Page 353 – Ideal Magazine

3 IDEAL REASONS TO CONSIDER BUYING AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE

Editorial Team

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October 13, 2017

While ownership of electric cars is still not hugely widespread, in August 2017 there was a 48.9% year-on-year increase in EV registrations when compared to 2016 (SMMT figures), indicating a rising popularity that bodes well for the future of our planet.

With such a bright future on the horizon for electric cars, here are our three IDEAL reasons you should consider buying an EV.

They will help you lower your carbon footprint

Ask anyone what the main benefit of owning an electric car is and they’re likely to say that they’re better for the environment than petrol cars — and they’d be right. Switching over to an EV can help you to lower your carbon footprint, which is a big plus if you’re looking to lead a greener lifestyle.

Their advantage over traditional cars comes from the fact that you charge their battery beforehand, after which they produce zero harmful emissions. In contrast, petrol and diesel vehicles burn fuel to power their engines, emitting pollutants as a by-product.

However, you can’t use an EV and say you’re completely environmentally friendly. If you use regular power from the grid to charge your battery, you will still be using electricity produced by around 50% fossil fuels (Ofgem), which the UK still relies on.

Thankfully, there are more options becoming available if you want to maintain a zero-carbon footprint, which include using solar panels and switching to a sustainable energy supplier — Green Electricity Marketplace is a handy comparison tool if you want to compare the best deals around.

Cheaper

An EV will also prove to be much cheaper to maintain than a regular car over its lifespan. This is because a traditional combustion engine has a huge number of moving parts, where an electric motor only has around 20, so there’s much less potential for something to go wrong. Thanks to this, you can look forward to less trips to the garage and lower repair costs.

While EVs have been more expensive to buy than regular cars in the past, new technology is bringing model prices down to a more affordable level. Plus, many brands are now offering scrappage schemes where you can use your old car to trade up for a greener model. These schemes, like this one from Lookers, are making owning an EV a much more achievable goal for many.

They offer surprising performance and practicality

Cast all thoughts of milk floats and golf carts aside, many EVs can go with the best of them — just take a look at this video from DragTimes if you don’t believe us. Many electric car manufacturers now produce high performance vehicles that have exceptional acceleration thanks to their lighter weight and ability to generate a lot of power from a standing start. Pair this with today’s advanced handling technology, and you’re left with a breed of cars that are very fun to drive.

What’s more, EVs often prove to be much more practical than traditional cars. As we’ve mentioned, their engines are much more compact, so manufacturers are able to offer generous amounts of cabin and boot space. You will frequently find an electric car is roomier than a petrol or diesel car of the same size, making them a great choice for families or people who enjoy having plenty of space to stretch out and relax.

Remember these three IDEAL reasons when the time comes to upgrade your car and you could find yourself joining the EV revolution. Not only will you be future-proofing your choice of vehicle, but you’ll be doing your bit for the environment too. Are you in?

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO CAR WARRANTIES: DEBUNKING THE MYTHS

Editorial Team

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October 12, 2017

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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO CAR WARRANTIES: DEBUNKING THE MYTHS

Car warranties provide motorists with a lot of reassurance and offer protection from an unexpected and sometimes expensive repair bill. Not only that, but instances when your car simply needs a once over due to general wear and tear are also generally covered, giving drivers peace of mind and a sense of stability.

However, some myths do exist regarding car warranties, and it’s good to be aware of them in order to be treated fairly and pay reasonably. Here, we’ve teamed up with stockists of car radiators, Advanced Radiators, to debunk the most common myths to ensure you don’t trip up when looking into these policies. So, here is our IDEAL guide to car warranties.

You must have car warranty

It is not compulsory to have a car warranty, however much the adverts may insinuate to the contrary. Usually new cars come with a standard warranty which lasts three years and 60,000 miles. After this, it is your decision whether you’d like to purchase additional car warranty, or if you’re prepared to accept the risk of an unexpected repair bill.

