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WIN! Turn to pages 13 & 16
SMARTER WAYS TO WELLNESS
Simple choices to better health.
INSIDE: WOUND CARE | SKIN HEALTH FOOD LABELS DECODED | RESPIRATORY HEALTH
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EDITORIAL Content Manager: Raina Julies rainaj@picasso.co.za Contributors: Tersia Booyzen, Itumeleng Mogaki, Dr Bradley Wagemaker, Lisa Witepski Copy Editor: Brenda Bryden Content Co-ordinator: Natasha Maneveldt DESIGN Head of Design: Jayne Macé-Ferguson Senior Designer: Mfundo Archie Ndzo Cover Images: Insta_photos/istockphoto.com, Jordi Salas/istockphoto.com, Amarita/istockphoto.com, Almaje/istockphoto.com, bit245/istockphoto.com, jacoblund/istockphoto.com SALES Project Manager: Arnold Cruywagen arnoldc@picasso.co.za | +27 21 469 2508 +27 71 012 5286 Sales: Stephen Crawford, Richard White DIGITAL Online Editor: Stacey Visser vissers@businessmediamags.co.za PRODUCTION Production Editor: Shamiela Brenner Subscriptions and Distribution: Fatima Dramat, fatimad@picasso.co.za Printer: CTP Printers, Cape Town MANAGEMENT Management Accountant: Deidre Musha Business Manager: Lodewyk van der Walt General Manager, Magazines: Jocelyne Bayer
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E D I T O R I A L C O M M E N TA R Y
SUPPLEMENTING BETTER HEALTH
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ealth and wellness have become progressively sophisticated – and increasingly difficult to navigate. From targeted nutritional products and new delivery technologies to functional ingredients and everyday interventions, the options available to consumers seem to grow by the day. However, more choice does not necessarily mean better choices. In this issue of Healthy Times, we explore the evolving world of supplementation and the innovations supporting better health, looking beyond the bottle to consider how these products and interventions fit into the bigger picture of wellbeing. We begin with FACT VS FICTION (page 5), which cuts through some of the most persistent myths around supplements, from the belief that more is better to the assumption that natural always means safe. For those navigating the beauty aisle, SKIN HEALTH on page 8 examines the ingredients
behind today’s skin supplements, from collagen and hyaluronic acid to astaxanthin and elastin, and considers what they can offer healthy skin from within. On page 10, FOOD LABELS DECODED takes the conversation back to the supermarket shelf, exploring how health claims and ingredient lists influence our choices and why better label literacy matters when deciding what belongs in our diets – and whether supplementation is needed. In RESPIRATORY WELLNESS (page 12) we explore a layered approach to lung health, looking at nutritional support, such as NAC and vitamin D, alongside exercise, breathing practices and other lifestyle habits. WOUND CARE on page 13 examines the role nutrition can play in tissue repair and recovery, while emphasising that supplements are only one part of the healing equation.
And, in FOOD WELLNESS (page 15) we head into the kitchen to explore how familiar herbs and spices can add flavour, variety and potentially beneficial plant compounds to everyday meals. Across the issue, one message comes through clearly: there is no single product that holds the key to better health. The most valuable innovations are those that work alongside the fundamentals – good nutrition, appropriate medical care, movement, rest and informed decision-making. So, whether you’re considering a new supplement, decoding a food label or simply looking for ways to make healthier choices, we hope this issue helps you separate genuine value from the noise – and make choices that work for you. Raina Julies Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is sound, it is expressly not designed to diagnose or treat a medical condition or health problem. The information does not constitute medical advice. It is also subject to personal interpretation and may become dated or obsolete. The publisher, editor, authors and their employees or agents, therefore, cannot accept responsibility for the information in this publication or for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies contained therein, whether arising from negligence or otherwise. They are therefore not liable for any direct or indirect effects of the information. Please consult a qualified healthcare practitioner regarding any medical or health issues.
TED
ehouse, rmacies sa.co.za
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FA C T V S F I C T I O N
WHAT’S REALLY IN THE BOTTLE? Debunking MYTHS around supplements
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Lisa Witepski dispels some of the most prevalent myths around supplementation ccording to Deep Market Insights, South Africa’s supplements market was valued at $5.03-billion in 2025; a figure predicted to reach $9.75-billion by 2034. Clearly, demand for products promising better wellness is strong – but are those promises kept?
