Silver Digest Spring 2021

ISSUE 11 SPRING AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

Advice on blending retirement income solutions

Discover

Maggie Smith returns to Downton

Abbey for a new era

BOOK EXCERPT: JANE’S DELICIOUS SUPERFOODS FOR Re a deearway SUPER HEALTH g iv e 25 Se e p a g

Mount Camdeboo’s Wilderness Pods

OUR ITALIAN LEGACY OF LOVE:

Recipes from Café del Sol WIN

See page 28

HAVING HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY? YOU COULD TOUCH A LIFE

Missing out on inflationbeating returns on your retirement portfolio?

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Contents

…

20 ROOIBOS FOR BOTHERSOME NASAL ALLERGIES?

Mount Camdeboo Wilderness Pods p6

04 ED’S NOTE

TRAVEL

14 CONTENT PARTNERSHIP: WOMEN SHOULD TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR FINANCES

06 MOUNT CAMDEBOO WILDERNESS PODS

Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape has launched two new luxurious, ecofriendly sleep-out pods, offering an immersive wilderness experience.

FEATURE Dame Maggie Smith returns to the big screen with the Downton Abbey sequel, Downton Abbey: A New Era.

MONEY 12 BLENDING RETIREMENT INCOME SOLUTIONS

Advice from Linda Blom, Business Development Manager at Glacier

by Sanlam.

Finbond Mutual Bank says empowering yourself financially helps build a roadmap for your future.

LIFESTYLE 24 BOOK EXTRACT:

Is your retirement portfolio positioned for the inflationbeating returns on offer?

New research shows that the ability to leave capital to dependents is gradually becoming a less important consideration of Re a d eirveaways retirement planning. g

HEALTH

es 2 5 Se e p a g

18 HAVING HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY? YOU COULD TOUCH A LIFE.

Hip replacement patients are often unaware that they can make a difference in the life of another by donating their femoral head.

A specialist explains why this virus is just as likely to cause damage to your heart as your lungs.

LEISURE

17 GET REAL ABOUT RETIREMENT

10 MAGGIE SMITH

22 COVID-19 AND YOUR HEART

16 INVESTING FOR RETIREMENT WITH CORONATION

For many South Africans that suffer from allergies, Rooibos has been a welcome remedy, but up until now, evidence that it helps has been scant.

& 28

Jane’s Delicious Superfoods For Super Health An extract from Jane Griffiths’ comprehensive new guide to more than 150 delicious, nutrient-rich foods, plus a reader giveaway!

27 SIX SECURITY FEATURES TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN INVESTING IN A MATURE LIFESTYLE ESTATE RECIPES

28 Recipes from the family kitchen of the legendary Café del Sol in Johannesburg from their new book, Our Italian Legacy of Love. PLUS a reader giveaway.

BOOKS

32 Spring reads 33 SUDOKU 34 CROSSWORD WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

3

Ed's note …

@SILVERDIGEST

C

lichés sometimes bear repeating

become pat. And possibly her character

simply because they contain a

has become a bit of a cliché. But, like

fundamental truth. Everything

spring, it gives us something dependable

we say about spring is a cliché: it brings

to revel in. Her delivery has always

with it a sense of renewal, a fresh start,

seemed fresh, her wit sharp and her

awakenings and potential. The beauty of

perspectives filled with as much wisdom

blossoms is undiminished by the fact that

as acid. And, like spring, the opulence and

they appear every year or that

indulgence of a costume drama, as

their arrival is predictable. heavens for the cyclical aspects of life. There is something undeniably

much as it brings a welcome

Sign up for our

Of course it is. Thank

sense of escape, also

new email newsletter.

remains uplifting in its

If you would like to receive more of the features you’ve come to love direct to your inbox, simply head to

comforting about a

www.silverdigest.co.za to sign

predictable return.

up – like the magazine, it’s

The return of our cover

also absolutely free.

star, Dame Maggie Smith, to

beauty. Just because it’s predictable doesn’t mean it isn’t refreshing. In times like these, the things we love and can depend upon

seem even more precious!

her role as the Dowager Countess of

The rest of the issue is, as

Grantham in the sequel to 2019 big-screen

ever, filled with entertainment and

take on the hugely successful TV series,

advice – on health and wealth and

Downton Abbey, was anything but certain.

ways to enrich your leisure time.

Even before she reprised her role as the

We’re particularly delighted to have

matriarch (and merciless zinger-slinger)

two giveaways in this issue: a copy

before the pandemic, she said she was

of Jane’s Delicious Superfoods for Super

tired of it, suggesting at one point that

Health by Jane Griffiths (p24), whose

she hoped the film might start with her

bestselling Jane’s Delicious Garden started

character’s funeral! But somehow she was

a vegetable-growing frenzy just over a

convinced to don her period costume for a

decade ago, and a gorgeous recipe book,

second big-screen outing.

Our Italian Legacy of Love (p28), from the

Smith seems to find her blockbuster roles unchallenging and unsatisfying.

Perhaps she finds the stock facial

family who founded the legendary Café del Sol in Johannesburg.

Enjoy the read, stay healthy, and we’ll

expressions and reactions predictable.

bring you a new issue in time for Christmas!

Maybe even her sharp put-downs have

Graham

SILVER DIGEST WINTER GIVEAWAY WINNERS Congratulations to the winners of the reader

EDITORIAL EDITOR: Graham Wood Email: graham.wood@newmedia.co.za SUB EDITOR: Anita van der Merwe LAYOUT & DESIGN: Julia van Schalkwyk PHOTOGRAPHY Cover: Ian Gavan/Getty Images Unless previously agreed in writing, Silver Digest owns all rights to all contributions, whether image or text. Sources: Gallo/Getty Images, Shutterstock, supplied images, editorial staff.

ADVERTISING Paul Goddard | +27 (0)82 650 9231 paul@fivetwelve.co.za Tanya Finch | +27 (0)82 9619429 tanya@fivetwelve.co.za Nina Frank | +27 (0)84 434 7776 nina@fivetwelve.co.za SUBSCRIPTIONS Felicity Garbers Email: felicity.garbers@newmedia.co.za PUBLISHING TEAM GENERAL MANAGER: Dev Naidoo PUBLISHING MANAGER: Sandra Ladas Email: sandra.ladas@newmedia.co.za PRODUCTION MANAGER: Angela Silver ART DIRECTOR: David Kyslinger MANAGEMENT TEAM CEO, NEW MEDIA: Aileen Lamb COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: Maria Tiganis BRAND STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Andrew Nunneley CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: Venette Malone CEO, MEDIA24: Ishmet Davidson Johannesburg Office: Ground floor, Media Park, 69 Kingsway Avenue, Auckland Park, 2092 Postal Address: PO Box 784698, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2146 Tel: +27 (0)11 877 6111 Fax: +27 (0)11 877 6198 © Copyright Silver Digest 2021 Published by New Media, a division of Media24 (PTY) Ltd Head Office: New Media, a division of Media24 (Pty) Ltd, 8th floor, Media24 Centre, 40 Heerengracht, Cape Town, 8001 Postal Address: PO Box 440, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051 Tel: +27 (0)21 4062002 newmedia@newmedia.co.za Silver Digest is printed and bound by CTP Printers – Cape Town.

giveaways in the last issue of Silver Digest. Two lucky readers, Shana Mouton who won a copy of A Cape Table and Mafa Maphasa who won a copy of Kruger Routes: Self-Drive Companion.

While precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of its contents and information given to readers, neither the editor, publisher, or its agents can accept responsibility for damages or injury which may arise therefrom. All rights reserved. © Silver Digest No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owners.

4

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

Travel …

SOUTHERN AFRICA’S LEGENDARY MOUNT CAMDEBOO LAUNCHES WILDERNESS PODS ADD-ON EXPERIENCE PHOTOGRAPHS: SUPPLIED

6

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

LOCAL

Mount Camdeboo's eco-friendly, luxurious sleep-out pods offer an intimate, immersive experience of the spectacular Eastern Cape setting.

N

estled seamlessly into the landscape of

enjoy exploring. The property is vast and includes

Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve in

a variety of accommodation, from spacious manor

the Eastern Cape are two new eco-friendly,

houses to a romantic private cottage and, now, the

luxurious sleep-out pods – the Eagle’s Flight Pod and the Camdeboo Plains Pod – offering guests a truly immersive wilderness experience.

