Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 497 i Yours Magazine

With celebrities shrinking before our eyes, weightloss injections have quickly become one of the most talked-about trends in the UK. While many users report transformative results, few speak openly about being on them. The jabs seem to have appeared from nowhere (after originally being developed to help those with type II diabetes), during a time when many of us have weight loss on our minds. In fact, a recent UK survey by GP Nutrition found that 43% of people feel more pressure to lose weight now than they did two years ago. Yet despite their rising popularity, many people still feel embarrassed or unsure about using them, even as prescriptions soar. So, are they a genuine medical breakthrough, or just another quick fix in disguise? To help cut through the…

Medical advances mean we should be healthier than ever. Yet the opposite is happening. Research shows our lifestyles are making us overweight, sedentary and more prone to chronic illnesses. In 1957, the average British woman weighed 9st 10lb and was a dress size 12. Today's average British woman weighs 11st, and is a dress size 16. And it wasn't just their waistlines that were smaller – our grandparents also seemed more content. Research from the University of Warwick shows happiness levels peaked that year and have never reached the same heights since. US politician Robert F Kennedy Jr hit the headlines earlier this year by claiming people were healthier in the Fifties and we should learn lessons from this era. So, should we embrace a more traditional approach when it…

If you've noticed your focus slipping or often forget why you've walked into a room, you're not alone. While another cup of tea might offer a quick lift, the real fix could be movement. Exercise benefits far more than muscles and joints. From improving memory to sharpening focus, even gentle activity can have a powerful impact on how clearly we think and feel. ‘Exercise is one of the most powerful things we can do for our brain,’ says Natalie Mackenzie, brain and cognitive expert, and founder of The Cognitive Strategist (thecognitivestrategist.com). ‘It boosts feel-good neurochemicals, encourages brain cell growth, and strengthens synaptic activity. The result? More clarity, energy, and better cognitive performance.’ From simple walks to gentle strength training and yoga, here's how movement can help keep your mind sharp…

Is your freezer only used for frozen peas and forgotten batch-cooked meals? ‘You're missing out on the ultimate pause button for your household,’ says Kate Hall, author of The Full Freezer Method (£14.99 Ebury), thefullfreezer.com. ‘It's about allowing families to easily enjoy a wide variety of meals without any waste and stealing that five minutes to freeze the things that otherwise would be chucked, in a way that makes it easy to use, and also having the confidence to be able to put it to good use.’ She adds, ‘The average four-person household in the UK wastes over £1000 a year on food that ends up in the bin. If food waste were a country, it would be the world's third biggest polluter. Freezer habits really can add up to…

A key box, also known as a key safe or lock box, is a secure container designed to store spare keys so that authorised people can access them without the owner needing to be present. Typically made from strong, weather-resistant metal, a key box is fixed to a wall or sturdy surface and opened using either a mechanical combination code or an electronic keypad. Once installed, you simply place your spare key inside and share the code only with people you trust. When they enter the correct combination, the front panel opens and the key can be retrieved. People use key boxes for a range of practical reasons. They are extremely useful if you want carers, cleaners, tradespeople, or holiday-let guests to enter your property while you're away. They also…

Theatre Don't miss Priscilla Queen of the Desert's dazzling new 30th anniversary tour, based on the Oscar-winning film! Join three fabulous friends as they journey across the Australian Outback in search of love, friendship and acceptance, delivering show-stopping numbers every step of the way. This new production stars Strictly's Kevin Clifton, comedic favourite Adèle Anderson, and more, with over 100 stand-out costumes designed by Vicky Gill. Touring nationwide from 19 February. For tickets visit priscillauktour.com. Podcast I Rest My Case is a must-listen podcast for true-crime fans. Hosted by renowned defence attorneys Dean Strang (of Netflix's Making a Murderer) and Jonathan Goldberg KC, the show explores headline-making trials and hidden courtroom dramas. From Jeffrey Epstein to high-profile UK murder cases, expect honest, gripping tales. Each episode unpacks the toughest questions…

Dear readers, There was a woman in the village, who many suspected had a Slendertone machine. Someone had gone past and seen her upper body shaking like a jelly in a wind tunnel – and she had definitely gone down a dress size. Getting fit and getting slim were always the top two New Year Resolutions. No sooner had the ads for Christmas food disappeared than the guilt tripping would start with promotions for food to eat which made you thinner. We were all about a quick fix. Nimble Bread was not enough. Slim Fast – that was the one that did the most business round our neck of the woods. A friend's mum swore by Limmits biscuits. ‘They're delicious she said,’ handing me one. She bought them in bulk…

