Menu
Home Blog Page 183

5 WAYS TO BETTER SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM THIS YEAR

Editorial Team
-
0
5 WAYS TO BETTER SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM THIS YEAR

Your immune system does an incredible job of defending your body against harmful microbes which can cause all manner of illnesses and diseases. However, it is a complex system which requires balance in order for it work at an optimal level. 

Admittedly, the idea of ‘boosting’ your immunity is a health practice which stands on shaky scientific ground. Indeed, as BBC Future reported ‘’the concept of “boosting” your immune system doesn’t hold any scientific meaning.’’

Whilst there’s no proven way to ‘boost’ your immune system, there are certainly things you can do to support your body’s natural functions and ensure your immune system is functioning normally, rather than running the risk of weakening it.

With all that in mind, here are 5 ways to better support your immune system this year.

DRINK MORE WATER

The first step is simple enough – drink plenty of water. Drinking enough fluids can support the natural function of your immune system by helping your body get rid of waste through perspiration (sweating), urination and bowel movements.

Water also helps carry both nutrients and oxygen to your cells, further strengthening your body and keeping your immune system functioning normally. 

It’s recommended that we drink at least 6 cups of water a day. Fortunately, drinking that amount needn’t be difficult. Simply make drinking a cup here and a cup there part of your daily routine; one when you first wake up, one with breakfast, another water with lunch, one mid-afternoon, one with dinner and, finally, a glass as part of your bedtime routine. Job done!

Alternatively, set reminders on your phone to have a cup occasionally. The Apple app Daily Water, for instance, tracks how much you drink each day and reminds you to drink water on time. On Android, the app Hydro serves a similar function.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET 

Your immune system is like any fighting force and needs good nourishment to perform well. A well-balanced diet enriched with plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables, alongside healthy fats found in olive oil, fish and seeds, will give you the upper hand when it comes to keeping your immune system functioning properly. 

Though it’s unlikely that specific foods grant the body special protection or gives the immune system a boost, some nutrients have been identified as being critical to the function of immune cells. These include Vitamins C and D, which are found in citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits, as well as in leafy green vegetables and carrots.

What’s more, zinc and iron, found in lean meats, liver, eggs and nuts, are both essential for optimum immune function, and there’s a growing body of research that suggests prebiotic and probiotic foods may be beneficial in supporting immune function, too.

Probiotic foods include fermented vegetables like kimchi and sauerkraut, yoghurt with live active cultures, and miso. To consume dietary prebiotics, one should focus on a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, beans and pulses.

There are also so-called immune boosting juices and smoothies on the market. Though we’d prefer to call them ‘immune system supporting juices’, that’s admittedly not nearly as catchy. Usually containing fruits and vegetables believed to have antioxidant, detoxifying properties, these can give you a hit of sustaining ingredients quickly and deliciously.

DON’T STRESS

As WebMd point out, ‘’Just having anxious thoughts can weaken your immune response in as little as 30 minutes.’’ And that’s before we consider more all-consuming stress, which can be truly detrimental to your immune system, suppressing its normal function and leading to a higher propensity for sickness.

Whilst staying cool, calm and collected isn’t necessarily going to ‘boost’ your immune system or strengthen it, keeping stress at bay can help you ensure your immune system is functioning to its full potential. 

We can’t deny that the last two years have been about as stressful as it comes, but as we move into 2022, there are lifestyle choices you can make to help stay calm and composed. Check out some tips on that here.

GET ENOUGH EXERCISE…

One of the best ways to improve your immune system is exercising on a regular basis. Moderate exercise like walking, running or cycling can boost the effectiveness of your immune cells to regenerate and travel throughout the body, stimulating your immune system as a result. 

Right now, in the depths of winter, we realise that just one glance out the window can be one hell of an obstacle to putting on your gym shorts and pummeling the pavement. But good, regular exercise can help reduce your chances of getting a cold, flu or other illness as it can help flush bacteria from your lungs and airways.

The change in body temperature when you take part in any form of exercise can also play a significant part in preventing an illness. This is because the rise in temperature during and straight after exercise can prevent bacteria from growing and ultimately fight any infection in a similar way it would if you had a fever.  

…AND SLEEP

Finally, and on the opposite end of the spectrum, sleeping for 7 to 9 hours every night does wonders for your body as it helps to maintain your natural immunity while you get some much-needed shut-eye. On the flip side, if you get an inadequate amount or suffer from sleep deprivation, this has been linked to a weakened immune system and means you are more susceptible to sickness.  

But that’s not all; during sleep, your immune system releases cytokines proteins. Some of these proteins can aid your sleep, while others can fight off infections and inflammation, meaning it’s crucial to get a good night’s rest to properly protect your body.

If you’re keen to read more about doing just that, then check out these 6 smart ways to make your sleep deeper and more restful. You’ll thank us tomorrow morning!

THE BOTTOM LINE

So much of this thing is cyclical; if you exercise regularly, you’ll likely lower your stress levels. Lower your stress levels, and you’ll have more energy to exercise. Keep up with that committed exercise regime, and the willpower to cook clean, healthy meals may well increase. Cook clean and healthy meals, and you’ll find that you’re sleeping better. Sleep better, and you’ll discover even more energy to exercise…

We could go on like this forever. What we’re trying to say is that whilst immune system ‘boosting’ may be a concept debunked by scientists, by leading a holistically healthy lifestyle, you’ll give your immune system all the tools it needs to fight disease and keep you strong.

BE PREPARED: 5 TIPS FOR GETTING YOU THROUGH A DISASTER IN ONE PIECE

Editorial Team
-
0
BE PREPARED: 5 TIPS FOR GETTING YOU THROUGH A DISASTER IN ONE PIECE

Ideal for surviving what’s to come!

No doubt you’ve heard of Doomsday Preppers, those crazy/canny folk who believe that a disaster could come any time soon, and are determined to be more than ready for any eventuality.

Once mocked for their catastrophising, with all the recent happenings in the world, many people are starting to see Doomsday Preppers in a whole new light, with a newfound respect emerging for preppers and their survival ethos of preparedness. 

In actual fact, as the Independent highlights, “many preppers follow useful and rational advice, often reiterated from global health organisations.”

Whilst we’re not suggesting you should be burying all of your possessions in a remote desert and heading down into your bunker with a year’s supply of tinned tuna, after the two years we’ve all had, it might be wise to develop a stronger survival mindset. With that in mind, here are 5 tips for getting you through a disaster in one piece. 

HAVE A SURVIVAL KIT READY

Whilst the stereotypical image of a Doomsday Prepper is of someone who can catch wild animals with their bare hands and start fires just by clicking their fingers, the first thing they actually teach you at survival school is that having the right kit is everything. 

Because only an amateur would rely on old fashioned survival techniques probably learnt at the Scouts, especially when modern kit and equipment is now available and tailormade to help those who find themselves in a sticky situation. 

As such, there are a few absolute essentials that any self-respecting survival kit should contain:

  • Flashlight & Batteries
  • Solar Light
  • Whistle
  • Matches 
  • Multitool 
  • First aid kit
  • Hand-crank radio 
  • Powerbank
  • Sleeping bag, blanket & blow up pillow 
  • Emergency blanket & hand warmers 
  • Cards & games 
  • Camping stove & gas 
  • Gas masks for pets and people
  • Duct tape 
  • No rinse body wash and other hygiene products
  • Food & water (more on that later) 

Rather than curating your own, you can purchase ready-made survival kits, too.

SURVIVAL GARDEN: GROW YOUR OWN FOOD

While we’re not all lucky enough to own land, if you do, then consider keeping a survival garden and growing your own food. We’ve seen supply chains hit and barren shelves in our supermarket recently, and relieving a little strain on the supply chain can only be a good thing.

When it comes to deciding what you’d like to grow, it all comes down to personal preference and how much space you’ve got to work with. A survival garden is all about calorie-dense crops, especially; think potatoes, squashes and corn.

You’ll also want to plant nutritious crops; peas, broad beans, spinach, beetroot, radishes and tomatoes are all easy varieties to grow, and are ideal if you’re a novice in the gardening game. Garlic is also super easy to grow and packed with nutrients, moreover, it has so much flavour (a little goes a long way, which is most welcome in a disaster). 

Speaking of flavour, don’t forget herbs, which can have medicinal qualities, too. 

Read: How to grow your own herbs at home

When choosing your crops, it’s also wise to think about preservation techniques. While you’ll want to grow hardy food that can last after you harvest it, it’s a good idea to get to grips with fermentation, pickling and other ways to preserve your veg, too. You might even go the extra mile and consider raising chickens or ducks for a source of protein. 

If you don’t have a large garden, don’t panic – hanging and free-standing containers can produce a surprising amount of food. What’s more, sustainable grow bags are ideal for those precious potatoes we mentioned earlier.

And if you can’t plant directly into the ground, consider a raised bed. We’re fans of Zoey Deschanel’s Farmstands, a vertical gardening device that means you can grow in your backyard and on your balcony. 

Of course, it should be noted that it’s actually pretty difficult to become totally self-sufficient from growing your own produce in your garden, but by learning the basics of the survival garden, you’ll stand yourself in stronger stead in the future.

TOP UP YOUR STORES, OVER TIME 

We all scoffed at the absurdity of panic buying over the last two years, when toilet paper stocks were depleted and dried pasta became a rare commodity. 

But in the face of disaster and in the name of survival, it’s a good idea to slowly and sustainably top up your larder. Don’t empty the shelves of your local supermarket, sure, but stock up your food cupboard over time to ensure you’re prepared for any eventuality. 

That said, it’s perhaps not the smartest move to buy canned goods you wouldn’t actually like to eat, in an emergency – for some, that means spam is out of the question. Instead, focus on stocking up (slowly, responsibly) on the canned stuff that you actually love to eat when the world isn’t crumbling around you.

