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An Essential List Of Foods You Can Eat On The Ketogenic Diet

Editorial Team
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An Essential List Of Foods You Can Eat On The Ketogenic Diet

The ketogenic diet has become an increasingly mainstream way to potentially lose weight. A low carb, high-fat diet, the keto (for short) diet shares similarities with the Atkins in that the plan’s massive reduction in carb intake aims to put the dieter’s body into a state of ‘ketosis’ – a metabolic state where the body becomes more efficient at burning fat.

Of course, as with any form of extreme change to a more conventional way of eating, the keto diet comes with risks, and certainly isn’t a diet to try as an experiment. Rather, it should only be undertaken under the supervision of a medical expert or nutritionist. 

In order to see potential results in weight management terms, your nutritionist may recommend that you include the following foods in your diet…

Eggs 

One of the best breakfasts for a keto dieter is eggs, which can be prepared in many ways and are a nutrition powerhouse; naturally low in carbs, and packed with protein, essential fatty acids, and nutrients. 

Whether you like them scrambled, fried, or boiled, eggs can be a part of just about any meal. You’ll have to reconsider the usual toast you have alongside your eggs, though, as there’s around 20g of carbohydrates in a single white slice. Fortunately, keto-friendly bread does exist, and isn’t half bad when slathered with butter!

Read: 5 IDEAL ways to cook an egg

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto

Meat 

Though it’s possible to do a keto diet as a vegetarian or vegan, it’s pretty tough to adopt to the parameters of a well-rounded keto meal plan without meat.

In an eating plan focused heavily on protein and high fat foods, some of the most appropriate meat to include in your diet include rib-eye steak, pork belly, lamb chops, chicken thighs (skin on, naturally) and, basically, any other type of meat we’re usually told to swerve due its high-fat content, excess of skin, and marbling.

Offal is also a great option for those on a keto diet, as it’s nutrient-rich, boasts plenty of healthy fats, such as omega-3, and contains no (or very few) carbs at all. It’s also affordable, which is very welcome right now, with belts tightening across the country.

Read: 6 tips for healthy, thrifty, sustainable family meal planning

Seafood 

Eating fish and other types of seafood is a great way to amp up your protein intake while on the ketogenic diet. Seafood is also a good source of omega-three fatty acids, which are beneficial for your health, and this is particularly true when considering oily fish; salmon, tuna, sardines, and other fish are all excellent seafood choices for the keto diet.

You can also eat shrimp, crab, and lobster on the keto diet. Be sure to avoid seafood that is battered or breaded, as this will add carbs to your meal. 

When choosing seafood, opt for fresh, wild-caught whenever possible. Canned seafood can be a good option as well, but make sure to check the nutrition label to ensure that there are no added sugars or carbs.

Photo by RODNAE Productions from Pexels

Dairy Products 

Don’t forget to add lots of dairy to your keto diet. Dairy products are a great source of fat and protein, making them perfect for the keto diet. Choose full-fat dairy products whenever possible, as they are higher in fat and lower in carbs.

For example, certain types of cheese, like mozzarella and cream cheese, for instance, are very low in carbs, while other cheeses like cheddar and Swiss have a little more. Always check the packet!

Vegetables & Greens 

It’s essential to eat various vegetables while on this program, to ensure you’re getting enough nutrition (and deliciousness) from your diet. 

These veggies contain essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and potassium. They also contain fibre which helps with bowel movements and digestion (constipation is a problem for those on a keto diet). 

Leafy greens, whether that’s spinach, kale, swiss chard, or whatever else is looking good at the market, are a particularly essential addition to the mix, as they are super-nutritious. Greens are low in carbs but high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re also a great source of fibre. Eat them cooked or raw, whichever way you prefer.

Read more: Can keto cause constipation?

Nuts & Seeds

You’ll also want to incorporate various nuts and seeds into your diet. These are great sources of healthy fats, protein, and fibre, and are particularly crucial if you’re of a vegetarian or vegan persuasion and considering a keto diet. 

Nuts, seeds, and nut butter are popular sources of healthy fats and proteins for many vegans. They also contain fibre, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, and vitamin E, as well as antioxidants, and can replace the mouthfeel of dairy products in a dinner, which can be really useful for eking maximum enjoyment from your eating.

Of course, nuts and seeds are also incredibly versatile, bringing texture and flavour in spades, and can be used in a huge variety of different dishes and cuisines. Some of our favourite nuts and seeds include:

  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Brazil nuts
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Chia seeds

Read: Tips to help you start eating a vegan diet

Alternative Fats 

Cooking with fats like coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and grass-fed butter can help add variety and nutrition to your diet. These healthy fats are a great source of energy and can help you feel fuller for longer. Including these in your diet can also help increase your intake of antioxidants and vitamins.

When it comes to cooking with so-called healthy fats, it’s important to choose a quality product. Look for oils that are cold-pressed, unrefined, and organic. You should also avoid processed fats like margarine, shortening, and hydrogenated oils, which, quite frankly, bring nothing to the party.

Artificial Sweeteners

Instead of using sugar, many people on the ketogenic diet will use artificial sweeteners. While there are some artificial sweeteners that are safe to consume, others can actually kick you out of ketosis. As a general rule of thumb, avoid artificial sweeteners that contain maltodextrin and dextrose, as these can raise your blood sugar levels. 

The Bottom Line

The keto diet is an increasingly visible way for some folk, under the proper medical supervision, to attempt to manage their weight. That said, it should be noted once again that this type of diet should never be attempted without first consulting a medical professional.

5 Of The World’s Most Luxurious Ski Hotels

Editorial Team
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5 Of The World’s Most Luxurious Ski Hotels

There are few better feelings than cosying up in a luxury hotel during your ski holiday. While schussing with abandon is of course the main attraction, the allure of relaxing by a roaring fire and indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments is equally compelling. The most luxurious hotels also offer access to award-winning restaurants and a variety of entertainment options, making your ski holiday a truly memorable experience far beyond the slopes.

But how do you find the most verifiably luxurious hotels for your ski holiday? It largely depends on your preferred skiing destination. The French and Swiss Alps are popular choices, renowned for their opulent hotel resorts. Across the Atlantic, Colorado and the Rocky Mountains also boast numerous luxurious options.

With so many incredible skiing locations to choose from, holidaymakers are truly spoiled for choice. To help you decide, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the top luxury hotels for your next skiing holiday. Whether you’re seeking opulent dining areas, lavish spas, or magnificent casino floors, we’ve got something for everyone.

The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado, USA

Nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain, The Little Nell is a five-star, five-diamond hotel that epitomises luxury and sophistication in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its ski-in, ski-out access, this iconic hotel offers unparalleled convenience for ski enthusiasts looking to hit the slopes of one of the most famous ski destinations in the world.

The Little Nell boasts 92 spacious guest rooms, including 11 suites and three signature suites, each designed with a contemporary alpine aesthetic. Guests can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, cozy fireplaces, and plush furnishings that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The hotel’s renowned concierge service ensures that every need is met, from arranging private ski lessons to securing reservations at Aspen’s top restaurants.

After a day on the slopes, guests can unwind at the hotel’s luxurious spa, which offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax. The Little Nell is also home to Element 47, a Forbes Five-Star restaurant that celebrates locally sourced ingredients and offers an extensive wine list curated by master sommeliers. For a more casual dining experience, Ajax Tavern provides a lively après-ski scene with its famous truffle fries and burgers.

Four Seasons Hotel, Megeve, France 

Nestled in the picturesque French Alps, the Four Seasons Hotel Megeve is emblematic of alpine elegance, featuring numerous selling points that keep visitors returning year after year. The beautiful rooms offer a perfect blend between cosiness and grandeur, with panoramic views over the slopes complementing the beautiful interiors. 

Guests have full access to an expansive spa typical of the Four Seasons Hotel & Resorts portfolio, with steam rooms, massage parlours, and more. There’s also a Michelin Star restaurant on-site to enjoy. Le 1920 is a homage to classic French cuisine, with celebrated chef Anne-Sophie Pic designing a menu with full appreciation for the array of local Alpine ingredients. 

The Four Seasons Hotel Megeve also offers access to Casino Barriere, a huge and sophisticated casino popular with visitors. From blackjack to poker and roulette, there’s something on offer for all types of player.

Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, St. Moritz, Switzerland 

An iconic symbol of luxury, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St. Moritz is a world-renowned destination for ski enthusiasts and general up-market holiday lovers. Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps and opened way back in 1896, the hotel offers panoramic views of Lake St. Moritz and direct access to the Corviglia scopes. 

