Want to slice time off your personal best run, or maximise your lifting efforts on the weights? Then caffeine can offer you some benefits; these are the scientifically proven effects and also what you should be aware of.

Effect on recovery after exercise

Let’s start with recovering after exercise. There have been numerous studies that have shown caffeine ingestion, alongside carbohydrates, strongly affects muscle recovery, getting the energy back into tired muscles much faster than otherwise. Positive news for those looking to train harder by increasing their frequency – although as a caveat it must be said that some studies involve some pretty hefty caffeine ingestion.

For example, one trial supplemented 8mg per kg of bodyweight – for this writer that would be 800mg of caffeine, around eight cups of proper coffee – oof! Probably quite hard to consume alongside a big bowl of oats too, if carb-loading, prior to a training session or particular sporting event.

However, the good news is that an intake of just 2mg per kg of body weight (two cups of coffee) was sufficient to see extra benefits to glycogen replenishment in the muscles, although at reduced levels – glycogen is stored in the muscles and is their main fuel source and comes from the food we eat.

The trial studied endurance-trained cyclists and triathletes in a randomised, double-blind trial and showed that participants’ muscles regained 66% more glycogen in the four hours after intense exercise when combining caffeine with carbohydrates during recovery (subjects were administered caffeine before and during exercise, which indicates caffeine exerts its effect best on muscle glycogen synthesis when consumed at the same time as carbs).

The believed mechanism for this faster replenishment was that caffeine can play a role in stimulating intestinal glucose absorption, meaning the recovery cycle is accelerated.

So, the bottom line is, consuming caffeine alongside your carbs post-exercise, can quicken your muscles’ recovery time, allowing for higher training frequencies.

Performance enhancement

The strength and endurance-enhancing properties of caffeine have been long known, with many trials and studies being dedicated to its benefits over the years. Many of the trials have shown that simple coffee ingestion can greatly improve an athlete’s performance above their own baseline abilities and that cognitive performance improvements are also reported in test subjects.

One study found that combining caffeine and carbs improved performance by 9% compared to water alone, and 4.6% compared to carbs alone.

Another study found that in a 1,500-meter run, regular coffee drinkers were 4.2 seconds faster than those drinking decaffeinated coffee.

Another linked study found that coffee helped reduce the perception of effort, allowing athletes to work harder, for longer. In a study of cyclists, caffeine was shown to outperform carbs or water in increasing workload.

The cyclists ingested 250mg (2.5 cups of coffee), of caffeine an hour prior to their ride and this was followed by an additional loading of 250mg, at 15min intervals, over the first 90min of the ride. This consumption of caffeine boosted endurance performance by 7.4% and their Vo2 by 7.3% (Vo2 is the maximum amount of oxygen that your body can use during exercise).

The other significant thing to note about this is that alongside the comparatively large increase in the cyclists’ performance, the subjects’ perception of their own exertion remained unchanged, which is a key psychological effect that caffeine can cause in the user – you are working harder, but don’t actually feel like you are.

So, the bottom line is that caffeine really can help in allowing users to maximise their workout and training sessions or achieve those personal bests, training harder, for longer.

In a systematic review, found that while there is a significant impact of coffee on the cardiovascular system, and on the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids (in muscle recovery and fat breakdown): “Coffee is associated with a reduction in the incidence of diabetes and liver disease. Protection seems to exist also for Parkinson’s disease among neurological disorders, and its effect on cancer risk appears to favour risk reduction. Coffee consumption seems to reduce mortality.”

Effects on iron absorbtion

One thing to be aware of with coffee intake is potential iron deficiency, as coffee and other caffeinated drinks (especially teas) have been shown to inhibit iron absorption in the digestive system.

A study found that drinking a cup of coffee with a ‘hamburger meal’ reduced iron absorption by 39%. In the same study they found that drinking tea, a known inhibitor of iron absorption, with the same hamburger meal reduced iron absorption by 64% – and the stronger the tea or coffee, the less iron was absorbed by the participants.

Alongside caffeine the polyphenols and tannins found in tea and coffee are also thought to be inhibitors of iron absorption. A study found that these substances include chlorogenic acid, which is found mainly in coffee, cocoa, and also some herbs, and the tannins found in black tea and coffee, inhibit iron absorption in humans.

These compounds were found to bind with iron during the digestion process, making it more difficult for the body to absorb, with the levels of iron absorption decreasing as the polyphenol content of the food or beverage increased.

For those with specialised diets, vegan or vegetarian diets, who may have lower iron intakes, it would be considered wise to reduce caffeinated drink intake, or to take other measures such as supplementation – but always consult your doctor first.

However, the good news is that the study also found that the effects of coffee and caffeine on iron absorption were dependent on when it was consumed alongside food. Drinking your morning coffee one hour before breakfast should have no effect on iron absorption.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Biofuel Burners

It’s hard to not see the appeal of having a real fire in your front room. Cosy, inviting, warming; a log fire is full of atavistic charm. Bioethanol fuel can be an efficient and cheap way to heat your home and can make for the ideal choice for those atmospheric nights around a real flame-experience fire.

Not only that they are fuss-free, with no waste needing to be removed and cleaned out afterward, what’s more, bioethanol fuels are virtually aroma-free too, and can even be scented, with aromas, such as ‘light pine’ being available from some manufacturers.

Another plus-point on the list for biofuel burners is that there’s no chimney required, no flue to install, no cables to connect and no mains power needed. Many burners are even portable and semi-portable, so can be moved from room to room, or from outside to inside as your mood (and the weather) takes you.