A visit to the Great Karoo’s malaria-free wildlife

new luxury pods.

Unlike the large manor houses, the pods are compact, prefabricated eco-luxe cabins that offer a truly private and intimate escape. Designed with the

hub is the ideal escape from the city. Mount

landscape in mind, each pod is well insulated and

Camdeboo offers guests a personalised safari

secure, creating a warm, inviting refuge from the

experience, rich with Karoo culture and South

outside elements. They have been constructed from

African history, including Anglo-Boer war battle

a solid steel frame cladded in a combination of wood

grounds and memorials. The land offers guests

panelling, corrugate and glass.

spectacular views and varied terrain on which to

Continued …

WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

7

T R AV E L The contemporary interiors featuring opulent furnishings, soft lighting and 180-degree views from a deluxe double bed.

The cabins feature natural elements in a

couples, honeymooners and wildlife lovers alike. “We

contemporary design, with interiors inspired by

could not be more excited about sharing these pods

nature, featuring opulent furnishings and soft lighting.

with our guests. They are truly unique and we have

The cabins are 26m² in size and feature a deluxe

chosen the most spectacular sites for them, offering an

double bed with 180-degree views, an en-suite

unforgettable wilderness experience,” says Buchanan.

bathroom, a cleverly compact kitchenette, and lounging

The pods are available for booking as an add-

and relaxation spaces. Additional highlight features

on experience when booking your stay at Mount

include a private boma and fire pit, as well as a wood-

Camdeboo, at an additional R2 250 per pod per night,

burning hot tub. “The Scandinavian-inspired pods have

valid for stays until 30 November 2021.

been built to the highest level of quality and offer

Make it a proper road trip and stop in at

great comfort, no matter the season,” says

The Drostdy Hotel in Graaff-Reinet – the

Mount Camdeboo owner Iain Buchanan.

fourth oldest town in South Africa. Visit

The pods have been designed

the spectacular Valley of Desolation

with a light footprint, in line with

in the Camdeboo National Park, the

Mount Camdeboo’s conservation

historical Reinet House museum,

and environmentally conscious

numerous art galleries and

ethos. As Buchanan explains,

charming boutique shops. While in

“Conservation is at the core of their

the area, why not take a short drive

design, as they are completely self-

to the infamous Owl House and

sufficient, movable and rest gently

village of Nieu-Bethesda.

in the landscape, having minimal

Mount Camdeboo is just 60km

impact on their surroundings.”

from Graaff-Reinet and guests can

The real drawcard of booking a

take advantage of an amazing four-

night out in the pods is the privacy and

night special currently running for just

connection with nature: relaxing on the soft, comfortable bed, gazing out through the side panel windows, designed specifically to let the landscape in; watching the sun rise with an undisturbed, exclusive view; listening to the lions roar as they wander down the plain.

While the aim is to disconnect, both pods do offer

R6 600pps. The special includes: two nights Each pod features its own private boma and fire pit, plus s a woodburning hot tub.

bed-and-breakfast at the five-star Drostdy Hotel, plus a R500 Africology Spa voucher and two nights at Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve, including all meals, two game drives a day, plus a bonus sundowner picnic experience for two.

For bookings and enquiries, contact:

Wi-Fi internet access, so that if guests need to reach

reservations@newmarkhotels.com or call

out, they can. They are the perfect, private escape for

+27 21 427 5900 and/or visit www.newmarkhotels.com.

8

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

LOCAL

The pods have been designed to be completely self-sufficient and movable, resting lightly on the landscape so that they have minimal impact on their surroundings.

WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

9

Feature …

Maggie Smith returns to the big screen sequel to Downton Abbey to reprise her role as the Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey: A New Era.

NOTHING LIKE THIS

Dame D

ame Maggie Smith has

Indeed, she was one of the last

Although Lady Grantham is ill at

been famously lukewarm

members of the cast of the original

the end of the first film, and Smith

about her star turn as

Downton TV show, which took the

was again reluctant, Downton fans

Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess

world by storm between 2010 and

will be relieved and delighted to

of Grantham in Downton Abbey.

2015, to agree to appear in the 2019

In several interviews she’s been

film, which saw the Granthams

quite frank about the fact that

preparing for a visit from the

she didn’t really consider the role

royal family. In fact, in one

as “really … acting”. (She’s been

interview she said she

similarly unenthusiastic about

thought the film should

sequel, Simon Curtis,

her blockbuster role as Minerva

begin with her funeral! “I

has worked with

McGonagall in the Harry Potter

just think it’s squeezing

several members of

franchise, another iconic role she

it dry, do you know what

the cast before, and

doesn’t take altogether seriously.)

I mean?” she said in

“I am deeply grateful

Film Institute at the time. The

indeed Downton but it wasn’t what

film went on to gross $194.2m

you’d call satisfying,” she told the

worldwide, so there was clearly an

Evening Standard. “I didn’t really feel

appetite for the upstairs-downstairs

I was acting in those things.”

drama after the series wrapped.

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

the original principal cast members who reprised their roles for the sequel.

(The director of the

is actually married to

an interview with the British

for the work in Potter and

10

see that she is once again among

Elizabeth McGovern who plays the part of Lady Cora opposite Hugh Bonneville’s Lord Highclere Castle, the main setting for Downton Abbey.

Grantham. In another little aside, Imelda Staunton, who played Lady Maud Bagshaw in the first film, is

DAME MAGGIE SMITH

married to Jim Carter, otherwise

her to new and wider audiences

Green’s Travels with my Aunt, a much

know as Carson the butler.)

around the world. Her appearances

earlier incarnation of the typology

Details remain a well-kept

in Hollywood blockbusters like Harry

dating back to the early 70s.

secret, but it is good to know that

Potter is in some part a result of that

the script was written by Julian

definitive breakthrough, and her

precedents, playing the Dowager

Fellowes who created the original

turn in Downton remains a direct

Countess of Grantham simply seems

series – crafter of the fantastic one-

descendent of that earlier role. In fact,

effortless to Smith. It’s a character

liners and zinging put-downs the

Downton Abbey was originally conceived

she’s honed over an entire career and

Dowager Countess is loved for. The

as a direct spin-off of Gosford Park,

reprised aspects of at intervals for

likes of “I never argue, I explain”

although ultimately it developed its

many years. Whether she likes it or not

and “What is a weekend?” appear

own distinct character.

at this stage of her career, her legion of

on coffee mugs the world over!

IMAGES: EVERETT COLLECTION / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM , KATHY HUTCHINS / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, THOMAS DUTOUR / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

“Maggie is wonderful to write

At the age of 86, however, Smith

Perhaps because of these

fans, and all the devotees of Downtown

has such depths of experience to draw

Abbey more generally, could not be

for because she always gets it,”

on, that, with a career going back six

more delighted that she hasn’t had the

Fellowes told Town and Country

decades, she’s had more than enough

character killed off just yet.

magazine. “She understands why

time to hone her craft so that perhaps

the line is funny. She understands

Downton does seem unchallenging. At

longer than we’d hoped to enjoy her

why the scene is moving. She

the same time, she’s always had a taste

latest turn. While the Downton sequel

understands why the speech will

for lighter roles. Alongside her serious

was originally intended as a gift for

make you cry even though it isn’t

film and stage roles, she’s also had a

Christmas 2021, it’ll now only be out in

about what they’re talking about.

bit of fun, letting her hair down a little

March 2022. Luckily, in the meantime,

You never have to explain any of it

in Hollywood. Let’s not forget her role

there is another new film coming out

to her – she really gets it.”

as Mother Superior in Sister Act with

this year featuring Dame Maggie as

Whoopie Goldberg in the early 90s.

part of an ensemble cast in A Boy Called

While she might be dismissive of the acting chops required by her

Literary adaptations run throughout

We will, however, have to wait a little

Christmas, based on the book by Matt

role in Downton Abbey, the template

her career; in fact, too many to

Haig, which reimagines the story of

for her character was actually

mention. They range from EM Forster’s

Father Christmas.

laid 20 years ago in another film

A Room with a View and Henry James’

scripted by Fellowes, the Oscar-

Washington Square (which the reviewer

Grantham once said, “At my age, one

winning Gosford Park, which was

Peter Bradshaw calls “one of her blue-

must ration one’s excitement.” So, it

directed by Robert Altman and

chip ‘aunt’ performances”) to Graeme

seems, must we all.

