In the realm of dietary concerns, the spotlight often shines brightly on nut allergies due to their potential life-threatening nature. However, beyond this well-known peril, food allergies remain a topic that isn't always taken as seriously as it deserves. Part of the issue may stem from a lack of awareness about the symptoms to watch for. Additionally, some individuals tend to use the terms "food allergy" and "food intolerance" interchangeably, contributing to the confusion. Today, I'm here to shed light on both these aspects and provide you with insights on what to do if you suspect certain ..read more

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life marked by complex hormonal changes. As egg reserves diminish, the body becomes more resistant to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), leading to increased FSH levels and a significant drop in oestrogen production from the ovaries. Testosterone and progesterone levels also decline during this time. Oestrogen plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including breast health, uterine function, skin health, bone density, and brain function. Thus, the reduction of oestrogen is considered the main cause of most menopausal symptoms. Navigating Meno ..read more

Why do I get bloated when I don’t even eat? Bloating is an all-too-common digestive issue that can catch us off guard, leaving us feeling uncomfortable and self-conscious. What's puzzling is that sometimes it seems to happen even when we haven't eaten anything. We can experience sudden bloating at random times of the day or night, and it seems to make no sense. Understanding the root cause of bloating is key to finding relief and regaining control over your digestive well-being. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of bloating, exploring possible triggers and shedding light on why it can oc ..read more

Allergy UK estimates that around 18 million people in the UK suffer with hay fever, affecting 10-15% of children and 26% of adults. That’s a lot of people! There are many different natural remedies available to help relieve the symptoms of hay fever. Taking care of your digestive health is an important factor when considering what you can do to support your body. What is hay fever? Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen. Pollen is released when plants produce seeds. People who suffer with hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, react to this pollen which causes inflammation in the nos ..read more

This recipe is ideal for the barbecue but use a good quality beef mince (ideally organic) and take care not to char the meat as this promotes the development of harmful free radicals. Serve with a pitta bread with lots of salad for a filling and delicious meal. Serves 4 Ingredients: 16oz (454g) minced beef 2 tbsp tamari (or soy) sauce 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp fresh coriander, finely chopped 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 egg, beaten 1 tbsp olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper Method: 1. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with the mince. 2. Knead the m ..read more

This is a filling and nutritious lunch or supper dish. Serves 2 Ingredients: 175g chickpeas (canned or soaked overnight if using dried) 1 tbsp olive oil 1 large red onion, sliced 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 tin plum tomatoes, chopped 1 tsp dried herbs 500g courgettes, sliced into rings 125g peas or French beans 1 tbsp flat leaf parsley, finely chopped Salt and black pepper Method: 1. Simmer the chickpeas in fresh water until soft. Skim off any froth that rises. When cooked, drain, reserving the cooking liquid for later. 2. Gently fry the onion and garlic until the onion begins to colour ..read more

These salmon fishcakes are so easy to make and are suitable for the whole family. You could replace the salmon with other fish such as cod, tuna or haddock. Serves 4 Ingredients: 200g salmon fillets or 1 x 200g tin wild red salmon 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped 1 tbsp olive oil 1 egg, beaten 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 1 tbsp butter Method: 1. If using fresh salmon, bake for 20 minutes until cooked. 2. Boil the potatoes until tender, approximately 20 minutes. Drain and mash. 3. Sauté the onion in the olive oil for a few minutes until transparent. 4 ..read more

One of the things I love most about winter is that it’s soup season, and soup is the easiest lunch or appetiser offering ever. This one is packed with delicious wintery flavours of celeriac and fennel, with just a touch or nutmeg and coriander. Serves 4 Ingredients: 300g fresh fennel, finely chopped (including the green part) 230g celeriac, peeled and finely chopped 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp coriander seeds ¼ tsp ground nutmeg 850ml water 1 vegetable stock cube 140g butter Juice of a lemon Salt and ground black pepper, to season Handful of fresh dill oIr fresh cori ..read more

Serves 2 Ingredients: 85g feta cheese, cubed 3 vine ripened tomatoes, de-seeded and cut into chunks 10cm cucumber, cut into chunks 55g black olives 1 tsp dried oregano Freshly ground black pepper 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp lemon juice Method: 1. Place feta, cucumber, tomatoes and olives in a bowl. 2. Whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice, black pepper and oregano to make the dressing. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, mix well and serve ..read more

A slice of this from the fridge also makes a quick and easy snack. Serves 2 Ingredients: 200g baby spinach 1 tbsp olive oil/coconut oil 1 onion, thinly sliced 40g black olives, pitted and halved 6 free range eggs, lightly beaten and seasoned with salt and pepper 115g feta cheese, cubed Method: 1. Wilt the spinach in a covered saucepan for 2 to 3 minutes. Squeeze out any excess water. 2. Heat the oil in an ovenproof frying pan and fry the onion until soft. 3. Pre-heat the grill to medium while the onions are cooking. 4. Spread the onion, spinach and olives over the base of the pan. 5. Pour the ..read more