MYTH 1: IF IT’S SOLD, IT WORKS The premise: Many supplements promise impressive results, even if they are not supported by robust scientific evidence. How can you distinguish between proven benefits, emerging research and marketing hype? The reality: Sold does not mean proven, warns Dr Madison Kackley of the Tim Noakes Foundation. In the United States, for example, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is not authorised to approve dietary supplements for safety or effectiveness before they are marketed, and firms can often launch one without even notifying the agency, she says. Her misgivings are echoed by Professor Tim Noakes, also of the Noakes Foundation, who notes that proving claims requires studies lasting several decades and involving at least two groups of subjects, including a control group. His concern is that most studies “use surrogate markers of dubious predictive value”, then claim that the product ‘definitely’ works if there is even a small change in the marker. Dr Siddharth Govender of NADClinic adds: “The wellness industry moves much faster than scientific research. A product can become enormously popular on social media long before we have strong human clinical data to support many of the claims being made.” His advice? Before buying a product, ask if there is credible human research, if the claimed benefits are supported by multiple independent studies, if the dosage used in the product is consistent with what has been studied and, most importantly, if it is appropriate for you.
MYTH 2: MORE IS ALWAYS BETTER The premise: Higher doses deliver better results. The reality: Nutrients follow a dose-responsive curve, Dr Kackley explains. The benefits lie within range; below it, there is deficiency, but there is no added value above it. In fact, taking more than the recommended dose may lead to harm. “High doses of certain vitamins and minerals can cause toxicity, interfere with other nutrients or medications, or place unnecessary strain on organs such as the liver and kidneys. Even supplements that are generally considered safe may become problematic when taken in excessive quantities or combined without medical supervision,” says Dr Govender.
MYTH 3: MORE IS ALWAYS BETTER The premise: If it comes “from nature”, it’s risk-free. The reality: Arsenic is a natural substance, points out Dr Govender, as is cyanide. While natural medicine is generally well tolerated when appropriately selected and used, this isn’t always the case, warns Cobus Botha of PrimeSelf, a natural supplementation brand. He notes that even natural substances can have powerful effects on the body, cause side effects or interact with medications. “This is becoming increasingly important as supplements become more sophisticated. We are now able to isolate active compounds more precisely, concentrate them more effectively and improve their bioavailability. These advances can make natural medicines more effective and offer significant benefits, but they can also make them more potent and, in some cases, increase the risk.” It’s also important to note that safety is influenced by factors like health status, metabolism and medications already in use – so what’s safe for one person may cause harm in another. Before taking any supplement – even one made with natural ingredients – be sure to investigate quality testing and scientific evidence, Dr Govender cautions.
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bottle.” – Pippa Mullins
FA C T V S F I C T I O N
MYTH 4: SUPPLEMENTS CAN REPLACE A HEALTHY DIET
MYTH 5: EVERYONE NEEDS SUPPLEMENTS The premise: We could all use a little help when it comes to healthy living. The reality: Dr Pretorius explains that supplements are most beneficial when used to address specific nutrient deficiencies or increased nutritional needs, such as during pregnancy, in older adults, or among people with restrictive diets, instead of replacing a balanced diet. The final verdict? If you’re following a balanced diet that includes lean protein, fruit and veg, dairy and wholegrains, you’re probably obtaining the vitamins and minerals you need.
