Lelani Loubser & Nutrition

This is my go to quick lunch to give my body an anti-inflammatory and energising boost. Wild salmon, avocado and olive oil are wonderful foods to reduce inflammation and also improve mitochondrial health (energy). I added some fresh salad, leftover roasted carrots, lots of olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Yum x

In an attempt to move away from ultra processed foods in our household, I have been determined to learn how to make my own sourdough bread. It’s been such a grounding practice doing this every week and seeing the loaf evolve.

Never have I ever been as aware of the need to fill my own cup since becoming a mother. This wonderful place always does exactly that.

A much needed South African recharge

Feeling so grateful for moments like this x

And just like that this little guy is 6 months old today! Enjoying his first courgette to celebrate x

This Christmas is a magical and blessed one for us with the arrival of our little Finley Jacob Reeve. Ouma also arrived from South Africa yesterday which is extra special as we haven’t seen her for years due to the pandemic. Merry Christmas everyone! x

A common pattern that I see in clinic is that women are often prescribed the oral contraceptive pill for any issue related to their cycle. Understanding why an imbalance is there in the first place should always be explored as for some women the pill can actually make things worse. The pill cannot regulate a cycle. It causes an artificial cycle with a break through bleed each month rather than an actual period. Women have a powerful MOT tool to check in with their health and well-being each month. If you are experiencing PMS or other issues with your cycle, it’s an indication that it’s necessary to make some lifestyle changes.

A recent review from a client who was experiencing long COVID symptoms. We are still learning about long COVID and the long-term effects it can have on our health. There appears to be many mechanisms involved including inflammation, a reactivation of latent infections such as EBV and Lyme, damage to the amygdala in the brain which is associated with fear and anxiety, an excess histamine response and even autoimmunity in some. It takes a multi-system approach to get to the root cause these symptoms.

On a busy day when you need something quick and easy. Think a small portion of protein, a healthy fat and plenty of low glycaemic load vegetables aka carbs to keep glucose levels stable. This is one of the most important ways to reduce inflammation in the body and keep the immune system healthy. It feels good to have salads back on the menu and today it is rocket, mixed leaves, goat’s cheese, olives, with an olive oil, tahini and pomegranate molasses dressing.

Healthy gut microbes are largely responsible for keeping the immune system healthy and for reducing inflammation in the body and brain. They thrive on a diverse range of plant foods. When we eat the same vegetables and fruit each day, we are at risk for decreased abundance of healthy gut microbes in the digestive system. Signing up to a weekly seasonal veg box to use in soups, stews, sides and juices is a great way to ensure diversity on the weekly menu.

This week we are having a beetroot, mint, celery, ginger and pear juice. Delicious.