You need car warranty to obtain finance for a vehicle

This is untrue, you can obtain finance for a vehicle if you do not have car warranty – although, some salesmen will try to sell you a warranty alongside your car as they often receive a fee or commission for doing so. Don’t get sucked into sales pitches like this as having a car warranty is not essential.

There’s no need to do research — all car warranties are the same

There are many car warranties out there that have different offers for you; some more suitable than others, and very much situation dependant. Some warranties are more comprehensive than others, which may be necessary for your car. Conduct your due diligence before purchasing a car warranty to prevent any small print that you may have missed or hidden charges.

Car warranty can only be bought from the same dealership where you bought your car

There are many companies that offer car warranties at different rates and with different incentives. It is possible that the dealership from which you purchased your car may offer you a good deal. However, you should still shop around and do your research to find a car warranty that will benefit you and your vehicle most.

A full-service history is required to obtain warranty

Again, untrue. You do not need to provide a full-service history to purchase a warranty. However, you should ensure that your car is in good working condition and has been looked after in accordance with the manufacturer’s schedule.

You don’t need to tend to your car if you have car warranty

You are still responsible for the maintenance of your car even when it is covered by a car warranty. To keep on top of car maintenance, you should follow advice outlined in your driver’s manual.

Every problem with a car is covered by the warranty

With a manufacturer warranty or some comprehensive aftermarket warranties this is usually true. But there are always exceptions and exclusions – stay on the safe side and check the terms and conditions to know where you stand.

Car warranty for wear and tear breakdowns and warranty for mechanical breakdowns fall under the same category

Wear and tear refers to the normal breakdown of a car whereas mechanical breakdown is an issue that occurs due to a manufacturing error. Bear in mind that breakdown cover is not the same as a car warranty, as that type of cover will simply take your car to the garage – it will not pay for the charges faced once there.

It’s OK to take out warranty and then get a car fixed which had a fault beforehand

You cannot have repairs covered which occurred before you took the warranty out, your car should be in the highest condition that it can be before taking out a warranty. You will find that many providers will not pay out on claims made within 90 days to avoid drivers taking out a warranty on a car that had existing problems.

There’s an age limit on cars receiving warranty

It is true that if your car is over 10 years-old and has more than 100,000 miles on the clock you may struggle to find a warranty to cover it. There are a few companies out there that will offer car warranties to vehicles up to 12-years old but you will be faced with a higher cost.

4 IDEAL STYLE TIPS TO BEAT THE NEW JOB NERVES

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Editorial Team

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October 11, 2017

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4 IDEAL STYLE TIPS TO BEAT THE NEW JOB NERVES

It’s hard to know what to wear for that first day at your job. There’s just so much to consider and the balancing act is a fine one, that’s for sure. You want to look presentable, stylish but understated.

You want to stand out, but not too much. It’s good to look like you made an effort, but again, negative assumptions might be made if the effort feels overdone. In every profession there are certain expectations and dress codes, as well as some unwritten rules regarding the correct way to pitch yourself, and all need adhering to.

So, whether you’re a nurse that needs to buy some stylish scrubs or a lawyer looking for that perfect suit and tie, we give you 4 IDEAL style tips to beat those new job nerves.

LOOK GOOD, FEEL GOOD

It’s all about confidence. Invest in clothes that make you feel good, that will give you the requisite strut and spring in your step. Those who feel good about themselves will give off positive vibes, exude confidence and, as psychological studies have shown, be assumed trustworthy and having authority. Look sloppy and people may not take you as seriously. First impressions count, so on your first day, look the part.

BE YOURSELF

If you’re dressed in a way which is far removed from your usual attire, you’re in danger of reflecting a false image, and one in which your valuable points may not seem genuine. Build your work wardrobe around the pieces you wear all the time; if you prefer trousers, don’t suddenly start wearing skirts! Don’t feel the pressure of the office or other working environments to dress a certain way. It’s better to be individual and proud of it. Don’t force a look if it isn’t really you.

