Exploring Persian Grains – Ancient Staples for Modern Cooking

When we think of Persian cuisine, fragrant spices, dried fruits, and colourful stews often come to mins. But the real unsung heroes of this ancient food culture are Persian grains. 

These wholesome staples have nourished people in Iran (ancient Persia) for thousands of years and continue to play a central role in both traditional and contemporary Persian cooking.

In this post, we’ll explore what Persian grains are, their health benefits, and how you can use them to add richness and variety to your meals.

What Are Persian Grains?

Persian grains refer to a variety of grains and cereals traditionally used in Iranian cuisine. While many are used worldwide today, they often take on unique roles in Persian dishes. The most common include:

1. Rice (Berenj)

Rice is the cornerstone of Persian cuisine, especially long-grain basmati rice or Persian-grown rice like domsiah, known for its fragrance and slightly sticky texture.

Persian rice dishes are famous for their preparation techniques, especially tahdig – the crispy golden crust at the bottom of the pot.

2. Wheat (Gandom)

Used in various forms, from whole wheat grains to bulgur and flour. It’s common in breads, soups, and porridges.

3. Barley (Jo)

Barley is a traditional grain used in soups like soup-e jo, a creamy barley and chicken soup that’s beloved across Iran.

4. Bulgur (Daram)

A cracked wheat grain used in Persian stews and salads. It cooks quickly and has a nutty flavour.

5. Freekeh (Green Roasted Wheat)

Though more commonly used in Arab cuisines, freekeh is also appreciated in southern Persian cooking. It has a smoky flavour and chewy texture.

6. Millet (Arzan)

Millet is often used in traditional breads or porridges, and is known for being gluten-free and rich in nutrients.

7. Sorghum and Ancient Grains

Sorghum, spelt, and other heritage grains are part of regional Persian culinary heritage, especially in nomadic and rural communities.

How to Use Persian Grains in Your Cooking

1. Classic Persian Rice with Tahdig

Cook basmati or Persian-style rice with a saffron-infused crust (tahdig) at the bottom. Serve with stews like ghormeh sabzi or fesenjan.

2. Barley Soups

Barley adds creaminess and body to Persian-style soups. Try soup-e jo with shredded chicken, milk or cream, carrots, and a touch of lemon juice.

3. Grain Salads

Use cooked bulgur or freekeh in cold salads with herbs, pomegranate seeds, chopped walnuts, and a dressing of olive oil and lime.

4. Homemade Flatbreads

Use whole wheat or millet flour to make rustic, earthy Persian breads like lavash or sangak.

5. Porridge and Breakfast Dishes

Cook barley or millet with milk (or plant-based alternatives), cinnamon, and dried fruits for a warm breakfast that’s comforting and nourishing.

Health Benefits of Persian Grains

High in fibre: Great for digestion and blood sugar control

Rich in plant-based protein: Especially when paired with legumes

Naturally gluten-free options: Like millet and rice

Full of vitamins and minerals: Iron, magnesium, and B vitamins are common

Heart-healthy and filling: Helping you stay full longer

Where to Buy Persian Grains

Look for these grains at:

Middle Eastern or Persian grocery stores

Health food shops

Online retailers that stock world food staples

Final Thoughts

Persian grains aren’t just nutritious—they’re deeply tied to the culture, history, and hospitality of Iranian life. Whether you’re making a saffron rice dish for guests or just looking for a healthier side option, these grains offer incredible flavour, texture and tradition.

Why not introduce one or two of these ancient grains into your weekly cooking routine? 

Strengthening Community Ties: How Your Pub, Restaurant or Café Can Support Local Charities

Running a successful pub, café or restaurant isn't just about great food and drink, it’s also about being a valued part of your local community. 

One meaningful way to achieve this is by linking up with local charities. 

Whether it’s an OAP social club, a food bank, a mental health project or an animal rescue, supporting local causes can build goodwill, attract new customers, and create lasting positive change.

Here’s how your hospitality business can connect with charities and make a real difference:

1. Choose a Cause That Resonates Locally

Start by identifying charities that are active in your area. Some options include:

OAP clubs and community centres

Pet rescue centres and animal shelters

Homeless outreach charities or food banks

Youth mentoring or after-school clubs

Local hospice or mental health organisations

Choose a cause that aligns with your business values or is close to your heart, and don’t be afraid to ask your regulars for suggestions.

