Your Wellness Matters | Issue 24 |Nov/Dec 2021

Your

Nov/Dec 2021 Issue 24

Matters The community paper to whom your wellness matters. facebook.com/yourwellnessza

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H E L P I N G O T H E R S The Golden Bow IS HUMAN NATURE

Shane Titana, Founder of the Human Nature Project

a symbol for breastfeeding protection, promotion and support.

Jehad Kasu

hane Titana has a colourful life.

During his youth, he was a professional cricketer who started his career at Mbekweni Cricket Club, whom he attributes most of achievements to.

Through this sporting career Shane was

fortunate to travel globally, meeting new people, starting new friendships, and presented with new opportunities.

One such opportunity left him with the decision on whether to ditch his cricketing career for a job at a the prestigious

Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, Dubai.

He chose Dubai, where he worked at Yas Links for more than six years, working his way up to become the Manager.

Shane was then presented with a similar

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opportunity back home in South Africa at the recently ranked second best golf course in the country – Pearl Valley. Not only was this a chance to get to his home country, the job opportunity was also located in the Drakenstein area he grew up in.

After nearly seven years overseas, Shane didn’t hesitate and embraced the chance to work back at home.

Coming home was important to Shane because he had a burning desire to help the youth from the community he comes from.

As such, Shane registered an NPO to achieve exactly this and I chatted to him about it.

How did it all start & when was it established?

The name of our organisation is Human Nature Community Project. We started in 2019 and got registered as an NPO in September 2020 Reg: 2020/716759/08, and the African philosophy of ubuntu "We are who we are through each other" is central to our core values.

We conducted a survey at Desmond Mpilo Tutu High School which is situated in Mbekweni to get a baseline of needs amongst learners. And amongst other findings, we established that 80% of its students live with their grandparents.

We also found that many young girls were

Your Wellness Matters is a free wellness community newspaper created to empower readers with preventative wellness information in order to make better wellness and lifestyle decisions.

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forced to lose school days, negatively impacting their educational development, because of no access to sanitary towels that are simply unaffordable to them.

This is when I decided that period poverty cannot be the cost of an uninterrupted education for girls in this community. And that’s how the Human Nature Community Project started – because a girl having her period is human nature – not an opportunity cost.

Who are your main supporters?

We initially asked people we know for donations, and to our delight, Shoprite Centre and Boxer Stores in Mbekweni started donating a huge number of products.

I also have consistent support from former Proteas cricket player Vernon Philander who donates a number of Harvest cereals monthly, as well as from many Pearl Valley ladies members, especially their Captain Corlia Douglas who often goes the extra mile to assist us.

What are the goals your organization has for 2022 and beyond?

Our goal is to uplift the community (Drakenstein) with the intention to improve the living conditions of the people within it.

Particularly the youth, as we nurture them to be this country’s future leaders in corporate and civil society.

We also want to position our organization as

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a resource/info hub to matriculants i.e., assist students with post-matric application process, scholarship opportunities etc. And also support rural communities in South Africa as much as we can.

What are some of the other projects your organization has taken on?

So far, we have donated more than 18 000 sanitary pads to all 5 schools in Mbekweni: 2 high schools and 3 primary schools.

We also partnered with Samaritan Feet and donated 100 pairs of school shoes to the pupils of Desmond Mpilo Tutu Secondary School in Paarl.

Through a collaboration with Ayo Technology, we were also able to donate face masks, school stationery and school shoes to 3 schools in the community.

Most recently we renovated 13 toilets at Imboniselo Primary school. The previous condition it was in was unhealthy and didn’t offer the dignity that a place of learning for young people should have. We are very proud of this project and feel happy that the pupils at the school have bathrooms they are proud of.

Any interested benefactors can reach out to Shane on social media: Instagram handle, @human.nature_project, Meta (Facebook) by searching for Human Nature Community Project, or contact them on +27 64 371 2129.

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HELP BABY KARIEN FIND HER LIFE-SAVING MATCH Supplied Content

High school sweethearts RJ and Natasja Swanepoel have been married for 11 years.

7-month-old, Karien, is their only child and long-anticipated “gift from God”. This year in mid-October, baby Karien was conclusively diagnosed with SCID (Severe Combined Immuno-Deficiency) after a range of extensive and invasive diagnostic tests spanning two months and three separate hospitals.

Despite the news of the dire diagnosis, the Swanepoel’s, after many weeks, had a measure of relief of finally knowing the definitive cause behind Karien’s spate of illnesses and began discussing the treatment plans going forward.

SCID, also known as "bubble baby syndrome", is a group of rare disorders caused by mutations in different genes involved in the development and function of infection-fighting immune cells which in essence means that baby Karien has little to no immune system. Prior to her sudden onset of wide-ranging symptoms, baby Karien was a happy healthy baby who fed well and slept through the night. Natasja recalls Karien as an easy-going baby, who was full of strength and character and perceptive beyond her tender age.

Says Alana James, Executive Director at DKMS Africa, “baby Karien deserves a second chance at life. At only seven months old, she should be playing with her toys, instead, she has a life-threatening illness that’s threatening to cut her life short. We urge all people who are eligible to register to become stem cell donors to do so using our online registration platform.”