This lovely Ledbury bioethanol fireplace features a ceramic ‘log set’ built into the design, for that authentic-looking, homely feel.

Visit imaginfires.co.uk

Globus Biofuel Heater

This cool-looking Globus heater would make for a great focal point in any room. Its functional simplicity means that it can be easily moved from room to room or positioned for best effect in moments. Its contemporary curves house a centre section shielded by two sections of 6mm tempered stay-clear safety glass and its smokeless burn means there are no connections, flues, or chimneys required.

Its one-litre fuel capacity means it can burn for up to three and a half hours and deliver a heat output of approximately 2kw – a bit less than an electric heater on a medium setting.

Visit imaginfires.co.uk

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats allow you to connect your central heating to your smart devices, such as mobile phones, tablets and computers, so the temperature can be controlled from anywhere you might be. Smart thermostats can help reduce your heating costs by programming in exactly when you might be home or away, and at what times, so that you only use the energy you need.

The top-line smart thermostats also use AI to adjust your heating and cooling schedule based on how long it takes your home to heat up or cool down, further adding to the energy you’re saving. Some of the most hi-tech even have ‘open window detection’ – so you don’t waste energy by heating your home if a window is left open by accident.

Nest Learning Thermostat

One of the most futuristic thermostats on the market at the moment, this hi-tech gadget learns from your behaviours, preferences and surroundings through a combination of algorithms, sensors, machine learning, and cloud computing to precisely keep your home perfectly comfortable and to conserve energy while you’re away.

It automatically programs itself to learn your preferred settings, temperatures and schedule over time, so there’s no need to fiddle around adjusting the thermostat settings when you are away or at home with an irregular schedule, or the seasons change.

Super simple to use, this gadget saves you money, saves energy and looks pretty cool too.

Visit cityplumbing.co.uk

Honeywell evohome

evohome is a sophisticated heating system that allows you to create and individually control the heating in up to 12 rooms in your home.

evohome’s ‘zoning’ ability means that programs can be designed for even the simplest of property layouts, and is suitable for controlling individual room temperatures in larger properties such as luxury apartments and large family homes.

With multiple temperature sensing devices and touchscreen control, the user can quickly gain control of exactly where and when the property should be heated, with remote access available via a tablet or smart phone, and each rooms’ individual temperatures, cleanly and simply displayed.

Visit honeywellhome.com

Smart Fans and Circulators

Air purifiers and air cleaners are more important than ever before, especially in urban environments. Factor in hot and cold weather and you are looking for a very specific piece of kit to fulfil your needs.

Heating or cooling a room while simultaneously removing contaminants from the air to improve indoor air quality means you can benefit from the comfort of a temperature-controlled environment. All while reducing allergens, pollutants, eliminating second-hand tobacco smoke and even the household chemicals that can be found in textiles and upholstery.

DYSON Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09 Smart Air Purifier

A bit of a mouthful its name might be, but when you do it all, you need to let people know! This top-of-the-range bit of kit from renowned maker, Dyson, is a space-age-looking gadget that captures dust, allergens and bacteria. It has been designed to remove 99.95% of ultrafine particles from the air, purifing the whole room to a HEPA H13 standard.

This Dyson purifier automatically senses and removes contaminants and pollutants with its three sensors constantly analysing the air – its unique algorithm cross-checks data every second to precisely monitor, display and reacts to your air quality.

Suitable for room size up to 27m², it even creates air quality reports that you can view in real-time on the LCD screen, or have them sent directly to your phone or tablet using the Dyson Link app.

Visit currys.co.uk

Meaco Air Circulator

At the budget end of the range is this super-effective air circulator from meaco. This great looking gadget works by displacing all the air in the entire room – circulating a huge 1,056 cubic metres of air per hour – to keep warm stagnant air moving and to keep you cool.

Even though it boasts such a high volume of air movement, it’s 12-speed settings are virtually silent, so there’s no harsh fan sound or strong fan ‘blast’ that can leave you feeling chilly after long periods.

Its almost 360-degrees of air circulation mean that you can place it out of the way against a wall or other flat surface and its vertical and horizontal oscillation means it will still function as it should to ensure the whole room feels fresh and clear.

Visit meaco.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Sometimes, some cars can be an investment, and others are money down the drain. While the majority of secondhand cars will depreciate in value the moment they become ‘secondhand’, some will do so considerably more than others.

Then there are those rare few that become collector’s items (BMW Z8), or simply are highly sought after due to their customisable design features (VW Transporter). Either way, some will keep apace with inflation, some will hold value, and some will drop like a stone.

1. Volkswagen Beetle

Resale value: £8,000 to £30,000

With over 21 million built between 1938 and 2003, the original Beetles were simple beasts. More than 420,000 units were sold in the 1960’s, thanks to its debut in Disney’s The Love Bug.

However, the changing tastes and trends of the global car market has meant that VW, like most manufacturers, has needed to shift their focus elsewhere, releasing the New Beetle in 1997, drawing inspiration from the design of the original.

Original Beetles now fetch serious numbers on the secondhand market and can make great investments.

2. Jaguar E-Type

Resale value: £40,000 to £300,000

Described as ‘the world’s most beautiful car’ by Enzo Ferrari, the E-Type came first in a national newspaper’s ‘100 most beautiful cars of all time’ listings and was manufactured by Jaguar Cars Ltd between 1961 and 1975.

Its combination of beauty, high performance, and competitive pricing established the model as an icon of the motoring world, capturing the hearts of motoring enthusiasts the world over.

