Those of you who are struggling to lose weight will understand exactly what I mean when I say you have a love-hate relationship with food. Your attraction to it is so strong you can't do without it and, at the same time, when you do over-indulge, you
It takes five years of training to become a fully-qualified pharmacist so there is clearly much more to the job than dishing out paracetomol and plasters. In fact, they can offer essential advice, information and support about a wide range of minor illnesses
As a sweeping generalisation, we seek pleasure and avoid pain. In other words, we tend to make life choices that will bring us satisfaction and we don't knowingly put ourselves in danger. Each of us defines pain and pleasure differently but that doesn't
"I would like to develop my shoulders a little to get a more toned look without too much bulk. Any tips?" - Ms Donnelly, Storrington We need to focus in on your deltoids, especially the side deltoids. To work these, which will add shoulder width and give
Elections in Adur are always interesting, with nobody quite sure who will hold the balance of power after the ballot papers have been counted. In recent years it has swung from the Liberal Democrats to no overall control and currently to the Conservatives
A campaign has been launched to raise awareness about the little-known condition cluster headache. Every two years or so, Tom Nash's life becomes a living nightmare. Over a period of about six weeks, the 29-year-old develops excruciatingly-painful headaches
So you've slipped up. Picture the scenario: You're on a diet, trying to lose weight slowly but surely, and all was going well until that moment when you just couldn't resist any longer. So you had one biscuit (or whatever is your downfall) and then another
One of the key tools that helps people lose weight and keep it off for good is slow eating. You've probably heard it before but it's worth repeating because we forget to do it a lot of the time. The main purpose of slow eating is to help you to eat less
The fit ball is a great aid to developing your overall training regime in many ways. It will give you a real challenge in the gym or at home and help you to develop you balance, awareness in space, muscle co-ordination and core postural strength. It will
"Comfort eating" is a phrase (and activity) you may be quite familiar with. It is widespread and a common cause of being overweight. By definition, when we comfort eat we are not physically hungry. Instead, we are eating to bury our feelings and unmet
Your temperature's rising. You're starting to get edgy. Then, the fear that someone might approach with: Can't you keep that child under control? But what can you do when you have no option but to take an unwilling four-year-old to the supermarket? First
A menace to children and every parent's and grandparent's nightmare come true: The judge's own verdict on Roy Whiting. Mr Justice Curtis told the paedophile he would be kept in prison for the rest of his life. The judge told Whiting, who was jailed for
Recovering from the effects of a stroke can be a long and difficult process so practical support, medical help and advice is vital. It can take months to regain speech and some form of mobility, with each person affected in a different way. Brighton and
Do I have the true secret of weight loss? Yes and no. I have but you probably won't want to hear it because it's not what you're hoping for. I'm going to ask you to stop seeking the big secret and ask you to pay attention to a smaller secret that you
I'd like to recommend the following attitude to life: "Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly at first". That may surprise you but it is very relevant to dieting. It's at about this time of the year - a few weeks into a new year - that so many people
Evil Roy Whiting was told to rot in hell after he was jailed for life for kidnapping and murdering Sarah Payne. As Whiting was led to the cells, Sarah's grandfather leaned towards him and shouted: "I hope you rot in hell." The 42-year-old painter and
The most common image of hydrotherapy is doing exercises in a swimming pool but there are other types of treatments that can be used as well. Hydrotherapy is the use of water to treat disease or illness and has been around since ancient times. Many conditions
Hundreds of people across Sussex have been able to give up smoking with the help of special smoking cessation services. The schemes use a combination of one-toone help, group support and information to encourage people to kick the habit. IT may be nearly
In recent articles, I have been covering prevention and managementof osteoporosis, which you may know as brittle-bone condition. This week, I have included a set of exercises that can be used individually or as agroup of exercises in a circuit format.
In your day-to-day life, you are constantly making choices: What to wear, where to go (at least at weekends), what to do and, of course, what to buy. Say you want a new CD player. You may have a look at a consumer magazine, you may surf the internet,
As an actress, Britt Forsberg knows the importance of confidence, breathing properly and being able to project your voice. She is also aware of the need to stay relaxed but also be warmed up and fit enough to cope with an audience. As she developed her
Shhh! You walk into the room and 15 small children, all sitting cross-legged in a circle, turn to look at you and then return to the matter at hand. Circle time, as it is known in playgroups and nurseries throughout the country, is an opportunity for
The Government today continued to resist calls to give the public access to a paedophiles' register after the Sarah Payne case. Home Office minister Keith Bradley insisted the move would drive offenders underground. The renewed calls for the register
It's January. Here we go again. For how many years now has losing weight been on your list of New Year resolutions? Every year, I expect the process goes something like this: You successfully lose weight for a few days, even a few weeks and then, suddenly
Anthony Asquith and Mark Tyrell are practising hypnotherapists who have organised a seminar to help people meet their New Year's resolutions. The idea is to provide the help and support the public needs to lose weight and get fit in the months ahead.
