Bloating is something we’ve all experienced before. It’s that unpleasant swelling feeling that has you squirming in your seat or sometimes even doubled over in pain after a big night out or overindulgent Friday takeaway. Experiencing bloating from time to time is pretty normal but when it becomes a consistent feeling, there’s a good chance it could be linked to a more serious underlying problem. There are several potential causes of persistent bloating, from poor gut health and digestive issues to food intolerances. Not only do these issues cause bloating but they can also be detrimental to our mental health, resulting in brain fog, fatigue, and increased stress levels. While cutting out certain food groups such as dairy or gluten can often do the trick in solving these issues, there are also some great health foods that can actually help to stop bloating in its tracks. So in today’s post, we’re sharing some of the best foods to help you beat the bloat while boosting your overall wellbeing in the process.
Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented cabbage, typically served as a side or condiment. As well as being a delicious addition to your meal, Kimchi is packed with probiotics; ‘good bacteria’ that aid your digestive system to work more efficiently. When your gut is in optimal health, this reduces bloating and helps to boost mental clarity in the process. Want to add more kimchi to your diet? Shop our range of organic natural kimchi mixes, juices, and sauces in a variety of flavours here!
Not all chocolate is made equal and while milk and white chocolate contain dairy which could actually increase bloating, dark chocolate can actually have the opposite effect. While most of us hardly need convincing to indulge in a bar of chocolate, the health benefits of dark chocolate definitely make us feel less guilty about that post-lunch treat. Dark chocolate contains the highest percentage of cacao, a nutrient-rich substance packed with flavonoids that carry powerful antioxidant properties. Good bacteria in your gut feed on dark chocolate, releasing anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the digestive system. Discover a variety of delicious dark chocolate bars in a range of blends and flavours with Freedom Chocolate, right here on Veo.
Peppermint tea is often recommended for its ability to soothe digestive issues. Not only is it a refreshing beverage, but peppermint actually has muscle-relaxing abilities that can help relieve intestinal spasms, allowing air to pass through the body more easily. Additionally, peppermint tea can also relieve pain caused by bloating and cramping due to its anti-inflammatory properties making it a popular natural home remedy for gastrointestinal discomfort. Shop organic, natural, and compostable peppermint tea bags from NEMI Teas, here on Veo.
If indulging in one too many alcoholic beverages on the weekend is the cause of your bloating, then kombucha might just be the perfect alternative. Similar to kimchi, kombucha is made from the fermentation process of tea which means it is packed full of probiotics that boost the good bacteria in your gut. This can help to reduce the amount of gas produced in your digestive system, reducing symptoms of bloating in the process. Swapping your next beer for a bottle of kombucha? Check out our range of kombucha flavours here!
Ageing is a natural part of life but while most of us can embrace the idea of growing older and wiser, the physical signs of ageing are often much harder to accept. From increased dullness and age spots to dryness, wrinkles and fine lines; one glance in the mirror can often leave us longing for the youthful glow we once had.
But what causes these signs of ageing?
Although much of this occurs as part of the natural ageing process, there are certain lifestyle habits or poor skincare practices that can often speed this process up. Some of the most common causes include smoking, excessive drinking, sleep deprivation, lack of exercise and over-exposure to the sun’s UV rays. While we can’t reverse time or drink from the ‘fountain of youth’, we can still find natural ways to reduce wrinkles and slow down signs of early ageing.
One of the best natural solutions to reviving ageing skin is using essential oils. These oils have unique properties which can be used to solve an array of skincare issues including reducing the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of ageing.
Which Essential Oils Are The Best For Anti-Ageing?
In order to determine which essential oils are best, it’s important to understand the science behind ageing skin and how these oils can play a role in the process. One of the main factors that impact physical ageing is the presence of free radicals in the skin. Free radicals can be naturally made in the body but can also come from exposure to toxins, pollution, cigarette smoke, and the sun. These are unstable molecules that steal electrons from your skin cells, destroying DNA and causing skin damage. As we age we also naturally produce less oil and can therefore be prone to dry, cracked skin due to a lack of moisture. So any essential oil you choose should have free-radical fighting properties and/or moisturising abilities in order to provide a more youthful glow.
Luckily, we have an amazing range of anti-ageing skincare products right here on Veo that are toxin-free, natural and organic; formulated into luxurious blends that nourish and moisturise the skin while protecting against damage. Discover our top picks below:
This lightweight face oil fights dryness and refines the skin, whilst soothing, protecting, and providing optimal nourishment.
Combining high-quality omega 3, 6, and 9, vitamins A, D, E, and beta-carotene; this antioxidant-rich blend fights free radicals known to cause cell damage in the skin.
Naturally-reparative, Rosehip oil is known for its tissue-regenerative properties, which help to reduce signs of ageing.
