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Events

Just Peel – Impactful branding and certified eco credentials to help serve drinks with confidence and conscience

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Kris Humphreys Photography

From festivals to football stadiums, Just Peel delivers branded paper cups that combine sustainability, style, and speed, helping the UK events industry reduce plastic reliance with every pour.

Across the UK, demand for sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic is growing fast, and at Just Peel, they’re stepping up to meet it. Their UK-made branded paper cups are home compostable, recyclable in standard waste-paper streams and are PFAS-free, giving events and venues a practical and sustainable choice without compromising on quality or style.

Cupapeel KrisHumphreysPhotography(c)Cupapeel KrisHumphreysPhotography(c)
Cupapeel KrisHumphreysPhotography(c)Cupapeel KrisHumphreysPhotography(c)
Cupapeel KrisHumphreysPhotography(c) 100 (1)Cupapeel KrisHumphreysPhotography(c) 100 (1)
Kris Humphreys Photography

As the UK’s largest supplier of CE-marked Pint and Half Pint paper cups, Just Peel bring together impactful branding and certified eco credentials to help customers serve drinks with confidence and conscience. Every cup is designed to deliver that bold look and reliable performance that event organisers and drinks brands across the country have come to depend on.

Because the events world moves quickly, they provide fast turnarounds, dependable service, and UK-based production that keeps things running smoothly. Trusted by major festivals and live events nationwide, their cups represent sustainability, style, and reliability in every pour.

Cupapeel by just peel logoCupapeel by just peel logo

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Doctor warns that people with underlying heart conditions should avoid energy drinks, explains why: ‘Raise heart rate…’
Lifestyle

Doctor warns that people with underlying heart conditions should avoid energy drinks, explains why: ‘Raise heart rate…’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

When exhaustion hits and deadlines pile up, it’s tempting to crack open yet another energy drink for that instant burst of alertness. But while the boost may feel harmless, it can come at a serious cost – especially if you have an underlying heart condition. The combination of high caffeine levels and added stimulants can strain the heart far more than most people realise, making caution essential for anyone relying on these drinks to power through long hours.

Dr Sood emphasises that energy drinks strain the heart more than you realise.(Unsplash)

Also Read | Physician explains the real reason you have to depend on energy drinks to get through the day: ‘They work by blocking…’

Dr Kunal Sood, an anesthesiologist and interventional pain medicine physician has revealed why it is best for people with heart conditions to avoid energy drinks. In an Instagram video posted on November 15, the doctor explains how these stimulant-packed beverages impact the heart and, in the worst cases, can even trigger cardiac arrest.

How do energy drinks affect the heart?

Many people reach for energy drinks to get a quick boost from their high caffeine content, but that sudden rush can pose serious risks to the heart in certain individuals. Dr Sood explains, “Drinks like Celsius, Red Bull, and Monster contain high doses of caffeine along with other stimulants such as taurine and guarana. Together, these compounds raise heart rate and blood pressure for hours after you drink them. And in some people, they can disrupt normal heart rhythm.”

He adds that for someone with an underlying or genetic heart condition, this sudden surge in stimulation can trigger dangerous arrhythmias or, in rare cases, even cardiac arrest. According to the doctor, “Some studies have also linked heavy frequent energy drink use to hypertension, clotting changes and vascular stress, though long-term evidence for direct heart disease risk is still limited.”

Energy drinks can trigger cardiac arrests in worst case scenarios, according to Dr Sood.(Image generated via ChatGPT)
Energy drinks can trigger cardiac arrests in worst case scenarios, according to Dr Sood.(Image generated via ChatGPT)

Recommended caffeine limit

Dr Sood highlights, “Experts generally recommend keeping caffeine intake under 400 milligrams per day. That’s about four small cups of coffee. They also recommend avoiding energy drinks entirely if you have any heart rhythm issues or sensitivity to stimulants.”

The doctor emphasises that these caffeine-packed energy drinks might help you power through a workout or late nights, but they also burden your heart with more strain than you realise. “Sometimes the best energy comes from hydration, nutrition, and recovery. Not another can,” says Dr Sood.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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Physician explains the real reason you have to depend on energy drinks to get through the day: ‘They work by blocking…’
Lifestyle

Physician explains the real reason you have to depend on energy drinks to get through the day: ‘They work by blocking…’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

It’s 2 pm, your energy is crashing, and you’re reaching for yet another can of your go-to energy drink to push through the rest of the day. Sounds familiar? While it may seem like a harmless pick-me-up, depending on multiple cans just to stay awake or focused isn’t just harmful for your health – it could be your body’s way of signalling that something deeper is wrong.

