Nutrition and Food advice - 1

Top Nutritionists In Hong Kong To Feel Good Inside Out

Fashila Kanakka — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 22:00:35 +0000

You are what you eat! As much as we tell our kids this, we may neglect our own healthy eating habits. Whether you’re looking to target specific health concerns or maintain a healthy lifestyle, these nutritionists and dieticians in Hong Kong offer bespoke plans.

Mamas are all so used to chowing down our kids’ leftovers and basically whatever’s left in the fridge as to not waste food. We admit it’s hard to take the initial step in incorporating healthier lifestyle changes, especially when we’re juggling daytime jobs and full-time parenting. Consulting a dietician makes it much simpler to target your needs and come up with a tailored plan which includes changes in diet, exercise and mindfulness. Below we’re highlighting top nutritionists in Hong Kong to help lead healthier lives!

Omni Vitality – Personalised nutrition plans backed by evidence, supported by lifestyle changes, supplements and more

Want to feel better at 40 than you did at 20? Founder of Omni Vitality, Katia is a master’s level functional nutritional therapist and NLP coach specialising in hormonal imbalance, prenatal and postnatal care, stress resilience, energy and performance and more. Omni Vitality is dedicated to helping clients achieve optimal health through lifestyle changes, supplements — and of course, formulating a balanced diet. Whether you’re addressing specific health concerns or simply seeking to become your best self, book your consultation with Katia at either IMI, The Upper House or via Zoom, or join her cooking classes and nutrition workshops at The Upper House.

Use code SASSY to enjoy 10% off Omni Vitality’s workshops and cooking classes at The Upper House. Valid until Friday, 24 October, 2025.

Omni Vitality, katia@omnivitality.com, 9223 2513, Instagram: @omni.vitality, www.omnivitality.com

B Fit The Wright Way – Personalised nutrition and wellness plans for busy Hong Kong moms with support and guidance to be your “best self”

Busy Mamas, it’s time to prioritise you! Beth Wright, founder of B Fit The Wright Way is here to help you reclaim your health and wellness goals. As a Functional Medicine Nutritionist, Beth partners with fellow moms to create personalised and sustainable wellness strategies. Whether you’re looking to shed postpartum weight, boost your energy, improve sleep, enhance digestion or reduce inflammation, Beth’s tailored plans will empower you to become your best self. Book a 1:1 consultation to kickstart your self-care journey!

Mention SASSY to get 10% off 1-on-1 consultations with Beth.

B Fit The Wright Way, beth@bfit-thewrightway.com, Instagram: @bfit_thewrightway,
www.bfit-thewrightway.com

See Way Consultancy – Diet advice to help weight management, eating disorders and support for health concerns

Are you seeking expert guidance to tackle weight issues, overcome eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia and binge eating, or address other diet-related health concerns? See Way Consultancy provides personalised diet plans to empower you to become your best self and feel good inside out. There’s also support for nutrition of cancer patients, those with metabolic issues and those with hypertension and diabetes. See Way Consultancy also raises awareness of a healthy diet in the workplace by providing seminars, training sessions and tailored workshops.

See Way Consultancy, Room 2829, 28/F Lee Garden Two, 28 Yung Ping Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, 6996 6866, Instagram: @seeyourwaytonutrition

EBC Holistic – Helps patients restore gut health whilst focusing on mental well-being

Founder Emilie Berthet Clairet is a Holistic Health Counsellor and Clinical Hypnotherapist with a background in medical bacteriology and training in hypnotherapy. EBC Holistic combines medical expertise with holistic care to deliver personalised, whole-body wellness solutions. Emilie’s preventive approach to medicine focuses on helping patients restore gut balance while addressing emotional well-being for a truly holistic path to health. You can book appointments with Emilie through Vitality Center or Restore Integrative Clinic.

EBC Holistic, 9733 7116, Instagram: @ebc_holistic, www.ebc-holistic.com

Mint Dietitian Clinic – Comprehensive body analysis, detailed nutritional assessment and achievable plans

Dr. Terry Ting has been serving in the Hospital Authority for more than 20 years and has extensive clinical experience in 11 specialities. Conveniently located in Central, Mint Dietitian Clinic treats pregnancy and postpartum nutritional needs, eating disorders, children’s health issues related to nutrition and more.

