Following extensive research and expert formulation, Olverum’s Firming Body Moisturiser has been created to benefit those areas of the body most prone to loss of tone and elasticity. The new addition to the range works in harmony with Olverum’s Firming Body Polish and Firming Body Oil as part of the Olverum Body Firming Ritual.

Olverum Firming Body Moisturiser

Originally conceived for use in high-end professional spas, the new Firming Body Moisturiser may be used daily at home and exemplifies Olverum’s characteristically uncompromising approach to holistic self-care. Applying the disciplines of botanical cosmetic science, aromatherapy and aromachology, Olverum have expertly crafted a formulation that achieves maximum efficacy while enhancing mood and self-confidence in a compellingly sensual way.

The ingredients in the Firming Body Moisturiser have been judiciously selected to help both slow the effects of collagen degradation and boost its natural production; Lapland harvested Crowberry extract, with its extraordinary toning properties, inhibits collagen decline and this is cleverly allied to Alaria Esculenta (Winged Kelp extract) which actively boosts its synthesis. Papaya enzyme promotes cell renewal and, together, these work in synergy with Meadowfoam Oil, Rice Extract, and Crambe Abyssinica Oil to hydrate and enhance the skin barrier without leaving it greasy. The result is perfectly moisturised and toned skin that feels elastic, supple and restored.

Key Benefits of Olverum’s Firming Body Moisturiser

• Protects against dehydration
• Boosts collagen production while reducing collagen degradation
• High in antioxidants to protect against environmental aggressors
• Luxurious and comforting texture smooths and softens
• Leaves skin feeling hydrated and toned
• Suitable for all skin types

The Olverum Body Firming Ritual

Underpinning each of the ritual’s components is an adherence to Olverum’s strict nine-decade ethos:

• to seek out the most effective natural ingredients
• to formulate without compromise
• to create elegant and efficacious products which bestow tangible benefits upon both body and mind.

First, Olverum’s Firming Body Polish employs a dual-action technique to remove dead cells and buff the skin to a satin finish before rinsing off.

Next, their Firming Body Oil, applied to damp skin, seals in the hydration and infuses the skin with collagen targeting actives to make it supple and plump.

To finish, the Firming Body Moisturiser further tackles natural collagen loss, encourages cell renewal, and adds more invigorating moisture. Together, they deliver indulgence in an uplifting and therapeutic at-home spa ritual.

It’s taken years of dedication to complete this symphony of natural, high-performance body firming products. Olverum’s new Firming Body Moisturiser helps invigorate, tone, and restore. It’s self-care for the mind and body because, after all, that is your ‘essential you’.

Olverum is committed to minimising its ecological impact, preserving the environment, and promoting ethical development. Wherever possible ingredients and packaging are from sustainable and renewable sources. The Firming Body Moisturiser bottle is 50% Post Consumer Recyled (PCR) PET, the carton is FSC certified material, and the inks used are from vegetable sources. All of Olverum’s products are Vegan and Cruelty-free.

Olverum Firming Body Moisturiser 200ml is £40 available from olverum.com

The research, presented at the European Federation of Food Science and Technology (EFFoST), was carried out by Tracklements in association with Cardiff Metropolitan University.  The results show that 86% of participants in the study saw a significant drop in their blood glucose and/or cholesterol over a 12-week period.

The research findings are based on 42 volunteers who took part in the trial, all of whom were aged between 40 and 70 years old and were overweight or clinically obese.  The participants ate a heaped teaspoon of wholegrain mustard daily for 12 weeks.  Their blood glucose and cholesterol levels were measured prior to the study, and again at weeks 2 and 12.

This is great news for the UK. If the findings are extrapolated across the general population where approximately 7 million people are believed to be pre-diabetic, this would indicate somewhere in the region of 525,000 people could be helped simply by enjoying a heaped teaspoon of wholegrain mustard every day.

When it comes to the benefits of wholegrain mustard on cholesterol, the research identified that 64% of volunteers saw a drop in their blood cholesterol levels over the 12 weeks, and with an average decrease of 10% in blood cholesterol levels across the sample group, it indicates a promising downward trend for those at a greater risk of developing heart disease, stroke and vascular dementia. This is the same sort of cholesterol reduction seen when following a low-fat diet.

But heart health isn’t the only reason to serve up this brilliantly versatile condiment.  Mustard has been used to liven up food throughout history, there are references to it in ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman texts.