Frankincense oil promotes the regeneration of healthy cells and also keeps existing cells and tissues healthy.
With powerful astringent capabilities, this face oil provides potent anti-ageing qualities, targeting fine lines and wrinkles.
How To Use
Apply a few drops to your fingertips and massage into your face and neck.
This plant-based collagen-boosting ceramide-rich formula includes organic cold-pressed Argan oil, Rosehip, Poppy, Hemp, and CBD, specially-made for ageing skin. Rich in fatty acids to protect and lock in moisture creating a barrier, with retinoids to repair, and CO2 extracted full spectrum CBD to help the signs of ageing, to soothe, dull, dry, and irritated skin. Replenishing anti-ageing nutrients that naturally reduce as we age. Skillfully blended with pure essential oils, Orange, Lavender, and Ylang-Ylang to brighten and tone skin by promoting collagen production, as well as rejuvenate, minimise the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and long term sunspots by improving cell structure and appearance of tired skin while restoring a natural glow.
Containing cold-pressed organic oils, essential oils and botanical extracts for their soothing, balancing, reparative and nourishing properties.
How To Use
Add a few drops onto clean hands and pat onto cleansed, preferably damp skin every morning and night to lock in moisture. Can also be used on the neck and décolletage. Suitable for everyday wear. When applying take a few moments to breathe in the essential oils for aromatherapy benefits to calm and relax the mind. We always recommend wearing an SPF daily to prevent and protect against premature ageing.
TIP: Use without your moisturiser morning and night if you have oily/combination skin, for dry skin apply your moisturiser on top. Light enough to use under makeup as it is non-greasy, lightweight and fast-absorbing.
A gentle anti-ageing certified organic blend with Sweet Almond, Grapeseed, and Hemp oils together with essential oils including Frankincense, Ylang Ylang, Myrrh, and Sweet Orange for a replenished skin appearance.
Our Radiance Oil is specially formulated not to leave a heavy, greasy, sticky residue. It is quickly absorbed into the skin, leaving a silky smooth, nourished feeling.
How To Use
Shake before use. Use glass dropper to apply the desired amount into your hands and massage neck and face gently until absorbed.
An active, functional serum rich in bioavailable active ingredients that promote cell regeneration and stimulate the formation of collagen, counteracting its reduction due to the passing of time. The rich and precious formulation with Rosemary, Lavender, and Chamomile makes this product suitable for rebalancing skin reactivity subject to pollution and atmospheric changes while regulating deep moisturisation thanks to aloe and sebo-normalising the sebaceous glands. A serum suitable for all skin types, with a light and velvety texture, ideal both as a prevention and for counteracting the appearance of wrinkles and skin relaxation.
How To Use
In the morning apply a dose of serum to a cleansed face, gently tapping and massaging in. Wait a few minutes and apply the anti-ageing cream. Avoid the eye contour area.
Cream suitable for all skin types, with a preventive and supportive action to combat the appearance of skin wrinkles. The active ingredients it contains have a deep moisturising, regenerating and re-epithelizing action, the skin appears immediately brighter, more compact, and relaxed.
The complementary action of Rosemary and Lavender guarantees a sebaceous balance and normalisation of the epidermis. Thanks to its calming and soothing function, the azulene contained in Chamomile acts as an anti-inflammatory, regulating the production of histamine and consequently reducing the harmful effects of external aggression. The formulation with its light and velvety texture ensures rapid absorption.
How To Use
In the evening and morning, apply a small amount to the eye contour area, tapping gently until fully absorbed.
A synergy of rare organic Jasmine Extract, Neroli and Frankincense rejuvenates and heals by promoting the regeneration of healthy, fresh skin cells. Japanese Camellia, Evening Primrose, Apricot, Moroccan Cactus,and Argan are high in age-preventative antioxidants and rich in skin-nourishing fatty acids.
Luxury organic face oil Vega provides a protective lipid barrier that smooths and plumps while preserving elasticity and integrity. It feeds the skin with organic bio-actives to enhance healing, and support the skin’s natural barrier function.
Vega has a rich consistency and is recommended for use at twilight. For people with mature or dry skin, it can also be used in the morning, especially during the cooler winter months.
How To Use
Best used at night on cleansed, toned skin. Place a few drops onto the fingertips and massage into the face, concentrating on problem areas and areas of tension.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and shake well before use.
For more organic, natural, and toxin-free skincare essentials, head to veo.world/beautyto discover more.
Sober October is back again for 2023, challenging us all to reduce our alcohol intake while raising money for a good cause. Started by Macmillan Cancer Support in 2014, this annual fundraiser encourages social drinkers to change their drinking habits, raise money for cancer sufferers and make healthier lifestyle changes in the process. Aside from supporting a fantastic cause, there are also many well-known health benefits to going sober for the month including weight loss, increased energy, better sleep, and greater mental clarity. Thinking of taking on the challenge? We’re sharing our roundup of the best low-ABV and alcohol-free drinks to make your Sober October a breeze.