Dr. Mezher reveals that energy drinks don’t provide true energy but mask tiredness by blocking adenosine.

Also Read | Relying on energy drinks for focus? Doctor reveals how they affect your health: ‘Effects on the heart, sleep…’

Dr Sermed Mezher, a family medicine physician and health content creator based in England, has explained how energy drinks can trap people in a vicious cycle of dependence – where they’re used to mask deeper issues that actually need attention. In an Instagram video posted on October 4, the physician breaks down the mechanism of these beverages, explaining the real reason people become reliant on them, and warns about the dangers of overuse.

How do energy drinks work?

According to Dr Mezher, energy drinks don’t actually give you energy. He explains, “They work by either blocking you from feeling tired or potentially regulating dopamine levels. You do that by blocking a hormone called adenosine which makes you feel sleepy but also acts like a break on dopamine which we know is affected in some conditions.”

Why do you need energy drinks?

Energy drinks are used by many people for a quick boost in alertness, focus or stamina, especially when struggling with fatigue, poor concentration, or low motivation. However, according to Dr Mezher, “In some cases, this pattern can become a form of self-medication, where individuals use caffeine and stimulants in energy drinks to temporarily mask deeper issues such as insomnia, chronic stress, anxiety, or undiagnosed ADHD.”

The physician explains, “Dopamine levels can be low in the areas of the frontal lobe responsible for planning and organisation in people with ADHD. So we commonly see people self-medicating with caffeine before they even know they have a diagnosis.”

People with insomnia or poor sleep hygiene tend to rely more on energy drinks to deal with tiredness, instead of addressing the real problem. Dr Mezher also highlights, “Excessive tiredness can also be caused by a slew of other things like vitamin deficiencies such as D and B12 or potentially myalgic encephalomyelitis or depression.” He stresses that needing chemical reinforcements like energy drinks to get through the day is not normal and recommends getting checked for underlying issues.

Dangers of overuse

The physician emphasises that the short term effects of energy drinks – increased energy, sharper focus and enhanced productivity – might seem helpful but they come at a hidden cost. He explains, “Relying on energy drinks can lead to tolerance, dependence, and side effects such as palpitations, elevated blood pressure, irritability, and disrupted sleep. Over time, this can worsen the very problems people are trying to manage, creating a cycle of fatigue and overstimulation.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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Cricket in L1
Lifestyle

Festive season puffiness? These de-bloat breakfast drinks come Harvard-doc approved

by jummy84
written by jummy84

We’ve all been there one-too-many times — a great night, followed by a groggy, puffy and very…well, rounded morning. Still in the thick of festivities, if you’re hoping to snugly jiggle into your glittering fit for the evening, Harvard-trained doctor, Dr. Saurabh Sethi has just the brekky options for you.

Matcha latte to berry smoothies: Breakfast drinks to fight the festive bloat

Unsweetened matcha latte

Ingredients: matcha powder (ceremonial grade preferred) – 1tsp, hot water – 1/3 cup, almond or oat milk – 1/2 cup

Method: Add the matcha powder to a small, flat-bottomed bowl and swirl with the matcha whisk to avoid clumping. Pour in the hot water and gently whisk in a W-shape to foam while your milk warms. Use a frother to foam the warmed almond or oat milk. Pour the matcha concoction into your cup followed by the milk.

A teaspoon of agave goes great with this though Dr. Sethi recommends having this unsweetened.

(recipe from Two Spoons)

Want something a little more filling? Look no further than option 2.

Berry-almond milk smoothie

Ingredients: Frozen raspberries – 3/4 cup, frozen blueberries – 1/2 cup, almond milk – 3/4 cup, Greek yoghurt – 2tbsps

Method: Simply blend all ingredients till thick and smooth and serve immediately.

(recipe from Fresh Apron)

Want a slightly desi kick? A tall glass of creamy, unsweetened lassi also works great!

Lassi

Ingredients: Fresh curd – 2 cups, cold water/milk – 1 cup, cardamom powder – 1tsp, saffron strands – 10 to 12, ice cubes – 6 to 8, chopped nuts – 1 to 2tbsps

Method: Simply whisk the curd by hand or machine until it becomes smooth. Then go in with the milk or water and ice cubes and repeat the process till a frothy layer forms atop. Add the spicing and nuts as per taste and enjoy.

