Could Your Allergy Symptoms Be Linked to a Stevia Sensitivity?

Have you recently made the switch to a low-sugar or sugar-free diet in an effort to live a bit healthier, only to find yourself suddenly battling unexplained allergy symptoms? 

Sneezing, rashes, itching, or even digestive discomfort can be confusing, especially if you’re eating “cleaner” than ever. One unexpected culprit might just be stevia.

What Is Stevia?

Stevia is a natural sweetener extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It's become a popular choice for people looking to reduce sugar intake without using artificial sweeteners. You’ll often find it in:

Sugar-free fizzy drinks

Keto-friendly baked goods

Protein powders and health bars

Flavoured waters

“Natural” sweeteners for coffee or tea

On labels, it might appear as:

Steviol glycosides

Rebaudioside A (Reb A)

Stevia leaf extract

E960 (the EU additive code)

Is It Possible to Be Allergic to Stevia?

While true stevia allergies are rare, they can happen. Stevia belongs to the Asteraceae plant family — the same group as ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums, and marigolds. If you’re allergic to any of those, your body may react similarly to stevia.

Possible Signs of a Stevia Sensitivity or Allergy:

Skin rashes or hives

Itchy mouth or throat

Sneezing or nasal congestion

Upset stomach or diarrhoea

Facial swelling (especially lips or eyes)

In extremely rare cases, anaphylaxis

What Should You Do?

If you suspect stevia might be behind your recent symptoms:

Read ingredient labels carefully — even health products may contain stevia in some form.

Eliminate all products containing stevia for at least a week or two and monitor symptoms.

Keep a food diary to track what you eat and how you feel.

Speak to your GP or an allergist — you may be offered skin prick testing or other diagnostic options.

Alternatives to Consider

If you discover stevia is a trigger for you, don’t worry, there are other low-sugar or sugar-free options:

Monk fruit extract (often blended with erythritol)

Xylitol or erythritol (sugar alcohols — though note they can cause digestive upset for some)

Raw honey or maple syrup (not sugar-free, but less processed)

Final Thoughts

Switching to a low-sugar lifestyle is a great health goal, but not every ingredient will work for every body. If your body starts sending strange signals, listen to it — and don’t rule out even the most “natural” ingredients as a potential cause.

Have you experienced symptoms after switching to sugar-free or stevia-sweetened products? Share your story in the comments, you’re not alone, and your experience might help someone else figure it out too.

Update:- The reason we researched and wrote this blogpost is that my wife realised that she has an allergy to stevia and wondered if this type of allergy was impacting other people. It transpires that it is.

The Surprising Benefits of Prune Juice: Nature’s Digestive Elixir

Prune juice may not be the trendiest drink on the supermarket shelf, but it certainly deserves more attention. 

This deep purple nectar, made from dried plums (prunes), is packed with nutrients and boasts a long list of health benefits that go far beyond its well-known effect on digestion.

Here’s why prune juice is worth a place in your daily routine:

1. Gentle Yet Effective Digestive Support

Let’s start with the most famous benefit — prune juice is a natural laxative. Thanks to its high sorbitol content (a type of sugar alcohol), prune juice helps draw water into the bowel, softening stools and encouraging regularity. It's a gentle and natural option for those who suffer from occasional constipation, especially useful for the elderly or people recovering from surgery.

2. Rich in Nutrients and Antioxidants

Prune juice is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, including:

Vitamin K – vital for blood clotting and bone health

Vitamin B6 – supports brain function and metabolism

Potassium – helps maintain healthy blood pressure and nerve function

Iron – may aid in preventing iron-deficiency anaemia, especially in vegetarians

It also contains phenolic compounds — antioxidants that help fight inflammation and cell damage, supporting heart health and potentially reducing the risk of chronic disease.

3. Supports Heart Health

Thanks to its high potassium content, prune juice helps regulate blood pressure. The antioxidants also combat oxidative stress, which is linked to cardiovascular disease. Regular intake, in moderation, may contribute to a healthier heart.

4. Bone-Boosting Potential

Emerging studies suggest prunes (and by extension, prune juice) may support bone density, particularly in post-menopausal women. This is likely due to the combination of vitamin K, boron, and other nutrients that play a role in bone metabolism.