PENTIRE | Non-Alcoholic Botanical Spirits
Explore a range of non-alcoholic spirits from Pentire, which capture the unique botanical flavours of the North Cornwall headland. Simply pour over ice, add your favourite tonic, and finish with a garnish of your choice.
Invigorating and replenishing. Seaward’s bright and zesty grapefruit citrus top notes blended with refreshing green natural tones from the Pentire Plant Blend layered with natural berry from harvested sea buckthorn and wild seaweed.
NON-ALCOHOLIC APERITIF Pentire’s signature coastal botanicals are carefully blended with Blood Orange, Sea Rosemary and Oakwood to create the perfect balance of natural bitter flavours and refreshing coastal tones. Created in collaboration with the world’s best bartenders, who share Pentire’s love for the outdoors.
QUARTER | 1/4 Strength Spirits
Quarter discovered that with spirits it was either ALL or NOTHING, so they decided to shake up the industry and create the first light spirits brand! Expertly crafted and distilled. Discover your favourite spirits with just a fraction of the alcohol: 1/4 Alcohol. 1/4 Calories. 1/4 Strength. 1/4 Impact.
Taste | London dry, fresh punch of citrus from the orange and grapefruit peel
Ships from | United Kingdom
As a classic G/N, you won’t be surprised to see the usual suspects of juniper, coriander and angelica featuring in our liquid. However, it is the inclusion of the orange peel, grapefruit peel and sweet orange that makes our unique blend so refreshing and delicious!
DECEM | Light Alcohol Spirits
DECEM has been three years in the making. Founded by renowned foodie and MasterChef finalist Billy Wright, they set on a journey to discover the optimum spirit ABV. The ideal balance between taste cues and alcohol contents – and they found the answer. At 10%, their spirits allow for lighter drinking yet retain complex, delicious flavours.
DECEM is designed to be enjoyed with the simplest of mixers to create full-flavoured yet lighter alcoholic drinks; or to mix up in traditional and contemporary cocktails you can sip day and night.
Taste | Deep caramel, warming savoury spice, rounded honey sweetness, buttery throughout with a hint of tropical fruit
Ships from | United Kingdom
Blending a duo of light and white Caribbean rums from Martinique and Dominican Republic as the smooth base. Spices are then added and the mix is allowed to steep for 2 days to draw out all of the flavour before being filtered and masterfully blended with natural distillates to 10% ABV. The result is a buttery, caramel-forward, savoury and spicy light spirit with a big impact both on the nose and the taste buds. Simply serve 50ml chilled over ice with 150ml premium Ginger Ale and a lime wedge. 2.3% ABV.
Taste | Complex woody and herbal, full-bodied guelder rose with slight floral characters. Sweet grape and subtle strawberry.
Ships from | United Kingdom
Using a special combination of botanicals, from the hedgerow to the vegetable patch. Chosen to tickle the taste buds with interesting hints of approachable bitterness, but cleverly rounded off with the tart strawberry and sweet grape to create the most adult and uniquely moreish of aperitifs. They macerate the botanicals for 2 days to extract maximum flavour, before carefully blending with the real fruit juices to create this distinctly delicious flavour. Simply serve 50ml chilled over ice with 100ml English Sparkling Wine and a dash of premium soda.
Kombucha
Enjoy the benefits of a fermented brew with Kombucha drinks that are gut-friendly, low impact, high in antioxidants and rich in prebiotics. Counter Culture are creators of alternative-to-alcohol drinks. Their Kombuchas are low in calories, gluten-free, carbon neutral, natural and vegan. They believe current non-alcoholic and alcohol-free drinks are typically unfulfilling, unadventurous, needlessly high in sugar, or so close to tap water you just go for tap water.
Taste | sharp rhubarb, balanced with deep raspberry notes of hibiscus
Ships from | United Kingdom
Rhubarb, but not as you know it. An alcohol alternative drink with a fruit-forward hit of sharp rhubarb, balanced with deep raspberry notes of hibiscus and finished with the golden honey mellow of organic chamomile. Best served over ice sat on a tartan blanket in a summer meadow.
Sparkling light Kombucha made with organic teas and sugar. Store cold, serve chilled.
That’s our full round of of the best low-ABV and alcohol-free drinks for Sober October and beyond! To shop our full range of non-alcoholic vegan beverages, head over to veo.world to discover more.
From skin cycling to slugging, maintaining healthy skin is serious business! And while we’re sure you’ve probably got your exfoliate, retinol, recovery, and repeat routine down to a science, there’s one external factor you might not have considered: air pollution.
