< PreviousCool, casual knitwear Now knitwear weather has arrived, Lincolnshire Today shares some dapper options to layer up with. LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 31 FASHION Opposite: Barbour In a collaboration with Paul Smith, this jumper from Barbour features striking textured stripes for playful timelessness, splendidly topped with a wax jacket. Above: Salts Cashmere A refined update to a wardrobe staple, this split crew neck sweater from Salts Cashmere features a distinctive ombré pattern, ideal for effortless layering or wearing alone. Top right: Cotton Traders Layer up your everyday looks with this smart shawl neck cardigan from Cotton Traders. Right: Joe Browns With a classic Fairisle design this cardigan from Joe Browns will elevate your cold weather style. From the bold pattern and colours to the ribbed cuffs and shawl neck, every detail makes it dashing and winter ready. HAIR & BEAUTY I n the gentle ritual of morning or evening hair care, a subtle shift is occurring. A growing number of women and men reach for shampoos infused with caffeine, drawn by the promise that this familiar stimulant might awaken more than just weary minds. Whispered claims suggest it may help bolster weakened strands, invigorate mature looks, perhaps even slow the sneaky creep of thinning. But behind the glossy allure lies a landscape of science both intriguing and unsettled. Caffeine, as a molecular guest on the scalp, appears capable of penetrating deeply into the follicles. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that caffeine can reach and remain in hair follicles for hours after a brief wash, an indication that the ingredient is not merely decorative but may be actively absorbed. At the molecular level the effects are compelling: caffeine interacts with specific pathways that stimulate cell metabolism and proliferation within the follicle, providing the theoretical basis for such shampoos’ appeal. This scientific suggestion is echoed in clinical research. Some trials have found that shampoos containing caffeine can enhance hair density and reduce shedding among adults using them in a daily scalp care routine. Participants reported higher satisfaction with the look and feel of their hair after several months, even if overall hair thickness did not significantly change. Broader reviews of the evidence point to a pattern of benefit, though many stress that the strength of research remains limited by small sample sizes and a lack of long- term, controlled studies. Experts in dermatology and trichology acknowledge certain potential benefits. Caffeine may suppress the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, a key hormone implicated in pattern hair loss, and thus help preserve follicles from shrinkage. It may also encourage micro-circulation in the scalp, delivering fresh oxygen and nutrients to roots, and its antioxidant properties may protect cellular health within the hair environment. Yet the medical view remains cautious. The caffeine boost for your hair © stock.adobe.com/puhhha Once known only as a morning pick-me-up, caffeine is now making its way into shampoos. Can it really help protect against thinning, or is it just another beauty fad? LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 33 Many experts stress that caffeine shampoo is far from a miracle cure. While clinical findings and laboratory results are promising, large-scale, long-term, placebo-controlled studies are largely absent. Dermatologists typically recommend caffeine shampoo as a supplementary agent in a broader hair- health regimen rather than as a standalone solution. It is often discussed alongside other established hair loss treatments, though its evidence base is still emerging. For those drawn to the idea, using a caffeine shampoo can be an enjoyable addition to the self-care ritual. Many advise massaging the formula gently into the scalp, leaving it in for the recommended time—often just two minutes—to favour absorption. Anecdotally, users note improved scalp texture, increased volume and shine, and the sensation of a refreshed, energised scalp, benefits that may matter just as much as any subtle growth effect. Still, those with sensitive skin should tread carefully, as some may experience irritation or discolouration, particularly with repeated use. In a field where beauty products often try to cloak uncertainty with aesthetics, caffeine shampoo strikes an appealing chord. It offers the familiarity of a beloved molecule, a ritual that feels purposeful, and the promise of thicker, healthier-looking hair. It doesn’t overpromise, and if used with realistic expectations and alongside proven treatments, it may add a pleasing boost to the wash-day experience. The popularity of these shampoos also reflects a desire for functional beauty products that go beyond the superficial. Consumers increasingly expect haircare to offer more than cleansing and fragrance, searching instead for ingredients that hint at performance, science, and wellness. Caffeine fits neatly into that frame. Already familiar in daily life, it brings a sense of comfort while also offering a veneer of scientific credibility. There is also something quietly reassuring in the ritual. Unlike medical treatments that demand strict adherence or come with intimidating side-effects, shampooing with caffeine feels gentle and familiar. It is an ordinary act imbued with possibility, transforming the daily wash into a small but meaningful gesture of self-care. For many, the tactile pleasure of massaging the scalp, the scent of the lather, and the symbolic promise of nourishment are as valuable as any measurable change in hair growth. Still, expectations matter. Those experiencing significant hair thinning should seek professional guidance, as shampoos alone are unlikely to provide dramatic results. The future may yet bring firmer evidence and more refined formulations, but for now caffeine shampoos occupy a curious middle ground: more than a cosmetic indulgence, less than a medical treatment. They are best viewed as one tool among many in the pursuit of healthier hair. The allure of caffeine shampoo lies not just in its