5. A Natural Energy Boost

With its natural sugars and iron content, prune juice can provide a gentle lift in energy levels — especially useful for those feeling sluggish or recovering from illness. Unlike sugary soft drinks, it delivers that boost alongside nutrients, not empty calories.

6. Immune System Support

Vitamin C might not be high in prune juice, but it’s still a supportive drink when it comes to immunity. Iron, zinc, and antioxidant compounds all contribute to a well-functioning immune system.

How to Enjoy Prune Juice

Start small: Begin with a small glass (about 120ml or 4oz) to see how your body responds.

Add to smoothies for a nutrient-rich natural sweetener.

Mix with sparkling water for a refreshing, gut-friendly drink.

A Word of Caution

While prune juice is natural, it’s still high in natural sugars and can cause digestive upset if consumed in excess. It’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re new to it. People with certain conditions like IBS may wish to consult their GP before making it a regular habit.

Prune juice might not have the Instagram glamour of kale smoothies or matcha lattes, but it quietly delivers a host of health benefits that shouldn't be overlooked. It’s affordable, widely available, and time-tested — a true underdog in the world of wellness drinks.

So next time you pass it in the supermarket aisle, give prune juice a place in your basket or trolley.

From Railway Arch to Brewery Titan: The Love Lane Story

Found in the heart of Liverpool's iconic Baltic Triangle (62–64 Bridgewater Street), Love Lane Brewery has become a beloved destination since storming back into life in April 2024 under new ownership.

What began as a home‐brew venture back in 2010 in a modest railway arch on Love Lane has now evolved into a full‑scale brewery, distillery, taproom and kitchen all under one beautifully‑crafted roof 

Housed in a former rubber‑factory, the venue features a dramatic industrial warehouse aesthetic complete with mezzanine level, exposed steelwork, and a 30‑barrel brewing plant that’s visible from the bar area.

Whether you’re perched at the communal tables in the main hall, relaxing in cosy armchairs around the perimeter, or gazing at the fermentation tanks, the atmosphere balances comfort and creativity.

Beers, Gins & Good Times

At its core, Love Lane remains first and foremost a brewery. On‑site brews include session bitters, hop‑forward ales, crisp lagers and sumptuous stouts, complemented by rotating guest beers.

For gin lovers, their “Ginsmiths” distillery crafts small‑batch spirits served in refreshing G&Ts. It’s a drinker’s dream where beer, gin, and inventive cocktails coexist happily.

Gastronomic Highlights

Love Lane’s kitchen menu is refreshingly unpredictable – and that’s partly why it’s so pleasingly addictive. Expect elevated twists on pub classics: the crowd‑pleasing beer‑battered fish and chips, pulled‑together lamb belly dishes, potato gnocchi with blue cheese, and vegetarian delights like burrata or rich sweet potato soup. Their legendary homemade pork pies (around £3.50 each) are almost a rite of passage.

Community, Events & Expansion

Founder Stephen Crawley has emphasised Love Lane’s local focus, launching a crowdfunding campaign to transform the top floor into flexible event spaces – ideal for yoga classes, local gigs or hireable rooms, while keeping the taproom thriving downstairs.

They’ve also introduced brewery and distillery tours, Gin School sessions, and a Brew Academy weekend day out, drawing both locals and visitors 

Why Love Lane Matters

Cultural anchor: A cornerstone in the rapid reinvention of the Baltic Triangle.

Local pride: A Liverpool‑born enterprise, revived into a major city‑centre craft producer.

Warm and inclusive: A spot for everyone – friends, families, beer geeks, gin enthusiasts or couples on a date night.

Ever‑evolving: With changes in ownership, menu, and community offerings, every visit feels new.

Tips for Your Visit

Tip Details

Best time to go Afternoons and early evenings midweek or weekends for a lively, friendly buzz

Booking? Strongly recommended, especially for larger groups or popular times

Extras Keep an eye out for special food nights: roast Sundays, wing Wednesdays, fish & chip Fridays with free pints

Love Lane Brewery offers more than just exceptional brews and great food – it’s an authentic Scouse experience. From its charismatic industrial interior to the personable team behind the bar, it’s a place where community, craft and conviviality seamlessly merge. 