Many different types of food can be included in a survival kit. For example, fruit snacks, beef jerky, and energy bars are all good options. Additionally, packing iodine tablets in your bag is sensible, as they will kill any bacteria in the water and allow you to drink it safely.

Incredibly, you can also buy emergency food kits that are formulated with a shelf life of 30 years or more. According to USA Today, My Patriot Supply saw a 100-fold increase in orders of emergency food shortly after the pandemic began.

It’s also a good idea to have a store of nutritional supplements at hand, such as vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D-3, vitamin A or a good multivitamin – just in case!

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF, PHYSICALLY…

The key to survival is to look after yourself. Being fit and healthy can help you get through any situation, and you’re by keeping your body and mind resilient, you’ll be in a much better position to tackle the challenges that come your way. 

This begins with eating well and getting proper nutrition. Prepper James Walton, who hosts a weekly show on the Prepper Broadcasting Network, told Business Insider that preppers shore up their diet, consistently and attentively. They don’t eat out and avoid junk food like the plague, all because diet has a tremendous effect on your immune system.  

It’s also important to start making sleep a priority, too. Not getting enough sleep can negatively impact your immune system as sleep deprivation decreases your body’s ability to fight infection. Moreover, it can increase the risk of medical problems such as heart disease or Type 2 diabetes.

To avoid these risks, most healthy adults should aim to sleep 7 to 9 hours a night, which is considered the ideal restorative amount. Though, when you’re hunkered down in your bunker, there might not be much else to do but sleep all day. Anyway…

…AND MENTALLY

You also have a better chance of surviving if you have a positive mental attitude, too. As How Stuff Works explains, “survival experts emphasize the importance of a positive mental attitude (PMA). Without it, stress wears down our bodies and brains quickly”.   

Also, by staying strong physically and mentally yourself you will give yourself a much better chance of helping others. Because, contrary to popular belief, although Doomsday Preppers aim to be self-sufficient, they certainly aren’t selfish.

GENTLE SKIN CARE PRACTICES TO IMPROVE ECZEMA IN YOUR CHILD

Editorial Team
-
0
GENTLE SKIN CARE PRACTICES TO IMPROVE ECZEMA IN YOUR CHILD

Ideal for soothing itchy skin

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a common skin condition in children and infants, believed to affect around 10% of US children. Its symptoms include patches of inflamed, dry, and itchy skin. Skin lesions in children can occur as early as when the child is six months old, but the condition commonly occurs before the child turns five years.

Eczema usually flares up when the child is exposed to a trigger that irritates their skin. The symptoms of atopic dermatitis can interrupt the child’s sleep, cause discomfort, pain, and scratching, leading to the child developing lesions that can result in infections—many cases of this condition clear during childhood but some persist into adulthood. 

In some cases, those who experience eczema when young develop environmental or food allergies in adulthood. It is, however, essential to note that this condition is not contagious. 

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of eczema often appear as a raw, dry, and scaly rash on the cheeks in infants. Sometimes it appears on the knees and elbows. Atopic dermatitis rarely develops in the diaper area because the skin is always moist. Children between two years and puberty develop scaly and itchy patches on the knees and elbows, too.

Symptoms may also occur on the ankles, wrists, neck, and crease between the legs and buttocks. Over time, the skin changes in appearance, becoming thicker, discoloured, and bumpy, resulting in a persistent itch.

COMMON TRIGGERS OF ECZEMA

Though sometimes eczema can flare up without apparent cause, there are several common triggers that sufferers tend to share:

• Irritants such as detergents and soaps, including bubble bath, washing-up liquid, and shampoo.

• Allergens or environmental factors include dampness, dry and cold weather, molds, pollen, pet dander, and house dust mites.

• Certain fabrics, such as synthetic fabric and wool.

• Food allergies. Some children are allergic to wheat, soya, eggs, or cow’s milk which aggravate eczema symptoms.

• Skin infections

• Heat and sweating

TREATMENT

The skin of a child experiencing this condition doesn’t respond to extended periods in water (such as showering, bathing and swimming) as it should. This results in dry and cracked skin, making it more prone to infection. Dry skin also becomes very itchy, which is uncomfortable and distracting for a little one. Therefore, it is essential to adopt some gentle skin care practices to improve the skin barrier, managing the condition. Here are some gentle skin care practices to improve eczema in your child.

Bathe Your Child Every Day

Bathe your child daily in lukewarm water for 5-10 minutes each day. Instead of using soap, use a gentle non-soap cleanser on the groin, neck, armpits, hands, and feet. The cleanser should be hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Do not use bubble bath, and avoid scrubbing the child’s skin with rough material.

Pat Their Skin Dry

After their shower or bath:

• Pat your child’s skin dry.

• If your doctor has given you topical medicine, apply it to the areas experiencing the rash before using any moisturiser.

• Do not be too firm or abrasive when drying your child’s skin, as this will cause more harm. 

Moisturise

Moisturise your child’s skin immediately after a bath every day to help lock in water moisture. Try and use a creamy moisturiser as it works best. You can also use fragrance-free, natural moisturising creams or petroleum jelly. 

Avoid using lotion because they are thinner, hence less effective. The most important thing is to use a moisturizer that is effective on your child’s skin. Apply moisturiser once or twice a day, even when there is no rash.

Dress Your Child In Soft Fabrics

Always dress a child experiencing atopic dermatitis with soft natural fabric, such as 100% cotton. When cleaning your child’s clothes, do not use fabric sheets or fabric softeners in the dryer. 

In addition, avoid exposing the child to known irritants and allergens. These may be a fragrance in products used in the home, such as soaps and perfumes, detergents, synthetic materials, and animal fur such as wool.

Read: Are eco-friendly washing products effective?

Apply Topical Medication

Use topical corticosteroids, also known as steroid creams or cortisone. The medication eases skin inflammation; the steroids are different from those used by athletes. Do not use a topical steroid that was prescribed for another person. The ointment and creams vary in strength, and the inappropriate use of medication on a child’s sensitive area can further damage the skin.

Always consult your child’s GP or a professional dermatologist before using any new creams, prescribed, medicated or otherwise.

*This article is not intended to replace medical or skin care advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP or dermatologist first*

5 OF THE BEST WAYS TO TO DOCUMENT YOUR TRAVEL ADVENTURES IN 2022

Editorial Team
-
0
5 OF THE BEST WAYS TO TO DOCUMENT YOUR TRAVEL ADVENTURES IN 2022

If there was a way to condense travel during the twenty-tens into a single quote, it would probably be ‘’collect memories, not things’’.  

This decade (do we have a snappy name for it yet?), after two years of turmoil which saw our collective, collected memories concern a global crisis we’d rather quickly forget, we expect the idea of experiences trumping possessions to be more pertinent than ever.

But with many self-reporting pandemic related problems with memory following so long spent indoors and without stimulation, the onus to collect memories in a more tangible way looks set to be a key travel trend for the twen-twens (snappy enough for you?).

As 2022 begins in earnest, and as you set off on your first travel adventure since 2019BC (before COVID), how are you going to document your trip in all the technicoloured, descriptive detail it deserves?

Whether you’re keen to keep Mum informed that you’ve survived another day without getting kidnapped, or you’re just looking to make your friends back in the UK as jealous as possible, here are 5 of the best ways to document your travel adventures in 2022.

WRITE A TRAVEL BLOG

Writing a travel blog is a great way to record your travel adventures in as much descriptive, delicious detail as possible. In fact, many believe travel blogging to be the best way to truly document your escapades; after all, photography and video are only able to capture so much.

Writing, on the other hand, offers the opportunity for observation and reflection, and for those with a wicked way with words, travel blogging can be a wonderful outlet. 

You can write a blog just for fun, or you could use your blog as a way to make money while you’re on the move. Some writers who start off writing casual blogs may even end up becoming professional bloggers. To help you get started writing your travel blog, keep the following ideas in mind:

  • Define your unique writing style (there’s plenty of competition so it helps to stand out).
  • Ensure that you have a suitable device to write on. 
  • Check the types of storage on your device (unless you manage your storage space smartly, you might find that your laptop runs slowly).
  • Do plenty of research, taking inspiration from your favourite travel writers.
  • Combine your musings and memories with photos for a fuller experience for the reader.

KEEP A VIDEO DIARY OR VLOG

Unless you spent the previous decade living under an undocumented rock, you’ll know that the term ‘vlogging’ is a portmanteau of ‘video’ and ‘blogging’. Like blogging, vlogging is a wonderful way to document your travel adventures, allowing you to reach a potentially wider audience than ‘traditional’ blogging owing to the unstoppable rise of video-sharing platforms like YouTube and TikTok. 

Some people start travel vlogging as a hobby or a way to keep far flung family members up-to-date. But others have found that their pursuits can generate enough income to become their full-time profession. Whether you’re in the former or the latter, keeping a video diary is a wonderful way to record your experiences. 

You don’t need any special equipment, just an iPhone camera and a little bit of creativity. If you’re keen to get into travel vlogging, do keep these tips in mind:

  • Focus your vlogs on certain activities/places (instead of filming everything).
  • Music can help to add to the mood of your video.
  • Improvised vlogs are great, but they can also be useful to plan some of your content.
  • Find your niche, such as food vlogging or wildlife documenting, and focus all your attention on that speciality.

PUT MORE EFFORT INTO YOUR PHOTOS

Bringing up travel photography can feel almost old fashioned after discussing vlogging, but there is still so much to be enjoyed and shared through a superb photo album composed of your adventures.

As the National Geographic writes “when traveling, you’re likely to encounter all sorts of situations and subjects”. This means that there will also be a focus for your travel photography; the problem with this is that, sometimes, it can be hard to know when to stop snapping.