Mustard seed was introduced to the UK by the Romans.  Cherished by them for its medicinal qualities as well as for its ability to make unappetising meat palatable, no self-respecting Roman travelled without a pouch of mustard seed to plant.  The Romans would grind the mustard seed by crushing it and mixing it with Verjuice or Grape Must (Mustum).  They called the resultant paste Mustum Ardens – meaning “Fiery Must” which is how we get the word “Mustard”.  However, wholegrain mustard completely disappeared in Britain after mustard flour gained popularity in the 18th century until Tracklements launched the first wholegrain mustard in 1970.  Since then wholegrain mustard has enjoyed a robust revival, proving itself a must-have staple of the larder and the table.

Tracklements wholegrain mustards are very similar to those Roman forerunners.  100% natural, the health benefits highlighted by this research are due to the naturally present compounds and there are no additives or preservatives used.  As with all their products, Tracklements make their mustard by hand, using only the very finest ingredients.  The yellow mustard seed is grown in East Anglia the brown seed comes from Canada, both are ground in traditional stone grinders before being mixed with the very best apple cider vinegar from Suffolk and left to mature in barrels for up to five days for a gloriously rounded flavour.

Here are some easy ways to get your daily heaped teaspoon of Wholegrain Mustard into your diet:

• In mayonnaise, hollandaise, vinaigrette and béchamel sauce
• Stirred into Gravy (and onion gravy)
• Potatoes (mashed, boiled, baked or new potato salad)
• Stirred through creme fraiche or yoghurt to be mixed through raw, julienned celeriac
• With fried mushrooms
• Spread on a crouton for a soup or a stew
• With smashed avocado and poached egg
• In cheese sauce
• On Croque Monsieur
• In scrambled eggs
• With any roast meat
• A glaze for carrots and parsnips
• On fish (mackerel or halibut)
• On Welsh Rarebit
• In Yorkshire pudding batter
• In cheese straws
• In devilled eggs
• In mac ‘n’ cheese
• In sausage rolls
• In any sandwich, but particularly Ham, Cheese or Sausage

Tracklements Robust Wholegrain Mustard is £2.35 available from fine food delis and farm shops nationwide and online at www.tracklements.co.uk

With established salons in Covent Garden and Soho, they recently opened a third salon just off Oxford Street on Wigmore Street.

Gusto Hairdressing, Oxford Street offers their signature Balayage, freehand and colour expertise, a blow-dry bar, Brazilian Blow Dry and Bridal plus a full range of barber and men’s hair services. Hair for the people – all the people, in a vibrant, fun, friendly and safe salon.

Talking about the new salon, Andre Johnson, owner of Gusto Hairdressing said: “It’s been a tough year for our industry but equally has highlighted how much everyone loves their hairdresser and values having their hair done as essential to their wellbeing.

“I know we are bucking the trend somewhat by opening a new salon in unsettled times but judging by the bookings for our current salons I’m expecting Gusto Hair Oxford Street will be equally as popular. Some retail may have been shifting online, but getting your hair done will always be a destination”.

Trend Alert: The Vintage Bob

Emile G, Gusto’s Creative Director, is an extreme talent with a reputation that well and truly precedes him in the most positive way possible. A Wella Master Colour Expert among a litany of other credits, Emile is truly one of London’s best for all things colour. He had this to say about the latest hair trends for autumn/winter.

“A simple bob that takes inspiration from the middle part of the 20th century. No longer than two inches above the shoulder with blunt ends and a ruffled parting. Low maintenance yet highly voluminous and showstopping.”

Trend Alert: The Slick Framer

Emile also commented: “Another autumn trend that is beautiful with minimal effort is the face-framing slick cut. When you think of face-framing hair, images of Jennifer Aniston in her Friends heyday are conjured up. Straighter and sleeker, this take on the look is refined and manageable yet still shapely enough to bring out the cheekbones. For extra sleekness and to keep a healthy reflective gloss give the WNt London shampoo and conditioner duo a go.”

The Greyvolution

On the Greyvolution trend, Andre commented: “No longer is grey a source of insecurity, women are now using it as a source of confidence, and with good reason. The curated transition from dye to natural blends can look striking and empowering. The fact that we have so many of our younger clientele are asking for the icy grey effect shows that the colour, natural or otherwise, is glamour epitomised.”

Celebrity life coach, Sloan Sheridan-Williams recently visited Gusto Covent Garden to review their services. Here’s what she had to say:

A good hairdresser knows hair. A great hairdresser knows their craft. An extraordinary hairdresser knows the person and matches the finished result to their clients needs not just their wants.

Denise immediately knew that I was a busy lady, who as she described took care of my appearance but liked to be natural with my hair. She was spot on as I like to let my hair do what it wants. So her task was to make a style that not only looked effortless but was actually effortless, as my hair is lucky to see a hairdryer let alone any styling tools!