According to the World Health Organisation, air pollution is now considered to be the world’s largest environmental health risk, with levels here in the UK far exceeding the recommended air quality levels needed for a healthy lifestyle.
With harmful toxins being both inhaled and absorbed through the skin, prolonged exposure to air pollutants can wreak havoc not only on our respiratory health but our skin too, causing a range of issues including premature ageing, sensitivity, inflammatory flare-ups, and more!
Introducing, anti-pollution skincare! These skin saviours protect against pollutants and deeply cleanse the skin using active natural ingredients.
So how exactly does anti-pollution skincare work?
Antioxidant-rich formulas containing Vitamins A, C or E work to protect and defend your skin from free radicals that can form as a result of chemical reactions on the skin which can cause premature ageing and dullness. Other formulas which contain activated charcoal, algae, kelp, or even green tea can help to ‘detox the skin’, drawing out toxins and impurities.
What are the best anti-pollution skincare products for cleansing, protecting, and detoxing?
Using the latest innovation in sustainable and natural ingredients, this cleansing oil and makeup remover is infused with oils from leftover Hemp (contains standardised level of natural CBD) & Cranberry Seeds which are natural by-products of the food industry and would otherwise go to waste.
A lightweight oil cleanser that transforms into a light milky cleansing solution upon contact with water, gently, yet effectively dissolving even the hardest to remove face, eye & lip makeup, city pollution,SPF, or heavy post-gym sweat, leaving skin clean and replenished.
Encompassing the science of plants and sustainable practices in this multi-targeted protective facial oil supercharged with eco-certified algae complex, marine actives, and advanced botanicals – carefully selected for skin exposed to stress, pollution, UV irradiation, extreme atmospheric conditions and sleep deprivation.
Rich in plant extracts, like brown algae and sea buckthorn berries, this nutrient-dense, vegan serum helps to activate a calming sensation to strengthen and restore the look of fragile, irritated skin. This light oil is supercharged with antioxidant-rich plant extracts to help to protect against harmful external factors and promote healthy-looking skin.
A restorative, yet gentle day/night cream with a matte finish formulated to effectively target the delicate area around the eyes. It absorbs rapidly, replenishing the skin, and may help tackle puffiness and the appearance of discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Contains Ectoin®Natural which protects the skin from allergens, air pollution, dryness, and UV light and helps minimise the appearance of wrinkles.
This is Lee, a lightweight water serum concentrate. Formulated with barrier-boosting osmolytes, hydrating ferment actives, and prebiotics. Lee optimises skin hydration levels, promotes skin barrier repair, and supports the healthy functioning of the microbiome through protection against environmental pollutants and stressors.
Loaded with liquorice, rice, and charcoal extracts, this effective powder mask delivers a deep pore-cleansing action, provides the skin with an instant radiance boost, and reveals a clear & smooth appearance. Vitamin C in the shape of ascorbic acid brightens skin and shields it from the DNA-damaging impact of everyday exposure to pollution.
Minimalism. Some people believe it’s the ultimate path to enlightenment while others think it is something only the privileged few can afford to think about. Whatever your opinion might be, one thing we can all agree on is that much of our lives are overwhelmed by stuff. The average household has around 300,000 items. On average, 1 in 2 people in the UK admit to holding onto things for longer than they should while 1 in 3 say they don’t like the idea of parting with their possessions. But why does having ‘too much stuff’ matter, you may ask? Not only does clutter increase the levels of cortisol (the ‘stress hormone’) in your body, but studies have shown that it can also trigger coping behaviours such as overeating. With clear negative impacts on both mental and physical health, you might be thinking it’s time for a clear out. However, the problem with decluttering is that it can very easily become a wasteful practice. In an effort to achieve that elated feeling that comes from a clean space, we often throw out things that could have been utilised in a much more sustainable way. So we’re sharing some useful tips to help you declutter your home sustainably.
BEDROOM & WARDROBE
Credit: Thom Bradley
If you’ve read our recent blog post on making better fashion choices, you might be feeling the urge to give your wardrobe a reset. However, simply throwing out all your fast fashion pieces is not the way forward. Rather than allowing your unwanted clothes to end up in landfill, it’s important to find ways to extend their life cycle. One option that we typically turn to is donating to charity shops however this may not always be the most sustainable option. Unfortunately, many charity shops have far more clothing than they can sell and particularly in the case of fast fashion pieces, the low quality means they are often impossible to shift. So what happens to those clothes that no one wants? They usually end up being sold abroad, dumped on African economies to deal with, eroding their local textiles industries and polluting their environments as a result. So what’s the alternative? First of all, if your items are still wearable and just need minor repairs, keep them in a separate pile and take them to your local tailoring service to mend. Give your unwanted pieces to people who will actually use them. Do clothing swaps with your friends and family, sell your clothes online, or simply donate them to someone for free! And if you do need to replace any pieces, shop from brands that are ethical and sustainable – click here to discover more.