Take as many photos of your travelling trip as possible, sure, but remember, of course, that you don’t have to post them all on social media. There are plenty of other ways that you can preserve your pics. You might print them out into a photo album. Alternatively, you could print one or two on a canvas and display them in your home. Go further, and consider getting a drone for even better shots.

Quality not quantity, we think, is essential here. Check out these tips on how to make your travel photos more professional for more on improving the quality of yours!

WRITE A JOURNAL

Speaking of ‘old fashioned’, there’s still something rather romantic about documenting your adventures in a more traditional way, by using a pen and paper. Indeed, if you’re the creative, nostalgic type, you might like the idea of writing a travel journal. Writing a journal is a wonderful way to record your travelling adventures. There are lots of different ways that you can use a travel journal including:

  • Writing about your daily activities.
  • Reflections and emotions about your trip.
  • Poetry based on your experiences.
  • Sketches of the landscape and buildings.
  • Itineraries to plan your days.

One of the best things about documenting your travel adventures in a journal is that it feels confessional and personal. You don’t have to show it to anyone or publish it anywhere, and that can lead to some of the most thoughtful reflections you’ll ever make.

BUY SOUVENIRS 

Collect memories, not things, you say? Sometimes, real, tangible things are rather useful as a way of preserving memories, we have to admit. 

So, another great way to record your travelling trip is to buy souvenirs. Some people like to buy a souvenir from each town, attraction or country that they visit, and it’s a great way to document your adventures and preserve your memories in a palpable, physical way.

THE BOTTOM LINE

As you can see there are so many different ways you can record your travels. As time passes, memories fade, but recording your trip can help you to hold on to your wonderful experiences. Whether you’re backpacking through rural destinations or going on a luxury holiday, you’ll want to hold onto every moment.

LARGE INHERITANCE FINANCIAL PLANNING: 5 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID

Editorial Team
-
0
LARGE INHERITANCE FINANCIAL PLANNING: 5 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID

Inheritance is a conversation topic that tends to bring out a little awkwardness in its interlocutors, leading to mixed feelings of guilt and greed, of grief and relief. As such, it’s a subject that requires a little sensitivity, but also a good dose of candour. 

We’ll not mince our words any further. When such emotions are running high and conflicting feelings emerge, it can be hard to know precisely what to do with a large, inherited sum of money. Accordingly, this article will go into five common mistakes that people make when they inherit money in the hope that you can avoid making them.

NOT USING THE MONEY TO INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE 

Sure, the temptation will be almost overwhelming to splash out on frivolous purchases the moment your inheritance has been received. ”It’s what she would have wanted’’ you mutter, as you buy another collectible vintage comic book for several thousand pounds. 

Of course, you should spend your inheritance however you see fit, but since you’re here, we’re going to assume that you’re keen to use at least some of it responsibly.

Focus your eyes firmly on the future here, and consider investing a portion of your inheritance. Many financially smart folk choose to make a combination of one big investment into something like real estate with smaller investments into savings accounts, stocks and retirement funds. Sure, that rare copy of Marvel might be an investment too, but it’s a risky one.

Not using the money to invest in your future is one of the biggest mistakes people make when planning for their inheritance, and as such, it’s a wise move to consider investment management services to help with both the bigger picture and the minutiae of your decision making.

However, inheritance planning today often involves more advanced financial strategies beyond traditional assets. Some investors and retirees also look at longevity-focused financial planning models that use actuarial data and insurance-based assets to generate long-term returns. Companies such as Abacus offer longevity strategies focusing on life settlement solutions that unlock the financial value of life insurance policies. These aim to create liquidity for policyholders while offering alternative investment opportunities tied to longevity data.

NOT CREATING AN INHERITANCE PLAN

An inheritance plan is something that you create for yourself after you’ve received a large amount of wealth, which essentially determines who will receive that wealth if something happens to you while you still have an active bank account. This can be a difficult thing to plan for, but it’s a vital step in the process.

As the experts at Wills Trust LPA, who offer a will writing service in Oldbury, tell us, you must note down important people within your will or inheritance plan so that there is a clear pathway outlined for who gets what and who organises it after death (yep, we said this thing was awkward to address). You will also have to name an executor, who will then be in charge of carrying out certain requests after you die.

The executor will have control of administering and sharing out your estate after you die. 

Read: How to comprehensively plan your estate

BELIEVING IT WILL LAST FOREVER

As the American politician Henry Cabot Lodge once opined, ‘’Beware how you trifle with your marvelous inheritance’’. Admittedly, he was referring to the sovereignty of the United States, but we think his point could equally be applied to, you know, actual inheritance.

Perhaps the old English proverb that ‘’a fool and his money are soon parted’’ is equally as pertinent here. People who are inheriting large amounts of money sometimes make the mistake of believing that those zeros will last forever. Just because you’ve been the recipient of a large sum of money doesn’t mean that fiscally responsible behaviour shouldn’t apply. 

On the flip side, if you behave in a financially competent, thrifty manner, you might see returns made on your money. 

NOT PLANNING FOR TAXES

We’re sorry to keep reeling off the quotes, but as Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘’in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.’’ 

Which is rather appropriate considering the subject matter of this piece, don’t you think? 

Taxes are another important thing to think about when you have been given large amounts of wealth from someone who has passed away. You don’t want to be blindsided by how much or little your inheritance is actually worth after taxes have been taken out, which is why it is important to have a plan in place involving taxes before your inheritance comes to you. 

Taxes may differ depending on where the death occurred and where you live, as some countries have significantly higher inheritance tax rates than others. It is also possible for taxes to be different in the country where you inherited from the place where the person passed away. In the UK, for example, the standard inheritance tax rate is 40% above a £325’000 threshold on the value of the estate in question.

NOT SPENDING ENOUGH MONEY ON NECESSARY THINGS

We’re all too aware that, so far, we’ve been chastising a hypothetical inheritor for being too frivolous with their spending. But an equally common mistake is to be too cautious upon receiving a large sum of money. Simply letting such a sum sit there, accruing minimal interest or return on investment could be viewed as equally irresponsible fiscally in some quarters.

Upon receiving an inheritance, you should first clear all of your existing debts. Then, you should compare accounts by savings rates. Should you anticipate needing regular access to the money, an easy access savings account might be your best bet. If you’re seeking a guaranteed interest rate for a fixed period, then consider a fixed rate bond. Or, look into Cash ISAs, where any interest accrued is tax-free.

Generally speaking, it’s recommended that keeping a larger sum in one savings account will get you a higher overall return than if you were to split that lump sum into several smaller accounts.

If you want to achieve financial independence, then you should spend an appropriate amount, both on necessities and on investments. Suddenly, that rare comic book seems a plausible purchase once again!

THE BOTTOM LINE

By avoiding these common inheritance mistakes and potential pitfalls, and by behaving in a financially responsible way, you may enjoy greater financial security and freedom in the future.

*Anything written by IDEAL Magazine is not intended to constitute financial advice. Always consult with an independent financial advisor or expert before making an investment or any personal finance decisions.*

ARE ECO-FRIENDLY WASHING PRODUCTS EFFECTIVE?

Editorial Team
-
0
ARE ECO-FRIENDLY WASHING PRODUCTS EFFECTIVE?

When we consider eco-friendly washing techniques and products, it’s almost always with the goal of protecting the environment in mind. All the while, we may wonder whether we’re compromising our ability to remove stains by using eco-friendly products, which many believe to be less adept at actually washing clothes than their chemically-enhanced cousins.

Fear not. If you’re wondering whether eco-friendly washing products are effective, then you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore.

TYPES OF ECO-FRIENDLY WASHING PRODUCT

Laundry Detergent Sheets

Many laundry detergent sheets that are currently on the market offer a pleasant fragrance whilst at the same time being 100% natural. By that we mean they are eco-friendly. Other terms used for them are environmentally friendly, vegan-friendly, or cruelty-free, of which we’ll explore more a little later.

No harsh chemicals are used in such sheets, helping avoid irritation of sensitive skin as well as the pollution of rivers and watercourses.

Eco-friendly Laundry Detergents

Whether a washing powder or a liquid, eco-friendly laundry detergents are now widely available. Free from artificial ingredients, harsh chemicals and enzymes, eco-friendly laundry detergents usually fall under the ‘non-bio’ category, though this label is sometimes a little misleading.

Non-bio simply means the product is free from traditional biological enzymes used in detergents to break down stains more easily. Though non-bio is certainly more suitable for sensitive skin, it isn’t universally better for the environment. Since bio detergents may be more effective at removing stains on shorter, cooler cycles, there is an argument that non-bio may sometimes lead to a bigger carbon footprint from your washing.

In terms of which type of laundry detergent is kindest to the environment, the general consensus among experts is that tablets or capsules are the least wasteful, as the exact dosage for a single wash is provided. With powders and liquids, it can be easy to overestimate how much is required, leading to waste.

Eco-friendly Fabric Softeners

Fabric softeners made without the addition of any fragrance or colouring, and made from entirely plant based, biodegradable ingredients, should be prioritised. 

Photo by RODNAE Productions from Pexels

HOW TO TELL IF A PRODUCT IS ECO-FRIENDLY?

Definitions of what ‘eco-friendly’ actually means differ hugely. Generally speaking, a product without added fragrance or colouring, and one which is free from any harsh, harmful ingredients, should be what you first look for in an eco-friendly washing product. 

These products should also be biodegradable, ideally with packaging that’s made from recycled bottles or plastic.

Eco-friendly doesn’t only refer to the ingredients and packaging involved. The term also refers to the way in which the product has been produced, researched and tested; the product should be cruelty-free, not tested on animals, and with proper working conditions for producers.

Various forms of certification and accreditation exist to ensure a company’s claims to be eco-friendly are truthful. As of 2020, such claims are vetted by the Competitions and Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code. Environmental bodies such as the Vegan Society, PETA, the Carbon Trust, Fair Trade and the Soil Association also offer certification and guidance.

