The Ballito Magazine

Holistic Health

by Cristina Govender · May 7, 2026 · 6 min read

Personalised Health Solutions 


Dr Shannon Naidoo is a General Practitioner with a strong focus on preventative medicine, minor surgical procedures, and wellness therapies. Alongside routine GP consultations, his practice offers a range of IV drips, including antioxidant drips, vitamin infusions, anti-ageing support, and skin-brightening drips. He also provides medically supervised slimming injections and weight-management plans. Taking a holistic approach, his philosophy is to treat the whole patient, not just the symptom, creating a space where people feel heard and supported.


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This year, Dr Naidoo encourages patients to return to the foundations of good health: balanced nutrition, regular movement, and proper sleep. Simple habits like daily walking, hydrating well, and reducing highly processed foods make a difference. Routine screenings for blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, and deficiencies remain essential. “I also remind patients that wellness therapy can support the immune system and overall vitality when used responsibly under medical supervision,” he explains.


Keeping things simple and practical, Dr Naidoo explains conditions and symptoms in plain language and makes sure patients understand what to monitor at home. “When patients understand the ‘why’ behind their health decisions, they feel confident and motivated to follow through,” he says.


A consultation is thorough but relaxed, beginning with an in-depth intake form to understand your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors. “I then talk everything through with you and then perform a clinical examination and, if necessary, run blood tests on-site,” he explains. For patients interested in IV drips or slimming injections, he assesses suitability, explains the benefits and limitations, and tailors the treatment to the individual. When results come in, he explains them as clearly as possible and works with you on a customised plan.


Dr Naidoo’s practice is built around accessibility, personalised care, and a genuine commitment to long-term health. Patients can expect a doctor who listens, investigates, and values both medical treatment and preventative wellness. With extended hours, urgent care support, IV drips, minor procedures, and safe, medically guided weight-management options, his goal is to help people feel healthier, stronger, and more confident.


Tel: 060 745 6273
Address: Zimbali Oasis, R627, Ballito


Vision for The Future

As an Ophthalmologist, Dr Bhavna Jugadoe provides comprehensive eye care with passion and clear communication. “If my patients are able to, they may complete an electronic patient information sheet before they come through for their appointment. Patients then undergo a pre-screening with an ophthalmic assistant before seeing me,” she explains.

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A detailed history of the presenting complaint, past ophthalmic and medical history, a list of relevant medications, allergies, and family history is recorded. Eye pressure is taken at the slit lamp, with the patient’s pupils dilated with eyedrops to thoroughly examine the retina. If there are any concerns detected, it is discussed with the patient in detail. “Patient education about their condition is key to compliance with treatment, so I feel it is important to spend time educating my patients in this regard,” Dr Jugadoe says. Scheduling regular eye tests and screening visits, especially if you have a family history of diabetes, glaucoma, or age-related macular degeneration, is highly recommended.


The internet and social media can be powerful tools for sharing knowledge, but can also spread quick-fix solutions or “hacks” that may lack scientific evidence. Blue light-blocking glasses have lenses designed to filter blue light from digital screens and LEDs, but according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there is no strong scientific proof that they prevent eye damage or significantly reduce digital eye strain. Castor oil has been promoted for dry eyes and other benefits, but applying non-sterile, pure castor oil directly to your eyes is dangerous. Always consult an ophthalmologist before using any products in your eyes.


Tel: 032 004 0064
Address: Suite 1 Ground Floor, Ribumed Medical Care, 1 Simbithi Drive


Essential Eye Care 


At Kijk Optometrists, eye care is simple, practical, and personal. René takes time to listen to understand each patient’s needs, keeping eye care easy to follow and relevant to everyday life, keeping it honest and personal. From screen habits and eye drops to sun protection, they guide patients in caring for their eyes every day.

Digital eye strain is very real, and they’re seeing more tired eyes, dry eyes, and headaches than ever before - and screens are often the reason, even in children. While online “quick fixes” like miracle supplements, unexplained eye exercises, or cheap blue-light glasses may sound appealing, they don’t replace a proper eye examination or advice tailored to your eyes and your lifestyle.


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It’s also important not to underestimate the sun - especially in coastal areas, where we spend so much time outdoors. Sunglasses are essential for everyone, not just for fashion or prescription wearers. What truly matters is proper UV protection. Dark lenses alone don’t protect your eyes; it’s the UV filter that helps protect against cataracts, pterygium, and long-term eye damage.

Good vision is a luxury. Healthy eyes are a necessity.


Tel: 032 815 2911
WhatsApp: 083 876 2408




Modern Movement 


Macquet Physiotherapy has over 25 years of trusted service on the North Coast, with branches in Ballito and Simbithi, built on consistency, care, and trust.


Deane Macquet took over the practice in 2000 from the legendary Deirdre van der Merwe, who was, back then, one of only two physiotherapists serving the entire North Coast. Under Deane’s leadership, the practice continued to grow alongside the rapid development of the region, with the arrival of Alberlito Hospital further increasing the demand for high-quality physiotherapy services. Macquet Physiotherapy offers in-hospital care at Netcare Alberlito Hospital, post-op rehab for hip, knee, and spinal surgery, and treats sports injuries, neck and back pain, and more. They use advanced shockwave therapy for conditions like tennis elbow and plantar fasciitis. The practice helps patients return to activities they love, from running to surfing, with evidence-based care and modern methods.


Macquet Physiotherapy also has a practice at Northcare Medical in Simbithi, working with a team of healthcare pros, including a skincare doctor, dietitians, an optometrist, and a homeopath, for a holistic approach.

“We are committed to serving the community with the same values it was built on - trust, expertise, and care.”


Tel: Ballito: 032 946 1573 

Simbithi: 032 815 0630


Family First Care 


Horizon Medical Group, led by the husband-and-wife team of Dr D Kuerparsadh and Dr WW Manipersad, represents a renewed standard of patient-centred family medicine in Ballito. With over four years of private practice experience, Dr Manipersad, together with Dr Kuerparsadh, founded the practice in July 2025, united by a shared vision of thoughtful, relationship-driven healthcare.


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Their philosophy is grounded in personalised medicine, moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach to care that is carefully tailored to each patient’s individual needs, circumstances, and family context. Inspired by the principles of traditional small-town medicine, they prioritise continuity of care, trust, and meaningful doctor-patient relationships within a rapidly growing community.


“As both clinicians and parents, we provide comprehensive care across all ages, managing acute and chronic conditions with equal dedication,” they say. Having also experienced healthcare from the patient’s perspective, they bring a heightened understanding of what patients expect from their doctors, delivering care that is not only clinically excellent but deeply respectful and humane.


Tel: 063 687 5288
Address: Shop 657A Active Care Clinic, Ballito Junction Regional Mall

Cristina Govender

Written by

Cristina Govender

Cristina works with the team to create stories that capture the heart of the community, across both print and digital titles.

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