2. Host Fundraising Events

One of the easiest ways to support a local charity is by hosting an event. This could be:

A charity quiz night with entry fees donated

A coffee morning with cakes made by volunteers

A themed dinner or afternoon tea fundraiser

A pet-friendly open day in partnership with a local animal shelter

Promote the event through your social media, posters and word of mouth to maximise attendance.

3. Offer Your Venue as a Meeting Space

Many smaller charities struggle to find accessible, welcoming spaces to host meetings or social groups. Offering your space during quieter hours (for free or at a discount) can help charities while gently boosting your daytime footfall.

Examples include:

OAP lunch clubs

Volunteer training sessions

Pet adoption meet-and-greets

Community craft or knit-and-natter groups

4. Donate Surplus Food or Supplies

If your kitchen occasionally has excess food or supplies, consider donating them to local food banks, shelters or animal charities. Make sure the items are still safe to use and check with the charity about what they can accept.

This is a sustainable way to reduce waste and help those in need.

5. Run a Loyalty Scheme That Gives Back

Incentivise your customers to support your cause with a charity-linked loyalty scheme. For example:

Every 10th coffee = £1 donation to a local charity

Monthly “charity pints” or “charity meals” where a portion of the profit goes to a chosen organisation

Let your customers vote on the charity each month to keep them involved and engaged.

6. Sponsor a Local Charity Event

If you don’t have time to run your own events, consider sponsoring a community fun run, dog show, summer fete or raffle. Offer a prize, help with refreshments, or set up a food stall.

Sponsorship helps raise your profile while showing genuine support for the people who live and work around you.

7. Team Up for Volunteering Days

Encourage your team to volunteer at a local charity and document the experience. Whether it’s walking dogs at a rescue centre or helping out at a food bank, this builds staff morale and shows your business is about more than just profit.

You could even organise a staff charity day once or twice a year.

8. Promote the Charity in Your Premises

Offer charities a space on your noticeboard, in your menus or near your till to raise awareness. You can help them publicise fundraising campaigns, donation needs, or upcoming events.

Go one step further by adding a donation box or QR code for digital giving.

Final Thoughts

Working with local charities isn’t just good for your community, it’s good for your business. Customers appreciate businesses that care, and this kind of local involvement fosters loyalty, word-of-mouth promotion, and a real sense of belonging.

So whether you run a tiny café or a busy pub, there’s always something you can do to give back to your community. 

The Best Non-Ice Cream Frozen Treat? Try Frozen Peeled Ripe Bananas!

When the temperature rises and you’re in need of a refreshing treat, ice cream might be the first thing that comes to mind. 

But what if you’re looking for something healthier, dairy-free, or naturally sweet with no added sugar? 

Enter the humble frozen ripe banana, the ultimate non-ice cream frozen treat you never knew you needed!

Why Frozen Bananas Are a Game-Changer

Bananas are naturally sweet, creamy when blended, and packed with nutrients like potassium, fibre, and vitamin B6. Freezing them takes their texture and versatility to a whole new level. And best of all? They're incredibly easy to prepare.

Here’s why frozen bananas are so brilliant:

1. Naturally Sweet and Creamy

Once ripe bananas are peeled and frozen, they develop a smooth, ice cream-like texture when eaten slightly thawed or blended. No need for added sugar or dairy, the sweetness and creaminess are built right in.

2. Perfect for Smoothies

Toss a frozen banana into your blender and you instantly get a thick, creamy smoothie base. Pair with berries, spinach, nut butter or cocoa powder for a nutritious breakfast or midday pick-me-up.

3. An Instant Snack

No prep needed. Just grab a frozen banana from the freezer, let it sit for a couple of minutes to soften slightly, and enjoy as a quick and satisfying frozen snack. For extra indulgence, dip them in dark chocolate and refreeze.

4. A Brilliant Ice Cream Alternative

When blended on its own or with a splash of oat or almond milk, frozen banana becomes a silky, scoopable treat known as “nice cream.” Add cocoa powder, cinnamon, peanut butter, or vanilla for a variety of flavours. It’s a guilt-free dessert that feels like a cheat.

5. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Smart

Got overripe bananas sitting in the fruit bowl? Don’t bin them! Peel them and freeze them instead. It’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste while stocking your freezer with something useful and delicious.

How to Freeze Bananas Like a Pro

Choose ripe bananas – the riper, the sweeter.

Peel them – never freeze with the skin on.

Slice into chunks or freeze whole, depending on how you’ll use them.

Lay out on a baking tray to freeze individually for a few hours before transferring to a container or freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.

Fun Ways to Enjoy Frozen Bananas

Chocolate-dipped banana pops: Dip in melted chocolate, sprinkle with crushed nuts or coconut, and refreeze.

