Latest news with #BritishDieteticAssociation
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The health benefits of old-fashioned castor oil
The internet is rife with self-proclaimed health experts who insist they have the answers to life's ailments – from taping your mouth shut for better sleep, to juice cleanses, and intermittent fasting for weight loss. Now, traditional remedies are back in vogue. Castor oil may not have the most glamorous reputation, but it's the hottest new trend on TikTok – with influencers touting its supposed stomach-flattening effects. The method? Rubbing castor oil into the belly button, in a process known as 'navel pulling'. In a TikTok video which now has over 7.5m views, Miranda Wilson, an aesthetic nurse practitioner, says she 'started doing castor oil navel pulling to help with digestion', and claims her stomach 'has never been so flat'. It's the latest in a long line of health claims linked to castor oil. Whilst it was used traditionally as a laxative, the humble plant oil has since undergone a renaissance and can supposedly strengthen hair, moisturise skin, and lengthen eyelashes. So, is navel pulling the cure to bloating – and which castor oil trends actually work? What is castor oil? Castor oil is a plant-based oil extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, explains Dr Dev Patel, skin doctor and founder of Perfect Skin Solutions. It is thick and a pale yellow colour. For centuries, it has been used in traditional medicine, and today appears in a variety of products. Its main active component is ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid, which gives castor oil its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial powers. It can be bought in pure liquid form, in a pack (which can be applied to the skin), and in a variety of hair and skincare products. Does navel pulling work? Dr Patel explains that applying castor oil to the navel is inspired by an ancient Ayurvedic belief that the belly button is a central energy point in the body, connected to multiple organs via nerve pathways. Social media users claim it helps digestion, reduces bloating, and can even alleviate period pain. However, navel pulling enthusiasts, look away now. Both our medical and nutritional experts agree this trend is a fictional fad. 'Putting castor oil into your navel seems like just another odd health myth based on no clinical evidence,' says Dr Frankie Phillips, registered dietitian and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association. Whilst it's unlikely to do any harm, she says it seems to be, 'entirely pointless with no physiological benefits'. Dr Patel agrees. He says there is no robust scientific evidence to suggest that placing castor oil in the belly button has a direct effect on digestion. 'However, the act of massaging oil into the abdomen may indirectly support digestion by stimulating the vagus nerve, enhancing parasympathetic activity, or simply encouraging relaxation and awareness of the digestive tract,' he adds. So while it may have value as part of a self-care routine, the claimed digestive benefits remain anecdotal rather than evidence-based. Is castor oil an effective moisturiser? Castor oil is an excellent occlusive, Dr Patel says, which means it helps to lock moisture into the skin by forming a barrier. Its high viscosity can help those with very dry or cracked skin, whilst the ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory properties which may help to soothe irritation. However, he warns those with acne-prone or oily skin to beware. Due to its thick texture, it can block hair follicles which could lead to more spots or – in extreme cases – folliculitis (infection of the follicles). Dr Patel says it's best used as part of a moisturising blend or for targeting dry areas, such as heels or elbows. Dr Sharon Wong, consultant dermatologist and hair specialist, agrees – and advises people not to apply pure castor oil directly to the skin as it can cause irritation and breakouts. A 2023 clinical trial involving 22 people found that creams containing castor oil appeared to reduce dark under-eye circles – suggesting it could be an effective alternative treatment. However, due to the limited sample size, the researchers said further trials were needed to confirm their findings. Does castor oil improve hair health? Many have claimed that castor oil is the key to hair growth, however there is no scientific evidence to suggest this is true, says Dr Wong. It's not all bad news for those who have been coating their locks, though, as she says the rich proteins and fatty acids in castor oil can moisturise and strengthen the body of hair. Dr Wong warns those using castor oil on their hair not to overdo it as excessive use, combined with infrequent washing, can result in scalp acne, hair follicles becoming clogged, and the worsening of issues such as dandruff and eczema. In rare cases, overuse of castor oil can lead to sudden matting of the hair, known as hair felting. She suggests using a thin coating of castor oil once a week as a conditioning and moisturising agent. 