Badrutt’s Palace is emblematic of the affluent and luxurious Alpine resorts of the late 19th century, with 157 elegant rooms and suites blending traditional Swiss charm with cutting-edge entertainment and comfort technology. The Palace Wellness spa boasts state-of-the-art facilities, so if the king-sized baths and shower rooms in the hotel rooms aren’t enough, you’ll have access to top-tier saunas, jacuzzis, and more. 

Guests can also indulge in Michelin-starred dining at Igniv by Andreas Caminada, an imaginative yet traditional restaurant by the legendary Swiss chef that has garnered two Michelin stars for its exceptional cuisine—the perfect winter counterpoint to your summer Saint Tropez fine dining adventure. Elsewhere, the King’s Social House has a legendary aprés-ski scene and is famed as Switzerland’s oldest nightclub. 

The Chedi, Andermatt, Switzerland 

The Chedi, one of the best contemporary spa resorts in Switzerland according to Forbes, has called the pristine Swiss village of Andermatt home since 2013. It’s one of the newest luxury skiing hotels on the block but has already made quite the splash with its functional yet extravagant approach. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Gemsstock Mountain, the hotel offers ski-in, ski-out access and over 120 km of some of the best ski trails in Europe. 

With 123 luxurious rooms to choose from, The Chedi has options for various types of holidaymakers, from families to newly-wed couples. Each one has a fireplace and a deep soaking tub, offering skiers an instant respite from the cold Alpine weather. But this is just the start, with the massive hotel complex also offering access to numerous other highlights.

Take the world-renowned 2,400 m² spa, for example. Guests get access to a picturesque heated outdoor pool, various saunas, massage rooms, a dedicated hydrotherapy area, and more. After relaxing, The Chedi offers a hand-curated wine and cigar library, alongside gourmet dining at The Japanese—a double Michelin-starred restaurant serving authentic Japanese cuisine. 

Higashiyama Niseko Village, Hokkaido, Japan

For those seeking a far flung adventure in Japan’s premier ski destination, Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, this exclusive retreat provides ski-in, ski-out access to the renowned powder snow of Niseko, one of the world’s top ski destinations.

Higashiyama Niseko Village features 50 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of Mount Yotei or the surrounding Annupuri ranges. The interiors blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can enjoy amenities such as private onsen baths, cozy fireplaces, and spacious living areas that provide the perfect sanctuary after a day on the slopes.

Yōtei-zan, Niseko, Abuta-Gun, Japan

The resort’s culinary offerings are equally impressive, with Yukibana serving a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine using the finest local ingredients. Sushi Nagi offers an intimate dining experience with expertly crafted sushi and sashimi, while Ume Lounge provides a relaxed setting for après-ski cocktails and light bites.

Higashiyama Niseko Village also boasts a world-class spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments inspired by Japanese wellness traditions. The spa features private onsen baths, a sauna, and a relaxation lounge, ensuring a rejuvenating experience that complements the physical demands of skiing.

For those looking to explore beyond the slopes, the resort offers a variety of activities, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies and calligraphy classes. The dedicated concierge team is on hand to curate personalized itineraries, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is tailored to your preferences.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape in the heart of the Rocky Mountains or Far Eastern adventure in Japan’s premier ski destination, these hotels offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and world-class amenities for an unforgettable ski holiday.

How To Bring New Passion Into Your Marital Life As You Age

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How To Bring New Passion Into Your Marital Life As You Age

It’s a question as old as time itself; just how do you keep the spark alive in a long marriage? Though it’s often asked, and it can be difficult to answer. Everyone ages differently. Some may stay young at heart while others grow older and wiser with each day. As people age, marriage changes too, and not always for the better.

With divorce rates at their highest for ten years and only predicted to rise further, never has it felt more important to be proactive about keeping the love, intimacy and passion alive in your relationship. Here’s how to bring new passion into your marital life as you age.

Make Time For Your Spouse, Each & Every Day

Your spouse deserves the time you dedicate to your marriage, especially as the years pass. One of the most important things couples can do in order to keep their marriage healthy is making sure they have daily ‘dates’ with each other. 

You may feel like you already spend enough time together or that it’s more important for you to get chores done. But don’t forget about how much time should be devoted just for talking and hanging out.

Even if all you do is sit on the couch next to one another while watching TV, make sure they know they matters by giving them an hour (or at least half an hour) each day when nothing takes priority over spending some quality time together. 

Ask them how they feel, or talk to them about what you did that day. You don’t have to do anything big or exciting, but make sure your spouse knows they’re important and matters every single day. It doesn’t matter how many years pass, marriage is a commitment to each other for life.

Do Something Spontaneous

One of the best ways to ignite a spark is by doing something that surprises your partner. Cook them their favourite meal, make them feel like a million dollars, whisk them off on a surprise holiday or shopping trip, or even arrange for them to do something that they love doing (with you, of course). Doing something spontaneous to show them how much you love and care for them. This usually prompts them to do something for you too, and it becomes a cycle of showing your spouse how much they really mean to you.

Surprises can certainly be hard to organise when you’re both spending so much time in such close proximity, but with a little inventiveness and ‘planned spontaneity’, it can be done.

Nowhere is this truer than the bedroom; setting aside times to have sex each day, dressing up for one another, even surprising your partner by wearing a matching red lingerie set underneath your work clothes (hey, we got rather specific there, pretty quickly!), you can keep that element of surprise and spontaneity alive.

While sex is a very important part of a relationship, it’s not everything. Sometimes keeping things physical by simply hugging and kissing more often, holding hands while watching TV and offering the occasional back rub can make them feel loved. More often than not, a physical act like a back rub leads on to sexual relations which, as you know, most definitely keeps the spark alive in your relationship.

Keep Things Fresh By Trying New Things Together

No matter how old you are, marriage is always about keeping things fresh. It’s important to keep an open mind and try new activities together in order to stay interested in each other, as well as staying healthy with the physical activity of it all! Try some fun date ideas like hiking or going on a picnic at your local park; these are great ways for you both to get out there and enjoy yourselves. 

Here’s a list of ideas you could try out:

  • A picnic
  • Take up running together, or any other sport 
  • Road trip 
  • Cook your favorite meal and serve it by candlelight 
  • Go on a hike or to the beach 
  • Take up rock climbing, white water rafting, paintball

Have Date Nights

Yes, we realise that we already mentioned date nights at the top of the article, but it’s a point that bears repeating; making time for each other helps to keep the spark alive and make you both feel like newlyweds again.

Date nights are not only fun but they also allow you to reconnect with each other emotionally, spiritually, and physically. You can talk about anything that is going on in your lives or the world around you during date night without distractions from children or work issues. No one has ever regretted having regular date nights!

Remembering what drew you together in the first place, when butterflies fluttered in your tummy and your heart raced whenever you were close, can be a great way to rekindle a romance that is in danger of becoming stale. 

For a meaningful date night idea, why not revisit the scene of your first meet, or the place where you first said ‘I love you’, or even where you first made love, in doing so reconnecting with that first frisson of attraction between you. Sounds pretty romantic to us!

Read: 7 extra special date night ideas for autumn

Nurture Your Individuality

All that time in each other’s company, without extracurricular activities or engagement with friends, family and colleagues, has likely left your relationship feeling somewhat insular. We all need an outlet away from our partner from time to time, to nurture that other side of our personality. Do make sure, then, that you’re not neglecting your friends (and in turn, your individuality) during this difficult time, as a lack of independence, or even an increase in co-dependence, may, in fact, be making matters more fraught. 

Take the time to focus on your own hobbies and interests, too, to ensure you retain that individuality which first so appealed to your partner. Doing so will equip you with the tools to deal with the challenges which lie ahead on your own terms, rather than via an over-reliance on your partner. Your relationship will be stronger for it, trust us!

IDEAL FOR WORLD PASTA DAY: BUFFALO RICOTTA RAVIOLI WITH BLACK TRUFFLE

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IDEAL FOR WORLD PASTA DAY: BUFFALO RICOTTA RAVIOLI WITH BLACK TRUFFLE

Pasta lovers, rejoice! World Pasta Day is just around the corner (October 25th). If you’re in any doubt about how to celebrate this year, may we suggest a steaming bowl of the good stuff? Victoria’s popular Venetian-Italian eatery TOZI Restaurant & Bar has revealed the recipe for one of its delicious pasta dishes, the Buffalo Ricotta Ravioli with Black Truffle. Try it out yourself by making it at home … or swing by TOZI and order one from its extensive menu of delicious small plates. Buonissimo!