Seizing the moment Following brain surgery, Davina McCall, 58, could have been excused for slowing down. So, when partner, Michael Douglas suggested a cliff-top walk, she might well have declined, especially as she was wearing inappropriate cowboy boots. Instead Davina, who's since been diagnosed with breast cancer, ordered herself, ‘Stop being miserable and get up the cliff!’ Had she not, she might have missed a romantic proposal, quickly followed by a wedding. Her positive attitude is a lesson to us all. POIGNANT VIEWING A rarely seen letter written by Mary, Queen of Scots hours before her death is to go on display at Perth Museum from 23 January until 26 April. In it, Mary asked her brother-in-law, King Henry III of France, to put her affairs in order. It is…

It's hard to imagine a world without bumblebees, Britain's iconic pollinator. Sadly, even though this species is classed as common, red-tailed bumblebee numbers have dropped over the past 30 years. But researchers have made a discovery that will hopefully be good news for their conservation. Solar farms planted with hedges and wildflowers have become home to growing numbers of bumblebees and could make a huge difference to their future population.…

If medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro aren't for you, there are natural ways to apply the same science behind weight-loss injections. Understanding how they work can help you make changes to your diet and behaviour that could see you losing weight, without the cost or potential side effects. It turns out that, whether you're looking to shift stubborn pounds, improve your energy levels, or support your health as you age, the key could lie in your gut. The jabs work by boosting the hormone GLP-1, which plays a big role in appetite control, blood sugar balance and weight management – but injections are not the only option. A combination of eating well, supplements and lifestyle changes can help to support your body's natural levels, to lose weight and keep it…

Research by Nuffield Health shows 65% of men say they avoid seeking medical help for as long as possible when they're unwell. Women are often behind men seeking advice and treatment, with married men tending to live longer. Dr Amarjit Raindi of thegpcliniclondon.com tells us which health tests you should be encouraging the men in your life to discuss with their doctor. Blood pressure Men generally develop cardiovascular disease at a younger age than women, and high blood pressure is a risk factor. ‘A healthy blood pressure is usually between 100/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg,’ says Dr Amarjit, ‘Lower is usually better, but under 100/60mmHg can be too low, risking issues like dizziness and fainting. Blood pressure will fluctuate up and down, so consider buying a cuff for home blood pressure measurements…

Winter is the prime time for colds, coughs and sore throats, but before you head to the medicine cabinet, take a look in your kitchen. Everyday ingredients such as garlic, ginger, oats and fruit can help strengthen your immune system and support recovery when you're feeling under the weather. ‘Nutrition plays a huge role in how well your body defends itself, especially during the colder months when our systems are more vulnerable,’ says Hannah Belsham, health and wellbeing physiologist at Nuffield Health. And the best part? ‘You don't need superfoods or expensive supplements,’ Hannah adds. ‘Some of the most effective immune-boosting ingredients are simple, affordable staples, like garlic, yogurt, or citrus fruit.’ So whether you're hoping to dodge the next cold going around, or recover a little faster, here's how…

BEFORE YOU BUY ■ If you're scouring the supermarket shelves for a cleaning spray that will both budge spills and keep surfaces clean, while also being kinder to the environment, there are a couple of things to look out for. Firstly, check the ingredients and any scents are biodegradable and non-toxic. This means they will break down without creating any harm to nature, humans or aquatic life. ■ Check how recyclable the packaging is. This could mean it's been made out of recycled materials, or that it is reusable, and refills are easily available. ■ And look out for certifications on the label that specify the product has met certain standards, such as being vegan, cruelty free or has met certain environmental standards for the ingredients it contains. Yours WHAT'S…

£10 cheque for every letter published Good enough ◆ As a committed recycler I am disappointed in the many charity shops that not only restrict goods being donated but are charging high prices for those accepted. Thankfully I've found a local charity that understands the importance of recycling goods that may not be ‘top notch’ but have much life left in them. I am sure they are not only helping those less fortunate but preventing so many goods going to landfill. It is good to see they are well supported, and I wish them well. Sheila Griffiths, Hereford, Generational confusion ◆ I thought readers may be interested in my early-hours chat with my three-year-old great-granddaughter. Amy: ‘I'm getting in your bed with you.’ Me: ‘That's lovely. Do you wet the…