scientific potential, but in our human tendency to infuse everyday acts with hope. Shampooing becomes more than cleansing; it becomes a small act of optimism. Whether that optimism translates to measurable results remains to be seen. For many, though, the ritual itself is reason enough to reach for the bottle. © stock.adobe.com/Studio Zoski HAIR & BEAUTY34 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY HEALTH & FITNESS B iohacking is a term that has drifted in and out of wellness conversations for years, but many people are still unsure of what it actually means. For some, it sounds too experimental or too “out there” to be taken seriously. Yet 2025 may be the year this once-fringe movement becomes a household concept. Google searches for biohacking surged by 94 per cent in the past year, signalling a rapid shift in how people want to approach health and fitness. At its core, biohacking is about finding ways to “hack” your own biology to look, feel and perform at your best. It blends science, technology and personal experimentation into everyday life. The global market for biohacking tools and solutions is forecast to grow from around £40 billion today to £52 billion by 2027, underlining the appetite for new ways to take control of health. The appeal lies in the balance of technology and habit. Wearable devices now track everything from sleep cycles to stress levels, giving individuals insights once reserved for medical professionals. Functional foods and supplements, such as adaptogens and nootropics, are designed to target issues like burnout, focus and long-term energy. Alongside this, many people are using traditional methods like fasting, cold exposure and targeted nutrition to reset how their bodies respond to modern pressures. The rise of biohacking also mirrors a wider cultural shift toward personalised health. Instead of relying on broad lifestyle advice, people want solutions tailored to their biology and daily routines. This can mean adjusting diets based on gut health, using genetic insights to choose the right supplements, or monitoring how the body responds to changes in exercise. The combination of hard data from devices and softer self-experimentation is drawing people who want to move away from one- size-fits-all approaches. Why biohacking is becoming the future of health and fitness Once seen as a niche pursuit, biohacking is now entering the mainstream. From nutrition to wearable tech, more people are turning to science-backed strategies to optimise body and mind. Why biohacking is becoming the future of health and fitness LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 35 HEALTH & FITNESS Immunity is a key theme shaping the movement. After years of heightened focus on resilience, vitamins and minerals designed to boost immune response are becoming staples. Sales figures already show the direction of travel: one major retailer sold 41 packs of Vitamin D an hour in the past year, and the demand for brain-boosting supplements is expected to rise sharply. Nutrition is no longer just about covering the basics. People are looking for targeted formulas to support mental sharpness, emotional balance and long-term brain health. Brain optimisation is emerging as one of the most powerful drivers of the trend. Experts believe that 2025 will be the year brain health takes centre stage in fitness conversations. With growing awareness of the link between diet, sleep and cognitive performance, personalised nutrition strategies are being designed to fuel focus, productivity and long-term mental agility. From specific diets to precision-targeted vitamins, the aim is to treat the brain as the most important muscle to train. Critics warn that biohacking can sometimes drift into fads or pseudoscience, but its current momentum is largely grounded in practical, evidence- based routines. Sleep tracking, circadian rhythm alignment, cold-water therapy and mindfulness apps are accessible forms of biohacking that have found a wide audience. What distinguishes this new wave is not the novelty of the practices but the way technology now allows people to measure and refine them for maximum effect. The shift also reflects a deeper change in how people view responsibility for health. Rather than waiting for issues to arise and seeking treatment afterwards, biohacking places emphasis on prevention and proactive management. It is about giving people the tools to build resilience, extend longevity and manage the physical and mental challenges of modern life. For the fitness industry, the rise of biohacking represents both an opportunity and a challenge. Gyms, wellness centres and nutrition brands will need to adapt, offering more tailored experiences, integrating tech-driven insights and catering to a customer base that expects data-backed results. At the same time, there is a need for caution and education, ensuring that the pursuit of optimisation does not encourage over- experimentation or unrealistic expectations.36 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FOOD & DINING Christmas Prawn Cocktail An old favourite, without the need of obscure ingredients, this prawn cocktail recipe uses pantry staples with a sprinkle of uncomplicated flair. Serves 4 Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: None What to do: 1. In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice from the jar, chopped capers, and chopped mini gherkins. Season with salt and pepper. 2. Gently fold in the prawns until well coated. 3. Divide salad leaves between four serving glasses or bowls. Spoon the prawn mixture on top. 4. Garnish each serving with a slice of Opies Sliced Lemon and a sprig of dill or parsley. As we plan for Christmas parties and the big day itself next month, here are some festive favourites to consider adding to the menu. You’ll need: * 300g cooked peeled prawns * 4 cups mixed salad leaves (lettuce, rocket, etc.) * 4 tbsp mayonnaise * 2 tbsp ketchup * 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce * 1 tsp juice from Opies Sliced Lemons jar * 2 tbsp Opies Capers, drained and chopped * 4 Opies Mini Gherkins, finely chopped * Salt and freshly ground black pepper * 4 slices Opies Sliced Lemons (one per serving), for garnish * Fresh dill or parsley, to garnish Christmas classicsFOOD & DINING LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 37 Christmas Wellington with Walnut Pâté A main course full of flavour, this Christmas Wellington banishes the bland. What to do: 1. Make the walnut pâté. Heat the olive oil in a pan, then sauté onion and garlic until softened. 