FOR THE DOUGH

  • 500g plain soft flour
  • 5 eggs
  • 5ml olive oil

FOR THE FILLING

  • 250g buffalo ricotta
  • 20g grated parmesan
  • Salt & pepper

TO SERVE

  • 300ml vegetable stock
  • A knob of unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • A sprinkling of grated black truffle

METHOD

  1. Place the flour in the mixing machine (or use a large bowl with a hand whisk); add the eggs and the olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together. The dough should be firm and dry.
  2. Remove the dough from the bowl, cover it with cling film and let it rest in the fridge for few hours.
  3. Place the ricotta in a chinoise colander and let it drain for 24h. Once ready, mix it with the parmesan, salt & pepper.
  4. Fill a piping bag with the mixture and leave in the fridge until ready to use.
  5. Stretch out the pasta dough (ideally using a pasta machine) until 1mm thick.
  6. Dampen the surface of the pasta sheet with cold water; lay a knob of ricotta filling the size of a small walnut in the middle of the sheet 5cm apart from each other.
  7. Fold the pasta in half and press out all the air around the filling.
  8. With an 8cm pasta cutter ring cut the shapes in to half circles.
  9. Cook the ravioli in salted boiling water for 3 minutes. In the meantime bring to boil some vegetable stock, add a pinch of salt and some butter. Cook down until creamy.
  10. Drain the ravioli and add them to the buttery sauce.
  11. Serve with shaved truffle on the top.

Make Your Home A Cosy Place Of Comfort This Autumn In 5 Simple Steps

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Make Your Home A Cosy Place Of Comfort This Autumn In 5 Simple Steps

You know what they say, that home is where the heart is? But if that heart is clogged by clutter, darkened by bad lighting and life choices, and its beat is arrhythmic rather than dependable, it can lead to a home that lacks a warm welcome.

Whilst our homes are, of course, firstly functional, providing shelter and somewhere to rest, they are also a place where individuality and self-expression can be nurtured.

In autumn, as the nights draw in and the temperature drops, domestic self-care feels more important than ever, and this is certainly true in 2022, with global turmoil insistent and oppressive, and temptation to hibernate until spring ever-present.

Instead, take solace in your sanctuary this season; here’s how to make your home a cosy place of comfort this autumn in 5 simple steps. 

Let There Be Natural Light

Well-lit, whether that’s artificial or natural, spaces are hugely important to the overall running of the household, sure, but they also contribute a remarkable amount to your overall wellbeing at home, particularly as the evenings (and eventually afternoons) get darker, and you want to savour every moment of sunshine.

Natural light, in particular, provides some serious health benefits, boosting Vitamin D, alleviating the symptoms of seasonal depression, improving sleep and so much more.

Accordingly, you could do much worse than checking out these best ways to allow more natural light into your home, which will almost certainly make your home a more enjoyable place to spend time.

Dark and closed-off spaces can often feel overwhelming and intrusive, leaving you yearning for daylight and vast expanses of outdoor space (and this is not what you want when you are relaxing indoors). If you’re particularly prone to these feelings of oppression, consider more drastic steps, such as installing a skylight, patio doors (with the requisite patio door blinds, of course, for managing the light and maintaining privacy), or even a new window.

If you’re renting or simply don’t have the means for a renovation project right now, then fear not; you can use artificial wall light, ceiling lights, lamps and even candles to lighten and brighten up spaces, making them feel cosy, warm, and inviting, too.

Lose The Clutter (Where You Can)

When you are busy leading your life, you often fail to see clutter and mess building up around you until it’s too late, and you’ve been buried. 

Clutter can amass quickly, and before you know it, it has taken the love and the enjoyment you once felt for your home and replaced it with the fear of tripping over every time you make for a different room.

You don’t want this in any season, but when you’re attempting to retreat into domestic bliss and sanctuary as the world falls apart around you, such clutter can be particularly intrusive, both physically and mentally.

To get the maximum amount of enjoyment you can from your domestic environment, you need to create more space in your home, and you can start doing this by decluttering. Getting rid of those things you’re inexplicably hoarding or hanging onto is what you need to be focusing your efforts on. When your home feels like it has space, and it feels uncluttered, then you will see (and feel) how much more enjoyable it is to be in.

The Power Of Colour

The colours and the shades that you use throughout your home can and will have an impact on the enjoyment you get from spending time there. Using softer and earthier tones and hues can help you feel more connected to nature and grounded in your property, which may heighten your sense of enjoyment. Or, you may also find that more colour schemes of a sunnier disposition may leave your home feeling warmer and calmer.

In fact, there’s a whole scientific discipline concerned with such matters. According to colour psychology, if you’re looking for colours that inspires wellness, dark greens and navy blues channel a harmonious ambience, whilst warm yellow or even muted bubble gum pink offer an uplifting aesthetic. 

You could heap praise on autumn for its clear-as-glass branding, such is the strength of its colour association. Auburn, maroon, dark green and orange…earthy, rich shades take precedent as the season shifts and we’re well and truly here for a change after summer’s never-ending orgy of bright yellow.

The way you introduce these new tones is up to you; we wouldn’t recommend repainting with abandon. As time marches on, seasons are fleeting and it’s one hell of an ask to be changing your home’s colour scheme that often. You can, however, bring in throws and cushion covers of the requisite colour,  as well as placing some carefully chosen trinkets which evoke those hues, too. Perhaps not a rotting pumpkin in the corner, but you catch our gist.

Read: 5 interior design colour tips for Autumn/Winter 2022

Comfort Should Never Be Undervalued

Forget stuffy interiors and chairs that cause pain to your bottom rather than cup it. What you add to your home in terms of furniture simply has to be comfortable. 

Furniture can look good, but if there is no comfort to a piece, then you will find you never use it, and this means you never get the chance to fully embrace and enjoy every area of your home. 

When you are looking at adding furniture or even replacing furniture, you need to remember to make it personal, but you also need to remember that comfort should never be undervalued. If comfort is undervalued or even overlooked, especially in autumn and winter, then you will end up with a show home.

Read: Reasons interior design is more important than ever this autumn

Objects That Bring You Joy

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful,” as William Morris once said, “or believe to be beautiful.” Well, if an item brings you joy, then surely that’s one of the most useful things of all?

While we did say earlier that you should declutter, we do think that you should collect certain things that bring you joy; think objects that can tell a story and trinkets that act as a visual reminder of a time you enjoyed, be it a postcard from Brighton Pier or a print of your favourite flower. Or, if you have a hobby that you love, incorporate that into the design of your home, should it provide treat for the eyes as well as the soul.

Even if the objects that bring you joy are not useful or unconventionally beautiful, so be it – there’s much beauty to be found in the weird and the whacky after all.

The Bottom Line

Aesthetics and appearances be damned. If there’s one thing recent crisis has taught us, it’s that life is short and happiness, when there are circumstances circling that are out of our control, is finite. Rather than living in a house that fails to cultivate contentment, instead you owe it to yourself to nurture joy, cosy and comfort in your domestic space. Only then can you truly call it a home.

And hey, if you’re keen to pour one up to celebrate the new season, you could do much worse than one of these autumnal rye whiskey cocktails. Cheers!

4 Autumnal Rye Whiskey Cocktails Using The Best Of The Season’s Ingredients 

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4 Autumnal Rye Whiskey Cocktails Using The Best Of The Season’s Ingredients 

Like the colours of the leaves, the fruit and vegetables we bring home from the local farmer’s market changes colour with the seasons; from summer’s bright berry reds to the dulcet, honeyed tones of autumn. Think the pale chartreuse of pears, the dark gold of apples, the purple of figs and of course, the orange of seasonal squashes. 

So too does the colour of the liquids we bring home from the local bottle shop change in texture. From the effervescent summer rosés to the deep autumn ambers of whiskey, it’s a seismic shift reflected in our changing appetite for how we want to eat and drink.

A warming whiskey is just the thing to savour on these autumn evenings. At the moment, we’re particularly fond of rye whiskey from Maryland, which is traditionally sweeter than those from Virginia and Kentucky, but still with that peppery, astringent back-note. This is because the whisky makers in Maryland mix their rye grain with a high percentage of corn, which lends sweetness, balancing the rye’s characteristic spiciness.  

Interestingly, this type of whiskey is the original base spirit of classic New York cocktails, such as the Manhattan and Old Fashioned, so if you’re looking to be ultra-traditional in your mixing of these classic cocktails, it’s American Rye Whiskey all the way. And who are we to complain?

Getting into the – ahem – spirit of things, we’ve spoken to the experts behind Sagamore Spirit, whose American Rye whiskies have earned more than 100 awards internationally, including the title of World’s Best Rye Whiskey in 2019, for their favourite autumnal cocktail recipes that make the most out of those seasonal ingredients we mentioned earlier.

Pumpkin Spice Sipper

Move over Pumpkin Spiced Latte, there’s a new, grown-up autumn drink in town, and it goes by Pumpkin Spice Sipper, or PSS.  