As an absolute classic, the E-Type will always fetch good numbers on the secondhand market, and as such varies in price considerably.

3. Aston Martin DB9

Resale value: £60,000 to £90,000

Produced between 2004 and 2016, the DB9 was first debuted in 2003 at the Frankfurt Auto Show and was the first model produced at Aston’s Gaydon facility in Warwickshire.

Production of the DB9 ended in 2016, having been replaced by the DB11, however the DB9 was so iconic and well-received that its style became the basis for future designs and is still highly sought after on the secondhand market, ensuring prices for models remain high.

4. BMW Z8

Resale value: £100,000 to £200,000

Produced by BMW from 2000 to 2003 and one of, if not the, most sought after and best-looking BMW ever made, the Z8 first captured hearts and minds in James Bond’s 1999 outing The World is not Enough, in which the car was showcased prior to its release onto the market.

In order to promote the Z8 to collectors and reinforce media speculation about the car’s ‘instant classic’ potential, BMW promised that a 50-year stockpile of spare parts would be maintained in order to support the Z8 fleet.

All this means that secondhand models can now fetch more than their original sale prices.

5. Volkswagen Polo

Resale value: Around £15,000

Volkswagen’s Polo, and the Golf listed below, are two of the most popular and best-selling cars in the UK, and also retain the most value after three years’ ownership. They lose less than 10% of their original value, according to the Motoring Depreciation report (zutobi.com/uk).

Produced by Volkswagen since 1975, the Polo is a perennial favourite, especially among first-time car buyers. Available in hatchback, saloon, and estate versions, the sales of the Polo have set a benchmark for Volkswagen, which has sold more than 12 million cars globally.

6. Volkswagen Golf

Resale value: Under £18,000

Another ubiquitous VW, and one which probably most people have owned at some point. The Golf is a very familiar sight on our roads, and with good reason. Available in numerous variations since its birth in 1974, the VW Golf has been marketed worldwide across eight generations and under various names – including the ‘Rabbit’ in the US and Canada, and the ‘Caribe’ in Mexico.

Still a firm favourite, and with numerous awards over the years, an average Golf will depreciate around £2,000 over three years of ownership.

7. Porsche Macan

Resale value: Around £40,000

The Porsche Macan ‘crossover SUV’ holds one of the best resale values in the sports-utility genre. Originally released in 2012, the Macan helps keep Porsche in the top-three best resale value luxury brands for cars.

Losing only around 13% of its value, the 5-door compact Macan can still command a respectable price tag on the secondhand market, with an average resale value of £40,543, depending on condition.

8. Range Rover

Resale value: Around £75,000

An absolute classic vehicle from a classic British maker, the Queen’s favourite car unsurprisingly holds its resale value very well, with good-condition models averaging a £75,000 resale, only losing around a tenth of their value over three years.

The Range Rover line was launched in 1970 by British Leyland and is now in its fourth generation. Additional model lines are being launched under the Range Rover name due to its success, including the Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque, and Range Rover Velar.

9. VW Transporter

Resale value: £2,000 to £65,000

Very popular among the re-modifying crowd, secondhand Transporters are snapped up and kitted out as campervans, with a host of varied additions. Renowned for their reliability, economic engines, and high-build quality, Transporters are one of Europe’s most popular vans, a popularity which has skyrocketed during the pandemic.

With travel restrictions in place and Airbnb and domestic hotel spaces booked up, the UK population has been looking to alternatives in order to take their holidays and some of the older converted VW Transporters have seen more than 30% added to their value overnight.

Prices can vary considerably depending on age, condition, model and spec, but look out for the usual signs: low mileage, quality of conversion, general wear and tear and MOT or repairs information.

10. BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

Resale value: Around £40,000

The G32 BMW 6 Series was officially unveiled at the Frankfurt International Auto Show in 2017. It’s the fourth generation of the BMW Gran Turismo range of fastback mid-size luxury cars and has proven to be perennially popular among buyers on the secondhand car market.

Depreciating little more than 10% over three years, this car can be a solid investment and should yield a good return if you choose to sell.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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1. iRobot® Roomba® s9+

When it comes to robo-vacs, the Roomba s9+ represents the sci-fi future we’ve all dreamt of, because it empties itself! Freedom from cleaning? Hooray!

This Wi-Fi connected robot vacuum features automatic dirt disposal, emptying its bin into a disposable bag that holds up to 30 loads of dirt and dust, so you don’t have to think about vacuuming for weeks at a time. Dreamy.

Its ‘Maximised-Edge Design’ and specially angled brush reach deep into corners, while its three-stage cleaning system pulls in embedded dirt and pet hair from wherever it hides.

Using advanced vSLAM® navigation technology, the robot gathers over 230,400 data points each second that it uses to create a map of your home.

Find out more at irobot.co.uk

2. Dyson 360 Heurist

This futuristic unit combines the 78,000rpm Dyson digital motor V2 with patented Radial Root Cyclone technology, for powerful suction.

Featuring a powerful quad-core processor, this robot creates a map of your home and updates each clean in case you’ve re-arranged the living room recently.

Its whole-machine filtration captures particles as small as 0.3 microns, and the Dyson app allows you to define zones and create a cleaning schedule.

Find out more at dyson.co.uk

3. AEG RX9-2-4ANM

Although it looks like a giant camera, the unique ‘trinity’ shape of the RX9 gives it excellent reach into your home’s corners and allows it to manoeuvre easily around furniture. It also boasts ‘off-road’ capabilities, as it can negotiate height differences of up to 2.4cm.