'Focus on application from the mid lengths to the tips of the hair and not the scalp', she says. Can castor oil lengthen eyelashes? This is a very popular claim, Dr Patel says, however unfortunately there's no strong clinical evidence to suggest that castor oil directly promotes eyelash or eyebrow growth. However, there are still some potential benefits for those who have been coating their eyelashes in oily serum. Dr Patel says 'it can improve the appearance and condition of lashes by coating them and reducing breakage due to dryness or environmental damage'. It's best to view castor oil as a conditioning agent, rather than a hair-growth stimulant, he concludes. Is castor oil a useful laxative? In one of its most popular and traditional uses, castor oil is a popular laxative, historically used for short-term constipation relief. The ricinoleic acid is 'released in the small intestine and stimulates intestinal muscle contractions, typically resulting in a bowel movement within two to six hours,' Dr Patel says. In the US, castor oil is approved by the FDA as an over-the-counter stimulant laxative for occasional use, however this is not the case in the UK. The MHRA (UK's equivalent to the FDA) can only approve medicine and medical devices if they are marketed as such. However, in the UK, castor oil is typically sold and labelled as a cosmetic or massage oil – not a medicinal product – meaning people use it informally for its laxative effects, Dr Patel explains. It's perfectly safe for most people to take castor oil by mouth for constipation relief, says Dr Tony Fincham, a GP at Benenden Hospital. Adults can take a single dose of one to four tablespoons a day, but it should only be used for short-term relief. It's not suitable for everyone though, Dr Patel warns. Pregnant women, children under 12, people with inflammatory bowel disease, and individuals on certain medications such as steroids, should not use it without consulting a medical professional. Can castor oil heal wounds? In its role as a wound healer, castor oil has traditionally thrived. Ricinoleic acid has strong anti-inflammatory properties and castor oil-based ointments, often made in combination with other ingredients, have been used over the years to improve healing and reduce pain, Dr Patel says. A 2020 study in the Pharmacognosy Magazine highlighted castor oil's anti-inflammatory potential, as well as its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, Dr Fincham says that whilst some plasters used to contain castor oil, this is no longer the case as there was found to be a risk of irritation or allergic reaction. Therefore castor oil should only be used to treat wounds if recommended by a doctor, and under professional guidance. Expert verdict: What's the best use for castor oil? Dr Fincham and Dr Patel both agree that castor oil is best used for moisturising and conditioning – 'particularly for dry skin, brittle lashes, eyebrows, or hair'. It's also a great choice for cuticles, dry heels, and patchy rough areas, Dr Patel says. But he urges those with sensitive or acne-prone skin to use with caution or in a diluted form. 'As a natural, multi-purpose ingredient, it can be a valuable addition to your skincare cabinet,' he concludes, 'But it's not a miracle oil, and I would say its effects are mostly supportive rather than transformative.' Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
BBC News
17-07-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Slushies unsafe for children under seven, food watchdog warns
Children under seven years old should not have shop-bought slushies over health concerns about a chemical they contain, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has government watchdog said slushed ice drinks containing glycerol - a type of sweetener - were unsafe for young children, and consumption of them should be limited for children aged between seven and slushies contain naturally occurring glycerol instead of sugar to stop them freezing solid, giving them the slushy FSA said consuming large amounts of it can cause side-effects, including headaches and sickness, low blood sugar levels, shock, and loss of consciousness in children. Prof Robin May, the FSA's chief scientific advisor, said: "While these drinks may seem harmless and side effects are generally mild, they can, especially when consumed in large quantities over a short time, pose serious health risks to young children."The fresh FSA guidance comes following research indicating children under eight should completely avoid drinking studied the cases of 21 two- to seven-year-olds in the UK and Ireland who needed A&E treatment after becoming acutely ill within an hour of having the drinks, mostly between 2018 and children all recovered and were discharged from Duane Mellor from the British Dietetic Association told the BBC that it was "relatively rare" for children to suffer ill side-effects after drinking slushies containing registered dietician said the "heat of the day", dehydration and a child being excited could "exacerbate" symptoms linked to consuming the recommended that children have water or cold milk as alternatives to slushies - or if they want a sweet drink, fruit flavoured water with ice cubes, a diet drink or a low-sugar ice FSA's updated guidance is stricter than its previous advice, which said that under-fives should avoid now also says children aged seven to 10 should have no more than one 350ml slushy drink - "roughly the size of a fizzy drink can" - a day."We are asking parents and carers to take extra care when buying drinks for young children, particularly during warmer months when consumption of 'slushies' typically increases," said Prof guidance also applies to ready-to-drink slushy pouches and make-at-home kits of slushy FSA says its guidance should be on a "written warning at [the] point of sale" and that producers should make the drinks with the "minimum quantity" of glycerol "technically necessary to achieve the required 'slush' drink effect".It also recommends against vendors offering free slushy refills in venues where children under the age of 10 would likely consume them.