Just like the PSL, the aromatics of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger in the Pumpkin Spice Slipper evoke familiar, cosy memories of autumn, creating a sense of nostalgia and the desire to connect with and embrace the autumnal season – just the ticket on these colder, darker nights, don’t you think? 

The recipe is for a single serve:

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
  • 1.5 oz Pumpkin Puree
  • 1.5 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • One Heavy Dash Pumpkin Spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger) 
  • Ground Cinnamon for garnish

Method

  • Fill shaker halfway with ice and add all ingredients. 
  • Shake to combine all ingredients. 
  • Strain into a rocks glass over one large ice cube. 
  • Garnish with a dusting of ground cinnamon.

IDEAL Tip: Give this one an extra shake or two to ensure each seasonal flavour blends to perfection.

Sagamore Pear Sour

The comedian Geroge Carlin once said that “a pear is a failed apple”.

Whilst we’re big fans of this stand-up comedian, we can only conclude that he never enjoyed a pear in its prime, which to our humble taste is unbeatable.

That said, it’s true that a pear is a paradoxical fruit, and a perfectly ripened one is a remarkably hard thing to come by, and they can often go from impenetrable and sour to brown and mushy in the space of a single day.

Once you find one that’s in its prime, however, it’s one of those autumnal moments of pure joy – just like having a sip of your first PSS. Pear is an underdog flavor that shines in this unique take on a classic sour, and we’re celebrating it now with a toast…

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
  • 2 oz Pear Juice
  • 0.5 oz Lemon Juice
  • 0.5 oz Cinnamon Syrup*
  • One Fresh Pear
  • Lemon & Ground Cinnamon for garnish

Method

  • Cut the pear into quarters and remove core. Place ¼ into shaker and muddle.
  • Add Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey, pear juice, lemon juice, and cinnamon syrup.
  • Add ice and shake until cold.
  • Strain into a rocks glass over ice, and garnish with a lemon wheel and ground cinnamon.

*Cinnamon Syrup: Mix one cup each of water and sugar with two cinnamon sticks in a small pot. Cook on med-low heat until sugar is dissolved and reduce to a simmer for 10-minutes. Cool and store in refrigerator. Yields 1 ½ cups.*

For a batch recipe click here.

Sagamore Apple Butter

Yes, we said butter. In a drink. What are you afraid of?

A deliciously savoury cold weather cocktail which calls to mind, of all things, the flavours of a tarte tatin in cocktail form (what could be better, quite honestly?), made even more gluttonous with a pat of the real stuff.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz. Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
  • 4 oz Cinnamon Apple Spice Tea
  • 0.5 oz Lemon Juice
  • 0.75 oz Honey
  • Unsalted Butter for garnish

Method

  • Steep tea bag in hot water according to boxed instructions.
  • Add Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey, lemon juice and honey. Stir until combined.
  • Garnish with one tablespoon butter to melt on top.

For a batch recipe, click here.

Fig Old Fashioned

A ripe fig is a rare treat, as a wise woman once said. The season is short, and finding one at its peak not guaranteed, but when you do, the temptation to scoff it there and then is hard to resist. 

These guys don’t ripen after picking, so it’s a take-me-as-you-find-me situation when shopping. As such, it’s best to enjoy a fig as soon as you take it home, and we can’t think of a better way of doing so than by using fresh fig as a garnish in this classic Old Fashioned recipe, turned up a notch of two.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz. Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
  • 0.5 oz Dark Brown Sugar Syrup*
  • 2 Dashes Sycophant bitters (orange and fig bitters)
  • 1 Dash Angostura bitters
  • Fig for garnish

Method

  • Add all ingredients into a mixing glass.
  • Add ice and stir until cold.
  • Strain into a coupe glass and garnish

*Dark Brown Sugar Syrup: Mix one cup each of water and sugar. Cook on med-low heat until sugar is dissolved and reduce to a simmer for 10-minutes. Cool and store in refrigerator. Yields 1 ½ cups.*

Sagamore Spirit Double Oak Rye Whisky is available from Native Spirits, Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt retailing at £60 for a bottle of the good stuff. And with that, we’re raising a responsible glass to you as we light the scented candles and cosy on down. Cheers!

7 Ways To Highlight & Contour Your Cheekbones

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7 Ways To Highlight & Contour Your Cheekbones

Malar bones in close proximity to your eyes? Lucky you! For you, chosen one, are blessed with a feature so many covet; high cheekbones.

A trait that’s, in many cultures, considered a marker of ‘facial attractiveness’, alongside that fabled facial symmetry, a smooth forehead, and plump lips, there are countless articles online positing what having high cheekbones may say about you, from being sexually mature to possessing more trustworthiness.

We’re more inclined to concur with Healthline here, who insist that “Having high cheekbones or low cheekbones doesn’t necessarily indicate anything about you.”

That said, you may be seeking to elevate yours for a whole variety of reasons, and that’s cool, too. While generally considered to be a hereditary feature, even if you aren’t genetically blessed with well defined cheekbones, it’s increasingly easy to fake it. Do so with these, our 7 ways to highlight and countour your cheekbones.

Learn Where Your Cheekbones Are

If you’re not born with razor sharp cheekbones, then use cosmetics to your advantage. But before the how, you need to learn where to apply your makeup. Find what those in the trade call ‘cheek hollows’ or the shadow zone.

To do this, simply suck in your cheeks in then tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle and place it on your cheek bone – so from the top corner of your mouth to just where your hairline starts above your ear. Bingo. You can also locate your cheekbone by sucking in your cheeks and feeling it with your index finger; whichever works best for you.

Contour Like Crazy

Thanks to Kim Kardashian and co we all know what contouring is. It’s now so much part of popular parlance that we needn’t define it. But in case you’ve been living under a stone…contouring is a technique to help enhance your cheekbones and make your face look slimmer. The result of this is that your cheekbones become more prominent and well-defined. Generally speaking, it’s a four step process. 

Firstly, you want to highlight your forehead, nose, chin and under the eyes with a lighter than your natural skin colour shade. Then, with a darker than natural shade, it’s time to highlight the hollows of your cheeks and temples, as well as your jawline. After that, it’s a matter of delicate blending and then setting your work with a loose powder.

Apply Bronzer To Your Cheekbones

If you value your lie-ins and don’t have the time to contour your entire face each day, then applying some bronzer to your cheekbones is an easy way to add some definition to your face. Find your cheek hollows as above, then from the corner of your mouth to the hairline just above your ear, sweep a small amount of bronzer along the top of your shadow zone – if you have trouble finding this zone, just brush under your cheekbones. Make sure you blend the bronzers so your handy work doesn’t look streaky. 

Use The Right Blush & Highlighter

One of the secrets to well-defined cheekbones is knowing how to apply the right tone of blusher in strategic places. A pop of colour can lift the cheeks and add dimension to the face, but in the wrong hands, can look unnatural and OTT.

To really make your cheekbones pop, highlighter is needed. For pale skin tones, a highlighter with a white or silvery finish is best. And for dark, something with a golden hue will help accentuate your facial features.

Once you have put on your foundation and moisturiser, you can use a fan brush to dust a powder highlighter, or apply some fluid highlighter on and above your cheeks’ apples and right up to your ears, the centre of your forehead and your chin, using your fingertips, followed by a blending sponge to rub it in.

An inch below the start of your cheekbone, you can add some cream bronzer and blend it down to the apples of your cheek.

You can then use your middle finger to apply blush to these apples — and only to those areas. “We don’t really ‘blush’ naturally past the apples of the cheeks,” celebrity makeup artist Justin Tyme has explained to StyleCaster in justification.

If you currently lack a blush product, you could consider the Sheer Blush in ICONIC London’s range of highlight products —  the brand’s website even allows you to sample the blush virtually.

Brow & Hair Tricks

Perfectly pruned and groomed brows can instantly transform and frame your face, pulling your very best features into focus. Indeed, the transformative power of a well-sharpened eyebrow (let alone two of them!) shouldn’t be overlooked.

If you have sparse areas or were a child of the 90’s early noughties and over plucked your brows, tweezing with impunity, and you’ve been left with nothing but thin, rainbow shaped arches, then consider using a brow serum at night. This will help condition, strengthen and, thicken your brows, which can then be plucked into an appropriate arch shape, ideal for both framing your cheekbones and looking quizzical all the time.

As Glamour point out, you can also deploy a simple hair trick to highlight your cheekbones; simply use a curling iron to create two ‘kinks’ in your hair either side of your cheekbones, mirroring their curve and drawing the eye there.

In terms of style, fringes are particularly adept at accentuating your facial features and highlighting your natural bone structure. A full fringe, in particular, can shape your face and enhance your cheekbones.

Read: 5 ways to frame your face without wearing makeup

Dermafillers

There are other, more all encompassing ways to define your cheekbones such as using dermal fillers or having cheekbone implants. Dermal fillers may be temporary or permanent and they may be comprised of natural or artificial materials, so do you due diligence prior to investing in any.

