Megan Roe

A combination of cutting-edge technology, increased health awareness, and limited access to health services has spurred the rise of at-home biodata test kits. These often expensive services require customers to post a biological sample – hair, blood, or even faeces – and promise to reveal the secrets of the human body through personal readings. Do-it-yourself genetic, health marker, and gut microbiome test services offer more than just data. They promise a way to become healthier, happier, our ‘optimal’ selves. In general, tracking health statistics is becoming more commonplace – whether you own a smartwatch or not, your phone will track…

For better or for worse, the 21st century heralded the rise of reality television. The 2000s gave us some truly iconic programmes: Big Brother, Supernanny, Wife Swap. But there are some shows that producers would probably rather we forget. Stereotypes surrounding gender and LGBT+ identities, incredibly rigid beauty standards and cruel commentary were encouraged as channels competed for the greatest shock factor. Sure, some complain that ‘you couldn’t make that these days.’ But would we really want to? 10 Years Younger In a similar format to Snog Marry Avoid, participants watch on, horrified, as 100 members of the public wildly overestimate…

As an essential part of our diet, there’s a reason that proteins are conceptualised as the building blocks of life. Protein helps our body to grow and repair, as well as helping our immune system to create antibodies. Proteins are made up of amino acids, 9 of which the body cannot produce by itself, so we must get them from our food. These are known as essential amino acids. Some plant protein sources may not contain all essential amino acids, so it is important to combine different sources in your diet – including grains and vegetables. For instance, incorporating tofu,…

I’m guilty of it. Throwing away stale or rotten food feels almost too easy. Dare I say it can even feel satisfying, clearing away space in the fridge. Why should we care about food waste? According to the UN, food waste and loss accounts for one-tenth of the emissions contributing to climate change. It creates six times more greenhouses gases than global aviation. Households are responsible for 70% of food waste in the UK, and Christmastime is the worst offender. Our overall waste levels will increase by 25-30%. We also waste on average £730 a year on uneaten food! Do…

What is Retinol? Derived from vitamin A, retinoids are marketed as miracle skincare products. Retinol is the most researched skincare ingredient and is proven to have numerous beneficial effects on the skin: Reduces the signs of ageing. Not only does retinol prevent wrinkles, but it has also demonstrated an ability to improve the appearance of existing wrinkles.Increases collagen production and prevents the loss of existing collagen and elastin, keeping your skin plump and youthful.Fades hyperpigmentation, scarring, and sun damage for a more even complexion.Combats acne through enhancing skin cell turnover, regulation of sebum production and its pore-clearing properties. In fact, this was…

What is Lab-Grown Meat? Ten years ago, bioengineered meat sounded like the stuff of science fiction. Fast-forward to 2021: the British Prime Minister is discussing it as a viable food source, as are food technologists at COP26. In November, Upside Foods opened the world’s most advanced cell-based meat facility in California. In laboratory agriculture, the original animal cells are taken from a range of sources: biopsies from living animals, eggs, fishing, or recently slaughtered animals who were already a part of the food system. A cell feeds on nutrients that resemble what develops naturally in an animal’s body. These nutrients (vitamins,…

We often feel our best in the golden summer months. The long, light days put us in a good mood. We’re more active, with sun-kissed skin absorbing essential Vitamin D. As we roll into the cold season, our skin and hair can feel somewhat lacklustre. We can maintain glowing skin and a glossy mane throughout the year if we follow these tips. No Dramatic Changes It is not necessary to redesign your skincare habits if you already have an established routine that works for you. A few simple switches will suffice. Use a gentle cleanser, such as Cetaphil, as your skin…

Why is everyone talking about gut health? Our ‘second brain’ appears to be taking the spotlight in health and wellness. Gut health refers to the function and balance of bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract. Trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes make up your gut microbiota, also known as your gut flora or microbiome. Your gut microbiota is larger than the average human brain and needs to be cared for just like any other body part. Studies have linked gut health to obesity, our immune system and even our mood. Why Are We Hearing More About Gut Health Now? In some cultures, the topic…

We are increasingly confronted with the ethical and environmental impact of our clothes. The average garment worker works 96 hours a week for an extremely low wage. For every minute new clothes are bought in the UK, more CO2 is produced than driving a car around the world six times. In the age of ‘Keep or Return’ videos and £400 Shein hauls on TikTok, the pressure to spend feels stronger than ever before. For those of us who want to cut back on our consumption, it is certainly a struggle. Unlearning long-standing habits and resisting the pressure to own certain items isn’t…

It often feels as though climate change discourse is a blame game. Too much time is wasted on passing the responsibility from citizen to government to corporation, and back again. Undoubtedly, it is important to locate the source of environmental harm, but too much air is wasted while not enough action is taken. As you may already know, the term ‘carbon footprint’ was coined by British Petroleum. The oil giant paid PR professionals to deflect sentiments that fossil fuel companies were responsible for climate change. The carbon footprint calculator, created in 2004, estimated the contribution of private individuals to global…