I had originally gone to get a balayage, to extend my grey hair into my now waist-length hair that was only grown out due to Covid-19. Denise took the time to explain that this would ruin my hair and that I would be much better off with lowlights and cutting a small amount off the bottom. This style would also mean I did not need further low lights again for another six months at least.

It’s refreshing to have someone like Denise who takes the time to listen to your needs and wants but also is strong enough to steer you away from following a fashion trend to get what would actually work for you. It is clear her goal is to make sure the client gets a look that they are happy with not just at the salon but for weeks and months to come after they leave.

Denise is a pure artist when it comes to hair. She made me feel like my hair was a blank canvas. Denise expertly hand-painted specific areas to give my hair definition that other methods could not. The colour was so beautiful when she had finished that it incentivised me to go for a much larger chop of my hair, so that my grey reached right down to the end of my cut, embracing the greyvolution. The amazing thing is I can style it at home, or not style it and still have fabulously healthy-looking hair that keeps its colour and sparkle.

Gusto Hairdressing has three salons in London located at 11 Brewer Street in Soho, 224 Shaftesbury Avenue in Covent Garden and now 110 Wigmore Street just off Oxford Street. For further information or to book an appointment online, please visit gustohair.com

Gusto Hairdressing
110 Wigmore Street, London W1U 3RS
0207 486 5044
gustohair.com

Ted’s Grooming Room Bloomsbury embraces the elegance and timelessness of traditional barbering where you can experience quintessential British style combined with exceptional traditional Turkish barbering skill. The high-quality barber services are specifically tailored for the hardworking city gentleman who expects more than a simple haircut or shave, but rather is a chap looking for a complete experience, from hair washing and ear-flaming to hot towel treatment and massage.

Upon stepping across the threshold of Ted’s Grooming Room Bloomsbury on New Oxford Street, my first impression was that the high standard of Ted’s interior design made the upcoming treatment feel as top-notch as the stylish interior. I was here for the Full Ted Service which comprises of a bespoke haircut, expert shave or beard design, rounded off with ear flaming as required and a hot-towel treatment & massage.

My barber Mehmet Gumus made me feel at ease from the get-go. It was reassuring that all staff respectfully wear masks making me feel Covid confident especially when having to remove my own mask. The staff are very Covid aware including the wearing of disposable gloves.

After settling down I was offered a drink. Ted’s offer a range of soft drinks but also beer. It’s nice to relax, let your hair down and enjoy a nice Turkish pilsner beer.

Mehmet really understood what I wanted and he explained that a few millimetres here and there can make a big difference to the shape of one’s head. It was clear he was dedicated to his art as he explained “You don’t just cut the hair, you dress the hair with love and passion” and his passion for his craft really shone through as he gave me a haircut that was head and shoulders above the samey short back and sides that a lesser barber could achieve.

As part of my Full Ted Service was a traditional shave which although I had some apprehensions about as my skin is quite sensitive, I was made to feel quite reassured with Mehmet explaining that shaving is all about hand position and contouring a person’s face in the correct fashion. Done well, you can’t feel it. Done badly, it can really hurt.

As the heat of the hot towel warmed my skin and opened my pores, I relaxed into my chair and enjoyed the feeling. Next up was the shaving soap, for which Mehmet used a traditional shaving brush to apply the rich creamy lather onto my face in a delightful way. Once Mehmet started the shave, I felt very little irritation, if any. Clearly a master of the art of traditional shaves, I was able to relax back into the chair and fully appreciate the grooming experience. Once finished, shaving balm and aftershave was used to soften and refresh my skin. The closeness of the cut was impressive.

If this wasn’t enough, I experience the unique ear flaming treatment ensuring all those abhorrent little hairs were gone then I settled back and enjoyed a massage which left me feeling fully refreshed and revived.

After leaving Ted’s I was ready to continue my day looking and feeling well-groomed. My wife immediately commented on how dapper my hair looked when I met her for dinner that evening. With a thumbs up from my better half, Ted’s Grooming Room has certainly earned a place in my heart as one of the best gentleman’s grooming experiences in London.

Ted’s Grooming Room quite rightly can boast to be the best premium walk-in barbers in London with the bespoke interiors of each location adding some London flair to the grooming experiences offered by their traditionally trained Turkish barbers. They have 19 locations spread across the West End, City of London and Canary Wharf with the Ted’s Grooming Room Bloomsbury being their most recent barbershop opening.

