Migraine – more than ‘just a headache’

It is estimated that the UK population loses 25 million days from work or school each year because of migraine – a complex condition with a wide variety of, mostly, incapacitating neurological symptoms.

This week is Migraine Awareness Week, an annual campaign to draw attention to migraine and educate the wider public. This week’s blog takes a look at the different stages of migraine attacks, some of the causes associated with this debilitating condition, and nutritional support that could be considered to help alleviate the symptoms.

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In the news – health and nutrition research

In this week’s article, we provide a roundup of some of the most recent health and nutrition related articles in the news, four items comprising:

Micronutrient gaps in childbearing years ‘concerning,’ survey stresses
Rise in type 2 diabetes in young people in England and Wales
Low DHA and EPA a ‘strong risk factor’ for preterm birth: Danish data
Air pollution may harm cognitive intelligence study says

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L-theanine – the meditation compound

Often referred to as the calming amino acid, L-theanine is a neurologically active compound which has repeatedly demonstrated its utility as a relaxing agent^1,2 . Along with catechins and caffeine, L-theanine is a key ingredient in tea leaves – which may be why tea is so often associated with a sense of calm and relaxation.

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UTIs – symptoms, risk factors and nutritional support

It is estimated that 4 million British women suffer an attack of cystitis each year.¹ The incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) is highest in women; in younger adults there is a 50:1 female to male ratio, while in patients over the age of 70 years of age the ratio is around 2:1.² Incidence in both sexes increases with age and can be asymptomatic – it is estimated that up to 30% of people living in nursing homes and other institutions have asymptomatic bacteriuria.^2,3

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Probiotics – what are they and how do they work?

Probiotics are live microorganisms (in most cases, bacteria) that help to keep the digestive system healthy by reducing the growth of harmful gut microbes and boosting the number and variety of ‘friendly’ gut microbes. In this week’s blog nutrition practitioner Miguel Toribio-Mateas discusses probiotics, their safety, how they work and their health supporting properties.

Miguel will be speaking about the gut microbiome at our practitioner roadshow events throughout 2018, you can find out more about the roadshow, including booking information, by clicking here.
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Sugar intake in Children – more than just a weight issue

Sugar intake, particularly in children, is a hot topic in the media these days. However government data suggests that children are still far exceeding the maximum recommended sugar consumption every day. Government recommendations are that sugar should account for no more than 5% of daily calories. When put into more practical terms this means 19g for age 4-6 and 28g for age 7-10 (28g is the equivalent of 7.5 teaspoons).

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