Baby Karien

Baby Karien is currently being treated at Cintocare Pretoria and has three dedicated specialists attending to her. Due to her almost non-existent immune system, she is kept in isolation in the high or intensive care unit and has battled a number of critical conditions including mastocytosis with resulting biopsies, double pneumonia, polio, BCG, rotavirus, and a number of other acute infections. The adverse effects of multiple diagnoses and treatments have resulted in baby Karien being fed through a tube and even relying on a ventilator at some stage, with mom and dad taking turns around the clock to stay by her side.

encourage as many qualifying blood stem cell donors to join the blood stem cell registry and donor centre, DKMS Africa and give hope to their beautiful baby girl and their family as a whole. The support that the family has already received has been overwhelming and Natasja talks about how she has learnt that an experience like this touches so many people and that it is important for them to feel that they can help and make a difference. “It creates a ripple effect and you should allow the good light to shine,” says Swanepoel.

relatively painless process, much like donating blood platelets. To register as a donor is a quick and simple process that involves a non-invasive mouth and cheek swab.

Doctors have confirmed that baby Karien is now in need of a life-saving blood stem cell transplant from a matching donor to receive a second chance at life. The Swanepoels are ordinarily a private family but have had to turn to the public in their desperate plea to

DKMS Africa, formerly known as The Sunflower Fund, has registered over 11 million donors worldwide. Anyone who is healthy and between the ages of 18 and 55 is eligible to register and if one is a successful match, the process of donating blood stem cells is a

Every new donor registered gives hope to baby Karien and many patients like her.

For more information or to register as a blood stem cell donor, please visit www.dkms-africa.org or call 0800 12 10 82, weekdays between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm.

“Karien is such a special little girl who has touched the lives of so many people in such a short span of time. Finding a donor match for her will be an incredible blessing but if someone else finds their match through this process then it will be all the more meaningful. Please register today,” pleads Natasja Swanepoel.

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GENDER BASED VIOLENCE – SOUTH AFRICA’S SECOND PANDEMIC Supplied Content

The onslaught of Covid-19 has served to highlight shortcomings across many areas within South African society – with the topic of gender-based violence (GBV) playing a prominent role. Despite research indicating that South Africa has, over the years, taken action to promote gender equality and women’s rights – with several legislations in place to address GBV well before 2019, GBV remains unacceptably high.

According to Sandri Appelgryn, a private social worker in the field of forensic practice and a member of The South African Association of Social Workers in Private Practice (SAASWIPP), “The sad reality is, despite the actions taken prior to the outbreak of Covid-19, the public remained oblivious to the prevalence and impact of GBV unless it was experienced first-hand. Further, very little knowledge existed around the practical implementation of said legislation.”

“The cause of GBV cannot be attributed to a single factor – but rather an interplay of individual, community, economic, cultural and religious factors interacting at different levels of society,” continues Appelgryn. “A universal value system rejecting any elements of GBV was re-introduced to the

South African society with the outbreak of Covid-19. However, there is still a long way to go before it will be completely integrated.

Crime stats for the 1st quarter of 2021/2022 revealed 10,006 people were raped between April and June 2021 – an increase of 4,201 cases (72.4% increase), compared to the corresponding period in the previous financial year[1].”

Referred to as South Africa’s ‘second’ pandemic, and with South Africa sometimes known as the ‘destination of femicide’, the South African government has identified several key focus areas to help eliminate GBV in the country by 2030[2]. These include an effective legal framework, statute and procedural law that promotes access to justice, redress, protection and compensation; to criminalise violence against women and prosecute the perpetrators; to devise a plan of action looking at policies on violence against women with a strong evidence base and political will for its implementation; increased awareness and sensitivity of professionals and officials; allocation of resources to support advocacy groups and NGOs; promotion of women’s advancement by addressing structural inequalities;

Sandri Appelgryn, a private social worker

improving the collection and publication of data, re-evaluating policies and basic research programmes looking into GBV and to promote and establish prevention and awareness-raising programmes.

“In theory this strategic plan should be effective in addressing GBV,” says Appelgryn.

“However, its success will depend on the

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GENDER BASED VIOLENCE – SOUTH AFRICA’S SECOND PANDEMIC Supplied Content

effectiveness and role of our SAPS, victims being supported with access to the legal system and courts, budget allocated and implementing the Domestic Violence Act and cooperation among government departments.”

Appelgryn goes on to add that additional measures that need to be considered include prioritising services that offer preventative interventions to potential victims. Of equal importance is the viewing of supposed ‘minor’ offences committed by perpetrators. “These need to be viewed in a far more serious light by our legal system to allow for medical and psycho-therapeutic interventions, monitored by court officials – thereby supporting the notion of early intervention and prevention of GBV. The first port of call, however, remains easily accessible and highly trained staff able to assist the victim with relevant information with regards to resources and the completion of documentation when applying for a protection order. “ Younger generations also desperately need to be educated in being able to identify GBV and to associate it with a criminal offence, in addition to being empowered to report it to the designated institutions. “The youth of South Africa should be educated to under-

stand that GBV is not the norm and should never be treated as such. Supporting the youth to be involved in organising public campaigns, aimed at raising awareness of GBV, should be more prevalent. Further, familiarising youth with the legal systems in place might also encourage them to report incidents of GBV they are witnessing,” stresses Appelgryn.

