration – a state where the body loses more water than it takes in – is surprisingly common and often…
Sunscreen is a cream, lotion or spray that protects skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight. UVB rays burn the skin and cause sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper, causing premature aging (wrinkles, pigmentation) – and both contribute to skin cancer. Sunscreens contain UV filters: physical (mineral) blockers such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide…
Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, taking place from 12th to 18th May 2025, is a pivotal event in the UK’s calendar, dedicated to promoting mental wellbeing and reducing stigma around mental health issues. Organised annually by the Mental Health Foundation, MHAW provides an opportunity to reflect on mental health, spark conversations, and support those experiencing…
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become a staple in many diets, offering quick and easy meal solutions. Understandably, in today’s fast-paced and increasingly expensive world, convenience and cost often dictates our food choices. However, recent studies have raised concerns about the health implications of consuming these foods in large quantities. What are Ultra-Processed Foods? Ultra-processed foods…
Feeding a family on a budget can feel like an ongoing challenge, especially when you’re trying to keep meals healthy and kid-friendly. But with a bit of planning and a few simple ingredients, it is possible to create cheap and healthy meals that are delicious, nutritious, and affordable. Here’s a full week of dinner ideas…
World Health Day, observed annually on 7th April, is a global initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to spotlight pressing health issues worldwide. The theme for World Health Day 2025 is “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” This year-long campaign focuses on maternal and newborn health, urging governments and the global health community to intensify efforts…
Glycerol, also known as glycerin, is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol present in various fats and oils. It is a colourless, odourless, and sweet-tasting liquid widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, due to its moisturising and sweetening properties. Uses of glycerol In the food industry, glycerol serves as a humectant, solvent, and…
Fasting has been a part of human culture for centuries, with religious, spiritual, and health-based motivations driving people to voluntarily abstain from food and sometimes drink. In this blog, we will explore the different types of fasting, including religious practices during Ramadan and Lent, as well as the popular modern trend of intermittent fasting. We’ll…
Preventative healthcare focuses on proactive measures to avert the onset of diseases, enhancing individual wellbeing, and alleviating the strain on the NHS. By embracing healthy lifestyle choices and regular health screenings, you can significantly reduce your risk of chronic illnesses. Key strategies for preventative healthcare Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in…
In the UK, respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), walking pneumonia, and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) are prevalent, particularly during the colder months. Recognising the signs and symptoms of each illness can help you to seek the appropriate care and reduce transmission. Influenza (Flu) Signs and symptoms: Sudden onset of high…
Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is defined as the point when a woman has not experienced a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. The transitional phase leading up to menopause is known as perimenopause, during which…