According to the results of the recent census, Worthing has the highest proportion of people aged 85 and over in England. There are also high elderly populations in Eastbourne, parts of Brighton and Hove and throughout the county. This means there is
Roy Whiting was today found guilty of the abduction and murder of eight-year-old Sarah Payne and sentenced to life. The 42-year-old killer, who had a previous child sex conviction, was told by trial judge Mr Justice Richard Curtis that he was "every parent's
Many people suffer from stiff and painful joints but are unhappy about taking too many painkillers to treat it. There is nothing worse than aches and pains that refuse to go away no matter what treatments are tried. More and more people are turning to
As you read this, the festive season should be progressing well with the alcohol flowing and food available in abundance. Many of you may have forgotten about those extra calories or it may be that your subconscious is nagging you into feeling guilty
The simple way to avoid a hangover is not to drink. While that method is fine for some, for many others it's missing the point. Perhaps a more realistic option is to find ways of enjoying a few drinks and having a good time without facing the full repercussions
Many people struggling to lose weight say: "I'm just not motivated, I can't do it." Today, I'd like to muse with you on this issue of motivation. What is it? How can you acquire some? The American motivation guru Anthony Robbins suggests we are all motivated
Elaine Gibbons has been working as an acupuncturist for nearly ten years. During that time she has seen her clientele grow until now she is dealing with about 30 patients a week. The use of acupuncture has increased in popularity so much that some GPs
With overwork, redundancy and the current economic downturn exposing employees to unhealthy levels of stress, many people are turning to drugs and alcohol as a means of escape. Up to 14 million working days are lost annually because of alcohol-related
More and more children are developing back complaints more normally experienced by adults in middle age. Experts are urging parents to take action now to avoid long-term problems. Holly Carron is not yet ten years old but already she is suffering from
When a person suffers from conditions such as back pain, sciatica due to a slipped disc or hip and knee disorders, it can sometimes take a while for recovery. There is a wide variety of available treatments ranging from conventional physiotherapy to shiatsu
Whether it's a tweak as you turn your head to talk to a colleague or a more serious injury such as a slipped disc, most people have experienced some sort of back pain. Roughly two out of every five adults will experience such discomfort during the next
The annual UK campaign to urge people to take advantage of an offer of a free flu jab has been launched with the help of former boxer Sir Henry Cooper. GP practices across Sussex will be spending the next couple of months vaccinating thousands of people
The Liberal Democrats retained control in Eastbourne but saw their majority cut to just one seat as the Tories capitalised on this year's huge council tax rise. Having lost a seat in Old Town to Tory challenger Ian Lucas, the balance of power is now on
The only constant in life is change and Sally Goodwin has experienced many over the past few years. When she left her job as communications manager at the Body Shop three years ago, following voluntary redundancy, it was clear some major changes were
Learning he had a serious heart condition had a fundamental effect on Neil Critchlow. Just a few months after having a pacemaker fitted to control the abnormally slow and unsteady beating of his heart, the 43-year-old is still coming to terms with the
Children today can find themselves under a lot of pressure. Homework, competition with other children, exams, endless after-school activities and over-scheduling all add up. But a possible solution is growing in popularity across Sussex and helping children
The most important piece of advice offered by Kirt Strasburg is to wear the right shoes. Badly-fitting shoes are the cause of the vast majority of problems he deals with at his Worthing-based clinic. He said: "One of the main concerns is the shoes some
Alcohol abuse has a devastating effect on the drinker, their friends, family and employers. Alcohol often plays an invisible role in crime, domestic and street violence, car accidents and fatal illness. For every person who dies of illicit drug use, ten
The combination of more leisure time and an emphasis on keeping fit has brought a huge increase in outdoor activities. You only have to look at any green area outside the city and you will find people hang-gliding, orienteering, riding, biking or even
Thousands of people in Sussex are heading for the summer sunshine. Here we consider advice from experts on making your holiday safe. Whether you are planning to soak up the sun in Spain, go for a trek in the Himalayas or spend a week closer to home in
Imagine suffering periodic spells of blindness, an intense throbbing in the head and overwhelming nausea on a regular basis. Shutting out the world to lie in darkness for up to three days might be the only solution. But for more than one in ten adults
A series of courses is being set up to help people achieve the right balance of work and play to improve their health and quality of life. The scene is an all too familiar one: A person works long hours in a busy and stressful job and when they get home
Most parents can generally guess by a baby's gurgle, laugh or tone of cry whether their nappy needs changing or whether they are thirsty. But Sasha Felix from Brighton has taken this a step further by organising a series of special classes which combine
About one in three women and one in 12 men over the age of 50 will develop osteoporosis. The condition can cause crippling problems but, for many people, the first time they find out something wrong is after they break bone. The National Osteoporosis
There is really only one thing you can be sure of in life and that is death, so the saying goes. However, for women, there's something else - the menopause. Whoever you are or whatever you do, you will at some stage in your life (usually between the ages
Some 12 million people in the UK suffer from hay fever. In more extreme cases this can cause huge disruption, with many having to take time off work and avoid the countryside. As tree pollen concentrations start to rise in early March, sufferers start
Dewi Richards knows first hand the pain and difficulty involved in recovering from a broken back. The keen sportsman was involved in a motorbike accident several years ago and was told by doctors he would never be able to exercise properly again. Mr Richards
There is a lot of pride in producing the best plants and flowers possible and turning your garden into contender for the local Town or Village-In-Bloom competition. But experts say there are plenty of health benefits as well. Mention the word fitness
At work, the last thing any parent wants is a battle with their child about what they are going to eat. When it comes to a choice between spaghetti hoops greens, it is not difficult guess which one most children will go for. Trying to balance what child
With at least another three months before the height of summer, there is still time to shed the extra pounds that have built up over the winter. Experts helping people to lose weight say it is not enough just to suddenly stop eating things that are bad
There are many ways to keep a person's heart healthy and strong but a new campaign has a simple message: Go out and take a walk. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) and the Countryside Agency are working together to get more people on their feet and out
Imagine yourself in the position of Alice in Wonderland; reduced in size so all the everyday objects tables, chairs, cup - boards and most of all, people suddenly loom over you in a vast and frightening world. That's the experience of every little three
If you're a working parent, as I am, you probably get swamped by feelings of irrational guilt. Should you be with your child rather than earning a crust? Is your child missing out because you're not there at the school gates? Do they feel cornered into
Does your heart sink when you come across otherwise normal adults who claim never to read novels, preferring some thing factual? Can you contemplate a life in which we all respond like Mr Spock from the Starship Enterprise, who has no imagination and,
Young political enthusiasts are rubbing their eyes with wonder as veteran campaigner Brian Fitch takes up every issue and goes to every doorstep in this large, new ward. Coun Fitch has moved over from Hollingbury ward now he lives in Hove. He has been
