Understanding options as ATO action is set to increase

For businesses that are unable to repay their debt in full they will need to look at one of the many insolvency options available to them. For eligible SME businesses these options can provide for the ongoing trade of the company with a compromise put to creditors through a Small Business Restructure program, which are looked upon favourably by the ATO when dealing with businesses that have a viable operation. In assessing the viability of a business many factors need to be considered, including the mental health of the directors.

At Brooke Bird (www.brookebird.com. au), we regularly meet with individuals and business owners dealing with a wide variety of financially stressful situations. Each meeting has its unique set of circumstances that requires time spent to map out the various possible options available. The solutions to resolving financial distress can be complex, so we encourage individuals and business owners to make contact with us at the earliest opportunity so that their businesses have the best chance of survival.

Naturopath

By Kathryn Messenger

Whilst bowel movements may not be the most lovely topic, they can tell you a lot about your health.

As a naturopath, the digestive system is very important. After all, it is where both the nutrients from food is absorbed and where the majority of waste products and toxins are eliminated. Your stool and how often you pass one gives a good indication of the state of your lower digestive tract (colon).

The problem with constipation

If the body’s waste products and toxins are not eliminated efficiently and are left sitting in the colon, they can be reabsorbed into the body. This can cause a feeling of bloating or fullness and contribute to a number of health issues. These substances include both toxins that have been taken into the body, as well as hormones that are no longer required, and these become reabsorbed creating an imbalance. This can lead to skin issues, hormonal dysregulation, period pain, and reduced immune function. Additionally, the combination of hard stools with straining can cause haemorrhoids or anal cracks.

What is the ideal stool?

Generally, it should look like a sausage, ranging from solid with slight cracks, through to soft with well-defined edges. Medically, constipation is determined as less than 3 bowel movements per week, although this is much less than what is ideal. For optimal health, you should pass 1 -2 bowel movements per day, with little urgency, little to no straining, and a sensation of complete evacuation.

How to improve bowel movements

Water

Firstly, drink lots of water: 1.5L-2L/day. If you like some fizz, drink some soda water, or if you don’t like the taste of water add some lemon juice or mint leaves for flavour. As the weather gets colder, herbal teas are a great way to increase your water intake.

Increase dietary fibre

If you don’t eat a lot of vegetables, this is the best place to start when increasing fibre. Think of ways you can add more vegetables to the meals you already eat. Secondly, if you eat a lot of white flour