DON’T CONFORM TO FASHION TRENDS

Unless you work in fashion, we suggest ignoring attempts to conform to the latest catwalk trends. They’ll be more expensive, and you may look like you’re at work to flaunt, not to work hard.Classical colours and styles are just that for a reason. They have endured the test of time and their legacy remains. Therefore, it’s important to dress simply, but in a polished, well groomed way. Go for design classics like black, blue or grey, and use accessories,footwear, ties and even belts to express your individuality. That said, if you feel more confident and comfortable wearing on trend pieces, do it. We recommend buying a couple of key items each season that you can pair with the rest of your work wardrobe.

ACCESSORISE

With accessorising in mind, there’s so much you can do to give your look a real statement quality without the need for overt displays of the fashionista in you. Throwing on a nice scarf and some earrings can be enough to dress up a solid black dress; adding some colorful heels pulls your outfit together very nicely. Of course you want to be comfortable, depending on what it is you are doing all day. Therefore, take into consideration how much time you expect to spend on your feet when you are planning out your footwear for that day.

5 IDEAL DESTINATIONS FOR A FISHING HOLIDAY

Editorial Team

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October 11, 2017

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5 IDEAL DESTINATIONS FOR A FISHING HOLIDAY

For travellers who love a bit of fishing, the best spots to head to within your local area, where trout flock to your bait, will already be very much familiar. Less likely to have crossed your mind though, is the idea of leaving the local pond and going on a fishing holiday with some buddies. It’s not usually the first idea that springs to mind when planning your next vacay, but why the hell not, we say. We couldn’t imagine anything better than pitching up somewhere in the sun, cracking open a couple of cold ones and casting your rod, with the possibility of cooking your catch over fresh coals as the sunsets. Heaven. With that delicious dream firmly in mind, here are 5 IDEAL destinations for a fishing holiday.

THE BAHAMAS

To kick things off, the Bahamas offer some of the best fishing in the world, all in tropical surrounds; pure paradise, to us. For the experienced fishers looking for something to test their abilities and show off their skills, this is the place. This is because the surrounding waters are home to some exceptionally large fish, such as Marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi and sailfish. Before even considering a set to with fish of this size, you’re going to need to consider some seriously battle ready equipment, so be sure to visit a Fishing Tackle Shop to get a sturdy rod; catching fish such as these could prove to be quite challenging.

The Abacos Islands are particularly good when going after the “big fish.” There are multiple tournaments all through the summer to participate in so be sure to head over and take on some of the world’s best fisherman, with the aim to catch that “big one” and win the tournament.

COSTA RICA

Moving onto another one of our favourite locations, Costa Rica. It has rich coastlines that offer some of the best fishing spots worldwide. Costa Rica is incredibly lucky to have two beautiful, unique coast lines, one on the Pacific coast and the other on the Caribbean. Therefore when it comes to what coast to choose, you are somewhat spoilt for choice. The Pacific side gives you an amazing opportunity to catch tuna, dorado, marlin, wahoo, roosterfish, snapper and many more, while the Caribbean side is famous for its big tarpon and snook. So, if you want the chance to catch a wider variety of beautiful fish, head to the Pacific coastline. If you’re a more experienced fisher however, and looking for a challenge, try and catch fish with a bit more mass on the Caribbean coastline.

BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico is the next place on our list. Due to the fishing season being all year round, it has been nicknamed he “Marine Capital of the World,” with the peak times being between May and December. The area has a strict catch and release policy which is implemented to help boost the population of marlin, so bear this mind if you’re planning on cooking what you catch.

SICILY

If you are looking to stay within Europe for your fishing trip then Sicily is the place for you. At the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is well placed to offer some of the best fishing experiences. The island is well populated with fishing villages as well as the fact swordfish and tuna are the most common catches, making it a sea fishers dream. The cuisine of the island, with a heavy focus on seafood, is fantastic too; fresh, clean and healthy.