For people in a potentially volatile situation, Appelgryn recommends that they physically distance themselves from the perpetrator.

“Given all the challenges a woman will be experiencing on an emotional level, it is vital for women to have access to a professional person in the medical, legal or social work fields of practice. Such access will also allow for the necessary counselling and guidance needed to allow a victim to safely consider her options, plan her strategy for applying the relevant legislation and make use of available resources.” However, Appelgryn does stress that should anyone find themselves in immediate danger, the SAPS should be called immediately to ensure instant protection from harm.

For those who suspect that their loved one may be caught up in a GBV situation, Appelgryn advises that they may present with unexplainable injuries and may refuse medical attention. It is also common that they will

offer excuses for the perpetrator’s behaviour and become very defensive when approached or concerns are raised. “You might also note symptoms of depression and anxiety but, potentially, also aggression towards others such as their own children.

They might offer excuses for not being able to attend social gatherings or behave out of character when they do attend. Excessive alcohol and drug abuse might further be an indication of their difficulty in coping with their current situation.”

Appelgryn also cautions that, understandably, victims of GBV might be extremely anxious to take the first step in addressing their situation. “Actions being forced upon them might increase their anxiety and reluctance to allow the intervention to take its course. Empathy is therefore critical when approaching a victim of GBV who has not spoken out yet.”

“Victims need to be empowered with access to information and guaranteed support. If the victim is not in immediate danger, such information can be offered to her in a way that will not put her at risk with on-going follow up often necessary to support and

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GENDER BASED VIOLENCE – SOUTH AFRICA’S SECOND PANDEMIC Supplied Content

encourage her to take the necessary action.”

However, Appelgryn again stresses that should anyone be in immediate danger, SAPS must be contacted for immediate intervention.

Appelgryn provides several helplines available to both victims of GBV and their loved ones seeking to assist: SAPS Emergency: 10111 Crime Stop (all cases of rape, sexual assault or any form of violence): 086 00 10111 GBV Command Centre (24-hour, toll-free): 0800 428 428 Commission for Gender Equality (report gender discrimination and abuse): 0800 007 709 Domestic Violence Helpline (Stop Women Abuse): 0800 150 150/ *120*7867# Thuthuzela Care Centres Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs): one-stop facilities that have been introduced as a critical part of South Africa’s anti-rape strategy, aiming to reduce secondary victimisation and to build a case ready for successful prosecution. The website also provides access to information on gender-based violence.

Please refer to https://www.justice.gov.za/vg/TCCs-list.pdf for a list of contact numbers.

People Opposed to Woman Abuse (Powa)

Powa provides counselling, both over the phone and in person, temporary shelter for and legal help to women who have experienced violence.

Website: http://www.powa.co.za(link is external) Tel: 011 642 4345 E-mail: info@powa.co.za Childline South Africa This non-profit organisation helps abused children and their families with a free counselling service. It deals with issues such as physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, behavioural problems and trafficking, and gives legal advice.

Website: https://www.childlinesa.org.za/ Toll-free helpline: 0800 055 555 E-mail: olcadmin@childlinesa.org.za Child Welfare South Africa Child Welfare South Africa focuses on child protection, childcare and family development. Neglect and child abuse can also be reported.

Website: http://childwelfaresa.org.za/ Tel: 074 080 8315 E-mail: info@childwelfaresa.co.za Famsa provides counselling and education to help improve marriages and families. It helps in cases of domestic violence and

trauma, divorces and mediation. There are 27 offices across the country.

Website: http://www.famsaorg.mzansiitsolutions.co.za/ Tel: 011 975 7106/7 Tears Foundation TEARS Foundation provides access to crisis intervention, advocacy, counselling, and prevention education services for those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault and child sexual abuse.

Website: http://www.tears.co.za/ Free SMS helpline: *134*7355# Tel: 010 590 5920 Email: info@tears.co.za The Trauma Centre The Trauma Centre provides trauma counselling and violence prevention services for people affected by violence Website: http://www.trauma.org.za/ Tel: 021 465 7373 E-mail: info@trauma.org.za Shukumisa Support group available to victims of GBV shukumisa.org.za Halt Elder Abuse Line (Heal) – helpline for elderly people Helpline: 0800 003 081 E-mail: action@actiononelderabusesa.co.za

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STANDING TOGETHER TO ELIMINATE CERVICAL CANCER Partner Content

On 17 November 2021, CANSA and other cancer control partners worldwide, marked the first anniversary of the World Health Organization (WHO)’s ‘Eliminate Cervical Cancer’ Campaign. Launched by the WHO to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem globally in 2020, countries and communities around the world mark this movement with a day of action and the launch of local campaigns.

Advocates and survivors play leading roles and share their stories. On the anniversary of this movement, CANSA once more commits itself towards raising awareness of cervical cancer, how to lower cancer risk and the importance of regular screening to promote early detection and save lives.

Dr Manala Makua, Chief Director of Women's Maternal and Reproductive Health (National Department of Health) calls upon all women in South Africa to fight against cervical cancer. It starts with signing consent forms to allow young girls to be immunised with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

She explains, “One in 40 women are at risk of developing cervical cancer (NCR 2017).