Read: 10 eco-cleaning tips for the big spring clean

EFFECTIVENESS

The big question, however, is whether eco-friendly washing products are effective in actually removing stains.

Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice the cleanliness and sparkle of your clothes in the name of protecting the environment and your sensitive skin. In tests run by the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, eco-friendly washing detergents and products were found to be just as effective as their potentially more environmentally harmful counterparts. Ecover and Method fared particularly well.

This is backed up by Samara Geller, a database and research analyst with the Environmental Working Group, via WebMd. They say that “They have been demonstrated to be just as effective at tackling various cleaning chores as traditional cleaning products.” 

Great news!

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

HOMEMADE WASHING PRODUCTS

All that said, perhaps an even more environmentally conscious way of doing things is to use all-natural stain removing methods, deploying everyday items against the toughest of stains. The UK based sustainable living blog Moral Fibres suggests a number of useful tips for common stains. These include: 

  • Soaking biro-stained clothes in milk for several hours
  • Freezing chewing gum or crayon marks off clothing 
  • Tackling cooking fat stains with a paste made from bicarbonate of soda and water
  • The same paste can also be used for coffee and tea stains
  • Incredibly, using the rolled-up crusts of brown bread to remove lipstick stains
  • Soaking t-shirts, tops and shirts that have sweat marks in white vinegar

And if you’re looking for a homemade replacement for fabric softener, sustainability experts recommend a solution of equal parts vinegar to water. Wow!

You’ll be glad to hear that the same principles apply to cleaning products around the house, with the wonders of baking soda, white vinegar and a little elbow grease also useful in domestic upkeep. Check out these 10 professional home cleaning hacks for more on using natural products to keep things sparkling clean.

6 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR GUT HEALTH

Editorial Team
-
0
6 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR GUT HEALTH

We’ve got a gut feeling that the health of our digestive tracts is going to be the next big thing in the world of wellness trends. Oh wait, it already is; anything for a quick quip, hey? 

Anyway, if you can’t stomach anymore jokes, rest assured; we’re going to get serious now. Because your gut health is no belly laughing matter. In fact, it contributes significantly to your wellbeing.

Your entire digestive tract is full to the brim with trillions upon trillions of living microorganisms. And whilst you wouldn’t want to name each of those trillion microorganisms individually, the collection of bacteria that live within your gut are known as your microbiome, or microbiota – and they play a number of important roles in your body.

These tiny bacteria that live in our stomach and intestines have been linked to immunity, skin conditions, mental health and so much more. If you’re wondering just how important your gut really is, and how to look after it, then read on; here are 6 IDEAL ways to improve your gut health.

FIRSTLY, RECOGNISE ITS IMPORTANCE 

Knowledge is power, after all, and recognising your importance of your ‘second mind’ is the first step to improving its health. So, why should I care about gut health?

First and foremost, that microbiota we mentioned acts as your first line of defence against the outside world. Assuming your gut microbiome is healthy, it actually acts to kill off any invading organisms which enter your body. Interestingly, research has shown that your gut microbiome can even boost the function of your entire immune system. It does this by increasing the number of white blood cells in your body, while also improving the capacity of your immune cells to fight off invaders.

Secondly, your microbiome also has a profound impact on your ability to absorb nutrients in the food you eat. In this manner, they can directly enhance your body’s ability to absorb a host of vitamins and minerals and optimise the health benefits of all those kale smoothies, salads and quinoa you’ve been trying so hard to include in your diet. This can have a profound impact on your health, while also helping your body function efficiently on a daily basis.

Thirdly, it is well established that the state of your gut can help reduce inflammation throughout your body. This is important, because chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. Consequently, having a healthy gut has the capacity to stave off some pretty serious diseases.

Lastly, the state of your gut bacteria can even impact upon your mental health. Good bacteria within your gut breaks down the fibre you eat for energy. During this process, it creates compounds known as Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) as a byproduct.

These SCFAs are absorbed into your body as they enter the bloodstream. Once there, they are delivered to the brain, where they impact mood and emotional control. There is now a pretty hefty wealth of evidence demonstrating that a healthy gut can protect against a myriad of mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. No wonder it’s sometimes referred to as ‘’the second mind’’ by medical and nutrition experts, then.

So, how do you improve your gut health? Let’s find out…

IT’S ALL ABOUT FERMENTED FOOD

Deliciousness aside, fermented foods are also incredibly healthy, and this is largely down to the probiotics produced in the fermenting process. 

Commonly found in fermented foods with active live bacterial cultures (such as yoghurt, sauerkraut and kimchi), probiotics are also available as supplements in the form of both liquid and chewable capsules, too. But to only take a tablet would be to miss out on the hugely delicious potential of so many food products; miso, pickles, buttermilk, kombucha…the list goes on!

The friendly bacteria in these foods supports the equilibrium and balance of the gut, and perks up a meal no end, too. Talk about killing two birds with one incredibly healthy stone!

EAT A DIVERSE RANGE OF FOODS  

Diversity makes the world a better, happier place. A diverse diet, full of different foods and colours, also makes your gut a happy place, too. All those different species of bacteria we spoke about earlier all require different nutrients for growth, and if you’re having the same lunch nearly every day, and the same old standards night in, night out, then it doesn’t allow for a diverse microbiome population in your gut. 

Put bluntly and with a touch of hyperbole thrown in for good measure, habitually and predictability is the enemy of good gut health. We’ve never heard of a better excuse to try out different recipes and foods from different cultures and regions of the world!

When it comes to choosing what to eat, try to ”eat the rainbow” – mixing up colours on your plate and eating lots of different fruits and vegetables means you’re getting a good mix of gut friendly nutrients.

It’s also important to not forget fibre – it’s needed for a healthy gut and to get things moving in your body. Foods which are fibre-rich include peas, beans and pulses, nuts and seeds, skin-on potatoes, wholegrain bread and pasta, and brown rice. A healthy mix of fruit and vegetables in that full spectrum of shades will also give you plenty of fibre; result!  

By eating a wide variety of colours and flavours, you’ll also be feeding your gut with plenty of prebiotics, which helps stimulate the growth of gut microbiota. Mushrooms, in particular, are a wonderful prebiotic.

As the guys at Nature’s Happiness, purveyors of mushroom supplements in the US and Canada tell us, the wonder ingredient can ”take care of your gut-brain connection and improve nutrient absorption.”

MINDFUL EATING 

Hands up if you’re guilty of wolfing down your food, eyes fixated on the TV and not on your fork? Well, eating without thinking does no favours to your gut health. 

When it comes to gut and digestion, slowing down and properly chewing your food is the way forward. Chewing is the first stage in the digestion process and puts each meal on the path to healthy digestion from the off. To get all scientific, chewing breaks down your food into smaller particles that are more easily digested. This, in turn, makes it easier for your intestines to absorb the nutrients from your food. 

Chewing mindfully may also stop you from overeating. When you eat quickly, the body doesn’t get a chance to tell your brain it’s full. However, when you chew slowly, it gives hormones the time to send signals to the brain that you’ve been well fed and satiated.

It’s time to start giving eating and digesting the care and attention it deserves. Try to eliminate all distractions from the dinner table. So, that’s phones placed well out of reach, TVs off, work banned from this sacred space, and only positive vibes and plentiful plates welcome. 

CONSIDER A SUPPLEMENT 

A probiotic complex is a very simple supplement that provides a potent dose of living, breathing, healthy bacteria straight into your digestive system. In this manner, they repopulate your gut with healthy bacteria to cause a marked uptick in gut health. No wonder probiotics have become the latest buzzword in the health and wellbeing sector.

It is important to note that not all probiotic complex supplements are made equal. If you are interested in giving one a go, do endeavour to buy a supplement which contains a variety of different bacterial strains to ensure you are getting an array of good gut bacteria, rather than just one. This will be clearly labelled on the packet; generally speaking, the live strains found in a reliable, high street pharmacy probiotic supplement should range from around 5 to 10.

With this in mind, supplementing with a probiotic complex rather than a single probiotic strain is going to be much more effective at improving digestive health. One of our favourites is the Probiotic Complex by Hey Nutrition, which contains seven scientifically supported strains of good gut bacteria, making it one of the most potent probiotic complex supplements on the market.

PLACE A PREMIUM ON SLEEP

While the exact mechanism is somewhat unclear, there is some interesting evidence showing that people who have bad sleep habits also have unhealthier microbiomes. With this in mind, you should try and get somewhere between 7 and 9 hours of decent sleep per night to boost your gut health.

Rather than witter on, we’ll redirect you to these super useful tips on how to sleep through the night without waking, written by the experts at *checks notes* IDEAL Magazine.

THE BOTTOM LINE 

The state of your gut can have an impact on nearly every facet of your health, and this is why you should do everything you can to improve it.

Fortunately, this is not as hard as it sounds. By eating an array of gut friendly foods, limiting your intake of processed stuff, taking a probiotic complex, and getting enough sleep, you can have a huge impact on the state of your gut in a quick and easy manner.

So, what are you waiting for?

HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM YOUR BUDGET PROPERTY RENOVATION IN 2022

Rachel Stevenson
-
0
HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM YOUR BUDGET PROPERTY RENOVATION IN 2022

Are you living in a property that’s in danger of becoming dreary, dull or outdated? Do you have plans to sell up and move on in the future, but are concerned about the flaws in your home putting off potential buyers? Are you keen to renovate and update, but have a fairly tight budget to work with? Finally, are you tired of the rhetorical questions yet?

If you answered in the affirmative to that slew of introductory questions, then you’ve come to the right place; here are our top tips for getting the most from your budget property renovation in 2022.