THE ISLE OF WIGHT

We couldn’t write a list of fishing holidays without coming home to England to finish. The U.K offers some of the best fishing-dedicated holidays around, and for us, the Isle of Wight is the finest on offer. It’s perfect for anglers of all styles and skillsets, with plenty of carp and pike found in the local waters.

Whether you choose for your next holiday, consider factoring in fishing as a unique, interesting alternative to the sun, sand and sea traditional holiday. You can get all of things and much more if you pack your rod. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get fishing!

5 IDEAL AUTUMN BEAUTY TIPS FOR THE NEW SEASON

Wellbeing

Editorial Team

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October 10, 2017

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5 IDEAL AUTUMN BEAUTY TIPS FOR THE NEW SEASON

September’s now over, and with it the hope of an Indian summer has faded away in the rear view mirror in time with our tans. Those things we love about summer; the sea, the sun, the sand, the swimming pools and the overindulgence, are now the cause of hair, nail and skin issues that don’t look so great in the cold (brrrr) light of Autumn. The bright, vibrant hues of summer, as well as the skin-bearing now unimaginable against the early morning frost, also need a rectifying touch. So, with this in mind, here are our 5 IDEAL autumn beauty tips, ready for the new season.

GET A SEASON SPECIFIC HAIRCUT

Sun, sea salt and swimming pools can wreak havoc on your hair, making it dry and brittle. Autumn is the ideal time to inject some moisture into your hair. If you feel the call of experimentation, take advantage of the new season to test-drive a new hair colour. While summer haircuts are awash with sun-kissed highlights, Autumn sees darker, more earthy, natural hues. Something chocolatey or auburn, autumn leaf coloured suits this time of year perfectly. Don’t neglect the fried, frazzled ends that summer has subjected your locks to – get a trim and neaten up, appropriate for the demands of the new season.

HYDRATE HAIR, HANDS AND FACE ALIKE

The sudden change in temperature can be a shock to both your hair and skin. Summer’s product range has seasonality in mind, with hair products in use to stop an overloaded, overly glossy appearance, and skincare sunshine specific. The lack of humidity in Autumn, as well as the dryness of skin that the colder weather brings, means regular application of moisturizer and hand cream is important. A summer’s long over reliance on leave-in conditioner may now be showing, so switch to a hair product suited to the new season.

BRING YOUR COLOUR PALETTE BACK DOWN TO EARTH

Summer’s hues are great when the sun’s out, complimenting the vibrancy of the weather and light, as well as bringing out your carefully curated tan. When the lighting drops to a muted grey, and rain rears its ugly head with more regularity, it’s important that your colour palette reflects this, both in your clothes and make up. That doesn’t mean wearing full outfits of overcast and beige. No, greens, browns and dark, confident reds look amazing during this time of year and are currently all the rage on the high street, which is a blessing for your wallet if you’re in need of a wardrobe update.

BENCH THE SUMMER ACCESSORIES

Sea salt spray designed to replicate the waves of the beach will suddenly look very out of place when the shore and sand has been rendered a no-go zone by temperamental weather. Equally, shimmering make-up products designed to mimic the sun’s sparkle are no longer at home in Autumn. And with regards to dark fake-tan….well, it’s going to look really fake when England hasn’t seen the sun for weeks, so go easy and exercise restraint. We suggest using a moisturiser with a hint of fake tan instead of going whole hog.

Consider heavier make up with a darker, moodier palette, exploiting plenty of shadow and matte. Espresso is this season’s hottest shade, so bear that in mind when you reach for tinge of summer time peachy pink.

PREPARE FOR WINTER

Although we’ve not long ago said goodbye to summer, a good level of foresight and forward thinking will stand your skin in good stead when winter hits. A pre-emptive skincare regime, designed to counteract the bluster of winter wind and the subsequent dry, red and flaky skin, is a great idea. This also goes for your nails, which get particularly brittle in the cold weather. A simple system of conscious filing should do the trick.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CRÈME BRÛLÉE WITH CITRUS MARMALADE FROM BRASSERIE BLANC

Cooking Tips + Recipes

Editorial Team

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October 10, 2017

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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CRÈME BRÛLÉE WITH CITRUS MARMALADE FROM BRASSERIE BLANC

Brasserie Blanc, the home of real French cooking, has launched a new Autumn/Winter menu bringing a perfect French feast of authentic, classic flavours. To celebrate they’ve shared this recipe for Crème brûlée with IDEAL.