If you’re looking for a special Christmas gift to treat the man in your life, I highly recommend purchasing the exclusive Ted’s Grooming Room Gift Card available online which allows you to choose from a range of appointments from my favourite, The Full Ted Service (£56 Walk-In Price, £62 Appointment Price) increasing up to Ted’s Ultimate VIP which at £106 is reserved for chaps seeking the epitome of Turkish barbering (appointment only at Mayfair Avery Row).

Ted’s Grooming Room Bloomsbury
47 New Oxford Street, London WC1A 1BL
020 3397 9966
Opening Times: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat 9am-6.30pm, Sun 10am-6.30pm
www.tedsgroomingroom.com
@tedsgroomingroom

Posted via Royal Mail, results are available within two to three days, and can help people to ‘know their number’ by identifying a figure on a scale of 0.4 to 2500 U/mL (units per millilitre). A score of below 0.8 means no antibodies were detected; anything above this shows the presence of antibodies to the virus. The duration and effect of these antibodies in giving immunity to the virus is still being established.

It means individuals can monitor their personal antibody levels, paving the way for better intelligence on immune response among different people. As more research is completed this may prove useful when it comes to everyday activities and occasions – such as booking overseas travel, spending time with vulnerable friends and family, or returning to work and hospitality settings. The test can be taken at three-to-four-month intervals, to measure variation.

Dr Sam Rodgers is Chief Medical Officer at Medichecks, the UK’s longest-standing online consumer blood testing provider. He explains: “What is being learnt about COVID-19’s impact on the immune system is still a moving target, but this test lets people monitor their antibody levels over time. It is not yet known how long immunity, once it has developed, will fade, what level of antibodies provides immunity to coronavirus or at what level re-vaccination will be needed.

“It is also a focus of ongoing study whether antibodies may drop more quickly in certain groups of people, or if a COVID-19 infection generates more or less antibodies than the vaccine.

“We won’t completely rid the UK of COVID-19 anytime soon, but the more we can track antibody fluctuations in the UK population, the better picture we can build around how this virus can be managed long-term.”

The NHS Blood and Transplant Service (NHSBT) issued a plea for more male COVID survivors to donate plasma to its national treatment trial. Analysis by NHSBT found that 43% of male donors had high enough COVID antibodies for their plasma to be used to help patients hospitalized by the virus, compared to just 29% of women – a difference they described as ‘statistically significant’.

Dr Rodgers adds: “As a guide, NHSBT is targeting volunteers who have antibody levels higher than 62 (U/mL) to donate plasma to treat people who are seriously ill with coronavirus. This doesn’t mean that if you have lower levels than this you won’t be protected, as we don’t know at what level of antibodies protection occurs.

“A number of studies have shown that coronavirus antibodies remain in the blood for at least six to eight months for most people. For some, particularly those who had no symptoms, antibody levels may decline more quickly. With the Medichecks test, it will be possible to get a result below 0.8 (U/ml), even if you have had a coronavirus infection in the past. This could be because you only experienced mild or non-existent symptoms. It could also be because your body responded to the virus using different parts of your immune system.

“There is a higher chance of a negative result (below 0.8 U/ml) if the test is taken too soon after becoming infected with coronavirus or being vaccinated, so we recommend waiting at least three weeks after a known infection or vaccination before testing.”

By taking this test, people can not only get a good understanding of their levels but their anonymised data can be used in the fight against the virus – helping shape a national picture on antibody fluctuations in the UK population.

Despite there being a few covid antibody tests on the market, what makes Medichecks different is that their test measures levels, not just whether antibodies are present or absent. Medichecks is the UK’s longest-standing online consumer blood testing provider. Priced competitively, Medichecks’ CE-marked finger-prick Anti-SARS-CoV-2-S coronavirus antibody test is manufactured by Roche who have undertaken rigorous sensitivity and specificity testing.

Test sensitivity is the ability of a test to correctly detect a positive result when testing samples from people known to have had a coronavirus infection. After 28 days, sensitivity is 100%, based on a study by test manufacturer Roche so we recommend taking the test 3-4 weeks after your vaccine or from when you traced that you had been infected with the COVID virus.

Test specificity is the ability of a test to correctly produce a negative result when testing samples from people known not to have had a coronavirus infection. Roche used 5,991 negative samples, with the test produced only one false-positive result – giving the test a specificity of 99.98%.

Medichecks posts a sample collection kit to customers together with full instructions on how to collect a blood sample in a small vial at home. When taking a finger-prick blood test, there are some things you should make sure you do to make sure you have a successful test. These are:

1. Hydrate Well

Make sure you are well hydrated before attempting to take your test, as this can affect your blood flow. We recommend drinking a large glass of water in the hour before you are planning to do the test.