The RX9’s huge camera-based vision system uses lasers to scan, map and remember your rooms – you can also set and monitor the robot’s cleaning schedule using the AEG RX9 app to make the whole process effortless.

Find out more at aeg.co.uk

4. Neato Botvac D7

The Neato Botvac has a host of options and comes in at the middleweight price point. Its multiple cleaning modes mean you can opt for the ‘Eco’ option, which gives you a longer, quieter energy-saving clean, whilst its ‘Turbo’ option operates at full-power for deeper cleaning.

The Neato’s exclusive D-Shape design mimics corners of the home for a precise clean that round-shaped robotic vacuums simply can’t do. Use the app to start, stop, find, schedule and receive notifications from the Botvac while you’re out-and-about. It can also take advantage of a second charging station anywhere in your home, meaning larger homes can be cleaned more effectively and efficiently as the Botvac returns to the nearest base.

Find out more at neatorobotics.com

5. Lenovo T1-S-L-VCL0L1

Featuring a sweep mode, mop mode and a run time of two and a half hours, the Lenovo T1-S-L-VCL0L1 robovac has more than enough charge to take care of your vacuuming chores. It’s also designed to climb over door ledges, so it can move effortlessly from room to room.

Featuring a path tracking sensor and smart navigation, it returns automatically to recharge. You can control its cleaning tasks through the app or a voice assistant – setting its 2-in-1 function to clean how you like: it can both vacuum and wipe the floor for you with the integrated mop, making your dwelling clean and fragrant.

Find out more at amazon.co.uk

6. Xiaomi Roborock S5 Max

With an impressive battery life of 180 minutes and a 600ml bin capacity, the Roborock rocks on, vacuuming and mopping your floors like there’s no tomorrow.

The Roborock has no issues with rugs, carpets and floors of heights up to 15 millimetres and can easily dodge pitfalls such as stairs.

The internal air filter and mopping pad are removable and washable, as is the dust tray. The device’s app allows you to see a map of each room and change your preferences for each room. An excellent range of options at this price point.

Find out more at amazon.co.uk

7. Miele Scout RX2

A powerful cleaning bot, the Scout RX2 features a ‘Quattro Cleaning Power’ suction system consisting of four elements – swing-out side brushes for getting into corners to brush the dirt into the path of the appliance, a suction opening and roller brush for coarse soiling, and a rear suction opening to tackle fine soiling.

Thanks to its high speed, the motor ensures strong suction power and is particularly energy-efficient, meaning you get more cleaning time between charges.

A unique feature of the RX2 is its camera, transmitting live footage to your mobile so you can monitor what’s going on in your house, wherever you are.

Find out more at miele.co.uk

8. Medion MD18871

With smart navigation and a two-hour charge, this unit gives higher-priced robotics a run for their money. Designed to be compatible with most carpets and hard floors, its smart sensor technology allows easy navigation around rooms.

You can control this robovac via the phone app or simply ask Alexa to start the cleaning for you. This little unit requires minimal input as it returns automatically to its station to recharge.

Find out more at amazon.co.uk

9. eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 15C MAX

The first in the ‘budget’ range of our selection still comes with a host of decent features. Cleaning hard floors and medium-pile carpets with ease, this robovac boasts high suction, self-charging intelligence, and a super-slim 2.85-inch design, allowing it to slide under furniture effortlessly.

The eufyHome app, along with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control-services, means you can operate your BoostIQ with minimal effort. This unit features technology that automatically adjusts the suction power within two seconds, ensuring your floors get the best clean.

Find out more at amazon.co.uk

10. Proscenic 850T

Despite being at the lower end of the market, this Proscenic 850T boasts an array of impressive features. It has both vacuum and mop functions, and can be controlled with either its app or home smart devices.

Its ‘Vboost carpet detection’ system automatically recognises carpet and switches to maximum-suction to provide a thorough scrubbing. Its infrared sensors help it to detect edges, so it can easily avoid falling downstairs.

Find out more at amazon.co.uk

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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We all want to clean safely and sustainably around the home, in ways that are not only effective but that will also have minimal impact on the environment. Whether it’s by buying the most eco-friendly cleaning products, or using clever, homespun eco-friendly cleaning techniques. If you have children, health conditions or even sensitive pets in the house, then this can also be a strong driver to make your home cleaner and greener.

Here we spoke to three experts in the field of greener cleaning, for their top tips.

Helen Bee, founder of the multi-award-winning, planet friendly and refillable cleaning brand, Clean Living, says: “Skip chemical scents. Air fresheners might smell pleasant, but they’re incredibly harmful to both the environment and to us. Particularly if you suffer from asthma! There are lots of alternative ways to freshen up the air in your home; add some air purifying plants, dot scented pouches of lavender around, or diffuse essential oils instead.”

Von Sy, founder of plant-based cleaning brand Nimble, agrees: “One thing to be wary of is fragrances. Although they make the cleaning up chore more pleasant with the smell of flowers, citrus, and lavender, fragrances are made with a complex range of chemicals. And don’t be deceived by clever branding – just because a bottle has an ‘eco’ look and feel, make sure you read the label for the detailed ingredients.”

And it’s these ingredients, from the chemicals in the products to the plastic packaging containing them, that cause even greater harm to the environment.