Mint Dietitian Clinic, Room 1003, 10/F, Melbourne Plaza, 33 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9486 6773, www.mintdietitian.hk

Sally Poon – Tailored diet plans and lifestyle changes for long-term effectiveness

Providing a holistic and sustainable approach to nutritional needs, Dr. Sally Poon is extensively experienced in the field and her expertise covers a range of health conditions including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal health, specialised diets (like vegan, keto, gluten-free, etc), food allergies and more.

Personal Dietician, Room 805, 8/F, Yu To Sang Building, 37 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9820 2566, www.personaldietitian.com.hk

PURE Nutrition – Improve your relationship with food and boost your athletic performance

Instead of merely focusing on what to cut from your diet, PURE Nutrition also sheds light on what to add for a more balanced approach. Tailoring its services into three categories of weight loss, athletic performance and general health, all are focused into four different pillars to give you a better idea of how to actually achieve your goals.

PURE Nutrition, 21/F Asia Standard Tower, 59-65 Queens Road Central, Hong Kong, www.pure-nutrition.com.hk

Balance Health – A one-stop shop for all your wellness needs

Catherine Hermant, Balance Health’s registered kinesiologist and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach (IIN), combines Energetic Kinesiology techniques with the latest Functional Nutritional science to provide her clients the best and long-lasting results. Using an integral and functional approach through nutrition and detoxification strategies, Catherine gets to the root of the issue – her consultations can be conducted in English or French.

Balance Health, 2705, 27/F, Universal Trade Centre 3-5 Arbuthnot Road Central, Hong Kong, 2530 3315, www.balancehealth.com.hk

The post Top Nutritionists In Hong Kong To Feel Good Inside Out appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Vegan Swaps For Kids: The Best Alternatives In Hong Kong To Tackle Allergies & Dietary Requirements

Divya Butani — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 22:00:03 +0000

Private chef Divya Butani, aka The Veggie Wifey, shares her insight on the best vegan alternatives on the market for kids with allergies or dietary requirements.

While some nay-sayers question whether vegans get enough protein, the growing tribe of elite athletes who vouch for veganism may disprove that. Sometimes, due to serious food allergies, intolerances or trying to avoid the hormones and additives associated with eating meat, many families increasingly incorporate more vegan options into their meal plans.

Only three per cent of Hong Kong’s population are vegetarians or vegans as per a survey in 2020, but that number is rapidly growing. As a newbie to the plant-based lifestyle, it can be stressful to find healthy alternatives for traditional diet staples. Many alternatives to dairy, eggs and cheese are highly processed with several hidden additives that can do more harm than good for growing tummies. With 1 in 20 children in Hong Kong reported to have a food allergy (and that number seems to be rising), it’s time to be cautious about what kids consume.

To help support your family’s wholesome plant-based diet, here are kid-friendly vegan swaps that are accessible, affordable and healthy.

Vegan Alternatives to Milk

There are an abundance of plant-based milks available in the market right now, with great options derived from rice, soy, oat, pea and nut milks.

When choosing plant-based milk for your children, it is important to look at the ingredients and choose one that is high in fat and protein — macronutrients essential for their growth and development. Additionally, some plant-based milks tend to use less of the main ingredient and put in additives to bind the ‘milk’ together. Watch out for ingredients like xanthan gum or guar gum as these are highly processed binding agents and have shown to cause some laxative effects in children.

I usually use fortified, non-GMO soya milk because it ticks most of the boxes in terms of taste, nutrition, accessibility and affordability. It is also the most versatile of the lot. When making vegan mayonnaise, it creates the same thickness as dairy milk. The next best alternative would be pea milk as that also has a good protein content, and is higher in calcium than regular dairy milk.

Making your own milk at home may be an option too. However, you should be mindful that some alternatives like cashew milk are not very high in protein, fat or calories for toddlers.

Vegan Alternatives to Eggs

Depending on what you’re making, you may need egg substitutes. For example, a vegan ‘omelette’ or pancake can be made using chickpea flour, salt, water and veggies. This is a high protein alternative that is tasty too.

When baking cakes, there are a few substitutes that are child-friendly. For cupcakes, mashed bananas provide the best texture. For baked goods like brownies or cookies, pureed apricots are a good alternative. If you’d like to make these more nutritious for your children, grind one part chia or flax seeds and mix it with two parts water. These seeds are high in omega-3, calcium and iron. I would avoid applesauce as the store-bought variety have added sugar and several preservatives.