Natural materials include hyaluronic acid or collagen, but this usually dissolves over time which means that the procedure will likely need to be repeated at some stage in the future, usually about one to two years later.

The advantage, though, is that it is a natural substance that will not trigger an immune response from your body. Using artificial fillers, on the other hand, is not recommended because of the risks of having a foreign substance in the body, which then activates the immune system to mount a response. This can pose a significant health hazard to a person over time.

Give Your Cheekbones A Workout – Yes, Seriously!

As COVID-19 vaccines were rolled out and the pandemic’s threat started to recede, you might have finally signed up for a gym membership again — but not only is it perfectly possible to extend an exercise regime to the cheekbones, you wouldn’t even need a gym in order to do so.

That’s because various exercises for the cheekbones can be carried out at home. An article by LIVESTRONG.COM details step-by-step instructions for cheekbone exercises, making it easier for you to get to grips with them.

Often, the skin on the face wrinkles and sags due to the cheek muscles losing their firmness. However, you could have underestimated the extent to which exercising the face can help you in toning cheek skin that has loosened — and consequently made your cheekbones less visible — over time. Who knew?

5 Tips For Creating A More Nature-Friendly Garden

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5 Tips For Creating A More Nature-Friendly Garden

Sometimes, as you stand undressed and exposed in an absolute storm of alarming headlines about the climate catastrophe, you do start to feel rather helpless.

We’ve probably all heard by now that 70% of greenhouse gas emissions in the past two decades can be attributed to 100 fossil fuel producers. We definitely all know that governments and legislators should be doing so much more to address the, you know, impending end of the world.

Yet, we all still feel a certain pang of guilt about that lid off the Dijon mustard jar that we may have incorrectly recycled last week.

Instead of feeling hopeless, helpless or angry, sometimes it’s better to focus on areas of your behaviour and your home that you can control. And the most logical place to start? Our gardens, of course.

One of the easiest ways that people can help the environment and reduce pollution on an individual level is by turning their gardens green, or rather, greener.

Whatever the size of your garden, it has the potential to help nature, becoming a more hospitable place for wildlife, a safe space for plants to thrive, and, if nothing else, an enjoyable place to escape.

With that in mind, here are 5 tips for creating a more nature-friendly garden.

Plant More Plants

Ugly header aside, it’s no secret that carbon dioxide loving plants and trees help to reduce pollution, and this can be the case, even in your garden (every little helps, hey?). No wonder trees and plants are often referred to as ‘the earth’s lungs’.

Indeed, the more greenery you have in your garden, the better things generally are for local wildlife. All that green stuff and foliage can be a source of food and shelter to all types of animals, helping to conserve and protect them.

So, give nature a helping hand; pot and plant as many flowers, shrubs and trees as your garden can take. Moreover, if you’re a fan of wild gardens, then embrace it; the wilder, the better we say.

When it comes to choosing plants, opt for native species as they will usually thrive much better than foreign ones. Also try to grow longer-life, perennial plants like daisies and hydrangeas which, according to research, can better help in the fight against climate change. From what we deduce, this is because they have longer roots, enabling longer-term carbon storage in the plants and the soil. They also help contain floods. What’s not to love?

Of course, you’ll want to make sure that, in inviting wildlife into your garden via trees, plants, and shrubbery, you’re not endangering any pets you’ve already got in the family. Make sure there’s no poisonous plants like ivy, daffodils, gladiola, tulips and azaleas out there, all of which can be toxic to both dogs and cats, and in cases of having particularly inquisitive pets, consider installing a dog or cat proof garden, to keep yours safe.

Read: How to ensure your garden is safe for your new puppy

Make A Compost Bin

Don’t let your leftovers rot in a landfill site, instead create your own compost in your garden. Actively composting your waste is one of the most eco-friendly things you can do, helping to reduces landfill waste and therefore incineration, and subsequently carbon emissions.

What’s more, composting is good for the land and encourages biodiversity as the space becomes a home for creepy crawlies and, as such, the rest of the food chain.

Compost heaps makes for great fertiliser as well, and it can do wonders for your lawn. And remember it’s not just fruit and veg waste you can put in your compost; nearly all of your food waste can be used to create compost as well as egg shells, egg boxes and even cardboard boxes, too.

Grow Your Own Fruit & Veg

When we think about the thousands of miles that the fruit and veg sold in our supermarkets has travelled, it makes us shudder and leaves a bad taste in our mouths – and that’s not just because it’s overripe by the time it reaches us.

Did you know that, according to a government report on food security released last year, just 16% of fruit in the British fruit bowl is grown here, with only 54% of vegetables on the British plate produced on these shores. Furthermore, while 1% of food is transported by air, it accounts for 11% of carbon emissions.

Unfortunately ,the fruit and veg we consume is a major contributor to greenhouse emissions and climate change and, as this article by the Guardian points out, it also means a heavy dependance on oil; a depleting resource that’s also highly politically charged.

If you don’t want to think about the damage that you’re doing to the environment every time you bite into an apple (only one in three apples we eat comes from the UK) consider growing your own produce in the garden.

Not only is this good for the environment, but you can also enjoy the fruits (ahem) of your labour… Freshly picked produce from the garden, there really is nothing better. It will also save you some pennies in the long run, too, but, most importantly, will nurture a sense of responsibility for nature, appreciation for producers the world over, and a deeper understanding of the seasons.

Add A Pond

Did you know that during the past century, nearly 50% of ponds were lost in the UK in the last century? This is bad news as ponds can make a large impact on environmental issues like climate change, flooding, pollution and water conservation.

Furthermore, they are a hotspot for biodiversity and support all types of wildlife, from damselflies and dragonflies to thirsty hedgehogs and foxes. What better excuse to introduce one back into your garden?

Consider A Bog Garden

If you’re planning on adding a pond to your garden, consider a bog garden, too. Building a bog garden around your pond not only acts as an extended habitat for wildlife, but it also allows you to grow more food.

Indeed, lots of edible plants thrive in the wet conditions of a bog garden, especially arrowheads (also known as duck potatoes), which, when boiled, taste like a nutty potato; delicious when roasted.

Water spinach, more commonly known as morning glory, also loves to grow in wet conditions as does watercress and water chestnut – all the vegetation beginning with water, then. With your own vegetable patch alongside an edible bog garden, you’ll be a little closer to self-sufficiency and, dare we say, feeling slightly smug. And who could blame you?

Sustainable Fabrics: Your IDEAL Guide To Bamboo Textiles

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<strong>Sustainable Fabrics: Your IDEAL Guide To Bamboo Textiles</strong>

Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, able to grow up to 20 feet in height, and in the case of Chinese moso bamboo, by a metre each day until it’s felled, making it the world’s fastest growing plant.

A remarkable species, due to the organic anti-fungal, antibacterial agent present in the plant, bamboo doesn’t require insecticides to grow to those dizzy heights.

The plant proliferates, can be harvested with minimal effort, and can go without sunlight for months, all of which have made bamboo increasingly appealing to interior designers, fashionistas and homeowners keen to use more sustainable materials in their clothes and homes.

No surprise, then, that bamboo textiles and fabrics are generating interest in the world of sustainability. Let’s explore further with our IDEAL guide…

What Is Bamboo Fabric?

Bamboo fabric is a type of woven fabric made from the cross-section of bamboo strips, which are thinner than paper and ultra pliable. 

The fabric gets produced as a natural fibre without any chemical dyeing or finishing required; a big tick in the sustainability box, for sure. Boasting a unique, distinctive pattern created by the parallel rows of the material, bamboo fabrics are lightweight and soft, with a dull lustre.

Bamboo fabric is known for its superior, tactile softness and draping abilities. It also has a natural anti-static ability, making it ideal for use as either bedding or clothing.

Read: 6 tips to achieving that 5 star hotel bed at home this summer

The History Of Bamboo Fabric

Bamboo fabric was one of the earliest types of cloth to be produced in East Asia, likely dating back thousands of years.

Ancient weaving techniques, such as plaiting using natural fibres like bamboo, developed thousands of years ago, however these early examples got used more as decorations rather than clothing or bedding. The lack of demand and high transportation costs likely prevented bamboo fabric from spawning a thriving bamboo cloth industry.

Fast forward several thousand years, and in 2001, China’s Beijing University developed the first modern method for creating renewable bamboo textiles en masse.

How Bamboo Fabric Is Made

Bamboo fabric is made from a coarser fibre than cotton, but because it’s so fine, it has excellent softness, flexibility and drapes (hello, new curtains!) beautifully. The best materials are woven in shirring, where the warp thread overlaps the weft thread at right angles. This design gives the bamboo cloth its distinctive character.