Geography for four-year-olds? If that's what's meant by the Early Learning Goal relating to understanding of the world, then what are we coming to? But, of course, what's now going on in our nurseries and playgroups is almost literally worlds away (excuse
Elaine finds it an ordeal to leave her house each day. Every morning she has to stop and count to ten before opening the front door of her home in Crawley to go to work. Elaine, not her real name, suffered from agoraphobia, the fear of open spaces, for
Following the death of her boyfriend from meningitis, Sarah Jones has been campaigning to raise awareness of the dangers of the disease. Miss Jones, from Burgess Hill, did not have time to see Noel Davies before his death because the infection developed
Rupa Anandakumar is one of many people to have a form of dyslexia but she has not let it get in the way of what she wants to do. She is now a therapist working with autistic children. Nicky Woodward is also dyslexic. Having dealt with the condition from
Isobella Thomas's family is one of 2,000 families who say their lives have been ruined by the MMR vaccine. Her sons Michael, nine, and Terry, seven, developed signs of autism and suffered bowel problems after being inoculated as toddlers. Mrs Thomas,
As the the internet and email continues to be a daily part of people's lives, another idea has been developed which may help the health of many. The phrases email and ecommerce are well known but, now, Steven Lee, from Hove, has come up with the idea
English literature student and parttime model Alice Friedl has been having pains in her joints since she was ten years old. She was subsequently diagnosed with having rheumatoid arthritis. Now 27, she uses wheelchair but has not let the condition ruin
The best way to avoid a hangover is to avoid alcohol altogether but that's no good on New Year's Eve. In an ideal world, everyone has incredible will power and everyone knows when to stop. But this is not an ideal world so the other option is to listen
Tammy Cottingham has a passion for books but has been unable to read for the past two years. Since being diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) in 1998, she been unable to pick up her favourites for fear of the pain she might suffer. She said:
For John McKenna, becoming a doctor was never going to just be about prescribing basic pharmaceutical medicines. After first training as a scientist, he worked in Africa for four years. Following his subsequent medical degree, he was eager to learn about
Russians open another bottle of vodka and start again, the Chinese eat oats and peaches and the Scots swear by Irn-Bru. But by far the majority of people across the globe rely on a cup of coffee and the "plink-plink fizz" of products such as Alka Seltzer
Hundreds of people in Sussex suffer from the misery of sensitive skin, eczema and psoriasis which, in some cases, can be difficult to control. Martin James, from Eastbourne, suffered chronic asthma and very sensitive skin when he was a child. He eventually
For many people, trying to lose weight and keep it off is the main focus of their lives. Apart from affecting such people's health, weight problems can also have an impact on their self-esteem and social life as they become lethargic and depressed. In
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of treatment for pain. In the past 20 years, acupuncture has grown in stature from a rarely-used method viewed with deep suspicion to an accepted alternative treatment used by thousands of people in the UK every
Kathy Chapman believes it is important people open their minds to alternative therapy. A growing number of residents across the county are becoming increasingly aware of words such as homeopathy, feng shui, reiki and reflexology but are not 100 per cent
One of the dilemmas for parents is balancing work and family commitments. A particular test of this is the school run. While most parents can accommodate this historic mismatch of timing most of the time, even the best-laid plans can break down. Hence
Rose Hill rarely suffered morning sickness, passed all her ante-natal checks and was looking forward to becoming a new mum. In a check-up, little more than three weeks before her due date, Rose's GP sent her home, happy with her progress. Within a few
One of the most irritating problems for parents as the new school year kicks off is the appearance of head lice in their offspring. The main difficulty with a condition such as head lice is that, in most cases, by the time a parent notices their child
During National Foot Care Week, Siobhan Ryan looks at what steps need to be taken to give feet a clean bill of health In an average lifetime, most people's feet carry them the equivalent of five times around the earth. That's not bad going considering
After a lifetime of trusting old-fashioned remedies to ward off illnesses, aches and pains, Audrey Parcell thought her body had the healing power to cope with almost any disease. When she started to lose her appetite and feel exhausted all the time she
Mention maths to most adults, and the chances are they'll smile and say, "Not one of my strengths." And the really alarming thing about that sort of defeatism, particularly if it's a parent speaking, is that it fosters the idea that maths is boring and
As you move through life, savouring its sweetness as well as rolling with the punches, do you ever wonder what is the purpose of life itself? When you are rewarded in life for your efforts with financial returns, a prestigious post or praise from your
A recent clinical study looked at the damaging effect of fizzy drinks on the bones of teenage girls. Dr Claire McGartland and her team observed that among secondary school children "a high consumption of fizzy drinks by girls during adolescence may lead
Herbal Medicine Awareness Week, organised by The National Institute of Medical Herbalists, runs until September 13. Members of the public will be able to join qualified herbalists on a nationwide series of herb walks this weekend. Our own Brighton expert
The environment and atmosphere certainly has an effect on how we feel and how our bodies function. Earlier this week, we were still basking in the summer sun. But with the sudden change to clouds and rain, our inner temperature control may have got confused
Many men, women and children suffer from aching leg syndrome, which can disturb sleep and make you feel tired and weak. I have seen a number of runners, sportsmen and people whose occupation involves standing for long periods of time suffer from the condition
Continuing with last week's theme of HRT (hormone replacement therapy), shall mention some more natural ways of dealing with the symptoms of menopause. The fact that HRT with its synthetic oestrogens and progesterones can triple the risk of getting breast
One of the ways in which we can take control of our health in mind, body and spirit is to learn self-help techniques which we can practise easily and which are proven to work. There is a number of powerful techniques such as yogic breathing, meditation
Football, tennis and cricket tournaments are in full swing again and many people are motivated by these to play sports for their own health and enjoyment. Proper exercise is the best way to maintain your general well-being and keep the mind, body and
The teenage years require direction and support from caring adults. I see many young people who are suffering from anorexia, depression or have been victims of abuse and I wonder where the values of our modern society are leading us. Our children are
Continuing the theme from last week, let us look at some more rejuvenating herbs everyone can use regularly. Lord Charaka says herbs from the country in which you are born will be in greater in harmony with your body and may work better for you although
Living under the constant mental, physical and emotional pressures of life today coupled with pollution is causing disease in more people at an earlier age. An increasing number of men in their early 40s are suffering from stress-related heart disease
This week we are continuing with the theme of personality types and patterns of behaviour. When dealing with a stressful or demanding situation, we become more vulnerable to other minor or major irritations. Problems tend not to come one at a time: When
Why is correct breathing and posture so important? When anyone comes to me for a holistic treatment, whether it is for back pain or anxiety, heart disease or cancer, the first thing I teach them is correct yogic breathing, which I have modified using
Spring is in the air, the sun is shining and the pollen from grass and flowers of trees are being wafted on the breeze. But while the warmer weather and sunshine cheers everyone up, it also brings tears to the eyes of those who suffer from hay fever.