“Supplements are most beneficial when used to address specific nutrient deficiencies or increased nutritional needs.” – Dr Judey Pretorius MYTH 6: SUPPLEMENTS CAN BOOST IMMUNITY The premise: Never mind apples. A supplement a day keeps the doctor away. The reality: Worried about being slowed down by colds and flu? Time to increase your intake of vitamins C, D, zinc and iron – or so health influencers would have us believe. However, Dr Pretorius paints a slightly different picture: she says that although these nutrients are indeed essential for normal immune functioning, it’s UNSCENTED typically only people with a diagnosed deficiency (or increased risk of deficiency) who need to supplement. If you’re already following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress and getting sufficient quality rest, supplementing may do more harm than good. “At the very least, taking more supplements is unlikely to provide any additional immune benefits,” she says. Available at selected stores: Wellness Warehouse, Faithful to Nature, Health Shops & Weleda Pharmacies For more information: (021) 701 5000 or sales@goodhealthsa.co.za
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MYTH 7: MORE IS ALWAYS BETTER The premise: As supplements become more sophisticated, the distinction between health support and medical treatment is increasingly blurred. The reality: “Yes and no,” says Botha. “Supplements can be used to address a specific health concern, in which case they are being used in a therapeutic or medicinal way. But they can also be used more broadly to support normal function, correct nutritional gaps or help someone operate optimally. Medicines, on the other hand, are usually developed to diagnose, prevent or treat a particular condition.” The two work differently, too, he adds. Supplements provide nutrients, precursors or naturally occurring compounds that the body uses within its own normal physiological processes; for example, as building blocks for hormones, neurotransmitters, enzymes or tissues. Conventional medicines, meanwhile, often act more directly by blocking, stimulating or modifying a particular biological pathway. “That said, the distinction is not always clear-cut. Supplements are definitely becoming more sophisticated, and manufacturers are finding ways to improve absorption and concentrate the compounds responsible for a particular benefit. This may make them more effective, but it can also increase the potential for side effects, interactions and inappropriate use. We are seeing more and more natural compounds with effects that are comparable to medications. While supplements and medicines may overlap in how they are used and in the effects they produce, they aren’t interchangeable,” Botha says. Dr Govender echoes this. “Medicines are developed to diagnose, treat or prevent disease and undergo rigorous testing to establish their quality, safety and effectiveness before they can be registered for specific indications. Supplements, by contrast, are generally intended to support normal health and nutrition and are not designed to replace medical treatment.” He adds that problems arise when supplements are marketed as though they can treat complex medical conditions or deliver pharmaceutical-level outcomes without comparable evidence. “I believe that consumers should think less about whether something is classified as a supplement or a medicine and more about whether it is appropriate for their individual health needs,” he concludes. * Always consult your medical practitioner before taking any supplements.
Follow: Dr Siddharth Govender www.linkedin.com/in/siddharth-govender-323333a7 Dr Judey Pretorius www.linkedin.com/in/dr-judey-pretorius-475b61b Professor Tim Noakes www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-noakes-294b048 The Noakes Foundation www.linkedin.com/company/thenoakesfoundation PrimeSelf www.linkedin.com/company/primeselfza
Images: insta_photos/istockphoto.com, Valentyna Yeltsova/istockphoto.com
The premise: If you’re supplementing correctly, it doesn’t matter if there are gaps in your diet. The reality: Despite containing vitamins, minerals and amino acids, supplements are not intended to replace whole foods. Popping a pill or sipping a shake cannot make up for poor eating habits because, in addition to providing nutrients, foods offer other benefits, too, like fibre. “Numerous studies have shown that a balanced diet is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases, a benefit that supplements alone have not consistently demonstrated,” comments biomedical scientist Dr Judey Pretorius.
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S K I N H E A LT H
SUPPLEMENT SHELF DECODED Which ingredients actually matter for healthy skin?
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alk into any pharmacy or health store and you’ll find shelves lined with supplements promising glowing skin, stronger hair and youngerlooking complexions. From collagen powders and biotin gummies to marine extracts and antioxidant capsules, consumers are spoilt for choice. But with so many products making similar claims, how do you know which ingredients are truly backed by science? The answer lies in understanding how skin functions at a cellular level, and choosing ingredients that support the skin’s own regenerative processes rather than relying on marketing buzzwords. Healthy skin isn’t achieved by simply adding more collagen to your diet. The skin requires a combination of structural proteins, antioxidants and cellular signalling molecules that work together to support the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides strength, elasticity and resilience. The science is about supporting the body’s natural ability to repair and rebuild skin from within. Ingredients you need to add to your ultimate skin supplement regimen: • Marine collagen peptides: the building blocks. Collagen remains one of the most recognised ingredients for skin health, but not all collagen supplements are created equal. Highly bioavailable marine collagen peptides provide the amino acids required to support the body’s own collagen production. Rather than replacing collagen directly in the skin, these peptides provide the raw materials that fibroblast cells utilise during normal collagen synthesis. • Hyaluronic acid: hydration from within. Hydrated skin appears smoother, plumper and more resilient. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found within the skin where it attracts and retains water. As natural levels decline with age, skin can appear dry and lose volume. Supplementation helps support moisture retention within the extracellular matrix, contributing to improved skin hydration and overall skin quality. • Astaxanthin: the antioxidant powerhouse. Astaxanthin is often described as one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants. Unlike many antioxidants, astaxanthin is both water- and fat-soluble, allowing it to protect both the inside and outside of skin cells against oxidative stress. This dual action helps reduce free radical damage caused by UV exposure, pollution and everyday environmental stressors that contribute to premature skin ageing.