For lighter, fluffier cakes, using two parts arrowroot powder with three parts water is a nutrient-rich alternative to eggs.

Vegan Alternatives to Yoghurt

Out of all the ones I have made my kids try, they love the texture of a light, creamy and slightly sweet coconut yoghurt most. Cocobellas is my go-to brand for vegan yoghurt, and you can add it to anything you need yoghurt for. They have natural, vanilla and mango flavours available in Hong Kong.

You can also make your own by scooping the white flesh of a fresh coconut (the coconut ‘meat’) and place it in a blender with a little of the coconut water. This creates a creamy, yoghurt like texture to replace dairy yoghurt. You can read more details here and see how I used this yoghurt to create delicious treats for the kids.

Other options like soy yoghurt are good alternatives, but are not widely available around many locations in Hong Kong.

Vegan Alternatives to Cheese

Out of all the vegan alternatives, this is the hardest to substitute for kids because store-bought vegan cheese is extremely processed. Vegan cheese also has many additives and preservatives to provide its cheese-like flavour and shape.

In the vegan world, nutritional yeast is a well-known cheese-flavour substitute with a boost of nutrition. It is important to know that there are two types of nutritional yeast: fortified and non-fortified. Fortified nutritional yeast includes synthetic vitamins during the manufacturing process to increase nutrient content, while non-fortified nutritional yeast contains all the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals from the cell growth during fermentation. When making a purchase for your family, it is best to use the non-fortified nutritional yeast.

If you’d like to try vegan cheese, stores like Foodcraft, Neighbour Green and Vegan Market have extensive cheese varieties for you and your family to try.

Vegan Alternatives to Butter

Like cheese, vegan butters are highly processed and can contain a lot of unnecessary ingredients for children. It can also be very high in sodium. Most vegan butters use a blend of canola, coconut or sunflower oil with some artificial flavouring and preservatives. There is also not an extensive variety of affordable vegan butters in Hong Kong.

For most recipes that call for butter, you can easily use oil as a replacement. The general rule of thumb would be one part butter to ¾ oil, and 1:1 when using coconut oil. The healthiest oils to use for children are ones that have a high smoke point, not very processed and low in saturated fats. Avocado oil, olive oil, sesame and flaxseed oil are some of the most suitable oils to support heart health, especially in growing children.

Having said that, oil should always be consumed in moderation and deep-fried foods for children (and yourself) should be limited.

Alternatives to Nuts

This is essential for kids who have nut allergies. The most common allergens amongst children in Hong Kong are milk (including cheese and chocolate), eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, seafood, shellfish, soy and wheat. Most schools have now adopted a nut-free policy to help protect those who have serious nut allergies.

To create the same crunch without nuts, I created a seed spread for my children that contains sunflower and pumpkin seeds. These two seeds are extremely high in protein, especially when roasted, and contain good fats for the kids. You can also use these seeds as a replacement for any recipe that calls for nuts.

A Vegan Pasta Recipe That Your Kids Will Love

Most kids love pasta because of the generous oodles of cheese and butter. What can you make for a child who wants to or needs to follow a vegan diet?

Try this vegan pesto pasta. The vegan substitute for parmesan is nutritional yeast, and I’ve used Thai basil instead of Italian basil to get a different flavour profile. It’s easy to make and kids gobble it up (they don’t even mind the hidden veggies!) without missing the sprinkled cheese. Give it a go and let me know what you think!

The post Vegan Swaps For Kids: The Best Alternatives In Hong Kong To Tackle Allergies & Dietary Requirements appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Organic Food Stores: Healthy Food And Organic Vegetables In Hong Kong

Sassy Mama — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 22:00:00 +0000

Shop at organic grocery stores, both online and in-person to stock all your health foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, snacks, supplements and more. It’s never been easier to buy organic!

Sometimes, it can be difficult to source good quality meat and seafood, groceries and nutritious, organic food (even better when it’s fresh from the farm!). Naturally, we want to make sure we’re feeding our families the best produce we can find and, ideally, ensure our fruit and vegetables come from a reliable source and aren’t wrapped in thousands of layers of plastic. The good news is that there are numerous organic stores and companies readily available in Hong Kong that can provide you with fresh, wholesome, organic produce and the vast majority will also deliver straight to your door! Here are some of our go-to organic, green and fresh food spots around the city.