ANTICIPATE BUDGET PITFALLS 

Going into the red is all too easy when undertaking a property renovation, so it’s essential that you’re thinking about your budget at every step of the journey to avoid this from happening.

A little foresight goes a long way here, and it makes sense to try to second guess hidden costs and budget pitfalls ahead of time. Indeed, you could end up going over budget for a variety of reasons, and hidden costs are one of the biggest hurdles to completing home renovations successfully. More often than not, materials that are particularly prone to price fluctuation account for the largest hidden cost in a renovation project. 

Accordingly, do your research about both local and international prices and keep your eye on the markets, and always add a recommended minimum contingency of 15% for unforeseen problems, overruns and even inflation.

Read: How to avoid spiralling home renovation costs in 5 IDEAL steps

Do be aware that if you think the costs are starting to become unmanageable, then there are steps that you can take. For instance, you could be planning to add an extension to your home. If that’s the case then you can think about the interior; you might decide to use materials that are aesthetically similar instead of the real deal. This is a great way to save a little extra cash. 

Remember, exercising precise control of your budget is particularly important if you are looking to add value. The more you spend, the lower the profits will be from your home when it is time to sell. 

FIND THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR 

Next, you should think about finding the right contractor if you are completing significant work on the property. We’ll talk about the option of DIY a little further down the line, but for bigger tasks, it makes sense, both in terms of time and budget (as well as your own sanity!), to call in the professionals. 

Choosing the right contractor is a process of meticulous research, reviews and references, and doing your due diligence is so important here.

The right contractor should also be able to provide a complete portfolio of work that they have previously completed. When you are choosing contractors, you shouldn’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need. A contractor that provides a transparent service or solution is more likely to be trustworthy and someone that you can rely on to get the job done correctly and on time. 

There are various government-sanctioned and accredited organisations whose databases you can search to find reputable contractors. In the UK, the government-sanctioned organisation the British Institution of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom installation (BIKBBI) has a code of conduct, guidelines and standards that members must comply with. 

Searching their database to find a member is a good way to ensure you’re hiring someone reputable and qualified. Alternatively, you can find an approved retailer on the KBSA Home Specialists Association’s website.

DO YOU DIY?

We did mention that we’d be doing our home renovation on a budget, and to save money, there are certain jobs which can certainly be tackled DIY, and certain pieces of equipment that can be rented rather than bought, as the guys at Lakeside Hire suggest.

That said, there are certain elements of a renovation project that you won’t be able to DIY. For instance, you should avoid taking matters into your own hands for issues such as wiring and plumbing. Getting things wrong here can leave you with a fire or flooding hazard in your home. If you sell the property with an issue like this, it can come back to bite you further down the line, potentially opening up a rather nasty lawsuit. 

Don’t forget, if you are DIYing, you’ll need to handle a range of tasks associated with the renovation such as the cleanup process. The waste disposal experts at Sheridan Skips tell us that you run the risk of breaking the law by disposing of items incorrectly. Rather than you dumping renovation waste in landfill, a reputable skip company will provide both the facility to gather all your waste in one place (the skip), and the means to see it recycled properly.

WHAT AREAS SHOULD YOU FOCUS ON?

The main areas that people tend to focus on when renovating their properties are the kitchen and the bathroom, which tend to add the most value to a property. Indeed, according to Royal London, in 2021 the addition of a modern kitchen and a modern bathroom were the two most valuable renovations, adding £11,159.95 and £10,915.12 respectively to a property’s value.

That said, these changes are also some of the most costly renovations to undertake, so it’s important to ensure you have the initial financing available. If not, there are smaller updates you can make that still make a big difference…

CHANGES ON A BUDGET

Do be aware that there are small changes that can have a significant impact on the perception of your property. For instance, you might want to think about repainting the home. A common choice would be to repaint the walls white. By taking this step you are essentially giving buyers a brilliant canvas where they can paint their ideas. 

If you don’t have the money in your budget for a complete room change, then you can also think about altering smaller fixtures. Changing the faucets and handles in the kitchen can have a tremendous impact, helping ensure that the room feels more modern. 

There are other small changes worth exploring, too. For instance, you can think about revarnishing the doors or even the cupboards of your home. This is a great way to ensure that the space does have a fresh, clean aesthetic. 

The big benefit of little changes is that you can complete them on an annual basis to ensure that your home is always ready for a sale anytime and at relatively short notice. 

Read: Add value to your home with these 5 interior hacks

COMMON MISTAKES

Finally, let’s address some of the common mistakes that you can encounter when you are making changes to your home. Commonly overlooked, you need to make sure that you are letting the neighbours know that you are completing work on your property. Failing to do so will lead to animosity at best and a lawsuit at worst. 

This might mean that they will be less likely to lend their support when you decide to sell their home. You’d be amazed at the lasting impression that a disgruntled neighbour could leave on buyers that were interested in your property. 

You also need to plan the right amount of time to complete the work. If you rush or it takes too long then you’ll have issues with both cost and quality standards. Your contractor should be able to help you navigate this decision the right way. 

It’s also vital that you don’t outprice a potential buyer by making expensive renovations to your property. This is an easy mistake to make and you can get too carried away in terms of the changes that you add to your property. Whilst it might seem like a prudent investment, expensive changes can essentially make it impossible to sell the home for the right asking price so you need to be careful here. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

A home renovation project can be stressful and rewarding in equal measure, but when you’re doing things on a tight budget, every single tile laid and every can of paint opened needs to be accounted for. That said, with enough foresight and planning, you can make your 2022 budget home renovation project a success. Good luck!

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: A FINANCIAL FINE TUNE FOR 2022

Editorial Team
-
0
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: A FINANCIAL FINE TUNE FOR 2022

When it’s all said and done and the festivities are over, when the crackers have been cracked and the pine needles hoovered, many of us are left with little more to show from the Christmas period than an almighty hangover and a depleted bank balance.

Indeed, the festive season is expensive, and many of us are once again entering the new year faced with debt, overdraft fees, and worryingly low bank balances. No wonder, then, that a more responsible attitude to spending ranks as one of the UK’s top New Year’s resolutions, just below the usual suspects of exercising more and improving our diets. 

We all dream of financial security, and we all know that is exactly what we should be working towards. However, the truth is that many people are in a tough situation when it comes to their finances, either because they are struggling to make ends meet, or because there is something in their financial situation that is holding them back. With a cost of living crisis on the horizon, pledges to be more financially cautious feel more pertinent than ever.

But being financially healthy requires more than simply ranking amongst the top earners in the country or winning the lottery. Instead, it requires small, incremental changes that add up to one larger whole. With that in mind, here’s how to fine tune your financial health for 2022.

KEEP AN EYE ON FLUCTUATING PRICES

The old adage that knowledge is power couldn’t be more true than when considering your finances. Right now, for a variety of factors ranging from Brexit and supply chain issues all the way to delivery driver shortages and the continued effects of COVID-19, prices of everyday essentials are fluctuating. Let’s be honest, here; mostly, they’re rising.

That said, some are set to rise much quicker than others, with the BBC reporting in November of last year that five everyday items, in particular, were going to see a serious price increase. These were Uber fares, home renovations, savoury snacks, heating bills, and second-hand cars.

Because of this, it’s important to regularly check current prices across a whole manner of items, using price comparison tools to identify which supermarkets and retailers are currently stocking essentials more cheaply. 

Sites like Pricelisto are created to empower consumer choice by allowing end-users to compare prices from different businesses. It’s especially useful for comparing restaurant prices here in the UK. The site lists up-to-date prices from most chain restaurants, from fast food outlets like Burger King and McDonald’s to casual dining restaurants Franco Manca and MEATliquor. If you’re going to treat yourself to a meal out, you might as well be making fiscally responsible choices.

For the changing cost of groceries, we’re big fans of the price comparison tool Trolley, which helps you compare the cost of groceries across supermarkets. Simply enter a product name or brand and you’ll be shown a cost comparison across all local supermarkets. You’ll also see a detailed history of price fluctuation and the chance to sign up for price alerts on any product from your usual supermarket shop.

SPECIFIC LONG TERM GOALS

We often daydream about the future, but rarely plan for it. When we do give it some thought, we tend to stick to generic goals that fail to focus on specific actions. 

Where your personal finances are involved, this can be detrimental, as vague pledges to tidy up your budget or save more money, without any tangible numbers involved, are hard to stick to. 

On the flip side, long term, meticulously researched financial goals can reap dividends. For example, if you determine how much money you will need to retire comfortably, starting with your current income, what kind of retirement lifestyle you want to live, and what age you expect to retire, you’ll have a concrete figure of how much you’ll need to save. Though this is, of course, an extreme example, it can be applied to smaller savings goals, too.

By setting a goal like this up-front, you will likely start living more frugally today so that more money is available tomorrow.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

SPRING CLEAN THOSE SUBSCRIPTIONS & MEMBERSHIPS

You might be shocked at the number of people who continue to pay subscriptions, free trials that have turned into monthly standing orders, and direct debits long since obsolete, all without even realising. 

Actually, you might not be shocked, since this is becoming an increasingly modern conundrum, with companies seemingly setting up ever more intricate hurdles to cancellations. In fact, in 2019, Freeview reported that the nation spends five times more than they think on subscriptions, and since the global pandemic, we only imagine that number is even higher. 

Rather than succumbing to apathy, this only means it’s more important than ever to give your outgoings a thorough once – twice, and thrice – over to identify any savings you could make. 

Ask yourself if you really need a Spotify, Apple Music and TIDAL subscription. And while you’re posing those searching questions, are you genuinely making use of Netflix, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus and Sky Go? We know you just settle on Come Dine With Me every night, anyway.

