Embarassed by my Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is seen as one of the most embarrassing disorders to have and from experience, I can safely say that some of the obstacles I've faced have proved this to be true. I'm dishing out the deepest pits of humiliation that my IBS causes. After suffering for 7 years not knowing what was wrong with me, I had a laparoscopy done May 2016 which put an end to that mystery. Some of the challenges I face include extreme abdominal pain which I have nearly everyday, feeling sick, bloating, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, painful sex, unstable bowel habits and most recently night sweats and hot flushes. I used to be embarrassed to talk about this disorder until I realised that there was point in hiding what IBS is about. Very few people are aware of this disorder or what it entails and more awareness is needed. With time, I've learnt to manage my IBS through diet by avoiding my triggers (high gluten foods) or limiting my intake, exercise and trying to stay stress free as often as possible. There are some situations where this culprit makes me want to crawl under a rock and stay there, it is such a messy problem.

Film Review: The Fate of the Furious

As much as I love a good soulful movie, I too love a bit of action. This past Easter weekend was all about fast and furious 8 here in Cardiff. The St Davids Centre even let us all get a piece of the action by presenting this installing in the shopping and retail centre (pictured below). If you haven't watched this movie yet, what are you waiting for! I'm a big fan of all the Fast and furious movies but this one stands out from all the rest. I mean, aren't you that little bit curious why Torreto went rogue? When I first saw the trailer for this movie, I was absolutely furious. How could he, why would he betray his family? That's the main reason why I watched the movie and it was worth it. This is a suspense filled, action-packed movie that's sure to keep you hooked all the way through if you're into fast cars and a bit of danger. It is fun and exciting, it is entertainment.

What's wrong with Afro-textured hair?

The answer to that question is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. In this modern society; our generation feels the pressures of making our hair appear straighter. This is mainly to fit in and give ourselves the best possible opportunities in life. Our natural Afros are judged and viewed as unprofessional & I cannot understand why. The media doesn't help this situation either, there aren't many black role models with natural textured hair; can you think of any from the top of your head? How is our generation as well as the younger generation supposed to know it's okay to have hair like this when it is constantly disapproved?

Basic Easter Muffins

Happy Easter! Kind of wish I had baked up a batch of Easter themed cupcakes instead after scrolling though Instagram but there are times when simple is better. Besides, I'm way too tired to get creative today after going hiking with friends yesterday. Whenever I bake up a batch of muffins, they are never plain; I'm talking flavours like chocolate chip, nut and raisin, blueberry or cranberry orange. That was until I came to the sad realisation that I'm not quite sure how an actual plain muffin tastes, thanks to overpowering stir ins aforementioned. That changed today when I sunk my teeth into a good ol' plain muffin for the very first time, quite the experience. They may not be fancy, gourmet style muffins but they are the core and are sure to bring an even bigger smile to your face. 

Bell Pepper Chicken Soup

As happy as I am that spring came around, I'm a little bit sad to be leaving behind heart-warming soups and stews like these; ones that truly serve their purpose in the cold weather. Spring and summer were meant for lighter meals. I'm talking tasty wraps, salads, maybe soups like squash soup and of course don't forget to always get those Carbohydrates by throwing in the staples. Then again, UK weather doesn't exactly get that much warmer in the Spring or Summer so there's a chance I'll still be sneaking one of these hearty soups every once in a while.

Chicken & Sweet Potato Casserole

April is IBS awareness month and today I'm highlighting one of my favourite IBS friendly dishes, a dish I cooked for the very first time 2 years. It's amazing how just one dish can stick with you. There is nothing more heart-warming and comforting than a flavourful casserole combining juicy chicken and sweet potato. Casseroles are definitely a big contender when it comes to being one of the tastiest chicken dishes out there. What's so great about a casserole is that you get to experience so many different flavours in just one dish. There is no need for major seasoning with this dish so how about you let the natural flavours do the talking. 

