Hello There,

Suddenly we are heading into the August Bank Holiday weekend..... and through two thirds of 2025 already! Is it just me or is time flying? 

This week I want to highlight the importance of the NHS Bowel Screening programme available for those of us in the  60 - 74 years  age range and how very fortunate that this regular testing is in place.

Three weeks ago I received a phone call from the East & North Herts Bowel Screening Centre to make an appointment for a Colonoscopy, this was for a check up  following a procedure I had to remove a polyp a year ago after an abnormal screen sample.. My appointment was last Friday, and whist it's not the most comfortable of procedures to prepare for or have, it can be life saving.

 As I waited with another lady to be called, we got chatting. This lovely lady, the same age as me had been called in last year after an abnormal sample from a routine screen as had I. She also had a polyp, but this was too big to remove at the appointment . When she went back it was discovered the polyp was in fact cancerous and pathology revealed it was stage 3 and in her lymph nodes. She had surgery to remove part of her bowel and affected lymph nodes followed by a course of chemotherapy. She is now thankfully  cancer free and was there on Friday for a check up too. This lady had had no symptoms of bowel cancer, she was fit, well and a healthy weight, but her life was saved because of early detection through the screening programme

 We both heralded the fact that this programme is in place and that her cancer was discovered in time to be successfully treated. But also how unbelievable, that so many people eligible, and invited automatically to be  screened simply ignore the pack sent them or even discard it as they find it all a bit uncomfortable to think about. Read more about the programme in this weeks spotlight. Please do talk to family and friends about the programme, and always have your screen when that pack comes through your letter box.

Have another great week and I'll see you in classes and online

Love Lindsey xxx

In this weeks newsletter >>>>>

Health Matters : The Bottom Line

Late Summer Reset - Starts Monday!

Food Matters : Gut Friendly Quinoa Salad

Book Your Lindsey Fitness Classes

Lindsey Fitness Running Club

 The NHS Bowel Screening Programme:

 A Vital Step Towards Early Detection and Prevention

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer affecting individuals worldwide. In the UK, it is the fourth most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. However, with early detection and timely intervention, the survival rates for bowel cancer can be significantly improved. This is where the NHS Bowel Screening Programme plays a crucial role.

 Understanding the NHS Bowel Screening Programme

The NHS Bowel Screening Programme is a public health initiative aimed at reducing the mortality rate associated with bowel cancer through early detection. The programme offers regular screening tests to individuals aged 60 to 74 in England, with some variations in age criteria across the UK. The primary screening method used is the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), which is designed to detect tiny amounts of blood in stool samples that may indicate the presence of cancer or pre-cancerous growths.

 The Importance of Regular Screening

1. Early Detection Saves Lives: One of the most significant advantages of regular bowel screening is the early detection of cancer. When detected at an early stage, the treatment success rate is high, and the chances of survival are greatly increased. Screening can also identify non-cancerous polyps, which can be removed before they develop into cancer.
2. Reduction in Mortality Rates: Studies have shown that bowel cancer screening can reduce the risk of dying from the disease by around 16%. This is because the screening process can catch cancer before symptoms appear, allowing for earlier and more effective treatment.
3. Peace of Mind: For many, the idea of cancer is daunting. Regular screening provides reassurance and peace of mind, knowing that any potential issues can be caught and addressed promptly.
4. Cost-Effective Healthcare: Early detection and treatment of bowel cancer are not only beneficial for patients but also cost-effective for the healthcare system. Treating cancer at an advanced stage is often more complex and expensive, whereas early treatment can be simpler and less costly.

How the Screening Process Works

Eligible individuals receive a screening kit by mail, which includes instructions on how to collect a small stool sample. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. If the test detects blood, further diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, may be recommended to investigate the cause.

Overcoming Barriers to Participation

Despite the benefits, participation rates in bowel screening programmes are often lower than desired. Common barriers include fear, embarrassment, or a lack of awareness about the importance of screening. Public health campaigns and education are essential to encourage participation and dispel myths surrounding the screening process.

Conclusion

The NHS Bowel Screening Programme is a vital tool in the fight against bowel cancer. By promoting regular screening, we can improve early detection rates, reduce mortality, and ultimately save lives. It is crucial for individuals to understand the importance of participating in regular screenings and to encourage others to do the same. Early detection is our best defence against bowel cancer, and the NHS Bowel Screening Programme is at the forefront of this life-saving effort.

If you are aged 60 - 74 years and have previously avoided or ignored a test kit sent to you, do get in touch with your GP Surgery to get a testing kit sent - It could save your life,

Late Summer Reset  .....

A recipe that supports good bowel health should be rich in fibre, probiotics, and healthy fats. Here's a delicious and nutritious recipe for a "Gut-Friendly Quinoa Salad" that includes ingredients known to promote bowel health.

 Gut-Friendly Quinoa Salad

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed (or ready cooked pack)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red  pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for added probiotics)
• 1 tablespoon flaxseeds or chia seeds

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the Quinoa: (if not using ready cooked)
   • In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
4. Add the Dressing:
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all the ingredients are well coated.
5. Add Probiotics and Seeds:
   • If using, add the Greek yogurt to the salad for a creamy texture and probiotic boost. Sprinkle with flaxseeds or chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Serve:
   • Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your gut-friendly salad as a main dish or a side.

 Benefits:

• Quinoa is a high-fibre grain that aids digestion.
• Chickpeas provide additional fibre and protein.
• Cucumber, tomatoes, and bell pepper add hydration and essential nutrients.
• Greek yogurt offers probiotics for gut health.
• Flaxseeds or chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fibre.

This recipe is not only delicious but also supports a healthy digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements and overall gut health.

LINDSEY PETERS CELEBRANT

As many now know I am also operating as an Independent Family Celebrant, a role I take as both an honour and a privilege for the families I am entrusted to.

Please don't hesitate to get in touch or pass on my details if I may be of any help at a time of loss or of celebration to you or someone you know.

Fun, friendly, achievable workouts for all ages, levels and abilities - if you are new to exercise you'll be made very welcome .... or if you haven't been for a while it'll be a great welcome return - get in touch for your first session FREE!