As the Dowager Countess of

co-starred Helen Mirren, another famous British Dame of stage and screen. In many ways, the Dowager Countess is an evolution of Smith’s Gosford character, the Countess of Trentham – not least her withering put-downs and sharp wit. (The film’s Oscar was for best screenplay, won by Fellowes, who has clearly never tired of crafting zingers.)

While Smith was already a highly respected actor, having taken starring roles on both sides of the Atlantic by that stage in her career, Gosford Park undoubtedly

Members of the cast and producers of Downton Abbey with Julian Fellowes (second from right) at the 2011 Emmy Awards.

ratcheted up her fame and exposed WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

11

Money …

MONEY

A D V E R TO R I A L

BLENDING RETIREMENT INCOME SOLUTIONS Silver Digest spoke to Linda Blom, Business Development Manager at Glacier by Sanlam, about ways of blending different solutions for a sustainable retirement income.

WHAT FACTORS SHOULD RETIREES CONSIDER WHEN THEY INVEST THEIR SAVINGS?

WHAT ARE THE USUAL VEHICLES FOR PROVIDING YOURSELF WITH RETIREMENT INCOME?

• Life expectancy. With medical

• A life annuity guarantees an

savings are invested into underlying funds. The performance of these funds influences the value of

advances the possibility of outliving

income until death. The risk of

the underlying investment. Poor

your capital becomes a real risk.

longevity is therefore carried

performance or income drawdowns

• Inflation. Your savings lose

by the insurer. You may add a

(the amount taken as income) that

purchasing power over time

second life insured (such as a

exceed returns could deplete your

as costs go up. This can affect

spouse). There is also a choice of

capital. There are no guarantees, and

your standard of living. Retirees

various guaranteed terms. If the

the risk of longevity is carried by the

experience higher inflation rates

life insured (or joint life) passes

client. At death, the underlying value

than other consumers, mainly due

away within the guaranteed term,

could be available as an inheritance.

to healthcare expenses.

the income will be paid to the

Income flexibility is available with a

beneficiaries for the remainder

regulated drawdown between 2.5%

aid contributions increase by more

of the guaranteed term. However,

to 17.5% per annum. A living annuity

than CPI each year, this does not

there is no capital legacy.

may also be converted to a life

account for additional expenses

Therefore, if the life insured (or

annuity later.

and associated costs not covered

joint life) passes away after the

by medical aid, which can affect

guaranteed term, there will be

your post-retirement cashflow.

no lump sum available to the

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF DIVERSIFICATION?

beneficiaries.

It’s seldom that one single solution

• Medical expenses. While medical

• The importance of seeking expert advice. Do not make the mistake

• The income with capital

can reasonably provide for all needs. A

of not doing this to save on fees. A

preservation plan could be a

living annuity provides flexibility and a

good financial adviser can improve

single or joint life annuity, which

possible capital legacy, but it doesn’t offer

your investment strategy and help

provides a guaranteed income for

the security of a guaranteed income for

you reach financial goals.

life. A portion of the income will

life. A life annuity provides a guaranteed

• Emergency savings. Unexpected

12

• In a living annuity, your retirement

fund the premium on a life cover

income for life but no capital legacy. A

expenses can take a bite out of your

policy, which pays out a lump sum

blend of different solutions provides for

monthly income. Having some

at death of the last surviving life

flexibility, longevity and capital legacy.

liquidity can help in the event of a

insured. This solution provides a

medical crisis, when markets drop,

guaranteed income for life, as well

Glacier Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd and

or when regular expenses rise due

as a guaranteed capital legacy to

Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd are licensed

to unexpected inflation.

beneficiaries at death.

financial services providers.

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

You’re approaching retirement… now what?

At retirement, you need to invest in an income solution that makes the most of what you’ve saved so you can enjoy security. In general, you must invest at least 2/3s of your retirement savings in an annuity solution.

There are many options: how do you make the right decision for you?

LIFE ANNUITY Provides a guarantee in uncertain times, giving you peace of mind in your retirement.

Your income is guaranteed for life.

Your guaranteed income isn’t impacted by market volatility.

You can guarantee your income for a specific term (5-20 years) to provide for your dependants when you pass away.

You can have your income increase by a % each year to protect against inflation.

LIVING ANNUITY Gives you freedom and control in your retirement years.

You can change income level and payment frequency once a year to adapt cash flow to suit your needs (within limits).

You can choose the underlying investments so they match the risk you’re comfortable with.

When you pass away, you can leave your remaining money to your beneficiaries. They can either take the full cash amount or receive an annuity income.

BUT… YOU CAN COMBINE THESE:

LIFE ANNUITY Secure a guaranteed income that will withstand market volatility via a life annuity.

LIVING ANNUITY Gain control over your income and investments via a living annuity.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS! Learn more about retirement income solutions at

www.glacierinsights.co.za/time-to-plan-retirement-planning.

Learn more about provident fund annuitisation at

https://www.glacierinsights.co.za//content/uploads/TDayMemberAlert.pdf

ENSURE YOUR RETIREMENT IS SECURE: SPEAK TO YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISER TODAY ABOUT GLACIER RETIREMENT SOLUTIONS. GLACIER FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD AND SANLAM LIFE INSURANCE LTD ARE LICENSED FINANCIAL SERVICES PROVIDERS. The Glacier Investment-Linked Living Annuity is underwritten by Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd and administered by Glacier Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd.

MONEY

C O N T E N T PA R T NE R S H I P

WOMEN SHOULD TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR FINANCES

W

omen’s Month has come and gone. It’s time to take control

of your finances – not only is it empowering but you will be building a financial roadmap for your future. To become financially independent is to have the knowledge of what is going on in the financial market, and also what to do should you experience financial difficulties.

The first step towards financial freedom is to start with a budget.

It will give you a very good overall view of how much money

last but not the least, have you got

is coming into your household

a funeral policy? We say ’I’ll do it

and what is left once all the bills

later because I still have a lot of

cheque and credit card if

are paid. You can now allocate

time’. We all know that this is not

not needed.

a certain amount every month

our call.

towards your savings goals,

• Pay your accounts before the due date. If paid late, you pay

whether it is for a well-earned

especially in these trying

holiday, that one thing you

times. We are bombarded with

always dreamt of and never had

advertisements of goods and

demand. Immediately

the means to buy, or even for

services we don’t really need but

contact the creditor to

retirement. The most important

think it might be nice to have. The

make alternative payments.

step is to start saving. Don’t wait

problem is that too much debt

for next month. Start immediately,

causes ‘over-indebtedness’.

even if the initial amount is small

A few points to ponder before

excessive penalties.

• Don’t ignore letters of

The bottom line is that you can take complete control of

– the main thing is to start so that

you get into this position:

your money. It is not necessary

it can become a habit.

• Pay your premiums regularly.

to go for debt reconciliation; you

The last 20 months have, without doubt, increased the uncertainty of life. Are you protected in all aspects, namely life cover, protection of your income for dread disease and, yes, have you drawn up a will? And

14

To make debt is not difficult,

curb further spending on it.

• Lower your limits on your

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

If difficult, at least the

can do it yourself. It will cost you

minimum amount.

nothing and you will still be able

• Establish which accounts have the highest interest. Make sure to pay them first.

• Should an account become dormant, close it in order to

to get credit.

Feel free to contact our Finbond website for all our products available at very good interest rates at www.finbondlimited.co.za

EARN A BETTER INTEREST RATE

WITH A FINBOND 60-MONTH FIXED TERM DEPOSIT OF R 1 MILLION OR MORE

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MONEY

IS YOUR RETIREMENT PORTFOLIO POSITIONED FOR THE INFLATIONBEATING RETURNS ON OFFER?

I

f the last year has taught investors anything, it is the cost of ignoring risk assets when market circumstances change so dramatically. With a period of rapid global economic

growth expected this year, risk assets such as equities remain

BUT THESE INFLATION-BEATING RETURNS ARE FINITE

set to benefit.