The first step in making bamboo fabric is to separate the fibres. The outer green covering of the bamboo stem is removed, and the white pith beneath is heated to remove any residual moisture. The fibres then get combed to remove any short pieces and left to dry. Simples! 

Well, not simple really; we wouldn’t recommend trying it at home.

Benefits and Uses

Bamboo fabric is generally considered environmentally conscious, sustainable, and versatile. The semi-translucent nature of the material allows light to pass through, which creates a relaxed feeling against your skin. 

The instantly recognisable aestehtic can get paired with various hues to create modern, vibrant prints that scream eco-consciousness and sustainability; an increasingly important marker in an industry keen to cut ties with the notion of ‘fast fashion’.

Bamboo fabric is also highly soft, light, and skin-friendly, making it ideally suited for swimwear, undergarments and bedding – basically, anything that will be making direct contact with your skin.

It’s also perfect for creating a beach-like atmosphere indoors. Bamboo bedding, curtains, and placemats can be used to give your room a tranquil ambience. The fabric is naturally resistant to fading, shrinking, pilling, wrinkling, and stretching, making it a long-lasting and durable choice in the home. This makes it an excellent option for your bedding and baby clothes due to its softness on delicate skin and natural antibacterial properties.

Read: 5 IDEAL tips for Bali inspired interior design

Interestingly, this isn’t only a summer fabric. Bamboo textiles can get blended with cotton or wool for warmth. They can also be used in the car industry to make your luxury car interiors and accessories…. Is there anything they can’t do?

The Bottom Line

Though textiles and fabrics made from bamboo are a relatively recent innovation, its potential in both the clothing and interior design industries is hugely exciting. Durable, long-lasting, requiring little maintenance, and being hypoallergenic, expect to see this material being used with increasing regularity as sustainability becomes the driving force behind consumer behaviour. We can’t wait!

7 Surprising Benefits Of Drinking Coffee

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7 Surprising Benefits Of Drinking Coffee


Wake up and smell the good news; International Coffee Day is just three days away, falling this year (as with every other) on the 1st October. 

In fact, when you look at it creatively, you can actually spell ‘coffee’ from the letters in ‘October First’, and if you really want to to stretch this introduction out for the duration of your morning cup of Joe, several of those letters in ‘October’ look a bit like a rudimentary sketch of a coffee mug.

As if you needed an excuse to brew another of the world’s favourite drink. But if you do actually need an excuse, you’ve come to the right place; here are 7 surprising benefits of drinking coffee, as well as a couple of cons, just for impartiality’s sake.

Coffee Is High In Antioxidants 

While the amount of nutrients in coffee is negligible, the quantity of antioxidants can really have an impact. Research even shows that most people get more antioxidants from their daily coffee than they do from fruits and vegetables. This may also be because the majority of people aren’t eating healthily enough, given, but it’s still important to note this as a benefit of coffee, and the perfect reason to go turn on the kettle.

Coffee Reduces Tiredness & May Improve Sporting Performance

We’re sure you already know that coffee acts as a stimulant and increases alertness. Let’s face it; this is the chief reason people reach for their coffee making machines as soon as they wake up. This effect is down to the presence of caffeine in the drink, with the natural stimulant quickly going to work on our central nervous system. 

And yes, we realise we said ‘surprising’ in the title, so allow us to surprise you; because of caffeine’s stimulating effect, coffee may even improve sporting performance. Indeed, as reported by the Healthline, a 2016 study found that ‘’consuming caffeine before and during a round of golf improved performance, increased subjective energy levels, and reduced feelings of fatigue’’

Coffee May Help With Depression 

Surprisingly, some studies show that the more coffee an individual drinks (up to four cups a day, it should be noted), the lower their risk of depression. The science behind this is complicated, but this is more than enough of a reason to continue drinking coffee.

Of course, we have to consider the fact that those who have the time and money to consume upwards of 1500 coffees a year may just live more relaxing lives generally, which could well contribute to their better mood!

Read: 5 IDEAL tips on how to make a barista-style coffee at home

Coffee May Protect You From Neurodegenerative Diseases

A range of studies have even investigated the suggestion that drinking coffee could reduce risks of diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. As Parkinson’s News Today reports, the risk may be reduced by as much as 30%, with the optimal amount of coffee consumption amounting to around three cups a day. Hey, who are we to argue with that?

Coffee Could Lower Your Risk Of Developing Liver Disease 

As well as this, coffee drinkers might have a lower risk of developing liver diseases. In fact, a relatively recent study, conducted just last year, indicated that coffee consumption is associated with lower liver stiffness, a parameter used for the diagnosis of liver disease.

Coffee Could Boost Gut Health

We’re all well aware of the importance of good gut health and managing our gut microbiome, right? We’re also likely aware of the sometimes, ahem, laxative effects of our morning cup of Joe. Well, according to California-based gastroenterologist Ali Rezaie via Well + Good, ‘’[Caffeine] can also regulate the movement of the gut and bowel movements which improve the gut microbiome.”

Coffee May Even Help You Live Longer

Due to some of the points we mentioned above, alongside coffee’s reported beneficial impact on diabetes, kidney health, coronary heart disease, and stroke, drinking coffee may, simply put, help you live for longer, according to nutrition experts at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Blimey.

Of course, we couldn’t simply leave this article there, with readers dashing off to down several hot coffees with reckless abandon. There are also a few reported, possible downsides to the good stuff…

Coffee Could Heighten Anxiety

Because coffee is a stimulant, it may increase anxiety symptoms such as increased heart rate. This is unlikely to be an issue if you don’t drink excessive amounts of coffee (and therefore, caffeine), but it’s certainly a risk to be aware of when consumed in high doses. The US Food and Drug Administration suggests that more than four cups is the threshold when negative effects begin.

Coffee Can Lead To A Form Of Caffeine Dependency

When you regularly consume a substance such as caffeine, your body begins to become accustomed to it and may need more to achieve the same effect. Because of this, you can suffer from withdrawal symptoms like headaches, tiredness and low mood when you go without coffee, though these aren’t usually too dramatically pronounced, in general.

Now we’ve explored the benefits of coffee, let’s explore the world via the good stuff; check out these fascinating ways to brew different kinds of coffee from around the world. Cheers!

How To Stop Smoking For Good: 10 Tips For Success

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How To Stop Smoking For Good: 10 Tips For Success

As a smoker, the last thing that you want to hear is how unhealthy the habit really is. But hear it you shall; in the UK alone, 75’000 people die from smoking each year, with many more developing conditions that will debilitate them for life.

Worldwide, that figure stands at 8 million. If those frankly frightening statistics weren’t enough to scare you off the cigs for good, then can we assume you’ve found giving up a challenge?

You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of people try to quit smoking but struggle when the craving for a cigarette kicks in. If you have recently made the decision to stop smoking but are finding it difficult, here are 10 tips that will help you to stop smoking for good.

Find Your Reason

There are so many reasons to stop smoking, but in order to get the motivation to quit, you need to find a powerful and personal reason, unique to you. Whether it is to improve your health, save a bit of money or for the well-being of your family and friends, having a definite reason to stop smoking will help make the process of quitting easier for you.

Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you and how smoking impacts those aspects of your life. For instance, consider the long-term health benefits of quitting, such as reducing your risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and other serious illnesses. Think about the financial savings and how you could use that money for something more rewarding, like a vacation or a new hobby.

Additionally, consider the positive influence you can have on your loved ones, especially if you have children who look up to you. By identifying a deeply personal and meaningful reason, you create a strong foundation for your commitment to quit smoking, making it easier to stay focused and motivated throughout your journey.

Keep Your Hands & Mouth Busy

One of the challenges of quitting smoking is the habitual action of having something in your hands or mouth. To combat this, find alternatives that can keep you occupied. Chewing gum, snacking on healthy foods like carrot sticks, or using a stress ball can help satisfy the physical aspect of the habit. Keeping your hands and mouth busy can significantly reduce the temptation to reach for a cigarette.

Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapy

When you quit smoking, your body will suffer from nicotine withdrawal, which can make you irritable, cause headaches, and make you feel more tired than usual. A gradual giving up, then, using nicotine replacement therapy, could help you manage this withdrawal in a sustainable way. As such, it’s one of several NHS approved methods of giving up.

Replacing cigarettes with a lower dose of nicotine whilst removing the other harmful aspects of smoking, such as tar, carbon monoxide and a whole host of other dangerous chemicals, can be helpful in circumstances when withdrawal occurs. The prevalence of nicotine pouches in the UK is largely down to this approach. These pouches are discreet, easy to use, and come in various flavors, making them a popular choice for many trying to quit smoking.