BATHROOM & BEAUTY PRODUCTS
Credit: Annie Spratt
With skinmalism trending and a return to more ‘natural beauty’ on the rise, there’s a good chance you’ll want to downsize your beauty cabinet. But like anything else in your home, throwing away a half-full bottle of foundation or an unused eyeshadow palette doesn’t get rid of the clutter, it just creates more waste. Of course, if a product gave your skin a horrible reaction or has expired, it should be thrown out. However, if being in lockdown has meant you just haven’t used something as much as you thought you would, don’t count it as clutter – just start using it! With restrictions easing and many of us going out more, now is the perfect time to try a new look and use up some of those beauty products you’ve been holding onto. If you have products that are unopened that you don’t see yourself using any time soon, give them to a friend or family member who will make good use of them. When you do finally run out of beauty products, you can find clean, cruelty-free replacements right here on Veo.
KITCHEN & PANTRY
Credit: Nadia Pimenova
A popular way that people choose to make their homes more sustainable is by adopting a zero-waste approach to organising their kitchen. This can often mean purchasing tonnes of new jars and baskets for your food, in order to re-create that aesthetically pleasing pantry you saw online. While we totally get how satisfying it is watching those ‘homemaker gurus’ organise their homes to perfection, buying more to have less isn’t really the answer. Chances are, you already have some perfectly good Tupperware that could do the same job. Sure they don’t all match and your cupboards might not look ‘Pinterest-worthy’ but it means that instead of throwing out those plastic takeaway containers, you can actually make use of them, have less plastic waste, and ultimately less stuff. That’s the goal, right?
So essentially, the most sustainable way to declutter isn’t necessarily about getting rid of all your things but finding ways to make better use of what you have, reducing your waste, and shopping more consciously when you do need something new. If you’re looking for brands that prioritise sustainability, functionality, and long-term use, we have an amazing platform to find sustainable home goods all in one place. Head to veo.world to discover more.
When it comes to sustainability, the fashion industry needs to step up. With consumers increasingly calling for brands to reduce their environmental impact and adopt more ethical, transparent practices, many fashion companies are being faced with a conflict of interest between people, planet, and profit. There’s a major debate happening right now involving one material in particular: leather. According to search platform Lyst, searches for ‘vegan leather’ have increased by 69% year-on-year while searches for ‘faux leather’ have remained constant. Additionally, searches for leather have decreased by 3.5% year-on-year, demonstrating that consumer attitudes are shifting in favour of cruelty-free, eco-friendly alternatives. So consumers are seeking better options but why are fashion brands still lagging behind? Well, luxury leather goods are a huge source of revenue for many fashion houses, accounting for 48 billion USD (33.9bn GBP) of global revenue in 2019, a number that is predicted to increase by a further 16 billion USD (11.3bn GBP) by 2025 (Statista, 2020). According to Vogue Business, supporters of the leather industry claim that leather is in fact sustainable as it is a natural, biodegradable material that utilises waste from the meat production industry.
Despite this being technically true, many people believe this argument is missing the point. Commercial cattle farming is a notorious contributor to the negative environmental impacts of consumption, producing 14.5% of all greenhouse gas emissions. The tanning process that turns animal hides into what we know as leather also involves a significant number of toxic chemicals that find their way into our water systems. With such adverse effects on the environment, can the leather industry really claim to be sustainable? We think not. So what’s the alternative?
Faux leather was initially pitched as the more ethical alternative to real leather and it certainly has its positives. These materials use no animal byproducts which technically makes them vegan and cruelty-free. However, the most common types of faux leather are actually made from petroleum-based plastics such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PU) which use fossil fuels and release harmful toxins into the environment. PVC-based materials have become far less common in recent years due to their toxic impact and positive advances have also been made towards improving the production process of PU to make it less toxic (water-based polyurethane dispersion). However, these materials are still non-biodegradable, contributing to global plastic waste. So while faux leathers might be vegan-friendly, they certainly aren’t the eco-friendly alternative we need.
Enter plant-based leathers. Could this be fashion’s answer to the ongoing leather debate? Sustainable brands such as ACBC and Bohema certainly think so! These brands are making waves with their use of leathers derived from plants and bio-waste. From pineapple leaves and mushrooms to cactus plants and grape skins, here are some of the innovative, new alternatives that are changing the future of fashion.
1. Piñatex
Credit: Ananas Anam, the makers of Piñatex®
Piñatex is made using the cellulose fibres of pineapple waste leaves. The pineapple industry produces 40,000 tonnes of pineapple waste every year which would typically be burned or left to rot. With this waste being a byproduct of an existing crop industry, it requires no additional land, water or fertiliser to produce. It also contains none of the harmful toxins of both real and traditional faux leathers.