Jump to:
Organic Health Food Stores
Fresh Organic Vegetables, Fruits And Groceries
Hong Kong Farmers’ Markets

Organic Food Stores In Hong Kong

Organic Plus — Healthy food, drinks and products of the highest quality

Stock up on your grocery and personal care essentials at Organic Plus. It carries an extensive range of organic beverages (including a dozen different kinds of milk), soaps and hair care products, must-haves for Asian cooking and even baby food!

Delivery: Free for orders over $500, all over Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories and specific outlying islands (Ma Wan and Discovery Bay require an additional $150 shipping fee).

Organic Plus, various locations across Hong Kong, 2755 1880, www.organicplus.com.hk

Food for Life — Holistic lifestyle store with organic food options

With tons of health foods and supplements to offer, this health food store is a convenient choice for all your vegan, gluten-free and organic needs. Order online and your chosen goods will be delivered straight to your door (outlying islands excluded). Alternatively, you can also pop into one of the four main stores and affiliated stores in Hong Kong.

Delivery: Free for orders over $600, additional charges may apply for Tung Chung, Sai Kung and outlying islands.

Food for Life, various locations across Hong Kong, 2838 8902, www.foodforlifehk.com

Foodcraft – Shop health foods and organic products including gluten-free groceries and more

A one-stop-shop for all your organic health food needs, Foodcraft stocks everything good for your gut – from sauerkraut and bone broth to gluten-free bread and you name it! You can also find plenty of healthy snacks for your kids, and personal care items for yourself and your pets too.

Delivery: Free for orders over $600 in Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, and over $800 for The New Territories. Find more details here.

Foodcraft, Unit A, 16/F, Yiu Ga Factory Building, 62 Victoria Road, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 5917 1181, www.foodcraft.hk

Redwood Nutrition House — Organic food store also sourcing health supplements

Whether you’re looking for some extra nutritional support, have cholesterol problems, or need sleeping aids – Redwood Nutrition House has got you sorted. At its Wan Chai store, you can find almost everything healthy and organic that your heart desires, from holistic health bites to nutritious snacks (always be sure to stock up on those) as well as gluten-free options!

Delivery: Free shipping to Hong Kong Island for orders $500 or above; Kowloon for orders $800 or above; New Territories for orders $1,000 or above.

Redwood Nutrition House, Shop 9B, G/F, 164 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 6385 5211, www.redwoodhealthhk.com

More Organic And Health Food Stores In Hong Kong

Green Dot Dot – Many locations across Hong Kong (and online), specialising in Asian ingredients. www.greendotdot.com
Live Zero – A bulk food shop in Sai Ying Pun and Sai Kung with many organic food options. www.livezero.hk
Green Common – Extensive range of plant-based groceries, meat substitutes like Omnipork, and organic food. www.greencommon.com
Nutri Alley – Caters to those with allergies with its range of “free-from” products (dairy, gluten, nuts, etc). www.nutrialley.com
One Vegan Shop – Vegan foods, supplements, beauty and household products. www.oneveganshop.com
Spice Box Organics – Socially conscious company stocking spices, traditional meds and household and body products. www.spiceboxorganics.com

Where To Buy Organic Vegetables, Fruits, Meat And Produce

Eat FRESH — Local, organic fruits and vegetables

This online organic green grocer has become a favourite among Sassy Mamas. Choose to order your fruits, vegetables and herbs a-la-carte, or opt for a regular subscription of seasonal organic goodies. We’re also loving its Baby & Toddler Bag which features a recipe book full of healthy baby and toddler meals, as well as seasonal ingredients to help bring those meals to fruition.

Delivery: Free for orders $345 or above. Find more details here.

Eat FRESH, 9785 3267, www.eatfresh.com.hk

Read More: Recipes For Picky Eaters

Vegetable Marketing Association — Hong Kong farmers’ collective

A government-run platform helping local farmers in Hong Kong, it changes its selection of vegetables every other season. In winter, the vegetables include flowering Chinese cabbage, pea shoots, radishes, Irish potatoes and Chinese kale, amongst others. During the warmer months, you can find an assortment of gourd, cucumbers, string beans and eggplant.

