Rude Health News & Events

The latest news, research and events from the world of natural health

Research reveals Ireland’s diabetes divide

New research has highlighted significant inequalities in diabetes prevalence across Ireland, linked to differences in socio-economic status, age and education levels.

Researchers from RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Dublin analysed data from the Healthy Ireland survey from 2015 to 2023. The team found that those from disadvantaged areas, as well as those with lower levels of education, were more likely to have, or develop, diabetes.

Among disadvantaged communities, 6% of individuals reported having diabetes, which is nearly three times higher than the 2.2% recorded among those in more affluent areas. Similarly, research reveals that diabetes rates are three times as high among those who have not progressed beyond primary school education when compared to those with postgraduate degrees.

While these findings underline the inequalities in diabetes prevalence, the study suggests that targeting existing diabetes prevention programmes at these groups could improve diabetes prevalence among the Irish population over time.

Lead author of the study, Dr Gintare Valentelyte, said: “The need for targeted and accessible support among all social demographics is evident from our research findings. I hope this research highlights the existing gap in services and education and that it inspires a more individualised approach to diabetes prevention.”

What’s in season?

Marrow, pak choi, radish, courgette, peas, kale, French beans, beetroot, mushrooms, tomato, cucumbers, peppers, rhubarb, parsnip, onion, lettuce, leeks, celery, cauliflower, carrot, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, strawberry, raspberry.

Marathon effort

The miles have started ramping up for Rude Health editor Liz Parry as she continues her training for the Dublin marathon.

As I write this, the September/October issue of Rude Health is going to press and I’m eight weeks away from taking part in the Dublin marathon. I’ve still got a way to go, but the nerves are kicking in now! My longest training run to date has been 18 miles, and I’m still battling a niggling foot injury, but I’m plodding along each week. Plodding is the operative word, as I’m actually quite a slow runner. I won’t be breaking any records – that’s for sure. But I’m looking forward to the day itself, and I know that the atmosphere will be amazing, with lots of cheering crowds and banners of encouragement.

Since my last update, I’ve started taking some liquid magnesium drops from Oriel Nutrition, which have been very helpful in boosting my hydration levels. The summer has been very hot and humid at times, and I’ve really needed to replenish my electrolyte levels. I’ve also been experimenting with various gels and chews to keep my energy levels up during the long runs. That one is still a work in progress!

One of the most enjoyable parts of my training has been adding in more speed intervals lately. This has been a welcome break from mostly running in heart rate zone 2, to keep my heart rate down. A few little bursts of speed have been great fun. Maybe on the day itself I’ll find the energy to do a sprint finish. I can only hope! Next issue will be my last training update before the race itself. If you’re training for this event too, then get in touch and let me know how you’re getting on!

Till next time,
Liz

Study highlights effective treatment for IBS

A new study has revealed that after four weeks of treatment, over 90% of patients gained effective relief from Irritable Bowel Syndrome types IBS-D and IBS-M symptoms and improved quality of life when treated with an enterosorbent.

Patients reported a significant improvement in key IBS symptoms: bowel habit, abdominal pain, abdominal distention/bloating and flatulence. Loose stools reduced from 3.95 days per week to 0.58 days per week, and patients’ IBS status improved from ‘moderate’ to ‘mild’. During the study, they were treated with Silicolgel, a liquid oral gel containing silicic acid which coats the digestive tract with a protective lining and adsorbs harmful molecules acting locally in the gut.

Peter Whorwell, Professor of Medicine & Gastroenterology at Manchester’s Wythenshawe Hospital, said: “The results from this study add to the body of evidence suggesting that enterosorbents may play an important part in the future management of IBS-D and IBS-M where the current therapeutic options are very limited.” The findings were published in Neurogastroenterology & Motility.

Iodine deficiency in pregnant women highlighted

A study from University College Cork has found that 60% of pregnant women had suboptimal iodine status, highlighting a need for increased nutritional awareness to support maternal and child health. The study analysed iodine levels in over 1,500 women who were pregnant with their first baby.

The key findings revealed that average urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was 125µg/L, below the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended level of 150µg/L for pregnancy. Also, women who were younger, had a higher BMI, lower education levels, or were not taking iodine-containing supplements were more likely to be deficient.

Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, which supports a baby’s brain development during pregnancy. A woman’s iodine requirement increases by 50% during pregnancy, making adequate intake from our diet essential. Our bodies cannot make iodine, so we must get it from our diet.

Lead researcher Dr Áine Hennessy said: “Women planning a pregnancy should ensure adequate iodine intake through diet – including two or more servings of milk or yoghurt daily and eating white fish once a week is recommended by the HSE. For those following vegan or predominantly plant-based diets, it’s important to choose iodine-fortified alternatives. We do not recommend kelp or seaweed supplements, as they can contain very high levels of iodine that can cause issues for the thyroid.” The findings were published in the European Journal of Nutrition.

September events

Wild and Well Festival,
5–7 September, Annaghmore House, Collooney, Co. Sligo
www.westcoastwellness.ie/wildandwellfest

Yoga Fest
13–14 September, Springfield Castle, Limerick
www.yogafestireland.ie

Find more natural health events here...