A recent study undertaken by the University of Columbia found that COVID-19 poses a significant risk to those suffering from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and hypertension, as a result of the additional stress that the respiratory disease places on the heart. This means patients with heart conditions are more likely to develop severe symptoms and complications if they contract the virus.
The results of the University of Columbia study are particularly alarming for South Africa as the country currently has the highest incidence of hypertension, globally, among people aged 50 and older. Now, more than ever, it’s important that people with heart conditions across all ages take better care of their hearts.
Taking all necessary precautions, as outlined by the South African government and World Health Organization (www.who.int), is vital, but South Africans can also find some heart-boosting benefits in a cup of Laager Rooibos. This is the only Rooibos tea that carries the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) stamp of approval – a symbol that is used to identify heart-healthy food and beverages.
According to the HSFSA, about 80% of cardiovascular disease can be prevented by lifestyle changes. Professor Pamela Naidoo, CEO of HSFSA, has noted that: “South Africa is a very unequal society with many communities living without enabling environments to exercise or eat foods that are recommended as healthy choices. However, we need to do the best we can to be physically active and eat the correct foods that will prevent obesity and the onset of Type 2 diabetes.”
Rooibos tea has been identified as one product that is beneficial to the heart. In a recent press release, The South African Rooibos Council (SARC) noted that more than two decades of research have been conducted by some of the world’s top scientists to better understand how Rooibos can curb heart disease.
SARC stated that: “The beneficial effects of Rooibos are largely attributed to its complex mix of antioxidant compounds. Currently, 59 of these have been identified of which aspalathin is one of the most abundant antioxidants. Aspalathin is also unique to Rooibos. It’s also Rooibos’ ability to counter inflammation in the body that makes it so potent. Inflammation promotes the growth of cholesterol-rich plaque in one’s arteries, which in turn triggers blood clots – a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.”
As the only Rooibos tea boasting the HSFSA stamp, Laager Rooibos is the leading product in this regard. Laager Rooibos Marketing Manager, Candice Sessions, explained: “Including Laager Rooibos in your daily routine is easy and cost-effective. Second only to tap water, tea is the most cost-effective beverage available. Rooibos is also naturally caffeine-free, so it can be consumed throughout the day and also be used to add flavour and additional health benefits to a number of meals.”
Here are some tips for incorporating Laager Rooibos into your daily routine:
– Start the day and end the day with a cup of Laager Rooibos. It is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, so it can be enjoyed without sugar and at any time of the day or night.
– Switch out sugary soft drinks during the day for home-made iced tea. Prepare a jug of Laager Rooibos (1 teabag per every cup of boiling water), allow to cool, and add a squeeze of honey (optional) and fresh fruit. You can also freeze Rooibos Laager into ice cubes and add to smoothies. Laager Rooibos is also available in a range of flavours which are delicious both hot and cold.
– Prepare your morning oats in freshly boiled Laager Rooibos for extra flavour and health benefits.
– Add Laager Rooibos teabags to boiling water before adding to stock, gravies, and soups.
SARC recommends consuming Rooibos tea throughout the day as this will ensure a constant supply of antioxidants – one of the healthiest ways to stay hydrated. For more info on Rooibos’ benefits, visit www.sarooibos.co.za. For a range of Rooibos recipes and tips visit the Laager Rooibos Facebook page (@LaagerRooibos) or www.joekels.co.za.