In addition to nicotine pouches, other common nicotine replacement options include nicotine gum and nicotine patches. Nicotine gum allows for quick relief from cravings by chewing, while nicotine patches provide a steady release of nicotine throughout the day.

Seek Help From Your Loved Ones

When it comes to quitting smoking, you shouldn’t have to go through it alone. Having either a friend or a family member by your side will help you through the process. Not only will they encourage you to keep going, but they can also distract you when you are having a craving.

Studies have shown that those who seek support from their loved ones are more successful when it comes to quitting their habit, so what are you waiting for? Pick up that phone today.

Give Yourself A Break

One of the reasons why many people smoke is that the nicotine within cigarettes helps them to relax or gives them an excuse to take a break. For some, perhaps the craving is actually for a spot of downtime as well as the cigarette itself? 

So, when you quit smoking, you will need to find new ways to help you relax. Why not try exercising, taking up a new hobby or even listening to music to help you relax? Giving yourself a break and taking some time to relax will also help when your nicotine cravings start to kick in.

Avoid Alcohol And Other Triggers

Alcohol is a huge trigger for many smokers. When you drink, your cravings become more intense, and these supercharged cravings, combined with alcohol’s effect on your sense of judgment, make it harder for you to resist a cigarette. As such, when trying to give up smoking, then, it’s wise to take a break from alcohol, too. 

Another trigger that many people associate with smoking is drinking coffee. If you are used to having a cigarette with your coffee in the morning, try switching it out for another drink.

Get Moving

Moving your body, even by going for a short walk or through a more focused exercise session at the gym, can ease your withdrawal symptoms and distract you from any cravings that you may have. In fact, according to the charity Smoke Free, it’s been shown that ‘’withdrawal symptoms and cravings for cigarettes decrease during exercise and up to 50 minutes after exercising.’’

As an added bonus, the calories that you burn from this exercise will ward off any weight gain that you may get as you quit smoking.

Reward Yourself

One of the key steps to successfully quitting smoking is to reward yourself. Quitting smoking means you will save a bit of money, so make sure you treat yourself to something nice with the money that you usually would have spent on buying cigarettes. Rewarding yourself will help you to stay motivated and on track.

Practice Mindfulness & Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation can be powerful tools in your journey to quit smoking. These practices help you become more aware of your cravings and manage stress, which is often a trigger for smoking. By incorporating mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or guided meditation, you can reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being, making it easier to resist the urge to smoke.

If At First You Don’t Succeed

Quitting smoking can be extremely difficult for some, so it usually takes a couple of attempts to actually stop smoking for good. If you fall off the bandwagon and have a cigarette, don’t be too hard on yourself. You should use it as future inspiration to get back on track, come back stronger than ever and go again!

As you can see, quitting smoking can be a long and difficult journey; but by following these 10 simple tips, you will be sure to quit smoking for good. 

Top 5 Smartphone Features We Look Forward To Seeing In The Future

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Top 5 Smartphone Features We Look Forward To Seeing In The Future

Smartphones have moved leaps and bounds in the past two decades, from the simplistic, nostalgia-evoking Nokia 3310 back at the turn of the millennium to 2022’s new Galaxy S22 Ultra, arguably the most modern version of a smartphone ever conceived. 

Constant reports on modern technology updates can at times seem boring, with many people being of the opinion that smartphone innovation may have reached its peak. 

But, we still think that there’s more to come from the world’s most popular cell phones, and have compiled a list of top features that we would like to see as we move forward. Here are five of them…

Batteries Made From Graphene 

An ever reducing battery life is one of the most common complaints users have about their smartphones. Regardless of whether or not you have a massive 5000mAh battery in your smartphone, it is still going to degrade to the point of being a major issue in, say, 3 years or so, as today’s batteries are still made of lithium-ion.

Right now, as you may have heard, we’re facing something of a lithium battery crisis, which may rather force the hand of innovators in the coming years.

On the other hand, graphene has a higher capacity, is more conductive, flexible, lighter and tougher, making it a better material for making batteries. For consumers, this translates into less overheating, longer lifespan, extended battery life, reduced charging times and slimmer phones.   

We know that the technology has been under development by Samsung, even though a graphene battery is yet to be featured on any mainstream flagship. However, in the next few years, we believe that Samsung may bring a device powered by a graphene battery to the market.  

An Under-Display Camera That Offers Better Performance

While the existing tech isn’t yet good enough, we have seen a number of smartphones featuring an under-display camera in recent years, among them the Xiaomi Mix 4, ZTE Axon 30 and Galaxy Fold 3. 

The benefits of such an innovation? Well, for one thing, an under display camera simply makes your smartphone look, erm, smarter, and slicker, boasting a full-screen, edge-to-edge display without any notch, punch-hole, or pop-up camera.

Currently, under ideal lighting conditions, you can get serviceable pictures that are still very blurry. However, the image quality takes a massive dip in low light or similarly problematic conditions. 

To remove the blur and overcome other limitations, you generally have to sharpen the image using aggressive image processing algorithms. However, this also means that your videos and images are more likely to appear like they have been processed too much.  

Currently, there is a need to enhance display panels, as the hardware deficiencies that exist cannot be overcome with software alone. The front camera cutout is one of the main features that we would like to see disappear from flagship phones in the next few years.  

A Display That Doesn’t Have A Bezel 

Although largely an aesthetic smartphone consideration, we also want the chin, in addition to the front camera cutout, gone, and we’re sure you’re the same? 

The component that links the display panel to the motherboard is located at the bottom of smartphones – this is the reason why the chin exists. The bottom bezels on mid-range and budget phones are usually big. A solution to this issue exists; unfortunately, it is costly.   

To minimize the chin, Apple decided to fold the display panel back into the phone – this was seen in 2017 with the launch of the iPhone 10. This helps give the device a near bezel-less appearance, as the component that links the display to the motherboard is relocated behind the display instead of at the bottom. 

On the iPhone 13, the top bezel is still visible, even though Apple has managed to remove the bottom bezel. As such, this upgrade can be more rewarding for Android smartphones. You can expect an awesome entirely bezel-less display, with the removal of the chin and front camera cutout.  

Contactless Wireless Charging 

Current wireless charging tech doesn’t feel like it’s quite reached its promise. Any advanced battery tech is supposed to take away any stress associated with your battery life, chief among them the hassle of recharging. A good battery should make you forget about charging, but wireless charging has yet to achieve this goal

For your battery to charge, you still have to keep your battery at a specific place – the charging dock – when using today’s wireless charging tech. The device stops charging as soon as you pick it up, which rather defeats the point, don’t you think?

More time is still needed to perfect this technology, though we have seen some demonstrations of true wireless charging technology from companies like Motorola and Xiaomi. This shows promise, and in the future, battery issues could well be eliminated via a combination of graphene batteries and truly wireless charging. 

A Reduction In Bloatware 

Bloatware is present in just about all tech gadgets. Cheaper Android phones come with pre-installed apps that consume storage and run in the background, eating into your battery; however, stock Android phones and iPhones offer clean software. 

Manufacturers can make more sales through cutting their hardware margin by allowing carriers to dump their apps in the software, and this can reduce the price.

You won’t be too bothered by bloatware if all you’re seeking is a discount deal when shopping for a budget smartphone. However, for flagship and mid-range devices, this is absolutely unacceptable. Less bloatware is better – and we hope this practice ends sooner rather than later!

Should I See A Private Dentist? The Benefits & Drawbacks

Editorial Team
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Should I See A Private Dentist? The Benefits & Drawbacks

We’ve all seen the recent headlines of the growing waiting lists to see a dentist, both in terms of NHS and private practices. In fact, in recent months there have been a slew of troubling stories about people having the resort to ‘DIY dentistry’ in the face of agonising waits for an appointment.

For those with the means, private dentistry generally represents a quicker route into check-ups, routine appointments and emergency treatment. Of course, you’ll pay for the privilege, but for many, the cost is worth it for better access.

NHS dentists are employed by the Department of Health, and treatment is predominantly funded by the tax we pay, whereas private dental treatment is not. Private dentists set their own prices that we must pay for in full, and in return we likely receive quicker wait times, longer appointments and a more bespoke service, all of which can certainly benefit your oral health.

Today, we’re considering the benefits of seeing a private dentist, as well as a couple of drawbacks. Let’s explore further…

Shorter Wait Times

Though figures differ hugely by region, generally speaking the wait time for a private dental care is significantly shorter than for one arranged through the NHS.

It is no surprise that when you want an appointment with an NHS dentist, you may well be waiting weeks and sometimes even months (and, right now, potentially years) to confirm an appointment, which isn’t ideal, especially if you suspect an issue arising. 

Choosing a private dentist means you can be seen a lot quicker, with some clinics having appointments the same week, though the average wait is closer to six weeks currently.