The demand for trained medical herbalists has increased sharply in the past five years. There are now at least 15 in practice in Sussex, treating people who prefer to take natural remedies instead of conventional medicine. Siobhan Ryan looks at the growing
Conflict causes insecurity, damping down the spirit which allows us to feel joyous. The ancient vedas or spiritual sciences, as well as modern spiritual masters around the world, proclaim the only way to resolve conflict is to become aware of our inner
Say "childcare" to most parents and they'll think nurseries, childminders, playgroups. But that excludes the many and varied supervised activities taking place across the county for children. Increasing numbers of schools run out-of-school-hours learning
On my 50th birthday, I want to send a message of love and compassion and prayers and condolences to those suffering the effects of war. Life ends for those families who have lost love ones. It does not matter what else happens in the world, they have
Since 1980, the number of obese adults and children has doubled in UK. I believe obesity is a result of an imbalanced body, mind and spirit. A number of factors are influential - dietary habits, exercise, mental state, emotional turmoil and spiritual
The focus of the medical and pharmaceutical industry is currently levelled at high cholesterol levels in the blood as one of the main causes of coronary heart disease. It is recognised that one cannot predict the risk of coronary heart disease or heart
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the largest killer in UK, according to the latest statistics published by the British Heart Foundation. It accounts for around 125,000 deaths a year; approximately one-in-four deaths in men and one-in-six deaths in women
A Happy Soul Is A Healthy Body. This was the theme for my workshops and lectures at the Good Health Show at Birmingham NEC last weekend. I was surprised and pleased to receive a high attendance of around 30 people for each session, all keen to learn yogic
Shirodhara is an ayurvedic treatment which has become fashionable among therapists in the UK and the West. It is a soothing and appealing therapy in which warm oil or other medicated fluid is allowed to flow on the forehead from a certain height. This
Since the detox season is in full swing and so much is being said about the subject, I thought it would be the right time to put things into perspective. Today, a 24-year-old lady came to see me feeling tired all the time, low in energy and suffering
After the Christmas season's indulgence, with all that alcohol and chocolate, many of us may be feeling quite heavy in the liver. Charak, the ayurvedic physician, says: "A happy soul is a healthy body" and it certainly is lovely, sometimes, to unwind
Christmas is a time for festivities but also a time to rest and reflect. So what were your reflections for the past year and what are your resolutions for a healthy 2003 in mind, body and spirit? Listening to the prevalent messages of war and peace over
Christmas is a time to rejoice and let the festive mood heal you. Often, when we are tense and stressed,we forget to rejoice and celebrate our achievements. Most importantly, we forget the immense power of the human body, mind and spirit. Look at the
Concerns over an increased risk of cancer when taking hormone replacement therapy have worried many women. Technically speaking, if you are only replacing what your body is not producing, there should not be any increased risk. However, if we believe
Asthma is a condition in which the tubes carrying air in and out of the lungs go into spasm and cause distress and great difficulty with breathing. For many years, inhalers containing bronchodilator medicines such as salbutamol have saved many lives.
"Body, mind and spirit is the tripod of life," says Charak in his ancient Ayurvedic medicine text. We need to nurture and nourish each component of our being if we wish to keep a happy, healthy balance of energy and fitness. One common example is back
Our desired assets in old age are lucid brain function, memory, alertness of mind, healthy use of muscles and joints and a healthy heart and lungs. Is it not worth looking after them from a young age? Dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease are
For nearly nine months, Catherine Harwood's pulse beat to the rhythm of her baby daughter's tiny heart. She felt every move her daughter made and did everything she could to nurture her little body inside. Catherine fell in love with the baby girl's perfectly-formed
Governments around the world are worried about the problems of looking after our ageing population. Old age has its own unique needs for care. Will we be able to maintain a quality of life and independent living for older people? In September, government
Antidepressants are gaining bad press at the moment because of the undesirable side effects they cause. One of my patients brought me a list of side effects she had suffered, including sweats, bad dreams, a fuzzy head and a difficulty with making decisions
We are what we eat. In recent years, I have seen a growing trend in patient awareness regarding diet. In the past, people used to believe diet did not matter. Now, an increasing number of patients ask me what they should eat for certain conditions. For
Spices have been used in traditional Indian cooking from ancient times, both to stimulate the senses and for their medicinal value. Ayurveda says a bland diet will not stimulate the mind while eating tasty food can disperse your depression and motivate
Our body is constantly producing free radicals, supercharged chemicals formed when oxygen and nitric oxide react with our tissue to form unwanted charged molecules. These free radicals cause a chain reaction with our cells and DNA and damage our tissues
Who doesn't want to live a long, happy and healthy life? There is so much to enjoy and experience on this physical plane of life on earth. Caraka, the ancient Ayurvedic physician wrote that the span of life is variable in different ages of time (called
Did you hear on the television how working for more than 40 hours a week can cause heart attacks? Last week, a cousin of mine died from a heart attack at the age of 37 years. When people live under constant pressure, they have to find some way of relieving
Commonly known as heartburn, increased acid in the stomach is a very common ailment which can cause considerable morbidity. It can even cause long-term damage to the stomach and lower end of the gullet. The treatment of stomach ulcers, acidity and hiatus
Have you ever felt the vibes in your office are unhealthy? That the arrangement of furniture, the direction your windows face, the amount of air, light and space, and the people you come across on a regular basis cause tension, stress and ill health rather
Where is the benefit to our quality of life? This statement, written by Richard White, editor of Southern Business Times, struck me as I opened the page. Nowadays, human values are measured in the value of the stock market and family values on the size
Siobhan Ryan speaks to a woman who is using an old technique to help solve a modern problem. The number of people who spend a lot of their leisure time sitting in front of a computer playing games or surfing the Internet has rapidly increased in the last
"Gratitude, respect and pride is what the jubilee means to me." These were the powerful words said by the Queen in her Golden Jubilee speech. The whole nation and many people round the world celebrated the Queen's 50 years of reign and joined in the pomp
Severe eczema in infants and children can be quite distressing for parents. One mum brought her toddler with severe cradle cap and red, itchy, flaky skin on the face to see me. Initially, this needed treatment with mild steroid cream for a few days, which
With ten per cent of Britain's population regular sufferers and the NHS spending £45m annually on laxatives, I am sure constipation demands serious consideration. The Victorians blamed it for most problems, including sexually deviant behaviour. Constant
Why does there seem to be a growing interest among people from all walks of life in spiritual healing and Ayurvedic herbs? The answer is simple. We have allowed our fantasies of modern life to drag us into a highly-demanding workaholic and aspirational