(recipe from Dassana’s Veg Recipes)

Which of these breakfast drinks will you be sipping on this festive week?

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AIIMS-trained liver specialist shares 3 drinks for patients with fatty liver disease: 'Beetroot juice is packed with…'
Lifestyle

AIIMS-trained liver specialist shares 3 drinks for patients with fatty liver disease: ‘Beetroot juice is packed with…’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

An increased build-up of fat in the liver is known as fatty liver disease. There are two types: one is caused by heavy drinking (alcoholic fatty liver disease), and the other is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is seen in people who drink little or no alcohol.

Backed by science and clinical experience, these drinks can help reduce liver fat, improve digestion, and support overall liver health. (Freepik)

Also Read | Cardiologist reveals patient thought his low heart rate was just ‘good fitness’; warns why it is dangerous

Quitting alcohol, eating whole foods, avoiding ultra-processed foods, and limiting sugar consumption are some ways you can minimise the risk of fatty liver disease. However, did you know that consuming certain drinks can also be beneficial?

3 drinks to have if you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease

In an Instagram post shared on September 29, Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist and liver specialist trained at AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford Universities, recommended three specific drinks for patients dealing with fatty liver disease, emphasising their potential benefits.

Sharing the 3 drinks, Dr Sethi wrote, “3 Drinks I Often Recommend to My Patients with Fatty Liver Disease. Backed by science and clinical experience, these drinks can help reduce liver fat, improve digestion, and support overall liver health.”

The 3 beverages are green tea, coffee, and beetroot juice. Let’s find out how they benefit those diagnosed with fatty liver disease:

1. Green tea

◦ Dr Sethi recommends green tea as it is rich in catechins, such as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).

◦ EGCG is shown to improve liver enzymes and reduce fat buildup.

2. Coffee

◦ Coffee can lower your risk of fibrosis and fatty liver, according to the liver specialist.

◦ He recommends choosing organic coffee and skipping sugar.

◦ According to him, the acceptable sweeteners are honey, monk fruit, or stevia. These alternatives are acceptable only if they are free from the erythritol additive, he added.

3. Beet juice

◦ Dr Sethi stresses that beetroot juice is the most overlooked drink among the three recommendations.

◦ It is packed with betalains, which are powerful antioxidants, Dr Sethi pointed out. These antioxidants can protect liver cells and reduce fat accumulation.

◦ He suggested consuming the juice in moderation so that the sugar content does not outweigh the health benefits.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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Taking magnesium? 7 foods and drinks that may reduce its effectiveness
Lifestyle

Taking magnesium? 7 foods and drinks that may reduce its effectiveness

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Magnesium is one of those minerals you do not want to skimp on. It keeps your muscles, nerves, and heart running properly, and it plays a role in bone health, too. Many people turn to supplements to close the gap, but what you eat and drink around the same time can affect how much your body actually takes in. Here’s a breakdown of common foods and drinks that may reduce magnesium absorption or even speed up its loss.

Taking magnesium supplements? Here are 7 foods and drinks that can reduce their effectiveness(Unsplash)

Spinach

Spinach is nutrient-rich but also high in oxalates. Research published in Heliyon (2020) found that oxalates can bind to magnesium in the gut, lowering absorption. Spinach also carries phytates, which interfere more strongly with iron and zinc but may still affect magnesium slightly. Cooking or fermenting helps reduce these compounds, but taking your supplement at a different time than a spinach-heavy meal is still best.

Beans

Beans bring protein, fiber, and minerals to the table, but the phytic acid they contain may slightly block magnesium uptake. A 2020 Food Research International study noted this effect, though some bean fibers may actually help absorption. Soaking, sprouting, or cooking beans reduces phytates and makes minerals more available. To be safe, avoid pairing beans and your magnesium pill in the same sitting.

Also read: Magnesium deficiency and hairfall: The key nutrient your hair needs for healthy growth

Tofu

Tofu, made from soy, also contains phytates. While not all studies agree on how much soy impacts magnesium levels, experts suggest separating tofu meals from supplement time, especially if your overall magnesium intake is low.

Colas

Cola drinks contain phosphoric acid. A 2022 Scientific Reports study found that this acid increases kidney excretion of magnesium, and the sodium in soda doesn’t help either. Water or a light meal is a safer partner when you take your supplement.

