Rude Health News & Events

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

Study reveals iron deficiency in pregnant women

Four out of five pregnant women in Ireland are iron deficient by their third trimester, a new study has revealed.

Researchers from University College Cork (UCC) analysed data collected from 641 women in Ireland who were pregnant with their first baby and had a successful delivery. Blood samples were taken from the women throughout pregnancy, at 15, 20 and 33 weeks to determine iron status. The researchers found that “iron deficiency defined by a variety of markers was very common during pregnancy, despite the mothers being generally healthy”.

Iron deficiency during pregnancy is linked to increased risks of complications for both mother and child, including neurodevelopmental challenges for the baby.

In this study, almost three-quarters of the participants took a supplement that contained the Irish/European recommended daily iron allowance of 15-17mg. The authors did note that “iron-containing supplements (mainly multivitamins) taken pre/early pregnancy were associated with a reduced risk of iron deficiency throughout pregnancy, including the third trimester.”

The study did not have information on maternal diet, so it was not possible to investigate other dietary or lifestyle practices that were protective.

The study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

What’s in season?

Brussels sprouts, butterhead lettuce, cauliflower, carrot, cabbage, mushrooms, leeks, onions, parsnips, potatoes, spinach, swede, turnip, cooking and eating apples.

Break the sugar cycle

Cut sweet cravings in the new year with the Viridian One Week No Sugar Challenge. The new seven-day programme by Viridian Nutrition comprises a guide packed with recipes, facts and tips. Also included is a week’s supply of one of their nutritionist-formulated supplements featuring the trace mineral chromium, which helps to maintain blood glucose levels, and cinnamon, also known as ‘sweet wood’, a well-studied plant extract that may help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and a healthy weight.

Recipes include coconut and coriander soup and chilli non-carne, along with snack suggestions that are either low in or avoid ‘added sugars’ to help rid the body of sugar spikes.

Aimee Benbow, Viridian’s Head Nutritionist, said: “Consuming too much sugar can wreak havoc on your metabolism, leading to a cycle of high blood glucose spikes, which in turn can lead to weight gain and other long-term health conditions.”

Data shows that, on average, adults eat more than double the recommended maximum intake of added sugar. Many people consume even more: potentially up to 700g or 175 teaspoons per week.

Aimee said: “Our No Sugar Challenge can help people feel the difference – in just seven days – with nutritional support to help achieve success.” The No Sugar Challenge is available at independent health stores.

Marathon effort

Rude Health editor Liz Parry has an exciting – and daunting – challenge ahead of her for 2025:

Like many people, I have made a New Year’s resolution to improve my health and fitness. But I’ve decided to go a step further than my usual pledge to do more exercise and eat more healthily. I’ve signed up to run the Dublin marathon in October 2025! In order to keep myself motivated and on track, I will be writing a regular column in each issue of Rude Health, updating readers on my progress as I train for this iconic 26.2-mile race.

Over the next few months, I’ll be sharing my journey with you – from early morning runs to injury prevention strategies and even those inevitable moments of doubt. I hope these columns inspire seasoned runners and first-timers alike, whether you’re training for a marathon like me, or beginning the Couch to 5K.

My actual training schedule won’t begin until the summer, but I need to be prepared in order to avoid getting injured. So, for the first few months I will be building up a solid training base of long runs on Sundays, easy runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays, plus some strength work in the form of weights and yoga. I will also start adding in a bit of speed work and hills mid-week. I have an added challenge to deal with in the form of the perimenopause, so I’m trying to balance my hormones as well as my training schedule! I’m taking a multivitamin, omega-3s, vitamin D and I’m upping my protein intake to aid recovery.

Wish me luck and I will let you know next issue how I’m getting on!

Osteoporosis awareness campaign receives backing

An initiative has been launched to increase awareness of osteoporosis in women aged 65 and over. The Unbreakable campaign is being backed by ambassadors such as celebrity pharmacist and content creator Jess Redden (pictured above with her mother Linda), who said: “It’s important to have these conversations and encourage your loved ones to speak to their GP or healthcare professional about the risks of osteoporosis and how they can maintain their bone health as they age.”

According to statistics, over 300,000 people in Ireland are affected by osteoporosis and this figure is expected to increase to 51,000 by 2034. Research shows that most fractures from osteoporosis are preventable and the key to preventing broken bones is early detection of those most at risk.

Campaign ambassador and dietician Orla Walsh said: “A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and protein is crucial for maintaining strong bones, especially as we age. Simple changes like including more dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and fortified foods can make a huge difference.’’

Personal trainer and bestselling author Karl Henry added: “Staying active is key to preventing osteoporosis. Strength training and resistance exercises help build muscle mass and strengthen bones.”

MS education booklet is launched

MS Ireland has launched a new children’s booklet, Exploring MS, which introduces children to the basics of MS – what it is, how it affects individuals, and how they can be supportive.

The booklet aims to dispel common misconceptions while helping young readers process their feelings and develop compassionate responses to the challenges faced by family members, friends, or community members with MS.

Aoife Kirwan, MS Ireland Information Officer, said: “Designed for young readers, this booklet blends educational content with interactive activities to foster empathy and understanding for those living with MS. The resource can help parents living with MS communicate with their children about the condition in an engaging, accessible and supportive way.”

Visit www.ms-society.ie for more information.

January events

Festival Mná
4 January, Dún Na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park, Lake Road, Moate
festivalmna.com

Veganuary
The go vegan 31-day challenge
veganuary.com

Find more natural health events here...