There will be abundant years and lean years. As an income-

But inflation-plus returns do not come through in a straight

drawing investor, it is important for your retirement portfolio to

line. As such, if you are in or near retirement, specifically if you

be positioned to capture these inflation-beating returns during

have de-risked your portfolio in recent years, you need to ensure

the abundant years as is currently the case.

your retirement savings are appropriately positioned to capture these returns that are on offer. Here’s what you need to know.

YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS CAN BENEFIT WITHOUT BEING EXPOSED TO UNDUE RISK

THE STAGE HAS BEEN SET FOR A PERIOD OF RAPID GLOBAL ECONOMIC GROWTH

If you are in or near retirement, you should seek funds that

The IMF expects global growth at 6% this year (up from their

assets but also maintain a strong focus on risk to reduce the

previous forecast of 5.2%), with growth in the US leading the

likelihood of potential negative returns over shorter time

way. Albeit off a low base, this global economic recovery is

periods. The latter is important to those who are already

expected to continue in 2022 at a somewhat slower pace, but still

drawing a regular income from their funds.

above the long-term trend. This optimistic outlook is premised

invest a meaningful portion of your overall portfolio in growth

At Coronation, we offer two funds that specifically cater for

on the release of significant pent-up demand as economies start

the needs of retired investors: Coronation Capital Plus and

to reopen, further assisted by ongoing massive fiscal stimulus

Coronation Balanced Defensive. Both funds have long track

and very low interest rates.

records in providing a balanced solution by including allocations

In South Africa, we also expect a decent recovery, with the economy expected to grow at 4% or more this year – the

to growth assets while managing downside volatility.

As an example, investors in these funds were able to benefit

highest number in some time, but also off a very low base.

from the strong recovery in equities since the COVID-19-

Looking ahead, however, we expect our economy to remain

induced selloff in March 2020. At the time, our deep proprietary

under pressure due to severe and ongoing systemic risks and

research enabled us to conduct rapid analysis and engage in

the devasting economic costs of the looting and mayhem that

robust debates, ultimately leading to the conclusion that the

erupted in KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng in July; although

market was pricing in the worst outcome. Understanding this

improved revenue collection by the South African Revenue

gave us the conviction to buy global and domestic equities at

Service and strong policy signals from National Treasury should

depressed levels. This decision paid off handsomely across our

see us moving in the right direction.

fund range. And given the current combination of assets held by Coronation Capital Plus and Coronation Balanced Defensive, we

GROWTH ASSETS REMAIN SET TO BENEFIT

believe these portfolios will be able to deliver on their respective

Despite these headwinds to the respective global and local

inflation plus targets.

economic recoveries, we believe that equities (both local and global) still offer upside potential and we expect these asset

To learn more about investing for retirement with Coronation, visit coronation.com or speak to your financial adviser.

classes to continue delivering inflation-beating returns in the next 3-5 years (see table).

16

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

Coronation is an authorised financial services provider.

MONEY

GET REAL ABOUT RETIREMENT: THE CHANGING ROLE OF BENEFICIARIES COPY: TWANÉ WESSELS, PRODUCT ACTUARY, JUST SA

when asked who they would turn to for

communication flow between

financial assistance should they run

retirees and their beneficiaries,

istorically, the ability to leave

out of money in future, they say that

usually their children. If the next

capital to dependents was

children and grandchildren remain the

generation are the ones expected

a primary consideration of

first port of call.

to help, it makes more sense for

H

retirement planning. However, new research shows that this is becoming gradually less important. Of foremost concern to retirees is that their retirement money should last (at least)

This presents an opportune time to shift the conversation about the role of beneficiaries in retirement planning. Instead of putting the thought of leaving money to beneficiaries as a

them to play a proactive role in the retirement planning process from the start, rather than being caught on the back foot later.

Their views on financial planning may also be more up to date, which could assist in dissolving any

as long as they do

key focus, advisers

distrust or uncertainty surrounding

and cover their

could rather

new-generation annuity products.

monthly expenses.

propose involving

This would in turn help advisers

those would-be

propose better retirement choices

beneficiaries in the

for their clients, enabling them to

This growing trend may be attributed in part to an increased longevity awareness. The simple truth is that many retirees are living longer than they anticipated and thought to save for.

decision-making stages of retirement

reduce their risk of running out of money too soon.

planning. This should help to mitigate any unforeseen changes in their role as a beneficiary to that of a provider.

For example, most recent longevity

AN INCOME LEGACY Many people still want to be able to leave a legacy for their children or grandchildren, which is why

figures in South Africa suggest that a

A TRADE-OFF IS INEVITABLE

historically many retirees opted for a

female aged 65 will live to 87. What

As in life, there will always be certain

living annuity over a life annuity. But

this really means is that 50% of

trade-offs in retirement. In the

it is worth noting that life annuities

women will die by this age, but the

case of beneficiaries, it exists in the

have evolved. Retirees are now able

remaining 50% will live on. And with

compromise between running out of

to provide for dependents on death

10% likely to live to 100, it makes

money and having to rely on heirs or

with optional benefit add-ons, which

sense for advisers to work off a much

having a guaranteed income to cover

provide an ongoing income to the

longer planning horizon.

a retiree for life. What is critical is that

surviving spouse, or to dependents for

beneficiaries also understand the risks

a period of up to 20 years.

Key findings from Just Retirement Insights 2020 offer another telling

in retirement for their parents, so that

sign of the mind shift around the role

they are able to manage their own risks

a blended annuity offers the best of

of beneficiaries. Findings indicate

accordingly, should things not work

both worlds. A portion within a living

that two thirds of the pre-retirees and

out as planned for the retiree.

annuity serves as an insurance-based

retirees surveyed have been financially

For those who want added comfort,

guaranteed life annuity to provide a secure income for life, while the

half have had to source alternative

AN OPEN COMMUNICATION FLOW IS KEY

means of income or make special

The findings demonstrate the

higher future income, which could

arrangements to meet payments. But

importance of creating an open

serve as a financial legacy.

affected by the pandemic. Of these,

remainder provides the potential for

WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

17

Health …

H

HAVING HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY? YOU COULD TOUCH A LIFE

ip replacement surgery, while

in a Netcare hospital in KwaZulu-Natal

reminded me of him and I was determined

a major operation, has become

was made by Netcare St Augustine’s

to make a difference in someone’s life.

routine, with 200 to 300

Hospital’s very own human resources

This has been such a rewarding personal

procedures taking place monthly in South

manager, Uday Valjee, when he

experience for me, knowing that instead of

Africa. Yet hip replacement patients are

underwent hip replacement surgery.

wasting my bone tissue, I was giving back

often unaware of the opportunity for them

“I had been experiencing terrible pain

to those in need.”

to make a difference in the life of another

in December 2020 and was soon after

by donating their femoral head, at no risk

diagnosed with avascular necrosis in

after his first replacement, Valjee is

or cost to them.

both hips, a condition in which blood

progressing well and is soon to undergo

This is according to Reka Dulandas,

supply to the bone is temporarily or

his second procedure, where he will be

regional transplant manager for Netcare

permanently interrupted, eventually

donating his second femoral head. “Since

hospitals’ coastal region. Dulandas

causing it to collapse. This meant I

commencement of the femoral head

explains that the femoral head is the

needed to have bilateral hip replacement

recovery programme in KwaZulu-Natal,

uppermost part of the femur, or thigh

surgery,” says Valjee.

we have procured eight from Netcare

bone, which, if not donated, is discarded as

Valjee’s first hip replacement operation

Dulandas says that three months

Umhlanga Hospital and 10 from Netcare

medical waste. “More than 90% of femoral

took place at Netcare Umhlanga Hospital

Alberlito Hospital. We aim to collect many

heads in South Africa are unnecessarily

in April 2021, where his first femoral head

more in conjunction with Bone SA with the

discarded, which is most unfortunate. Like

was procured for donation.

help of patients like Uday, as the demand

organs and other types of human tissue,

“The process was simple. A facilitator

for bone product currently far outweighs

donated bone can help ease suffering and

from Bone SA met me at my place of work

significantly improve the quality of life for

to sign consent for the donation and for

someone in need.

bloods to be drawn for virology testing.

emergency, trauma, transplant and

As a donor, there were no risks to me as

corporate social investment, notes that

cancer treatment, corrective surgery,

my femoral head was being removed in

the Netcare transplant division supports

spinal fusions and tooth implants.

any case, nor did it cost me anything. In

tissue banks responsible for skin, bone

Usable donated bone is processed into

theatre, the femoral head was removed

and corneal harvests and is responsible

bone cement, chips and matchsticks,

and from there it was taken by Bone SA to

for the coordination of kidney, heart, liver

which are used as a framework for the

a laboratory, together with blood samples

and lung harvesting and transplants in

recipient’s bone to grow into, modify and

to ensure there were no infections.