Managing director of Ecovibe, a dedicated eco-friendly products retailer, Stacey Skidmore, says: “Minimise plastic where you can, this can be through using refillable glass spray bottles in place of the traditional single-use plastic bottles, or even using soluble cleaning sachets, which dissolve in water. Also, avoid toxic chemicals where you can. A common myth is the stronger the chemical, the more effective the product will be. However, natural ingredients, such as essential oils and plant extracts work just as well alongside certain antibacterial agents.”

Von Sy adds: “Most of the mainstream cleaning products are over-formulated which means they contain unnecessary levels of chemicals that can be harmful to a young child and the environment. Manufacturers do this so they can make bold marketing claims like they are ‘10 times more powerful’, so with this in mind one thing you can do is dilute the regular cleaning products you use – they are just as effective but reduce the amount of chemicals you are using.”

So, whatever practical steps you take to cleaning greener, there’s one that will make a huge difference overall, and that lies in your consumer purchasing power – all of us should take the time to purchase more thoughtfully.
Helen Bee says: “A more sustainable lifestyle starts by making considered purchases. Before you purchase any product, ask yourself if you really need it. Or whether you can buy a more planet-friendly alternative. There are incredible brands out there offering eco-friendly alternatives. Just read labels carefully to ensure products really are as good as they claim to be.”

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Ways to make your home cleaner and greener appeared first on Checklists.

First of all let’s look at how much protein we actually need. The World Health Organization recommends the amount of protein we need to eat in order to maintain health is 0.75g per kg of bodyweight per day for both sexes1. Therefore an individual weighing 63.5kg (10st) would require 47.6g of dietary protein per day. Our dietary protein intake needs to increase as we get older. In those that exercise regularly, protein requirements are also higher.

It’s worth mentioning that while animal proteins are considered ‘complete’ proteins, as they contain the full requirement of amino acids that the body needs to function properly, consuming plant-based ‘incomplete’ proteins can also provide the body with this full list of amino acids – it just requires a little more knowledge about what you are eating (beans on toast, for example, is a complete protein meal).

Also, the plus side to eating a plant-based diet is that you get the benefit of all those extra vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and polyphenols from consuming a wider variety of delicious plant-based foods!

Best plant sources of protein

Tempeh 19g / 100g

Made from fermented soya beans, tempeh is vegan and highly nutritious. It’s low in carbohydrate, approx 5g per 100g, and on average has 6g of healthy fats per 100g, and packs a further punch with high levels of B vitamins, calcium, magnesium and zinc for the immune system. Tempeh also contains prebiotics, which may help promote digestive health and reduce inflammation and even improve cognitive function.

Tofu 8g / 100g

Tofu (bean curd) is made by curdling fresh soya milk, and pressing it into a block – in a similar fashion to how traditional dairy cheese is made. Although not as high in protein as other foods listed here, it does contain all nine essential amino acids, along with iron, calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, vitamin B1 and the minerals manganese and phosphorous (trace minerals needed for the healthy function of the brain, nervous system and enzyme systems), and has numerous reported health benefits.

Peanuts 26g / 100g

Peanuts are delicious, protein-rich, full of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Although unrelated to tree nuts, peanuts are actually a legume, and related to beans, lentils, and soy and therefore share similar characteristics. They are good sources of amino acids and essential B vitamins, copper, manganese, vitamin E, phosphorus, and magnesium. Studies have linked them to weight loss and improved heart health.

Hemp seeds 25g / 100g

Hemp seeds are the seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa (yes, that one), and are exceptionally nutritious and rich in healthy fats, protein and are a great source of vitamin E and minerals, such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulphur, calcium, iron and zinc. They are exceptionally high in omega-6, omega-3 and fatty acid gamma-Linolenic (GLA), which is linked to numerous health benefits and can also be found in the oils of evening primrose, blackcurrant seed, and borage seed.

To be featured in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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You can look and feel good while making a difference.

1. Bedroom Athletics

Loungewear brand Bedroom Athletics have just launched their first vegan slipper collection with a range of mules and slides aimed at those looking for environmentally-conscious comfort.

The collection includes Scandinavian-inspired felt mules and faux fur slides in soft summer shades, with contrasting details and a range of different sole options.

The contemporary Maria clog design mixes a cool Scandi vibe upper, faux fur inner and a vibrant contrasting wedge sole, and of course, it’s vegan-friendly.

Find out more at bedroomathletics.com

2. Beflamboyant’s UX-68 Water vegan shoes

Unisex, vegan and sustainable, these are the new trainers you’ll be wanting to wear this season.
Beflamboyant is a new vegan shoe brand designed in Spain and launched after two successful international crowdfunding campaigns.

These shoes are constructed with recycled or recyclable materials that do not come from animals, have a low impact on the environment and are manufactured with fair labour.

What’s more, Beflamboyant have committed to planting a tree for each pair of shoes sold.

Find out more at beflamboyant.com

3. Luxtra’s Farrell vegan backpack

This PETA-approved vegan leather backpack is made in Italy from Pinatex – an eco-leather alternative made from pineapple leaves.

Inside its funky, logo embossed design, its compartmentalised, lined interior features separate pockets to neatly fit a 13-inch laptop along with phone, A4 documents, water bottle and other daily essentials.

Ethical, fashionable and functional, all in one.

Find out more at luxtralondon.com

4. We Are Wastd’s Billy hat and Danna jumper

We Are Wastd are a UK-made, ethically-run, zero-waste guilt-free women’s fashion brand.

Exclusively using true deadstock yarn from the local UK textile industry that would otherwise be destined for landfill, no two jumpers look exactly the same.