REVIEW YOUR CONTRACTS

Consider making cutbacks where your contracts are concerned, too. A cheaper deal may well exist on recurring costs like your mobile phone, energy bills or car insurance. All of this will accumulate extra money at the end of the month which can go into savings, or be invested, in order to give you greater financial stability during these uncertain times and beyond. If there is a beyond, that is. 

CREATE A BUDGET

Creating a budget is one of the most important things that you can do for your financial health, and yet many people completely ignore this step. A good budget allows you to spread your money around so that it stretches as far as possible, allowing you to enjoy life without constantly worrying about how much money is left in your account at the end of the month. 

This also enables you to save some money, which will help improve your financial situation even further. 

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

HELP IS OUT THERE

If your financial situation won’t be remedied simply by pruning your streaming service subscriptions and doing price comparison searches on your groceries periodically, then there is more all-encompassing help and advice available. Consider contacting one of these free debt advice charities:

THE BOTTOM LINE

Finding financial security might seem like an impossible task, but it’s achievable if you take things one step at a time. 

*Anything written by IDEAL Magazine is not intended to constitute financial advice. Always consult with an independent financial advisor or expert before making an investment or any personal finance decisions.*

7 Ideal Tips To Help Grow Your Business Smartly

Editorial Team
-
0
7 Ideal Tips To Help Grow Your Business Smartly

Alexa, tell me how many businesses fail within a year? 

It’s an inescapable, unavoidable truth. That in a society defined by success and profit, year-on-year growth is essential for business survival. It’s a cutthroat world out there, and every entrepreneur must endeavour to increase their company’s profit margin from last year’s or risk demise. However, rising supplier costs, shifting consumer demands, turbulent political times and technology continuing its game changing streak mean that the only thing predictable in this business world right now is unpredictability.

There are, however, ways to ensure your company thrives with each passing year. These are those; our 7 IDEAL tips for growing your business smartly.

Get To Know Your Overheads Intimately

Running a business can be overwhelming, and while you’re busy managing the everyday ins and outs, you can often lose track of handling the overhead expenses of your company. But it’s vital to know these overheads intimately; controlling them can generate allowance for essential operations, including rentals for storage space, inventory, stock and transport. 

Do your due diligence concerning the different ways you can lower your overheads. The most efficient and effective way to reduce expenditure is by streamlining processes like manufacturing, warehousing, or packaging.

You could also find a cheaper supplier, or even contemplate downsizing the scale of your business to help focus on growing your brand. Little changes, it seems, so often go a long way. Working with SOC auditors can help identify inefficiencies and ensure compliance, potentially uncovering hidden cost-saving opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Track Your Profit Margins

You need to continually track your profit margins to determine if your business is improving or failing. If it’s the latter, drastic action is required. As the team at Out On Site tell us, job management software can be invaluable in this regard, helping you identify unpredictable costs and deficiencies in your company; the main culprits that decrease your profit margins and ones which require immediate attention should they be unearthed.

Every product you sell should offer a big profit margin. No excuses; there are no hangers on welcome here. If an item has low profitability, it might be beneficial to remove it from your range entirely to focus on products that will provide your business with a greater return on its investment.

We’d recommend doing this even with items which you feel chime with your brand or offer clarity on your proposition because, in the end, profit always wins out. Regularly calculate your products’ profit margins and discontinue items that offer next to no value to your business regardless of their other appeal.

Invest In Managed IT Services

In today’s digital age, it’s impossible to run a business without relying on technology. From email and social media to data storage and e-commerce, the reliance on tech is more intense than ever before. So if you’re not a techie (let’s face it, who has time for that when you’re busy building an empire?), investing in managed IT services might be a wise move. Whether you are running a small business or a large corporation, these services can help to keep your technology running smoothly, reduce downtime, and even increase efficiency.

With these professionals on your side, they can handle all of your software and IT consulting needs, from security to cloud computing, while you focus on growing your business. As the guys at BizTek Solutions, who offer IT services in Fontana CA, point out, this means less downtime due to technical issues and more time spent strategising and working towards a successful future. Plus, having expert help at your disposal can save you money in the long run by preventing costly software and hardware errors.

Put Staff First

While your business is growing, talented staff are without doubt your biggest asset. High employee turnover will not only slow your business down, but will also eat up serious amounts of time and money finding new employees and training them up.

What’s more, your top talent from across the company, whether retail security guard or high ranking executive, might leave for a competitor, who will flourish thanks to their hard work, experience and ideas. It’s simple; your business is only as strong as its team, which is why you must strive to encourage, develop, nurture and support your H.R to prevent them from jumping ship.

When aiming to put staff first, it’s essential that you introduce concrete, effective policies and make investments in support and equipment – whether that’s financing weekly meditation sessions or buying forklifts for your warehouse – to help them, rather than simply calling your team ‘family’ and taking them out for the odd pint.

While of course it’s a positive move to cultivate an inclusive atmosphere, the vast majority of employees would rather be supported in their role rather than have their boss pretend to be their best friend.

Seek Reliable Funding Providers

As your business grows, you’ll of course be on the lookout for big-time investors in order to increase your capital investment. Usually, small-time business owners look for a business loan to upgrade operations. However, if the expansion fails, you could end up with a bad credit report. In this game, no one wants that. This is why you should do business with a flexible and affordable fund provider whenever and wherever possible. 

Don’t forget about other funding methods as well, including R&D tax credits. It’s worth speaking to experts who can guide you as to which options are the right ones for you and your business.

Read: Tips for financing your small business in 2023

Prioritise Your Customer Service

Having excellent customer service is one of the key factors that fuels your business success. And while we’d hate to condense each person’s inherent value into their worth to your company, we’re talking business here, so contradict ourselves we shall.

Every employee should, when called upon, provide sterling customer service which leaves a long lasting, positive impression on the end user. This takes so many forms and the style and manner of delivery differs from business to business and niche to niche. The one consistent to be maintained is to be efficient, polite and accommodating. Make this your benchmark.

Using technology for this process can improve the speed and accuracy of routine interactions, reducing the chance of customers waiting unnecessarily for a resolution. Some businesses use AI-driven call automation to help maintain consistent standards for politeness and efficiency across different time zones. This kind of integration can ease the transition between automated responses and human intervention when a more complex issue arises. When managed well, it allows companies to stay on top of their service benchmarks while taking some of the administrative burden off their primary staff.

Understand Cash Flow

Abrupt expansion often involves significant investment to keep up with the high production costs associated with the new demands of the company getting more ambitious. This could include investing in a mobile app development service to meet the needs of a tech-savvy customer base, upgrading your e-commerce platform’s interface, or enhancing your digital marketing strategies. 

When this is happening all at once in your business, don’t get too overwhelmed. Make sure you still develop a deeper understanding of handling your company’s cash flow to match the diversifying of process. This will keep you protected against the fast growth of your business and help you survive the demanding process of production.

And with that, we wish you every business success for the upcoming year!

*While this article offers general tips for business growth, it does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions about funding, tax credits or business finances.*

5 Of The Most Vegan Friendly Cities in The World

Joseph Gann
-
0
5 Of The Most Vegan Friendly Cities in The World

…IDEAL for your next plant based culinary adventure.

Once upon a time, in the not too distant past, holidays abroad as a vegan were a conflicted affair. Finding a plant based meal at all, let alone a delicious one, could be tough. Various words denoting dietary requirements had to be memorised, often to no avail when delivered.

But how times have changed; the world is very much your vegan oyster now when it comes to eating fantastic meat and dairy free food globally. The best places to do so? In our humble opinion, these are 5 of the most vegan friendly cities in the world, IDEAL for your next plant based culinary adventure.

LONDON, UK

According to the excellent vegan and vegetarian restaurant resource app Happy Cow, London was the first major world city to top 100 totally vegan restaurants. Now, there are 152; again, a world beating number. That cheerful bovine software suggests that there are over 500 vegan or vegetarian friendly restaurants, too. Result! 

Interestingly, it’s here in London that Pizza Hut trialled their first completely vegan menu, with KFC following shortly afterwards. Oh, and it’s not just the savoury stuff here that’s increasingly catering to the plant based people of the city. Check out our recommendations on the 7 best places in London for vegan sweet treats for more on the dessert side of things.

Read: 8 gastronomic European cities every food lover should visit at least once

BANGKOK, THAILAND

Hit any wet market in Thailand’s capital, and you’ll encounter the most amazing array of tropical fruit and weird and wonderful vegetables which you may well have never heard of, let alone tasted. One thing’s for sure; you’ll definitely want to try it all. Particularly novel to the Western palate are some of the country’s native fruits; we can’t visit Bangkok without seeking out durian and mangosteen. What’s more, the famous, fabulous Thai dessert mango sticky rice uses coconut cream for lusciousness and is 100% vegan.

Because the country is predominantly Buddhist, vegan options are available at most restaurants, even if the eatery isn’t vegan as a whole. Just look or ask for ‘jay’, meaning vegetarian. May Kaidee is a particularly famous veggie restaurant which also offers cooking classes in the plant based Thai culinary arts. With all that fresh produce, spice and funk, we couldn’t imagine a better cuisine to forgo meat and dairy. Hotel and holiday search engine The Hotel Follower seems to agree; their Global Vegan Index places Thailand at number one in the world.

TORONTO, CANADA

Toronto has long been one of the world’s great vegan cities, and hosts Toronto Veg Food Fest, the largest event of its kind on the planet. Started in 1985 and going in its current, supersized state since 2014, the event now attracts more than 50’000 punters annually, with 120 stalls slinging the good stuff. Indeed, the festival, and associated Toronto Vegetarian Association, has been credited with advancing the cause of the plant based movement across America exponentially. Reason enough to visit this great city, we think?

It’s no surprise, really. Toronto’s food scene, in general, is a melting pot of different cuisines, particularly from Asian regions where healthier vegan options abound. People have been emigrating to Toronto for years (50% of the population there was actually born outside Canada), bringing their culture and cuisines with them, sparking a foodie scene rivalled by few other cities.