• PG elastin: supporting one of the skin’s most important structural proteins. While collagen provides firmness, elastin gives skin its ability to stretch, bounce back and maintain resilience. As natural elastin production declines with age, skin can become looser and less elastic, contributing to wrinkles and sagging. Supplementing with PG elastin helps support the skin’s ECM, promoting improved elasticity, firmness and overall skin integrity. When combined with collagen and other scientifically selected ingredients, PG elastin offers a comprehensive approach to maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin from within.
SUPPORTING THE EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX The extracellular matrix is increasingly recognised as one of the most important structures in skin ageing. It provides the scaffolding that supports collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, allowing skin to remain firm, smooth and resilient. As we age, the ECM gradually deteriorates due to oxidative stress, inflammation and declining collagen production. Supporting the ECM with targeted nutritional ingredients offers a far more comprehensive strategy than relying on a single ingredient. Skin health is multifactorial, and supplementation should reflect that complexity.
BEYOND BEAUTY While healthier-looking skin is often the visible outcome, supporting the extracellular matrix has broader benefits for overall skin function. A healthy ECM contributes to improved wound healing, better skin barrier function and greater resilience against environmental damage. For consumers navigating crowded supplement shelves, understanding ingredient quality and scientific formulation is becoming increasingly important. The most effective skin supplements are those formulated around evidence rather than trends. Consumers should look beyond attractive packaging and ask whether the ingredients have been selected to work synergistically, at relevant cellular activation levels, to support the biology of healthy skin. As the science of nutricosmetics continues to evolve, choosing ingredients that nourish the skin from within may prove to be one of the smartest investments in long-term skin health. * Always consult your medical practitioner before taking any supplements.
Follow: Dr Bradely Wagemaker
www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-wagemaker-75916971
Image: PeopleImages/istockphoto.com
From collagen and hyaluronic acid to astaxanthin and elastin, the supplement shelf is packed with promises. But which ingredients actually support healthy skin from within? By Dr Bradley Wagemaker, medical director of Lamelle Pharmaceuticals
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FOOD LABELS DECODED
FOOD FIRST. SUPPLEMENTS WITH PURPOSE Why knowing what’s on the label matters
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upplements may have a role to play in wellbeing, especially for people whose diets lack key nutrients. However, this is where reading food labels matters, helping consumers make healthier choices and determine whether supplementation is truly necessary. As Dr Rowen Govender, head of the Regenesys School of Health Sciences, says: “By understanding what they are already consuming, individuals can identify potential nutritional gaps and make evidence-based decisions about supplementation rather than relying on advertising claims or social media trends.”
NUTRITIONALLY ILLITERATE The problem, though, is that for many individuals, reading food labels doesn’t provide a clear understanding of what, exactly, is inside the foods they consume. Dr Govender points out that many food manufacturers use terms like “low fat”, “multigrain”, “organic” and “immune boosting” to create an impression that a food is healthy, while this is not always true. Nutrionist Nadine Lahana cites lentil chips as an example: the word “lentil” makes consumers think the snack is healthy, but they don’t consider whether the product contains additives. Fruit yoghurt is another culprit, often marketed as low fat, despite its high sugar content. “Health claims usually appear on the front of the pack, but you won’t know whether a product is healthy unless you read the ingredients on the back,” Lahana says. But this isn’t exactly problem-free, UNSCENTED either. Zukiswa Zimela of HEALA notes that South Africans have a low degree of nutritional literacy – even if you are checking the list of ingredients, you might not understand their impact on your health. Yaron Assabi, founder of frozen meal and supplement supplier Chilled Lifestyle, recently introduced a food scanner that allows consumers to scan the ingredient panel on a Available at selected stores: Wellness Warehouse, Faithful to Nature, Health Shops & Weleda Pharmacies For more information: (021) 701 5000 or sales@goodhealthsa.co.za
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food item to obtain a wellness score, decode labels and understand ingredients. This scanner addresses a common problem: “Most labels list these ingredients under technical or unfamiliar names, so even a conscientious shopper can miss a preservative or synthetic additive hiding in plain sight,” Assabi says.