Caffeine (Coffee and Tea)

Caffeine acts as a mild diuretic, which means you lose more magnesium through urine. A 2018 review in Advances in Chronic Kidney Disease noted the effect. Try spacing your coffee or tea at least an hour apart from your magnesium dose.

Alcohol

Alcohol has a triple effect: it increases magnesium loss in urine, reduces absorption in the gut, and can damage the kidneys over time. A 2021 Nutrients study showed that chronic drinking is strongly linked to low magnesium. Limiting alcohol is key if you’re supplementing.

Dairy and Calcium-Rich Foods

Calcium and magnesium compete for absorption. A 2020 paper in Advances in Nutrition reported that high calcium intake at the same time can crowd out magnesium. If you take both supplements, consider separating them by a couple of hours.

Magnesium is vital, but timing matters. Taking your supplement with water and away from heavy calcium, caffeine, or oxalate-rich foods can help you get the most benefit.

FAQs:

What foods interfere with magnesium absorption?

Spinach, beans, tofu, colas, caffeine, alcohol, and calcium-rich dairy can reduce magnesium absorption or increase loss.

Why should I not mix calcium and magnesium supplements?

Calcium competes with magnesium for absorption in the gut. Taking them together can limit how much magnesium your body uses.

Does caffeine reduce magnesium?

Yes, caffeine is a mild diuretic, so it makes the body flush out magnesium through urine.

How can I improve magnesium absorption?

Take supplements with a balanced meal, avoid alcohol or soda, and space out magnesium from calcium-rich foods by a few hours.

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Dietitian shares 5 diabetes-friendly food swaps that actually work: ‘Swap sugary drinks for infused water’
Lifestyle

Dietitian shares 5 diabetes-friendly food swaps that actually work: ‘Swap sugary drinks for infused water’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Managing diabetes comes with mindful dietary and lifestyle changes, but that does not mean giving up on all our favourite foods. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Archana Batra, dietitian said, “It means making smart, delicious swaps that help stabilise blood sugar and improve overall health. These simple changes focus on reducing refined carbohydrates and added sugars while increasing fibre, protein, and healthy fats.” Also read | Diabetologist shares 7 diet tips to keep diabetes, hypertension at bay: ‘Have more protein’

Manage diabetes with these simple tricks.(Pexels)

1. Swap white grains for whole grains:

Instead of white rice, white bread, or regular pasta, choose their whole-grain counterparts like brown rice, quinoa, whole-wheat bread, or millets. The fibre in whole grains slows down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, preventing sharp blood sugar spikes. This swap helps you feel fuller for longer and provides essential nutrients.

2. Swap sugary drinks for infused water:

Sugary sodas, juices, and sweetened teas are major culprits behind blood sugar fluctuations. A single glass can contain a massive amount of added sugar. Instead, swap these for water infused with fresh fruits like lemon, berries, or cucumber, or choose unsweetened teas. This provides flavour without the dangerous sugar load. Also, swap fruit juice for whole fruit. Fruit juice has a concentrated sugar content with none of the fibre of whole fruit. That fibre is what slows down sugar absorption. Opt for a whole apple, an orange, or a handful of berries instead. This gives you the full nutritional benefit, including the fibre, making it a much better choice for managing your glucose levels. Also read | World Diabetes Day 2022: Diet plan for diabetic patients to maintain blood sugar

Cucumber mint water is refreshing. (Shutterstock)
Cucumber mint water is refreshing. (Shutterstock)

3. Swap starchy vegetables for non-starchy vegetables:

While all vegetables are healthy, starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn have a greater impact on blood sugar. Swap these out for a greater portion of non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers. These are low in carbs, high in fibre, and packed with vitamins, making them excellent for a diabetes-friendly diet.

4. Swap processed snacks for nuts and seeds:

Reaching for a bag of chips or crackers can lead to blood sugar swings. Instead, prepare a small handful of nuts (almonds, walnuts) or seeds (chia, flax). These snacks are rich in protein, healthy fats, and fibre, all of which contribute to satiety and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

5. Swap tea-time snacks like chips and cookies with protein and fibre-rich options:

Instead of reaching for fried chips or sugary cookies, try healthier snacks like carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus, sprouts and pomegranate chaat, or kala chana chaat. These are loaded with fibre, protein, and essential nutrients that keep you full longer and help regulate blood sugar levels. Also read | Smart eating for diabetes: Nutritionist-approved diet tips to keep your blood sugar in check

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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