Tom's Guide
02-07-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Collagen is out, sea moss is in — so I tried a tablespoon every day, and this is what I really think
Touted as 'the plant-powered rival to Collagen' and loved by celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kim K, sea moss is having its moment in the spotlight as a potent superfood that can supercharge your health and wellbeing. But is it fad or fact? I decided to take a tablespoon every day and find out for myself. The benefits of sea moss are said to include boosting skin health, immunity, gut health and thyroid function while reducing inflammation. It's a nutrient-dense bomb of beauty benefits that people are using as a 100% natural skincare supplement — no tablets, capsules, or powders in sight. Could sea moss transform my skin? Here's what I really think. Sea moss is part of the red algae family found in places like the Caribbean. Its scientific name is Chondrus crispus, which I (personally) think is catchier for the market, and incidentally sounds like either a character from the Harry Potter franchise or my future rap name. It's also low in calories and fat and is packed full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and iodine. According to Wyld Herbs (more on that shortly), sea moss promotes natural collagen production to improve skin health, fight inflammation and boost immunity. Its fiber and live bacteria content can also support optimal gut health. Sea moss contains iodine, which supports thyroid and hormone function; however, it's worth consulting your physician first if you have a thyroid condition and use medication already. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Then there's the iron content, which can help battle tiredness and fatigue and boost energy, and nutrients like calcium and phosphorus are also present. Although your diet should ideally contain all the vitamins and minerals you need, sea moss is a great supplement to include to give you that little extra boost. Prices start from £15, depending on the product, and can be shipped internationally, although you may have to pay extra for imports. You can also mix and match flavor bundles before checkout. A common method for consuming sea moss is a gel, which is what I've been using. I used Wyld Herbs, which offers sea moss gel in a range of flavors such as turmeric, raw honey (sourced from local beekeepers) and strawberry (my favorite — it tastes like a jam tart!). There are other ways to consume, but I found this the easiest, as I could just swipe a tablespoon straight from the jar. I also sometimes added it to smoothies, shakes, or my go-to oats recipe. Wyld Herbs works with female farmers and wild forages their sea moss from protected Caribbean waters. You can even apply it topically to your face twice per week as a mask if you prefer. Sea moss is high in iodine, so intake should be discussed with your physician if you have a thyroid condition and use medication. General guidelines suggest that one to two tablespoons of sea moss gel consumed daily is safe for most people. The British Dietetic Association doesn't recommend consuming brown seaweed or kelp every day, though, and warns against using seaweed or kelp supplements as iodine levels can vary. You should also avoid sea moss gels if you are pregnant or have a seafood or shellfish allergy. First, the sea moss gel I used tasted delicious, so I consumed it each morning straight from the jar or added it to my smoothies or oats, opting for one heaped tablespoon. I do have a thyroid condition, but didn't experience any adverse effects using this amount. However, always listen to your body, and as mentioned before, ask your physician if you're unsure. I'm going to say straight up that I've been using this product for more than a month, and I haven't noticed any physical or mental benefits so far. That isn't to say that consuming extra vitamins and minerals isn't doing my body good, but I haven't noticed a change to my skin or physical well-being that I can chalk up to sea moss. I'm enjoying the product, and it's a great low-fat and low-calorie topper for yoghurts, oats, or smoothies — or even just straight from the jar when you're feeling peckish. But I wouldn't stray from a balanced diet or expect a wonder cure for your skin, gut and well-being needs. Further research is needed, and I'll be reporting back if I notice any changes to my health over the coming months. Although sea moss is related to seaweed, the majority of research supports the health benefits of seaweed as opposed to sea moss specifically. The benefits are reported to be similar, but the research is (at this stage) limited. A 2021 study suggests marine seaweeds contain 'bioactive components that promote a healthy diet,' listing properties like anticancer, antiviral, antihypertensive, antiinflammatory, neuroprotective and antifungal — to name a few. However, it adds that seaweeds can accumulate heavy metals and minerals, so consumption should not exceed the recommended daily allowance (150 mcg for adults). A risk assessment published by Environmental Science and Pollution Research suggests 4g per day of dehydrated Irish moss seaweeds contributes 'greatly' toward the recommended daily allowance for iodine in children (roughly 25.7%). A study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine on Chondrus crispus (sea moss) found that it could have prebiotic effects, improving gut health and immune modulation. However, the research was conducted on animals (rats) and not on humans. It's promising, at least, but a gamechanger in tablespoon form? Not yet.