2. In a food processor, combine sautéed onion and garlic, Opies Pickled Walnuts, walnuts, thyme, soy sauce, and breadcrumbs. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still textured. Season with salt and pepper. 3. For the vegetarian version: In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms with thyme until all moisture evaporates and mixture is nicely browned. Let cool. 4. For the turkey mince version: In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic and thyme until soft and slightly browned. Leave to cool. Mix the turkey mince with 1 egg, seasoning and onion and garlic mix. If a little dry, add a little water or more egg. Squish the turkey mix into a log shape and place onto a lined baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes at 200°C / 180°C Fan / Gas 6 then leave to cool. 5. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly over the centre, or place the turkey mince log, leaving a border. Top with walnut pâté. 6. Fold the pastry over the filling to enclose completely, sealing edges with a little water. Trim any excess pastry. 7. Place the Wellington seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush with beaten egg or plant milk. Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F for 25–30 minutes or until golden and crisp. 8. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted vegetables and festive gravy. Serves 6 Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour You’ll need: For the Walnut Pâté: * 150g Opies Pickled Walnuts, finely chopped * 150g walnuts (raw or toasted) * 1 small onion, finely chopped * 2 garlic cloves, minced * 1 tbsp olive oil * 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves * 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari * 2 tbsp breadcrumbs * Salt and pepper, to taste For the Wellington : * 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry (about 320g) * 200g mushrooms, finely chopped or 200g turkey mince * 1 tbsp olive oil * 1 small onion, finely chopped * 1 garlic clove, minced * 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves * 1 egg, beaten (for glazing; use plant-based milk for vegan version) * Flour, for dusting FOOD & DINING To promote your services call Angie Cooper on 01472 310302 or email: a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk Click’em Inn Swinhope, Nr Binbrook, Market Rasen, LN8 6BS Tel: 01472 398253 Web: www.clickem-inn.co.uk The Click’em Inn is a family-owned freehouse, established for over 30 years in its current incarnation. Steeped in history, the inn is open 6 days a week, Tuesday-Sunday, offering a wide choice of drinks, including six real ales available at any time, with a regularly changing selection of personally recommended guest ales. The Kitchen is open Tuesday-Sunday for evening dining, plus lunchtimes Friday-Sunday. The menu varies from day-to-day with the chef’s specials, alongside regular meals. 38 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY Christmas Brussels Sprouts Cheese Serves 4 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes You’ll need: * 500g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved * 150ml double cream or crème fraîche * 100g mature cheddar cheese, grated * 4 Opies Pickled Walnuts, finely chopped * 1 garlic clove, minced * 1 tbsp olive oil or butter * Salt and freshly ground black pepper Transform your side dish of sprouts with a cheese and pickled walnut combo. What to do: 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Brussels sprouts and cook for 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside. 2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil or butter over a medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Re- duce the heat to low and stir in the double cream. Warm gently, then add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. 3. Add the cooked Brussels sprouts to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Gently fold in the finely chopped Opies Pickled Walnuts. 4. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm as a rich, tangy side dish.LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 39 Gingerbread Christmas Pudding Serves 6 – 8 Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 2 hours steaming You’ll need: * 100g plain flour * 100g fresh breadcrumbs * 100g dark brown sugar * 1 tsp ground mixed spice * 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon * 1/2 tsp baking soda * Pinch of salt * 75g Opies Crystallised Ginger, finely chopped * 2 balls Opies Stem Ginger, finely chopped * 2 tbsp Opies Stem Ginger Syrup * 100g raisins or currants * 1 small eating apple, peeled and grated * 2 eggs * 100ml whole milk * 100g unsalted butter, melted * Zest of 1 orange A delectable dessert marrying together two favourite festive flavours. Recipes courtesy of www.bennettopie.com / @opiesfoods What to do: 1. Grease a 1-litre pudding basin and line the base with a circle of baking paper. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, sugar, spices, salt, and baking soda. 3. Stir in the chopped crystallised ginger, stem ginger, raisins, and grated apple. Add the orange zest. 4. In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and stem ginger syrup. Pour into the dry mixture and stir until fully combined. 5. Spoon the mixture into the prepared pudding basin. Cover with a layer of baking paper and foil, pleated in the centre to allow for rising, and secure with kitchen string. 6. Place the pudding basin in a large saucepan with enough simmering water to come halfway up the sides. Cover with a lid and steam for 2 hours, checking the water level occasionally and topping up as needed. 7. Let stand for 5–10 minutes, then turn out onto a serving plate. Serve warm with custard, brandy sauce, or spiced cream.Next >