It’s the leading cause of cancer related deaths, and the second most common diagnosed cancer among South African

women. As a country, just over one million women are screened for cervical cancer annually. This is very low as we should be screening above five million a year based on the population group that needs to be screened. If you’re 30 or older, please present yourself to the nearest health facility and request cervical cancer screening.”

“It’s very important that women are aware of the changes that happen in their bodies.

If you’re having heavy, prolonged bleeding heavier than your normal menses, or if you have a foul smell coming from your vagina, please visit your nearest health facility.

If you’re screened for cervical cancer, please go back to the facility after six weeks for your results. HIV infected women are at an increased risk for cervical cancer at an earlier age. If you’re diagnosed with HIV, you should screen for cervical cancer every three years irrespective of the age.

Cervical cancer is highly treatable if caught in the early stages and treatment should start as soon as possible for best results.

Don’t wait, cervical cancer may catch you unaware,” added Dr Makua.

Lorraine Govender, CANSA’s National Manager: Health Promotion, explains how CANSA contributes by raising awareness around cervical cancer.

“We aim to educate more women about cervical cancer and we’re excited to introduce a video promoting the importance of Pap smears and educational radio spots.

The radio spots are available in isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sesotho, English and Afrikaans, so we’re delighted to be reaching a wider audience of women. CANSA is thankful to Siemens Healthineers for sponsoring the cost of the radio spots and video to raise cervical cancer awareness.”

Govender adds, “We encourage women aged 18 to 69 to contact a CANSA Care Centre to book a Pap smear or visit their local clinic or health professional. As part of our screening programme, CANSA makes use of the trusted and clinically proven liquid-based cytology method when collecting a sample during a Pap smear. Pap smears help us identify abnormal cells on the cervix (lower womb) caused by HPV which can lead to cancer.

Should the result indicate an abnormality, CANSA can help with a referral within the public health care sector or to a medical practitioner.”

Rae van Nieuwenhuizen, cervical cancer Survivor, agrees that cervical cancer needs to be spoken about more and a greater awareness of early detection and selfawareness needs to be promoted.

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STANDING TOGETHER TO ELIMINATE CERVICAL CANCER

According to the National Department of Health’s Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Policy women aged 30 years and older can have three Pap smears in their lifetime at 30, 40 and 50 at public health clinics at no cost (non-symptomatic).

If women experience abnormal symptoms, they can request a Pap smear at local gov-

ernment clinics. HIV positive women are eligible for a Pap smear at diagnosis and every three years thereafter if negative for cervical cancer (yearly if screening is positive). #EliminateCervicalCancer calCancerAwareness

#CANSACervi-

References: (1) International Papilloma Virus Society (IPVS) 2021 Campaign Guide (2) National Department of Health South Africa (2017) ‘Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Policy’ (3) Cohen PA, JhingranA, Oaknin A, Denny L. Cervical cancer. Lancet. 2019; 393 (10167): 169-82

SOUTH AFRICA’S LEADING CANNABIS PLAYER, LABAT AFRICA SECURES R300 MILLION FUNDING TO ACCELERATE GROWTH Refiloe Nomdada

Labat Africa, the leading black-owned listed Cannabis Holdings group in South Africa has secured an R300 million investment commitment from US-based GR Global Ventures, an esteemed entity with expertise in cross border transactions in the Cannabis sector.

“We are pleased to have a very high-quality, sector focused USA based institutional investment group as one of our key stakeholders. As Labat Africa continues to mature in the personal healthcare and industrial cannabis industries, a partner such as GRGV is a key component to supporting our winning efforts,” explains Brian Van Rooyen, Labat Africa CEO. Labat Africa’s initial capital raising process was

severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in slowing down the implementation of some of Labat’s pioneering cannabis initiatives. With markets now beginning to re-open and investors on the look-out for new growth segments, this investment will accelerate the implementation and roll out of these sector-leading initiatives. The recent successful Johannesburg Cannabis Expo at the Sandton Convention Centre highlights that, “the investment into the high interest South African cannabis market via Labat Africa could not have come at a more opportune time.”

With a focus on personal wellness, pharmaceutical grade Medicinal Cannabis and

Industrial Hemp, Labat Africa is one of two cannabis businesses listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange offering South African and international investors exposure to high growth investments in the Cannabis economy.

The funding will unlock key opportunities and initiatives for the company including ongoing research through clinical trials, growth in the market, more customer engagements, and further manufacturing.

The international investment into the business is a signal of the positive market sentiment when it pertains to the potential for growth in the Cannabis sector. Labat is proud to be leading the field in the South African arena.

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AFRICA RISES AS ONE AGAINST TOBACCO Supplied Content

The first three-day Africa Conference on Tobacco Control and Development – jointly organised by the Center for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA) and The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) – recently concluded with a strong call to action to address the debilitating impact of tobacco use on the health of Africans and the continent’s economies.

Nearly 600 stakeholders from across the continent registered for the gathering, which saw 35 speakers, 15 conference sessions, 42 research presentations and 21 posters. The presenters and delegates urged African countries and partners to increase investment in local research to support tobacco control initiatives and enhance advocacy and partnerships with dynamic evidence-based research.

The conference leadership noted that tobacco control implementation requires flexibility to align to government priorities and the changing governance dynamics.