Aromatherapy is one of the most pleasant therapies which can help in a number of ways in one's daily life. In its pure definition, aromatherapy relates to the use of various types of aroma to influence certain areas of the brain in order to produce various
Acne is quite a distressing problem for teenagers which, in severe cases, can be very embarrassing and badly affects their social lives. But acne is not restricted to teenagers. Some women get acne before and during their periods and people under stress
Thousands of people in the UK are forced to radically change their lifestyles and behaviour to cope with the fact they have a stammer. But having the problem does not always mean people have to restrict their lives. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a woman who
Heart disease is the leading cause of mortality in Britain today, accounting for some 235,000 deaths a year. More importantly, angina and shortness of breath relating to heart disease can severely limit the sufferer's physical activities, making life
The BBC's Your NHS day on Wednesday sparked a great debate about poor funding and the enormous demands placed on hospital services, GPs, nurses and all primary-care teams. We need more doctors and nurses, more hospital beds and adequate care for the elderly
My programme for losing and maintaining weight is based on Ayurvedic Panchakarma detoxification of the body. This includes Ayurvedic deep-tissue massage and herbal steam treatment followed by a herbal enema. It also features Ayurvedic herbal formulations
Our bodies and minds are heavily laden with toxins due to bad diets and eating habits, negative feelings and aggressive actions. Non-organic methods of farming have ruined the nutritional quality of much of our food. Our mental toxins come from ego, greed
Recent scientific research has shown that milk is a healthy drink which could prevent certain illnesses, including cancer. Milk contains many valuable nutrients including essential proteins and amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, essential fatty acids and
Here are some practical hints on choosing the right diet and management of eating habits. If we could learn some things about food energies, if we knew how to eat and drink healthily according to our constitution and our mental, emotional and physical
Several people have inquired about ayurvedic foods following the recent Radio 4 programme on ayurveda. Indian curries have now become a part of British culture and ayurvedic foods are just around the corner in the natural health market. Few people realise
The healing art of homoeopathy is not normally associated with sophisticated equipment or computer wizardry. But practitioners like Sussex-based Miranda Kingsley-Holt are now using cutting-edge technology to treat their patients in a natural way. Thanks
The National Conference on Cancer 2001 will take place on November 30 at RegentsCollege in London. This unique conference is held every year to bring together leading experts in cancer care, cancer care professionals, patients and carers to share the
Whatever happens in the marginal Wish ward, two councillors standing for election must lose their seats. The Hove seafront ward is currently represented by two Labour councillors and one Tory, who are all standing again. But the ward is being reduced
Someone once wrote: "No one ever died of hard work, but people have died of laziness", or something to that effect. In fact, the latter is true and we know that being a couch potato can, in due course, cause obesity, heart disease and diabetes. However
Last Saturday, I heard about the work being done by the Arts For Health centre which is based at Manchester Metropolitan University. Peter Senior, the pioneer of an international movement bringing the services of artists and designers to the world of
High cholesterol and heart disease are closely linked. When this combines with obesity and diabetes, the risk of getting strokes or heart attacks is greatly increased. Recent guidelines for doctors suggest anyone with high cholesterol and related heart
This is the time to support teenagers who have just had the results of their A Levels or college courses and are in a dilemma over their future careers. Quite often we, as parents, are unable to judge the hidden anxieties, fears and moods which our children
The training of doctors in modern medicine gives them a solid foundation. This makes them unique in their understanding of the structure and functions of the human body. Doctors learn to treat their patients with medicines or surgery. The treatment of
The arrival of summer conjures up images of long evenings and sunshine. But for thousands of allergy sufferers, it can be an annual nightmare. Siobhan Ryan looks at what can be done to relieve the problem. Wasps and bees, nettle rash, prickly heat and
Stanfor should be one of the safest seats in the city for the Tories but there is a cloud in the blue sky. It comes in the shape of former Conservative councillor Jayne Bennett, who is standing as an Independent. Stanford is being reduced from three seats
An interesting phenomenon in the cause of disease has caught my attention recently. Over the past few months, five patients with heavy, irregular bleeding, all having fibroids, have consulted me for holistic treatment. Heavy, irregular bleeding in younger
Brighton and Hove is one of the few major councils which has strong representation from four parties. The Greens are determined to keep it that way, which is why so much effort is being put into the St Peter's and North Laine ward. Seven years ago in
Facial and body hair removal has become increasingly popular, especially within the last two years. Hair removal never was very complicated procedure, and some of the methods can even be done at home. But today, hair removal is accomplished faster than
Once the clubbing teenage years are over, younger men and women are becoming more eager to adopt a healthier lifestyle. And to use natural ways to treat conditions such as stress, depression, premenstrual tension and acne. These are common conditions
Look at South Portslade and you are normally looking at a safe Labour seat but this time there is a complicating factor. His name is Steve Collier, a sitting councillor, who left the Labour Party in September last year. Councillor Collier is standing
The City of Brighton and Hove probably has the largest number of complementary therapists in the country. That poses a number of problems Which therapist should you see for treatment of your condition? Who will advise you as to which therapy is suitable
The use of herbs and vitamins to boost health and offer an alternative treatment for illness has always been popular and is continuing to rise. More and more herbal treatment are becoming available. Siobhan Ryan looks at the growing popularity of natural
Relaxing after my first American experience of a most exciting baseball match I found myself reading the book Just A Moment. Relaxing after my first American experience of a most exciting baseball match at the famous Fenway Park; Boston I found myself
The Liberal Democrats had the last laugh after a marathon count when Ian Dixon was finally declared the winner of East Grinstead Herontye - after the drawing of lots. After an astonishing six recounts he tied with Conservative Edward Belsey on 626 votes
Five years ago a pioneering eye operation which used a patient's tooth to help restore their sight took place at the Sussex Eye Hospital. Since then, the Brighton medical team responsible has carried out the same technique on 15 more patients in the UK
Nearly 2.5 million people in the UK have psoriasis and one-in-eight suffers from eczema. A rise in the number of cases has led to a search for a natural way to treat these painful conditions. Siobhan Ryan speaks to those who think they may have found
Basking in the glorious sun on the beach in Florida with clear skies and temperatures soaring to 91 degrees is what we all desire as a fantastic holiday experience. Hundreds of holiday-makers from Britain will soon be heading off for sunny destinations
On the former Brighton Borough Council, there was a Preston Park ward which almost invariably voted Conservative. But the newly-created Preston Park ward is far bigger and different. It is one of the few wards where all four parties are fighting hard.