FACILITATING BETTER CHOICES This is one of the reasons HEALA is pushing for the establishment of mandatory front-of-packaging warning labels, as suggested by the Draft Regulation Relating to Labelling and Advertising of Foodstuffs put forward in 2023. Zimela explains that simple warnings, such as “high in sugar” or “high in salt”, printed boldly and in a manner that is easy to understand, will make healthy food choices a simple matter – especially important in a country where there are high levels of lifestyle diseases. Countries that have already implemented mandatory front-of-label packaging have seen a decline in the purchase of foods high in energy, sodium, sugar and saturated fats.
HEALTHIER CHOICES While we wait for similar policies to be implemented in South Africa, consumers can take steps to ensure healthier food choices. Remember that ingredients are listed according to quantity, so the first ingredient named makes up the largest proportion of the product, advises Dr Govender. Also, look out for names like sucrose, fructose, dextrose or glucose, which indicate hidden sugars. Meanwhile, be realistic about serving sizes: the nutritional values provided are usually based on a serving smaller than the amount you would typically consume. “Look for trusted endorsements, such as the Heart Mark by the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, which indicate healthier options that are lower in sugar, unhealthy fats and salt, and, in some cases, higher in dietary fibre,” says Assabi. * Always consult your medical practitioner before taking any supplements.
Follow: Dr Rowen Govender www.linkedin.com/in/rowen-govender-0305 Nadine Lahana www.linkedin.com/in/nadine-lahana-6756081a Yaron Assabi www.linkedin.com/in/yaronassabi HEALA www.linkedin.com/company/heala-healthy-living-alliance
Image: Jordi Salas/istockphoto.com
Lisa Witepski explores how better label literacy can help consumers make healthier choices and decide when supplementation is actually needed
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R E S P I R AT O R Y W E L L N E S S
SUPPORTING YOUR LUNGS hile prescribed inhalers and evidence-based medical treatments remain central for people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic bronchitis, clinicians are increasingly exploring how targeted supplements and lifestyle habits can complement traditional care. South African experts, pulmonologist Dr Alex van Blydenstein and primary care physician Dr Juanri Jonck, emphasise that these interventions can be valuable, but only when used appropriately. Dr Jonck says respiratory support “works best as a layered strategy rather than relying on a single lung supplement.”
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strength,” Dr Jonck explains. These gains translate into better walking capacity and quality of life, especially when combined with pulmonary rehabilitation and resistance exercise. The gut–lung axis is another emerging area of interest. “The gut plays a big role in every part of the body, including the lungs,” Dr Jonck notes. Certain probiotics may modestly reduce the frequency and duration of upper respiratory infections, although benefits are strain specific. Zinc lozenges, when started early, may shorten the common cold, while regular vitamin C may slightly reduce its duration or severity. These interventions support recovery from infections, but “do not directly treat asthma, COPD or pneumonia”. Omega 3 fatty acids may support inflammatory balance and muscle health. Dr van Blydenstein points to emerging evidence for airway inflammation modulation, but Dr Jonck emphasises that evidence for direct improvements in breathing or lung function “remains inconsistent”.