2. Get Your Blood Flowing

It’s a good idea to increase your blood flow before a test. Activities such as taking a warm shower, moving gently with stretches or yoga, doing a quick burst of 10-star jumps or simply walking up and down the stairs a few times will help get the blood pumping making collecting the blood more successful.

3. Choose the Best Finger

We found that when collecting blood, it was best to prick the side of your ring finger on your non-dominant hand (which for most of us would be the left hand). It also is recommended to wash your hands in warm water and use the alcohol wipe included in your kit to clean your chosen finger immediately before collecting blood.

4. Gravity is Your Friend

When actually collecting blood, we found that best results were achieved by massaging the finger downwards towards the finger-prick site and letting gravity be your friend by standing up to help the blood flow smoothly into the vial. You may find you need to try a different finger to fill the vial with the required amount of blood. We found that in one case, three fingers had to be used to fill the vial however in another case, only one had to be used so this does vary.

Once the sample has been taken it is then posted to a UKAS accredited laboratory for analysis. The result, accompanied by a doctor’s interpretation, is uploaded to the customer’s online dashboard. A result which is less than 0.8 U/ml is negative for coronavirus antibodies. A result which is 0.8 U/ml or more is positive, and means that antibodies to coronavirus have been detected in your blood.

Our review panel results were between 1,384 U/mL and 194 U/mL. All participants had received the double jab of the Astra Zeneca vaccine at least 3 weeks before testing. In terms of qualitative results, the positive result for Anti-SARS-CoV-2-S antibodies is anything over 0.8 U/mL. So all of the panel tested positive using the Medichecks at-home testing kits.

At the moment we do not know what constitutes a high, low or average level of antibodies in the population. However, as a guide, NHS Blood and Transplant targeted people who had antibody levels higher than 62 U/ml to donate plasma to help in the treatment of people who are ill with coronavirus. This doesn’t mean that if you have lower levels than this you won’t be protected against coronavirus. However, we don’t know at what level of antibodies protection occurs. This test enables you to track your levels of antibodies over time, to see how quickly they decline after a positive coronavirus test or receiving the vaccine. Please note that some people do not develop antibodies even after a positive test for coronavirus. This may be because another part of their immune system e.g. their T-cells, successfully fought the virus. We also know that not everyone who has the vaccine will develop antibodies.

Manufactured by Roche, the Anti-SARS-CoV-2-S coronavirus antibody test is priced at £69 and is available to buy from medichecks.com/products/coronavirus-antibody-blood-test

Medichecks Anti-SARS-CoV-2-S coronavirus antibody test was also featured on page 39 of the 26th Edition of SLOAN!

1. RÉDUIT

RÉDUIT UNI is the world’s first universal high tech beauty gadget that can be used for both skin and hair, by all genders and powers 24 beauty treatments from one device. Designed for use with both the Reduit Skinpods and Hairpods, it provides weightless and precise treatment in the form of ultra-fine mist, leaving skin and hair nourished and free from pore-clogging textures. It’s been created by the ex-CEO of FOREO, noted as the ‘Apple of skincare’ and is designed to change the way we do our beauty routines.

The Reduit UNI has been built around the pods. In the pods are concentrated formulas (that give you the same applications as a full-sized bottle), to do all the usual things you’d want from your beauty arsenal (hydration/volumisation etc). So not only does the tech provide LED and nano misting to penetrate, you’re able to be less wasteful in your plastic consumption too.

RÉDUIT UNI is £89 from Cult Beauty & reduit.com.

2. Rock & Ruddle

Featuring artwork by Clare Mackie, this large Flamingo hairbrush is perfect for your bathroom or dressing table and feels luxurious to use. The natural bristles & nylon tips thoroughly but gently brush the hair and are great for detangling thick hair.

Rock & Ruddle Flamingos Large Hairbrush with mixed bristles is £30 from rockandruddle.com

3. Subtle Energies

Indian Hair Care gives lustre shine and body to normal and treated dry hair, besides being nourishing and uplifting to the spirit. A nutrient-rich blend that is great for conditioning both the scalp and hair. With a very balancing and grounding aromatic experience, this blend is perfect for relaxing the mind as well as rejuvenating the scalp. Ideal for use in Indian head massage.

Subtle Energies Indian Hair Care is £59 from www.subtleenergies.com.au

4. Christophe Robin

Regenerating Mask with Rare Prickly Pear Oil has a creamy formula that absorbs perfectly into hair for a deep and lasting action from root to tip. It repairs, smoothes and protects in just a few minutes, for hair that feels truly sumptuous.