Owning a pet can be bad for your health if you are allergic to fur, leaving you with the choice of struggling against ill-health or being forced to get rid of the animal. Siobhan Ryan speaks to one couple who have managed to achieve the best of both worlds
It was a night of ups and downs for the two main parties in the Lewes district but the overall political landscape remained unchanged. With ward boundary changes slashing the number of seats available and almost half the sitting candidates stepping down
Hundreds of people throughout Sussex are suffering from long-term niggling injuries that are not life threatening but severely curtail their quality of life. Siobhan Ryan speaks to one such person about the operation that helped to change his life. For
Obesity is costing the NHS at least £2.6 billion a year. Being overweight leads to increased health problems and social isolation. Siobhan Ryan looks at how a change in lifestyle and attitude can help someone lose weight and keep the pounds off. One-in-five
Dr Mathias Rath reveals his pioneering work on the vital function of nutrients and antioxidants. Dr Mathias Rath, in his book Why Animals Do Not Get Heart Attacks..People Do. Reveals his pioneering work on the vital function of nutrients and antioxidants
Foods as obscure as garlic or mushrooms could be stopping you losing weight or fighting off skin or sinus problems. Linsey Wynton tries out a new food intolerance test and wonders whether it is worthwhile. Have you ever wondered if the foods and drinks
With the glorious sunshine,the sneezing, the stuffy, runny noses, runny eyes and muzzy heads have also arrived. The pollen count has been high and a lot of people have been suffering from their seasonal hay fever. The runny and congested nose and sinuses
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unable to untangle yourself from the clutches of work or mental, physical and emotional tensions? Do you suffer from illness which requires more than just prescription of pills? The Art Of Living Foundation is a
'What I hate most about being single again after 3 years is shopping. Instead of the dulex shopping trolley model, I am back to carrying the sad, single basket. Panic sets in. Everyone will know that I am single. I hide and scurry through the aisles keeping
People assume that the brittle bone disease osteoporosis only affects elderly people. But signs can show as early as in one's 20s. Siobhan Ryan looks at how tests for the condition are carried out and how people can stop it from developing further. Osteoporosis
Binge-drinking among young ladies, and among young people generally, has escalated, reported a recent television documentary. The idea of a good time these days, is to drink 20 units of alcohol in a night out, smoke, perhaps have drugs, dance away to
Everyone who attended the Inter Faith Contact Group Meeting on April 18 at the Unitarian Church, Brighton was deeply moved by the talk given by Michael Henderson. He is a remarkable author and media presenter who has devoted his life to bringing to the
The Liberal Democrats are celebrating a shock result in Horsham which has left the town with a hung council. The ruling Conservatives - who went into the election with a clear majority and 24 councillors - were expected to romp home. But at the death,
Irregular, heavy, painful or multiple periods are not uncommon in women in England. In India, many young and old women in semi-rural and urban areas prefer to treat any problems of uterine bleeding naturally with Ayurvedic medicine and Yoga. Teenagers
Spring still seems to be a long way off as people try and shake off the winter blues. Siobhan Ryan looks at how therapies such as acupuncture and shiatsu can help them stop feeling flat, burnt out and run down. At the moment there are many people who
The science of stress management and harnessing the life force of our natural health is called Pranayama. This literally means "to master or control the life force Prana". Ayurvedic medicine and yoga is the science of different forms of breathing exercises
One of the most difficult aspects of dealing with mental illness is coping with the stigma attached to the condition. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a group which works to overcome preconceptions and assumptions to help improve the health and wellbeing of the
The ancient Yogis lay great emphasis on the central role which proper breathing plays in our health. We all know that we cannot live without breathing. Our breathing and circulation of blood in the body are intimately connected and interactive. You will
Tories in Arun retained their grip on power as the leaders of the three main opposition parties were toppled in a night of high drama. The Conservatives tightened their grip and stood firm but there was chaos all around. Lib Dem leader John Richards,
One of the most common complaints I hear these days is: "Doctor, I cannot sleep. Can you give me something to help me sleep". Over recent years,the use of tranquillisers has shot up as doctors may not have anything else to offer. It is not easy to live
The Conservatives are celebrating in Adur after snatching four seats from their rivals. Three of the gains were made at the expense of Labour and one of the council's five Independent seats also fell to the Tories. The biggest blow of the night was the
With many celebrities and royalties going for Ayurvedic therapy and treatment, there is an increasing awareness and interest in Ayurveda. Ayurvedic medicine dates back to around 2500BC. The University of Taxilla in Northern India was the first university
Our life is a continuous exercise of interacting with others and with the environment around us. or coming to terms with ourselves, being at peace with ourselves. Nature has provided us with an in-built mechanism of survival which perceives everything
A new Department of Health report says that 24 per cent of women in the country will be obese by 2005. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a woman who is about to hold regular counselling and support sessions to help people lose weight. It's the start of another New
A woman aged 52 came to see me for a holistic opinion after having suffered from stomach pains for more than a year. She had some heart burn, but her main pain was in the lower stomach. After medical investigations, she had been told she had diverticulitis
The break up of a relationship is a traumatic time for the couple involved but the strains and stresses can also have an impact on the health and well-being of any children involved. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a team of workers who help young people get through
With the recent spate of virus infections, a lot of people have suffered from dizziness and vertigo and often buzzing in the ears. There are several causes of dizziness and vertigo. One of the common causes is infection of the inner ear by a virus called
Sarah Payne's family today relived the last moments of their daughter's life, for the second time. Prosecution barrister Timothy Langdale QC outlined details of the kidnap and murder of the eight-year-old schoolgirl to a new jury. Sarah's father, Michael
From the day their daughter went missing Sarah's family have rarely been out of the media spotlight. They have had two specially-trained officers assigned to support them and their family. When the blaze of publicity following Whiting's conviction dies