Established in 2021, by designer Rosa Hutchesson and UK factory owner, Snahal Patel, their ambition was to create fun, sustainable, UK-made knitted clothing for women who love to be unique.

We Are Wastd are committed to making high-quality, affordable knitwear that does not impact negatively on the planet or the people who make it.

Find out more wearewastd.com

5. Mercer’s W3RD vegan trainer

Luxury footwear brand, Mercer, have just launched their most sustainable trainers to date.

Made from grape leather, with a corn lining, recycled plastic insole, Seaqual recycled ocean plastic mesh upper and an EVA and cork outersole, these trendy trainers are handcrafted in Portugal.

Mercer Amsterdam bill themselves as a ‘high-end sneaker label’, founded by Dutch designer, Pim Dresen. Based in Amsterdam, the label focuses on luxury handcrafted footwear and accessories for men and women.

Find out more at merceramsterdam.com

6. Critically Endangered’s socks

These gorgeous socks are made from a beautifully soft blend of bamboo and cotton then packaged in a recycled cardboard box – making them not only gorgeous and luxurious, but the perfect ethical accessories.
Each design features an endangered animal, and, by creating socks that are made from high-quality materials, Critically Endangered are giving their wearers an investment, built to last, and fighting against fast fashion. This sustainable sock company help protect some of the world’s most critically endangered animals by supporting the WWF. They also plant 20m² of rainforest with the World Land Trust every time someone makes a purchase.

Find out more at criticallyendangered.co.uk

7. Dayrize’s Woolly Gloves

Nothing says winter more than a cosy pair of gloves. And with the Dayrize collection, there is truly something for all chilly hands.

Gloves certainly don’t have to be boring and woolly, and they can do so much more than just keeping your fingers warm.

Dayrize also have high-fashion options with an unbeatable range of styles and fabrics for sale. Plus, with their excellent environmental credentials, you can buy from the website with confidence, like The Craven Mittens pictured.

Find out more at dayrize.com

8. Keen – Howser slide

Keen’s Howser Slide blurs the line between house shoe and outdoor slipper, the perfect antidote to autumn’s cold and inclement conditions. Designed to comfort your conscience as well as your foot, all models in the collection use recycled PET for their construction and feature pesticide and chemical free eco anti-odour insoles.

Behind every KEEN shoe are dozens of responsible choices, such as using recycled aluminium eyelets or webbing made from recycled plastic bottles, and even harvesting the waste from one shoe to use in another. They have even taken the step of building their own socially-responsible factories in Oregon, Mexico, and Thailand.

Find out more at keenfootwear.com

9. Luminarium – In Balance earrings

Luminarium are a jewellery company founded by two
sisters with a focus on demanding transparency from the companies they work with, ensuring their production methods focus on reusing, recycling and reducing – working sustainably within communities.

These elegant, long earrings are made with ethically traded and recycled glass beads, reclaimed pearls and are finished with a natural stone in a vibrant green shade. Each purchase comes with a handmade dust bag, made of recycled, natural materials.

Find out more at luminarium.uk

10. Matt & Nat – Sohee vegan coat

Discover the vegan, cruelty-free and recycled fashion brand, Matt & Nat, whose core values include social responsibility, excellence, inclusiveness, integrity, learning, authenticity and, of course, love. Fine sentiments to live by!

All their collections are designed by a close-knit team using recycled, sustainable and biodegradable materials.
This Sohee coat is no exception, featuring a long-sleeve, dropped shoulder, single-button, and shawl collar style; it has a self tie-belt, inseam pockets at the waist, an internal chest pocket, and a centre back vent.

Find out more at uk.mattandnat.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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With the monumental shift in working patterns that occurred during the 2020 lockdowns, the nation as a whole saw a huge drop in commuter numbers, the closure of office spaces and most of their retail services, such as food and hospitality, fall silent. With this vast change in working and living patterns, one would think there would be a net-energy saving, as cars and trains didn’t run, offices were not switched on, and sandwich shops and restaurants remained dormant with no consumables created.

However, broader analysis is now showing that an overall fall in workplace energy consumption as a result of UK lockdowns in 2020 was largely cancelled out by an increase in personal usage, as the government’s work from home advice increased the nation’s reliance on personal gas and electricity.

According to research by business energy supplier, Gazprom Energy, 37% more personal energy was used in 2020, due to increased reliance on home lighting, heating and the use of home appliances while working from home. The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) estimates the average household uses 3,731 kWh per year. A year-on-year consumption increase of 37% adds a further 1,380 kWh per year to each household’s consumption – over one-third more energy per household – as homeworkers charge laptops and phones, watch television, heat water and run the heating throughout the day.

Daniel Sullivan, head of UK sales at Gazprom Energy, commented on the increase: “While we have all been taking the necessary health and safety precautions during the pandemic and reducing business travel, it is interesting to look at the consumption of energy by the nation and see where fluctuations happen. A fragmented workforce has resulted in fewer shared appliances and electronics, and an increase in individual activity has increased electricity and gas consumption as a result.

“Energy-saving measures that are present in the workplace may not be present in the home, such as energy-efficient lighting and smart metering, meaning efficiency is lost as a result of hybrid working. Businesses also benefit from economies of scale when their workforce is in one location using shared heating, cooling and energy for appliances and equipment.”

Although a net increase in energy consumption is inevitable for many businesses due to more hybrid working, as the energy use of their more disparate workforces increases, there are ways that individuals can reduce their consumption depending on their situation and businesses should be actively communicating these to their employees.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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When it comes to the mysteries of the recycling bin, there can often be some confusion as to what goes in, and where. How clean do the bottles need to be? Can I recycle this pizza box? What symbols do I need to look out for?