Christophe Robin Regenerating Mask with Rare Prickly Pear Oil is £54 from www.christopherobin.co.uk

5. ALTERNA

Caviar Replenishing Moisture Masque is an intensive moisturising treatment that replenishes moisture-starved strands, leaving hair smooth, silky and youthfully restored. This once-a-week treatment provides a high dose of moisture to completely rejuvenate hair.

ALTERNA Caviar Replenishing Moisture Masque is £45.95 from www.feelunique.com

6. Tabitha James Kraan

Clean Conditioner Amber Rose is an award-winning eco-luxe organic hair mask that is a long-lasting moisture hit, for use as a super deep, rinse off conditioning mask. Apply to the mid-lengths and ends or just where you need a deep injection of moisture for deep moisturising that will keep your hair smooth and glossy for longer whilst being nurtured by nature. No synthetic ingredients at all and a truly 100% natural preservative system. Scented with their signature Amber Rose scent.

Tabitha James Kraan Clean Conditioner Amber Rose 200ml is £32 from www.tabithajameskraan.com

7. Wild Science Lab

Leaf + Seed Root Therapy Strengthening Treatment Mask is a soothing mask to use as a regular recovery treatment that cocoons your scalp and hair in a revitalising and fortifying complex of organic Hemp Seed oil, Avocado oil, organic Shea Butter, antioxidant organic Green Tea and a comforting tonic of 6 essential oils. Perfect for all hair types, including colour treated.

Wild Science Lab Leaf + Seed Root Therapy Strengthening Treatment Mask is £29 from wildsciencelab.com

8. Fudge Professional

Fudge Professional Damage Rewind Reconstructing Shampoo features unique Opti-PLEX technology that penetrates deep into the hair core to reconstruct bonds after chemical, colour, styling and environmental damage, as well as weightlessly smoothing the cuticle. Fudge Professional Damage Rewind Reconstructing Conditioner also features the unique Opti-PLEX technology. In addition, the specialised HairGuard targets cuticles and seals them shut in just ONE wash!

With this advanced strengthening duo, colour is locked from fading for 33 washes and hair is 95% stronger and 8 times smoother with double the softness. Colour, styling, UV, pollution: what damage?! The shampoo & conditioner have been developed with FragranceFuse technology that infuses each strand of hair with an explosion of fragrance that lasts for 24 hours.

Fudge Professional Damage Rewind Reconstructing Shampoo & Conditioner is £26 from uk.fudgeprofessional.com

9. EveryGreen

Trichology-focused, professional hair care line EveryGreen comprises high-performance formulations based on plant extracts and certified organic ingredients, chosen for their efficacy and synergy for visibly healthy hair and scalp. The Dry Hair Mask is perfect for dry, dull hair that lacks tone and volume. The nourishing blend of Organic Coconut Oil, Soy Protein, Mallow Extract and Sweet Almond Oil penetrates the capillary fibre without weighing hair down, giving it elasticity, volume and softness.

EveryGreen Dry Hair Mask 500ml is £24.50 from sbs-hair.com

10. JOICO

JOICO K-Pak Color Therapy Luster Lock Treatment Mask is a nourishing hair mask that works to repair and replenish hair. In just one miraculous treatment, the K–Pak Color Therapy Luster Lock rescues hair, leaving colour-treated locks 9 times stronger and glowing, as well as adding breathtaking shine.

JOICO K-Pak Color Therapy Luster Lock Treatment Mask is £20.25 from www.lookfantastic.com

Discover more fabulous products and practical expert advice in the 26th Edition of SLOAN! – out now.

Introducing the new Hair, Skin & Nails Daily Oral Spray, Madeleine Shaw says, “When deciding upon the supplements I wanted to create with BetterYou, I was keen to ensure we developed a product to help ‘get your glow back’ after pregnancy, or when your skin, hair or nails need some extra help – and I’m so excited to share this truly unique oral spray. Healthy-looking hair, skin and nails generally signals that your body is getting all the nutrients it needs to stay in good shape and this innovative new supplement is entirely focused on supporting beauty from within, combining six powerful vitamins and minerals to help get your glow back.”

BetterYou Hair, Skin & Nails Oral Spray contains six beauty-boosting nutrients.

ZINC

Fundamental to skin health, DNA synthesis and protein production, zinc is the second most abundant trace mineral within the body, and it is required for over 300 enzymic reactions. Helping to heal and rejuvenate skin, the mineral protects skin cells that make collagen – the skin’s support structure – and its antimicrobial effects can help to treat bacterial skin conditions, such as bacterial acne, providing effective support for the most sensitive skin. Keeping oil glands around hair follicles working properly, zinc is also essential for tissue growth and repair of hair follicles and nails. As they are fast-growing and have a quick renewal rate, our hair and nails need plenty of zinc due to its role in cell growth and division, with a deficiency often causing hair loss.