Tropical smoothie: Blend with pineapple, mango, and coconut milk.

Banana bites: Sandwich peanut butter between banana slices and freeze.

Healthy milkshake: Blend with cocoa powder, oat milk, and a touch of vanilla.

Frozen peeled ripe bananas are not just a handy ingredient, they’re a full-on frozen treat in their own right. Whether you're after a simple snack, a smoothie booster, or a healthy dessert alternative, frozen bananas tick all the boxes. Affordable, healthy, and versatile, they’re quite possibly the best non-ice cream frozen treat out there.

Why not keep a stash in your freezer and give them a try? 

The Ultra-Processed Food Debate – Should We Be Worried?

In recent years, the term “ultra-processed foods” (UPFs) has become a hot topic in health circles, the media, and even political discussions. 

From documentaries and diet books to warnings from public health officials, UPFs have been accused of fuelling obesity, damaging mental health, and even shortening lifespans.

But are these foods really the modern villains they’re made out to be, or is the situation more nuanced?

Let’s explore the facts, the fears, and the evidence behind the UPF debate.

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?

First, a quick definition. Ultra-processed foods are products made from industrial ingredients and techniques, often containing additives not found in home kitchens. They typically undergo multiple processing stages and are designed to be convenient, shelf-stable, and hyper-palatable.

Examples include:

Crisps, biscuits, and packaged cakes

Instant noodles and ready meals

Sugary breakfast cereals

Flavoured yoghurts and soft drinks

Meat substitutes and reconstituted meat products

This classification was introduced by the NOVA food classification system, developed by Brazilian researchers.

The Case Against Ultra-Processed Foods

A growing body of research suggests links between diets high in UPFs and several health issues. These include:

1. Obesity and metabolic problems

UPFs are often high in fat, sugar, and salt, and low in fibre and protein. This can contribute to overeating, weight gain, and type 2 diabetes.

2. Cardiovascular disease

Some studies have found a correlation between high UPF intake and increased risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.

3. Mental health concerns

Emerging evidence connects high UPF consumption with anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. However, this research is still in its early stages.

4. Displacement of whole foods

When UPFs dominate the diet, people often consume fewer fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains – all of which are crucial for long-term health.

But Are They Really That Bad for us?

Here’s where things get complicated. Critics of the anti-UPF stance argue that not all UPFs are created equal, and that the classification itself is too broad.

1. Not all processing is bad

Pasteurised milk, canned beans, or fortified cereals are technically processed, but they can be highly nutritious. “Processing” doesn’t always mean “unhealthy”.

2. Some UPFs offer nutritional benefits

For example, plant-based meat alternatives may be classed as ultra-processed but can provide a lower-fat, ethical alternative to red meat.

3. Affordability and accessibility

UPFs are often cheaper and longer-lasting than fresh food. For people on low incomes or with limited access to shops, UPFs may be vital.

4. Stigma and shame

Demonising UPFs can lead to food shaming and guilt, especially for people who rely on convenience foods due to disability, time constraints, or budget pressures.

What the Experts Say

The World Health Organization has warned about the impact of UPFs, particularly on children.

UK researchers are calling for clearer food labelling and marketing restrictions.

However, nutritionists also stress the importance of context: occasional UPFs in a generally balanced diet are unlikely to cause harm.

The key seems to be moderation and diversity.

So, What Should You Do?

If you’re concerned about UPFs, here are a few practical tips:

Check ingredients: Look for items with recognisable ingredients and minimal additives.

Cook at home more often: Simple meals don’t have to be time-consuming or expensive.

Eat more whole foods: Focus on vegetables, pulses, whole grains, and minimally processed proteins.

Don’t panic: Having the odd pizza or supermarket curry isn’t a disaster – it’s about what you eat most of the time.

Final Thoughts

The UPF debate is far from settled. While there’s clear evidence linking excessive consumption of certain ultra-processed foods with poor health outcomes, not all processed food is harmful. The bigger picture involves food access, affordability, education, and lifestyle.

Rather than fixating on labels, it may be more useful to think in terms of balance, variety, and making small, sustainable changes over time.

What’s your view on ultra-processed foods? Do you avoid them, or are they a regular part of your weekly meals? Let us know in the comments!

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Coping with Gastroparesis: How to Get the Nutrients You Need When Eating Is a Challenge

Living with gastroparesis can make every bite a struggle. This chronic condition slows down the movement of food from your stomach to your intestines, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, bloating, and early satiety. 