Netcare hospitals nationally.

make its own,” she says. “The femoral

That was it from me, nothing more was

head donation programme is carried out

required,” says Valjee.

“Bone can be converted for use in bone

by Bone SA, a non-profit organisation,

“Making the decision to donate was an

the supply,” she says.

Mande Toubkin, general manager:

“Our internationally recognised transplant programme aims to increase the lifespan of patients and improve their

under the auspices of Netcare’s transplant

easy one. I drew inspiration from my late

quality of life. We are thankful for every

division in the Group’s hospitals

father-in-law, who – before passing on –

person who assists us in making this

nationally. According to Bone SA, bone is

told me that he was an organ donor and

possible with their generous donations

the most frequently transplanted human

that we should ensure his organs would

and encourage others to do the same.

tissue after blood,” explains Dulandas.

be donated as per his wishes. The femoral

Their generosity may very well be saving a

head donation programme immediately

life,” she concludes.

The very first femoral head donation

18

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

See a 3D scan of the heart by scanning the QR code with your mobile phone camera or QR scanner app. or visit the link www.scanforlife.wixsite. com/heart

H E A LT H

rooibos

HOMEGROWN TEA MAY BE ABLE TO ALLEVIATE BOTHERSOME NASAL ALLERGIES

F

or many South Africans that suffer from allergies, Rooibos (Aspalathus

linearis) has been a welcome remedy, but up until now, evidence has been scant to support this notion.

Given the high cost of allergy and asthma medication, local researchers from the University of Cape Town are now examining the extent to which Rooibos tea can provide relief for those plagued by runny, stuffy noses and itchy eyes.

Prof Jonny Peter, head of allergology and immunology at the UCT Lung Institute, says allergies are becoming increasingly common worldwide and the prevalence is increasing in low

financial burden on many patients,

conducted their own cell studies

and middle-income countries too

which is why there is a renewed

and found Rooibos to suppress

– affecting an estimated 30% of

interest in herbal and alternative

basophil activation.

South African adults.

remedies, such as Rooibos, that

“Different types of allergies include life-threatening anaphylaxis, hay fever (allergic

“Basophils are white blood

might be more affordable and

cells involved in many kinds

accessible,” he remarks.

of inflammatory reactions,

Previous allergy studies have

particularly those that cause allergic

rhinitis), asthma, food allergy,

investigated the effects of Rooibos in

symptoms. This means that Rooibos

conjunctivitis and skin allergies,

a laboratory on different cell types

could, to a certain degree, control or

such as angioedema, urticaria

(in vitro – outside a living organism),

inhibit the allergic response, but for

(hives) and eczema. However,

and these have shown some promise.

many herbal remedies promising

the most predominant is allergic

Bioflavonoids, such as rutin and

lab data has not translated to a

rhinitis, which is typically triggered

quercetin, that are found in Rooibos,

meaningful clinical effect. The clinical

by house dust mite and fine

could relieve itchy eyes and a runny

trials we are about to embark on

powdery pollen from trees, weeds

nose. Quercetin can block the

should address this gap and give us

and grasses that can flower for up

release of histamine from mast cells,

a clearer indication of its clinical

to nine months of the year.

and this may be why it could reduce

effectiveness,” says Prof Peter.

“The cost for treating allergic rhinitis has increased substantially in recent years and places a huge

20

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

symptoms.

Prof Peter and senior researcher Dr Sarah Pedretti have also

The two trials are set to start in the next few months and will build on the preliminary findings. Prof

Peter explains, “The first will

with house dust mite in sensitised

be an open-label, randomised

allergic rhinitis patients. We’re

active-controlled trial to evaluate

aiming for 80 participants.

the efficacy of oral fermented and

“The second trial will

unfermented Rooibos (Aspalathus

evaluate the efficacy of nasal

linearis) extracts for the treatment

irrigation with fermented

of house dust mite-induced allergic

and unfermented Aspalathus

clearer picture and will provide

rhinitis. Our study will be able to

linearis extracts, also for the

further indication in terms of

tell us whether any benefit can be

treatment of house dust mite-

specific concentrations needed to

derived from drinkable quantities

induced allergic rhinitis. The

provide the desired outcome.”

of a standardised fermented

objective of this study is to evaluate

and unfermented Aspalathus

the effect of nasal irrigation with

not replace antihistamines with

linearis extract – sold commercially

Rooibos tea compared to an active

Rooibos just yet, but that in future

and readily available as Rooibos

control of saline solution, and

more natural treatments containing

tea. The overall objective of this

whether it can reduce the allergic

Rooibos could be beneficial.

study is to evaluate the effect

response from house dust mite

of oral ingestion of Rooibos tea

in sensitised patients. Here we’re

rhinitis and would like to

compared to an active control of

aiming for 130 participants.

participate in the trial, please

He advises allergy sufferers to

If you suffer from allergic

decaffeinated black tea, and if it

“We think that Rooibos may

can reduce the clinical effects of

have good allergenic effects. The

021 406 6889 or email her

nasal allergen provocation testing

trials will be able to give us a

at Noejfah.Jardien@uct.ac.za

The best protection is early detection

contact Noejfah Jardien on

Mammogram | 3D Mammogram | Breast-Ultrasound | DEXA Bone Densitometry Scan | Breast Biopsy | MRI Breast Scan | MRI Breast Implant Assessment Scan

Breast for Life offers a complete service to patients, from procedure authorisation through to the direct medical aid claim submission on behalf of the patient. Breast For Life charges the recommended medical aid rates.

Breast for Life has an all-female team in a stand alone facility across from the Rosebank Hospital with easy access and ample parking.

Call: +27 (0)10 541 1387 Email: reception@breastforlife.co.za Address: Medical & Dental Building, 11 Sturdee Avenue, Rosebank

www.breastforlife.co.za WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

21

H E A LT H

COVID-19 AND YOUR HEART Although most people think of COVID-19 as a respiratory disease that affects the lungs, this virus is just as likely to cause damage to your heart. A specialist explains why.

C

Even if patients don’t

OVID-19 commonly

the vessels around the heart,

presents with a cough and

and this can lead to a cytokine

experience damage to the heart at

shortness of breath, so it’s

storm – a condition where the

the time of infection, some of the

often thought of as a respiratory

immune system overreacts to the

virus’s effects on the heart, such as

disease only. In fact, says Dr

presence of a bacterium, virus, or

myocarditis or inflammation of the

Nivesh Sewlall, a pulmonologist

other microorganism (all known

heart muscle, can put them at risk

at Mediclinic Morningside, the

as pathogens), which causes

for heart failure in years to come.

virus affects the entire body, and

inflammation. This can disrupt

is capable of causing damage to

the proper functioning of the

conditions can be reversed, it’s

multiple organs.

organ, leading to an arrhythmia,

also possible that some damage

where the heart pumps either

may be permanent – especially in

through ACE (angiotensin-

too quickly or too slowly. Both

cases where there’s scar tissue that

converting) receptors [a specific

conditions are dangerous, Dr

affects the heart’s functioning.

protein that allows the virus to

Sewlall warns. Damage caused by

So, when should you worry

infect a wide range of human

the virus can also lead to a heart

about your heart? Dr Sewlall says

cells], and so it can be found in

attack or stroke.

if you’ve entered the recovery

“The virus enters the body

Although some of these

any organ where these receptors

Cardiac issues among

are present,” Dr Sewlall explains.