N.B This recipe should be started the day before you intend to serve it, to allow time to soak the citrus peel.

MAKES 4

INGREDIENTS

For the marmalade

(This will make more than you need so ensure you have some sterilized jars to store the leftovers in)

1 grapefruit
2 lemons
1 Seville orange
1.4kg granulated sugar

For the crème brûlée

500ml double cream
1 vanilla pod, split in half and seeds scraped out
1.5 leaves bronze leaf gelatin
8 medium egg yolks
90g caster sugar
3-4 tbsp demerara sugar, for the topping

METHOD

To make the marmalade, juice the fruit and pour into a large, lidded pan. Add 1.75 litres water.
Scrape out the flesh and pips from the fruit. Put the flesh into a food processor and blend. Place the blended flesh and the pips in a muslin bag and add to the pan.
Chop the citrus peel finely and add it to the pan too. Set aside to allow the peel to soak for a few hours or overnight, if possible.
Bring the lidded pan to boil, reduce the heat and simmer very gently for two hours or until the peel is very tender.
Preheat the oven to 140ºC. Pour the sugar into a baking dish and warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Remove the muslin bag from the pan and squeeze the liquid out of it into a bowl. Pass through a sieve into the pan. Put a plate in the freezer (you’ll need this to test whether the marmalade is set later).
Weigh the contents of the pan – it should be no more than 1.4kg. If you have more than this, simmer again to reduce the liquid until the correct weight it achieved.
Add the warmed sugar to the pan and stir until dissolved. Gradually bring to rolling boil. After about 10 minutes, remove from the heat and take the plate out of the fridge. Spoon a little of the marmalade on to the cold plate and leave for a minute to cool. Push your finger through the mixture – the marmalade’s surface will wrinkle if it is set. If it doesn’t wrinkle, put another plate in the freezer and return the marmalade to the heat. Boil again for another 5 mins, then repeat the test.
Leave the marmalade to cool a little until a skin forms (this should take about 10 mins). Remove any scum from surface and give the marmalade a stir. Spoon into heatproof ramekins, if you don’t have a blowtorch, or little jars, if you do. Put the remaining marmalade into sterilized jars.
For the brûlée, gently heat the cream and vanilla in a pan until steaming. Put the gelatine in cold water to soak.
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolk and sugar together. Pour the warmed milk over the egg mixture and stir to combine. Return to the pan and cook over a very low heat, stirring gently and continuously with a rubber spatula until the custard is thick and smooth (if you have a thermometer, the custard is ready when it reaches 82ºC).
Transfer the custard to a bowl. Squeeze the excess water from the gelatine and add to the custard. Stir until dissolved.
Whisk until cool, then spoon into the serving ramekins/jars. Use the back of a hot spoon to level out the surface and then chill in the fridge for three hours.
Sprinkle each brûlée with a thin, even layer of sugar and caramelize using a blowtorch (or, in ramekins, under a very hot grill). Leave to cool before serving.

10 IDEAL BODY BUSTING SPICES YOU SHOULD BE CONSUMING

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Vicky Clifford Sanghad

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October 10, 2017

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10 IDEAL BODY BUSTING SPICES YOU SHOULD BE CONSUMING

Variety is the spice of life, an old adage that rings no truer than when talking about diet. Unfortunately, spices are often relegated to the sidelines when it comes to food and healthy eating, a move which we believe to be to the detriment of both flavour and to the health of the nation. All too often spice brings to mind calorific curries, but this needn’t be the case.

Indeed, it’s a certainty that spice deserves more recognition for the nutrients they provide, the anti-oxidants they contain, the calorie-free flavour they impart and the aroma they give to the home. Spices do so much more than simply enhance the flavour of food, and there’s tons of research out there that revels in this glorious fact. It’s time to put spice on pedestal it deserves, pronto.