The paucity of data on the continent has adversely impacted promulgation of effective policies on tobacco control in many

African countries. The official conference communique encourages African countries to introduce policies that will disincentivise tobacco use. Increased taxation on tobacco products is proven to encourage quitting by making cigarettes unaffordable. Yet, Africa lags behind in the introduction and enforcement of tobacco tax policies, partly due to tobacco industry interference.

The delegates were alarmed that emerging smokeless tobacco products are creating new challenges for tobacco control, complicated by increasing usage of tobacco within Africa’s large youth population.

“There is need for robust laws to respond to these challenges – especially by being vigilant towards these novel products and adopting strategies to counter the ever-changing industry tactics.

“Local research will result in irrefutable messaging against the tobacco industry and promote understanding of local setting and local political setting,” said conference chairperson Professor William

Bazeyo, who is the director of the CTCA. In his closing remarks, Dr William Maina, Senior Project Officer at the World Health Organization (WHO) AFRO, called the conference a historic event that built synergy among many of the leaders in tobacco control research, programme design, policy implementation, community engagement and monitoring of both the performance against tobacco control targets and the industry’s antics.

“This conference is a steppingstone. We conclude the conference on a clearer trajectory, having identified what we know and what we need to know to tackle the tobacco epidemic,” said Dr Maina.

The conference was supported by various partners including WHO AFRO, the Research Unit on the Economics of Excisable Products (REEP), Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids (CTFK), African Tobacco Control Alliance (ATCA), Africa Centre for Tobacco Industry Monitoring and Policy Research (ATIM), The International Union against Tuberculosis and lung Disease and the Tax Justice Network-Africa (TJN-A).

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MAJOR WELLNESS RETAILER COMMITTED TO EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND WELLBEING Supplied Content

Tapping into what works best in South Africa Thursday 4 November 2021, South Africa’s leading wellness retailer, Wellness Warehouse, has partnered with National HealthCare Group to ensure all employees have access to quality healthcare with a recently introduced healthcare funding product that is making considerable strides amongst employer groups.

Launched during lockdown, at the height of the first COVID-19 wave, to deliver primary healthcare services for uncovered employees in need of a healthcare lifeline, MediClub Connect™, has since gained a considerable foothold in the South African corporate healthcare space.

According to Patrick Lubbe, chief executive officer of the National HealthCare Group, MediClub Connect™ is the newest primary healthcare service, offering a practical and efficient primary healthcare solution that is ideal for the times we live in. Lubbe explains that the product has been designed to tap into what works in the South African environment specifically, and therein lies much of its success.

“We may well be living in the time of COVID, but we are also living in an era where our lives have been substantially improved and enriched by advances in technology. For example, being able to consult your doctor online makes it easy to obtain assistance quickly and conveniently. But high data costs and lack of access still prevents many South Africans from tapping into sophisticated digital services.

A practical solution

“In our country we have to use what is practical and available to maximum effect and this includes mobile phones and popular apps such as WhatsApp. Given how little data it uses, WhatsApp has become the instant messenger of choice, with almost two thirds of South Africans making use of the service.

This has provided infinite opportunities, particularly within the low-cost healthcare setting.”

Lubbe says the popularity of MediClub Connect™ is being driven by the fact that it is making private healthcare consultations accessible to an enormous previously underserviced market that currently rely on government healthcare services.

“The past 18-months were tough, though fruitful in learnings for many South African companies. As the socio-economic challenges dawned on many businesses, the demand for safe, quality primary healthcare services have increased,” he notes.

Adding to this Dr Reinder Nauta, chairman of the National HealthCare Group said that improved healthcare access will be driven by business leaders who understand the importance of offering employees efficient health cover during these challenging times.

“We have been working with employers

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MAJOR WELLNESS RETAILER COMMITTED TO EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND WELLBEING

across a broad spectrum of industries to ensure their staff have access to quality healthcare and peace of mind during what is without doubt a stressful time. There is a real commitment to making a difference. Business leaders are wanting to provide their staff members with affordable healthcare solutions that will allow them access to professional medical advice when they need it. With MediClub Connect™ they are getting quality primary care, at an unbeatable price.

The benefits are manifold for employees and employers who have experienced first-hand the difference healthcare access can make in reducing absenteeism and strengthening their bottom line. It is also building morale, solidarity, loyalty and ultimately good labour relations, which is so important in our country,” says Dr Nauta.

Wellness Warehouse prioritising employee health

The latest South African company to step up to the plate by providing its employees with fully funded membership of MediClub Connect™ is Wellness Warehouse, an important player in the wellness space. The employees of South Africa's largest wellness retailer, which has 43 retail stores, including an

online facility, recently joined MediClub Connect™.

Simon Alston, chief executive of Wellness Warehouse says that as the go-to health retailer in the country the company is passionate about creating a community of South Africans who love to live life well. “We believe that health is the truest form of wealth, and we are here to help create a better South Africa – one healthy choice at a time. This journey, we believe, starts with our employees and it therefore makes perfect sense for us to ensure that they have easy access to healthcare services when they need it.

“The health and wellbeing of our colleagues are of paramount importance within our company. Given that we spend up to 40+ hours a week in the workplace, a proactive approach to health and wellness in the work environment is of vital importance. By not focusing on the wellbeing of our employees they could become unhealthy, unmotivated, and unhappy all of which in turn can result in poor staff morale and a high staff turnover,” notes Alston.