Lorraine Kelly's Norwegian Odyssey Thursday 15 January, Channel 4 In this three-part documentary, daytime TV favourite Lorraine Kelly embarks on a breathtaking journey through Norway's fjords. This programme is equal parts travelogue and cultural exploration, following Lorraine as she discovers ancient Viking influences, local crafts, Nordic cuisine and spectacular natural wonders, including whales, eagles and, hopefully, the Northern Lights. The series uncovers links between Norway and Scotland, with Lorraine shedding light on the shared history dating back to Norse rule. Interviews with local experts and hands-on participation in folk traditions give viewers a real sense of place, and it's all beautifully shot to reveal Norway as you've never seen it before. Thursday 15 January, Netflix Fans of brilliant whodunnit stories will love this lavish new adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic…

Comedy legend Dawn French is returning to our screens in a new sitcom as formidable matriarch Debbie Fendon. When an admin error declares her husband William (Mark Heap), who suffers from Parkinson's, has died, Debbie hatches a plan. Rather than point out the mistake, she decides to play along, ordering William to hide in the loft so they can claim the health insurance and live out their dotage without any money worries. What could possibly go wrong? Well, for one thing, her son Harry (Craig Roberts) who's in on the scam, is married to a policewoman (Mandip Gill). Tell us more about Debbie Debbie is always right, Debbie is in charge, and Debbie is self-righteous, and unfiltered! I love all that about her because it makes for great comedy. This…

At the beginning of the 20th Century, when milk arrived on British doorsteps in open bottles, garden birds had easy access to the rich cream topping. Blue tits and robins were active drinkers. But when dairies began sealing bottles with aluminium foil tops after the First World War, their food supply was cut off. By the end of the Fifties though, the entire UK blue tit population had learnt how to pierce the foil tops to siphon off the cream. As a species they'd gone through an extraordinary learning process by communicating well to each other, unlike robins. While they, too, possessed the ability to share their skills with each other through behaviour and song, they didn't as a rule. Today, with most households buying milk from the supermarket, the…

For three decades, Coleen Nolan was in the mood for dancing. As a member of The Nolans, she travelled the world and enjoyed phenomenal success with her sisters – the group was bigger than The Beatles in Japan! Their wholesome brand of pop preceded bands such as the Spice Girls and Girls Aloud, earning them a place in British chart history as one of the most successful girl bands ever. Coleen is also an award-winning broadcaster, bestselling author and has been a popular panellist on TV show Loose Women for 25 years. Her new touring show, This is Me, promises to be ‘the ultimate girls’ night of laughter, stories, surprises and music’. Ahead of that, Coleen shares the lessons she has learned throughout her life and career. Always be true…

In the UK, over 10 million of us suffer with arthritis or similar joint conditions and it's the leading cause of disability. The risk increases with age, and osteoarthritis in particular is more common in women. Dr Wendy Holden, consultant rheumatologist at Curaleaf Clinic (curaleafclinic.com), says, ‘Arthritis is an umbrella term for conditions that cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. There are more than 100 types, but the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It can be caused by wear and dysfunctional repair of cartilage. Other causes include autoimmune disease, injury, infection, or even genetic factors.’ And with the cold weather in full swing, Dr Rod Hughes, rheumatologist and ambassador for GOPO Joint Health (gopo.co.uk), says patients may notice symptoms bothering them more. He explains, ‘Low-pressure weather…

You've tried everything. The lavender sprays, the magnesium supplements, the blackout blinds, even the eye mask that promises ‘deep, restorative slumber’. And yet, night after night, you still find yourself clock-watching, tossing and turning, and dreading the morning alarm. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. As a nation, we are obsessed with sleep. We've absorbed endless rules: ‘You must get eight hours’, ‘No caffeine after 2pm’, ‘Bedtime must always be the same’, but the more we strive for perfect sleep, the harder it seems to achieve. So, what if the problem isn't you, it's your expectations? That's the refreshing perspective of leading sleep psychologist Stephanie Romiszewski, who has spent nearly 20 years working in sleep medicine. ‘Sleep is not something you achieve,’ she says. ‘It's something your body already…

Unsure which stories to believe about protecting your heart and which to ignore? Here, British Heart Foundation senior cardiac nurse, Ruth Goss, explores which are true, which are false, which need more research and, most importantly, what we can all do to improve our heart health right now. Heart attacks are more common in winter TRUE ‘A BHF-funded research study, looking at health records of people aged over 60 in the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands, found that heart attacks and strokes were more than twice as likely to happen during cold spells lasting four days or more. ‘Stress can lead to unhealthy habits that increase risk’ ‘The reasons are still not entirely clear, but this could be linked to the effect of the cold on narrowing blood vessels in…