Longer Appointment Times

As NHS appointments are much shorter (due, in part, to the service being massively oversubscribed) it can mean that long-term dental issues may sometimes be missed. Keen to encourage a switch perhaps, arguably the most notable dentist in Harley Street, Prof. Lambis Petridis, suggests that visiting a private dentist means you will likely receive a longer appointment, leaving you with more time to discuss any problems and solutions. 

A Wider Range Of Treatments

Because of the short time allocated to NHS appointments, the dental treatments in which they’re able to offer is much more limited. This is particularly true for aesthetic or cosmetic dentistry,  such as teeth whitening or Invisalign, which generally isn’t available on the NHS. As the team at Queensway Dental tell us, Invisalign in London is usually found privately, at a cost to the patient of around £4,000, on average.

Read: 6 different types of cosmetic dentistry procedure explained

Availability

The wait for a dental appointment is becoming more stretched with each passing month, which can often leave patients having to visit a dentist on the other side of town or even a separate city altogether. 

As one of the best dentists in Birmingham, Scott Arms, advises, private dentistry patients have much more availability to ensure patients are seen and cared for at something close to their convenience, and due to continued proliferation, you’re more likely to find a private dental practice close to your home.

Did you know that the government imposes a limit on the amount of NHS dental treatments each practice can offer in a year, with contact hours generally only occurring from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm? As one of the top dentists in Chelmsford, Advance Dental, tell us, private practices may offer appointments outside of these hours, and at weekends, which can be useful to those who can’t secure the time-off during the week.

Increased NHS Funding & Affordability

All that said, there has been an increase of £50 million in NHS dentistry funding this year, with the aim of securing an additional 350’000 appointments for patients.

It should also be noted that, during a cost of living crisis, the affordability of NHS appointments is a major benefit when compared with the relative expense of private treatment.

In some cases, NHS dental treatment is absolutely free. This applies if you’re under 18, pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months, you’re being treated in an NHS hospital and the on-site dentist carries out treatment, or you’re receiving low income benefits.

For more on that, check out our article on how much the NHS saves you. 

Bridal Beauty: How To Ensure You Look And Feel Your Best

Editorial Team
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Bridal Beauty: How To Ensure You Look And Feel Your Best

Every bride wants to look and feel incredible on their big day. With camera lenses everywhere and all eyes on you, it’s natural to want to feel more beautiful than ever. If you’re planning your wedding, or you’ve recently got engaged, this guide is packed with brilliant bridal beauty hacks. 

Prioritise Skincare

Nothing makes you feel more confident than bright, glowing, fresh skin. The skin is the body’s largest organ and it plays a vital role in protecting us from the elements. We all have days when we feel like our skin doesn’t look great, usually due to hormones or a lack of sleep, but there are steps you can take to boost radiance and nourish your skin.

Start with a simple daily skin care regime, which involves cleansing, removing makeup and moisturising. You can add serums or lotions to target specific problems, for example, fine lines or redness, before you apply moisturiser. Always take your makeup off before you go to bed, stay hydrated and exfoliate once a week. Look for products that complement your skin type and protect your skin from the sun. In the run-up to your wedding day, treat yourself to regular facials. If you have concerns about your skin, seek professional advice. 

Start Thinking About Your Makeup Early

Many brides choose to have their makeup done professionally. If you want to book a makeup artist, it’s wise to start looking around and getting ideas for your bridal look several months before your wedding. Ask friends and colleagues for recommendations and see if your wedding planner has contacts they work with regularly. Use social media to view portfolios and images from previous weddings and gather ideas from magazines and beauty blogs.

It’s very popular to go for a natural look on your wedding day but there’s nothing wrong with breaking the mould if you want to be more daring. If you’re used to sporting a bright red lip or smokey eyes, for example, you shouldn’t feel that you have to tone your style down. Experiment with different looks and book trial runs to make sure that you’re 100% happy before you walk down the aisle. 

Embrace Self-Care

Using beauty products can make you look fabulous but it’s also hugely beneficial to take good care of yourself as you count down the days. Make sure you get enough rest, drink plenty of water, eat a healthy, balanced diet and exercise regularly. Try to manage stress and avoid putting too much pressure on yourself. Stress, sleepless nights, a sedentary lifestyle and a diet that lacks key nutrients can all take their toll on your appearance as well as your mental and physical health. 

Your wedding day is one of the biggest days of your life. It’s natural to want to exude beauty and look and feel amazing when you get married. If you’re preparing to tie the knot, start thinking about bridal beauty now. Prioritise skin care, look for ideas and inspiration for your wedding makeup, research makeup artists and get recommendations. Look after yourself and make sure you enjoy the planning process. 

5 Must-Visit Attractions In Monaco

Editorial Team
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5 Must-Visit Attractions In Monaco

The glittering royal principality of Monaco is situated on the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) and is a spectacle that simply needs to be seen to be believed.

Monaco is tiny – it’s actually around two square kilometres in size. However, don’t let this notion dissuade you from visiting. There’s a sublime beauty to behold here, with gorgeous views and a pleasant Mediterranean climate.

There’s plenty to do in Monaco, too, so long as you have the money to enjoy yourself. Below, you’ll find our list of the five must-visit attractions in Monaco.

Prince’s Palace

Also known as Palais Princier de Monaco in French, this is a unique location situated above sea overlooking Monte Carlo. Located on the Le Rocher peninsula, it’s said that this is the seat of the world’s oldest monarchy, established in 1297 by the Genoese family of Grimaldy.

There are many panoramic views that you can enjoy from here, and this because, originally, the Prince’s Palace was created as a fortress. It has been renovated over the ages and eventually became an Italian Renaissance palace of luxury. Nowadays, the Palace is a private residence, but it’s open to the public during certain periods of the year.

You can see many points of interest within it, such as the Blue Room, the Hercule Gallery, the Mazarin Room, the Palatine Chapel and others.

By Ross Helen via Canva

Casino de Monte-Carlo

Even if you’ve never been to Monaco, you’re well aware of the world-renowned Casino de Monte-Carlo.

The venue is one of the most famous casinos in the world, where even James Bond has played several times. Fans of Formula One (see below) will know all about Casino Square on the circuit. Customers will enjoy the lavish surroundings as they play traditional table games like blackjack or try their luck at different types of poker games.

Poker is one of the world’s most popular types of gambling games – hence why it holds a special place at Casino de Monte-Carlo. There have been countless big tournaments held in Monaco at Casino de Monte-Carlo, with the famous Monte Carlo Millions broadcast in the UK, Canada, and the US every year.

Should you win big and want to splurge on a seriously fancy meal, then just next door you’ll find the three Michelin-starred Le Louis XV, one of the best restaurants of its kind in the world.

Oceanographic Museum

The Oceanographic Museum, known as the Musée Océanographique de Monaco, is situated in a seaside location on the peninsula of Le Rocher. It has a dramatic setting – and it took 11 years just to build the foundations! Prince Albert I commissioned this museum, and it originally opened in 1910.

The museum continuously updates and improves its exhibits. Here you will get to see the newest and latest displays of oceanography and marine science. You’ll find three aquariums here: the Mediterranean Aquarium, the Shark Lagoon, and the Tropical Aquarium. If you’re a fan of marine life, then you have to visit the Oceanographic Museum.

The Cathedral Of Monaco

Known in French as the Cathédrale de Monaco, this is a striking building with a white stone façade. It’s a neo-Byzantine building containing the tombs of Monaco’s royals. The cathedral was commissioned in 1875 and finished in 1884, making it a more modern building. However, the painter Louis Bréa created an altarpiece in the year 1500. There’s also the Episcopal throne that you must see – sculpted with Carrara marble.

As is the case with any cathedral, the Cathedral of Monaco also has a grandiose organ which is used during religious services. If you want to visit the cathedral, then you must wear proper clothing. You can visit from 9am to 6pm, provided no active religious services exist.

Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco

Lastly, we have the world-famous and popular Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco. On a par with Casino de Monte Carlo, even people with no interest in Formula 1 have heard of the popular racing circuit around the streets of Monaco.

It’s an incredible setting for Formula 1 racing, even though the twisty nature of the circuit makes it difficult to overtake.

The race track starts at Boulevard Albert 1, progressing towards Place du Casino and then the Monte-Carlo Fairmont Hotel. If you visit Monaco in May, you may see the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco racing event.

Have A Wonderful Time In Monaco

Once you visit the awe-inspiring principality of Monaco, you will be stunned by what it has to offer. Whether you visit the attractions we’ve listed above or not, you will still be captivated by the uniqueness of Monaco.

We hope you’ll have a great time visiting, and if you’re keen to explore the region further, then why not head down the road to St. Tropez, checking out our tips on luxury things to do there before you arrive!

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