5 minute read
HEALTH
COST OF CANCER NEWS
As I type this the weather is gorgeous Spring is definitely on its way and I’ve just had the most fantastic time at the musical event which the Porthcawl Lions put on for us. It was absolutely awesome. I came away from there with a big smile on my face that lasted well into the night I could not sleep I was that hyped up. There were songs from West Park School Choir, they were fab, then it was Porthcawl Comprehensive School performing extracts from their up and coming show Legally Blond so, good and what a talented bunch of teenagers. Then there was a choir called Sounds Familiar, they just blew me away they did a really emotional dedication to the people of the Ukraine. Gorgeous. Then last but by no means least we had the Porthcawl Community Orchestra. Mind blown. They were just fantastic. I would like to thank all those who came and paid tickets to the event, to The Hi-Tide to all the performers but mostly to Gloria and the rest of the Porthcawl Lions for doing it for us in the first place. It was fantastic. They raised a huge £1,000 which will help us massively. If you know anyone who is finding life a struggle whilst they are going through treatment for Cancer, please do point them in our direction. Finally, please do follow us on all social media platforms and remember we help those who are finding life a struggle financially whilst going through treatment for Cancer.
Nicky, Emma & Cath Trustees
NEW BEGINNINGS
What would you like to do that is not already in your routine? Maybe time for yourself, reading, playing, creating, chilling, meeting friends, only you know what is missing from your days. Listen to yourself not the suggestions or biddings of others. Find the interests that take you to your happy place, goodness knows there are enough distractions to interrupt your peace and calm. Naturally, your life is probably very busy, filled with plans, lists, work, family, shopping… if you decide to do something for yourself, how do you find the time? Start with a few minutes each morning, when brushing your teeth or showering and, wonder what life would be like if you changed your routine just a little. Think about the things you do and people you meet and notice what brings an inner smile or a frown. This could well be the first time you have given this any thought, as our lives are so full. It can be hard to pause and reflect in the beginning. Take a long slow deep breath in and gently let it go slowly and, at the same time, imagine a slightly different routine for the weeks ahead and begin to visualise a new path opening up for you. There is no rush, the path will always be waiting, you just choose when to begin.
Margaret Brown
CHECK YOUR HEART AFTER COVID
Millions of people have caught Corona virus in the UK and many of those have been unfortunate enough to develop long Covid as a result. But a new study has found that catching the virus could also put you at risk of developing serious cardiovascular health conditions. These include a stroke, heart failure, angina and cardiac arrest, among other conditions. New research in Nature Medicine warns that catching the virus could also put you at risk of developing cardiovascular conditions. It was found that people who had Covid faced a 72% higher risk of heart failure after 12 months, while around 45 more people per 1,000 (4.5%) went on to develop any of the conditions, compared to those who were uninfected. Sharon Owen, Calon Hearts Charity Director, said, “This news in Nature Medicine reinforces Calon Hearts’ campaign for heartscreening to be more widely available. We hope that our Health Minister at the Welsh Parliament who previously rejected our campaign for heart screening particularly for 11-35 yr olds who play sport for their school or community, will revisit our request. In the meantime, Calon Hearts will continue to offer heartscreening for people across South Wales.”
Please contact Calon Heart Screening and Defibrillators if you would like to reserve your place. 02922 402670. www.heartscreening.wales
LOW CARB DIET
Low carb diets have been linked to several impressive health benefits. Research has shown that they’re particularly effective at reducing hunger and aiding weight loss. They’ve also been associated with decreased blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, as well as increased HDL (good) cholesterol. What’s more, low carb diets have been found to improve blood sugar control in those with type 2 diabetes and typically provide less than 130 grams of carbs per day, while very low carb diets typically provide 20–50 grams of carbs per day. However, some very low carb diets can be low in fiber, a nutrient that’s important for digestive, heart, and gut health. Low Carb foods include: Avocado, Almonds, Blackberries, Raspberries, Cauliflower, Broccoli and Asparagus.