3 WINTER WARRIOR VIBURNUM ‘Lisarose’ £7.25/2L pot Winter red buds open to fragrant, creamy blooms, lighting up dull days with subtle charm and evergreen structure beneath. Height & Spread 3m. grasslands.co.uk ‘Dawn’ £14.99/2L pot Dense clusters of fragrant blooms burst through winter's chill, filling the air with spring promise. Height 3m Spread 2m. 3fatpigs.co.uk ‘Eve Price’ £10.99/2-3L pot Banish the winter blues and head into the garden to enjoy the pinkish-white blooms that sing out from the glossy leafy foil. Height & Spread 3m. hedging.co.uk Cyclamen ‘illusia’ £8.99/13cm pot Defying the norm, ‘Illusia’ throws tradition out the window with upward-facing blooms and seriously flirty, pink-edged petals. Far too glam for frosty sleepovers, she prefers a cosy windowsill or a sheltered garden nook. Delicate? Yes. Dull? Never! She's the diva of…

Why go? This lush holiday spot is often called the Island of eternal spring because it's the perfect place to visit all year round, which is why families love coming here. The winter months can get a little cooler, but it still feels much warmer compared to Northern Europe. Even during the hottest summer days, the refreshing sea air keeps things comfortable – making it more attractive than some of the super-hot spots in Spain. Nights are cooler too, always with a gentle, soothing breeze blowing by. As well as the incredible beaches and endless sunshine, there's so much more to discover on this gorgeous island. A very stylish stay Seaside Palm Beach is a family-friendly hotel that feels like a hidden getaway in the south of the island, not…

• 4 JANUARY 1958 • HILLARY IN POLE POSITION In an historic achievement, intrepid New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary and his team successfully reached the South Pole, marking the first overland exploration of the region since Captain Robert F Scott's ill‑fated expedition of 1912. The final journey was no small feat, as Hillary and his comrades traversed the last 70 miles (113km) through challenging weather conditions. The treacherous soft snow made progress difficult, and team members were forced to use shovels to clear a path for their tractors. However, their most pressing concern was that, as they neared their destination, they had only a single drum of petrol left. ‘We are heading hellbent for the Pole. God willing and crevasses permitting.’ Sir Edmund Hillary ahead of arrival The team had journeyed…

After five years of saving for a deposit, Stacey and Joe had finally moved into their own home, a two-bedroomed end-of-terrace house in a quiet street. Stacey was looking forward to decorating the place and making it their own, but Joe disagreed with all her suggestions. Their previous home, a flat, was bland and boring – magnolia walls and beige carpet throughout. ‘There's no point in spending any money – we're not staying here,’ Joe had said, when Stacey had suggested brightening the flat up. Reluctantly, she had agreed with him, but she carried on mentally planning what she would like to do when they left for pastures new and had their own place. She visualised net curtains, or floor-length drapes, and squashy sofas with plump cushions. A few colourful…

Pat, 64, from East London is looking for male/female penpals who would also like to meet up for a cuppa/chat. Her hobbies include reading, puzzles and music. JAN1-101 Yvonne, 85, a widow from west Wales, lives with her two dogs and is looking for friends to go to garden centres, coffee shops or anywhere local with, male/ female, would also like pen friends. JAN1-102 Toni, 64, from Dorset is looking for a gentleman friend. She enjoys countryside/coastal walks, cinema, eating out and conversation. A non-smoker preferred. JAN1-103 Angie, 62, from Pembrokeshire is looking for a companion/ relationship. She likes music, days out, holidays and sewing. She would prefer a gentleman from Wales between 60-70. JAN1-104 Non-driver Mr S, 70, from the Northants area is retired with varied interests, he would…

WORTH OF £1,820PRIZES TO WIN! Wordsearch Travel to distant galaxies, encounter aliens and explore the dark side of technology as you look for all these sci-fi films. Entries split by an oblique are found separately in the grid. ANSWERS ON PAGE 104 ALIEN ARRIVAL BACK TO THE FUTURE BLADE RUNNER CLOSE ENCOUNTERS / OF THE THIRD KIND CLOUD ATLAS DUNE EX MACHINA FLASH GORDON FORBIDDEN PLANET FRANKENSTEIN GRAVITY INCEPTION INTERSTELLAR METROPOLIS MINORITY REPORT PLANET OF THE APES POOR THINGS QUATERMASS AND THE PIT SILENT RUNNING STAR WARS THE FIFTH ELEMENT THE MAN WHO FELL TO EARTH THE MARTIAN THE MATRIX THE TERMINATOR THE TIME MACHINE TOTAL RECALL UNDER THE SKIN WIN £100 WHERE IS SAMMY SQUIRREL? Find where he's hiding in this issue of Yours and you could win £100. To enter,…