• Baking soda, a common household item often used for cooking and cleaning, has recently become a viral sensation on TikTok. Influencers are claiming that drinking a small amount of baking soda mixed with water can lead to various health benefits, including weight loss, improved endurance, and even a reduced risk of cancer. However, experts caution that these claims are not only unsupported by scientific evidence but may also pose serious health risks.  What exactly is baking soda? Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a white powder that reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough to rise.…

    Living a long and healthy life is a goal many strive for, and centenarians—those who live to be 100 years or older—may offer valuable insights on achieving it. Their dietary habits have garnered interest, particularly with the release of Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones on Netflix, which explored the lifestyles of centenarians across the globe. Areas with high concentrations of these individuals, known as Blue Zones, include places like Okinawa, Japan, and Sardinia, Italy, where living past a century is more common. Experts who study centenarians have noted that their longevity is linked to various lifestyle choices,…

    This ginger and orange beef short rib recipe is made of tender, slow-cooked beef with a zesty, citrus twist! The rich, savoury flavours of the short rib are perfectly paired with the warmth of ginger and the bright, citrusy notes of orange. Perfect for a cosy dinner, this dish delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. ALSO SEE: Red wine-braised short ribs with marrow and parsley Recipe and styling by Dianne Bibby Photograph by Annalize Nel