Whether you’re journeying in from elsewhere or call Liverpool your home, Love Lane is a must‑visit stop for anyone wanting to taste the real flavour of this city.

From a personal point of view although I am sad to have lost the view from the windows of our Liverpool offices over the River Mersey, the fact that our new Albert Dock offices are only a five minute walk from the Love Lane Brewery and kitchen will probably more than make up for that!

https://www.lovelanebrewery.com/

Blanket, Basket, Bliss: Celebrating National Picnic Week in the UK

There’s something timelessly charming about a picnic. The gentle rustle of trees, the scent of crushed grass, the pop of a cork, and the giggles that come from eating strawberries with sticky fingers. 

As National Picnic Week rolls around, it’s time to embrace the outdoors, dig out the tartan blanket, and dine alfresco – British style.

What Is National Picnic Week?

National Picnic Week is a celebration of one of the UK’s most beloved summertime traditions – eating outdoors with friends, family, or even solo with a good book and a pork pie. Taking place in late June, it’s a chance to slow down, savour the sunshine (when we get it), and enjoy the great British countryside, parks, beaches, and even the back garden.

It’s not just about food – it’s about fresh air, laughter, connection and creating memories that don't cost a fortune.

Why We Love a British Picnic

It’s democratic – From gourmet charcuterie to a bag of crisps and a flask of tea, a picnic is whatever you want it to be.

It’s flexible – Head to a stately park, a quiet woodland glade, or your own front step.

It’s nostalgic – Childhood memories, Tupperware mishaps, wasps in lemonade – it’s all part of the charm.

What to Pack: The Essentials

Let’s not faff about. If you want picnic success, here’s your baseline checklist:

The Blanket – Preferably one with a waterproof bottom, because this is Britain.

The Food – Scotch eggs, sausage rolls, cheese, sandwiches, quiches, fruit, crisps, and something sweet.

The Extras – Napkins, wet wipes, ice packs, paper plates, and proper cutlery if you’re feeling fancy.

The Drinks – Lemonade, elderflower fizz, or a sneaky bottle of Pimm’s. Hydration is essential (bubbles optional).

Bug Spray – Because nobody invited the insects

Picnic Upgrades (If You're Feeling Fancy)

A wicker hamper with real china and glasses

A Bluetooth speaker for a mellow playlist

A mini game set – think travel Scrabble or boules

A portable umbrella or sunshade

Eco-friendly wine glasses (posh and practical)

Top UK Picnic Spots

Hampstead Heath, London – Wild and wonderful views of the city skyline

Durdle Door, Dorset – Picnic by one of Britain’s most iconic coastal arches

The Lake District – Rugged hills, sparkling lakes, and sheep who will stare at you

Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire – Woodland, lakes, and no shortage of ducks

Wales - All those lovely mountains

Your own garden – It counts. Bonus: quick access to the loo.

Tips for a Stress-Free Picnic

Check the weather – Obviously.

Freeze bottles of water to keep food cold en route.

Cut food into portions beforehand to avoid faffing with knives outdoors.

Bring bin bags – Leave no trace.

Pack light – Your shoulders will thank you.

National Picnic Week is more than just a chance to munch a sandwich in the sun. It’s a celebration of simple joys – connection, fresh air, and good grub. So grab a basket, wrangle your friends, and find your perfect patch of grass. Whether you're sharing a homemade feast or rustling up cheese and crackers from the corner shop, it all tastes better under an open sky.

Now, where did I put the Pimm’s?

Supercharged Sweets: Caffeine Candy Startup Ruly Launches in the UK

'Flavour-first' Ruly aims at hitting the sweet spot between function, energy and confectionery. 

This is a UK market-first: unlike sports focussed single-dose energy gummies, the energy sweets are made by expert confectioners, rather than supplement manufacturers and are designed as a full-bag treat that you eat like sweeties, and that taste just like sweeties. 

Each 42g pack contains 80mg of caffeine, with guarana and B vitamins,too.