SUPPLEMENTS WITH THE STRONGEST EVIDENCE
LIFESTYLE: THE FOUNDATION OF RESPIRATORY WELLBEING
Among over-the-counter options, N acetylcysteine (NAC) has one of the clearest evidence bases. Dr Jonck explains: “NAC, found easily in the aisles of most pharmacies, has some of the clearest evidence, particularly in chronic bronchitis and stable COPD. NAC acts as a mucolytic, which means it makes thick mucus easier to clear, and regular use may reduce exacerbations and hospital admissions. However, it does not reliably improve lung function itself.” Dr van Blydenstein has similarly highlighted NAC’s mucolytic role in chronic bronchitis and COPD management. Vitamin D remains one of the most researched micronutrients in respiratory medicine. Dr van Blydenstein notes that “low vitamin D levels are consistently associated with increased susceptibility to respiratory infections and poorer asthma control”. Dr Jonck adds that deficiency is widespread: “Even with the abundance of sunshine in South Africa, vitamin D is still a very common deficiency among my patients.” Supplementation appears most useful when deficiency is documented, and some COPD studies show fewer exacerbations and improved UNSCENTED spirometry. However, she cautions that vitamin D “should not be promoted as a guaranteed method of preventing respiratory infections in people whose levels are already optimal”. For underweight or muscle depleted COPD patients, nutritional support can be transformative. “Protein rich oral nutritional supplements can improve body weight composition and respiratory muscle Available at selected stores: Wellness Warehouse, Faithful to Nature, Health Shops & Weleda Pharmacies For more information: (021) 701 5000 or sales@goodhealthsa.co.za
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While supplements can provide meaningful support, lifestyle remains the cornerstone of lung health. Dr Jonck is unequivocal: “Ultimately, smoking and vaping cessation, regular exercise, sufficient protein, good sleep and early medical care remain the foundations of respiratory health.” These may seem like “boring solutions”, she says, but they consistently outperform any single supplement. Exercise improves lung capacity, strengthens respiratory muscles and enhances oxygen efficiency. Dr van Blydenstein emphasises structured pulmonary rehabilitation for chronic lung disease, while Dr Jonck highlights everyday movement: “Even 20 minutes of brisk walking can improve breathing comfort.” Breathing retraining techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing and inspiratory muscle training, can also help patients manage symptoms and improve endurance. “Patients feel the difference within days,” Dr Jonck notes.
A COMPLEMENTARY APPROACH Respiratory support is most effective when supplements, lifestyle habits and medical treatment work together. As Dr Jonck emphasises: “Supplements should complement and never replace proper diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.” Dr van Blydenstein’s specialist perspective reinforces the same message: targeted interventions can support lung resilience, but they must sit alongside – not instead of – established respiratory care. * Always consult your medical practitioner before taking any supplements. Follow: Dr Alex van Blydenstein www.linkedin.com/in/alex-van-blydenstein-a5a12bb2 Dr Juanri Jonck www.linkedin.com/in/juanri-jonck-062385174
Image: bit245/istockphoto.com
From NAC and vitamin D to exercise and better breathing habits, Tersia Booyzen explores what can support respiratory health – and where supplements fit into the bigger picture
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WOUND CARE
HEALING FROM WITHIN Itumeleng Mogaki finds out how supplements can support wound healing and tissue repair
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hen skin is damaged, the body needs more than creams to heal. Good nutrition provides the building blocks for tissue repair, while proper wound care and management of underlying health conditions create the right environment for recovery. So where do supplements fit in?
SUPPORTING THE BODY’S HEALING PROCESS Toni Carroll, founder of My Beauty Luv, says healing requires the right nutrients and the ability to use them. “Healing is essentially a construction project, and the body needs both the building materials and the machinery to use them,” Carroll says. Carroll adds: “Protein provides the amino acids needed to build new cells and structural proteins, while collagen provides specialised building blocks. Vitamin C is essential for normal collagen production, and zinc supports protein and DNA synthesis, cell division, immune function and wound healing.” She adds that supplements are most useful when they address a genuine nutritional gap. “Supplements may have a role after major surgery, trauma or burns, with some chronic wounds, or where poor appetite, restrictive diets or nutrient deficiencies are limiting recovery.” Collagen is promising for supporting skin properties such as hydration and elasticity, she says, but the evidence is less convincing when it comes to directly accelerating wound healing. “The evidence for supporting general skin properties is stronger than the evidence for treating or dramatically accelerating wound healing.” Carroll warns against assuming that more is better. “Excessive zinc can interfere with copper absorption, while high doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal problems and may pose risks for some people.” Ultimately, she says supplements should complement, not replace, good nutrition and proper wound care. “You cannot out-supplement poor wound care, poor nutrition, smoking, uncontrolled blood sugar or an underlying medical problem.”