So, now that National Curry Week is upon us (as if we needed an excuse) we think it’s fair to focus the weekly shop on one style of cooking alone, to embrace spice as an old friend, not an ingredient to be mistrusted or feared. There are so many body-boosting benefits to cooking with spice, and the below mouth-watering infographic from Fisher & Paykel, who have been designing kitchen appliances and encouraging people to cook since 1934, sheds light on the best, along with some super interesting facts associated with them. So, with the argument for this kind of cooking ringing loud and true, and with everything from flavour to health covered, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get spicy!

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR AN EPIC DINNER PARTY

Editorial Team

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October 10, 2017

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Here at IDEAL we’re huge fans of dinner parties – food, wine and friends in the comfort of our own home – yes please! Meljo Cheriyan, Restaurant Manager at Island Grill, offers his years of experience and professional advice on the best ways to make sure your evening is one to be remembered.

Plan your Time

The first vital step is to create a timeframe of your evening. Think about your oven and hob space, and what you’re going to need to be able to serve your starter, main course and dessert on schedule. Three courses which all require an oven will be tricky, so opt for a cold starter or dessert. Then create a timetable – and try to stick to it!

Create Ambience

Creating a sense of occasion at Island Grill is something we work hard to do, from our low-hanging pendant lights to the flickering tea-lights on the tables. To create a relaxed atmosphere, turn the lights down, play quiet background music and light your favourite scented candles.

Don’t Forget the Nibbles

Appetisers are the perfect way to open your evening, but they don’t have to be complicated. Visit your local delicatessen and purchase something simple and delicious like our Green Olive Ciabatta, served with olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar – the perfect sharing plate!

Go Seasonal

Here at Island Grill we are known for our ever-changing seasonal menus. The best dinner parties are the ones where the host is at ease from start to finish. Cook a dish that showcases seasonal produce, as the ingredients will shine without using an overcomplicated recipe. Produce that is in season is also cheaper, so the host’s wallet won’t suffer either.

Add the Finishing Touches

Slick presentation can transform a simple dish into something straight from the chef’s kitchen. For starters and mains, add a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze, a grind of black pepper or a garnish of micro herbs. To elevate your desserts use a tea strainer to sprinkle a powdering of icing sugar or cocoa powder across the dessert. If you’re feeling creative, you could pipe some coulis in a design of your choice from a chef’s squeezy bottle.

Island Grill, Lancaster London, Lancaster Terrace, London W2 2TY
Reservations on 020 7551 6000 or visit www.lancasterlondon.com

5 IDEAL TIPS TO HELP YOU BEAT THE WINTER BLUES

Editorial Team

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October 10, 2017

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5 IDEAL TIPS TO HELP YOU BEAT THE WINTER BLUES

It’s that time of year again when the dark evenings start to draw in, the temperatures drop and our morning coffee doubles up as a much-needed hand warmer. These factors combined can leaves us feeling a little blue.

So with that said, we’ve asked our experts for their top tips to keep us feeling bright even on those bleaker days!

Rise and shine

Even if it’s dark outside when you wake up, as soon as you’re out of bed open your curtains and let as much light in as possible. “Sunlight or bright daylight stimulates our body’s production of serotonin, the ‘happy hormone’. So the dark and dull days of winter can easily deplete your serotonin levels, making you feel low, sluggish and tired. Do what you can to maximize your natural light exposure,” explains Shona Wilkinson, Nutritionist at SuperfoodUK.com the online shopping destination for health & wellbeing.

Get moving

A recent study from the American Journal of Psychiatry, has found that even an hour of exercise a week may help prevent depression. So, even though it may be cold outside, make sure you don’t neglect your exercise routine. If you’re lacking in energy, try Nature’s Plus Ultra Juice Green Powder (£29.95), which will not only help to support your energy but is also rich in natural anti oxidants which can help support your immunity during the winter months.