Vegetable Marketing Association, 2387 4164, www.locafreshhk.com

Where To More Buy Organic Vegetables, Fruits and Produce

Dragontail Farm Ltd. – Organic produce is locally grown on Lantau Island. www.leoying.wixsite.com/dragontail-farm
Eat The Kiwi – Organic food from New Zealand. www.eatthekiwi.com
Cheese Club – Curated fruit and vegetable subscription boxes, plus baby food, cheese and wine. www.cheeseclub.hk

Organic Farmers’ Markets In Hong Kong

Central Farmers Market At The Star Ferry Pier

Every Wednesday (unless there’s a T3 or higher), head to Central Star Ferry Pier 7 on the second floor as it transforms into a farmer’s market offering local and organic fruits and veggies. Organised by the Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden and SEED, you can rest assured that the produce here is as natural and fresh as it gets!

Central Farmers Market, Ferry Pier No.7, Central, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/SEEDORGHK, www.seed.org.hk

Mei Foo Market — Farmers’ market in Kowloon

If you’re living on Kowloon side and finding it hard to purchase organic produce, head to the farmer’s market in Mei Foo on any Sunday between 11am to 5pm. Take MTR exit B and right next to the wet market, you’ll find fresh veggies ready to be stirred up into a salad!

Mei Foo, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3480 7883, www.facebook.com/meifoodfarmfest

Editor’s Note: “Organic Food Stores: Health Food And Organic Vegetables In Hong Kong” was most recently updated in August 2024 by Veena Raghunath with thanks to Fashila Kanakka for her contribution.

The post Organic Food Stores: Healthy Food And Organic Vegetables In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Where To Buy Supplements In Hong Kong For The Family

Alex Purcell Garcia — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 22:00:43 +0000

While we’re doing our utmost to live our best life, a little extra support can help. From iHerb to Fanda Pharmacy, GNC, oGreen and more, here are some of the best family vitamins and supplements stores in Hong Kong.

Even if the family is eating the healthiest food possible (most of the time at least!) there may be occasions when an additional boost of vitamins and minerals is required. It pays to know which supplements each member of the family might need and where to get it. While your doctor should be the first port of call for recommendations on what to take, here are some top vitamins and supplement stores in Hong Kong.

Editor’s Note: This article is for reference only. Make sure you check with your doctor before any member of the family starts taking vitamins or supplements.

iHerb – Nature’s Way Alive! Women’s Ultra Multivitamin

“Does anyone have an iHerb code?” is a common question you’ll see in many parent chat groups! If you’re not already familiar, iHerb is a global online retailer selling over 50,000 curated health and wellness products, beauty, groceries, and sports nutrition including a wide range of family vitamins, at the best possible value. What’s more, your orders are delivered free on orders over $300 with the utmost convenience, promptly to your door. For a multivitamin tailored to women whilst ticking all the boxes, check out Nature’s Way Alive! Women’s Ultra Multivitamin. It’s formulated with 200% or more daily value of 10 vitamins and minerals, including an active form of methyl B12, 7 plant-based blends including Daily Greens, CranRx®, and Hair, Skin & Nails blends, and 60 mg Orchard Fruits & Garden Veggies powder blend per serving!

Use code MAMAHKN to get 24% off your first purchase OR MAMAHK20 to get 20% off when spending $600 or more site-wide. Both valid until Tuesday, 31 December, 2024.

iHerb, www.hk.iherb.com

CATALO — Prenatal and family supplements in Hong Kong

We’re all taking extra precautions when it comes to our family’s health. CATALO is known for its focus on natural ingredients and exceptional formulas when it comes to family vitamins. With a range that covers everyone from expectant mums to kids and seniors, the whole family can benefit from a dose of vitality.

CATALO, www.catalo.com

Fanda – Vitamins, supplements and perfume all in one place

Fanda is a great local favourite for health care products, over-the-counter medicine, prescriptions, vitamins and supplements and more. With stores over in Tsim Sha Tsui and Central, ask the helpful staff to point you in the right direction for what you need.

Fanda, various locations across Hong Kong, www.fanda.com.hk

GNC Live Well – US vitamin and supplements store in Hong Kong

Stocking a huge range of supplements and vitamins across the board, you’ll be spoilt for choice! GNC is a well-known international brand located all over Hong Kong, with supplement sections for kids’ development, women’s health, men’s health and more.

GNC Live Well, various locations across Hong Kong, 2299 3390, www.gnclivewell.com.hk

Mannings – Large range of vitamins and supplements in Hong Kong including Centrum, Jamieson, GNC, Swisse DHC and more

Here you’ll find plenty of vitamins and supplements for all the family. From baby DHA, and vitamin D3 drops as a supplement for children aged 6 months or above (there are even vegetarian versions), to a selection of brands for parents, including GNC and Caltrate.