COVID-19 patients are more

experiencing symptoms such as

“These include the brain, gut,

common than you may think.

shortness of breath and fatigue

pancreas, blood vessels, kidneys,

According to the American Heart

that aren’t lessening as time

and the lining of the nose and

Association, around 25% of US

passes, further investigation may

mouth. Wherever the virus can

COVID-19 patients admitted

be required.

gain entry, it can also cause

to hospital have experienced

damage. That’s why patients

cardiac complications, and even

GP, who will conduct tests such as

suffering from long COVID tend to

recovered patients have presented

an ECG to check for any damage to

experience such a wide array of

with abnormalities in the heart.

the lungs and heart. If necessary,

symptoms.”

Symptoms of these conditions

your doctor will refer you on to a

include chest pain, shortness of

specialist for treatment.

When it comes to the heart,

phase of infection, but are still

Your first step is to consult your

this damage takes the form of

breath, as well as palpitations

scar tissue that forms on the

if the heart rate has increased.

This article first appeared on

muscles of the organ. The virus

Conversely, if the heart rate slows,

www.mediclinicinfohub.co.za on

can also cause blood clots in

the patient may faint.

1 September 2021.

22

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

Leisure …

JANE’S DELICIOUS SUPERFOODS FOR SUPER HEALTH Jane’s Delicious Superfoods for Super Health by Jane Griffiths is a comprehensive guide to more than 150 delicious, nutrient-rich foods which, when eaten as part of a balanced diet, boost our immune system, improve our health and reduce the risk of disease.

T

his spring, Jane Griffiths, whose

importance of gut bacteria, kitchen and pantry basics, plus

bestselling Jane’s Delicious Garden led to

useful tips on smoothies, sprouting, juicing, dehydrating,

a vegetable-growing revolution in South

fermenting and healthy cooking. And for those keen to grow

Africa, brings us Jane’s Delicious Superfoods for Super

their own superfoods, there is also gardening advice.

Health. From asparagus to zucchini, maca root to shiitake mushrooms, chickpeas to pomegranates, buckwheat to Brazil nuts, the book covers fruits and vegetables, seeds and grains, herbs and spices, nuts, seaweeds, mushrooms and more. A wealth of detailed

Sunbird Publishers has provided us with an excerpt…

information is provided on why these foods are good for us, as well as how to maximise their benefits and

HERBS

incorporate them easily into our daily meals.

Pounded into pastes, chewed, brewed, added to food and

Written in Jane’s practical and entertaining

drink, and made into oils, gargles, lotions and potions, herbs

style, and full of fascinating titbits about the history

have been used by humans since we were dodging dinosaurs.

and origins of what we eat, the book also covers

Information about their use has been passed on by word of

health aspects such as food sensitivities and the

mouth from generation to generation, the knowledge being continually refined and expanded.

The botanical definition of herbs is the edible leafy green or flowering parts of a plant, either fresh or dried. However, in culinary or medicinal terms, herbs also include roots such as fresh ginger or ginseng.

Most herbs are easy to grow and are relatively hassle free, with some living for years. Many can be grown on a windowsill or in a small garden. Whether you allocate a separate space for them or grow them in among your existing vegetables or in a flower garden, herbs add colour, texture and fragrance. Growing a variety of herbs means you’ll always have some on hand to add to a meal – plus it’s far cheaper than buying them. They also have a multitude of uses, with new ones being discovered every day.

Incorporating herbs elevates meals from simple to sublime, adding depth of flavour and increasing nutritional content. They can be used to make infusions and tinctures, intensifying their benefits. (Be aware that heat can reduce many of herbs’ benefits.)

All herbal remedies work better if they’re part and parcel of a healthy lifestyle, with good eating habits.

24

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

BOOK EXTR ACT

STAND A CHANCE

TO WIN BASIL

We have a copy to give away of Jane’s

Ocimum basilicum

Delicious Superfoods for Super Health.

This is one of the most

To stand a chance to win, send an email

popular and widely

to info@silverdigest.co.za with ‘Jane’s

grown herbs in the world.

Delicious Superfoods’ in the subject line, your

It’s uplifting, good for

name and contact details by 31 October 2021.

treating depression and fatigue, and improving concentration. It eases colds, asthma, coughs and sinus congestion. As

PARSLEY

an antispasmodic, it helps prevent vomiting,

Petroselinum crispum

strengthens hair and nails, and

and it’s a good tonic and soother for the digestive

This is one of the most widespread

it is a good general tonic, helping

system. It strengthens the immune system,

and popular herbs. Its botanical

to maintain emotional balance

reduces inflammation and kills parasites.

name comes from the Greek word

through stress or times of change

petros meaning ‘rock’, giving an

such as menopause.

There are many varieties of basil, with strong flavours ranging from cinnamon to liquorice.

indication of its ability to grow in

Although the most commonly known and used

inhospitable places.

basils are annual, there are some perennial

Parsley has a high vitamin and

Its calcium content

Parsley comes in two main varieties: flat leaf (or Italian) and curly leaf. The seeds take weeks

ones, including O. tenuiflorum, also known as

mineral content, and was used as

to germinate, and benefit from

holy basil or tulsi, which has been used in

a medicine long before it became

being soaked overnight in warm

Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as an effective

a culinary herb. Parsley helps

water before sowing.

adaptogenic herb.

relieve indigestion – even Peter

Parsley likes fertile soil, full sun

Basil likes a protected site with well-drained

Rabbit knew about eating parsley

and plenty of regular moisture.

soil. It prefers full sun but doesn’t mind afternoon

after overindulging: “First he ate

It’s a low-maintenance plant once

shade in summer. Sow basil seeds in seed trays,

some lettuce and some broad

established. To harvest, snip the

and transplant seedlings into larger pots so they

beans, then some radishes, and

leaves off several plants rather than

can grow bigger while waiting for warm weather.

then, feeling rather sick, he went

denuding one. Parsley doesn’t dry

to look for some parsley.”

well, so freezing is a better option.

Basil, often paired with tomato, is a common ingredient in Italian food, but its robust flavour makes it the ideal herb to accompany a wide range of dishes. Some varieties (such as Thai basil) handle being cooked, but most are better used fresh.

Vitamins A, C and K1; calcium, iron, magnesium and manganese.

It also relieves the symptoms of rheumatism, colic, water

Chopped parsley is a good addition to egg dishes, salads

retention, kidney stones and

and sauces, or puréed to add to

gallbladder inflammation.

a spice rub or mix. Include it in green smoothies to boost their nutritional value. Steep chopped leaves and stems in boiling water to make a healing infusion.

Vitamins A, B (1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 9), C, E and K1; calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and zinc.

Continued …

WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

25

LEISURE

BOOK EXTR ACT SPEKBOOM

especially in semi-desert regions

Portulacaria afra

where the plant thrives.

Indigenous to semi-arid regions,

simply cut or break a piece off

a boost in popularity due to its

an existing bush, leave it to dry

ability to absorb relatively large

for a couple of days, then pop it

amounts of carbon dioxide

into well-drained soil in full sun.

from the atmosphere, thereby

Water a little every few days for a

helping reverse the effects of

couple of weeks and it will quickly

climate change. The high rates of

establish itself.

absorption are best achieved when

flavour changes depending on

with other plants.

when you harvest it. For a more

cheese (Parmesan and Pecorino), pine nuts, garlic, salt, pepper and olive oil, pesto is quick to make and freezes well. Originating in Genoa, in Italian it means ‘pounded’, as the traditional method involves bashing the ingredients in a pestle and mortar to create a chunky paste. A hand-held blender makes the job easier, but don’t overdo it – it’s meant to be a little chunky. Pesto is versatile and there are endless variations. Substitute macadamias, pumpkin seeds, walnuts or almonds for pine nuts, and parsley, coriander or young carrot tops for basil. Shake things up by adding chillies, olives or sundried tomatoes (use ones soaked in oil). Toast the nuts to add extra flavour. When freezing or refrigerating, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidising. Use as a pasta sauce, on pizza or grilled fish, mixed into salad dressing, tossed with roast vegetables or mixed with cream cheese as a dip.

Reprinted with permission from: Jane’s Delicious Superfoods for Super Health

by Jane Griffiths produced by Sunbird Publishers.

