2018: Bring it! Get ready for a fabulous year of new ideas, experiences and passions

Holistic healthcare practitioner Abby de Lange shares her favourite nutritious choices.

1 Chia seeds

These help to reduce inflammation in the body, while supplying high doses of omega-3 fatty acids and fibre for optimal gut health. Sprinkle them into oats, or add them to coconut milk and fruit for a deliciously healthy pudding.

2 Quinoa

Rich in plant-based protein and fibre, quinoa stabilises blood sugar and provides immune-supporting and anti-ageing antioxidants. Use it instead of rice in stews, curries and stir-fries.

3 sea salt

Too little sodium can cause dehydration, but it’s easy to keep your fluid levels balanced by adding a pinch of unrefined sea salt to food while cooking. This way you’ll ensure that you have all the sodium and other electrolytes (magnesium, calcium and potassium) your body needs for good health.

4 turmeric

Packed with anti-inflammatory benefits, turmeric is tastiest when mixed into grains, soups, curries, dressings and smoothies.

5 raw Cacao powder

Jazz up porridge, protein pancakes or puddings with a teaspoon of raw cacao powder or nibs, and reap the benefits of added antioxidants, magnesium and immune boosters.

“Programming is a hugely marketable skill, and engineers with university degrees are also in high demand.” – Michelle Vernon, HR consultant

“Contrary to popular belief, agriculture and horticulture are growing rapidly, and there’s a massive skills shortage in technology-dependent and skilled, intensive production sectors, like hydroponics (growing plants without the use of soil). Everyone needs to eat, so qualified candidates who are clued up on the latest technology are sought after.” – Kate Watts, recruitment consultant

“Finance and technology are good industries to explore. Think project management, IT, research and analysis, and business development.” – Barbara Northmore, HR and recruitment consultant