Mannings, various locations across Hong Kong, 2299 3381, www.mannings.com.hk

oGreen.hk – Wide range of supplements for all the family

oGreen has a small selection of vitamins on its website, but it also has stock in the Mong Kok and Causeway Bay stores. Here you’ll find probiotics, vitamin D drops and multivitamins and more for the kids, Mamas and Papas.

oGreen.hk, Room 1703, 17/F, Omega Plaza, 32 Dundas Street, Mong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2780 1182, www.ogreen.hk

Watsons – Health foods and supplements for a range of needs, including Blackmoors, Nestle, elevit, Caltrate and more

This classic stocks a wide range of products and brands for Papas, Mamas and the little ones. From click and collect, home delivery or in-store shopping, you can stock up in no time at all.

Watsons, various locations across Hong Kong, 2608 8383, www.watsons.com.hk

Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) — Vitamins, supplements and naturopathic advice

Want to shop for your family vitamins online and also receive expert advice? Turn to IMI for clinical-grade vitamins in gummy and powder forms — all taste-tested and approved by kids! All natural supplements are free from bulking agents, fillers and additives with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options available too.

Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI), 13/F, Kailey Tower, 16 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2523 7121, www.imi.com.hk

More Stores To Get Vitamins & Supplements Delivered To Hong Kong

Amazon Global – Here you can order a wide range of supplements from this online store will deliver to Hong Kong. www.amazon.com
Biovea – Biovea stocks high-end health and beauty products with a large range of vitamins, minerals and supplements. www.biovea.com/hk
eVitamins – Discount supplements from top supplement brands that deliver to Hong Kong, www.evitamins.com/hk
Immortelle Health – Nutritional, vitamins and dietary supplements from Canada and other locations. www.immortellehealth.com
Puritan’s Pride (in partnership with Zenith Pro) – This site doesn’t show on Puritan’s Pride’s official list of distributors but you can get this international brand along with others via Zenith Pro. Think children’s gummy multivitamins and more. www.puritanspride.hk

If you’re specifically looking for pre-and postnatal vitamins, take a look at our helpful guide where you’ll find recommendations on what you might need and what to shop in Hong Kong.

Do Children Need Additional Vitamins And Supplements?

If tots to teens are eating a healthy, balanced diet, then generally they won’t need to take additional vitamins or supplements. However, while exclusively breastfed babies get almost all the nutrients they need, it is recommended that they also have a vitamin D supplement – even if the Mama is taking one at the same time – for their first year of life.

American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a vitamin D supplement of 400 IU per day from the first few weeks of life, to be continued unless your bubba starts on at least one litre a day of vitamin D-fortified formula. For later in life, a small amount is found in oily fish and eggs and a great source of Vitamin D is safe sunlight exposure.

As your child grows most won’t need to take additional supplements, however, if they do need a helping hand (some children can be picky eaters!), they can take supplements for:

Vitamin A (found in dairy products, carrots, dark green veggies and sweet potatoes etc.)
Vitamin C (found in fruits including oranges and strawberries, and veggies like broccoli)
And vitamin D, among others.

A child-friendly multivitamin could be a good option unless your doctor has a more specific recommendation but, again, always check with your doctor before giving any supplements to youngsters.

What Vitamins And Supplements Should Parents Take?

For Mamas, vitamin and supplement needs will vary depending on what stage of motherhood you’re in. Pre-and during pregnancy, you’ll need to keep an eye on your nutritional needs. Prenatal vitamins are a must for Mamas-to-be, so be sure to chat with your midwife or gynaecologist.

While breastfeeding, or postnatal, there are also things to include in your diet for optimal breastmilk. There are also daily recommended supplements that women should generally take, long after the kids have grown up. A good multivitamin should see you through to keep iron, calcium and other important vitamins and minerals in check.

For Papas, a daily multivitamin supplement is also a great idea. If you’re trying to conceive, there are some specific supplements that might boost your chances. According to doctor Sherry Ross (gynaecologist and author) men can increase their chances of healthy sperm by having sufficient B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, and Selenium. Zinc is apparently helpful in maintaining normal testosterone levels, while selenium has been shown to reduce the risk of birth defects and improve low sperm counts.