TAIPEI, TAIWAN

In 2016, Peta Asia named Taipei as Asia’s most vegan friendly city, and it’s easy to see why. A historic Buddhist tradition, an abundance of day markets selling the freshest tropical fruit and vegetables, and an inventive cuisine not heavily reliant on protein, all make for a superb destination for plant based diners.

The area around Dingxi Metro Station sees some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the city, but it’s one stop along, to Gutong, where you’ll find the city’s first and foremost vegan restaurant, Ooh Cha Cha (自然食古亭); a foodie trailblazer in the city, country and continent as a whole. 

If you’re hitting the street in search of vegan friendly food, then Taipei’s iconic stinky tofu is hugely popular, and will satisfy that craving for dirtiness and funk in a dish. And perhaps the country’s most famous culinary export, milk and bubble tea, often uses non dairy milk powder or soy milk, with the famous pearls made from tapioca. Oh yes!

TEL AVIV, ISRAEL

Israel has the most vegans per capita in the world, with an estimated 8% of the population identifying as vegan; that’s 400’000 people in total, roughly. The culinary capital Tel Aviv, then, is a mecca for the plant based dieters among us, with at least 36 dedicated vegan restaurants in Tel Aviv. As a country, Israel has a reputation of being highly accommodating to vegan travellers, with Middle Eastern cuisine, and Israeli in particular, celebratory of freshness, vegetables and pulses. Hummus, falafel and lentils all find a home here, and some of the world’s best versions are found in Tel Aviv. 

Tel Aviv’s vegan offerings aren’t restricted to highly nutritious plant based diets though, as Israel is one of the first countries in the world to host vegan versions of many well known and loved brands. Pizza company Dominoes, for instance, chose Israel as the first country to try out the vegan versions of their well loved pizza classics. 

So, what are you waiting for? Open up that Skyscanner and arrive on an empty stomach, and you’ll be richly rewarded!

5 IDEAL STEPS TO REGAINING CONTROL OF YOUR FINANCES AFTER CHRISTMAS

Editorial Team
-
0
5 IDEAL STEPS TO REGAINING CONTROL OF YOUR FINANCES AFTER CHRISTMAS

That’s right, a Christmas article. In January. We’re sorry. But this isn’t actually about the joy of the festive season, but rather, its often difficult aftermath. Because somewhere along the line, the message of Christmas got corrupted. What once was about spending time with family and loved ones is now just about, well, spending.

According to research conducted by Debt charity StepChange, only around 30% of us can afford Christmas comfortably. As for the rest, it was revealed that about a third of people plan to borrow money to cover the cost, and spend the rest of the year sorting out the mess. This year we’re starting early, and giving our bank balance a good once over, with these; our 5 IDEAL steps to regaining control of your finances after Christmas.

CREDIT CARD CAUTION

When turning to credit cards to fix any financial problem, huge caution should be taken. Indeed, StepChange identified that borrowers will, on average, manage to repay their debts only by around September. That’s no way to live. And that’s just a couple of months until the next round of present buying, mulled wine drinking and the rest.

It’s not difficult to find companies offering loans for Christmas or giving you options to buy now, pay later on gifts. However, many of these organisations charge extremely high interest rates and may push you into debt. Although the pressure is on to create a memorable Christmas, it’s just not worth enduring those months of bills afterwards.

Worse, if these debts become unmanageable, is that borrowers are put at risk of legal action or bailiffs – something which certainly ruins the festive season. So, with debt repayment and shopping habits next time around, credit cards should be approached with caution.

DEBT CONSOLIDATION

For those already in this situation, with the threat of legal action to recover money owed from credit card bills or other debts, there are debt consolidation companies out there for people who may need to default on that debt and enter a repayment arrangement. It’s reported that 40% of people in financial hardship wait about a year before seeking help, which only exacerbates the issue. Talking about debt is difficult, but the sooner it’s addressed, the better.

Read: How to fine tune your financial health for 2022

HAVING A SOCIAL LIFE ON A BUDGET

Just because January means for so many a time of frugality and abstinence shouldn’t mean it’s one lived isolated and without meaningful connections made and maintained. You just have to do things a little differently at the start of the year.

During this time, it might be prudent to swap the booze for a brew. This could be in the form of inviting a friend round for a cuppa at yours or meeting for a coffee out and about. Either way, the accumulative cost will be way less than several cocktails and the rest.

And remember that there are plenty of cheap events out there at this time of year to help you get out and about for less. In fact, some of the best are free; all the event asks for is your engagement. As we’re sure you already know, the majority of museums and art galleries in London are free to enter, with restrictions only existing on select exhibitions. So, that’s a month of the V&A, the Science Museum, Design Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Tate, the National Gallery and so many more.

There are enough conversation starters and searching questions to pose in these places to keep your social life active until next Christmas. Of course, this magnitude of completely free ways to keep you busy isn’t confined to the capital. Check out this list of the best free stuff to do, UK-wide, here.

A YEAR OF GOOD HABITS

We can fall into so many bad habits with our spending which, when viewed on their own, don’t amount to much and therefore go unnoticed, but when combined can quickly add up.

Christmas, for instance, can often see those subscriptions mount up – festive songs you wanted on Spotify, family movies on Netflix, last minute deliveries on Amazon Prime – so during the quieter months it’s sensible to do an MOT of those subscriptions to see if all of them are still necessary. 

What’s more, the binge eating of the festive season and all that getting fed by the family can result a little laziness with the cooking, eating out and takeaways when you resume normal service after Christmas. Instead, adopt a healthy, sustainable approach to your lunches and dinners in the new year; check out our 7 IDEAL tips and ideas for budget meal planning for inspiration!

DO IT DIFFERENTLY NEXT TIME

Christmas 2022; we don’t think anyone wants to contemplate that just yet. But after making this year one of sensible spending, it’s vital you make sure you end it with the same approach, rather than slipping into the same old mistakes of borrowing and blowing money you don’t have. Bookmark this useful page on ways to enjoy Christmas on a budget, ready for 11 months down the line, and remember to refer back to it! Job done.

5 IDEAL PLACES TO EAT GREAT PASTA IN LONDON

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
-
0
5 IDEAL PLACES TO EAT GREAT PASTA IN LONDON

Londoners have never had it better when craving a bowl of fresh pasta. Simplicity, freshness and speed are all buzzwords for the discerning diner in the capital and pasta choices are limitless. They are daunting accordingly. The best bowls stay true to two pillars of all great Italian food – 1. the pasta should be the star, and 2. the accompanying adornments must be fresh, of clarity and celebrating of the raw ingredient. Here are our IDEAL picks for the places that stay true to that mantra.

Padella

Opening in 2016 and quickly attracting cultish fandom, Padella is the brainchild of the team behind Trullo, another place of exquisite pasta and other fine Italian cooking. The premise is simple but christ it’s good – a pasta ‘bar’ where the on-the-go Londoner can grab a quick bite (if you enter the queue digitally in advance, that is) which doesn’t compromise on quality, leaving the diner with hunger sated, wallet undented and a spring in the step. 

An opening year bestowed with awards and a queue to match makes Padella one of our favourite spots in London, full stop.

Address: 6 Southwark St, London SE1 1TQ, UK

Website: www.padella.co

Café Murano

The little, more affordable sibling of Angela Hartnett’s brilliant restaurant, Murano, Café Murano offers incredibly fresh pasta with generous sauces. Ingredients, as one would expect from a chef of Hartnett’s premium, are of the highest quality. This is of the Italian style, pedigree produce and highly seasonal, which suits an authentic bowl of pasta perfectly. A must visit when in Central London.

Address: 33 St James’s St, St. James’s, London SW1A 1HD, UK

Website: www.cafemurano.co.uk

Artusi

Brainchild of former Clove Club chef James Beer, Arutsi is a no-frills neighbourhood Italian restaurant on Peckham’s Bellenden Road which happens to do some of the best pasta the city has to offer. The quality is exceptional, and sauces suitably lowkey but delicious to complement the star of the show.

Sundays are particularly good, with a deal so ridiculously cheap we’re not sure we want to share it – £25 (yes, 25!) for three courses. A bowl of pasta will always feature on the chalkboard and that’s probably why we’ve made the pilgrimage south-east quite so many times.

If you’re in Deptford, their sister restaurant Marcella offers a similar pasta proposition.

Address: 161 Bellenden Rd, London SE15 4DH, UK

Website: artusi.co.uk

Bocca Di Luppo

This Soho staple, open since 2008, serves up some of London’s best bowls and a superb wine list to boot. Game and offal features heavily on a menu which rotates regularly according to produce availability and the seasons. Book to avoid disappointment!

Address: 12 Archer St, Soho, London W1D 7BB, UK

Website: www.boccadilupo.com

Luca

Another product of the Clove Club machine, opening in late 2016, Luca is billed as Britalian, but the pasta falls very firmly in Italy, thankfully. The room is all wood and understated elegance, and is the perfect environment to enjoy a top-quality bowl. Simplicity, as always, is the watchword, though prices are, admittedly, high. The quality of the produce used, fortunately, makes those high prices a little less painful; this a superb restaurant, make no mistake.

Address: 88 St John St, Clerkenwell, London EC1M 4EH, UK

Website: luca.restaurant

Image via Artusi and Padella

5 OF THE BEST PLACES TO PIG OUT ON A BACON BUTTY IN LONDON

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
5 OF THE BEST PLACES TO PIG OUT ON A BACON BUTTY IN LONDON

Oh, bacon butty, how do we love thee? Let us count the ways. You’re the first thing we think about in the morning. You inspire us to get out of bed when we’re hungover. Just looking at your crispy rashers under those soft pillows of bread makes us salivate. The smell of you, the taste of you, the feel of you…it all makes us feel truly warm inside. And thirsty. Very, very thirsty…

We could go on, but you’ve probably got an idea by now of how much we love our bacon butties here at IDEAL. And we’re not the only ones; according to research, the bacon butty is officially the nation’s favourite sandwich. But we didn’t need a study to tell us that; just step outside on a Saturday or Sunday morning in a residential street and sniff the air. That’s bacon you smell.