My Laparoscopy experience | Featuring belly pics

It's nearly a year since I had my first laparoscopy to check for endometriosis and so as you can imagine, I'm a bit late uploading this video. I remember how I nervous I was the night before and how glad I was when it was over. You can read my night before post here and my 3 weeks post laparoscopy surgery post here. So sit back, relax and have a listen to my story featuring some gross belly pics. If you're squeamish, apologies.

LAPAROSCOPY SURGERY TIPS:

• You can't eat after midnight the day before your surgery.
• Pack a bag with all your essentials the night before to save you some time.
• It's always better to arrive half an hour before your scheduled time.
• Wear loose clothing to your surgery because I promise you, you'll rip off anything tight afterwards.
• They access your pain after the surgery on a scale of 1 to 10 during your time in recovery. Be honest.
• You will be prescribed medication to help with pain; take it as instructed.
• You can eat normally after surgery.
• Your belly will be bloated for several days after the surgery. This is normal so don't worry too much.
• Your throat will be sore for about two days because of the trach tube.
• You won't be able to move properly the first 48 to 72 hours because of the pain. Standing up and sitting up is a very big challenge.
• Sexual activity; I could not think of anything worse. My sex drive has dropped due to the pain so I don't see anything like that happening for a good few weeks. Full recovery first.

Nokhuthula xo 

Belgian dark chocolate & Puffed brown rice Oats breakfast bowl

Its a beautiful, sunny Sunday morning and I'm starting it off with this simple oats breakfast bowl topped with belgian dark chocolate and puffed brown rice. Oats and puffed brown rice keep me full for a good few hours, keeping me going through the day and are great for IBS. I'm more focused on the dark chocolate part of the bowl, I mean its chocolate! Dark chocolate has nutrients that benefit your health containing soluble fiber and minerals as well as contains biologically active organic compounds that act as strong antioxidants.

Dark chocolate also raises high-density lipoprotein in turn protecting low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) from undergoing oxidation. This means LDL is stopped from reacting with free radicals in the body causing it to be reactive resulting in damage to body tissues. And finally, this is one of the biggest and known reason to eat dark chocolate, it reduces the risk of heart disease. Your heart is an organ you have to protect. Puffed brown rice is a great alternative to refined, high sugar cereals available in mainstream supermarkets. Puffed brown rice is 100% whole brown rice that offers a variety of nutritional benefits. Whatever your topping preference, they sure will taste great.

Homer Doughnuts

This simple yet iconic pink doughnut has Homer Simpson written all over it. I cannot remember the last time I indulged in a treat so basic yet so tasty but you know what, I have earned it. After being hidden under a pile of books the past few weeks, I've finally got a few days to breathe having had my Chemistry exam today. It was tough, just hoping for the best I guess but I'm sure glad that's over. All the more reason why I decided to throw on an apron and bake some Homer Doughnuts. I suggest you you eat up these little delights whilst watching an episode of The Simpsons; they somehow taste better that way. After all, you have Homer to thank for this one.

Strawberry & Banana Oats Breakfast Bowl

As tempting as it is to have a line in and skip breakfast altogether on Sundays, it isn't ideal. Breakfast is definitely a saily struggle which is why I tend to keep my trusty Oats close by mainly because of their nutritional value and versatility. Oats are low in saturated fat and are a good source of vitamins minerals and antioxidants. They keep you fuller for longer and of course keep you energised. Rolled oats and chia seeds are my two absolute essentials when putting together a breakfast bowl, they are the building blocks. As for toppings, endless variations await. APRIL IS IBS AWARENESS MONTH and so this month's posts will be jam-packed with some of my FODMAP favourites.

Curried Potatoes

In the mood for a delicious, Indian inspired potato dish; keep on reading. This flavourful dish will quickly become a family favourite; one that requires very basic ingredients and an appetite. As we all know, potatoes are a very versatile food that can be prepared in a number of different ways and are of great nutritional value. Their flesh and skin contains different kinds of vitamins and phytochemicals that are essential for the body, another one you can add to your list of reasons why all kinds of potatoes should be loved. Let's dive right into the details of how you can make this delightful number.