KEY STEPS ON THE ROAD TO HEALING Professor Tim Noakes, founder of The Noakes Foundation, reinforces the importance of looking beyond supplements. For him, good wound healing starts with the fundamentals. 1. Keep the wound clean and properly cared for: maintain wound sterility and keep the skin edges properly juxtaposed to support healing.
2. Pay attention to blood sugar: for example, people with type 2 diabetes are particularly prone to poor wound healing. Keeping healthy blood glucose levels is therefore an important part of recovery. 3. Get the nutrition right: a nutritious, protein-rich diet provides the building blocks needed for tissue repair. Meat, chicken, fish, dairy, eggs and some nuts can contribute valuable nutrients. 4. Consider supplements when they are needed: if you are well-nourished and healthy, supplements may offer little added benefit. However, in cases of difficult-to-heal wounds, discuss whether supplements such as protein, zinc and vitamins A, C and E could support recovery. 5. Look beyond oral supplements: collagen may support wound healing when taken orally, but there is stronger evidence for collagen applied directly to the wound. The message from both experts is simple: supplements may support healing, but they work best alongside proper wound care, good nutrition and attention to underlying health conditions. * Always consult your medical practitioner before taking any supplements.
SMARTER WAYS TO PROTECT A WOUND
Wound care has moved beyond the traditional plaster, with innovations designed to protect damaged skin while allowing people to get on with daily life. Newer approaches include water-resistant films that can be sprayed onto wounds and hydrocolloid dressings that create a moist environment around the injury. These technologies can offer greater flexibility, protection and comfort than conventional dressings, particularly for wounds in awkward or high-movement areas. The evolution of wound care reflects a broader shift towards solutions that work with the body’s healing process while fitting more seamlessly into active lifestyles. Elastoplast’s latest Second Skin innovations are examples of this approach.
WIN!
What type of dressing technology creates a moist environment around a wound to support healing?
How to enter:
Email your answer, together with your name and contact number, to info@picasso.co.za, using ELASTOPLAST COMPETITION as the subject line. The first two correct entries received before 15 November 2026, will win an Elastoplast hamper. For competition Ts & Cs click here.
Follow: Professor Tim Noakes www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-noakes-294b048 Toni Carroll www.linkedin.com/in/toni-ann-carroll The Noakes Foundation www.linkedin.com/company/thenoakesfoundation My Beauty Luv www.mybeautyluv.com
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FOOD WELLNESS
FLAVOUR THAT WORKS HARDER When we think about supplements, we tend to picture capsules, powders, gummies and neatly packaged products promising to fill nutritional gaps. However, there is another, much more familiar place to start: the kitchen, writes Raina Julies
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upplements can help fill specific nutritional gaps, but good nutrition starts on the plate. Herbs and spices add flavour while bringing potentially beneficial plant compounds to everyday meals. That distinction matters: culinary ingredients are not supplements, and the quantities used in cooking are generally very different from the concentrated doses found in supplements. The opportunity is not to turn the kitchen into a pharmacy, but to make healthy eating more enjoyable while making the most of the ingredients already in our kitchens.
THE FUNCTIONAL SPICE RACK Dr Hester Visagie, a functional medicine and nutrition practitioner, describes spices as “gentle allies” that may support digestion, inflammation, cardiovascular health and energy. She highlights five familiar staples – ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, cayenne and black pepper – for their bioactive compounds, including gingerols, curcuminoids, cinnamaldehyde and capsaicin. The important caveat is that the potential benefits of a spice in the diet should not be confused with those of a concentrated supplement. A turmeric supplement containing curcumin, for example, can deliver a very different dose from the turmeric used in cooking.
TURMERIC: GOLDEN POTENTIAL Turmeric gets its vibrant colour from curcuminoids, including curcumin. Dr Visagie points to curcumin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and its potential role in supporting the body’s response to oxidative stress and inflammation. Curcumin is poorly absorbed on its own, which is why some supplement formulations use strategies to improve its bioavailability. Dr Visagie also notes that piperine, found in black pepper, may enhance curcumin absorption. In the kitchen, turmeric adds colour, earthy flavour and warmth to curries, soups, rice dishes, roasted vegetables and drinks.