Whether you like yours with ketchup or brown sauce, streaky or back, on white brown or brown, and all those other endlessly debated dichotomies, we’re spreading the love of this sandwich today by handpicking our favourite places in London that have elevated the humble bacon butty to dizzy new heights. Here are 5 of the best places to pig out on a bacon butty in London.

ST JOHN BREAD & WINE, SPITALFIELDS

Have you ever dreamt of waking up to the perfect bacon sandwich? Well, unless you had the foresight to make yourself one before you crashed into bed the night before, in the words of chef Fergus Henderson himself, ”you’ll find the bacon sandwich of your nocturnal fantasies” at St John Bread & Wine. 

His internationally renowned bacon sandwich is a thing of simple beauty, just as it should be. The freshly baked and sliced white bread is toasted on an open grill, giving the sandwich a satisfying singe and smoky undertone. Butter is generously spread on both sides for richness. Rashers of rare breed bacon are the perfect balance of smoke and salt. The housemade ketchup has a pleasing tang to it. Summed up, this bacon sandwich is pure, unbridled joy and, to many, the world’s best.

Website: stjohngroup.uk.com

Address: 94-96 Commercial St, London E1 6LZ

DISHOOM, VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Yes, we realise this one isn’t technically a bacon butty, but it’s so iconic, so darn good, that we just couldn’t leave it off our list. We promise normal service will resume shortly…

Dishoom’s Indian inspired and now legendary bacon naan roll involves crispy bacon, chilli jam, cream cheese and herbs, all encased in a freshly baked naan that’s been brushed in melted butter, the presence of which gets this delicious dish onto our list on a technicality.

It’s developed a cult following, and we’re very much card carrying members of that swine loving sect.

The bacon is supplied by The Ginger Pig, one of London’s most revered butchers, so you just know it’s the good stuff. Once you try this one (come on, you already have, haven’t you?) you’ll be converted to believing the Dishoom Bacon Naan deserves a place on any list of London’s best bacon butties, too. Wash it down with a cup of their chai tea and you’ll be ready to take on the world.

The good news? You can enjoy one of Dishoom’s bacon naans from the comfort of your own home. The breakfast dish is available as an ‘at home’ cookery kit and contains everything you need to create two Nann Rolls for just £17. You can even upgrade the kit to include two Marmalade Mimosas, if the mood takes you. One for you, and one for your imaginary friend Paddington.

Website: dishoom.com

Address: Kensington, Shoreditch, King’s Cross, Carnaby and Covent Garden

LE SWINE, AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY ACROSS LONDON & THE UK

We promise we won’t go rogue again. For our next truly brilliant bacon butty, we’re heading to Le Swine. Actually, Le Swine is heading to us. ‘The best bacon butty in town’ (the Evening Standard’s words) started out as a street food truck of sorts, slinging baps at food festivals and various London markets before adapting their offering in the face of the COVID pandemic. All this means is that you can now enjoy Le Swine’s critically acclaimed bacon butty anywhere in the UK, delivered directly to your door.

Their unctuous butty just oozes bacon brilliance. Made from good ol’ fashioned thick cut middle bacon, a homemade toasted milk & onion bap, bacon butter, and ‘swinez’ tomato sauce and mushroom ketchup, it’s a badass bap, make no mistake. Don’t forget to add a fried duck egg for extra elevation.

Website: leswine.co.uk

THE DUSTY KNUCKLE BAKERY, DALSTON

One of London’s most beloved bakeries. Two slices of light yet sturdy potato sourdough. Exceptional streaky from every top chef’s favourite butchers, Swaledale. Lashings of butter and your choice of sauce…

Are these the ingredients for London’s best bacon butty? The Dusty Knuckle in Dalston certainly think so, and we’re inclined to agree.

The bakery also has a programme helping to rehabilitate young offenders, training them in a new profession and helping them get back on their feet. What better reason to enjoy a bacon sarnie than supporting a noble cause? We’ll see you in Dalston.

Website: thedustyknuckle.com

Address: Abbot St, London E8 3DP

PIGGY’S CAFE, BILLINGSGATE MARKET

If you visit Billingsgate market in the early hours of the morning, you’ll see the fish traders devouring bacon butties, all with a luxurious shellfish twist.

Yep, this is surf’n’turf all repackaged in a floury bap, and Billingsgate Market’s famous scallop and bacon butty has been fueling the market traders at Billingsgate every morning since forever (well, 1982). We just love it. This salty and saline sandwich is certainly worth getting up for, even if you leave the market fishless and fancy free.

Address: Billingsgate Market, Trafalgar Way, London E14 5ST

FROM MEAL KITS TO COOKING LESSONS: IDEAL WAYS TO EAT BETTER IN 2022

Editorial Team
-
0
FROM MEAL KITS TO COOKING LESSONS: IDEAL WAYS TO EAT BETTER IN 2022

This just in for 2022; behind the usual pledges to exercise more and focus on fitness, the most common new year’s resolution for Brits is to improve their diet, according to YouGov. And sure, whilst we all know that we should be eating our five (or more) a day, cutting back on meat, and amping up the beans, pulses and legumes, it can be hard to actually find the motivation to do just that.

But improving your diet needn’t mean abstinence or asceticism. Instead, eating better in 2022 can be fun, rewarding, sustaining and sustainable, all at the same time. It can also be damn delicious! From meal kits to cooking lessons, here are some IDEAL ways to eat better in 2022.

MAKE THE EFFORT TO COOK 

Whether you’re doing Veganuary, have pledged to cut back on your beef, or you’re simply looking to learn some new skills in the kitchen, putting the effort into your cooking really pays off. Firstly, cooking each night is a little act of self respect and self care that goes such a long way. Secondly, you can control what goes into your meals, and embrace a good dose of healthy eating in the process. You also get to give your brain a little workout, learning new techniques, skills, ingredients and dishes. And finally, cooking can be a whole lot of fun!

CONSIDER A MEAL KIT 

With an emphasis on fresh, healthy and balanced suppers, meal kits have proven very successful with those wanting to eat a more nutritious diet. In the last couple of years the popularity of meal kits have soared. Indeed, Mindful Chef saw a 452% uptick in orders when we went into the first lockdown in 2020, and the concept has proven such a big hit that even the retail giants are getting in on the act and trying to earn themselves a slice of this pre-prepared, finish-off-in-the-oven pie, too. 

As reported by Forbes, Waitrose & Partners, the food retail division of John Lewis Partnership, will become the first supermarket in Britain to launch a recipe box service from January. There are even meal kits by Amazon and Walmart in the States. Indeed, Amazon has now jumped on the bandwagon with AmazonFresh Meal Kits. When Bezos is getting in on the act, you know it’s gone mainstream, after all.

Meal kits are a great way to improve your culinary skills, sure, but they are also a wonderful way to expand your food repertoire. By diversifying your dishes and expanding your repertoire, you can keep mealtimes interesting each and every night of the week. Moreover, a meal kit is a great way to attempt an intimidating recipe and may help you become a more confident cook. All very welcome, indeed.

PLAN MEALS AHEAD OF TIME

Planning your meals ahead can save you time, money and effort, and will give you something to look forward to during the working day, too. Planning meals ahead of time also means that you’re less likely to impulse buy at the supermarket on the way home from work, or snack unnecessarily during the day. It’s also a thriftier way to do things, in terms of both money and food waste. And that’s why you’re here, right?

Read: 8 tips on meal prepping and cooking if you live alone 

COOK IN BATCHES

One of the major barriers to eating well at home, each and every day, is the fact that some days, the energy or enthusiasm to cook complex meals or slave over the stove for hours at a time just isn’t there. 

To ensure that you can eat well even on these more trying occasions, practice proper meal preparation, and cook in batches when you have the time. Not only will this enable you to eat a quick and delicious meal straight from frozen, but you’ll also be able to store (or use up) fresh ingredients without any wastage, thus saving you money by cutting down on the number of ingredients that you’ll need to buy next time.

REUSE YOUR LEFTOVERS

Speaking of leftovers, they can often lead to exciting, delicious meals in their own right. Today’s risotto could be tomorrow’s arancini balls. Your beef ragu can be turned into a lasagna, a cottage pie, chilli con carne or taco topping. 

When it comes to leftovers, make use of your freezer too; should you have a spare portion of a dinner you’ve cooked, rather than knocking it back that evening, why not freeze it and enjoy it anew another time? 

COOK WITH THE SEASONS

Generally speaking, when food is picked in its prime and doesn’t have to travel far, it boasts its maximum potential, nutrient wise. Some have even suggested that produce which is in season boasts particular nutrients that the body needs for that time of year, such as summer fruits and their particularly high fluid and sugar content; ideal for replenishing you in the warmer months. 

EAT TOGETHER

Eating together helps us eat better. It not only leads to healthier food choices, but eating together gives us the opportunity to talk, laugh, learn and share. And what can be better than that?

THE BOTTOM LINE

Eating better needn’t be a chore; by following a few simple adjustments to your normal routine, you can enjoy healthy, delicious meals every night of the week. Bon Appetite!

1...182183184...392Page 183 of 392

Company

WHO we are
SAY HELLO
ADVERTISING

Read More

Ideal
Travel
Food & Drink
Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Social

We’re an online destination, IDEAL for your daily dose of all things lifestyle, from travel to wellbeing and everything in between.

Copyright © 2026 IDEAL Magazine