Reducing costs and improving access

Commenting on MediClub ConnectTM, Dr Nauta says this practical, and user-friendly application of technology represents the latest in a series of ground-breaking primary healthcare solutions introduced by the National HealthCare Group in recent years to bring the benefits of private medical services to the low-cost segment of the healthcare market.

He adds that the uptake of the tech-savvy, yet simple solution was almost instantaneous as it was fulfilling a considerable need for more accessible healthcare, while empowering individuals to monitor their health closely. In addition, the virtual medical consultation service has gone on to reduce the cost of primary healthcare cover beyond all expectations for corporate clients and their employees.

“National HealthCare has established itself as the healthcare service provider of choice in the lower cost and emerging markets.

Good geographic positioning, thanks to a significantly expanded doctor network, and a hands-on business philosophy has allowed the Group to develop an intimate understanding of the needs of the low-cost market,” concludes Dr Nauta.

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THE BIG FAT GUIDE Supplied Content

We know that fat is making a comeback, but more than just the amount of fat, it’s the type of fats you eat that really matter. There are good fats that protect your heart and support overall health, and there are bad fats that increase cholesterol and your risk of diseases.

Dietary fats, found in foods produced from plants and animals, all contain 9 calories per gram, but don’t get out your calculators just yet! Each type of fat can have very different effects on your health as well as your weight.

It’s not easy to determine precisely how much fat a person ingests daily so it’s equally challenging trying to suggest how much fat you should take in. It’s rare you would eat foods that are made entirely of fat or of protein. Most foods contain fat, protein and carbohydrates in varying proportions. The answer to keeping healthy isn’t to cut out fat; it’s to replace bad fats with the good fats that promote health and well-being. The key is to understand the difference. Fat fits into four major categories: monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, trans fats and saturated fats.

THE GOOD

Unsaturated fats are the good guys and the ones you definitely want to include in your diet. These are the monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and are found in sunflower oil, canola oil, olive oil, soft tub margarines, olives, avocados and nuts and seeds.

Polyunsaturated fats include omega-3 fatty acids which have many powerful health ben-

efits for your body and brain. Since the human body can't produce omega-3s, these fats are referred to as essential fatty acids (EFA’s) meaning that you have to get them from your diet. The best sources of EFA’s are fatty fish such as sardines, salmon and tuna.

The HSFSA recommends that you eat fatty fish at least 2 times a week.

THE BAD

Trans fat is something you should definitely eliminate from your diet. Trans fats raise your bad cholesterol, lower your good cholesterol and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Even small amounts of trans fats can harm health - for every 2% of calories from trans fat consumed daily, the risk of heart disease rises by 23%.

You’ll find trans fats in commercially-baked goods like biscuits, pies and cake mix, microwave popcorn, crackers and chips.

Several countries, including South Africa, have virtually stamped out trans fats by imposing limits on the amount that can be contained in packaged food. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for the eradication of artificial trans fats from the global food supply by 2023.

FATTEN UP

Adding a little tasty fat, such as soft tub margarine, to a plate of vegetables can also make it easier to eat healthy food and to improve the overall quality of your diet.

When it comes to fat, the golden rule is to steer clear from manufactured and industrially-processed food fats and take in more ‘real’ natural food fats that are good for your heart and your health.

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OFFICE 22: DEFUSING THE TICKING MENTAL HEALTH TIMEBOMB Supplied Content

Workplaces across the globe are facing a mental health crisis of unprecedented scope, as the effects of almost two years of anxiety, uncertainty and fear will transition into another period of flux as we enter 2022, a leadership expert says.

Debbie Goodman, Group CEO of Jack Hammer, a global group of executive search, talent advisory and leadership coaching companies based in Cape Town, says while on the surface an attitude of keeping calm and carrying on has prevailed until now, people, regardless of their level in the corporate hierarchy, are not okay. As a result, companies are increasingly putting in place pro-active mental wellbeing and support programmes well above and beyond anything they have done in the past.

“Through our work in the USA, South Africa and the rest of Africa, it is clear that some companies are taking this matter very seriously, devising specific mental health and wellbeing strategies and policies in recognition of the problem.

“Additionally, some companies are taking the novel approach of appointing Chief Wellness Officers – a position we predict will become just as important as any other in the C-Suite in the future,” Goodman says.

She says 2020 was a year of upheaval and swimming against the tsunami of challeng-

es that arose in an effort to survive. When 2021 came, there was hope that things would improve and normalise to some degree. But now, with 2022 on the horizon and reality hitting home that equilibrium is likely a long way off, it has become crucial that substantial interventions are put in place to support everyone in the workplace – from entry level staff to the Chief Executive.

“It is not necessary to rehash statistics to demonstrate the extent of the crisis – everyone is aware of the rise in mental health concerns, skyrocketing suicides, the increase in people seeking medication for depression and anxiety in the past two years. As we return to the hybrid workplace in January 2022, we will all be bringing the trauma of the past two years with us, embarking on another year of ongoing uncertainty.

“So where before, some progressive companies recognised the importance of the mental wellbeing of their staff not only from a humanitarian and empathetic position, but also in recognition of the importance mental health plays on productivity, creativity, teamwork and ultimately the success of a company, we now have a situation where mental health has moved from its periphery position into a front and centre issue.”