Every other person will probably suffer from piles (haemorrhoids) at some point in their lives. Piles are dilated veins just inside the back passage. They are harmless in themselves mostly you don't get any symptoms, but sometimes they can cause irritation
Items of clothing alleged to link defendant Roy Whiting to eight-year-old Sarah Payne were identified in court today. Shane Gething told Lewes Crown Court that a red sweatshirt, checked padded shirt and a clown-patterned curtain were in a white van sold
A novelty curtain stolen from a store's mother-and-baby room provided one of the strongest links to Sarah Payne's alleged killer, a court heard. The trail began when a pair of the drapes, featuring a clown motif, were taken from a storage cupboard at
This is the red sweatshirt which provided detectives with a billion-to-one link between Sarah Payne and her killer, a court heard. A blonde hair was found on the top by forensic scientists after it was seized from accused Roy Whiting's van. DNA fingerprints
Scientific evidence in the Sarah Payne murder trial remains strong despite doubts raised about possible contamination, a jury heard. At Lewes Crown Court yesterday Sally O'Neill QC, defending Roy Whiting, questioned the reliability of each piece of evidence
An independent forensic report reinforced crucial links between schoolgirl Sarah Payne and her alleged killer, a court heard today. Scientist Roger Robson, a forensic specialist since 1978, was asked by the police to compare fibres found in Roy Whiting's
The man accused of killing Sarah Payne remained silent when he was formally charged with her murder, a court heard. Roy Whiting was arrested for the third time during the investigation into the eight-year-old schoolgirl's death on February 6, more than
The jury in the trial of Roy Whiting will not visit the scene where Sarah Payne was abducted. Mr Justice Richard Curtis refused an application by the jury to visit the spot in Kingston Gorse, near Littlehampton, where Sarah was abducted on July 1 last
Brighton and Hove Albion have lost their legal right to play matches at the city's Withdean Stadium. The club is unlikely to be ordered to stop playing at the stadium but a High Court ruling could mean the team would technically no longer have planning
Sarah Payne's mother and father watched in silence as videos retracing their daughter's last known movements were played in court yesterday. In the days after eight-year-old Sarah went missing, detectives took her two older brothers back to the cornfield
Albion manager Mark McGhee today urged his players to make it almost impossible for Nottingham Forest to finish above them in the fight for Championship survival. A third home victory in a row at Withdean tomorrow will take the Seagulls 15 points clear
While most of the players in Albion's dressing room will admit to following one of the Premiership giants, Adam El-Abd's allegiance is much more unusual. The young defender has a surprising soft spot for tomorrow's Withdean visitors Nottingham Forest.
Last Saturday, a very special young patient introduced me to the Alexander technique. I watched her expert Alexander teacher give her training and treatment, which has helped her almost cure her chronic back pain from a curvature in the spine. This gentle
The man accused of snatching and killing Sarah Payne said the evidence linking him to her disappearance was all "coincidence". Roy Whiting, 42, spent five hours in the witness box at Lewes Crown Court yesterday answering questions about his activities
For two weeks, the hunt for missing Sarah Payne dominated the national news. JULY 1, 2000: Sarah vanishes after leaving a field in Kingston Gorse, East Preston, where she has been playing with her brothers and sister. She was last seen at 7.45pm, 150
"It's child's play" is a frequently-used expression, relegating an activity to a level children would refer to as "easy peasy". But is that valid? For children, what we call play, can be a very demanding and significant activity, requiring the mastery
Fragments of evidence against Sarah Payne's alleged killer Roy Whiting build up a picture of "unmistakable clarity", a court heard. In the closing minutes of his prosecution speech at Lewes Crown Court yesterday, Mr Timothy Langdale said the forensic
School. You can't get away from it. It's not just the advertising. It's the school run, the traffic jams and the streams of five-year-olds in oversized clothes approaching the school gates with trepidation. If you have a three-yearold, all this probably
Vegan mum Sarah Spence has re-written the words to a well-known nursery rhyme for the benefit of her son Maximillian. "I don't sing three little piggies go to market," says Sarah. "I sing three little piggies go to Brighton." At five months, Max is too
What makes a child happy? As any parent will tell you, the plastic toys that are hyped on television do have their place. After all, who hasn't given in to the temptation of buying a toy as a quick fix in times of stress? But, in some cases, they can
The sound of the final school bell tolling the summer holidays is music to most children's ears. But while days of freedom delight pupils, their parents might not be quite so ecstatic at the prospect. Juggling a full-time job with the demands of youngsters
The jury in the Sarah Payne murder trial retired today to consider its verdict. Mr Justice Richard Curtis took a little over four hours to sum up the case against Roy Whiting at Lewes Crown Court. The jurors were told to consider their verdicts until
If exercise is part of your life, chances are, it is part of your children's lives too. Active parents often produce active children for whom going for walks, swimming and playing football is the norm. With warnings that the computer age could be damaging
A group of women sit chattering away but not about the latest fashion or gossip - this is baby talk. And they rarely take their eyes off the subject of their conversation, their precious little bundle wriggling and gurgling on the mat in front of them
Defence lawyers tried to have Roy Whiting's case thrown out before it had begun, claiming media coverage would stop him getting a fair trial. Sally O'Neill QC handed Judge Richard Curtis a file containing dozens of clippings from national and local newspapers
Madelaine Portwood has an extraordinary dream which looks as if it may be about to come true. Her dream is that, one day, children will be able to take a pill and do well at school. An educational psychologist, Dr Portwood has spent years working with
It is a truism that most people resist change. Think of how you felt the last time you changed jobs, moved house or even walked into a room full of strangers. Think, then, how much more intimidating change can be for children who are swept up in situations
A campaign has been launched by Prince Charles and many celebrities for the prevention of bowel cancer. The thought of suffering from any type of cancer is frightening. Basically, cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells in any particular part or organ
The theory of the super baby first emerged way back in the Sixties. Poor baby might be more appropriate. Babies barely able to sit up were pestered with flash cards on the basis that, if they saw the same word often enough, they would recognise it and
A childminder is someone registered with OFSTED to care for children under the age of eight in their own home for more than two hours per day. The law does not require them to register if they care only for children aged eight or over. Childminders may