SELENIUM

Selenium is often hailed for its immunity-supporting properties but it’s the nutrients ability to maintain healthy hair and nails, through supporting various selenoproteins, that makes it the perfect addition to the Hair, Skin & Nails Daily Oral Spray. The visible part of our hair and nails consist of dead cells, with growth and regeneration being hidden beneath the skin. Selenium affects the living tissue that pushes out from the hair follicles and nail bed, meaning that for many people, common problems such as brittle nails or split ends may be helped with a selenium supplement.

VITAMIN C

Often a go-to for boosting energy levels and immunity, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can prevent damage to the skin from pollution and sunlight through its ability to protect from free radicals, which can also block hair growth and cause it to age. Crucially, vitamin C also contributes to collagen formation. Collagen represents around one-third of the body’s total protein, supporting skin and hair as well as eye health, gums, and teeth. Adding to its beauty-boosting benefits, the vitamin plays an important role in the regeneration of vitamin E. Meaning that vitamin C can positively impact vitamin E levels, giving our skin extra antioxidant ammunition to fight free radicals and UV damage. Madeleine continues, “Whilst contributing to the maintenance of normal hair, skin and nails, zinc, selenium, and vitamin C are also crucial for the protection of our body’s cells from oxidative stress, caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress can generate the overproduction of toxins within the body. Without adequate antioxidant protection to neutralise these toxins, cells become damaged, triggering nutrient imbalances, DNA damage and protein oxidation – which causes ageing.”

IODINE

Providing the ultimate skin support, iodine is a mineral that not only regulates our skin’s moisture levels but also facilitates skin repair. Aiding the healing of scars and cuts, iodine supports the regeneration of the lower layers of our skin by triggering cellular function, rejuvenating skin, hair, and nails. Our body primarily needs iodine to make thyroid hormones, and it’s the minerals ability to regulate hormones that are responsible for acne breakouts that make it the ideal ingredient to help get your glow back. A balanced iodine intake also helps to promote healthy hair, hair growth and strong hair roots – preventing hair loss and maintaining strong, resistant hair follicles over the long term.

VITAMINS B5 & B7

When it comes to looking and feeling our best, B-vitamins are essential, with both biotin (B7) and pantothenic acid (B5) being vital to the maintenance of normal hair and skin. Known as the ‘volume vitamin’ thanks to its role in maintaining the strength and healthy texture of scalp hair, biotin works by strengthening keratin which is the fibrous and structural protein that makes up the body’s hair and nails. Biotin is often associated with thickening, growing, and creating a healthy shine for hair and the vitamin may help slow hair loss in those with a biotin deficiency. Stress can have a huge effect on the health of our hair, with it negatively impacting hair pigmentation and strength, leading to both hair greying and hair loss. This is where pantothenic acid can help. By regulating stress hormones in the adrenal cortex, pantothenic acid may prevent both hair greying and loss that is caused when the body cannot properly handle stress. What’s more, similarly to iodine, pantothenic acid can promote healthier skin, reducing acne-causing oil levels and encouraging faster skin healing – whether it’s a wound or skin inflammation.

Madeleine says, “I love products that are ethical and sustainable – I feel as though the products have meaning and have a heart. That’s why I’m so excited about partnering with BetterYou, I love everything the brand stands for”.

BetterYou Hair, Skin & Nails Daily Oral Spray developed in partnership with Madeleine Shaw is £19.95 from betteryou.com and boots.com

This article originally appeared in the 26^th Edition of SLOAN!

About the expert

Madeleine Shaw is a nutritional therapist, best-selling cookery writer, chef and mother. Sharing a food-first approach to nutrient delivery and a passion for quality supplementation at key life stages, BetterYou has teamed up with Madeleine to develop a range of nutritional oral sprays to support every stage of motherhood; from conception to pregnancy, children’s health to getting your glow back – all pill-free.

Microbial Jungle

Your gut is home to the most densely populated microbial environment in your body, known as the gut microbiome. In fact, there are more bacterial cells in your body than there are human cells, most of which are in your gut. Most of these gut microbes are actually extremely important for your health. For example, the human body doesn’t have the enzymes necessary to digest fibre, however your gut microbes do have these important enzymes. When they digest fibre, they produce important molecules such as short chain fatty acids which help to keep your gut healthy.

Immunity

Roughly 70% of your immune cells are located in your gut. These immune cells continuously check everything travelling through your gut (microbes, food and anything else) and then decide whether it is safe or whether the immune system needs to fight it and remove it from the body.