Cactus leather is another plant-based alternative that has a huge positive impact on the environment. The cactus plant naturally absorbs a high volume of CO2 and can also help to regenerate soil in degraded areas due to its resilient nature. The process of creating cactus leather only uses the mature leaves without damaging the whole plant, allowing for repeat harvest from the same crops, without requiring additional land or environmental resources.
Wine leather is made using pomace: waste comprised of the skin, seeds, and stalks of grape clusters recovered from the winemaking industry. With 26.3 billion litres of wine produced in 2019 alone, this process has the ability to produce an extremely high yield of material with low environmental impact, low production costs and no polluting substances. Wine leather also comes from a renewable source and does not require additional resources to be produced.
While these materials have a far more positive impact on the environment and promise a more sustainable future for leather, it is worth noting that many of these materials are still a work in progress. Many plant-based alternatives are still combined with PU or petroleum-based resins in order to resemble leather, and most are still not fully recyclable or biodegradable yet.
So to answer the question of whether leather can ever be sustainable, the answer is complicated. However,we can all take steps to make better fashion choices and reduce the impact of our consumption habits. For fashion brands that prioritise ethical, cruelty-free, and sustainable practices, explore our curated collections right here on Veo.
Diet culture is a pervasive part of modern society. According to a survey by the UK Parliament in 2020, 61% of adults feel negative about their body image while 53% report that lockdown made them feel worse about their appearance. It is estimated that approximately 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder. This number has been rising sharply with reports at the start of 2020 stating that hospital admissions increased by 37% in the past 2 years.
Despite this, the UK government recently confirmed that it will be going ahead with plans to make calorie counts mandatory on restaurant menus from April 2022. This arises in an attempt to tackle obesity in the UK which is now thought to be linked to an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 among other serious health issues. Almost two-thirds of the UK population is overweight or obese and with statistics like these, it is no surprise that the government wants to take action.
Credit: RawPixel
After the year we’ve all had, health is of course a top priority for everyone right now, but is enforced calorie counting the way forward? Not only has it been proven ineffective but it is also highly dangerous for those struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, or even orthorexia*. And for those who are relatively healthy and looking to treat themselves or celebrate with a moment of indulgence, eating out may no longer be the enjoyable, guilt-free experience we all look forward to. What these statistics show us is that the issue isn’t really about eating too many or too few calories but rather our complicated relationship with body image and food. So how can we achieve balance?
*Orthorexia is an unhealthy focus on eating in a healthy way. Eating nutritious food is good, but if you have orthorexia, you obsess about it to a degree that can damage your overall well-being. Steven Bratman, MD, a California doctor, coined the term in 1996.
We know fad diets don’t work. Calorie counting and restrictive eating has been proven to be ineffective in the long-term with two-thirds of people regaining any weight they’ve lost within 1-5 years. If you’ve tried one for yourself, you’ve probably experienced this first hand. But an emerging concept called ‘set point theory’ might explain why this happens. According to this theory, our bodies have a natural, pre-determined weight range that adjusts as we age. When we attempt to alter our weight outside this range by dieting, our hypothalamus, the part of the brain that helps to regulate our hormones and metabolism, kicks into defense mode. Depending on whether we are attempting to lose or gain weight, our metabolism adjusts to conserve or use more calories. Our levels of ghrelin ‘the hunger hormone’ and leptin ‘the satiety hormone’ also adjust, in an attempt to get us to eat more (or less) in order to shift us back to our set point weight.
Credit: Stephanie Buttermore
While further research is required to determine the validity of this theory, its popularity continues to grow, particularly as more people are rejecting diet culture in favour of intuitive eating lifestyles. Intuitive eating is a philosophy that encourages us to reject diet mentality and to instead become more in tune with our hunger and satiety cues. There is no restriction on the type of food you eat but rather a more holistic approach that relies on the individual to determine what their body is craving at any given time. One popular fitness Youtuber and Biomedical Scientist, Stephanie Buttermore, Ph.D., tried this out for herself and went viral last summer with her ‘all-in’ diet, an attempt to reset her hunger cues and settle into her own natural set point weight, with interesting results. While this might be seen as an extreme way to re-learn your relationship with food, ditching the calorie counting is a great place to start. Here at Veo, we know that not all calories are created equal so instead, we’re focused on fuelling our bodies with the very best. All our food is plant-based and free from refined or artificial sugar that is actually known to spike our ghrelin (hunger) levels, sending us out of balance. Here are a few ways to incorporate healthier eating habits into your lifestyle:
Try a flexitarian diet – For anyone who has previously struggled with restrictive dieting, this method allows for more balanced eating without completely cutting anything out from your diet. If you’re interested in adding a few meat-free meals to your week, check out our range of delicious meat alternatives.