Ruly was founded in 2024 by restaurant founder turned management consultant Sophie Murray and Finance Director Lydia Franks. 

The demanding jobs of the founders inspired Ruly:  they needed  flavour-first, tasty pick-me-ups to power through the afternoon slumps, and an alternative to the office birthday cake, sickly energy drinks, or a bit-too-late-in-the-day cup of coffee. 

They came up with a gummy-style sweet that gives a sustained, controlled energy to help you 'rule the day' - which also had the additional benefit to help give them a boost for their weekend runs. 

This is energy that you control: one gummy at a time. Ruly lets you Microboost when you need it, so you're always in charge of your energy - not the other way around. 

The founders say 'micro-boosting' caffeine is the way to control your energy boost and not experience the crash that sugary energy drinks can cause, and the name Ruly is inspired by ruling the day, and to be the opposite of 'unruly' - being in control.

Sophie Murray told That's Food and Drink: “We're giving consumers control of their energy! Energy drinks are typically consumed in one go, while Ruly gives you ultimate convenience and control: grab a bag and snack at your own pace - we're calling it 'micro-boosting'.  

"Choose to enjoy the whole bag for maximum effect or space them out across the day for a gentle, sustained boost. Ruly's micro-boost format lets you consume a sweet at a time, avoiding jitters and energy crashes -  thanks to its slower release, in contrast to a traditional energy drink.”

Currently available in Berry Delicious and Tropical Crush flavours.

A box of 12 is £29.99 excluding delivery. (£2.49 per 42g bag excluding delivery).

A box of 24 is £54.99 with free delivery. (£2.29 per 42g bag).

Buy now at rulyruly.com.

Follow them instagram.com/weareruly 

Tasty, Plantiful Picnics? Plant Based Protein Packed Picnic Recipes from Squeaky Bean

National Picnic Week takes place from 17th to 25th June and having a plant-based picnic is a fun, eco-friendly, and delicious way to enjoy the outdoors.

Plant-based picnics couldn’t be easier with Squeaky Bean. If you’re reducing your meat intake and looking to enjoy a more plantiful picnic from wraps to sandwiches and salads, why not try one of these picnic-friendly recipes from Squeaky Bean.

Tuna Orzo Sharing Salad Try this tuna style orzo salad; it strikes a balance of flavour, texture, and nutrition. Squeaky Bean Tuna Style Flakes add a salty, umami-rich flavour that pairs well with the mildness of orzo while the lemon, Dijon and mustard dressing enhances everything without overpowering it.

Serves 4 (side)

Ingredients:

100g orzo pasta

1 small lemon, juice and zest

2 tbsp wholegrain or Dijon mustard

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp crushed chillies (or to taste)

1/2 tsp fennel seeds, toasted (optional)

1 bunch spring onions, white and light green parts finely sliced

100g cherry tomatoes, halved

150g radishes, halved and thinly sliced

1/2 cucumber, quartered and sliced

50g capers (optional)

50g cornichon, sliced (optional)

50g rocket or other mixed greens

20g dill, leaves picked

1 pack Squeaky Bean Tuna Style Flakes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Cook the orzo in plenty of salted, boiling water until just tender. Rinse until cool with cold water and drain thoroughly.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest, mustard, olive oil, chilli and fennel seeds; season to taste.

3. In a large bowl, mix the orzo with the spring onions, cherry tomatoes, radishes, cucumber, capers and cornichon. Toss with the dressing.

4. Rest for 30 mins in the fridge for the flavours to meld, toss again before serving. Add the greens and dill just before serving.

5. Gently mix through the Tuna Style Flakes or arrange on top.

Muffuletta (New Orleans-style make-ahead sandwich)

This muffuletta is a Sicilian-American style sandwich that originated in New Orleans, Louisiana. It delivers bold flavours, distinct layers and is made with bold, smoky Pastrami Style Slices and a spicy tangy olive salad — all packed into a large focaccia.