As a result, many people with gastroparesis find it difficult to eat enough food to meet their nutritional needs. But there is help available, and with the right strategies, you can maintain a balanced intake of vitamins, minerals and calories even when your stomach won’t cooperate.

Why Nutrition Is a Concern with Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis makes digestion sluggish, which often leads to reduced appetite and difficulties tolerating solid food. Over time, this can cause unintentional weight loss, fatigue, and deficiencies in key nutrients such as:

Vitamin B12

Iron

Folate

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K)

Protein and calories

So how can people with gastroparesis get the nutrition they need?

1. Switch to Nutrient-Dense Liquids

Liquids often empty from the stomach more quickly than solids. Many people find that sipping on high-calorie, nutrient-rich drinks is easier and more comfortable than eating full meals.

Options include:

Meal replacement shakes (e.g., Fortisip, Ensure, or Complan – available on prescription in the UK)

Homemade smoothies with blended fruit, yoghurt, protein powder, and oats

Soups and broths with added protein or full-fat milk

Smoothies and drinks can be fortified with extra nutrients like flaxseed, nut butters, or vitamin drops if tolerated.

2. Use Oral Nutritional Supplements (ONS)

ONS are medically tailored products designed to provide essential nutrition in small volumes. They are often available in the UK via your GP or dietitian. These include:

Fortisip (Nutricia)

Ensure Plus (Abbott)

Modulen IBD (Nestlé Health Science, sometimes used off-label)

If you're struggling to eat or drink enough, your healthcare provider can assess your weight, blood results, and energy needs and prescribe an appropriate supplement.

3. Consider Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

Because many with gastroparesis cannot absorb all the nutrients from food, your GP or dietitian may suggest the following:

Multivitamin and mineral supplements (chewable, liquid or spray form may be better tolerated)

Vitamin B12 injections if deficiency is present

Iron supplements (liquid or intravenous if oral forms worsen symptoms)

Vitamin D supplements – a must in the UK, especially for those with low sun exposure

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting new supplements, as some may worsen gastric symptoms.

4. Smaller, More Frequent Meals

Instead of three large meals, aim for six small, soft meals a day. This allows the stomach to process food more easily without overloading it. Focus on:

Low-fat, low-fibre foods

Well-cooked vegetables

Mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, rice, pasta

Smooth nut butters, well-cooked cereals, pureed fruits

5. Enteral or Parenteral Nutrition (When Needed)

In severe cases where oral intake isn’t sufficient despite all efforts, tube feeding (via a jejunostomy) or IV nutrition (parenteral nutrition) may be necessary. These options are usually considered under specialist gastroenterology care, such as in an NHS gastroparesis clinic or through a home enteral feeding team.

6. Work with a Registered Dietitian

In the UK, people with gastroparesis are usually referred to a specialist dietitian by their GP or consultant. A dietitian can:

Create a tailored eating plan

Suggest safe supplements

Monitor for signs of malnutrition

Liaise with your medical team if feeding tubes or IV nutrition are required

Final Thoughts

While gastroparesis can significantly impact your ability to eat and enjoy food, there are practical ways to meet your nutritional needs and avoid deficiencies. With support from your healthcare team and the right nutritional strategies, it’s possible to feel stronger, more energised, and more in control.

If you suspect you or a loved one has gastroparesis, always speak to a GP and request a referral to a dietitian or gastroenterologist.

A friend, Ellie Dyson, has gastroparesis and Ellie needs an operation that has no NHS funding, at least in her area, so there is a GoFundMe to obtain the funding her operation requires.

Ellie is 66% of the way to archiving the £20,000 that is required and you can go to her GoFundMe appeal page by clicking this link:- https://t.co/h4DIvjsDRg.

Why You Need to Try Fruit Beers and Lagers This Summer

When the sun's out and you're reaching for a refreshing drink, it’s time to think beyond your standard lager or IPA. 

Enter the vibrant world of fruit beers and lagers, a flavourful twist on traditional brews that’s perfect for summer sipping, BBQs, picnics, or simply relaxing in the garden.

Here’s why you should give fruit beers and lagers a go – even if you’ve always thought you were strictly a pale ale or stout person.

1. They’re Surprisingly Refreshing

Fruit beers and lagers often have a lighter body and crisp finish, making them incredibly refreshing. The addition of fruit adds a subtle sweetness or tartness that can cut through the heat and keep your palate dancing. Think lemon, cherry, raspberry, passion fruit, or even mango, perfect flavours to cool down on a warm day.