Incorporate more superfoods into your diet – With high vitamin and mineral content, these foods can naturally help your body to fight off disease, increase energy levels and promote overall better health and wellbeing. Check out our high-quality range of superfoods here!
Boost your diet with supplements – In a perfect world we’d always eat the right amount of fruit and veg, drink the right amount of water and get the right amount of sleep but sometimes we just need that extra vitamin boost. Discover our range of plant-based vitamins and supplements here!
It’s time to break up with diet culture. Changing your relationship with food, paying attention to your hunger and satiety cues, and fuelling your body adequately to support optimal function, will help you stay healthy no matter what the scale or calorie tracker says.Click here to discover more of the delicious and nutritious food we have here on Veo.
If you’ve never tried meditation, you might think of it as a practice reserved only for spiritual yogis, hippies, and monks but that is no longer the case! With our lifestyles busier than ever, more and more people are turning to meditation as a way to unwind and relieve stress. Research shows that meditation is actually the most popular form of wellbeing therapy in the UK with 26% of Brits using it to improve their mental health. The benefits of meditation include reduced anxiety, better sleep, and improved mood to name a few. But while meditation seems like a great practice to incorporate into your day, sitting still in silence for half an hour every day simply isn’t practical or enjoyable for everyone. But the principles of meditation are actually a lot simpler than we think. Simply by becoming present in the moment and focusing on the breath, you can incorporate meditation into your everyday tasks with minimal effort. So in honour of World Meditation Day (21st May 2021), we’re sharing some of our favourite and most creative ways to meditate, below!
Start your day with intention by taking the time out for a tea meditation. This form of meditation is incredibly easy and simply requires you to focus on the process of making yourself a heartwarming brew. Pay attention to the details, from the sound of the water boiling to the feeling of steam on your face as you hold your cup. Focus on breathing deeply as you sip, to truly feel a sense of calm. In order to make this moment even more mindful, choose teas that boost your mood and offer great benefits to your health including calming chamomile and green tea. Click here to explore our range of loose leaf teas and biodegradable teabags available in a variety of blends and flavours.
Another great way to incorporate mindfulness into the start of your day is with a shower meditation. Also known as waterfall meditation, this practice uses water as a mechanism for washing away any tension, stress, or anxiety within the body. Breathe in deeply and pay attention to the sound of the rushing water. Focus your awareness on the feeling of each droplet hitting your skin. You can enhance the experience by choosing shower cremes and lotions that soothe the skin with essential oils which are known to promote a sense of calm such as Peppermint and Lavender. Click here to discover our lush and luxurious bath & shower selection.
If you’re someone that finds it hard to sit still and concentrate, movement meditation might be exactly what you need. The mind-boosting benefits of exercise are well known but mindful movement takes it one step further. This is one activity where focus on the breath is essential. Work on controlling your breathing through each movement and practice paying attention to the way each muscle flexes and contracts in the process. Whether you enjoy yoga, lifting weights in the gym, or simply taking a walk in the park, you can find a way to make your next workout more mindful and therapeutic. Discover our selection of lightweight and breathable women’s and men’s activewear that is perfect, whatever your exercise style.
We know it might sound strange but yes, cleaning your home can also be a great way to meditate! It involves a process of simple, methodical tasks that can help you get into a state of flow and gentle concentration. Rather than letting your mind race thinking about all the other things you need to do with your day, take time to feel present and focus on what’s right in front of you. Enjoy the warmth of the water as you wash the dishes or the motion of wiping down your surfaces. What’s great about using toxin-free cleaning products is that you can focus on breathing in deeply as you clean, without fear of inhaling harmful chemicals in the process.
Those are four effective and creative ways to incorporate meditation into your daily routine that don’t involve sitting still. If you enjoyed reading this, you’ll love our blog post on 6 daily habits to improve your mental health.
It’s that time of year again; Plastic Free July is here, a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and tackling plastic pollution worldwide. This campaign has gained increasing popularity over the years, with an estimated 326 million participants taking part last year, even amidst a global pandemic. Our very own study conducted here at Veo demonstrated that over 60% of people consider reducing plastic waste as the most important cause to them. But why are people so passionate about plastic? It is estimated that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish if significant changes are not made. Microplastics are destroying marine ecosystems at an alarming rate with traces also being found in the food we eat. It is clear that plastic pollution needs immediate action but it can be overwhelming knowing where to start. So we’re sharing some easy ways you can get involved in Plastic-Free July this month!
One of the first ways you can begin the journey to reducing your plastic waste is to review your current usage. Do you find yourself buying a bottle of water and packaged meal deal on your daily commute to work? Maybe you consistently forget to bring your own bags on your weekly trip to the supermarket? Most of us use plastic so much in our daily lives that the amount of waste produced often goes unnoticed. But the great news is that many of these uses can easily be swapped out for reusable alternatives. Instead of buying a bottle of water with your meal every day, invest in a reusable bottle that you can refill as many times as you like. Keep your shopping bags by the door, in your bag, or in the boot of your car to make them easier to access whenever you need them.