Daily Record
01-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Foods that could boost your child's attention span at school
There are some nutrients which stand out as being particularly important for a child's attention at school - and the good news is that they can be found in everyday foods Diet can significantly influence your child's academic performance at school. Therefore, it's important they're eating the right foods. The British Dietetic Association (BDA) emphasises that children require a range of nutrients to support their brain function and learning capacity. A proper intake of nutrients can only be achieved by eating a balanced diet full of various healthy foods. However, certain nutrients are particularly crucial for maintaining a child's focus in school. Let's look at some of the main ones. The importance of vitamin D and omega-3 Both vitamin D and omega-3 have been identified as having a substantial impact on a child's mood and their ability to concentrate in an educational environment. A controlled clinical trial involving 50 children with ADHD discovered that those with higher vitamin D levels exhibited significantly improved attention compared to those with lower levels. The same study concluded that vitamin D could enhance cognitive function in children with ADHD. Similarly, a study examining the role of omega-3 in a child's attention found that it could boost cognitive performance in children and adolescents, while a deficiency could lead to reduced attention levels. Full list of foods that could impr If you're worried about your child's attention span, consider incorporating more foods rich in vitamin D or omega-3 into their diet. Common sources of these nutrients can include readily available fatty fish, as well as certain vegetables, seeds, and nuts. While red meat can provide valuable nutrition, it's generally advised to consume it in moderation due to its high levels of saturated fat and salt. Some foods you could introduce into your child's diet include: Salmon Tuna Mackerel Sardines Eggs Mushrooms Fortified cereals and milk Flaxseed Chia seeds Soybeans Walnuts Canola Oil Spinach Brussels sprouts The NHS also suggests that children should aim for at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day to ensure they're receiving an adequate amount of minerals, vitamins, and fibre. If you have concerns about your child's attention span or diet, it's recommended to consult with your GP before making any significant dietary changes.
Daily Mirror
01-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Best foods to improve children's attention at school
A child's diet can play a huge role in their academic performance, with a variety of nutrients being required to help support their brain and their ability to learn Diet can significantly influence your child's academic performance at school, making it crucial they consume the right foods. The British Dietetic Association (BDA) emphasises that children require a range of nutrients to support their brain function and learning capacity. The only way to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients is by providing a balanced diet comprising various healthy foods. However, certain nutrients are particularly important for maintaining a child's focus at school. Both vitamin D and omega-3 have been identified as having a substantial impact on a child's mood and their ability to concentrate in an educational environment. A controlled clinical trial involving 50 children with ADHD discovered that those with higher levels of vitamin D demonstrated significantly improved attention compared to those with lower levels. The same study concluded that vitamin D could enhance cognitive function in children with ADHD. Similarly, a study investigating the role of omega-3 in a child's attention found that it could improve cognitive performance in children and adolescents. A deficiency in this nutrient could result in reduced attention levels. Full list of foods that could improve a child's attention If you're worried about your child's attention span, you might consider incorporating more foods rich in vitamin D or omega-3 into their diet. Common sources of both these nutrients include readily available fatty fish, certain vegetables, seeds, and nuts. Whilst red meat can provide valuable nutrients, it's generally advised to consume it in moderation due to its high levels of saturated fat and salt. Salmon Tuna Mackerel Sardines Eggs Mushrooms Fortified cereals and milk Flaxseed Chia seeds Soybeans Walnuts Canola Oil Spinach Brussels sprouts The NHS also recommends that children should aim to eat five or more portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day to ensure they're getting a suitable amount of minerals, vitamins, and fibre. If you're concerned about your child's attention or diet, you should consult your GP before making any significant changes.