2. Great for People Who "Don’t Like Beer"

Not everyone enjoys the bitterness of hops, and that’s okay! Fruit beers often have a more accessible flavour profile, appealing to those who usually lean towards ciders, cocktails, or even soft drinks. If you’re trying to get a friend into craft beer, fruit-infused brews are a gentle gateway.

3. They Pair Brilliantly with Food

Fruit lagers and beers are great for pairing with food, especially during summer. A cherry beer with dark chocolate, a citrus lager with grilled chicken, or a berry-flavoured ale with a fresh salad can elevate your meal into a proper culinary experience.

4. Breweries Are Getting Creative

From big names to small independents, brewers are experimenting more than ever with fruit additions. Expect everything from classic Belgian-style krieks (cherry beers) to adventurous watermelon wheat beers or strawberry milkshake IPAs. There’s something for every taste, whether you want sweet, sour, juicy, or tropical.

5. Ideal for Outdoor and Social Drinking

Light, sessionable fruit beers are ideal for garden parties, beer gardens, and festivals. Lower in alcohol than heavier brews, they’re made for sipping over long afternoons with friends.

6. They're Beautiful in the Glass

Let’s not pretend looks don’t matter. Many fruit beers come in stunning shades of pink, red, amber or even purple – a feast for the eyes before you’ve even taken a sip. Garnish with fruit or serve in a chilled glass, and you've got a drink that’s Instagram-ready.

Where to Start

If you're ready to dip your toes into the fruity beer world, here are a few classic and crowd-pleasing options:

Lindemans Kriek (Belgium) – A cherry lambic with a tart, slightly sweet edge.

Tiny Rebel’s Clwb Tropica (Wales) – A tropical fruit IPA bursting with flavour.

Camden Town Strawberry Hells (UK) – A limited-edition twist on their popular lager.

Fruli Strawberry Beer (Belgium) – Smooth, creamy and sweet like strawberry shortcake in a glass.

Wiper and True’s Kaleidoscope with fruit editions (Bristol) – Complex and juicy.

Final Thoughts

Fruit beers and lagers are far more than a gimmick. They’re a legitimate category of craft brewing that brings variety, creativity and excitement to your glass. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just exploring your tastes, trying a fruit-infused beer could surprise you – in the best way possible.

This summer, raise a glass to flavour. Try something fruity. You just might find your new favourite.

Think Pink! Isle of Harris Distillery Unveils 'Sea Thrift Pink' Ceilidh Bottle Inspired by Island Flora

Reflecting the vivid wildflowers that dot the amazing coastlines of Harris, Isle of Harris Distillery is revealing a special limited release of handcrafted ceramic Cèilidh Bottles, presenting the distillery's celebrated gin in a stunning vessel glazed in a vibrant 'Sea Thrift Pink' hue.

Launching at 10am on 16 July to coincide with the first day of HebCelt Festival, just 1,500 handcrafted bottles will be available online in the UK, with a limited number also available within the Distillery's Tarbert shop and the HebCelt festival shop on 16th and 17th July.

The newest pink shade represents the third edition within the annual Cèilidh Bottle series, building on a palette that captures the essence of the island's coastal environment and its rich natural landscape. 

The soft pink glaze takes its cue from the delicate sea thrift which pop up on the shoreline rocks of Harris each summer with abundant 'pom-pom' shaped petals and a sweet nectar which is much-loved by the local bumble bees.

Each ceramic bottle has been hand-thrown by potter Rupert Blamire, in a process that spans months and requires meticulous care, allowing for small variances between each bottle that make each a one-of-a-kind piece of art. The design evokes the signature maritime swirls of the original glass bottle in a medium that can be displayed, refilled or reused for many years to come.

The recommended serve for this release is a Grapefruit Gimlet, a fresh, citrus-forward cocktail that perfectly complements the Isle of Harris Gin's signature maritime notes and serves as a natural match for the bottle's Sea Thrift Pink glaze.

Simon Erlanger, Managing Director of Isle of Harris Distillery, told That's Food and Drink: “We're proud to continue our Cèilidh Bottle tradition with a colour that can be found across our coastlines at this time of year. 

"Sea thrift is a tough little plant with a striking pink bloom, known for its ability to survive harsh conditions and burst back to life each summer, it's a beautiful representation of life on this island for those who proudly call Harris their home.”

The pink Cèilidh Bottle will be debuted at this year's HebCelt Festival which is held annually in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, attracting a global audience as the largest celebration of Celtic music and culture in the Outer Hebrides. 