26

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

acidic taste, pick the leaves in the

elephants and giraffes – and they’re

morning. If you want them less

on to a good thing. Spekboom

tart, harvest in the late afternoon.

leaves have a refreshing, almost

A deceptively simple combination of fresh basil,

Interestingly, spekboom’s

spekboom is in its natural habitat This is a favoured food of both

PESTO PERFECTION

Spekboom is easy to grow –

this fleshy succulent has seen

The leaves add a bright crunch

citrussy flavour, and are rich in

to salads, pairing well with

vitamin C as well as many beneficial

chickpeas, apples and feta. They

phytonutrients. Juicy and full of

can also be chopped into salsas,

nutritious moisture, they quench

added to smoothies, or used to

thirst and treat exhaustion,

make chutneys, jelly or pickles,

dehydration and heat stroke,

and included in baking.

6 LEISURE

W

RETIREMENT

SECURITY FEATURES TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN INVESTING IN A MATURE LIFESTYLE ESTATE

hile its temperate climate, natural beauty and rich heritage make South Africa a prime destination for property investors, strong security measures have always been

an important part of this incredible lifestyle. For this reason, those considering investing in a mature lifestyle estate often prioritise safety, but it’s the quality of safety that is truly the deciding factor.

“The recent civil unrest put into sharp focus the importance of a

sophisticated level of security when it comes to estate living,” explained Phil Barker, of Renishaw Property Developments on the KZN South Coast. “Homeowners, particularly those enjoying their golden years, need to be assured they can enjoy the quality lifestyle so celebrated in South Africa, without the constant concern for safety.”

When it comes to secure estate living, the following six security features will ensure that residents are able to benefit from an outdoor lifestyle with complete peace of mind.

1. SECURE PERIMETER

manning all entry points, as well as

6. UNRESTRICTED LIVING

The first feature is secure,

constant patrols, day and night.

At the end of it all, residents want

electrified perimeter fencing,

to enjoy the benefits of security

constructed from advanced

4. QUICK REACTION TIME

without feeling restricted by it. An

equipment that is constantly

The reaction time of a security

estate needs to prioritise unobtrusive

monitored and maintained.

company is what truly sets them

yet effective security wherever

Clear-view fencing is currently the

apart, because in an emergency,

possible. This includes a dedicated

preferred perimeter option, as it

time is of the essence. It’s also

and friendly security staff, clear-

provides optimum security without

worth checking whether the

view perimeter fencing, and other

impacting views.

security company offers the option

techniques that effectively blend

of panic buttons, either installed

security measures into the natural

2. HIGH-TECH CAMERAS

in individual units or provided as a

surroundings.

A well-run estate will include

mobile device.

thermal-vision cameras positioned

5. SECURITY COLLABORATION

on the perimeter fencing. These

Security cannot work in

our residents always feel safe without

will ensure any unsanctioned

isolation. An estate dedicated

it being too conspicuous,” explained

activity is quickly identified and

to the security of its residents

Barker. “At Renishaw Hills, we feel

halted, and can be reviewed.

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works with a network of outside

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their safety.”

“It’s a delicate balance ensuring

WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

27

LEISURE

OUR ITALIAN LEGACY OF LOVE The legendary Café del Sol in Johannesburg might be the city’s best-kept culinary secret if it wasn’t so well known! The family behind its charm and success – Chiara Viljoen with Ryan Viljoen and their mother Luciana Treccani – bring us recipes from their kitchen in the new book, Our Italian Legacy of Love.

We have a few to share…

STAND A CHANCE TO WIN We have a

copy to give

W

hat do you get when you add a little Italian, a little South African and a whole lot of love? A legacy of classic yet contemporary dishes from the Café del Sol family kitchen. Chiara and Ryan have transferred the treasured memories of both their nonnas, as well as their mama, Luciana,

to the tables of Café del Sol, and now this cookbook. Basking in a combined Italian and South African

away of Our

heritage, this family knows how to put their heart and soul into presenting the most scrumptious food to

Italian Legacy of

their guests, and now you, the reader. From colazione (breakfast) and antipasto (appetisers), through primo

Love. To stand

(pasta and risotto) and secondo (main courses), to desserts and cocktails... we challenge you to page through

a chance to

this book without your appetite roaring to life! So step into the kitchen with the Café del Sol famiglia and

win, send an

delight your family and friends by making these dishes in the comfort of your home. Buon appetito!

email to info@ silverdigest. co.za with ‘Our Italian Legacy of Love’ in the

Beetroot carpaccio

subject line,

• 1kg fresh beetroot

Refresh the beetroots in cold water,

• 1 punnet fresh strawberries,

then peel, top and tail them. When

thinly sliced

cooked, the skin peels off easily, but

• 3 oranges, segmented

wear gloves when handling beetroots.

• 150g dolcelatte gorgonzola,

Using a very sharp knife or mandoline

your name

SERVES 4

and contact

This starter has proved to be

details by

very popular, and not just with

• Salt and pepper to taste

overlapped, on a platter.

31 October 2021.

vegetarians! The beetroot and

• Extra virgin olive oil to drizzle

Scatter the sliced strawberries all

strawberries combine for a

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction

over the beetroot.

delightful sweetness. Paired with

• 20g beetroot shoots

Place the orange segments alongside

crumbled

savoury and creamy gorgonzola

28

slicer, slice them thinly and arrange,

and crumble the gorgonzola over

and a burst of citrus, this

Wash the beetroots in cold water,

everything.

carpaccio is a winner through and

then bring to the boil in a saucepan

Season the carpaccio with salt and

through. The colours also make for

with a fitted lid. After approximately

pepper, then drizzle with olive oil and

a visual delight; after all, we eat

15 minutes, remove the lid, reduce the

balsamic reduction.

with our eyes first!

heat, and simmer until the beetroots

Sprinkle the beetroot shoots over the

are tender.

carpaccio before serving.

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

RECIPES

Chicken and chorizo with red pepper purée SERVES 4

• A dash of smoked paprika

This dish is nothing short of

(optional)

addictive – the epitome of luxury!

• Cooked pasta of your choice, but

The red pepper purée is a bit of a

we recommend bronze-cut penne

mission but adds a depth of flavour to this gourmet sauce that simply

• Grated Grana Padano cheese to serve

can’t be replicated by any other substitutions. The smokiness of the

Season the chicken with salt

chorizo combines with the savoury

and pepper. Set aside.

notes of the chicken to create a dish

In a medium saucepan, melt the

that is utterly moreish.

butter, add the leeks and cook over low heat. Add the chorizo and

• 200g chicken thighs, deboned and chopped

chicken and cook through.

Add the red pepper purée and

• Salt and pepper to taste

coat the ingredients well. Pour in

• 50g butter

the cream and allow the sauce to

• 50g leeks, sliced

reduce and thicken, then add the

• 200g chorizo*, sliced

fresh parsley. Add a dash of smoked

• 200ml red pepper purée

paprika for a little extra flavour if

(see below)

you like. Add the drained pasta and

• 300ml cream

mix with the sauce until well coated.

• 10g fresh flat-leaf parsley,

Serve with a generous amount of

chopped

Grana Padano.

MAMMA’S PEPERONI (Makes ± 250ml peppers) • 5 red peppers (or a mixture of red and yellow peppers) • Extra virgin olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste • 125ml extra virgin olive oil

Prepare the peppers by first peeling away the skin, removing all the seeds and white pith, and then cutting each pepper into thick slices.

In a saucepan with a fitted lid, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat and add the peppers, turning for the first 10 minutes until all are well coated. Reduce the heat, add salt and pepper and cook, covered, slowly over low heat, turning them every so often until the peppers are super soft, TIPS: Our family is fussy when it comes to paprika. It needs to be sweet but hot, and we find that only Spanish or Hungarian paprika offers that true depth of flavour. It might be snobby to prefer imported varieties, but it’s all in the name of quality food, right? *For chorizo, we like Spanish Fort chorizo. It’s not too fatty and, in a sauce like this, that is important when it comes to flavour balance.

slightly browned and sweet. There will be a beautiful red pepper olive oil infusion in the pan as well.

Transfer the peppers and oil into a sterilised jar with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the vegetables are totally submerged in the oil. Leave a thumb’s space between the contents and the lid. Tap the jar before sealing to remove air bubbles, and store in the fridge. Eat within a few days.