Sooner or later, Jane O'Byrne is going to have to make her mind up about the MMR triple vaccine. Like many parents of young children, Jane, from East Sussex, has strong doubts about the three-inone measles, mumps and rubella jab. After reading stories
Which of us do not have friends or relatives who are working mothers? And how many more parents are there out there who would like to return to work but are prevented by childcare issues? These were some of the questions prompting the recent survey of
I was delighted to attend a lecture on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) recently given by a GP colleague who works in gynaecology. It was refreshing to hear the clinical evidence and feedback from women taking natural products containing phytoestrogens
Finding good childcare can be one of the biggest decisions parents have to make. The fact that more women are returning to work after having children has led to a greater demand for quality childcare. There are many day nurseries and registered childminders
Raising a child is an expensive business and seems to get more so by the minute. The cost of school uniforms, holiday activities and the latest mobile phones and designer gear not to mention growing appetites will take its toll on a parent's wallet. According
Children get revved up during the festive season, and calming them down for bed can be hard work. The Children's Clinic at Dolphin House specialises in improving the well-being of children and suggests a range of natural ways to help exhausted parents
Young children are very prone to picking up infections at school because their immune systems are immature. It's quite normal to get every bug going. Even so, every parent wants to help their child get up and about quickly. There are many natural ways
If Sarah had lived to realise her dream of becoming a teacher, the first lesson she taught would have been: "How to laugh." A "little princess with a smile that could melt ice", Sarah will be remembered for her infectious happiness and the joy she brought
A unique children's health charity is set to bring an innovative eco-friendly project to Brighton and Hove. It will benefit the local community and serve as a model for the rest of Britain and Europe to follow. The Children's Clinic at Dolphin House has
Sarah Payne's parents today faced a further tense wait as the jury in their daughter's murder trial continued its deliberations. The jury was sent to a hotel for a second night yesterday after failing to reach a verdict following more than five hours
The jury in the Sarah Payne murder trial retired today to continue its deliberations. The jury retired on the direction of Mr Justice Richard Curtis to begin its second full day of deliberations. Jurors have so far been discussing their verdicts for a
New complementary health clinics specialising in the treatment of babies and young children are now available in Whitehawk, Hollingdean, and at the Phoenix Community Centre. The good news is more are in the pipeline. These outreach clinics are organised
Reading a story is an opportunity for parent and child to snuggle up together and share an imaginary world. Ask any parent currently taking their child through the trials and tribulations of Rosie in Rosie's Walk, perhaps, or Harry Potter in The Philosopher's
How do children learn? How do any of us learn for that matter? Learning in a way that is going to make a real difference to our development is only possible when there is genuine motivation. And that will seep away unless we get recognition for our achievements
Have you ever taken a sickie when things have got on top of you? I'm not talking about single people taking Monday off after a weekend of partying but ringing in to say you're sick rather than admit your childcare has broken down or you have a hospital
Some things never change: the back-to-school notices in the shops; the panic to find the school blazer; the cries of "But you said I could have packed lunch!" But for some parents, this is a whole new ball game: their child is taking the first, hesitant
September is fast approaching and, for many parents, that means your three or four-year-old may be having his or her first taste of what some call pre-school and others early education. For working parents, this could mean your child continuing at the
In summer, we can lose a lot of water from our body through perspiration and activity. Often as much as one to two litres of water may be lost by this route. This dehydrates the body and makes the urine very strong and concentrated, leading to burning
It's 8.15am, already the sun is pouring into the car and you are stuck in a traffic jam with two children under six squabbling in the back. One question is dominating your mind: how are you going to get Phoebe to the playgroup, six-year-old Thomas to
Smoking is probably one of the oldest recreational rituals. We all know by now that tobacco is a powerful drug, which weakens the nerves and the brain in the long run. It clogs up the small blood vessels in the brain, heart and other organs and causes
Children today watch far too much television. And yes, it can be disconcerting to see your little girl imitating a TV babe or your son acting out a football foul. Equally, you might feel guilty when you snuggle up with your three-year-old to watch, for
Menopause is a woman's time of wisdom, power and knowledge. It is a natural progression in life's journey and a time for new decisions and new beginnings. The menopause is a series of changes in a woman's body, mind and emotions and not something to be
Nobody can deny many people have lost weight on the Atkins Diet so you can call me a pessimist if you like but let me know how many have kept the weight off in a year's time. But while the debate has raged over the safety of the Atkins diet, let me get
After a week at work, people like to let their hair down and have a few drinks at the weekend but there are some who can let it down a bit too much. Binge drinking is on the increase and new research shows the number of women developing problems is rising
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is controversial, even within the medical world, because of possible serious health risks and undesirable side-effects. Its long-term safety and efficacy remain uncertain and a matter of concern. Homeopathy is the safest
Weight struggles affect a very wide section of the population and my clients come from all walks of life. When I listen to their efforts, I often wonder whether those who live on their own have a harder time controlling their weight than those living
Long and short sightedness are caused by aberrations of the lens of the eye and its muscles. Too much straining of eyes at minute objects and computer screens or fast-moving objects can cause fatigue of eye muscles, causing pain, headaches, redness of
A large, long-term study on HRT was halted because the women taking part had a clear increase in the incidence of breast cancer. There was also an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, blood clots and endometrial and uterine cancer. Another study
Nutritionists have been telling people for years to take vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids but, according to the Food Standards Agency, we've got it all wrong. They tell us vitamins and minerals may have irreversible harmful effects. As I am
Heading off to Gatwick Airport for a holiday is very exciting and, for some people, the further they travel the better. The growth of long-distance air travel means many hours of relative immobility and possible cramped seating, which some health experts