Editor’s Note: “Where To Buy Supplements In Hong Kong For The Family” was originally published by Alex Purcell Garcia and most recently updated in June 2024 by Sassy Mama.

The post Where To Buy Supplements In Hong Kong For The Family appeared first on Sassy Mama.

The Best Meal Plan Deliveries For Families In Hong Kong

Sassy Mama — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 22:00:56 +0000

Overwhelmed by the meal prep and cooking for your family? It’s okay to let professionals do it for you! We’ve rounded up the best meal plan subscriptions in Hong Kong. Here you can get everything from customised diet meal plans for weight loss to healthy meal plans for postpartum nourishment.

Mamas are busy women, and it’s not always easy to make sure that every meal is balanced, healthy and nutritious (as well as calorie controlled if you’re counting). Thankfully, there are several catering companies in Hong Kong that deliver ready-made, delicious and healthy meals to take the stress out of your food prep. These customised meal plans take your needs and dietary requirements in consideration to deliver delicious and healthy meals to families in Hong Kong!

Baby Dine – Healthy meal deliveries for babies and kids

Is moving your baby to solids stressing you out? Let Hong Kong’s first and ONLY baby food and kids’ meal delivery company do it for you. Baby Dine specialises in making fresh food for babies as young as five months old and going up to older kids (even adults can enjoy these nutritious meals!). Baby porridge is made without sugar and salt. It is freshly handmade and delivered to your door. The meals for toddlers and big kids have been carefully created keeping the nutritional needs of each age and stage – sufficient iron and zinc which is essential for brain development – and the tastes of young children (veggies hidden cleverly!). Worried about your picky eaters ones tiring of these meals? Menus are changed every week, so they retain their freshness and novelty.

Sassy Mama Tip: Want to try this for your child? New customers can enjoy Free Trial Day on the first Thursday of every month until end of 2024. You get one free trial and all you pay is $50 for delivery.

Get a 10% discount with the code SASSYMAMA when you checkout. Valid for one-time use before Saturday, 31 May 2025.

Baby Dine, Unit 1, 1F, Sun Fung Industrial Building, 9 Ma Kok street, Tsuen Wan, New Territories, Hong Kong, 5725 1112, info@babydine.com, www.babydine.com

Nutrition Kitchen – Healthy meal plans for the family

This Hong Kong catering company dishes up a variety of meals, and it’s an especially good choice for families looking for veggie, flexi or Asian meal plans, and mamas who need help with weight loss or weight maintenance can choose between the low-carb or balanced options. Nutrition Kitchen is great for those who want more flexibility in their meal plans since you can choose the size, number of meals a day (two or three) and duration of your package.

Nutrition Kitchen, WhatsApp: 5192 1292, www.nutritionkitchenhk.com

Bain Marie – Seasonal meal plan and food delivery in Hong Kong

Are you an eco-conscious family looking for a zero-waste approach to healthy meal delivery? Enter Bain Marie. It offers delicious homemade meals prepared with seasonal ingredients and delivered in sustainable packaging. Meals are highly customisable with four types of meal plans, each with two levels of calories. Meals are delivered daily before 7am, perfect for working mamas.

Bain Marie, 4 Heung Yip Road, Unita 21A, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, 5534 9430, www.bainmariehk.com

Fittery – Customised signature and DIY food deliveries for those who all like to do meal prep

Families with fussy eaters will love Fittery, which offers the option of having the chef and nutritionist teams tailor your meal plans. Or, you could create the right meal for your family’s tastes by ordering a DIY box. Chinese and fusion meal plans come in different categories depending on your health goals. With thermal sealing and biodegradable trays, Fittery claims that unopened and refrigerated meals stay for three days (perfect for family meals when back from a weekend staycation).

Fittery, WhatsApp: 5699 3560, www.fittery.com.hk

NOSH – Healthy food delivery with plenty of flavour

A Hong Kong favourite, NOSH takes the hassle out of meal prep with its flexible and healthy meal plans. Active families will find plenty of options here to keep them going, and while NOSH is known for its Lose Weight, Build Muscle, Veggie, Flexi or Keto plans, it has also rolled out a new Comfort food option that families who enjoy diverse cuisines and trying out new flavours will love.

NOSH, 2388 1999, www.nosh.hk

Eatology – Gourmet healthy meal plans

Eatology Asia prides itself on providing fresh, gourmet meals to suit almost any diet, and if you have a picky teen, they’re sure to find something to love among the 10 meal plans – with keto, paleo, optimal performance, Mediterranean, F45 challenge and more meal plans on offer!