Links with Other Organs

Your gut is physically and biochemically connected to almost every other organ in your body. Immune cells, nutrients and drugs in your gut can move around your body to other organs through a variety of routes. Intriguingly, gut health is intricately connected with brain health, through a biological network known as the gut-brain axis, which is made up of trillions of nerves connecting your brain to your gut. The gut can send signals to the brain and vice versa, therefore stress or anxiety may trigger gut symptoms, whilst poor gut health may trigger stress and other mental health symptoms.

With all of this new science demonstrating the critical role your gut plays in your overall health, it is important to know how to keep your gut healthy.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microbes that have a specific health benefit. Unfortunately, many live bacterial supplements marketed as probiotics do not have good scientific evidence for specific health benefits in humans. Furthermore, just like all of the other microbes in your gut, each individual probiotic has different functions, therefore not all probiotics are the same. A handful of probiotics, including Sons Probiotic supplement, have proven scientific evidence for improving gut health by reducing symptoms of bloating, abdominal pain and gas. Certain probiotics also can improve gut health in other specific circumstances such as reducing antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and traveller’s diarrhoea. Therefore, for people with symptoms of poor gut health, a probiotic supplement for ~8 weeks may improve gut health.

Diversity Your Diet

We are all guilty of eating the same meals every week, however, this may not be the best approach for your gut. As your gut contains thousands of different types of microbes, they all require many different types of food to stay health. That is why diet diversity is the best way to improve gut health. Your gut thrives on plant-based foods, as these contain fibre necessary to help your gut microbes to grow. Plant-based foods are any foods that don’t come from animals, and can include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, beans, herbs and spices. Here are a few tips:

• Every time you do your food shopping, buy a new plant-based food that you wouldn’t usually buy.
• Write down every plant-based food that you eat every day and try to work your way up to 30 different types each week.
• Fill a large jar with a variety of chopped nuts and seeds. You can then easily sprinkle these on your cereal, salad or meals to add a fibre boost for your gut.
• If cooking with red meat (lasagne, Bolognese, shepherds pie, stew), replace half, or even all, of the meat with tinned lentils to add to your gut-friendly fibre intake.
• Swap out ‘white’ versions of rice, pasta and bread with ‘brown’ versions, which contain much more gut-friendly fibre.

There are so many more grains available than rice and pasta. Most supermarkets these days have a whole shelf full of various grains beside the rice including quinoa, bulgur wheat, pearl barley and many others. Remember, spices can count in your 30 a week. Many spices are great foods for your gut microbes. Just like your fruit/vegetables, diversity is key. Make a collection of spices and experiment with different types in different meals.

Exercise

Exercise can significantly improve symptoms of poor gut health for a number of reasons. Exercise can help the muscles that support normal gut function. Regular exercise may also help to improve symptoms of gas and bloating. In fact, a recent study found that 2 sessions of yoga per week for 12 weeks was as effective at improving gut health symptoms as the best-known dietary treatment. Many other forms of exercise can also improve gut health symptoms, reduce gut inflammation and change the composition of the gut microbiome.

Tackle Those Gut Feelings

Exciting science is beginning to show various lifestyle changes that can help support the gut brain axis. Fascinating scientific studies show that mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy can significantly improve gut health by reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as bloating and abdominal pain. Therefore, integrating mindfulness into your lifestyle may have real impacts on gut health. On the other hand, certain gut-directed lifestyle changes may even improve mental health outcomes. Prebiotics are certain foods that support the growth of beneficial gut microbes. Prebiotics are often dietary fibres found in certain fruit, vegetables and other plant-based foods. Interesting studies have found that eating particular prebiotics can reduce levels of cortisol, the hormone that makes your feel stressed. Particular probiotics may also have similar effects. A small number of probiotic, live bacterial supplements have scientific evidence for reducing stress and anxiety, if consumed over a few weeks. Therefore, focussing holistically at all aspects of gut and brain health may have benefits for overall health and wellbeing.

About the expert

Dr. Ruairi Robertson is a leading gut health specialist & TEDx speaker. He obtained a B.Sc in Human Nutrition from University College Dublin, Ireland. He subsequently conducted a Ph.D in University College Cork within APC Microbiome Ireland studying the interaction between maternal and early-life dietary lipids, the developing microbiome and metabolic health outcomes.

During this time, he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to conduct part of his PhD research in Harvard University Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. In 2017 he was awarded a Sir Henry Wellcome Postdoctoral Fellowship from the Wellcome Trust to conduct research within the Centre for Genomics and Child Health in the Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London and the University of British Columbia, Canada.