Goodman recommends that companies

incorporate their approach to mental health support into their 2022 planning.

“Previously, the occasional mental health day concession or initial therapy support would cut it, but that is no longer sufficient,” she says.

In her latest book, Amazon #1 Business Best Seller The Living Room Leader – Leadership Lessons for a Hybrid Future, Goodman provides advice on the short-to-medium term future of the office after two years of Covid learnings, giving concrete suggestions about ways in which companies can start to implement an holistic mental health and wellness support programme right away.

“Probably the most salient insight that can be taken from this time is that we all have a basic need for routine and certainty in order for our nervous systems to be able to function optimally. Constantly being in a state of high alert, and expecting danger and upheaval as a matter of course, do not make the best foundation for workplace excellence. It is therefore incumbent on leaders to provide as much safety and certainty to their teams as possible.”

Goodman says companies can start with the

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following framework:

FLEXIBLE ROUTINES

Whether the company is all remote, all-in at the office, or has a hybrid setup, make sure that the arrangement is linked to a routine, albeit a flexible one. Even if companies allow workers to choose what works best for them, this trust should not equate to a free-for-all. Total autonomy would be counterproductive and destabilising for everyone. So the sweet spot is combining boundaries and structure with a good dose of flexibility.

COMMUNICATION

Leaders must communicate regularly regarding (realistic) milestones and expectations so that people can plan their lives and achieve a greater degree of certainty.

Even where things remain uncertain, this should be shared as well. A lack of communication creates anxiety whereas frequent engagement, even if it is to share that the jury is still out on a specific matter, puts people at greater ease.

REASSURANCE

People continue to be fearful about the future and particulalry job security, many constantly living with the fear that this day could be their last, particulaly if a company has already undergone retrenchments.

Although it may be impossible to offer any real certainty about the future, let your

people know they can be assured of their jobs under x, y and z conditions, which will go a long way to having them breathy more easily. It also helps to shift the focus from anxiety over the future to the deadlines of the day.

MODEL AND NORMALISE

Many, if not most, leaders will be able to answer yes to at least two or three of the following questions: Are you feeling stressed? Anxious? Burnt out? Exhausted?

Depressed? Generally under the weather?

Fearful?

Without hesitiation, many, if not most, of your staff will suffer from some of these as well.

It is therefore important to normalise the fact that you as leader are also impacted by these issues, and model positive responses to address mental health.

The language of mental wellness and mental illness has been mostly skirted around in modern times, with people far more willing to acknowledge and take time off work for physical ailments rather than mental ones. But as leaders, it is time to take action and ensure both physical and mental challenges are recognised and accommodated without stigma, Goodman says.

ADDENDUM/BOX PRACTICAL TIPS

• Regular personal care calls/ check ins

Making an overt effort to connect became the approach during Covid, helping companies survive and overcome hurdles. As the months went on, business as usual started to prevail once more, but making regular personal connection will be crucial in the coming year to identify issues early and arrange for support timeously.

• Regular wellness breaks and more leave

Some smart companies have already instituted enforced breaks, like designating the last Friday of every month as a leave day for the whole company. Others are offering unlimited leave (with conditions), rotating leave for teams, or half days. Figure out a leave strategy that might work for your organisation, and try it out for a period. You need not make it a company policy forever, just beta test it and see how people respond.

• Counselling and wellness support

For companies with budget and infrastructure, it is a great step in the right direction to invest in professional psychological counselling at company expense for those who need it. Another option is group support sessions facilitated by trained coaches. The manner in which this benefit is provided is critical – the promise of confidentiality and non-judgment must be ironclad and a solid bedrock of trust in relationships between

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HOW DIABETICS CAN BENEFIT FROM DRINKING ROOIBOS management and staff is essential.

Supplied Content

This Diabetes Month, we explore why herbal infusions, such as Rooibos, are healthy beverage options for everyone, including diabetics.

Living with diabetes means you need to be extra aware of everything you consume and how it can affect your blood sugar levels.

Sugary beverages, such as fizzy drinks can cause a sharp rise in blood sugar, which is especially dangerous for diabetics, who are unable to metabolise and regulate their blood glucose levels effectively.

A review of several studies by Harvard University found that those who regularly drink sugary drinks (one or more cans a day), have a 26% increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Prof Christo Muller, Chief Specialist Scientist at the SA Medical Research Council (SAMRC) says diabetics should avoid or limit such beverages as they can easily get more than a meal’s worth of sugar from one drink without even realising it.

“Consuming too many sweetened drinks also results in weight-gain, which in turn, increases the likelihood of diabetes.

Zero- or low-calorie drinks are typically recommended for diabetics to keep blood sugar in check. This makes Rooibos tea ideal since it’s calorie-free and its naturally sweet taste, means no sweeteners are necessary. In addition, Rooibos

contains active compounds that can help control blood glucose, while lowering inflammation.

and vegetables, nuts, fish and drinking Rooibos tea, that’s all packed with antioxidants.