Continued …

WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

29

LEISURE

Porcini and pea risotto SERVES 2 When we grew up, one of our family holidays was going to the forest to forage our own fresh porcini mushrooms. We would head down to the pine forests for the day with a packed lunch, our minds brimming with instructions about how to tell the difference between a porcini mushroom and a poisonous mushroom, and the promise of a competition.

To find porcini, you have to note the texture of the pine mounds (or under oak trees) – under these trees is where the most delicious porcini are to be found. Armed with sticks, we would gently test the mound with our shoes for firmness. If firm, it was usually a porcini, but if soft and collapsed, it was generally poisonous. We’d separate the pine needles with our sticks and check. The abundance of nature in those childhood days seems almost mythical compared to the reality of life now. We would bounce back with full sacks of porcini. Considering the current cost of porcini mushrooms, we could have retired early with that much produce!

Slice and freeze porcini or cook them with

• 200g Vialone Nano rice

In another saucepan, blanche the peas

garlic, parsley, salt, pepper and extra virgin

• 125ml white wine

and drain, then add to the risotto pan.

olive oil. Crumb them and eat the porcini as

• 50g frozen peas (or preferably fresh

Start adding the warm stock, two ladles

steak; or slice the porcini and cook them

if you can find them)

at a time, allowing it to absorb gradually.

in bolognese to give the sauce a deeper

• 10g fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Continue adding and stirring until the rice

and more savoury taste. Even porcini on

• Salt and pepper to taste

has a slight bite to it.

toast is delicious. Porcini are very close to

• 50g Parmesan cheese, grated

The risotto should be almost ready when you drag a spoon through it and

our heart, and we try to find new ways to incorporate their unique flavour and texture

Heat the stock in a saucepan and stir

the mixture comes together slowly,

in our dishes.

in the porcini dust. Simmer slowly and

almost soupy. Add the parsley and

allow it to infuse.

season the risotto.

• 1 litre chicken or vegetable broth

In another saucepan over low heat, add

Take the risotto off the stove and add

• 20g porcini dust

a dash of olive oil and 30g of the butter.

the remaining butter and some of the

• A dash of extra virgin olive oil

Allow it to melt and then cook the

Parmesan cheese, allowing it to

• 80g butter (reserve 50g for mantecatura

onion until translucent. Add the garlic

absorb and rest.

(if using) and the porcini mushrooms.

Serve topped with the

• ½ onion, finely chopped

Allow to cook through.

remaining cheese.

• 1–2 cloves garlic, chopped (optional)

Add the rice and allow it to toast slightly

• 200g porcini mushrooms, frozen and

in the mushroom mixture. Pour in the

at the end)

sliced

30

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

wine and allow it to cook off.

RECIPES

Tiramisu semifreddo SERVES 8—10

The semifreddo recipes included here

• 4 eggs, yolks and whites separated

Semifreddo means half-frozen, but it’s

have been the most popular ones

• 250ml castor sugar

fully delicious. Not quite an ice cream

at Café del Sol for the past 14 years

• 250g mascarpone

and more frozen than pudding, this

but, as always, we encourage you to

• 625ml cream

dessert is a crowd pleaser and can

experiment. We have made plenty of

• 8 double shots espresso

be made well in advance. Think of it

different types of semifreddo over the

• 125ml Kahlúa liqueur

as a softer version of ice cream or an

years: limoncello tiramisu, raspberry

• 12–24 Savoiardi (Boudoir)

ice-cream cake. And you don’t need an

with white chocolate ... we could go

ice-cream machine to prepare it.

on and on!

biscuits (ladyfingers) • 100g dark cocoa to sieve • Grated dark chocolate to garnish Spray with cooking spray or grease a loaf tin (20 x 10 x 6cm) and add two layers of cling wrap with an overlap (to remove the semifreddo easily when set).

Beat the egg yolks with half the castor sugar until pale in colour. Fold in the mascarpone and mix well. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites while slowly adding the remaining sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this into the mascarpone mixture when ready.

In a clean bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the cream into the mascarpone mixture.

Prepare the espresso. Add the Kahlúa to the coffee and mix well.

Dip the biscuits into the coffee so that the edges absorb the coffee, but the insides are still firm. Do not leave them in the coffee too long for they will be soggy.

Arrange a layer of biscuits at the bottom of the loaf tin, cutting them in half if necessary until they fit snugly.

Spoon over half the mascarpone mixture and sieve over some cocoa.

Add a second layer of biscuits, mascarpone and cocoa. Cover well with cling wrap and allow to set in the freezer overnight.

About 15 minutes before serving, remove from the freezer and tug at the overhang of cling wrap to remove it fully from the tin.

Slice the semifreddo and sieve with more

Reprinted with permission from: Our Italian Legacy of Love by Chiara Viljoen

cocoa. Garnish with grated dark chocolate.

with Ryan Viljoen and Luciana Treccani, produced by Struik Lifestyle.

WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

31

LEISURE

BOOKS

SPRING READS A selection of fresh reads to get your teeth into this season, especially those fascinating biographies.

INVENTION: A LIFE BY JAMES DYSON

are cleaned around the world. In devoting all his

THINKING THE FUTURE BY CLEM SUNTER AND MITCH ILBURY

resources to iteratively developing the technology,

Every decision we make is a decision about the

he risked it all, but out of many failures and

future. We constantly make choices that affect

setbacks came hard-fought success. His products,

the next week, year or decade, but then get

including vacuum cleaners, hair dryers and

blinded by what we want or expect the future

hair stylers, and fans and purifiers are not only

to be. Cognitive traps lie everywhere: failing to

revolutionary technologies, but design classics.

question our assumptions; believing in greater

This was a legacy of his time studying at the Royal

certainty and personal control than life allows;

College of Art in the 1960s, when he was inspired

or missing signals because we’re distracted

Famously, over a four-year period, James Dyson made 5 127 prototypes of the cyclonic vacuum cleaner that would transform the way houses

by some of the most famous artists. Dyson reveals how he came to set up

by the noise. The post-2020 world demands

his own company and led it to become one of the most inventive technology

a revolutionary way of looking ahead, and in

companies in the world.

these unpredictable times, the key to good

ALL IN: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF BILLIE JEAN KING

futures thinking is good thinking. The goal of constructive futurism is not to forecast specific events, but to plot a series of scenarios

An intimate self-portrait encompassing

that show what could happen. Consequently,

the life, times and career of one of the most

we can work towards the future we want,

transformative individuals – let alone athletes

avoid the ones we don’t, and be prepared

– of recent times. Journeying from a blue-collar

to manage the risks and opportunities no

childhood to shatter tennis’s exclusive country-

matter what. In Thinking the Future, scenario

club culture, Billie Jean King paved the way

specialists Clem Sunter and Mitch Ilbury

for a more open, inclusive and equal sports

teach us the futurist’s art of decision-making,

environment. In her memoir, she takes us behind

where the flexibility of thinking like a fox

the scenes of the pro tennis tour, through her five

plays a key role in adapting to a complex and

years as the top-ranked woman in the world, her

interconnected world. The book rejects the

twenty Wimbledon championships, her thirty-nine grand-slam titles, and

appealing but misleading self-help narrative

her watershed defeat of Bobby Riggs in the famous ‘Battle of the Sexes’. With

that you can decide your future through sheer

her ever-present candour, King also describes the high personal price of public

determination in pursuit of your goals, and

greatness. We see how she struggled to live authentically and the challenges

replaces it with a more dynamic approach.

she grappled with beneath the mask of fame, including entrenched sexism,

Isaac Newton said: ‘If I have seen further than

an eating disorder and struggles with her sexual identity until her “outing”

others, it is by standing on the shoulders of

by a former lover led her to embrace her true self. We come to understand

giants.’ By reimagining seminal concepts

how, through it all, her unshakeable integrity, resilience and sense of purpose

thought up by some of history’s greatest

allowed her time and again to overcome her obstacles, and, at a few dire

thinkers, the authors detail the dos and

moments, to rebound from near ruin. Hers is the story of a pathbreaking

don’ts for thinking the future and handling its

fighter for equality, world-class athlete, and an indomitable spirit.

uncertainty in a constructive way.

32

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

LEISURE

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WWW.SILVER DIGEST.CO.ZA

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LEISURE

CROSSWORD

34

SILVER DIGEST // SPRING 2021

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