Snack Happy

When we are feeling down, we can be tempted by snacks that are high in sugar or quickly absorbed carbohydrates, such as cakes, biscuits and chocolate. This is because carbs and sugar can provide a quick boost – not only in energy, but also in serotonin (the ‘happy hormone’). However this benefit will only last an hour or two, then we are likely to feel down again and reach for more sugar or stimulants – a vicious cycle! These highs and lows in energy induced by sugary foods can be unhelpful for anyone’s mood, but may be especially associated with low mood in winter – Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). To achieve a healthier balance, go for snacks that contain a good combination of slow-releasing (unrefined) carbohydrates, proteins, and if possible, some healthy fats. So for a mood-boosting snack try a slice of smoked salmon on two oatcakes. The salmon provides protein and essential fats, while the oatcakes provide slow-releasing carbohydrates,” suggests nutritionist Cassandra Barns.

Pop a happy pill

Vitamin D can help with the symptoms of mild depression and SAD. The best way to get this vitamin is through sunlight on the skin. Although you can get some vitamin D from foods such as butter and oily fish, it’s not really enough. The best way to get vitamin D is from spending lots of time in the sun. Make sure you take a supplement, such as Once A Day Sunshine D (£5.24) says Cassandra.

Give yourself a pick me up

If you hit that mid afternoon slump, perk yourself up with a couple of squares of raw cacao chocolate. Cassandra explains, ‘Cacao contains a compound called phenylethylamine (PEA for short!). PEA is thought to elevate mood and support energy and is said to be one of the reasons that many people love chocolate! By choosing raw chocolate, such as OMBAR chocolate [£1.99, Ocado] made with raw cacao and without refined sugar, you’re getting the benefits of the energy-supporting nutrients without the sugar rush.”

Have a laugh with a friend

You may just want to crawl under the covers after a long day at work, but catching up with your friends may actually benefit your health more! “Oxytocin is another ‘feel good’ hormone. Released when we bond socially and feel general trust, comfort and love, this hormone is just as powerful as serotonin. Whenever you feel low and need a lift, spend time with your family and friends to mellow down and feel instantly better,” says Shona.

Marilyn Glenville, one of the UK’s leading nutritionists, adds, “Many studies show that laughter boosts our energy, decreases stress hormones, improves immunity and diminishes pain. But what’s very important for anyone, who is stressed or feeling down, is that laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the natural feel-good chemicals that make us happier and relaxed.”

MAKE YOUR MORNING MARVELLOUS WITH THIS IDEAL RECIPE FOR EASY OVERNIGHT OATS

Cooking Tips + Recipes

Editorial Team

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October 9, 2017

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MAKE YOUR MORNING MARVELLOUS WITH THIS IDEAL RECIPE FOR EASY OVERNIGHT OATS

The mornings may be staying darker as we roll into autumn, but don’t forget that TOMORROW, 10^th October is World Porridge Day, so why not pay ‘hommage’ to the humble oat and make your morning marvellous with this gorgeous overnight oats recipe from award-winning White’s Oats.

Don’t forget that oats are a natural superfood, 100% wholegrain and an excellent source of fibre, protein, vitamins and antioxidants. Naturally high in fibre with a low GI index, they keep us fuller for longer, helping to keep snacking at bay.

Ingredients

40g Whites Organic Jumbo Porridge Oats
40g Whites Speedicook Oats
280ml Semi-Skimmed Milk
10g Toasted Sunflower & Pumpkin Seeds
20g Raisins
10g Chia Seeds
Grated Apple

Method

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and transfer into two jam jars. Make sure the lid is airtight and leave to soak the in the fridge overnight. In the morning add a dollop of oghurt, a sprinkle of toasted seeds and a handful of blueberries and sliced banana. Then drizzle with honey.