“A unique phenolic compound found only in the Rooibos plant species, called aspalathin, may also help to improve blood glucose levels. Green Rooibos, which is more abundant in aspalathin, is also effective at lowering raised blood glucose levels in animal studies. In these studies, aspalathin, improved insulin activity, the hormone that controls blood sugar levels, by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are both causal factors that underlie the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

“Aside from drinking the tea, there are many ways to incorporate Rooibos into meals. Think of Rooibos as an all-natural flavouring and cooking ingredient. It’s a wonderful cooking liquid as it’s tasty and full of goodness. Rooibos is the perfect substitute for shop-bought stock, which is often very high in salt, artifical flavourings or preservatives and even sugar. The flavour of Rooibos goes well with so many other ingredients, ranging from tomatoes, ginger, chilli, garlic to herbs and spices, and can be used for a wide range of recipes. Add it as a liquid to soups, stews or even when oven-roasting chicken or veggies.

“Rooibos also protects the heart by suppressing vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis (plaque build-up inside artery walls) that occurs as a result of high blood sugar levels,” he explains.

In addition to drinking tea, following a diet that keeps blood glucose stable is equally important. Those suffering from type 2 diabetes, which is primarily as a result of poor dietary lifestyle choices, can in addition to medication, benefit greatly from proper diet and exercise.

Heleen Meyer, popular cookbook author and healthy food consultant, says eating a diet rich in polyphenols (most abundant antioxidants found in food) will help the body to metabolise sugar better.

“These include brightly coloured fruit

“It’s also a delicious base for a salad dressing, marinade or sauce. Next time you prepare a tomato-based sauce, add Rooibos instead of stock. Balsamic vinegar or lemon juice and a bit of olive oil, whisked into strong, cooled-down Rooibos tea, is a delicious salad dressing and can be seasoned with fresh herbs of your choice.”

Meyer says Rooibos is also great for baking and making desserts. Milk or water in a baking recipe can often be replaced with Rooibos tea, which will

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add flavour and a beautiful rich colour to whatever you’re making.

Here are two of her favourite diabetic-friendly recipes, which includes Rooibos: CHICKEN AND ROOIBOS TRAY BAKE Rooibos marinade 250 ml (1 cup) strong Rooibos tea 45 ml (3 tbsp) olive oil 60 ml (¼ cup) lemon juice 60 ml (¼ cup) balsamic vinegar 15 ml (1 tbsp) finely grated lemon rind 10 ml (2 tsp) cumin seeds or 15 ml (1 tbsp) ground cumin 45 ml (3 tbsp) fresh thyme leaves Chicken 8-10 chicken portions, excess removed 2 onions, cut into wedges 300 g cauliflower, cut into florets 200 g baby tomatoes, whole 6 baby marrows, diagonally sliced 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced salt and pepper extra fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

fat

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. 2. Rooibos marinade: Mix all the marinade ingredients together. Keep a third of the mixture aside to serve as a salad dressing.

3. Chicken: Place the chicken and veggies in a large bowl. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken and veggies and toss well to coat all the ingredients.

Season to taste.

4. Spoon the chicken and veggies, with

the marinade, in a single layer into a large oven dish.

5. Roast for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked, but still juicy.

6. Serve with extra fresh thyme sprigs and a simple green salad. Enjoy the salad with the remaining marinade as a healthy salad dressing.

ROOIBOS & STRAWBERRY CHIA PUDDINGS Serves 4 – 6 3 Rooibos tea bags 5 ml (1 tsp) vanilla essence 10 ml (2 tsp) finely grated lemon rind 200 ml boiling water 500 ml (2 cups) plain unsweetened double cream yoghurt 80 ml ( cup) chia seeds 2,5 ml (½ tsp) ground cinnamon 6-8 small strawberries mint leaves, toasted flaked almonds (see tips) and more berries to garnish 1. Place tea bags, vanilla and lemon rind in a jug. Add boiling water, stir through and draw to a strong tea. Then allow to cool completely.

2. Remove tea bags and stir the cooled, seasoned tea into the yoghurt. Add the chia seeds and cinnamon and mix well.

3. Spoon the Rooibos mixture into individual glasses or serving bowls (about 160 ml per portion). Allow to set for about 30-45 minutes in the fridge.

4. Meanwhile, blend the strawberries to make a purée – don’t be tempted to add

sugar.

5. Just before serving, spoon the strawberry purée over the chia puddings. Garnish with mint, almonds and more berries.

Tips 1. The Rooibos tea can also be seasoned with a cinnamon stick. Add to the tea bags with the vanilla and remove before stirring into the yoghurt.

2. A naturally flavoured Rooibos tea, like a vanilla, berry or a floral option would be delicious in this dessert.

3. Toast almond flakes in a dry frying pan, without any oil. Heat over a medium temperature and toast for a few minutes or until golden brown. Take care as they can burn quite quickly.

4. Chia seeds are available at most health stores and large supermarkets.

“Whether you are diabetic or not, this delightful summer pudding is a must-have. The natural sweetness of Rooibos is perfect as the main flavour component in this easy pudding. Every ingredient in this recipe is nutritious and good for you. If you feel like something sweet, but need to manage your carbohydrate intake, this is a winner. Thanks to the Rooibos and other complementing, all-natural ingredients, no added sugar is needed,” says Meyer.

With more than 4.5 million South African adults living with diabetes, it’s more important than ever to make healthy eating a priority.

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