Recycling practices change from borough to borough, based on council facilities or even which companies services are contracted out to – so what are the general dos and don’ts of recycling and how can you maximise your efforts?

Where possible, sort your recycling by type

Sort your recyclable materials by the following types: glass, aluminum and plastic together, mixed paper, cardboard, and compost separately.

By separating your recycling it ensures your rubbish stays ‘clean’ during transport to the recycling depot, which makes the processing easier and more efficient. Separating your recycling leads to higher recycling rates and significant cost savings.

While throwing everything into one bin is the simple option, sorting by type retains the value of the materials as much as possible, reduces cross-contamination and significantly increases your recycling rate.

Clean food containers, bottles and packaging

Although time-consuming, any plastic, metal and glass materials containing foodstuffs must be completely emptied and fully rinsed clean before going into your recycling bin.

Do not recycle any materials that have food or drink contamination because they will soil the whole load and that means the potentially recyclable materials will be made useless and end up in landfills. And do not recycle greasy pizza boxes!

Any cardboard or paper contaminated by foodstuffs – grease, oil or otherwise – cannot be recycled because the oils cannot be separated from the fibres. Never recycle fibrous materials that have been soiled in this way.

Plastic bottle tops

Probably one you hadn’t thought about – plastic bottle tops can throw a spanner in the works.

Although on the whole, most plastic bottle caps can be accepted by your recycling centre, it is dependent on your local facilities. In some areas you can keep them on, and some require you to remove them all together and place into the normal bin.

The important thing to do is to check with your local recycling centre beforehand. You can easily check on your local council’s website.

Don’t recycle plastic shopping bags

Plastic shopping bags are generally made from thin plastics, which can clog up processing equipment at the recycling centre. Plastic shopping bags require special recycling facilities.

Most supermarkets or food shops will collect and properly recycle your plastic bags for you. Instead of using plastic shopping bags, reusable bags made from recycled materials or from natural fibres are a much better alternative.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Scotland

Time: 433 miles, 3 – 4 days.

This route starts in the city of Edinburgh, which is home to countless locations that are rumoured to be haunted, including Edinburgh Castle, as well as numerous ancient graveyards with famous graves.

Next, you’ll head to Culzean Castle before travelling up the country, visiting the famous Stirling Castle, before stopping at Crathes Castle. You’ll then head to Cruden Bay, and finish the route at Culloden Moor.

Spooky Sightings:

• Edinburgh: The ghosts of Edinburgh Castle, ancient graveyards, and famous graves
• Culzean Castle: Home to a ghostly piper and mysterious lady.
• Stirling Castle: Several ghosts including a spectral highlander.
• Crathes Castle: Haunted by the ghost of The Green Lady.
• Cruden Bay: Where Bram Stoker wrote large sections of Dracula.
• Culloden Moor: Ghostly sounds of battle from the 1746 Battle of Culloden.

Why not visit: Culloden Moor – Inverness

The battle of Culloden Moor took place on 16 April, 1746, and, with all the odds stacked against them, the Highlanders were easily defeated by the British troops. Any Highlanders that managed to flee from Culloden Moor to neighbouring villages were hunted down by the Duke of Cumberland’s troops and slaughtered, along with innocent women and children, burning homes, barns and out-buildings.

With this much tragedy it’s easy to see why their restless spirits still roam the land, reliving the battle and their deaths. Some witnesses have heard the clash of steel on steel and the cries of the wounded. Some legends of Culloden Moor include that birds do not sing over the site of the battle or at the graves of the slaughtered – or the local heather which grows nearby will never grow over the graves.

Northern England

Time: 247 miles, 3 – 4 days.

Beginning your journey at the imposing Bamburgh Castle, you’ll then travel through Northumberland to Chillingham Castle before heading down into Yorkshire and the next destination, Whitby.

From there you’ll go to York, visiting Treasurer’s House and staying the night in the haunted Black Swan hotel. The following morning, you’ll travel into Lancashire to finish your journey at Pendle Hill.

Spooky Sightings:

• Bamburgh Castle: A filming location for the 2015 film adaptation of MacBeth.
• Chillingham Castle: Claims to be the most haunted castle in Britain.
• Whitby: Where Dracula first came to England in Bram Stoker’s novel.
• York: Treasurer’s House, where ghostly Roman legionaries have been spotted, and the haunted Black Swan hotel.
• Pendle Hill: The site of the 1612 witch trials and said to still be haunted by their ghosts.

Why not visit: Steynton route – Pembrokeshire

When it comes to the route along the A4076 to Johnston, motorists will need to keep their wits about them! This particular route has been associated for hundreds of years with sightings of a dark and mysterious woman who suddenly walks into the paths of drivers, before vanishing.

Many drivers have stopped and rushed from their cars to her aid, but then returned, bewildered, finding no sign of the young lady, or of damage to their cars. This supernatural occurrence has been said to have been experienced by at least seven people over the years. Are you ready to be next?

The Midlands

Time: 136 miles, 2 days.

Starting at Croft Castle, you’ll then travel to Kidderminster to visit the Drakelow Tunnels, a haunted military bunker, before visiting Dudley Castle. The route then travels to Birmingham and the famous Aston Hall.

Finally, you’ll travel to the Leicester Guildhall, before visiting Kelham Hall in Nottinghamshire. Both locations have featured on the TV series, Most Haunted.