Once you’ve got an accurate idea of where your plastic waste is coming from, you can begin to find ways to reuse it. This is the perfect time to get resourceful and creative with upcycling. By turning your takeaway containers into food storage or using your empty water bottles for bath/cleaning refills, you can give your waste items new life, keeping them out of landfill for longer. To stock up on zero waste refill essentials, check out brands such as Milly & Sissy for natural bath & body formulas and Mix Clean Green for toxin-free cleaning products.
Try out a local zero waste store
Credit: Unicorn Grocery Manchester
Zero-waste shopping is becoming more common every day with independent retailers and even popular supermarkets launching refill stations within their stores. From cereals, pasta, and pet food to beauty supplies and cleaning refills, these stores are the perfect way to stock up on all your essentials without buying into additional plastic waste.
Get to know your recycling codes
Credit: Sigmund
A lot of times we think that doing our part towards reducing plastic waste is as simple as throwing it all in the recycling bin however this is not always as effective as we’d think. One thing that often gets overlooked is that different types of plastic cannot actually be recycled effectively or easily depending on the facilities available in a specific country or region. To know whether your plastic waste can be recycled or not, you’ll need to look at the resin codes. As a general rule, the lower the number, the easier it is to recycle. Plastics that are generally easier to recycle include Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), used in water and drinks bottles, and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), used in milk cartons and shampoo bottles. One plastic that is far more difficult to recycle is Polystyrene (PS) which can often break down into small pieces and enter water systems, impacting marine wildlife who accidentally ingest the pieces as food. By deciphering between these plastics you can figure out what you can effectively recycle and what you should try to find a new use for.
So those are just a few easy ways you can start to tackle plastic waste within your daily life. Going plastic-free, like any zero-waste practice is all about progress and not perfection. By making a few small changes every day, we can all make a major difference to the future of plastic waste.If you liked this post, you’ll love our blog on How To Make Your Grocery Shop More Eco-Friendly!
Making a house into a home is a fine art. Whether you’re going for bohemian chic or clean and minimal, we’ve put together the finest selection of eco-home essentials you won’t want to live without. Breathe in the fresh botanical scents of a clean home with toxin-free cleaning products and set the atmosphere with natural soy candles & diffusers that add the perfect touch of fragrance to your space. Explore organic cotton cushion covers and hand-crafted kitchenware designed to add character to your decor. Check out our top picks to turn your living space into a blissful eco-sanctuary. Your happy place awaits…
A rich, calming, and strong fragrance opening with sparkling citrus top notes leading to a heart of lush lavender and resting on a substantive base of tonka bean, vanilla, precious woods, and amber.
Top Notes: Citrus
Middle Notes: Lavender
Base Notes: Tonka, Vanilla, Woods, Amber
Made in England, with a natural soy wax, lead-free cotton wick, and premium grade fragrance oils. Hand-poured into clear glass jars with simple, minimal labels and topped with aluminium lids.
The Ubiety Balancing reed diffuser usesa comforting blend of essential oils, including the smoky wood and green aromas of linden, cedarwood, and rose geranium, expertly chosen to calm and balance the mind. Captured in an environmentally friendly natural carrier oil, these plant-based formulations are sustainable and non-toxic, using vegan-friendly ingredients and simple glass packaging.
A strategically placed accent can bring the whole room to life, and this cushion is just what youneed to do that. Uma cushion is inspired by the classic African Mud cloth textiles which have been cherished for generations. These cushion covers are hand-printed using Indian hand printing methods incorporating Moroccan patterns. The fabric is handmade using recycled cotton. These dreamy cushion covers are perfect for a living room or bedroom with high windows and they will make any interior looking exotic, relaxing, and inspiring.
This Marble Two Tone Serving Board is handcrafted by artisans using marble and wood harvested from ancient mango trees. The smooth surface makes it perfect to use for charcuterie and cheese or as a serving platter. A statement piece for the kitchen, ideal for any food lover.
Clean U Skincare’s hand-carved coconut bowls are made using reclaimed coconuts that would otherwise be burned after harvest. They help to provide a well-needed second income for some of Vietnam’s most impoverished communities. Etched by local craftsmen in the Ben Tre region of Vietnam, each bowl is hand-picked from the thickest and highest quality coconuts.
Infused with cleansing rosemary, lemony freshness, and the calming ambiance of juniper berry, this award-winning duo is a gamechanger for your bathroom. In a glass dispenser that marries function with style, this plant-based, natural solution deeply cleans while instantly uplifting your living space.
For more eco-home essentials to transform your space, check out the full Home Edit here!