Serves 4-8 (meal or snack)

Ingredients

Olive salad

170g green pitted olives

170g black pitted olives

1 stick fresh celery, finely diced

5 pickled silverskin onions, finely diced

5 pieces artichoke antipasti in oil, finely diced

50g pickled chillies, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 tbsp wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp dried oregano

15g parsley, leaves only, roughly chopped

Sandwich assembly

1 loaf sourdough, large focaccia or large ciabatta

200g roasted red peppers, well drained

2 packs Squeaky Bean NYC Deli Pastrami Style Slices

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Pulse the olives in a food processor until roughly chopped, then stir in the rest of the olive salad ingredients.

2. Cut the loaf in half widthways and spread both sides thickly with the olive salad, pressing down with the back of a spoon to adhere the mixture to the bread.

3. Layer the roasted peppers and Squeaky Bean Squeaky Bean NYC Deli

Pastrami Style Slices Pon the bottom half of the loaf, then quickly flip the other half of the loaf onto the pastrami layer to close.

4. Wrap the sandwich in tinfoil and set aside for 2 hours to allow the olive juices to be absorbed. When ready to serve, slice into 4-8 wedges/squares (depending on shape of the loaf).

Fajita-style Tex-Mex picnic wraps

A fantastic, flavourful, and easy-to-make option for outdoor meals. These fajita style Tex-Mex picnic wraps combine the bold, smoky spices of fajitas with the convenience of a handheld wrap — perfect for a picnic.

Serves 4 (snack/canapés)

1/2 lime, juiced

1 small garlic clove, crushed

1 avocado, mashed with fork

1 pepper or 3-4 mini peppers, sliced into fine strips

1/2 red onion, finely sliced

1/2 tsp oregano

1/4 tsp ground cumin

1 fresh green chilli, finely sliced (or to taste)

5g fresh coriander, stems and leaves finely chopped

1 tsp olive oil

2 large flour tortilla wraps

1 little gem or cosberg lettuce, thick spines cut away

1 pack Squeaky Bean Sweet Smokey BBQ Chicken Style Pieces

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Put the garlic in a small bowl and pour over the lime juice; set aside for 20

mins to ‘cure’ the garlic and reduce its harsh bite. Mix with the mashed avocado and season to taste.

2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix together the sliced pepper, onion, oregano, cumin, chilli, chopped coriander and olive oil; season to taste.

3. Layer half of 1 tortilla with 1/2 portion lettuce leaves and the spread the other half with 1/2 portion guacamole. Arrange the sliced peppers in a strip on the guacamole, followed by the Squeaky Bean Sweet Smokey BBQ Chicken Style Pieces.

4. Roll up the tortilla tightly, starting with the guacamole end and finishing with the lettuce end. Wrap in tinfoil to hold together and keep closed. Repeat with the remaining tortilla. Slice each tortilla into 6-8 rounds when ready to serve.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, or just curious, here some plant-based picnic tips:

Picnic like a Plant-Based Pro

1. Prep ahead: Make everything the night before to reduce stress.

2. Pack smart: Put heavier items at the bottom and cushion fragile items (like fruit).

3. Plant based protein: Packing extra Squeaky Bean ready to eat slices means no one will go hungry.

4. Keep it cool: Use ice packs or frozen water bottles to keep perishables fresh.

Eco-Friendly Touches

1. Use cloth napkins and bamboo cutlery

2. Avoid single-use plastic

3. Bring a reusable trash bag or compost bin

4. Choose locally-sourced, in-season ingredients when possible

Ready to transform your picnic game? For more plant-based inspiration visit

@SqueakyBeanVeg #SqueakyPicnics #MeatFreeMadeEasy

Visit @Squeakybeanveg on Twitter, Facebook Tik Tok or Instagram

Betrlife Health Launches Bioavailable Multivitamin Designed for Better Absorption

UK wellness brand Betrlife Health has launched a comprehensive bioavailable multivitamin, carefully formulated with methylated vitamins and chelated minerals to help support daily nutritional needs and improve nutrient absorption, particularly for people with chronic conditions and absorption challenges, including those living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Many standard multivitamins use cheaper, less effective forms of vitamins and minerals that the body struggles to absorb properly. Betrlife Health’s new formula focuses on bioavailability, using nutrients in their most active, easily absorbed forms.