CINNAMON: NATURALLY WARM
GINGER: A LITTLE HEAT
Ginger brings warmth and depth to soups, curries, stir-fries, teas and baked treats. Dr Visagie highlights its potential digestive benefits, including a role in easing nausea. Whether grated into a stir-fry, steeped in tea or added to soup, ginger is an easy way to bring flavour and variety to everyday meals.
Cinnamon adds sweetness and warmth without adding sugar, making it an easy way to lift breakfast dishes, desserts and drinks. Dr Visagie highlights cinnamaldehyde, a compound found in cinnamon, and its potential role in digestion and blood-sugar regulation. This should not, however, be confused with cinnamon being a treatment for blood-sugar disorders. Sprinkle it over oats or yoghurt, stir it into a warm drink or use it to add depth to baking.
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FOOD WELLNESS
CAYENNE: TURNING UP THE HEAT Cayenne gets its fiery kick from capsaicin. Dr Visagie notes its potential effects on metabolism and appetite, although it is certainly not a magic weight-management ingredient. Its immediate contribution is flavour: a little cayenne can add heat to soups, roasted vegetables, eggs and bean dishes without relying on a heavy sauce. Black pepper is another everyday flavour-builder. Dr Visagie notes that its piperine content may enhance the absorption of certain compounds, including curcumin. It also adds depth and bite to everything from salads and vegetables to soups and stews.
For most people, a varied diet provides the foundation of good nutrition. Supplements can help address specific nutritional gaps or increased needs, but they should complement healthy eating rather than compensate for a poor diet. This is particularly relevant with spices. The amount used to season a meal is generally very different from the concentrated extracts found in supplements, so the effects of a supplement cannot automatically be applied to everyday cooking. And, “natural” does not automatically mean risk-free. Dr Visagie advises people to listen to their bodies and consult a doctor when needed, particularly when considering concentrated products. The smarter approach is to start with the plate: vegetables, pulses, wholegrains, quality proteins and healthy fats, with herbs and spices bringing flavour and variety. Where there is a genuine nutritional need, targeted supplementation can have a place. * Always consult your medical practitioner before taking any supplements.
GINGER AND CINNAMON KOMBUCHA Ingredients
UNSCENTED
• 2 cups apple juice • 1 small apple, grated • 1 tsp Hinds Spices Pure Ground Ginger • 1 tsp Hinds Spices Cinnamon • 2 cinnamon sticks • 1 tsp honey • 1 litre Rooibos Kombucha 1. Place the apple juice, grated apple, Hinds Spices Pure Ground Ginger. Hinds Spices cinnamon and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan, simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in the honey and set aside to cool. 2. Mix the mixture with kombucha. Pour over ice and serve garnished with rosemary.
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Celebrity chef Zanele van Zyl shows how a few simple ingredients and well-chosen spices can turn an everyday dish into a flavour-packed favourite. Serves: 6–8 Ingredients
• 2 medium tomatoes, deseeded and finely diced • 1 cucumber, deseeded and finely diced • ½ red onion, finely chopped • ¼ cup fresh coriander, chopped • 1–2 green chillies, finely sliced (optional) • Juice of 1 lemon or lime • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional) • Salt, to taste • Freshly ground Hinds Spices Black Pepper to taste
Method
1. Combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, coriander and chilli in a bowl. 2. Add the lemon or lime juice and olive oil. 3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. 4. Toss gently until well combined. 5. Leave to stand for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.
WIN!
What’s your favourite Hinds Spices spice?
Method
Available at selected stores: Wellness Warehouse, Faithful to Nature, Health Shops & Weleda Pharmacies For more information: (021) 701 5000 or sales@goodhealthsa.co.za
ZANELE’S FRESH SALSA
How to enter:
Email your answer, together with your name and contact number, to info@picasso.co.za, using HINDS SPICE COMPETITION as the subject line. The first two correct entries received before 15 November 2026, wins a HINDS SPICES hamper. For competition Ts & Cs click here.
Images: Almaje/istockphoto.com, pilipphoto/istockphoto.com, Nungning20/istockphoto.com, Sissoupitch/istockphoto.com, Amarita/istockphoto.com, iodrakon/istockphoto.com, Supplied
FOOD FIRST, SUPPLEMENTS WHERE NEEDED
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