Following a successful partnership in 2024, the Isle of Harris Distillery will return to the festival with the Isle of Harris Gin Cèilidh Tent, featuring a curated line-up of talented contemporary trad musicians from across Scotland, cèilidh dancing, and a selection of premium 'Cèilidh Cocktails', as well as the distillery's acclaimed Hearach single malt.

At a half-standard 350ml in size, the Harris Cèilidh Bottle is ideal to present and pour, helping to better enjoy an evening among old friends and family. Online orders are presented in a gorgeous box full of colour, embossing and Harris Cèilidh storytelling.

The Sea Thrift Pink Cèilidh Bottle will be available from 10am on Wednesday 16 July at www.harrisdistillery.com within the UK and at the distillery shop in Tarbert for £53 RRP.

Why Beer Might Just Be the Most Natural Rehydration Drink. In Moderation, of Course!

When we think of rehydration, we usually imagine water, electrolyte-packed sports drinks, or perhaps coconut water. 

But what if we told you that beer, yes, beer, could play a role in keeping you refreshed after physical activity or a hot day in the sun?

Before you reach for a pint after your next run, let’s explore why beer, when enjoyed responsibly and in moderation, has some surprising hydrating potential.

Beer: More Than Just a Boozy Treat

Beer is around 90–95% water, and that already makes it a better candidate for hydration than you'd expect. It also contains small amounts of carbohydrates and electrolytes like potassium and sodium, especially in lighter lagers and craft brews brewed without excessive alcohol or sugar.

In fact, the ancient workers who built the pyramids in Egypt were given a type of low-alcohol beer as part of their daily rations. Why? Because it was nourishing, hydrating, and, unlike the local water supply, safe to drink.

Low-Alcohol Beer and Rehydration Studies

Several studies have looked at how beer affects post-exercise rehydration. One Spanish study found that low-alcohol beer (less than 2% ABV) didn’t interfere with hydration and might even work comparably to water after moderate activity. Some athletes even opt for isotonic beers specifically brewed with sports recovery in mind, think of them as a mix between a shandy and a sports drink.

What’s key here is moderation. A full-strength pint (5% ABV or more) might lead to more dehydration than hydration, particularly if you’re already sweating or haven’t had any water.

The Social and Psychological Boost

Beyond the physical benefits, sharing a cold beer after a hike, game, or day at the beach can boost morale and offer psychological relaxation — which is vital for overall well-being. A chilled pint in the pub garden after a long walk isn't just satisfying, it's sociable, grounding, and often part of our wider wellness rituals.

Beer Rehydration: Dos and Don'ts

DO:

Choose beers with lower alcohol content (under 4% is ideal).

Opt for brews with added electrolytes or isotonic properties.

Alternate with water to maintain true hydration. But not fizzy water.

Pair your beer with a salty snack to replace lost sodium.

DON’T:

Rely on beer alone for hydration after intensive exercise.

Use beer as a replacement for water in extreme heat.

Forget that alcohol is a diuretic, more booze means more bathroom trips.

Bottom Line: The Occasional Pint Won’t Hurt

While beer won’t replace your water bottle any time soon, there is a case for its mild rehydration abilities, especially in lower-alcohol formats and when consumed alongside plenty of water.

So next time someone raises an eyebrow at your post-ramble pint, you can tell them: “It’s for the electrolytes!”

Cheers! And remember, everything in moderation!

Multivitamins vs Individual Supplements – What’s Right for You?

Should you take a multivitamin or individual nutrients? We explore both options.

Introduction:

With so many choices, deciding between multivitamins and targeted supplements can be tricky. Here’s how to choose.

Pros of Multivitamins:

Convenient

Cost-effective

Covers nutritional gaps

Pros of Individual Supplements:

Personalised to your needs

Often higher dosages

Better for targeting specific issues

Conclusion:

If you’re generally healthy, a multivitamin may be sufficient. But if you’re addressing a specific concern, targeted supplements may be more effective.

Men’s Health: Top Supplements for Vitality, Prostate and Muscle Support

A guide to natural health supplements for men’s wellbeing.

Introduction:

From energy and libido to muscle and prostate health, these supplements can help men thrive.

1. Zinc – Supports testosterone and immune health.

2. Magnesium – Helps with muscle function and recovery.

3. Saw Palmetto – Promotes prostate health.

4. CoQ10 – Supports heart and stamina.

5. Omega-3 – Reduces inflammation and supports brain health.

Tip: Combine supplements with a balanced lifestyle for optimal results.