“Too many people waste money on vitamins their bodies can’t fully use,” Liam Robertson, founder of Betrlife Health told That's Food and Drink. 

“Our goal was to create a daily multivitamin that’s gentle on the gut and provides nutrients in bioavailable, methylated, and chelated forms for better absorption. We’ve also ensured it aligns with the British Dietetic Association’s general guidance on common nutrient gaps, which can be especially important for people with conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or other forms of IBD.”

Betrlife Health’s flagship multivitamin includes:

Bioavailable Calcium Folate (5-MTHF)

Methylated Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin)

Chelated Magnesium, Iron, and Zinc

Selenium and Vitamin D3

All ingredients are chosen for optimal absorption and minimal digestive discomfort, supporting overall wellbeing naturally.

The Betrlife Bioavailable Multivitamin is available now at www.betrlifehealth.com and delivers all over the UK.

The crayfish season has started and ready for summer menus

This year’s new season of wild crayfish are now shipping. It's anticipated there'll be a rush of orders after a six-month hiatus when the crayfish go to ground. 

This wonderful delicacy, popular in salads, pasta dishes, boils, seafood mixes and BBQ style grills are proving a treat in restaurants, gastropubs, wedding catering and for home indoor and outdoor parties. 

Caught in the nutrient rich chalk stream waters of the River Kennet in Berkshire, the wild crayfish from the Kennet Crayfish Company are fresh, humanely processed and delivered chilled, next day to your door; delivering a real taste of summer.

Wild crayfish have an exceptional flavour and texture valued by top chefs and food lovers throughout the country. 

They are seasonal because, although they don't truly hibernate, they become torpid and much less active throughout the cooler months. 

Their trapping and processing is highly regulated because Signal Crayfish, the ones allowed to be trapped in the UK under license, are an invasive species that's harmful to the river environment, native species and other river dwellers.

Culling their numbers helps protect the Kennet, which is a rare and vitally important habitat. So crayfish are good to eat and eating crayfish is good for the environment.

Crayfish guru and managing director of the Kennet Crayfish Company, Andrew Leech, told That's Food and Drink: “This is our second season under the new regulations and in our new bio-secure processing plant. 

"We've quickly developed demand from expatriates from Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, where crayfish are extremely  popular."

He went on to say: "Getting to the final three of the BBC Food and Farming Awards in 2024, we have made a good start on enticing restaurateurs and caterers to build crayfish into their menus, which is helping spread the word to British consumers about their wonderful taste and versatility. 

"Our recently launched crayfish gin is also attracting a lot of attention, winning a silver medal at the World Gin Awards and a bronze medal in the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). We are looking forward to an exciting second year.”

Kennet crayfish are available fresh par-cooked & fully cooked. They also come in cooked ready to eat Micvac packs of 500g Net Weight in brine or in a Swedish style sauce with 21 days refrigerated shelf-life.

Kennet Crayfish can be purchased wholesale from the website www.kennetcrayfish.com

How to Survive a Dinner Party When you Know the Host Could Burn Water

Your Essential Guide to Faking Culinary Joy with Grace and Guts

Let’s face it: sometimes you accept a dinner invitation out of politeness, habit, or because you owe someone a favour involving bail money or a broken printer. 

But then the fear sets in: What if they can’t cook? Worse yet—what if they’re the sort of well-meaning host who thinks spaghetti hoops on stale toast counts as a starter? 

And what if you already know their cooking skills are so lacking that they could burn water?

Fear not, dear reader. Here’s your foolproof, amusing survival guide for attending a dinner party hosted by someone who could legitimately burn water, and how to look like you’re having a Michelin-star time whilst doing it.

1. Pre-Load Like a Pro

First rule of bad dinner parties: never arrive hungry. Eat a hearty snack beforehand. A sandwich. A jacket potato. Half a lasagne if necessary. You’re not eating to be polite, you’re eating to survive.

2. Perfect Your “Mmm” Face

Practice in the mirror: eyes wide with “delight,” mouth curved in a polite grimace that says “I love this grey mystery mash,” not “Is this meat, or an emotional support sponge?” Bonus points if you master the nod-and-smile combo, the international signal for “I’m not dying, I swear.”