Spooky Sightings:

• Croft Castle: Haunted by the seven-foot ghost of Owain Glyndwr.
• Drakelow Tunnels: Visitors experience mysterious mists and hear ghostly wartime music.
• Dudley Castle: Haunted by The Grey Lady and others.
• Aston Hall: Home to The White Lady, the imprisoned daughter of a former owner.
• Leicester Guildhall: Featured on Most Haunted.
• Kelham Hall: Home to numerous ghosts.

Why not visit: Aston Hall – Birmingham

Aston Hall is a Grade I listed Jacobean house built between 1618 and 1635, and today it is used as a museum. It is said to be haunted by the ghost of Sir Thomas Holte, amongst several others.

Perhaps the most famous of the spooky spectres that inhabit the house is that of Mary, the ‘white lady’, his daughter, who was imprisoned in her room as Sir Thomas disapproved of her choice of lover. Unable to leave and unable to be with her one true love, she descended into madness and died of heartbreak.

Other ghosts include the serving boy who hung himself in the staff quarters in strange circumstances, and the ‘green lady’, said to be Holte’s housekeeper, of whom he was charged with her murder, but never found guilty.

Wales

Time: 269 miles, 2 – 3 days.

Starting in the medieval castle town of Conwy, North Wales, you’ll then travel to the famous prison Ruthin Gaol, before heading to Abergavenny, where you can spend a night in the famous Skirrid Mountain Inn.

Travelling into South Wales, you will pass through the village of Crickadarn before visiting Craig-y-Nos Castle. Finally, you will visit Tenby for its famous ghost walk.

Spooky Sightings:

• Conwy: The ghost tour of the medieval town.
• Ruthin Gaol: An old jail, experience slamming doors and mysterious whispering voices.
• Skirrid Mountain Inn: Ancient inn with a dark history and the most haunted pub in Wales.
• Crickadarn: Appeared as the Yorkshire village in An American Werewolf in London.
• Craig-y-Nos: Said to be haunted by several ghosts.
• Tenby: The area is rumoured to be home to fairies, witches and ghosts.

Why not visit: The Skirrid Inn – Black Mountains

Situated among the foothills of the Black Mountains in South Wales, the Skirrid Inn is thought to be the oldest, and most haunted, public house in the country. The first floor of the inn was often used as a courtroom where offenders often received capital punishment, with local legends claiming that hundreds of criminals have been hung from an oak beam over the staircase there – with the rope’s markings still visible to this day.

Widely regarded as one of the most haunted buildings in the UK, supernatural happenings have included flying glasses, the strong smell of perfume, and even of guests feeling as if they were being strangled!

Northern Ireland

Time: 121 miles, 2 days.

Beginning your journey in Donaghadee, you will visit Grace Neill’s, said to be the oldest pub in Ireland, before visiting the Giant’s Ring, near Belfast. Also in Belfast, the Crumlin Road Gaol is possibly the most haunted location in Northern Ireland.

Ballygally Castle is the next destination on the journey, followed by Ossian’s Grave before travelling to the final stop, Springhill House.

Spooky Sightings:

• Grace Neill’s Pub: The oldest pub in Ireland and haunted by the Grace herself.
• The Giant’s Ring: An ancient religious site said to experience strange, unnatural mists.
• Crumlin Road Gaol: An old prison and the most haunted site in Norther Ireland.
• Ballygally Castle: Home to several ghosts.
• Ossian’s Grave: An ancient burial site, Ossian himself is said to be waiting to rise again.
• Springhill House: Haunted by the former owner.

Why not visit: Belfast – Smithfield area

Biddy is the haunting manifestation of a local woman said to roam the area where she drank herself to death after inheriting two hundred and fifty pounds. Her ghost is said to wander the area late at night, trapped for eternity, drowning her sorrows.

It is also Smithfield where, in 1900, a tragic accident killed 13 women and girls at J. J. Herdman’s Mill. Today sightings of their ghosts and strange happenings are still regularly reported at the site.

Southern England

Time: 233 miles, 2 – 3 days.

You will start your journey in the village of Pluckley, Kent, before heading to London to visit The Tower of London. You can then head across the capital to All Saints Church in Fulham, before visiting Hampton Court Palace.

The next stop is Stonehenge, ahead of your final destination at Dunster Castle.

Spooky Sightings:

• Pluckley: A small Kent village, home to a reported 12-16 ghosts.
• The Tower of London: Home to many ghosts, including royalty and famous historical figures.
• All Saints Church, Fulham: Appeared in the 1976 horror film, The Omen.
• Hampton Court: Haunted by royal ghosts like Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII.
• Stonehenge: An ancient and mysterious pagan monument.
• Dunster Castle: Home to ghostly soldiers and where visitors feel an ominous presence.

Why not visit: Jay’s Grave – Dartmoor

Dartmoor folklore is filled with spooky tales of ghosts, pixies, headless horsemen and witchcraft, which lends the bleak, unforgiving landscape of the moors an even more sinister edge. There is one spot in particular that combines a scenic drive for motorists with tales of the supernatural, and that is Jay’s Grave.

Situated about a mile from the famous Hound Tor, there’s old burial mound situated by the road and which is believed to be the resting place of a suicide victim dating back to the 18th century. It has been a subject of numerous local legends for hundreds of years, with the spookiest tale involving passing motorists who have seen a kneeling figure beside the grave in the night.

So, there we have it, some fun and fantastic destinations for you and your family this half-term.

And, if you’re looking for any tips on how best to plan and prepare for road trips safely, then visit eurocarparts.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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