Eatology, 3/F Yiuga Factory, 62 Victoria Road, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, 5117 6824, www.eatologyasia.com

Mealthy – Meal plans for busy Hongkong mamas

We know that mamas tend to put everyone else first, but it’s important for you to take care of yourself as well. Mealthy’s meal plans aren’t just designed for active gym-goers; they also offer great options, including Chef’s Choice and low-carb/keto plans, that are especially great for busy working mamas. If you own a business, you might be interested to know that their no-fuss meal delivery service also caters to businesses looking to provide healthy meals to their employees.

Mealthy, 8/F, Unit L, Superluck Industrial Centre Phase 2, 30-38 Tai Chung Road, Tsuen Wan, New Territories, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9565 7765, www.mealthy.com.hk

Mrs Lu’s Soup – Confinement meals for postpartum nourishment

Mrs. Lu and her team believe in “doing simple things seriously”. This Chinese meal delivery service specialises in traditional Chinese soups, teas and broths needed for a mama recovering after giving birth. Choose between a trial offer, a week, two weeks or a month of confinement meals.

Mrs Lu’s Soup, WhatsApp: 6790 5786, www.mslosoup.com

More Healthy Meal Plan Subscriptions & Delivery Services In Hong Kong

Food Folk – Healthy meals available for pick-up in Wong Chuk Hang and delivery in parts of Hong Kong and Kowloon.
www.foodfolk.hk
UP Meal Prep – Formerly known as EatUp, the personal trainers at Ultimate Performance have now teamed up UK-based The Good Prep for meal plans.
www.ultimateperformance.com/meal-prep
Yumama Store – 28-day confinement meal plans.
www.yumamastore.com

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in October 2019 and most recently updated in March 2024 by Anita Balagopalan. Thanks to Jess Mizzi for her contribution.

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Which Vitamins And Supplements Should You REALLY Be Taking?

Sassy Mama — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 22:00:35 +0000

We all know that our immune systems could use a little boost from time to time. But with a huge range of vitamins and supplements on the market it can be difficult to decide. That’s where the integrated health professionals at IMI come in.

Integrated Medical Institute (IMI) offers a range of health and wellness services to suit your family’s needs. There’s everything from conventional family medicine to services in naturopathic medicine and nutrition, psychology and counselling, osteopathy and traditional Chinese medicine. It’s this team of professionals who curate the wide range of supplements and vitamins on offer at IMI Supplements Online.

What to look for in a multi-vitamin

While we all strive to feed our family with healthy, nutritious food, sometimes a little supplement can give their health some extra support. This is where a multivitamin comes in handy. You’ll want to choose something that is high quality, nutritionally dense and that passes the taste test of fussy kids.

IMI’s Clinical Multivitamin Powder has been formulated by in-house naturopaths to meet the nutritional needs of your family and can be used by both adults and children (from 4 years old at a different dose). Simply mix the powder with water, juice or food to aid in protecting your liver, brain and heart. Plus, it’s naturally sweetened with monk fruit to give it a pleasant tropical flavour.

How to decide on a supplement for pregnancy and breastfeeding

Your body sure is incredible and during pregnancy and those newborn days is working in overdrive to support two lives! There’s a need for extra vitamin A, folate, zinc, protein and omega-3 fatty acids (and possibly more depending on your specific health needs).

When you purchase your prenatal supplements from IMI, you know that each of the products has been vetted by qualified practitioners and designed to meet the nutritional needs of you and your baby. With ingredients like high-quality fish oils that have been rigorously detoxified, you can be assured you’re getting the benefits without any harmful nasties.

Where to shop for IMI vitamins and supplements

The IMI dispensary is conveniently located in Central and many of its products are available online. There’s even free (for orders over $350), temperature-controlled delivery to maintain the freshness and efficacy of your vitamin order. You can also book a consultation with any of the IMI practitioners for recommendations for your specific health needs.

Use discount code SassyMama20 for 20% off your first purchase in the IMI Online Store. Valid until 29 February, 2024.

IMI, 13F & 17/F, Kailey Tower, 16 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2523 7121, enquiries@imi.com.hk, www.imi.com.hk

The post Which Vitamins And Supplements Should You REALLY Be Taking? appeared first on Sassy Mama.