3. Drink Strategically

If there’s wine, sip slowly and strategically. Alcohol can dull the taste buds and lubricate forced joy. Just don’t get carried away and announce loudly that you’d rather eat your own sock than another mouthful of the “vegan chicken surprise.”

4. Compliment the Effort, Not the Taste

Avoid obvious lies like “This is delicious!” and opt for vague praise like:

“Wow, what a unique combination!”

“You must have spent ages on this!”

“This is… very creative.”

These let you express admiration without mentioning the food itself. Diplomatic gold.

5. Create a Distraction

“Oh no! Did I just spill wine on your carpet?”

“Quick, someone check outside! I think I saw a badger on fire!”

Tactical chaos can divert attention long enough for you to discreetly offload that third helping of charcoal risotto into a napkin, handbag, or trusting pet.

6. Applaud Bold Flavours (Even If They Assault You)

“This really challenges the palate!” is a wonderful phrase. It sounds like praise but really means “My taste buds are filing for restraining orders.”

7. Leave on a High Note

Say your goodbyes with gusto and enthusiasm. Thank your host profusely. Text them afterwards with something like, “We must do this again!” which of course, means “I need to change my number immediately.”

Not everyone is blessed with culinary brilliance. Some are blessed with enthusiasm and a disregard for recipe books. And that’s fine! Just remember: the food may be tragic, but the stories you’ll tell afterwards will be hilarious.

You survived. You’re stronger now. And next time, you’re hosting and ordering takeaway.

Foods That Harm, Foods That Heal: Eating for Better Health

The food we eat has a profound impact on our overall health – it can either be the source of vitality or the cause of inflammation and illness. 

With rising awareness about diet-related diseases, more people are beginning to explore the idea of "foods that harm" versus "foods that heal." 

Let’s break down some common offenders and their healing counterparts.

Foods That Harm

While moderation is key, certain foods are best limited or avoided due to their potential to harm the body over time.

1. Ultra-Processed Foods

Think: crisps, ready meals, sugary breakfast cereals, and processed meats. These often contain high levels of salt, sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives. Regular consumption can increase the risk of heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even some cancers.

2. Refined Carbohydrates

White bread, white rice, pastries, and many supermarket cakes and biscuits cause blood sugar spikes followed by crashes, leading to fatigue, cravings, and over time, insulin resistance.

3. Trans Fats

Common in margarine, deep-fried foods, and certain baked goods, trans fats can raise bad cholesterol (LDL) and lower good cholesterol (HDL), contributing to heart disease.

4. Excessive Alcohol

While the occasional glass of red wine might offer antioxidant benefits, overconsumption of alcohol can damage the liver, affect mental health, and increase the risk of several cancers.

5. Too Much Red and Processed Meat

High intakes have been linked with colon cancer, especially when meats are smoked, salted, or preserved with nitrates.

Foods That Heal

On the flip side, there are foods that nourish our bodies, strengthen our immune systems, and even help manage or prevent chronic illness.

1. Leafy Greens

Spinach, kale, rocket, and chard are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They help reduce inflammation, support digestion, and protect against heart disease.

2. Berries

Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in fibre and antioxidants. They may improve brain function, regulate blood sugar, and fight oxidative stress.

3. Oily Fish

Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout contain omega-3 fatty acids which are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and lowering the risk of heart disease.

4. Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are excellent for heart health, skin, and brain function. They’re also a great source of plant-based protein.

5. Fermented Foods

Yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria, which are linked to improved immunity, digestion, and mood.

A Balanced Approach

Remember: it’s not about being perfect or never indulging. It’s about making informed choices most of the time. Instead of seeing food as simply fuel, think of it as medicine for the body and mind.

A few small swaps can go a long way:

Try wholegrain versions of pasta and bread.

Swap crisps for a handful of nuts or hummus and veg sticks.

Choose water or herbal tea over fizzy drinks.

Replace a processed snack with a piece of fruit.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Start with small, sustainable changes. Be kind to your body – feed it well, and it will thank you in countless ways. After all, food can harm – but it can also heal.