Toppings

Honey, Natural Yoghurt, Fresh Blueberries, Banana, Sprinkle of Toasted Seeds

5 IDEAL PROACTIVE STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SELF-CONFIDENCE

Editorial Team

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October 8, 2017

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5 IDEAL PROACTIVE STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SELF-CONFIDENCE

We all, at one point or another, have periods where our self-confidence isn’t as assured, as steadfast, as we’d like it to be. Equally, we’re all after that feeling where everything falls into place just that little bit more. That sweet spot where you could take on the world and win shouldn’t be a once a week occurrence, it should be your modus operandi. Period.

So, if you feel the onset of a deeper malaise, one which isn’t simply a getting out of bed on the wrong side, then it’s a good idea to be proactive about counteracting it. Everyone has the right to a strong feeling of self-worth, and with that in mind, here are our 5 steps to improving your self-confidence, and achieving the IDEAL you.

GET INTO FITNESS

Your fitness plays a significant role in how you feel, how you relate to yourself and everything around you. The science is there to prove it, with recent studies showing with unwavering certainty the link between exercise and good mental health. Good physical health achieved through fitness can be achieved through a variety of channels. ‘Fitness’ needn’t take the form of gruelling gym sessions and expensive memberships; a simple, brisk daily walk, or taking the stairs not the elevator, can make all the difference.

Often, it really is the little changes that exact the biggest results. If you feel the need to take a first leap into the world of more organised fitness, find time to consult with a personal trainer, such as is available at Origym, as they can give tailor-made, personalised advice on regimes, diet and more. That sense of routine and focus is perhaps as important as the physical gains themselves. Combined, it’s one sure fire way to start feeling better about yourself.

FIND A NEW HOBBY OR RE-INVIGORATE AN OLD ONE

Hobbies offer something to focus on, to nourish the soul, an opportunity to socialise with like minded people and a great starter to have in your conversation kit. Taking a new class can be the gateway to a new social circle as well as skill. Equally as important, we’ve found that in darker times, re-visiting an old hobby can be just as fulfilling as starting a new one. Dusting off the guitar after some time away offers great comfort and nostalgia. Taking up the painting you sidelined years ago can be the reminder that you’ve got serious skills you haven’t been nurturing recently.

EAT HEALTHILY

Dieting isn’t about starving yourself; it’s about eating healthy food, being mindful of what you eat and where it comes from, and striking the right balance between enjoying food and eating healthily. Store-bought, pre-packaged foods sold in supermarkets and fast-food joints just aren’t as fulfilling for the tummy or mind. We’re not saying cut out everything a little naughty, where’s the fun in that? It just pays to be mindful about your diet. It’s as simple as that.

CUT OFF TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS AND MAKE MORE TIME FOR FAMILY

It’s time to cut those hangers-on loose. That ex you keep going back to? He’s gone. That friend who puts you down, who you get nothing back from? Goodbye to them, too. Toxic relationships exist in all our lives, whether you choose to tolerate or eliminate them is up to you. On the flip side, make more time for close friends and family. Invest more in the meaningful relationships and less in the superficial ones, and you’ll notice an improvement in your self-confidence soon, we promise.

YOU’RE NOT ALONE

A lack of self-confidence is one thing, but when feelings of a lacking self-worth become persistent and interfere with the everyday, then there is no shame in confiding in someone or seeking help. Speak to someone close to you who you can trust, and consider the range of options on the table for battling low mood. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to consult with your G.P, as many more of us suffer than is widely believed. It’s good to talk. Always.

10 IDEAL TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WEDDING GUEST CATERING

Editorial Team

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October 8, 2017

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10 IDEAL TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WEDDING GUEST CATERING

With a wedding, you only get one opportunity to wow your guests. And given its importance in today’s culture, it’s hardly surprising that the one thing most guests remember above everything else is the catering.

Blow your guests away with killer catering services and your wedding will be the talk of the town for years. By contrast, underwhelm those you invite and you run the risk of leaving a somewhat sour taste in their mouths…no pun intended.

So in order to avoid the latter and ensure your big day is remembered for all the right reasons, here is a quick rundown of 10 expert tips for making the most of your wedding catering: